Power supply unit for aerosol inhaler, aerosol inhaler, method for controlling power supply for aerosol inhaler and program for controlling power supply for aerosol inhaler

Abstract

To provide a power supply unit for an aerosol inhaler that can suppress deterioration in performance of a power supply, and to provide a method for controlling a power supply for an aerosol inhaler and a program for controlling a power supply for an aerosol inhaler.SOLUTION: An aerosol inhaler 1 includes: a power supply 12 capable of electrically discharging to a load 21 for generating aerosol from an aerosol generation source; and an MCU 50 for controlling the power supply 12 to perform at least one of electrically charging or discharging so as not to bring the power supply 12 into one or both of a full-charge state and an electrical discharge completion state.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 6

Description

[Technical field]

[0001] The present invention relates to a power supply unit for an aerosol inhalator, an aerosol inhalator, a power supply control method for an aerosol inhalator, and a power supply control program for an aerosol inhalator. [Background technology]

[0002] An aerosol inhaler is known that includes an aerosol generation source, a load for generating an aerosol from the aerosol generation source, a power source capable of discharging to the load, and a control unit that controls the power source (see, for example, Patent Documents 1-3). [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0003] [Patent Document 1] JP 2018-093877 A [Patent Document 2] JP 2018-057384 A [Patent Document 3] JP 2018-019695 A Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0004] Since an aerosol inhaler is used frequently, its power source is frequently charged and discharged, so it is necessary to suppress the deterioration of the power source performance as much as possible.

[0005] An object of the present invention is to provide a power supply unit for an aerosol inhalator that can suppress deterioration of power supply performance, a power supply control method for an aerosol inhalator, and a power supply control program for an aerosol inhalator. [Means for solving the problem]

[0006] The power supply unit for an aerosol inhalator of the present invention is a power supply unit for an aerosol inhalator, comprising: a power supply capable of discharging to a load for generating an aerosol from an aerosol generating source; and a control unit that controls at least one of charging and discharging of the power supply so that the power supply does not enter one or both of a fully charged state and a discharge end state, The dischargeable power amount is the amount obtained by subtracting the amount of stored power of the power source that is not allowed to be discharged from the amount of stored power of the power source when charging of the power source is completed, The control unit controls at least one of the charging and discharging of the power source so that the dischargeable amount of electricity in a first state in which charging of the power source is completed and a numerical indicator indicating the degradation state of the power source is above a threshold value or a numerical indicator indicating the healthy state of the power source is below a threshold value, is equal to or greater than the amount of electricity required to be supplied to the load to empty the remaining amount of the unused aerosol generation source.

[0007] The aerosol inhaler of the present invention is equipped with the power supply unit, and the aerosol generation source includes a first unit containing a medium to be atomized by the load, and a second unit containing a flavor source that imparts flavor to the atomized medium, and the dischargeable power amount is the remainder obtained by subtracting the stored power amount of the power supply that does not allow discharging from the stored power amount of the power supply when the power supply is fully charged, and the control unit controls at least one of the charging and discharging of the power supply so that the dischargeable power amount is equal to or greater than the amount of power required to be supplied to the load to empty the remaining amount of a predetermined number of the first units or the second units, and further includes the first unit and the second unit, which, when discharged to the load when not in use, becomes empty more quickly than the unused first unit.

[0008] The power supply control method for an aerosol inhalator of the present invention is a power supply control method for an aerosol inhalator having a power supply capable of discharging to a load for generating an aerosol from an aerosol generation source, comprising: The method includes a control step of controlling at least one of charging and discharging of the power source so that the power source does not enter one or both of a fully charged state and a discharge end state, and a control step of controlling at least one of charging and discharging of the power source so that the dischargeable amount of power is the remainder obtained by subtracting the amount of stored power of the power source that does not allow discharging from the amount of stored power of the power source when the charging of the power source is complete, and the dischargeable amount of power in a first state in which the charging of the power source is complete and a numerical indicator indicating the degradation state of the power source is equal to or greater than a threshold value or a numerical indicator indicating the healthy state of the power source is less than a threshold value, is equal to or greater than the amount of power required to be supplied to the load to empty the remaining amount of the unused aerosol generation source.

[0009] The power supply control program for an aerosol inhalator of the present invention is a power supply control program for an aerosol inhalator having a power supply capable of discharging to a load for generating an aerosol from an aerosol generating source, a control step of controlling at least one of charging and discharging of the power source so that the power source does not enter one or both of a fully charged state and a discharge end state; The dischargeable power amount is the amount obtained by subtracting the amount of stored power of the power source that does not allow discharging from the amount of stored power of the power source when charging of the power source is completed, The method is to have the computer execute a control step of controlling at least one of the charging and discharging of the power source so that the dischargeable amount of power in a first state in which charging of the power source is completed and a numerical indicator indicating the degradation state of the power source is above a threshold value or a numerical indicator indicating the healthy state of the power source is below a threshold value is equal to or greater than the amount of power required to be supplied to the load to empty the remaining amount of the unused aerosol generation source. Effect of the Invention

[0010] According to the present invention, it is possible to suppress deterioration of the performance of the power supply. [Brief description of the drawings]

[0011] [Figure 1]FIG. 1 is a perspective view of an aerosol inhaler equipped with a power supply unit according to one embodiment of the present invention. [Diagram 2] FIG. 2 is another 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 perspective view of a power supply unit in the aerosol inhalator of FIG. 1. [Diagram 5] 2 is a block diagram showing the configuration of a main part of a power supply unit in the aerosol inhalator of FIG. 1. [Figure 6] FIG. 2 is a schematic diagram showing the circuit configuration of a power supply unit in the aerosol inhalator of FIG. [Figure 7] 7 is a diagram showing an example of the relationship between the full charge capacity of the power source in FIG. 6 when the power source is new and the amount of stored electricity when the power source is fully charged. [Figure 8] 7 is a diagram showing an example of the relationship between the full charge capacity of the power source and the amount of stored electricity when charging of the power source is completed in a case where the deterioration of the power source in FIG. 6 has progressed. FIG. [Figure 9] 7 is a diagram showing an example of the relationship between the full charge capacity of the power source and the amount of stored electricity when charging of the power source is completed in a case where the deterioration of the power source in FIG. 6 has progressed further. FIG. [Figure 10] 7 is a diagram showing an example of the relationship between the full charge capacity of the power supply in FIG. 6 when the power supply is new and the amount of stored electricity when the power supply cannot be discharged. [Figure 11] 7 is a diagram showing an example of the relationship between the full charge capacity of the power source and the amount of stored electricity when the power source cannot discharge when the deterioration of the power source in FIG. 6 has progressed. [Figure 12] 7 is a diagram showing an example of the relationship between the full charge capacity of the power source and the amount of stored electricity when the power source cannot discharge when the deterioration of the power source in FIG. 6 has progressed further. FIG. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0012] Hereinafter, a power supply unit for an aerosol inhalator according to one embodiment of the present invention will be described. First, an aerosol inhalator equipped with the power supply unit will be described with reference to FIGS. 1 and 2. FIG.

