Aerosol generator

Abstract

To provide adequate protection to a power supply unit of an aerosol generator equipped with a plurality of loads.SOLUTION: A power supply unit 10 of an aerosol sucker 1 includes: a power supply 12; a positive electrode side terminal 47a which is a connector to be connected to a vibrator 47 to operate with power supplied from the power supply 12; a positive electrode side discharge terminal 41a to be connected to a load 21 that heats an aerosol source with the power supplied from the power supply 12; a Zener diode D to be connected between the positive electrode side terminal 47a and the power supply 12; and a varistor VR4 to be connected between the positive electrode side discharge terminal 41a and the power supply 12.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 4

Description

[Technical field]

[0001] The present invention relates to a power supply unit for an aerosol generating device. [Background technology]

[0002] Patent Document 1 discloses a power supply unit having a Zener diode connected in parallel to a control device between a connector electrically connectable to an external power source and the control device in order to protect the control device of the power supply unit of an aerosol inhaler. Patent Documents 2 and 3 disclose power supply units having a Zener diode connected in parallel to a charger between a connector and a charger in order to stabilize the voltage input to the charger. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0003] [Patent Document 1] Patent No. 6633788 [Patent Document 2] China Utility Model No. 206865186 [Patent Document 3] China Patent Application Publication No. 104348214 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0004] In recent years, aerosol generating devices have become more and more sophisticated, and accordingly, the loads provided to the power supply units of the aerosol generating devices tend to increase. Here, the load is an electronic component that functions (i.e., operates) when power is supplied. Unintended overvoltages, etc., may be applied to such loads due to some factor such as static electricity and / or may occur. Therefore, it is necessary to protect the power supply unit from overvoltages that may be applied to and / or occur at the loads by providing a specific protective element for such loads. In the prior art, there was room for improvement in terms of appropriately protecting the power supply unit of an aerosol generating device equipped with multiple loads.

[0005] The present invention provides a power supply unit for an aerosol generating device that can adequately protect the power supply unit of an aerosol generating device equipped with multiple loads. [Means for solving the problem]

[0006] The present invention relates to a power source capable of supplying power to a heater that heats the aerosol source; a case that houses the power supply; a first electronic component connected to the power supply, receiving power from the power supply, at least a portion of which is exposed from the case, and having an overvoltage protection element connected in parallel between the first electronic component and the power supply; a capacitor connected in parallel between the first electronic component and the power source and separate from the overvoltage protection element; a second electronic component connected to the power source, receiving power from the power source, not exposed from the case, and not connected to an overvoltage protection element between the second electronic component and the power source; The aerosol generating device comprises: Effect of the Invention

[0007] According to the present invention, it is possible to appropriately protect a power supply unit of an aerosol generating device having a plurality of loads. [Brief description of the drawings]

[0008] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of an aerosol inhalator according to one embodiment of the present invention. [Diagram 2] FIG. 2 is an exploded perspective view of the aerosol inhalator of FIG. 1. [Diagram 3] FIG. 2 is a cross-sectional view of the aerosol inhalator of FIG. 1. [Figure 4] FIG. 2 is a diagram showing the circuit configuration of a power supply unit in the aerosol inhalator of FIG. [Diagram 5] 2 is a block diagram showing the configuration of an MCU of a power supply unit in the aerosol inhalator of FIG. 1. [Figure 6] 2 is a diagram showing protective elements according to the characteristics of each load provided in the aerosol inhalator of FIG. 1. FIG. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0009] The power supply unit of the aerosol generation device according to one embodiment of the present invention will be described below. First, an aerosol inhaler, which is one example of the aerosol generation device including the power supply unit of this embodiment, will be described with reference to Figs. 1 to 3.

[0010] (Aerosol inhaler) The aerosol inhalator 1 is a device for generating an aerosol to which flavor has been added without combustion and inhaling the generated aerosol, and is preferably a size that fits in the hand and has a substantially rectangular parallelepiped shape. The aerosol inhalator 1 may be oval or elliptical. In the following description, the three orthogonal directions of the substantially rectangular parallelepiped aerosol inhalator are referred to as the up-down direction, the front-rear direction, and the left-right direction in the order of length. In the following description, for convenience, the front, rear, left, right, upper, and lower directions are defined as shown in Figs. 1 to 3, and the front is indicated as Fr, the rear as Rr, the left as L, the right as R, the upper as U, and the lower as D.

[0011] 1 to 3, the aerosol inhaler 1 includes a power supply unit 10, a first cartridge 20, and a second cartridge 30. The first cartridge 20 and the second cartridge 30 are detachable from the power supply unit 10. In other words, the first cartridge 20 and the second cartridge 30 are each replaceable.

[0012] (Power supply unit) 1 and 2, the power supply unit 10 accommodates a power supply 12, an internal holder 13, a circuit board 60, various sensors such as an intake sensor 15, and the like, inside a substantially rectangular parallelepiped power supply unit case 11 (hereinafter also referred to as the case interior). By accommodating the power supply 12, the circuit board 60 (including an MCU 50, a discharge terminal 41, a charge terminal 43, and the like, which will be described later), and the like, together in the power supply unit case 11, it becomes easier for the user to carry it around, and user convenience can be improved.

[0013] The power supply unit case 11 is composed of a first case 11A and a second case 11B which are detachable in the left-right direction (thickness direction), and the first case 11A and the second case 11B are assembled in the left-right direction (thickness direction) to form the front, rear, left, right and bottom surfaces of the power supply unit 10. The top surface of the power supply unit 10 is formed by the display 16.

[0014] A mouthpiece 17 is provided on the upper surface of the power supply unit 10 in front of the display 16. The mouthpiece 17 has a mouthpiece 17a that protrudes above the display 16.

[0015] Between the top and rear surfaces of the power supply unit 10, there is provided an inclined surface that slopes downward toward the rear. An operation unit 18 that can be operated by the user is provided on the inclined surface. The operation unit 18 is composed of a button-type switch, a touch panel, etc., and is used to start / shut off the MCU 50 and various sensors in accordance with the user's intention to use the device.

[0016] A charging terminal 43 is provided on the underside of the power supply unit 10 and can be electrically connected to an external power supply (not shown) capable of charging the power supply 12. The charging terminal 43 is, for example, a receptacle into which a mating plug (not shown) can be inserted. As the charging terminal 43, a receptacle into which various USB terminals (plugs) can be inserted can be used. As an example, in this embodiment, the charging terminal 43 is a USB Type-C shaped receptacle. This makes it easy to charge the power supply unit 10 (i.e., the aerosol inhaler 1) at various locations (places), and ensures (secures) opportunities to charge the power supply unit 10.

[0017] Furthermore, the charging terminal 43 may be configured to include, for example, a power receiving coil and to be capable of contactlessly receiving power transmitted from an external power source. In this case, the method of power transmission (Wireless Power Transfer) may be an electromagnetic induction type, a magnetic resonance type, or a combination of the electromagnetic induction type and the magnetic resonance type. As another example, the charging terminal 43 may be connectable to various USB terminals or the like, and may include the above-mentioned power receiving coil.

[0018] The internal holder 13 comprises a rear wall 13r extending along the rear surface of the power supply unit 10, a central wall 13c located in the front-to-rear central portion of the case interior and extending parallel to the rear wall 13r, an upper wall 13u extending along the display 16 and connecting the rear wall 13r and the central wall 13c, a partition wall 13d perpendicular to the rear wall 13r, the central wall 13c, and the upper wall 13u and dividing the space formed by the rear wall 13r, the central wall 13c, and the upper wall 13u into a left space and a right space, and a cartridge holding portion 13a connected to the central wall 13c and located in front of the central wall 13c and above the underside of the power supply unit 10.

[0019] The power source 12 is disposed in the left space of the internal holder 13. The power source 12 is a rechargeable secondary battery, an electric double layer capacitor, or the like, and is preferably a lithium ion secondary battery. The electrolyte of the power source 12 may be one of a gel electrolyte, an electrolytic solution, a solid electrolyte, and an ionic liquid, or a combination of these.

[0020] An L-shaped circuit board 60 is disposed in a space formed by the right space of the internal holder 13 and a lower space formed between the cartridge holding portion 13a and the lower surface of the power supply unit 10. The circuit board 60 is configured by stacking multiple layers (four layers in this embodiment) of boards, and is equipped with electronic components (elements) such as an MCU (Micro Controller Unit) 50 and a charging IC 55, which will be described later.

[0021] Details will be described later with reference to FIG. 5 and the like, but the MCU 50 is a control device (controller) that is connected to various sensor devices such as an inhalation sensor 15 that detects a puff (inhalation) operation, an operation unit 18, a notification unit 45, and a memory 19 that stores the number of puff operations or the time of current application to the load 21, and performs various controls of the aerosol inhaler 1. Specifically, the MCU 50 is mainly composed of a processor, and further includes a storage medium such as a RAM (Random Access Memory) required for the operation of the processor and a ROM (Read Only Memory) that stores various information. The processor in this specification is, for example, an electric circuit that combines circuit elements such as semiconductor elements. Note that some of the elements connected to the MCU 50 in FIG. 5 (for example, the inhalation sensor 15 and the memory 19) may be provided inside the MCU 50 as a function of the MCU 50 itself.

[0022] The charging IC 55 is an integrated circuit (IC) that controls charging of the power source 12 using power input from the charging terminal 43 and supplies the power of the power source 12 to electronic components on the circuit board 60 and the like.

[0023] A cylindrical cartridge holder 14 that holds a first cartridge 20 is disposed in the cartridge holding portion 13a.

[0024] A through hole 13b is provided at the lower end of the cartridge holding portion 13a to receive a discharge terminal 41 (see FIG. 3) that is provided so as to protrude from the circuit board 60 toward the first cartridge 20. The discharge terminal 41 is a connector that electrically connects the load 21 provided in the first cartridge 20. The discharge terminal 41 is a connector that removably (or easily removably) connects the load 21, and is configured, for example, by a pin with a built-in spring. The discharge terminal 41 is an example of a second connector in the present invention.

[0025] The through hole 13b is larger than the discharge terminal 41 and is configured so that air flows into the inside of the first cartridge 20 through a gap formed between the through hole 13b and the discharge terminal 41.

[0026] An inhalation sensor 15 for detecting a puffing operation is provided on the outer peripheral surface 14a of the cartridge holder 14 at a position facing the circuit board 60. The inhalation sensor 15 may be composed of a condenser microphone, a pressure sensor, or the like. The cartridge holder 14 is also provided with a vertically long hole 14b through which the remaining amount of the aerosol source 22 stored inside the first cartridge 20 can be visually confirmed, and is configured so that the user can visually confirm the remaining amount of the aerosol source 22 stored inside the first cartridge 20 through the hole 14b of the first cartridge 20 from a translucent remaining amount confirmation window 11w provided in the power supply unit case 11.

[0027] 3, the mouthpiece 17 is removably fixed to the upper end of the cartridge holder 14. The second cartridge 30 is removably fixed to the mouthpiece 17. The mouthpiece 17 includes a cartridge accommodating portion 17b that accommodates a portion of the second cartridge 30, and a communication passage 17c that communicates between the first cartridge 20 and the cartridge accommodating portion 17b.

[0028] An air intake 11i for taking in outside air is provided in the power supply unit case 11. The air intake 11i is provided, for example, in the remaining amount check window 11w.

