Control device, control method, and program

Abstract

[Problem] To provide an arrangement that can further improve usability. [Solution] A control device includes: a control unit for controlling a process for recommending candidate replacement sites for a battery pack that can be interchangeably connected to an inhalation device to a user of an inhalation device for generating an aerosol using a matrix containing an aerosol source, the process being implemented by selecting one or more battery pack supply devices from a plurality of battery pack supply devices capable of providing the battery pack as candidate replacement sites for the battery pack, and then recommending the selected candidate replacement sites for the battery pack to the user of the inhalation device.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This disclosure relates to a control device, a control method, and a procedure. Background Technology

[0002] Inhalation devices that produce substances to be inhaled by a user are widely used. For example, an inhalation device employs an aerosol source for generating an aerosol, and a matrix (including a flavor source, etc.) for imparting flavor components to the generated aerosol to produce a flavor-imparted aerosol. The user can enjoy the flavor by inhaling the flavor-imparted aerosol produced by the inhalation device. The act of inhaling the aerosol is also referred to below as "inhalation" or "inhalation action." Examples of devices classified as inhalation devices include those used as alternatives to cigarettes (such as heated tobacco products and electronic cigarettes), as well as nebulizers for medical purposes. It should be noted that heated tobacco products are inhalation devices that generate an aerosol by heating an aerosol source. Electronic cigarettes are a type of inhalation device that generates an aerosol by atomizing a liquid aerosol source.

[0003] In recent years, laws and regulations related to the right to repair have been formulated. These laws and regulations encompass a variety of provisions aimed at providing an environment from the perspectives of consumer protection and environmental protection, enabling end-users to repair industrial products and thus extend their lifespan. The right to repair allows for the repair of products that have broken or damaged during use. Therefore, consumers can postpone purchasing new products, thereby saving money. It also reduces the environmental burden by decreasing waste and resource consumption. Thus, the right to repair is an important aspect of promoting a circular economy, as it benefits both consumers and the environment.

[0004] As a technology related to the right of maintenance, PTL 1, as referred to below, discloses an inhalation device with a replaceable battery pack. Citation List

[0005] Patent documents

[0006] PTL 1: WO 2014 / 163664 A1 Summary of the Invention

[0007] The problem to be solved by the present invention

[0008] The technology disclosed in PTL 1 above has only been developed recently and there is still room for improvement in various aspects.

[0009] Therefore, this disclosure is designed in response to the above-mentioned problems, and the objective of this disclosure is to provide an arrangement that can further improve usability. Solution to the problem

[0010] To address the aforementioned problems, one aspect of this disclosure provides a control device comprising: a control unit for controlling a process for recommending candidate replacement sites for a battery pack replaceable to an inhalation device used to generate an aerosol by using a matrix comprising an aerosol source, the process being implemented by selecting one or more battery pack supply devices from a plurality of battery pack supply devices capable of supplying the battery pack as candidate replacement sites for the battery pack, and then recommending the selected candidate replacement sites for the battery pack to the user of the inhalation device.

[0011] The control unit can perform a process to recommend candidate replacement locations for the battery pack based on information indicating the remaining battery capacity of the battery pack currently connected to the inhalation device.

[0012] When the remaining battery capacity of the battery pack currently connected to the inhalation device is less than a first threshold, the control unit may perform a process to recommend candidate replacement locations for the battery pack, and the first threshold may be set to a value equal to or higher than the remaining battery capacity that enables the consumption of one or more of the aforementioned substrates.

[0013] The control unit can set the first threshold based on control information used to control the temperature of the inhalation device heating the aerosol source.

[0014] The control unit can set the first threshold based on the usage pattern of the inhalation device.

[0015] When the amount of matrix carried with the inhalation device is less than a second threshold, the control unit can perform a process to recommend candidate replacement sites for the battery pack.

[0016] When an abnormality occurs in the battery pack connected to the inhalation device, the control unit can perform a process to recommend candidate replacement locations for the battery pack.

[0017] The control unit may preferentially recommend a battery pack supply device with a battery pack that can be supplied to the inhalation device as a candidate replacement location for the battery pack.

[0018] The control unit can prioritize recommending battery pack supply devices that allow the return of depleted battery packs used by the inhalation device as candidate replacement sites for the battery pack.

[0019] The control unit can recommend candidate replacement locations for the battery pack based on the planned end time of each of one or more charging points in the battery pack supply device and the expected arrival time of the user of the inhalation device at the battery pack supply device.

[0020] The control unit can prioritize recommending battery pack supply units that are geographically close to the user as candidate replacement locations for the battery pack.

[0021] The control unit can preferentially recommend battery pack supply units located at sales outlets that stock the matrix used by the inhalation device as candidate replacement sites for the battery pack.

[0022] The control unit can control the processing for reserving the battery pack at the candidate replacement location.

[0023] Furthermore, to address the aforementioned issues, another aspect of this disclosure provides a control method implemented by means of a processor, the control method comprising: controlling a process for recommending candidate replacement sites for a battery pack that can be interchangeably connected to an inhalation device to a user of an inhalation device for generating an aerosol using a matrix containing an aerosol source, the process being implemented by selecting one or more battery pack supply devices from a plurality of battery pack supply devices capable of providing the battery pack as candidate replacement sites for the battery pack, and then recommending the selected candidate replacement sites for the battery pack to the user of the inhalation device.

[0024] Furthermore, to address the aforementioned problems, another aspect of this disclosure provides a program for enabling a computer to act as a control unit, the control unit controlling a process for recommending candidate replacement locations for a battery pack that can be interchangeably connected to an inhalation device to a user of an inhalation device for generating an aerosol using a matrix containing an aerosol source, the process being implemented by selecting one or more battery pack supply devices from a plurality of battery pack supply devices capable of supplying the battery pack as candidate replacement locations for the battery pack, and then recommending the selected candidate replacement locations for the battery pack to the user of the inhalation device. Advantages of the present invention

[0025] As described above, this disclosure provides a mechanism that can further improve usability. Attached Figure Description

[0026] [ Figure 1 [Illustration] is a diagram used to illustrate an overview of a system according to an embodiment of this disclosure.

[0027] [ Figure 2 [Illustrated diagram showing a first configuration example of an inhalation device according to an embodiment.]

[0028] [ Figure 3 [Illustrated diagram showing a second configuration example of the inhalation device according to an embodiment.]

[0029] [ Figure 4[ ] is a block diagram illustrating an example configuration of a battery pack according to an embodiment.

[0030] [ Figure 5 [ ] is a block diagram illustrating a configuration example of a user terminal according to an embodiment.

[0031] [ Figure 6 [ ] is a block diagram illustrating an example configuration of a charging station according to an embodiment.

[0032] [ Figure 7 [ ] is a block diagram illustrating a configuration example of a management server according to an embodiment.

[0033] [ Figure 8 [Illustration 1] is a diagram illustrating an example of a UI screen displayed by a user terminal according to an embodiment.

[0034] [ Figure 9 [ ] is a sequence diagram illustrating an example of a processing flow implemented by a system according to an embodiment.

[0035] [ Figure 10 [Illustration 1] is a diagram illustrating an example of a UI screen displayed by a user terminal according to an embodiment. Detailed Implementation

[0036] The preferred embodiments of this disclosure will now be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. It should be noted that the same reference numerals will be assigned to components having substantially the same functional configuration in the specification and drawings to avoid repetitive descriptions.

[0037] <1. Overview>

[0038] First, refer to Figure 1 An overview of the system according to embodiments of this disclosure is described.

[0039] Figure 1 This is a diagram used to illustrate an overview of the system according to this embodiment. For example... Figure 1 As shown, the system 1 according to this embodiment includes: an inhalation device 100, a user terminal 200, a charging station 300, a sales outlet terminal 400, and a management server 500.

[0040] The inhalation device 100 and the user terminal 200 are carried and used by the user U. The inhalation device 100 and the user terminal 200 used by the same user U can communicate, for example, using BLE (Bluetooth Low Energy (registered trademark)).

[0041] Inhalation device 100 is a device for generating an aerosol to be inhaled by user U using a matrix containing an aerosol source. Inhalation device 100 may be a so-called electronic cigarette or heated tobacco product. Inhalation device 100 may have a battery pack 170 detachably mounted (i.e., connected) thereto. Inhalation device 100 then operates using power from the battery pack 170 mounted thereto. The structure after removing battery pack 170 from inhalation device 100 may be referred to hereinafter as the “body” or simply as “inhalation device 100”.

[0042] The battery pack 170 includes at least a secondary battery capable of being charged and discharged. The battery pack 170 may include a storage medium and a communication terminal. Thus, information can be read from and written to the storage medium via the communication terminal using a suction device 100 or a charging station 300 connected to the battery pack 170.

[0043] User terminal 200 is an example of a terminal device used by user U. User terminal 200 can be a smartphone or tablet terminal, etc. User terminal 200 serves as an interface between user U and system 1. For example, user terminal 200 inputs / outputs various types of information for changing battery pack 170. In addition, user terminal 200 can control the operation of inhalation device 100 through communication with inhalation device 100.

[0044] Charging station 300 and sales outlet terminal 400 are placed in sales outlet 8 (e.g., a convenience store) and used by staff S working at sales outlet 8. Charging station 300 and sales outlet terminal 400 placed in the same sales outlet 8 can communicate using, for example, a LAN (local area network). Sales outlet 8 sells matrix packages containing one or more matrices used by inhalation device 100. Sales outlet 8 can sell various types of matrix packages containing different types or different quantities of matrices.

