Suction device, control method, and program

Abstract

A control unit (116B) of a suction device (100B) acquires height information indicating the height at which the suction device (100B) is located, determines whether or not the height at which the suction device (100B) is located is less than a threshold value on the basis of the acquired height information, and restricts a predetermined operation in the suction device (100B) when it is determined that the height at which the suction device (100B) is located is less than the threshold value.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to an attraction device, a control method and a program. Background Art

[0002] In the past, for example, there is known an aspirator that generates an aerosol to which a flavor component is imparted, and the user can inhale the generated aerosol. Typically, such an aspirator heats a substrate including an aerosol source by a heating portion (also referred to as a "heating element") that is a resistive or inductive heating heater, and the generated aerosol is delivered to the user. In addition, in such an aspirator, in order to prevent adverse conditions due to misuse by children (such as infants and young children), there is also an aspirator with a so-called "child protection (child resistance) function".

[0003] For example, Patent Document 1 listed below discloses that, as a childproof function, a combination of two or more different actions is required, that is, squeezing while rotating a cap in order to restrict access to the contents of a container.

[0004] In addition, the following patent document 2 discloses that in order to switch the device between the stop state and the operation state, a mouthpiece that moves relative to the main body between a first position and a second position is urged toward the first position by a spring or the like, and the device is maintained in the stop state against a predetermined urging force. Furthermore, in order to make the switching of the device to the operation state child-resistant, the predetermined urging force can be selected in a manner that exceeds the normal force of a child (the expected hand force).

[0005] Prior art literature

[0006] Patent Literature

[0007] Patent Document 1: Japanese Patent Application No. 2020-506121

[0008] Patent Document 2: Japanese Patent Application No. 2019-505190 Summary of the invention

[0009] Problems to be solved by the invention

[0010] However, the history of the technical development of the aspirator is still short. Therefore, the child-proof function of the aspirator has room for improvement from the perspective of improving its performance.

[0011] The present invention provides a suction device, a control method, and a program that can further suppress the occurrence of adverse situations due to misuse by children.

[0012] Means for solving problems

[0013] The suction device according to the first invention generates aerosol from a substrate having an aerosol source.

[0014] The suction device includes a control unit that controls the operation of the suction device.

[0015] The control unit acquires height information indicating the height of the attraction device.

[0016] The control unit determines whether the height is less than a threshold based on the height information,

[0017] The control unit restricts a predetermined operation of the attraction device when it is determined that the height is smaller than the threshold value.

[0018] The control method according to the second invention is a method in which a computer that controls the operation of a suction device that generates aerosol from a substrate having an aerosol source executes the following processing:

[0019] Acquiring altitude information indicating the altitude of the attraction;

[0020] Based on the height information, determining whether the height is less than a threshold; and

[0021] When it is determined that the height is smaller than the threshold, a predetermined operation of the attraction device is restricted.

[0022] The program according to the third invention causes a computer that controls the operation of a suction device that generates aerosol from a substrate having an aerosol source to execute the following processing:

[0023] Acquiring altitude information indicating the altitude of the attraction;

[0024] Based on the height information, determining whether the height is less than a threshold; and

[0025] When it is determined that the height is smaller than the threshold, a predetermined operation of the attraction device is restricted.

[0026] Effects of the Invention

[0027] According to the present invention, it is possible to provide a suction device, a control method, and a program that can further suppress the occurrence of adverse events due to misuse by children. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0028] Figure 1A It is a schematic diagram schematically showing a first structural example of the suction device.

[0029] Figure 1B It is a schematic diagram schematically showing a second structural example of the suction device.

[0030] Figure 2 It is an overall perspective view of the suction device 100B.

[0031] Figure 3 It is a top view of the suction device 100B.

[0032] Figure 4 This is a diagram showing the suction device 100B in a state where the panel 10 is removed.

[0033] Figure 5 1 is a diagram showing an example of a threshold value serving as a condition for limiting the operation of the attraction device 100 .

[0034] Figure 6 This is a diagram showing an example of the relationship between the height at which the suction device 100 is located and the light emission color (light emission color) of the light emitting device 23a.

[0035] Figure 7 It is a diagram showing a modified example of the light emitting device 23a.

[0036] Figure 8 This is a diagram showing an example of the relationship between the height at which the suction device 100 is located and the number of light-emitting elements that emit light.

[0037] Fig. 9 It is a diagram showing an example of the display device 23b.

[0038] Fig.10 1 is a diagram showing an example of the relationship between the height at which the attraction device 100 is located and the display method of the indicator I on the display device 23b.

[0039] Fig.11 This is a flowchart (part 1) showing an example of the processing executed by the control unit 116 .

[0040] Fig.12 This is a flowchart showing an example of the processing executed by the control unit 116 (part 2). DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0041] Hereinafter, the suction device, control method and program according to one embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to the accompanying drawings. In addition, in the following, the same or similar elements are denoted by the same or similar reference numerals, and the description thereof may be appropriately omitted or simplified.

[0042] <<1. Example of the structure of the suction device>>

[0043] The suction device of this embodiment is a device that generates a substance to be sucked in by a user. Hereinafter, a case where the substance generated by the suction device is an aerosol will be described. In addition, the substance generated by the suction device may also be a gas.

[0044] (1) First structural example

[0045] Figure 1A Schematic diagram schematically showing a first structural example of the suction device. Figure 1A As shown, the suction device 100A involved in this structural example includes a power supply unit 110, a cartridge 120 and a flavor imparting cartridge 130. The power supply unit 110 includes a power supply unit 111A, a sensor unit 112A, a notification unit 113A, a storage unit 114A, a communication unit 115A and a control unit 116A. The cartridge 120 includes a heating unit 121A, a liquid guide unit 122 and a liquid storage unit 123. The flavor imparting cartridge 130 includes a flavor source 131 and a mouthpiece 124. An air flow path 180 is formed in the cartridge 120 and the flavor imparting cartridge 130.

[0046] The power supply unit 111A stores electric power. The power supply unit 111A supplies electric power to each component of the attraction device 100A based on the control of the control unit 116A. The power supply unit 111A can be composed of a rechargeable battery such as a lithium ion secondary battery, for example.

[0047] The sensor unit 112A acquires various information related to the suction device 100A. As an example, the sensor unit 112A is composed of a pressure sensor such as a condenser microphone, a flow sensor, or a temperature sensor, and acquires a value accompanying the user's suction. As another example, the sensor unit 112A is composed of an input device such as an operation button or a switch that receives input of information from the user.

[0048] For example, the sensor unit 112A includes a pressure sensor (also referred to as a "puff sensor") that detects changes in pressure (i.e., internal pressure) in the suction device 100A caused by the user's suction. In addition, the sensor unit 112A may also include a flow sensor that detects a flow rate caused by the user's suction, a temperature sensor that detects the temperature of the heating unit 121A or the periphery of the heating unit 121A (also referred to as a "puff thermistor"), and the like.

[0049] Furthermore, the sensor unit 112A may include a height sensor that detects the height of the suction device 100A. As one example, the height sensor is composed of a pressure sensor (i.e., an air pressure sensor) that detects the atmospheric pressure applied to the suction device 100A. As another example, the height sensor may also be composed of a distance sensor that detects the distance between the suction device 100A and the target object. The distance sensor can be, for example, a radar sensor that detects the distance to the target object by irradiating a predetermined radar wave to the target object. In this case, as the radar wave, laser, microwave, millimeter wave, ultrasonic wave, etc. may be used.

[0050] The notification unit 113A notifies the user of the information. The notification unit 113A is composed of, for example, a light emitting device (such as the light emitting device 23a described later), a display device (such as the display device 23b described later) that displays an image, a sound output device that outputs sound, or a vibration device that vibrates.

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

[0052] The communication unit 115A is a communication interface capable of performing communication in accordance with any wired or wireless communication standard. As the communication standard involved, for example, a standard using Wi-Fi (registered trademark), Bluetooth (registered trademark), BLE (Bluetooth Low Energy (registered trademark)), NFC (Near Field Communication) or LPWA (Low Power Wide Area) can be adopted.

[0053] The control unit 116A functions as a calculation processing device and a control device, and controls the entire operation in the suction device 100A according to various programs. The control unit 116A is realized by an electronic circuit such as a CPU (Central Processing Unit) or a microprocessor, for example.

[0054] The liquid storage unit 123 stores an aerosol source. That is, the cartridge 120 having the liquid storage unit 123 storing the aerosol source is an example of a substrate having an aerosol source. The aerosol source is atomized to generate an aerosol. The aerosol source is, for example, a polyol such as glycerin and propylene glycol, or a liquid such as water. The aerosol source may also contain flavor components from cigarettes or non-cigarettes. In the case where the suction device 100A is a medical inhaler such as a nebulizer, the aerosol source may also contain a drug.

[0055] The liquid guide portion 122 guides and stores the aerosol source, which is the liquid stored in the liquid storage portion 123, from the liquid storage portion 123. The liquid guide portion 122 is, for example, a wick formed by twisting a fiber material such as glass fiber or a porous material such as porous ceramic. In this case, the aerosol source stored in the liquid storage portion 123 is guided by the capillary effect of the wick.

