Inhalation device configured to perform heating operation by using heating profile, method performed by inhalation device, and program for inhalation device

Abstract

An inhalation device is provided that transmits a heating profile to another inhalation device. The inhalation device is configured to control the heating operation by using the heating profile, and is further configured to transmit the heating profile to another inhalation device that controls the heating operation by using the heating profile.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present disclosure relates to an inhalation device for aerosol, gas, and the like. Examples of the inhalation device may be, but are not limited to, electronic cigarettes, heated tobacco products, medical nebulizers, and the like. Further, the inhalation device is a so-called low-risk product (RRP). Background Art

[0002] In recent years, technologies for peer-to-peer (P2P) communication between electronic cigarettes have been developed.

[0003] For example, in PTL 1 (WO 2015 / 149339 A1), it is disclosed that one electronic cigarette transmits request information for requesting tobacco tar flavor information, and another electronic cigarette that has received the request information generates response information for conveying the tobacco tar flavor according to the request information and makes a reply.

[0004] However, the electronic cigarette described in PTL 1 does not transmit a heating curve for controlling the heating operation to another electronic cigarette.

[0005] Furthermore, according to the technology described in PTL 1, the tar flavor information of tobacco is not transmitted unless the receiving side sends a request to the transmitting side. This document does not disclose information transmission triggered by the sender.

[0006] Citation List

[0007] Patent Document

[0008] PTL 1 WO 2015 / 149339 A1

[0009] PTL 2 WO 2015 / 149336 A1

[0010] PTL 3 WO 2015 / 149326 A1 Summary of the Invention

[0011] Technical Problem

[0012] The present disclosure has been made in view of the foregoing.

[0013] An object of the present disclosure is to provide an inhalation device that transmits a heating curve to other inhalation devices.

[0014] Solution to the Problem

[0015] To solve the above problems, an embodiment of the present disclosure provides an inhalation device configured to control a heating operation using a heating curve, the inhalation device being further configured to transmit the heating curve to another inhalation device that controls a heating operation using the heating curve.

[0016] In one embodiment, the inhalation device may be further configured to generate a transmitted heating curve based on a heating curve used by the inhalation device, characteristics of a heater provided to the inhalation device, and characteristics of a heater provided to another inhalation device.

[0017] In one embodiment, the inhalation device may be further configured to receive from another inhalation device characteristics of a heater provided to the other inhalation device.

[0018] In one embodiment, the inhalation device may be further configured to: receive a second heating curve from another inhalation device in which a first heating curve is stored, and if the second heating curve received from the other inhalation device is set to be used when the first heating curve is set to be used, then restore the setting to use the first heating curve in response to the completion of the use of the second heating curve.

[0019] In one embodiment, the inhalation device may have an area for storing a plurality of heating curves, which may be selected by a user of the inhalation device and include a first heating curve, wherein the selected heating curve is set to be used, and the inhalation device may be further configured to store a second heating curve in the area in response to a predetermined condition being met.

[0020] In one embodiment, the predetermined condition may be one or more of the following: a condition in which a predetermined action is detected in the inhalation device, and a condition in which a predetermined operation is performed in an external device connected to the inhalation device.

[0021] In one embodiment, the inhalation device may be further configured to transmit to another inhalation device a heating curve used by the inhalation device and transmit characteristics of a heater provided to the inhalation device.

[0022] In one embodiment, the characteristics of the heater may represent the relationship between the temperature of the heater and the resistance value of the heater.

[0023] In one embodiment, the characteristics of the heater may include the rate of change of resistance per unit temperature of the heater when the heater approaches a first temperature, the rate of change of resistance per unit temperature of the heater when the heater approaches a second temperature, the resistance value of the heater when the heater is at the first temperature, the standard resistance value at room temperature of a heater manufactured on the same line as the heater, and the highest temperature output by one or more temperature sensors close to the heater when the heater is at the first temperature.

[0024] In one embodiment, the heating curve may represent the target temperature or target resistance value of the heater over time.

[0025] In one embodiment, the inhalation device may further be configured to control the heating operation over a period of time by using a heating curve, wherein the period of time is divided into a plurality of time segments, and the heating curve used by the inhalation device may include a target resistance value provided to the heater of the inhalation device for each of the divided time segments.

[0026] In one embodiment, the inhalation device may further be configured to heat the heater over a period of time by using a heating curve, wherein the period of time is divided into a plurality of time segments, and the heating curve used by the inhalation device may include a target temperature for each of the divided time segments.

[0027] In one embodiment, the inhalation device may further be configured to connect to another inhalation device via a peer-to-peer (P2P) connection and perform transmission and reception with the other inhalation device through the P2P connection.

[0028] To solve the above problems, an embodiment of the present disclosure provides a method performed by an inhalation device that controls a heating operation by using a heating curve, the method including the step of transmitting the heating curve to another inhalation device that controls the heating operation by using the heating curve.

[0029] To solve the above problems, an embodiment of the present disclosure provides a program for an inhalation device that controls a heating operation by using a heating curve, wherein the inhalation device is caused to perform the step of transmitting the heating curve to another inhalation device that controls the heating operation by using the heating curve.

[0030] To solve the above problems, an embodiment of the present disclosure provides an inhalation device configured to control a heating operation by using a heating curve, the inhalation device further being configured to initiate a heating curve transmission process in response to detecting a predetermined action, wherein the heating curve transmission process includes the step of the inhalation device transmitting the heating curve to another inhalation device that controls the heating operation by using the heating curve.

[0031] In one embodiment, the heating curve transmission process may include the following: the step of the inhalation device transmitting a first signal indicating the initiation of the heating curve transmission process to another inhalation device; the step of the inhalation device transmitting a second signal requesting the transmission of the characteristics of the heater to another inhalation device when receiving an acknowledgment response to the first signal from the other inhalation device; the step of the inhalation device generating a heating curve when receiving the characteristics of the heater from the other inhalation device; and the step of the inhalation device transmitting the generated heating curve to another inhalation device.

[0032] In one embodiment, the inhalation device may further be configured to: transmit an acknowledgement response to a first signal received from another inhalation device back to the other inhalation device, and transmit the characteristics of the heater to the other inhalation device when a second signal is received from the other inhalation device.

[0033] In one embodiment, the inhalation device may further be configured to: after responding to the detection of a predetermined action, not respond to the further detection of a predetermined action until the heating curve transmission process is completed.

[0034] In one embodiment, the inhalation device may further be configured to include a sensor for detecting the movement of the inhalation device and use the sensor to detect that the inhalation device has been shaken as a predetermined action.

[0035] In one embodiment, the inhalation device may further be configured to connect to another inhalation device via a peer-to-peer (P2P) connection and perform transmission and reception with the other inhalation device through the P2P connection.

[0036] In one embodiment, the inhalation device may further be configured to: after transmitting the first signal to another inhalation device, when a first signal is received from the other inhalation device before receiving an acknowledgement response to the first signal, determine which one of the inhalation device and the other inhalation device should be given priority, and if it is determined that the inhalation device should be given priority, not transmit an acknowledgement response to the first signal received from the other inhalation device.

[0037] In one embodiment, a further configuration is possible, wherein during the establishment of the P2P connection, one of the inhalation device and the other inhalation device is set as the central unit, and the other is set as the peripheral unit, and when the inhalation device is set as the central unit, the inhalation device determines that the inhalation device should be given priority.

[0038] To solve the above problems, embodiments of the present disclosure provide a method performed by an inhalation device that controls a heating operation using a heating curve, the method including the step of initiating a heating curve transmission process in response to the detection of a predetermined action, wherein the heating curve transmission process includes the step of the inhalation device transmitting the heating curve to another inhalation device that controls a heating operation using the heating curve.

[0039] To solve the above problems, embodiments of the present disclosure provide a program for an inhalation device that controls a heating operation using a heating curve, the program including the following steps: causing the inhalation device to perform initiating a heating curve transmission process in response to the detection of a predetermined action, wherein the heating curve transmission process includes the step of the inhalation device transmitting the heating curve to another inhalation device that controls a heating operation using the heating curve.

[0040] Advantageous Effects of the Present Invention

[0041] According to an embodiment of the present disclosure, an inhalation device can be provided that is capable of transmitting a heating curve to another inhalation device. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0042] Figure 1A is a schematic diagram schematically showing a first configuration example of an inhalation device.

[0043] Figure 1B is a schematic diagram schematically showing a second configuration example of an inhalation device.

[0044] Figure 1C is a schematic diagram schematically showing a third configuration example of an inhalation device.

[0045] Figure 1D is a schematic diagram schematically showing a fourth configuration example of an inhalation device.

[0046] Figure 2 is a pseudo-sequence diagram showing the flow of an exemplary process for starting a heating curve transmission process.

[0047] Figure 3 is a pseudo-sequence diagram showing the flow of an exemplary heating curve transmission process.

[0048] Figure 4 is a pseudo-sequence diagram showing the flow of another exemplary heating curve transmission process.

[0049] Figure 5 is a graph plotting an exemplary temperature change of a heater.

[0050] Figure 6 shows an exemplary data structure of a heating curve.

[0051] Figure 7 shows another exemplary data structure of a heating curve.

[0052] Figure 8 is a schematic diagram showing an exemplary storage mode of a heating curve. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0053] 1. Configuration of the Inhalation Device

[0054] Configuration examples of the inhalation device as an embodiment of the present disclosure will be described below.

[0055] ​​​​​​​​​​​An inhalation device is a device for generating a substance to be inhaled by a user. Hereinafter, the substance generated by the inhalation device will be described as an aerosol. Alternatively, the substance generated by the inhalation device may be a gas. Configuration examples of the inhalation device will be described below.

[0056] 1-1. First configuration example

[0057] The inhalation device according to this configuration example generates an aerosol by heating a matrix containing an aerosol source within the matrix. This configuration example will be described below with reference to Figure 1A for description.

[0058] Figure 1A is a schematic diagram schematically showing the first configuration example of the inhalation device. As shown in Figure 1A , the inhalation device 100A according to this configuration example includes a power supply unit 111A, a sensor unit 112A, a notification unit 113A, a memory unit 114A, a communication unit 115A, a control unit 116A, a heating unit 121A, and a housing section 140A. Inhalation performed by the user is carried out using a rod-shaped matrix 150A accommodated in the housing section 140A. These components will be described in order below.

[0059] The power supply unit 111A stores electric power. The power supply unit 111A supplies electric power to each component of the inhalation device 100A. The power supply unit 111A may be configured, for example, by a rechargeable battery (such as a lithium-ion secondary battery). The power supply unit 111A can be charged by connecting to an external power source by means of a USB (Universal Serial Bus) cable or the like. In addition, the power supply unit 111A can also be charged by means of wireless power transmission technology without being connected to a power transmission side device. Alternatively, only the power supply unit 111A can be removed from the inhalation device 100A and can be replaced with a new power supply unit 111A.

[0060] The sensor unit 112A acquires various types of information related to the inhalation device 100A. The sensor unit 112A then outputs the detected information to the control unit 116A. As an example, the sensor unit 112A is configured by a pressure sensor (such as, a condenser microphone, a flow rate sensor, or a temperature sensor). When the sensor unit 112A has detected a value associated with inhalation performed by the user, the sensor unit 112A then outputs information indicating that the user has inhaled to the control unit 116A. As another example, the sensor unit 112A is configured by an input device (such as, a button or a switch) for receiving information input from the user. The sensor unit 112A may particularly include a button for indicating the start / stop of aerosol generation. The sensor unit 112A then outputs the information input by the user to the control unit 116A. As a further example, the sensor unit 112A may be configured by a temperature sensor for detecting the temperature of the heating unit 121A. For example, the temperature sensor detects the temperature of the heating unit 121A based on the resistance value of the conductive track of the heating unit 121A. Alternatively, the temperature sensor may be a thermistor that measures the temperature of the heating unit 121A. The sensor unit 112A may detect the temperature of the rod-shaped substrate 150A accommodated in the accommodation section 140A based on the temperature of the heating section 121A. The sensor unit 112A may include a sensor for detecting the movement of the inhalation device 100A (for example, the movement caused by the user shaking the inhalation device 100A), that is, a motion sensor. An example of such a sensor is, but is not limited to, an acceleration sensor.

[0061] The notification unit 113A notifies the user of information. As an example, the notification unit 113A is configured by a light-emitting device (such as, an LED (light-emitting diode)). In this way, when the power supply unit 111A is in a state that requires charging, when the power supply unit 111A is in the process of charging, or when an abnormality has occurred in the inhalation device 100A, etc., the notification unit 113A can emit light in different light emission modes for each case. The light emission modes mentioned herein generally include color and the timing of illumination / extinguishment. The notification unit 113A may be constituted by a display device for displaying an image (for example, a display), a sound output device for outputting sound (for example, a speaker), and a vibration device for vibrating (for example, a vibration motor) combined with or instead of the light-emitting device. Additionally, the notification unit 113A may transmit information indicating that inhalation performed by the user is possible. When the temperature of the rod-shaped substrate 150A heated by the heating unit 121A has reached a predetermined temperature, information indicating that inhalation performed by the user is possible may be transmitted.

