Power supply unit, control method and control program for inhalation device

Abstract

An inhalation device (100) has a non-inhalation state in which power is not supplied to a first heating unit (121) for heating an aerosol source or a second heating unit (132) for heating a flavor source (131), and a possible inhalation state in which power can be supplied to at least the first heating unit (121), a possible inhalation state is entered in response to a predetermined input during the non-inhalation state. A control unit (116) of the power supply unit (110) of the inhalation device (100): causes the first heating unit (121) to heat the aerosol source when inhalation is performed on the inhalation device (100) when the inhalation device (100) is in a possible inhalation state; and changing a heating mode of at least one of the first heating unit (121) and the second heating unit (132) in response to reaching a change timing after the inhalation device (100) has entered the possible inhalation state.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a power supply unit for an inhalation device, a control method, and a control program. Background Art

[0002] For example, inhalation devices that generate an aerosol with added flavor components and allow a user to inhale the generated aerosol are conventionally known. Such inhalation devices typically deliver to the user an aerosol generated by heating a substrate containing an aerosol source with a heating unit (also referred to as a "heating element"), which is a resistive heater or an inductive heater.

[0003] For example, the following PTL 1 discloses an aerosol generating device that includes two heaters: a first heater for heating a cigarette containing nicotine and a second heater for heating a cartridge containing a liquid substrate, wherein, when the cigarette is inserted, the first heater and / or the second heater is activated to generate an aerosol. PTL 1 further states that the first heater is heated according to a preset temperature curve. The following PTL 2 also discloses a technique in which the temperature of a heating element is changed over time using a temperature curve.

[0004] Citation List

[0005] Patent Documents

[0006] PTL 1: JP 7128894 B2

[0007] PTL 2: JP 6125008 B2 Summary of the Invention

[0008] Technical Problem

[0009] However, the technological development history of inhalation devices is still in an early stage, and there is still room for further improvement in terms of functionality. For example, it is feasible to maintain a possible inhalation state in an inhalation device, in which power is supplied to a heating unit for heating an aerosol source until there is a predetermined user input. In this case, the user may be able to terminate the possible inhalation state at a desired moment, but the user may not be clear when to terminate the possible inhalation state, and there is still room for improvement.

[0010] The present disclosure provides a power supply unit for an inhalation device, a control method, and a control program that will provide better user convenience.

[0011] Solution to the Problem

[0012] One aspect of the present disclosure is

[0013] A power supply unit for an inhalation device, the inhalation device causing an aerosol generated by heating an aerosol source to pass through a flavor source so as to thereby add flavor components of the flavor source to the aerosol, wherein,

[0014] the power supply unit comprises:

[0015] a power source capable of supplying power to each of a first heating unit for heating the aerosol source by power supply and a second heating unit for heating the flavor source by power supply; and

[0016] a control unit capable of controlling the power supply from the power source to the first heating unit and the second heating unit,

[0017] the inhalation device

[0018] has a non-inhaling state and a possible-inhaling state, in the non-inhaling state, no power is supplied to the first heating unit or the second heating unit, in the possible-inhaling state, power can be supplied to at least the first heating unit, and

[0019] enters the possible-inhaling state in response to a predetermined input during the non-inhaling state, and enters the non-inhaling state in response to a predetermined input during the possible-inhaling state, and

[0020] the control unit

[0021] when the inhalation device is in the possible-inhaling state, causes the first heating unit to heat the aerosol source when an inhalation is performed on the inhalation device, and

[0022] changes a heating mode of at least one of the first heating unit and the second heating unit in response to a predetermined change time point arriving after the inhalation device has entered the possible-inhaling state.

[0023] In addition, another aspect of the present disclosure is

[0024] a control method executed by a computer to control a power supply unit for an inhalation device, the inhalation device causing an aerosol generated by heating an aerosol source to pass through a flavor source so as to thereby add flavor components of the flavor source to the aerosol, wherein,

[0025] the power supply unit includes

[0026] a power source capable of supplying power to each of a first heating unit for heating the aerosol source by power supply and a second heating unit for heating the flavor source by power supply,

[0027] the computer is configured to be capable of controlling the power supply from the power source to the first heating unit and the second heating unit,

[0028] The inhalation device

[0029] has a non-inhalable state and a possible inhalation state. In the non-inhalable state, no power is supplied to the first heating unit or the second heating unit. In the possible inhalation state, power can be supplied to at least the first heating unit, and

[0030] enters the possible inhalation state in response to a predetermined input during the non-inhalable state, and enters the non-inhalable state in response to a predetermined input during the possible inhalation state, and

[0031] the computer-implemented process, which

[0032] when the inhalation device is in the possible inhalation state and inhalation is performed on the inhalation device, causes the first heating unit to heat the aerosol source, and

[0033] changes the heating mode of at least one of the first heating unit and the second heating unit in response to reaching a predetermined change time after the inhalation device has entered the possible inhalation state.

[0034] Furthermore, another aspect of the present disclosure is

[0035] a control program for causing a computer to implement a predetermined process to control a power supply unit for an inhalation device, the inhalation device passing an aerosol generated by heating an aerosol source through a flavor source to thereby add a flavor component of the flavor source to the aerosol, wherein

[0036] the power supply unit includes

[0037] a power source capable of supplying power to each of a first heating unit for heating the aerosol source by power supply and a second heating unit for heating the flavor source by power supply,

[0038] the computer is configured to be able to control the power supply from the power source to the first heating unit and the second heating unit,

[0039] the inhalation device

[0040] has a non-inhalable state and a possible inhalation state. In the non-inhalable state, no power is supplied to the first heating unit or the second heating unit. In the possible inhalation state, power can be supplied to at least the first heating unit, and

[0041] enters the possible inhalation state in response to a predetermined input during the non-inhalable state, and enters the non-inhalable state in response to a predetermined input during the possible inhalation state, and

[0042] The control program causes the computer to perform a process, which

[0043] When the inhalation device is in the possible inhalation state and inhalation is performed on the inhalation device, causes the first heating unit to heat the aerosol source, and

[0044] In response to reaching a predetermined change time after the inhalation device has entered the possible inhalation state, changes the heating mode of at least one of the first heating unit and the second heating unit.

[0045] Advantageous effects of the present invention

[0046] The present disclosure provides a power supply unit for an inhalation device, a control method, and a control program that will provide better user convenience. Description of the drawings

[0047] Figure 1 is a schematic diagram schematically showing a configuration example of an inhalation device 100 including a power supply unit according to the present disclosure.

[0048] Figure 2 is a diagram showing a first operation example of the inhalation device 100.

[0049] Figure 3 is a diagram showing Figure 2 an example of a change in the amount of flavor component added to the aerosol before and after the moment t5a shown in.

[0050] Figure 4 is a diagram showing a second operation example of the inhalation device 100.

[0051] Figure 5 is a diagram showing a third operation example of the inhalation device 100.

[0052] Figure 6 is a diagram showing a fourth operation example of the inhalation device 100.

[0053] Figure 7 is a diagram showing a fifth operation example of the inhalation device 100.

[0054] Figure 8 is a diagram showing a sixth operation example of the inhalation device 100.

[0055] Figure 9 is a diagram showing a seventh operation example of the inhalation device 100.

[0056] Figure 10 is a diagram showing an eighth operation example of the inhalation device 100.

[0057] Figure 11It is a diagram showing a ninth operation example of the inhalation device 100.

[0058] Figure 12 It is a diagram showing a tenth operation example of the inhalation device 100.

[0059] Figure 13 It is a diagram showing an eleventh operation example of the inhalation device 100.

[0060] Figure 14 It is a diagram showing a twelfth operation example of the inhalation device 100.

[0061] Figure 15 It is a diagram showing a thirteenth operation example of the inhalation device 100.

[0062] Figure 16 It is a flowchart showing an example of the process implemented by the control unit 116.

[0063] Figure 17 It is a flowchart showing another example of the process implemented by the control unit 116. Detailed Description

[0064] Hereinafter, embodiments of a power supply unit, a control method, and a control program for an inhalation device according to the present disclosure will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. The drawings should be viewed in the orientation of the reference numerals. It should be noted that the following embodiments do not limit the invention described in the claims, and not all combinations of features described in the embodiments are essential for the invention. In addition, two or more of the multiple features described in the embodiments can be optionally combined. Further, hereinafter, the same or similar elements may be assigned the same or similar reference numerals, and their descriptions may be omitted or simplified as appropriate.

[0065] [1. Configuration Example of Inhalation Device]

[0066] Figure 1 It is a schematic diagram schematically showing a configuration example of an inhalation device 100 including a power supply unit according to the present disclosure. Figure 1 The illustrated inhalation device 100 is a device that generates a substance to be inhaled by a user and delivers the generated substance to the user in an inhalable manner. Hereinafter, the substance generated by the inhalation device 100 will be described as an aerosol. Alternatively, the substance generated by the inhalation device 100 may be a gas.

[0067] As Figure 1As shown, the inhalation device 100 includes a power supply unit 110, a cartridge 120, and a flavored cartridge 130. The power supply unit 110 includes a power unit 111, a sensor unit 112, a notification unit 113, a memory unit 114, a communication unit 115, and a control unit 116. The cartridge 120 includes a first heating unit 121, a liquid guiding portion 122, and a liquid storage portion 123. The flavored cartridge 130 includes a flavor source 131 and a mouthpiece 124. An air flow path 180 is formed in the cartridge 120 and the flavored cartridge 130.

[0068] The power unit 111 stores electric power. The power unit 111 then supplies power to each component of the inhalation device 100 according to the control executed by the control unit 116. The power unit 111 can be configured, for example, by a rechargeable battery (such as a lithium-ion secondary battery).

[0069] The sensor unit 112 acquires various types of information related to the inhalation device 100. The sensor unit 112 is configured by, for example, a pressure sensor (such as a condenser microphone, a flow rate sensor, or a temperature sensor, etc.), and acquires values associated with the user's inhalation.

[0070] For example, the sensor unit 112 may include a pressure sensor (also referred to as a "puff sensor") that detects a change in the pressure (hereinafter also referred to as "internal pressure") in the inhalation device 100 caused by the user's inhalation. As another example, the sensor unit 112 may include a flow rate sensor for detecting the flow rate (hereinafter simply referred to as "flow rate") caused by the user's inhalation. In addition, as another example, the sensor unit 112 may include a temperature sensor (also referred to as a "puff thermistor") for detecting the temperature of the first heating unit 121 or the temperature around the first heating unit 121.

[0071] In addition, the sensor unit 112 may further include an input device (such as an operation button or a switch) for receiving information input from the user. In this embodiment, a power button to be described later is provided as an example of the input device.

[0072] The notification unit 113 notifies the user of information. For example, the notification unit 113 is configured by a light-emitting device that emits light, a display device that displays an image, a sound output device that outputs sound, a vibration device that generates vibration, and the like.

[0073] The memory unit 114 stores various types of information (such as programs and data) regarding the operation of the inhalation device 100. The memory unit 114 is configured by, for example, a non-volatile storage medium (such as a flash memory).

[0074] The communication unit 115 is a communication interface capable of performing communication according to any wired or wireless communication standard. For example, examples of communication standards that can be used include standards employing Wi-Fi (registered trademark), Bluetooth (registered trademark), Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE), near field communication (NFC), or low power wide area (LPWA).

[0075] The control unit 116 serves as an arithmetic processing device and a control device, and is a computer that controls the overall operation within the inhalation device 100 according to various programs stored in the memory unit 114. The control unit 116 can be implemented by an electronic circuit such as a CPU (Central Processing Unit) or a microprocessor.

[0076] The liquid storage section 123 stores the aerosol source. The aerosol source is atomized to generate an aerosol. For example, the aerosol source is a polyol (such as glycerol or propylene glycol) or a liquid (such as water). The aerosol source can include tobacco-derived or non-tobacco-derived flavor components. If the inhalation device 100 is a medical inhaler (such as a nebulizer), the aerosol source can include a drug.

[0077] The aerosol source can contain an acid. When the aerosol source containing the acid is heated, an aerosol (vapor) containing a predetermined amount of the acid is generated. The aerosol source containing the acid is atomized by heating, and an acid vapor, which is a vapor containing the acid, is generated. The acid contained in the aerosol source can be an organic acid or an inorganic acid. For example, the acid contained in the aerosol source can include carboxylic acid, α-keto acid, 2-oxyacid, or lactic acid.

[0078] The liquid guiding section 122 guides the aerosol source from the liquid storage section 123 and houses the aerosol source, which is the liquid stored in the liquid storage section 123. The liquid guiding section 122 is a wicking member formed, for example, by twisting a fibrous material (such as fiberglass) or a porous material (such as porous ceramic). In such cases, the aerosol source stored in the liquid storage section 123 is guided by the capillary action of the wicking member.

[0079] The first heating unit 121 heats the aerosol source to atomize the aerosol source, thereby generating an aerosol. The first heating unit 121 is formed of any material (such as metal or polyimide) in any shape (such as coiled, film-like, or blade-like). Figure 1In the illustrated example, the first heating unit 121 is configured as a coil wound around the liquid guiding part 122. When the first heating unit 121 generates heat, the aerosol source accommodated in the liquid guiding part 122 is then heated and atomized, thereby generating an aerosol. The first heating unit 121 generates heat when power is supplied from the power supply unit 111. For example, when the sensor unit 112 detects that the user has started inhaling and / or a predetermined information has been input, power can be supplied to the first heating unit 121. Then, when the sensor unit 112 detects that the user has completed inhaling and / or a predetermined information has been input, the supply of power to the first heating unit 121 can be stopped.

