Attracting device, system and program

Abstract

Provided is an architecture capable of further improving availability. An attracting device that generates an aerosol that is attracted by a user using a base material, includes a storage section that stores information, a communication section that receives information from another device in a case where a first condition is satisfied, and a control section that causes the information received from the another device to be stored in the storage section in a case where a second condition is satisfied.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to attraction devices, systems, and procedures. Background Technology

[0002] Electronic cigarettes and atomizers, which generate substances that are attracted to users, are becoming increasingly popular. For example, these devices use a matrix material comprising an aerosol source for generating an aerosol and a flavor source for imparting flavor components to the generated aerosol, thus creating a flavored aerosol. Users can then enjoy the flavor by inhaling the flavored aerosol generated by the device.

[0003] In recent years, research has been conducted on providing various services related to attraction devices by wirelessly transmitting and receiving information related to attraction devices. For example, Patent Document 1 discloses a technology in which a terminal on the store side that sells base materials wirelessly receives identification information of the base material to be purchased from a user terminal such as a smartphone, and determines the location of the base material to be purchased in the display shelf based on the received identification information.

[0004] Existing technical documents

[0005] Patent documents

[0006] Patent Document 1: Japanese Patent No. 6691138 Summary of the Invention

[0007] The problem that the invention aims to solve

[0008] However, in the technology described in the aforementioned Patent Document 1, operating a smartphone in order to send identification information is time-consuming.

[0009] Therefore, the present invention was made in view of the above-mentioned problems, and the object of the present invention is to provide an architecture that can further improve usability.

[0010] Methods for solving problems

[0011] To address the aforementioned issues, according to a certain aspect of the present invention, an attraction device is provided that generates an aerosol attracted by a user using a matrix material, comprising: a storage unit for storing information; a communication unit for receiving information from another device when a first condition is met; and a control unit for storing information received from the other device into the storage unit when a second condition is met.

[0012] The first condition may also include: wireless communication is established between the attraction device and the other device.

[0013] The second condition may also include: the wireless communication between the attraction device and the other device is cut off and then re-established thereafter.

[0014] The second condition may also include: a specified user operation has been performed on at least one of the attraction device or the other device.

[0015] The wireless communication between the attraction device and the other devices can also be short-range wireless communication.

[0016] The short-range wireless communication can also be NFC (Near Field Communication).

[0017] The attraction device may also temporarily store information received from the other device with an additional time limit if the first condition is met, release the time limit on the temporarily stored information received from the other device if the second condition is met before the time limit expires, and delete the temporarily stored information received from the other device if the time limit has expired without the second condition being met.

[0018] The attraction device may also store information received from the other device into a volatile storage medium if the first condition is met, and store the information received from the other device stored in the volatile storage medium into a non-volatile storage medium if the second condition is met.

[0019] Information received from the other devices may also include identification information of the matrix material.

[0020] Information received from the other devices may also include a brief description that specifies the actions of the attraction device in heating the matrix material to generate the aerosol.

[0021] The profile information may also be identification information representing the profile.

[0022] Information received from the other device may also include identification information representing a combination of identification information and profile information of the matrix material, the profile information representing a profile specifying the action of the attraction device to heat the matrix material in order to generate the aerosol.

[0023] Information received from the other device may also include path information indicating the path through which the information received from the other device was sent or received.

[0024] The path information may also include identification information of the attraction device through which the information received from the other device passed.

[0025] The path information may also include identification information of the user who has traversed the attraction device using information received from the other device.

[0026] The information received from the other device may also include frequency information indicating the number of times the information received from the other device has been sent and received.

[0027] The frequency information may also include the number of times the information received from the other devices passed through the attraction device.

[0028] The frequency information may also include the number of users of the attraction device via which information received from the other device was transmitted.

[0029] Furthermore, in order to solve the above-mentioned problems, according to another aspect of the present invention, a system is provided that includes multiple attraction devices that generate an aerosol attracted by a user using a matrix material, wherein, under a first condition, the attraction device receives information from the other attraction devices, and under a second condition, the attraction device stores the information received from the other attraction devices.

[0030] Furthermore, in order to solve the above-mentioned problems, according to another aspect of the present invention, a program is provided for a computer that controls an attraction device that generates an aerosol attracted by a user using a matrix material to perform the following processing: receiving information from another device when a first condition is met; and storing the information received from the other device when a second condition is met.

[0031] Invention Effects

[0032] As described above, the present invention provides an architecture that can further improve usability. Attached Figure Description

[0033] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram illustrating a first structural example of an attraction device.

[0034] Figure 2 This is a schematic diagram illustrating a second structural example of an attraction device.

[0035] Figure 3 This is a diagram illustrating an example of the structure of the sales system involved in this embodiment.

[0036] Figure 4 This is a block diagram illustrating an example of the structure of a user terminal involved in this embodiment.

[0037] Figure 5 This is a block diagram illustrating an example of the structure of the sales terminal involved in this embodiment.

[0038] Figure 6 This is a block diagram illustrating an example of the structure of the server involved in this embodiment.

[0039] Figure 7 This is a diagram illustrating an example of the communication process between devices in the sales system according to this embodiment.

[0040] Figure 8 This is a timing diagram illustrating an example of the processing flow executed in the sales system according to this embodiment.

[0041] Figure 9 This is a timing diagram illustrating an example of the processing flow executed in the sales system according to this embodiment. Detailed Implementation

[0042] Preferred embodiments of the present invention will now be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. Furthermore, in this specification and the drawings, structural elements having substantially the same functional structure are given the same reference numerals to avoid redundant descriptions.

[0043] Furthermore, in this specification and the accompanying drawings, elements having substantially the same functional structure are sometimes distinguished by adding different letters after the same reference numeral. For example, multiple elements having substantially the same functional structure may be distinguished as needed, such as suction devices 100A and 100B. Where it is not necessary to specifically distinguish multiple elements having substantially the same functional structure, only the same reference numeral is used. For example, where it is not necessary to specifically distinguish suction devices 100A and 100B, they may be simply referred to as suction device 100.

[0044] <<1. Example of the structure of a suction device>>

[0045] An attraction device is a device that generates a substance for a user to attract. Hereinafter, the substance generated by the attraction device will be described as an aerosol. However, the substance generated by the attraction device may also be a gas.

[0046] (1) First structure example

[0047] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram illustrating a first structural example of an attraction device. For example... Figure 1As shown, the suction device 100A according to this structural example includes a power supply unit 110, a cartridge 120, and a fragrance delivery cartridge 130. The power supply unit 110 includes a power supply section 111A, a sensor section 112A, a notification section 113A, a storage section 114A, a communication section 115A, and a control section 116A. The cartridge 120 includes a heating section 121A, a liquid induction section 122, and a liquid storage section 123. The fragrance delivery cartridge 130 includes a fragrance source 131 and a suction nozzle 124. An airflow path 180 is formed in the cartridge 120 and the fragrance delivery cartridge 130.

[0048] The power supply unit 111A stores electricity. Furthermore, based on the control of the control unit 116A, the power supply unit 111A supplies power to each structural element of the attraction device 100A. The power supply unit 111A can be, for example, composed of a rechargeable battery such as a lithium-ion secondary battery.

[0049] The sensor unit 112A acquires various information related to the suction device 100A. As an example, the sensor unit 112A may consist of a pressure sensor such as a microphone capacitor, a flow sensor, or a temperature sensor, acquiring values ​​associated with the user's suction. As another example, the sensor unit 112A may consist of an input device such as a button or switch that receives information from the user.

[0050] The notification unit 113A notifies the user of information. The notification unit 113A may be composed of, for example, a light-emitting device, a display device that displays images, a sound output device that outputs sound, or a vibration device that vibrates.

[0051] The storage unit 114A stores various information for the operation of the attracting device 100A. The storage unit 114A is composed of a non-volatile storage medium, such as flash memory.

[0052] The Communication Section 115A is a communication interface capable of communicating according to any wired or wireless communication standard. Such communication standards could include, for example, Wi-Fi (registered trademark) or Bluetooth (registered trademark).

[0053] The control unit 116A functions as both a processing unit and a control unit, controlling the overall operation of the suction device 100A according to various programs. The control unit 116A is implemented, for example, by electronic circuits such as a CPU (Central Processing Unit) and a microprocessor.

[0054] The liquid storage section 123 stores the aerosol source. An aerosol is generated by atomizing the aerosol source. The aerosol source may be, for example, a polyol such as glycerol and propylene glycol, or a liquid such as water. The aerosol source may also contain flavor components derived from tobacco or not derived from non-tobacco sources. In the case where the inhalation device 100A is a medical inhaler such as a nebulizer, the aerosol source may also contain a medication.

[0055] The liquid induction unit 122 induces and retains the liquid aerosol source stored in the liquid storage unit 123. The liquid induction unit 122 is, for example, a core formed by twisting a fibrous material such as glass fiber or a porous material such as porous ceramic. In this case, the aerosol source stored in the liquid storage unit 123 is induced by the capillary effect of the core.

