Power supply unit, control method and control program for aerosol-generating device

Abstract

A power supply unit (110) for an inhalation device (100A) as an example of an aerosol-generating device includes a power supply unit (111A) and a control unit (116A). The power supply unit (111A) is configured to be capable of supplying power to a heating unit (121A) for heating an aerosol source, and is chargeable by means of power received from an external power supply (PS). The control unit (116A) acquires a power supply voltage constituting an output voltage of the power supply unit (111A), and is configured to be capable of controlling charging of the power supply unit (111A) on the basis of the power supply voltage. Then, the control unit (116A) sets a switching voltage on the basis of a temporary charging end voltage higher than an actual charging end voltage, performs charging in the first mode until the power supply voltage reaches the switching voltage, and then performs charging in the second mode until the power supply voltage reaches the actual charging end voltage.

Description

Technical Field

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

[0002] For example, aerosol-generating devices that generate an aerosol to which a flavor component has been added and enable a user to inhale the generated aerosol are conventionally known. Such aerosol-generating devices typically generate the aerosol by heating an aerosol source with the aid of a heating unit (also referred to as a "heating element"), which is a resistive or inductive heating heater, by supplying power from a power source such as a rechargeable battery to the heating unit.

[0003] The following PTL 1 describes the following technology, in which a first control unit of a power supply unit and a second control unit of a charging unit control the charging rate of a power supply, the power supply unit includes a power supply electrically connected to a load for atomizing an aerosol source or heating a flavor source, and the charging unit is capable of charging the power supply.

[0004] Citation List

[0005] Patent Literature

[0006] PTL 1: JP 6934114 B2 Summary of the Invention

[0007] Technical issues

[0008] However, from the perspective of achieving higher quality charging control, the above-mentioned conventional technology still has room for improvement.

[0009] The present disclosure provides a power supply unit, a control method, and a control program for an aerosol generating device, which can achieve higher quality charging control.

[0010] Solution to the problem

[0011] One aspect of this disclosure is

[0012] A power supply unit for an aerosol-generating device for generating an aerosol by heating an aerosol source, the power supply unit comprising:

[0013] a power source configured to be capable of supplying power to a heating unit for heating the aerosol source and rechargeable by means of power received from an external power source; and

[0014] a control unit that acquires a power supply voltage constituting an output voltage of the power supply and is configured to be able to control charging of the power supply based on the power supply voltage,

[0015] in,

[0016] The control unit

[0017] A switching voltage is set based on a temporary charge end voltage higher than an actual charge end voltage, charging in the first mode is performed until the power supply voltage reaches the switching voltage, and then charging in the second mode is performed until the power supply voltage reaches the actual charge end voltage.

[0018] Furthermore, another aspect of this disclosure is

[0019] A control method executed by a computer, the control method being for controlling a power supply unit of an aerosol generating device for generating aerosol by heating an aerosol source, wherein:

[0020] The power supply unit includes a power supply configured to be able to supply power to the heating unit for heating the aerosol source and to be rechargeable by means of power received from an external power source,

[0021] The computer acquires a power supply voltage constituting an output voltage of the power supply and is configured to be able to control charging of the power supply based on the power supply voltage, and

[0022] The computer performs a process that

[0023] A switching voltage is set based on a temporary charge end voltage higher than an actual charge end voltage, charging in the first mode is performed until the power supply voltage reaches the switching voltage, and then charging in the second mode is performed until the power supply voltage reaches the actual charge end voltage.

[0024] Furthermore, another aspect of this disclosure is

[0025] A control program for causing a computer for controlling a power supply unit of an aerosol generating device for generating aerosol by heating an aerosol source to execute predetermined processing, wherein:

[0026] The power supply unit includes a power supply configured to be able to supply power to the heating unit for heating the aerosol source and to be rechargeable by means of power received from an external power source,

[0027] The computer acquires a power supply voltage constituting an output voltage of the power supply and is configured to be able to control charging of the power supply based on the power supply voltage, and

[0028] The control program causes the computer to perform a process

[0029] A switching voltage is set based on a temporary charge end voltage higher than an actual charge end voltage, charging in the first mode is performed until the power supply voltage reaches the switching voltage, and then charging in the second mode is performed until the power supply voltage reaches the actual charge end voltage.

[0030] Advantageous Effects of the Invention

[0031] The present disclosure may provide a power supply unit, a control method, and a control program for an aerosol-generating device, which can achieve higher-quality charging control. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0032] [ Figure 1A ] Figure 1A is a diagram schematically showing a first configuration example of the inhalation device.

[0033] [ Figure 1B ] Figure 1B is a diagram schematically showing a second configuration example of the inhalation device.

[0034] [ Figure 2 ] Figure 2 An example of CCCV charging is shown.

[0035] [ Figure 3 ] Figure 3 An example of the first charging control executed by the control unit 116 is shown.

[0036] [ Figure 4 ] Figure 4 A first determination example of whether the first charging control or the second charging control is to be executed by the control unit 116 is shown.

[0037] [ Figure 5 ] Figure 5 A second determination example of whether the first charging control or the second charging control is to be executed by the control unit 116 is shown.

[0038] [ Figure 6 ] Figure 6 A third determination example of whether the first charging control or the second charging control is to be executed by the control unit 116 is shown.

[0039] [ Figure 7 ] Figure 7 A fourth determination example of whether the first charging control or the second charging control is to be executed by the control unit 116 is shown.

[0040] [ Figure 8 ] Figure 8 1 is a flowchart illustrating an example of processing related to charging performed by the control unit 116 .

[0041] [ Figure 9 ] Figure 9 An example of determination of whether the third charging, the fourth charging, or the second charging is to be performed by the control unit 116 is shown. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0042] Embodiments of a power supply unit, control method, and control program for an aerosol-generating device according to the present disclosure will be described in detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings. The embodiments described below constitute examples of applying the aerosol-generating device of the present disclosure to an inhalation device. It should be noted that the drawings should be viewed according to the orientation of the reference numerals. Furthermore, in the following description, identical or similar elements may be assigned identical or similar reference numerals, and their descriptions may be omitted or simplified as appropriate.

[0043] [1. Configuration Example of Inhalation Device]

[0044] An inhalation device, which constitutes an example of an aerosol-generating device of the present disclosure, is a device for generating a substance to be inhaled by a user. Hereinafter, the substance generated by the inhalation device will be described as an aerosol. Alternatively, the substance generated by the inhalation device may be a gas.

[0045] <1-1. First Configuration Example of Inhalation Device>

[0046] Figure 1A : is a schematic diagram schematically showing a first configuration example of the inhalation device. Figure 1A As shown in FIG, an inhalation device 100A according to this configuration example includes a power supply unit 110, a tobacco cartridge 120, and a flavored tobacco cartridge 130. The power supply unit 110 includes a power supply unit 111A, a sensor unit 112A, a notification unit 113A, a memory unit 114A, a communication unit 115A, and a control unit 116A. The tobacco cartridge 120 includes a heating unit 121A, a liquid introduction unit 122, and a liquid storage unit 123. The flavored tobacco cartridge 130 includes a flavor source 131 and a mouthpiece 124. An air flow path 180 is formed in the tobacco cartridges 120 and 130.

[0047] The power supply unit 111A stores electricity. Thus, the power supply unit 111A supplies electricity to each component of the inhalation device 100A according to control executed by the control unit 116A. Furthermore, the power supply unit 111A is configured to be rechargeable using power received from an external power supply PS, which is configured to output a predetermined power. Here, the predetermined power refers to power that the inhalation device 100A can receive in terms of hardware, and can be, for example, a DC voltage with a predetermined voltage (e.g., 5 to 20 V). The external power supply PS can be, for example, an AC adapter (AC: alternating current) configured to output the predetermined power. Furthermore, the external power supply PS is not limited to an AC adapter and can be, for example, a portable charger (also known as a power bank), a PC (personal computer), a smartphone, or a tablet terminal. The power supply unit 111A can be configured, for example, with a rechargeable battery (such as a lithium-ion secondary battery).