[0080] In addition, the first heating unit 121 can be configured to generate an aerosol by means of vibration or induction heating. When generating an aerosol by means of vibration, the inhalation device 100 includes a vibration unit as the first heating unit 121. For example, the vibration unit is configured by a plate-shaped member that includes a piezoelectric ceramic serving as an ultrasonic vibrator. When the vibration unit vibrates, the aerosol source that has been guided to the surface of the vibration unit through the liquid guiding part 122 is then atomized by the ultrasonic waves generated when the vibration unit vibrates, thereby generating an aerosol.

[0081] In addition, when generating an aerosol by induction heating, the inhalation device 100 includes a susceptor and an electromagnetic induction source as the first heating unit 121. The susceptor generates heat by electromagnetic induction. The susceptor is made of a conductive material (such as metal). The susceptor is arranged adjacent to the liquid guiding part 122. For example, the susceptor is formed of a metal wire and wound around the liquid guiding part 122. The electromagnetic induction source causes the susceptor to generate heat by electromagnetic induction. The electromagnetic induction source is formed, for example, by a coiled wire. The electromagnetic induction source generates a magnetic field when an AC current is supplied from the power supply unit 111. The electromagnetic induction source is arranged at a position such that the susceptor is located above the generated magnetic field. When the magnetic field is generated, eddy currents are thus generated in the susceptor, and Joule heat is generated. The aerosol source accommodated in the liquid guiding part 122 is then heated and atomized by this Joule heat, thereby generating an aerosol.

[0082] The flavor source 131 is a component for imparting flavor components to the aerosol. The flavor source 131 may include tobacco-derived or non-tobacco-derived flavor components. The flavor source 131 may be, for example, a tobacco-derived substance (such as tobacco shreds), or a processed product obtained by molding tobacco raw materials into a granular form, a flaky form, or a powder form. In addition, the flavor source 131 may also contain non-tobacco-derived substances produced by plants other than tobacco (for example, mint or herbs, etc.). As an example, the flavor source 131 may contain a flavoring component, such as menthol. In addition, the flavor source 131 may be a rod-shaped member. When the inhalation device 100 is a medical inhaler, the flavor source 131 may contain a drug to be inhaled by the patient. It should be noted that the flavor source 131 is not limited to solids, and may equally be a liquid containing flavor components, such as polyols (such as glycerol or propylene glycol) or water. For example, the flavor source 131 may also contain an alkali. For example, the flavor source 131 may contain nicotine as an alkali. In addition, the flavor source may be disposed inside a container such as a capsule.

[0083] The flavored cartridge 130 contains the flavor source 131. An air flow path is formed in the flavored cartridge 130. The flavor source 131 is further disposed midway along the air flow path. When the mixed fluid of aerosol and air passes through the flavor source in the air flow path, the flavor components contained in the flavor source are thus added to the aerosol.

[0084] The air flow path 180 is the flow path of the air to be inhaled by the user. The air flow path 180 has a tubular structure, which has an air inlet hole 181 and an air outlet hole 182. The air inlet hole is the entrance for air to enter the air flow path 180, and the air outlet hole is the exit for air to leave the air flow path 180. Along the air flow path 180, the liquid guiding portion 122 is disposed upstream (closer to the air inlet hole 181), and the flavor source 131 is disposed downstream (closer to the air outlet hole 182). The air flowing in through the air inlet hole 181 during user inhalation is mixed with the aerosol generated by the first heating unit 121 and is conveyed through the flavor source 131 to the air outlet hole 182, as indicated by the arrow 190. When the mixed fluid of aerosol and air passes through the flavor source 131, the flavor components contained in the flavor source 131 are added to the aerosol.

[0085] When the flavor source 131 contains nicotine, as the aerosol (vapor) generated by the first heating unit 121 passes through the flavor source 131, a predetermined amount of nicotine (a predetermined number of moles of nicotine) is vaporized, and the vaporized nicotine is carried into the aerosol. When the user inhales the vaporized nicotine, this produces a stimulation in the user's mouth, and the user feels the stimulation in their mouth.

[0086] When the aerosol source stored in the liquid storage part 123 contains an acid, the aerosol (vapor) generated by the first heating unit 121 contains a predetermined amount of acid (a predetermined number of moles of acid). Here, when the aerosol contains an acid and the flavor source 131 contains a base, the acid contained in the aerosol and the base from the flavor source 131 form a salt through a chemical reaction. For example, if an acid is present in the aerosol when the flavor source 131 contains nicotine as a base, the acid reacts with the vaporized nicotine vaporized from the flavor source 131 to form a salt. The formed salt remains in the particulate phase of the aerosol. Even if the user inhales the nicotine remaining in the particulate phase, the irritation generated in the user's mouth is reduced, and the irritation felt by the user in their mouth is also reduced.

[0087] Meanwhile, if the amount of vaporized nicotine entering the aerosol (vapor) is greater than the amount of acid contained in the aerosol (vapor), this produces nicotine that cannot form a salt with the acid. The nicotine that cannot form a salt with the acid remains in the aerosol as vaporized nicotine, thus generating irritation in the user's mouth.

[0088] In addition, the inhalation device 100 further includes a second heating unit 132 for heating the flavor source 131. The second heating unit 132 is formed of any material such as metal or polyimide. The second heating unit 132 is configured in a film shape and is arranged to cover, for example, the outer periphery of the flavor source 131. Then, the second heating unit 132 generates heat when powered by the power supply unit 111, thereby heating the outer periphery of the flavor source 131. Note that the second heating unit 132 can also be configured to heat the flavor source 131 from the inside. The second heating unit 132 can also be configured in a blade shape, for example, piercing the flavor source 131 to heat the flavor source 131 from the inside. Providing the second heating unit 132 enables the temperature of the flavor source 131 to be increased and the amount of flavor components added to the aerosol to be increased compared to when the second heating unit 132 is not provided.

[0089] When the flavor source 131 contains nicotine, if the flavor source 131 is heated by the second heating unit 132, the amount of vaporized nicotine increases. In addition, if the temperature to which the flavor source 131 is heated by the second heating unit 132 increases, the amount of vaporized nicotine increases as the heating temperature increases.

[0090] When the amount of vaporized nicotine increases, the amount of vaporized nicotine entering the aerosol (vapor) increases. As described above, when the increased amount of vaporized nicotine is greater than the amount of acid contained in the aerosol, nicotine that cannot form a salt with the acid is produced, and the nicotine remains in the aerosol as vaporized nicotine. Then, the vaporized nicotine remaining in the aerosol generates irritation in the user's mouth, and the user feels the irritation in their mouth.

[0091] That is to say, the flavor source 131 is heated by the second heating unit 132, or the heating temperature is increased, so as to increase the amount of vaporized nicotine. And in this way, nicotine that cannot form salts with the acids contained in the aerosol can be produced. As a result, the vaporized nicotine remains in the aerosol, and this nicotine produces a stimulation in the user's mouth, and the user feels the stimulation in their mouth. In addition, when the vaporized nicotine remaining in the aerosol increases, more nicotine produces a stimulation in the user's mouth, so the user feels a greater stimulation in their mouth.

[0092] It should be noted that in Figure 1 the example shown in, the second heating unit 132 is provided in the flavor cartridge 130, but this is not restrictive. For example, when the inhalation device 100 has a configuration in which the flavor cartridge 130 is accommodated in an accommodation portion (not depicted) provided in the power supply unit 110, the second heating unit 132 can be provided in the power supply unit 110 so as to cover the outer periphery of the accommodation portion. In this case, the second heating unit 132 generates heat by the power supply from the power supply unit 111, and the flavor cartridge 130 (i.e., the flavor source 131) accommodated in the accommodation portion is heated from the outer periphery. In addition, the second heating unit 132 can also heat the flavor source 131 from the inside. For example, when the flavor source 131 is a rod-shaped matrix, the leaf-shaped second heating unit 132 can be inserted into the rod-shaped flavor source 131 by piercing the flavor source 131. When the second heating unit 132 generates heat, the flavor components (i.e., the rod-shaped matrix) contained in the flavor source 131 are heated and atomized from the inside, thereby generating flavor components.

[0093] In addition, the second heating unit 132 can be configured to generate an aerosol by induction heating. The inhalation device 100 includes a susceptor and an electromagnetic induction source as the second heating unit 132. The susceptor generates heat by electromagnetic induction. The susceptor is made of a conductive material (such as metal). The susceptor is arranged adjacent to the flavor source 131. For example, the susceptor is formed of a metal wire and wound around the flavor source 131 or the accommodation portion. The electromagnetic induction source causes the susceptor to generate heat by electromagnetic induction. The electromagnetic induction source is formed, for example, by a coiled wire. The electromagnetic induction source generates a magnetic field when an AC current is supplied from the power supply unit 111. The electromagnetic induction source is arranged at a position such that the susceptor is located above the generated magnetic field. When the magnetic field is generated, eddy currents are thus generated in the susceptor, and Joule heat is generated. Then, the flavor source 131 is heated and atomized by this Joule heat, thereby generating flavor components.

[0094] In addition, when the flavor source 131 is a liquid, the second heating unit 132 can be formed of any material (such as metal or polyimide) in any shape (such as coiled, membranous, or vane-shaped). For example, the second heating unit 132 is configured as a coil wound around a liquid guiding portion (not depicted) provided on the flavor source 131. When the second heating unit 132 generates heat, the liquid flavor source contained in the liquid guiding portion is then heated and atomized, thereby generating flavor components.

[0095] In addition, when the flavor source 131 is a liquid, the second heating unit 132 can be configured to generate an aerosol by vibration or induction heating. When generating an aerosol by vibration, the inhalation device 100 includes a vibration unit as the second heating unit 132. For example, the vibration unit is configured by a plate-like member including a piezoelectric ceramic serving as an ultrasonic vibrator. When the vibration unit vibrates, the liquid flavor source that has been guided to the surface of the vibration unit through a liquid guiding portion (not depicted) provided on the flavor source 131 is then atomized by the ultrasonic waves generated when the vibration unit vibrates, thereby generating flavor components.

[0096] In addition, when generating an aerosol by induction heating, the inhalation device 100 includes a susceptor and an electromagnetic induction source as the second heating unit 132. The susceptor generates heat by electromagnetic induction. The susceptor is made of a conductive material (such as metal). The susceptor is arranged adjacent to a liquid guiding portion (not depicted) provided on the flavor source 131. For example, the susceptor is formed of metal wires and wound around the liquid guiding portion. The electromagnetic induction source causes the susceptor to generate heat by electromagnetic induction. The electromagnetic induction source is formed, for example, of coiled wires. The electromagnetic induction source generates a magnetic field when an AC current is supplied from the power supply unit 111. The electromagnetic induction source is arranged at a position such that the susceptor is located above the generated magnetic field. When the magnetic field is generated, eddy currents are thus generated in the susceptor, and Joule heat is generated. The liquid flavor source contained in the liquid guiding portion is then heated and atomized by this Joule heat, thereby generating flavor components.

[0097] The mouthpiece 124 is a member that is received in the user's mouth during inhalation. The air outlet hole 182 is arranged in the mouthpiece 124. The user receives the mouthpiece 124 in their mouth so that it is possible to suck a mixed fluid of aerosol and air into the oral cavity.

[0098] The configuration example of the inhalation device 100 has been described above. Of course, the inhalation device 100 is not limited to the configuration described above, and various configurations can be adopted, such as those shown by way of example below.

[0099] As an example, the inhalation device 100 may include various types of aerosol sources. By mixing various types of aerosols generated from various types of aerosol sources in the air flow path 180 to cause a chemical reaction, other types of aerosols can be generated.

[0100] In addition, the means for atomizing the aerosol source is not limited to heating provided by the first heating unit 121. For example, the means for atomizing the aerosol source may be vibration atomization or induction heating.

[0101] [2. Operation examples of the inhalation device]

[0102] Next, operation examples of the inhalation device 100 will be described. Hereinafter, inhalation on the inhalation device 100 is also referred to as "suction", and the number of times of suction is also referred to as the "number of suction times".

[0103] (2-1. Possible states taken by the inhalation device)

[0104] The inhalation device 100 can take a non-inhaling state and a possible-inhaling state. In the non-inhaling state, no power is supplied to the first heating unit 121 or the second heating unit 132. In the possible-inhaling state, power can be supplied to at least the first heating unit 121.

[0105] The non-inhaling state may be, for example, a "power-off state (also referred to as a sleep state)", in which power supply to electronic components other than those associated with transitioning to the possible-inhaling state (e.g., the sensor unit 112 and the control unit 116) is stopped. In addition, the possible-inhaling state may be, for example, a "power-on state (also referred to as an active state)", in which power supply to electronic components associated with aerosol generation (including the first heating unit 121 and the second heating unit 132) is permitted. Hereinafter, the non-inhaling state will be described as the power-off state, and the possible-inhaling state will be described as the power-on state.

