Aerosol generation system, control method, and program

Abstract

PROBLEM: To provide an arrangement capable of further improving the quality of a user experience. SOLUTION: An aerosol-generating system comprising: a notification unit for notifying a user of information; an accommodating portion which has an internal space and an opening allowing the internal space to communicate with the outside, and which is capable of accommodating an aerosol source-containing substrate that has been inserted from the opening; a cover portion for opening / closing the opening of the accommodating portion; a heating unit for heating the substrate accommodated in the accommodating portion; and a control unit for controlling operation of the notification unit and the heating unit, wherein the control unit actuates the heating unit and the notification unit on the basis of an initial parameter which is a parameter corresponding to a temperature of the heating unit, acquisition of the parameter being triggered by the cover portion opening the opening.

Description

TECHNICAL FIELD

[0001] The present disclosure relates to an aerosol-generating system, a control method, and a program.BACKGROUND ART

[0002] Inhalation devices that generate substances to be inhaled by a user are in widespread use. For example, an inhalation device employs an aerosol source for generating an aerosol, and a substrate including a flavor source or the like for imparting a flavor component to the generated aerosol, to generate an aerosol to which the flavor component has been imparted. The user can enjoy the flavor by inhaling the aerosol to which the flavor component has been imparted, generated by the inhalation device. The action by which the user inhales the aerosol will also be referred to below as "puffing" or a "puffing action". Devices classified as inhalation devices that may be cited include those used in place of cigarettes, such as heated tobacco, for example. Note that heated tobacco is an inhalation device of the type which generates an aerosol by heating a solid containing an aerosol source.

[0003] Various technical developments are underway for the purpose of further improving the quality of a user experience when using such an inhalation device. PTL 1 below, for example, describes technology in which light is used to provide notification that insertion of a substrate into an inhalation device has been detected.CITATION LISTPATENT LITERATURE

[0004] PTL 1: WO 2021 / 259949 A1SUMMARY OF INVENTIONTECHNICAL PROBLEM

[0005] However, the technology disclosed in PTL 1 has only recently been developed, and there is still room for improvement in various aspects.

[0006] Accordingly, the present disclosure was devised in light of the problems above, and the objective of the present disclosure lies in providing an arrangement capable of further improving the quality of a user experience.SOLUTION TO PROBLEM

[0007] In order to solve the problem above, one aspect of the present disclosure provides an aerosol-generating system comprising: a notification unit for notifying a user of information; an accommodating portion which has an internal space and an opening allowing the internal space to communicate with the outside, and which is capable of accommodating an aerosol source-containing substrate that has been inserted from the opening; a cover portion for opening / closing the opening of the accommodating portion; a heating unit for heating the substrate accommodated in the accommodating portion; and a control unit for controlling operation of the notification unit and the heating unit, wherein the control unit actuates the heating unit and the notification unit on the basis of an initial parameter which is a parameter corresponding to a temperature of the heating unit, acquisition of the parameter being triggered by the cover portion opening the opening.

[0008] When the initial parameter corresponds to less than a predetermined temperature, the control unit: may monitor whether or not a time-series transition of the parameter meets a first determination standard, and may control the notification unit to notify first information while monitoring whether or not the first determination standard is met, and when the initial parameter corresponds to equal to or greater than the predetermined temperature, may monitor whether or not the time-series transition of the parameter meets a second determination standard different from the first determination standard, and may control the notification unit to notify the first information while monitoring whether or not the second determination standard is met.

[0009] When the initial parameter corresponds to less than the predetermined temperature, the control unit may monitor whether or not the time-series transition of the parameter meets the first determination standard, the time-series transition of the parameter being obtained by repeatedly applying a sensing pulse group including one first sensing pulse to the heating unit, and when the initial parameter corresponds to equal to or greater than the predetermined temperature, the control unit may monitor whether or not the time-series transition of the parameter meets the second determination standard, the time-series transition of the parameter being obtained by repeatedly applying the sensing pulse group, which comprises one or more second sensing pulses of shorter duration than the first sensing pulse, to the heating unit.

[0010] When the initial parameter corresponds to less than the predetermined temperature, the control unit may determine whether or not a mode of fluctuation of the parameter meets the first determination standard, the mode of fluctuation corresponding to repeated rises in temperature of the heating unit associated with application of the first sensing pulse and repeated drops in temperature of the heating unit associated with stopping application of the first sensing pulse, and when the initial parameter corresponds to equal to or greater than the predetermined temperature, the control unit may determine whether or not a mode of change of the parameter meets the second determination standard, the mode of change corresponding to a drop in temperature of the heating unit.

[0011] When the initial parameter corresponds to less than the predetermined temperature, if the first determination standard has been met, the control unit may notify the second information and start heating by the heating unit based on control information including a defined time-series transition of a target value of the parameter, and when the initial parameter corresponds to equal to or greater than the predetermined temperature, if the second determination standard has been met, the control unit may notify the second information and start heating by the heating unit based on the control information.

[0012] When the initial parameter corresponds to less than the predetermined temperature, if the first determination standard is not met, the control unit may notify third information and move to a standby mode, and when the initial parameter corresponds to equal to or greater than the predetermined temperature, if the second determination standard is not met, the control unit may notify the third information and move to the standby mode.

[0013] When the initial parameter corresponds to less than the predetermined temperature, the control unit may monitor whether or not a third determination standard is met during implementation of heating by the heating unit based on the control information, and if the third determination standard has been met, the control unit may maintain heating by the heating unit based on the control information, and if the third determination standard is not met, the control unit may notify fourth information, and move to the standby mode by stopping heating by the heating unit based on the control information.

[0014] The third determination standard may constitute a rate of change of the parameter corresponding to less than a predetermined threshold, the rate of change being indicated by a relationship between the parameter and time elapsed from heating being started by the heating unit based on the control information.

[0015] The third information and the fourth information may be notified in the same form.

[0016] In the standby mode, the control unit may control operation of the heating unit to start heating based on the control information when a predetermined user operation has been detected, may control the notification unit to notify the second information, and may maintain heating by the heating unit based on the control information regardless of whether or not the third determination standard is met.

[0017] The control unit may cancel the standby mode when the cover portion has closed the opening in the standby mode.

[0018] The control unit may determine a state of the accommodating portion on the basis of the parameter, and may control the notification unit to notify information indicating a state of progress of processing to determine the state of the accommodating portion, during a period in which the state of progress is maintained.

[0019] The aerosol-generating system may further comprise the substrate.

[0020] Furthermore, in order to solve the problem above, another aspect of the present disclosure provides a control method implemented by means of a computer for controlling an aerosol-generating system, wherein the aerosol-generating system comprises: a notification unit for notifying a user of information; an accommodating portion which has an internal space and an opening allowing the internal space to communicate with the outside, and which is capable of accommodating an aerosol source-containing substrate that has been inserted from the opening; a cover portion for opening / closing the opening of the accommodating portion; and a heating unit for heating the substrate accommodated in the accommodating portion, and the control method comprises controlling operation of the notification unit and the heating unit, and controlling operation of the notification unit and the heating unit comprises actuating the heating unit and the notification unit on the basis of an initial parameter which is a parameter corresponding to a temperature of the heating unit, acquisition of the parameter being triggered by the cover portion opening the opening.

[0021] Furthermore, in order to solve the problem above, another aspect of the present disclosure provides a program executed by means of a computer for controlling an aerosol-generating system, wherein the aerosol-generating system comprises: a notification unit for notifying a user of information; an accommodating portion which has an internal space and an opening allowing the internal space to communicate with the outside, and which is capable of accommodating an aerosol source-containing substrate that has been inserted from the opening; a cover portion for opening / closing the opening of the accommodating portion; and a heating unit for heating the substrate accommodated in the accommodating portion, and the program causes the computer to function as a control unit for controlling operation of the notification unit and the heating unit, and the control unit actuates the heating unit and the notification unit on the basis of an initial parameter which is a parameter corresponding to a temperature of the heating unit, acquisition of the parameter being triggered by the cover portion opening the opening.ADVANTAGEOUS EFFECTS OF INVENTION

[0022] The present disclosure as described above provides a mechanism capable of further improving the quality of a user experience.BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

[0023] Fig. 1 is a schematic diagram schematically showing a configuration example of an inhalation device. Fig. 2 is an overall oblique view of the inhalation device according to the embodiment. Fig. 3 is an overall oblique view of the inhalation device according to the embodiment, with a stick-type substrate accommodated therein. Fig. 4 is a diagram to illustrate first processing implemented by the inhalation device according to the embodiment. Fig. 5 is a diagram to illustrate first processing implemented by the inhalation device according to the embodiment. Fig. 6 is a graph schematically showing an example of a temperature transition of a heating unit when heating based on a heating profile is performed. Fig. 7 is a diagram to illustrate electrical supply control based on the heating profile. Fig. 8 is a diagram to illustrate experimental results relating to the inhalation device according to the embodiment. Fig. 9 is a flowchart showing an example of a flow of processing implemented by the inhalation device according to the embodiment. Fig. 10 is a diagram to illustrate a determination standard for determining the state of an accommodating portion in the first processing. Fig. 11 is a diagram to illustrate second processing implemented by the inhalation device according to the embodiment. Fig. 12 is a diagram to illustrate experimental results relating to the inhalation device according to the embodiment. Fig. 13 is a flowchart showing an example of a flow of processing implemented by the inhalation device according to the embodiment. Fig. 14 is a diagram to illustrate information which is notified in a variant example. DESCRIPTION OF EMBODIMENTS

[0024] Preferred embodiments of the present disclosure will be described in detail below with reference to the appended drawings. It should be noted that components having substantially the same functional configuration will be assigned the same reference numbers in the description and drawings to avoid giving a duplicate description.1. Configuration example of inhalation device- Internal configuration example

[0025] An inhalation device is a device for generating a substance to be inhaled by a user. Hereinafter, the substance generated by the inhalation device will be described as being an aerosol. Alternatively, the substance generated by the inhalation device may be a gas.

[0026] Fig. 1 is a schematic diagram schematically showing a configuration example of an inhalation device. As shown in fig. 1, an inhalation device 100 according to this configuration example comprises: a power source unit 111, a sensor unit 112, a notification unit 113, a memory unit 114, a communication unit 115, a control unit 116, a heating unit 121, an accommodating portion 140, and a heat insulating portion 144.

[0027] The power source unit 111 stores electrical power. The power source unit 111 then supplies the electrical power to each component of the inhalation device 100 in accordance with control performed by the control unit 116. The power source unit 111 may be configured by a rechargeable battery such as a lithium ion secondary battery, for example.

[0028] The sensor unit 112 acquires various types of information relating to the inhalation device 100. As an example, the sensor unit 112 is configured by a pressure sensor such as a condenser microphone, a flow rate sensor or a temperature sensor, etc., and acquires values associated with inhalation by a user. As another example, the sensor unit 112 is configured by an input device, such as a button or switch, for accepting input of information from the user.

[0029] The notification unit 113 notifies the user of information. The notification unit 113 is configured by a light-emitting device which emits light, a display device which displays images, a sound output device which outputs sound, or a vibration device which vibrates, etc., for example.

[0030] The memory unit 114 stores various types of information for operation of the inhalation device 100. The memory unit 114 is configured by a non-volatile storage medium such as a flash memory, for example.

[0031] The communication unit 115 is a communication interface capable of performing communication conforming to any wired or wireless communication standard. Examples of communication standards that may be used include standards that employ Wi-Fi (registered trademark), Bluetooth (registered trademark), BLE (Bluetooth Low Energy) (registered trademark), NFC (Near-Field Communication), or LPWA (Low Power Wide Area), for example.

[0032] The control unit 116 functions as an arithmetic processing device and a control device, and controls overall operation within the inhalation device 100 in accordance with various programs. The control unit 116 is realized by a CPU (central processing unit) or an electronic circuit such as a microprocessor, for example.