[0056] The heating unit 121A heats the aerosol source, thereby atomizing the aerosol source to generate an aerosol. Figure 1 In the example shown, the heating element 121A is configured as a coil and is wound around the liquid induction element 122. When the heating element 121A heats up, the aerosol source held in the liquid induction element 122 is heated and atomized to generate an aerosol. The heating element 121A heats up when powered by the power supply 111A. As an example, the power supply can also be activated when the sensor 112A detects that the user has started attraction and / or that specified information has been input. Furthermore, the power supply can also be deactivated when the sensor 112A detects that the user has stopped attraction and / or that specified information has been input.

[0057] Flavor source 131 is a structural element used to impart flavor components to aerosols. Flavor source 131 may also contain flavor components derived from tobacco or not derived from tobacco.

[0058] Airflow path 180 is a flow path for air drawn in by the user. Airflow path 180 has a tubular structure with an air inlet (air inlet hole 181) and an air outlet (air outlet hole 182) at both ends. Midway through airflow path 180, a liquid induction unit 122 is disposed on the upstream side (near the air inlet hole 181), and a fragrance source 131 is disposed on the downstream side (near the air outlet hole 182). Air flowing in from air inlet hole 181, drawn in by the user, mixes with the aerosol generated by heating unit 121A and, as indicated by arrow 190, passes through fragrance source 131 and is conveyed to air outlet hole 182. As the aerosol-air mixture passes through fragrance source 131, the fragrance components contained in fragrance source 131 are imparted to the aerosol.

[0059] The suction nozzle 124 is a component that the user holds in their mouth during suction. An air outlet 182 is provided in the suction nozzle 124. By holding and sucking the suction nozzle 124, the user can introduce a mixture of aerosol and air into their mouth.

[0060] The above describes a structural example of the suction device 100A. Of course, the structure of the suction device 100A is not limited to the above-described structure, and various structures as illustrated below can be used.

[0061] As an example, the suction device 100A may also not include the fragrance applicator 130. In this case, a suction nozzle 124 is provided on the cartridge 120.

[0062] As another example, the suction device 100A may also include multiple types of aerosol sources. Other types of aerosols can be further generated by chemical reactions occurring when multiple types of aerosols generated from these sources are mixed within the airflow path 180.

[0063] Furthermore, the means of atomizing the aerosol source is not limited to heating by the heating unit 121A. For example, the means of atomizing the aerosol source may also be vibration atomization or induction heating.

[0064] (2) Second structure example

[0065] Figure 2 This is a schematic diagram illustrating a second structural example of the attraction device. For example... Figure 2 As shown, the suction device 100B involved in this structural example includes a power supply unit 111B, a sensor unit 112B, a notification unit 113B, a storage unit 114B, a communication unit 115B, a control unit 116B, a heating unit 121B, a holding unit 140, and a heat insulation unit 144.

[0066] The power supply unit 111B, sensor unit 112B, notification unit 113B, storage unit 114B, communication unit 115B, and control unit 116B are substantially the same as the corresponding structural elements included in the attraction device 100A according to the first structural example.

[0067] The retaining part 140 has an internal space 141 that houses and retains a portion of the stick-shaped substrate material 150. The retaining part 140 has an opening 142 that communicates the internal space 141 with the outside, and retains the stick-shaped substrate material 150 inserted into the internal space 141 through the opening 142. For example, the retaining part 140 is a cylindrical body with the opening 142 and the bottom 143 as its bottom surfaces, defining a cylindrical internal space 141. The retaining part 140 also functions to define a flow path for air supplied to the stick-shaped substrate material 150. An air inlet hole, serving as the air inlet to this flow path, is disposed, for example, at the bottom 143. On the other hand, the opening 142 serves as the air outlet from this flow path.

[0068] The rod-shaped substrate material 150 includes a substrate material portion 151 and a suction port portion 152. The substrate material portion 151 includes an aerosol source. Furthermore, in this structural example, the aerosol source is not limited to a liquid and may also be a solid. With the rod-shaped substrate material 150 held by the holding portion 140, at least a portion of the substrate material portion 151 is accommodated in the internal space 141, and at least a portion of the suction port portion 152 protrudes from the opening 142. Furthermore, if the user grips and draws in the suction port portion 152 protruding from the opening 142, air flows into the internal space 141 through the air inlet hole (not shown) and reaches the user's mouth along with the aerosol generated from the substrate material portion 151.

[0069] The heating element 121B has the same structure as the heating element 121A involved in the first structural example. However, in Figure 2 In the example shown, the heating part 121B is configured as a film and is arranged to cover the periphery of the holding part 140. Furthermore, if the heating part 121B generates heat, the base material part 151 of the rod-shaped base material 150 is heated from the periphery, generating an aerosol.

[0070] The heat insulation portion 144 prevents heat conduction from the heating portion 121B to other structural elements. For example, the heat insulation portion 144 is composed of a vacuum insulation component or an aerogel insulation component.

[0071] The above describes a structural example of the suction device 100B. Of course, the structure of the suction device 100B is not limited to the above structure, and various structures as shown in the following examples can be adopted.

[0072] As an example, the heating element 121B can also be configured as a blade, protruding from the bottom 143 of the holding portion 140 into the internal space 141. In this case, the blade-shaped heating element 121B is inserted into the base material portion 151 of the rod-shaped base material 150, heating the base material portion 151 of the rod-shaped base material 150 from the inside. As another example, the heating element 121B can also be configured to cover the bottom 143 of the holding portion 140. Furthermore, the heating element 121B can also be configured as a combination of two or more of the following: a first heating element covering the periphery of the holding portion 140, a blade-shaped second heating element, and a third heating element covering the bottom 143 of the holding portion 140.

[0073] As another example, the holding part 140 may also include an opening and closing mechanism such as a hinge for opening and closing a portion of the outer shell forming the internal space 141. Furthermore, the holding part 140 can also clamp the rod-shaped base material 150 inserted into the internal space 141 by opening and closing the outer shell. In this case, a heating part 121B may also be provided in the clamping portion of the holding part 140 to press and heat the rod-shaped base material 150.

[0074] Furthermore, the means of atomizing the aerosol source is not limited to heating by the heating unit 121B. For example, the means of atomizing the aerosol source can also be induction heating.

[0075] Furthermore, the suction device 100B may also include the heating unit 121A, liquid induction unit 122, liquid storage unit 123, and air flow path 180 as described in the first structural example. The air outlet 182 of the air flow path 180 may also serve as an air inlet to the internal space 141. In this case, the mixture of aerosol generated by the heating unit 121A and air flows into the internal space 141 and further mixes with the aerosol generated by the heating unit 121B, reaching the user's oral cavity.

[0076] <<2. Technical Features>>

[0077] <2.1. System Structure Example>

[0078] Figure 3 This is a diagram illustrating an example of the structure of the sales system 1 according to this embodiment. (See diagram for example.) Figure 3 As shown, the sales system 1 includes an attraction device 100, a user terminal 200, a sales terminal 300, and a server 400. Additionally, in Figure 3 The example shown is of a sales system 1 having two attraction devices 100 (100A and 100B), two user terminals 200 (200A and 200B), one sales terminal 300, and one server 400, but the number of devices included in the sales system 1 is not limited to this example.

[0079] (1) Structure of the suction device 100

[0080] An attraction device is a device that generates a substance for a user to attract. Hereinafter, the substance generated by the attraction device will be described as an aerosol. Alternatively, the substance generated by the attraction device may also be a gas. Hereinafter, the act of a user attracting the substance generated by the attraction device will also be referred to as "attraction" or "inhalation".

[0081] The suction device 100 according to this embodiment uses a base material to generate an aerosol that is attracted by the user. The heating unit 121 is an example of an aerosol generating unit. The box 120 and fragrance-applying box 130 in the first structural example, and the rod-shaped base material 150 in the second structural example, are examples of base materials in this invention. The suction device 100 uses a base material installed in the suction device 100 to generate an aerosol. In the first structural example, the box 120 and fragrance-applying box 130 connected to the power supply unit 110 are examples of base materials installed in the suction device 100. In the second structural example, the rod-shaped base material 150 inserted into the suction device 100 is an example of a base material installed in the suction device 100.

[0082] The suction device 100 can adopt any of the first or second structural examples described above. Figure 3 In this designation, the attraction device 100 used by user A is designated as attraction device 100A, and the attraction device 100 used by user B is designated as attraction device 100B. That is to say, Figure 3 The structure of the suction device 100A in the middle may not necessarily be the same as that in the middle. Figure 1 The structure shown is consistent with, for example, it can also be with Figure 2 The structures shown are consistent. Similarly, Figure 3 The structure of the suction device 100B in the middle may not necessarily be the same as that in the middle. Figure 2 The structure shown is consistent with, for example, it can also be with Figure 1 The structure shown is consistent.

[0083] In particular, the communication unit 115 involved in this embodiment can perform wireless communication in accordance with NFC (Near Field Communication) or Bluetooth (registered trademark) short-range wireless communication standards.