[0106] When the inhalation device 100 is in the power-off state (i.e., the non-inhaling state), the control unit 116 of the inhalation device 100 sets the inhalation device 100 to the power-on state (i.e., the possible-inhaling state) in response to a predetermined input. In this embodiment, the input as a condition for setting the inhalation device 100 to the power-on state will be pressing an operation button (hereinafter also referred to as the "power button") (not depicted) provided on the inhalation device 100 (e.g., on the power supply unit 110). In this way, the user can appropriately set the inhalation device 100 to the power-on state by pressing the power button.

[0107] It should be noted that the input for setting the energized state is not limited to pressing an operation button (such as a power button), and can also be, for example, suction. In addition, the input for setting the energized state is not limited to a direct input (in other words, its operation) to the inhalation device 100, that is, pressing the power button or suction, and this input can also be receiving predetermined information from another device (for example, the user's smartphone) that can communicate with the inhalation device 100.

[0108] In addition, when the inhalation device 100 is in the energized state, the control unit 116 sets the inhalation device 100 to the de-energized state in response to a predetermined input. In this embodiment, the input for setting the inhalation device 100 to the de-energized state is also pressing the power button. In this way, the user can appropriately set the inhalation device 100 to the de-energized state by pressing the power button. The inhalation device 100 can also be set to the energized state or the de-energized state by means of a single operation button (that is, the power button), thus giving the user a simple feeling of operating the inhalation device 100.

[0109] In addition, the input for setting the de-energized state is not limited to pressing the power button, and this input can also be pressing another operation button provided on the inhalation device 100, or, for example, receiving predetermined information from another device that can communicate with the inhalation device 100.

[0110] In addition, in this embodiment, if no suction is performed for a predetermined time (for example, 300 seconds) when the inhalation device 100 is in the energized state, the control unit 116 automatically sets the de-energized state at that time point. In other words, when a predetermined time has passed since the last suction was performed when the inhalation device 100 was in the energized state, the control unit 116 sets the inhalation device 100 to the de-energized state. This means that even if the user forgets to set the de-energized state, when it is assumed that no suction will be performed, the inhalation device 100 can be automatically set to the de-energized state, so that the power consumption of the inhalation device 100 can be reduced.

[0111] It should be noted that a time period from when the inhalation device 100 enters the energized state (that is, the possible inhalation state) until it enters the de-energized state (that is, the non-inhalable state) will also be referred to as the "smoking period" hereinafter.

[0112] (2-2. First operation example of the inhalation device)

[0113] Figure 2 is a diagram showing the first operation example of the inhalation device 100. In Figure 2 shown in (a), the horizontal axis represents time, and the vertical axis represents the temperature of the second heating unit 132. In addition, in Figure 2In (b) shown, the horizontal axis represents time and the vertical axis represents whether power is supplied to the first heating unit 121 (i.e., on / off).

[0114] As Figure 2 shown, if the user presses the power button at time t0 when the inhalation device 100 is in a power-off state, the control unit 116 sets the inhalation device 100 to a powered-on state. Thus, the smoking period starts from time t0.

[0115] If a puff is taken while the inhalation device 100 is in a powered-on state, the control unit 116 then supplies a predetermined power from the power unit 111 to the first heating unit 121. A puff can be detected based on the detection value from the puff sensor (i.e., the change in internal pressure) reaching or exceeding a threshold value.

[0116] In response to a puff, power is supplied to the first heating unit 121, whereby the first heating unit 121 generates heat to generate an aerosol. To give an example, in Figure 2 the example shown, the control unit 116 supplies power to the first heating unit 121 because a puff is detected during the time period from time t1 to time t2 after time t0.

[0117] The power supplied to the first heating unit 121 in response to a puff is predetermined by the manufacturer of the inhalation device 100 to generate, for example, an appropriate amount of aerosol. As an example, it will be assumed here that a predetermined voltage V1 [V] (where V1 > 0) is applied to the first heating unit 121 in response to a puff, whereby the first heating unit 121 generates heat to generate an aerosol.

[0118] Furthermore, if the aerosol source contains an acid, when the acid-containing aerosol source is heated, an aerosol (vapor) containing a predetermined amount (predetermined weight or predetermined number of moles) of acid per unit amount of aerosol is generated. For example, the generated aerosol contains a predetermined amount A (weight or number of moles) of acid per unit amount. That is, when the first heating unit 121 generates heat due to the application of a voltage to the first heating unit 121 in response to a puff, an aerosol containing a predetermined amount A (weight or number of moles) of acid with a production amount of X1 [mg (or ml)] (where X1 > 0) per unit time is generated.

[0119] In addition, when the inhalation device 100 is in a powered-on state, the control unit 116 controls the second heating unit 132 to heat the flavor source 131. Then, the control unit 116 changes the heating mode of the flavor source 131 by the second heating unit 132 in response to reaching a predetermined change time after the inhalation device 100 has entered a powered-on state.

[0120] The change moment here is a predetermined moment within the smoking period and can be, for example, the moment when a predetermined number of puffs have been made since the inhalation device 100 enters the powered-on state. For example, the number of puffs constituting the condition for this change moment is preset in the control unit 116 by the manufacturer of the inhalation device 100. The manufacturer of the inhalation device 100 can set any number within the range of 5 to 10 as, for example, the number of puffs constituting the condition for the change moment.

[0121] In this example, it will be assumed that the number of puffs constituting the condition for this change moment is set to 6. It will also be assumed that within the period from when the inhalation device 100 enters the powered-on state until the change moment is reached, the flavor source 131 is not heated by the second heating unit 132.

[0122] In this case, the control unit 116 does not supply power to the second heating unit 132 within Figure 2 the period shown from time t0 until time t5a. Here, time t5a is an example of the change moment and is the moment when six puffs have been made after time t0. Accordingly, the flavor source 131 is not heated by the second heating unit 132 within the period from time t0 until time t5a, and the flavor source 131 is maintained, for example, at room temperature ("R.T" in the drawing; for example, 27 ). It should be noted that even if the flavor source 131 is not heated by the second heating unit 132, when the aerosol generated by the first heating unit 121 passes through the flavor source 131, the temperature of the flavor source may increase to a certain extent (for example, up to about 40 ).

[0123] Meanwhile, the control unit 116 raises the temperature of the second heating unit 132 by supplying power to the second heating unit 132 from the power supply unit 111 starting from time t5a, for example, to a target temperature of 60 . Therefore, the flavor source 131 is heated by the second heating unit 132 after time t5a, and the temperature of the flavor source 131 increases, for example, to about 60 in the same manner as the second heating unit 132 .

[0124] If the user then presses the power button at time t10 when the inhalation device 100 is in the powered-on state, the control unit 116 sets the inhalation device 100 to the powered-off state. Accordingly, the heating process starting from time t0 terminates at time t10. Since no power is supplied to the second heating unit 132 when the inhalation device 100 is in the powered-off state, the temperatures of the second heating unit 132 and the flavor source 131 then gradually decrease towards room temperature.

[0125] For example, the temperature control of the second heating unit 132 can be achieved by on / off control. More specifically, the control unit 116 can implement the heating by the second heating unit 132 (in other words, supply power to the second heating unit 132) until the true temperature of the second heating unit 132 (hereinafter also referred to as the "actual temperature") reaches the target temperature, and then can stop the heating by the second heating unit 132 when the actual temperature has reached the target temperature, and can resume the heating by the second heating unit 132 when the actual temperature drops below the target temperature.

[0126] For example, the temperature of the second heating unit 132 can be obtained (in other words, quantified) by measuring or estimating the resistance value of the heating resistance element constituting the second heating unit 132. This is because the resistance value of the heating resistance element changes with temperature. For example, the resistance value of the heating resistance element can be estimated (or namely, obtained) by measuring the amount of voltage drop at the heating resistance element. The amount of voltage drop at the heating resistance element can be measured (or namely, obtained) by a voltage sensor that measures the potential difference applied to the heating resistance element. As another example, the temperature of the second heating unit 132 can be measured by a temperature sensor (suction thermistor) installed near the second heating unit 132.

[0127] In addition, the temperature control of the heating unit 132 can be achieved by known feedback control. For example, the control unit 116 can supply the power from the power supply unit 111 to the second heating unit 132 in the form of pulses by pulse width modulation (PWM) or pulse frequency modulation (PFM). In this case, the control unit 116 can perform the temperature control of the second heating unit 132 by adjusting the duty ratio of the power pulse. In the feedback control, the control unit 116 only needs to control the power (for example, the duty ratio) supplied to the second heating unit 132 based on the difference between the actual temperature and the target temperature, etc. In addition, the feedback control can be proportional integral derivative controller (PID) control.

[0128] In addition, when power is supplied to the first heating unit 121 while power is supplied to the second heating unit 132 (that is, when suction is detected), the control unit 116 can temporarily reduce (for example, reduce to zero) the power supplied to the second heating unit 132. In this way, an excessive current output from the power supply unit 111 caused by the power supply to the first heating unit 121 and the second heating unit 132 can be suppressed.

[0129] In addition, if there is no suction within a predetermined time (e.g., 30 seconds) while power is supplied to the second heating unit 132, the control unit 116 may stop supplying power to the second heating unit 132 at this time point. In this way, when it is assumed that suction will not be performed, the power supplied to the second heating unit 132 can be stopped, so that the power consumption of the inhalation device 100 can be reduced.

[0130] In the inhalation device 100, if an aerosol or an air flow containing the aerosol with an amount of X1 [mg (or ml)] per unit time passes through the flavor source 131 when the flavor source 131 is at a first temperature (e.g., room temperature), a predetermined amount B (weight or mole number) of flavor components will be added to this aerosol. For example, when the flavor source 131 contains nicotine, if an aerosol or an air flow containing the aerosol with an amount of X1 [mg (or ml)] per unit time passes through the flavor source 131, a predetermined amount B (weight or mole number) of nicotine will be vaporized and enter the aerosol.

[0131] Here, if an aerosol containing a predetermined amount A (weight or mole number) of an acid passes through the flavor source 131 per unit time, a predetermined amount B (weight or mole number) of nicotine will be vaporized, and this nicotine will form a salt with the salt. The ratio C (A / B) of the predetermined amount A (weight or mole number) of the acid contained in the aerosol to the predetermined amount B (weight or mole number) of nicotine can be designed to be a fixed value or greater. For example, by adjusting the amount of the acid contained in the aerosol source and / or the amount of nicotine contained in the flavor source 131, the ratio C (A / B) of the predetermined amount A (weight or mole number) of the acid contained in the aerosol to the predetermined amount B (weight or mole number) of nicotine is designed to be a fixed value or greater. By designing the ratio C (A / B) to be a fixed value or greater, some or all of the predetermined amount B (weight or mole number) of nicotine can be formed into a salt with the acid. Therefore, the amount of vaporized nicotine remaining in the aerosol can be set to a desired amount, and the degree of irritation generated by the vaporized nicotine in the user's mouth can be adjusted.

[0132] At the same time, if the flavor source 131 is at a second temperature higher than the first temperature (e.g., 60 When, at time (), an aerosol or an air stream containing the aerosol with an amount of X1 [mg (or ml)] per unit time passes through the flavor source 131, a flavor component with an amount of D (weight or number of moles) (where D > B) will be added to the aerosol. For example, when the flavor source 131 contains nicotine, if an aerosol or an air stream containing the aerosol with an amount of X1 [mg (or ml)] per unit time passes through the flavor source 131 heated to a second temperature, a predetermined amount D (weight or number of moles) of nicotine will be vaporized and enter the aerosol. In this case, the predetermined amount A (weight or number of moles) of acid contained in the aerosol and the predetermined amount D (weight or number of moles) of nicotine have a ratio E (A / D).

[0133] Here, D > B, so the value of E is less than the value of C. As a result, there is a relative increase in the amount of vaporized nicotine remaining in the aerosol that does not form a salt with the acid in the aerosol. When the amount of vaporized nicotine remaining in the aerosol increases, more nicotine generates a stimulus in the user's mouth, so the user feels a greater stimulus in their mouth. That is to say, when the flavor source 131 is heated to a second temperature higher than the first temperature, the amount of vaporized nicotine remaining in the aerosol relatively increases, and the stimulus generated by the nicotine in the user's mouth relatively increases, so the user feels a greater stimulus in their mouth.

[0134] Therefore, as the temperature of the flavor source 131 increases, a greater amount of flavor components are added to the aerosol passing through the flavor source 131. When a greater amount of flavor components are added to the aerosol to be inhaled, the intensity of the taste experienced by the user due to inhalation or the feeling of stimulus in the user's mouth thus increases. Accordingly, by raising the temperature of the flavor source 131 to increase the amount of flavor components added to the aerosol, the taste experienced by the user due to inhalation or the feeling of stimulus in the user's mouth can be enhanced proportionally. For example, when the flavor source 131 contains nicotine, the amount of vaporized nicotine contained in the aerosol passing through the flavor source 131 increases as the temperature of the flavor source 131 increases, so the feeling of stimulus felt by the user from inhalation can be enhanced.