[0062] Memory unit 114A stores various types of information for operating the inhalation device 100A. For example, memory unit 114A is configured by a non-volatile storage medium (such as flash memory). Information related to the operating system (OS) of the generating device 1 (such as the control content of various types of components by the control unit 116A) is an example of the information stored in memory unit 114A. Another example of the information stored in memory unit 114A is information related to inhalation performed by the user, such as the number of inhalations, the number of inhalation times, and the cumulative inhalation duration. As will be described below, memory unit 114A can store one or more heating curves for controlling the heating operation in the inhalation device 100A. Preferably, memory unit 114A is configured to be able to store multiple heating curves.

[0063] Communication unit 115A is a communication interface for transmitting and receiving information between the inhalation device 100A and another device. Communication unit 115A performs communication conforming to any wired or wireless communication standard. Examples of communication standards that can be used include wireless LAN (local area network), wired LAN, Wi-Fi (registered trademark), and Bluetooth (registered trademark), etc. As an example, communication unit 115A can send information related to inhalation performed by the user to a smart phone so as to cause the smart phone to display information related to inhalation performed by the user. As another example, communication unit 115A receives new OS information from a server so as to update the OS information stored in memory unit 114A.

[0064] Control unit 116A serves as an arithmetic processing device and a control device, and controls the overall operation within the inhalation device 100A according to various programs. For example, control unit 116A is implemented by a CPU (central processing unit) and an electronic circuit (such as a microprocessor). Control unit 116A may also include a ROM (read-only memory) for storing used programs and calculation parameters, etc., and a RAM (random access memory) for temporarily storing appropriately varying parameters, etc. The inhalation device 100A implements various types of processing based on the control executed by the control unit 116A. Examples of the processing controlled by the control unit 116A include: supplying power from the power supply unit 111A to other components; charging the power supply unit 111A; detecting information by the sensor unit 112A; notifying information by the notification unit 113A; storing and reading information by the memory unit 114A; and transmitting / receiving information by the communication unit 115A. Other processing implemented by the inhalation device 100A (such as processing based on information input to each component and information output from each component) is also controlled by means of the control unit 116A.

[0065] The receiving section 140A has an internal space 141A and receives the rod-shaped substrate 150A while accommodating a part of the rod-shaped substrate 150A in the internal space 141A. The receiving section 140A has an opening 142A that allows the internal space 141A to communicate with the outside, and receives the rod-shaped substrate 150A inserted into the internal space 141A from the opening 142A. For example, the receiving section 140A is a cylindrical body that includes the opening 142A and a bottom portion 143A serving as a bottom surface, and defines a columnar internal space 141A. The receiving section 140A is configured such that the inner diameter of at least a part of the cylindrical body in the height direction is smaller than the outer diameter of the rod-shaped substrate 150A, and can receive the rod-shaped substrate 150A inserted into the internal space 141A so as to press the rod-shaped substrate 150A away from its outer circumference. The receiving section 140A also has a function of defining a flow path for air passing through the rod-shaped substrate 150A. For example, an air inlet hole is provided in the bottom portion 143A, and the air inlet hole is an inlet for air entering the flow path. At the same time, the opening 142A is an air outlet hole, and the air outlet hole is an outlet for air exiting the flow path.

[0066] The substrate 150A is a rod-shaped member. The rod-shaped substrate 150A includes a substrate portion 151A and a mouthpiece portion 152A.

[0067] The substrate portion 151A includes an aerosol source. The aerosol source is atomized by heating to generate an aerosol. The aerosol source can be, for example, a tobacco-derived substance (such as shredded tobacco) or a processed product obtained by shaping tobacco raw materials into a granular form, a sheet form, or a powder form. In addition, the aerosol source can also contain a non-tobacco-derived substance produced by a plant other than tobacco (such as mint or herbal plants, etc.). As an example, the aerosol source can contain a flavoring component such as menthol. When the inhalation device 100A is a medical inhaler, the aerosol source can contain a drug to be inhaled by a patient. It should be noted that, for example, the aerosol source is not limited to a solid, and can also be a polyol (such as glycerol or propylene glycol), or a liquid (such as water). In a state where the rod-shaped substrate 150A is received in the receiving section 140A, at least a part of the substrate portion 151A is accommodated in the internal space 141A of the receiving section 140A.

[0068] The mouthpiece portion 152A is a component that is received in the user's mouth during inhalation. When the rod-shaped substrate 150A is received in the receiving section 140A, at least a portion of the mouthpiece portion 152A protrudes from the opening 142A. When the user then inhales using the mouthpiece portion 152A that protrudes from the opening 142A and is received in the mouth, air flows into the receiving section 140A through an air inlet hole (not depicted). The inflowing air passes through the internal space 141A of the receiving section 140A (i.e., through the substrate portion 151A) and reaches the user's mouth together with the aerosol generated from the substrate portion 151A.

[0069] The heating unit 121A heats the aerosol source to atomize the aerosol source, thereby generating an aerosol. The heating unit 121A is formed of any material, such as metal or polyimide. The heating unit 121A has a blade-like form and is arranged to protrude from the bottom portion 143A of the receiving section 140A into the internal space 141A. When the rod-shaped substrate 150A is inserted into the receiving section 140A, the blade-like heating unit 121A thus pierces the substrate portion 151A of the rod-shaped substrate 150A and inserts into the interior of the rod-shaped substrate 150A. When the heating unit 121A generates heat, the aerosol source contained in the rod-shaped substrate 150A is then heated and atomized from the interior of the rod-shaped substrate 150A, thereby generating an aerosol. The heating unit 121A generates heat when power is supplied from the power supply unit 111A. As an example, when the sensor unit 112A detects that a predetermined user input has been made, power can be supplied and an aerosol can be generated. When the temperature of the rod-shaped substrate 150A heated by the heating unit 121A has reached a predetermined temperature, inhalation by the user is then possible. After that, when the sensor unit 112A has detected that a predetermined user input has occurred, the power supply can be stopped. As another example, during a period in which the sensor unit 112A detects that the user is inhaling, power can be supplied and an aerosol can be generated. The heating portion 121A is an electric heater in terms of structure.

[0070] 1-2. Second Configuration Example

[0071] The inhalation device according to this configuration example generates an aerosol by heating the substrate containing the aerosol source from the outside of the substrate. This configuration example will be described below with reference to Figure 1B to describe this configuration example.

[0072] Figure 1B is a schematic diagram schematically showing a second configuration example of the inhalation device. As Figure 1BAs shown, the inhalation device 100B according to this configuration example includes a power supply unit 111B, a sensor unit 112B, a notification unit 113B, a memory unit 114B, a communication unit 115B, a control unit 116B, a heating unit 121B, a housing section 140B, and a heat insulation section 144B. A user inhales using a rod-shaped substrate 150B housed in the housing section 140B. These components will be described in order below.

[0073] The power supply unit 111B stores electric power. The power supply unit 111B supplies electric power to each component of the inhalation device 100B. The power supply unit 111B can be configured, for example, by a rechargeable battery (such as a lithium-ion secondary battery). The power supply unit 111B can be charged by connecting to an external power source via a USB (Universal Serial Bus) cable or the like. In addition, the power supply unit 111B can also be charged by means of wireless power transmission technology without being connected to a power transmission-side device. Alternatively, the power supply unit 111B can be removed from the inhalation device 100B separately and can be replaced with a new power supply unit 111B.

[0074] The sensor unit 112B acquires various types of information related to the inhalation device 100B. The sensor unit 112B then outputs the detected information to the control unit 116B. As an example, the sensor unit 112B is configured by a pressure sensor (such as a condenser microphone, a flow rate sensor, or a temperature sensor). When the sensor unit 112B has detected a value associated with inhalation performed by the user, the sensor unit 112B then outputs information indicating that the user has inhaled to the control unit 116B. As another example, the sensor unit 112B is configured by an input device (such as a button or a switch) for receiving information input from the user. The sensor unit 112B can particularly include a button for indicating the start / stop of aerosol generation. The sensor unit 112B then outputs the information input by the user to the control unit 116B. As a further example, the sensor unit 112B can be configured by a temperature sensor for detecting the temperature of the heating unit 121B. For example, the temperature sensor detects the temperature of the heating unit 121B based on the resistance value of the conductive track of the heating unit 121B. Alternatively, the temperature sensor can be a thermistor that measures the temperature of the heating unit 121B. The sensor section 112B can detect the temperature of the rod-shaped substrate 150B housed in the housing section 140B based on the temperature of the heating section 121B. The sensor unit 112B can also include a sensor for detecting the movement of the inhalation device 100B (for example, movement caused by the action of the user shaking the inhalation device 100B), that is, a motion sensor. Examples of such a sensor are, but are not limited to, acceleration sensors.

[0075] The notification unit 113B notifies the user of information. As an example, the notification unit 113B is configured by a light-emitting device (such as an LED (light-emitting diode)). In that case, when the power supply unit 111B is in a state where charging is required, when the power supply unit 111B is in the process of charging, and when an abnormality has occurred in the inhalation device 100B, etc., the notification unit 113B emits light in different light emission modes for each case. The light emission modes mentioned here generally include color and the timing of illumination / extinguishment. The notification unit 113B may be composed of a display device for displaying an image (such as a display), a sound output device for outputting sound (such as a speaker), and a vibration device for vibrating (such as a vibration motor) combined with or instead of the light-emitting device. Additionally, the notification unit 113B may transmit information indicating that inhalation by the user is possible. When the temperature of the rod-shaped substrate 150B heated by the heating unit 121B has reached a predetermined temperature, information indicating that inhalation by the user is possible may be notified.

[0076] The memory unit 114B stores various types of information for operating the inhalation device 100B. For example, the memory unit 114B may be configured by a non-volatile storage medium (storage device) (such as a flash memory). Examples of the information stored in the memory unit 114B are information related to the operating system (OS) of the inhalation device 100B, such as the control content of various components performed by the control unit 116B. Another example of the information stored in the memory unit 114B is information related to inhalation by the user, such as the inhalation quantity, the number of inhalations, and the cumulative inhalation duration. As will be described below, the memory unit 114B may store one or more heating curves for controlling the heating operation in the inhalation device B. The memory unit 114B is preferably configured to be able to store multiple heating curves.

[0077] The communication unit 115B is a communication interface for transmitting and receiving information between the inhalation device 100B and another device. The communication unit 115B performs communication conforming to any wired or wireless communication standard. Examples of the communication standards that can be used include wireless LAN (local area network), wired LAN, Wi-Fi (registered trademark), and Bluetooth (registered trademark), etc. As an example, the communication unit 115B may transmit information related to inhalation by the user to a smart phone so as to cause the smart phone to display information related to inhalation by the user. As another example, the communication unit 115B receives new OS information from a server so as to update the OS information stored in the memory unit 114B.

[0078] The control unit 116B serves as an arithmetic processing device and a control device, and controls the overall operation within the inhalation device 100B according to various programs. For example, the control unit 116B is implemented by a CPU (Central Processing Unit) and an electronic circuit (such as a microprocessor). The control unit 116B may also include a ROM (Read Only Memory) for storing used programs and calculation parameters, etc., and a RAM (Random Access Memory) for temporarily storing appropriately varying parameters, etc. The inhalation device 100B implements various types of processing based on the control executed by the control unit 116B. Examples of the processing controlled by the control unit 116B include: supplying power from the power supply unit 111B to other components; charging the power supply unit 111B; detecting information by the sensor unit 112B; notifying information by the notification unit 113B; storing and reading information by the memory unit 114B; and transmitting / receiving information by the communication unit 115B. Other processing implemented by the inhalation device 100B (such as processing based on information input to and output from each component) is also controlled by means of the control unit 116B.

[0079] The accommodation section 140B has an internal space 141B and accommodates the rod-shaped substrate 150B while housing a part of the rod-shaped substrate 150B in the internal space 141B. The accommodation section 140B has an opening 142B that allows the internal space 141B to communicate with the outside, and accommodates the rod-shaped substrate 150B inserted into the internal space 141B from the opening 142B. For example, the accommodation section 140B is a cylindrical body that includes the opening 142B and a bottom portion 143B serving as a bottom surface, and defines a columnar internal space 141B. The accommodation section 140B is configured such that the inner diameter of at least a part of the cylindrical body in the height direction is smaller than the outer diameter of the rod-shaped substrate 150B, and can accommodate the rod-shaped substrate 150B inserted into the internal space 141B so as to press it from the outer circumference of the rod-shaped substrate 150B. The accommodation section 140B also has a function of defining a flow path for air passing through the rod-shaped substrate 150B. For example, an air inflow hole is provided in the bottom portion 143B, and this air inflow hole is an inlet for air entering the flow path. On the other hand, the opening 142B forms an air outflow hole, which is an outlet for air exiting the flow path.

[0080] The rod-shaped substrate 150B is a rod-shaped member. The rod-shaped substrate 150B includes a substrate portion 151B and a mouthpiece portion 152B.

[0081] The substrate portion 151B includes an aerosol source. The aerosol source is atomized by heating to generate an aerosol. The aerosol source can be, for example, a tobacco-derived substance (such as shredded tobacco) or a processed product obtained by shaping tobacco raw materials into a granular form, a sheet form, or a powder form. In addition, the aerosol source can also contain non-tobacco-derived substances produced by plants other than tobacco (such as mint or herbs, etc.). As an example, the aerosol source can contain a flavoring component such as menthol. When the inhalation device 100B is a medical inhaler, the aerosol source can contain a drug to be inhaled by the patient. It should be noted that, for example, the aerosol source is not limited to solids and can equally be a polyol (such as glycerol or propylene glycol), or a liquid (such as water). In the case where the rod-shaped substrate 150B is accommodated in the accommodation section 140B, at least a part of the substrate portion 151B is accommodated in the internal space 141B of the accommodation section 140B.