[0013] (Aerosol inhaler) The aerosol inhaler 1 is a device for inhaling flavored aerosol without combustion, and has a rod shape extending along a predetermined direction (hereinafter referred to as the longitudinal direction A). The aerosol inhaler 1 includes a power supply unit 10, a first cartridge 20, and a second cartridge 30, which are provided in this order along the longitudinal direction A. The first cartridge 20 is detachable from the power supply unit 10. The second cartridge 30 is detachable from the first cartridge 20. In other words, the first cartridge 20 and the second cartridge 30 are each replaceable.

[0014] (Power supply unit) 3, 4, and 6, the power supply unit 10 of this embodiment accommodates a power supply 12, a charging IC 55, an MCU 50, a switch 19, a voltage sensor 16, various sensors, etc. inside a cylindrical power supply unit case 11. The power supply 12 is a rechargeable secondary battery, an electric double layer capacitor, etc., and is preferably a lithium ion battery.

[0015] A discharge terminal 41 is provided on the top portion 11a located on one end side (first cartridge 20 side) in the longitudinal direction A of the power supply unit case 11. The discharge terminal 41 is provided so as to protrude from the upper surface of the top portion 11a toward the first cartridge 20, and is configured to be electrically connectable to the load 21 of the first cartridge 20.

[0016] Further, an air supply section 42 for supplying air to the load 21 of the first cartridge 20 is provided on the upper surface of the top section 11a, in the vicinity of the discharge terminal 41.

[0017] A charging terminal 43 capable of being electrically connected to an external power source 60 (see FIG. 6) capable of charging the power source 12 is provided on the bottom portion 11b located on the other end side in the longitudinal direction A of the power source unit case 11 (the side opposite to the first cartridge 20). The charging terminal 43 is provided on a side surface of the bottom portion 11b, and can be connected to at least one of a USB terminal, a microUSB terminal, and a Lightning terminal, for example.

[0018] The charging terminal 43 may be a power receiving unit capable of contactlessly receiving power transmitted from the external power source 60. In such a case, the charging terminal 43 (power receiving unit) may be composed of a power receiving coil. The method of contactless power transmission (Wireless Power Transfer) may be an electromagnetic induction type or a magnetic resonance type. The charging terminal 43 may also be a power receiving unit capable of contactlessly receiving power transmitted from the external power source 60. As another example, the charging terminal 43 may be connectable to at least one of a USB terminal, a microUSB terminal, and a Lightning terminal, and may have the above-mentioned power receiving unit.

[0019] The power supply unit case 11 has an operation unit 14 that can be operated by the user, which is provided on a side surface of the top portion 11a so as to face the opposite side to the charging terminal 43. More specifically, the operation unit 14 and the charging terminal 43 are in a point-symmetric relationship with respect to the intersection of a straight line connecting the operation unit 14 and the charging terminal 43 and the center line of the power supply unit 10 in the longitudinal direction A. The operation unit 14 is composed of a button-type switch, a touch panel, etc. An inhalation sensor 15 that detects a puffing operation is provided near the operation unit 14.

[0020] The charging IC 55 is disposed close to the charging terminal 43 and controls charging of the power input from the charging terminal 43 to the power source 12. The charging IC 55 includes a converter that converts the DC from an inverter 61 or the like mounted on a charging cable connected to the charging terminal 43 to a DC current with different parameters, a charging voltage V CHG A voltmeter to measure the charging current I supplied from this converter to the power supply 12. CHGThe term "processor" as used herein refers to, more specifically, an electric circuit that combines circuit elements such as semiconductor elements.

[0021] The charging IC55 controls the charging current I CHG Constant current charging (CC charging) is a method of charging the power source 12 by controlling the charging voltage V CHG The charging IC 55 selectively controls the power supply voltage V Batt When the power supply voltage V is less than a predetermined CV switching voltage, the power supply 12 is charged by CC charging, and the power supply voltage V Batt When the voltage is equal to or higher than the CV switching voltage, the power source 12 is charged by CV charging.

[0022] As shown in FIG. 5, the MCU 50 is connected to an inhalation sensor 15 for detecting a puff (inhalation) action, a power supply voltage V Batt The MCU 50 is connected to various sensor devices such as a voltage sensor 16 for measuring the temperature of the power source 12, a temperature sensor 17 for measuring the temperature of the power source 12, an operation unit 14, a notification unit 45 described later, and a memory 18 for storing the number of puffing operations or the time of current supply to the load 21, and performs various controls of the aerosol inhaler 1. Specifically, the MCU 50 is a processor.

[0023] In addition, an air inlet (not shown) for taking in outside air is provided in power supply unit case 11. The air inlet may be provided around operation unit 14 or around charging terminal 43.

[0024] (1st cartridge) As shown in FIG. 3, the first cartridge 20 includes, inside a cylindrical cartridge case 27, a reservoir 23 that stores an aerosol source 22, an electrical load 21 that atomizes the aerosol source 22, a wick 24 that draws the aerosol source from the reservoir 23 to the load 21, an aerosol flow path 25 through which the aerosol generated by atomization of the aerosol source 22 flows toward the second cartridge 30, and an end cap 26 that accommodates a portion of the second cartridge 30.

[0025] 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. Aerosol source 22 contains a liquid such as glycerin, propylene glycol, or water.

