Battery pack providing apparatus, control method, and program

Abstract

[Problem] To provide an arrangement capable of properly managing battery packs. [Solution] A battery pack supply device for replaceably supplying a battery pack to each of a plurality of inhalation devices having a heating unit for heating an aerosol source to generate an aerosol, the battery pack being detachably connected to each inhalation device, and the battery pack supply device comprising: a connection portion electrically connected to the battery pack; and a control unit for determining the state of the battery pack based on information obtained via the connection portion from the battery pack connected to the connection portion, wherein, when it is determined that the battery pack has deteriorated, the control unit controls processing to notify information associated with the battery pack indicating that the battery pack has deteriorated.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This disclosure relates to a battery pack supply 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 that can be classified as inhalation devices include devices 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 inhalation devices that generate 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] PTL 1, indicated below, discloses an inhalation device with a replaceable battery pack as a technology related to the right of repair. 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 to address the aforementioned issues, and its purpose is to provide an arrangement that allows for proper management of battery packs. Solution to the problem

[0010] To address the aforementioned problems, one aspect of this disclosure provides a battery pack supply device for replaceably supplying a battery pack to each of a plurality of inhalation devices having a heating unit for heating an aerosol source to generate an aerosol, the battery pack being detachably connected to each inhalation device, and the battery pack supply device comprising: a connection portion electrically connected to the battery pack; and a control unit for determining the state of the battery pack based on information obtained via the connection portion from the battery pack connected to the connection portion, wherein, when it is determined that the battery pack has deteriorated, the control unit controls processing to notify information associated with the battery pack indicating that the battery pack has deteriorated.

[0011] The battery pack may include a memory unit for storing information indicating the operating history of the battery pack, and the control unit may determine the state of the battery pack based on the information indicating the operating history of the battery pack stored in the memory unit of the battery pack.

[0012] Information indicating the operating history of the battery pack may include at least one of information indicating the discharge history of the battery pack and information indicating the charging history of the battery pack.

[0013] The battery pack's memory unit can store the battery pack's specifications, and the control unit can also determine the battery pack's status based on the specifications stored in the battery pack's memory unit.

[0014] When a battery pack malfunction has been identified, the control unit can control the processing to notify the associated battery pack information indicating the malfunction.

[0015] The battery pack supply device may further include a charging unit for charging the battery pack connected to the connection portion.

[0016] When a charging anomaly occurs in the battery pack, the control unit can control the process to notify the battery pack of the information indicating that a charging anomaly has occurred.

[0017] The battery pack supply device may further include an output unit for outputting information indicating the state of the battery pack, determined by means of a control unit.

[0018] The battery pack supply device may include multiple connection parts.

[0019] Furthermore, to address the aforementioned issues, another aspect of this disclosure provides a control method implemented by a processor for controlling a battery pack supply device for replaceably supplying a battery pack to each of a plurality of inhalation devices, the plurality of inhalation devices having a heating unit for heating an aerosol source to generate an aerosol, the battery pack being detachably connected to each inhalation device, and the control method comprising: determining the state of the battery pack in the battery pack supply device based on information obtained from the battery pack connected to the connection portion via a connection portion electrically connected to the battery pack; and when it has been determined that the battery pack has deteriorated, a control process to notify information associated with the battery pack indicating that the battery pack has deteriorated.

[0020] Furthermore, to address the aforementioned issues, another aspect of this disclosure provides a program for using a computer controlling a battery pack supply device as a control unit, the battery pack supply device alternatively supplying a battery pack to each of a plurality of inhalation devices having a heating unit for heating an aerosol source to generate an aerosol, the battery pack being detachably connected to each inhalation device, the control unit for determining the state of the battery pack in the battery pack supply device based on information obtained from the battery pack connected to the connection portion via a connection portion electrically connected to the battery pack, wherein, when it has been determined that the battery pack has deteriorated, the control unit controls processing to notify information associated with the battery pack indicating that the battery pack has deteriorated. Advantages of the present invention

[0021] As described above, this disclosure provides an arrangement that enables proper management of the battery pack. Attached Figure Description

[0022] [ Figure 1 [Illustration 1] is a diagram showing an overview of a system according to an embodiment of this disclosure.

[0023] [ Figure 2 [Illustrated diagram showing a first configuration example of an inhalation device according to an embodiment.]

[0024] [ Figure 3 [Illustrated diagram showing a second configuration example of the inhalation device according to an embodiment.]

[0025] [ Figure 4 [ ] is a block diagram illustrating a configuration example of a battery pack according to an embodiment.

[0026] [ Figure 5 [ ] is a block diagram illustrating a configuration example of a charging station according to an embodiment.

[0027] [ Figure 6[Illustration] is a block diagram illustrating a configuration example of a management server according to an embodiment.

[0028] [ Figure 7 [ ] is a sequence diagram illustrating an example of a processing flow implemented by a system according to an embodiment.

[0029] [ Figure 8 [This is a flowchart illustrating an example of a processing flow implemented by a charging station according to an embodiment.]

[0030] [ Figure 9 [This is a flowchart illustrating an example of a processing flow implemented by a charging station according to an embodiment.] Detailed Implementation

[0031] 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.

[0032] <1. Overview>

[0033] First, refer to Figure 1 An overview of the system according to embodiments of this disclosure is described.

[0034] Figure 1 This is a diagram illustrating an overview of the system according to this embodiment. (e.g.) 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.

[0035] 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 may be able to communicate using, for example, BLE (Bluetooth Low Energy (registered trademark)).

[0036] 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. Thus, inhalation device 100 operates using power from the battery pack 170 mounted thereto. The structure from which battery pack 170 is removed from inhalation device 100 may be referred to hereinafter as the “body”, or simply as “inhalation device 100”.

[0037] The battery pack 170 includes at least a rechargeable and dischargeable secondary battery. The battery pack 170 may include a storage medium and a communication terminal. Information can then be read from and written to the storage medium via the communication terminal using the suction device 100 or charging station 300 to which the battery pack 170 is connected.

[0038] User terminal 200 is an example of a terminal device used by user U. User terminal 200 can be a smartphone or tablet computer 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 by communicating with inhalation device 100.

[0039] Charging station 300 and point-of-sale terminal 400 are placed in point-of-sale 8 (e.g., a convenience store) and used by staff S working at point-of-sale 8. Charging station 300 and point-of-sale terminal 400 placed in the same point-of-sale 8 may be able to communicate via, for example, a LAN (local area network). Point-of-sale 8 sells matrix packages containing one or more matrices used by inhalation device 100. Point-of-sale 8 may sell various types of matrix packages containing different types or different quantities of matrices.

[0040] 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 LEDs (light-emitting diodes) 302 and a touch panel 303 for inputting / outputting various types of information. LEDs 302 are arranged corresponding to housing 301 and emit light in a color corresponding to the state of the corresponding housing 301 (e.g., whether housing 301 is idle, whether charging is in progress, and the charging progress if charging is in progress).