[0084] (2) Structure of User Terminal 200

[0085] User terminal 200 is a terminal device used by the user of attraction device 100. For example, user terminal 200 may be a smartphone, tablet, or wearable device. Attraction device 100 and user terminal 200 used by the same user are mutually associated. For example, a user may register information about attraction device 100 with user terminal 200, or register information about user terminal 200 with attraction device 100, or register with server 400 that attraction device 100 and user terminal 200 are used by the same user. The following refers to... Figure 4 Explain the structure of user terminal 200.

[0086] Figure 4 This is a block diagram illustrating an example of the structure of the user terminal 200 according to this embodiment. For example... Figure 4 As shown, the user terminal 200 includes an input unit 210, an output unit 220, a communication unit 230, a storage unit 240, and a control unit 250.

[0087] The input unit 210 has the function of accepting various types of information input. The input unit 210 may also include an input device that accepts information input from the user. Examples of input devices include buttons, keyboards, touch panels, and microphones. In addition, the input unit 210 may also include various sensors such as image sensors.

[0088] Output unit 220 has the function of outputting information. Output unit 220 may also include an output device that outputs information to the user. Examples of output devices include display devices that display information, light-emitting devices that emit light, vibrating devices that vibrate, and sound output devices that output sound. An example of a display device is a monitor. An example of a light-emitting device is an LED (Light Emitting Diode). An example of a vibrating device is an eccentric motor. An example of a sound output device is a loudspeaker. Output unit 220 outputs information input from control unit 250, thereby notifying the user of information.

[0089] Communication unit 230 is a communication interface used for sending and receiving information between user terminal 200 and other devices. Communication unit 230 communicates in accordance with any wired or wireless communication standard. Such communication standards may include, for example, wireless LAN (Local Area Network), wired LAN, Wi-Fi, or Bluetooth. In particular, communication unit 230 may communicate wirelessly in accordance with short-range wireless communication standards such as NFC (Near Field Communication) or Bluetooth.

[0090] The storage unit 240 stores various information for the operation of the user terminal 200. The storage unit 240 is composed of a non-volatile storage medium, such as flash memory.

[0091] The control unit 250 functions as both a processing unit and a control unit, controlling the overall operation within the user terminal 200 according to various programs. The control unit 250 is implemented, for example, by electronic circuits such as a CPU (Central Processing Unit) and a microprocessor. Additionally, the control unit 250 may include ROM (Read Only Memory) storing the programs and processing parameters, and RAM (Random Access Memory) temporarily storing parameters that may change appropriately. Based on the control of the control unit 250, the user terminal 200 executes various processes. Examples of processes controlled by the control unit 250 include processing information input by the input unit 210, outputting information by the output unit 220, transmitting and receiving information by the communication unit 230, and storing and retrieving information by the storage unit 240. Other processes executed by the user terminal 200, such as inputting information to various structure elements and processing information output from various structure elements, are also controlled by the control unit 250.

[0092] Alternatively, the functions of the control unit 250 can also be implemented using an application. This application can be either pre-installed or downloaded. Furthermore, the functions of the control unit 250 can also be implemented using a PWA (Progressive Web App).

[0093] (3) Structure of Sales Terminal 300

[0094] The sales terminal 300 is a terminal device for processing the sale of base materials. The sales terminal 300 can be configured, for example, as a cache register or a POS (Point of Sales) terminal. In this case, the sales terminal 300 is installed in a store selling base materials. Processing for the sale of base materials includes, for example, accounting procedures involving monetary transactions and sales management procedures such as registering the brand name and quantity of the base materials sold. Users of the sales terminal 300 are typically store clerks. The following is a reference... Figure 5 Explain the structure of sales terminal 300.

[0095] Figure 5 This is a block diagram illustrating an example of the structure of the sales terminal 300 according to this embodiment. For example... Figure 5 As shown, the sales terminal 300 includes an input unit 310, an output unit 320, a communication unit 330, a storage unit 340, and a control unit 350.

[0096] The input unit 310 has the function of accepting various types of information input. The input unit 310 may also include an input device that accepts information from store staff. Examples of input devices include buttons, keyboards, touch panels, and microphones. In addition, the input unit 310 may also include various sensors such as image sensors.

[0097] The output unit 320 has the function of outputting information. The output unit 320 may also include an output device for outputting information to store employees. Examples of output devices include display devices that display information, light-emitting devices that emit light, vibrating devices that vibrate, and sound output devices that output sound. An example of a display device is a monitor. An example of a light-emitting device is an LED. An example of a vibrating device is an eccentric motor. An example of a sound output device is a loudspeaker. The output unit 320 outputs information input from the control unit 350, thereby notifying store employees of the information.

[0098] The communication unit 330 is a communication interface used for sending and receiving information between the point-of-sale terminal 300 and other devices. The communication unit 330 communicates in accordance with any wired or wireless communication standard. Examples of such communication standards include wireless LAN (Local Area Network), wired LAN, or Wi-Fi. In particular, the communication unit 330 can communicate wirelessly in accordance with short-range wireless communication standards such as NFC (Near Field Communication) or Bluetooth.

[0099] The storage unit 340 stores various information for the operation of the sales terminal 300. The storage unit 340 is composed of a non-volatile storage medium, such as flash memory.

[0100] The control unit 350 functions as both a processing unit and a control unit, controlling the overall operation within the point-of-sale terminal 300 according to various programs. The control unit 350 may be implemented using electronic circuits such as a CPU (Central Processing Unit) and a microprocessor. Additionally, the control unit 350 may include ROM (Read Only Memory) for storing the programs and processing parameters, and RAM (Random Access Memory) for temporarily storing parameters that may change appropriately. Based on the control of the control unit 350, the point-of-sale terminal 300 performs various processes. Examples of processes controlled by the control unit 350 include processing information input by the input unit 310, outputting information by the output unit 320, transmitting and receiving information by the communication unit 330, and storing and retrieving information by the storage unit 340. Other processes performed by the point-of-sale terminal 300, such as inputting information to various structural elements and processing information output from these structural elements, are also controlled by the control unit 350.

[0101] Furthermore, the functions of the control unit 350 can also be implemented using an application. This application can be either pre-installed or downloaded. Additionally, the functions of the control unit 350 can also be implemented using a PWA (Progressive Web App).

[0102] (4) Structure of Server 400

[0103] Server 400 is an information processing device that provides various services related to the attraction device 100. As an example, server 400 provides membership services to users of the attraction device 100. Server 400 collects and accumulates information about the attraction device 100, analyzes the accumulated information, and provides membership services corresponding to the analysis results. For example, by accessing server 400 and pre-registering, users can receive various membership services, such as information related to the attraction device 100. The following refers to... Figure 6 Explain the structure of server 400.

[0104] Figure 6 This is a block diagram illustrating an example of the structure of the server 400 according to this embodiment. For example... Figure 6 As shown, server 400 includes a communication unit 410, a storage unit 420, and a control unit 430.

[0105] The communication unit 410 is a communication interface used for sending and receiving information between the server 400 and other devices. The communication unit 410 communicates with other devices, for example, via the Internet.

[0106] Storage unit 420 stores various information for the operation of server 400. Storage unit 420 is composed of non-volatile storage media such as HDD (Hard Disc Drive) or SSD (Solid State Drive).

[0107] The control unit 430 functions as both a processing and control device, controlling the overall operation of the server 400 according to various programs. The control unit 430 may be implemented using electronic circuits such as a CPU (Central Processing Unit) and a microprocessor. Additionally, the control unit 430 may include ROM (Read Only Memory) for storing the programs and calculation parameters used, and RAM (Random Access Memory) for temporarily storing parameters that may change appropriately. Based on the control of the control unit 430, the server 400 executes various processes. The transmission and reception of information by the communication unit 410, and the storage and retrieval of information by the storage unit 420, are examples of processes controlled by the control unit 430. Other processes performed by the server 400, such as the input of information to various structure elements and the processing of information output from various structure elements, are also controlled by the control unit 430.

[0108] <2.2. Processing related to inter-device communication>

[0109] like Figure 3 As shown, the devices included in the sales system 1 can communicate with each other. For example, the attraction device 100A can communicate with user terminal 200A used by the same user, other attraction devices 100B used by other users, and sales terminal 300. User terminal 200 can communicate with attraction device 100 used by the same user and server 400. Sales terminal 300 can communicate with attraction device 100 and server 400. Server 400 can communicate with sales terminal 300 and user terminal 200.

[0110] (1) Information stored in the attraction device 100

[0111] The attraction device 100 stores information received from other devices and sends the stored information to other devices. An example of the information stored in the attraction device 100 is described below.

[0112] - Brand Name Information

[0113] The attraction device 100 can also store identification information of the base material. This identification information is used to identify the brand name (i.e., type) of the base material. Hereinafter, the identification information of the base material will also be referred to as brand name information. The brand name information stored in the attraction device 100, as described later, is sent to the sales terminal 300 and treated as information indicating the brand name to be purchased. Therefore, storing brand name information in the attraction device 100 improves the usability of purchasing base materials.