[0026] The wick 24 is a liquid retention member that draws the aerosol source 22 from the reservoir 23 into the load 21 by utilizing capillary action, and is made of, for example, glass fiber or porous ceramic.

[0027] Load 21 atomizes aerosol source 22 without combustion by power supplied from power source 12 via discharge terminal 41. Load 21 is composed of an electric heating wire (coil) wound at a predetermined pitch. Note that load 21 may be any element capable of atomizing aerosol source 22 to generate aerosol, and is, for example, a heating element or an ultrasonic generator. Examples of heating elements include a heating resistor, a ceramic heater, and an induction heating heater.

[0028] The aerosol flow path 25 is provided downstream of the load 21 and on the center line L of the power supply unit 10.

[0029] The end cap 26 includes a cartridge accommodating portion 26a that accommodates a portion of the second cartridge 30, and a communication passage 26b that connects the aerosol flow path 25 with the cartridge accommodating portion 26a.

[0030] (2nd cartridge) The second cartridge 30 stores a flavor source 31. The end of the second cartridge 30 on the first cartridge 20 side is removably housed in a cartridge housing section 26a provided in the end cap 26 of the first cartridge 20. The end of the second cartridge 30 opposite to the first cartridge 20 side is a mouthpiece 32 for the user. The mouthpiece 32 is not limited to being integrally and inseparably formed with the second cartridge 30, but may be configured to be removably attached to the second cartridge 30. By configuring the mouthpiece 32 separately from the power supply unit 10 and the first cartridge 20 in this way, the mouthpiece 32 can be kept hygienic.

[0031] 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.

[0032] In the aerosol inhaler 1 of the present embodiment, aerosol to which flavor has been added can be generated 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 the aerosol.

[0033] The aerosol generating source in the aerosol inhalator 1 is a part that is replaceable by the user. This part is provided to the user as a set, for example, of one first cartridge 20 and one or more (for example, five) second cartridges 30.

[0034] 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.

[0035] In the case of an aerosol inhaler 1 including an aerosol generation source in which the aerosol source 22 and the flavor source 31 are integrally formed, for example, one or more (for example, 20) aerosol generation sources are provided to a user as one set.

[0036] In the case of the aerosol inhalator 1 including only the aerosol source 22 as the aerosol generation source, for example, one or a plurality of (for example, 20) aerosol generation sources are provided to the user as one set.

[0037] In the aerosol inhaler 1 configured in this manner, as shown by arrow B in Fig. 3, air flowing in from an inlet (not shown) provided in the power supply unit case 11 passes through the air supply section 42 and near the load 21 of the first cartridge 20. 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 inlet, and is supplied to the second cartridge 30 via the communication passage 26b. The aerosol supplied to the second cartridge 30 is flavored by passing through the flavor source 31, and is supplied to the mouthpiece 32.

[0038] 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 configured with a light-emitting element, a vibration element, or a sound output element. The notification unit 45 may be a combination of two or more elements selected from a light-emitting element, a vibration element, and a 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. For example, the periphery of the operation unit 14 is configured to be translucent and emit light using a light-emitting element such as an LED.

[0039] (Electrical Circuit) Next, the electrical circuitry of the power supply unit 10 will be described in detail with reference to FIG. The power supply unit 10 includes a power supply 12, a positive side discharge terminal 41a and a negative side discharge terminal 41b constituting a discharge terminal 41, a positive side charging terminal 43a and a negative side charging terminal 43b constituting a charging terminal 43, an MCU (Micro Controller Unit) 50 connected between the positive side of the power supply 12 and the positive side discharge terminal 41a and between the negative side of the power supply 12 and the negative side discharge terminal 41b, a charging IC 55 arranged on the power transmission path between the charging terminal 43 and the power supply 12, and a switch 19 arranged on the power transmission path between the power supply 12 and the discharge terminal 41.

[0040] The switch 19 is formed of a semiconductor element such as a MOSFET, and is opened and closed under control of the MCU 50. The MCU 50 has a function of detecting a connection of an external power source 60 to the charging terminals 43 based on a voltage fluctuation between the charging terminals 43.

[0041] 6, the switch 19 is provided between the positive side of the power supply 12 and the positive discharge terminal 41a. Instead of such a so-called positive control, the switch 19 may be a negative control provided between the negative discharge terminal 41b and the negative side of the power supply 12.

[0042] (MCU) Next, the configuration of the MCU 50 will be described in more detail. As shown in FIG. 5, the MCU 50 includes, as functional blocks realized by executing a program, an aerosol generation request detection unit 51, an operation detection unit 52, a power control unit 53, and a notification control unit .

[0043] 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) corresponding to the internal pressure that changes according to the flow rate of air inhaled from an intake port (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.

[0044] The operation detection unit 52 detects an operation of the operation unit 14 by the user.

[0045] 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 number of puffing actions or the accumulated current application time to the load 21 stored in the memory 18. 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.

[0046] 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 determines that the second cartridge 30 has been used (i.e., the remaining amount is zero or the cartridge is empty) and notifies the user that it is time to replace the second cartridge 30.

[0047] In addition, when the notification control unit 54 determines that all of the second cartridges 30 included in the set have been used, it may determine that one of the first cartridges 20 included in the set has been used (i.e., the remaining amount is zero or the cartridge is empty), and notify the user that it is time to replace the first cartridge 20.

[0048] In addition, the notification control unit 54 calculates SOC (State Of Charge), which indicates the ratio (in %) of the amount of electricity (storage amount) stored in the power source 12 to the capacity (full charge capacity) of the power source 12, as a numerical index indicating the charging state of the power source 12, and causes the notification unit 45 to report the calculated SOC.

[0049] The notification control unit 54 judges whether the SOC belongs to a first range of 0% or more and less than 33%, a second range of 33% or more and less than 66%, or a third range of 66% or more and less than 100%. The notification control unit 54 performs control such as changing the light emission color of the light emitting element included in the notification unit 45 to light up or blink, changing the light emission pattern of the light emitting element included in the notification unit 45 to light up or blink, changing the number of light emitting elements to light up or blink among the multiple light emitting elements included in the notification unit 45, changing the output sound of the sound output element of the notification unit 45, and changing the vibration pattern of the vibration element of the notification unit 45, depending on whether the SOC is in the first range, the second range, or the third range. This allows the user of the aerosol inhaler 1 to intuitively know the magnitude of the SOC of the power source 12 by sound, color, or vibration, rather than by characters or images displayed on a display or the like.