[0045] Charging station 300 is an example of a charging device for charging battery pack 170 and a battery pack supply device for alternatively supplying a charged battery pack 170 to each of a plurality of suction devices 100. Charging station 300 may have a battery pack 170 detachably connected thereto. Charging station 300 then charges the connected battery pack 170. More specifically, charging station 300 includes a housing 301 for accommodating the battery pack 170. Charging station 300 then charges the battery pack 170 housed in housing 301. Furthermore, charging station 300 has an LED (light-emitting diode) 302 and a touch panel 303 for inputting / outputting various types of information. The LED 302 is arranged correspondingly to housing 301 and emits light of a color corresponding to the state of housing 301 (e.g., whether housing 301 is idle, whether charging is in progress, and the charging progress if charging is in progress).

[0046] User U can replace the battery pack 170 fitted to the inhalation device 100 at sales outlet 8. As mentioned herein, “replacement” means returning the depleted battery pack 170 and providing a fully charged battery pack 170 from charging station 300.

[0047] For example, user U returns the depleted battery pack 170 after removing it from the inhalation device 100. Staff member S connects the returned battery pack 170 to the charging station 300 to begin charging and also removes the fully charged battery pack 170 from the charging station 300 for user U. User U receives the battery pack 170 from staff member S and installs it into the inhalation device 100. This battery pack 170 replacement service allows user U to replace the depleted battery pack 170 with a fully charged one anytime, anywhere, without needing to charge it at home.

[0048] The charging station 300 can notify the staff S via LED 302 or touch panel 303 that the battery pack 170 can be returned to the empty housing 301 therein. In addition, the charging station 300 can also notify the staff S via LED 302 or touch panel 303 to remove the battery pack 170 from the housing 301 containing the fully charged battery pack 170 and provide the fully charged battery pack 170 to the user U.

[0049] The services provided by charging station 300 are not limited to replacing battery pack 170. That is, charging station 300 may accept the return of battery pack 170 or provide only battery pack 170. For example, user U may rent a spare battery pack 170 (separate from the battery pack 170 they carry) or return the rented spare battery pack 170.

[0050] Therefore, the battery pack 170 can be replaced by each of the multiple inhalation devices 100 via the charging station 300. Of course, the user U can also charge the battery pack 170 at home or other locations.

[0051] The point-of-sale terminal 400 is an example of a terminal device used by staff member S. The point-of-sale terminal 400 can be, for example, a cash register terminal conforming to a POS (point-of-sale) system. The point-of-sale terminal 400 serves as an interface between staff member S and system 1. For example, the point-of-sale terminal 400 inputs / outputs various types of information for replacing battery pack 170. Furthermore, the point-of-sale terminal 400 is also used to settle the replacement cost of battery pack 170.

[0052] It should be noted that the battery pack 170 is manufactured and operated in such a way that its capacity allows it to consume at least all the substrate contained in the substrate pack when the battery pack 170 is fully charged. For this reason, it is desirable to replace the battery pack 170 at the same time as purchasing the substrate pack. This is because, in this case, the battery pack 170 does not need to be replaced until all the substrate contained in the substrate pack has been consumed.

[0053] For example, when user U has already purchased the base pack, the sales outlet terminal 400 can notify staff S of a notification prompting user U to replace their battery pack 170. Alternatively, battery pack 170 replacement may be possible, or it may be free only if the base pack has been purchased. This feature achieves better usability because battery pack 170 can be replaced at the same time as the base pack is purchased.

[0054] Management server 500 is an example of a control device used to control the overall operation within system 1. Management server 500 communicates with and controls the operation of each of user terminal 200, charging station 300 and sales outlet terminal 400 via network 9.

[0055] As an example, management server 500 collects and analyzes various types of information related to the replacement of battery pack 170, updates the heating curve based on the analysis results, and notifies user U of the timing for replacing battery pack 170. As another example, management server 500 controls the displays on user terminal 200, charging station 300, and sales outlet terminal 400. As yet another example, management server 500 performs processes to restore degraded or faulty battery packs 170 (i.e., remove such battery packs from the cycle) and repairs those battery packs that are repairable for recycling.

[0056] <2. Configuration Example>

[0057] <2.1. Example of configuration of inhalation device 100>

[0058] The inhalation device 100 is a means for generating a substance to be inhaled by a user. 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.

[0059] (1) First configuration example

[0060] Figure 2 This is a schematic diagram illustrating a first configuration example of the inhalation device 100 according to this embodiment. Figure 2 As shown, the inhalation device 100A according to this configuration example includes a power supply unit 110, a cartridge 120, and a flavored 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 cartridge 120 includes a heating unit 121A, a liquid guiding section 122, and a liquid storage section 123. The flavored cartridge 130 includes a flavor source 131 and a mouthpiece 124. An airflow path 180 is formed in the cartridge 120 and the flavored cartridge 130.

[0061] Power supply unit 111A stores electricity. Power supply unit 111A then supplies power to each component of inhalation device 100A according to control executed by control unit 116A. Power supply unit 111A may be configured, for example, by a rechargeable battery (such as a lithium-ion secondary battery).

[0062] Sensor unit 112A acquires various types of information related to inhalation device 100A. As an example, sensor unit 112A is configured with a pressure sensor (such as a capacitive microphone, flow sensor, or temperature sensor) and acquires values ​​associated with inhalation performed by the user. As another example, sensor unit 112A is configured with an input device (such as a button or switch) for accepting information input from the user.

[0063] The notification unit 113A notifies the user of information. For example, the notification unit 113A may be configured with a light-emitting device, a display device that displays an image, a sound output device that outputs sound, or a vibration device that vibrates.

[0064] Memory unit 114A stores various types of information for operating the inhalation device 100A. For example, memory unit 114A is configured with a non-volatile storage medium (such as flash memory).

[0065] The communication unit 115A is a communication interface capable of performing communications compliant with any wired or wireless communication standard. Examples of communication standards that can be used include those employing Wi-Fi (registered trademark), Bluetooth (registered trademark), BLE (Bluetooth Low Energy, registered trademark), NFC (Near Field Communication), or LPWA (Low Power Wide Area).

[0066] The control unit 116A serves as an arithmetic processing and control device, and controls the overall operation within the inhalation device 100A according to various programs. For example, the control unit 116A is implemented by a CPU (central processing unit) or electronic circuitry (such as a microprocessor).

[0067] The liquid storage section 123 stores an 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 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 drug.

[0068] The liquid guiding section 122 guides and contains the aerosol source from the liquid storage section 123, which is liquid stored in the liquid storage section 123. The liquid guiding section 122 is a wicking element formed, for example, by twisted fibrous material (such as glass fiber) or porous material (such as porous ceramic). In this case, the aerosol source stored in the liquid storage section 123 is guided by the capillary action of the wicking element.

[0069] Heating unit 121A heats the aerosol source to atomize it, thereby generating an aerosol. Figure 2 In the example shown, heating unit 121A is configured as a coil wound around liquid guiding portion 122. When heating unit 121A generates heat, an aerosol source held in liquid guiding portion 122 is heated and atomized, thereby generating an aerosol. Heating unit 121A generates heat when supplied with power from power supply unit 111A. For example, power can be supplied when sensor unit 112A detects that the user has begun inhalation and / or has entered predetermined information. Then, power supply can be stopped when sensor unit 112A detects that the user has finished inhaling and / or has entered predetermined information.

[0070] Flavor source 131 is a component used to impart flavor components to an aerosol. Flavor source 131 may include tobacco-derived or non-tobacco-derived flavor components.

[0071] Airflow path 180 is the flow path of air to be inhaled by the user. Airflow path 180 has a tubular structure with an air inlet 181 and an air outlet 182 at both ends. The air inlet is the entrance for air into airflow path 180, and the air outlet is the exit for air leaving airflow path 180. Midway through airflow path 180, a liquid guide portion 122 is located on the upstream side (closer to the air inlet 181), while a flavor source 131 is located on the downstream side (closer to the air outlet 182). Air flowing in through air inlet 181 when inhaled by the user mixes with the aerosol generated by heating unit 121A and is conveyed through flavor source 131 to air outlet 182, as indicated by arrow 190. As the aerosol-air mixture passes through flavor source 131, flavor components contained in flavor source 131 are added to the aerosol.

[0072] The mouthpiece 124 is a component that is held in the user's mouth during inhalation. An air outlet 182 is provided in the mouthpiece 124. The user holds the mouthpiece 124 in their mouth and inhales, making it possible to draw a mixture of aerosol and air into the oral cavity.

[0073] The configuration examples of the inhalation device 100A have been described above. Of course, the inhalation device 100A is not limited to the configurations described above, and can adopt various configurations, such as those shown below by way of example.

[0074] As an example, the inhalation device 100A does not need to include a flavored tobacco cartridge 130. In this case, the tobacco cartridge 120 is provided with a mouthpiece 124.

[0075] As another example, the inhalation device 100A may include multiple types of aerosol sources. Multiple types of aerosols generated from these sources can mix within the airflow path 180 to induce a chemical reaction, thereby generating even more other types of aerosols.

[0076] Furthermore, the means for atomizing the aerosol source is not limited to heating performed by the heating unit 121A. For example, the means for atomizing the aerosol source may be vibration atomization or induction heating.

[0077] (2) Second configuration example

[0078] Figure 3 This is a schematic diagram illustrating a second configuration example of the inhalation device 100 according to this embodiment. Figure 3As shown, the inhalation device 100B according to this configuration example includes a power supply unit 111B, a sensor unit 112B, a notification unit 113B, a memory unit 114B, a communication unit 115B, a control unit 116B, a heating unit 121B, a receiving portion 140, and a heat insulation portion 144.

[0079] The power supply unit 111B, sensor unit 112B, notification unit 113B, memory unit 114B, communication unit 115B, and control unit 116B are each substantially the same as the corresponding components included in the inhalation device 100A in the first configuration example.