[0135] Figure 3 is a diagram showing an example of the change in the amount of flavor components added to the aerosol before and after the moment t5a shown in Figure 2 . In Figure 3 , the horizontal axis represents time, and the vertical axis represents the amount (weight or molar amount) of flavor components added to the aerosol generated in response to one puff. Figure 3 The vertical axis in

[0136] In this example, as described above, the flavor source 131 is heated by the second heating unit 132 after time t5a, so the flavor source 131 is at a higher temperature than before time t5a. Accordingly, as Figure 3 shown, more flavor components can be added to the aerosol generated in response to a puff after time t5a than before time t5a. For example, when the flavor source 131 contains nicotine, the amount (weight or molar amount) of nicotine entering the aerosol generated in response to a puff increases. When the amount (weight or molar amount) of nicotine entering the aerosol increases, there is vaporized nicotine remaining in the aerosol that does not form a salt with the acid in the aerosol, and the amount of vaporized aerosol increases. As a result, there is more stimulation caused by nicotine in the user's mouth, and the user can feel a greater stimulation in their mouth.

[0137] As described above, the control unit 116 changes the heating mode of the flavor source 131 by the second heating unit 132 in response to reaching the change time, at which a predetermined number of puffs have been made since the inhalation device 100 entered the powered-on state. This makes it possible to change the amount of flavor components added to the aerosol, that is, the taste experienced by the user due to the puff or the feeling of stimulation in the user's mouth, because the number of puffs made since the inhalation device 100 entered the powered-on state has reached the predetermined number.

[0138] Accordingly, the taste can prompt the user whether a predetermined number of puffs have been made since the inhalation device 100 entered the powered-on state (in other words, whether the current timing is before or after the change time). Therefore, even if the user does not separately count the number of puffs made since the inhalation device 100 entered the powered-on state, the user can still clearly know when to terminate the current powered-on state (in other words, the current smoking period) by considering the taste experienced due to the puff or the feeling of stimulation in the mouth, which provides better convenience for the user. For example, the user may clearly know when to terminate the current smoking period, such as thinking "This is a strong taste, I will only take a few more puffs and then end this smoking period" or "It feels strong, I will only take a few more puffs and then end this smoking period".

[0139] In addition, since the taste prompts the user whether the current timing is before or after the change timing, the inhalation device 100 does not need to be separately provided with a lighting device, a display device, a sound output device, a vibration device, etc. to provide a prompt for this effect. Therefore, it is possible to prompt the user whether the current timing is before or after the change time while simplifying the configuration of the inhalation device 100.

[0140] In addition, the control unit 116 does not cause the second heating unit 132 to heat the flavor source 131 during the period from when the inhalation device 100 enters the powered-on state until the change moment, and causes the second heating unit 132 to heat the flavor source after the change moment. Therefore, compared with before the change moment, the taste experienced by the user due to suction or the irritation in the oral cavity can be enhanced after the change moment. Therefore, the taste experienced by the user due to suction or the feeling of irritation in the oral cavity can prompt the user whether the current timing is before or after the change moment.

[0141] By enhancing the taste after the change moment, a sense of satisfaction can also be provided to the user from the perspective of suction satisfaction, and the feeling of irritation in the user's oral cavity can be enhanced after the change moment. In this way, the user can be prompted to terminate the smoking period.

[0142] (2-3. Second operation example of the inhalation device)

[0143] In Figure 2 In the first example shown in etc., the change moment is the moment when a predetermined number of puffs have been made since the inhalation device 100 enters the powered-on state, but this is not restrictive.

[0144] Figure 4 FIG. shows a second operation example of the inhalation device 100. The second example is the following exemplary situation: where the change moment is the moment when a predetermined time has elapsed since the inhalation device 100 enters the powered-on state. It should be noted that in this section, the focus is on the differences from those described in Figure 2 and the common parts with those described in Figure 2 will be omitted or simplified as appropriate.

[0145] In this example, the control unit 116 does not supply power to the second heating unit 132 during the period from time t0 to time t5b shown in Figure 4 Here, time t5b is another example of the change moment, and is the moment when a predetermined time Tm1 has elapsed since time t0.

[0146] The predetermined time Tm1 can be set to any time included in the range of, for example, from 120 seconds to 180 seconds, and as a specific example, can be set to 150 seconds. In addition, for example, the predetermined time Tm1 is preset in the control unit 116 by the manufacturer of the inhalation device 100.

[0147] In this example, the control unit 116 raises the temperature of the second heating unit 132 by supplying power from the power supply unit 111 to the second heating unit 132 from time t5b, for example, the target temperature is 60 Therefore, the flavor source 131 is heated by the second heating unit 132 after the time t5b, and the temperature of the flavor source 131 rises to about 60, for example, in the same manner as the second heating unit 132. .

[0148] As described above, the control unit 116 can change the heating mode of the flavor source 131 by the second heating unit 132 in response to reaching the change time, at which a predetermined time has elapsed since the self-inhalation device 100 entered the powered-on state. This makes it possible to change the amount of flavor components (e.g., the amount of nicotine) added to the aerosol, that is, the taste experienced by the user due to suction or the irritation in the user's mouth, because the time elapsed since the self-inhalation device 100 entered the powered-on state has reached the predetermined time.

[0149] Accordingly, the taste can prompt the user whether a predetermined time has elapsed since the self-inhalation device 100 entered the powered-on state (in other words, whether the current positive time is before or after the change time). Therefore, even if the user does not separately count the time elapsed since the self-inhalation device 100 entered the powered-on state, the user can still clearly know when to terminate the current powered-on state (in other words, the current smoking period) by considering the taste experienced due to suction or the irritation in the mouth, which provides better convenience for the user.

[0150] (2-4. Third operation example of the inhalation device)

[0151] In Figure 2 the first example shown in Figure 4 and the second example shown in

[0152] Figure 5 the flavor source 131 is not heated by the second heating unit 132 during the period from when the inhalation device 100 enters the powered-on state until the change time is reached, but this is not restrictive. Figure 2 is a diagram showing a third operation example of the inhalation device 100. The third example is an exemplary situation where the flavor source 131 is heated to a relatively low temperature by the second heating unit 132 during the period from when the inhalation device 100 enters the powered-on state until the change time is reached, and the flavor source 131 is heated to a relatively high temperature by the second heating unit 132 after the change time. It should be noted that in this section, the focus is on the differences from Figure 2 those described in

[0153] In this example, the control unit 116 is as described in Figure 5The power supply unit 111 supplies power to the second heating unit 132 during the time period from time t0 until time t5a to raise the temperature of the second heating unit 132. For example, the target temperature is 50 . In this case, the flavor source 131 is heated by the second heating unit 132 during the time period from time t0 until time t5a, and the temperature of the flavor source 131 rises to approximately 50, for example, in the same manner as the second heating unit 132 .

[0154] In this example, the control unit 116 then further raises the temperature of the second heating unit 132 by supplying power from the power supply unit 111 to the second heating unit 132 starting from time t5a, where the target temperature is 60 , even higher than the target temperature of 50 before time t5a . In this case, the flavor source 131 is further heated after time t5a, and the temperature of the flavor source 131 rises to approximately 60, for example, in the same manner as the second heating unit 132 .

[0155] In addition, in the same manner as in the examples described herein, the control unit 116 can raise the temperature of the second heating unit 132 to the target temperature of 50 during the time period from time t0 until time t5b as shown in Figure 4 to cause heating of the flavor source 131, and then can cause heating of the flavor source 131 by raising the temperature of the second heating unit 132 to an even higher target temperature of 60, for example, starting from time t5b . to cause heating of the flavor source 131

[0156] As described above, the control unit 116 can cause the second heating unit 132 to heat the flavor source 131 to a relatively low temperature during the time period from when the inhaler 100 device enters the powered-on state until the change time, and can cause the second heating unit 132 to heat the flavor source 131 to a relatively high temperature after the change time. Therefore, compared to before the change time, the amount of flavor components added to the aerosol (e.g., the amount of nicotine) can be increased after the change time to enhance the taste or irritation in the mouth experienced by the user due to inhalation. Accordingly, the taste or irritation in the mouth experienced by the user due to inhalation can prompt the user whether the current timing is before or after the change time

[0157] (2-5. Fourth operation example of the inhalation device)

[0158] In Figure 2 the first example shown in and Figure 4In the second example shown, the temperature of the second heating unit 132 directly rises to a relatively high target temperature of 60, for example, in response to reaching the change moment. , but this is not restrictive.

[0159] Figure 6 FIG. is a diagram showing a fourth operation example of the inhalation device 100. The fourth example is the following exemplary situation: where the temperature of the second heating unit 132 gradually rises over a predetermined time starting from the change moment after the inhalation device 100 has entered the powered-on state. It should be noted that in this section, the focus is on the differences from those described in Figure 2 , and the common parts with those described in Figure 2 will be omitted or simplified as appropriate.

[0160] In the case of this example as shown in Figure 6 , the control unit 116 gradually raises the temperature of the second heating unit 132 towards the target temperature of 60 over a predetermined time Tm11 starting from time t5a. Here, the predetermined time Tm11 can be set to a relatively long time, for example, included in the range of, for example, from 60 seconds to 120 seconds, and as a specific example, can be set to 90 seconds. In addition, for example, the predetermined time Tm11 is preset by the manufacturer of the inhalation device 100 in the control unit 116.

[0161] Figure 4

[0162] In addition, the control unit 116 can gradually raise the temperature of the second heating unit 132 over a predetermined time Tm11 starting from time t5b, for example, in the same manner as in the example described herein.

[0163] As described above, the control unit 116 can gradually raise the temperature of the second heating unit 132 over a predetermined time starting from the change moment. Therefore, it is possible to suppress the excessive inconsistency or discomfort felt by the user due to the sudden change in the taste or irritation in the mouth experienced by the user due to suction from the change moment.

[0163] (2-6. Fifth operation example of the inhalation device)

[0164] In Figure 6 In the fourth example shown, the temperature of the second heating unit 132 gradually (in other words, linearly) rises from the change moment, but this is not restrictive.

[0165] Figure 7 FIG. is a diagram showing a fifth operation example of the inhalation device 100. The fifth example is the following exemplary situation: where the temperature of the second heating unit 132 gradually rises (in other words, in stages) over time after the change moment. It should be noted that in this section, the focus is on the differences from those described inFigure 2 those described in Figure 2 and will omit or simplify, as appropriate, those common to

[0166] In this example, the control unit 116 supplies power to the second heating unit 132 during the period from time t5a until time t6a as shown in Figure 7 order to raise the temperature of the second heating unit 132, for example, to a target temperature of 50 . Here, time t6a is the time when a predetermined time Tm21 has elapsed after time t5a. Here, the predetermined time Tm21 can be set to, for example, a relatively long time included in the range from 30 seconds to 90 seconds, and as a specific example, can be set to 60 seconds. Further, for example, the predetermined time Tm21 is preset in the control unit 116 by the manufacturer of the inhalation device 100.

[0167] In this case, the flavor source 131 is heated by the second heating unit 132 during the period from time t5a until time t6a, and the temperature of the flavor source 131 rises to about 50 in the same manner as the second heating unit 132, for example.

[0168] In this example, the control unit 116 then further raises the temperature of the second heating unit 132 by supplying power from the power supply unit 111 to the second heating unit 132 starting from time t6a, where the target temperature is 60 , even higher than the target temperature of 50 before time t6a . In this case, the flavor source 131 is further heated after time t6a, and the temperature of the flavor source 131 rises to about 60 in the same manner as the second heating unit 132, for example.

[0169] Further, the control unit 116 can gradually raise the temperature of the second heating unit 132 over time after time t5b as shown in Figure 4 , for example, in the same manner as in the example described herein.

[0170] As described above, the control unit 116 can gradually raise the temperature of the second heating unit 132 over time after the change time. Therefore, it is possible to suppress an excessive inconsistency or uncomfortable feeling provided to the user due to a sudden change in the taste or irritation in the mouth experienced by the user due to suction starting from the change time.

[0171] (2-7. Sixth operation example of the inhalation device)

[0172] In Figure 7In the fifth example shown, the temperature of the second heating unit 132 gradually increases over time after the change time, but this is not restrictive.

[0173] Figure 8 FIG. is a diagram showing a sixth operation example of the inhalation device 100. The sixth example is an exemplary case where the temperature of the second heating unit 132 gradually increases as suction is performed after the change time. Note that in this section, the focus is on the differences from those described in Figure 2 and those common to those described in Figure 2 will be omitted or simplified as appropriate.

[0174] In this example, the control unit 116 increases the temperature of the second heating unit 132 by supplying power from the power supply unit 111 to the second heating unit 132 during the period from time t5a until time t6b as shown in Figure 8 , for example, the target temperature is 50 . For example, time t6b here is the time when a predetermined number of suctions have been performed after time t5a, and can be the time when four suctions have been performed after time t5a.

[0175] In this case, the flavor source 131 is heated by the second heating unit 132 during the period from time t5a until time t6b, and the temperature of the flavor source 131 increases to approximately 50 in the same manner as the second heating unit 132, for example.

[0176] In this example, the control unit 116 then further increases the temperature of the second heating unit 132 by supplying power from the power supply unit 111 to the second heating unit 132 starting from time t6b, where the target temperature is 60 , even higher than the target temperature of 50 before time t6b . In this case, the flavor source 131 is further heated after time t6b, and the temperature of the flavor source 131 increases to approximately 60 in the same manner as the second heating unit 132, for example.