[0029] (1st cartridge) As shown in Figure 3, the first cartridge 20 is provided with a reservoir 23 for storing an aerosol source 22, an electrical load 21 for atomizing the aerosol source 22, a wick 24 for drawing the aerosol source from the reservoir 23 to the load 21, and an aerosol flow path 25 through which the aerosol generated by atomizing the aerosol source 22 flows toward the second cartridge 30, inside a cylindrical cartridge case 27.

[0030] Reservoir 23 is partitioned and formed so as to surround the periphery of aerosol flow path 25, and stores aerosol source 22. Reservoir 23 may contain a porous body such as a resin web or cotton, and the porous body may be impregnated with aerosol source 22. Reservoir 23 may not contain a porous body on the resin web or cotton, and may store only aerosol source 22. Aerosol source 22 contains a liquid such as glycerin, propylene glycol, or water.

[0031] The wick 24 is a liquid retention member that draws the aerosol source 22 from the reservoir 23 into the load 21 by using capillary action. The wick 24 is made of, for example, glass fiber or porous ceramic.

[0032] The load 21 is a heating element (i.e., a heater) that heats the aerosol source 22 without combustion by power supplied from the power source 12 via the discharge terminal 41, and is configured, for example, by an electric heating wire (coil) wound at a predetermined pitch. The load 21 atomizes the aerosol source 22 by heating the aerosol source 22. The load 21 may be a heating resistor, a ceramic heater, an induction heating heater, or the like. The load 21 is an example of the heater and second load in the present invention.

[0033] The aerosol flow path 25 is provided downstream of the load 21 and on the center line of the first cartridge 20 .

[0034] (2nd cartridge) The second cartridge 30 stores a flavor source 31. The second cartridge 30 is removably housed in a cartridge housing portion 17b provided in the mouthpiece 17.

[0035] The second cartridge 30 imparts flavor to the aerosol by passing the aerosol generated by atomizing the aerosol source 22 by the load 21 through the flavor source 31. The raw material pieces constituting the flavor source 31 may be cut tobacco or a molded product obtained by molding a tobacco raw material into a granular shape. The flavor source 31 may be made of a plant other than tobacco (e.g., mint, Chinese medicine, herbs, etc.). The flavor source 31 may be imparted with a flavoring such as menthol.

[0036] The aerosol inhaler 1 can generate (i.e., generate) aerosol to which flavor has been added by the aerosol source 22, the flavor source 31, and the load 21. In other words, the aerosol source 22 and the flavor source 31 constitute an aerosol generation source that generates aerosol to which flavor has been added.

[0037] The configuration of the aerosol generation source used in the aerosol inhaler 1 may be a configuration in which the aerosol source 22 and the flavor source 31 are separate entities, a configuration in which the aerosol source 22 and the flavor source 31 are formed integrally, a configuration in which the flavor source 31 is omitted and a substance that can be contained in the flavor source 31 is added to the aerosol source 22, a configuration in which a drug or the like is added to the aerosol source 22 instead of the flavor source 31, etc.

[0038] In the aerosol inhaler 1 configured in this manner, as shown by the arrow A in FIG. 3, air flowing in from the air intake 11i provided in the power supply unit case 11 passes near the load 21 of the first cartridge 20 through a gap formed between the through hole 13b and the discharge terminal 41. The load 21 atomizes the aerosol source 22 drawn in from the reservoir 23 by the wick 24. The atomized aerosol flows through the aerosol flow path 25 together with the air flowing in from the intake, and is supplied to the second cartridge 30 via the communication passage 17c. The aerosol supplied to the second cartridge 30 is flavored by passing through the flavor source 31, and is supplied to the mouthpiece 32.

[0039] The aerosol inhaler 1 is also provided with a notification unit 45 that notifies various pieces of information (see FIG. 5). The notification unit 45 may be composed of a light-emitting element, a vibration element, or a sound output element. The notification unit 45 may also be a combination of two or more elements selected from the light-emitting element, the vibration element, and the sound output element. The notification unit 45 may be provided in any of the power supply unit 10, the first cartridge 20, and the second cartridge 30, but is preferably provided in the power supply unit 10, which is not a consumable item.

[0040] In this embodiment, an OLED (Organic Light Emitting Diode) panel 46 and a vibrator 47 are provided as the notification unit 45. When the OLED of the OLED panel 46 emits light, various information related to the aerosol inhalator 1 is notified to the user via the display 16. Furthermore, when the vibrator 47 vibrates, various information related to the aerosol inhalator 1 is notified to the user via the power supply unit case 11. The notification unit 45 may be provided with only one of the OLED panel 46 and the vibrator 47, or may be provided with other light-emitting elements, etc. Furthermore, the information notified by the OLED panel 46 and the information notified by the vibrator 47 may be different or the same.

[0041] (Electrical Circuit) Next, the electric circuit of the power supply unit 10 will be described with reference to FIG. As shown in FIG. 4, the power supply unit 10 includes, as its main components, a power supply 12, a charging terminal 43, an MCU 50, a charging IC 55, a protection IC 61, an LDO regulator (shown as "LDO" in FIG. 4) 62, a first DC / DC converter (shown as "first DC / DC" in FIG. 4) 63, a second DC / DC converter (shown as "second DC / DC" in FIG. 4) 64, a display driver 65, an intake sensor 15, an OLED panel 46, and a vibrator 47.

[0042] As described above, charging terminal 43 is a receptacle into which a mating plug can be inserted, and includes a plurality of pins (terminals) that are electrically connected to the pins of the inserted plug. Specifically, charging terminal 43 includes an A1 pin (shown as "A1" in FIG. 4), an A4 pin (shown as "A4" in FIG. 4), an A5 pin (shown as "A5" in FIG. 4), an A6 pin (shown as "A6" in FIG. 4), an A7 pin (shown as "A7" in FIG. 4), an A8 pin (shown as "A8" in FIG. 4), an A9 pin (shown as "A9" in FIG. 4), an A12 pin (shown as "A12" in FIG. 4), and an A13 pin (shown as "A13" in FIG. 4). 4), B1 pin (indicated as "B1" in FIG. 4), B4 pin (indicated as "B4" in FIG. 4), B5 pin (indicated as "B5" in FIG. 4), B6 ​​pin (indicated as "B6" in FIG. 4), B7 pin (indicated as "B7" in FIG. 4), B8 pin (indicated as "B8" in FIG. 4), B9 pin (indicated as "B9" in FIG. 4), and B12 pin (indicated as "B12" in FIG. 4).

[0043] The A1 pin, A4 pin, A5 pin, A6 pin, A7 pin, A8 pin, A9 pin, and A12 pin, and the B1 pin, B4 pin, B5 pin, B6 pin, B7 pin, B8 pin, B9 pin, and B12 pin are arranged so as to be symmetrical with respect to the center of the fitting surface with the plug in charging terminal 43. This makes it possible to insert the plug into charging terminal 43 regardless of the up or down orientation of the plug, improving user convenience.

[0044] It should be noted that this embodiment describes only the main pins of the pins of the charging terminal 43. Also, in this embodiment, the charging terminal 43 is provided with pins A8 and B8, but as described below, these pins are not used and can be omitted.

[0045] The protection IC 61 is an IC having a function of converting the voltage input via the charging terminal 43 to a predetermined voltage as necessary and outputting the converted voltage. Specifically, the protection IC 61 converts the input voltage to a voltage included in the range from the minimum to maximum recommended input voltage of the charging IC 55. As a result, even if a high voltage exceeding the maximum recommended input voltage of the charging IC 55 is input via the charging terminal 43, the protection IC 61 can protect the charging IC 55 from this high voltage.

[0046] As an example, in this embodiment, the recommended input voltage of the charging IC 55 is 4.35 [V] at minimum and 6.4 [V] at maximum. Therefore, the protection IC 61 converts the input voltage to 5.5±0.2 [V] and outputs the converted voltage to the charging IC 55. This allows the protection IC 61 to supply an appropriate voltage to the charging IC 55. When the above-mentioned high voltage is input via the charging terminal 43, the protection IC 61 may protect the charging IC 55 by opening a circuit connecting the input terminal (indicated by IN in FIG. 4) and the output terminal (indicated by OUT in FIG. 4) of the protection IC 61. In addition, the protection IC 61 may also have various other protection functions (for example, an overcurrent detection function and an overvoltage detection function) for protecting the electric circuit of the power supply unit 10.

[0047] It is preferable that the protection IC 61 is connected between the charging terminal 43 and the charging IC 55, that is, that it is electrically provided between the charging terminal 43 and the charging IC 55. By connecting the protection IC 61 between the charging terminal 43 and the charging IC 55, it becomes possible to discharge the power source 12 via the charging IC 55 without passing through the protection IC 61, and the power loss caused by passing through the protection IC 61 can be reduced.

[0048] The protection IC 61 has a number of pins (terminals) for electrically connecting the inside and outside of the protection IC 61. Specifically, the protection IC 61 has an IN pin (indicated as "IN" in FIG. 4), a VSS pin (indicated as "VSS" in FIG. 4), a GND pin (indicated as "GND" in FIG. 4), an OUT pin (indicated as "OUT" in FIG. 4), a VBAT pin (indicated as "VBAT" in FIG. 4), and a CE pin (indicated as "CE" in FIG. 4).

[0049] In the protection IC 61, the IN pin is a pin to which power supplied from the charging terminal 43 is input. The VSS pin is a pin to which power for operating the protection IC 61 is input. The GND pin is a ground pin. The OUT pin is a pin to output power to the charging IC 55. The VBAT pin is a pin for the protection IC 61 to detect the state of the power source 12. The CE pin is a pin for switching the protection function of the protection IC 61 on / off. The connection relationship of these pins will be described later. Note that in this embodiment, only the main pins of the protection IC 61 are described.

[0050] The charging IC 55 is an IC having a function of controlling charging of the power source 12 and a function of supplying the power of the power source 12 to the LDO regulator 62, the first DC / DC converter 63, the second DC / DC converter 64, etc. For example, when supplying power from the power source 12, the charging IC 55 outputs a standard system voltage according to the output of the power source 12 at that time to the LDO regulator 62, the first DC / DC converter 63, the second DC / DC converter 64, etc. Here, the standard system voltage is a voltage higher than a low-voltage system voltage described later and lower than a first high-voltage system voltage and a second high-voltage system voltage. The standard system voltage is, for example, the output voltage of the power source 12 itself, and can be a voltage of about 3 to 4 [V].

[0051] The charging IC 55 also has a power-path function that supplies the power input via the charging terminal 43 to the LDO regulator 62, the first DC / DC converter 63, the second DC / DC converter 64, and the like.

[0052] By using this power path function, even when the power source 12 is being charged, it is possible to supply power input via the charging terminal 43 to the systems of the power source unit 10, such as the LDO regulator 62, the first DC / DC converter 63, and the second DC / DC converter 64. Therefore, when these systems of the power source unit 10 are used when the power source 12 is being charged, it is possible to use these systems of the power source unit 10 while reducing the burden on the power source 12 (i.e., suppressing deterioration of the power source 12). In addition, it is possible to improve the charging speed of the power source 12 and shorten the charging time. Furthermore, by using this power path function, even if the power source 12 has reached over-discharge, it is possible to restore the system of the power source unit 10 by using the power input via the charging terminal 43.