[0048] The sensor unit 112A acquires various types of information related to the inhalation device 100A. The sensor unit 112A is configured by, for example, a pressure sensor such as a condenser microphone, a flow rate sensor, or a temperature sensor, and acquires values ​​associated with inhalation by the user.

[0049] As an example, the sensor unit 112A may include a pressure sensor (also referred to as a "puff sensor") capable of detecting changes in pressure (hereinafter referred to as "internal pressure") within the inhalation device 100A caused by inhalation by the user. As another example, the sensor unit 112A may include a flow sensor capable of detecting a flow rate (hereinafter referred to as "flow rate") caused by inhalation by the user. As another example, the sensor unit 112A may include a temperature sensor (also referred to as a "puff thermistor") capable of detecting the temperature of the heating unit 121A or the temperature surrounding the heating unit 121A.

[0050] In addition, the sensor unit 112A may include a sensor capable of detecting the battery voltage V BAT The battery voltage is the output voltage of the power supply unit 111A. BAT is an example of the power supply voltage of the present disclosure. The sensor unit 112A may further include a temperature sensor capable of detecting the temperature of the power supply unit 111A.

[0051] Furthermore, the sensor unit 112A may include an input device (such as an operation button or switch) for accepting information input from the user. As an example, the sensor unit 112A may include an operation button as an input device for accepting a charge start request described later.

[0052] The notification unit 113A notifies the user of information. For example, the notification unit 113A may be configured by a light emitting device that emits light, a display device that displays an image, a sound output device that outputs sound, or a vibration device that can vibrate.

[0053] The memory unit 114A stores various information (eg, programs and data) used for the operation of the inhalation device 100A. The memory unit 114A may be configured, for example, by a nonvolatile storage medium such as a flash memory.

[0054] The communication unit 115A is a communication interface capable of performing communication conforming to any wired or wireless communication standard. For example, examples of usable communication standards include standards employing Wi-Fi (registered trademark), Bluetooth (registered trademark), BLE (Bluetooth Low Energy) (registered trademark), NFC (Near Field Communication), or LPWA (Low Power Wide Area).

[0055] The control unit 116A functions as both an arithmetic processing unit and a control unit, and controls the overall operation of the inhalation device 100A according to various programs stored in the memory unit 114A and the like. For example, the control unit 116A controls the supply of power (electricity) from the power supply unit 111A to each component (e.g., the heating unit 121A, which will be described later) and controls the charging of the power supply unit 111A using power received from the external power supply PS. The charging control and other functions performed by the control unit 116A will be described later and will not be described here. It should be noted that the control unit 116A is implemented by a central processing unit (CPU) or an electronic circuit such as a microprocessor. As an example, the control unit 116A may be implemented by an MCU (microcontroller unit), etc.

[0056] The liquid storage portion 123 stores an aerosol source. The aerosol source is atomized to generate an aerosol. For example, the aerosol source is a polyol (such as glycerin or propylene glycol) or a liquid (such as water). The aerosol source may include tobacco-derived or non-tobacco-derived flavor components. If the inhalation device 100A is a medical inhaler (such as a nebulizer), the aerosol source may include a medication.

[0057] Liquid guide portion 122 guides an aerosol source, which is the liquid stored in liquid storage portion 123, from liquid storage portion 123 and holds the aerosol source. Liquid guide portion 122 is, for example, a wick formed from a twisted fiber material (such as glass fiber) or a porous material (such as porous ceramic). In this case, the aerosol source stored in liquid storage portion 123 is guided by the capillary action of the wick.

[0058] For example, the heating unit 121A heats the aerosol source to atomize the aerosol source, thereby generating the aerosol. The heating unit 121A is formed of any material (such as metal or polyimide) in any shape (such as a coil, a film, or a blade). Figure 1A In the illustrated example, heating unit 121A is configured as a coil wound around a heating resistor made of nickel-chromium alloy or stainless steel, and is wound around liquid introduction section 122. When heating unit 121A generates heat, the aerosol source held in liquid introduction section 122 is heated and atomized, thereby generating aerosol. Heating unit 121A generates heat when supplied with power from power supply unit 111A.

[0059] For example, when the sensor unit 112A detects that the user has started inhalation and / or has input predetermined information, the heating unit 121A may be supplied with power (powered). Then, when the sensor unit 112A detects that the user has completed inhalation and / or has input predetermined information, the supply of power to the heating unit 121A may be stopped.

[0060] Furthermore, the heating unit 121A can be configured to generate an aerosol using vibration or induction heating. When generating an aerosol using vibration, the inhalation device 100A includes a vibration unit as the heating unit 121A. For example, the vibration unit is configured by a plate-like member including piezoelectric ceramics that function as ultrasonic vibrators. When the vibration unit vibrates, the aerosol source, which has been guided to the surface of the vibration unit by the liquid guide portion 122, is atomized by the ultrasonic waves generated by the vibration of the vibration unit, thereby generating an aerosol.

[0061] Furthermore, when generating aerosols via induction heating, the inhalation device 100A includes a susceptor and an electromagnetic induction source as a heating unit 121A. The susceptor is made of a conductive material (such as metal) and generates heat via electromagnetic induction. Furthermore, the susceptor is positioned adjacent to the liquid introducing portion 122. For example, the susceptor is formed from a metal wire and wound around the liquid introducing portion 122. The electromagnetic induction source causes the susceptor to generate heat through electromagnetic induction. The electromagnetic induction source is formed, for example, from a coiled wire and generates a magnetic field when supplied with AC current from the power supply unit 111A. This magnetic field generates eddy currents in the susceptor, generating Joule heat. This Joule heat then heats the aerosol source housed in the liquid introducing portion 122 and atomizes it, thereby generating the aerosol.

[0062] Flavor source 131 is a component used to impart flavor components to the aerosol. Flavor source 131 includes tobacco-derived or non-tobacco-derived flavor components. Flavor source 131 can be, for example, a tobacco-derived substance (such as cut tobacco) or a processed product obtained by molding tobacco raw material into granular, flake, or powdered form. Furthermore, flavor source 131 can also include non-tobacco-derived materials made from plants other than tobacco (such as mint and vanilla). As an example, flavor source 131 can contain a flavoring component such as menthol. Alternatively, flavor source 131 can be a stick-shaped component. When inhalation device 100A is a medical inhaler, flavor source 131 can contain a medication to be inhaled by the patient. It should be noted that aerosol source 131 is not limited to solids and can also be a liquid containing a flavor component, such as a polyol (such as glycerin or propylene glycol) or water. Furthermore, flavor source 131 can be disposed within a container such as a capsule.

[0063] Air flow path 180 is the flow path for air to be inhaled by the user. Air flow path 180 has a tubular structure with air inlet 181 and air outlet 182 at its ends. The air inlet serves as an inlet for air to enter air flow path 180, and the air outlet serves as an outlet for air to exit air flow path 180. Along air flow path 180, liquid introduction portion 122 is located on the upstream side (closer to air inlet 181), and flavor source 131 is located on the downstream side (closer to air outlet 182). When the user inhales, air flowing in through air inlet 181 mixes with the aerosol generated by heating unit 121A and is transported through flavor source 131 to air outlet 182, as indicated by arrow 190. As the mixed fluid of aerosol and air passes through flavor source 131, the flavor components contained in flavor source 131 are added to the aerosol.

[0064] The mouthpiece 124 is a member held in the user's mouth during inhalation. An air outflow hole 182 is provided in the mouthpiece 124. The user holds the mouthpiece 124 in his or her mouth so that a mixed fluid of aerosol and air can be inhaled into the oral cavity.

[0065] The configuration example of the inhalation device 100A has been described above. Of course, the inhalation device 100A is not limited to the configuration described above, and may adopt various configurations, such as those shown below by way of example.

[0066] As an example, the inhalation device 100A need not include the flavored cartridge 130 . In this case, the cartridge 120 is provided with the mouthpiece 124 .