[0114] -Brief Information

[0115] The suction device 100 may also store a profile of actions performed by the suction device 100 to heat the substrate material in order to generate an aerosol. The suction device 100 heats the substrate material and generates an aerosol according to the profile specified in the stored profile.

[0116] The profile in the first structural example defines the power supply time to the heating unit 121A and the power supply amount (e.g., voltage) per unit time. The control unit 116 controls the power supply to be supplied from the power supply unit 111 to the heating unit 121A according to the power supply time defined in the profile. Such power supply control is performed, for example, every time a suction is detected.

[0117] The profile in the second structural example defines the relationship between the elapsed time since heating of the heating unit 121B begins and the temperature of the heating unit 121B. The control unit 116 controls the heating unit 121B to achieve the same temperature change in the heating unit 121B as the temperature change in the profile. The heating unit 121B may also include a conductive rail including a resistor, and the sensor unit 112 may detect the temperature of the heating unit 121B based on the resistance of the conductive rail. The control of the heating unit 121B can be achieved, for example, by controlling the power supply from the power supply unit 111 to the heating unit 121B. The power supply control can also be performed, for example, by PWM (Pulse Width Modulation) control.

[0118] The profile information can also be the profile itself. Regarding the profile, a pre-defined profile can be provided through membership services, etc. In this case, the profile information can also be identification information representing the profile. The identification information representing the profile has less data compared to the profile itself, thus reducing the communication load when transmitting and receiving with other devices. Furthermore, parameters such as power supply time can be customized by the user regarding the profile.

[0119] -A combination of brand name information and brief information

[0120] The attraction device 100 can also store brand name information corresponding to profile information. For example, the profile of user preference may vary according to each base material, and the attraction device 100 can also store brand name information corresponding to a profile suitable for the base material of the brand name represented by that brand name information. Here, the attraction device 100 can also store identification information representing a combination of brand name information and profile information. By designing the amount of data for the identification information representing the combination of brand name information and profile information to be less than the sum of the amount of data for brand name information and profile information, the communication load when transmitting and receiving with other devices can be reduced. An example of identification information representing a combination of brand name information and profile information is shown in Table 1 below.

[0121] [Table 1]

[0122] Table 1. An example of identification information representing the combination of brand name information and profile information.

[0123] Identification information Brand Name Information Brief information … 0001 brand_X P … 0002 brand_X Q … 0003 brand_Y P … … … …

[0124] - Device ID

[0125] The attraction device 100 may also store identification information. This identification information is used to uniquely identify the attraction device 100. Hereinafter, the identification information of the attraction device 100 will also be referred to as the device ID.

[0126] -User ID

[0127] The attraction device 100 can also store the identification information of the user using the attraction device 100. The user identification information is information used to uniquely identify the user. Hereinafter, the user identification information will also be referred to as the user ID. The user ID can be personal information such as the user's name, or it can be an account name registered in the membership service.

[0128] -Authentication Information

[0129] The attraction device 100 can also store authentication information. Authentication information indicates that the user is qualified to purchase the substrate material. For example, authentication information may include proof of the user's age.

[0130] - Information representing the copying history of the copied object.

[0131] The attraction device 100 transmits and receives information directly or indirectly to other attraction devices 100. Hereinafter, the transmission and reception of information directly or indirectly between attraction devices 100, i.e., information stored in one of the two attraction devices 100 is received and stored by the other attraction device 100, is also referred to as copying. Furthermore, hereafter, the transmission and reception of information stored in an attraction device 100 between other attraction devices 100, i.e., information transmitted and received via multiple attraction devices 100, is also referred to as information of the copied object.

[0132] The information of the copied object can also include brand name information. As described later, the brand name information is treated by the sales terminal 300 as information indicating the brand name desired for purchase. Thus, users can recommend their favorite brand names to each other and purchase the base material of the recommended brand names.

[0133] The information of the copied object can also include profile information. In this case, users can recommend their favorite profiles to each other, and the suction device 100 will perform heating according to the recommended profile.

[0134] As information about the object to be copied, brand name information and profile information can also be sent and received accordingly. For example, the information about the object to be copied can also include identification information representing the combination of brand name information and profile information. According to this structure, users can recommend their favorite combinations of brand names and profiles to each other, and attempt to cook according to the recommended profile using the recommended brand name.

[0135] The suction device 100 can also store information about the copying history, representing information about the object to be copied. This copying history information is copied and updated along with the information about the object to be copied. Examples of copying history information include path information and number of times.

[0136] - Path information

[0137] The attraction device 100 can also store path information representing the path through which information about the copied object is sent and received. The path information is updated during the sending and receiving process via multiple attraction devices 100.

[0138] The path information may also include the device ID of the suction device 100 through which the information of the copied object was copied. For example, if the information of the copied object was copied from suction device 100B to suction device 100A, the path information includes the device ID of suction device 100B and the device ID of suction device 100A. According to this structure, the history of the suction device 100 that copied the information of the copied object can be tracked through the path information.

[0139] The path information may also include the user IDs of the users whose attraction devices 100 the information of the copied object was copied through. For example, if the information of the copied object was copied from attraction device 100B to attraction device 100A, the path information includes the user IDs of user B and user A. On the other hand, if the information of the copied object is copied between multiple attraction devices 100 owned by a single user, the path information is not updated. According to this structure, the history of users who copied the information of the copied object can be easily tracked through the path information.

[0140] - Count information

[0141] The attraction device 100 can also store count information indicating the number of times information representing the copied object has been sent and received. The count information is updated during the process of being sent and received via multiple attraction devices 100.

[0142] The number of times information can also include the number of times the information of the copied object was passed through the attraction device 100. For example, if the information of the copied object was copied from attraction device 100B to attraction device 100A, the number of times information is incremented (i.e., the previous number of times information is incremented by 1). According to this structure, the number of times the information of the copied object was copied can be determined through the number of times information is used.

[0143] The frequency information can also include the number of users who used the attraction device 100 to copy the information. For example, if the information of the copied object is copied from attraction device 100B to attraction device 100A, and the information of the copied object is copied from user B to user A, then the frequency information is incremented. On the other hand, if the information of the copied object is copied between multiple attraction devices 100 owned by a single user, the frequency information is not incremented. According to this structure, the number of users who copied the information of the copied object can be easily determined through the frequency information. Furthermore, if a membership service is provided that assigns points according to the number of times the information of the copied object is copied between users, it is possible to prevent the illegal act of the same user repeatedly copying between multiple attraction devices 100 owned to obtain points.

[0144] -Replenish

[0145] Furthermore, in the attraction device 100, the information described above can be stored individually or in multiple quantities. For example, the attraction device 100 can also store more than one brand name and more than one profile.

[0146] (2) Updating the information stored in the attraction device 100

[0147] The attraction device 100 receives and stores information from other devices. Specifically, the attraction device 100 receives information via near-field communication (NFC). NFC can also be used.

[0148] As an example, the attraction device 100 may also have an NFC tag. An NFC tag is a tag equipped with an antenna for communication using NFC and an IC (Integrated Circuit) chip for processing communication using NFC, typically configured as a thin sheet. Information can be written to or read from the NFC tag via NFC. That is, the NFC tag in the attraction device 100 can function as a storage unit 114, a communication unit 115, and a control unit 116. Information is read and written to the NFC tag using an NFC reader / writer. An NFC reader / writer is a device that combines the functions of an NFC reader capable of reading information from an NFC tag and an NFC writer capable of writing information to an NFC tag.

[0149] As another example, the attraction device 100 may also have an NFC communication module. An NFC communication module is a communication module capable of communication based on NFC, supporting three communication modes: card emulation mode, reader / writer mode, and P2P (peer-to-peer) mode. When the NFC communication module operates in card emulation mode, it acts as an NFC tag, being read and written by an NFC reader / writer. When the NFC communication module operates in reader / writer mode, it acts as an NFC reader / writer, reading and writing NFC tags. When the NFC communication module operates in P2P mode, it communicates with other NFC communication modules operating in P2P mode.

[0150] -Management performed by user terminal 200

[0151] User terminal 200 manages the information stored in attraction device 100. For example, user terminal 200 synchronizes with attraction device 100. Specifically, user terminal 200 writes information to attraction device 100 or reads information from attraction device 100 and stores it, so that the information stored in attraction device 100 is consistent with the information stored in user terminal 200. This synchronized information is also referred to below as information of the synchronization object. The function of managing the information stored in attraction device 100 can be implemented through a dedicated application (hereinafter referred to as the management application).

[0152] User terminal 200 communicates with attraction device 100 for synchronization under certain conditions. These conditions may include: the distance between user terminal 200 and attraction device 100 is close enough to enable short-range wireless communication; a management application is running on user terminal 200; and a discrepancy exists between the synchronization object information stored in user terminal 200 and the information stored in attraction device 100.