[0080] The receiving portion 140 has an internal space 141 and holds the rod-shaped matrix 150, while a portion of the rod-shaped matrix 150 is housed within the internal space 141. The receiving portion 140 has an opening 142 to allow communication between the internal space 141 and the outside, and to accommodate the rod-shaped matrix 150 that has been inserted into the internal space 141 through the opening 142. For example, the receiving portion 140 is a cylindrical body that includes the opening 142 and a bottom portion 143 serving as a bottom surface, and defines a cylindrical internal space 141. An airflow path for supplying air to the internal space 141 is connected to the receiving portion 140. For example, an air inlet is provided on the side of the suction device 100B, which serves as an inlet for air to enter the airflow path. For example, an air outlet is provided on the bottom portion 143, which serves as an outlet for air to exit from the airflow path to the internal space 141.

[0081] The stick-shaped matrix 150 includes a matrix portion 151 and a mouthpiece portion 152. The matrix 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 drug. For example, the aerosol source may be a liquid containing tobacco-derived or non-tobacco-derived flavor components, such as water and polyols (e.g., glycerol or propylene glycol), or it may be a solid containing tobacco-derived or non-tobacco-derived flavor components. With the stick-shaped matrix 150 held in the receiving portion 140, at least a portion of the matrix portion 151 is received in the interior space 141, and at least a portion of the mouthpiece portion 152 protrudes from the opening 142. Thus, when a user holds the mouthpiece portion 152 protruding from the opening 142 in their mouth and inhales, air flows into the interior space 141 via an airflow path not depicted and reaches the user's mouth along with the aerosol generated from the matrix portion 151.

[0082] exist Figure 3In the example shown, the heating unit 121B has a membrane-like form and is arranged to cover the outer circumference of the receiving portion 140. Thus, when the heating unit 121B generates heat, the matrix portion 151 of the rod-shaped matrix 150 is heated from the outer periphery, thereby generating an aerosol.

[0083] The heat insulation portion 144 prevents heat from being transferred from the heating unit 121B to other components. For example, the heat insulation portion 144 is made of vacuum insulation material or aerogel insulation material.

[0084] The configuration examples of the inhalation device 100B have been described above. Of course, the inhalation device 100B is not limited to the configurations described above, and can adopt various configurations, such as those shown below by way of example.

[0085] As an example, the heating unit 121B can be configured to have a blade-like form and can be arranged to protrude from the bottom portion 143 of the receiving portion 140 into the internal space 141. In this case, the blade-like heating unit 121B is inserted into the matrix portion 151 of the rod-shaped matrix 150 and heated from the inside of the matrix portion 151 of the rod-shaped matrix 150. As another example, the heating unit 121B can be arranged to cover the bottom portion 143 of the receiving portion 140. Furthermore, the heating unit 121B can be composed of a combination of two or more of the following: a first heating unit covering the outer circumference of the receiving portion 140, a blade-like second heating unit, and a third heating unit covering the bottom portion 143 of the receiving portion 140.

[0086] As another example, the receiving portion 140 may include an opening and closing mechanism (such as a hinge) for opening and closing a portion of the housing forming the internal space 141. Thus, by opening and closing the housing, the receiving portion 140 can receive and clamp the rod-shaped substrate 150 that has been inserted into the internal space 141. In this case, the heating unit 121B may be disposed on the clamping portion of the receiving portion 140 and can heat the rod-shaped substrate while pressing it.

[0087] Furthermore, the means for atomizing the aerosol source is not limited to heating by the heating unit 121B. For example, the means for atomizing the aerosol source can be induction heating. In this case, the inhalation device 100B includes at least an electromagnetic induction source (such as a coil) for generating a magnetic field, instead of the heating unit 121B. A sensor for generating heat by means of induction heating can be provided in the inhalation device 100B or can be included in the rod-shaped matrix 150.

[0088] Furthermore, the inhalation device 100B may additionally include a heating unit 121A, a liquid guiding portion 122, a liquid storage portion 123, and an airflow path 180, according to the first configuration example, and the airflow path 180 may supply air to the interior space 141. In this case, the mixed fluid of aerosol and air generated by the heating unit 121A flows into the interior space 141 and further mixes with the aerosol generated by the heating unit 121B, reaching the user's mouth.

[0089] (3) Supplementary Information

[0090] In the following description, unless there is a specific need to distinguish between the aforementioned inhalation devices 100A and 100B, the letters at the end of the reference numerals will be omitted, and these inhalation devices will be collectively referred to as "inhalation devices 100" and described without distinction. Similarly, unless there is a specific need to distinguish between components shared by inhalation devices 100A and 100B, the letters at the end of the reference numerals will be omitted, and these components will be described without distinction.

[0091] The inhalation device 100 is an example of an aerosol generation system that generates an aerosol to be inhaled by a user using a matrix containing either an aerosol source or a flavor source. The flavor source is a component used to impart flavor components to the aerosol. In a first configuration example, the cartridge 120 and the flavored cartridge 130 constitute an example of a matrix used in the aerosol generation system. In a second configuration example, the stick matrix 150 is an example of a matrix used in the aerosol generation system. Regarding the second configuration example, the combination of the inhalation device 100 and the stick matrix 150 can also be considered an aerosol generation system.

[0092] Figure 1 The battery pack 170 shown includes at least Figure 2 or Figure 3 The power supply unit 111 is shown. Next, we will refer to... Figure 4 This describes a configuration example for battery pack 170.

[0093] Figure 4 This is a block diagram illustrating an example configuration of the battery pack 170 according to this embodiment. Figure 4 As shown, the battery pack 170 includes: a battery 171, a protection IC (integrated circuit) 172, an MCU (microcontroller unit) 173, a memory 174, a sensor 175, and a terminal 176.

[0094] Battery 171 is a rechargeable and dischargeable secondary battery. Battery 171 corresponds to... Figure 2 or Figure 3The power supply unit 111 is shown. The battery 171 supplies power to an external device (e.g., the body of the suction device 100) via a protection IC 172 and a terminal 176. In addition, the battery 171 is charged by means of power supplied from an external device (e.g., a charging station 300) via the protection IC 172 and the terminal 176.

[0095] The protection IC 172 is a protection circuit used to stop charging in case of overcharging and to stop discharging in case of over-discharging.

[0096] MCU 173 is an example of a control unit used to control the operation of battery pack 170. Battery pack 170 implements various types of processing based on the control executed by MCU 173. Examples of processing controlled by MCU 173 include storing and retrieving information by memory 174, detecting information by sensor 175, sending / receiving power via terminal 176, and sending / receiving information via terminal 176. Other processing implemented by battery pack 170 is also controlled by MCU 173, such as processing based on information input to and output from each component.

[0097] Memory 174 is an example of a memory cell used to store information. For example, memory 174 is configured with a non-volatile storage medium, such as flash memory.

[0098] Sensor 175 is an example of a detector used to detect various types of information related to battery pack 170. For example, sensor 175 detects the temperature of battery 171 and detects voltage and current values ​​during charging and discharging of battery 171.

[0099] Terminal 176 serves as a power terminal for sending / receiving power and an information terminal for sending / receiving information to / from devices connected to battery pack 170. For example, terminal 176 may be a USB (Universal Serial Bus) connector.

[0100] It should be noted that Figure 4 An example is shown where the protection IC 172 is included in the battery pack 170, but the protection IC 172 can also be included in the device to which the battery pack 170 is connected (e.g., the body of the suction device 100 or the charging station 300).

[0101] (4) Heating curve

[0102] Control unit 116 controls the operation of heating unit 121 based on a heating curve. The heating curve is control information used to control the temperature at which the aerosol source is heated. The heating curve defines target values ​​for parameters corresponding to the temperature at which the aerosol source is heated. The temperature of heating unit 121 is an example of the temperature at which the aerosol source is heated. The resistance of heating unit 121 is an example of a parameter corresponding to the temperature at which the aerosol source is heated. That is, the heating curve can also define a target value for the resistance of heating unit 121 (which is also referred to below as the "target resistance"). The resistance of heating unit 121 varies according to the temperature of heating unit 121 (more precisely, the heating resistors constituting heating unit 121). For example, it is assumed below that the resistance of heating unit 121 increases as the temperature of heating unit 121 increases.

[0103] For example, temperature control of heating unit 121 can be achieved using known feedback control. Feedback control can be, for example, PID control (proportional-integral-derivative controller). Control unit 116 can supply power from power supply unit 111 to heating unit 121 in pulse form using pulse width modulation (PWM) or pulse frequency modulation (PFM). In this case, control unit 116 can control the temperature of heating unit 121 by adjusting the duty cycle of the power pulses in the feedback control.

[0104] The time period during which the electrical supply to the heating unit 121 is controlled based on the heating curve (in other words, the time period during which heating is carried out by means of the heating unit 121 based on the heating curve) will also be referred to hereinafter as the "heating phase". In addition, heating based on the heating curve may also be simply referred to as "heating" hereinafter.

[0105] <2.2. Configuration Example for User Terminal 200>

[0106] Figure 5 This is a block diagram illustrating a configuration example of a user terminal 200 according to an embodiment. Figure 5 As shown, the user terminal 200 includes a communication unit 210, a memory unit 220, an input unit 230, an output unit 240, and a control unit 250.

[0107] Communication unit 210 is a communication interface used for sending and receiving information between user terminal 200 and another device. Communication unit 210 performs communication conforming to any wired or wireless communication standard. Examples of communication standards that can be used include USB (Universal Serial Bus), Wi-Fi (registered trademark), Bluetooth (registered trademark), or NFC (Near Field Communication).

[0108] Memory cell 220 stores various types of information. For example, memory cell 220 is configured with a non-volatile storage medium (such as flash memory).

[0109] Input unit 230 has the function of receiving various types of information input. Input unit 230 may include, for example, input devices for receiving information input from user U, such as buttons, keyboards, touch panels, or microphones. Alternatively, input unit 230 may include sensors for detecting various types of information. Examples of sensors that may be exemplified include a GNSS (Global Navigation Satellite System) receiver for acquiring location information of user terminal 200, a gyroscope sensor and an accelerometer sensor for detecting movement of user terminal 200, and a camera capable of reading two-dimensional barcodes.