[0082] The mouthpiece portion 152B is a member that is accommodated in the user's mouth during inhalation. In the case where the rod-shaped substrate 150B is accommodated in the accommodation section 140, at least a part of the mouthpiece portion 152B protrudes from the opening 142B. When the user inhales using the mouthpiece portion 152B that protrudes from the opening 142B and is accommodated in the mouth, air flows into the accommodation section 140B through an air inlet hole (not depicted). The inflowing air passes through the internal space 141B of the accommodation section 140B (i.e., through the substrate portion 151B) and reaches the user's mouth together with the aerosol generated from the substrate portion 151B.

[0083] The heating unit 121B heats the aerosol source to atomize the aerosol source, thereby generating an aerosol. The heating unit 121B is formed of any material such as metal or polyimide. For example, the heating unit 121B is configured as a film and is arranged to cover the outer circumference of the accommodation section 140B. When the heating unit 121B generates heat, the aerosol source contained in the rod-shaped substrate 150B is then heated and atomized from the outer circumference of the rod-shaped substrate 150B, thereby generating an aerosol. The heating unit 121B generates heat when supplied with power from the power supply unit 111B. After that, when the sensor unit 112B has detected that a predetermined user input has occurred, the power supply can be stopped. When the temperature of the rod-shaped substrate 150B heated by the heating unit 121B has reached a predetermined temperature, inhalation by the user then becomes possible. After that, when the sensor unit 112B has detected that a predetermined user input has occurred, the power supply can be stopped. As another example, during the period when the sensor unit 112B detects inhalation by the user, power can be supplied and an aerosol can be generated. The heating portion 121B is an electric heater in terms of structure.

[0084] The heat insulation portion 144B prevents heat from being transferred from the heating unit 121B to other components. The heat insulation portion 144B is arranged to cover at least the outer circumference of the heating unit 121B. For example, the heat insulation portion 144B is configured of a vacuum insulation material, an aerosol insulation material, or the like. It should be noted that, for example, a vacuum insulation material is such a heat insulation material that a high vacuum state is created by wrapping glass wool, silica (silicon powder), etc. in a resin film, so that heat conduction through gas is made as close to zero as possible.

[0085] 1-3. Third configuration example

[0086] The inhalation device according to this configuration example generates an aerosol by heating the substrate containing the aerosol source both from inside and from outside the substrate. This configuration example will be described below with reference to Figure 1C to describe this configuration example.

[0087] Figure 1C is a schematic diagram schematically showing the third configuration example of the inhalation device. As Figure 1C shown, the inhalation device 100C according to this configuration example includes a power supply unit 111C, a sensor unit 112C, a notification unit 113C, a memory unit 114C, a communication unit 115C, a control unit 116C, a heating unit 121C-1, a heating unit 121C-2, a housing section 140C, and a heat insulation section 144C. The user inhales using the rod-shaped substrate 150C accommodated in the housing section 140C. These components will be described in order below. These components will be described in order below.

[0088] The power supply unit 111C stores electric power. The power supply unit 111C then supplies electric power to each component of the inhalation device 100C. The power supply unit 111C can be configured, for example, by a rechargeable battery (such as a lithium ion secondary battery). The power supply unit 111C can be charged by being connected to an external power source by means of a USB (Universal Serial Bus) cable or the like. In addition, the power supply unit 111C can also be charged by means of wireless power transmission technology without being connected to a power transmission side device. Alternatively, only the power supply 111C can be removed from the inhalation device 100C and can be replaced with a new power supply 111C.

[0089] The sensor unit 112C acquires various types of information related to the inhalation device 100C. The sensor unit 112C then outputs the detected information to the control unit 116C. As an example, the sensor unit 112C is configured by a pressure sensor (such as, a condenser microphone, a flow rate sensor, or a temperature sensor). When the sensor unit 112C has detected a value associated with an inhalation performed by the user, the sensor unit 112C then outputs information indicating that the user has inhaled to the control unit 116C. As another example, the sensor unit 112C is configured by an input device (such as, a button or a switch) for receiving an information input from the user. The sensor unit 112C may particularly include a button for indicating the start / stop of aerosol generation. The sensor unit 112C then outputs the information input by the user to the control unit 116C. As a further example, the sensor unit 112C may be configured by a temperature sensor for detecting the temperatures of the heating units 121C-1 and 121C-2. For example, such a temperature sensor detects the temperature of each of the heating units 121C-1 and 121C-2 based on the resistance values of each conductive track of the heating units 121C-1 and 121C-2. Alternatively, the temperature sensor may be a thermistor that measures the temperature of the heating unit 121C. The sensor part 112C may detect the temperature of the rod-shaped substrate 150C accommodated in the accommodation section 140C based on the temperatures of the heating units 121C-1 and 121C-2. The sensor unit 112C may further include a sensor for detecting the movement of the inhalation device 100C (for example, the movement caused by the user's action of shaking the inhalation device 100C), that is, a motion sensor. Examples of such a sensor are, but are not limited to, an acceleration sensor.

[0090] The notification unit 113C notifies the user of information. As an example, the notification unit 113C is configured by a light-emitting device (such as, an LED (light-emitting diode)). In this way, when the power supply unit 111C is in a state that requires charging, when the power supply unit 111C is in the process of charging, or when an abnormality has occurred in the inhalation device 100C, etc., the notification unit 113C emits light in different light emission modes for each case. The light emission modes mentioned herein generally include color and the timing of illumination / extinguishment. The notification unit 113C may be constituted by a display device for displaying an image (for example, a display), a sound output device for outputting sound (for example, a speaker), and a vibration device for vibrating (for example, a vibration motor) combined with or instead of the light-emitting device. Additionally, the notification unit 113C may notify information indicating that an inhalation performed by the user is possible. When the temperature of the rod-shaped substrate 150C heated by the heating units 121C-1 and 121C-2 has reached a predetermined temperature, information indicating that an inhalation performed by the user is possible may be notified.

[0091] Memory unit 114C stores various types of information for operating the inhalation device 100C. For example, memory unit 114C can be configured by a non-volatile storage medium (such as flash memory). Examples of the information stored in memory unit 114C are information related to the operating system (OS) of inhalation device 100C, such as the control content of various components executed by control unit 116C. Another example of the information stored in memory unit 114C is information related to the inhalation performed by the user, such as the inhalation quantity, the number of inhalations, and the cumulative inhalation duration. As described below, memory unit 114C can store one or more heating curves for controlling the heating operation in inhalation device 100C. Preferably, memory unit 114C is configured to be able to store multiple heating curves.

[0092] Communication unit 115C is a communication interface for transmitting and receiving information between inhalation device 100C and another device. Communication unit 115C performs communication conforming to any wired or wireless communication standard. Examples of the communication standards that can be used include wireless LAN (local area network), wired LAN, Wi-Fi (registered trademark), and Bluetooth (registered trademark), etc. As an example, communication unit 115C can send information related to the inhalation performed by the user to a smart phone so as to cause the smart phone to display the information related to the inhalation performed by the user. As another example, communication unit 115C receives new OS information from a server so as to update the OS information stored in memory unit 114C.

[0093] Control unit 116C serves as an arithmetic processing device and a control device, and controls the overall operation within inhalation device 100C according to various programs. For example, control unit 116C is implemented by a CPU (central processing unit) and an electronic circuit (such as a microprocessor). Control unit 116C may also include a ROM (read-only memory) for storing the programs and calculation parameters used, etc., and a RAM (random access memory) for temporarily storing parameters that change appropriately, etc. Inhalation device 100C implements various types of processing based on the control executed by control unit 116C. Examples of the processing controlled by control unit 116C include: supplying power from power supply unit 111C to other components; charging power supply unit 111C; detecting information by sensor unit 112C; notifying information by notification unit 113C; storing and reading information by memory unit 114C; and transmitting / receiving information by communication unit 115C. Other processing implemented by inhalation device 100C (such as processing based on the information input to each component and the information output from each component) is also controlled by control unit 116C.

[0094] The receiving section 140C has an internal space 141C and receives the rod-shaped substrate 150C, with a part of the rod-shaped substrate 150C accommodated in the internal space 141C. The receiving section 140C has an opening 142C that allows the internal space 141C to communicate with the outside, and receives the rod-shaped substrate 150C inserted into the internal space 141C from the opening 142C. For example, the receiving section 140C is a cylindrical body that includes the opening 142C and a bottom portion 143C serving as a bottom surface, and defines a columnar internal space 141C. The receiving section 140C is configured such that the inner diameter of at least a part of the cylindrical body in the height direction is smaller than the outer diameter of the rod-shaped substrate 150C, and can receive the rod-shaped substrate 150C inserted into the internal space 141C so as to press it from the outer circumference of the rod-shaped substrate 150C. The receiving section 140C also has a function of defining a flow path for air passing through the rod-shaped substrate 150C. For example, an air inlet hole is provided in the bottom portion 143C, and this air inlet hole is an inlet for air entering the flow path. At the same time, the opening 142C forms an air outlet hole, and this air outlet hole is an outlet for air exiting the flow path.

[0095] The rod-shaped substrate 150C is a rod-shaped member. The rod-shaped substrate 150C includes a substrate portion 151C and a mouthpiece portion 152C.

[0096] The substrate portion 151C includes an aerosol source. The aerosol source is atomized by heating to generate an aerosol. The aerosol source can be, for example, a tobacco-derived substance (such as shredded tobacco) or a processed product obtained by shaping tobacco raw materials into a granular form, a sheet form, or a powder form. In addition, the aerosol source can also contain non-tobacco-derived substances produced by plants other than tobacco (such as mint or herbal plants, etc.). As an example, the aerosol source can contain a flavoring component such as menthol. When the inhalation device 100C is a medical inhaler, the aerosol source can contain a drug to be inhaled by the patient. It should be noted that, for example, the aerosol source is not limited to solids, and can also be a polyol (such as glycerol or propylene glycol), or a liquid (such as water). When the rod-shaped substrate 150C is accommodated in the receiving section 140C, at least a part of the substrate portion 151C is accommodated in the internal space 141C of the receiving section 140C.

[0097] The mouthpiece portion 152C is a member that is received in the user's mouth during inhalation. When the rod-shaped substrate 150C is received in the receiving section 140C, at least a portion of the mouthpiece portion 152C protrudes from the opening 142C. When the user then inhales using the mouthpiece portion 152C that protrudes from the opening 142C and is received in the mouth, air flows into the receiving section 140C through an air inlet hole (not depicted). The inflowing air passes through the internal space 141C of the receiving section 140C (i.e., through the substrate portion 151C) and reaches the user's mouth together with the aerosol generated from the substrate portion 151C.

[0098] The heating units 121C-1 and 121C-2 heat the aerosol source to atomize the aerosol source, thereby generating an aerosol. The heating units 121C-1 and 121C-2 are formed of any material, such as metal or polyimide.

[0099] The heating unit 121C-1 has a blade-like form and is arranged to protrude from the bottom portion 143C of the receiving section 140C into the internal space 141C. When the rod-shaped substrate 150C is inserted into the receiving section 140C, the blade-like heating unit 121C-1 thus pierces the substrate portion 151C of the rod-shaped substrate 150C and inserts into the interior of the rod-shaped substrate 150C. When the heating unit 121C-1 generates heat, the aerosol source contained in the rod-shaped substrate 150C is then heated and atomized from the interior of the rod-shaped substrate 150C, thereby generating an aerosol.

[0100] The heating unit 121C-2 is configured as a film and is arranged to cover the outer circumference of the receiving section 140C. When the heating unit 121C-1 generates heat, the aerosol source contained in the rod-shaped substrate 150C is then heated and atomized from the outer circumference of the rod-shaped substrate 150C, thereby generating an aerosol.

[0101] Typically, the temperature of the heating unit 121C-2 is controlled to be lower than the temperature of the heating unit 121C-1. This is because the heat emitted from the heating section 121C-2 is more likely to spread to other components of the inhalation device 100C than the heat emitted from the heating section 121C-1.

[0102] The heating units 121C-1 and 121C-2 generate heat when supplied with power from the power supply unit 111C. As an example, power may be supplied when the sensor unit 112C detects that a predetermined user input has been made. When the temperature of the rod-shaped substrate 150C heated by the heating units 121C-1 and 121C-2 reaches a predetermined temperature, inhalation by the user becomes possible. After that, when the sensor unit 112C has detected that a predetermined user input has occurred, the power supply may be stopped. As another example, power may be supplied during a period in which the sensor unit 112C detects inhalation by the user, and an aerosol may be generated. The heating sections 121C-1 and 121C-2 are electrically heaters in terms of structure.