[0153] Additionally, the user terminal 200 can detect the attraction device 100 within range capable of short-range wireless communication by periodically polling. The user terminal 200 can also launch a management application when it detects the attraction device 100 within range capable of short-range wireless communication through polling. Furthermore, if the management application is launched, it can automatically synchronize with the attraction device 100.

[0154] Typically, user terminal 200 manages information stored in attraction device 100 corresponding to user terminal 200 (i.e., used by the same user). For example, user terminal 200A manages information stored in attraction device 100A.

[0155] - Updates to other attraction devices 100

[0156] The attraction device 100 can receive and store information from other attraction devices 100. For example, the attraction device 100 can receive and store information about the object to be copied from other attraction devices 100.

[0157] Under certain conditions, the attraction device 100 communicates with other attraction devices 100 to send and receive information about the object to be copied. These conditions may include: the attraction devices 100 being close enough to each other to enable short-range wireless communication.

[0158] - The receiving confirmation action performed by the suction device 100

[0159] The attraction device 100 receives and stores information from other devices (e.g., user terminal 200 or attraction device 100 itself). In wireless communications such as NFC that do not require pairing, various undesirable situations may occur, such as writing unwanted information in addition to desired information. For example, if unwanted brand name information is written to attraction device 100, there is a concern that the brand name information may be sent to sales terminal 300, leading to the incorrect purchase of substrate material for an unwanted brand name.

[0160] Therefore, the attraction device 100 determines the storage of received information when the prescribed conditions are met. This structure avoids the aforementioned undesirable situation. The structure will be described in detail below. Additionally, other devices that send information to the attraction device 100 will also be referred to as sending source devices.

[0161] When a first condition is met, the attracting device 100 receives information from the sending source device. If the sending source device is the user terminal 200, the information received from the sending source device is information about the synchronization object. If the sending source device is another attracting device 100, the information received from the sending source device is information about the copying object. Furthermore, when a second condition is met, the attracting device 100 stores the information received from the sending source device. Thus, the attracting device 100 does not store information if it only receives information from the sending source device, but stores it only when the second condition is met. Therefore, in environments where unwanted information might be received, the attracting device 100 can limit itself to storing only desired information.

[0162] Storage performed under the second condition is long-term storage. On the other hand, information received under the first condition can also be stored temporarily.

[0163] As an example, the suction device 100 can also temporarily store information received from the transmitting source device with an attached time limit if the first condition is met. In this case, if the second condition is met before the time limit expires, the suction device 100 releases the time limit attached to the temporarily stored information received from the transmitting source device. On the other hand, if the time limit has expired without the second condition being met, the suction device 100 deletes the temporarily stored information received from the transmitting source device. According to this structure, the information received from the transmitting source device is switched between being stored and deleted depending on whether the second condition is met before the time limit expires. Thus, information received from the transmitting source device can be temporarily stored until the second condition is met.

[0164] As an example, the attracting device 100 may also store the information received from the transmitting source device into a volatile storage medium when the first condition is met. In this case, when the second condition is met, the attracting device 100 stores the information received from the transmitting source device stored in the volatile storage medium into a non-volatile storage medium. An example of a volatile storage medium is RAM (Random Access Memory). An example of a non-volatile storage medium is flash memory. According to this structure, the information received from the transmitting source device can be temporarily held until the second condition is met.

[0165] The first condition includes: wireless communication is established between the attracting device 100 and the transmitting device. When the attracting device 100 is close enough to the transmitting device to enable wireless communication, it can receive information from the transmitting device. This wireless communication between the attracting device 100 and the transmitting device is short-range wireless communication. An example of this short-range wireless communication is NFC. The communication range in NFC is approximately 10cm, therefore, when the attracting device 100 is close to the transmitting device at approximately 10cm, it receives information from the transmitting device. Thus, by keeping the attracting device 100 more than 10cm away from the transmitting device, the user can prevent the attracting device 100 from receiving unwanted information. On the other hand, by keeping the attracting device 100 within 10cm of the transmitting device, the user can make the attracting device 100 receive desired information. Hereinafter, the proximity of the attracting device 100 to the transmitting device to enable NFC communication will be referred to as a touch.

[0166] The second condition includes: the NFC communication between the attracting device 100 and the sending source device is interrupted and then resumed. In other words, the second condition includes the establishment of a second NFC communication with the sending source device.

[0167] The termination of NFC communication can also be passively performed on the attracting device 100. For example, NFC communication initiated by the attracting device 100 can be terminated when the attracting device 100 is moved beyond a distance from the transmitting source device where NFC communication is possible. After the NFC communication is terminated, if the attracting device 100 touches the transmitting source device again, NFC communication is resumed. In this case, by having the user touch the attracting device 100 twice, information received from the transmitting source device can be stored in the attracting device 100.

[0168] The termination of NFC communication can also be actively performed by the attraction device 100. For example, the attraction device 100 can terminate NFC communication when a first condition is met and information about the object to be copied is received. If the attraction device 100 continues to touch the transmitting source device after the NFC communication has been terminated, NFC communication can be resumed. In this case, by continuously touching the transmitting source device with the attraction device 100, the user can store the information received from the transmitting source device into the attraction device 100.

[0169] The second condition can also be that the NFC communication between the attraction device 100 and the sending source device is interrupted and subsequently re-established, or alternatively, it includes a specified user operation performed on at least one of the attraction device 100 or the sending source device. An example of a specified user operation is that a button on the attraction device 100 is pressed. Another example of a specified user operation is that a button on the sending source device is pressed. The second condition can also include a specified user operation performed on both the attraction device 100 and the sending source device. According to this structure, the attraction device 100 can be limited to storing information received from the sending source device only when the user performs an explicit operation.

[0170] Furthermore, the attraction device 100 may also send at least a portion of the information stored in the attraction device 100 to the sending source device when the first condition is met. For example, the attraction device 100 may also send the information of the copied object to other attraction devices 100 at the same time as receiving the information of the copied object from other attraction devices 100. According to this structure, the attraction device 100 can exchange information of the copied object with other attraction devices 100.

[0171] (3) Information processing flow in the overall sales system 1

[0172] In the following reference Figure 7 Explain the information processing flow in Sales System 1. Figure 7 This is a diagram illustrating an example of the information processing flow in the sales system 1 according to this embodiment.

[0173] (3.1) Sending and receiving information about the copied object

[0174] The suction device 100 transmits information about receiving and copying objects directly or indirectly via the user terminal 200 to other suction devices 100. Figure 7 In the example shown, the attraction device 100B sends the dataset containing brand name information, profile information, path information, and frequency information as the information to be copied directly or indirectly to the attraction device 100A via the user terminal 200A.

[0175] - Direct copy

[0176] The attraction device 100 can also directly send information about receiving and copying objects to other attraction devices 100. In this case, for example, the attraction device 100 sends information about receiving and copying objects to other attraction devices 100 via an NFC communication module operating in P2P mode.

[0177] The suction device 100 sends information about the object to be copied to other suction devices 100, or receives information about the object to be copied from other suction devices 100. Figure 7 In the example shown, suction device 100B sends information about the object to be copied to suction device 100A, and suction device 100A receives the information about the object to be copied from suction device 100B. According to this structure, suction device 100 can directly copy information about the object to be copied from other suction devices 100.

[0178] The suction device 100 appends information related to itself to the path information included in the information about the copied object received from other suction devices 100. Examples of this information related to the suction device 100 include the device ID of the suction device 100 and the user ID of the user using the suction device 100. Figure 7 In the example shown, when the suction device 100A receives information about the object to be copied from the suction device 100B, it appends the device ID of the suction device 100A or the user ID of user A to the path information contained in the received information about the object to be copied. According to this structure, the path information can be updated appropriately in the case of direct copying.

[0179] The suction device 100 increments the number of times information contained in the information about the copied object received from other suction devices 100. Figure 7 In the example shown, when the suction device 100A receives information about the object to be copied from the suction device 100B, it increments the count information contained in the received information about the object to be copied. According to this structure, in the case of direct copying, the count information can be updated appropriately.

[0180] - Indirect replication

[0181] The attraction device 100 can also indirectly send and receive information about the object to be copied with other attraction devices 100 via the user terminal 200. For example, if the attraction device 100 has an NFC tag, the user terminal 200 can read and write information about the object to be copied to the NFC tag of the attraction device 100 through an NFC reader / writer.

[0182] User terminal 200 receives or sends information about the object to be copied to the attraction device 100. For example, user terminal 200 receives information about the object to be copied from another attraction device 100. Furthermore, user terminal 200 sends the received information about the object to be copied to attraction device 100. And attraction device 100 receives information about the object to be copied from user terminal 200. Figure 7In the example shown, user terminal 200A reads information about the object to be copied from the NFC tag of attraction device 100B, and writes the read information about the object to be copied back to the NFC tag of attraction device 100A. According to this structure, attraction device 100 can indirectly copy information about the object to be copied from other attraction devices 100 via user terminal 200.