[0041] User U can replace the battery pack 170 fitted to the inhalation device 100 at sales outlet 8. As used herein, “replace” means returning the used battery pack 170 and providing a battery pack 170 that is charged by the charging station 300.

[0042] For example, user U returns the used battery pack 170 after removing it from inhalation device 100. Staff member S connects the returned battery pack 170 to charging station 300 to begin charging and also removes the charged battery pack 170 from charging station 300 to provide to user U. User U receives the battery pack 170 provided by staff member S and installs it into inhalation device 100. This battery pack 170 replacement service allows user U to replace the used battery pack 170 with a fully charged one at any time "on the go," without needing to charge it at home.

[0043] 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 available storage box 301. 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 storage box 301 containing the fully charged battery pack 170 and provide the fully charged battery pack 170 to the user U.

[0044] The services provided by charging station 300 are not limited to replacing battery pack 170. That is, charging station 300 may accept only the return of battery pack 170, or may only provide battery pack 170. For example, user U may rent a spare battery pack 170 separate from their own battery pack 170, or may return the rented spare battery pack 170.

[0045] Therefore, the battery pack 170 can be alternatively supplied to 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, etc.

[0046] 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 cost of replacing battery pack 170.

[0047] 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.

[0048] 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.

[0049] 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.

[0050] 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 processing to restore degraded or faulty battery packs 170 (i.e., remove such battery packs from the cycle) and repairs those battery packs that can be repaired for recycling.

[0051] <2. Configuration Example>

[0052] <2.1. Configuration Example of Inhalation Device 100>

[0053] 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.

[0054] (1) First configuration instance

[0055] 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.

[0056] 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).

[0057] 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 (e.g., 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 (e.g., a button or switch) for accepting information input from the user.

[0058] The notification unit 113A notifies the user of information. For example, the notification unit 113A may be configured as a light-emitting device that emits light, a display device that displays an image, a sound output device that outputs sound, or a vibration device that can vibrate.

[0059] 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).

[0060] 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).

[0061] 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).

[0062] 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.

[0063] The liquid guiding section 122 guides and contains the aerosol source from the liquid storage section 123, which is a liquid stored in the liquid storage section 123. For example, the liquid guiding section 122 is a wicking element formed of a twisted fibrous material (such as glass fiber) or a 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.

[0064] 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.

[0065] 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.

[0066] Airflow path 180 is the flow path for 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). When inhaled by the user, air flowing in through air inlet 181 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.

[0067] 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.

[0068] 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 in the examples below.

[0069] As an example, the inhalation device 100A does not need to include the flavored tobacco cartridge 130. In this case, the tobacco cartridge 120 is provided with a mouthpiece 124.

[0070] 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.

[0071] 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.

[0072] (2) Second configuration instance

[0073] Figure 3 This is a schematic diagram illustrating a second configuration example of the inhalation device 100 according to this embodiment. Figure 3 As 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.

[0074] 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.

[0075] 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 hole is provided on the side surface of the suction device 100B, which serves as an inlet for air to enter the airflow path. For example, an air outlet hole 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.

[0076] 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 contained in the internal 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 internal space 141 through an airflow path (not shown) and reaches the user's mouth along with the aerosol generated by the matrix portion 151.

[0077] exist Figure 3 In 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.

[0078] 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.

[0079] 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 examples.

[0080] As an example, the heating unit 121B can be configured in 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 interior 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 periphery 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.

[0081] 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 150 while pressing it.

[0082] 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 (e.g., 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 matrix 150.

[0083] Furthermore, the inhalation device 100B may additionally include a heating unit 121A, a liquid guiding portion 122, a liquid storage portion 123, and an air flow path 180 according to the first configuration example, and the air flow path 180 may supply air to the interior space 141. In this case, the mixed fluid of aerosol generated by the heating unit 121A and air flows into the interior space 141, and further mixes with the aerosol generated by the heating unit 121B, and reaches the user's mouth.

[0084] (3) Supplementary information

[0085] In the following description, unless it is particularly necessary to distinguish between the aforementioned inhalation device 100A and inhalation device 100B, the letters at the end of the reference numerals will be omitted, and these inhalation devices will be generally referred to as "inhalation device 100" and described without distinction. Similarly, unless it is particularly necessary to distinguish between components common to inhalation devices 100A and inhalation devices 100B, the letters at the end of the reference numerals will be omitted, and those components will be described without distinction.

[0086] 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.

[0087] Figure 1 The battery pack 170 shown includes at least Figure 2 or Figure 3 The power supply unit 111 is shown below. The following will refer to... Figure 4 This describes a configuration example for battery pack 170.

[0088] Figure 4 This is a block diagram illustrating a configuration example 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.

[0089] Battery 171 is a rechargeable and dischargeable secondary battery. Battery 171 corresponds to... Figure 2 or Figure 3 The 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.

[0090] 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.

[0091] 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 (such as processing based on inputting information to and outputting information from each component) is also controlled by MCU 173.

[0092] 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.

[0093] 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.

[0094] Terminal 176 serves as a power terminal for sending / receiving power and an information terminal for sending / receiving information to / from the device to which battery pack 170 is connected. For example, terminal 176 may be a USB (Universal Serial Bus) connector.

[0095] It should be noted that Figure 4 An example is shown in which the protection IC 172 is included in the battery pack 170, but the protection IC 172 may 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).

[0096] (4) Heating curve

[0097] 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 a target value for a parameter 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 (hereinafter also referred to as "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.

[0098] 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.

[0099] The duration of electrical supply to the heating unit 121 is controlled based on the heating curve; in other words, the duration of heating by means of the heating unit 121 based on the heating curve will also be referred to as the "heating period" below. Furthermore, heating based on the heating curve can also be simply referred to as "heating" below.

[0100] <2.2. Configuration Example of Charging Station 300>

[0101] Figure 5 This is a block diagram illustrating a configuration example of the charging station 300 according to this embodiment. For example... Figure 5 As 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.

[0102] Communication unit 310 is a communication interface used 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.

[0103] 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).

[0104] Input unit 330 has the function of receiving input of various types of information. Input unit 330 may include 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 1The described touch panel 303 is an example of the input unit 330.

[0105] Output unit 340 has the function of outputting information. Output unit 340 may include output devices for outputting information to the operator S, such as a display device for displaying information, a light-emitting device for emitting light, a vibrating 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 vibrating 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.

[0106] 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 in the described housing 301. Specifically, the charging unit 350 charges the battery pack 170 connected to the connection terminal 351.

[0107] 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 in housing 301 and electrically connected to terminal 176 of battery pack 170 housed in 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).

[0108] 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”.

[0109] The control unit 360 functions as an arithmetic processing device or control device, thereby controlling all operations 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. Other processing implemented by the charging station 300 (such as processing based on inputting and outputting information to and from each component) is also controlled by the control unit 360.