[0103] The heat insulating section 144C prevents heat from being transferred from the heating unit 121C-2 to other components of the inhalation device 100. The heat insulating section 144C is arranged so as to cover at least the outer circumference of the heating unit 121C-2. For example, the heat insulating section 144C is configured of a vacuum insulating material, an aerosol insulating material, or the like. It should be noted that, for example, a vacuum insulating material is such a heat insulating material that a high vacuum state is created by wrapping glass wool, silica (silicon powder), etc. in a resin film so that heat conduction through gas is made as close to zero as possible.

[0104] Although Figure 1C an example in which the heating unit 121C-2 is provided on the outer circumference of the accommodation section 140C is shown, this configuration example is not limited to this example. As another example, the heating unit 121C-2 may be arranged so as to cover the bottom portion 143C of the accommodation portion 140C.

[0105] 1-4. Fourth Configuration Example

[0106] The inhalation device according to this configuration example is a substrate external type inhalation device that generates an aerosol by induction heating. This configuration example will be described below with reference to Figure 1D to describe this configuration example.

[0107] Figure 1D is a schematic diagram schematically showing a fourth configuration example of the inhalation device. As Figure 1D shown, the inhalation device 100D according to this configuration example includes a power supply unit 111D, a sensor unit 112D, a notification unit 113D, a memory unit 114D, a communication unit 115D, a control unit 116D, a receptor 161D, an electromagnetic induction source 162D, and an accommodation section 140D. The user inhales using the rod-shaped substrate 150D accommodated in the accommodation section 140D. These components will be described in order below.

[0108] The power supply unit 111D stores electric power. The power supply unit 111D then supplies electric power to each component of the inhalation device 100D. The power supply unit 111D can be configured, for example, by a rechargeable battery (such as a lithium-ion secondary battery). The power supply unit 111D can be charged by being connected to an external power source by means of a USB (Universal Serial Bus) cable or the like. In addition, the power supply unit 111D can also be charged by means of wireless power transmission technology without being connected to a power transmission side device. Alternatively, only the power supply unit 111D can be removed from the inhalation device 100D and can be replaced with a new power supply 111D.

[0109] The sensor unit 112D acquires various types of information related to the inhalation device 100D. The sensor unit 112D then outputs the detected information to the control unit 116D. As an example, the sensor unit 112D is configured by a pressure sensor (such as a condenser microphone, a flow rate sensor, or a temperature sensor). When the sensor unit 112D has detected a value associated with inhalation performed by the user, the sensor unit 112D then outputs information indicating that the user has inhaled to the control unit 116D. As another example, the sensor unit 112D is configured by an input device (such as a button or a switch) for receiving information input from the user. The sensor unit 112D can particularly include a button for indicating the start / stop of aerosol generation. The sensor unit 112D then outputs the information input by the user to the control unit 116D. As a further example, the sensor unit 112D can be configured by a temperature sensor for detecting the temperature of the susceptor 161D. For example, such a temperature sensor detects the temperature of the susceptor 161D based on the resistance value of the electromagnetic induction source 162D. Alternatively, such a temperature sensor can be a thermistor that directly measures the temperature of the susceptor 161D. The sensor unit 112D can detect the temperature of the rod-shaped substrate 150D accommodated in the accommodation section 140D based on the temperature of the susceptor 161D. The sensor unit 112D can also include a sensor for detecting the movement of the inhalation device 100D (for example, the movement caused by the user's action of shaking the inhalation device 100D), that is, a motion sensor. Examples of such a sensor are, but are not limited to, an acceleration sensor. Examples of such a sensor are, but are not limited to, an acceleration sensor.

[0110] The notification unit 113D notifies the user of information. As an example, the notification unit 113D is configured by a light-emitting device (e.g., an LED (light-emitting diode)). In this way, when the power supply unit 111D is in a state where charging is required, when the power supply unit 111D is in the process of charging, or when an abnormality has occurred in the inhalation device 100D, etc., the notification unit 113D emits light in different light emission modes for each case. The light emission modes mentioned here generally include color and the timing of illumination / extinguishment. The notification unit 113D may be composed of a display device for displaying an image (e.g., a display), a sound output device for outputting sound (e.g., a speaker), and a vibration device for vibrating (e.g., a vibration motor) combined with or instead of the light-emitting device. Additionally, the notification unit 113D may notify information indicating that inhalation by the user is possible. When the temperature of the rod-shaped substrate 150D heated by electromagnetic induction reaches a predetermined temperature, information indicating that inhalation by the user has become possible is notified.

[0111] The memory unit 114D stores various types of information for operating the inhalation device 100D. For example, the memory unit 114D may be configured by a non-volatile storage medium (e.g., a flash memory). Information related to the operating system (OS) of the generation device 100D (e.g., the control content of various types of components by the control unit 116D) is an example of the information stored in the memory unit 114D. Another example of the information stored in the memory unit 114D is information related to the inhalation performed by the user, such as the inhalation quantity, the number of inhalations, and the cumulative inhalation duration. As will be described below, the memory unit 114D may store one or more heating curves for controlling the heating operation in the inhalation device 100D. Preferably, the memory unit 114D is configured to be able to store multiple heating curves.

[0112] The communication unit 115D is a communication interface for transmitting and receiving information between the inhalation device 100D and another device. The communication unit 115D performs communication conforming to any wired or wireless communication standard. Examples of communication standards that can be used include wireless LAN (local area network), wired LAN, Wi-Fi (registered trademark), and Bluetooth (registered trademark), etc. As an example, the communication unit 115D may transmit information related to the inhalation performed by the user to a smartphone so as to cause the smartphone to display information related to the inhalation performed by the user. As another example, the communication unit 115D receives new OS information from a server so as to update the OS information stored in the memory unit 114D.

[0113] The control unit 116D serves as an arithmetic processing device and a control device, and controls the overall operation within the inhalation device 100D according to various programs. For example, the control unit 116D is implemented by a CPU (Central Processing Unit) and an electronic circuit (such as a microprocessor). The control unit 116D may further include a ROM (Read Only Memory) for storing used programs and calculation parameters, etc., and a RAM (Random Access Memory) for temporarily storing appropriately changed parameters, etc. The inhalation device 100D implements various types of processing based on the control executed by the control unit 116D. Examples of the processing controlled by the control unit 116D include: supplying power from the power supply unit 111D to other components; charging the power supply unit 111D; detecting information by the sensor unit 112D; notifying information by the notification unit 113D; storing and reading information by the memory unit 114D; and transmitting / receiving information by the communication unit 115D. Other processing implemented by the inhalation device 100D (such as processing based on information input to and output from each component) is also controlled by the control unit 116D.

[0114] The accommodation section 140D has an internal space 141D and accommodates the rod-shaped substrate 150D while accommodating a part of the rod-shaped substrate 150D in the internal space 141D. The accommodation section 140D has an opening 142D that allows the internal space 141D to communicate with the outside, and accommodates the rod-shaped substrate 150D inserted into the internal space 141D from the opening 142D. For example, the accommodation section 140D is a cylindrical body that includes the opening 142D and a bottom portion 143D serving as a bottom surface, and defines a columnar internal space 141D. The accommodation section 140D is configured such that the inner diameter of at least a part of the cylindrical body in the height direction is smaller than the outer diameter of the rod-shaped substrate 150D, and can accommodate the rod-shaped substrate 150D inserted into the internal space 141D so as to press it from the outer circumference of the rod-shaped substrate 150D. The accommodation section 140D also has a function of defining a flow path for air passing through the rod-shaped substrate 150D. For example, an air inlet hole is provided in the bottom portion 143D, and the air inlet hole is an inlet for air entering the flow path. At the same time, the opening 142D forms an air outlet hole, which is an outlet for air exiting the flow path.

[0115] The rod-shaped substrate 150D is a rod-shaped member. The rod-shaped substrate 150D includes a substrate portion 151D and a mouthpiece portion 152D.

[0116] The substrate portion 151D includes an aerosol source. The aerosol source is atomized by heating to generate an aerosol. The aerosol source can be, for example, a tobacco-derived substance (such as shredded tobacco) or a processed product obtained by shaping tobacco raw materials into a granular form, a sheet form, or a powder form. In addition, the aerosol source can also contain non-tobacco-derived substances produced by plants other than tobacco (such as mint or herbs, etc.). As an example, the aerosol source can contain a flavoring component, such as menthol. When the inhalation device 100D is a medical inhaler, the aerosol source can contain a drug to be inhaled by the patient. It should be noted that, for example, the aerosol source is not limited to solids and can equally be a polyol (such as glycerol or propylene glycol), or a liquid (such as water). In the case where the rod-shaped substrate 150D is accommodated in the accommodation section 140D, at least a part of the substrate portion 151D is accommodated in the internal space 141D of the accommodation section 140D.

[0117] The mouthpiece portion 152D is a component that is accommodated in the user's mouth during inhalation. In the case where the rod-shaped substrate 150D is accommodated in the accommodation section 140D, at least a part of the mouthpiece portion 152D protrudes from the opening 142D. When the user then inhales using the mouthpiece portion 152D that protrudes from the opening 142D and is accommodated in the mouth, air flows into the accommodation section 140D through an air inlet hole (not depicted). The inflowing air passes through the internal space 141D of the accommodation section 140D (i.e., through the substrate portion 151D) and reaches the user's mouth together with the aerosol generated from the substrate portion 151D.

[0118] In addition, the rod-shaped substrate 150D includes a susceptor 161D. The susceptor 161D generates heat by electromagnetic induction. The susceptor 161D is made of a conductive material (such as metal). As an example, the susceptor 161D is a metal piece. The susceptor 161D is disposed adjacent to the aerosol source. In Figure 1D the example shown in

[0119] The electromagnetic induction source 162D generates heat in the receptor 161D through electromagnetic induction. The electromagnetic induction source 162D includes, for example, a coil-shaped conductor and is arranged to wind around the outer circumference of the accommodation section 140D. The electromagnetic induction source 162D generates a magnetic field when supplied with an AC current from the power supply unit 111D. The electromagnetic induction source 162D is arranged at a position where the internal space 141D of the accommodation section 140D overlaps with the generated magnetic field. Therefore, when a magnetic field is generated in the state where the rod-shaped substrate 150D is accommodated by the accommodation section 140D, eddy currents are generated in the receptor 161D, and Joule heating occurs. Then, the aerosol source contained in the rod-shaped substrate 150D is heated and atomized by Joule heat, thereby generating an aerosol. As an example, power may be supplied when the sensor unit 112D detects that a predetermined user input has been made. When the temperature of the rod-shaped substrate 150D inductively heated by the receptor 161D and the electromagnetic induction source 162D reaches a predetermined temperature, inhalation by the user becomes possible. After that, power supply may be stopped when the sensor unit 112D has detected that a predetermined user input has occurred. As another example, power may be supplied during a period in which the sensor unit 112D detects inhalation by the user, and an aerosol may be generated. The electromagnetic induction source 162D is structurally an induction heating type heater.

[0120] Although Figure 1D An example is shown in which the receptor 161D is included in the substrate portion 151D of the rod-shaped substrate 150D, but the present example configuration is not limited to this example. For example, the accommodation section 140D may perform the function of the receptor 161D. In this case, eddy currents are generated in the accommodation section 140D by the magnetic field generated by the electromagnetic induction source 162D, and Joule heating occurs. The aerosol source contained in the rod-shaped substrate 150D is then heated and atomized by Joule heating, thereby generating an aerosol.

[0121] 1 - 5. Further configuration examples

[0122] In the configuration example described above, the substrate including the aerosol source is rod-shaped. However, the shape of the substrate is not limited to this.

[0123] Furthermore, in the configuration example described above, the aerosol source is included in the substrate as a solid body. However, in the present disclosure, it is not intended to exclude inhalation devices that use a liquid as the aerosol source.

[0124] In addition, the heating method of the heating unit of the inhalation device may be any heating method (such as heating by microwave), as long as the substrate can be heated.

[0125] 2. Processes performed by the inhalation device

[0126] An inhalation device 100A or the like (hereinafter referred to as "inhalation device 100" without distinction) according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is configured to control a heating operation using a heating curve.

[0127] Examples of processes that can be executed by the inhalation device 100 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure, specifically by a control unit 116A or the like of the inhalation device 100 (hereinafter referred to as "control unit 116" without distinction), will be described below. Note that the exemplary processes described below can be executed by a program that causes the inhalation device 100 to execute the processes. In addition, the program can be stored in a memory unit 114A or the like of the inhalation device 100 (hereinafter referred to as "memory unit 114" without distinction).

[0128] As described above, the heating units 121A to 121C and the electromagnetic induction source 162D are structures that perform heating, and will therefore be hereinafter referred to as "heater" without distinction. However, when the heater is the electromagnetic induction source 162D, the resistance value (including the target resistance value) of the heater is the resistance value of the electromagnetic induction source 162D, and the temperature of the heater (including the target temperature) can be the temperature of the susceptor 161D heated by induction by the electromagnetic induction source 162D. Also, hereinafter, "electrical resistance value" will be referred to as "resistance value".

[0129] 2-1. Exemplary Process for Initiating Transmission of Heating Curve

[0130] Figure 2 FIG. is a pseudo-sequence diagram showing the flow of an exemplary process 200 for initiating a heating curve transmission process. In this pseudo-sequence diagram, the flow of exemplary operations of two inhalation devices 100 (hereinafter referred to as "inhalation device A" and "inhalation device B") is shown, including the interaction with the users of these inhalation devices (hereinafter referred to as "user A" and "user B"). Note that in the following description, inhalation device A and user A, and inhalation device B and user B are interchangeable.