[0110] Output unit 240 has the function of outputting information. Output unit 240 may include an output device that outputs information to user U. Examples of output devices include: a display device for displaying information, a light-emitting device for emitting light, a vibration device for vibrating, and a sound output device for outputting sound. A display is an example of a display device. A light-emitting diode (LED) is an example of a light-emitting device. An eccentric motor is an example of a vibration device. A loudspeaker is an example of a sound output device.

[0111] The control unit 250 functions as an arithmetic processing device or control device, thereby controlling the overall operation within the user terminal 200 according to various programs. For example, the control unit 250 may be implemented by a CPU (Central Processing Unit) or electronic circuitry (such as a microprocessor). The control unit 250 may also include ROM (Read-Only Memory) for storing the programs used and calculation parameters, and RAM (Random Access Memory) for temporarily storing parameters that change appropriately. The user terminal 200 implements various types of processing based on the control executed by the control unit 250. Examples of processing controlled by the control unit 250 include: sending / receiving information by the communication unit 210, storing and retrieving information by the memory unit 220, processing information input by the input unit 230, and outputting information from the output unit 240. The control unit 250 also controls other processing implemented by the user terminal 200, such as processing based on information input to and output from each component.

[0112] It should be noted that the functions of control unit 250 can be implemented using an application. This application can be pre-installed or downloaded. Furthermore, the functions of control unit 250 can be implemented using a PWA (Progressive Web Application).

[0113] <2.3. Configuration Example of Charging Station 300>

[0114] Figure 6 This is a block diagram illustrating a configuration example of the charging station 300 according to this embodiment. Figure 6As shown, the charging station 300 includes: a communication unit 310, a memory unit 320, an input unit 330, an output unit 340, a charging unit 350, one or more connection terminals 351, and a control unit 360.

[0115] Communication unit 310 is a communication interface for sending and receiving information between charging station 300 and another device. As an example, communication unit 310 sends / receives information to / from battery pack 170 connected to connection terminal 351 via connection terminal 351. As another example, communication unit 310 sends / receives information to / from management server 500. Communication unit 310 performs communication conforming to any wired or wireless communication standard. Examples of communication standards that can be used include USB (Universal Serial Bus), Wi-Fi (registered trademark), Bluetooth (registered trademark), NFC (Near Field Communication), or LAN (Local Area Network), etc.

[0116] Memory cell 320 stores various types of information. For example, memory cell 320 is configured with a non-volatile storage medium (such as flash memory).

[0117] Input unit 330 has the function of receiving various types of information input. Input unit 330 may include, for example, an input device for receiving information input from staff S, such as a button, keyboard, touch panel, or microphone. Alternatively, input unit 330 may include a sensor for detecting various types of information. A camera capable of reading QR codes can be cited as an example of a sensor. (See reference) Figure 1 The described touch panel 303 is an example of the input unit 330.

[0118] Output unit 340 has the function of outputting information. Output unit 340 may include, for example, output devices for outputting information to worker S, such as a display device for displaying information, a light-emitting device for emitting light, a vibration device for vibrating, and a sound output device for outputting sound. A display is an example of a display device. A light-emitting diode (LED) is an example of a light-emitting device. An eccentric motor is an example of a vibration device. A loudspeaker is an example of a sound output device. (Reference) Figure 1 The described LED 302 and touch panel 303 are examples of output unit 340.

[0119] The charging unit 350 has the function of charging the battery pack 170. The charging unit 350 is housed in a reference... Figure 1 The battery pack 170, which is electrically connected to the charging station 300, is charged within the housing 301 described. Specifically, the charging unit 350 charges the battery pack 170 connected to the connection terminal 351.

[0120] Connection terminal 351 is an example of a connection portion electrically connected to battery pack 170. Connection terminal 351 serves as a power terminal for sending / receiving power and an information terminal for sending / receiving information to / from battery pack 170 connected to connection terminal 351. For example, connection terminal 351 could be a USB connector. Connection terminal 351 is disposed within housing 301 and electrically connected to terminal 176 of battery pack 170 housed within housing 301. Figure 1 As shown, the charging station 300 may include multiple housings 301. That is, the charging station 300 may include multiple connection terminals 351 for simultaneously charging multiple battery packs 170 connected in parallel. It should be noted that the electrical connection between the battery packs 170 and the charging station 300 is not limited to a wired connection, but can also be a wireless connection (i.e., wireless charging).

[0121] The integrated structure, including the housing 301 and the connection terminal 351 for charging a battery pack 170, will also be referred to below as a “charging point”.

[0122] The control unit 360 functions as an arithmetic processing device or control device, thereby controlling the overall operation within the charging station 300 according to various programs. For example, the control unit 360 may be implemented by a CPU (Central Processing Unit) or electronic circuitry (such as a microprocessor). The control unit 360 may also include a ROM (Read-Only Memory) for storing the programs used and calculation parameters, and a RAM (Random Access Memory) for temporarily storing parameters that change appropriately. The charging station 300 implements various types of processing based on the control executed by the control unit 360. Examples of processing controlled by the control unit 360 include: sending / receiving information by the communication unit 310, storing and retrieving information by the memory unit 320, processing information input by the input unit 330, outputting information from the output unit 340, and starting / stopping charging by the charging unit 350. The control unit 360 also controls other processing implemented by the charging station 300, such as processing based on information input to and output from each component.

[0123] <2.4. Configuration Example for Management Server 500>

[0124] Figure 7 This is a block diagram illustrating a configuration example of the management server 500 according to this embodiment. For example... Figure 7 As shown, the management server 500 includes a communication unit 510, a memory unit 520, and a control unit 530.

[0125] Communication unit 510 is a communication interface used for sending and receiving information between management server 500 and another device. Communication unit 510 performs communication conforming to any wired or wireless communication standard.

[0126] Memory unit 520 stores various types of information used to manage the operation of server 500. Memory unit 520 is constructed of non-volatile storage media (e.g., HDD (hard disk drive) and SSD (solid-state drive)).

[0127] The control unit 530 serves as an arithmetic processing and control device, thereby controlling the overall operation within the management server 500 according to various programs. For example, the control unit 530 is implemented by a CPU (Central Processing Unit) and electronic circuitry (such as a microprocessor). The control unit 530 may also include ROM (Read-Only Memory) for storing the programs used and calculation parameters, and RAM (Random Access Memory) for temporarily storing parameters that change appropriately. The management server 500 implements various types of processing based on the control executed by the control unit 530. Examples of processing controlled by the control unit 530 include sending and receiving information by the communication unit 510 and storing / retrieving information by the memory unit 520. The control unit 530 also controls other processing implemented by the management server 500, such as processing based on information input to and output from each component.

[0128] <3. Information collection via battery pack 170>

[0129] External devices (such as the main body of the suction device 100 or the charging station 300) can write various types of information to the memory 174 when connected to the battery pack 170. More specifically, the MCU 173 writes information received from the external device via terminal 176 into the memory 174 when connected to the external device. As an example, when the battery pack 170 is connected to the main body of the suction device 100, the MCU 173 can receive information related to the supply of power from the battery 171 to the main body of the suction device 100 and can write that information into the memory 174. As another example, when the battery pack 170 is connected to the charging station 300, the MCU 173 can receive information related to the charging of the battery 171 by the charging station 300 and can write that information into the memory 174.

[0130] Of course, the battery pack 170 can write the information acquired by the battery pack 170 itself into the memory 174. As an example, when the battery pack 170 is connected to the main body of the inhalation device 100, the MCU 173 can write the information detected by the sensor 175 into the memory 174. As another example, when the battery pack 170 is connected to the charging station 300, the MCU 173 can write the information detected by the sensor 175 into the memory 174.

[0131] When the battery pack 170 is connected to an external device (such as the main body of the suction device 100 or the charging station 300), the MCU 173 sends information stored in the memory 174 to the external device via terminal 176. Therefore, the external device can use the information received from the battery pack 170 to perform various types of processing. For example, the charging station 300 sends the information received from the battery pack 170 to the management server 500.

[0132] Preferably, the management server 500 periodically collects and analyzes information related to the inhalation device 100, and uses the analysis results to implement measures to improve the user experience of the inhalation device 100. Information related to the inhalation device 100 is typically collected by the management server 500 via a user terminal 200, which can communicate with both the inhalation device 100 and the management server 500. However, if the inhalation device 100 does not communicate with the user terminal 200, or if the user terminal 200 does not communicate with the management server 500, it is difficult to periodically collect information via the user terminal 200.

[0133] In this regard, the above configuration enables the management server 500 to periodically collect information related to the inhalation device 100 via the charging station 300 connected to the battery pack 170 when the battery pack 170 is replaced. Therefore, various measures can be implemented to improve the user experience of the inhalation device 100, thereby achieving a better user experience.

[0134] Furthermore, the above configuration enables the exchange of information between external devices via the battery pack 170. Therefore, it is expected to foster a variety of services.

[0135] The following describes examples of information that can be stored in battery pack 170 and collected by utilizing the replacement of battery pack 170.

[0136] (1) Battery Pack ID

[0137] The memory 174 of the battery pack 170 stores the battery pack ID, which is the identification information of the battery pack 170. The battery pack ID can be written during the manufacturing of the battery pack 170.

[0138] (2) Specifications

[0139] The memory 174 of the battery pack 170 stores specification information, which is information indicating the specifications of the battery pack 170.

[0140] The specifications of the battery pack 170 may include a manufacturer ID, which is the identification information of the manufacturer that makes the battery pack 170.

[0141] The specifications of battery pack 170 may include information indicating the manufacturing date of battery pack 170.

[0142] The specifications of battery pack 170 may include information indicating the model number of battery pack 170.

[0143] The specifications of the battery pack 170 may include information indicating the initial capacity of the battery 171.

[0144] (3) Change log

[0145] The memory 174 of the battery pack 170 stores a replacement log, which is a log related to the replacement of the battery pack 170. The replacement log may include at least any of the information shown below.