[0110] <2.3. Configuration Example of Management Server 500>

[0111] Figure 6 This is a block diagram illustrating a configuration example of the management server 500 according to this embodiment. For example... Figure 6 As shown, the management server 500 includes a communication unit 510, a memory unit 520, and a control unit 530.

[0112] 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.

[0113] Memory unit 520 stores various types of information used to operate management server 500. Memory unit 520 is composed of non-volatile storage media, such as HDD (hard disk drive) and SSD (solid state drive).

[0114] The control unit 530 serves as an arithmetic processing and control device, thereby controlling all operations 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. Other processing implemented by the management server 500 (such as processing based on inputting and outputting information to and from each component) is also controlled by the control unit 530.

[0115] <3. Information collected via battery pack 170>

[0116] External devices (such as the main body of the inhalation 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 to the memory 174 when connected to the external device. As an example, the MCU 173 can receive information from the battery 171 related to the power supply to the main body of the inhalation device 100 when the battery pack 170 is connected to the main body of the inhalation device 100, and can write this information to the memory 174. As another example, the MCU 173 can receive information related to the charging of the battery 171 by the charging station 300 when the battery pack 170 is connected to the charging station 300, and can write this information to the memory 174.

[0117] Of course, the battery pack 170 can write information acquired by the battery pack 170 itself into the memory 174. For example, the MCU 173 can write information detected by the sensor 175 into the memory 174 when the battery pack 170 is connected to the main body of the inhalation device 100. As another example, the MCU 173 can write information detected by the sensor 175 into the memory 174 when the battery pack 170 is connected to the charging station 300.

[0118] 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.

[0119] 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. Typically, the management server 500 collects information related to the inhalation device 100 via a user terminal 200, which is capable of communicating 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.

[0120] 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 to which the battery pack 170 is connected when the battery pack 170 is replaced. Therefore, various measures can be implemented to improve the user experience of the user using the inhalation device 100, thereby achieving a better user experience.

[0121] Furthermore, the above configuration enables the exchange of information between external devices via the battery pack 170. Therefore, it is anticipated that various services can be established.

[0122] The following describes an example of information that can be stored in the battery pack 170 and collected by utilizing the replacement of the battery pack 170.

[0123] (1) Battery pack ID

[0124] 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.

[0125] (2) Specifications

[0126] The memory 174 of the battery pack 170 stores specification information, which is information indicating the specifications of the battery pack 170.

[0127] 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.

[0128] The specifications of battery pack 170 may include information indicating the manufacturing date of battery pack 170.

[0129] The specifications of battery pack 170 may include information indicating the model number of battery pack 170.

[0130] The specifications of the battery pack 170 may include information indicating the initial capacity of the battery 171.

[0131] The specifications of the battery pack 170 may include information indicating the maximum charging voltage and charging rate of the battery 171.

[0132] (3) Change log

[0133] 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 one of the information items from those shown below.

[0134] The replacement log may include a device ID, which is identification information of the inhalation device 100 connected to the battery pack 170 provided from the charging station 300. The replacement log may further include a user ID, which is identification information of the user U connected to the inhalation device 100 connected to the battery pack 170 provided from the charging station 300.

[0135] The replacement log may include information indicating when the battery pack 170 was replaced. More specifically, the replacement log may include information indicating when the battery pack 170 was provided (e.g., the date and time the battery pack 170 was removed from the charging station 300, or the date and time the battery pack 170 was connected to the inhalation device 100). Furthermore, the replacement log may include information indicating when the battery pack 170 was returned (e.g., the date and time the battery pack 170 was removed from the inhalation device 100, or the date and time the battery pack 170 was connected to the charging station 300).

[0136] The replacement log may include information indicating the location where the battery pack 170 was replaced. More specifically, the replacement log may include information indicating the location where the battery pack 170 was provided (e.g., location or identification information of sales outlet 8). The replacement log may also include information indicating the location where the battery pack 170 was returned (e.g., location or identification information of sales outlet 8).

[0137] The replacement log may include information about the substrate package purchased along with the replacement of battery pack 170. For example, substrate package information may include the type of substrate and the quantity of substrate contained in the substrate package.

[0138] The replacement log may include information indicating the number of times the battery pack 170 has been replaced. The number of replacements for the battery pack 170 may increase each time it is connected to a different inhalation device 100 than the previous one. Alternatively, the number of replacements for the battery pack 170 may increase each time it is connected to a charging station 300.

[0139] The above describes an example of a replacement log. For example, when replacing battery pack 170, the replacement log can be obtained from and written to the main body of the inhalation device 100, the charging station 300, or the battery pack 170. Furthermore, for information about substrate packages purchased along with the battery pack 170, the charging station 300 can obtain this information from the sales outlet terminal 400 and write it into the memory 174 of the battery pack 170.

[0140] (4) Discharge information related to heating

[0141] 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 one of the information items shown below.

[0142] 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 is performed. This information allows for determination of the degradation state of battery pack 170 (more specifically, battery 171) or whether an error has occurred.

[0143] Discharge information related to heating may include the decrease in the charging capacity (in mAh) of battery 171 when heating unit 121 performs heating. This decrease in charging capacity may be the difference in charging capacity before and after heating, or the difference in charging capacity from manufacturing time to the present time. This information allows for determination of the degradation state of battery pack 170, or determination of whether an error has occurred.

[0144] The discharge information related to heating may include the temperature rise of battery 171 when heating unit 121 performs heating. The temperature rise of battery 171 may be the difference between the lowest and highest temperatures during the heating period. This information allows for the determination of the degradation state of battery pack 170 or whether an error has occurred.

[0145] Discharge information related to heating may include a time-series change in the discharge amount during the heating period. The discharge amount temporarily increases immediately after suction to restore the temperature of heating unit 121 to its original value, which decreased during suction. This information allows determination of the number of suction cycles performed during the heating period.

[0146] Discharge information related to heating may include the number of times a discharge was performed for heating. This information allows the determination of the number of times heating was performed.

[0147] Discharge information related to heating may include the interval between discharges performed for heating. This information allows the interval between heating actions to be determined.

[0148] The discharge information related to heating may include at least one of the discharge amount and discharge time during heating. This information allows the heating profile used by the inhalation device 100 to be determined.

[0149] The discharge information related to heating may include the number of times a discharge is performed for the automatic operation function. The automatic operation function is a function in which heating is initiated by a substrate disposed in the inhalation device 100 (e.g., a substrate inserted into or connected to the inhalation device). This information allows it to be determined how many times the automatic operation function is performed.

[0150] Discharge information related to heating can include the number of abnormal discharges and the amount of discharge at the time of the abnormal discharge. This information allows errors that have occurred in the battery pack 170 to be recorded.

[0151] The above describes an example of discharge information related to heating. For example, discharge information related to heating 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.