[0033] The accommodating portion 140 has an internal space 141, and holds a stick-type substrate 150 while accommodating a portion of the stick-type substrate 150 in the internal space 141. The accommodating portion 140 has an opening 142 allowing the internal space 141 to communicate with the outside, and accommodates the stick-type substrate 150 which has been inserted into the internal space 141 from the opening 142. For example, the accommodating portion 140 is a cylindrical body comprising the opening 142 and a bottom portion 143 serving as a bottom surface, and defines a columnar internal space 141. An air flow passage for supplying air to the internal space 141 is connected to the accommodating portion 140. An air inflow hole, which is an inlet for air into the air flow passage, is disposed in a side surface of the inhalation device 100, for example. An air outflow hole, which is an outlet for air from the air flow passage to the internal space 141, is disposed in the bottom portion 143, for example.

[0034] The stick-type substrate 150 comprises a substrate portion 151 and a mouthpiece portion 152. The substrate portion 151 contains an aerosol source. The aerosol source includes a tobacco-derived or non-tobacco-derived flavor component. If the inhalation device 100 is a medical inhaler such as a nebulizer, the aerosol source may include a drug. The aerosol source may, for example, be a liquid such as water or a polyhydric alcohol, for example glycerol or propylene glycol, containing the tobacco-derived or non-tobacco-derived flavor component, or may be a solid including the tobacco-derived or non-tobacco-derived flavor component. In a state in which the stick-type substrate 150 is held in the accommodating portion 140, at least part of the substrate portion 151 is accommodated in the internal space 141, and at least part of the mouthpiece portion 152 protrudes from the opening 142. Then, when the user holds the mouthpiece portion 152 protruding from the opening 142 in their mouth and inhales, air flows into the internal space 141 via the air flow passage, which is not illustrated in the drawings, and reaches the inside of the user's mouth together with the aerosol generated from the substrate portion 151.

[0035] The heating unit 121 heats the aerosol source to atomize the aerosol source, thereby generating the aerosol. In the example shown in fig. 1, the heating unit 121 has a film-like form and is arranged so as to cover the outer circumference of the accommodating portion 140. Then, when the heating unit 121 generates heat, the substrate portion 151 of the stick-type substrate 150 is heated from the outer circumference and an aerosol is generated. The heating unit 121 generates heat when supplied with electricity from the power source unit 111. By way of example, electricity may be supplied when the sensor unit 112 detects that the user has started inhaling and / or that predetermined information has been input. The supply of electricity may then be stopped when the sensor unit 112 detects that the user has finished inhaling and / or that predetermined information has been input.

[0036] The heat insulating portion 144 prevents heat transfer from the heating unit 121 to other components. For example, the heat insulating portion 144 is configured from a vacuum heat insulating material or an aerogel heat insulating material, or the like.

[0037] A configuration example of the inhalation device 100 has been described above. The inhalation device 100 is, of course, not limited to the configuration described above, and may adopt various configurations, such as those illustrated below by way of example.

[0038] As one example, the heating unit 121 may have a blade-like form and may be arranged so as to protrude into the internal space 141 from the bottom portion 143 of the accommodating portion 140. In that case, the blade-like heating unit 121 is inserted into the substrate portion 151 of the stick-type substrate 150 and heats the substrate portion 151 of the stick-type substrate 150 from the inside. As another example, the heating unit 121 may be arranged so as to cover the bottom portion 143 of the accommodating portion 140. Furthermore, the heating unit 121 may be configured by a combination of two or more from among a first heating unit covering the outer circumference of the accommodating portion 140, a blade-like second heating unit, and a third heating unit covering the bottom portion 143 of the accommodating portion 140.

[0039] As another example, the accommodating portion 140 may include an opening and closing mechanism such as a hinge for opening and closing part of an outer shell that forms the internal space 141. Then, by opening and closing the outer shell, the accommodating portion 140 may accommodate and clamp the stick-shaped substrate 150 that has been inserted into the internal space 141. In that case, the heating unit 121 may be provided on the part of the accommodating portion 140 gripping the stick-type substrate 150, and may heat the stick-type substrate 150 while pressing same.

[0040] A configuration example of the inhalation device 100 has been described above. The heating unit 121 generates an aerosol by heating the stick-type substrate 150 (more specifically, the aerosol source contained in the stick-type substrate 150) accommodated in the accommodating portion 140, by using the power supplied from the power source unit 111. The control unit 116 then controls electrical supply to the heating unit 121. The inhalation device 100 is an example of an aerosol-generating system for generating an aerosol. The combination of the inhalation device 100 and the stick-type substrate 150 may also be seen as an aerosol-generating system.- Exterior configuration example

[0041] Fig. 2 is an overall oblique view of the inhalation device 100 according to the embodiment. Fig. 3 is an overall oblique view of the inhalation device 100 according to the embodiment, with the stick-type substrate 150 accommodated therein.

[0042] As shown in fig. 2 and 3, the inhalation device 100 comprises: a top housing 11A, a bottom housing 11B, a cover 12, a switch 13, a cover portion 14, a ventilation port 15, and a cap 16. The top housing 11A and the bottom housing 11B are connected to each other to thereby construct an outermost outer housing 11 of the inhalation device 100. The outer housing 11 is of a size that fits in a user's hand. When the user is using the inhalation device 100, the user can inhale a flavor while holding the inhalation device 100 in their hand.

[0043] The top housing 11A has an opening which is not depicted, and the cover 12 is joined to the top housing 11A to close this opening. As shown in fig. 3, the cover 12 comprises an opening 142 enabling insertion of the stick-type substrate 150. The cover portion 14 is configured to open / close the opening 142 in the cover 12. Specifically, the cover portion 14 is attached to the cover 12 and is configured to be movable along the surface of the cover 12 between a first position closing the opening 142 and a second position opening the opening 142. This enables the cover portion 14 to permit or restrict access of the stick-type substrate 150 to the inside of the inhalation device 100 (the internal space 141 shown in fig. 1).

[0044] The switch 13 receives a user operation when it is pressed. The switch 13 being pressed triggers the power source of the inhalation device 100 to turn ON, and heating to be started by the heating unit 121.

[0045] The ventilation port 15 is a ventilation port for introducing air into the internal space 141. The air taken inside the inhalation device 100 from the ventilation port 15 is introduced into the internal space 141 from the bottom portion 143 of the accommodating portion 140, for example. The cap 16 is detachable from the bottom housing 11B. The ventilation port 15 is formed between the bottom housing 11B and the cap 16 by attaching the cap 16 to the bottom housing 11B. The cap 16 may have a through-hole or a cutout, etc. which is not depicted, for example.2. Technical features2.1 Heating associated with sensing insertion

[0046] The control unit 116 determines the state of the accommodating portion 140 based on a parameter corresponding to the temperature of the heating unit 121. The parameter corresponding to the temperature of the heating unit 121 is assumed hereinafter to be the electrical resistance (also referred to below simply as the resistance) of the heating unit 121 (a heating resistive element constituting the heating unit 121, to be more precise). The control unit 116 acquires the resistance of the heating unit 121 by applying a voltage to the heating unit 121. It is assumed hereinafter that the resistance of the heating unit 121 rises as the temperature of the heating unit 121 rises, and that the resistance of the heating unit 121 falls as the temperature of the heating unit 121 falls. That is to say, resistance and temperature may be treated as interchangeable in the description below.

[0047] The control unit 116 implements first processing to start with. The first processing comprises acquiring the resistance of the heating unit 121 and determining the state of the accommodating portion 140 based on the acquired resistance of the heating unit 121. In the first processing, the control unit 116 especially determines whether or not the stick-type substrate 150 is inserted in the accommodating portion 140.

[0048] If it is determined in the first processing that the stick-type substrate 150 is inserted in the accommodating portion 140, the control unit 116 terminates the first processing then implements second processing. The second processing comprises heating the stick-type substrate 150 based on a heating profile. A heating profile is control information for generating an aerosol. The inhalation device 100 is capable of generating an aerosol by heating the stick-type substrate 150 based on the heating profile. The heating profile will be described in detail later.

[0049] Here, it is possible for there to be an incorrect determination in the first processing that the stick-type substrate 150 is inserted in the accommodating portion 140, despite the stick-type substrate 150 not being inserted in the accommodating portion 140. This kind of incorrect determination may arise when an article other than the stick-type substrate 150, such as a cotton swab for cleaning, is inserted in the accommodating portion 140, or when external air is blown into the accommodating portion 140. This is because the resistance of the heating unit 121 can also change in such cases, in the same way as when the stick-type substrate 150 is inserted in the accommodating portion 140.

[0050] The control unit 116 therefore acquires the resistance of the heating unit 121 during heating based on the heating profile, and determines the state of the accommodating portion 140 based on the acquired resistance of the heating unit 121. In particular, the control unit 116 determines whether or not the determination in the first processing that the stick-type substrate 150 is inserted in the accommodating portion 140 is an incorrect determination.

[0051] If it has been determined that the stick-type substrate 150 is inserted in the accommodating portion 140, that is, if the determination in the first processing is judged to be correct, the control unit 116 continues heating of the stick-type substrate 150 based on the heating profile. Meanwhile, if it has been determined that the stick-type substrate 150 is not inserted in the accommodating portion 140, that is, if the determination in the first processing is judged to be incorrect, the control unit 116 stops heating of the stick-type substrate 150 based on the heating profile.

[0052] By virtue of this configuration, it is possible to automatically start and continue heating of the stick-type substrate 150 when the stick-type substrate 150 is inserted in the accommodating portion 140. Meanwhile, heating can be stopped when there is nothing inserted in the accommodating portion 140 or when an article other than the stick-type substrate 150 is inserted. It is thus possible to improve usability in that heating is started without the user giving a separate instruction to start / stop heating if the stick-type substrate 150 is inserted in the accommodating portion 140, therefore allowing the user to inhale the aerosol.

[0053] By virtue of this configuration, it is also possible for the heating unit 121 for heating the stick-type substrate 150 to be utilized to sense insertion of the stick-type substrate 150. That is to say, there is no need for another sensor such as a capacitive sensor to be fitted in order to sense insertion of the stick-type substrate 150. This allows the inhalation device 100 to be made even more compact.

[0054] It should be noted that, in the first processing, the heating unit 121 may heat up as a result of a voltage being applied to the heating unit 121 in order to acquire the resistance of the heating unit 121. That is to say, the first processing may be understood as processing for heating the stick-type substrate 150. However, unless specifically stated otherwise, it will be assumed hereinafter that heating denotes heating based on the heating profile in the second processing.

[0055] The first processing and the second processing will be described in detail below.(1) First processing

[0056] Fig. 4 and 5 are diagrams to illustrate the first processing implemented by the inhalation device 100 according to the embodiment. A graph 30 shown in fig. 4 shows an example of a time-series transition of the voltage applied to the heating unit 121 in the first processing. The vertical axis in the graph 30 denotes voltage and the units are volts. The horizontal axis in the graph 30 denotes time and the units are seconds. A graph 35 shown in fig. 5 shows an example of a time-series transition of resistance of the heating unit 121 when the voltage shown in fig. 4 is applied. The vertical axis in the graph 35 denotes resistance and the units are ohms. The horizontal axis in the graph 35 denotes time and the units are seconds. The graph 35 depicts a case in which the stick-type substrate 150 was inserted into the accommodating portion 140 at the timing indicated by the arrow 39, that is, 5 seconds after the start of the first processing.

[0057] As shown in fig. 4, the control unit 116 repeatedly applies a sensing pulse group 34 including one first sensing pulse 31 to the heating unit 121. A "pulse" as referred to here is a wave having a predetermined voltage. In particular, the first sensing pulse 31 is a pulse for raising the temperature of the heating unit 121 while acquiring the resistance of the heating unit 121. A period during which one sensing pulse group 34 is applied will also be referred to below as a sensing cycle. A period of the sensing cycle during which the first sensing pulse 31 is applied will also be referred to as a temperature-increase period. Meanwhile, a period of the sensing cycle during which the first sensing pulse 31 is not applied will also be referred to as a temperature-reduction period. In the example shown in fig. 4, the duration of the sensing cycle is 0.5 seconds, with the first 0.1 seconds of the sensing cycle being the temperature-increase period and the remaining 0.4 seconds being the temperature-reduction period.