[0183] User terminal 200, after adding information related to the destination attraction device 100 to the path information contained in the information of the copied object received from other attraction devices 100, sends the copied object information to the destination attraction device 100. Figure 7 In the example shown, user terminal 200A writes the path information, which is included in the information about the copied object read from the NFC tag of attraction device 100B, plus the device ID of attraction device 100A or the user ID of user A, to the NFC tag of attraction device 100A. According to this structure, the path information can be appropriately updated in the case of indirect copying.

[0184] User terminal 200 sends information about the copied object based on an increment of the number of times information included in the information about the copied object received from other attraction devices 100. Figure 7 In the example shown, user terminal 200A writes the number of copies to the NFC tag of attraction device 100A based on the increment of the copy count information contained in the information of the copied object read from the NFC tag of attraction device 100B. According to this structure, the number of copies can be updated appropriately in the case of indirect copying.

[0185] -Initial registration

[0186] This describes the initial registration of the information of the object to be copied to the attraction device 100. Initial registration means that the information of the object to be copied has not been stored in the attraction device 100 for the first time without being stored in the attraction device 100 by information from other attraction devices 100.

[0187] Brand name information can also be initially registered by user terminal 200. For example, user terminal 200 can also obtain brand name information from a membership service or website provided by server 400 and write it to attraction device 100. As another example, user terminal 200 can also write brand name information obtained by applying image recognition to a camera image obtained by photographing the packaging of the base material to attraction device 100.

[0188] Brand name information can also be initially registered by the attraction device 100 itself. For example, the base material can also be assigned information representing the brand name of the base material. In this case, the attraction device 100 can identify the brand name information of the base material based on the identification assigned to the base material. For example, colored lines and barcodes can be applied to the surface of the base material. The sensor unit 112 may also include an image sensor for reading information attached to the surface of the base material, and the control unit 116 may apply image recognition to the image obtained by the image sensor to identify the brand name information of the base material.

[0189] The suction device 100 can also automatically identify and store the brand information of the installed substrate material. In this case, the availability of repurchasing substrate materials that have been previously installed on the suction device 100, such as commonly used substrate materials, can be improved.

[0190] Similarly, the initial registration of the profile information can be performed either by the user terminal 200 or by the attraction device 100.

[0191] During initial registration, 0 is registered in the count information, and the device ID or user ID of the attraction device 100 that performs the initial registration of the copied object information is registered in the path information.

[0192] Sending and receiving high-priority information

[0193] The attracting device 100 can also send only information with high receiving priority when sending and receiving information with other devices. This structure reduces the communication load. Therefore, even when using slower standards such as NFC, the probability of successful information transmission and reception can be increased.

[0194] Examples of high-priority information include brand name information and profile information. If brand name information and profile information are not sent or received along with count information and path information, the count information and path information can also be reset on the receiving side. That is, the count information can be 0, while the path information can simply be the receiving side's device ID or user ID.

[0195] (3.2) Communication between the attraction device 100 and the sales terminal 300

[0196] The attraction device 100 sends at least a portion of the stored information to the sales terminal 300. Figure 7 In the example shown, the attraction device 100A sends a dataset containing brand name information, profile information, path information, frequency information, device ID, and authentication information to the sales terminal 300.

[0197] The point-of-sale terminal 300 receives information from the attraction device 100. For example, when the point-of-sale terminal 300 and the attraction device 100 are close enough to enable short-range wireless communication, the attraction device 100 and the point-of-sale terminal 300 communicate via short-range wireless communication to send and receive information. According to this configuration, the point-of-sale terminal 300 receives information from the attraction device 100 when it is close enough to enable short-range wireless communication, thus preventing crosstalk even in situations such as crowded stores.

[0198] As an example, the attraction device 100 may also have an NFC tag. On the other hand, the sales terminal 300 may also have an NFC reader that functions as a communication unit 330. In this case, with the attraction device 100 having an NFC tag and the sales terminal 300 having an NFC reader, the sales terminal 300 reads the information stored in the NFC tag of the attraction device 100 using the NFC reader. According to this structure, users can send information simply by bringing the attraction device 100 close to the NFC reader of the sales terminal 300, thus improving usability.

[0199] If the sales terminal 300 receives information from the attraction device 100, it performs processing corresponding to the received information. Specifically, the sales terminal 300 performs processing corresponding to information about the copying object received from the attraction device 100. According to this structure, the sales terminal 300 can obtain information from the attraction device 100 without obtaining it from the user terminal 200, and perform processing corresponding to the obtained information. Therefore, the time required for the user to operate the user terminal 200 to send information is reduced, thus improving usability.

[0200] As an example, the sales terminal 300 sends at least a portion of the information received from the attraction device 100 to the server 400. For instance, the sales terminal 300 sends information about a copy of an object to the server 400. The server 400 accumulates and analyzes the information received from the sales terminal 300. The analysis results of the server 400 can be used for marketing, etc. The server 400 provides membership services based on the analysis results. The membership service is provided to the user terminal 200 via the Internet, for example, as a web service. According to this structure, users can receive appropriate membership services reflecting their purchasing behavior simply by purchasing base materials using the attraction device 100, i.e., without having to operate the user terminal 200 to send information to the server 400.

[0201] As another example, the sales terminal 300 can also process the sale of base materials in accordance with the information received from the attraction device 100. For instance, the sales terminal 300 can also process the sale of base materials with a brand name indicated by the brand name information included in the information about the copied object received from the attraction device 100 as the base material that the user wishes to purchase. According to this structure, the user can purchase the desired base material even without verbally specifying it to the salesperson.

[0202] In detail, the sales terminal 300 can also output substrate material location information, which indicates the location where the substrate material of the brand name indicated by the brand name information received from the attraction device 100 is stored. When substrate materials are displayed by brand name on a shelf in the store, the substrate material location information includes information indicating the location where the substrate material of the corresponding brand name is displayed. The substrate material location information can also be displayed as an image on the display screen of the sales terminal 300. At this time, the brand name and packaging of the substrate material of the corresponding brand name can also be displayed along with the substrate material location information. To prevent purchase errors, this information is preferably verifiable not only by the salesperson but also by the customer. Furthermore, when the shelf has light-emitting elements at positions corresponding to the substrate materials of multiple brands, the light-emitting elements positioned at the position corresponding to the desired substrate material can also emit light as an output of the substrate material location information. According to this structure, the salesperson can accurately and quickly locate the substrate material the customer wants to purchase from the shelf.

[0203] For the aforementioned processing, the sales terminal 300 can also store the location information of each of the multiple base materials that are intended for sale. For example, the sales terminal 300 can also store the brand name information of each of the multiple base materials that are intended for sale in correspondence with the location information of that base material. Furthermore, the sales terminal 300 can also output the location information of the base material that corresponds to the base material represented by the brand name information included in the information obtained from the attraction device 100, from among the stored multiple location information of base materials. According to this structure, the sales terminal 300 can appropriately output the location information of the base material that is desired to be purchased.

[0204] The sales terminal 300 can also perform authentication based on authentication information received from the attraction device 100. For example, the sales terminal 300 determines that authentication is successful if the user's age, as indicated by the authentication information, is above a specified age; otherwise, it determines that authentication has failed. This structure prevents the mis-selling of base materials to users who are not qualified to purchase them.

[0205] (3.3) Communication between sales terminal 300 and server 400

[0206] The sales terminal 300 will send at least a portion of the information received from the attraction device 100 to the server 400. Figure 7 In the example shown, the sales terminal 300 sends a dataset containing brand name information, profile information, path information, frequency information, and device ID to the server 400.

[0207] Server 400 analyzes information received from sales terminal 300. Specifically, server 400 analyzes information about the replicated objects. Furthermore, server 400 provides membership services based on the analysis results.

[0208] As an example, server 400 can also sum the information of the collected replicated objects by each brand name. Table 2 below shows an example of the summation results.

[0209] [Table 2]

[0210] Table 2 shows an example of the total results for the copied object containing brand name information.

[0211]

[0212] The path information in Table 2 contains “A”, “B” and “C”, which are the device IDs of attraction device 100A, attraction device 100B and attraction device 100C, respectively.

[0213] Server 400 sums the number of times each brand name is copied by counting the number of times it is copied from other brand name information. Based on this sum, Server 400 can identify brand names that are frequently copied among members, i.e., popular brand names among members. Furthermore, Server 400 can provide information recommending popular brand names among members as a member service.

[0214] As another example, server 400 can also sum the information of the collected replicated objects on a per-profile basis. Table 3 below shows an example of the summation results.

[0215] [Table 3]

[0216] Table 3. An example of the total results of information copied from each profile.

[0217]

[0218] Server 400 sums the number of times each profile is copied by counting the number of times it contains information about the copied objects with the same profile information. Server 400 can also use this sum to determine which profiles are copied extensively among members, i.e., which are popular among members. Furthermore, Server 400 can provide information recommending popular profiles among members as a member service.