[0131] The timing for initiating the execution of the exemplary process 200 (more specifically, step 210 described later) is arbitrary. For example, the exemplary process 200 can be initiated in response to, but not limited to, at least one of inhalation device A and inhalation device B detecting any predetermined action.

[0132] 210 indicates the steps for establishing a connection between inhalation device A and inhalation device B. Hereinafter, it is assumed that transmission and reception between inhalation device A and inhalation device B are performed via the established connection. This connection can be, but is not limited to, a P2P connection conforming to known Bluetooth technology. In the case of a P2P connection conforming to known Bluetooth technology, during connection establishment, one of inhalation device A and inhalation device B is set as the central device (active device), and the other is set as the peripheral device (slave device).

[0133] Therefore, according to the exemplary process 200, an inhalation device (inhalation device A) can be configured to connect to another inhalation device (inhalation device B) via a P2P connection and perform transmission and reception with the other inhalation device via the P2P connection.

[0134] 215 indicates the steps in which inhalation device A and inhalation device B each start a timer to disconnect the established connection due to timeout.

[0135] 220 indicates the processing block in which the heating curve transmission process is initiated.

[0136] 222 indicates the steps in which user A performs any first predetermined action and inhalation device A detects the action. Examples of the first predetermined action are, but are not limited to, user A shaking inhalation device A. Note that the action of user A shaking inhalation device A can be detected by a motion sensor, which can be included in the sensor unit 112 of inhalation device A.

[0137] That is, the inhalation device (inhalation device A) includes a sensor (motion sensor) for detecting the movement of the inhalation device and can be further configured to use the sensor to detect that the inhalation device has been shaken as a predetermined action (first predetermined action).

[0138] 230 indicates the steps in which inhalation device A initiates the heating curve transmission process in response to detecting the first predetermined action. The heating curve transmission process will be described later, but the heating curve transmission process can include the steps in which inhalation device A transmits the heating curve to inhalation device B.

[0139] Therefore, according to the exemplary process 200, an inhalation device (inhalation device A) configured to control the heating operation using a heating curve can be further configured to transmit the heating curve to another inhalation device (inhalation device B) that uses the heating curve to control the heating operation.

[0140] According to this configuration, the heating curve can be transmitted from inhalation device A to inhalation device B, thereby allowing inhalation device A to convey the content of the heating operation control to inhalation device B.

[0141] In addition, as mentioned above, since the inhalation devices A and B are interchangeable, according to this configuration, the heating curve can be transmitted between the inhalation device A and the inhalation device B.

[0142] In addition, according to the exemplary process 200, the inhalation device (inhalation device A) configured to use the heating curve to control the heating operation can be further configured to initiate the heating curve transmission process in response to detecting a predetermined action (first predetermined action), and the heating curve transmission process can include the step in which the inhalation device transmits the heating curve to another inhalation device (inhalation device B) that uses the heating curve to control the heating operation.

[0143] According to this configuration, the inhalation device A is capable of transmitting the heating curve.

[0144] Note that the heating curve transmission process can include the step in which the inhalation device A receives the heating curve transmitted from the inhalation device B, rather than the step in which the inhalation device A transmits the heating curve to the inhalation device B. Based on the above, by initiating the heating curve transmission process in response to a predetermined action, it is possible to determine which of the connected inhalation devices A and B will transmit the heating curve. This is particularly useful when establishing a connection between the inhalation device A and the inhalation device B where there is no distinction between the transmission side and the reception side.

[0145] Preferably, once a response has been made to detecting the first predetermined action, no response is made to any further detected predetermined action until the heating curve transmission process is completed. This is to prevent the heating curve transmission process from being inadvertently initiated multiple times. Note that the completion of the heating curve transmission process can include the normal completion of the heating curve transmission process described later, the termination of the heating curve transmission process due to interaction with the user, and the termination of the heating curve transmission process due to a timeout.

[0146] That is, the inhalation device (inhalation device A) can be configured to: after making a response to detecting a predetermined action (first predetermined action), no response is made to any further detected predetermined action until the heating curve transmission process is completed.

[0147] 240 indicates a processing block in which the initiation of the heating curve transmission process is cancelled due to interaction with the user.

[0148] 242 indicates the step in which user A performs any second predetermined action and the inhalation device A detects the action.

[0149] 244 indicates the step in which, in response to detecting the second predetermined action, the inhalation device A transmits a signal (hereinafter referred to as a "connection disconnection signal") requesting disconnection of the established connection to the inhalation device B, and the inhalation device B receives the signal.

[0150] Step 246 indicates the step in which the inhalation devices A and B perform a process for disconnecting the established connection (hereinafter referred to as the "connection disconnection process"). Step 246 may include steps for transmitting and receiving one or more signals necessary for disconnecting the connection established between the inhalation devices A and B.

[0151] Step 248 indicates the step in which, in response to completing the disconnection of the established connection, the inhalation device A displays any user interface (UI) indicating that the start of the heating curve transmission process has been cancelled for user A, and the inhalation device B displays a UI for user B on the notification unit 113A, etc. (hereinafter indifferently referred to as the "notification unit 113"). Note that the displayed UI may be the same or different between the inhalation devices A and B.

[0152] Note that the start of the heating curve transmission process may be cancelled by user B performing a second predetermined action. In this case, it will be understood that in process block 240, the steps in the case where the inhalation device A and user A are swapped with the inhalation device B and user B will be executed.

[0153] Step 250 indicates the process block in which the start of the heating curve transmission process is cancelled due to a timeout.

[0154] Step 252 indicates the step in which the inhalation devices A and B determine, based on the timer started in step 215, that the established connection should be disconnected due to a timeout.

[0155] Step 254 indicates the step in which, in response to determining that the established connection should be disconnected due to a timeout, the inhalation device A transmits a connection disconnection signal to the inhalation device B, and the inhalation device B receives the signal. Note that step 254 may also be the step in which, in response to determining that the established connection should be disconnected due to a timeout, the inhalation device B transmits a connection disconnection signal to the inhalation device A, and the inhalation device A receives the signal.

[0156] Steps 256 and 258 respectively indicate steps similar to step 246 and step 248.

[0157] 2-2 Exemplary Heating Curve Transmission Process

[0158] Figure 3 is a pseudo-sequence diagram showing the flow of an exemplary heating curve transmission process 300. The exemplary heating curve transmission process 300 includes the step in which the inhalation device A transmits a heating curve to the inhalation device B.

[0159] 302 indicates the following steps: wherein the inhalation device A transmits a first signal indicating the start of the heating curve transmission process to the inhalation device B, and the inhalation device B receives the signal. The first signal may include a signal notifying the transmission of the heating curve. When transmitting the signal notifying the transmission of the heating curve, the inhalation device A performs the heating curve transmission process when the inhalation device transmits the heating curve. When receiving the first signal notifying the transmission of the heating curve from the inhalation device A, the inhalation device B performs the heating curve reception process when the inhalation device receives the heating curve.

[0160] 304 indicates the following steps: wherein the inhalation device B transmits an acknowledgment response to the first signal received from the inhalation device A, and the inhalation device A receives the acknowledgment response.

[0161] As mentioned above, the inhalation device A and user A, as well as the inhalation device B and user B, are interchangeable. Therefore, there is a possibility that almost simultaneously with the inhalation device A transmitting the first signal, the inhalation device B may transmit the first signal. In this case, to prevent accidents, such as both the inhalation device A and the inhalation device B becoming the transmission side of the heating curve, it is preferable to determine which one of the inhalation device A and the inhalation device B should be given priority.

[0162] That is, the inhalation device (inhalation device A) may be further configured to: when the inhalation device receives a first signal from another inhalation device (inhalation device B) after transmitting the first signal to the other inhalation device and before receiving the acknowledgment response to the first signal, determine which one of the inhalation device and the other inhalation device should be given priority, and if it is determined that the inhalation device should be given priority, then do not transmit the acknowledgment response to the first signal received from the other inhalation device.

[0163] Note that the method for determining which one of the inhalation device A and the inhalation device B should be given priority is arbitrary. For example, when establishing a P2P connection conforming to the known Bluetooth technology between the inhalation device A and the inhalation device B as described above, it can be determined by using whether the inhalation device A is set as the central device (active device) (and whether the inhalation device B is set as the peripheral device (slave device)).

[0164] That is, a further configuration is possible, wherein during the establishment of the P2P connection, one of the inhalation device (inhalation device A) and the other inhalation device (inhalation device B) is set as the central device (active device), and the other is set as the peripheral device (slave device), and when the inhalation device is set as the central device (active device), it is determined that the inhalation device should be given priority.

[0165] Note that after the first signal is transmitted to the inhalation device B, if the inhalation device A receives the first signal from the inhalation device B before receiving the confirmation response to the first signal, it can perform any error handling to prevent accidents.

[0166] 306 indicates a step where, in response to the inhalation device A receiving a confirmation response to the transmitted first signal for user A and the inhalation device B transmitting a confirmation response for user B, any UI indicating the start of the heating curve transmission process is displayed on the notification unit 113 for each user. Note that the displayed UI can be the same or different between the inhalation device A and the inhalation device B.

[0167] 308 indicates a step where the inhalation device A and the inhalation device B each start a timer to cancel the heating curve transmission process due to timeout.

[0168] 310 indicates a processing block where the heating curve transmission process is successfully completed.

[0169] 312 indicates a step where the inhalation device A transmits a second signal requesting the characteristics of the heater to the inhalation device B, and the inhalation device B receives the signal. Note that step 312 is executed when the inhalation device A receives the confirmation response in step 304.

[0170] 314 indicates a step where, upon receiving the second signal from the inhalation device A, the inhalation device B transmits the characteristics of the heater to the inhalation device A, and the inhalation device A receives the characteristics of the heater. Note that the characteristics of the heater transmitted in step 314 are the characteristics of the heater provided in the inhalation device B.

[0171] 316 indicates a step where, upon receiving the characteristics of the heater from the inhalation device B, the inhalation device A generates a heating curve. More specifically, the inhalation device A can generate a heating curve based on the heating curve used by the inhalation device A, the characteristics of the heater provided in the inhalation device A, and the characteristics of the heater provided in the inhalation device B. The heating curve used by the inhalation device A and the characteristics of the heater provided in the inhalation device A can be pre-stored in the memory unit 114 of the inhalation device A. In step 314, the characteristics of the heater provided in the inhalation device B can be received from the inhalation device B.

[0172] Note that steps 312 to 316 assume that the heating curve includes a target resistance value, as will be described later. In the case where the heating curve includes a target temperature, steps 312 to 316 may be unnecessary, as will be described later.

[0173] That is, when the heating curves used by inhalation devices A and B include the target temperature, the heating curve can be simply transmitted from inhalation device A to inhalation device B.

[0174] Note that when the heating curve used by inhalation device A includes the target temperature, the heating curve used by inhalation device B can include the target resistance value. In this case, the heating curve used by inhalation device B can be generated based on the heating curve used by inhalation device A and the characteristics of the heater provided to inhalation device B. In this case, the characteristics of the heater provided in inhalation device B can be a pre-provided "corresponding relationship (corresponding table) between the target temperature and the target resistance value". Specifically, the target resistance value of inhalation device B can be calculated according to the target temperature included in the heating curve used by inhalation device A and the "corresponding relationship between the target temperature and the target resistance value" pre-provided to inhalation device B.

[0175] In this case, in response to the second signal, inhalation device A can receive the corresponding relationship from inhalation device B. Inhalation device A can generate the heating curve used by inhalation device B based on the heating curve used by inhalation device A and the corresponding relationship received from inhalation device B. Additionally, inhalation device A can only transmit its own heating curve to inhalation device B. In this case, inhalation device B can generate the heating curve used by inhalation device B based on the heating curve received from inhalation device A and the pre-provided "corresponding relationship between the target temperature and the target resistance value".

[0176] In addition, when the heating curves used by inhalation devices A and B include the target resistance value, the transmitted heating curve can include the target temperature. In this case, the transmitted heating curve can be generated based on the heating curve used by inhalation device A and the characteristics of the heater provided in inhalation device A, and the heating curve used by inhalation device B can be generated based on the transmitted heating curve and the characteristics of the heater provided in inhalation device B. In this case, the characteristics of the heater can be a pre-provided "corresponding relationship (corresponding table) between the target temperature and the target resistance value" for both inhalation devices A and B. Specifically, inhalation device A can calculate the target temperature of the transmitted heating curve according to the target resistance value included in the heating curve it uses and the "corresponding relationship between the target temperature and the target resistance value" pre-provided in inhalation device A, and the target resistance value of inhalation device B can be calculated according to the target temperature included in the transmitted heating curve and the "corresponding relationship between the target temperature and the target resistance value" pre-provided in inhalation device B.

[0177] Step 318 indicates the step in which the inhalation device A transmits a heating curve to the inhalation device B, and the inhalation device B receives the heating curve. The transmitted heating curve is the heating curve generated in step 316. However, if step 316 is not included as described above, the transmitted heating curve may be a copy of the heating curve used by the inhalation device A.