[0058] As shown in fig. 5, a voltage is applied to the heating unit 121 in the temperature-increase period, so the temperature of the heating unit 121 rises and there is also an associated increase in the resistance of the heating unit 121. Meanwhile, application of the voltage to the heating unit 121 is paused in the temperature-reduction period, so the temperature of the heating unit 121 falls and there is also an associated reduction in the resistance of the heating unit 121. That is to say, the resistance of the heating unit 121 fluctuates up and down in one sensing cycle. As shown in fig. 5, the resistance of the heating unit 121 gradually rises while repeatedly moving up and down in the process of the sensing pulse group 34 being repeatedly applied. Here, the voltage and span of the first sensing pulse 31 are adjusted so that the resistance of the heating unit 121 gradually rises or is maintained at a constant value in the process of the sensing pulse group 34 being repeatedly applied.

[0059] The control unit 116 determines the state of the accommodating portion 140 based on a time-series transition of the resistance of the heating unit 121 obtained by repeatedly applying the sensing pulse group 34 to the heating unit 121. To be more specific, the control unit 116 determines that the stick-type substrate 150 is inserted in the accommodating portion 140 when the time-series transition of the resistance of the heating unit 121 satisfies a predetermined condition. Meanwhile, the control unit 116 determines that the stick-type substrate 150 is not inserted in the accommodating portion 140 when the time-series transition of the resistance of the heating unit 121 does not satisfy the predetermined condition.

[0060] The time-series transition of the resistance of the heating unit 121 in the period during which the sensing pulse group 34 is applied to the heating unit 121 varies according to whether or not the stick-type substrate 150 is inserted in the accommodating portion 140. In the example shown in fig. 5, the period until 5 seconds have elapsed from the start of the first processing is when the stick-type substrate 150 is not inserted in the accommodating portion 140. During that period, the resistance at the start of application of the first sensing pulse 31 is located on a line 37, and the resistance at the end of application of the first sensing pulse 31 is located on a line 38. Meanwhile, in the example shown in fig. 5, the period after 5 seconds have elapsed from the start of the first processing is when the stick-type substrate 150 is inserted in the accommodating portion 140. During that period, the resistance at the start of application of the first sensing pulse 31 is located below the line 37, and the resistance at the end of application of the first sensing pulse 31 is located below the line 38. The control unit 116 therefore determines that the stick-type substrate 150 is inserted in the accommodating portion 140 when a change such as illustrated in fig. 5 has occurred in the time-series transition of the resistance of the heating unit 121 during the process of repeatedly applying the sensing pulse group 34. This simple configuration makes it possible to determine whether or not the stick-type substrate 150 is inserted in the accommodating portion 140.

[0061] As shown in fig. 4, the first processing may comprise initially applying a third sensing pulse 33 to the heating unit 121. The third sensing pulse 33 is a pulse for raising the temperature of the heating unit 121 while acquiring the resistance of the heating unit 121. The duration of the third sensing pulse 33 is longer than the duration of the first sensing pulse 31. In the example shown in fig. 4, the duration of the first sensing pulse 31 is 0.1 seconds and the duration of the third sensing pulse 33 is 0.5 seconds. This configuration makes it possible to raise the resistance of the heating unit 121 to a certain extent immediately after the start of the first processing. If the resistance of the heating unit 121 is not increased to a certain extent, it is possible that the resistance of the heating unit 121 will not fall to a suitable extent in the temperature-reduction period of the sensing cycle. This configuration enables suitable increases and reductions in the resistance of the heating unit 121 in the sensing cycle and therefore makes it possible to determine the state of the accommodating portion 140 with greater accuracy.

[0062] It should be noted that the sensing pulse group 34 may comprise one or more second sensing pulses in addition to the single first sensing pulse 31. The second sensing pulse is a pulse for acquiring the resistance of the heating unit 121. The duration of the second sensing pulse is shorter than the duration of the first sensing pulse 31. In particular, the duration of the second sensing pulse is preferably set at such an extremely short time that there is no change in the temperature of the heating unit 121 even if the second sensing pulse is applied to the heating unit 121. This allows the resistance of the heating unit 121 to be acquired while the temperature of the heating unit 121 is falling in the temperature-reduction period.

[0063] The resistance of the heating unit 121 acquired by means of the second sensing pulse may be utilized in order to determine the state of the accommodating portion 140. This configuration makes it possible to determine the state of the accommodating portion 140 based on a greater number of samples, and therefore makes it possible to suppress a reduction in the accuracy of determining the state of the accommodating portion 140 due to the effects of interference, for example.

[0064] The control unit 116 may be triggered to start the first processing after detecting a predetermined user operation. The predetermined user operation may be a user operation which would presumably lead to the stick-type substrate 150 being inserted into the accommodating portion 140 immediately after this predetermined user operation has been performed. An example of the predetermined user operation would be opening the cover portion 14 for opening / closing the opening 142. Another example of the predetermined user operation would be lifting the inhalation device 100. Another example of the predetermined user operation would be stopping charging of the inhalation device 100. A sensor provided on the cover portion 14 or a motion sensor, etc. may be used to detect whether or not these predetermined user operations have been performed. This configuration enables the first processing to be implemented only at a timing at which the stick-type substrate 150 could be inserted. It is therefore possible to restrict power consumption.

[0065] The control unit 116 terminates the first processing if the time-series transition of the resistance of the heating unit 121 does not satisfy a predetermined condition before a predetermined time has elapsed from the start of the first processing. In other words, the control unit 116 stops the first processing if it is not determined that the stick-type substrate 150 has been inserted into the accommodating portion 140 before the predetermined time has elapsed from the start of the first processing. The predetermined time should be set according to the time which it would normally be expected to take for the user to insert the stick-type substrate 150 after performing the predetermined user operation which triggers the start of the first processing, for example. In the example shown in fig. 4, the predetermined time is 10 seconds, and the sensing cycle is repeated a maximum of 18 times. This configuration makes it possible to restrict power consumption without adversely affecting usability.

[0066] Meanwhile, the control unit 116 starts the second processing when it is determined that the time-series transition of the resistance of the heating unit 121 has satisfied a predetermined condition in the first processing. In other words, the control unit 116 starts the second processing when it is determined in the first processing that the stick-type substrate 150 is inserted in the accommodating portion 140. This configuration makes it possible to improve usability in that there is no need for the user to give a separate instruction to start heating.(2) Second processing

[0067] In the second processing, the control unit 116 controls operation of the heating unit 121 based on the heating profile and determines the state of the accommodating portion 140. These processing operations will be described in order below.- Heating based on the heating profile

[0068] The control unit 116 controls the operation of the heating unit 121 based on the heating profile. The operation of the heating unit 121 is controlled by controlling electrical supply from the power source unit 111 to the heating unit 121. The heating unit 121 heats the stick-type substrate 150 using power supplied from the power source unit 111.

[0069] The heating profile is control information for controlling the temperature at which the aerosol source is heated. The heating profile defines a target value of a parameter corresponding to a temperature at which the aerosol source is heated. The temperature of the heating unit 121 is an example of the temperature at which the aerosol source is heated. A target value of the resistance of the heating unit 121, which is also referred to below as the "target resistance", is an example of a target value of a parameter corresponding to the temperature at which the aerosol source is heated. Furthermore, the temperature of the heating unit 121 when the resistance of the heating unit 121 is the target resistance, i.e., a temperature corresponding to the target resistance, will also be referred to below as the "target temperature". The temperature of the heating unit 121 may be controlled to change in accordance with the time elapsed from the start of heating. In this case, the heating profile includes information defining a time-series transition of the target resistance. As another example, the heating profile may comprise a parameter (hereinafter also referred to as a power supply parameter) defining how power is supplied to the heating unit 121. The power supply parameters include, for example, a voltage applied to the heating unit 121, ON / OFF of the power supply to the heating unit 121, or a method of feedback control to be employed. ON / OFF of the power supply to the heating unit 121 may be considered as ON / OFF of the heating unit 121.

[0070] The control unit 116 controls operation of the heating unit 121 so that the resistance of the heating unit 121 transitions in the same way as the target resistance defined in the heating profile. The heating profile is typically designed such that, when the user inhales the aerosol generated from the stick-type substrate 150, the flavor tasted by the user is optimized. The flavor tasted by the user can therefore be optimized by controlling operation of the heating unit 121 based on the heating profile.

[0071] The temperature control of the heating unit 121 can be realized by known feedback control, for example. The feedback control may be, for example, PID control (Proportional-Integral-Differential Controller). The control unit 116 may cause power from the power source unit 111 to be supplied to the heating unit 121 in the form of pulses by pulse width modulation (PWM) or pulse frequency modulation (PFM). In that case, the control unit 116 can control the temperature of the heating unit 121 by adjusting the duty ratio of the power pulses in the feedback control. Alternatively, the control unit 116 may perform simple on / off control in the feedback control. For example, the control unit 116 may supply a power pulse to the heating unit 121 until the resistance of the heating unit 121 reaches the target resistance, and may stop supply of the power pulse when the resistance of the heating unit 121 has reached the target resistance.

[0072] The period from the start to the end of the processing to generate an aerosol using the stick-type substrate 150 is also referred to hereinafter as a heating session. In other words, a heating session is a period of time during which electrical supply to the heating unit 121 is controlled on the basis of the heating profile. The beginning of the heating session is the timing at which heating based on the heating profile is started. The end of the heating session is a timing at which a sufficient amount of aerosol is no longer being generated. The heating session comprises a preheating period and a puffing-possible period following the preheating period. The puffing-possible period is the period of time during which a sufficient amount of aerosol is expected to be generated. The preheating period is the period from when heating is started until the puffing-possible period is started. Heating performed in the preheating period is also referred to as preheating.

[0073] The notification unit 113 may notify the user of information indicative of the timing at which the preheating ends. For example, the notification unit 113 notifies the user of information announcing the end of the preheating period before the preheating period ends, or notifies the user of information indicating that the preheating has ended at the timing at which the preheating has ended. The notification to the user may be given by lighting an LED (light-emitting diode) or by means of vibrations, for example. By referring to such notification, the user is able to take a puff immediately after the end of the preheating.

[0074] Similarly, the notification unit 113 may notify the user of information indicative of when the puffing-possible period ends. For example, the notification unit 113 notifies the user of information announcing the end of the puffing-possible period before the puffing-possible period ends, or notifies the user of information indicating that the puffing-possible period has ended at the timing at which the puffing-possible period has ended. The notification to the user may be given by lighting an LED or by means of vibrations, for example. By referring to such notification, the user is able to take puffs until the end of the puffing-possible period.

[0075] An example of the heating profile will be described with reference to fig. 6. Fig. 6 is a graph schematically showing an example of a temperature transition of the heating unit 121 when heating based on the heating profile is performed. The horizontal axis of the graph 20 denotes time. The vertical axis of the graph 20 denotes temperature. A line 21 indicates the time-series transition of the temperature of the heating unit 121. As shown in fig. 6, the heating session may include an initial temperature-increase period, an intermediate temperature-reduction period, and a temperature re-increase period in succession. The initial temperature-increase period is a period in which the temperature of the heating unit 121 rapidly rises after the start of heating and is kept at a high temperature. The intermediate temperature-reduction period is a period in which the temperature of the heating unit 121 drops after the initial temperature-increase period. The temperature re-increase period is a period in which the temperature of the heating unit 121 is once again increased after the intermediate temperature-reduction period. In the example shown in fig. 6, the temperature of the heating unit 121 rapidly increases to around 300°C during the initial temperature-increase period, then drops to around 230°C during the intermediate temperature-reduction period, after which the temperature increases stepwise to around 260°C during the temperature re-increase period. During the intermediate temperature-reduction period, electrical supply to the heating unit 121 may be interrupted and heating may be turned OFF. In the example shown in fig. 6, the period from the start of heating to partway through the initial temperature-increase period is the preheating period, and the period from part way through the initial temperature-increase period to the end of the temperature re-increase period is the puffing-possible period.

[0076] Electrical supply control based on the heating profile will be described next with reference to fig. 7. Fig. 7 is a diagram to illustrate electrical supply control based on the heating profile. A graph 40 shown in fig. 7 shows an example of a time-series transition of the voltage applied to the heating unit 121 during electrical supply control based on the heating profile. The vertical axis in the graph 40 denotes voltage and the units are volts. The horizontal axis in the graph 40 denotes time and the units are milliseconds.