[0050] If the notification control unit 54 notifies the user of the SOC in this manner, even if the charging stop control described below is performed, the sense of discomfort felt by the user can be effectively reduced compared to when the SOC value is directly displayed.

[0051] When the aerosol generation request detection unit 51 detects a request for aerosol generation, the power control unit 53 controls the discharge of the power source 12 via the discharge terminal 41 by turning the switch 19 on and off.

[0052] The power control unit 53 controls the amount of aerosol generated by atomizing the aerosol source by the load 21 to fall within a desired range, in other words, the amount of power supplied from the power source 12 to the load 21 to fall within a certain range. Specifically, the power control unit 53 controls the ON / OFF of the switch 19 by, for example, PWM (Pulse Width Modulation) control. Alternatively, the power control unit 53 may control the ON / OFF of the switch 19 by PFM (Pulse Frequency Modulation) control.

[0053] When a predetermined period of time has elapsed since the start of power supply to the load 21, the power control unit 53 stops the power supply from the power source 12 to the load 21. In other words, even if the user is in a puffing period actually performing a puffing action, when the puffing period exceeds the predetermined period, the power control unit 53 stops the power supply from the power source 12 to the load 21. The predetermined period is determined to suppress variation in the puffing period of users.

[0054] Under the control of the power control unit 53, the current flowing through the load 21 in one puff operation is an approximately constant value determined by the approximately constant effective voltage supplied to the load 21 by PWM control and the resistance value of the discharge terminal 41 and the load 21. In the aerosol inhalator 1 of this embodiment, when a user uses one unused second cartridge 30 to inhale aerosol, the accumulated current supply time to the load 21 is controlled to be a maximum of, for example, 120 seconds. Therefore, when one first cartridge 20 and five second cartridges 30 are set as one set, the maximum amount of power required to empty (use) this one set can be obtained in advance.

[0055] Furthermore, the power control unit 53 detects an electrical connection between the charging terminal 43 and the external power source 60. Then, while the power source 12 is being charged by the charging IC 55, the power control unit 53 also performs control to stop charging the power source 12 when the SOC of the power source 12 becomes a value lower than 100% (for example, an arbitrary value lower than 95% or 90%) so that the power source 12 does not become fully charged. This control keeps the power source 12 in a state where it is less likely to deteriorate.

[0056] When a lithium ion secondary battery or the like is used as the power source 12, the SOC value when the power source 12 is left unused affects the degradation of the power source 12. The effect of this degradation becomes greater as the SOC approaches 100% or 0%. On the other hand, the effect of this degradation is minimized when the SOC is in the range of about 30% to 70%. Therefore, if the SOC of the power source 12 is maintained at a value lower than 100%, the power source 12 can be maintained in a state in which it is less susceptible to degradation.

[0057] The power control unit 53 performs charging stop control of the power source 12 so that the power source 12 stores an amount of power equal to or greater than the amount of power required to supply to the load 21 to empty one or more unused sets (hereinafter, two sets) of aerosol generation sources provided to the user. This makes it possible to consume one or two sets of aerosol generation sources to the end even if the charging of the power source 12 is completed before the full charge state. In other words, it is possible to achieve both suppression of deterioration of the power source 12 and improvement of user convenience.

[0058] In the following, the amount of power that needs to be supplied to the load 21 to empty one unused set of aerosol generation sources is referred to as the required amount of power for one set, and the amount of power that needs to be supplied to the load 21 to empty two unused sets of aerosol generation sources is referred to as the required amount of power for two sets.

[0059] (Power supply charging stop control) In this control, during discharge control in which the power source 12 is discharged to the load 21, the MCU 50 stops discharging when the SOC of the power source 12 becomes 0% (in other words, discharging is disabled), and notifies the notification unit 45 of the timing to charge the power source 12. Meanwhile, the MCU 50 predetermines an arbitrary range (e.g., 90% to 95%) on the upper end side of the range of SOC in which the power source 12 is unlikely to deteriorate, and while the power source 12 is being charged by the charging IC 55, if the SOC of the power source 12 reaches a specific value within this range, the MCU 50 controls the charging IC 55 to complete the charging of the power source 12. Hereinafter, the SOC of the power source 12 when the MCU 50 completes the charging of the power source 12 is referred to as the charging stop SOC.

[0060] The power source 12 has a large capacity so that the amount of stored power at the minimum value (=90%) of SOC in the above-mentioned arbitrary range is equal to or greater than the amount of power required for two sets. As a result, when the power source 12 is in a state where degradation of the power source 12 is small, even if control is performed to stop charging the power source 12 at an SOC of 90%, it is possible to discharge the power source 12 to empty two sets of aerosol generating sources. Therefore, even if the power source 12 is not charged to a fully charged state (SOC=100%), the user's convenience is not impaired.

[0061] 7, 8, and 9 are diagrams showing examples of the relationship between the full charge capacity of the power source 12 and the amount of stored electricity when charging of the power source 12 is completed, when the health states of the power source 12 are different.

[0062] In the following, the numerical index indicating the state of health of the power source 12 will be described as SOH (State Of Health). SOH is a numerical value, expressed in percentage, obtained by dividing the full charge capacity of the power source 12 when it is deteriorated by the full charge capacity of the power source 12 when it is new, and multiplying the result by 100. In other words, when SOH is the numerical index indicating the state of health of the power source 12, the higher the SOH, the closer the power source 12 is to being new, and the lower the SOH, the more deteriorated the power source 12 is. SOH can be measured or estimated by various methods.

[0063] The SOH can also be defined as a numerical value obtained by dividing the internal resistance value of the power supply 12 when it is deteriorated by the internal resistance value of the power supply 12 when it is new, and multiplying the result by 100. In this case, the SOH is a numerical index indicating the deteriorated state of the power supply 12. When the SOH is a numerical index indicating the deteriorated state of the power supply 12, the higher the SOH, the more deteriorated the power supply 12 is, and the lower the SOH, the closer the power supply 12 is to being new.