[0219] Additionally, the total number of profile information can also be calculated based on each category. For example, Server 400 can categorize profile information into multiple types, such as high-quality and low-quality, calculate the total number of copies for each category, and determine the most popular category among members. Furthermore, user-defined profiles, regardless of parameter differences, can be categorized as user-defined types.

[0220] In addition, server 400 can also determine enhancers based on the number of times information and path information. Here, enhancers are users who repeatedly copy information about the copied object. Server 400 sums the number of times information about the copied object belonging to the same user is included in the path information, thereby obtaining a total number of copies for each user. Furthermore, server 400 can pre-store the device ID of the attraction device 100 corresponding to the user ID, and if the path information includes a device ID, it can also determine the user on the path based on the device ID contained in the path information. Server 400 can also determine the user, i.e., the enhancer, who has copied information about the copied object extensively based on this total value. According to this structure, enhancers can be determined, and countermeasures such as recommending matrix materials specifically for enhancers can be implemented.

[0221] Furthermore, server 400 can also determine the connection between users based on the number of copies and path information. For example, each time the information of the copied object is copied, if the device ID of the attraction device 100 that copied the information of the copied object is appended to the end of the path information, it can be known that the information of the copied object was copied between the two attraction devices 100 corresponding to adjacent device IDs in the path information. Therefore, server 400 estimates that there is a direct connection between the users of the two attraction devices 100 that copied the information of the copied object. In addition, server 400 can also estimate the strength of the connection between users based on the total number of copies between users who are estimated to have a direct connection. According to this structure, the connection between users can be determined, and countermeasures such as recommending matrix materials for each group can be implemented.

[0222] In addition, the server 400 can also analyze which user sold which brand of matrix material to which customer based on the device ID and brand name information, i.e., which user purchased which matrix material.

[0223] (4) Processing flow

[0224] - Direct copy

[0225] Figure 8 This is a timing diagram illustrating an example of the processing flow performed in the sales system 1 according to this embodiment. This timing relates to attraction device 100A and attraction device 100B. This timing is an example of attraction devices 100 directly copying information of the copied object from each other.

[0226] like Figure 8 As shown, firstly, the attraction device 100B determines whether NFC communication with other devices is established (step S102). Here, the NFC communication is communication between NFC communication modules operating in P2P mode.

[0227] The attraction device 100B remains in standby mode until NFC communication with another device is established (step S102: No). If it is determined that NFC communication with another device is established (step S102: Yes), the attraction device 100B sends information about the object to be copied in the established NFC communication (step S104). For example, if NFC communication with the attraction device 100A is established, the attraction device 100B sends information about the object to be copied to the attraction device 100A.

[0228] The suction device 100A temporarily stores information about the received copy object (step S106). For example, the suction device 100A stores the information about the copy object with an additional time limit and starts a timer that will expire if the time limit is reached.

[0229] Next, the attraction device 100A determines whether the NFC communication between the attraction device 100A and the attraction device 100B has been cut off and then re-established (step S108).

[0230] If it is determined that the NFC communication between the attraction device 100A and the attraction device 100B was interrupted and then re-established (step S108: Yes), the attraction device 100A determines the storage of the information of the copied object (step S110). For example, the attraction device 100A removes the time limit attached to the information of the copied object.

[0231] On the other hand, if it is determined that the NFC communication between the attraction device 100A and the attraction device 100B has not been interrupted, or has not been re-established after being interrupted (step S108: No), the attraction device 100A determines whether the time limit has elapsed (step S112). If it is determined that the time limit has not elapsed (step S112: No), the process returns to step S108. On the other hand, if it is determined that the time limit has elapsed (step S112: Yes), the attraction device 100A deletes the temporary storage of the information of the copied object (step S114).

[0232] Furthermore, this process describes an example where the attraction device 100B determines whether NFC communication is established, and sends the information of the object to be copied if NFC communication is established; however, the present invention is not limited to this example. Alternatively, the attraction device 100A may determine whether NFC communication is established, and if so, read the information of the object to be copied from the attraction device 100B. The reading performed by the attraction device 100A can, for example, be implemented by requesting the attraction device 100B to send the information of the object to be copied, and the attraction device 100B responding to the request by sending the information of the object to be copied.

[0233] - Indirect replication

[0234] Figure 9 This is a timing diagram illustrating an example of the processing flow performed in the sales system 1 according to this embodiment. This timing relates to the attraction device 100A, attraction device 100B, and user terminal 200A. This timing is an example of the attraction devices 100 indirectly copying information of the copied object to each other via the user terminal 200.

[0235] like Figure 9 As shown, firstly, the user terminal 200A determines whether NFC communication with other devices is established (step S202). Here, NFC communication refers to communication between the NFC reader / writer mounted on the user terminal 200A and the NFC tag, and the user terminal 200A makes this determination by polling.

[0236] User terminal 200A remains in standby mode until NFC communication with other devices is established (step S202: No). If it is determined that NFC communication with other devices is established (step S202: Yes), user terminal 200A reads the information of the copied object during the established NFC communication (step S204). For example, if NFC communication with attraction device 100B is established, user terminal 200A reads the information of the copied object from attraction device 100B. Furthermore, user terminal 200A stores the read information of the copied object (step S206).

[0237] Next, the user terminal 200A determines whether NFC communication is established between itself and the attraction device 100A (step S208). This NFC communication is the communication between the NFC reader / writer mounted on the user terminal 200A and the NFC tag, and the user terminal 200A makes this determination by polling.

[0238] User terminal 200A remains in standby mode until NFC communication with attraction device 100A is established (step S208: No). If it is determined that NFC communication with attraction device 100A is established (step S208: Yes), user terminal 200A sends information about the copied object in the established NFC communication (step S210). For example, user terminal 200A writes information about the copied object read from attraction device 100B to the NFC tag of attraction device 100A.

[0239] The suction device 100A temporarily stores information about the received copy object (step S212). For example, the suction device 100A stores the information about the copy object with an additional time limit and starts a timer that will expire if the time limit is reached.

[0240] Next, the attraction device 100A determines whether the NFC communication between the attraction device 100A and the user terminal 200A has been cut off and then re-established (step S214).

[0241] If it is determined that the NFC communication between the attraction device 100A and the user terminal 200A was interrupted and then re-established (step S214: Yes), the attraction device 100A determines the storage of the information of the copied object (step S216). For example, the attraction device 100A removes the time limit attached to the information of the copied object.

[0242] On the other hand, if it is determined that the NFC communication between the attraction device 100A and the user terminal 200A has not been interrupted, or has not been re-established after being interrupted (step S214: No), the attraction device 100A determines whether the time limit has elapsed (step S218). If it is determined that the time limit has not elapsed (step S218: No), the process returns to step S214. On the other hand, if it is determined that the time limit has elapsed (step S218: Yes), the attraction device 100A deletes the temporary storage of the information of the copied object (step S220).

[0243] <<3. Summary>>

[0244] The preferred embodiments of the present invention have been described in detail above with reference to the accompanying drawings, but the present invention is not limited to these examples. Those skilled in the art to which this invention pertains will obviously be able to conceive of various modifications or alterations within the scope of the technical concept set forth in the claims, and these are naturally understood to fall within the technical scope of the present invention.

[0245] For example, in the above embodiment, the sales terminal 300 was described as an example of being configured as a high-speed buffer register or a POS terminal installed in a store selling base materials, but the present invention is not limited to this example. For example, the sales terminal 300 may also be configured as an automatic vending machine. In this case, the sales terminal 300 may also highlight the position of the button for selecting the base material corresponding to the brand name information received from the attraction device 100, and the base material may be provided in accordance with the amount of money inserted by the user.

[0246] For example, the above embodiments mainly illustrate the use of NFC in wireless communication between the attraction device 100 and the user terminal 200, wireless communication between the attraction device 100 and the sales terminal 300, and wireless communication between the attraction device 100 and other attraction devices 100, but the present invention is not limited to this example. For example, at least one of these wireless communications can also be performed using other near-field communication standards such as Bluetooth.

[0247] The attraction device 100 can also be configured to have a replaceable housing, and the communication module can also be housed in the housing. For example, an NFC tag can also be housed in the housing.

[0248] For example, at least some of the structural elements included in the point-of-sale terminal 300 can also be externalized within the point-of-sale terminal 300. For example, the function of communicating with the attraction device 100 in the communication unit 330 (e.g., an NFC reader / writer) can also be externalized within the point-of-sale terminal 300. The same applies to other structural elements of the point-of-sale terminal 300 and structural elements of other devices.

[0249] For example, in the above embodiment, an example of server 400 collecting information via sales terminal 300 was described, but the present invention is not limited to this example. For example, user terminal 200 may also send information to server 400. As an example, user terminal 200 may also send information synchronized with attraction device 100 to server 400 separately.

[0250] For example, the attraction device 100 can also store multiple brand name information. Furthermore, the attraction device 100 can select the brand name information to send from the stored multiple brand name information. For example, the attraction device 100 can also send the brand name information of the most recently used matrix material. The same applies to profile information.