[0077] As shown in fig. 7, the control unit 116 repeatedly applies a heating pulse group 44 including a measurement pulse 41 to the heating unit 121. The measurement pulse 41 is a pulse which is applied in order to measure the resistance of the heating unit 121. The heating pulse group 44 may comprise one or more heating pulses 42. The heating pulse 42 is a pulse which is applied in order to raise the temperature of the heating unit 121.

[0078] A period during which one heating pulse group 44 is applied will also be referred to below as a heating cycle. A period of the heating cycle during which the measurement pulse 41 is applied will also be referred to as a measurement period. Meanwhile, a period of the heating cycle during which the measurement pulse 41 is not applied will also be referred to as a non-measurement period. The heating pulse 42 may be applied in the non-measurement period. In the example shown in fig. 7, the duration of the heating cycle is 50 ms, with the first 3 ms of the heating cycle being the measurement period and the remaining 47 ms being the non-measurement period.

[0079] The control unit 116 controls the configuration of the heating pulse 42 in the non-measurement period. The configuration as referred to here means whether or not the heating pulse 42 is applied and the duration of the heating pulse 42. As shown in fig. 7, the duration of the heating pulse 42 may be set at any time of 47 ms or less. Furthermore, the number and start timing of heating pulses 42 in the non-measurement period may also be freely set.

[0080] In particular, the control unit 116 acquires the resistance of the heating unit 121 when the measurement pulse 41 is applied in the measurement period. The control unit 116 then controls the configuration of the heating pulse 42 in the non-measurement period belonging to the same heating cycle as the measurement period, based on the resistance of the heating unit 121 acquired in that measurement period and on the heating profile. At this time, the control unit 116 controls the duty ratio of the heating pulse 42 in the non-measurement period, based on the resistance of the heating unit 121, and the target resistance defined in the heating profile.

[0081] It should be noted that the heating pulse group 44 described above is applied to the heating unit 121 during the initial temperature-increase period and the temperature re-increase period of the heating session. Meanwhile, the heating pulse group 44 need not be applied to the heating unit 121 during the intermediate temperature-reduction period of the heating session. In this case, a temperature sensor such as a thermistor which is provided separately may be used to determine whether or not the temperature of the heating unit 121 has fallen to the temperature corresponding to the target resistance in the intermediate temperature-reduction period, or else this determination can be easily made on the basis of the time elapsed since electrical supply to the heating unit 121 was stopped.- Determining the state of the accommodating portion 140

[0082] The control unit 116 determines the state of the accommodating portion 140 based on a time-series transition of the resistance of the heating unit 121 obtained by repeatedly applying the heating pulse group 44 to the heating unit 121. To be more specific, the control unit 116 determines that the stick-type substrate 150 is inserted in the accommodating portion 140 when the time-series transition of the resistance of the heating unit 121 satisfies a predetermined condition. Meanwhile, the control unit 116 determines that the stick-type substrate 150 is not inserted in the accommodating portion 140 when the time-series transition of the resistance of the heating unit 121 does not satisfy the predetermined condition.

[0083] The time-series transition of the resistance of the heating unit 121 in the period during which the heating pulse group 44 is applied to the heating unit 121 varies according to whether or not the stick-type substrate 150 is inserted in the accommodating portion 140. As an example, the resistance (i.e., the temperature) of the heating unit 121 rises more sharply when no stick-type substrate 150 is inserted in the accommodating portion 140 than when the stick-type substrate 150 is inserted in the accommodating portion 140. The control unit 116 therefore determines that the stick-type substrate 150 is inserted in the accommodating portion 140 when the time-series transition of the resistance of the heating unit 121 fits within a range of a time-series transition of the resistance of the heating unit 121 which would be expected when the stick-type substrate 150 is inserted. This simple configuration makes it possible to determine whether or not the stick-type substrate 150 is inserted in the accommodating portion 140.

[0084] It should be noted that the state of the accommodating portion 140 is preferably determined at the start of the preheating period of the heating session. This is to stop, as quickly as possible, empty heating or heating of an article other than the stick-type substrate 150 if insertion of the stick-type substrate 150 into the accommodating portion 140 has been incorrectly determined in the first processing.(3) Experimental results

[0085] Experimental results from implementing the first processing and the second processing will be described with reference to fig. 8.

[0086] Fig. 8 is a diagram to illustrate experimental results relating to the inhalation device 100 according to the embodiment. A graph 50 shown in fig. 8 shows a time-series transition of the resistance of the heating unit 121 when the inhalation device 100 implemented the first processing and the second processing. The vertical axis in the graph 50 denotes resistance and the units are ohms. The horizontal axis in the graph 50 denotes time and the units are seconds. The resistance of the heating unit 121 measured at each time point is plotted on the graph 50, with lines joining successive plots in time. The graph 50 depicts the time-series transition of the resistance of the heating unit 121 when the stick-type substrate 150 was inserted at the timing indicated by the arrow 59, i.e., at the time when 4.5 seconds have elapsed from the start of the first processing.

[0087] Referring to the graph 50, the resistance of the heating unit 121 gradually rises while repeatedly moving up and down during the time until the stick-type substrate 150 is inserted. Immediately after the stick-type substrate 150 has been inserted, the resistance of the heating unit 121 falls from the plot 51A to the plot 51B and from the plot 52A to the plot 52B. It should be noted that the plots 51A and 51B correspond to the resistance of the heating unit 121 at the start of application of the first sensing pulse 31. The plots 52A and 52B correspond to the resistance of the heating unit 121 at the end of application of the first sensing pulse 31. The control unit 116 determines that the stick-type substrate 150 has been inserted into the accommodating portion 140 based on this drop in resistance of the heating unit 121. Consequently, the first processing is terminated and the second processing is started, and the resistance of the heating unit 121 rises sharply.(4) Processing flow

[0088] The processing flow will be described next with reference to fig. 9.

[0089] Fig. 9 is a flowchart showing an example of a flow of processing implemented by the inhalation device 100 according to the embodiment.

[0090] As shown in fig. 9, the control unit 116 first of all determines whether or not the predetermined user operation has been detected (step S102). For example, the control unit 116 determines whether or not a user operation to open the cover portion 14 for opening / closing the opening 142, a user operation to lift the inhalation device 100, or a user operation to stop charging of the inhalation device 100 has been detected by means of the sensor unit 112.

[0091] If it is determined that no predetermined user operation has been detected (step S102: NO), the control unit 116 stands by until the predetermined user operation is detected.

[0092] If it is determined that a predetermined user operation has been detected (step S102: YES), the control unit 116 starts the first processing (step S104). For example, the control unit 116 initially applies the third sensing pulse 33 to the heating unit 121 and then repeatedly applies the sensing pulse group 34 to the heating unit 121.

[0093] The control unit 116 then determines whether or not the stick-type substrate 150 has been inserted into the accommodating portion 140 (step S106). For example, the control unit 116 determines whether or not the stick-type substrate 150 has been inserted into the accommodating portion 140 based on whether or not the time-series transition of the resistance of the heating unit 121 obtained by repeatedly applying the sensing pulse group 34 to the heating unit 121 satisfies a predetermined condition.

[0094] If it is determined that the stick-type substrate 150 has been inserted into the accommodating portion 140 (step S106: YES), the control unit 116 terminates the first processing and starts the second processing (step S108). For example, the accommodating portion 140 repeatedly applies the heating pulse group 44 to the heating unit 121 based on the heating profile.

[0095] Meanwhile, if it is determined that the stick-type substrate 150 is not inserted in the accommodating portion 140 (step S106: NO), the control unit 116 determines whether or not a predetermined time has elapsed from the start of the first processing (step S110). For example, the control unit 116 determines whether or not 10 seconds have elapsed from the start of the first processing.

[0096] If it is determined that the predetermined time has not elapsed from the start of the first processing (step S110: NO), the processing returns to step S106.

[0097] Meanwhile, if it is determined that the predetermined time has elapsed from the start of the first processing (step S110: YES), the control unit 116 terminates the first processing (step S112). The processing ends after this.

[0098] After the second processing has been started in step S108, the control unit 116 determines whether or not the determination result in the first processing is correct (step S114). For example, the control unit 116 determines whether or not the stick-type substrate 150 has been inserted into the accommodating portion 140 based on whether or not the time-series transition of the resistance of the heating unit 121 obtained by repeatedly applying the heating pulse group 44 to the heating unit 121 satisfies a predetermined condition.

[0099] If it has been determined that the determination result in the first processing is correct, that is to say, if it has been determined that the stick-type substrate 150 is inserted in the accommodating portion 140 (step S114: YES), the control unit 116 continues heating based on the heating profile (step S116). The processing ends when the heating based on the heating profile ends.

[0100] Meanwhile, if it has been determined that the determination result in the first processing is incorrect, that is to say, if it has been determined that the stick-type substrate 150 is not inserted in the accommodating portion 140 (step S114: NO), the control unit 116 terminates heating based on the heating profile (step S118). The processing ends after this.

[0101] An example of the flow of processing implemented by means of the inhalation device 100 according to the embodiment was described above. The notification unit 113 may provide an appropriate notification of information indicating the progress of the processing above. For example, the notification unit 113 may provide notifications of the start of the first processing, the determination result in the first processing, the start of the second processing, and the determination result in the second processing.2.2. Determination standard in first processing

[0102] An example of a determination standard for determining the state of the accommodating portion 140 in the first processing will be described below. This determination standard will also be referred to below as the first determination standard.

[0103] Fig. 10 is a diagram to illustrate the first determination standard for determining the state of the accommodating portion 140 in the first processing. A graph 60 shown in fig. 10 shows an example of a time-series transition of the resistance of the heating unit 121 in the first processing. The vertical axis in the graph 60 denotes resistance and the units are ohms. The horizontal axis in the graph 60 denotes time and the units are seconds.

[0104] The resistance at the plots 61A and 61B in the graph 60 is the resistance of the heating unit 121 at the start of application of the first sensing pulse 31. The resistance at the plots 62A and 62B is the resistance of the heating unit 121 at the end of application of the first sensing pulse 31.

[0105] The control unit 116 determines the state of the accommodating portion 140 based on a time-series transition of the resistance of the heating unit 121 when two sensing pulse groups 34 are applied to the heating unit 121. The two sensing pulse groups 34 which are used to determine the state of the accommodating portion 140 are two consecutive sensing pulse groups 34. In particular, the two sensing pulse groups 34 which are used to determine the state of the accommodating portion 140 are the two consecutive sensing pulse groups 34 which were most recently applied to the heating unit 121. Each time a sensing pulse group 34 is applied, the control unit 116 repeats a determination of the state of the accommodating portion 140 while switching the two sensing pulse groups 34 which are used to determine the state of the accommodating portion 140. The first of the two consecutive sensing pulse groups 34 will also be referred to as a first sensing pulse group 34, and the sensing pulse group 34 following the first sensing pulse group 34 will also be referred to as a second sensing pulse group 34.- First condition

[0106] As an example, the control unit 116 may determine the state of the accommodating portion 140 based on: the resistance of the heating unit 121 at the start of application of the first sensing pulse 31 included in the first sensing pulse group 34; and the resistance of the heating unit 121 at the start of application of the first sensing pulse 31 included in the second sensing pulse group 34. To be more specific, the control unit 116 may determine that the stick-type substrate 150 is inserted when the resistance at the start of application of the first sensing pulse 31 included in the second sensing pulse group 34 is less than the resistance of the heating unit 121 at the start of application of the first sensing pulse 31 included in the first sensing pulse group 34. This condition will also be referred to below as the first condition.