[0064] The following describes an example in which the SOH is a numerical index indicating the health state of the power source 12. Those skilled in the art will understand that the relationship between the full charge capacity of the power source 12 and the amount of stored power when charging of the power source 12 is completed can be defined in a similar manner even in the case in which the SOH is a numerical index indicating the degradation state of the power source 12.

[0065] 7 shows an example of the full charge capacity and the amount of stored power when the power source 12 is brand new and the SOH is 100%. As described above, when the SOH is 100%, 90% of the full charge capacity of the power source 12 is equal to or greater than the required amount of power for two sets. Therefore, in this state, the MCU 50 sets the charging stop SOC to 90%, which is the lower limit at which degradation of the power source 12 is suppressed, and completes charging when the SOC of the power source 12 reaches 90%.

[0066] FIG. 8 shows a state where the SOH is equal to or lower than a threshold value TH1 that is lower than 100%. That is, FIG. 8 shows a state where the deterioration of the power source 12 is more advanced than in the example of FIG. 7. In the example of FIG. 8, 90% of the full charge capacity of the power source 12 is less than the amount of power required for two sets. In this state, the MCU 50 may set the charging stop SOC to, for example, 93% that is higher than 90% so that the amount of stored power in the power source 12 at the time of completion of charging can secure the amount of power required for two sets, and complete charging when the SOC of the power source 12 reaches 93%. As a result, even if the SOH has decreased somewhat, at the time of completion of charging, sufficient power to empty two sets of aerosol generation sources is secured.

[0067] FIG. 9 shows a state where the SOH is equal to or lower than a threshold value TH2 lower than the threshold value TH1. That is, FIG. 9 shows a state where the deterioration of the power source 12 is more advanced than in the example of FIG. 8. In the example of FIG. 9, the full charge capacity of the power source 12 is equal to or lower than the amount of power required for two sets. In this state, the MCU 50 sets the charge stop SOC to any value between 90% and 95% so that the amount of stored power in the power source 12 at the time of completion of charging can secure the amount of power required for one set, and completes charging when the SOC of the power source 12 reaches this value. As a result, even if the SOH has significantly decreased, at the time of completion of charging, sufficient power to empty one set of the aerosol generation source is secured.

[0068] The MCU 50 may detect the deterioration of the power source 12 when the SOH becomes equal to or less than the threshold value TH2, and may notify the deterioration of the power source 12 by the notification unit 45. Alternatively, the MCU 50 may start the above-mentioned charging stop control of the power source 12 when the SOH becomes equal to or less than the threshold value TH2. This makes it possible to suppress further deterioration of the deteriorated power source 12. Furthermore, until deterioration of the power source 12 is detected or charging stop control of the power source 12 is started, the power source 12 has enough power to empty one set of aerosol generation sources. This further improves user convenience.

[0069] The charging stop control performed by the MCU 50 will be specifically described below.

[0070] First, the MCU 50 measures or estimates the SOH, and estimates the full charge capacity of the power source 12 from the SOH. The internal resistance of the power source 12, an integrated value of the charged and discharged power, or the like may be used to measure or estimate the SOH. Specifically, the current full charge capacity is estimated by multiplying the known full charge capacity of the power source 12 when it was new by the SOH.

[0071] When the value obtained by multiplying the estimated full charge capacity by the lower limit value (90%) of the charging stop SOC is equal to or greater than the amount of power required for two sets (as in the case of FIG. 7), the MCU 50 sets the charging stop SOC to 90% of the lower limit value. This makes it possible to effectively suppress deterioration of the power source 12 when deterioration of the power source 12 is low, while ensuring the power required to consume two sets with one charging.

[0072] When the value obtained by multiplying the estimated full charge capacity by the lower limit value (90%) of the charge stop SOC is less than the amount of power required for two sets, and the value obtained by multiplying the estimated full charge capacity by the upper limit value (95%) of the charge stop SOC is equal to or greater than the amount of power required for two sets (the case of FIG. 8), the MCU 50 sets the charge stop SOC to an SOC (a value higher than 90%) that can make the amount of stored power in the power source 12 the amount of power required for two sets when charging is complete. Even in this case, the battery is not fully charged, so it is possible to secure power to consume two sets while suppressing deterioration.

[0073] When the estimated full charge capacity multiplied by the lower limit (90%) and upper limit (95%) of the charge stop SOC is less than the amount of power required for two sets, the MCU 50 determines the charge stop SOC between 90% and 95% so that the amount of stored power when charging is stopped is equal to or greater than the amount of power required for one set. This makes it possible to secure the power required to consume one set while suppressing deterioration of the power source 12.

[0074] When the value obtained by multiplying the estimated full charge capacity by the upper limit value (95%) of the charging stop SOC becomes less than the amount of power required for one set, the MCU 50 causes the notification unit 45 to notify the user that it is time to replace the power source 12.

[0075] If the dischargeable charge amount is defined as the charge amount of the power source 12 when charging is complete minus the charge amount of the power source 12 when discharge from the power source 12 is not possible (when the SOC is 0%), then the above control by the MCU 50 can make this dischargeable charge amount equal to or greater than the required power amount for one or two sets. Therefore, whether the power source 12 is new or deteriorated, it is possible to consume at least one set of aerosol generating sources, improving convenience. Furthermore, since the power source 12 is never in a fully charged state, deterioration can be suppressed.

[0076] In the above embodiment, the MCU 50 determines the charging stop SOC based on the required power amount for two sets. Alternatively, the MCU 50 may determine the charging stop SOC based on the required power amount for one set. In this case, the charging stop SOC is set to the lower limit (90%) in both degraded (healthy) states.

[0077] It should be noted that the lower limit (90%) and upper limit (95%) of the charging stop SOC described in the above embodiment are merely examples. These values ​​differ depending on the power source 12 used, so it is preferable to determine them by experiments for each power source 12.