[0251] Furthermore, the series of processes performed by the various devices described in this specification can be implemented using software, hardware, or a combination of both. The programs constituting the software are, for example, pre-stored on a recording medium (non-transitory media) located internally or externally to each device. And, each program is, for example, read into RAM when executed by a computer and executed by a processor such as a CPU. The aforementioned recording medium is, for example, a magnetic disk, optical disk, optical disc, flash memory, etc. Alternatively, the aforementioned computer programs can be distributed, for example, via a network without using a recording medium.

[0252] Furthermore, the processes illustrated using flowcharts and sequence diagrams in this specification may not necessarily be executed in the order shown. Some processing steps may also be executed in parallel. Additionally, supplementary processing steps may be used, and some processing steps may be omitted.

[0253] In addition, the following structures also fall within the technical scope of this invention. (1)

[0255] An attraction device that uses a matrix material to generate an aerosol that is attracted to a user, comprising:

[0256] Storage department, which stores information;

[0257] The communications unit, upon fulfilling the first condition, receives information from other devices; and

[0258] The control unit, when the second condition is met, stores the information received from the other device in the storage unit. (2)

[0260] The suction device as described in (1) above,

[0261] The first condition includes: wireless communication is established between the attraction device and the other device. (3)

[0263] The suction device as described in (1) or (2) above,

[0264] The second condition includes: the wireless communication between the attraction device and the other devices is cut off and then re-established. (4)

[0266] The suction device as described in any one of (1) to (3) above,

[0267] The second condition includes: a specified user operation has been performed on at least one of the attraction device or the other device. (5)

[0269] The suction device as described in any one of (1) to (4) above,

[0270] The wireless communication between the attraction device and the other devices is short-range wireless communication. (6)

[0272] The suction device as described in (5) above,

[0273] The short-range wireless communication mentioned is NFC (Near Field Communication). (7)

[0275] The suction device as described in any one of (1) to (6) above,

[0276] The attraction device temporarily stores information received from the other device with an additional time limit if the first condition is met, removes the time limit on the temporarily stored information received from the other device if the second condition is met before the time limit expires, and deletes the temporarily stored information received from the other device if the time limit has expired without the second condition being met. (8)

[0278] The suction device as described in any one of (1) to (7) above,

[0279] The attraction device stores the information received from the other device into a volatile storage medium when the first condition is met, and stores the information received from the other device stored in the volatile storage medium into a non-volatile storage medium when the second condition is met. (9)

[0281] The suction device as described in any one of (1) to (8) above,

[0282] The information received from the other device includes identification information of the matrix material. (10)

[0284] The suction device as described in any one of (1) to (9) above,

[0285] The information received from the other device includes a brief description that specifies the actions of the suction device in heating the matrix material to generate the aerosol. (11)

[0287] The suction device as described in (10) above,

[0288] The profile information is identification information representing the profile. (12)

[0290] The suction device as described in any one of (1) to (11) above,

[0291] The information received from the other device includes identification information representing a combination of identification information and profile information representing a profile specifying the action of the attraction device to heat the matrix material in order to generate the aerosol. (13)

[0293] The suction device as described in (12) above,

[0294] The information received from the other device includes path information indicating the path through which the information received from the other device was sent or received. (14)

[0296] The suction device as described in (13) above,

[0297] The path information includes identification information of the attraction device through which the information received from the other device passed. (15)

[0299] The suction device as described in (13) or (14) above,

[0300] The path information includes identification information of the user of the attraction device through which the information received from the other device was passed. (16)

[0302] The suction device as described in any one of (1) to (15) above,

[0303] The information received from the other device includes frequency information indicating the number of times the information received from the other device was sent and received. (17)

[0305] The suction device as described in (16) above,

[0306] The frequency information includes the number of times the information received from the other device has passed through the attraction device. (18)

[0308] The suction device as described in (16) or (17) above,

[0309] The frequency information includes the number of users of the attraction device who used the information received from the other device. (19)

[0311] A system comprising multiple attraction devices that generate an aerosol attracted by a user using a matrix material.

[0312] If the first condition is met, the suction device receives information from the other suction devices.

[0313] If the second condition is met, the attraction device stores information received from the other attraction devices. (20)

[0315] A program for controlling a suction device that generates an aerosol using a matrix material to be attracted by a user, wherein a computer performs the following processing.

[0316] If the first condition is met, information is received from other devices; and

[0317] If the second condition is met, the information received from the other device is stored.

[0318] Label Explanation

[0319] 1. Sales System

[0320] 100 Suction Device

[0321] 110 Power Supply Unit

[0322] 111 Power Supply Section

[0323] 112 Sensor Department

[0324] 113 Notification Department

[0325] 114 Storage Department

[0326] 115 Ministry of Communications

[0327] 116 Control Department

[0328] 120 boxes

[0329] 121 Heating section

[0330] 122 Liquid Induction Section

[0331] 123 Liquid Storage Department

[0332] 124 nozzle component

[0333] 130 Fragrance-Enhanced Box

[0334] 131 Fragrance Source

[0335] 140 Maintenance Section

[0336] 141 Interior Space

[0337] 142 Opening

[0338] 143 Bottom

[0339] 144 Insulation section

[0340] 150 rod-shaped matrix material

[0341] 151 Matrix Materials Department

[0342] 152 Suction nozzle

[0343] 180 airflow path

[0344] 181 Air inlet hole

[0345] 182 Air outlet hole

[0346] 200 user terminals

[0347] 300 sales terminals

[0348] 400 server.

Claims

1. An attraction device that uses a matrix material to generate an aerosol that is attracted to a user, comprising: Storage department, which stores information; The communications unit, upon fulfilling the first condition, receives information from other devices; and The control unit, upon meeting the second condition, stores the information received from the other device in the storage unit. The second condition includes: the wireless communication between the attraction device and the other devices is interrupted and then re-established. The attraction device temporarily stores information received from the other device with an additional time limit if the first condition is met, removes the time limit on the temporarily stored information received from the other device if the second condition is met before the time limit expires, and deletes the temporarily stored information received from the other device if the time limit has expired without the second condition being met.

2. The suction device as described in claim 1, The first condition includes: wireless communication is established between the attraction device and the other device.

3. The suction device as described in claim 1 or 2, The second condition includes: a specified user operation has been performed on at least one of the attraction device or the other device.

4. The suction device as described in claim 1 or 2, The wireless communication between the attraction device and the other devices is short-range wireless communication.

5. The suction device as described in claim 4, The aforementioned near-field wireless communication is NFC, or Near Field Communication.

6. The suction device as described in claim 1 or 2, The attraction device stores the information received from the other device into a volatile storage medium when the first condition is met, and stores the information received from the other device stored in the volatile storage medium into a non-volatile storage medium when the second condition is met.

7. The suction device as described in claim 1 or 2, The information received from the other device includes identification information of the matrix material.

8. The suction device as described in claim 1 or 2, The information received from the other device includes a brief description that specifies the actions of the suction device in heating the matrix material to generate the aerosol.

9. The suction device as claimed in claim 8, The profile information is identification information representing the profile.

10. The suction device as described in claim 1 or 2, The information received from the other device includes identification information representing a combination of identification information and profile information representing a profile specifying the action of the attraction device to heat the matrix material in order to generate the aerosol.

11. The suction device as claimed in claim 10, The information received from the other device includes path information indicating the path through which the information received from the other device was sent or received.

12. The suction device as claimed in claim 11, The path information includes identification information of the attraction device through which the information received from the other device passed.

13. The suction device as claimed in claim 11, The path information includes identification information of the user of the attraction device through which the information received from the other device was passed.

14. The suction device as described in claim 1 or 2, The information received from the other device includes frequency information indicating the number of times the information received from the other device was sent and received.

15. The suction device as claimed in claim 14, The frequency information includes the number of times the information received from the other device has passed through the attraction device.

16. The suction device as claimed in claim 14, The frequency information includes the number of users of the attraction device who used the information received from the other device.

17. A system comprising multiple attraction devices that generate an aerosol attracted to a user using a matrix material. If the first condition is met, the suction device receives information from other devices. If the second condition is met, the suction device stores information received from other devices. The second condition includes: the wireless communication between the attraction device and the other devices is interrupted and then re-established. The attraction device temporarily stores information received from the other device with an additional time limit if the first condition is met, removes the time limit on the temporarily stored information received from the other device if the second condition is met before the time limit expires, and deletes the temporarily stored information received from the other device if the time limit has expired without the second condition being met.

18. A computer program product comprising instructions that, when executed by a processor of an attracted device, perform the following processing: If the first condition is met, information is received from other devices; and If the second condition is met, the information received from the other device is stored. The second condition includes: the wireless communication between the attraction device and the other devices is interrupted and then re-established. The attraction device temporarily stores information received from the other device with an additional time limit if the first condition is met, removes the time limit on the temporarily stored information received from the other device if the second condition is met before the time limit expires, and deletes the temporarily stored information received from the other device if the time limit has expired without the second condition being met.

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