[0177] In addition, the control unit 116 can gradually increase the temperature of the second heating unit 132 as a predetermined number of suctions are performed after time t5b, for example, in the same manner as in the example described herein, as shown in Figure 4 .

[0178] As described above, the control unit 116 can gradually increase the temperature of the second heating unit 132 as suction is performed after the change time. Accordingly, it is possible to suppress an excessive inconsistency or discomfort provided to the user due to a sudden change in the taste experienced by the user or the irritation in the oral cavity due to suction starting from the change time.

[0179] (2-8. Seventh operation example of the inhalation device)

[0180] In Figure 8 the sixth example shown, the temperature of the second heating unit 132 gradually increases as multiple suctions (e.g., four suctions) are performed after the change time, but this is not restrictive.

[0181] Figure 9 FIG. is a diagram showing a seventh operation example of the inhalation device 100. The seventh example is an exemplary case in which the temperature of the second heating unit 132 gradually increases with each suction performed after the change time. Note that in this section, the focus is on the differences from those described in Figure 2 and the common parts with those described in Figure 2 will be omitted or simplified as appropriate.

[0182] In this example, the control unit 116 increases the temperature of the second heating unit 132 by supplying power from the power supply unit 111 to the second heating unit 132 in the time period from time t5a until time t6c as shown in Figure 9 , for example, with a target temperature of 40 . Here, time t6c is the time when one suction has been performed after time t5a. In this case, the flavor source 131 is heated by the second heating unit 132 in the time period from time t5a until time t6c, and the temperature of the flavor source 131 increases to approximately 40 in the same manner as the second heating unit 132, for example.

[0183] Furthermore, in this example, the control unit 116 increases the temperature of the second heating unit 132 by supplying power from the power supply unit 111 to the second heating unit 132 in the time period from time t6c until time t7c as shown in Figure 9 , where the target temperature is 45 , even higher than the target temperature of 40 before time t7c . Here, time t7c is the time when one suction has been performed after time t6c, in other words, the time when two suctions have been performed after time t5a. In this case, the flavor source 131 is heated by the second heating unit 132 in the time period from time t6c until time t7c, and the temperature of the flavor source 131 increases to approximately 45 。

[0184] In addition, in this example, the control unit 116 supplies power from the power supply unit 111 to the second heating unit 132 during the period from time t7c until time t8c as shown to raise the temperature of the second heating unit 132, where the target temperature is 50 Figure 9 , even higher than the target temperature of 45 before time t8c . Here, time t8c is the time when one aspiration has been performed after time t7c, in other words, the time when three aspirations have been performed after time t5a. In this case, the flavor source 131 is heated by the second heating unit 132 during the period from time t7c until time t8c, and the temperature of the flavor source 131 rises to approximately 50, for example, in the same manner as the second heating unit 132 . 。

[0185] In addition, in this example, the control unit 116 supplies power from the power supply unit 111 to the second heating unit 132 during the period from time t8c until time t9c as shown to raise the temperature of the second heating unit 132, where the target temperature is 55 Figure 9 , even higher than the target temperature of 50 before time t9c . Here, time t9c is the time when one aspiration has been performed after time t8c, in other words, the time when four aspirations have been performed after time t5a. In this case, the flavor source 131 is heated by the second heating unit 132 during the period from time t8c until time t9c, and the temperature of the flavor source 131 rises to approximately 55, for example, in the same manner as the second heating unit 132 . 。

[0186] In this example, the control unit 116 then further raises the temperature of the second heating unit 132 by supplying power from the power supply unit 111 to the second heating unit 132 starting from time t9c, where the target temperature is 60 , even higher than the target temperature of 55 before time t9c . In this case, the flavor source 131 is further heated after time t9c, and the temperature of the flavor source 131 rises to approximately 60, for example, in the same manner as the second heating unit 132 .

[0187] It should be noted here that the heating upper limit of the second heating unit 132 is 60 , so at 60 As a target to stop the temperature increase of the second heating unit 132, but this is not restrictive. For example, if the heat-resistant temperature of the flavored cartridge 130 and the flavor source 131 is sufficiently higher than 60 , the control unit 116 can also increase the temperature of the second heating unit 132 with each puff after time t9c in the same manner as before time t9c, in increments of 5 .

[0188] In addition, the control unit 116 can gradually increase the temperature of the second heating unit 132 with each puff after time t5b, for example, in the same manner as in the examples described herein Figure 4 .

[0189] As described above, the control unit 116 can gradually increase the temperature of the second heating unit 132 with each puff after the change time. Therefore, it is possible to suppress an excessive inconsistency or discomfort feeling provided to the user due to a sudden change in the taste experienced by the user or the irritation in the mouth caused by puffing starting from the change time. Accordingly, the taste experienced by the user or the irritation in the mouth caused by puffing can prompt the number of puffs after the change time to the user

[0190] (2-9. Eighth operation example of the inhalation device)

[0191] In the operation example described above, the flavor source 131 is heated to a relatively high temperature by the second heating unit 132 after the change time, but this is not restrictive

[0192] Figure 10 FIG. is a diagram showing an eighth operation example of the inhalation device 100. The eighth example is an exemplary case where the flavor source 131 is heated to a relatively high temperature by the second heating unit 132 before the change time. It should be noted that in this section, the focus is on the differences from those described in Figure 2 , and the common parts with those described in Figure 2 will be omitted or simplified as appropriate

[0193] In this example, the control unit 116 increases the temperature of the second heating unit 132 by supplying power from the power supply unit 111 to the second heating unit 132 starting from time t0 when the inhalation device 100 enters the powered-on state, for example, with a target temperature of 60 . In this case, the flavor source 131 is heated by the second heating unit 132 starting from time t0, and the temperature of the flavor source 131 increases to about 60 in the same manner as the second heating unit 132, for example

[0194] In this example, when the arrival time t5a is reached, the control unit 116 then stops supplying power to the second heating unit 132. In this case, for example, the temperatures of the second heating unit 132 and the flavor source 131 gradually decrease towards room temperature after the time t5a.

[0195] In addition, in the same manner as in the example described herein, the control unit 116 can Figure 4 as shown raise the temperature of the second heating unit 132 to the target temperature of 60 during the period from time t0 until time t5b to cause heating of the flavor source 131, and then can stop supplying power to the second heating unit 132 when the arrival time t5b is reached.

[0196] As described above, the control unit 116 can cause the second heating unit 132 to heat the flavor source 131 during the period from when the inhalation device 100 enters the powered-on state until the change time is reached, and can terminate the heating of the flavor source 131 by the second heating unit 132 in response to reaching the change time. Therefore, compared with before the change time, the taste experienced by the user due to suction or the irritation in the oral cavity can be weakened by reducing the amount of flavor components added to the aerosol after the change time. Accordingly, the taste experienced by the user due to suction or the irritation in the oral cavity can prompt the user whether the current timing is before or after the change time.

[0197] (2-10. Ninth operation example of the inhalation device)

[0198] In Figure 10 the eighth operation example shown, the heating of the flavor source 131 by the second heating unit 132 is terminated in response to reaching the change time, but this is not restrictive.

[0199] Figure 11 FIG. is a diagram showing a ninth operation example of the inhalation device 100. The ninth example is the following exemplary situation: where the flavor source 131 is heated to a relatively high temperature by the second heating unit 132 during the period from when the inhalation device 100 enters the powered-on state until the change time is reached, and the flavor source 131 is heated to a relatively low temperature by the second heating unit 132 after the change time. Note that in this section, the focus is on the differences from Figure 2 those described in Figure 2 and the common parts with

[0200] In this example, when the arrival time t5a is reached, the control unit 116 by setting a target temperature of 50 (lower than the target temperature of 60 before the time t5a) Power is supplied from the power supply unit 111 to the second heating unit 132 to reduce the temperature of the second heating unit 132 to a temperature lower than that before time t5a. In this case, after time t5a, the temperature of the flavor source 131 is reduced to about 60, for example, in the same manner as the second heating unit 132. .

[0201] In addition, in the same manner as in the example described herein, the control unit 116 can, as Figure 4 shown, raise the temperature of the second heating unit 132 to the target temperature of 60 in the time period from time t0 until time t5b to cause heating of the flavor source 131, and then can cause heating of the flavor source 131 to a temperature reduced from the temperature before time t5a after time t5b.

[0202] As described above, the control unit 116 can cause the second heating unit 132 to heat the flavor source 131 to a relatively high temperature in the time period from when the inhaler device 100 enters the powered-on state until the change time is reached, and can cause the second heating unit 132 to heat the flavor source 131 to a relatively low temperature after the change time. Therefore, compared to before the change time, the amount of flavor components (e.g., the amount of nicotine) added to the aerosol can be reduced after the change time to weaken the taste experienced by the user due to inhalation or the irritation in the mouth. Accordingly, the taste experienced by the user due to inhalation or the irritation in the mouth can indicate to the user whether the current timing is before or after the change time.

[0203] (2-11. Tenth operation example of the inhalation device)

[0204] In the operation example described above, the heating mode of the second heating unit 132 for the flavor source 131 is changed in response to reaching the change time, but this is not restrictive.

[0205] Figure 12 FIG. is a diagram showing the tenth operation example of the inhaler device 100. The tenth example is the following exemplary case: where the heating mode of the first heating unit 121 for the aerosol source is changed in response to reaching the change time. It should be noted that in Figure 12 , the horizontal axis represents time and the vertical axis represents the voltage [V] applied to the first heating unit 121. In addition, in this section, the focus is on the differences from those described in Figure 2 , and the common parts with those described in Figure 2 will be omitted or simplified as appropriate.

[0206] In this example, when suction is detected during the period from time t0 until time t5a, the control unit 116 causes aerosol generation by applying V1 [V] to the first heating unit 121, as Figure 12 shown. In this way, in response to suction during the period from time t0 until time t5a, X1 [mg] of aerosol is generated per unit time.

[0207] Then, when suction is detected after time t5a, the control unit 116 causes aerosol generation by applying V2 [V], which is higher than V1 [V], to the first heating unit 121, as Figure 12 shown. When such V2 [V] has been applied to the first heating unit 121, X2 [mg] (where X2 > X1) of aerosol is generated per unit time. This makes it possible to increase the amount of aerosol generated in response to one suction after time t5a compared to before time t5a. Also, since the amount of aerosol passing through the flavor source 131 per unit time can be increased, the amount of flavor imparted to the aerosol can also be increased.

[0208] Furthermore, in the same manner as in the example described herein, when suction is detected during the period from time t0 until time t5b as Figure 4 shown, the control unit 116 may apply V1 [V] to the first heating unit 121 and may apply V2 [V] to the first heating unit 121 when suction is detected after time t5b.

[0209] It should be noted that although not depicted or described in detail herein, in this example, when the inhalation device 100 is in the powered-on state, the control unit 116 may also cause the second heating unit 132 to heat the flavor source 131 in the same manner as in any of the above operation examples. Alternatively, in this example, the control unit 116 does not need to cause the second heating unit 132 to heat the flavor source 131.

[0210] As described above, the control unit 116 may change the heating mode of the first heating unit 121 for the aerosol source in response to reaching the change time. As an example, the control unit 116 may apply V1 [V] to the first heating unit 121 during aspiration in the period from when the inhalation device 100 enters the powered-on state until reaching the change time, and may apply V2 [V] higher than V1 [V] to the first heating unit 121 during aspiration after the change time. This enables an increase in the amount of aerosol generated in response to one aspiration and an increase in the amount of flavor components (e.g., the amount of nicotine) added to the aerosol after the change time compared to before the change time. Accordingly, the aspiration satisfaction or the irritation in the mouth caused by aspiration can prompt the user whether the current timing is before or after the change time. Therefore, the user can clearly know when to terminate the current powered-on state (in other words, the current smoking period) by considering the aspiration satisfaction or the irritation in the mouth caused by aspiration, which provides better convenience for the user.

[0211] (2-12. Eleventh operation example of the inhalation device)

[0212] In Figure 12 In the tenth example shown, V2 [V] higher than V1 [V] before the change time may be applied to the first heating unit 121 after the change time, but this is not restrictive.

[0213] Figure 13 FIG. is a diagram showing the eleventh operation example of the inhalation device 100. The eleventh example is the following exemplary case: where V3 [V] lower than V1 [V] may be applied to the first heating unit 121 after the change time. It should be noted that in this section, the focus is on the differences from those described in Figure 2 and Figure 13 and the common parts described in Figure 2 and Figure 13 will be omitted or simplified as appropriate.

[0214] In this example, when aspiration is detected after time t5a, the control unit 116 causes aerosol generation by applying V3 [V] lower than V1 [V] to the first heating unit 121, as shown in Figure 13 . When such V3 [V] has been applied to the first heating unit 121, X3 [mg] (where X3 < X1) of aerosol is generated per unit time. This enables a reduction in the amount of aerosol generated in response to one aspiration after time t5a compared to before time t5a. Moreover, since the amount of aerosol passing through the flavor source 131 per unit time can be reduced, the amount of flavor imparted to the aerosol can also be reduced.

[0215] In addition, in the same manner as in the examples described herein, when suction is detected during the period from time t0 until time t5b as shown in Figure 4 the control unit 116 may apply V1 [V] to the first heating unit 121, and may apply V3 [V] to the first heating unit 121 when suction is detected after time t5b.