[0056] The heating unit 121A generates aerosol by heating the aerosol source and atomizing the aerosol source. Figure 1AIn the example shown, the heating portion 121A is configured as a coil wound around the liquid guide portion 122. When the heating portion 121A generates heat, the aerosol source held in the liquid guide portion 122 is heated and atomized to generate an aerosol. The heating portion 121A generates heat when it is powered by the power supply portion 111A. As an example, power may be supplied to the heating portion 121A when the sensor portion 112A detects that the user has started suction and / or inputs prescribed information. Furthermore, power supply to the heating portion 121A may be stopped when the sensor portion 112A detects that the user has ended suction and / or inputs prescribed information. In addition, the user's suction action on the suction device 100A can be detected, for example, based on the pressure (internal pressure) in the suction device 100A detected by the suction sensor exceeding a prescribed threshold.

[0057] The flavor source 131 is a component for imparting a flavor component to the aerosol. The flavor source 131 may include a flavor component derived from tobacco or non-tobacco.

[0058] The air flow path 180 is a flow path for air sucked by the user. The air flow path 180 has a tubular structure with an air inlet 181 as an inlet for air into the air flow path 180 and an air outlet 182 as an outlet for air from the air flow path 180 as two ends. In the middle of the air flow path 180, the liquid guide 122 is arranged on the upstream side (the side close to the air inlet 181), and the fragrance source 131 is arranged on the downstream side (the side close to the air outlet 182). The air flowing in from the air inlet 181 along with the user's suction is mixed with the aerosol generated by the heating part 121A, and as shown by the arrow 190, it is transported to the air outlet 182 through the fragrance source 131. When the mixed fluid of the aerosol and the air passes through the fragrance source 131, the fragrance component contained in the fragrance source 131 is imparted to the aerosol.

[0059] The mouthpiece 124 is a member that is held by the user during inhalation. The mouthpiece 124 is provided with an air outflow hole 182. The user can take a mixed fluid of aerosol and air into the oral cavity by holding the mouthpiece 124 and inhaling.

[0060] The above is a description of a configuration example of the suction device 100A. Of course, the configuration of the suction device 100A is not limited to the above, and various configurations as exemplified below may be adopted.

[0061] As an example, the inhalation device 100A may not include the flavor imparting cartridge 130 . In this case, the cartridge 120 is provided with the mouthpiece 124 .

[0062] As another example, the suction device 100A may further include a second heating unit that heats the flavor source 131. In this case, the second heating unit is, for example, configured in the shape of a film and is arranged to cover the periphery of the flavor imparting cartridge 130. In addition, the second heating unit generates heat by being supplied with power from the power supply unit 111A, and heats the flavor imparting cartridge 130 from the periphery. By providing such a second heating unit, the temperature of the flavor source 131 can be increased compared to a case where the second heating unit is not provided, and the amount of flavor components imparted to the aerosol can be increased. In addition, when such a second heating unit is provided, the power supplied to the second heating unit can be controlled so that the temperature of the second heating unit becomes a specified target temperature.

[0063] As another example, the suction device 100A may include a plurality of aerosol sources. A plurality of aerosols generated from the plurality of aerosol sources may be mixed in the air flow path 180 to cause a chemical reaction, thereby further generating other types of aerosols.

[0064] In addition, the method of atomizing the aerosol source is not limited to the heating by the heating unit 121A. For example, the method of atomizing the aerosol source may be vibration atomization or induction heating.

[0065] (2) Second structural example

[0066] Figure 1B Schematic diagram schematically showing a second structural example of the suction device. Figure 1B As shown, the suction device 100B involved in this configuration 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 storage unit 140 and a heat insulating unit 144.

[0067] The power supply unit 111B, the sensor unit 112B, the notification unit 113B, the storage unit 114B, the communication unit 115B, and the control unit 116B are substantially the same as the corresponding components included in the suction device 100A according to the first configuration example.

[0068] The housing portion 140 has an internal space 141, and the rod-shaped substrate 150 is held while a part of the rod-shaped substrate 150 is housed in the internal space 141. The housing portion 140 has an opening 142 that communicates the internal space 141 with the outside, and houses the rod-shaped substrate 150 inserted into the internal space 141 from the opening 142. For example, the housing portion 140 is a cylindrical body having the opening 142 and the bottom 143 as the bottom surface, and defines a columnar internal space 141. An air flow path for supplying air to the internal space 141 is connected to the housing portion 140. An air inlet hole as an inlet of air to the air flow path is, for example, arranged on the side of the suction device 100. An air outflow hole as an outlet of air from the air flow path to the internal space 141 is, for example, arranged on the bottom 143.

[0069] The rod-shaped substrate 150 includes a substrate portion 151 and a mouthpiece portion 152. The substrate portion 151 includes an aerosol source. That is, the rod-shaped substrate 150 is another example of a substrate including an aerosol source. The aerosol source contains flavor components from cigarettes or non-cigarettes. In the case where the suction device 100B is a medical inhaler such as a nebulizer, the aerosol source may also contain a drug. The aerosol source may be, for example, a polyol such as glycerin and propylene glycol containing flavor components from cigarettes or non-cigarettes, and a liquid such as water, or a solid containing flavor components from cigarettes or non-cigarettes. When the rod-shaped substrate 150 is held in the housing portion 140, at least a portion of the substrate portion 151 is accommodated in the internal space 141, and at least a portion of the mouthpiece portion 152 protrudes from the opening 142. When the user holds the mouthpiece 152 protruding from the opening 142 and inhales, air flows into the internal space 141 through an air flow path (not shown) and reaches the user's oral cavity together with the aerosol generated from the base portion 151 .

[0070] exist Figure 1B In the example shown, the heating portion 121B is configured in a film shape and is disposed so as to cover the outer periphery of the storage portion 140. When the heating portion 121B generates heat, the base portion 151 of the rod-shaped base 150 is heated from the outer periphery, thereby generating aerosol.

[0071] The heat insulating part 144 prevents heat transfer from the heating part 121B to other components. For example, the heat insulating part 144 is made of a vacuum heat insulating material or an aerogel heat insulating material.

[0072] The above is a description of a configuration example of the suction device 100B. Of course, the configuration of the suction device 100B is not limited to the above, and various configurations as exemplified below may be adopted.

[0073] As an example, the heating portion 121B may be configured in a blade shape and arranged so as to protrude from the bottom 143 of the receiving portion 140 to the internal space 141. In this case, the blade-shaped heating portion 121B is inserted into the base material portion 151 of the rod-shaped base material 150, and heats the base material portion 151 of the rod-shaped base material 150 from the inside. As another example, the heating portion 121B may be arranged so as to cover the bottom 143 of the receiving portion 140. In addition, the heating portion 121B may be configured as a combination of two or more of a first heating portion covering the outer periphery of the receiving portion 140, a blade-shaped second heating portion, and a third heating portion covering the bottom 143 of the receiving portion 140.

[0074] As another example, the housing portion 140 may include an opening and closing mechanism such as a hinge that opens and closes a portion of the outer shell that forms the internal space 141. Furthermore, the housing portion 140 may open and close the outer shell to hold and hold the rod-shaped substrate 150 inserted into the internal space 141. In this case, the heating portion 121B may be provided at the holding portion of the housing portion 140 to heat the rod-shaped substrate 150 while pressing it.

[0075] In addition, the method of atomizing the aerosol source is not limited to the heating of the heating unit 121B. For example, the method of atomizing the aerosol source may also be induction heating. In this case, the suction device 100B has at least an electromagnetic induction source such as a coil that generates a magnetic field instead of the heating unit 121B. A susceptor that generates heat by induction heating may also be provided in the suction device 100B, or may be included in the rod-shaped substrate 150.

[0076] In addition, the suction device 100B may further include the heating unit 121A, the liquid guide unit 122, the liquid storage unit 123, and the air flow path 180 involved in the first structural example, and the air flow path 180 may also supply air to the internal space 141. In this case, the mixed fluid of the aerosol generated by the heating unit 121A and the air flows into the internal space 141 and further mixes with the aerosol generated by the heating unit 121B, and reaches the user's oral cavity.

[0077] <<2. Example of the structure of the appearance of the suction device>>

[0078] Next, an example of the structure of the appearance of the suction device 100 (100A, 100B) according to the present embodiment will be described. Figure 1B The suction device 100B shown in FIG. Figure 1A The same is true for the suction device 100A shown.

[0079] (1) An example of a suction device with a panel installed

[0080] Figure 2 1 is an overall perspective view of the suction device 100B. Figure 3 is a top view of the attraction device 100B, specifically, Figure 3 (a) shows the suction device 100B in a state where the opening 142 is closed by a shutter 50 described later. Figure 3 (b) shows the suction device 100B in a state where the opening 142 is open.

[0081] like Figure 2 as well as Figure 3 As shown, the suction device 100B includes a panel 10, a main body casing 20 to which the panel 10 can be attached and detached, and a shutter 50 slidable with respect to the main body casing 20. The panel 10 and the main body casing 20 are composed of different components.