[0146] The replacement log may include a device ID, which is identification information of the inhalation device 100 connected to the battery pack 170 provided by the charging station 300. The replacement log may further include a user ID, which is identification information of the user U of the inhalation device 100 connected to the battery pack 170 provided by the charging station 300.

[0147] The replacement log may include information indicating the replacement time of battery pack 170. More specifically, the replacement log may include information indicating the time when battery pack 170 was provided (e.g., the date and time when battery pack 170 was removed from charging station 300, or the date and time when battery pack 170 was connected to inhalation device 100). Furthermore, the replacement log may include information indicating the time when battery pack 170 was returned (e.g., the date and time when battery pack 170 was removed from inhalation device 100, or the date and time when battery pack 170 was connected to charging station 300).

[0148] The replacement log may include information instructing the battery pack 170 to be replaced at a different location. More specifically, the replacement log may include information instructing the battery pack 170 to provide a location (e.g., location information, or identification information of the sales outlet 8). The replacement log may also include information instructing the battery pack 170 to be returned to a different location (e.g., location information, or identification information of the sales outlet 8).

[0149] The replacement log may include information about the substrate package purchased with the replacement battery pack 170. Information about the substrate package may include, for example, the type and quantity of substrate contained within the package.

[0150] The replacement log may include information indicating the number of times the battery pack 170 has been replaced. The number of times the battery pack 170 has been replaced may increase each time the battery pack 170 is connected to a different inhalation device 100 than the previous one. Alternatively, the number of times the battery pack 170 has been replaced may increase each time the battery pack 170 is connected to a charging station 300.

[0151] The above describes an example of a replacement log. For instance, when replacing battery pack 170, the replacement log can be obtained from and written to the main body of inhalation device 100, charging station 300, or battery pack 170. Furthermore, for information about matrix packs purchased with the replacement battery pack 170, charging station 300 can obtain this information from point-of-sale terminal 400 and write it into the memory 174 of battery pack 170.

[0152] (4) Heating-related discharge information

[0153] The memory 174 of the battery pack 170 stores heating-related discharge information, which indicates the discharge status of the battery 171 when the heating unit 121 performs heating based on a heating curve. The heating-related discharge information may include at least any of the information shown below.

[0154] The discharge information related to heating may include the voltage drop of battery 171 when heating unit 121 performs heating. The voltage drop of battery 171 may be the voltage difference of battery 171 before and after heating. This information allows for determination of the degradation state of battery pack 170 (more specifically, battery 171) or whether a fault has occurred.

[0155] The discharge information related to heating may include the decrease in charge capacity (in mAh) of battery 171 when heating unit 121 performs heating. This decrease in charge capacity may be the difference in charge capacity before and after heating, or the difference in charge capacity from the time of manufacture to the present time. This information allows for the determination of the degradation state of battery pack 170 or whether a malfunction has occurred.

[0156] The heating-related discharge information may include the temperature rise of the battery 171 when the heating unit 121 performs heating. The temperature rise of the battery 171 may be the difference between the lowest and highest temperatures during the heating phase. This information allows for the determination of the degradation state of the battery pack 170 or whether a fault has occurred.

[0157] The discharge information related to heating can include the time-series changes in the discharge amount during the heating phase. After suction is performed, the discharge amount immediately and temporarily increases to restore the temperature of the heating unit 121 (which decreases as suction proceeds) to its original value. This information allows the number of suction operations performed during the heating phase to be determined.

[0158] The discharge information related to heating can include the number of times a discharge is performed during heating. This information allows the determination of the number of heating operations.

[0159] The heating-related discharge information may include the interval between discharges performed during heating. This information allows the interval between heating actions to be determined.

[0160] The heating-related discharge information may include at least either the discharge amount or the discharge time during heating. This information allows the heating profile used by the inhalation device 100 to be determined.

[0161] The heating-related discharge information may include the number of times a discharge is performed in the automatic operation mode. The automatic operation mode is a function that triggers the start of heating by setting the substrate into (e.g., inserting or connecting it to) the suction device 100. This information allows it to be determined how many times the automatic operation mode is performed.

[0162] The discharge information related to heating can include the number of abnormal discharges and the amount of discharge during each abnormal discharge. This information allows for the recording of faults that have occurred in the battery pack 170.

[0163] The above describes an example of heating-related discharge information. For example, heating-related discharge information can be acquired by the battery pack 170 or the main body of the suction device 100 and can be written into the memory 174.

[0164] (5) Discharge information not related to heating

[0165] The memory 174 of the battery pack 170 stores non-heat-related discharge information, which indicates the discharge status of the battery 171 during periods when heating based on the heating profile was not performed. The non-heat-related discharge information may include at least any of the information shown below.

[0166] Non-heating-related discharge information may include the number of times a discharge is performed when transitioning from sleep mode to active mode. This information allows determination of the number of transitions from sleep mode to active mode. It should be noted that sleep mode is an operating mode that prohibits heating. For example, sleep mode may switch to active mode in response to a user action (such as pressing a button). Active mode is an operating mode that allows heating. For example, in active mode, heating begins in response to a user action (such as pressing a button).

[0167] The non-heat-related discharge information may include at least either the discharge quantity or the discharge time during the period of continuous communication by the communication unit 115. This information allows the communication quantity or communication time of the inhalation device 100 to be determined.

[0168] The above describes an example of non-heat-related discharge information. For example, non-heat-related discharge information can be acquired by the battery pack 170 or the main body of the suction device 100 and written into the memory 174.

[0169] (6) Device Information

[0170] The memory 174 of the battery pack 170 stores device information, which is information indicating the usage mode of the inhalation device 100. The device information may include at least any of the information shown below.

[0171] Device information may include information indicating the duration of inhalation. "Inhalation" refers to the overall action of user U inhaling the aerosol generated during heating based on a heating profile. Multiple inhalations can be performed during a single "inhalation." Information indicating the duration of inhalation can be the date and time of the start of heating, or the date and time of the first inhalation detected during the heating phase. This information allows for the determination of the inhalation interval (i.e., the heating phase interval), the number of inhalations per day (i.e., the number of heating phases), and the total number of inhalations.

[0172] The device information may include information indicating the smoking time. This information, indicating the user U's smoking time, can be the length of the heating phase or the time from the initial detected puff to the last detected puff during the heating phase. This information can be used to customize a heating profile suitable for the user U.

[0173] The device information may include information indicating the total smoking time. The total smoking time is the cumulative sum of smoking time since the inhalation device 100 was manufactured. This information can be used to recommend maintenance times for the inhalation device 100. Furthermore, this information allows for the determination of smoking time throughout the entire lifespan of the inhalation device 100.

[0174] The device information may include information indicating the total number of cigarettes smoked. The total number of cigarettes smoked is the cumulative sum of cigarettes smoked since the inhalation device 100 was manufactured. This information can be used to recommend maintenance times for the inhalation device 100. Furthermore, this information allows for the determination of the total number of cigarettes smoked throughout the entire lifespan of the inhalation device 100.

[0175] The device information may include information indicating the total usage time. The total usage time is the time elapsed since the inhalation device 100 was first activated. This information can be used to recommend maintenance times for the inhalation device 100. Furthermore, this information allows the usage time of the inhalation device 100 throughout its entire lifespan to be determined.

[0176] The device information includes information indicating safety settings. The inhalation device 100 may be equipped with safety functions, such as child safety locks. When the safety function is enabled, the inhalation device 100 operates in a locked state where heating is prohibited, or in an unlocked state where heating is permitted. Unlocking can be triggered in various ways, such as when a predetermined button is pressed or when a communication connection with the user terminal 200 has been established. When the safety function is disabled, the inhalation device 100 continues to allow heating. The information indicating safety settings may include the time when the safety function is enabled and the time when the safety function is disabled. The information indicating safety settings may further include the time when the device transitions to the locked state and the time when it transitions to the unlocked state during the period when the safety function is enabled, as well as information indicating the unlock trigger. By referring to the information indicating safety settings and the information indicating smoking time, it can be determined which unlock trigger was used to start smoking, or that smoking began when the safety setting was disabled.

[0177] The device information may include information indicating the number of puffs. The number of puffs is the number of puffs detected during the heating phase. This information allows determination of the number of puffs performed by user U during a single smoking phase. This information can be used to customize a heating profile suitable for user U.

[0178] The device information may include information indicating the aspiration time. The aspiration time is the time during which aspiration is detected during the heating phase. This information allows determination of when user U performed aspiration during the heating phase. This information can be used to customize a heating profile suitable for user U.

[0179] The device information may include location information of the inhalation device 100. More specifically, the device information may include a time-series change in the location information of the inhalation device 100. Furthermore, the location information of the user terminal 200 can also be used as the location information of the inhalation device 100. This information enables the determination of the user U's behavioral pattern. The user U's behavioral pattern can be used to allow the user terminal 200 to suggest smoking locations or sales outlets 8 suitable for the user U's behavioral pattern.

[0180] The device information may include information indicating a malfunction that has occurred in the inhalation device 100. This information can be used to recommend when to perform maintenance on the inhalation device 100.

[0181] The above describes an example of device information. For example, device information can be acquired by the battery pack 170 or the main body of the inhalation device 100 and can be written into the memory 174.

[0182] (7) Charging Information

[0183] The memory 174 of the battery pack 170 stores charging information, which indicates the charging status of the battery 171. The charging information may include at least any of the information shown below.

[0184] Charging information may include information indicating the number of charges. The number of charges refers to the number of times the battery pack 170 has been connected to a charging station 300 or a home charger, etc. This information allows the degradation state of the battery pack 170 to be determined.

[0185] The charging information may include information indicating the charging interval. The charging interval is the time elapsed from removing the battery pack 170 from the charging station 300 or a home charger, etc., until it is reconnected. This information allows the degradation state of the battery pack 170 to be determined.