[0053] The charging IC 55 has a plurality of pins (terminals) for electrically connecting the inside and outside of the charging IC 55. Specifically, the charging IC 55 has an IN pin (indicated as "IN" in FIG. 4), a BAT_1 pin (indicated as "BAT_1" in FIG. 4), a BAT_2 pin (indicated as "BAT_2" in FIG. 4), an ISET pin (indicated as "ISET" in FIG. 4), a TS pin (indicated as "TS" in FIG. 4), an OUT_1 pin (indicated as "OUT_1" in FIG. 4), an OUT_2 pin (indicated as "OUT_2" in FIG. 4), an ILIM pin (indicated as "ILIM" in FIG. 4), and a CHG pin (indicated as "CHG" in FIG. 4).

[0054] Note that in this embodiment, only the main pins of the charging IC 55 are described. In addition, in this embodiment, the charging IC 55 is provided with a BAT_1 pin and a BAT_2 pin, but these may be combined into one pin. Similarly, in this embodiment, the charging IC 55 is provided with an OUT_1 pin and an OUT_2 pin, but these may be combined into one pin.

[0055] The LDO regulator 62 is an IC having a function of generating a low-voltage system voltage from an input standard system voltage and outputting the generated low-voltage system voltage. Here, the low-voltage system voltage is a voltage lower than the standard system voltage as described above, and is, for example, a voltage suitable for operating the MCU 50, the intake sensor 15, etc. An example of the low-voltage system voltage is 2.5 [V].

[0056] The LDO regulator 62 includes a plurality of pins (terminals) for electrically connecting the inside and outside of the LDO regulator 62. Specifically, the LDO regulator 62 includes an IN pin (indicated by "IN" in FIG. 4), a GND pin (indicated by "GND" in FIG. 4), an OUT pin (indicated by "OUT" in FIG. 4), and an EN pin (indicated by "EN" in FIG. 4). Note that in this embodiment, only the main pins of the pins included in the LDO regulator 62 are described.

[0057] The MCU 50 operates using the input low-voltage system voltage as a power source, and performs various controls of the aerosol inhalator 1. For example, the MCU 50 can control the heating of the load 21 by controlling the on / off of a switch SW4 (described later) provided in the electric circuit of the power supply unit 10 and the operation of a first DC / DC converter 63. The MCU 50 can also control the display of the display 16 by controlling the operation of a display driver 65. Furthermore, the MCU 50 can control the vibration of the vibrator 47 by controlling the on / off of a switch SW3 (described later) provided in the electric circuit of the power supply unit 10.

[0058] The MCU 50 has a plurality of pins (terminals) for electrically connecting the inside and outside of the MCU 50. Specifically, the MCU 50 has a VDD pin (indicated as "VDD" in FIG. 4), a VDD_USB pin (indicated as "VDD_USB" in FIG. 4), a VSS pin (indicated as "VSS" in FIG. 4), a PC1 pin (indicated as "PC1" in FIG. 4), a PA8 pin (indicated as "PA8" in FIG. 4), a PB3 pin (indicated as "PB3" in FIG. 4), a PB15 pin (indicated as "PB15" in FIG. 4), a PB4 pin (indicated as "PB4" in FIG. 4), a PB5 pin (indicated as "PB5" in FIG. 4), a PB6 pin (indicated as "PB7" in FIG. 4), a PB7 pin (indicated as "PB8" in FIG. 4), a PB8 pin (indicated as "PB8" in FIG. 4), a PB9 pin (indicated as "PB9" in FIG. 4), a PB10 pin (indicated as "PB10" in FIG. 4), a PB11 pin (indicated as "PB11" in FIG. 4), a PB12 pin (indicated as "PB12" in FIG. 4), a PB13 pin (indicated as "PB13" in FIG. 4), a PB14 pin (indicated as "PB14" in FIG. 4), a PB15 pin (indicated as "PB15" in FIG. 4), a PB2 pin (indicated as "PB25" in FIG. 4), a PB3 pin (indicated as "PB3" in FIG. 4), a PB4 pin (indicated as "PB3" in FIG. 4), a PB5 pin (indicated as "PB3" in FIG. 4 4), PC6 pin (indicated as "PC6" in FIG. 4), PA0 pin (indicated as "PA0" in FIG. 4), PC5 pin (indicated as "PC5" in FIG. 4), PA11 pin (indicated as "PA11" in FIG. 4), PA12 pin (indicated as "PA12" in FIG. 4), PC12 pin (indicated as "PC12" in FIG. 4), PB8 pin (indicated as "PB8" in FIG. 4), and PB9 pin (indicated as "PB9" in FIG. 4).

[0059] It should be noted that this embodiment describes only the main pins of the MCU 50. Also, in this embodiment, the MCU 50 is provided with a VDD pin and a VDD_USB pin, but these may be combined into one pin.

[0060] As described above, the inhalation sensor 15 is a sensor device that detects the puffing action, and is configured to output a signal indicating the value of the change in pressure (internal pressure) within the power supply unit 10 caused by the user inhaling through the suction port 32 as will be described later, as a detection result.

[0061] The intake sensor 15 has a plurality of pins (terminals) for electrically connecting the inside and outside of the intake sensor 15. Specifically, the intake sensor 15 has a VCC pin (indicated by "VCC" in FIG. 4), a GND pin (indicated by "GND" in FIG. 4), and an OUT pin (indicated by "OUT" in FIG. 4). Note that in this embodiment, only the main pins of the intake sensor 15 are described.

[0062] The vibrator 47 is provided in a state of being connected to a positive terminal 47a provided on a power supply line 60E to be described later and a negative terminal 47b provided on a ground line 60N, and includes a motor (not shown) that rotates a rotating shaft in response to a voltage input via the positive terminal 47a and the negative terminal 47b, and an eccentric weight (not shown) attached to the rotating shaft of the motor. When a voltage (e.g., a low-voltage system voltage) is input via the positive terminal 47a and the negative terminal 47b, the motor and the eccentric weight rotate and generate vibrations. The vibrator 47 is an example of a first load in the present invention.

[0063] In this specification, the term "positive electrode side" means a side with a higher potential than the "negative electrode side". In other words, in the following description, the term "positive electrode side" may be read as "high potential side". In addition, in this specification, the term "negative electrode side" means a side with a lower potential than the "positive electrode side". In other words, in the following description, the term "negative electrode side" may be read as "low potential side".

[0064] The vibrator 47 is provided in a state where it is mounted on the power supply unit 10, and the positive terminal 47a and the negative terminal 47b are connected to the terminals of the vibrator 47 by, for example, soldering. That is, the positive terminal 47a and the negative terminal 47b are connectors that connect the vibrator 47 in an unremovable (or difficult to remove) manner. The positive terminal 47a and the negative terminal 47b are an example of the first connector in the present invention. The term "unremovable (or difficult to remove)" refers to a mode in which removal is not possible within the scope of the intended use of the power supply unit 10.

[0065] The first DC / DC converter 63 is an IC having a function of generating a first high-voltage system voltage from an inputted standard system voltage and outputting the generated first high-voltage system voltage. Here, the first high-voltage system voltage is a voltage higher than the standard system voltage as described above. That is, the first DC / DC converter 63 boosts the inputted standard system voltage to the first high-voltage system voltage and outputs it. The first high-voltage system voltage is, for example, a voltage suitable for heating the load 21, and is, for example, 4.2 [V].

[0066] The first DC / DC converter 63 has a plurality of pins (terminals) for electrically connecting the inside and outside of the first DC / DC converter 63. Specifically, the first DC / DC converter 63 has a VIN pin (shown as "VIN" in FIG. 4), a SW pin (shown as "SW" in FIG. 4), a GND pin (shown as "GND" in FIG. 4), a VOUT pin (shown as "VOUT" in FIG. 4), a MODE pin (shown as "MODE" in FIG. 4), and an EN pin (shown as "EN" in FIG. 4). Note that in this embodiment, only the main pins of the pins of the first DC / DC converter 63 are described.

[0067] The second DC / DC converter 64 is an IC having a function of generating a second high-voltage system voltage from an input standard system voltage and outputting the generated second high-voltage system voltage. Here, the second high-voltage system voltage is a voltage higher than the standard system voltage as described above. That is, the second DC / DC converter 64 boosts the input standard system voltage to the second high-voltage system voltage and outputs it. In addition, the second high-voltage system voltage is a voltage higher than the first high-voltage system voltage, and is, for example, a voltage suitable for operating the OLED panel 46. An example of the second high-voltage system voltage is 15 [V].

[0068] The second DC / DC converter 64 has a plurality of pins (terminals) for electrically connecting the inside and outside of the second DC / DC converter 64. Specifically, the second DC / DC converter 64 has a VIN pin (indicated by "VIN" in FIG. 4), a SW pin (indicated by "SW" in FIG. 4), a GND pin (indicated by "GND" in FIG. 4), a VOUT pin (indicated by "VOUT" in FIG. 4), and an EN pin (indicated by "EN" in FIG. 4). Note that in this embodiment, only the main pins of the pins of the second DC / DC converter 64 are described.

[0069] The display driver 65 is an IC that operates using the input low-voltage system voltage as a power source, and has the function of controlling the OLED panel 46 and supplying a second high-voltage system voltage to the OLED panel 46 to control the display of the display 16.

[0070] The display driver 65 includes a plurality of pins (terminals) for electrically connecting the inside and outside of the display driver 65. Specifically, the display driver 65 includes a VDD pin (indicated by "VDD" in FIG. 4), a VSS pin (indicated by "VSS" in FIG. 4), a VCC_C pin (indicated by "VCC_C" in FIG. 4), an SDA pin (indicated by "SDA" in FIG. 4), an SCL pin (indicated by "SCL" in FIG. 4), and an IXS pin (indicated by "IXS" in FIG. 4). Note that in this embodiment, only the main pins of the display driver 65 are described.

[0071] The components of the power supply unit 10 described above are electrically connected by conductors or the like provided on the circuit board 60 of the power supply unit 10. The electrical connections of the components of the power supply unit 10 will be described in detail below.

[0072] The A1 pin, A12 pin, B1 pin, and B12 pin of the charging terminal 43 are ground pins. The A1 pin and B12 pin are connected in parallel and are grounded by the ground line 60N. Similarly, the A12 pin and B1 pin are connected in parallel and are grounded by the ground line 60N. In FIG. 4, the ground line 60N (i.e., a line with a potential of approximately 0 [V]) is indicated by a thick solid line.

[0073] The A4 pin, A9 pin, B4 pin, and B9 pin of the charging terminal 43 are pins that receive power input to the power supply unit 10 from a plug of an external power supply inserted into the charging terminal 43. For example, when a plug is inserted into the charging terminal 43, a predetermined USB bus power is supplied to the power supply unit 10 from the inserted plug via the A4 pin and B9 pin or the A9 pin and B4 pin. In addition, power according to USB PD (USB Power Delivery) may be supplied to the power supply unit 10 from the plug of the external power supply inserted into the charging terminal 43.

[0074] Specifically, the A4 pin and the B9 pin are connected in parallel, and these are connected to the IN pin of the protection IC 61 via the power supply line 60A. The IN pin of the protection IC 61 is a power supply pin on the positive side of the protection IC 61. The A9 pin and the B4 pin are also connected in parallel, and these are connected to the IN pin of the protection IC 61 via the power supply line 60A.

[0075] The power supply line 60A is connected to the ground line 60N via a varistor (variable resistor: non-linear resistance element) VR1. The varistor is an element having two terminals (electrodes) and having a relatively high electrical resistance value when the voltage between these terminals is lower than a predetermined varistor voltage (27 [V] in this embodiment, as an example), and has a property that the electrical resistance value drops suddenly when the voltage between these terminals becomes higher than the varistor voltage.