[0178] Thus, the exemplary heating curve transmission process 300 may include the following: the step in which an inhalation device (inhalation device A) transmits a first signal indicating the start of the heating curve transmission process to another inhalation device (inhalation device B), the step in which the inhalation device transmits a second signal requesting the transmission of the characteristics of the heater to another inhalation device when receiving an acknowledgement response to the first signal from the other inhalation device, the step in which the inhalation device generates a heating curve when receiving the characteristics of the heater from the other inhalation device, and the step in which the inhalation device transmits the generated heating curve to another inhalation device.

[0179] In addition, as mentioned above, since the inhalation device A and the inhalation device B are interchangeable, according to the exemplary heating curve transmission process 300, the inhalation device (inhalation device A) may be further configured to: transmit an acknowledgement response to the first signal from another inhalation device (inhalation device B), and transmit the characteristics of the heater to another inhalation device when receiving the second signal from the other inhalation device.

[0180] Additionally, according to the exemplary heating curve transmission process 300, the inhalation device (inhalation device A) may be further configured to generate the transmitted heating curve based on the heating curve used by the inhalation device, the characteristics of the heater provided to the inhalation device, and the characteristics of the heater provided to another inhalation device (inhalation device B).

[0181] In addition, according to the exemplary heating curve transmission process 300, the inhalation device (inhalation device A) may be further configured to receive the characteristics of the heater provided to another inhalation device (inhalation device B).

[0182] According to this configuration, user B (user A) may experience the inhalation experience of user A (user B) after using the heating curve for the heating operation.

[0183] Note that in the exemplary heating curve transfer process 300, the generation of the heating curve is performed on the side of the inhalation device A, but the generation of the heating curve can also be performed on the side of the inhalation device B. That is, the exemplary heating curve transfer process 300 can be modified to include the following instead of steps 312 to 318: the step in which the inhalation device A transfers the heating curve used by the inhalation device A and the characteristics of the heater it provides to the inhalation device B, the step in which the inhalation device B receives the heating curve and the characteristics of the heater, and the step in which the inhalation device B generates the heating curve.

[0184] Thus, as mentioned above, since the inhalation device A and the inhalation device B are interchangeable, according to the modified exemplary heating curve transfer process 300, the inhalation device (inhalation device A) can be configured to transfer the heating curve used by the inhalation device and the characteristics of the heater provided to the inhalation device to another inhalation device (inhalation device B).

[0185] Hereinafter, in this section, the heating curve generated in the exemplary heating curve transfer process 300 (step 316) or the modified exemplary heating curve transfer process 300 is referred to as the "generated heating curve".

[0186] 320 indicates the step in which the inhalation device A transfers a signal (hereinafter referred to as the "setting signal") requesting to set the use of the generated heating curve to the inhalation device B, and the inhalation device B receives the signal.

[0187] 322 indicates the step in which the inhalation device B stores the generated heating curve in a predetermined area (for example, the area 850 described later in Figure 8 ), and 324 indicates the step in which the inhalation device B sets the use of the generated heating curve. As a result, the generated heating curve will be used in the next heating operation in the inhalation device B.

[0188] Note that in the exemplary heating curve transfer process 300, when the inhalation device B receives the setting signal, steps 322 and 324 are performed. However, steps 322 and 324 can be performed in response to the generated heating curve becoming available in the inhalation device B without transmitting and receiving the setting signal (including receiving the generated heating curve from the inhalation device A when the generation of the heating curve is performed on the side of the inhalation device A, and the inhalation device B generating the heating curve when the generation of the heating curve is performed on the side of the inhalation device B).

[0189] 326 indicates the step in which, in response to the generated heating curve being set for use, the inhalation device B transfers a signal (hereinafter referred to as the "setting completion signal") indicating the completion of the setting to the inhalation device A, and the inhalation device A receives the signal.

[0190] 328 indicates the following step: when a series of processes related to the reception of the heating curve (including reception, storage, and setting of the heating curve) are completed, the inhalation device B transmits a signal indicating the completion (hereinafter referred to as the "reception completion signal") to the inhalation device A, and the inhalation device A receives this signal.

[0191] 330 indicates the following step: in response to receiving the reception completion signal, the inhalation device A transmits a disconnection signal to the inhalation device B, and the inhalation device B receives this signal. Note that step 330 can also be the following step: in response to transmitting the reception completion signal, the inhalation device B transmits a disconnection signal to the inhalation device A, and the inhalation device A receives this signal.

[0192] 332 and 334 respectively indicate steps Figure 2 similar to step 246 and step 248 in

[0193] 340 indicates a processing block where the heating curve transmission process is cancelled due to a timeout on the transmission side of the heating curve.

[0194] 342 indicates the step where the inhalation device A determines that the heating curve transmission process should be cancelled due to a timeout based on the timer started in step 308.

[0195] 344 indicates the following step: in response to determining that the heating curve transmission process should be cancelled due to a timeout, the inhalation device A transmits a disconnection signal to the inhalation device B, and the inhalation device B receives this signal.

[0196] 346 and 348 respectively indicate steps Figure 2 similar to step 246 and step 248 in

[0197] 350 indicates a processing block where the heating curve transmission process is cancelled due to a timeout on the reception side of the heating curve.

[0198] 352 indicates the step where the inhalation device B determines that the heating curve transmission process should be cancelled due to a timeout based on the timer started in step 308.

[0199] 354 indicates the following step: in response to determining that the heating curve transmission process should be cancelled due to a timeout, the inhalation device B transmits a disconnection signal to the inhalation device A, and the inhalation device A receives this signal.

[0200] 356 and 358 respectively indicate steps Figure 2 similar to step 246 and step 248 in

[0201] 2-3 Another exemplary heating curve transfer process

[0202] Figure 4 is a pseudo-sequence diagram showing the process flow of another exemplary heating curve transfer process. Another exemplary heating curve transfer process 400 includes the step in which the inhalation device A receives a heating curve transmitted from the inhalation device B.

[0203] Note that in another exemplary heating curve transfer process 400, the same reference numerals are assigned to steps similar to those in the exemplary heating curve transfer process 300. However, the first signal may include a signal notifying the reception of the heating curve. When the inhalation device A transmits a signal notifying the reception of the heating curve, it performs the heating curve reception process when the inhalation device receives the heating curve. When the inhalation device B receives the first signal notifying the reception of the heating curve from the inhalation device A, it performs the heating curve transmission process when the inhalation device transmits the heating curve. The differences from the exemplary heating curve transfer process 300 will be described below.

[0204] 410 indicates a processing block in which the heating curve transfer process is successfully completed.

[0205] 412 indicates the step in which the inhalation device B transmits a second signal requesting the characteristics of the heater to the inhalation device A, and the inhalation device A receives the signal. Note that step 412 is performed when the inhalation device B transmits an acknowledgment response in step 304.

[0206] 414 indicates the step in which, upon receiving the second signal from the inhalation device B, the inhalation device A transmits the characteristics of the heater to the inhalation device B, and the inhalation device B receives the characteristics of the heater. Note that the characteristics of the heater transmitted in step 414 are the characteristics of the heater provided in the inhalation device A.

[0207] 416 indicates the step in which, upon receiving the characteristics of the heater from the inhalation device A, the inhalation device B generates a heating curve. More specifically, the inhalation device B may generate a heating curve based on the heating curve used by the inhalation device B, the characteristics of the heater provided in the inhalation device B, and the characteristics of the heater provided in the inhalation device A. The heating curve used by the inhalation device B and the characteristics of the heater provided in the inhalation device B may be pre-stored in the memory unit 114 of the inhalation device B. In step 414, the characteristics of the heater provided in the inhalation device A may be received from the inhalation device A.

[0208] Note that steps 412 to 416 assume that the heating curve includes a target resistance value, as will be described later. In the case where the heating curve includes a target temperature, steps 412 to 416 may be unnecessary, as will be described later.

[0209] That is, when the heating curves used by inhalation devices A and B include the target temperature, the heating curve can simply be transmitted from inhalation device B to inhalation device A.

[0210] Note that when the heating curve used by inhalation device B includes the target temperature, the heating curve used by inhalation device A can include the target resistance value. In this case, the heating curve used by inhalation device A can be generated based on the heating curve used by inhalation device B and the characteristics of the heater provided to inhalation device A. In this case, the characteristics of the heater provided to inhalation device A can be the "correspondence between target temperature and target resistance value" pre-provided in inhalation device A. Specifically, the target resistance value of inhalation device A can be calculated according to the target temperature included in the heating curve used by inhalation device B and the "correspondence between target temperature and target resistance value" pre-provided in inhalation device A.

[0211] In this case, in response to the second signal, inhalation device B can receive the correspondence from inhalation device A. Inhalation device B can generate the heating curve used by inhalation device A based on the heating curve used by inhalation device B and the correspondence received from inhalation device A. Additionally, inhalation device B can only transmit its own heating curve to inhalation device A. In this case, inhalation device A can generate the heating curve it uses based on the heating curve received from inhalation device B and the pre-provided "correspondence between target temperature and target resistance value".

[0212] Furthermore, when the heating curves used by inhalation devices A and B include the target resistance value, the transmitted heating curve can include the target temperature. In this case, the transmitted heating curve can be generated based on the heating curve used by inhalation device B and the characteristics of the heater provided to inhalation device B, and the heating curve used by inhalation device A can be generated based on the transmitted heating curve and the characteristics of the heater provided to inhalation device A. In this case, the characteristics of the heater can be the "correspondence (correspondence table) between target temperature and target resistance value" pre-provided for both inhalation devices A and B. Specifically, inhalation device B can calculate the target temperature of the transmitted heating curve according to the target resistance value included in the heating curve it uses and the "correspondence between target temperature and target resistance value" pre-provided in inhalation device B, and inhalation device A can calculate the target resistance value of inhalation device A according to the target temperature included in the transmitted heating curve and the "correspondence between target temperature and target resistance value" pre-provided in inhalation device A.

[0213] 418 indicates the steps where the inhalation device B transmits a heating curve to the inhalation device A, and the inhalation device A receives the heating curve. The transmitted heating curve is the heating curve generated in step 416. However, if step 416 is not included as described above, the transmitted heating curve can be a copy of the heating curve used by the inhalation device B.

[0214] Note that in another exemplary heating curve transmission process 400, the generation of the heating curve is performed on the side of the inhalation device B, but the generation of the heating curve can also be performed on the side of the inhalation device A. That is, another exemplary heating curve transmission process 400 can be modified to include the following instead of steps 412 to 418: a step where the inhalation device B transmits the heating curve used by the inhalation device B and the characteristics of the heater provided to the heater of the inhalation device B to the inhalation device A, and also a step where the inhalation device A receives the heating curve and the characteristics of the heater, and a step where the inhalation device A generates the heating curve.

[0215] Hereinafter, in this part, the heating curve generated in another exemplary heating curve transmission process 400 (step 416) or the modified another exemplary heating curve transmission process 400 is referred to as the "generated heating curve".

[0216] 420 indicates the steps where the inhalation device B transmits a setting signal to the inhalation device A, and the inhalation device A receives the signal.

[0217] 422 indicates the step where the inhalation device A stores the generated heating curve in a predetermined area (e.g., Figure 8 the area 850 in), and 424 indicates the step where the inhalation device A sets the generated heating curve for use.

[0218] Note that in another exemplary heating curve transmission process 400, steps 422 and 424 are performed when the inhalation device A receives the setting signal, but these steps can also be performed in response to the generated heating curve becoming available in the inhalation device A without transmitting and receiving the setting signal.

[0219] 426 indicates the steps where, in response to the generated heating curve being set for use, the inhalation device A transmits a setting completion signal to the inhalation device B, and the inhalation device B receives the signal.

[0220] 428 indicates the steps where, when a series of processes related to the reception of the heating curve (including receiving, storing, and setting the heating curve) are completed, the inhalation device A transmits a reception completion signal to the inhalation device B, and the inhalation device B receives the signal.

[0221] Step 430 indicates a step in which, in response to receiving a reception completion signal, the inhalation device B transmits a disconnection signal to the inhalation device A, and the inhalation device A receives this signal. Note that step 430 may also be a step in which, in response to transmitting a reception completion signal, the inhalation device A transmits a disconnection signal to the inhalation device B, and the inhalation device B receives this signal.

[0222] 3. Heating curve

[0223] 3-1 Definition of heating curve

[0224] The inhalation devices A and B use a heating curve to control the heating operation. The heating operation refers to the operation of changing the temperature of the heaters provided in the inhalation devices A and B, respectively. Therefore, the heating curve can represent the target temperature of the heater over time. Alternatively, if the resistance value of the heater changes according to the temperature of the heater, the heating curve can represent the target resistance value of the heater over time.

[0225] That is, the heating curve can represent the target temperature or target resistance value of the heater over time.

[0226] Note that the heating operation may include an operation to reduce the temperature of the heater by not supplying power to the heater in order to reach the target temperature.

[0227] Figure 5 Graph 500 is a graph that plots an exemplary temperature change 510 of the heater provided in the inhalation device A, which is obtained as a result of controlling the heating operation using a certain heating curve. The horizontal axis of graph 500 represents time, and the vertical axis represents the temperature of the heater. From graph 500, it can be understood that the inhalation device A is configured to control the heating operation during period 520 by using the heating curve. Note that for the sake of explanation, this exemplary temperature change 510 is simplified.