[0107] In the example shown in fig. 10, the resistance at the plot 61A may correspond to the resistance at the start of application of the first sensing pulse 31 included in the first sensing pulse group 34. In that case, the resistance at the plot 61B corresponds to the resistance at the start of application of the first sensing pulse 31 included in the second sensing pulse group 34. The control unit 116 may determine that the stick-type substrate 150 is inserted in the accommodating portion 140 when the resistance at the plot 61B is less than the resistance at the plot 61A. Meanwhile, the control unit 116 may determine that the stick-type substrate 150 is not inserted in the accommodating portion 140 when the resistance at the plot 61B is equal to or greater than the resistance at the plot 61A.- Second condition

[0108] As another example, the control unit 116 may determine the state of the accommodating portion 140 based on: the resistance of the heating unit 121 at the end of application of the first sensing pulse 31 included in the first sensing pulse group 34; and the resistance of the heating unit 121 at the end of application of the first sensing pulse 31 included in the second sensing pulse group 34. To be more specific, the control unit 116 may determine that the stick-type substrate 150 is inserted when the resistance of the heating unit 121 at the end of application of the first sensing pulse 31 included in the second sensing pulse group 34 is less than the resistance of the heating unit 121 at the end of application of the first sensing pulse 31 included in the first sensing pulse group 34. This condition will also be referred to below as the second condition.

[0109] In the example shown in fig. 10, the resistance at the plot 62A may correspond to the resistance at the end of application of the first sensing pulse 31 included in the first sensing pulse group 34. In that case, the resistance at the plot 62B corresponds to the resistance at the end of application of the first sensing pulse 31 included in the second sensing pulse group 34. The control unit 116 may determine that the stick-type substrate 150 is inserted in the accommodating portion 140 when the resistance at the plot 62B is less than the resistance at the plot 62A. Meanwhile, the control unit 116 may determine that the stick-type substrate 150 is not inserted in the accommodating portion 140 when the resistance at the plot 62B is equal to or greater than the resistance at the plot 62A.- Supplementary information

[0110] The control unit 116 may determine that the stick-type substrate 150 is inserted in the accommodating portion 140 if one of the first condition and the second condition is satisfied. Additionally, the control unit 116 may determine that the stick-type substrate 150 is inserted in the accommodating portion 140 if both the first condition and the second condition are satisfied.2.3. Determination standard in second processing

[0111] A detailed description will be given below of the determination standard used to determine the state of the accommodating portion 140 in the second processing. This determination standard will also be referred to below as the third determination standard.

[0112] Fig. 11 is a diagram to illustrate second processing implemented by the inhalation device 100 according to the embodiment. A graph 70 shown in fig. 11 shows an example of the time-series transition of the resistance of the heating unit 121 from the start of heating based on the heating profile. The vertical axis in the graph 70 denotes resistance and the units are ohms. The horizontal axis of the graph 70 denotes time, more specifically the time elapsed from the start of heating based on the heating profile, and the units are seconds. The elapsed time from the start of heating based on the heating profile will also be referred to below as the heating time.

[0113] A line 71 shows the time-series transition of the resistance of the heating unit 121 when heating was started with the stick-type substrate 150 inserted in the accommodating portion 140. A line 72 shows the time-series transition of the resistance of the heating unit 121 when heating was started with nothing inserted in the accommodating portion 140. A line 73 shows the time-series transition of the resistance of the heating unit 121 when heating was started with a dry cotton swab inserted in the accommodating portion 140. A line 74 shows the time-series transition of the resistance of the heating unit 121 when heating was started with a wet cotton swab inserted in the accommodating portion 140.

[0114] It can be seen from a comparison of the line 71 and the lines 72-74 shown in fig. 11 that there is a large difference in the rate at which the resistance (i.e., the temperature) of the heating unit 121 rises, depending on whether or not the stick-type substrate 150 is inserted in the accommodating portion 140. That is to say, there is a marked difference in the rate at which the resistance of the heating unit 121 rises between when the stick-type substrate 150 is inserted in the accommodating portion 140 and when the stick-type substrate 150 is not inserted in the accommodating portion 140.

[0115] The control unit 116 may therefore determine that the stick-type substrate 150 is inserted in the accommodating portion 140 if the rate of change (especially the rate of increase) of the resistance of the heating unit 121, indicated by the relationship between resistance of the heating unit 121 and heating time, is less than a predetermined threshold. Meanwhile, the control unit 116 may determine that the stick-type substrate 150 is not inserted in the accommodating portion 140 if the rate of change of the resistance of the heating unit 121, indicated by the relationship between resistance of the heating unit 121 and heating time, is equal to or greater than the predetermined threshold.

[0116] As an example, the control unit 116 may determine that the stick-type substrate 150 is inserted in the accommodating portion 140 if the heating time when the resistance of the heating unit 121 reached a first resistance threshold is equal to or greater than a first time threshold. Meanwhile, the control unit 116 may determine that the stick-type substrate 150 is not inserted in the accommodating portion 140 if the heating time when the resistance of the heating unit 121 reached the first resistance threshold is less than the first time threshold. For example, the first resistance threshold may be a resistance corresponding to a temperature which is 99.5% of the maximum target temperature. The maximum target temperature as referred to here may be the maximum target temperature among target temperatures defined in the heating profile, and may especially be the maximum target temperature in the preheating period. The first time threshold is preferably set in accordance with the heating time taken until the resistance of the heating unit 121 reaches the first resistance threshold when the stick-type substrate 150 is inserted in the accommodating portion 140.

[0117] In the example shown in fig. 11, the first resistance threshold may be 1.5 Ω. The first time threshold may be set at 3.5 seconds. Referring to the line 71, the heating time taken until the resistance of the heating unit 121 reaches 1.5 Ω is around 4.2 seconds when the stick-type substrate 150 is inserted in the accommodating portion 140. It can therefore be determined that the stick-type substrate 150 is inserted in the accommodating portion 140. Meanwhile, referring to the lines 72-74, the heating time taken until the resistance of the heating unit 121 reaches 1.5 Ω is less than 3 seconds when the stick-type substrate 150 is not inserted in the accommodating portion 140. It can therefore be determined that the stick-type substrate 150 is not inserted in the accommodating portion 140. It is thus possible to appropriately determine whether or not the stick-type substrate 150 is inserted in the accommodating portion 140. It should be noted that the numerical values given in regard to the first resistance threshold and the first time threshold are merely examples, and any other numerical values may be adopted.

[0118] As another example, the control unit 116 may determine that the stick-type substrate 150 is inserted in the accommodating portion 140 if the resistance of the heating unit 121 when the heating time reached a second time threshold is less than a second resistance threshold. Meanwhile, the control unit 116 may determine that the stick-type substrate 150 is not inserted in the accommodating portion 140 if the resistance of the heating unit 121 when the heating time reached the second time threshold is equal to or greater than the second resistance threshold. For example, the second resistance threshold may be 99.5% of the resistance which corresponds to the maximum target temperature. The maximum target temperature as referred to here may be the maximum target temperature among target temperatures defined in the heating profile, and may especially be the maximum target temperature in the preheating period. The second time threshold is preferably set in accordance with the heating time taken until the resistance of the heating unit 121 reaches the second resistance threshold when the stick-type substrate 150 is inserted in the accommodating portion 140.

[0119] In the example shown in fig. 11, the second resistance threshold may be 1.5 Ω. The second time threshold may be set at 3.5 seconds. Referring to the line 71, the resistance of the heating unit 121 at the time point when the heating time is 3.5 seconds is less than 1.5 Ω when the stick-type substrate 150 is inserted in the accommodating portion 140. It can therefore be determined that the stick-type substrate 150 is inserted in the accommodating portion 140. Meanwhile, referring to the lines 72-74, the resistance of the heating unit 121 at the time point when the heating time is 3.5 seconds exceeds 1.5 Ω when the stick-type substrate 150 is not inserted in the accommodating portion 140. It can therefore be determined that the stick-type substrate 150 is not inserted in the accommodating portion 140. It is thus possible to appropriately determine whether or not the stick-type substrate 150 is inserted in the accommodating portion 140. It should be noted that the numerical values given in regard to the second time threshold and the second resistance threshold are merely examples, and any other numerical values may be adopted.

[0120] Moreover, the control unit 116 preferably keeps the duty ratio of the voltage applied to the heating unit 121 at a predetermined value during the period until it is determined whether or not the stick-type substrate 150 is inserted in the accommodating portion 140. As an example, the control unit 116 preferably keeps the duty ratio of the voltage, which is applied to the heating unit 121, at the predetermined value during the period from the heating unit 121 starting to generate heat based on the heating profile until the resistance of the heating unit 121 reaches the first resistance threshold. As another example, the control unit 116 may keep the duty ratio of the voltage, which is applied to the heating unit 121, at the predetermined value during the period until the heating time reaches the second threshold. By virtue of this configuration, it is possible to exclude the effect of a change in the duty ratio from the determination of whether or not the stick-type substrate 150 is inserted in the accommodating portion 140, so the state of the accommodating portion 140 can be determined with greater accuracy. The predetermined value referred to here may be 100%. In that case, the length of the preheating period can be reduced.2.4. Determination standard during continuous heating

[0121] Heating by the heating unit 121 is sometimes performed continuously. For example, a user sometimes "chain smokes", which is where the stick-type substrate 150 is continuously heated while being replaced for the user to inhale the aerosol. The resistance (i.e., temperature) of the heating unit 121 at the start of heating based on the heating profile is higher with this kind of continuous heating than without such heating.

[0122] There may be a reduction in the accuracy of determining the state of the accommodating portion 140 if the same determination standard as described above is used during continuous heating. The control unit 116 therefore determines the state of the accommodating portion 140 during continuous heating by using a different determination standard from that described above. This configuration makes it possible to limit a reduction in the accuracy of determining the state of the accommodating portion 140 during continuous heating. The determination standard during continuous heating (also referred to below as the "second determination standard") will be described below.

[0123] The control unit 116 may determine that continuous heating is in progress when the initial resistance of the heating unit 121 corresponds to equal to or greater than a predetermined temperature, i.e., when the temperature corresponding to the initial resistance of the heating unit 121 is equal to or greater than a predetermined temperature. The initial resistance is the resistance of the heating unit 121 in an initial state, and is, for example, the resistance of the heating unit 121 at the point in time when the first processing starts. The predetermined temperature is set in accordance with the estimated temperature of the heating unit 121 at the time when continuous heating is started. If it is determined that continuous heating is in progress, the control unit 116 may then apply to the heating unit 121 a sensing pulse group 34 including only a second sensing pulse, in the first processing. In this case, although the temperature and resistance of the heating unit 121 continue to fall, the manner of this fall varies according to the state of the accommodating portion 140. The control unit 116 may therefore determine the state of the accommodating portion 140 based on the manner of the fall in resistance of the heating unit 121. Experimental results relating to the manner of the fall in resistance of the heating unit 121 will be described with reference to fig. 12.

[0124] Fig. 12 is a diagram to illustrate experimental results relating to the inhalation device 100 according to the embodiment. A graph 90 shows experimental results of a time-series change in resistance of the heating unit 121 immediately after heating by the heating unit 121 has been stopped once the heating unit 121 has sufficiently heated up. The vertical axis in the graph 90 denotes resistance and the units are ohms. The horizontal axis in the graph 90 denotes time, and the units are seconds showing elapsed time from the end of heating. A plot 91 shows the experimental results with the stick-type substrate 150 inserted in the accommodating portion 140. A plot 92 shows the experimental results with continuous blowing into the accommodating portion 140 and nothing inserted therein. A plot 93 shows the experimental results with a cotton swab for cleaning inserted in the accommodating portion 140. As shown by the plots 91-93, when the stick-type substrate 150 is inserted in the accommodating portion 140, the resistance of the heating unit 121 sometimes drops more sharply than in other cases. The control unit 116 may therefore determine that the stick-type substrate 150 is inserted in the accommodating portion 140 when the sensing pulse group 34 including only the second sensing pulse is applied to the heating unit 121 in the first processing and a rate of reduction of the resistance of the heating unit 121 exceeds a predetermined threshold. Put more simply, the control unit 116 may, for example, determine that the stick-type substrate 150 is inserted in the accommodating portion 140 if a difference between the resistance of the heating unit 121 at the current time and the resistance of the heating unit 121 from 1 second before exceeds the predetermined threshold. Note that the rate of reduction of the resistance of the heating unit 121 tends to accelerate as the resistance of the heating unit 121 becomes higher, as shown by the plot 91. The control unit 116 may therefore increase the predetermined threshold as the resistance of the heating unit 121 becomes higher. This makes it possible to improve the accuracy of determination.