[0076] Specifically, one end of the varistor VR1 is connected to a node N11 provided on the power supply line 60A, and the other end is connected to the ground line 60N. Here, the node N11 is provided on the power supply line 60A closer to the protection IC 61 than the node connected to the A4 pin and the B9 pin and the node connected to the A9 pin and the B4 pin. Therefore, even if static electricity is generated in the A4 pin, the A9 pin, the B4 pin, or the B9 pin due to friction between the A4 pin, the A9 pin, the B4 pin, or the B9 pin when inserting a plug into the charging terminal 43, for example, the static electricity can be released to the ground line 60N via the varistor VR1 to protect the protection IC 61.

[0077] The power supply line 60A is connected to the ground line 60N via a capacitor CD1 that functions as a decoupling capacitor (also called a bypass capacitor or smoothing capacitor). This makes it possible to stabilize the voltage input to the protection IC 61 via the power supply line 60A. Specifically, one end of the capacitor CD1 is connected to a node N12 provided on the power supply line 60A, and the other end is connected to the ground line 60N. Here, the node N12 is provided on the power supply line 60A closer to the protection IC 61 than the node N11. Therefore, even if static electricity occurs on the A4 pin, the A9 pin, the B4 pin, or the B9 pin, the varistor VR1 can protect the capacitor CD1 from the static electricity. In other words, by providing the node N12 on the power supply line 60A closer to the protection IC 61 than the node N11, it is possible to achieve both protection of the protection IC 61 from overvoltage and stable operation of the protection IC 61.

[0078] Pins A6, A7, B6, and B7 of the charging terminal 43 are used for inputting and outputting signals for communication between the power supply unit 10 and an external device. In this embodiment, communication between the power supply unit 10 and the external device uses serial communication that transmits signals differentially using two signal lines, Dp (also called D+) and Dn (also called D-).

[0079] The A6 pin and the B6 pin are pins corresponding to the signal line on the Dp side. The A6 pin and the B6 pin are connected in parallel, and are connected to the PA12 pin of the MCU 50 via a resistor R1. The resistor R1 is an element having a predetermined electric resistance value composed of a resistive element, a transistor, etc. Also, the PA12 pin of the MCU 50 is a pin used for inputting and outputting signals in the MCU 50. Therefore, a signal on the Dp side from an external device can be input to the MCU 50 via the A6 pin or the B6 pin. Also, a signal on the Dp side from the MCU 50 can be output to an external device via the A6 pin or the B6 pin.

[0080] The A6 pin and the B6 pin are also connected to the ground line 60N via the varistor VR2. Therefore, even if static electricity is generated in the A6 pin or the B6 pin due to rubbing between them when inserting a plug into the charging terminal 43, the static electricity can be released to the ground line 60N via the varistor VR2 to protect the MCU 50. Furthermore, since a resistor R1 is provided between the A6 pin and the B6 pin and the MCU 50, the resistor R1 can also suppress input of a high voltage to the MCU 50, thereby protecting the MCU 50.

[0081] The A7 pin and the B7 pin are pins corresponding to the signal line on the Dn side. The A7 pin and the B7 pin are connected in parallel, and are connected to the PA11 pin of the MCU50 via a resistor R2. The resistor R2 is an element having a predetermined electric resistance value composed of a resistive element, a transistor, etc. Also, the PA11 pin of the MCU50 is a pin used for inputting and outputting signals in the MCU50. Therefore, a signal on the Dn side from an external device can be input to the MCU50 via the A7 pin or the B7 pin. Also, a signal on the Dn side from the MCU50 can be output to an external device via the A7 pin or the B7 pin.

[0082] The A7 pin and the B7 pin are also connected to the ground line 60N via the varistor VR3. Therefore, even if static electricity is generated in the A7 pin or the B7 pin due to friction between them when inserting a plug into the charging terminal 43, the static electricity can be released to the ground line 60N via the varistor VR3 to protect the MCU 50. Furthermore, since the resistor R2 is provided between the A7 pin and the B7 pin and the MCU 50, the resistor R2 can also prevent a high voltage from being input to the MCU 50, thereby protecting the MCU 50.

[0083] The A5 pin and B5 pin of the charging terminal 43 are pins used to detect the up and down orientation of the plug inserted into the charging terminal 43. For example, the A5 pin is a pin corresponding to the signal line of a first CC (configuration channel) signal (CC1 signal), and the B5 pin is a pin corresponding to the signal line of a second CC signal (CC2 signal). The A5 pin is connected to the ground line 60N via a resistor R3, and the B5 pin is connected to the ground line 60N via a resistor R4.

[0084] The A8 pin and the B8 pin of the charging terminal 43 are not connected to the electrical circuit of the power supply unit 10. Therefore, the A8 pin and the B8 pin are not used and may be omitted.

[0085] As described above, the IN pin of the protection IC 61 is a positive power supply pin of the protection IC 61 and is connected to the power supply line 60A. The VSS pin of the protection IC 61 is a negative power supply pin of the protection IC 61 and is connected to the ground line 60N. In addition, the GND pin of the protection IC 61 is a ground pin of the protection IC 61 and is connected to the ground line 60N. As a result, when the plug of the external power supply is inserted into the charging terminal 43, power (e.g., USB bus power) is supplied to the protection IC 61 via the power supply line 60A.

[0086] The OUT pin of the protection IC 61 is a pin that outputs a voltage input to the IN pin of the protection IC 61 as is or a voltage converted by the protection IC 61 (for example, 5.5±0.2 [V]), and is connected to the IN pin of the charging IC 55 via the power line 60B. The IN pin of the charging IC 55 is a power supply pin on the positive side of the charging IC 55. As a result, an appropriate voltage converted by the protection IC 61 is supplied to the charging IC 55.

[0087] In addition, the power supply line 60B is connected to the ground line 60N via a capacitor CD2 that functions as a decoupling capacitor, thereby stabilizing the voltage input to the charging IC 55 via the power supply line 60B.

[0088] The VBAT pin of the protection IC 61 is a pin used by the protection IC 61 to detect whether the power supply 12 is connected or not, and is connected to the positive terminal 12a of the power supply 12 via a resistor R5. The resistor R5 is an element having a predetermined electrical resistance value, which is composed of a resistive element, a transistor, etc. The protection IC 61 can detect that the power supply 12 is connected based on the voltage input to the VBAT pin.

[0089] The CE pin of the protection IC 61 is a pin for turning on / off the operation (various functions) of the protection IC 61. More specifically, the protection IC 61 operates when a low-level voltage is input to the CE pin, and stops operating when a high-level voltage is input to the CE pin. In this embodiment, the CE pin of the protection IC 61 is connected to the ground line 60N, and a low-level voltage is constantly input to it. Therefore, the protection IC 61 constantly operates while power is being supplied, and performs conversion to a predetermined voltage, overcurrent detection, overvoltage detection, and the like.

[0090] Note that instead of the protection IC 61 in this embodiment, a protection IC may be used that operates when a high-level voltage is input to the CE pin and stops operating when a low-level voltage is input to the CE pin. However, in this case, it should be noted that the CE pin of this protection IC must be connected to the power supply line 60B or the power supply line 60A, not to the ground line 60N.

[0091] As described above, the IN pin of the charging IC 55 is a positive power supply pin of the charging IC 55, and is connected to the power supply line 60B. The charging IC 55 is also connected to the ground line 60N by, for example, a negative power supply pin (not shown). As a result, the charging IC 55 is supplied with the voltage output from the protection IC 61 via the power supply line 60B.

[0092] The BAT_1 pin and the BAT_2 pin of the charging IC 55 are used for transmitting and receiving power between the charging IC 55 and the power source 12, and are connected to the positive terminal 12a of the power source 12 via the power source line 60C. The negative terminal 12b of the power source 12 is connected to the ground line 60N.

[0093] Specifically, the BAT_1 pin and the BAT_2 pin are connected in parallel, and are connected to the positive terminal 12a and to the ground line 60N via the capacitor CD3. When the power source 12 is discharged, the charge is accumulated in the capacitor CD3 and the voltage output from the power source 12 is input to the BAT_1 pin and the BAT_2 pin. When the power source 12 is charged, the voltage for charging the power source 12 is output from the BAT_1 pin and the BAT_2 pin and applied to the positive terminal 12a of the power source 12 via the power line 60C.

[0094] Furthermore, the power supply line 60C is connected to the ground line 60N via a capacitor CD4 that functions as a decoupling capacitor, thereby stabilizing the voltage input to the power supply 12 via the power supply line 60C.

[0095] The ISET pin of the charging IC 55 is a pin for setting a current value output from the charging IC 55 to the power source 12. In this embodiment, the ISET pin is connected to the ground line 60N via a resistor R6. Here, the resistor R6 is an element having a predetermined electrical resistance value, which is composed of a resistive element, a transistor, etc.

[0096] The charging IC 55 outputs to the power source 12 a current having a current value according to the electrical resistance value of the resistor R6 connected to the ISET pin.

[0097] The TS pin of the charging IC 55 is a pin to which a voltage value applied to a resistor connected thereto is input, and is used to detect the electrical resistance value and temperature of the resistor connected to the TS pin from this voltage value. In this embodiment, the TS pin is connected to the ground line 60N via a resistor R7. Here, the resistor R7 is an element having a predetermined electrical resistance value, which is composed of a resistive element, a transistor, etc. Therefore, the charging IC 55 can detect the electrical resistance value and temperature of the resistor R7 from the voltage value applied to the resistor R7.

[0098] The CHG pin of the charging IC 55 is a pin that outputs information about the charging state of the power source 12, such as charging, charging stopped, and charging completed (hereinafter also referred to as charging state information), and information about the remaining capacity of the power source 12 (hereinafter also referred to as remaining capacity information). The CHG pin of the charging IC 55 is connected to the PB15 pin of the MCU 50. The PB15 pin of the MCU 50 is a pin used for inputting signals to the MCU 50. Therefore, the charging IC 55 can notify the MCU 50 of the charging state, remaining capacity, etc. of the power source 12 by outputting the charging state information and remaining capacity information to the MCU 50 from the CHG pin.

[0099] The OUT_1 pin and OUT_2 pin of the charging IC 55 are pins from which a standard system voltage is output, and are connected to the IN pin of the LDO regulator 62, the VIN pin of the first DC / DC converter 63, and the VIN pin of the second DC / DC converter 64 via a power supply line 60D. The IN pin of the LDO regulator 62 is a power supply pin on the positive side of the LDO regulator 62. The VIN pin of the first DC / DC converter 63 is a power supply pin on the positive side of the first DC / DC converter 63. The VIN pin of the second DC / DC converter 64 is a power supply pin on the positive side of the second DC / DC converter 64.

[0100] Specifically, the OUT_1 pin is connected to the ground line 60N via a capacitor CD5 functioning as a decoupling capacitor, and is also connected to the OUT_2 pin. The OUT_1 pin and the OUT_2 pin are connected to the ground line 60N via a capacitor CD6 functioning as a decoupling capacitor, and are also connected to the IN pin of the LDO regulator 62, the VIN pin of the first DC / DC converter 63, and the VIN pin of the second DC / DC converter 64. This allows the charging IC 55 to supply a stable standard system voltage to the LDO regulator 62, the first DC / DC converter 63, and the second DC / DC converter 64.

[0101] Furthermore, in this embodiment, a capacitor CD7 functioning as a decoupling capacitor is provided on the power supply line 60D immediately before the first DC / DC converter 63. This makes it possible to supply a stable standard system voltage to the first DC / DC converter 63, and to stabilize the power supply from the first DC / DC converter 63 to the load 21.