[0152] (5) Discharge information unrelated to heating

[0153] The memory 174 of the battery pack 170 stores heating-independent discharge information, which indicates the discharge status of the battery 171 during periods when heating based on a heating profile is not performed. The heating-independent discharge information may include at least one of the information items shown below.

[0154] Discharge information unrelated to heating may include the number of discharges performed during the transition 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. In active mode, heating begins in response to a user action such as pressing a button.

[0155] Discharge information unrelated to heating may include at least one of the discharge quantity and discharge time during a continuous communication period of the communication unit 115. This information allows the communication quantity or communication time of the inhalation device 100 to be determined.

[0156] The above describes an example of discharge information unrelated to heating. For example, discharge information unrelated to heating 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.

[0157] (6) Device Information

[0158] 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 one of the information items shown below.

[0159] The 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 within a single "inhalation." The information indicating the duration of inhalation may be the date and time of the start of heating, or the date and time of the first inhalation detected during the heating period. This information allows for the determination of the inhalation interval (i.e., the heating period interval), the number of inhalations per day (i.e., the number of heating periods), and the total number of inhalations.

[0160] The device information may include information indicating the smoking time. This information, indicating the user U's smoking time, may be the length of the heating period, or the time from the initial detected puff to the last detected puff during the heating period. This information can be used to customize the heating profile to suit the user U.

[0161] 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 timing for maintaining the inhalation device 100. Furthermore, this information allows the smoking time throughout the entire lifespan of the inhalation device 100 to be determined.

[0162] The device information may include information indicating the total number of cigarettes smoked. The total number of cigarettes smoked is the cumulative total number of cigarettes smoked since the inhalation device 100 was manufactured. This information can be used to recommend timing for maintaining the inhalation device 100. Furthermore, this information allows the number of cigarettes smoked throughout the entire lifespan of the inhalation device 100 to be determined.

[0163] 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 initially activated. This information can be used to recommend maintenance schedules for the inhalation device 100. Furthermore, this information allows the usage time of the inhalation device 100 throughout its entire lifespan to be determined.

[0164] The device information includes information indicating safety settings. The inhalation device 100 may be equipped with safety functions such as child safety locking. When the safety function is enabled, the inhalation device 100 operates in a locked state when heating is disabled, or in an unlocked state when 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 continuously permits 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 to use to start smoking, or to start smoking when the safety setting is disabled, etc.

[0165] The device information may include information indicating the number of puffs. The number of puffs is the number of puffs detected during the heating period. This information allows determination of the number of puffs performed by user U during a single smoking period. This information can be used to customize the heating profile to suit user U.

[0166] The device information may include information indicating the aspiration time. The aspiration time is the time during which aspiration is detected during the heating period. This information allows it to be determined when user U performs aspiration during the heating period. This information can be used to customize the heating profile to suit user U.

[0167] 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 allows for the determination of the user U's behavioral patterns. The user terminal 200 can utilize the user U's behavioral patterns to suggest smoking locations or sales outlets 8 suitable for the user U's behavioral patterns.

[0168] The device information may include information indicating that an error has occurred in the inhalation device 100. This information can be used to recommend the timing for maintenance of the inhalation device 100.

[0169] 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.

[0170] (7) Charging information

[0171] The memory 174 of the battery pack 170 stores charging information, which is information indicating the charging status of the battery 171. The charging information may include at least one of the information items shown below.

[0172] 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.

[0173] 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., to connecting it back to the station. This information allows the degradation state of the battery pack 170 to be determined.

[0174] Charging information may include information indicating charging time and the amount of charge per charge. Charging time refers to the date and time when battery pack 170 is connected to charging station 300 or a home charger, etc. The amount of charge per charge refers to the increase in voltage caused by charging. This information allows for the determination of the conditions of each charge and the degradation status of battery pack 170.

[0175] Charging information may include information indicating charging voltage or charging current. Charging voltage refers to the value of the voltage applied to battery 171 during charging. Charging current refers to the value of the current flowing through battery 171 during charging. This information allows the device (charging station 300 or home charger) for charging battery pack 170 to be determined.

[0176] Charging information may include location-related information during charging. This information allows it to be determined where the battery pack 170 is being charged (e.g., at a point of sale or at home).

[0177] The charging information can include the number of abnormal charging incidents and the amount of charge at the time of the abnormal charging. This information allows errors that have occurred in the battery pack 170 to be recorded.

[0178] 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.

[0179] 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 into memory 174.

[0180] (8) Supplementary Information

[0181] 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.

[0182] The battery pack 170 can store at least two or more of the following in association with each other: battery pack ID, replacement log, heating-related discharge information, heating-independent discharge information, device information, and charging information, and can also send this information. This configuration allows for more precise analysis of the collected information. For example, by associating the replacement log with the heating-related discharge information, the heating-related discharge status of the inhalation device 100 identified by the device ID included in the replacement log can be analyzed.

[0183] <4. Specific Examples of Information Collection>

[0184] The following describes a specific example of information collection via battery pack 170.

[0185] (1) Handling the operation of battery pack 170

[0186] Battery pack 170 creates a database (hereinafter also referred to as "DB") that stores information related to the operating history of battery pack 170 and stores the database in memory 174. The DB created by battery pack 170 includes at least one of a discharge history information DB and a charging history information DB. The discharge history information DB is a DB that indicates the discharge history of battery pack 170, and the charging history information DB is a DB that indicates the charging history of battery pack 170. For example, the discharge history information DB may include the aforementioned discharge information related to heating. For example, the charging history information DB may include the aforementioned charging information.

[0187] Table 1 below shows an example of the discharge history information database (DB).

[0188] [Table 1]

[0189]

[0190] The data ID is a unique identifier assigned to a row of data included in the DB (hereinafter also referred to as a "record"). The start time is the time at which heating begins based on the heating curve. The end time is the time at which heating ends based on the heating curve. The device type is information indicating the type of suction device 100 to which the battery pack 170 is connected, and the device type can be a device ID. The FWID (Firmware ID) is the identifier information of the firmware of the suction device 100 to which the battery pack 170 is connected. The brand ID is the identifier information indicating the brand of the substrate being heated. For example, the brand ID can be obtained by image recognition of a two-dimensional barcode attached to the surface of the substrate, or based on user input from the user terminal 200. The heating curve ID is the identifier information of the heating curve used for heating. Voltage / current / internal resistance are the voltage, current, and internal resistance of the battery 171 during heating. Temperature is the temperature of the battery 171 during heating. Remaining battery capacity is the remaining capacity of the battery 171 at the end of heating. The error code is the identifier information of an error that occurred during discharge.

[0191] The above describes an example of a discharge history information database.

[0192] The battery pack 170 adds the information obtained during heating as a new record to the discharge history information DB. The battery pack 170 can update the discharge history information DB each time heating is performed, or it can update the discharge history information DB after multiple heating operations.