[0067] As another example, the inhalation device 100A may further include a flavor source heating unit (not depicted) for heating the flavor source 131. The flavor source heating unit is configured in a film-like shape and is disposed so as to cover, for example, the outer periphery of the flavor source 131. Thus, when supplied with power from the power supply unit 111A, the flavor source heating unit generates heat, thereby heating the flavor source 131 from the outer periphery. Note that the flavor source heating unit may also be configured in a blade-like shape, for example, piercing the flavor source 131 to heat it from the inside. Furthermore, the flavor source heating unit may be configured to heat the flavor source 131 using vibration or induction heating. Providing this flavor source heating unit increases the temperature of the flavor source 131 and the amount of flavor components added to the aerosol compared to when the flavor source heating unit is not provided.

[0068] In addition, as another example, the inhalation device 100A may include multiple types of aerosol sources. Multiple types of aerosols generated from the multiple types of aerosol sources may be mixed within the air flow path 180 to cause a chemical reaction, thereby generating more other types of aerosols.

[0069] Furthermore, the means for atomizing the aerosol source is not limited to heating by the heating unit 121 A. For example, the means for atomizing the aerosol source may be vibration atomization or induction heating.

[0070] <1-2. Second Configuration Example of Inhalation Device>

[0071] Figure 1B : is a schematic diagram schematically showing a second configuration example of the inhalation device. Figure 1B As shown in , the inhalation device 100B according to this configuration example includes a power supply unit 111B, a sensor unit 112B, a notification unit 113B, a memory unit 114B, a communication unit 115B, a control unit 116B, a heating unit 121B, an accommodating portion 140, and a heat insulating portion 144.

[0072] The power supply unit 111B, the sensor unit 112B, the notification unit 113B, the memory unit 114B, the communication unit 115B, and the control unit 116B are each substantially the same as the corresponding components included in the inhalation device 100A described above. Figure 1B In the case of the inhalation device 100B shown, the inhalation device 100B itself may also be referred to as a power supply unit.

[0073] The accommodating portion 140 has an interior space 141 and holds the rod-shaped substrate 150 while accommodating a portion of the rod-shaped substrate 150 within the interior space 141. The accommodating portion 140 has an opening 142, thereby allowing the interior space 141 to communicate with the outside. The accommodating portion 140 accommodates the rod-shaped substrate 150 inserted into the interior space 141 through the opening 142. For example, the accommodating portion 140 is a cylindrical body including the opening 142 and a bottom portion 143 serving as a bottom surface, and the accommodating portion defines the columnar interior space 141. An air flow path for supplying air to the interior space 141 is connected to the accommodating portion 140. For example, an air inlet hole is provided in the side surface of the inhalation device 100, which serves as an inlet for air to enter the air flow path. For example, an air outlet hole is provided in the bottom portion 143, which serves as an outlet for air from the air flow path to the interior space 141.

[0074] The stick-shaped substrate 150 includes a substrate portion 151 and a mouthpiece portion 152. The substrate portion 151 contains an aerosol source. The aerosol source includes tobacco-derived or non-tobacco-derived flavor components. If the inhalation device 100B is a medical inhaler (such as a nebulizer), the aerosol source may include a medication. The aerosol source may be, for example, a liquid containing tobacco-derived or non-tobacco-derived flavor components, such as water or a polyol (e.g., glycerol or propylene glycol), or it may be a solid containing tobacco-derived or non-tobacco-derived flavor components. When the stick-shaped substrate 150 is held in the accommodating portion 140, at least a portion of the substrate portion 151 is accommodated in the internal space 141, and at least a portion of the mouthpiece portion 152 protrudes from the opening 142. Thus, when a user places the mouthpiece portion 152 protruding from the opening 142 in their mouth and inhales, air flows into the internal space 141 via an air flow path (not shown in the drawings) and, together with the aerosol generated from the substrate portion 151, reaches the user's mouth.

[0075] exist Figure 1B In the illustrated example, heating unit 121B is configured as a film heater having a conductive track made of a heating resistor with a correlation between resistance and temperature, and is arranged to cover the outer periphery of housing portion 140. Thus, when heating unit 121B generates heat, substrate portion 151 of rod-shaped substrate 150 is heated from the outer periphery, thereby generating aerosol. Note that the same heating resistor as that of heating unit 121A described above can be used as the heating resistor of heating unit 121B.

[0076] The heat insulating portion 144 prevents heat from being transferred from the heating unit 121B to other components. For example, the heat insulating portion 144 is configured by a vacuum heat insulating material, an aerogel heat insulating material, or the like.

[0077] The configuration example of the inhalation device 100B has been described above. Of course, the inhalation device 100B is not limited to the configuration described above, and may adopt various configurations, such as those shown below by way of example.

[0078] As an example, the heating unit 121B may have a blade-like form and may be arranged to protrude from the bottom portion 143 of the accommodating portion 140 into the internal space 141. In this case, the blade-shaped heating unit 121B is inserted into the matrix portion 151 of the rod-shaped matrix 150 and heats it from the inside of the matrix portion 151 of the rod-shaped matrix 150. As another example, the heating unit 121B may be arranged to cover the bottom portion 143 of the accommodating portion 140. In addition, the heating unit 121B may be configured by a combination of two or more of a first heating unit covering the outer periphery of the accommodating portion 140, a blade-shaped second heating unit, and a third heating unit covering the bottom portion 143 of the accommodating portion 140.

[0079] As another example, the receiving portion 140 may include an opening / closing mechanism (e.g., a hinge) for opening / closing a portion of the outer shell forming the interior space 141. By opening / closing the outer shell, the receiving portion 140 can receive and clamp the rod-type substrate 150 that has been inserted into the interior space 141. In this case, the heating unit 121B can be provided on the clamping portion of the receiving portion 140, and can heat the rod-type substrate 150 while pressing it.

[0080] Furthermore, the means for atomizing the aerosol source is not limited to heating by heating unit 121B. For example, the means for atomizing the aerosol source may be induction heating. In this case, inhalation device 100B includes at least an electromagnetic induction source (such as a coil) for generating a magnetic field, rather than heating unit 121B. The susceptor that generates heat by induction heating may be provided within inhalation device 100B or may be included in rod-shaped substrate 150.

[0081] In addition, the inhalation device 100B may additionally include the heating unit 121A, the liquid guide portion 122, the liquid storage portion 123, and the air flow path 180 according to the first configuration example, and the air flow path 180 may supply air to the internal space 141. In this case, a mixed fluid of the aerosol generated by the heating unit 121A and air flows into the internal space 141, and further mixes with the aerosol generated by the heating unit 121B, and reaches the user's oral cavity.

[0082] Note that, hereinafter, the inhalation device 100A and the inhalation device 100B described above will also be indiscriminately referred to as the "inhalation device 100." Similarly, the heating unit 111A and the like may be referred to as the "heating unit 111," the sensor unit 112A and the like may be referred to as the "sensor unit 112," the notification unit 113A and the like may be referred to as the "notification unit 113," the memory unit 114A and the like may be referred to as the "memory unit 114," the communication unit 115A and the like may be referred to as the "communication unit 115," the control unit 116A and the like may be referred to as the "control unit 116," and the heating unit 121A and the like may be referred to as the "heating unit 121."

[0083] [2.Charging control]

[0084] Next, the charging control performed by the control unit 116 will be described. When there is a user charging start request, the control unit 116 charges the power supply unit 111 with power received from the external power supply PS. Here, the charging start request may be, for example, to establish an electrical connection between the inhalation device 100 and the external power supply PS.

[0085] The inhalation device 100 and the external power source PS can be electrically connected via a receptacle and plug conforming to a standard such as USB Type-C (registered trademark), microUSB, or Lightning (registered trademark), or can be electrically connected via contactless power transmission (WPT: wireless power transmission). For example, a user can electrically connect the inhalation device 100 and the external power source PS by inserting the plug of the external power source PS into the receptacle of the inhalation device 100.

[0086] Furthermore, the charge start request may further include executing a predetermined operation once the electrical connection between the inhalation device 100 and the external power source PS has been established. This operation may be, for example, pressing a predetermined operation button provided on the inhalation device 100. Furthermore, this operation is not limited to a direct operation of the inhalation device 100 and may also be an operation of another device capable of communicating with the inhalation device 100 (e.g., a smartphone).