[0078] (First modified example of power supply charging stop control) In this control, when charging the power source 12, the MCU 50 completes the charging when the SOC of the power source 12 reaches 100%. Meanwhile, the MCU 50 predetermines an arbitrary range (e.g., 10% to 5%) on the lower limit side of the range of SOC in which the power source 12 is unlikely to deteriorate, and when the SOC of the power source 12 reaches a specific value within this range during discharging from the power source 12 to the load 21, the MCU 50 stops further discharging from the power source 12 to the load 21 (in other words, discharging is disabled), and notifies the timing of charging the power source 12 via the notification unit 45. Hereinafter, the SOC of the power source 12 when the MCU 50 disables discharging the power source 12 is referred to as a discharge-disabled SOC.

[0079] The power source 12 has a large capacity so that the capacity obtained by subtracting the maximum SOC (=10%) in the above-mentioned range from the full charge capacity is equal to or more than the required power for two sets (in other words, 90% of the full charge capacity of the power source 12 is equal to or more than the required power for two sets). As a result, when the power source 12 is in a state where it is not deteriorated much, even if control is performed to disable discharge of the power source 12 at SOC 10%, it is possible to discharge the power source 12 to empty the two sets of aerosol generation sources.

[0080] 10, 11, and 12 are diagrams showing an example of the relationship between the full charge capacity of the power source 12 and the amount of stored electricity when the power source 12 cannot discharge, when the power source 12 is in a different health state.

[0081] 10 shows an example of the full charge capacity and the amount of stored electricity when discharge is not possible when the SOH is 100%, i.e., when the power source 12 is brand new. As described above, when the SOH is 100%, 90% of the full charge capacity of the power source 12 is equal to or more than the required amount of electricity for two sets. Therefore, in this state, the MCU 50 sets the discharge-not possible SOC to 10%, the upper limit value at which deterioration of the power source 12 is minimized, and disables discharge when the SOC of the power source 12 reaches 10%.

[0082] FIG. 11 shows a state where the SOH is equal to or lower than a threshold value TH1 that is lower than 100%. That is, FIG. 11 shows a state where the deterioration of the power source 12 is more advanced than the example of FIG. 10. In the example of FIG. 11, 90% of the full charge capacity of the power source 12 is less than the required power amount for two sets. In this state, the non-dischargeable SOC is set to, for example, 7% that is smaller than 10% so that the difference between the full charge capacity and the amount of electricity stored in the power source 12 at the time when the discharge is stopped is the required power amount for two sets, and when the SOC of the power source 12 reaches 7%, the discharge of the power source 12 is disabled. As a result, even if the SOH is somewhat lowered, when the charging is completed, the power sufficient to empty two sets of aerosol generation sources is secured.

[0083] FIG. 12 shows a state where the SOH is equal to or lower than a threshold value TH2 lower than the threshold value TH1. That is, FIG. 12 shows a state where the deterioration of the power source 12 is more advanced than the example of FIG. 11. In the example of FIG. 12, the full charge capacity of the power source 12 is equal to or lower than the amount of power required for two sets. In this state, the MCU 50 sets the discharge-disabled SOC to any value between 10% and 5% so that the difference between the full charge capacity and the amount of electricity stored in the power source 12 at the time when the discharge is stopped is equal to or higher than the amount of power required for one set, and disables discharge when the SOC of the power source 12 reaches this value. As a result, even if the SOH is significantly reduced, sufficient power to empty one set of the aerosol generation source is secured at the time of completion of charging.

[0084] The MCU 50 may detect the deterioration of the power source 12 when the SOH becomes equal to or lower than the threshold value TH2, and may notify the deterioration of the power source 12 by the notification unit 45. Alternatively, the MCU 50 may start the above-mentioned discharge stop control of the power source 12 when the SOH becomes equal to or lower than the threshold value TH2. This makes it possible to suppress further deterioration of the deteriorated power source 12. Furthermore, until deterioration of the power source 12 is detected or until the discharge stop control of the power source 12 is started, the power source 12 has enough power to empty one set of aerosol generation sources. This further improves user convenience.

[0085] The discharge stop control performed by the MCU 50 will be specifically described below.

[0086] First, the MCU 50 measures or estimates the SOH, and estimates the full charge capacity of the power source 12 from the SOH. The internal resistance of the power source 12, an integrated value of the charged and discharged power, or the like may be used to measure or estimate the SOH. Specifically, the current full charge capacity is estimated by multiplying the known full charge capacity of the power source 12 when it was new by the SOH.

[0087] When the capacity obtained by subtracting the value obtained by multiplying the estimated full charge capacity by the upper limit (10%) of the non-dischargeable SOC from the full charge capacity estimated in this manner is equal to or greater than the amount of power required for two sets (the case in FIG. 10), the MCU 50 sets the non-dischargeable SOC to 10% of the upper limit. This makes it possible to effectively suppress deterioration of the power source 12 when deterioration of the power source 12 is low, while ensuring power to consume two sets with one charge.

[0088] When the capacity obtained by subtracting the estimated full charge capacity multiplied by the lower limit value (5%) of the non-dischargeable SOC from the estimated full charge capacity is equal to or greater than the required power for two sets, and the capacity obtained by subtracting the estimated full charge capacity multiplied by the upper limit value (10%) of the non-dischargeable SOC from the estimated full charge capacity is less than the required power for two sets (case in FIG. 11), the MCU 50 sets the non-dischargeable SOC to an SOC (a value lower than 10%) that allows the capacity obtained by subtracting the amount of electricity stored in the power source 12 when discharge is not possible from the full charge capacity to be the required power for two sets. Even in this case, the discharge is not terminated, so that power for consuming two sets can be secured while suppressing deterioration.

[0089] When the capacity obtained by subtracting the estimated full charge capacity multiplied by the lower limit of the non-dischargeable SOC (5%) from the estimated full charge capacity and the capacity obtained by subtracting the estimated full charge capacity multiplied by the upper limit of the non-dischargeable SOC (10%) from the estimated full charge capacity are each less than the required power for two sets (case in FIG. 12), the MCU 50 determines the non-dischargeable SOC between 10% and 5% so that the capacity obtained by subtracting the amount of stored power in the power source 12 when non-dischargeable from the full charge capacity can be the required power for one set. This makes it possible to secure the power for consuming one set while suppressing the deterioration of the power source 12.