[0228] The period 520 for controlling the heating operation can be divided into multiple periods. For example, in graph 500, the period 520 for controlling the heating operation is divided into 10 periods (step 0 to step 9), but the number of divisions of period 520 is not limited to this. In order to represent the target temperature or target resistance value of the heater over time, the target temperature or target resistance value can be set for each of the divided periods.

[0229] That is, the inhalation device (inhalation device A) can be further configured to control the heating operation within a certain period by using the heating curve, where the certain period is divided into multiple periods, and the heating curve used by the inhalation device can include the target resistance value provided to the heater of the inhalation device for each of the divided periods.

[0230] The relationship between the temperature and the resistance value of the heater can vary for each individual heater. To this end, when the inhalation device A controls the heating operation, it can derive the resistance value, i.e., the target resistance value, from the target temperature when the heater provided in the inhalation device A reaches the target temperature. In this case, the inhalation device records the correspondence between the target temperature and its own target resistance value required to achieve the target temperature. The target resistance value of the device is the resistance value calculated taking into account the characteristics of the heater of the device, which is necessary to achieve the target temperature. The inhalation device can use the target temperature and the correspondence to determine the target resistance value taking into account the characteristics of the heater of the device.

[0231] That is, the inhalation device (inhalation device A) can be further configured to control the heating operation over a certain period of time by using a heating curve, where the certain period of time is divided into multiple time periods, and the heating curve can include a target temperature for each of the divided time periods.

[0232] Each of the divided time periods can be defined by, but not limited to, the length of the time period. That is, a certain divided time period can end when a predetermined time has elapsed since the start of the time period. Alternatively, a certain time period can end when the temperature of the heater reaches the target temperature within the time period. For example, the time period with a step size of 0 in the graph 500 can end when the temperature of the heater reaches the target temperature T A while the time period with a step size of 1 (target temperature T A ) can end when a predetermined time has elapsed since the start of the time period.

[0233] Note that the control unit 116 measures the temperature of the heater several times, and if the measured temperature becomes equal to or greater than the value obtained by multiplying the target temperature by a predetermined ratio less than 1 (e.g., 0.98) a predetermined number of times, it can be determined that the temperature of the heater has reached the target temperature. Alternatively, the control unit 116 measures the temperature of the heater several times, and if the measured temperature becomes equal to or less than the value obtained by multiplying the target temperature by a predetermined ratio greater than 1 (e.g., 1.02) a predetermined number of times, it can be determined that the temperature of the heater has reached the target temperature.

[0234] The information defining each of these divided time periods (such as the length of the time period and other conditions for the end of the time period) can be stored in advance in the memory unit 114 independently of the heating curve and, in some cases, as part of a program. Alternatively, such information defining each of these divided time periods can be included in the heating curve. Alternatively, a part of the information defining each of these divided time periods can be stored in advance independently in the memory unit 114, while the remaining part can be included in the heating curve.

[0235] Note that in a certain divided time period defined by the length of the time period, the heating operation can be controlled such that the heater reaches the target temperature or the target resistance value at the end of the time period. Whether this control is performed in each divided time period can be independently pre-stored in the memory unit 114 or included in the heating curve.

[0236] In addition, in each divided time period, the voltage applied to the heater or the power supplied to the heater can vary. The voltage applied to the heater or the power supplied to the heater in each divided time period can be independently pre-stored in the memory unit 114 or included in the heating curve.

[0237] The heating curve described above is merely exemplary, and it should be noted that the information included in the heating curve is not limited to the cases described above.

[0238] Figure 6 An exemplary data structure 600 of the heating curve is shown.

[0239] 610 indicates a field for storing the target resistance value of the heater in each divided time period. 620 indicates a field for storing the length of each divided time period. 630 indicates a field for storing any other information about each divided time period.

[0240] 640 indicates a field for storing the number of time periods used in the heating curve. For example, the value 10 in the field 640 can indicate that the time period 520 of the heating operation controlled by using the heating curve is divided into 10 time periods. According to the field 640, although the number of divisions of the time period 520 can be variable for each heating curve, the data structure of the heating curve itself can remain constant. 650 indicates a field for storing any other information about the heating curve.

[0241] Figure 7 Another exemplary data structure 700 of the heating curve is shown. Note that in the exemplary data structure 700, the fields similar to the fields in the exemplary data structure 600 are assigned the same reference numerals.

[0242] 710 indicates a field for storing the target temperature in each divided time period.

[0243] The data structures of the heating curves described above are merely exemplary, and it should be noted that the fields included in these data structures are not limited to the fields described above, and the heating curve can be represented by any data structure.

[0244] 3-2 Storage Mode of the Heating Curve

[0245] Figure 8It is a schematic diagram showing an exemplary storage pattern 800 of a heating curve in the memory cell 114. Each of 810 to 850 indicates an area for storing a heating curve.

[0246] The areas 810 to 840 can be areas for storing heating curves that can be selected by the user of the inhalation device B. For example, the inhalation device B can be configured to sequentially select the heating curves stored in the areas 810 to 840 by detecting a predetermined action (e.g., select the heating curve stored in area 810 → the heating curve stored in area 820 → the heating curve stored in area 830 → the heating curve stored in area 840 → return to the heating curve stored in area 810, and so on). Alternatively, the inhalation device B can be configured to select one of the heating curves stored in the areas 810 to 840 based on a predetermined operation performed on an external device (such as a smartphone) connected via the communication unit 115. The inhalation device B can be configured to use the selected heating curve. Note that the number of areas for storing heating curves that can be selected by the user of the inhalation device B is not limited to four.

[0247] The area 850 can be an area for storing heating curves that cannot be selected by the user. The inhalation device B can be configured to at least temporarily store a newly acquired heating curve (including the heating curve received from the inhalation device A and the heating curve generated by the inhalation device B, as described in the text and hereinafter referred to as the "new heating curve") in the area 850 and set to use it after it becomes available. Additionally, the inhalation device B can be further configured to restore the setting to use the originally set heating curve (one of the heating curves stored in the areas 810 to 840) in response to the completion of the use of the new heating curve.

[0248] That is, as mentioned above, since the inhalation device A and the inhalation device B are interchangeable, the inhalation device (inhalation device A) can be further configured such that when a first heating curve (one of the heating curves stored in the areas 810 to 840) is stored and set to be used and then a second heating curve (new heating curve) is received from another inhalation device (inhalation device B) and set to be used, the setting is restored to use the first heating curve in response to the completion of the use of the second heating curve.

[0249] According to this configuration, user A can quickly and temporarily experience the inhalation experience of user B according to the heating operation using the heating curve.

[0250] Note that the completion of the use of the heating curve can be the end of the period (e.g., Figure 5 the period 520 in

[0251] Additionally, it is preferred that if user B likes the generated heating curve, the heating curve can be reused in inhalation device B.

[0252] That is, as mentioned above, since inhalation device A and inhalation device B are interchangeable, inhalation device (inhalation device A) can be further configured to: have an area (areas 810 to 840) for storing a plurality of selectable heating curves, the plurality of heating curves including a first heating curve (one of the heating curves stored in areas 810 to 840), where the selected heating curve is set for use; and store a second heating curve (new heating curve) in the area in response to meeting a predetermined condition.

[0253] At this time, the predetermined condition can be arbitrary, but preferably, the intention of user B can meet the predetermined condition.

[0254] Therefore, as mentioned above, since inhalation device A and user A, and inhalation device B and user B are interchangeable, the predetermined condition can be one or more of the following: the condition of detecting a predetermined action (e.g., user A shaking inhalation device A or pressing a button that may be included in the sensor unit 112 of inhalation device A) in the inhalation device (inhalation device A), and the condition of performing a predetermined operation in an external device (e.g., user A's smartphone) connected to the inhalation device.

[0255] According to this configuration, user A can continuously experience the inhalation experience of user B after the heating operation using the heating curve.

[0256] The storage mode of the heating curve in the memory unit 114 described above is merely illustrative, and it should be noted that the storage mode of the heating curve is not limited to the situation described above.

[0257] 4. Characteristics of the Heater

[0258] The characteristics of the heater in this disclosure refer to the information that enables the mutual conversion between the temperature of the heater and the resistance value of the heater.

[0259] That is, the characteristics of the heater can represent the relationship between the temperature of the heater and the resistance value of the heater.

[0260] The method for converting the temperature of the heater to the resistance value of the heater is arbitrary, but for example, the following method can be used to convert the temperature of the heater to the resistance value of the heater.

[0261] First, use formula (1) to derive the resistance change rate K per unit temperature of the heater when the temperature of the heater is close to T T [mΩ / .

[0262] [Mathematical formula 1]

[0263]

[0264] Here, K T1 is the rate of change of resistance per unit temperature of the heater [mΩ / ] when the temperature of the heater approaches T1 (e.g., 230 ), and K is the rate of change of resistance per unit temperature of the heater [mΩ / ] when the temperature of the heater approaches T2 (e.g., 295 T2 ). Formula (1) derives K by interpolation from K and K T1 and K T2 to obtain K T .

[0265] Next, use formula (2) to derive the resistance value R T [mΩ] of the heater when the temperature of the heater is T.

[0266] [Mathematical formula 2]

[0267]

[0268] Here, R T1 is the resistance value of the heater when the temperature of the heater is T1, R0 is the resistance value of the heater when the temperature of the heater is at room temperature, and R ref is the standard resistance value at room temperature of a heater manufactured on the same line as this heater. Moreover, TH1 is the highest temperature output by one or more temperature sensors (thermistors, which may be included in the sensor unit 112A (hereinafter indifferently referred to as "sensor unit 112")) close to the heater when the heater is at T1. Note that the "room temperature" mentioned above can be defined as a predetermined temperature, such as 25 . Moreover, the "standard resistance value at room temperature" mentioned above may be the resistance value at room temperature of a predetermined one of the heaters manufactured on the same line as this heater.

[0269] The method for converting the resistance value of the heater into the temperature of the heater is arbitrary. However, for example, by inversely solving formulas (1) and (2) to obtain T, the resistance value of the heater can be converted into the temperature of the heater.

[0270] That is, the characteristics of the heater may include the rate of change of resistance per unit temperature of the heater (K T1 ) when the heater approaches the first temperature (T1), and the rate of change of resistance per unit temperature of the heater (K T2), the resistance value (R) of the heater when the heater is at the first temperature (T1) T1 ), the standard resistance value (R) at room temperature of the heater manufactured on the same line as this heater ref ), and the highest temperature (TH1) output by one or more temperature sensors close to the heater when the heater is at the first temperature (T1).

[0271] Note that, as mentioned above, the characteristics of the heater can also be the correspondence relationship (correspondence table) between the target temperature and the target resistance value. In this case, the characteristics of the heater can include multiple temperatures and the resistance values corresponding to each of these temperatures.

[0272] 5. Generation of the heating curve

[0273] As described above, the heating curve used by the inhalation device B can be generated based on the heating curve used by the inhalation device A, the characteristics of the heater provided to the inhalation device A, and the characteristics of the heater provided to the inhalation device B.

[0274] This generation can be performed using any method depending on the information included in the heating curve and the characteristics of the heater.

[0275] For example, if the heating curve includes the target resistance value of the heater for each divided period of the heating operation, the following method can be used to generate the heating curve.

[0276] First, convert each target resistance value included in the heating curve used by the inhalation device A into a temperature using the characteristics of the heater provided to the inhalation device A.

[0277] Next, convert each converted temperature into a resistance value using the characteristics of the heater provided to the inhalation device B.

[0278] Finally, generate the heating curve used by the inhalation device B by using each converted resistance value as the target resistance value included in the heating curve. Note that information other than the target resistance value in the heating curve used by the inhalation device B can be copied from the heating curve used by the inhalation device A.

[0279] Note that if the heating curve used by inhalation device A includes a target temperature and the heating curve used by inhalation device B includes a target resistance value, then as described above, the heating curve used by inhalation device B can be generated based on the heating curve used by inhalation device A and the characteristics of the heater provided to inhalation device B. In this case, the characteristics of the heater provided to inhalation device B can be the "correspondence between target temperature and target resistance value" pre-provided in inhalation device B. In this case, inhalation device A can receive the correspondence from inhalation device B and generate the heating curve used by inhalation device B. Additionally, inhalation device A can transmit its heating curve to inhalation device B, and inhalation device B can generate the heating curve it uses by using the correspondence.

[0280] Furthermore, if the heating curves used by inhalation devices A and B include target resistance values and the transmitted heating curve includes a target temperature, then as described above, the transmitted heating curve can be generated based on the heating curve used by inhalation device A and the characteristics of the heater provided to inhalation device A, and the heating curve used by inhalation device B can be generated based on the transmitted heating curve and the characteristics of the heater provided to inhalation device B. In this case, the characteristics of the heater can be the "correspondence (correspondence table) between target temperature and target resistance value" pre-provided in both inhalation devices A and B.