[0087] When the power supply unit 111 is being charged, the control unit 116 acquires the battery voltage V based on the detection result of the sensor unit 112 at a predetermined cycle (for example, every 5 [ms]), for example. BAT , and based on the obtained battery voltage V BAT The charging of the power supply unit 111 is controlled.

[0088] As an example, in this embodiment, it will be assumed that the control unit 116 charges the power supply unit 111 using constant-current constant-voltage charging, which is a combination of constant-current charging and constant-voltage charging. Here, constant-current charging is a charging mode in which a fixed charging current is supplied to the power supply unit 111, and is an example of "charging using the first mode" of the present disclosure. Furthermore, constant-voltage charging is a charging mode in which a fixed charging voltage is supplied to the power supply unit 111, and is an example of "charging using the second mode" of the present disclosure.

[0089] It should be noted that constant current charging will also be referred to as “CC charging” hereinafter, constant voltage charging will also be referred to as “CV charging” hereinafter, and constant current constant voltage charging (which is a combination of constant current charging and constant voltage charging) will also be referred to as “CCCV charging” hereinafter.

[0090] Figure 2 An example of CCCV charging is shown. Figure 2 In the figure, the horizontal axis represents time, and the vertical axis represents the battery voltage V BAT .

[0091] In CCCV charging, for example, Figure 2 As shown in FIG, from the time t0 when charging starts in response to the user's charging start request to the time when the battery voltage BAT Reaching the predetermined switching voltage V CV CC charging is performed in the period T1 from time t1 to the battery voltage V BAT Reaching the predetermined charging end voltage V END CV charging is performed within a period T2 from time t2, and one CCCV charging series is completed at time t2.

[0092] This CCCV charging achieves efficient charging until the power supply unit 111 reaches a fully charged state (in other words, until the battery voltage V BAT Reaching the charging end voltage V END More specifically, a larger charging current is provided by CC charging until the battery voltage V BAT Moderately close to the charging end voltage V END , and the power supply unit 111 can be quickly charged. Then, charging continues and the battery voltage V BAT Close to the end of charging voltage V END , thereafter, the charging current is limited by means of CV charging, whereby charging can be performed while taking safety into consideration so that the power supply unit 111 is not overcharged.

[0093] When CCCV charging is performed in this manner, it is possible to charge the battery by making the CC charging period (e.g., Figure 2The charging time required until the full state of charge is reached (which will also be referred to as "charging time" hereinafter) is shortened by making the period T1 shown in the figure as long as possible. That is, by setting the switching voltage V CV By setting the highest possible voltage to delay the switch from CC charging to CV charging, shorter charging times can be envisioned.

[0094] Typically based on the end-of-charge voltage V END And set the switching voltage V CV More specifically, if the switching voltage V CV is Va [V] and the charge end voltage V END is Vb [V] (where Vb > Va), Va [V] is calculated as Va [V] = k × Vb [V] using a predetermined coefficient k that is greater than "0 (zero)" and less than "1".

[0095] Accordingly, if the switching voltage V CV Based on the charging end voltage V END increases, the switching voltage V CV However, the charge end voltage V END It is usually established to consider hardware constraints such as rechargeable battery specifications. Therefore, it is difficult to increase the charge end voltage V END To increase the switching voltage V CV .

[0096] Therefore, in this embodiment, the control unit 116 is based on a voltage higher than the actual charging end voltage V END Temporary charging end voltage V END 'And set the switching voltage V CV , perform CC charging until the battery voltage V BAT Reaching the switching voltage V CV , then perform CV charging until the battery voltage V BAT Reaching the charging end voltage V END This makes it possible to charge the battery without increasing the charge end voltage V which serves as the end condition in a series of charging operations. END In the case of increasing the switching voltage V CVAccordingly, the switch from CC charging (i.e., charging performed in the first mode) to CV charging (i.e., charging performed in the second mode) can be delayed. This prevents the charging time from being prolonged due to premature switching from CC charging to CV charging, and allows for a shorter charging time. This allows the power supply unit 111 to be appropriately charged without overcharging, while also shortening the charging time by delaying the switch from CC charging to CV charging, and achieving higher-quality charging control.

[0097] It should be noted that, as mentioned above, "Based on a voltage higher than the actual charge end voltage V END Temporary charging end voltage V END 'And set the switching voltage V CV , perform CC charging until the battery voltage V BAT Reaching the switching voltage V CV , then perform CV charging until the battery voltage V BAT Reaching the charging end voltage V END The charging control mentioned in the “first charging control” will also be referred to as “first charging control” hereinafter.

[0098] In contrast, the actual end-of-charge voltage V END And set the switching voltage V CV , perform CC charging until the battery voltage V BAT Reaching the switching voltage V CV , then perform CV charging until the battery voltage V BAT Reaching the charging end voltage V END The charging control mentioned in the second embodiment will also be referred to as the “second charging control” hereinafter.

[0099] Figure 3 An example of the first charging control executed by the control unit 116 is shown. Figure 3 In the figure, the horizontal axis represents time, and the vertical axis represents the battery voltage V BAT Note that in this section, the focus is on the voltage value [V]. Figure 2 Those differences described in the Figure 2 Those commonalities described in .

[0100] In this example, let V1 [V] be the charge end voltage V END (e.g., 4.17 [V]), and let V2 [V] be the temporary charge end voltage V END ' (for example, 4.20 [V]). In this case, based on the provisional charge end voltage V END 'And set the switching voltage V CVIt can be expressed as k × V2 [V] using the above coefficient k. In contrast, based on the actual charge end voltage V END Based on the switching voltage V CV The set switching voltage V CV It can be expressed as k × V1 [V].

[0101] exist Figure 3 In the figure, the battery voltage V BAT The transition of the battery voltage V BAT In addition, the battery voltage V shown by reference numeral 302 BAT The transition of the battery voltage V BAT transformation.

[0102] When the power supply unit 111 is charged by means of the first charging control, the control unit 116 controls the battery voltage V BAT CC charging is performed during a period T11 of time t11 at which k×V2 [V] is reached. Here, k×V2 [V] is based on the provisional charge end voltage V END 'And set the switching voltage V CV Then, the control unit 116 increases the battery voltage V from time t11 to BAT CV charging is performed within a period T12 of time t12 at which V1 [V] is reached, and one CCCV charging series is completed at time t12. Here, V1 [V] is the actual charging end voltage V END .

[0103] In contrast, it is assumed that the control unit 116 charges the power supply unit 111 by means of the second charging control. In this case, the control unit 116 charges the power supply unit 111 from the time t0 when charging starts in response to the user's charging start request to the time when the battery voltage V BAT CC charging is performed during the period T21 of time t21 when k×V1[V] is reached. Here, k×V1[V] is based on the actual charge end voltage V END The set switching voltage V CV Then, the control unit 116 increases the battery voltage V from time t21 to BAT CV charging is performed within a period T22 of time t22 at which V1 [V] is reached, and one CCCV charging series is completed at time t22.

[0104] When the second charging control is performed in this manner, the switching voltage V CVis lower than the switching voltage in the first charging control, so the switching from CC charging to CV charging is performed proportionally earlier. In other words, when the first charging control is executed, the switching voltage V CV is higher than the switching voltage in the second charging control, so the switching from CC charging to CV charging is delayed proportionally. Accordingly, the period during which the power supply unit 111 can be charged with a large charging current can be extended in the first charging control compared to the second charging control (in Figure 3 In the example shown, period T11 > period T21), and shorter charging times can be envisioned.

[0105] At the same time, the first charging control provides a longer charging period with a large charging current, so the power supply unit 111 may generate more heat than the second charging control. If the power supply unit 111 generates heat frequently, this may cause the rechargeable battery constituting the power supply unit 111 to deteriorate and may shorten the life of the power supply unit 111. The life of the power supply unit 111 is preferably maintained as long as possible in consideration of user convenience.

[0106] Therefore, the control unit 116 can be configured to be able to execute the first charging control and the second charging control, can determine whether to execute the first charging control or the second charging control based on the state of the inhalation device 100 at the time of the charge start request, and can execute the first charging control or the second charging control based on the result of this determination. This makes it possible to selectively execute either the first charging control, which achieves efficient charging of the power supply unit 111, or the second charging control, which reduces the load on the power supply unit 111, while taking into account the state of the inhalation device 100 at the time of the charge start request.