[0102] The ILIM pin of the charging IC 55 is a pin for setting an upper limit of the current value output from the charging IC 55 to the LDO regulator 62, the first DC / DC converter 63, and the second DC / DC converter 64. In this embodiment, the ILIM pin is connected to the ground line 60N via a resistor R7. Here, the resistor R7 is an element having a predetermined electrical resistance value, which is composed of a resistive element, a transistor, etc.

[0103] The charging IC 55 outputs a current whose upper limit is a current value corresponding to the electrical resistance value of the resistor R7 connected to the ILIM pin to the LDO regulator 62, the first DC / DC converter 63, and the second DC / DC converter 64. More specifically, the charging IC 55 outputs a current having a current value corresponding to the electrical resistance value of the resistor R6 connected to the ISET pin from the OUT_1 pin and the OUT_2 pin, and stops outputting the current from the OUT_1 pin and the OUT_2 pin if this current value reaches a current value corresponding to the electrical resistance value of the resistor R7 connected to the ILIM pin. That is, the manufacturer of the aerosol inhaler 1 can set the upper limit of the current output from the charging IC 55 to the LDO regulator 62, the first DC / DC converter 63, and the second DC / DC converter 64 by the electrical resistance value of the resistor R7 connected to the ILIM pin.

[0104] Also, an LED circuit C1 is provided branching from the power supply line 60D. The LED circuit C1 is configured by connecting a resistor R8, an LED 70, and a switch SW1 in series. Here, the resistor R8 is an element having a predetermined electrical resistance value, which is configured by a resistive element, a transistor, or the like. The resistor R8 is mainly used to limit the voltage applied to the LED 70 and / or the current supplied to the LED 70. The LED 70 is a light-emitting unit provided at a position corresponding to the remaining amount confirmation window 11w inside the power supply unit 10, and configured to illuminate the outside of the power supply unit 10 from inside the power supply unit 10 through the remaining amount confirmation window 11w. The LED 70 emits light, improving the visibility of the remaining amount of the first cartridge 20 (specifically, the remaining amount of the aerosol source 22 stored in the first cartridge 20) through the remaining amount confirmation window 11w. The switch SW1 is a switch configured by, for example, a MOSFET or the like.

[0105] One end of the LED circuit C1 on the resistor R8 side, i.e., one end of the resistor R8, is connected to a node N21 provided on the power supply line 60D. The other end of the resistor R8 constitutes a connector 70a and is connected to an anode terminal of the LED 70. One end of the switch SW1 constitutes a connector 70b and is connected to a cathode terminal of the LED 70. The other end of the LED circuit C1 on the switch SW1 side, i.e., the other end of the switch SW1, is connected to the ground line 60N. The LED 70 is an example of a third load in the present invention, and the connectors 70a and 70b are an example of a third connector in the present invention.

[0106] The switch SW1 is also connected to the MCU 50 as described below, and is turned on in response to an on command from the MCU 50 and turned off in response to an off command from the MCU 50. The LED circuit C1 is turned on when the switch SW1 is turned on. The LED 70 emits light when the LED circuit C1 is turned on.

[0107] As described above, the IN pin of the LDO regulator 62 is a positive power supply pin of the LDO regulator 62 and is connected to the power supply line 60D. The GND pin of the LDO regulator 62 is a ground pin of the LDO regulator 62 and is connected to the ground line 60N. As a result, the standard system voltage output from the charging IC 55 is supplied to the LDO regulator 62 via the power supply line 60D.

[0108] The OUT pin of the LDO regulator 62 is a pin from which the low-voltage system voltage generated by the LDO regulator 62 is output, and is connected to the VDD pin and VDD_USB pin of the MCU 50, the VCC pin of the intake sensor 15, the VDD pin and IXS pin of the display driver 65, and the positive terminal 47a connected to the vibrator 47 via the power supply line 60E. The VDD pin and VDD_USB pin of the MCU 50 are positive power supply pins of the MCU 50. The VCC pin of the intake sensor 15 is a positive power supply pin of the intake sensor 15. The VDD pin of the display driver 65 is a positive power supply pin of the display driver 65. With these, the LDO regulator 62 can supply the low-voltage system voltage to the MCU 50, the intake sensor 15, the display driver 65, and the vibrator 47.

[0109] The EN pin of the LDO regulator 62 is a pin for turning on / off the operation (function) of the LDO regulator 62. Specifically, the LDO regulator 62 operates when a high-level voltage is input to the EN pin, and stops operating when a high-level voltage is not input to the EN pin.

[0110] In this embodiment, the EN pin of the LDO regulator 62 is connected to the power supply line 60D and is also connected to the ground line 60N via the capacitor CD8. Therefore, when the standard system voltage is output from the charging IC 55, charge is accumulated in the capacitor CD8, a high-level voltage is input to the EN pin of the LDO regulator 62, the LDO regulator 62 operates, and the LDO regulator 62 outputs the low-voltage system voltage.

[0111] That is, in the power supply unit 10, the capacitor CD8 connected to the EN pin of the LDO regulator 62 can be charged with power from the charging IC 55, and a high-level signal can be input to the EN pin of the LDO regulator 62. As a result, even if the LDO regulator 62 or the MCU 50 is stopped due to a power shortage in the power supply 12, it is possible to restart the LDO regulator 62 with power from an external power supply, and to restart the MCU 50 with power from the LDO regulator 62.

[0112] As described above, the VDD pin and VDD_USB pin of the MCU 50 are positive power supply pins of the MCU 50 and are connected to the power supply line 60E. The VSS pin of the MCU 50 is negative power supply pin of the MCU 50 and is connected to the ground line 60N. As a result, the low-voltage system voltage output from the LDO regulator 62 is supplied to the MCU 50 via the power supply line 60E. The VDD pin and VDD_USB pin may be combined into a single pin.

[0113] A thermistor circuit C2 is provided branching off from the power supply line 60E. The thermistor circuit C2 is configured by connecting a switch SW2, a resistor R9, and a thermistor TH in series. One end of the thermistor circuit C2 on the switch SW2 side is connected to a node N31 provided on the power supply line 60E. The other end of the thermistor circuit C2 on the thermistor TH side is connected to the ground line 60N.

[0114] Here, the switch SW2 is a switch configured, for example, by a MOSFET etc. The switch SW2 is connected to the MCU 50 as described later, and is turned on in response to an on command from the MCU 50 and is turned off in response to an off command from the MCU 50. The thermistor circuit C2 is brought into a conductive state when the switch SW2 is turned on.

[0115] The resistor R9 is an element having a predetermined electrical resistance value, which is composed of a resistive element, a transistor, etc. The thermistor TH is composed of an element having NTC (Negative Temperature Coefficient) characteristics or PTC (Positive Temperature Coefficient) characteristics, i.e., an element having a correlation between electrical resistance value and temperature, etc. The thermistor TH is disposed near the power source 12 in a state in which the temperature of the power source 12 can be detected.

[0116] The PC1 pin of the MCU 50 is connected to a node N32 provided between resistor R9 and thermistor TH in the thermistor circuit C2. When the thermistor circuit C2 is in a conductive state (i.e., when switch SW2 is on), a voltage divided by resistor R9 and thermistor TH is input to the PC1 pin. The MCU 50 can detect the temperature of thermistor TH, i.e., the temperature of the power supply 12, from the voltage value input to the PC1 pin.

[0117] The PA8 pin of the MCU50 is connected to the switch SW2, and is a pin that outputs an ON command to turn on the switch SW2 and an OFF command to turn off the switch SW2. The MCU50 can turn on the switch SW2 and bring the thermistor circuit C2 into a conductive state by outputting an ON command from the PA8 pin. The MCU50 can turn off the switch SW2 and bring the thermistor circuit C2 into a non-conductive state by outputting an OFF command from the PA8 pin. As a specific example, when the switch SW2 is a switch configured by a MOSFET, the PA8 pin of the MCU50 is connected to the gate terminal of this MOSFET. The MCU50 can control the ON / OFF of the switch SW2 by controlling the gate voltage applied to this gate terminal (i.e., the output from the PA8 pin).

[0118] In addition, a switch SW3 is provided in front of the positive terminal 47a in the power supply line 60E. Here, the switch SW3 is a switch configured with, for example, a MOSFET, etc. The switch SW3 is connected to the MCU 50, and is turned on in response to an on command from the MCU 50, and is turned off in response to an off command from the MCU 50.

[0119] Specifically, the PC6 pin of the MCU50 is connected to the switch SW3, and is a pin that outputs an ON command to turn on the switch SW3 and an OFF command to turn off the switch SW3. The MCU50 can turn on the switch SW3 by outputting an ON command from the PC6 pin, supply power to the vibrator 47 through the power supply line 60E, and vibrate the vibrator 47. The MCU50 can turn off the switch SW3 by outputting an OFF command from the PC6 pin, and stop the supply of power to the vibrator 47 through the power supply line 60E (i.e., the vibration of the vibrator 47). As a specific example, if the switch SW3 is a switch configured by a MOSFET, the PC6 pin of the MCU50 is connected to the gate terminal of this MOSFET. The MCU50 can control the ON / OFF of the switch SW3 by controlling the gate voltage applied to this gate terminal (i.e., the output from the PC6 pin).

[0120] Also, a Zener diode D is connected to the power supply line 60E. Here, the Zener diode has two terminals (electrodes), an anode side and a cathode side, and is a diode in which, when the voltage of the anode side terminal exceeds a predetermined Zener voltage (also called a breakdown voltage; as an example, in the case of this embodiment, a voltage less than the above-mentioned varistor voltage), a current suddenly flows from the cathode side to the anode side.

[0121] Specifically, one end of the Zener diode D on the anode side is connected to the ground line 60N, and the other end of the cathode side is connected to a node N41 provided on the power supply line 60E. Here, the node N41 is provided between the switch SW3 and the positive terminal 47a on the power supply line 60E. As a result, even if a counter electromotive force having a voltage larger than the Zener voltage of the Zener diode D is generated from the vibrator 47 when the vibrator 47 is turned on / off, as shown by the arrow of symbol C3 in FIG. 4, a current due to this counter electromotive force can be made to flow in a closed circuit formed by the vibrator 47 and the Zener diode D. Therefore, the current due to this counter electromotive force is prevented from flowing outside the closed circuit formed by the vibrator 47 and the Zener diode D, and electronic components of the power supply unit 10, such as the power supply 12 and the LDO regulator 62, provided outside the closed circuit can be protected.

[0122] Furthermore, the capacitor CD9 may be connected to the power supply line 60E. Specifically, in this case, one end of the capacitor CD9 is connected to a node N42 provided on the power supply line 60E, and the other end is connected to the ground line 60N. Here, the node N42 is provided on the power supply line 60E closer to the positive terminal 47a than the node N41. In this way, the capacitor CD9 can be arranged in the closed circuit formed by the vibrator 47 and the Zener diode D described above, and the electronic components of the power supply unit 10, such as the power supply 12 and the LDO regulator 62, provided outside the closed circuit formed by the vibrator 47 and the Zener diode D, can also be protected by the capacitor CD9. The capacitor CD9 may be provided near the closed circuit, not in the closed circuit described above. As a specific example, the capacitor CD9 may be provided between the switch SW3 and the Zener diode D. Even in this way, the electronic components of the power supply unit 10, such as the power supply 12 and the LDO regulator 62, can be protected by the capacitor CD9 and the Zener diode D.