[0186] The charging information may include information indicating the charging time and the amount of charge per charge. The charging time refers to the date and time when the battery pack 170 is connected to the charging station 300 or a home charger, etc. The amount of charge per charge refers to the voltage increase caused by charging. This information allows for the determination of the conditions of each charge and the degradation status of the battery pack 170.

[0187] Charging information may include information indicating charging voltage or charging current. Charging voltage refers to the voltage value applied to battery 171 during charging. Charging current refers to the current value flowing through battery 171 during charging. This information allows determination of the device (charging station 300 or home charger) for charging battery pack 170.

[0188] Charging information may include location-related information during charging. This information allows it to be determined where the battery pack 170 will be charged (e.g., at a point of sale 8 or at home).

[0189] The charging information may include the number of abnormal charging incidents and the amount of charge generated during those incidents. This information allows for the recording of faults that have occurred in the battery pack 170.

[0190] The charging information may include information indicating the state of health (SOH) of battery 171. This information allows the degradation state of battery 171 to be determined.

[0191] The above describes an example of charging information. For example, charging information can be obtained by battery pack 170 or charging station 300 and written to memory 174.

[0192] (8) Supplementary Information

[0193] The above describes an example of information that can be stored in battery pack 170 and collected by utilizing the replacement of battery pack 170.

[0194] The battery pack 170 can store and associate at least two or more of the following with each other: battery pack ID, replacement log, heating-related discharge information, non-heating-related discharge information, device information, and charging information, and can also transmit this information. This configuration enables more precise analysis of the collected information. For example, by associating the replacement log with heating-related discharge information, the heating-related discharge status of the suction device 100 identified by the device ID included in the replacement log can be analyzed.

[0195] <4. Recommended replacement locations for battery pack 170>

[0196] Management server 500 controls the process of recommending candidate replacement locations (i.e., charging stations 300) for battery pack 170 to user U. More specifically, management server 500 selects one or more charging stations 300 from a plurality of charging stations 300 capable of providing battery pack 170 as candidate replacement locations for battery pack 170. Management server 500 then recommends the selected candidate replacement locations for battery pack 170 to user U. For example, management server 500 generates a UI screen showing the locations of candidate replacement locations for battery pack 170 mapped to a map and displays this UI screen on user terminal 200. With this configuration, user U can be prompted to replace battery pack 170 at a suitable charging station 300, thereby improving the availability for user U.

[0197] The following will refer to Figure 8 An example describing the UI screen displayed by the terminal device 200.

[0198] Figure 8 This is a diagram illustrating an example of a UI screen displayed by a user terminal 200 according to an embodiment. Figure 8 As shown, UI screen P1 displays pins P12 and P13 (P13-1 and P13-2) on a map P11 overlaid with the area surrounding the user U's current location. Pin P12 indicates the user U's current location. Pin P13 indicates the location of charging station 300 recommended as a candidate replacement site for battery pack 170. There is no particular limit to the number of charging stations 300 displayed, and two charging stations can exist (e.g., ...). Figure 8 (As shown), or there may be no restrictions. User U can refer to this UI screen P1 to find a convenient charging station 300 to replace the battery pack 170.

[0199] like Figure 8As shown, associated with the corresponding charging station 300 are also annotations P14 (P14-1 and P14-2) indicating information related to the charging station 300 or the sales outlet 8 where the charging station 300 is located. Annotations P14 include: the name of the sales outlet 8, the number of replaceable battery packs 170 (i.e., the number of fully charged battery packs 170), the time required for user U to reach the charging station 300 from user U's current location, and information indicating whether the user U's preferred brand of base packs is in stock. By referring to annotation P14, user U can select the sales outlet 8, which has replaceable battery packs 170 in stock, is easily accessible, or has base packs of their preferred brand in stock, as the replacement location for the battery packs 170. Furthermore, as shown in annotation P14-1, the UI screen P1 can also display future inventory, such as the number of available battery packs 170 in stock increasing by one within 10 minutes. In this case, user U can choose to go to the sales outlet 8 in anticipation of future inventory increases.

[0200] The above describes an example of a UI screen displayed by user terminal 200.

[0201] As described above, the management server 500 can collect information stored in the memory 174 of the battery pack 170 via the charging station 300, and can also recommend replacement locations for the battery pack 170 based on this information. Additionally, the management server 500 can collect information stored in the memory 174 of the battery pack 170 in real time via the suction device 100 connected to the battery pack 170, and can recommend replacement locations for the battery pack 170 based on this information. Furthermore, the management server 500 can collect information related to the suction device 100 or the charging station 300 in real time from the suction device 100 or from the management server 500 itself, and can recommend replacement locations for the battery pack 170 based on this information. The process for recommending candidate replacement locations for the battery pack 170 will be described in detail below.

[0202] The management server 500 can implement a process for recommending candidate replacement locations for the battery pack 170 based on information indicating the remaining battery capacity of the battery pack 170 currently connected to the inhalation device 100. For example, the management server 500 recommends candidate replacement locations for the battery pack 170 before the remaining battery capacity of the battery pack 170 currently connected to the inhalation device 100 is depleted. With this configuration, the user U can be prompted to replace the battery pack 170 before it is exhausted, thus preventing a situation where smoking is no longer possible due to the depletion of the remaining battery capacity of the battery pack 170.

[0203] Specifically, when the remaining battery capacity of the battery pack 170 currently connected to the inhalation device 100 is less than a first threshold, the management server 500 performs a process to recommend candidate replacement locations for the battery pack 170. Here, the first threshold is preferably set to a value equal to or higher than the remaining battery capacity that allows the consumption of one or more substrates. That is, the management server 500 can recommend candidate replacement locations for the battery pack 170 when the remaining battery capacity of the battery pack 170 is sufficient to allow the consumption of a predetermined amount of substrate. This configuration allows the user U to be prompted to replace the battery pack 170 while there is still room for smoking with a predetermined amount of substrate.

[0204] The management server 500 can set a first threshold based on information indicating the heating profile used by the inhalation device 100. For example, the management server 500 can set a higher first threshold for the inhalation device 100 that uses a heating profile that consumes a lot of power at relatively high temperatures. Conversely, the management server 500 can set a lower first threshold for the inhalation device 100 that uses a heating profile that consumes a little power at relatively low temperatures. This configuration allows the user U to be prompted to replace the battery pack 170 at an appropriate time, commensurate with the power consumption according to the heating profile.

[0205] The management server 500 can set a first threshold based on the usage pattern of the inhalation device 100. For example, the management server 500 can set a higher first threshold for a user U who smokes at shorter intervals. Conversely, the management server 500 can set a lower first threshold for a user U who smokes at longer intervals. This configuration allows the user U to be prompted to replace the battery pack 170 at an appropriate time, consistent with the usage pattern of the inhalation device 100.

[0206] The timing of recommending candidate replacement locations for battery pack 170 can be determined based on various information, such as the remaining battery capacity of the battery pack 170 currently connected to the inhalation device 100 or in combination with that remaining battery capacity.

[0207] As an example, when the amount of substrate carried with the inhalation device 100 is less than a second threshold, the management server 500 can implement processing to recommend candidate replacement locations for the battery pack 170. The amount of substrate carried with the inhalation device 100 can be input by the user U into the user terminal 200, or it can be estimated based on information related to the substrate pack purchased by the user U and the number of times the user has smoked since the purchase. As mentioned above, it is desirable to replace the battery pack 170 at the same time as purchasing a substrate pack. In this regard, the above configuration allows the user U to be prompted to replace the battery pack 170 before the substrate they carry runs out, and to be prompted to purchase a substrate pack at the same time as replacing the battery pack 170. Therefore, it is possible to prevent the user U from being unable to smoke due to a lack of substrate.

[0208] Furthermore, the management server 500 can set a second threshold based on information indicating the usage pattern of the inhalation device 100. For example, the management server 500 can set a higher second threshold for users U who take shorter smoking intervals and a lower second threshold for users U who take longer smoking intervals. This configuration allows users U to be prompted to replace the battery pack 170 at an appropriate time that corresponds to the rate at which each user U consumes the matrix.

[0209] As another example, when a fault has occurred in the battery pack 170 connected to the inhalation device 100, the management server 500 can implement a process to recommend candidate replacement locations for the battery pack 170. Whether a fault has occurred in the battery pack 170 can be determined by user U inputting information to user terminal 200, or based on heating-related discharge or charging information. With this configuration, user U can be prompted to replace the faulty battery pack 170, and the use of the faulty battery pack 170 can be prevented.

[0210] The management server 500 can recommend multiple charging stations 300 as candidate replacement locations for the battery pack 170. In this case, the management server 500 can recommend multiple charging stations 300 in a preferred order based on a predetermined reference. An example of a reference used to set the preferred order will be described below.

[0211] The management server 500 can prioritize charging stations 300 with battery packs 170 (i.e., fully charged battery packs) that can be supplied to the inhalation device 100 as candidate replacement locations for battery packs 170. The management server 500 can also prioritize charging stations 300 with a larger number of battery packs 170 that can be supplied to the inhalation device 100 as candidate replacement locations for battery packs 170. This configuration prevents the problem of user U being unable to replace battery packs 170 despite having gone to the sales outlet 8 due to lack of stock.

[0212] The management server 500 can prioritize recommending charging stations 300 that allow the return of depleted battery packs 170 used by the suction device 100 as candidate replacement locations for battery packs 170. For example, the management server 500 prioritizes charging stations 300 with available charging points as candidate replacement locations for battery packs 170. This configuration prevents the problem of user U being unable to return battery packs 170 even after going to the sales outlet 8, and therefore unable to replace battery packs 170.