[0090] When the capacity obtained by subtracting the estimated full charge capacity multiplied by the lower limit value (5%) of the non-dischargeable SOC from the estimated full charge capacity becomes less than the amount of power required for one set, the MCU 50 causes the notification unit 45 to notify the user that it is time to replace the power source 12.

[0091] If the dischargeable charge amount is defined as the charge amount of the power source 12 when charging is complete minus the charge amount of the power source 12 when discharging of the power source 12 is not possible, the dischargeable charge amount can be increased to the required power amount for one or two sets or more by the above-mentioned discharge stop control of the MCU 50. Therefore, whether the power source 12 is new or deteriorated, it is possible to consume at least one set of aerosol generation sources, thereby improving convenience. Furthermore, since the power source 12 never reaches the discharge end state, deterioration can be suppressed.

[0092] In the above embodiment, the MCU 50 determines the non-dischargeable SOC based on the required power amount for two sets. Alternatively, the MCU 50 may determine the non-dischargeable SOC based on the required power amount for one set. In this case, the non-dischargeable SOC is set to the upper limit (10%) in both degraded (healthy) states.

[0093] It should be noted that the lower limit (5%) and upper limit (10%) of the non-dischargeable SOC described in the above embodiment are merely examples. These values ​​differ depending on the power source 12 used, so it is preferable to determine them by experiments for each individual power source 12.

[0094] (Second modified example of power supply charging stop control) The MCU 50 may perform control such that, when charging the power source 12, charging is completed when the SOC of the power source 12 reaches a specific value within any range on the upper limit side of the above, and, when discharging the power source 12, discharging is disabled when the SOC of the power source 12 reaches a specific value within any range on the lower limit side of the above. In other words, the MCU 50 may control the charging and discharging of the power source 12 so that the power source 12 is neither in a fully charged state nor in a discharge end state.

[0095] If the dischargeable charge amount is defined as the charge amount of the power source 12 when charging is complete minus the charge amount of the power source 12 when discharging is not possible, the MCU 50 sets the charging stop SOC and the discharge non-available SOC so that the dischargeable charge amount is equal to or greater than the required power amount for one or two sets, thereby making it possible to consume at least one set of aerosol generating sources whether the power source 12 is new or in a deteriorated state, thereby improving convenience. In addition, the power source 12 is never in either a fully charged state or a discharge end state, so that deterioration can be further suppressed.

[0096] (Third modified example of power supply charging stop control) The charging stop control will be described in detail below when the aerosol generating source is provided to the user as a set of one first cartridge 20 and a plurality (e.g., five) second cartridges 30. In this case, when trying to empty one new (unused) first cartridge 20, it is necessary to empty five new (unused) second cartridges 30. The required amount of power may be set based on the amount of power required to consume one new (unused) first cartridge 20, or may be set based on the amount of power required to consume one new (unused) second cartridge 30.

[0097] When the required amount of power is set based on the amount of power required to consume one brand new (unused) first cartridge 20, the power source 12 has a sufficient amount of power to consume one set. This makes it possible to prevent the power source 12 from being charged too frequently while suppressing deterioration of the power source 12.

[0098] When the required amount of power is set based on the amount of power required to consume one brand new (unused) second cartridge 30, the size, weight, and cost of the power source 12 can be reduced.

[0099] In the above description, the MCU 50 controls at least one of the charge stop SOC and the discharge non-available SOC. However, the charge stop SOC control may be performed by the charging IC 55.

[0100] 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.

[0101] (1) A power source (power source 12) capable of discharging from an aerosol generating source (aerosol source 22 and flavor source 31) to a load (load 21) for generating an aerosol; A power supply unit (power supply unit 10) for an aerosol inhalator (aerosol inhalator 1) comprising: a control unit (MCU50) that controls at least one of charging and discharging of the power supply so that the power supply does not reach one or both of a fully charged state and a discharge end state.

[0102] According to (1), the power supply is controlled so that it does not enter either or both of a fully charged state and a discharge end state, so that deterioration of the power supply can be suppressed. In particular, by performing such control in a device that is frequently used and may be charged and discharged, such as an aerosol inhaler, deterioration of the power supply can be suppressed and the life of the device can be extended. In addition, an energy saving effect can be obtained.

[0103] (2) A power supply unit for the aerosol inhalator according to (1), The dischargeable power amount is the amount obtained by subtracting the amount of stored power of the power source that does not allow discharging from the amount of stored power of the power source when charging of the power source is completed, The control unit is a power supply unit for an aerosol inhaler that controls at least one of the charging and discharging of the power supply so that the dischargeable amount of power is equal to or greater than the amount of power required to supply to the load to empty the remaining amount of the unused aerosol generation source.

[0104] According to (2), when the charging of the power source is completed, the unused aerosol generating source can be consumed by the aerosol inhaler. This prevents a situation in which the aerosol generating source cannot generate aerosol even when the remaining charge is still remaining, and prevents frequent charging of the power source, thereby suppressing deterioration of the power source. In other words, it is possible to achieve both suppression of deterioration of the power source and improvement of user convenience.

[0105] (3) A power supply unit for the aerosol inhaler according to (2), The aerosol generating source includes a first unit (first cartridge 20) containing a medium to be atomized by the load, and a second unit (second cartridge 30) containing a flavor source that imparts flavor to the atomized medium; The control unit is a power supply unit for an aerosol inhaler that controls at least one of charging and discharging of the power supply so that the dischargeable amount of power is equal to or greater than the amount of power required to supply to the load to empty the remaining capacity of a predetermined number of the first units, which is one or more.

[0106] According to (3), when the charging of the power source is completed, a predetermined number of first units can be consumed by the aerosol inhaler. For example, when a single first unit can be used to operate multiple second units, a single charge can consume many second units. This prevents frequent charging of the power source and suppresses deterioration of the power source.

[0107] (4) A power supply unit for the aerosol inhaler according to (2), The aerosol generating source includes a first unit (first cartridge 20) containing a medium to be atomized by the load, and a second unit (second cartridge 30) containing a flavor source that imparts flavor to the atomized medium; The control unit is a power supply unit for an aerosol inhaler that controls at least one of the charging and discharging of the power supply so that the dischargeable amount of power is equal to or greater than the amount of power required to supply to the load to empty the remaining capacity of a predetermined number of the second units, which number is one or more.