[0082] The panel 10 is mainly composed of a member that covers at least a portion of a housing 40 (described later) that is the outermost portion of the suction device 100B. Figure 2 As shown, the panel 10 has a display unit 18 and an operation unit 19 on its surface (outer surface). The display unit 18 is made of a transparent material through which light can pass. A light emitting device 23a as an example of a notification unit 113B is provided in the suction device 100B (in the main body 30 described later), and the details are described later. The user can visually recognize the light from the light emitting device 23a from the outer surface of the panel 10 via the display unit 18.

[0083] The operation portion 19 is, for example, recessed toward the main body housing 20. This allows the user to be guided to the position of the operation portion 19. Alternatively, a predetermined mark (symbol) may be printed on the surface of the panel 10 to guide the user to the position of the operation portion 19.

[0084] The main body housing 20 accommodates the main body 30 of the suction device 100B. The main body 30 accommodates, for example, Figure 1B The various components of the suction device 100B are shown.

[0085] The panel 10 is mounted on the main body housing 20, thereby constituting the outermost housing 40 of the suction device 100B. For example, the user can set the appearance of the suction device 100B to suit his or her own preferences by installing the panel 10 of a design that suits his or her own preferences. In addition, the suction device 100B is provided with the panel 10, so that even if the main body 30 generates heat, it can buffer the heat released to the outside. That is, the panel 10 can function in a heat-insulating manner, for example, of the heat generated from the heating unit 121B.

[0086] The housing 40 can be sized to fit in the user's hand. For example, the user holds the suction device 100B with one hand while bringing the fingertip into contact with the surface of the panel 10. Furthermore, by pressing the operating portion 19 with the user's fingertip, the panel 10 is deformed in such a way that the operating portion 19 is further recessed toward the main housing 20. As a result of such deformation of the panel 10, the bottom of the operating portion 19 contacts an operating button 22 (described later) provided on the surface of the main housing 20, and the operating button 22 is pressed. As an example, the user presses the operating portion 19 with a finger to press the operating button 22, thereby enabling the power supply of the suction device 100B to be connected (put into) the suction device 100B.

[0087] In addition, Figure 2 and Figure 3 (a) shows the suction device 100B in a state where the opening 142 is closed by the shielding member 50. Figure 3 In the state shown in (a), the user slides the shielding member 50 with his finger, as shown in FIG. Figure 3 As shown in (b) of FIG. 1 , the shutter 50 moves from the opening 142 , and the opening 142 is opened. In this way, the user can insert the rod-shaped substrate 150 into the opening 142 by operating the shutter 50 to open the opening 142 .

[0088] (2) An example of a suction device with the panel removed

[0089] Figure 4 1 is a diagram showing a suction device 100B in a state where the panel 10 is removed, specifically, showing the outer surface of the main body housing 20 exposed by removing the panel 10 from the main body housing 20. That is, when the panel 10 is attached to the main body housing 20, Figure 4 The outer side surface of the main body housing 20 is shown to be covered by the panel 10 .

[0090] like Figure 4 As shown, magnets 21a, 21b, operation buttons 22, and display window 23 are provided on the outer surface of the main body housing 20. In addition, on the outer surface of the main body housing 20, in addition to these, for example, a sensor for detecting the installation of the panel 10 to the main body housing 20 may also be provided.

[0091] The magnets 21a and 21b attract the panel 10 to the main body shell 20 through magnetic force (magnetic attraction). Thus, the panel 10 is held in the main body shell 20. More specifically, magnets (not shown) corresponding to the magnets 21a and 21b are provided on the inner surface of the panel 10 that is opposite to the outer surface of the main body shell 20 when the panel 10 is installed in the main body shell 20. And, the panel 10 is held in the main body shell 20 by the magnets provided on the panel 10 adsorbing the magnets 21a and 21b. The magnets 21a, 21b and the panel 10 can be composed of permanent magnets, for example.

[0092] The operation button 22 is provided at a position corresponding to the operation portion 19 of the panel 10 when the panel 10 is attached to the main body housing 20. Thus, as described above, the user can operate the operation button 22 via the operation portion 19 of the panel 10.

[0093] The display window 23 is an opening aligned with the light emitting device 23a provided in the main body 30, and allows light from the light emitting device 23a to pass to the display unit 18 of the panel 10. Thus, the user can visually recognize the light from the light emitting device 23a from the outer surface of the panel 10 as described above.

[0094] The light emitting device 23a is an example of a light emitting unit that emits light, and is composed of, for example, one or more light emitting elements. As the light emitting element of the light emitting device 23a, for example, an LED (Light Emitting Diode) can be used. As an example, in the present embodiment, the light emitting device 23a has a plurality of LEDs with different luminous colors, and is configured to emit light in a plurality of luminous colors including blue, yellow, and red.

[0095] The light emitting device 23a notifies the user of the specified information by emitting light in a specified light emitting manner. Here, the light emitting manner can be, for example, a light emitting color, but is not limited thereto, and can also be, for example, a lighting intensity (in other words, brightness) or a lighting pattern (for example, flashing at a specified time interval).

[0096] As a notification by the light emitting device 23a, for example, a notification of the action information of the attraction device 100B indicating whether the power of the attraction device 100B is turned on (i.e., the state where the power is turned on) can be cited. In addition, in the present embodiment, the light emitting device 23a can notify the user of information related to the altitude of the attraction device 100 of the present embodiment including the attraction device 100B (described later).

[0097] <<3. Example of suction device operation>>

[0098] Next, an operation example of the suction device 100 of this embodiment will be described. The control unit 116 (116A, 116B) can operate the suction device 100 based on input from the user. As an example, the control unit 116 causes the suction device 100 to generate aerosol in response to an aerosol generation request from the user.

[0099] The request for aerosol generation can be, for example, an operation to instruct the start of heating (hereinafter also referred to as a "heating start operation"). As one example, the heating start operation can be set to pressing the operation button 22. As another example, the heating start operation can also be set to a suction action on the suction device 100. In addition, the request for aerosol generation is not limited to a direct operation on the suction device 100, and can also be, for example, the reception of specified information from other devices such as a smartphone that can communicate with the suction device 100. The control unit 116 can detect the request for aerosol generation based on information obtained by the sensor unit 112 or the communication unit 115.

[0100] For example, when the attraction device 100 is Figure 1A In the case of the suction device 100A shown in the figure, if the control unit 116A detects the suction action of the suction device 100A based on the detection result of the puff sensor, it supplies a predetermined power to the heating unit 121A, thereby generating aerosol. At this time, the power supplied to the heating unit 121A is predetermined by the manufacturer of the suction device 100A to generate an appropriate amount of aerosol containing an appropriate amount of flavor components. As a result, a high-quality smoking experience can be provided to the user.

[0101] In addition, the suction device 100 is Figure 1B In the case of the suction device 100B shown in the figure, when the control unit 116B detects a heating start operation (e.g., pressing of the operation button 22), the temperature of the heating unit 121B is controlled based on a pre-prepared heating profile, thereby generating aerosol. Here, the heating profile is information that specifies the time series transition of the target temperature as the target value of the temperature of the heating unit 121B, and is pre-stored in the storage unit 114B, for example.

[0102] The temperature control of the heating unit 121B based on the heating configuration (hereinafter, also referred to as "heating control based on the heating configuration") is described in detail. The control unit 116B controls the temperature of the heating unit 121B based on the deviation between the target temperature corresponding to the elapsed time from the start of the heating control based on the heating configuration and the actual temperature of the heating unit 121B (hereinafter, also referred to as "actual temperature"). More specifically, at this time, the control unit 116B controls the temperature of the heating unit 121B so that the time series transition of the actual temperature of the heating unit 121B is the same as the time series transition of the target temperature specified in the heating configuration.

[0103] Typically, the heating configuration is designed to optimize the flavor that the user tastes when the user inhales the aerosol generated from the rod-shaped substrate 150. Therefore, by controlling the temperature of the heating portion 121B based on the heating configuration, the flavor that the user tastes can be optimized, and a high-quality smoking experience can be provided to the user.

[0104] However, in an aspirator such as the suction device 100 that generates a substance to be sucked by a user, a so-called "child protection function (hereinafter also referred to as a "CR function")" may be installed to prevent adverse situations due to misuse by children (e.g., infants and young children). As a CR function in such an aspirator, for example, it is considered that a specified operation of the aspirator (e.g., a so-called "long press" or multiple presses of an operation button of the aspirator) is required when generating a substance to be sucked or connecting the power of the aspirator. Here, if the specified operation is set to a complicated operation, although it can prevent children from misusing it, it is also troublesome for adults who are legitimate users of the aspirator.

[0105] As a CR function in such an aspirator, it is expected to be able to suppress the occurrence of adverse situations due to misuse by children without damaging the convenience for adults who are legitimate users of the aspirator as much as possible. However, the history of technical development of aspirators is still very shallow, and there is room for improvement in the CR function of aspirators.