[0281] In an embodiment of the present disclosure, when one inhalation device (e.g., inhalation device A) receives a reception completion signal from another inhalation device (e.g., inhalation device B), a connection disconnection signal is transmitted to the other inhalation device, and the communication connection between these inhalation devices is disconnected (e.g., 330 in Figure 3 and 430 in Figure 4 ). In an embodiment of the present disclosure, instead of this situation, when one inhalation device (e.g., inhalation device A) receives a reception completion signal from another inhalation device (e.g., inhalation device B), the other inhalation device (inhalation device B) can transmit the heating curve used by this device (inhalation device B) to this one inhalation device (inhalation device A). In this case, during a P2P connection process, this one inhalation device (inhalation device A) can not only transmit its heating curve to the other inhalation device (inhalation device B), but also receive the heating curve used by the other inhalation device (inhalation device B) from the other inhalation device (inhalation device B).

[0282] 6. Conclusion

[0283] Several examples of embodiments of the present disclosure have been described above, but these examples are merely illustrative and should not be construed as limiting the technical scope of the present disclosure. It should be understood that modifications, additions, improvements, etc. can be made to the embodiments as appropriate without departing from the spirit and scope of the present disclosure. The technical scope of the present disclosure should not be limited by any of the embodiments described above, but should be defined only by the claims and their equivalents.

[0284] Finally, some features of the present disclosure are described below.

[0285] [Feature 1]

[0286] An inhalation device configured to control a heating operation using a heating curve, the inhalation device further configured to transmit the heating curve to another inhalation device that uses the heating curve to control a heating operation.

[0287] [Feature 2]

[0288] The inhalation device according to Feature 1, further configured to generate the transmitted heating curve based on the heating curve used by the inhalation device, the characteristics of the heater provided to the inhalation device, and the characteristics of the heater provided to another inhalation device.

[0289] [Feature 3]

[0290] The inhalation device according to Feature 2, further configured to receive from another inhalation device the characteristics of the heater provided to another inhalation device.

[0291] [Feature 4]

[0292] The inhalation device according to any one of Features 1 to 3, further configured to: receive a second heating curve from another inhalation device in which a first heating curve is stored, and if the second heating curve received from another inhalation device is set to be used when the first heating curve is set to be used, then restore the setting to use the first heating curve in response to the completion of the use of the second heating curve.

[0293] [Feature 5]

[0294] The inhalation device according to Feature 4, further configured to: have an area for storing a plurality of heating curves, the plurality of heating curves being selectable by a user of the inhalation device and including the first heating curve, wherein the selected heating curve is set to be used; and store the second heating curve in the area in response to a predetermined condition being met.

[0295] [Feature 6]

[0296] The inhalation device according to feature 5, wherein the predetermined condition is one or more of the following: a condition in which a predetermined action is detected in the inhalation device, and a condition in which a predetermined operation is performed in an external device connected to the inhalation device.

[0297] [Feature 7]

[0298] The inhalation device according to feature 1, further configured to transmit a heating curve used by the inhalation device and characteristics of a heater provided to the heater of the inhalation device to another inhalation device.

[0299] [Feature 8]

[0300] The inhalation device according to any one of features 2 to 7, wherein the characteristics of the heater represent the relationship between the temperature of the heater and the resistance value of the heater.

[0301] [Feature 9]

[0302] The inhalation device according to feature 8, wherein the characteristics of the heater include the rate of change of resistance per unit temperature of the heater when the heater approaches a first temperature, the rate of change of resistance per unit temperature of the heater when the heater approaches a second temperature, the resistance value of the heater when the heater is at the first temperature, the standard resistance value at room temperature of a heater manufactured on the same line as the heater, and the highest temperature output by one or more temperature sensors close to the heater when the heater is at the first temperature.

[0303] [Feature 10]

[0304] The inhalation device according to any one of features 1 to 9, wherein the heating curve represents the target temperature or target resistance value of the heater over time.

[0305] [Feature 11]

[0306] The inhalation device according to feature 10, wherein the inhalation device is further configured to control the heating operation over a certain period of time by using the heating curve, wherein the certain period of time is divided into a plurality of time periods, and the heating curve used by the inhalation device includes the target resistance value of the heater provided to the inhalation device for each of the divided time periods.

[0307] [Feature 12]

[0308] The inhalation device according to feature 10, wherein the inhalation device is further configured to heat the heater over a certain period of time by using the heating curve, wherein the certain period of time is divided into a plurality of time periods, and the heating curve used by the inhalation device includes the target temperature for each of the divided time periods.

[0309] [Feature 13]

[0310] The inhalation device according to any one of features 1 to 12 is further configured to be connected to another inhalation device via a peer-to-peer (P2P) connection and perform transmission and reception with the other inhalation device through the P2P connection.

[0311] [Feature 14]

[0312] A method performed by an inhalation device that controls a heating operation using a heating curve, the method including the step of transmitting the heating curve to another inhalation device that controls a heating operation using the heating curve.

[0313] [Feature 15]

[0314] A program for an inhalation device that controls a heating operation using a heating curve, wherein the inhalation device is caused to perform the step of transmitting the heating curve to another inhalation device that controls a heating operation using the heating curve.

[0315] Additionally, some other features of the present disclosure are described below.

[0316] [Feature 1]

[0317] An inhalation device configured to control a heating operation using a heating curve, the inhalation device being further configured to initiate a heating curve transmission process in response to detecting a predetermined action, wherein the heating curve transmission process includes the step of the inhalation device transmitting the heating curve to another inhalation device that controls a heating operation using the heating curve.

[0318] [Feature 2]

[0319] The inhalation device according to feature 1, wherein the heating curve transmission process includes the following: the step of the inhalation device transmitting a first signal indicating the initiation of the heating curve transmission process to another inhalation device; the step of the inhalation device transmitting a second signal requesting the characteristics of the heater to another inhalation device when receiving an acknowledgment response to the first signal from the other inhalation device; the step of the inhalation device generating a heating curve when receiving the characteristics of the heater from the other inhalation device; and the step of the inhalation device transmitting the generated heating curve to another inhalation device.

[0320] [Feature 3]

[0321] The inhalation device according to feature 2 is further configured to: transmit an acknowledgment response to the first signal received from the other inhalation device back to the other inhalation device, and transmit the characteristics of the heater to the other inhalation device when receiving the second signal from the other inhalation device.

[0322] [Feature 4]

[0323] The inhalation device according to any one of features 1 to 3 is further configured to: after responding to the detection of a predetermined action, not respond to the further detection of a predetermined action until the heating curve transmission process is completed.

[0324] [Feature 5]

[0325] The inhalation device according to any one of features 1 to 4 includes a sensor for detecting the movement of the inhalation device, and the inhalation device is further configured to use the sensor to detect that the inhalation device has been shaken as a predetermined action.

[0326] [Feature 6]

[0327] The inhalation device according to any one of features 1 to 5 is further configured to connect to another inhalation device via a peer-to-peer (P2P) connection and perform transmission and reception with the other inhalation device through the P2P connection.

[0328] [Feature 7]

[0329] The inhalation device according to feature 6

[0330] is further configured to: after transmitting a first signal to another inhalation device, when a first signal is received from the other inhalation device before receiving an acknowledgment response to the first signal, determine which one of the inhalation device and the other inhalation device should be given priority, and if it is determined that the inhalation device should be given priority, then not transmit an acknowledgment response to the first signal received from the other inhalation device.

[0331] [Feature 8]

[0332] The inhalation device according to feature 7, wherein during the establishment of the P2P connection, one of the inhalation device and the other inhalation device is set as the central unit, and the other is set as the peripheral unit, and when the inhalation device is set as the central unit, it is determined that the inhalation device should be given priority.

[0333] [Feature 9]

[0334] A method performed by an inhalation device that controls a heating operation using a heating curve, the method includes the step of initiating a heating curve transmission process in response to the detection of a predetermined action, wherein the heating curve transmission process includes the step of the inhalation device transmitting the heating curve to another inhalation device that controls a heating operation using the heating curve.

[0335] [Feature 10]

[0336] A program for an inhalation device that uses a heating curve to control a heating operation, the program comprising the steps of: causing the inhalation device to perform a heating curve transmission process in response to detecting a predetermined action, wherein the heating curve transmission process includes the step of the inhalation device transmitting the heating curve to another inhalation device that uses the heating curve to control a heating operation.

[0337] List of reference numerals

[0338] 121A, 121B, 121C-1, 121C-2... Heating units

[0339] 140A, 140B, 140C, 140D... Accommodating sections

[0340] 141A, 141B, 141C, 141D... Internal spaces

[0341] 142A, 142B, 142C, 142D... Openings

[0342] 143A, 143B, 143C, 143D... Bottom parts

[0343] 144B, 144C... Thermal insulation sections

[0344] 150A, 150B, 150C, 150D... Rod-shaped substrates

[0345] 151A, 151B, 151C, 151D... Substrate sections

[0346] 152A, 152B, 152C, 152D... Mouthpiece sections

[0347] 161D... Sensors

[0348] 162D... Electromagnetic induction sources

[0349] 200... Exemplary process for initiating heating curve transmission

[0350] 220... Processing block when initiating heating curve transmission

[0351] 240... Processing block when the initiation of heating curve transmission is cancelled due to interaction

[0352] 250... Processing block when the initiation of heating curve transmission is cancelled due to timeout

[0353] 300... Exemplary heating curve transmission process

[0354] 310... Processing block when the heating curve transmission process is successfully completed

[0355] 340... Processing block when the heating curve transmission process is cancelled due to a timeout on the transmission side

[0356] 350... Processing block when the heating curve transmission process is cancelled due to a timeout on the receiving side

[0357] 400... Another exemplary heating curve transmission process

[0358] 410... Processing block when the heating curve transmission process is successfully completed

[0359] 500... Graph plotting the exemplary temperature change of the heater

[0360] 510... Exemplary temperature change of the heater

[0361] 520... Period for controlling the heating operation

[0362] 600... Exemplary data structure of the heating curve

[0363] 630... Field for storing any other information about the divided period

[0364] 650... Field for storing any other information about the heating curve

[0365] 700... Another exemplary data structure of the heating curve

[0366] 730... Field for storing any other information about the divided period

[0367] 810, 820, 830, 840... Areas for storing the heating curves that can be selected by the user

[0368] 850... Areas for storing the heating curves that cannot be selected by the user

Claims

1. An inhalation device configured to control a heating operation using a heating curve, the inhalation device further configured to transmit the heating curve to another inhalation device that uses the heating curve to control the heating operation.

2. The inhalation device according to claim 1, further configured to generate the transmitted heating curve based on the heating curve used by the inhalation device, the characteristics of the heater provided to the inhalation device, and the characteristics of the heater provided to the other inhalation device.

3. The inhalation device according to claim 2, further configured to receive from the other inhalation device the characteristics of the heater provided to the other inhalation device.

4. The inhalation device according to any one of claims 1 to 3, further configured to: receive a second heating curve from another inhalation device in which a first heating curve is stored, and if the second heating curve received from the other inhalation device is set to be used when the first heating curve is set to be used, then restore the setting to use the first heating curve in response to the completion of the use of the second heating curve.

5. The inhalation device according to claim 4, further configured to: have an area for storing a plurality of heating curves, the plurality of heating curves being selectable by a user of the inhalation device and including the first heating curve, wherein, The selected heating curve is set to be used; and the second heating curve is stored in the area in response to a predetermined condition being met.

6. The inhalation device according to claim 5, wherein, The predetermined condition is one or more of the following: a condition in which a predetermined action is detected in the inhalation device, and a condition in which a predetermined operation is performed in an external device connected to the inhalation device.

7. The inhalation device according to claim 1, further configured to transmit the heating curve used by the inhalation device to the other inhalation device and transmit the characteristics of the heater provided to the inhalation device to the other inhalation device.

8. The inhalation device according to any one of claims 2 to 7, wherein, The characteristics of the heater represent the relationship between the temperature of the heater and the resistance value of the heater.

9. The inhalation device according to claim 8, wherein, The characteristics of the heater include the rate of change of resistance per unit temperature of the heater when the heater approaches a first temperature, the rate of change of resistance per unit temperature of the heater when the heater approaches a second temperature, the resistance value of the heater when the heater is at the first temperature, the standard resistance value at room temperature of a heater manufactured on the same line as the heater, and the highest temperature output by one or more temperature sensors close to the heater when the heater is at the first temperature.

10. The inhalation device according to any one of claims 1 to 9, wherein, The heating curve represents the target temperature or target resistance value of the heater over time.

11. The inhalation device according to claim 10, wherein, The inhalation device is further configured to control the heating operation over a certain period of time by using the heating curve, wherein the certain period of time is divided into multiple periods, and the heating curve used by the inhalation device includes the target resistance value of the heater provided to the inhalation device for each of the divided periods.

12. The inhalation device according to claim 10, wherein, The inhalation device is further configured to heat the heater over a certain period of time by using the heating curve, wherein the certain period of time is divided into multiple periods, and the heating curve used by the inhalation device includes the target temperature for each of the divided periods.

13. The inhalation device according to any one of claims 1 to 12, further configured to be connected to the other inhalation device via a peer-to-peer (P2P) connection and perform transmission and reception with the other inhalation device through the P2P connection.

14. A method performed by an inhalation device that controls a heating operation using a heating curve, the method including the step of transmitting the heating curve to another inhalation device that uses the heating curve to control the heating operation.

15. A program for an inhalation device that uses a heating curve to control a heating operation, wherein, Cause the inhalation device to perform the step of transmitting the heating curve to another inhalation device that uses the heating curve to control the heating operation.

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