[0123] The PB3 pin of the MCU 50 is connected to the EN pin of the first DC / DC converter 63 and is a pin from which a predetermined voltage signal is output. The MCU 50 can turn on / off the operation of the first DC / DC converter 63 by the voltage signal output from the PB3 pin. Specifically, the MCU 50 can operate the first DC / DC converter 63 (i.e., enable the first DC / DC converter 63) by outputting a high-level voltage signal from the PB3 pin. The MCU 50 can also stop the operation of the first DC / DC converter 63 (i.e., disable the first DC / DC converter 63) by outputting a low-level voltage signal from the PB3 pin.

[0124] The PB4 pin of the MCU 50 is connected to a switch SW4, which is provided between the first DC / DC converter 63 and the discharge terminal 41 and will be described later, and is a pin that outputs an ON command to turn on the switch SW4 and an OFF command to turn off the switch SW4. The MCU 50 can supply power to the load 21 as will be described later by outputting an ON command from the PB4 pin to turn on the switch SW4. The MCU 50 can also stop the supply of power to the load 21 by outputting an OFF command from the PB4 pin to turn off the switch SW4. As a specific example, when the switch SW4 is a switch configured by a MOSFET, the PB4 pin of the MCU 50 is connected to a gate terminal of the MOSFET. The MCU 50 can control the ON / OFF of the switch SW4 by controlling the gate voltage (i.e., the output from the PB4 pin) applied to the gate terminal.

[0125] As described above, the PB15 pin of the MCU 50 is connected to the CHG pin of the charging IC 55, and is a pin that receives input of the charging state information and remaining capacity information output by the charging IC 55.

[0126] The PA0 pin of the MCU50 is connected to the switch SW1 of the LED circuit C1, and is a pin that outputs an ON command to turn on the switch SW1 and an OFF command to turn off the switch SW1. The MCU50 can turn on the switch SW1 by outputting an ON command from the PA0 pin, thereby turning on the switch SW1, and can cause the LED70 to emit light (light up). The MCU50 can turn off the switch SW1 by outputting an OFF command from the PA0 pin, thereby turning on the LED circuit C1 and causing the LED70 to emit light. As a specific example, when the switch SW1 is a switch configured by a MOSFET, the PA0 pin of the MCU50 is connected to the gate terminal of this MOSFET. The MCU50 can control the ON / OFF of the switch SW1 by controlling the gate voltage (i.e., the output from the PA0 pin) applied to this gate terminal. The MCU50 can also switch between a conductive state and a non-conductive state of the LED circuit C1 at high speed and cause the LED70 to blink by outputting an ON command and an OFF command from the PA0 pin at high speed.

[0127] The PC5 pin of the MCU 50 is connected to the OUT pin of the intake sensor 15, and is a pin that receives the output of the intake sensor 15 (that is, a signal indicating the detection result of the intake sensor 15).

[0128] The PA11 pin and the PA12 pin of the MCU 50 are used for inputting and outputting signals for communication between the power supply unit 10 and an external device. To be more specific, as described above, the PA11 pin is connected to the A7 pin and the B7 pin of the charging terminal 43 via the resistor R2, and is used for inputting and outputting signals on the Dn side. Also, as described above, the PA12 pin is connected to the A6 pin and the B6 pin of the charging terminal 43 via the resistor R1, and is used for inputting and outputting signals on the Dp side.

[0129] The PC12 pin of the MCU 50 is connected to the EN pin of the second DC / DC converter 64, and is a pin from which a predetermined voltage signal is output. The MCU 50 can turn on / off the operation of the second DC / DC converter 64 by the voltage signal output from the PC12 pin. Specifically, the MCU 50 can operate the second DC / DC converter 64 (i.e., enable the second DC / DC converter 64) by outputting a high-level voltage signal from the PC12 pin. The MCU 50 can also stop the operation of the second DC / DC converter 64 (i.e., disable the second DC / DC converter 64) by outputting a low-level voltage signal from the PC12 pin.

[0130] The PB8 pin and the PB9 pin of the MCU 50 are used to output signals for communication between the MCU 50 and other ICs, and in this embodiment, are used for communication between the MCU 50 and the display driver 65. More specifically, in this embodiment, the MCU 50 and the display driver 65 communicate with each other via I2C (Inter-Integrated Circuit). The PB8 pin is used to output a signal on the SCL side in the I2C communication, and the PB9 pin is used to output a signal on the SDA side in the I2C communication. The MCU 50 controls the display driver 65 with signals output from the PB8 pin and the PB9 pin, and can control the display contents of the display 16 (OLED panel 46).

[0131] As described above, the VCC pin of the intake sensor 15 is a positive power supply pin of the intake sensor 15 and is connected to the power supply line 60E. The GND pin of the intake sensor 15 is a ground pin of the intake sensor 15 and is connected to the ground line 60N. As a result, the intake sensor 15 is supplied with the low-voltage system voltage output from the LDO regulator 62 via the power supply line 60E.

[0132] As described above, the OUT pin of the intake sensor 15 is a pin that outputs a signal indicating the detection result of the intake sensor 15, and is connected to the PC5 pin of the MCU 50. This enables the intake sensor 15 to notify the MCU 50 of the detection result.

[0133] As described above, the VIN pin of the first DC / DC converter 63 is a power supply pin on the positive electrode side of the first DC / DC converter 63, and is connected to the power supply line 60D. The VIN pin of the first DC / DC converter 63 is also connected to the SW pin (switch pin) of the first DC / DC converter 63 via the coil CL1. The GND pin of the first DC / DC converter 63 is a ground pin of the first DC / DC converter 63, and is connected to the ground line 60N.

[0134] The VOUT pin of the first DC / DC converter 63 is a pin from which the first high voltage system voltage generated by the first DC / DC converter 63 is output, and is connected to the positive discharge terminal 41a of the discharge terminals 41 via a power supply line 60F. The negative discharge terminal 41b of the discharge terminals 41 is connected to a ground line 60N.

[0135] A switch SW4 is provided on the power supply line 60F. The switch SW4 is, for example, a switch configured of a MOSFET or the like, and more specifically, a power MOSFET with a high switching speed. The switch SW4 is connected to the MCU 50 as described above, and is turned on in response to an on command from the MCU 50 and is turned off in response to an off command from the MCU 50. When the switch SW4 is turned on, the power supply line 60F is brought into a conductive state, and the first high voltage system voltage is supplied to the load 21 via the power supply line 60F.

[0136] Also, a varistor VR4 is connected to the power supply line 60F. Specifically, one end of the varistor VR4 is connected to a node N51 provided on the power supply line 60F, and the other end is connected to the ground line 60N. Here, the node N51 is provided on the power supply line 60F closer to the positive electrode side discharge terminal 41a than the switch SW4, that is, on the output side of the switch SW4. In other words, the varistor VR4 is connected between the discharge terminal 41 and the power supply 12, and more specifically, between the discharge terminal 41 and the first DC / DC converter 63 (more specifically, the switch SW4).

[0137] Therefore, for example, even if static electricity is generated at the discharge terminal 41 due to friction between the discharge terminal 41 and the load 21 when replacing the first cartridge 20, this static electricity can be released to the ground line 60N via the varistor VR4 to protect the switch SW4, the first DC / DC converter 63, the power supply 12, etc. Furthermore, even if the varistor VR4 breaks down, the switch SW4 and the first DC / DC converter 63 can act as a barrier against noise (in this case, static electricity generated at the discharge terminal 41) for other elements (for example, the charging IC 55) that are closer to the power supply 12 than these, and the other elements can be protected.

[0138] In addition, a capacitor CD10 functioning as a decoupling capacitor is connected to the power supply line 60F. Specifically, one end of the capacitor CD10 is connected to a node N52 provided on the power supply line 60F, and the other end is connected to the ground line 60N. Here, the node N52 is provided between the node N51 and the switch SW4 on the power supply line 60F. In other words, the capacitor CD10 is connected to the output side of the switch SW4. This makes it possible to stabilize the power supply from the switch SW4 to the load 21, and even if static electricity occurs at the discharge terminal 41, the varistor VR4 can protect the capacitor CD10 from the static electricity.

[0139] Furthermore, a capacitor CD11 functioning as a decoupling capacitor may be connected to the power supply line 60F. Specifically, in this case, one end of the capacitor CD11 is connected to a node N53 provided on the power supply line 60F, and the other end is connected to the ground line 60N. Here, the node N53 is provided between the switch SW4 and the first DC / DC converter 63 on the power supply line 60F. In other words, the capacitor CD11 is connected to the output side of the first DC / DC converter 63. This makes it possible to stabilize the power supply from the first DC / DC converter 63 to the switch SW4 (e.g., a power MOSFET), and as a result, makes it possible to stabilize the power supply to the load 21.

[0140] The EN pin of the first DC / DC converter 63 is a pin for setting the operation of the first DC / DC converter 63 to ON / OFF, as described above, and is connected to the PB3 pin of the MCU 50.

[0141] The MODE pin of the first DC / DC converter 63 is a pin for setting the operation mode of the first DC / DC converter 63. The first DC / DC converter 63 is, for example, a switching regulator, and can take a pulse width modulation mode (hereinafter also referred to as PWM mode) and a pulse frequency modulation mode (hereinafter also referred to as PFM mode) as operation modes. In this embodiment, by connecting the MODE pin to the power supply line 60D, a high-level voltage is input to the MODE pin when the first DC / DC converter 63 is operable, and the first DC / DC converter 63 is set to operate in the PWM mode.

[0142] As described above, the VIN pin of the second DC / DC converter 64 is a power supply pin on the positive electrode side of the second DC / DC converter 64, and is connected to the power supply line 60D. The VIN pin of the second DC / DC converter 64 is also connected to the SW pin (switch pin) of the second DC / DC converter 64 via the coil CL2. The GND pin of the second DC / DC converter 64 is a ground pin of the second DC / DC converter 64, and is connected to the ground line 60N.

[0143] The VOUT pin of the second DC / DC converter 64 is a pin from which the second high-voltage system voltage generated by the second DC / DC converter 64 is output, and is connected to the VCC_C pin of the display driver 65 via the power supply line 60G. This enables the second DC / DC converter 64 to supply the second high-voltage system voltage to the display driver 65.

[0144] Also, a varistor VR5 is connected to the power supply line 60G. Specifically, one end of the varistor VR5 is connected to a node N61 provided on the power supply line 60G, and the other end is connected to the ground line 60N. In other words, the varistor VR5 is connected between a connector portion of the power supply line 60G that is connected to the VCC_C pin of the display driver 65 and the second DC / DC converter 64.

[0145] Therefore, even if the display 16 exposed to the outside of the aerosol inhaler 1 comes into contact with some object (for example, the user's hand) and static electricity is generated on the display 16, and this static electricity flows back to the second DC / DC converter 64 side through the OLED panel 46 and the display driver 65, the static electricity can be released to the ground line 60N through the varistor VR5, and the second DC / DC converter 64 and the like can be protected from this static electricity. Furthermore, even if the varistor VR5 breaks down, the second DC / DC converter 64 can act as a barrier against noise (in this case, static electricity generated on the display 16) for other elements (for example, the LDO regulator 62) located closer to the power supply 12 than the varistor VR5, and the other elements can be protected. In other words, by providing the node N62 closer to the second DC / DC converter side than the node N61 on the power supply line 60G, it is possible to achieve both protection of the display driver 65 from overvoltage and stable operation of the display driver 65.