[0106] Therefore, in this embodiment, the height of children of the age of playing with the attraction device 100 (for example, infants and young children under 3 years old. Hereinafter, also referred to as "children") is lower than the height of adults who can be legitimate users of the attraction device 100, and the structure is configured to limit the prescribed action of the attraction device 100 according to the height of the attraction device 100. As a result, the attraction device 100 can be prevented from performing prescribed actions at a low position where it is assumed that a child is playing, and on the other hand, the attraction device 100 can be made to perform prescribed actions at a high position where it is assumed that an adult is using it. Therefore, it is possible to suppress the occurrence of adverse situations due to misuse by children, and it is possible to suppress the reduction in convenience for adults who are legitimate users of the attraction device 100. Therefore, the performance of the CR function in the attraction device 100 is improved, and the commercial quality of the attraction device 100 is improved. Below, an example of the action of the attraction device 100 is described in more detail.

[0107] The control unit 116 of the attraction device 100 acquires "height information" as information indicating the height of the attraction device 100 at a predetermined timing. Here, the height of the attraction device 100 is the distance in the vertical direction from a predetermined base point to the attraction device 100. For example, when the attraction device 100 is located outdoors, the base point (hereinafter, also referred to as the "base point") that serves as the reference for the height of the attraction device 100 can be set to the ground (i.e., the ground surface) of the place where the user holding the attraction device 100 is located. In addition, when the attraction device 100 is located indoors (including in a car, etc.), the base point can be set to the floor surface of the place where the user holding the attraction device 100 is located.

[0108] In addition, the base point is not limited to the ground or floor surface, and can be set by the user, for example. Thus, the user can set an appropriate position as the base point in consideration of the place where the user is located. As an example, the base point can be set by the user performing a predetermined operation on the attraction device 100 or other device that can communicate with the attraction device 100.

[0109] The control unit 116 acquires altitude information based on the detection result of the altitude sensor included in the sensor unit 112 ( 112A, 112B), for example.

[0110] For example, when an air pressure sensor is used as the height sensor, the control unit 116 obtains the height information based on the detection result (i.e., air pressure) of the air pressure sensor. More specifically, in this case, the attraction device 100, for example, allows the user to set an arbitrary vertical position near the floor surface (or ground) of the place where the user is located as a base point. Then, the attraction device 100 uses the air pressure sensor to allow the user to measure the air pressure of the base point and the air pressure of the position where the attraction device 100 is lifted upward to a certain extent in a manner away from the base point (for example, the position when an adult usually uses the attraction device 100).

[0111] Then, the control unit 116 derives the elevations (i.e., the heights from the mean sea level) of the base point and the lifted position, based on the air pressures of the base point and the lifted position, detected by the above-mentioned measurement, and obtains the altitude information using the elevation difference as the altitude of the attraction device 100. Thus, even when the altitude information is obtained based on the detection result of the air pressure sensor, the altitude information indicating an appropriate value as the altitude of the attraction device 100 can be obtained.

[0112] In addition, in the case where the height sensor is a sensor that can detect the elevation (can output information indicating the elevation as a detection result), the control unit 116 can also derive the elevation difference between the above-mentioned base point and the lifted position based on their respective elevations detected by the height sensor, and obtain the elevation difference as the height information of the height of the attraction device 100.

[0113] In addition, when a distance measuring sensor is used as the height sensor, the control unit 116 obtains the height information based on the detection result of the distance measuring sensor. More specifically, in this case, the attraction device 100 uses the distance measuring sensor, for example, to allow the user to measure the distance from the floor surface (or the ground, i.e., the base point) of the place where the user is located to the attraction device 100. Then, the control unit 116 obtains the height information representing the distance detected by the measurement as the height of the attraction device 100. Thus, even when the height information is obtained based on the detection result of the distance measuring sensor, the height information representing an appropriate value as the height of the attraction device 100 can be obtained.

[0114] In addition, the control unit 116 may also obtain the altitude information based on information received from another device (i.e., outside the attraction device 100) that can communicate with the attraction device 100 via the communication unit 115 (115A, 115B). As an example, the control unit 116 may also obtain the altitude information based on information received from a wearable device (e.g., a smart watch worn by the user) having an altitude sensor (e.g., an air pressure sensor).

[0115] The control unit 116 acquires the altitude information, for example, when there is a predetermined operation on the attraction device 100. Thus, compared with the case where the altitude information is acquired periodically (for example, every 1 minute) regardless of the user's operation, the number of times the altitude information is acquired can be reduced, and the increase in the power consumption of the attraction device 100 accompanying the acquisition of the altitude information can be suppressed.

[0116] The operation that triggers the acquisition of the height information can be, for example, an operation of sliding the shield 50 to open the opening 142. Figure 1A In the case of the suction device 100A shown in FIG. 1 , the operation that triggers the acquisition of the height information may also be the operation of installing the flavor imparting cartridge 130 on the suction device 100A. Figure 1B In the case of the suction device 100B shown, the operation that triggers the acquisition of the height information may be the operation of inserting the rod-shaped substrate 150 into the opening 142 .

[0117] In this embodiment, the operation that triggers the acquisition of the height information is set as the operation of sliding the shield 50 to open the opening 142. When the operation is detected, the control unit 116 starts to acquire the height information. In addition, while the opening 142 is open, the control unit 116 acquires the height information at a predetermined period (for example, every 0.1 [s]). Thus, while the opening 142 is open, the control unit 116 can acquire the height information that indicates the height of the suction device 100 in real time.

[0118] However, it is also considered that the operation that becomes the opportunity to obtain the height information is repeated many times in a short period of time due to playing with the attraction device 100. In such a case, if the height information is obtained each time the operation that becomes the opportunity to obtain the height information is performed, the number of times the height information is obtained increases, and the power consumption of the attraction device 100 accompanying the acquisition of the height information may increase.

[0119] Therefore, the control unit 116 may also start acquiring the altitude information when a predetermined period (e.g., 2 seconds) has passed since the operation that triggers the acquisition of the altitude information was performed. Thus, even if the operation that triggers the acquisition of the altitude information is repeated multiple times in a short period of time, the number of times the altitude information is acquired can be suppressed from increasing. Therefore, the increase in power consumption of the attraction device 100 accompanying the acquisition of the altitude information can be suppressed. In addition, here, the predetermined period can be appropriately determined by, for example, the manufacturer of the attraction device 100.

[0120] As an example, the operation that triggers the acquisition of height information is an operation of sliding shutter 50 to open opening 142. In this case, when the operation of sliding shutter 50 to open opening 142 is performed and the opening 142 is kept open for a predetermined period, control unit 116 may start acquiring height information.

[0121] As another example, the operation that triggers the acquisition of the height information is the operation of attaching the flavor cartridge 130. In this case, the control unit 116 may start acquiring the height information when the flavor cartridge 130 is attached and the attached state is maintained for a predetermined period of time.

[0122] Furthermore, as another example, the operation that triggers the acquisition of the height information is an operation of inserting the rod-shaped substrate 150 into the opening 142. In this case, when the operation of inserting the rod-shaped substrate 150 into the opening 142 is performed and the state where the rod-shaped substrate 150 is inserted is maintained for a predetermined period, the control unit 116 may start acquiring the height information.

[0123] If the control unit 116 obtains the height information, it determines whether the height of the attraction device 100 is less than the threshold value based on the obtained height information. For example, the control unit 116 determines whether the height represented by the obtained height information is less than the threshold value each time the height information is obtained. Here, the threshold value is determined by the manufacturer of the attraction device 100, etc., taking into account the typical height of children of the same age playing with the attraction device 100.

[0124] Figure 51 is a diagram showing an example of a threshold value that is a condition for limiting the operation of the suction device 100. In this embodiment, the children who are the targets of the CR function (i.e., operation limitation) of the suction device 100 are infants and toddlers under 3 years old. The average height of 3-year-old children (i.e., the children with the highest average height among the children who are considered to be the targets of the CR function of the suction device 100) is about 100 [cm].

[0125] Therefore, if Figure 5 As shown, in the present embodiment, the threshold value that becomes the condition for limiting the action of the suction device 100 is set to 130 [cm]. Thus, it is possible to set the threshold value to a height that a toddler with a height of about 100 [cm] cannot reach even if he / she stretches his / her hand upwards, needless to say, for babies. On the other hand, a threshold value of 130 [cm] is lower than the average height of adults (e.g., the average height of adult women). Thus, it is possible to avoid the threshold value that becomes the condition for limiting the action of the suction device 100 from becoming a height that is difficult for adults to reach. In addition, the threshold value can also be set by the user. In this way, the user can set the desired threshold value in consideration of the height of himself / herself or his / her child.

[0126] When the control unit 116 determines whether the height of the attraction device 100 is less than the threshold value, the control unit 116 limits the prescribed action in the attraction device 100 based on the determination result. More specifically, when the control unit 116 determines that the height of the attraction device 100 is above the threshold value, the prescribed action in the attraction device 100 is not limited. That is, in this case, the control unit 116 can make the attraction device 100 perform the prescribed action according to the input from the user. Thus, an adult who can make the attraction device 100 reach a height above the threshold value can remove the restriction of the prescribed action by performing a simple operation of lifting the attraction device 100 to a height above the threshold value, and make the attraction device 100 appropriately perform the prescribed action. Therefore, it is possible to suppress the reduction of convenience for adult users and limit the prescribed action.