[0193] When over-discharge or abnormal heat generation occurs, the battery pack 170 can store error codes indicating these errors. By referring to the error codes when the battery pack 170 is connected, the suction device 100 or the charging station 300 can easily determine whether the battery pack 170 is usable.

[0194] Furthermore, it is conceivable that battery pack 170 will be connected to inhalation device 100 manufactured by the same manufacturer as battery pack 170, but it is equally possible that battery pack 170 will be connected to inhalation device 100 manufactured by another company. Furthermore, it is conceivable that battery pack 170 will be used in inhalation device 100, but battery pack 170 could also be used in another electronic device (such as a smartphone). In these cases, data may not be available from certain fields (i.e., items) in the discharge history information DB. Fields that cannot be available may be left blank. Additionally, it can be determined whether battery pack 170 is connected to inhalation device 100 manufactured by another company, and whether battery pack 170 is used in another electronic device, based on the presence of device type, start time, or end time.

[0195] Table 2 below shows an example of the charging history information database.

[0196] [Table 2]

[0197]

[0198] Charging time refers to the date and time of charging. Pre-charging capacity is the remaining capacity of battery 171 before charging begins. Post-charging capacity is the remaining capacity of battery 171 at the end of charging. Temperature is the temperature of battery 171 during charging. Charging station ID is the identification information for the charging station 300 that is charging battery pack 170.

[0199] The above describes an example of a charging history information database.

[0200] Battery pack 170 will add the information obtained during charging as a new record to the charging history information DB.

[0201] When the battery pack 170 is connected to an external device (such as the suction device 100 or the charging station 300), the battery pack 170 sends information stored in these databases to the external device. Additionally, the battery pack 170 can also send various types of information stored in the memory 174 to the external device.

[0202] (2) Process the operation of charging station 300.

[0203] Charging station 300 charges battery pack 170 when it is already connected to the station. Additionally, charging station 300 creates a charging station operation history database (DB), which stores information indicating the operation history of charging station 300.

[0204] Table 3 below shows an example of a charging station operation history database.

[0205] [Table 3]

[0206]

[0207] The charging start time is the time when battery pack 170 begins charging. The charging end time is the time when charging of battery pack 170 ends. The installation store information is the identification information of the sales outlet 8 where charging station 300 is installed. The charging point information is the identification information of the charging point where battery pack 170 is being charged, such as the location of a charging point in charging station 300 that is currently in use. The charging capacity is the remaining capacity of battery 171 increased due to charging. The charging temperature is the temperature of charging station 300 during charging. The error code is the identification information of errors that occurred during charging.

[0208] The above describes an example of a charging station operation history database.

[0209] The charging station 300 adds the information obtained each time a charging operation is performed to the charging station operation history DB as a new record.

[0210] Then, the charging station 300 sends the information stored in the charging station operation history DB to the management server 500. Additionally, when connecting to the battery pack 170, the charging station 300 sends the information received from the battery pack 170 to the management server 500.

[0211] (3) Process the operations of the management server 500.

[0212] The management server 500 creates a database that stores information indicating the status of each device in system 1. The database created by the management server 500 includes at least one of a battery pack management database that stores information indicating the status of battery pack 170 and a charging station management database that stores information indicating the status of charging station 300.

[0213] Table 4 below shows an example of a battery pack management database.

[0214] [Table 4]

[0215]

[0216] Specification information indicates the specifications of battery pack 170. Recent charging time is the time of the last charge of battery pack 170. Number of charges is the number of times battery pack 170 has been charged. Degradation determination indicates whether battery pack 170 has been determined to be degraded. Fault determination indicates whether battery pack 170 has been determined to be faulty. Availability indicates the availability of battery pack 170, for example, indicating one of four states: "In Use," "Charging," "Available," and "Use Abstaining." "In Use" means battery pack 170 has been provided to suction device 100. "Charging" means battery pack 170 has been returned and is being charged by charging station 300. "Available" means battery pack 170 is stored in charging station 300 in a fully charged state. "Use Abstaining" means battery pack 170 is prohibited from being provided.

[0217] The above describes an example of a battery pack management database.

[0218] Each time information related to battery pack 170 is retrieved, the management server 500 updates the record corresponding to that battery pack 170.

[0219] The management server 500 can use the battery pack management DB to confirm the status of the currently circulating battery packs 170. Therefore, the management server 500 can reclaim faulty battery packs 170 and prioritize the circulation of battery packs 170 or battery pack 170 models from manufacturers with low failure rates.

[0220] Table 5 below shows an example of a charging station management database.

[0221] [Table 5]

[0222]

[0223] Specification information indicates the specifications of charging station 300. Usage count refers to the number of times each charging point is used for charging. Availability indicates the availability of each charging point in charging station 300, indicating three states: "available," "idle," and "not in use." "In use" means the charging point is in use, i.e., the battery pack 170 is housed in the charging point. "Idle" means the charging point is not in use. "Not in use" means the charging point is prohibited from use.

[0224] The above describes an example of a charging station management database.

[0225] Each time information related to charging station 300 is obtained, management server 500 updates the record corresponding to charging station 300.

[0226] The management server 500 can use the charging station management database to confirm the status of the charging station 300. Therefore, the management server 500 can control the charging station 300 to prioritize the use of charging points that have been used less frequently, and can schedule maintenance for charging points that have been discontinued.

[0227] In addition to the information displayed in the battery pack management database and the charging station management database, the management server 500 can also create and manage databases containing information stored in the memory 174 of the battery pack 170 and collected via the charging station 300. For example, this allows the user's usage patterns of the battery pack 170 to be confirmed.

[0228] (4) Processing flow

[0229] Figure 7 This is a sequence diagram illustrating an example of a processing flow implemented by System 1 according to this embodiment. The sequence involves battery pack 170, charging station 300, and management server 500.

[0230] like Figure 7 As shown, when the battery pack 170 is connected to the charging station 300 (step S102), the charging station 300 charges the battery pack 170 (step S104).

[0231] Next, battery pack 170 updates the DB (step S106). For example, battery pack 170 adds records related to the charging performed in step S104 to the charging history information DB.

[0232] Next, the battery pack 170 reports information to the charging station 300 (step S108). For example, the battery pack 170 sends information related to records in the discharge history information DB and the charging history information DB, and sends other information items stored in the memory 174, as described above.

[0233] Then the charging station 300 updates the database (step S110). For example, the charging station 300 adds a record to the charging station operation history database based on the information related to the charging performed in step S104 and the information received in step S108.

[0234] Next, the charging station 300 reports information to the management server 500 (step S112). For example, the charging station 300 sends information related to records in the charging station operation history DB and sends information received from the battery pack 170.

[0235] Then, the management server 500 updates the database (step S114). For example, the management server 500 updates the battery pack management database and the charging station management database based on the information received in step S112.