[0125] When it is determined that continuous heating is in progress, the control unit 116 may omit the determination of the state of the accommodating portion 140 in the second processing. That is to say, the control unit 116 may start heating based on the heating profile, while omitting the determination of the state of the accommodating portion 140 during implementation of heating based on the heating profile. This is because there may be a reduction in the accuracy of determining the state of the accommodating portion 140 based on the third determination standard, which is related to the fact that heating based on the heating profile is started with the resistance of the heating unit 121 at a relatively high level during continuous heating. By virtue of this configuration, it is possible to prevent a situation in which heating is stopped because of an incorrect determination that the stick-type substrate 150 is not inserted, despite the stick-type substrate 150 being inserted.2.5. Notification of information

[0126] The control unit 116 may acquire the initial resistance of the heating unit 121, this acquisition being triggered by the cover portion 14 opening the opening 142. The initial resistance is an example of an initial parameter. The control unit 116 may then actuate the heating unit 121 and the notification unit 113 on the basis of the initial resistance of the heating unit 121. As described above, the determination standard used to determine the state of the accommodating portion 140 and implementation or otherwise of the second processing may be switched depending on the initial resistance of the heating unit 121. In this regard, the configuration above enables better usability because it allows the user to be notified of information commensurate with the processing being implemented inside the inhalation device 100.(1) Control of heating unit 121 commensurately with initial resistance

[0127] Operation of the heating unit 121 commensurately with the initial resistance is as described above.- Case in which the initial resistance of the heating unit 121 corresponds to less than a predetermined temperature

[0128] That is to say, when the initial resistance of the heating unit 121 corresponds to less than a predetermined temperature, the control unit 116 monitors whether or not a time-series transition of the resistance of the heating unit 121 meets the first determination standard, in the first processing. More specifically, the control unit 116 repeatedly applies a sensing pulse group 34 including one first sensing pulse 31 to the heating unit 121. The control unit 116 then monitors whether or not the time-series transition of the resistance of heating unit 121, which is obtained by repeatedly applying this sensing pulse group 34 to the heating unit 121, meets the first determination standard. In particular, the control unit 116 determines whether or not a mode of fluctuation of the resistance of the heating unit 121 meets the first determination standard, the mode of fluctuation corresponding to repeated rises in temperature of the heating unit 121 associated with application of the first sensing pulse 31 and repeated drops in temperature of the heating unit 121 associated with stopping application of the first sensing pulse 31. The details relating to the first determination standard are as described above.

[0129] The control unit 116 starts the second processing if the first determination standard has been met. That is to say, the control unit 116 starts heating by the heating unit 121 based on the heating profile, and monitors whether or not the third determination standard is met during implementation of the heating by the heating unit 121 based on the heating profile. In particular, the control unit 116 determines whether or not a rate of change of the resistance of the heating unit 121, indicated by the relationship between resistance and heating time of the heating unit 121, meets the third determination standard. The control unit 116 then maintains heating by the heating unit 121 based on the heating profile if the third determination standard has been met. Meanwhile, the control unit 116 stops heating by the heating unit 121 based on the heating profile if the third determination standard is not met.

[0130] Meanwhile, the control unit 116 does not start heating by the heating unit 121 based on the heating profile if the first determination standard is not met.- Case in which the initial resistance of the heating unit 121 corresponds to equal to or greater than a predetermined temperature

[0131] When the initial resistance of the heating unit 121 corresponds to equal to or greater than a predetermined temperature, the control unit 116 monitors whether or not the time-series transition of the resistance of the heating unit 121 meets the second determination standard. To be more specific, when the initial resistance of the heating unit 121 corresponds to equal to or greater than the predetermined temperature, the control unit 116 repeatedly applies the sensing pulse group 34 comprising the second sensing pulse to the heating unit. The control unit 116 then monitors whether or not the time-series transition of the resistance of heating unit 121, which is obtained by repeatedly applying this sensing pulse group 34 to the heating unit 121, meets the second determination standard. In particular, the control unit 116 determines whether or not a mode of change of the resistance of the heating unit 121 corresponding to a drop in temperature of the heating unit 121 satisfies the second determination standard. The details relating to the second determination standard are as described above.

[0132] The control unit 116 starts heating by the heating unit 121 based on the heating profile if the second determination standard has been met. Meanwhile, the control unit 116 does not start heating by the heating unit 121 based on the heating profile if the second determination standard is not met.(2) Control of notification unit 113 commensurately with initial resistance

[0133] The control unit 116 controls operation of the notification unit 113 in parallel with controlling operation of the heating unit 121 commensurately with the initial resistance.

[0134] To be more specific, when the initial resistance of the heating unit 121 corresponds to less than the predetermined temperature, the control unit 116 controls the notification unit 113 to notify first information while monitoring whether or not the first determination standard is met. Meanwhile, when the initial resistance of the heating unit 121 corresponds to equal to or greater than the predetermined temperature, the control unit 116 controls the notification unit 113 to notify the first information while monitoring whether or not the second determination standard is met. The first information is information indicating that monitoring of the state of the accommodating portion 140 is in progress. This configuration allows the user to be notified that monitoring of the state of the accommodating portion 140 is in progress. For example, the first information may be notified by means of vibration in a predetermined vibration pattern, or by LED light emission in a predetermined light emission pattern. The vibration pattern as referred to here is defined by the intensity of vibration, duration of vibration, number of times of vibration, and intervals of vibration when there are multiple occurrences of vibration, etc. The light emission pattern is defined by the intensity of light emission, duration of light emission, color of light emission, number of times of light emission, and intervals of light emission when light is emitted multiple times, etc. The first information may be notified by means of LED light emission while also serving as information indicating remaining battery capacity. As an example, a wide area of light emission may indicate a higher remaining battery capacity, and a smaller area of light emission may indicate a lower remaining battery capacity. As another example, the absence or presence of light emission and / or the color of light emission by the LED may vary according to the remaining battery capacity. This configuration allows the user to be notified of the remaining battery capacity together with the fact that monitoring of the state of the accommodating portion 140 is in progress.

[0135] When the initial resistance of the heating unit 121 corresponds to less than the predetermined temperature, the control unit 116 may control the notification unit 113 to notify second information if the first determination standard has been met. That is to say, the inhalation device 100 may notify the second information along with starting heating based on the heating profile. Meanwhile, when the initial resistance of the heating unit 121 corresponds to equal to or greater than the predetermined temperature, the control unit 116 may control the notification unit 113 to notify the second information if the second determination standard has been met. That is to say, the inhalation device 100 may notify the second information along with starting heating based on the heating profile. The second information is information indicating that heating based on the heating profile has started. For example, the second information may be notified by means of vibration in a predetermined vibration pattern, or by LED light emission in a predetermined light emission pattern. This configuration allows the user to be notified that the inhalation device 100 has recognized the stick-type substrate 150 as being inserted in the accommodating portion 140, and that heating based on the heating profile has started.

[0136] When the initial resistance of the heating unit 121 corresponds to less than the predetermined temperature, the control unit 116 may control the notification unit 113 to notify third information if the first determination standard is not met. That is to say, the inhalation device 100 may notify the third information instead of not starting heating based on the heating profile. Meanwhile, when the initial resistance of the heating unit 121 corresponds to equal to or greater than the predetermined temperature, the control unit 116 may control the notification unit 113 to notify the third information if the second determination standard is not met. That is to say, the inhalation device 100 may notify the third information instead of not starting heating based on the heating profile. The third information is information indicating that the stick-type substrate 150 is judged not to be inserted, and that heating based on the heating profile has not been started. The third information may be notified by means of vibration in a predetermined vibration pattern, or by LED light emission in a predetermined light emission pattern. This configuration allows the user to be notified that the inhalation device 100 has recognized the stick-type substrate 150 as not being inserted in the accommodating portion 140, and that heating based on the heating profile has not been started.

[0137] Here, the first information to the third information are preferably notified in different forms. That is to say, the first information to the third information are preferably notified by different vibration patterns and / or light emission patterns. This configuration allows the user to be made more acutely aware of differences in the information being notified.

[0138] If the third determination standard has been met, the control unit 116 may control the notification unit 113 not to notify information. That is to say, the inhalation device 100 may maintain heating based on the heating profile without notifying any information at all. By virtue of this configuration, the user can be notified implicitly that there there is no particular problem with heating, because the user is not explicitly notified of information. Meanwhile, if the third determination standard is not met, the control unit 116 may control the notification unit 113 to notify fourth information. That is to say, the inhalation device 100 may notify the fourth information along with stopping heating based on the heating profile. The fourth information is information indicating that the stick-type substrate 150 is judged not to be inserted, and that heating based on the heating profile has been stopped. The fourth information may be notified by means of vibration in a predetermined vibration pattern, or by LED light emission in a predetermined light emission pattern. This configuration allows the user to be notified that the inhalation device 100 has judged the stick-type substrate 150 not to be inserted in the accommodating portion 140, and that heating based on the heating profile has been stopped.- Standby mode

[0139] Here, the control unit 116 may move to standby mode if the first, second or third determination standard is not met. Standby mode is an operating mode in which the state of the accommodating portion 140 is not determined even if the cover portion 14 has opened the opening 142. This configuration makes it possible to limit power consumption by the inhalation device 100 by suspending the determination of the state of the accommodating portion 140 if the user has opened the cover portion 14 but not inserted the stick-type substrate 150.

[0140] In the standby mode, the control unit 116 may control operation of the heating unit 121 to start heating based on the heating profile when a predetermined user operation has been detected, and may control the notification unit 113 to notify the second information. An example of the predetermined user operation would be pressing of the switch 13. In this case, the control unit 116 may omit determining the state of the accommodating portion 140. That is to say, the control unit 116 may start and maintain heating by the heating unit 121 based on the heating profile regardless of whether or not the first to third determination standards are met. This configuration allows the user to manually start heating of the stick-type substrate 150 even if time has passed since the cover portion 14 opened the opening 142 and the determination of the state of the accommodating portion 140 is suspended. The inhalation device 100 can further notify the user that heating based on the heating profile has started, by notifying the second information.

[0141] The control unit 116 cancels the standby mode when the cover portion 14 has closed the opening 142 in the standby mode. That is to say, when the cover portion 14 has once again opened the opening 142, the control unit 116 acquires the initial resistance of the heating unit 121 to determine the state of the accommodating portion 140 on the basis of the first to third determination standards, and controls operation of the heating unit 121 and the notification unit 113. This configuration allows the user to start the heating and the series of notification processes associated with sensing insertion of the stick-type substrate 150 by briefly closing the cover portion 14 then reopening the cover portion 14.

[0142] The third information and the fourth information may be notified in the same form. For example, the light emission pattern and the vibration pattern for notifying the third information may be the same as the light emission pattern and the vibration pattern for notifying the fourth information. This is because there is a move to the standby mode whether the third information or the fourth information is notified, that is, if any of the first, second or third determination standard is not met. This configuration allows the user to be more easily made aware that there has been a move to the standby mode. That is to say, the third information and the fourth information may be treated as information indicating a move to the standby mode.(3) Processing flow

[0143] Fig. 13 is a flowchart showing an example of a flow of processing implemented by the inhalation device 100 according to the embodiment.

[0144] As shown in fig. 13, the sensor unit 112 first of all detects that the opening 142 has been opened by the cover portion 14 (step S202).

[0145] The control unit 116 then determines whether or not the initial resistance of the heating unit 121 corresponds to less than a predetermined temperature (step S204). For example, the control unit 116 acquires, as the initial resistance of the heating unit 121, the resistance of the heating unit 121 measured by applying a voltage to the heating unit 121 for an extremely short period of time. The control unit 116 then determines whether or not the temperature corresponding to the initial resistance of the heating unit 121 is less than the predetermined temperature.

[0146] When the initial resistance of the heating unit 121 is judged to correspond to less than the predetermined temperature (step S204: YES), the control unit 116 controls the notification unit 113 to notify the first information, and starts monitoring based on the first determination standard (step S206). For example, the control unit 116 monitors whether or not the time-series transition of the resistance of the heating unit 121 satisfies the first determination standard, this time-series transition of the resistance of the heating unit 121 being obtained by initially applying the third sensing pulse 33 and then repeatedly applying the sensing pulse group 34 including at least the first sensing pulse 31. Monitoring based on the first determination standard can be maintained for a maximum of 10 seconds. For example, the first information can be notified as LED light emission indicating the remaining battery capacity at the same time as monitoring based on the first determination standard is started.