[0127] On the other hand, when the control unit 116 determines that the height of the attraction device 100 is less than the threshold value, the control unit 116 limits the prescribed action in the attraction device 100. That is, in this case, even if there is an input from the user, the control unit 116 does not make the attraction device 100 perform the prescribed action. Thus, it is possible to suppress the prescribed action for a child who has difficulty in making the attraction device 100 reach a height above the threshold value. Therefore, it is possible to suppress the occurrence of an adverse situation due to misuse by a child.

[0128] The prescribed action restricted according to the height of the suction device 100 includes, for example, the generation of aerosol in response to an aerosol generation request from the user. This can suppress the generation of aerosol for children at a height where the suction device 100 is unlikely to reach a threshold value or higher.

[0129] More specifically, for example, when the suction device 100 is Figure 1A In the case of the suction device 100A shown in FIG. 1 , the predetermined action may be the supply of power to the heating unit 121A corresponding to the suction action of the suction device 100A. Figure 1B In the case of the suction device 100B shown, the predetermined operation may be heating control based on the heating configuration corresponding to the heating start operation.

[0130] As another example, the prescribed action may be an action of turning on the power of the attraction device 100 (i.e., an action of activating the attraction device 100) in response to a power-on operation from the user (e.g., pressing the operation button 22). In addition, any action other than an action related to the release of the action restriction (i.e., the CR function) in the attraction device 100 may be set as the prescribed action.

[0131] Furthermore, when it is determined that the height of the suction device 100 is above the threshold and there is a request for aerosol generation after a predetermined operation is performed, the control unit 116 may generate aerosol corresponding to the aerosol generation request. In this way, since multiple processes are required before the aerosol is generated, the generation of aerosol for children can be further suppressed.

[0132] As an example, the control unit 116 may also turn on the power of the suction device 100 when it is determined that the height of the suction device 100 is above the threshold and the operation button 22 is pressed for a long time or multiple times. And, thereafter, when the power of the suction device 100 is turned on, the control unit 116 may generate aerosol when the operation button 22 is further pressed for a long time or multiple times.

[0133] More specifically, for example, when the suction device 100 is Figure 1A In the case of the suction device 100A shown in FIG. 1 , the control unit 116A may also turn on the power of the suction device 100A when it is determined that the height of the suction device 100 is above the threshold and the operation button 22 is pressed long or multiple times. Furthermore, when the power of the suction device 100A is turned on, the control unit 116 may supply power to the heating unit 121A according to the suction operation of the suction device 100A when the operation button 22 is further pressed long or multiple times.

[0134] In addition, the suction device 100 is Figure 1B In the case of the attraction device 100B shown in FIG. 1 , the control unit 116B may also turn on the power of the attraction device 100B when it is determined that the height of the attraction device 100 is above the threshold and the operation button 22 is pressed long or multiple times. And, thereafter, when the power of the attraction device 100B is turned on, the control unit 116 may start the heating control based on the heating configuration when the operation button 22 is further pressed long or multiple times.

[0135] As another example, in the suction device 100 Figure 1B In the case of the suction device 100B shown in FIG. 1 , the control unit 116B may turn on the power of the suction device 100B when it is determined that the height of the suction device 100 is above the threshold and the operation button 22 is pressed long or repeatedly. Then, when the rod-shaped substrate 150 is inserted into the opening 142 while the power of the suction device 100B is turned on, the control unit 116 may start the heating control based on the heating arrangement.

[0136] In addition, it is also assumed that the user is in a car, etc., and even if the user is an adult, it is difficult to make the suction device 100 reach a height above the threshold value (for example, 130 [cm]). In such a case, even if the user is an adult, the suction device 100 cannot be used, and the convenience of the suction device 100 is reduced, and the commercial value of the suction device 100 may be reduced.

[0137] Therefore, the control unit 116 may also, when accepting the input of the prescribed release information, invalidate the restriction of the prescribed action of the attraction device 100 for a certain period from the time when the input of the release information is accepted. That is, the control unit 116 may also, when accepting the input of the release information, enable the attraction device 100 to perform the prescribed action only for a certain period thereafter, regardless of the height of the attraction device 100. Thus, even when it is difficult for the user to bring the attraction device 100 to a height above the threshold, the attraction device 100 can be used by inputting the release information, and the reduction in the convenience of the attraction device 100 can be suppressed.

[0138] As an example, the release information may be input to the control unit 116 by the user performing a predetermined operation on the attraction device 100 or another device that can communicate with the attraction device 100 . That is, the control unit 116 may acquire the release information via the sensor unit 112 or the communication unit 115 .

[0139] In addition, when the operation that triggers the input of the release information is a direct operation on the attraction device 100, the operation is preferably a somewhat complex operation, such as long pressing or multiple pressing of the operation button 22. This can prevent the release information from being input unintentionally due to playing with the attraction device 100.

[0140] In addition, the release information may be inputted when the user's biometric authentication (e.g., fingerprint authentication) is performed by the suction device 100 or another device that can communicate with the suction device 100. In this way, it is possible to more accurately suppress the unintentional input of the release information. Of course, other user authentication methods such as gesture authentication, PIN (Personal Identification Number) authentication, password authentication, or voice authentication may be used instead of biometric authentication.

[0141] In addition, for example, there are users who smoke so-called "chain-smoke" by continuously using two or more rod-shaped substrates 150. For such users, for example, if they perform an operation for releasing the action restriction (i.e., CR function) in the suction device 100 each time a new rod-shaped substrate 150 is used, the user's effort in chain-smoke increases, and the convenience of the suction device 100 may decrease.

[0142] Therefore, the control unit 116 may also, when the specified action is performed in the attraction device 100, invalidate the restriction of the specified action in the attraction device 100 for a certain period from the time when the specified action is completed. That is, the control unit 116 may also, when the specified action is performed in the attraction device 100, enable the attraction device 100 to perform the specified action only for a certain period thereafter, regardless of the height of the attraction device 100. In addition, in such a case, the certain period from the time when the specified action in the attraction device 100 is completed (i.e., the period during which the restriction of the specified action is invalidated) is also referred to as the "invalidation period" below. The length of the invalidation period is predetermined by, for example, the manufacturer of the attraction device 100.

[0143] As an example, the control unit 116 may also restart the heating control based on the heating configuration if there is a request for aerosol generation from the user within a certain period after the heating control based on the heating configuration is completed (i.e., within the invalidation period), without requiring an operation for releasing the action restriction in the suction device 100. This suppresses the increase in the user's effort during continuous smoking, and improves the convenience of the suction device 100.

[0144] Here, the period from the start of heating control based on the heating configuration to the completion of the heating control is set to X [s] (for example, 300 [s]). Typically, a user who smokes continuously restarts the heating control based on the heating configuration before 2×X [s] have passed after the heating control based on the heating configuration is completed. That is, if the heating control based on the heating configuration is not restarted before 2×X [s] have passed after the heating control based on the heating configuration is completed, it is highly likely that the user does not intend to smoke continuously.

[0145] Therefore, the invalidation period may be set to a period twice as long as the period from the start of the heating control based on the heating configuration to the completion of the heating control, that is, a period of 2×X[s]. This can suppress the increase in the user's effort when smoking continuously, and can set a period of appropriate length as the invalidation period.

[0146] Furthermore, it is also conceivable that when the movement restriction of the suction device 100 is released, it is difficult for the user to know to what extent the suction device 100 should be lifted.

[0147] Therefore, the control unit 116 may notify the user of information related to the height of the attraction device 100 via the notification unit 113 ( 113A, 113B) based on the acquired height information. Thus, the user can understand the height of the attraction device 100 and set a goal of how much the attraction device 100 should be lifted.

[0148] The information related to the height of the attraction device 100 can be, for example, information indicating the height of the attraction device 100. In this case, the information related to the height of the attraction device 100 is not limited to information such as "○○[cm]" that clearly indicates the height of the attraction device 100, and can also be information indicating the height of the attraction device 100 at a level that the user can roughly grasp. In addition, the information related to the height of the attraction device 100 can also be, for example, information indicating whether there is an action restriction corresponding to the current height of the attraction device 100.

[0149] As an example, in the present embodiment, as described above, the notification unit 113 includes a light emitting device 23a, which is configured to emit light in a plurality of light emitting colors including blue, yellow, and red. Then, the control unit 116 makes the light emitting color of the light emitting device 23a different according to the height of the attraction device 100, thereby notifying the user of information related to the height of the attraction device 100. Thus, the height of the attraction device 100 can be notified to the user intuitively and easily.

[0150] Figure 61 is a diagram showing an example of the relationship between the height of the suction device 100 and the light color of the light emitting device 23a. Figure 6 As shown, the control unit 116 controls the light emitting device 23a to emit red light when the height of the suction device 100 is, for example, 0 [cm] or more and less than 100 [cm].

[0151] Furthermore, the control unit 116 controls the light emitting device 23a to emit light in yellow, for example, when the height of the suction device 100 is 100 [cm] or more and less than 130 [cm].

[0152] Furthermore, the control unit 116 controls the light emitting device 23a to emit blue light, for example, when the height of the suction device 100 is 130 [cm] or higher.

[0153] In this way, by making the light emission color of the light emitting device 23a different according to the height of the attraction device 100, the user can roughly understand the height of the attraction device 100 from the light emission color of the light emitting device 23a.