[0107] Figure 4 1 shows a first example of determination of whether the first charging control or the second charging control is to be executed by the control unit 116. Figure 4 As shown, the control unit 116 may determine whether to perform the first charging control or the second charging control based on the state of charge (SOC) of the power supply unit 111 at the time of the charging start request, and may perform the first charging control or the second charging control based on the result of this determination, for example.

[0108] More specifically, when the state of charge at the time of the charge start request is less than a predetermined value (in Figure 4In the example shown, 50% is used, and the control unit 116 may determine that the first charging control is to be executed. Furthermore, when the state of charge at the time of the charge start request is equal to or greater than a predetermined value, the control unit 116 may determine that the second charging control is to be executed. The predetermined value may be preset by the manufacturer of the inhalation device 100 or may be set to any value by the user.

[0109] That is, charging of the power supply unit 111 can be started from a state of charge of 50% or greater (relatively close to a fully charged state), and can also be started from a state of charge of less than 50% (relatively far from a fully charged state). When charging is started from a state relatively close to a fully charged state, the charging time will be reasonably short even when charging is performed using the second charging control. Therefore, in this case, charging using the first charging control is less important.

[0110] Therefore, the first charging control can be effectively executed by executing it only when the state of charge at the time of the charge start request is less than a predetermined value, in other words, only in a state relatively far from a fully charged state. This enables appropriate charging to be performed using the first charging control and suppresses any reduction in the life of power supply unit 111 due to the first charging control. Furthermore, in situations where charging using the first charging control is not critical, charging is performed using the second charging control, thereby enabling charging to be performed while limiting the load on power supply unit 111 (i.e., heat generation by power supply unit 111).

[0111] Figure 5 FIG. 2 shows a second example of determination of whether the first charging control or the second charging control is to be executed by the control unit 116. Figure 5 As shown, the control unit 116 can determine whether to execute the first charging control or the second charging control based on the temperature of the power supply unit 111 at the time of the charge start request (hereinafter also referred to as the "battery temperature"), and can, for example, execute the first charging control or the second charging control based on the result of this determination. It should be noted that in this case, the control unit 116 is configured to be able to obtain the battery temperature based on the detection results from the sensor unit 112, for example.

[0112] More specifically, when the battery temperature at the time of the charge start request is less than a predetermined value (in Figure 5In the example shown, the control unit 116 may determine that the first charging control is to be executed when the battery temperature at the time of the charge start request is equal to or greater than a predetermined value, and may then execute the second charging control. The predetermined value may be preset by the manufacturer of the inhalation device 100 or may be set to any value by the user.

[0113] Therefore, by executing the first charge control only when the battery temperature at the time of the charge start request is less than a predetermined value—in other words, executing the first charge control only when the power supply unit 111 is at a relatively low temperature—it is possible to limit situations in which charging is performed using the first charge control when the battery temperature is relatively high, which would cause the battery temperature to rise further. This enables appropriate charging using the first charge control and prevents any shortening of the life of the power supply unit 111 due to the first charge control. Furthermore, by executing charging using the second charge control when the battery temperature is relatively high, it is possible to perform charging while limiting the load on the power supply unit 111 (i.e., heat generation by the power supply unit 111).

[0114] Figure 6 FIG. 4 shows a third determination example of whether the first charging control or the second charging control is to be executed by the control unit 116. Figure 6 As shown, the control unit 116 can determine whether to execute the first charging control or the second charging control based on the time that has elapsed since the aerosol was generated, and can, for example, execute the first charging control or the second charging control based on the result of this determination. It should be noted that in this case, the memory unit 114 appropriately stores information indicating the usage history of the inhalation device 100 each time the user uses the inhalation device 100 (for example, each time the user takes a puff using the inhalation device 100) (for example, when the user takes a puff), and the control unit 116 is configured to be able to obtain the time that has elapsed since the aerosol was generated based on this information.

[0115] More specifically, when a predetermined time has elapsed since the aerosol was generated (in Figure 6 If a charge start request is received after a predetermined time has passed since aerosol generation (elapsed time ≥ 600 s in the example shown), control unit 116 may determine that first charge control is to be executed, and may then execute the first charge control. Meanwhile, if a charge start request is received before a predetermined time has passed since aerosol generation, control unit 116 may determine that second charge control is to be executed, and may then execute the second charge control. Here, the predetermined time may be preset by the manufacturer of inhalation device 100 or may be set to any value by the user.

[0116] That is, when aerosol is generated by means of the heating unit 121, power is supplied from the power supply unit 111 to the heating unit 121 (ie, the power supply unit 111 is discharged). Therefore, it is also conceivable that the battery temperature will be higher immediately after aerosol generation.

[0117] Therefore, by executing the first charge control only when a predetermined time has elapsed since aerosol generation, it is possible to limit situations where charging is performed using the first charge control when the battery temperature is assumed to be relatively high immediately after aerosol generation, which would cause the battery temperature to rise further. This enables appropriate charging using the first charge control and suppresses any shortening of the life of the power supply unit 111 caused by the first charge control. Furthermore, by executing charging using the second charge control in situations where the battery temperature is assumed to be relatively high immediately after aerosol generation, it is possible to perform charging while limiting the load on the power supply unit 111 (i.e., heat generation by the power supply unit 111).

[0118] Figure 7 FIG. 4 shows a fourth determination example of whether the first charging control or the second charging control is to be executed by the control unit 116. Figure 7 As shown, the control unit 116 can determine whether to execute the first charging control or the second charging control based on the time when the charge start request is present, can determine whether to execute the first charging control or the second charging control based on the result of this determination, and can, for example, execute the first charging control or the second charging control based on the result of this determination. It should be noted that in this case, the control unit 116 can be configured to obtain the time from a real-time clock (RTC) provided in the inhalation device 100, or can be configured to obtain the time by communicating with a network time protocol (NTP) server via the communication unit 115.

[0119] More specifically, when the time when the charge start request is present is included in the predetermined time slot, the control unit 116 may determine that the first charge control is to be executed, and then the first charge control may be executed. Meanwhile, when the time when the charge start request is present is not included in the predetermined time slot, the control unit 116 may determine that the second charge control is to be executed, and then the second charge control may be executed.

[0120] Here, the predetermined time slot may be, for example, a time slot at which it is assumed that the user may be using the inhalation device 100. Figure 7 In the example shown, the time slot that serves as a condition for executing the first charging control is the time slot between 06:00 and 23:59, during which the user is assumed to be active (in other words, awake). The time slot that serves as a condition for executing the first charging control may be preset by the manufacturer of the inhalation device 100 or may be set by the user in any other manner.

[0121] Furthermore, the control unit 116 can infer a time slot during which it is assumed that the user is likely to be using the inhalation device 100 from the situation in which the user has been using the inhalation device 100 up to that point in time, and can set the inferred time slot as a time slot serving as a condition for executing the first charging control. In this case, the memory unit 114 appropriately stores information indicating the usage history of the inhalation device 100 (e.g., when the user smokes) each time the user uses the inhalation device 100 (e.g., each time the user smokes using the inhalation device 100), thereby enabling the control unit 116 to infer a time slot during which it is assumed that the user is likely to be using the inhalation device 100 based on this information.

[0122] Therefore, by executing the first charging control only when the time when a charge start request is received falls within a predetermined time slot, it is possible to limit the use of the first charging control to charging during time slots when the user is unlikely to use the inhalation device 100 (e.g., during the middle of the night). This enables appropriate charging using the first charging control and suppresses the shortening of the life of the power supply unit 111 due to the first charging control. Furthermore, by executing the second charging control during time slots when the user is unlikely to use the inhalation device 100, it is possible to perform charging while limiting the load on the power supply unit 111 (i.e., heat generation by the power supply unit 111).