[0147] In the monitoring based on the first determination standard, the control unit 116 determines whether or not the first determination standard has been met (step S208). For example, the control unit 116 determines whether or not a mode of fluctuation of the resistance of the heating unit 121 meets the first determination standard, the mode of fluctuation corresponding to repeated rises in temperature of the heating unit 121 associated with application of the first sensing pulse 31 and repeated drops in temperature of the heating unit 121 associated with stopping application of the first sensing pulse 31.

[0148] If the first determination standard is judged to have been met (step S208: YES), the control unit 116 controls the notification unit 113 to notify the second information and controls operation of the heating unit 121 to start heating based on the heating profile (step S210). For example, the second information can be notified as vibration for a short time, at the same time as heating based on the heating profile is started.

[0149] The control unit 116 then determines whether or not the third determination standard has been met (step S212). For example, the control unit 116 determines whether or not the rate of change of the resistance of the heating unit 121, indicated by the relationship between resistance and heating time of the heating unit 121, meets the third determination standard.

[0150] If the third determination standard is judged to have been met (step S212: YES), the control unit 116 controls the heating unit 121 to maintain heating based on the heating profile (step S214).

[0151] The control unit 116 then moves to the standby mode when heating based on the heating profile ends (step S216). The heating based on the heating profile may be ended when the heating time has reached a predetermined time or when the number of puffs has reached a predetermined number. The processing ends after this.

[0152] In step S204, if the initial resistance of the heating unit 121 is judged to correspond to equal to or greater than a predetermined temperature (step S204: NO), the control unit 116 controls the notification unit 113 to notify the first information, and starts monitoring based on the second determination standard (step S218). For example, the control unit 116 repeatedly applies the sensing pulse group 34 comprising only the second sensing pulse. Monitoring based on the second determination standard can be maintained for a maximum of 10 seconds. The first information can be notified as LED light emission for a short time, for example, at the same time as monitoring based on the second determination standard is started, for example.

[0153] In the monitoring based on the second determination standard, the control unit 116 determines whether or not the second determination standard has been met (step S220). For example, the control unit 116 determines whether or not the manner of a fall in the resistance of the heating unit 121 satisfies the second determination standard, this manner of fall being obtained by repeatedly applying the sensing pulse group 34 comprising only the second sensing pulse.

[0154] If the second determination standard is judged to have been met (step S220: YES), the control unit 116 controls the notification unit 113 to notify the second information and controls operation of the heating unit 121 to start heating based on the heating profile (step S222). For example, the second information can be notified as vibration for a short time, at the same time as heating based on the heating profile is started.

[0155] The control unit 116 then moves to the standby mode when heating based on the heating profile ends (step S224). The processing ends after this.

[0156] If the first determination standard is judged not to be met (step S208: NO), or if the second determination standard is judged not to be met (step S220: NO), the control unit 116 controls the notification unit 113 to notify the third information, and moves to standby mode (step S226). For example, the third information can be notified as vibration for a long time.

[0157] If the third determination standard is judged not to be met (step S212: NO), the control unit 116 controls the notification unit 113 to notify the fourth information, and moves to the standby mode (step S228). For example, the fourth information can be notified as vibration for a long time, similarly to the third information. The processing ends after this.3. Supplementary information

[0158] A preferred embodiment of the present disclosure was described in detail above with reference to the appended drawings, but the present disclosure is not limited to such examples. It is obvious that a person having ordinary knowledge in the technical field to which the present disclosure belongs will be able to conceive of a number of variant examples or modified examples within the scope of the technical concept disclosed in the claims, and any such variant examples or modified examples are naturally understood to fall within the technical scope of the present disclosure.(1) Variant examples

[0159] For example, the embodiment above described an example in which information is notified at the timing when there has been a change in the progress of the processing to determine the state of the accommodating portion 140, such as the timing when it has been determined whether or not the first to third determination standards have been met, but the present disclosure is not limited to such an example. The control unit 116 may control the notification unit 113 to notify information indicating the state of the inhalation device 100 during a period in which this state is maintained. The state of progress of the processing to determine the state of the accommodating portion 140 is an example of the state of the inhalation device 100. The state of progress of heating based on the heating profile is another example of the state of the inhalation device 100. This configuration makes it possible to further improve usability. Notification of information indicating the state of the inhalation device 100 will be described in specific terms below with reference to fig. 14.

[0160] Fig. 14 is a diagram to illustrate information which is notified in this variant example. In fig. 14, the information notified in this variant example has been added to the flowchart shown in fig. 13.

[0161] A case in which the initial resistance of the heating unit 121 corresponds to less than the predetermined temperature will be described below first of all. The notification unit 113 may notify fifth information during a period in which monitoring based on the first determination standard is being implemented. That is to say, the notification unit 113 may notify the fifth information during a period from after the start of step S206 until the start of step S210, as shown in fig. 14. The fifth information is information indicating a state in which monitoring based on the first determination standard is being implemented.

[0162] Furthermore, the notification unit 113 may notify sixth information during a period in which monitoring based on the third determination standard is being implemented. That is to say, the notification unit 113 may notify the sixth information during a period from after the start of step S210 until the start of step S214, as shown in fig. 14. The sixth information is information indicating a state in which monitoring based on the third determination standard is being implemented. The sixth information may also serve as information indicating a state before the temperature of the heating unit 121 reaches 99.5% of the maximum target temperature.

[0163] Furthermore, the notification unit 113 may notify seventh information during a period in which monitoring of the state of the accommodating portion 140 has ended. That is to say, the notification unit 113 may notify the seventh information during a period from after the start of step S214 until the start of step S216, as shown in fig. 14. The seventh information is information indicating a state in which monitoring of the state of the accommodating portion 140 has ended. The seventh information may also serve as information indicating a state after the temperature of the heating unit 121 has reached 99.5% of the maximum target temperature.

[0164] Here, the fifth information to the seventh information are preferably notified in different forms. As an example, the fifth information may be notified by means of red LED light emission, the sixth information may be notified by means of yellow LED light emission, and the seventh information may be notified by means of blue LED light emission. As another example, the fifth information may be notified by means of light emission from one LED, the sixth information may be notified by means of light emission from two LEDs, and the seventh information may be notified by means of light emission from three LEDs.

[0165] A case in which the initial resistance of the heating unit 121 corresponds to equal to or greater than the predetermined temperature will be described below next. The notification unit 113 may notify eighth information during a period in which monitoring based on the second determination standard is being implemented. That is to say, the notification unit 113 may notify the eighth information during a period from after the start of step S218 until the start of step S222, as shown in fig. 14. The eighth information is information indicating a state in which monitoring based on the second determination standard is being implemented.

[0166] Furthermore, the notification unit 113 may notify ninth information during a period in which monitoring of the state of the accommodating portion 140 has ended. That is to say, the notification unit 113 may notify the ninth information during a period from after the start of step S222, as shown in fig. 14. The ninth information is information indicating a state in which monitoring of the state of the accommodating portion 140 has ended. As shown in fig. 14, the notification unit 113 may further switch the notified information from the ninth information to tenth information at a timing corresponding to the timing when step S214 is implemented. This timing may be determined on the basis of the resistance of the heating unit 121. The tenth information is information indicating a state in which monitoring of the state of the accommodating portion 140 has ended, similarly to the ninth information. Furthermore, the ninth information may also serve as information indicating a state before the temperature of the heating unit 121 reaches 99.5% of the maximum target temperature. Meanwhile, the tenth information may also serve as information indicating a state after the temperature of the heating unit 121 has reached 99.5% of the maximum target temperature.

[0167] Here, the eighth information to the tenth information are preferably notified in different forms. As an example, the eighth information may be notified by means of red LED light emission, the ninth information may be notified by means of yellow LED light emission, and the tenth information may be notified by means of blue LED light emission. As another example, the eighth information may be notified by means of light emission from one LED, the ninth information may be notified by means of light emission from two LEDs, and the tenth information may be notified by means of light emission from three LEDs.

[0168] It may be added that the fifth information and the eighth information are preferably notified in the same form. Similarly, the sixth information and the ninth information are preferably notified in the same form. Furthermore, the seventh information and the tenth information are preferably notified in the same form. This configuration enables the information notified by the notification unit 113 to be transitioned in the same way whether the initial resistance of the heating unit 121 corresponds to less than the predetermined temperature or corresponds to equal to or greater than the predetermined temperature.

[0169] The user can be notified of a greater amount of information by notifying a combination of the fifth to tenth information, in addition to the first to fourth information. As an example, the user can be notified of a failure to detect insertion before the start of heating based on the heating profile by notifying the fifth information and the third information. As another example, the user can be notified of a failure to detect insertion after heating based on the heating profile has progressed to a certain extent, by notifying the sixth information and the fourth information. The user can thus be notified of differences in the progress of heating based on the heating profile, even if the third information and the fourth information are notified in the same form.(2) Other supplementary information

[0170] The embodiment above described an example in which it is determined whether or not the second determination standard is met, based on the rate of reduction in the resistance of the heating unit 121 every 1 second. For example, it may be determined whether or not the second determination standard is met, based on the rate of reduction in the resistance of the heating unit 121 in a period having a set length, such as 10 seconds from when the first processing started.

[0171] In the example described above, the third information and the fourth information are notified in the same form, but the present disclosure is not limited to such an example. The third information and the fourth information may be notified in different forms. Considering that the fourth information is notified after heating based on the heating profile has progressed to a certain extent, the user can be notified that the stick-type substrate 150 has been consumed by notifying the fourth information in a different form from the third information.

[0172] In the example described above, the first information to the tenth information are notified by means of LED light emission or vibration, but the present disclosure is not limited to such an example. For example, the first information to the tenth information may be notified by the communication unit 115 sending information to another device such as a smartphone. In this case, the communication unit 115 should be understood as being included in the notification unit 113.

[0173] It should be noted that the series of processes performed by each device described in the present description may be realized by using software, hardware, or any combination of software and hardware. Programs constituting the software are prestored on a recording medium (more specifically, a non-transitory computer-readable storage medium) provided internally or externally to each device, for example. Then, when the programs are executed, for example, by a computer for controlling each device described in the present description, the programs are read into a RAM and executed by means of a processing circuit such as a CPU. The recording medium is, for example, a magnetic disk, an optical disk, a magneto-optical disk, or a flash memory, etc. Furthermore, the computer programs may be distributed via a network, for example, without the use of a recording medium. Furthermore, the computer may be an application-specific integrated circuit such as ASIC, a general-purpose processor which executes functions by reading software programs, or a computer on a server used for cloud computing, etc. Furthermore, the series of processes performed by each device described in the present description may be processed centrally by a single computer, or may be processed in a distributed manner by multiple computers. In addition, in the embodiments described above, two or more communication means present in a single device may be physically realized by a single medium.

[0174] Furthermore, the processing described using flowcharts or sequence diagrams in the present description need not necessarily be implemented in the order depicted. Some processing steps may be implemented in parallel. Furthermore, additional processing steps may be employed and some processing steps may be omitted.