[0154] More specifically, if Figure 6 As shown by the hollow arrow α in , for example, the suction device 100 is lifted from a height of less than 100 [cm] at which smoking using the suction device 100 is not possible to a height of more than 130 [cm] at which smoking using the suction device 100 is possible. At this time, the luminous color of the light emitting device 23a first changes from red to yellow, and then changes from yellow to blue. Therefore, by lifting the suction device 100 while checking the luminous color of the light emitting device 23a, the user can efficiently lift the suction device 100 to a height at which the action restriction of the suction device 100 is lifted.

[0155] In addition, in the example described above, the light color of the light emitting device 23a is changed according to the height of the attraction device 100, thereby notifying the user of the information related to the height of the attraction device 100, but the present invention is not limited to this. Hereinafter, each example in which the information related to the height of the attraction device 100 is notified to the user by a method other than the light color of the light emitting device 23a will be described.

[0156] Figure 7 2 is a diagram showing a modified example of the light emitting device 23a. Figure 7As shown, in this example, the light emitting device 23a includes a first light emitting element 23a_1, a second light emitting element 23a_2, and a third light emitting element 23a_3. As the first light emitting element 23a_1, the second light emitting element 23a_2, and the third light emitting element 23a_3, for example, LEDs can be used. In addition, the light emitting colors of the first light emitting element 23a_1, the second light emitting element 23a_2, and the third light emitting element 23a_3 can be the same or different.

[0157] In the case of this example, for example, the control unit 116 makes the number of light-emitting elements of the light-emitting device 23a that emit light different according to the height of the attraction device 100, thereby notifying the user of information related to the height of the attraction device 100. In this way, the height of the attraction device 100 can be notified to the user intuitively and easily.

[0158] Figure 8 1 is a diagram showing an example of the relationship between the height of the suction device 100 and the number of light emitting elements. Figure 8 As shown, for example, when the height of the suction device 100 is greater than or equal to 0 [cm] and less than 100 [cm], the control unit 116 causes one of the light emitting elements (for example, the first light emitting element 23a_1) included in the light emitting device 23a to emit light.

[0159] Furthermore, when the height of the suction device 100 is, for example, 100 [cm] or more and less than 130 [cm], the control unit 116 causes two light emitting elements (for example, the first light emitting element 23a_1 and the second light emitting element 23a_2) of the light emitting device 23a to emit light.

[0160] Furthermore, when the height of the suction device 100 is 130 [cm] or higher, the control unit 116 controls three light emitting elements (i.e., the first light emitting element 23a_1, the second light emitting element 23a_2, and the third light emitting element 23a_3) of the light emitting device 23a to emit light.

[0161] Thus, by making the number of light emitting elements of the light emitting device 23a different according to the height of the attraction device 100, the user can roughly understand the height of the attraction device 100 based on the number of light emitting elements.

[0162] More specifically, if Figure 8As shown by the hollow arrow β in , for example, the suction device 100 is lifted from a height of less than 100 [cm] at which smoking using the suction device 100 is not possible to a height of more than 130 [cm] at which smoking using the suction device 100 is possible. At this time, the number of light-emitting elements in the light-emitting device 23a that emit light first changes from 1 to 2, and then changes from 2 to 3. Therefore, the user can efficiently lift the suction device 100 to a height at which the action restriction of the suction device 100 is lifted by confirming the number of light-emitting elements that are emitting light.

[0163] In addition, the control unit 116 may also notify the user of information related to the height of the attraction device 100 by making the light emitting elements of the light emitting device 23a emit light differently according to the height of the attraction device 100. In such a case, the height of the attraction device 100 can also be notified to the user intuitively and easily.

[0164] More specifically, for example, when the height of the suction device 100 is greater than or equal to 0 [cm] and less than 100 [cm], the control unit 116 causes the first light emitting element 23a_1 to emit light.

[0165] Furthermore, when the height of the suction device 100 is greater than or equal to 100 [cm] and less than 130 [cm], the control unit 116 causes the second light emitting element 23a_2 to emit light.

[0166] Furthermore, when the height of the suction device 100 is 130 [cm] or higher, the control unit 116 causes the third light emitting element 23a_3 to emit light.

[0167] In this way, by making the light-emitting elements of the light-emitting devices 23a emit light differently according to the height of the attraction device 100, the user can roughly grasp the height of the attraction device 100 based on the light-emitting elements. Therefore, the user can efficiently lift the attraction device 100 to the height where the movement restriction of the attraction device 100 is released by lifting the attraction device 100 while confirming the light-emitting elements that are emitting light.

[0168] In addition, when the notification unit 113 includes a display unit that displays an image, the control unit 116 may also make the display mode of the display unit different according to the height of the attraction device 100, thereby notifying the user of information related to the height of the attraction device 100. In such a case, the height of the attraction device 100 can also be notified to the user in an intuitive and easy-to-understand manner. Hereinafter, an example of a case in which information related to the height of the attraction device 100 is notified to the user via the display device 23b as an example of a display unit included in the notification unit 113 is described.

[0169] Fig. 9 2 is a diagram showing an example of the display device 23b. The display device 23b is provided at a position in the attraction device 100 where the user can visually recognize the display device 23b. As the display device 23b, for example, a liquid crystal display or an organic EL (Electro-Luminescence) display can be used.

[0170] In this example, the display device 23b displays, for example, an indicator I as an image for notifying the user of information on the altitude at which the attraction apparatus 100 is located. The indicator I indicates the altitude at which the attraction apparatus 100 is located in three levels.

[0171] Fig.10 1 is a diagram showing an example of the relationship between the height of the attraction device 100 and the display mode of the indicator I of the display device 23b. Fig.10 As shown, the control unit 116 sets the indicator I of the display device 23b to the first level display when the height of the suction device 100 is greater than or equal to 0 [cm] and less than 100 [cm].

[0172] In addition, for example, when the height of the suction device 100 is greater than or equal to 100 [cm] and less than 130 [cm], the control unit 116 sets the indicator I of the display device 23b to a two-level display.

[0173] Furthermore, the control unit 116 sets the indicator I of the display device 23b to a three-level display, for example, when the height of the attraction device 100 is 130 [cm] or higher.

[0174] In this way, by making the display mode of the display device 23b (the display mode of the indicator I in the example described here) different according to the height of the attraction device 100, the user can understand the height of the attraction device 100 based on the display mode of the display device 23b.

[0175] More specifically, if Fig.10 As shown by the hollow arrow γ in , for example, the suction device 100 is lifted from a height of less than 100 [cm] at which smoking using the suction device 100 is not possible to a height of more than 130 [cm] at which smoking using the suction device 100 is possible. At this time, the indicator I of the display device 23b first changes from the 1st level display to the 2nd level display, and then changes from the 2nd level display to the 3rd level display. Therefore, by lifting the suction device 100 while confirming the indicator I of the display device 23b, the user can efficiently lift the suction device 100 to a height at which the action restriction of the suction device 100 is released.

[0176] In addition, in each of the examples described above, the height of the attraction device 100 is notified to the user in three levels, but the present invention is not limited thereto. For example, the height of the attraction device 100 may be notified to the user in two levels, i.e., less than 130 [cm] as a threshold value or more than 130 [cm]. Alternatively, the height of the attraction device 100 may be notified to the user in multiple levels of four or more.

[0177] Furthermore, when the notification unit 113 includes a vibrating device (so-called a vibrator), the control unit 116 may also notify the user of information related to the height of the attraction device 100 by the vibration mode of the vibration device. In this case, the vibration frequency of the vibration device may be changed or the vibration mode may be changed according to the height of the attraction device 100.

[0178] Furthermore, when the notification unit 113 includes a sound output device (eg, a speaker) that outputs sound, the control unit 116 may also notify the user of information related to the altitude of the attraction device 100 by means of sound output from the sound output device.

[0179] <<4. Example of Processing Executed by the Control Unit>>

[0180] Next, an example of the processing executed by the control unit 116 is described. Figure 1B The process executed by the control unit 116 in the case of the suction device 100B shown will be described.

[0181] Fig.11 : is a flowchart (part 1) showing an example of the processing executed by the control unit 116. Fig.12 This is a flowchart showing an example of the processing executed by the control unit 116 (part 2).

[0182] like Fig.11 As shown, the control unit 116 first determines whether it is within the invalidation period (step S1). If it is determined that it is within the invalidation period (step S1: Yes), the control unit 116 proceeds to the process of step S7.

[0183] If it is determined that it is not within the invalidation period (step S1: No), the control unit 116 determines whether the input of the release information has been accepted (step S2). If it is determined that the input of the release information has been accepted (step S2: Yes), the control unit 116 proceeds to the process of step S7.

[0184] If it is determined that the input of the release information is not accepted (step S2: No), the control unit 116 determines whether there is an operation that triggers the acquisition of the altitude information (step S3). If it is determined that there is no operation that triggers the acquisition of the altitude information (step S3: No), the control unit 116 returns to the process of step S1.