[0216] It should be noted that although not depicted or described in detail herein, in this example, when the inhalation device 100 is in the powered-on state, the control unit 116 may also cause the second heating unit 132 to heat the flavor source 131 as in the above-described operation example. Alternatively, in this example, when the inhalation device 100 is in the powered-on state, the control unit 116 does not need to cause the second heating unit 132 to heat the flavor source 131.

[0217] As described above, the control unit 116 may apply V1 [V] to the first heating unit 121 when suction is performed during the period from when the inhalation device 100 enters the powered-on state until the change time, and may apply V3 [V], which is lower than V1 [V], to the first heating unit 121 when suction is performed after the change time. This enables a reduction in the amount of aerosol generated in response to one suction and a reduction in the amount of flavor components (e.g., the amount of nicotine) added to the aerosol after the change time compared to before the change time. Accordingly, the suction satisfaction or the irritation in the mouth caused by suction can prompt the user whether the current timing is before or after the change time. Therefore, the user can clearly know when to terminate the current powered-on state (in other words, the current smoking session) by considering the suction satisfaction or the irritation in the mouth caused by suction, which provides better convenience for the user.

[0218] (2-13. Twelfth operation example of the inhalation device)

[0219] In the operation example described above, the change time is preset by the manufacturer of the inhalation device 100, but this is not restrictive. For example, the user may set the desired time as the change time.

[0220] In addition, the change time may be automatically set based on the user's smoking history. Exemplary cases of setting the change time based on the user's smoking history will be described below. Note that in the following, the focus is on the differences from the operation example described above, and the common parts will be omitted or simplified as appropriate.

[0221] Figure 14 FIG. is a diagram showing the twelfth operation example of the inhalation device 100. In this example, for example, the memory unit 114 of the inhalation device 100 stores Figure 14The smoking history information 1000 as shown in (a) thereof. The smoking history information 1000 is information showing the smoking history of a user, and may be, for example, information associating corresponding past smoking periods of the inhalation device 100 with the number of puffs taken during those smoking periods.

[0222] As an example, Figure 14 The smoking history information 1000 as shown in (a) thereof includes the following information as the user's smoking history, which shows that there were 13 puffs in the previous (i.e., the most recent) smoking period, 11 puffs in the second previous smoking period, 12 puffs in the third previous smoking period, 13 puffs in the fourth previous smoking period, and 11 puffs in the fifth previous smoking period.

[0223] In this example, for instance, the control unit 116 then sets the moment to the change moment when the inhalation device 100 is set to the powered-on state (i.e., at the start of the next smoking period) based on the user's smoking history by referring to the smoking history information 1000 stored in the memory unit 114.

[0224] To describe this more specifically, the control unit 116 first calculates the average number of puffs in the most recent five smoking periods, for example, as Figure 14 shown in (b) thereof (this value will also be referred to as the "average number of puffs"). In Figure 14 the example shown, the average number of puffs is calculated to be 12. Thus, by setting the change moment based on the average number of puffs, a suitable moment conforming to the user's recent smoking tendency can be set as the change moment, and this average number of puffs is calculated based on the number of puffs in a predetermined number of the most recent smoking periods ( Figure 14 five in the example shown).

[0225] Then, the control unit 116 calculates the number of puffs used as a condition for the change moment based on the calculated average number of puffs, as Figure 14 shown in (c) thereof. As an example, the control unit 116 calculates the number of puffs used as a condition for the change moment by multiplying the calculated average number of puffs by a factor preset by the manufacturer of the inhalation device 100 (where 0 < factor < 1).

[0226] In Figure 14 the example shown, the number of puffs used as a condition for the change moment is calculated using the preset factor 1 / 2 and the average number of puffs 12, and is calculated to be 6 puffs. When the number of puffs used as a condition for the change moment is calculated to be 6 puffs in this way, the control unit 116 changes the heating mode of at least one of the first heating unit 121 and the second heating unit 132 in response to 6 puffs having been taken in the current smoking period.

[0227] It should be noted that in the examples described herein, the factor multiplied by the average puff number to calculate the puff number used as the condition for the change time is 1 / 2, but this is not restrictive. For example, this factor can be greater than 1 / 2 and can be 2 / 3. By making this factor greater than 1 / 2, the change time can be set at a time later than when the factor is 1 / 2. In addition, for example, this factor can be less than 1 / 2 and can be 1 / 3. By making this factor less than 1 / 2, the change time can be set at a time earlier than when the factor is 1 / 2.

[0228] In addition, the smoking period related to calculating the average puff number is not limited to the most recent five smoking periods. For example, the smoking period related to calculating the average puff number can be a predetermined number of the most recent smoking periods less than five (e.g., three most recent smoking periods), or a predetermined number of the most recent smoking periods more than five (e.g., 10 most recent smoking periods). In addition, the smoking period related to calculating the average puff number can also be all past smoking periods during which the inhalation device 100 is used.

[0229] In addition, instead of calculating the average puff number, the control unit 116 can equally calculate the value obtained by multiplying the puff number in the most recent (i.e., the previous) smoking period by a predetermined factor as the puff number used as the condition for the change time.

[0230] In addition, when the value obtained by multiplying the average puff number or the puff number in the most recent smoking period by a predetermined factor includes a decimal value, the control unit 116 can use the rounded value of this decimal value as the puff number used as the condition for the change time.

[0231] In addition, the control unit 116 can equally calculate the value obtained by subtracting a predetermined value from the average puff number or the puff number in the most recent smoking period as the puff number used as the condition for the change time. The predetermined value here can be a natural number greater than 1 and less than the average puff number, and can be, for example, 5. In addition, when the value obtained by subtracting the predetermined value from the average puff number or the puff number in the most recent smoking period includes a decimal value, the control unit 116 can use the rounded value of this decimal value as the puff number used as the condition for the change time.

[0232] In addition, the smoking history information 1000 can further include, for example, information showing the start date / time of each smoking period. In this case, for example, the control unit 116 can then calculate the average puff number based on the puff number within the most recent predetermined time (e.g., 24 hours).

[0233] As described above, the change timing can be a timing set based on the user's smoking history. In this way, the puff satisfaction (e.g., the taste of smoking) or the irritation in the oral cavity caused by puffing can be changed before and after a suitable change timing that conforms to the user's past smoking tendency.

[0234] More specifically, for example, the number of puffs used as a condition for the change timing can be set based on the number of puffs in the past smoking period (in other words, the number of puffs made during the period from when the inhalation device 100 entered the powered-on state until it entered the powered-off state in the past). In this way, the puff satisfaction or the irritation in the oral cavity caused by puffing can prompt the user whether the current timing is before or after the change timing, which is set considering the number of puffs made in the past smoking period. In this way, the user can clearly know when to terminate the current smoking period by considering the puff satisfaction or the irritation in the oral cavity caused by puffing, which provides better convenience for the user.

[0235] In addition, the number of puffs used as a condition for the change timing can be set based on the average number of puffs, which is the average of the number of puffs in each of a predetermined number of recent smoking periods. In this way, the puff satisfaction or the irritation in the oral cavity caused by puffing can be changed before and after a suitable change timing that conforms to the user's recent smoking tendency.

[0236] In addition, the number of puffs used as a condition for the change timing can be set based on a value calculated by multiplying the average number of puffs by a predetermined factor greater than 0 and less than 1. In this way, before a certain number of puffs (which can be considered the number that may be made in a smoking period based on the user's recent smoking tendency) have been made since the start of the current smoking period, the puff satisfaction or the irritation in the oral cavity caused by puffing can be changed.

[0237] (2-14. The Thirteenth Operation Example of the Inhalation Device)

[0238] In Figure 14 In the twelfth example shown, the change timing is set based on the number of puffs in the past smoking period.

[0239] Figure 15 is a diagram showing the thirteenth operation example of the inhalation device 100. The thirteenth example is the following exemplary situation: where the change timing is set based on the length of the past smoking period. It should be noted that in this section, the focus is on the differences from those described in Figure 14 and the common parts with those described in Figure 14 will be omitted or simplified as appropriate.

[0240] In this example, the memory unit 114 stores Figure 15 the smoking history information 1000 shown in (a) of

[0241] As an example, Figure 15 the smoking history information 1000 shown in (a) of

[0242] In this example, in order to set the change time, the control unit 116 first calculates the average value (hereinafter also referred to as "average time") of the lengths of the last five smoking periods, for example, as shown in (b) of Figure 15 In the example shown in Figure 15 the average time is calculated to be 300 seconds. Therefore, by setting the change time based on the average time, a suitable time that conforms to the user's recent smoking tendency can be set as the change time, and the average time is calculated based on the lengths of a predetermined number of the last smoking periods (in the example shown in Figure 15 the last five).

[0243] Then, the control unit 116 calculates the elapsed time used as a condition for the change time based on the calculated average time, as shown in (c) of Figure 15 As an example, the control unit 116 calculates the elapsed time used as a condition for the change time by multiplying the calculated average time by a factor preset by the manufacturer of the inhalation device 100 (where 0 < factor < 1).

[0244] In Figure 15 the example shown, the elapsed time used as a condition for the change time is calculated using the preset factor 1 / 2 and the elapsed time 300 seconds, and is calculated to be 150 seconds. When the elapsed time used as a condition for the change time is calculated to be 150 seconds in this way, the control unit 116 changes the heating mode of at least one of the first heating unit 121 and the second heating unit 132 in response to 150 seconds having elapsed since the start of the current smoking period.

[0245] It should be noted that in the examples described herein, the factor multiplied by the average time to calculate the elapsed time as a condition for the change time is 1 / 2, but this is not restrictive. For example, the factor can be greater than 1 / 2 and can be 2 / 3. By making the factor greater than 1 / 2, the change time can be set at a time later than when the factor is 1 / 2. Further, for example, the factor can be less than 1 / 2 and can be 1 / 3. By making the factor less than 1 / 2, the change time can be set at a time earlier than when the factor is 1 / 2.

[0246] In addition, the smoking period related to calculating the average time is not limited to the last five smoking periods. For example, the smoking period related to calculating the average time can be a predetermined number of the last smoking periods less than five (e.g., three last smoking periods), or a predetermined number of the last smoking periods more than five (e.g., 10 last smoking periods). In addition, the smoking period related to calculating the average time can also be all past smoking periods of using the inhalation device 100.

[0247] In addition, instead of calculating the average time, the control unit 116 can equally calculate the value obtained by multiplying the length of the last (i.e., the previous) smoking period by a predetermined factor as the elapsed time used as a condition for the change time.

[0248] In addition, the control unit 116 can equally calculate the value obtained by subtracting a predetermined value from the average time or the length of the last smoking period as the elapsed time used as a condition for the change time. The predetermined value here can be a value greater than 1 and less than the average time, and can be, for example, 150 seconds.

[0249] In addition, for example, when the smoking history information 1000 further includes information indicating the start date / time of each smoking period, the control unit 116 can calculate the average time based on the lengths of the smoking periods in the most recent predetermined time (e.g., 24 hours).

[0250] As described above, in this embodiment, if no suction is performed for a predetermined time (e.g., 300 seconds) when the inhalation device 100 is in the powered-on state, it automatically enters the power-off state at this time point. If the smoking period is terminated in this way because the inhalation device 100 is automatically set to the power-off state, the memory unit 114 preferably stores the value obtained by subtracting a predetermined time (e.g., 300 seconds) from the last suction until the inhalation device 100 enters the power-off state as the length of this smoking period.

[0251] As described above, the elapsed time used as a condition for the change time can be set based on the length of the past smoking period (in other words, the length of the past period from when the inhalation device 100 enters the energized state until it enters the de-energized state). In this way, the suction satisfaction generated by suction can prompt the user whether the current positive time is before or after the change time, which is set considering the length of the past smoking period. In this way, the user can clearly know when to terminate the current smoking period by considering the suction satisfaction generated by suction or the irritation in the mouth, which provides better convenience for the user.

[0252] In addition, the elapsed time used as a condition for the change time can be set based on the average time, which is the average value of the lengths of each of a predetermined number of recent smoking periods. In this way, the suction satisfaction generated by suction or the irritation in the mouth can be changed before and after an appropriate change time that conforms to the user's recent smoking tendency.

[0253] In addition, the elapsed time used as a condition for the change time can be set based on a value calculated by multiplying the average time by a predetermined factor greater than 0 and less than 1. In this way, before a certain time has elapsed since the start of the current smoking period (which is feasible as the length of a smoking period based on the user's recent smoking tendency), the suction satisfaction generated by suction or the irritation in the mouth can be changed.

[0254] [3. Examples of Processes Performed by the Control Unit]

[0255] Examples of the processes performed by the detection control unit 116 will be described below. Figure 16 is a flowchart showing an example of the process performed by the control unit 116. Here, an example of the process performed by the control unit 116 will be described when the number of suctions used as a condition for the change time is set based on the number of suctions in the past smoking period, and the heating mode of at least one of the first heating unit 121 and the second heating unit 132 is changed in response to the performance of that number of suctions.

[0256] As Figure 16 shown, the control unit 116 first determines whether the power button has been pressed (step S1). If it is determined that the power button has not been pressed (step S1: No), the control unit 116 repeats the process of step S1 until the power button is pressed. If it is determined that the power button has been pressed (step S1: Yes), the control unit 116 sets the inhalation device 100 to the energized state (step S2). As a result, the current smoking period is started.