[0146] From the same viewpoint, a varistor VR6 is also connected to the power supply line 60E. Specifically, one end of the varistor VR6 is connected to a node N43 provided on the power supply line 60E, and the other end is connected to the ground line 60N. Here, the node N43 is provided between the LDO regulator 62 and the switch SW3 on the power supply line 60E. Therefore, even if static electricity is generated on the display 16 exposed to the outside of the aerosol inhaler 1 by contacting some object, and this static electricity flows back to the LDO regulator 62 side through the OLED panel 46 or the display driver 65, this static electricity can be released to the ground line 60N through the varistor VR6, and the LDO regulator 62 can be protected from this static electricity.

[0147] In addition, a capacitor CD12 functioning as a decoupling capacitor is connected to the power supply line 60G. Specifically, one end of the capacitor CD12 is connected to a node N62 provided on the power supply line 60G, and the other end is connected to the ground line 60N. Here, the node N62 is provided on the power supply line 60G closer to the second DC / DC converter 64 than the node N61. This makes it possible to supply a stable second high-voltage system voltage to the display driver 65, and even if static electricity occurs on the display 16, the varistor VR5 can protect the capacitor CD12 from the static electricity.

[0148] The EN pin of the second DC / DC converter 64 is a pin for setting the operation of the second DC / DC converter 64 to ON / OFF, and is connected to the PC12 pin of the MCU 50 as described above.

[0149] As described above, the VDD pin of the display driver 65 is a positive power supply pin of the display driver 65 and is connected to the power supply line 60E. The VSS pin of the display driver 65 is a negative power supply pin of the display driver 65 and is connected to the ground line 60N. As a result, the low-voltage system voltage output from the LDO regulator 62 is supplied to the display driver 65 via the power supply line 60E. The low-voltage system voltage supplied to the display driver 65 is used as a power supply for the operation of the display driver 65.

[0150] The VCC_C pin of the display driver 65 is a pin that receives the second high-voltage system voltage, and is connected to the VOUT pin of the second DC / DC converter 64 via the power supply line 60G as described above. When the display driver 65 receives the second high-voltage system voltage via the VCC_C pin, the display driver 65 supplies the received second high-voltage system voltage to the OLED panel 46 via the power supply line 60H. This allows the display driver 65 to operate the OLED panel 46. The display driver 65 and the OLED panel 46 may also be connected by other lines (not shown).

[0151] The SCL pin of the display driver 65 is a pin that receives a signal on the SCL side in the I2C communication between the MCU 50 and the display driver 65, and as described above, is connected to the PB8 pin of the MCU 50. The SDA pin of the display driver 65 is a pin that receives a signal on the SDA side in the I2C communication between the MCU 50 and the display driver 65, and as described above, is connected to the PB9 pin of the MCU 50.

[0152] The IXS pin of the display driver 65 is a pin for setting whether communication between the display driver 65 and another IC (in this embodiment, the MCU 50) will be performed by I2C communication or SPI (Serial Peripheral Interface) communication. In this embodiment, the IXS pin is connected to the power supply line 60E so that a high-level voltage is input to the IXS pin, and the communication between the display driver 65 and the MCU 50 is set to be performed by I2C communication. Note that the communication between the display driver 65 and the MCU 50 may be set to be performed by SPI communication by inputting a low-level voltage to the IXS pin.

[0153] (MCU) Next, the configuration of the MCU 50 will be described with reference to FIG. As shown in Figure 5, the MCU 50 includes an aerosol generation request detection unit 51, a temperature detection unit 52, a power control unit 53, and a notification control unit 54, which are functional blocks realized by a processor executing a program stored in a ROM not shown.

[0154] The aerosol generation request detection unit 51 detects a request for aerosol generation based on the output result of the inhalation sensor 15. The inhalation sensor 15 is configured to output a value of a pressure (internal pressure) change in the power supply unit 10 caused by the user's inhalation through the suction port 32. The inhalation sensor 15 is, for example, a pressure sensor that outputs an output value (for example, a voltage value or a current value) according to the internal pressure that changes according to the flow rate of air inhaled from an inlet (not shown) toward the suction port 32 (i.e., the user's puffing operation). The inhalation sensor 15 may be composed of a condenser microphone or the like. The inhalation sensor 15 may output an analog value, or may output a digital value converted from the analog value. The inhalation sensor 15 may also transmit the output to the aerosol generation request detection unit 51 using the above-mentioned I2C communication, SPI communication, or the like.

[0155] The temperature detection unit 52 detects the temperature of the power supply 12 based on the input from the thermistor circuit C2. Specifically, the temperature detection unit 52 applies a voltage to the thermistor circuit C2 by turning on the switch SW2, and detects the temperature of the thermistor TH, i.e., the temperature of the power supply 12, from the voltage value input from the thermistor circuit C2 to the MCU 50 (e.g., PC1 pin) at that time. Also, for example, the electrical resistance value of the load 21 may be configured to be detectable, and the temperature detection unit 52 may detect the temperature of the load 21.

[0156] The power control unit 53 controls the supply of power to each electronic component of the aerosol inhaler 1. For example, when the aerosol generation request detection unit 51 detects a request for aerosol generation, the power control unit 53 operates the first DC / DC converter 63 and controls the switching of the switch SW4 to supply the first high-voltage system voltage to the load 21 via the positive electrode side discharge terminal 41a. As a result, the MCU 50 can supply the power of the first high-voltage system voltage to the load 21 to heat (function) the load 21 and generate aerosol. By boosting the power from the charging IC 55 (i.e., the power of the standard system voltage) to the first high-voltage system voltage by the first DC / DC converter 63 and supplying it to the load 21 in this way, the amount of aerosol generated by the load 21 and the flavor and taste can be improved compared to the case where the power from the charging IC 55 is supplied to the load 21 without boosting it.

[0157] Moreover, the power control unit 53 turns on the switch SW3 at a predetermined timing to supply the standard system voltage via the positive terminal 47a to the vibrator 47. This allows the MCU 50 to supply power of the standard system voltage to the vibrator 47 to cause the vibrator 47 to vibrate (function).

[0158] Moreover, the power control unit 53 operates the second DC / DC converter 64 at a predetermined timing to supply the second high-voltage system voltage to the OLED panel 46 via the display driver 65. This enables the MCU 50 to supply power of the second high-voltage system voltage to the OLED panel 46 to operate (function) the OLED panel 46.

[0159] Furthermore, when the aerosol generation request detection unit 51 detects a request for aerosol generation, the power control unit 53 further turns on the switch SW1 to bring the LED circuit C1 into a conductive state and causes the LED 70 to emit light (function). In this case, the connector 70a is supplied with a voltage obtained by lowering the standard system voltage from the charging IC 55 through the resistor R8. That is, by turning on the switch SW1, the power control unit 53 can supply the power of the voltage obtained by lowering the standard system voltage through the resistor R8 to the LED 70 via the connector 70a.

[0160] The power control unit 53 controls the power supplied to the LED 70 to be smaller than the power supplied to other electronic components such as the load 21, the OLED panel 46, and the vibrator 47. That is, the power control unit 53 controls the power supplied to the connector 70a to be smaller than the power supplied to the positive electrode discharge terminal 41a, the positive electrode terminal 47a, etc. This makes it possible to supply appropriate power to the LED 70 with a simple configuration, and to achieve high functionality of the aerosol inhalator 1 while suppressing an increase in the manufacturing cost of the aerosol inhalator 1 (for example, the power supply unit 10).

[0161] The notification control unit 54 controls the notification unit 45 to notify various information. For example, the notification control unit 54 controls the notification unit 45 to notify the replacement timing of the second cartridge 30 in response to detection of the replacement timing of the second cartridge 30. The notification control unit 54 detects and notifies the replacement timing of the second cartridge 30 based on the cumulative number of puffing operations or the cumulative current application time to the load 21 stored in the memory 19. The notification control unit 54 is not limited to notifying the replacement timing of the second cartridge 30, and may also notify the replacement timing of the first cartridge 20, the replacement timing of the power source 12, the charging timing of the power source 12, etc.

[0162] In addition, when an unused second cartridge 30 is set and a puffing action has been performed a predetermined number of times, or when the accumulated time of current flow to the load 21 due to the puffing action reaches a predetermined value (e.g., 120 seconds), the notification control unit 54 may determine that the second cartridge 30 has been used (i.e., the remaining amount is zero or the cartridge is empty), and notify the user of the timing to replace the second cartridge 30.

[0163] Furthermore, when the notification control unit 54 determines that all of the second cartridges 30 included in one set have been used, it may determine that one first cartridge 20 included in this set has been used (i.e., the remaining amount is zero or empty) and notify the timing of replacing the first cartridge 20. In addition to or instead of this, the notification control unit 54 may also notify the remaining amount of the first cartridge 20, the remaining amount of the second cartridge 30, the remaining capacity of the power source 12, etc.

[0164] (Overvoltage protection according to each load of the aerosol aspirator 1) Finally, the loads provided to the aerosol inhalator 1 and the protection against overvoltage and the like corresponding to each load will be summarized. As shown in FIG. 6, the aerosol inhalator 1 includes a vibrator 47, a display 16, a first cartridge 20 (i.e., a load 21), an LED 70, and an inhalation sensor 15 as loads that function (i.e., operate) when supplied with power.

[0165] The vibrator 47 is disposed inside the power supply unit case 11 and is provided in a state where it is not exposed to the outside of the aerosol inhalator 1 (see "Not exposed" in "Exposed to the outside" corresponding to the vibrator in FIG. 6). Therefore, the vibrator 47 does not generate noise due to static electricity that occurs when it comes into contact with any object outside the aerosol inhalator 1.

[0166] Also, the vibrator 47 is provided in a state where it is attached to the power supply unit 10, and is not basically detached from the power supply unit 10 (see "attached" in "connection to main body" corresponding to the vibrator in FIG. 6). Therefore, the vibrator 47 does not generate noise due to static electricity or surges (ESD: Electro-Static Discharge) that occurs when the vibrator 47 is attached to or detached from the power supply unit 10.

[0167] Furthermore, the vibrator 47 generates a back electromotive force when it operates, and this back electromotive force may become a noise source (see "Yes" in the "Possibility of becoming a noise source" section corresponding to the vibrator in FIG. 6, and "Back electromotive force" in the "Type of noise" section).

[0168] For the vibrator 47 having such characteristics as a load, by providing a Zener diode D having polarity as a protective element (see "Zener diode" for the "overvoltage protection element" corresponding to the vibrator in Figure 6), it is possible to appropriately protect the system of the aerosol inhalator 1 (power supply unit 10) from overvoltage that may be generated due to the vibrator 47.

[0169] The display 16 is formed on the upper surface of the power supply unit 10, and at least a part of the display 16 is exposed to the outside of the aerosol inhalator 1 (see "exposed" in "exposure to the outside" corresponding to the display in FIG. 6). Therefore, noise may occur in the display 16 due to static electricity that occurs when the display 16 comes into contact with some object (e.g., the user's hand) outside the aerosol inhalator 1 (see "static electricity" in "type of noise" corresponding to the display in FIG. 6).

[0170] Furthermore, the display 16 is provided in a state where it is attached to the power supply unit 10, and is not basically detached from the power supply unit 10 (see "attachment" in "connection to main body" corresponding to the display in FIG. 6). Therefore, the display 16 does not generate noise (ESD) due to static electricity or surges that occur when the display 16 is attached or detached from the power supply unit 10.