[0185] When it is determined that there is an operation that triggers acquisition of altitude information (step S3 : YES), the control unit 116 starts acquiring altitude information and, based on the acquired altitude information, notifies the user of information related to the altitude of the attraction device 100 via the notification unit 113 (step S4 ).

[0186] More specifically, in the present embodiment, as described above, when there is an operation of sliding the shielding member 50 as an operation that becomes an opportunity to obtain the height information, the control unit 116 starts to obtain the height information. And, while the opening 142 is open, the control unit 116 obtains the height information at a predetermined period (i.e., in real time). Furthermore, each time the control unit 116 obtains the height information, it notifies the user of information related to the height represented by the obtained height information (i.e., the height at which the attraction device 100 is currently located) through the light emitting device 23a or the like.

[0187] In addition, the control unit 116 determines whether the height indicated by the acquired height information is less than the threshold value each time the height information is acquired (step S5). If it is determined that the height indicated by the acquired height information is less than the threshold value (step S5: yes), the control unit 116 continues to acquire the height information at a predetermined period and to notify the information related to the height of the attraction device 100, and performs the processing of step S5 each time the height information is acquired until a timeout occurs (step S6: no). In addition, if a timeout occurs (step S6: yes), the control unit 116 directly ends the process. Fig.11 as well as Fig.12 A series of processing is shown.

[0188] In step S6 , the control unit 116 may determine that a timeout has occurred, for example, on the condition that a predetermined period (eg, 180 [s]) has elapsed since an operation that triggers acquisition of altitude information was performed.

[0189] Furthermore, when it is determined that the height indicated by the acquired height information is above the threshold value (step S5: No), the control unit 116 determines whether a power-on operation has been performed (step S7). When it is determined that there has been no power-on operation (step S7: No), the control unit 116 repeatedly performs the processing of step S7 until a timeout occurs (step S8: No). Furthermore, if a timeout occurs (step S8: Yes), the control unit 116 directly terminates the operation. Fig.11 as well as Fig.12A series of processing is shown.

[0190] In step S8 , the control unit 116 may determine that a timeout has occurred, similarly to step S6 , on the condition that a predetermined period of time has elapsed since an operation that triggers acquisition of altitude information has been performed.

[0191] If it is determined that there is a power-on operation (step S7: Yes), the control unit 116 turns on the power of the suction device 100 (step S9). Then, the control unit 116 determines whether there is a heating start operation (step S10). If it is determined that there is no heating start operation (step S10: No), the control unit 116 repeatedly performs the processing of step S10 until it times out (step S11: No). In addition, if it times out (step S11: Yes), the control unit 116 directly ends the process. Fig.11 as well as Fig.12 A series of processing is shown.

[0192] In step S11 , the control unit 116 may determine that a timeout has occurred, similarly to step S6 and step S8 , on the condition that a predetermined period of time has elapsed since an operation that triggers acquisition of altitude information was performed.

[0193] If it is determined that the heating start operation has been performed (step S10: Yes), Fig.12 As shown, the control unit 116 starts heating control based on the heating configuration (step S12). Then, the control unit 116 waits for the heating control to be completed (step S13: No). If the heating control is completed (step S13: Yes), the control unit 116 sets a certain period after the heating control is completed as an invalidation period (step S14), and ends. Fig.11 and Fig.12 A series of processing shown.

[0194] As described above, according to the attraction device 100, the prescribed action (e.g., generation of aerosol) in the attraction device 100 is limited according to the height at which the attraction device 100 is located. Thus, the attraction device 100 can be prevented from performing the prescribed action at a lower position where a child is assumed to be playing, and on the other hand, the attraction device 100 can be made to perform the prescribed action (i.e., the normal use of the attraction device 100) at a higher position where an adult who is a legitimate user is assumed to be using it. Therefore, it is possible to suppress the occurrence of adverse conditions due to the misuse of the child, and it is possible to suppress the reduction of convenience for the adult who is a legitimate user of the attraction device 100. That is, according to the attraction device 100, it is possible to provide the user with an appropriate CR function, and it is possible to achieve an improvement in the commercial quality of the attraction device 100.

[0195] In addition, the control method of the attraction device 100 described in the aforementioned embodiment can be implemented by executing a pre-prepared program by a computer (processor). This program is stored in a computer-readable storage medium and is executed by reading from the storage medium. In addition, this program can be provided in the form of a non-temporary storage medium such as a flash memory, or can be provided via a network such as the Internet. In addition, the computer that executes this program can be set to, for example, a computer contained in the attraction device 100 (for example, a CPU possessed by the attraction device 100), but is not limited to this, and can also be a computer contained in other devices (for example, a smart phone or a server device) that can communicate with the attraction device 100.

[0196] The embodiments of the present invention are described above with reference to the accompanying drawings, but the present invention is certainly not limited to the embodiments. As long as one is skilled in the art, it is obvious that various variations or modifications can be thought of within the scope described in the claims, and it can be understood that these also belong to the technical scope of the present invention. In addition, the various structural elements in the aforementioned embodiments can also be arbitrarily combined within the scope of the gist of the invention.

[0197] At least the following matters are described in this specification, etc. In parentheses, corresponding components in the above-mentioned embodiment are shown as examples, but the present invention is not limited to these.

[0198] (1) The suction device is a suction device (suction device 100, 100A, 100B) that generates aerosol from a substrate (a cartridge 120, a flavor imparting cartridge 130, a rod-shaped substrate 150) having an aerosol source.

[0199] The suction device includes a control unit (control unit 116, 116A, 116B) for controlling the operation of the suction device.

[0200] The control unit acquires height information indicating the height of the attraction device.

[0201] The control unit determines whether the height is less than a threshold based on the height information,

[0202] The control unit restricts a predetermined operation of the attraction device when it is determined that the height is smaller than the threshold value.

[0203] According to (1), when it is determined that the height of the suction device is less than the threshold, the prescribed action of the suction device is restricted, thereby preventing children who have difficulty in bringing the suction device to a height above the threshold from performing the prescribed action. Therefore, it is possible to prevent the occurrence of adverse situations due to misuse by children.

[0204] (2) The suction device according to (1),

[0205] The suction device further includes a heating unit (heating unit 121, 121B) for heating the substrate to generate the aerosol.

[0206] The control unit controls the temperature of the heating unit based on a heating configuration that specifies a target value of the temperature of the heating unit, i.e., a time series transition of the target temperature, in response to a request for aerosol generation from a user, so that the suction device generates the aerosol.

[0207] The predetermined action includes generating the aerosol in response to the request to generate the aerosol.

[0208] According to (2), the predetermined action restricted according to the height of the suction device includes the generation of aerosol, so the generation of aerosol can be suppressed for a child for whom it is difficult to bring the suction device to a height equal to or higher than the threshold.

[0209] (3) The suction device according to (1),

[0210] The suction device further includes a heating unit (heating unit 121, 121A) that heats the substrate by being supplied with electric power to generate the aerosol.

[0211] The control unit supplies a predetermined amount of power to the heating unit in response to a request from a user to generate an aerosol, thereby causing the suction device to generate the aerosol.

[0212] The predetermined action includes generating the aerosol in response to the request to generate the aerosol.

[0213] According to (3), the predetermined action restricted according to the height of the suction device includes the generation of aerosol, so the generation of aerosol can be suppressed for children for whom it is difficult to raise the suction device to a height equal to or higher than the threshold.

[0214] (4) The suction device according to (2) or (3),

[0215] The control unit generates the aerosol in response to the aerosol generation request, when it is determined that the altitude is equal to or higher than the threshold value and that there is a request to generate the aerosol after a predetermined operation is performed.

[0216] According to (4), multiple steps are required before aerosol is generated, so the generation of aerosol to children can be further suppressed.

[0217] (5) The suction device according to any one of (1) to (4),

[0218] The attraction device further includes a notification unit (notification unit 113, 113A, 113B) capable of notifying a user of predetermined information.

[0219] The control unit further notifies the user of information related to the altitude via the notification unit based on the altitude information.

[0220] According to (5), the information on the height at which the attraction device is located can be notified to the user via the notification unit, so the user can understand the height at which the attraction device is located.

[0221] (6) The suction device according to (5),

[0222] The notification unit includes a light emitting unit (light emitting device 23a) that emits light.

[0223] The control unit changes the light emission mode of the light emitting unit according to the height, thereby notifying the user of information related to the height.

[0224] According to (6), the light emitting portion emits light in a different manner depending on the height at which the suction device is located, so the height at which the suction device is located can be informed to the user in an intuitive and easy-to-understand manner.

[0225] (7) The suction device according to (6),

[0226] The light emitting unit is configured to emit light in a plurality of light emitting colors.

[0227] The control unit changes the light emission color of the light emitting unit according to the height.

[0228] According to (7), the light emission color of the light emitting unit is changed according to the height at which the suction device is located, so the height at which the suction device is located can be informed to the user in an intuitive and easy-to-understand manner.

[0229] (8) The suction device according to (6),

[0230] The light emitting unit is composed of a plurality of light emitting elements (a first light emitting element 23a_1, a second light emitting element 23a_2, and a third light emitting element 23a_3).

[0231] The control unit makes the light emitting elements that emit light or the number of the light emitting elements that emit light differ among the plurality of light emitting elements according to the height.