[0175] The following configurations also fall within the technical scope of the present disclosure. (1) An aerosol-generating system comprising: a notification unit for notifying a user of information; an accommodating portion which has an internal space and an opening allowing the internal space to communicate with the outside, and which is capable of accommodating an aerosol source-containing substrate that has been inserted from the opening; a cover portion for opening / closing the opening of the accommodating portion; a heating unit for heating the substrate accommodated in the accommodating portion; and a control unit for controlling operation of the notification unit and the heating unit, wherein the control unit actuates the heating unit and the notification unit on the basis of an initial parameter which is a parameter corresponding to a temperature of the heating unit, acquisition of the parameter being triggered by the cover portion opening the opening. (2) The aerosol-generating system as disclosed in (1) above, wherein, when the initial parameter corresponds to less than a predetermined temperature, the control unit: monitors whether or not a time-series transition of the parameter meets a first determination standard, and controls the notification unit to notify first information while monitoring whether or not the first determination standard is met, and when the initial parameter corresponds to equal to or greater than the predetermined temperature, monitors whether or not the time-series transition of the parameter meets a second determination standard different from the first determination standard, and controls the notification unit to notify the first information while monitoring whether or not the second determination standard is met. (3) The aerosol-generating system as disclosed in (2) above, wherein when the initial parameter corresponds to less than the predetermined temperature, the control unit monitors whether or not the time-series transition of the parameter meets the first determination standard, the time-series transition of the parameter being obtained by repeatedly applying a sensing pulse group including one first sensing pulse to the heating unit, and when the initial parameter corresponds to equal to or greater than the predetermined temperature, the control unit monitors whether or not the time-series transition of the parameter meets the second determination standard, the time-series transition of the parameter being obtained by repeatedly applying the sensing pulse group, which comprises one or more second sensing pulses of shorter duration than the first sensing pulse, to the heating unit. (4) The aerosol-generating system as disclosed in (3) above, wherein when the initial parameter corresponds to less than the predetermined temperature, the control unit determines whether or not a mode of fluctuation of the parameter meets the first determination standard, the mode of fluctuation corresponding to repeated rises in temperature of the heating unit associated with application of the first sensing pulse and repeated drops in temperature of the heating unit associated with stopping application of the first sensing pulse, and when the initial parameter corresponds to equal to or greater than the predetermined temperature, the control unit determines whether or not a mode of change of the parameter meets the second determination standard, the mode of change corresponding to a drop in temperature of the heating unit. (5) The aerosol-generating system as disclosed in any one of (2) to (4) above, wherein when the initial parameter corresponds to less than the predetermined temperature, if the first determination standard has been met, the control unit notifies the second information and starts heating by the heating unit based on control information including a defined time-series transition of a target value of the parameter, and when the initial parameter corresponds to equal to or greater than the predetermined temperature, if the second determination standard has been met, the control unit notifies the second information and starts heating by the heating unit based on the control information. (6) The aerosol-generating system as disclosed in (5) above, wherein when the initial parameter corresponds to less than the predetermined temperature, if the first determination standard is not met, the control unit notifies third information and moves to a standby mode, and when the initial parameter corresponds to equal to or greater than the predetermined temperature, if the second determination standard is not met, the control unit notifies the third information and moves to the standby mode. (7) The aerosol-generating system as disclosed (6) above, wherein when the initial parameter corresponds to less than the predetermined temperature, the control unit monitors whether or not a third determination standard is met during implementation of heating by the heating unit based on the control information, and if the third determination standard has been met, the control unit maintains heating by the heating unit based on the control information, and if the third determination standard is not met, the control unit notifies fourth information, and moves to the standby mode by stopping heating by the heating unit based on the control information. (8) The aerosol-generating system as disclosed in (7) above, wherein the third determination standard constitutes a rate of change of the parameter corresponding to less than a predetermined threshold, the rate of change being indicated by a relationship between the parameter and time elapsed from heating being started by the heating unit based on the control information. (9) The aerosol-generating system as disclosed (7) or (8) above, wherein the third information and the fourth information are notified in the same form. (10) The aerosol-generating system as disclosed in any one of (7) to (9) above, wherein, in the standby mode, the control unit controls operation of the heating unit to start heating based on the control information when a predetermined user operation has been detected, controls the notification unit to notify the second information, and maintains heating by the heating unit based on the control information regardless of whether or not the third determination standard is met. (11) The aerosol-generating system as disclosed in any one of (6) to (10) above, wherein the control unit cancels the standby mode when the cover portion has closed the opening in the standby mode. (12) The aerosol-generating system as disclosed in any one of (1) to (11) above, wherein the control unit determines a state of the accommodating portion on the basis of the parameter, and controls the notification unit to notify information indicating a state of progress of processing to determine the state of the accommodating portion, during a period in which the state of progress is maintained. (13) The aerosol-generating system as disclosed in any one of (1) to (12) above, further comprising the substrate. (14) A control method implemented by means of a computer for controlling an aerosol-generating system, wherein the aerosol-generating system comprises: a notification unit for notifying a user of information; an accommodating portion which has an internal space and an opening allowing the internal space to communicate with the outside, and which is capable of accommodating an aerosol source-containing substrate that has been inserted from the opening; a cover portion for opening / closing the opening of the accommodating portion; and a heating unit for heating the substrate accommodated in the accommodating portion, and the control method comprises controlling operation of the notification unit and the heating unit, and controlling operation of the notification unit and the heating unit comprises actuating the heating unit and the notification unit on the basis of an initial parameter which is a parameter corresponding to a temperature of the heating unit, acquisition of the parameter being triggered by the cover portion opening the opening. (15) A program executed by means of a computer for controlling an aerosol-generating system, wherein the aerosol-generating system comprises: a notification unit for notifying a user of information; an accommodating portion which has an internal space and an opening allowing the internal space to communicate with the outside, and which is capable of accommodating an aerosol source-containing substrate that has been inserted from the opening; a cover portion for opening / closing the opening of the accommodating portion; and a heating unit for heating the substrate accommodated in the accommodating portion, and the program causes the computer to function as a control unit for controlling operation of the notification unit and the heating unit, and the control unit actuates the heating unit and the notification unit on the basis of an initial parameter which is a parameter corresponding to a temperature of the heating unit, acquisition of the parameter being triggered by the cover portion opening the opening. REFERENCE SIGNS LIST

[0176] 100 Inhalation device 111 Power source unit 112 Sensor unit 113 Notification unit 114 Memory unit 115 Communication unit 116 Control unit 121 Heating unit 140 Accommodating portion 142 Opening 143 Bottom portion 144 Heat insulating portion 150 Stick-type substrate 151 Substrate portion 152 Mouthpiece portion 11 Outer housing 12 Cover 13 Switch 14 Cover portion 15 Ventilation port 16 Cap 31 First sensing pulse 33 Third sensing pulse 34 Sensing pulse group 41 Measurement pulse 42 Heating pulse 44 Heating pulse group

Claims

1. An aerosol-generating system comprising: a notification unit for notifying a user of information; an accommodating portion which has an internal space and an opening allowing the internal space to communicate with the outside, and which is capable of accommodating an aerosol source-containing substrate that has been inserted from the opening; a cover portion for opening / closing the opening of the accommodating portion; a heating unit for heating the substrate accommodated in the accommodating portion; and a control unit for controlling operation of the notification unit and the heating unit, wherein the control unit actuates the heating unit and the notification unit on the basis of an initial parameter which is a parameter corresponding to a temperature of the heating unit, acquisition of the parameter being triggered by the cover portion opening the opening.

2. The aerosol-generating system as claimed in claim 1, wherein, when the initial parameter corresponds to less than a predetermined temperature, the control unit: monitors whether or not a time-series transition of the parameter meets a first determination standard, and controls the notification unit to notify first information while monitoring whether or not the first determination standard is met, and when the initial parameter corresponds to equal to or greater than the predetermined temperature, monitors whether or not the time-series transition of the parameter meets a second determination standard different from the first determination standard, and controls the notification unit to notify the first information while monitoring whether or not the second determination standard is met.

3. The aerosol-generating system as claimed in claim 2, wherein when the initial parameter corresponds to less than the predetermined temperature, the control unit monitors whether or not the time-series transition of the parameter meets the first determination standard, the time-series transition of the parameter being obtained by repeatedly applying a sensing pulse group including one first sensing pulse to the heating unit, and when the initial parameter corresponds to equal to or greater than the predetermined temperature, the control unit monitors whether or not the time-series transition of the parameter meets the second determination standard, the time-series transition of the parameter being obtained by repeatedly applying the sensing pulse group, which comprises one or more second sensing pulses of shorter duration than the first sensing pulse, to the heating unit.

4. The aerosol-generating system as claimed in claim 3, wherein when the initial parameter corresponds to less than the predetermined temperature, the control unit determines whether or not a mode of fluctuation of the parameter meets the first determination standard, the mode of fluctuation corresponding to repeated rises in temperature of the heating unit associated with application of the first sensing pulse and repeated drops in temperature of the heating unit associated with stopping application of the first sensing pulse, and when the initial parameter corresponds to equal to or greater than the predetermined temperature, the control unit determines whether or not a mode of change of the parameter meets the second determination standard, the mode of change corresponding to a drop in temperature of the heating unit.

5. The aerosol-generating system as claimed in any one of claims 2 to 4, wherein when the initial parameter corresponds to less than the predetermined temperature, if the first determination standard has been met, the control unit notifies the second information and starts heating by the heating unit based on control information including a defined time-series transition of a target value of the parameter, and when the initial parameter corresponds to equal to or greater than the predetermined temperature, if the second determination standard has been met, the control unit notifies the second information and starts heating by the heating unit based on the control information.

6. The aerosol-generating system as claimed in claim 5, wherein when the initial parameter corresponds to less than the predetermined temperature, if the first determination standard is not met, the control unit notifies third information and moves to a standby mode, and when the initial parameter corresponds to equal to or greater than the predetermined temperature, if the second determination standard is not met, the control unit notifies the third information and moves to the standby mode.

7. The aerosol-generating system as claimed in claim 6, wherein when the initial parameter corresponds to less than the predetermined temperature, the control unit monitors whether or not a third determination standard is met during implementation of heating by the heating unit based on the control information, and if the third determination standard has been met, the control unit maintains heating by the heating unit based on the control information, and if the third determination standard is not met, the control unit notifies fourth information, and moves to the standby mode by stopping heating by the heating unit based on the control information.

8. The aerosol-generating system as claimed in claim 7, wherein the third determination standard constitutes a rate of change of the parameter corresponding to less than a predetermined threshold, the rate of change being indicated by a relationship between the parameter and time elapsed from heating being started by the heating unit based on the control information.

9. The aerosol-generating system as claimed in claim 7 or 8, wherein the third information and the fourth information are notified in the same form.

10. The aerosol-generating system as claimed in any one of claims 7 to 9, wherein, in the standby mode, the control unit controls operation of the heating unit to start heating based on the control information when a predetermined user operation has been detected, controls the notification unit to notify the second information, and maintains heating by the heating unit based on the control information regardless of whether or not the third determination standard is met.

11. The aerosol-generating system as claimed in any one of claims 6 to 10, wherein the control unit cancels the standby mode when the cover portion has closed the opening in the standby mode.

12. The aerosol-generating system as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 11, wherein the control unit determines a state of the accommodating portion on the basis of the parameter, and controls the notification unit to notify information indicating a state of progress of processing to determine the state of the accommodating portion, during a period in which the state of progress is maintained.

13. The aerosol-generating system as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 12, further comprising the substrate.

14. A control method implemented by means of a computer for controlling an aerosol-generating system, wherein the aerosol-generating system comprises: a notification unit for notifying a user of information; an accommodating portion which has an internal space and an opening allowing the internal space to communicate with the outside, and which is capable of accommodating an aerosol source-containing substrate that has been inserted from the opening; a cover portion for opening / closing the opening of the accommodating portion; and a heating unit for heating the substrate accommodated in the accommodating portion, and the control method comprises controlling operation of the notification unit and the heating unit, and controlling operation of the notification unit and the heating unit comprises actuating the heating unit and the notification unit on the basis of an initial parameter which is a parameter corresponding to a temperature of the heating unit, acquisition of the parameter being triggered by the cover portion opening the opening.

15. A program executed by means of a computer for controlling an aerosol-generating system, wherein the aerosol-generating system comprises: a notification unit for notifying a user of information; an accommodating portion which has an internal space and an opening allowing the internal space to communicate with the outside, and which is capable of accommodating an aerosol source-containing substrate that has been inserted from the opening; a cover portion for opening / closing the opening of the accommodating portion; and a heating unit for heating the substrate accommodated in the accommodating portion, and the program causes the computer to function as a control unit for controlling operation of the notification unit and the heating unit, and the control unit actuates the heating unit and the notification unit on the basis of an initial parameter which is a parameter corresponding to a temperature of the heating unit, acquisition of the parameter being triggered by the cover portion opening the opening.

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