[0236] <5. Determining the Status of Battery Pack 170>

[0237] The charging station 300 can determine the status of the battery pack 170 connected to it. More specifically, the charging station 300 can determine the status of the battery pack 170 based on information obtained from the battery pack 170 connected to the connection terminal 351 via the connection terminal 351. This configuration allows the status of the battery pack 170 to be checked each time it is replaced. Therefore, unsuitable battery packs 170 can be recycled at an early stage, ensuring that suitable battery packs 170 are always available. Thus, the battery packs 170 can be properly managed.

[0238] The charging station 300 can determine whether the battery pack 170 has deteriorated based on its state. For example, when the state of harmonics (SOH) of the battery 171 is below a predetermined threshold (e.g., 50%), the charging station 300 can determine that the battery pack 170 has deteriorated, and can also determine by other means that the battery pack 170 has not deteriorated.

[0239] When it is determined that the battery pack 170 has deteriorated, the charging station 300 controls the process to notify the relevant battery pack 170 of the information indicating that the battery pack 170 has deteriorated.

[0240] As an example, the charging station 300 may emit light in a predetermined manner from an LED 302 associated with a housing 301 containing a battery pack 170 that has been determined to be degraded. This configuration allows for the prevention of workers from providing the degraded battery pack 170 and prompts for its recycling.

[0241] As another example, charging station 300 can send information to management server 500 indicating that battery pack 170 has deteriorated. With this configuration, management server 500 can update the deterioration determination field in battery pack management DB and use this field to confirm whether battery pack 170 has deteriorated.

[0242] Charging station 300 can determine the state of battery pack 170 based on information indicating the operating history of battery pack 170 stored in memory 174 of battery pack 170. For example, charging station 300 can estimate the state of equilibrium (SOH) of battery 171 based on information in discharge history information DB or charging history information DB, and determine the degradation of battery pack 170 based on the estimated SOH. As another example, charging station 300 can determine the degradation of battery pack 170 based on usage patterns, such as the number of heating cycles (i.e., the number of records) and heating intervals (i.e., the average interval from the end time to the start time) determined according to discharge history information DB. As yet another example, charging station 300 can determine the degradation of battery pack 170 based on other heating-related discharge information stored in memory 174.

[0243] The charging station 300 can determine the state of the battery pack 170 based on the specification information of the battery pack 170 stored in the memory 174 of the battery pack 170. As an example, the charging station 300 can determine the degradation of the battery pack 170 based on the difference between the initial capacity of the battery 171 in the specification information and the capacity after charging in the charging history information DB.

[0244] Alternatively, the charging station 300 can determine the status of the battery pack 170 by referring to information stored in the management server 500.

[0245] The charging station 300 can determine faults in the battery pack 170 based on its status. For example, the charging station 300 can determine faults in the battery pack 170 based on whether there are error codes in the discharge history information DB.

[0246] When a fault has been identified in battery pack 170, the charging station 300 controls the process to notify the relevant battery pack 170 of the faulty information associated with it.

[0247] As an example, the charging station 300 may cause an LED 302 associated with a housing 301 containing a battery pack 170 deemed faulty to emit light in a predetermined manner. This configuration allows for the prevention of staff from providing faulty battery packs 170 and prompting for their recycling.

[0248] As another example, charging station 300 can send information to management server 500 indicating that battery pack 170 is faulty. With this configuration, management server 500 can update the fault determination field in battery pack management DB and use the field to confirm whether battery pack 170 is faulty.

[0249] Charging station 300 can determine charging abnormalities in battery pack 170 based on the status of battery pack 170. There are three types of charging abnormalities: abnormalities in charging station 300 (e.g., abnormal heat generation), abnormalities in battery pack 170 (e.g., short circuit or abnormal heat generation), and other abnormalities (e.g., disconnection). When a charging abnormality has occurred, charging station 300 stores an error code indicating the type of charging abnormality in the charging station operation history DB.

[0250] When a charging anomaly is confirmed, the charging station 300 controls the process to notify the battery pack 170 associated with the anomaly of the information indicating that a charging anomaly has occurred.

[0251] As an example, the charging station 300 can cause an LED 302 associated with a housing 301 containing a battery pack 170 that has been determined to have a charging malfunction to emit light in a manner appropriate to the type of charging malfunction. This configuration allows the operator to be prompted to avoid supplying the battery pack 170 that has a charging malfunction. Furthermore, the operator can be prompted to resolve the charging malfunction, for example, by removing the battery pack 170 that has a charging malfunction, reconnecting the battery pack 170 that has been disconnected from the connection terminal 351, or repairing the charging point that has malfunctioned. Additionally, the operator can replace the charging station 300 that has malfunctioned with a new charging station 300.

[0252] Preferably, notifications of charging malfunctions are maintained until the malfunction is resolved. This serves as a reminder of when the malfunction has been resolved. Furthermore, for malfunctions within the charging station 300, a notification can be provided to avoid using charging points where malfunctions have occurred.

[0253] Once the anomaly has been resolved, the charging anomaly notification can be stopped. Alternatively, the notification can be stopped based on an action performed by worker S. This allows for prompting the user to resume use of the charging point where the anomaly has been resolved.

[0254] As another example, charging station 300 can send information to management server 500 indicating that a charging anomaly has occurred in battery pack 170. With this configuration, management server 500 can update the fault determination field in the battery pack management database and use this field to confirm whether battery pack 170 is faulty. Furthermore, management server 500 can set the availability in charging station management database to "use suspended" and use this to confirm that charging points where charging anomalies have occurred are unavailable.

[0255] The following will refer to Figure 8 and Figure 9 This describes an example of the processing flow related to determining the state of battery pack 170.

[0256] Figure 8 This is a flowchart illustrating an example of a processing flow implemented by the charging station 300 according to this embodiment.

[0257] like Figure 8 As shown, the charging station 300 first determines whether the battery pack 170 has been connected (step S202).

[0258] When it is determined that the battery pack 170 is not connected (step S202: No), the charging station 300 waits until the battery pack 170 is connected.

[0259] When it is confirmed that the battery pack 170 is connected (step S202: Yes), the charging station 300 obtains the information stored in the battery pack 170 (step S204). More specifically, the charging station 300 receives the information stored in the memory 174 of the battery pack 170 via the connection terminal 351.

[0260] Next, the charging station 300 determines whether the battery pack 170 has deteriorated (step S206).

[0261] When it has been determined that the battery pack 170 has not deteriorated (step S206: no), the charging station 300 determines whether the battery pack 170 is faulty (step S208).

[0262] When it has been determined that the battery pack 170 is not faulty (step S208: No), the charging station 300 begins to charge the battery pack 170 (step S210).

[0263] Charging station 300 continues charging until battery pack 170 is fully charged (step S212: No).

[0264] When the battery pack 170 is fully charged (step S212: Yes), the charging station 300 then ends the charging process (step S214).

[0265] Next, charging station 300 updates the charging station operation history database (step S216).

[0266] Then the charging station 300 notifies that charging is complete (step S218).