[0257] Then, the control unit 116 performs a change time setting process to set a change time (step S3). For example, through the change time setting process, the control unit 116 calculates an average number of puffs based on the number of puffs in a predetermined number of most recent smoking sessions, and sets a number of puffs (i.e., the change time) that serves as a condition for the change time based on the average number of puffs.

[0258] Then, the control unit 116 determines whether a puff has been detected (step S4). If it is determined that no puff has been detected (step S4: No), the control unit 116 proceeds to the process of step S9 without any other processing. If it is determined that a puff has been detected (step S4: Yes), the control unit 116 supplies a predetermined power to the first heating unit 121 (step S5), increments by 1 the count value i of a puff counter that counts the number of puffs in the current smoking session (step S6), and proceeds to the process of step S7.

[0259] Then, the control unit 116 determines whether the change time has been reached (step S7). In the process of step S7, for example, if the count value i of the puff counter is less than the number of puffs that serves as a condition for the change time, the control unit 116 determines that the change time has not been reached, and if the count value i has reached the number of puffs that serves as a condition for the change time, it determines that the change time has been reached.

[0260] If it is determined that the change time has not been reached (step S7: No), the control unit 116 proceeds to the process of step S9 without any other processing. If it is determined that the change time has been reached (step S7: Yes), the control unit 116 changes the heating mode of at least one of the first heating unit 121 and the second heating unit 132 (step S8) and proceeds to the process of step S9. For example, through the process of step S8, the control unit 116 starts supplying power to the second heating unit 132 to increase the temperature of the second heating unit 132.

[0261] Then, the control unit 116 determines whether a predetermined time (e.g., 300 seconds) has elapsed since the last puff was taken (step S9). If it is determined that a predetermined time has elapsed since the last puff was taken (step S9: Yes), the control unit 116 proceeds to the process of step S11 without any other processing.

[0262] If it is determined that the predetermined time has not elapsed since the last puff (step S9: No), the control unit 116 determines whether the power button has been pressed (step S10). If it is determined that the power button has not been pressed (step S10: No), the control unit 116 proceeds to the process of step S4 and repeats the above processing.

[0263] If it is determined that the power button has been pressed (step S10: Yes), the control unit 116 causes the memory unit 114 to store the count value i of the puff counter at this time, which constitutes the information of the number of puffs in the current smoking period (step S11). Then, the control unit 116 resets the count value i of the puff counter to 0 (step S12), and also sets the inhalation device 100 to a power-off state (step S13) to end Figure 16 the processing series shown. As a result, the current smoking period ends.

[0264] It should be noted that when the number of puffs used as the condition for the change time is preset by the manufacturer of the inhalation device 100, the number of puffs should be set in the change time setting process. In addition, when the number of puffs used as the condition for the change time is preset by the manufacturer of the inhalation device 100, the processing such as step S11 does not need to be implemented.

[0265] Figure 17 is a flowchart showing another example of the processing implemented by the control unit 116. Here, an example of the processing implemented by the control unit 116 will be described when the elapsed time used as the condition for the change time is set based on the length of the past smoking period, and the heating mode of at least one of the first heating unit 121 and the second heating unit 132 is changed in response to the elapsed time having passed.

[0266] As Figure 17 shown, the control unit 116 first determines whether the power button has been pressed (step S21). If it is determined that the power button has not been pressed (step S21: No), the control unit 116 repeats the processing of step S21 until the power button is pressed. If it is determined that the power button has been pressed (step S21: Yes), the control unit 116 sets the inhalation device 100 to a powered-on state (step S22). As a result, the current smoking period is started.

[0267] Then, the control unit 116 performs a change time setting process to set the change time (step S23). For example, through the change time setting process, the control unit 116 calculates the average time based on the time of a predetermined number of recent smoking periods, and sets the elapsed time (i.e., the change time) used as the condition for the change time based on the average time.

[0268] Then, the control unit 116 starts counting the elapsed time since the start of the current smoking session (step S24). Then, the control unit 116 determines whether a puff has been detected (step S25). If it is determined that no puff has been detected (step S25: No), the control unit 116 proceeds to the process of step S27 without any other processing. If it is determined that a puff has been detected (step S25: Yes), the control unit 116 supplies a predetermined power to the first heating unit 121 (step S26) and proceeds to the process of step S27.

[0269] Then, the control unit 116 determines whether the change time has been reached (step S27). In the process of step S27, for example, if the elapsed time since the start of the current smoking session is less than the elapsed time used as a condition for the change time, the control unit 116 determines that the change time has not been reached, and if the elapsed time since the start of the current smoking session has reached the elapsed time used as a condition for the change time, it determines that the change time has been reached.

[0270] If it is determined that the change time has not been reached (step S27: No), the control unit 116 proceeds to the process of step S29 without any other processing. If it is determined that the change time has been reached (step S27: Yes), the control unit 116 changes the heating mode of at least one of the first heating unit 121 and the second heating unit 132 (step S28) and proceeds to the process of step S29. For example, through the process of step S28, the control unit 116 starts supplying power to the second heating unit 132 to increase the temperature of the second heating unit 132.

[0271] Then, the control unit 116 determines whether a predetermined time (e.g., 300 seconds) has elapsed since the last puff was taken (step S29). If it is determined that a predetermined time has elapsed since the last puff was taken (step S29: Yes), the control unit 116 causes the memory unit 114 to store the information that the value obtained by subtracting the predetermined time (e.g., 300 seconds) from the elapsed time since the start of the current smoking session is the length of the current smoking session (step S30) and proceeds to the process of step S33.

[0272] If it is determined that the predetermined time has not elapsed since the last puff (step S29: No), the control unit 116 determines whether the power button has been pressed (step S31). If it is determined that the power button has not been pressed (step S31: No), the control unit 116 proceeds to the process of step S25 and repeats the above process.

[0273] If it is determined that the power button has been pressed (step S31: Yes), the control unit 116 causes the memory unit 114 to store the information that the elapsed time since the start of the current smoking session is the length of the current smoking session (step S32) and proceeds to the process of step S33. Then, the control unit 116 sets the inhalation device 100 to a power-off state (step S33) to end Figure 17 the series of processes shown. As a result, the current smoking session terminates.

[0274] It should be noted that when the elapsed time used as a condition for the change time is preset by the manufacturer of the inhalation device 100, the elapsed time should be set in the change time setting process. In addition, when the elapsed time used as a condition for the change time is preset by the manufacturer of the inhalation device 100, it is not necessary to perform the processes such as steps S30 and S32.

[0275] As described above, according to this embodiment, the control unit 116 changes the heating mode of at least one of the first heating unit 121 and the second heating unit 132 in response to reaching a predetermined change time after the inhalation device 100 enters the powered-on state. In this way, the puff satisfaction or the irritation in the oral cavity caused by puffing can be changed before and after the change time, and the puff satisfaction or the irritation in the oral cavity can prompt the user whether the current timing is before or after the change time. Therefore, even if the user does not separately count the elapsed time or the number of puffs since the start of the current powered-on state (in other words, the current smoking session), the user can still clearly know when to terminate the current powered-on state by considering the puff satisfaction or the irritation in the oral cavity caused by puffing, which provides better convenience for the user. Additionally, when the change time is a time set based on the user's smoking history, the puff satisfaction or the irritation in the oral cavity caused by puffing can be changed before and after a suitable change time that conforms to the user's past smoking tendency, which provides even better convenience for the user.

[0276] The embodiments of the power supply unit, control method, and control program for an inhalation device according to the present disclosure have been described above with reference to the accompanying drawings. However, it goes without saying that the present invention is not limited to such embodiments. Obviously, those skilled in the art will be able to come up with several variant examples or modified examples within the scope disclosed in the claims, and any such variant examples or modified examples are naturally understood to fall within the technical scope of the present disclosure.

[0277] For example, specific numerical values such as the target temperature described in the above embodiments are merely examples and are not limited to those given.

[0278] In addition, the control method described in the above embodiments can be implemented by executing a pre-prepared program on a computer (processor). The program is stored on a computer-readable storage medium and is executed by being read out from the storage medium. The program can also be provided in a form stored in a non-transitory storage medium (such as a flash memory), or can be provided via a network (such as the Internet). In addition, the computer that executes the program can be included, for example, in the inhalation device 100 (such as the CPU of the inhalation device 100), but this is not restrictive, and the computer can also be included in another device (such as a smart phone or a server) that can communicate with the inhalation device 100.

[0279] This specification and the like at least elaborate on the following features. The corresponding components and the like in the above embodiments are shown in parentheses by way of example, but there is no limitation on such components.

[0280] (1) A power supply unit (power supply unit 110) for an inhalation device (inhalation device 100), the inhalation device causing an aerosol generated by heating an aerosol source to pass through a flavor source (flavor source 131) so as to add flavor components of the flavor source to the aerosol, wherein,

[0281] The power supply unit includes:

[0282] A power source (power source unit 111) capable of supplying power to each of a first heating unit (first heating unit 121) for heating the aerosol source by power supply and a second heating unit (second heating unit 132) for heating the flavor source by power supply; and

[0283] A control unit (control unit 116) capable of controlling the power supply from the power source to the first heating unit and the second heating unit,

[0284] The inhalation device

[0285] has a non-inhaling state and a possible-inhaling state. In the non-inhaling state, power is not supplied to the first heating unit or the second heating unit. In the possible-inhaling state, power can be supplied to at least the first heating unit, and

[0286] enters the possible-inhaling state in response to a predetermined input during the non-inhaling state, and enters the non-inhaling state in response to a predetermined input during the possible-inhaling state, and

[0287] The control unit

[0288] when the inhalation device is in the possible-inhaling state and an inhalation is performed on the inhalation device, causes the first heating unit to heat the aerosol source, and

[0289] In response to reaching a predetermined change time after the inhalation device has entered the possible inhalation state, change the heating mode of at least one of the first heating unit and the second heating unit.

[0290] According to (1), before and after the predetermined change time after the inhalation device has entered the possible inhalation state, the suction satisfaction or the irritation in the oral cavity caused by inhalation on the inhalation device can be changed. In this way, the suction satisfaction or the irritation in the oral cavity caused by inhalation on the inhalation device can prompt the user whether the current timing is before or after the change time. Therefore, even if the user does not separately count the elapsed time since the start of the current possible inhalation state or the number of inhalations performed on the inhalation device, etc., the user can still clearly know when to terminate the current possible inhalation state by considering the suction satisfaction or the irritation in the oral cavity caused by inhalation on the inhalation device, which provides better convenience for the user.

[0291] (2) The power supply unit as disclosed in (1), wherein,

[0292] The change time is the time when a predetermined number of inhalations have been performed since the inhalation device entered the possible inhalation state, or the time when a predetermined time has elapsed since the inhalation device entered the possible inhalation state.

[0293] According to (2), as a predetermined number of inhalations have been performed on the inhalation device since the inhalation device entered the possible inhalation state, or as a predetermined time has elapsed since the inhalation device entered the possible inhalation state, the suction satisfaction or the irritation in the oral cavity caused by inhalation on the inhalation device can be changed.

[0294] (3) The power supply unit as disclosed in (1) or (2), wherein,

[0295] The control unit changes the heating mode of the second heating unit for the flavor source in response to reaching the change time.

[0296] According to (3), before and after the change time, the taste experienced by the user from inhalation on the inhalation device can be changed. In this way, the taste or the irritation in the oral cavity experienced by the user caused by inhalation on the inhalation device can prompt the user whether the current timing is before or after the change time. Therefore, the user can clearly know when to terminate the current possible inhalation state by considering the taste or the irritation in the oral cavity experienced by inhalation on the inhalation device.

[0297] (4) The power supply unit as disclosed in (3), wherein,

[0298] The control unit does not cause the second heating unit to heat the flavor source during the period from when the inhalation device enters the possible inhalation state until the change moment, and causes the second heating unit to heat the flavor source after the change moment.

[0299] According to (4), compared with before the change moment, the taste experienced by the user or the irritation in the oral cavity generated by inhalation on the inhalation device can be enhanced after the change moment. In this way, the taste experienced by the user or the irritation in the oral cavity generated by inhalation on the inhalation device can prompt the user whether the current timing is before or after the change moment.

[0300] (5)The power supply unit as disclosed in (3), wherein,

[0301] The control unit causes the second heating unit to heat the flavor source to a relatively low temperature during the period from when the inhalation device enters the possible inhalation state until the change moment, and causes the second heating unit to heat the flavor source to a relatively high temperature after the change moment.

[0302] According to (5), compared with before the change moment, the taste experienced by the user or the irritation in the oral cavity generated by inhalation on the inhalation device can be enhanced after the change moment. In this way, the taste experienced by the user or the irritation in the oral cavity generated by inhalation on the inhalation device can prompt the user whether the current timing is before or after the change moment. In addition, compared with when the flavor source is not heated, the taste or irritation in the oral cavity before the change moment can be enhanced.

[0303] (6)The power supply unit as disclosed in (4) or (5), wherein,

[0304] The control unit gradually increases the temperature of the second heating unit over time after the change moment.