[0123] [3. Example of Processing Related to Charging Performed by Control Unit]

[0124] Next, an example of processing related to charging performed by the control unit 116 will be described. Figure 8 1 is a flowchart showing an example of processing related to charging performed by the control unit 116. Figure 8 As shown, the control unit 116 determines whether there has been a charge start request from the user (step S1). If it is determined that there has not been a charge start request (step S1: No), the control unit 116 repeats the process of step S1 until it determines that there has been a charge start request.

[0125] If it is determined that a charge start request has been issued (step S1: Yes), the control unit 116 determines whether the state of charge of the power supply unit 111 at the current time is less than a predetermined value (e.g., 50%) (step S2). If it is determined that the state of charge is equal to or greater than the predetermined value (step S2: No), the control unit 116 proceeds to the process of step S6.

[0126] If the state of charge is determined to be less than the predetermined value (step S2: Yes), the control unit 116 determines whether the battery temperature of the power supply unit 111 at the current time is less than a predetermined value (e.g., 35°C) (step S3). If the battery temperature is determined to be equal to or greater than the predetermined value (step S3: No), the control unit 116 proceeds to the process of step S6.

[0127] If it is determined that the battery temperature is less than the predetermined value (step S3 : YES), the control unit 116 determines whether the current time is included in a predetermined time slot serving as a condition for executing the first charging control (step S4 ).

[0128] If it is determined that the current time is included in the predetermined time slot (step S4: YES), the control unit 116 generates a charge signal based on the provisional charge end voltage V END 'And set the switching voltage V CV (Step S5). Meanwhile, if it is determined that the current time is not included in the predetermined time slot (Step S4: No), the control unit 116 calculates the current time based on the actual charge end voltage V END And set the switching voltage V CV (Step S6).

[0129] Then, the control unit 116 performs CC charging until the battery voltage V BAT The switching voltage V set in step S5 or step S6 is reached CV (Step S7). When the battery voltage V BAT Reaching the switching voltage V CV When the battery voltage V BAT Reaching the charging end voltage V END (Step S8 ) It should be noted that if the electrical connection between the inhalation device 100 and the external power source PS is interrupted during charging of the power source unit 111 , the control unit 116 terminates the charging of the power source unit 111 at this point in time.

[0130] As described above, with the inhalation device 100, the charging voltage V END Temporary charging end voltage V END 'And set the switching voltage V CV , perform CC charging until the battery voltage V BAT Reaching the switching voltage V CV , then perform CV charging until the battery voltage V BAT Reaching the charging end voltage V END This makes it possible to charge the battery without increasing the charge end voltage V which serves as the end condition in a series of CCCV charging operations. END In the case of increasing the switching voltage V CVAccordingly, the switch from CC charging to CV charging can be delayed. Therefore, the extension of charging time due to premature switching from CC charging to CV charging can be suppressed, and a shorter charging time can be expected. Thus, the power supply unit 111 can be appropriately charged without overcharging, while also shortening the charging time by delaying the switch from CC charging to CV charging, and achieving higher-quality charging control.

[0131] Note that the specific numerical values ​​given in the above embodiments are merely examples and are not limiting. Furthermore, the above embodiments and the like may be modified or improved as appropriate.

[0132] For example, in the above embodiment, there is a temporary charge end voltage V END ', but this is not restrictive. For example, two temporary charge end voltages V END ': V11 [V] and V12 [V] (where V12 < V11). Based on the state of the inhalation device 100 at the time of the charge start request, the control unit 116 can then determine whether the temporary charge end voltage V END 'When the voltage is V11 [V], the first charge control is executed. Is the temporary charge end voltage V END 'Whether to execute the first charging control when the voltage is V12 [V] or to execute the second charging control.

[0133] Here, at the temporary charge end voltage V END 'The first charging control in the case of V11 [V] constitutes a charging control in which the switching voltage V is set based on V11 [V] CV (For example, the switching voltage V CV = k × V11 [V]), and CC charging is performed until the battery voltage V BAT Reaching the switching voltage V CV , thereafter, CV charging is performed until the battery voltage V BAT Reaching the charging end voltage V END .

[0134] In addition, at the temporary charge end voltage V END 'The first charging control in the case of V12 [V] constitutes a charging control in which the switching voltage V is set based on V12 [V] CV (For example, the switching voltage V CV = k × V12 [V]), and CC charging is performed until the battery voltage V BAT Reaching the switching voltage V CV , thereafter, CV charging is performed until the battery voltage V BAT Reaching the charging end voltage V END .

[0135] In order to distinguish the temporary charging end voltage V END 'The first charge control in the case of V11 [V] and the temporary charge end voltage V END 'The first charge control in the case of V12 [V], at the temporary charge end voltage V END 'The first charge control in the case of V11 [V] will also be referred to as "third charge control" hereinafter, and at the provisional charge end voltage V END The first charging control in the case of V12 [V] will also be referred to as “fourth charging control” hereinafter.

[0136] Figure 9 FIG. 4 shows an example of determining whether the third charging, the fourth charging, or the second charging is to be performed by the control unit 116. In this example, Figure 9 As shown, when the state of charge of the power supply unit 111 is less than the first predetermined value (at Figure 9 In the example shown, 33 [%]), the control unit 116 may perform the third charging control. In addition, when the state of charge at the time of the charge start request is equal to or greater than the first predetermined value and less than the second predetermined value (in Figure 9 In the example shown, 66% is used, and the control unit 116 may execute the fourth charging control. Then, when the state of charge at the time of the charge start request is equal to or greater than the second predetermined value, the control unit 116 may execute the second charging control. Here, the first predetermined value and the second predetermined value may be preset by the manufacturer of the inhalation device 100 or may be set to any value by the user.

[0137] Therefore, the third charging control, the fourth charging control or the second charging control is performed according to the charge state at the time of the charge start request, thereby taking into account the charge state at the time of the charge start request so that appropriate charging control can be performed from the perspective of charging efficiency and the load on the power supply unit 111 caused by charging, thereby enabling higher quality charging control to be provided.

[0138] Furthermore, control unit 116 may execute the third charging control, the fourth charging control, or the second charging control according to the battery temperature at the time of the charge start request, in the same manner as in the example described herein. As an example, control unit 116 may execute the third charging control when the battery temperature at the time of the charge start request is less than a first predetermined value (e.g., 30°C), may execute the fourth charging control when the battery temperature is equal to or greater than the first predetermined value and less than a second predetermined value (e.g., 35°C), and may execute the second charging control when the battery temperature is equal to or greater than the second predetermined value.

[0139] In the same manner, the control unit 116 may execute the third charging control, the fourth charging control, or the second charging control according to the time that has passed since the aerosol was generated or the time when the charging start request was present. END 'Provide three or more voltage values.

[0140] Furthermore, the control methods 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 reading it from the storage medium. The program can also be provided in a form stored in a non-transitory storage medium (e.g., flash memory) or provided via a network (e.g., the Internet). Furthermore, the computer that executes the program can be, for example, included in the inhalation device 100 (e.g., the CPU of the inhalation device 100), but this is not restrictive and the computer can also be included in another device capable of communicating with the inhalation device 100 (e.g., a smartphone or a server).

[0141] While the embodiments of the power supply unit, control method, and control program for an aerosol-generating device according to the present disclosure have been described above, it goes without saying that the present invention is not limited to such embodiments. It is apparent that a person skilled in the art will be able to conceive of a plurality of variant embodiments or modified embodiments within the scope disclosed in the claims, and it should naturally be understood that any such variant embodiments or modified embodiments fall within the technical scope of the present invention. Furthermore, the components of the embodiments described above may be combined in any manner without departing from the essential aspects of the present invention.

[0142] This specification, etc., describes at least the following features: Corresponding components, etc. in the above-described embodiments are shown in parentheses by way of example, but there is no limitation on such components.