[0267] Meanwhile, when it is determined that the battery pack 170 has deteriorated or is faulty (step S206: yes, or step S208: yes), the charging station 300 notifies the abnormality in the battery pack 170 (step S220).

[0268] The charging station 300 continues to notify the battery pack 170 of the abnormality until the abnormal battery pack 170 is removed (step S222: No).

[0269] When the abnormal battery pack 170 has been removed (step S222: Yes), the charging station 300 then stops notifying the abnormality in the battery pack 170 (step S224).

[0270] The process ends thereafter.

[0271] Next, we will refer to Figure 9 This describes an example of the handling process when an abnormality occurs during the charging process in steps S210 to S214 described above.

[0272] Figure 9 This is a flowchart illustrating an example of a processing flow implemented by the charging station 300 according to this embodiment.

[0273] like Figure 9 As shown, when an abnormality has occurred, the charging station 300 first stops charging (step S302).

[0274] Next, the charging station 300 determines whether the abnormality that has occurred is an abnormality within the charging station 300 (step S304).

[0275] When it has been determined that the abnormality that has occurred is not an abnormality in the charging station 300 (step S304: No), the charging station 300 notifies of a charging abnormality (step S306).

[0276] The charging station 300 continues to notify of charging abnormalities until the charging abnormality is resolved (step S308: No). It should be noted that charging abnormalities other than those in the charging station 300 can be resolved, for example, by removing or reconnecting the battery pack 170.

[0277] Meanwhile, when the charging abnormality has been resolved (step S308: Yes), the charging station 300 stops notifying about the charging abnormality (step S310).

[0278] Subsequently, the charging station 300 updates the battery station operation history DB (step S312). For example, the charging station 300 adds records including error codes corresponding to the charging anomalies that have occurred to the battery station operation history DB.

[0279] Simultaneously, when it has been determined that the abnormality that has occurred is an abnormality in the charging station 300 (step S304: Yes), the charging station 300 notifies of a charging abnormality (step S314). After this, the process proceeds to step S312.

[0280] The process ends thereafter.

[0281] <6. Supplementary Information>

[0282] The preferred embodiments of this disclosure have been described in detail above with reference to the accompanying drawings, but this disclosure is not limited to these examples. It will be apparent to those skilled in the art 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.

[0283] The LED 302 described in the above embodiments is an example of an output unit 340 that outputs information indicating the status of the battery pack 170 as determined by the charging station 300. Alternatively, the status of the battery pack 170 may be displayed on a touch panel 303 or output via sound. Alternatively, the status of the battery pack 170 may be communicated to the operator S by locking the housing 301 that holds a deteriorated or faulty battery pack 170, thus ensuring that the battery pack 170 is not removed.

[0284] The above embodiments describe an example in which the charging station 300 relays communication between the battery pack 170 and the management server 500, but this disclosure is not limited to this example. As an example, the charging station 300 may relay communication between the user terminal 200 and the management server 500. In this case, the user terminal 200 may send information stored in the user terminal 200 to the management server 500 via the charging station 300. Alternatively, the user terminal 200 may send information received from the battery pack 170 via the suction device 100 to the management server 500 via the charging station 300.

[0285] The management server 500 can manage the firmware of the inhalation device 100 based on information collected via the battery pack 170. For example, when the inhalation device 100 is connected, the battery pack 170 acquires the FWID and device ID of the inhalation device 100. Then, when the battery pack 170 is connected to the charging station 300, the battery pack 170 sends the acquired FWID and device ID of the inhalation device 100 to the charging station 300. Simultaneously, the management server 500 collects the FWID and device ID of the inhalation device 100 via the charging station 300. If the collected FWID does not match the most recent FWID, the management server 500 sends a firmware update notification to the user terminal 200 of the user U identified from the device ID.

[0286] The inhalation device 100 can receive the specification information of the battery pack 170 from the battery pack 170 and update the operating parameters of the inhalation device 100. For example, the inhalation device 100 can update the display settings indicating the charging status based on the maximum charging voltage and charging rate of the battery 170; these display settings are included in the specification information of the battery pack 170. The operating parameters based on the specification information of the battery pack 170 can be updated in this way when the inhalation device 100 and the battery pack 170 are connected, or during a firmware update of the inhalation device 100. This configuration makes the battery pack 170 compatible with various types of inhalation devices 100 and allows the inhalation device 100 to be compatible with newer models of the battery pack 170.

[0287] The above embodiments describe an example in which the charging station 300 is operated by a staff member S, but this disclosure is not limited to this example. The charging station 300 can also be operated by a user U through self-service. That is, the staff member S does not need to participate in the replacement of the battery pack 170.

[0288] The above embodiments describe an example in which system 1 includes 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 cost of replacing the battery pack 170 can be settled electronically using the user terminal 200. As another example, the functionality of the sales outlet terminal 400 may be included in the charging station 300.

[0289] 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 configured to be removable 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 in conjunction with portable chargers that are understood to be using the battery packs of this disclosure. For example, the charging station 300 can determine the status of the portable charger when it is connected and can notify information indicating the determined status.

[0290] The processing operations described in the above embodiments can be implemented by any device acting as a master agent. For example, the above embodiments describe the charging station 300 determining the state of the battery pack 170, but the process of determining the state of the battery pack 170 can also be implemented by the management server 500.

[0291] 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 inside or outside 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 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.

[0292] 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.

[0293] The following configurations also fall within the technical scope of this disclosure.

[0294] (1) A battery pack supply device for replaceably supplying a battery pack to each of a plurality of inhalation devices, the plurality of inhalation devices having a heating unit for heating an aerosol source to generate an aerosol, the battery pack being detachably connected to each inhalation device, and the battery pack supply device comprising:

[0295] The connection portion is electrically connected to the battery pack; and

[0296] A control unit that determines the state of the battery pack based on information obtained from the battery pack connected to the connection portion via the connection portion.

[0297] in,

[0298] When it is determined that the battery pack has deteriorated, the control unit controls the processing to notify the battery pack of the information associated with it that indicates that the battery pack has deteriorated.

[0299] (2) The battery pack supply device as disclosed in (1) above, wherein,

[0300] The battery pack includes a memory unit for storing information indicating the operating history of the battery pack, and

[0301] The control unit determines the state of the battery pack based on the information stored in the memory cell of the battery pack that indicates the operating history of the battery pack.

[0302] (3) The battery pack supply device as disclosed in (2) above, wherein,

[0303] The information indicating the operating history of the battery pack includes at least one of information indicating the discharge history of the battery pack and information indicating the charging history of the battery pack.

[0304] (4) A battery pack supply device as disclosed in any of (1) to (3) above, wherein,

[0305] The memory unit of the battery pack stores the specifications of the battery pack, and

[0306] The control unit also determines the state of the battery pack based on the battery pack's specification information stored in the memory unit of the battery pack.

[0307] (5) A battery pack supply device as disclosed in any of (1) to (4) above, wherein,

[0308] When a fault has been identified in the battery pack, the control unit controls the processing to notify the associated information indicating that the battery pack is faulty.