[0213] Here, the management server 500 can select candidate replacement locations for the battery pack 170 based on the planned charging end time of each of one or more charging points in the charging station 300 and the expected arrival time of the user U at the charging station 300. For example, the management server 500 can first obtain the planned charging end time of each charging point estimated by the charging station 300. Furthermore, the management server 500 can estimate the expected arrival time of the user U at the charging station 300 based on the current location of the user U, as indicated by the location information of the user terminal 200, and the location information of the sales outlet 8 where the charging station 300 is located. When a charging station 300 exists (whose expected arrival time is after the planned charging end time), the management server 500 can determine that there is stock available for the battery pack 170 at that charging station 300, and can then recommend that charging station as a candidate replacement location for the battery pack 170. With this configuration, charging stations 300 that currently do not have stock available for the battery pack 170 but are expected to have stock available for the battery pack 170 when the user U arrives can be recommended as candidate replacement locations for the battery pack 170.

[0214] The management server 500 can prioritize recommending charging stations 300 geographically close to user U as candidate replacement locations for battery pack 170. For example, the management server 500 can prioritize recommending charging stations 300 located within a predetermined distance from the current location of user U, as indicated by the location information of user terminal 200, as candidate replacement locations for battery pack 170. Alternatively, the management server 500 can prioritize recommending the charging station 300 closest to the current location of user U as a candidate replacement location for battery pack 170. This configuration allows prompting to replace battery pack 170 at the nearest charging station 300.

[0215] The management server 500 can preferentially recommend charging stations 300 located in sales outlets 8 that stock substrate used by the suction device 100 as candidate replacement locations for battery pack 170. For example, the management server 500 can preferentially recommend charging stations 300 located in sales outlets 8 that stock substrate packages recently purchased or frequently purchased by user U as candidate replacement locations for battery pack 170. This configuration allows user U to purchase their preferred substrate packages while also replacing battery pack 170.

[0216] Next, we will refer to Figure 9 Describe an example of the processing flow implemented using System 1.

[0217] Figure 9 This is a sequence diagram illustrating an example of a processing flow implemented by System 1 according to this embodiment. The sequence involves an inhalation device 100, a user terminal 200, a charging station 300, and a management server 500.

[0218] like Figure 9 As shown, the charging station 300 first reports various types of information to the management server 500 (step S102). For example, the charging station 300 sends the following to the management server 500: availability of each charging point, charging progress of the battery pack 170, and planned charging end time, etc. As another example, the charging station 300 sends information collected from the connected battery pack 170 to the management server 500.

[0219] Next, the management server 500 stores the information received from the charging station 300 in a database (hereinafter also referred to as "DB"), thereby updating the DB used to manage the information from the charging station 300 (step S104). The DB further stores information such as the number of charging points in the charging station 300 and the location information of the sales outlet 8 where the charging station 300 is located.

[0220] Next, the inhalation device 100 reports various types of information to the user terminal 200 (step S106). For example, the inhalation device 100 sends information to the user terminal 200 indicating the remaining battery capacity of the battery pack 170 currently connected to the inhalation device 100.

[0221] Next, the user terminal 200 accepts user input (step S108). For example, the user terminal 200 accepts input of the amount of matrix carried by the user U together with the inhalation device 100.

[0222] Next, the user terminal 200 obtains location information indicating the current location of the user U (step S110).

[0223] Then, the user terminal 200 reports various types of information to the management server 500 (step S112). For example, the user terminal 200 sends to the management server 500 the information received from the inhalation device 100 in step S106, the information input by the user U in step S108, and the location information obtained in step S110.

[0224] Next, the management server 500 determines whether it is necessary to recommend candidate replacement locations for the battery pack 170 (step S114). For example, when the remaining battery capacity of the battery pack 170 currently connected to the inhalation device 100 is less than a first threshold, the management server 500 determines that it is necessary to recommend candidate replacement locations for the battery pack 170.

[0225] When it has been determined that candidate replacement locations for battery pack 170 need to be recommended, management server 500 selects one or more charging stations 300 as candidate replacement locations for battery pack 170 (step S116). For example, by referring to the DB updated in step S104, management server 500 selects charging stations 300 that have reserves of battery pack 170 and are located within a predetermined distance from the current location of user U as candidate replacement locations for battery pack 170.

[0226] Next, the management server 500 sends information to the user terminal 200 indicating the candidate replacement locations for the selected battery pack 170 (step S118).

[0227] Based on the received information, the user terminal 200 then displays a UI screen showing candidate replacement locations for the battery pack 170 (step S120).

[0228] <5. Reservation Function>

[0229] The management server 500 can control the process of reserving battery packs 170 at candidate replacement locations. The management server 500 reserves battery packs 170 for user U at charging stations 300, which are selected by user U from among the charging stations 300 recommended to user U as candidate replacement locations for battery packs 170. This configuration improves availability.

[0230] Battery pack 170 can be reserved on the UI screen displayed on user terminal 200. See below for further details. Figure 10 Describe an example of a UI screen related to booking.

[0231] Figure 10 This is a diagram illustrating an example of a UI screen displayed by a user terminal 200 according to an embodiment. Figure 10 As shown, UI screen P2 displays pins P22 and P23 (P23-1 and P23-2) on a map P21 overlaid with the area surrounding the user U's current location. Pin P22 indicates the user U's current location. Pin P23 indicates the location of charging station 300, which is recommended as a candidate replacement site for battery pack 170.

[0232] like Figure 10 As shown, associated with the corresponding charging station 300 are also annotations P24 (P24-1 and P24-2) indicating information related to the charging station 300 or the sales outlet 8 where the charging station 300 is located. Annotation P24 includes information related to... Figure 8The same details are shown in note P14, and further include reservation buttons P25 (P25-1 and P25-2). User U can reserve a replacement of battery pack 170 at charging station 300 by selecting reservation button P25. It should be noted that reservation button P25-1 associated with charging station 300 at store A is deactivated and cannot be selected because store A currently has no stock of replaceable battery pack 170, and it is not expected that there will still be no stock after the 5 minutes required to reach store A. Meanwhile, reservation button P25-2 associated with charging station 300 at store B (which currently does have stock of replaceable battery pack 170) is activated and can be selected.

[0233] After accepting a reservation, the management server 500 controls the charging station 300 to lock the reserved battery pack 170 and provides the locked battery pack 170 only to the user U who made the reservation. For example, the charging station 300 can lock the housing 301 containing the reserved battery pack 170, or it can make the LED 302 corresponding to the housing 301 emit light in a predetermined form. Then, the charging station 300 will only provide the battery pack 170 if the user U who comes to collect the reserved battery pack 170 has been authenticated as the user U who made the reservation. Authentication can be performed by means of a QR code issued by the management server 500 at the time of reservation, which is then displayed on the user terminal 200 and read by the charging station 300.

[0234] Furthermore, if the user U who made the reservation does not collect the reserved battery pack 170 within the reserved time after the reservation is accepted, the management server 500 can cancel the reservation.

[0235] When the management server 500 has accepted a reservation, it can notify the user terminal 200 of the reservation acceptance. Conversely, when the management server 500 has cancelled a reservation, it can notify the user terminal 200 of the cancellation.

[0236] <6. Supplementary Information>

[0237] The preferred embodiments of this disclosure have been described in detail above with reference to the accompanying drawings; however, this disclosure is not limited to such examples. It will be apparent to those skilled in the art to which this disclosure pertains that numerous variations or modifications within the scope of the technical concept disclosed in the claims will be conceived, and it should be understood that any such variations or modifications fall within the technical scope of this disclosure.

[0238] The above embodiments describe examples of the inhalation device 100 communicating with the management server 500 via the user terminal 200 or the charging station 300, but this disclosure is not limited to such examples. The inhalation device 100 may communicate directly with the management server 500.

[0239] The above embodiments describe an example of charging station 300 being operated by staff member S, but this disclosure is not limited to this example. Charging station 300 can also be operated by user U through self-service. That is, staff member S does not need to be involved in replacing battery pack 170.

[0240] The above embodiments describe an example of System 1 including a sales outlet terminal 400. As an example, the functionality of the sales outlet terminal 400 may be included in the user terminal 200. In this case, the user terminal 200 can be used to settle the replacement cost of the battery pack 170 via electronic payment. As another example, the functionality of the sales outlet terminal 400 may be included in the charging station 300.

[0241] The above embodiments describe a service for replacing the battery pack 170, which serves as the power unit 111 of the inhalation device 100; however, the scope of the replacement service is not limited to this example. The power unit 111 of the inhalation device 100 can be charged by a portable charger with a built-in battery, which is configured to be detachable from the inhalation device 100. A replacement service can then be provided for the portable charger, and the techniques related to this disclosure can be applied to portable chargers that are understood to be the battery packs of this disclosure. For example, charging station 300 can recommend candidate replacement locations for portable chargers to user U.

[0242] The processing operations described in the above embodiments can be implemented using any device acting as a master agent. For example, the user terminal 200 can determine whether to recommend candidate replacement locations for battery pack 170. In this case, the user terminal 200 can send a request to the management server 500 to recommend replacement locations for battery pack 170, and the management server 500, having received the request, can respond to the user terminal 200 after selecting a replacement location for battery pack 170.

[0243] It should be noted that the series of processes performed by each device described in this specification can be implemented using software, hardware, or any combination of software and hardware. For example, the program constituting the software is pre-stored on a recording medium (more specifically, a non-transitory computer-readable storage medium) located internally or externally to each device. Then, when these programs are executed, for example, by a computer used to control each device described in this specification, these programs are read into random access memory (RAM) and executed by means of processing circuitry such as a central processing unit (CPU). The recording medium is, for example, a magnetic disk, optical disk, magneto-optical disk, or flash memory. Furthermore, the computer program can be distributed, for example, via a network without using a recording medium. Additionally, the computer can be an application-specific integrated circuit (ASIC), a general-purpose processor that performs functions by reading software programs, or a computer on a server used for cloud computing. Furthermore, the series of processes performed by each device described in this specification can be centrally processed by a single computer or processed in a distributed manner by multiple computers. Additionally, in the above embodiments, two or more communication means existing in a single device can be physically implemented using a single medium.