[0143] (1) A power supply unit (inhalation device 100, 100A, 100B; power supply unit 110) for an aerosol generating device (inhalation device 100, 100A, 100B) for generating an aerosol by heating an aerosol source, the power supply unit comprising:

[0144] a power supply (power supply unit 111 , 111A, 111B) configured to be capable of supplying power to a heating unit (heating unit 121 , 121A, 121B) for heating the aerosol source and rechargeable by means of power received from an external power supply (external power supply PS); and

[0145] A control unit (control unit 116, 116A, 116B) that obtains a power supply voltage (battery voltage V BAT ), and is configured to be capable of controlling charging of the power supply based on the power supply voltage,

[0146] in,

[0147] The control unit

[0148] Based on a voltage higher than the actual charge end voltage (charge end voltage V END ) of the temporary charge end voltage (temporary charge end voltage V END ') and set the switching voltage (switching voltage V CV ), charging is performed in the first mode until the power supply voltage reaches the switching voltage, and then charging is performed in the second mode until the power supply voltage reaches the actual charging end voltage.

[0149] According to (1), the switching voltage is set based on a provisional charge end voltage that is higher than the actual charge end voltage, charging is performed in the first mode until the power supply voltage reaches the switching voltage, and then charging is performed in the second mode until the power supply voltage reaches the actual charge end voltage. This makes it possible to increase the switching voltage without increasing the charge end voltage that serves as the end condition in a series of charging operations. Accordingly, the switch from charging in the first mode to charging in the second mode can be delayed. Therefore, the extension of the charging time caused by the early switch from charging in the first mode to charging in the second mode can be suppressed, and a shorter charging time can be expected.

[0150] (2) A power supply unit as disclosed in (1), wherein:

[0151] The charging performed in the first mode is constant current charging, and

[0152] The charging performed in the second mode is constant voltage charging.

[0153] According to (2), it is possible to suppress the extension of the charging time due to early switching from constant current charging to constant voltage charging, and a shorter charging time can be expected.

[0154] (3) A power supply unit as disclosed in (1) or (2), wherein:

[0155] The control unit is configured to perform

[0156] a first charging control in which the switching voltage is set based on the provisional charging end voltage, charging in the first mode is performed until the power supply voltage reaches the switching voltage, and then charging in the second mode is performed until the power supply voltage reaches the charging end voltage; and

[0157] second charging control, wherein the switching voltage is set based on the charge end voltage, charging in the first mode is performed until the power supply voltage reaches the switching voltage, and then charging in the second mode is performed until the power supply voltage reaches the charge end voltage,

[0158] and

[0159] When there is a charge start request from a user, the control unit executes the first charge control or the second charge control based on a state of the aerosol generating device.

[0160] According to (3), either the first charging control that achieves efficient charging of the power supply or the second charging control that reduces the load on the power supply can be selectively performed while taking into account the state of the aerosol generating device at the time of the charge start request.

[0161] (4) A power supply unit as disclosed in (3), wherein:

[0162] The control unit

[0163] When the state of charge of the power source at the time of the charge start request is less than a predetermined value, the first charge control is performed, and

[0164] The second charging control is performed when the state of charge of the power source at the time of the charge start request is equal to or greater than the predetermined value.

[0165] According to (4), charging can be appropriately performed by means of the first charging control, and shortening of the life of the power supply due to the first charging control can be suppressed. Furthermore, in a situation where charging by means of the first charging control is assumed to be less important, charging is performed by means of the second charging control, thereby enabling charging to be performed while limiting the load on the power supply (i.e., heat generation of the power supply).

[0166] (5) The power supply unit as disclosed in (3), wherein:

[0167] The temporary charge end voltage includes:

[0168] a first provisional charge end voltage, and a second provisional charge end voltage lower than the first provisional charge end voltage,

[0169] The control unit is configured to perform

[0170] As the first charge control:

[0171] a third charging control in which the switching voltage is set based on the first provisional charging end voltage, charging in the first mode is performed until the power supply voltage reaches the switching voltage, and then charging in the second mode is performed until the power supply voltage reaches the charging end voltage; and

[0172] a fourth charging control in which the switching voltage is set based on the second provisional charging end voltage, charging in the first mode is performed until the power supply voltage reaches the switching voltage, and then charging in the second mode is performed until the power supply voltage reaches the charging end voltage, and

[0173] When the state of charge of the power source at the time of the charge start request is less than a first predetermined value, the control unit performs the third charging control.

[0174] When the state of charge of the power source at the time of the charge start request is equal to or greater than the first predetermined value and less than a second predetermined value, the fourth charge control is performed, and

[0175] The second charging control is performed when the state of charge of the power source at the time of the charge start request is equal to or greater than the second predetermined value.

[0176] According to (5), the state of charge at the time of the charge start request is taken into account to enable appropriate charging control to be performed from the perspectives of charging efficiency and the load on the power supply caused by charging, thus enabling higher quality charging control to be provided.

[0177] (6) A power supply unit as disclosed in (3), wherein:

[0178] The control unit

[0179] The first charging control is performed when the temperature of the power source at the time of the charging start request is less than a predetermined value, and

[0180] The second charging control is performed when the temperature of the power source at the time of the charging start request is equal to or greater than the predetermined value.

[0181] According to (6), charging can be appropriately performed by means of the first charging control, and shortening of the life of the power supply due to the first charging control can be suppressed. In addition, in a situation where the temperature of the power supply is relatively high, charging is performed by means of the second charging control, thereby enabling charging to be performed while limiting the load on the power supply (i.e., heat generation of the power supply).

[0182] (7) A power supply unit as disclosed in (3), wherein:

[0183] The control unit

[0184] When there is a charge start request after a predetermined time has elapsed since the aerosol was generated, the first charge control is executed, and

[0185] The second charging control is executed when there is a charging start request before the predetermined time has elapsed since the aerosol was generated.

[0186] According to (7), charging can be appropriately performed by means of the first charging control, and shortening of the life of the power supply due to the first charging control can be suppressed. Furthermore, in a situation where it is assumed that the battery temperature is relatively high immediately after aerosol generation, charging is performed by means of the second charging control, thereby enabling charging to be performed while limiting the load on the power supply (i.e., heat generation of the power supply).

[0187] (8) A power supply unit as disclosed in (1) or (2), wherein:

[0188] The control unit is configured to perform

[0189] a first charging control in which the switching voltage is set based on the provisional charging end voltage, charging in the first mode is performed until the power supply voltage reaches the switching voltage, and then charging in the second mode is performed until the power supply voltage reaches the charging end voltage; and

[0190] second charging control, wherein the switching voltage is set based on the charge end voltage, charging in the first mode is performed until the power supply voltage reaches the switching voltage, and then charging in the second mode is performed until the power supply voltage reaches the charge end voltage,

[0191] and

[0192] The control unit executes the first charging control or the second charging control based on a time when there is a charging start request from a user.

[0193] According to (8), charging can be appropriately performed by means of this first charging control.

[0194] (9) A power supply unit as disclosed in (8), wherein:

[0195] The control unit

[0196] When the time is included in a predetermined time slot on the assumption that the user may be using the aerosol generating device, the first charging control is performed, and

[0197] When the time is not included in the predetermined time slot, the second charging control is performed.

[0198] According to (9), charging can be appropriately performed by means of the first charging control, and shortening of the life of the power supply due to the first charging control can be suppressed. Furthermore, charging is performed by means of the second charging control so as to perform charging during a time slot when it is assumed that the user is less likely to use the aerosol generating device, thereby enabling charging to be performed while limiting the load on the power supply (i.e., heat generation of the power supply).

[0199] (10) A control method executed by a computer (control unit 116, 116A, 116B) for controlling a power supply unit (inhalation device 100, 100A, 100B) of an aerosol generating device (inhalation device 100, 100A, 100B) for generating an aerosol by heating an aerosol source, wherein:

[0200] The power supply unit includes a power supply (power supply unit 111, 111A, 111B) configured to be able to supply power to a heating unit (heating unit 121, 121A, 121B) for heating the aerosol source and rechargeable by means of power received from an external power supply (external power supply PS),

[0201] The computer obtains the power supply voltage (battery voltage V BAT ), and is configured to be capable of controlling charging of the power supply based on the power supply voltage, and

[0202] The computer performs a process that

[0203] A switching voltage is set based on a provisional charge end voltage that is higher than an actual charge end voltage (step S5), charging is performed in the first mode until the power supply voltage reaches the switching voltage (step S7), and then charging is performed in the second mode until the power supply voltage reaches the actual charge end voltage (step S8).