[0309] (6) The battery pack supply device as disclosed in any of (1) to (5) above,

[0310] The battery pack providing device further includes a charging unit for charging the battery pack connected to the connection portion.

[0311] (7) The battery pack supply device as disclosed in (6) above, wherein,

[0312] When a charging anomaly occurs in the battery pack, the control unit processes the information associated with the battery pack indicating that a charging anomaly has occurred.

[0313] (8) The battery pack supply device as disclosed in any of (1) to (7) above,

[0314] The battery pack providing device further includes an output unit for outputting information indicating the state of the battery pack, determined by the control unit.

[0315] (9) The battery pack supply device as disclosed in any of (1) to (8) above,

[0316] The battery pack provides a device that includes multiple connection parts.

[0317] (10) A control method implemented by a processor for controlling a battery pack supply device for replaceably supplying a battery pack to each of a plurality of inhalation devices, the plurality of inhalation devices having a heating unit for heating an aerosol source to generate an aerosol, the battery pack being detachably connected to each inhalation device, and the control method comprising:

[0318] The state of the battery pack in the battery pack supply device is determined based on information obtained from the battery pack connected to the connection portion via an electrical connection to the battery pack; and

[0319] When it is determined that the battery pack has deteriorated, the control process notifies the associated information indicating that the battery pack has deteriorated.

[0320] (11) A program for enabling a computer controlling a battery pack supply device to function as a control unit, the battery pack supply device being configured to replaceably supply a battery pack to each of a plurality of inhalation devices, the plurality of inhalation devices having a heating unit for heating an aerosol source to generate an aerosol, the battery pack being detachably connected to each inhalation device.

[0321] The control unit is used to determine the state of the battery pack in the battery pack supply device based on information obtained from the battery pack connected to the connection portion via an electrical connection portion to the battery pack.

[0322] in,

[0323] When it is determined that the battery pack has deteriorated, the control unit controls the processing to notify the battery pack of the information associated with it that indicates that the battery pack has deteriorated.

[0324] List of reference numerals

[0325] 1 System

[0326] 100 Inhalation Device

[0327] 110 Power Supply Unit

[0328] 111 Power Supply Unit

[0329] 112 Sensor Unit

[0330] 113 Notification Unit

[0331] 114 memory cells

[0332] 115 Communication Unit

[0333] 116 Control Unit

[0334] 120 smoke cartridges

[0335] 121 Heating Unit

[0336] 122 Liquid guiding section

[0337] 123 Liquid storage section

[0338] 124 suction nozzle

[0339] 130 Flavored Smoke Cartridges

[0340] 131 Flavor Source

[0341] 140 Capacity Section

[0342] 141 Interior Space

[0343] 142 Opening

[0344] 143 Bottom section

[0345] 144 Thermal Insulation Components

[0346] 150 rod-shaped substrate

[0347] 151 Matrix Part

[0348] 152 Suction nozzle section

[0349] 170 battery pack

[0350] 171 Battery

[0351] 172 Protection IC

[0352] 173 MCU

[0353] 174 Memory

[0354] 175 sensor

[0355] 176 terminal

[0356] 180° airflow path

[0357] 181 Air inlet hole

[0358] 182 Air outlet hole

[0359] 200 user terminals

[0360] 300 charging stations

[0361] 301 container

[0362] 302 LED

[0363] 310 Communication Unit

[0364] 320 memory units

[0365] 330 Input Unit

[0366] 340 Output Unit

[0367] 350 charging units

[0368] 351 connection terminal

[0369] 360 Control Unit

[0370] 400 sales outlet terminals

[0371] 500 Management Server

[0372] 510 Communication Unit

[0373] 520 memory cells

[0374] 530 Control Unit

[0375] 8 Sales outlets

[0376] 9. Network.

Claims

1. A battery pack supply device for replaceably supplying a battery pack to each of a plurality of inhalation devices, the plurality of inhalation devices having a heating unit for heating an aerosol source to generate an aerosol, the battery pack being detachably connected to each inhalation device, and the battery pack supply device comprising: The connection part is electrically connected to the battery pack; as well as A control unit that determines the state of the battery pack based on information obtained from the battery pack connected to the connection portion via the connection portion. in, When it is determined that the battery pack has deteriorated, the control unit controls the processing to notify the battery pack of the information associated with it that indicates that the battery pack has deteriorated.

2. The battery pack supply device as claimed in claim 1, wherein, The battery pack includes a memory unit for storing information indicating the operating history of the battery pack, and The control unit determines the state of the battery pack based on the information stored in the memory cell of the battery pack that indicates the operating history of the battery pack.

3. The battery pack supply device as claimed in claim 2, wherein, The information indicating the operating history of the battery pack includes at least one of information indicating the discharge history of the battery pack and information indicating the charging history of the battery pack.

4. The battery pack supply device as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein, The memory unit of the battery pack stores the specifications of the battery pack, and The control unit also determines the state of the battery pack based on the battery pack's specification information stored in the memory unit of the battery pack.

5. The battery pack supply device as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein, When a fault has been identified in the battery pack, the control unit controls the processing to notify the associated information indicating that the battery pack is faulty.

6. The battery pack supply device as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 5, The battery pack providing device further includes a charging unit for charging the battery pack connected to the connection portion.

7. The battery pack supply apparatus of claim 6, wherein, When a charging anomaly occurs in the battery pack, the control unit processes the information associated with the battery pack indicating that a charging anomaly has occurred.

8. The battery pack supply device as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 7, The battery pack providing device further includes an output unit for outputting information indicating the state of the battery pack, determined by the control unit.

9. The battery pack supply device as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 8, The battery pack provides a device that includes multiple connection parts.

10. A control method implemented by a processor for controlling a battery pack supply device for replaceably supplying a battery pack to each of a plurality of inhalation devices, the plurality of inhalation devices having a heating unit for heating an aerosol source to generate an aerosol, the battery pack being detachably connected to each inhalation device, and the control method comprising: The state of the battery pack in the battery pack supply device is determined based on information obtained from the battery pack connected to the connection portion via an electrical connection to the battery pack. as well as When it is determined that the battery pack has deteriorated, the control process notifies the associated information indicating that the battery pack has deteriorated.

11. A program for activating a computer controlling a battery pack supply device as a control unit, the battery pack supply device being configured to replaceably supply a battery pack to each of a plurality of inhalation devices, the plurality of inhalation devices having a heating unit for heating an aerosol source to generate an aerosol, the battery pack being detachably connected to each inhalation device. The control unit is used to determine the state of the battery pack in the battery pack supply device based on information obtained from the battery pack connected to the connection portion via an electrical connection portion to the battery pack. in, When it is determined that the battery pack has deteriorated, the control unit controls the processing to notify the battery pack of the information associated with it that indicates that the battery pack has deteriorated.

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