[0305] According to (6), it is possible to suppress the excessive inconsistency or uncomfortable feeling provided to the user due to the sudden change of the taste experienced by the user or the irritation in the oral cavity generated by inhalation on the inhalation device starting from the change moment.

[0306] (7)The power supply unit as disclosed in (4) or (5), wherein,

[0307] The control unit gradually increases the temperature of the second heating unit as inhalation is performed after the change moment.

[0308] According to (7), it is possible to suppress the excessive inconsistency or uncomfortable feeling provided to the user due to the sudden change of the taste experienced by the user or the irritation in the oral cavity generated by inhalation on the inhalation device starting from the change moment.

[0309] The power supply unit as disclosed in (4) or (5), wherein,

[0310] The control unit gradually increases the temperature of the second heating unit over a predetermined time starting from the change moment.

[0311] According to (8), it is possible to suppress the excessive inconsistency or discomfort provided to the user due to the sudden change in the taste experienced by the user or the irritation in the oral cavity caused by inhalation on the inhalation device starting from the change moment.

[0312] The power supply unit as disclosed in (3), wherein,

[0313] The control unit causes the second heating unit to heat the flavor source during the period from when the inhalation device enters the possible inhalation state until reaching the change moment, and terminates the heating of the flavor source by the second heating unit in response to reaching the change moment.

[0314] According to (9), compared with before the change moment, the taste experienced by the user or the irritation in the oral cavity caused by inhalation on the inhalation device can be weakened after the change moment. In this way, the taste experienced by the user or the irritation in the oral cavity caused by inhalation on the inhalation device can prompt the user whether the current timing is before or after the change moment.

[0315] The power supply unit as disclosed in (3), wherein,

[0316] The control unit causes the second heating unit to heat the flavor source to a relatively high temperature during the period from when the inhalation device enters the possible inhalation state until reaching the change moment, and causes the second heating unit to heat the flavor source to a relatively low temperature after the change moment.

[0317] According to (10), compared with before the change moment, the taste experienced by the user or the irritation in the oral cavity caused by inhalation on the inhalation device can be weakened after the change moment. In addition, compared with when the flavor source is not heated after the change moment, it is possible to suppress the excessive weakening of the taste experienced by the user or the irritation in the oral cavity caused by inhalation on the inhalation device.

[0318] The power supply unit as disclosed in (1) or (2), wherein,

[0319] The control unit changes the heating mode of the first heating unit for the aerosol source in response to reaching the change moment.

[0320] According to (11), before and after the change moment, the amount of aerosol generated during inhalation on the inhalation device can be changed. In this way, the suction satisfaction or the irritation in the oral cavity caused by inhalation on the inhalation device can prompt the user whether the current timing is before or after the change moment. Therefore, the user can clearly know when to terminate the current possible inhalation state by considering the suction satisfaction or the irritation in the oral cavity caused by inhalation on the inhalation device.

[0321] The power supply unit as disclosed in (11), wherein,

[0322] When inhaling during the period from when the inhalation device enters the possible inhalation state until reaching the change moment, the control unit applies a first voltage to the first heating unit, and when inhaling after the change moment, the control unit applies a second voltage different from the first voltage to the first heating unit.

[0323] According to (12), before and after the change moment, the amount of aerosol generated during inhalation on the inhalation device can be changed.

[0324] (13) A control method implemented by a computer (control unit 116) to control a power supply unit (power supply unit 110) for an inhalation device (inhalation device 100), the inhalation device passing the aerosol generated by heating an aerosol source through a flavor source (flavor source 131) so as to add the flavor components of the flavor source to the aerosol, wherein,

[0325] The power supply unit includes

[0326] A power supply (power supply unit 111) capable of supplying power to each of a first heating unit (first heating unit 121) for heating the aerosol source by power supply and a second heating unit (second heating unit 132) for heating the flavor source by power supply,

[0327] The computer is configured to be able to control the power supply from the power supply to the first heating unit and the second heating unit,

[0328] The inhalation device

[0329] Has a non-inhalable state and a possible inhalation state. In the non-inhalable state, no power is supplied to the first heating unit or the second heating unit. In the possible inhalation state, power can be supplied to at least the first heating unit, and

[0330] Enters the possible inhalation state in response to a predetermined input during the non-inhalable state, and enters the non-inhalable state in response to a predetermined input during the possible inhalation state, and

[0331] The computer performs processing, and the processing

[0332] When the inhalation device is in the possible inhalation state, when inhalation is performed on the inhalation device, cause the first heating unit to heat the aerosol source (steps S5, step S26), and

[0333] In response to reaching a predetermined change time after the inhalation device has entered the possible inhalation state, change the heating mode of at least one of the first heating unit and the second heating unit (steps S8, step S28).

[0334] According to (13), before and after the predetermined change time after the inhalation device has entered the possible inhalation state, it is possible to change the suction satisfaction or the irritation in the oral cavity caused by inhalation on the inhalation device. In this way, the suction satisfaction or the irritation in the oral cavity caused by inhalation on the inhalation device can prompt the user whether the current timing is before or after the change time. Therefore, even if the user does not separately count the elapsed time since the start of the current possible inhalation state or the number of inhalations performed on the inhalation device, etc., the user can still clearly know when to terminate the current possible inhalation state by considering the suction satisfaction or the irritation in the oral cavity caused by inhalation on the inhalation device, which provides better convenience for the user.

[0335] (14) A control program for causing a computer (control unit 116) to perform predetermined processing to control a power supply unit (power supply unit 110) for an inhalation device (inhalation device 100), the inhalation device passing an aerosol generated by heating an aerosol source through a flavor source (flavor source 131) so as to add a flavor component of the flavor source to the aerosol, wherein,

[0336] The power supply unit includes

[0337] A power supply (power supply unit 111) capable of supplying power to each of a first heating unit (first heating unit 121) for heating the aerosol source by power supply and a second heating unit (second heating unit 132) for heating the flavor source by power supply,

[0338] The computer is configured to be able to control the power supply from the power supply to the first heating unit and the second heating unit,

[0339] The inhalation device

[0340] Has a non-inhalable state and a possible inhalation state. In the non-inhalable state, power is not supplied to the first heating unit or the second heating unit. In the possible inhalation state, power can be supplied to at least the first heating unit, and

[0341] Enter the possible inhalation state in response to a predetermined input during the non-inhalable state, enter the non-inhalable state in response to a predetermined input during the possible inhalation state, and

[0342] The control program causes the computer to perform a process, the process

[0343] When the inhalation device is in the possible inhalation state, when an inhalation is performed on the inhalation device, cause the first heating unit to heat the aerosol source (step S5, step S26), and

[0344] In response to reaching a predetermined change time after the inhalation device has entered the possible inhalation state, change the heating mode of at least one of the first heating unit and the second heating unit (step S8, step S28).

[0345] According to (14), before and after the predetermined change time after the inhalation device has entered the possible inhalation state, the suction satisfaction from the inhalation on the inhalation device or the irritation in the oral cavity can be changed. In this way, the suction satisfaction or the irritation in the oral cavity caused by the inhalation on the inhalation device can prompt the user whether the current timing is before or after the change time. Therefore, even if the user does not separately count the elapsed time since the start of the current possible inhalation state or the number of inhalations performed on the inhalation device, etc., the user can still clearly know when to terminate the current possible inhalation state by considering the suction satisfaction or the irritation in the oral cavity caused by the inhalation on the inhalation device, which provides better convenience for the user.

[0346] (15) A computer-readable storage medium storing the control program disclosed in (14).

[0347] According to (15), the computer can be caused to perform the control program disclosed in (14).

[0348] List of reference numerals

[0349] 100 Inhalation device

[0350] 110 Power supply unit

[0351] 111 Power supply unit (power supply)

[0352] 116 Control unit (computer)

[0353] 121 First heating unit

[0354] 131 Flavor source

[0355] 132 Second heating unit

Claims

1. A power supply unit for an inhalation device, the inhalation device passing a flavor source through an aerosol generated by heating an aerosol source so as to thereby add a flavor component of the flavor source to the aerosol, wherein, the power supply unit includes: a power source capable of supplying power to each of a first heating unit for heating the aerosol source by power supply and a second heating unit for heating the flavor source by power supply; and a control unit capable of controlling the power supply from the power source to the first heating unit and the second heating unit, the inhalation device has a non-inhaling state and a possible-inhaling state, in the non-inhaling state, no power is supplied to the first heating unit or the second heating unit, in the possible-inhaling state, power can be supplied to at least the first heating unit, and enters the possible-inhaling state in response to a predetermined input during the non-inhaling state, and enters the non-inhaling state in response to a predetermined input during the possible-inhaling state, and the control unit when the inhalation device is in the possible-inhaling state and an inhalation is performed on the inhalation device, causes the first heating unit to heat the aerosol source, and in response to reaching a predetermined change time after the inhalation device has entered the possible-inhaling state, changes a heating mode of at least one of the first heating unit and the second heating unit.

2. The power supply unit according to claim 1, wherein, the change time is a time when a predetermined number of inhalations have been performed since the inhalation device entered the possible-inhaling state, or a time when a predetermined time has elapsed since the inhalation device entered the possible-inhaling state.

3. The power supply unit according to claim 1 or 2, wherein, the control unit changes the heating mode of the second heating unit for the flavor source in response to reaching the change time.

4. The power supply unit according to claim 3, wherein, the control unit does not cause the second heating unit to heat the flavor source during a period from when the inhalation device enters the possible-inhaling state until reaching the change time, and causes the second heating unit to heat the flavor source after the change time.

5. The power supply unit according to claim 3, wherein, the control unit causes the second heating unit to heat the flavor source to a relatively low temperature during a period from when the inhalation device enters the possible-inhaling state until reaching the change time, and causes the second heating unit to heat the flavor source to a relatively high temperature after the change time.

6. The power supply unit according to claim 4 or 5, wherein, the control unit gradually raises the temperature of the second heating unit as time elapses after the change time.

7. The power supply unit according to claim 4 or 5, wherein, the control unit gradually raises the temperature of the second heating unit as inhalations are performed after the change time.

8. The power supply unit according to claim 4 or 5, wherein, the control unit gradually raises the temperature of the second heating unit at a predetermined time starting from the change time.

9. The power supply unit according to claim 3, wherein, The control unit causes the second heating unit to heat the flavor source during a period from when the inhalation device enters the possible inhalation state until the change moment is reached, and terminates the heating of the flavor source by the second heating unit in response to reaching the change moment.

10. The power supply unit according to claim 3, wherein the control unit causes the second heating unit to heat the flavor source to a relatively high temperature during a period from when the inhalation device enters the possible inhalation state until the change moment is reached, and causes the second heating unit to heat the flavor source to a relatively low temperature after the change moment.

11. The power supply unit according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the control unit changes the heating mode of the first heating unit for the aerosol source in response to reaching the change moment.

12. The power supply unit according to claim 11, wherein when inhalation is performed during a period from when the inhalation device enters the possible inhalation state until the change moment is reached, the control unit applies a first voltage to the first heating unit, and when inhalation is performed after the change moment, the control unit applies a second voltage different from the first voltage to the first heating unit.

13. A control method executed by a computer to control a power supply unit for an inhalation device, the inhalation device causing aerosol generated by heating an aerosol source to pass through a flavor source so as to add flavor components of the flavor source to the aerosol, wherein the power supply unit includes a power source capable of supplying power to each of a first heating unit for heating the aerosol source by power supply and a second heating unit for heating the flavor source by power supply, the computer is configured to be able to control the power supply from the power source to the first heating unit and the second heating unit, the inhalation device has a non-inhalable state and a possible inhalation state, in the non-inhalable state, no power is supplied to the first heating unit or the second heating unit, in the possible inhalation state, power can be supplied to at least the first heating unit, and enters the possible inhalation state in response to a predetermined input during the non-inhalable state, and enters the non-inhalable state in response to a predetermined input during the possible inhalation state, and the computer performs a process, the process when the inhalation device is in the possible inhalation state and inhalation is performed on the inhalation device, causes the first heating unit to heat the aerosol source, and in response to reaching a predetermined change moment after the inhalation device has entered the possible inhalation state, changes the heating mode of at least one of the first heating unit and the second heating unit.

14. A control program for causing a computer to perform a predetermined process to control a power supply unit for an inhalation device, the inhalation device causing aerosol generated by heating an aerosol source to pass through a flavor source so as to add flavor components of the flavor source to the aerosol, wherein the power supply unit includes a power source capable of supplying power to each of a first heating unit for heating the aerosol source by power supply and a second heating unit for heating the flavor source by power supply, The computer is configured to be able to control the power supply from the power source to the first heating unit and the second heating unit. The inhalation device has a non-inhaling state and a possible inhalation state. In the non-inhaling state, power is not supplied to the first heating unit or the second heating unit. In the possible inhalation state, power can be supplied to at least the first heating unit, and enters the possible inhalation state in response to a predetermined input during the non-inhaling state, and enters the non-inhaling state in response to a predetermined input during the possible inhalation state, and the control program causes the computer to execute a process, the process when the inhalation device is in the possible inhalation state and inhalation is performed on the inhalation device, causes the first heating unit to heat the aerosol source, and in response to reaching a predetermined change time after the inhalation device has entered the possible inhalation state, changes the heating mode of at least one of the first heating unit and the second heating unit.

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