[0204] According to (10), the switching voltage is set based on a temporary charge end voltage that is higher than the actual charge end voltage, charging is performed in the first mode until the power supply voltage reaches the switching voltage, and then charging is performed in the second mode until the power supply voltage reaches the actual charge end voltage. This makes it possible to increase the switching voltage without increasing the charge end voltage that serves as the end condition in a series of charging operations. Accordingly, the switching from charging in the first mode to charging in the second mode can be delayed. Therefore, the extension of the charging time due to the early switching from charging in the first mode to charging in the second mode can be suppressed, and a shorter charging time can be envisioned.

[0205] (11) A control program for causing a computer (control unit 116, 116A, 116B) that controls a power supply unit (inhalation device 100, 100B; power supply unit 110) of an aerosol generating device (inhalation device 100, 100A, 100B) for generating an aerosol by heating an aerosol source to perform predetermined processing, wherein:

[0206] The power supply unit includes a power supply (power supply unit 111, 111A, 111B) configured to be able to supply power to a heating unit (heating unit 121, 121A, 121B) for heating the aerosol source and rechargeable by means of power received from an external power supply (external power supply PS),

[0207] The computer obtains the power supply voltage (battery voltage V BAT ), and is configured to be capable of controlling charging of the power supply based on the power supply voltage, and

[0208] The control program causes the computer to perform a process

[0209] A switching voltage is set based on a provisional charge end voltage higher than a charge end voltage (which serves as an actual charge end voltage), charging in the first mode is performed until the power supply voltage reaches the switching voltage, and then charging in the second mode is performed until the power supply voltage reaches the actual charge end voltage.

[0210] According to (11), the switching voltage is set based on a temporary charge end voltage higher than the actual charge end voltage, charging is performed in the first mode until the power supply voltage reaches the switching voltage, and then charging is performed in the second mode until the power supply voltage reaches the actual charge end voltage. This makes it possible to increase the switching voltage without increasing the charge end voltage that serves as the end condition in a series of charging operations. Accordingly, the switching from charging in the first mode to charging in the second mode can be delayed. Therefore, the extension of the charging time due to the early switching from charging in the first mode to charging in the second mode can be suppressed, and a shorter charging time can be envisioned.

[0211] (12) A computer-readable storage medium (memory unit 114, 114A, 114B) storing the control program disclosed in (11).

[0212] According to (12), it is possible to make a computer implement the control program disclosed in (11).

[0213] List of Reference Numerals

[0214] 100, 100A, 100B Inhalation devices (aerosol generating device, power supply unit)

[0215] 110 power supply unit

[0216] 111, 111A, 111B power supply unit (power supply)

[0217] 121, 121A, 121B heating units

[0218] 116, 116A, 116B control unit (computer)

[0219] PS external power supply

Claims

1. A power supply unit for an aerosol-generating device for generating an aerosol by heating an aerosol source, the power supply unit comprising: a power source configured to be capable of supplying power to a heating unit for heating the aerosol source and rechargeable by means of power received from an external power source; as well as a control unit that acquires a power supply voltage constituting an output voltage of the power supply and is configured to be able to control charging of the power supply based on the power supply voltage, in, The control unit A switching voltage is set based on a temporary charge end voltage higher than an actual charge end voltage, charging in the first mode is performed until the power supply voltage reaches the switching voltage, and then charging in the second mode is performed until the power supply voltage reaches the actual charge end voltage.

2. The power supply unit according to claim 1, wherein: The charging performed in the first mode is constant current charging, and The charging performed in the second mode is constant voltage charging.

3. The power supply unit according to claim 2, wherein: The control unit is configured to: a first charging control in which the switching voltage is set based on the provisional charging end voltage, charging in the first mode is performed until the power supply voltage reaches the switching voltage, and then charging in the second mode is performed until the power supply voltage reaches the charging end voltage; and second charging control, wherein the switching voltage is set based on the charge end voltage, charging in the first mode is performed until the power supply voltage reaches the switching voltage, and then charging in the second mode is performed until the power supply voltage reaches the charge end voltage, and When there is a charge start request from a user, the control unit executes the first charge control or the second charge control based on a state of the aerosol generating device.

4. The power supply unit according to claim 3, wherein: The control unit When the state of charge of the power source at the time of the charge start request is less than a predetermined value, the first charge control is performed, and The second charging control is performed when the state of charge of the power source at the time of the charge start request is equal to or greater than the predetermined value.

5. The power supply unit according to claim 3, wherein: The temporary charge end voltage includes: a first provisional charge end voltage, and a second provisional charge end voltage lower than the first provisional charge end voltage, The control unit is configured to perform, As the first charge control: a third charging control in which the switching voltage is set based on the first provisional charging end voltage, charging in the first mode is performed until the power supply voltage reaches the switching voltage, and then charging in the second mode is performed until the power supply voltage reaches the charging end voltage; and a fourth charging control in which the switching voltage is set based on the second provisional charging end voltage, charging in the first mode is performed until the power supply voltage reaches the switching voltage, and then charging in the second mode is performed until the power supply voltage reaches the charging end voltage, and When the state of charge of the power source at the time of the charge start request is less than a first predetermined value, the control unit performs the third charging control. When the state of charge of the power source at the time of the charge start request is equal to or greater than the first predetermined value and less than a second predetermined value, the fourth charge control is performed, and The second charging control is performed when the state of charge of the power source at the time of the charge start request is equal to or greater than the second predetermined value. The power supply unit according to claim 3 , wherein: The control unit The first charging control is performed when the temperature of the power source at the time of the charging start request is less than a predetermined value, and The second charging control is performed when the temperature of the power source at the time of the charging start request is equal to or greater than the predetermined value.

7. The power supply unit according to claim 3, wherein: The control unit When there is a charge start request after a predetermined time has elapsed since the aerosol was generated, the first charge control is executed, and The second charging control is executed when there is a charging start request before the predetermined time has elapsed since the aerosol was generated.

8. The power supply unit according to claim 1 or 2, wherein: The control unit is configured to perform a first charging control in which the switching voltage is set based on the provisional charging end voltage, charging in the first mode is performed until the power supply voltage reaches the switching voltage, and then charging in the second mode is performed until the power supply voltage reaches the charging end voltage; and second charging control, wherein the switching voltage is set based on the charge end voltage, charging in the first mode is performed until the power supply voltage reaches the switching voltage, and then charging in the second mode is performed until the power supply voltage reaches the charge end voltage, and The control unit executes the first charging control or the second charging control based on a time when there is a charging start request from a user.

9. The power supply unit according to claim 8, wherein: The control unit When the time is included in a predetermined time slot on the assumption that the user may be using the aerosol generating device, the first charging control is performed, and When the time is not included in the predetermined time slot, the second charging control is performed.

10. A control method executed by a computer, the control method being for controlling a power supply unit of an aerosol generating device for generating aerosol by heating an aerosol source, wherein: The power supply unit includes a power supply configured to be able to supply power to the heating unit for heating the aerosol source and to be rechargeable by means of power received from an external power source, The computer acquires a power supply voltage constituting an output voltage of the power supply and is configured to be able to control charging of the power supply based on the power supply voltage, and The computer performs a process that A switching voltage is set based on a temporary charge end voltage higher than an actual charge end voltage, charging in the first mode is performed until the power supply voltage reaches the switching voltage, and then charging in the second mode is performed until the power supply voltage reaches the actual charge end voltage.

11. A control program for causing a computer for controlling a power supply unit of an aerosol generating device for generating aerosol by heating an aerosol source to execute predetermined processing, wherein: The power supply unit includes a power supply configured to be able to supply power to the heating unit for heating the aerosol source and to be rechargeable by means of power received from an external power source, The computer acquires a power supply voltage constituting an output voltage of the power supply and is configured to be able to control charging of the power supply based on the power supply voltage, and The control program causes the computer to perform a process A switching voltage is set based on a temporary charge end voltage higher than an actual charge end voltage, charging in the first mode is performed until the power supply voltage reaches the switching voltage, and then charging in the second mode is performed until the power supply voltage reaches the actual charge end voltage.

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