[0244] Furthermore, the processes described using flowcharts or sequence diagrams in this specification do not necessarily have to be implemented in the order depicted. Some processing steps can be implemented in parallel. In addition, additional processing steps can be used, and some processing steps can be omitted.

[0245] The following configurations also fall within the technical scope of this disclosure.

[0246] (1) A control device, comprising:

[0247] A control unit is configured to control a process for recommending candidate replacement locations for a battery pack that can be interchangeably connected to an inhalation device to a user of an inhalation device for generating an aerosol using a matrix containing an aerosol source. This process is implemented by selecting one or more battery pack supply devices from a plurality of battery pack supply devices capable of supplying the battery pack as candidate replacement locations for the battery pack, and then recommending the selected candidate replacement locations for the battery pack to the user of the inhalation device.

[0248] (2) The control device as described in (1) above, wherein,

[0249] The control unit performs a process to recommend candidate replacement locations for the battery pack based on information indicating the remaining battery capacity of the battery pack currently connected to the inhalation device.

[0250] (3) The control device as described in (2) above, wherein,

[0251] When the remaining battery capacity of the battery pack currently connected to the inhalation device is less than a first threshold, the control unit performs a process to recommend candidate replacement locations for the battery pack, and

[0252] The first threshold is set to be equal to or higher than a value corresponding to the remaining battery capacity that would enable the consumption of one or more of the aforementioned substrates.

[0253] (4) The control device as described in (3) above, wherein,

[0254] The control unit sets the first threshold based on control information used to control the temperature of the inhalation device heating the aerosol source.

[0255] (5) The control device as described in (3) or (4) above, wherein,

[0256] The control unit sets the first threshold based on the usage pattern of the inhalation device.

[0257] (6) The control device as described in any one of (3) to (5) above, wherein,

[0258] When the amount of matrix carried with the inhalation device is less than a second threshold, the control unit performs a process to recommend candidate replacement sites for the battery pack.

[0259] (7) The control device as described in any one of (1) to (6) above, wherein,

[0260] When an abnormality occurs in the battery pack connected to the inhalation device, the control unit performs a process to recommend candidate replacement locations for the battery pack.

[0261] (8) The control device as described in any one of (1) to (7) above, wherein,

[0262] The control unit preferentially recommends a battery pack supply device that can provide a battery pack to the inhalation device as a candidate replacement location for the battery pack.

[0263] (9) The control device as described in any one of (1) to (8) above, wherein,

[0264] The control unit prioritizes battery pack supply devices that allow the return of depleted battery packs used by the inhalation device as candidate replacement sites for the battery pack.

[0265] (10) The control device as described in any one of (1) to (9) above, wherein,

[0266] The control unit recommends candidate replacement locations for the battery pack based on the planned end time of charging at each of one or more charging points in the battery pack supply device and the expected arrival time of the user of the inhalation device at the battery pack supply device.

[0267] (11) The control device as described in any one of (1) to (10) above, wherein,

[0268] The control unit prioritizes recommending battery pack supply locations that are geographically close to the user as candidate replacement sites for the battery pack.

[0269] (12) The control device as described in any one of (1) to (11) above, wherein,

[0270] The control unit preferentially recommends battery pack supply units located at sales outlets that stock the matrix used by the inhalation device as candidate replacement locations for the battery pack.

[0271] (13) The control device as described in any one of (1) to (12) above, wherein,

[0272] The control unit controls the processing for reserving the battery pack at the candidate replacement location.

[0273] (14) A control method implemented by means of a processor, the control method comprising:

[0274] The control process for recommending candidate replacement sites for a battery pack that can be interchangeably connected to an inhalation device to a user of an inhalation device that generates an aerosol using a matrix containing an aerosol source is implemented by selecting one or more battery pack supply devices from a plurality of battery pack supply devices capable of supplying the battery pack as candidate replacement sites for the battery pack, and then recommending the selected candidate replacement sites for the battery pack to the user of the inhalation device.

[0275] (15) A program for enabling a computer to act as

[0276] A control unit is configured to control a process for recommending candidate replacement locations for a battery pack that can be interchangeably connected to an inhalation device to a user of an inhalation device for generating an aerosol using a matrix containing an aerosol source. This process is implemented by selecting one or more battery pack supply devices from a plurality of battery pack supply devices capable of supplying the battery pack as candidate replacement locations for the battery pack, and then recommending the selected candidate replacement locations for the battery pack to the user of the inhalation device.

[0277] List of reference numerals

[0278] 1 System

[0279] 100 Inhalation Device

[0280] 110 Power Supply Unit

[0281] 111 Power Supply Unit

[0282] 112 Sensor Unit

[0283] 113 Notification Unit

[0284] 114 memory cells

[0285] 115 Communication Unit

[0286] 116 Control Unit

[0287] 120 smoke cartridges

[0288] 121 Heating Unit

[0289] 122 Liquid guiding section

[0290] 123 Liquid storage section

[0291] 124 suction nozzle

[0292] 130 Flavored Smoke Cartridges

[0293] 131 Flavor Source

[0294] 140 Capacity Section

[0295] 141 Interior Space

[0296] 142 Opening

[0297] 143 Bottom section

[0298] 144 Thermal Insulation Components

[0299] 150 rod-shaped substrate

[0300] 151 Matrix Part

[0301] 152 Suction nozzle section

[0302] 170 battery pack

[0303] 171 battery

[0304] 172 Protection IC

[0305] 173 MCU

[0306] 174 Memory

[0307] 175 sensor

[0308] 176 terminal

[0309] 180 airflow path

[0310] 181 Air inlet hole

[0311] 182 Air outlet hole

[0312] 200 user terminals

[0313] 210 Communication Unit

[0314] 220 memory cells

[0315] 230 Input Unit

[0316] 240 Output Unit

[0317] 250 control unit

[0318] 300 charging stations

[0319] 301 Housing

[0320] 302 LED

[0321] 310 Communication Unit

[0322] 320 memory cells

[0323] 330 Input Unit

[0324] 340 Output Unit

[0325] 350 charging units

[0326] 351 connection terminal

[0327] 360 Control Unit

[0328] 400 sales outlet terminals

[0329] 500 Management Server

[0330] 510 Communication Unit

[0331] 520 memory cells

[0332] 530 Control Unit

[0333] 8 Sales outlets

[0334] 9. Network.

Claims

1. A control device, comprising: A control unit is configured to control a process for recommending candidate replacement locations for a battery pack that can be interchangeably connected to an inhalation device to a user of an inhalation device for generating an aerosol using a matrix containing an aerosol source. This process is implemented by selecting one or more battery pack supply devices from a plurality of battery pack supply devices capable of supplying the battery pack as candidate replacement locations for the battery pack, and then recommending the selected candidate replacement locations for the battery pack to the user of the inhalation device.

2. The control device as claimed in claim 1, wherein, The control unit performs a process to recommend candidate replacement locations for the battery pack based on information indicating the remaining battery capacity of the battery pack currently connected to the inhalation device.

3. The control device as described in claim 2, wherein, When the remaining battery capacity of the battery pack currently connected to the inhalation device is less than a first threshold, the control unit performs a process to recommend candidate replacement locations for the battery pack, and The first threshold is set to be equal to or higher than a value corresponding to the remaining battery capacity that would enable the consumption of one or more of the aforementioned substrates.

4. The control device as described in claim 3, wherein, The control unit sets the first threshold based on control information used to control the temperature of the inhalation device heating the aerosol source.

5. The control device as described in claim 3 or 4, wherein, The control unit sets the first threshold based on the usage pattern of the inhalation device.

6. The control device as described in any one of claims 3 to 5, wherein, When the amount of matrix carried with the inhalation device is less than a second threshold, the control unit performs a process to recommend candidate replacement sites for the battery pack.

7. The control device as described in any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein, When an abnormality occurs in the battery pack connected to the inhalation device, the control unit performs a process to recommend candidate replacement locations for the battery pack.

8. The control device as described in any one of claims 1 to 7, wherein, The control unit preferentially recommends a battery pack supply device that can provide a battery pack to the inhalation device as a candidate replacement location for the battery pack.

9. The control device as described in any one of claims 1 to 8, wherein, The control unit prioritizes battery pack supply devices that allow the return of depleted battery packs used by the inhalation device as candidate replacement sites for the battery pack.

10. The control device according to any one of claims 1 to 9, wherein, The control unit recommends candidate replacement locations for the battery pack based on the planned end time of charging at each of one or more charging points in the battery pack supply device and the expected arrival time of the user of the inhalation device at the battery pack supply device.

11. The control device according to any one of claims 1 to 10, wherein, The control unit prioritizes recommending battery pack supply locations that are geographically close to the user as candidate replacement sites for the battery pack.

12. The control device according to any one of claims 1 to 11, wherein, The control unit preferentially recommends battery pack supply units located at sales outlets that stock the matrix used by the inhalation device as candidate replacement locations for the battery pack.

13. The control device as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 12, wherein, The control unit controls the processing for reserving the battery pack at the candidate replacement location.

14. A control method implemented by means of a processor, the control method comprising: The control process for recommending candidate replacement sites for a battery pack that can be interchangeably connected to an inhalation device to a user of an inhalation device that generates an aerosol using a matrix containing an aerosol source is implemented by selecting one or more battery pack supply devices from a plurality of battery pack supply devices capable of supplying the battery pack as candidate replacement sites for the battery pack, and then recommending the selected candidate replacement sites for the battery pack to the user of the inhalation device.

15. A program for enabling a computer to act as A control unit is configured to control a process for recommending candidate replacement locations for a battery pack that can be interchangeably connected to an inhalation device to a user of an inhalation device for generating an aerosol using a matrix containing an aerosol source. This process is implemented by selecting one or more battery pack supply devices from a plurality of battery pack supply devices capable of supplying the battery pack as candidate replacement locations for the battery pack, and then recommending the selected candidate replacement locations for the battery pack to the user of the inhalation device.

Images