[0232] According to (8), the light emitting element or the number of light emitting elements among the plurality of light emitting elements of the light emitting unit is made different according to the height of the attraction device, so that the height of the attraction device can be informed to the user intuitively and easily.

[0233] (9) The suction device according to (5),

[0234] The notification unit includes a display unit (display device 23b) for displaying an image.

[0235] The control unit changes the display mode of the display unit according to the height, thereby notifying the user of information related to the height.

[0236] According to (9), the display mode of the display unit is changed according to the height at which the attraction device is located, so the height at which the attraction device is located can be informed to the user in an intuitive and easy-to-understand manner.

[0237] (10) The suction device according to any one of (1) to (9),

[0238] The control unit acquires the altitude information when there is an operation that triggers the acquisition of the altitude information.

[0239] According to (10), the altitude information is acquired when there is an operation that provides an opportunity to acquire the altitude information. Therefore, compared with the case where the altitude information is acquired regularly regardless of the user's operation, the number of times the altitude information is acquired can be reduced, and the increase in power consumption of the attraction device accompanying the acquisition of the altitude information can be suppressed.

[0240] (11) The suction device according to (10),

[0241] The control unit starts acquiring the altitude information when a predetermined period of time has elapsed since an operation that triggers acquisition of the altitude information was performed.

[0242] According to (11), the acquisition of altitude information is started when a predetermined period has passed since the operation that triggers the acquisition of altitude information was performed. Therefore, even if the operation that triggers the acquisition of altitude information is repeated multiple times in a short period of time, the number of times altitude information is acquired can be suppressed from increasing.

[0243] (12) The suction device according to any one of (1) to (11),

[0244] When the control unit receives input of predetermined release information, the control unit invalidates the restriction of the predetermined action for a certain period of time from when the input of the release information is received.

[0245] According to (12), even when it is difficult for the user to raise the suction device to a height equal to or higher than the threshold, the user can use the suction device by inputting the release information, thereby preventing a reduction in the convenience of the suction device.

[0246] (13) The suction device according to any one of (1) to (12),

[0247] The control unit, when the predetermined action is performed, invalidates the restriction of the predetermined action for a certain period of time from the completion of the predetermined action.

[0248] According to (13), compared with a case where an operation for releasing the restriction on a predetermined action is required for each predetermined action, an increase in the user's effort can be suppressed.

[0249] (14) The suction device according to (13),

[0250] The suction device further includes a heating unit for heating the substrate to generate the aerosol.

[0251] The control unit controls the temperature of the heating unit based on a heating configuration that specifies a target value of the temperature of the heating unit, i.e., a time series transition of the target temperature, in response to a request for aerosol generation from a user, so that the suction device generates the aerosol.

[0252] The predetermined action includes generating the aerosol in response to the aerosol generation request,

[0253] The control unit, when the aerosol is generated, invalidates the restriction of the predetermined action during the certain period from the completion of the generation of the aerosol,

[0254] The certain period is twice as long as the period from when heating control based on the heating arrangement is started to when the heating control is completed.

[0255] According to (14), it is possible to suppress an increase in the user's effort when performing so-called "chain-smoke" and to set a period of appropriate length as a period during which the restriction of a predetermined action is invalidated.

[0256] (15) The suction device according to any one of (1) to (14),

[0257] The control unit acquires the height information indicating the distance in the vertical direction from a predetermined base point to the attraction device as the height,

[0258] The base point can be set by the user.

[0259] According to (15), an appropriate position can be set as a base point.

[0260] (16) A control method, wherein a computer (control unit 116, 116A, 116B) controls the operation of a suction device (suction device 100, 100A, 100B) that generates aerosol from a substrate (cartridge 120, flavor imparting cartridge 130, rod-shaped substrate 150) having an aerosol source, and performs the following processing:

[0261] Acquiring altitude information indicating the altitude of the attraction;

[0262] Based on the height information, determining whether the height is less than a threshold; and

[0263] When it is determined that the height is smaller than the threshold, a predetermined operation of the attraction device is restricted.

[0264] According to (16), when it is determined that the height of the suction device is less than the threshold, the prescribed action of the suction device is restricted, thereby preventing the prescribed action from being performed on a child who has difficulty in bringing the suction device to a height above the threshold. Therefore, it is possible to prevent the occurrence of adverse situations due to misuse by children.

[0265] (17) A program for causing a computer (control unit 116, 116A, 116B) for controlling the operation of a suction device (suction device 100, 100A, 100B) for generating aerosol from a substrate (cartridge 120, flavor imparting cartridge 130, rod-shaped substrate 150) having an aerosol source to execute the following processing:

[0266] Acquiring altitude information indicating the altitude of the attraction;

[0267] Based on the height information, determining whether the height is less than a threshold; and

[0268] When it is determined that the height is smaller than the threshold, a predetermined operation of the attraction device is restricted.

[0269] According to (17), when it is determined that the height of the suction device is less than the threshold, the prescribed action of the suction device is restricted, thereby preventing the prescribed action from being performed on a child who has difficulty in bringing the suction device to a height above the threshold. Therefore, it is possible to prevent the occurrence of adverse situations due to misuse by children.

[0270] Description of Reference Numerals

[0271] 100, 100A, 100B suction device; 113, 113A, 113B notification unit; 116, 116A, 116B control unit; 121, 121A, 121B heating unit; 23a light-emitting device (light-emitting unit); 23a_1 first light-emitting element (light-emitting element); 23a_2 second light-emitting element (light-emitting element); 23a_3 third light-emitting element (light-emitting element); 23b display device (display unit).

Claims

1. A suction device, generating an aerosol from a substrate having an aerosol source, The suction device includes a control unit that controls the operation of the suction device. The control unit acquires height information indicating the height of the attraction device. The control unit determines whether the height is less than a threshold based on the height information, The control unit restricts a predetermined operation of the attraction device when it is determined that the height is smaller than the threshold value.

2. The suction device according to claim 1, wherein: The suction device further includes a heating unit that heats the substrate to generate the aerosol. The control unit controls the temperature of the heating unit based on a heating configuration that specifies a target value of the temperature of the heating unit, i.e., a time series transition of the target temperature, in response to a request for aerosol generation from a user, so that the suction device generates the aerosol. The predetermined action includes generating the aerosol in response to the request to generate the aerosol.

3. The suction device according to claim 1, wherein: The suction device further includes a heating unit, which heats the substrate by being supplied with electric power to generate the aerosol. The control unit supplies a predetermined amount of power to the heating unit in response to a request from a user to generate an aerosol, thereby causing the suction device to generate the aerosol. The predetermined action includes generating the aerosol in response to the request to generate the aerosol.

4. The suction device according to claim 2 or 3, wherein: The control unit generates the aerosol in response to the aerosol generation request, when it is determined that the altitude is equal to or higher than the threshold value and that there is a request to generate the aerosol after a predetermined operation is performed.

5. The suction device according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein: The suction device further includes a notification unit capable of notifying a user of predetermined information. The control unit further notifies the user of information related to the altitude via the notification unit based on the altitude information.

6. The attraction device according to claim 5, wherein: The notification unit includes a light emitting unit that emits light. The control unit causes the light emitting unit to emit light in different ways according to the height, thereby notifying the user of information related to the height.

7. The attraction device according to claim 6, wherein: The light emitting unit is configured to emit light in a plurality of light emitting colors. The control unit changes the light emission color of the light emitting unit according to the height.

8. The attraction device according to claim 6, wherein: The light emitting unit is composed of a plurality of light emitting elements. The control unit makes the light emitting elements that emit light or the number of the light emitting elements that emit light differ among the plurality of light emitting elements according to the height.

9. The attraction device according to claim 5, wherein: The notification unit includes a display unit that displays an image. The control unit changes the display mode of the display unit according to the height, thereby notifying the user of information related to the height.

10. The suction device according to any one of claims 1 to 9, wherein: The control unit acquires the altitude information when there is an operation that triggers the acquisition of the altitude information.

11. The suction device according to claim 10, wherein: The control unit starts acquiring the altitude information when a predetermined period of time has elapsed since an operation that triggers acquisition of the altitude information was performed.

12. The suction device according to any one of claims 1 to 11, wherein: When the control unit receives input of predetermined release information, the control unit invalidates the restriction of the predetermined action for a certain period of time from when the input of the release information is received.

13. The suction device according to any one of claims 1 to 12, wherein: When the predetermined action is performed, the control unit invalidates the restriction of the predetermined action for a certain period of time after the predetermined action is completed.

14. A control method, The computer that controls the operation of the suction device that generates the aerosol from the substrate having the aerosol source executes the following processing: Acquiring altitude information indicating the altitude of the attraction; Based on the height information, determining whether the height is less than a threshold; and When it is determined that the height is smaller than the threshold, a predetermined operation of the attraction device is restricted.

15. A procedure, A computer for controlling the operation of a suction device for generating aerosol from a substrate having an aerosol source is caused to execute the following processing: Acquiring altitude information indicating the altitude of the attraction; Based on the height information, determining whether the height is less than a threshold; and When it is determined that the height is smaller than the threshold, a predetermined operation of the attraction device is restricted.

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