[0171] Furthermore, even when the display 16 is in operation, it does not generate a back electromotive force. In other words, the display 16 is unlikely to become a noise source that generates noise (see "No" in the "Possibility of becoming a noise source" field corresponding to the display in FIG. 6).

[0172] For the display 16 having such characteristics as a load, it is necessary to step down high-voltage static electricity, so by providing varistors VR5 and VR6 with a large allowable current (see "varistor" for the "overvoltage protection element" corresponding to the display in FIG. 6), it becomes possible to appropriately protect the system of the aerosol inhaler 1 (power supply unit 10) from overvoltage that may occur due to the display 16. In addition, Zener diodes tend to be more expensive than varistors. For this reason, by employing varistors as protection elements, it is possible to suppress the frequent use of Zener diodes and suppress increases in the manufacturing costs of the power supply unit 10.

[0173] The first cartridge 20 is basically housed in the cartridge holder 14 and is provided in a state where it is not exposed to the outside of the aerosol inhalator 1 (see "Not exposed" in "Exposed to the outside" corresponding to the first cartridge in FIG. 6). Therefore, the first cartridge 20 does not generate noise due to static electricity that occurs when it comes into contact with any object outside the aerosol inhalator 1.

[0174] Furthermore, the first cartridge 20 is provided in a detachable state with respect to the power supply unit 10, and can be attached to and detached from the power supply unit 10 (see "detachable" in "Connection to main body" corresponding to the first cartridge in FIG. 6). Therefore, noise due to static electricity or surges (ESD) that occurs when the first cartridge 20 is attached to and detached from the power supply unit 10 can be generated in the first cartridge 20 (see "static electricity" in "type of noise" corresponding to the first cartridge in FIG. 6).

[0175] Furthermore, the first cartridge 20 does not generate a counter electromotive force even when it is in operation. In other words, the first cartridge 20 has no possibility of becoming a noise source that generates noise (see "No" in the "Possibility of becoming a noise source" column corresponding to the first cartridge in FIG. 6).

[0176] For the first cartridge 20, which has such load characteristics, like the display 16, it is necessary to step down high-voltage static electricity. Therefore, by providing a varistor VR4 with a large allowable current (see "varistor" for the "overvoltage protection element" corresponding to the first cartridge in Figure 6), it is possible to appropriately protect the system of the aerosol inhaler 1 (power supply unit 10) from overvoltage that may be generated due to the first cartridge 20.

[0177] The LED 70 is disposed inside the power supply unit case 11 and is provided in a state where it is not exposed to the outside of the aerosol inhalator 1 (see "Not exposed" in "Exposed to the outside" corresponding to the LED in FIG. 6). Therefore, the LED 70 does not generate noise due to static electricity caused by rubbing against some object outside the aerosol inhalator 1.

[0178] Also, the LED 70 is provided in a state where it is attached to the power supply unit 10, and is not basically detached from the power supply unit 10 (see "attachment" for "connection to main body" corresponding to the LED in FIG. 6). Therefore, the LED 70 does not generate noise (ESD) due to static electricity or surges that occur when the LED 70 is attached to or detached from the power supply unit 10.

[0179] Furthermore, the LED 70 does not generate a back electromotive force even when it is in operation. In other words, the LED 70 has no possibility of becoming a noise source that generates noise (see "No" in the "Possibility of becoming a noise source" column corresponding to the LED in FIG. 6).

[0180] The LED 70, which has such characteristics as a load, is unlikely to generate an overvoltage. Therefore, by not providing a Zener diode or a varistor for the LED 70 to protect the LED 70 from an overvoltage caused by the LED 70, the manufacturing cost of the aerosol inhalator 1 can be reduced.

[0181] The intake sensor 15 also has the same characteristics as the LED 70 as a load. Therefore, by not providing a Zener diode or a varistor for the intake sensor 15 for the purpose of protecting the intake sensor 15 from an overvoltage caused by the intake sensor 15, the manufacturing cost of the aerosol inhalator 1 can be reduced.

[0182] As described above, according to the power supply unit 10 of this embodiment, by providing overvoltage protection elements according to the characteristics (type) of each load, the system of the aerosol inhalator 1 (power supply unit 10) can be appropriately protected.

[0183] The present invention is not limited to the above-described embodiment, and modifications and improvements are possible as appropriate.

[0184] This specification describes at least the following items. Note that, in parentheses, components corresponding to those in the above-mentioned embodiment are shown, but the present invention is not limited to these.

[0185] (1) a power source (power source 12) capable of supplying power to a heater (load 21) that heats an aerosol source; a first connector (positive terminal 47a) connected to a first load (vibrator 47) that operates by power supplied from the power source; a second connector (positive electrode side discharge terminal 41 a) that functions by power supplied from the power source and is connected to a second load (load 21) separate from the first load; a Zener diode (Zener diode D) connected between the first connector and the power supply; a varistor (varistor VR4) connected between the second connector and the power supply; The power supply unit (power supply unit 10) of the aerosol generating device (aerosol inhaler 1) is provided with:

[0186] According to (1), the protective element provided for each load can be made different depending on the load connected to each connector, thereby making it possible to appropriately protect the power supply unit of an aerosol generating device having multiple loads.

[0187] (2) A power supply unit for the aerosol generating device according to (1), the first connector non-removably connects the first load; the second connector removably connects the second load; Power supply unit for the aerosol generator.

[0188] According to (2), since a varistor is provided as a protective element for a connector in which static electricity may be generated by removing (i.e., attaching and detaching) a load, the power supply unit of the aerosol generating device can be appropriately protected from static electricity. In addition, by adopting a varistor as a protective element, it is possible to suppress the frequent use of Zener diodes, which tend to be expensive, and to suppress an increase in the manufacturing cost of the power supply unit.

[0189] (3) A power supply unit for the aerosol generating device according to (1) or (2), a case that houses at least the power source and the first connector; the first connector is connected to the first load that is not exposed from the case; the second connector is connected to the second load, at least a portion of which is exposed from the case; Power supply unit for the aerosol generator.

[0190] According to (3), a varistor is provided as a protective element for a connector that is at least partially exposed from the case and may generate static electricity by coming into contact with some object outside the case (e.g., the user's hand), thereby appropriately protecting the power supply unit of the aerosol generating device from static electricity.

[0191] (4) A power supply unit for the aerosol generating device according to any one of (1) to (3), the first load vibrates when functioning; The second load does not vibrate when functioning. Power supply unit for the aerosol generator.

[0192] According to (4), a Zener diode is provided as a protective element for the load, which itself is a noise source in order to generate vibrations, so that the power supply unit of the aerosol generating device can be appropriately protected from noise generated by the load, which is a noise source.

[0193] (5) A power supply unit for the aerosol generating device according to any one of (2) to (4), a voltage converter connected to the second connector and capable of converting a voltage of the power supplied from the power source; the varistor is connected between the second connector and the voltage converter; Power supply unit for the aerosol generator.

[0194] According to (5), since the voltage converter is provided behind the varistor as a protective element in the path of static electricity intrusion, even if the varistor fails, the voltage converter can act as a barrier against noise (static electricity) for the other elements located behind it, thereby protecting the other elements.

[0195] (6) A power supply unit for the aerosol generating device according to any one of (1) to (5), a first capacitor (capacitor CD9) connected between the first connector and the Zener diode; a second capacitor (capacitor CD10) connected between the power supply and the varistor; A power supply unit for an aerosol generating device comprising:

[0196] According to (6), by providing a capacitor between the first connector and the Zener diode, and between the power supply and the varistor, each capacitor can be provided in an appropriate position, and the power supply unit of the aerosol generating device can be appropriately protected.

[0197] (7) A power supply unit for the aerosol generating device according to any one of (1) to (6), a third connector (connector 70a) that functions using power supplied from the power source and to which a third load (LED 70) separate from the first load and the second load is connected; a path connecting the third connector and the power source does not include a Zener diode or a varistor; Power supply unit for the aerosol generator.

[0198] According to (7), by not installing a Zener diode or varistor in the path connecting the third connector to the power supply, it is possible to suppress increases in the manufacturing costs of the power supply unit and the enlargement of the electrical circuit.

[0199] (8) A power supply unit for the aerosol generating device according to (7), The path does not include a voltage converter capable of converting the voltage of the power supplied from the power source. Power supply unit for the aerosol generator.

[0200] According to (8), by not installing a voltage converter in the path connecting the third connector and the power supply, it is possible to suppress increases in the manufacturing costs of the power supply unit and the enlargement of the electrical circuit.

[0201] (9) A power supply unit for the aerosol generating device according to (8), The path includes a resistor (resistor R8) connected in series with the power supply and the third connector. Power supply unit for the aerosol generator.

[0202] According to (9), by providing a resistor connected in series to the power source and the third connector in the path connecting the third connector and the power source, it is possible to supply appropriate power to the third load with a simple configuration, and it is possible to realize high functionality of the aerosol generating device while suppressing increases in manufacturing costs of the power source unit and enlargement of the electrical circuit.

[0203] (10) A power supply unit for the aerosol generating device according to any one of (7) to (9), a controller (MCU 50) capable of controlling the supply of power from the power source to the first connector, the second connector, and the third connector; The controller: Controlling the power supplied to the third connector so that it is smaller than the power supplied to the first connector; Controlling the power supplied to the third connector so as to be smaller than the power supplied to the second connector. Power supply unit for the aerosol generator.

[0204] According to (10), since the power supplied to the third connector can be limited more than the power supplied to the other connectors, it is possible to supply appropriate power to the third load with a simple configuration, thereby realizing high functionality of the aerosol generating device while suppressing increases in the manufacturing costs of the power supply unit and enlargement of the electrical circuit. [Explanation of symbols]

[0205] 1. Aerosol aspirator (aerosol generating device) 10 Power supply unit 12 Power supply 21 Load (Heater, 2nd Load) 41a Positive discharge terminal (second connector) 47 Vibrator (1st load) 47a Positive terminal (first connector) 70 LEDs (3rd load) 70a Connector (3rd Connector) CD9 capacitor (first capacitor) CD10 capacitor (second capacitor) D Zener diode R8 resistor VR4 Barista

Claims

1. a power source capable of supplying power to a heater that heats the aerosol source; a case that houses the power supply; a first electronic component connected to the power supply, receiving power from the power supply, at least a portion of which is exposed from the case, and having an overvoltage protection element connected in parallel between the first electronic component and the power supply; a capacitor connected in parallel between the first electronic component and the power source and separate from the overvoltage protection element; a second electronic component connected to the power source, receiving power from the power source, not exposed from the case, and not connected to an overvoltage protection element between the second electronic component and the power source; An aerosol generating device comprising:

2. The aerosol generating device according to claim 1 , a voltage converter capable of converting the voltage of the power supplied from the power source; the overvoltage protection element and the capacitor are connected in parallel between the voltage converter and the first electronic component, Aerosol generating device.

3. The aerosol generating device according to claim 2, a connection contact between the capacitor and the first electronic component is provided closer to the voltage converter than a connection contact between the overvoltage protection element and the first electronic component; Aerosol generating device.

4. The aerosol generating device according to claim 3, The overvoltage protection element is a Zener diode or a varistor. Aerosol generating device.

5. The aerosol generating device according to any one of claims 1 to 4, The second electronic component is non-removably connected. Aerosol generating device.

6. The aerosol generating device according to any one of claims 1 to 5, a voltage converter capable of converting the voltage of the power supplied from the power source is not connected between the power source and the second electronic component; Aerosol generating device.

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