[0108] According to (4), when the charging of the power source is completed, a predetermined number of second units can be consumed by the aerosol inhaler. For example, by configuring the dischargeable power amount of the power source to be equal to or greater than the amount of power required to empty a plurality of second units, it becomes possible to consume many second units with one charge. This makes it possible to prevent frequent charging of the power source and suppress deterioration of the power source. In addition, by configuring the power supply so that the dischargeable power amount is equal to or greater than the power amount required to empty, for example, one second unit, the capacity of the power supply can be reduced, and the aerosol inhalator can be made smaller, lighter, and less expensive. In addition, the power amount required to consume one second unit can be less than the power amount required to consume one first unit, so the capacity of the power supply can be reduced, and the aerosol inhalator can be made smaller, lighter, and less expensive.

[0109] A power supply unit for an aerosol inhaler according to (3) or (4); The first unit; and the second unit, when discharged to the load when not in use, becomes empty faster than the first unit, which is not in use.

[0110] (6) A power supply unit for the aerosol inhalator according to (1), The dischargeable power amount is the amount obtained by subtracting the amount of stored power of the power source that does not allow discharging from the amount of stored power of the power source when charging of the power source is completed, The control unit is a power supply unit for an aerosol inhaler that controls at least one of the charging and discharging of the power supply so that the dischargeable amount of power in a first state in which the charging of the power supply is completed and a numerical index (SOH) indicating the degradation state of the power supply is below a threshold value or a numerical index (SOH) indicating the healthy state of the power supply is above a threshold value, is equal to or greater than the amount of power required to supply to the load to empty the remaining amount of the unused aerosol generation source.

[0111] According to (5), when the power supply is not degraded, the dischargeable power amount is more than the amount of power required to supply to the load to empty the unused aerosol source, so that even when the power supply is degraded, it is possible to secure enough power to empty the unused aerosol source. In addition, by reducing the dischargeable power amount in the above state, the capacity of the power supply can be reduced, and the aerosol inhaler can be made smaller, lighter, and less expensive.

[0112] (7) A power supply unit for the aerosol inhalator according to (6), The first state is a state of the power supply unit when new.

[0113] (8) A power supply unit for an aerosol inhaler according to (1), (6), or (7), The dischargeable power amount is the amount obtained by subtracting the amount of stored power of the power source that does not allow discharging from the amount of stored power of the power source when charging of the power source is completed, The control unit is a power supply unit for an aerosol inhaler that controls at least one of the charging and discharging of the power supply so that the dischargeable amount of power in a second state in which the charging of the power supply is completed and a numerical indicator (SOH) indicating the degradation state of the power supply is above a threshold value or a numerical indicator indicating the healthy state of the power supply is below a threshold value, is equal to or greater than the amount of power required to supply to the load to empty the remaining amount of the unused aerosol generation source.

[0114] According to (8), even if the power supply deteriorates and the full charge capacity of the power supply decreases, the dischargeable power amount is more than the amount of power required to supply to the load to empty the unused aerosol generation source, so that the unused aerosol generation source can be consumed to the end. In addition, by reducing the dischargeable power amount in the above state, the capacity of the power supply can be reduced, and the aerosol inhaler can be made smaller, lighter, and less expensive.

[0115] (9) A power supply unit for the aerosol inhalator according to (8), The second state is a state in which the control unit detects deterioration of the power supply or suppresses charging and discharging of the power supply.

[0116] (10) A power supply unit for an aerosol inhaler according to any one of (1) to (9), The control unit is a power supply unit for an aerosol inhaler that charges the power supply so that the power supply is not at least fully charged.

[0117] According to (10), the time it takes to fully charge the power source can be shortened.

[0118] (11) A power supply unit for the aerosol inhaler according to (10), The control unit is a power supply unit for an aerosol inhaler that charges the power supply so that an upper limit value of SOC, which indicates the ratio of the power supply's stored capacity to the power supply's full charge capacity, is 95% or less.

[0119] According to (11), by increasing the capacity of the power supply so that it can supply to the load more power than is required to empty the aerosol source at an SOC of 95%, even if the power supply deteriorates and its capacity decreases, it is possible to secure power to consume the aerosol source, and the life of the aerosol aspirator can be extended.

[0120] (12) A power supply unit for the aerosol inhaler according to (11), The control unit is a power supply unit for an aerosol inhaler that charges the power supply so that an upper limit value of SOC, which indicates the ratio of the power supply's stored capacity to the power supply's full charge capacity, is 90% or less.

[0121] According to (12), by increasing the capacity of the power supply so that it can supply to the load more power than is required to empty the aerosol source when the SOC is 90%, even if the power supply deteriorates and its capacity decreases, it is possible to secure power to consume the aerosol source, and the life of the aerosol aspirator can be extended.

[0122] (13) A power supply control method for an aerosol inhaler having a power supply capable of discharging to a load for generating an aerosol from an aerosol generation source, comprising: A power supply control method comprising a control step of controlling at least one of charging and discharging of the power supply so that the power supply does not enter one or both of a fully charged state and a discharge end state.

[0123] (14) A power supply control program for an aerosol inhaler having a power supply capable of discharging to a load for generating an aerosol from an aerosol generating source, A power supply control program for causing a computer to execute a control step of controlling at least one of charging and discharging of the power supply so that the power supply does not enter one or both of a fully charged state and a discharge end state.

[0124] According to (13) and (14), the power supply is controlled so that it does not enter either or both of a fully charged state and a discharge end state, so that deterioration of the power supply can be suppressed. In particular, by performing such control in a device that is frequently used and may be charged and discharged, such as an aerosol inhaler, deterioration of the power supply can be suppressed and the life of the device can be extended. In addition, an energy saving effect can be obtained.

[0125] According to (1), (13) and (14), the power supply is controlled so that it does not enter either or both of a fully charged state and a discharge end state, so that deterioration of the power supply can be suppressed. In particular, by performing such control in a device that is frequently used and may be charged and discharged, such as an aerosol inhaler, deterioration of the power supply can be suppressed and the life of the device can be extended. Therefore, there is an energy saving effect that the power supply can be used for a long period of time without replacing it with a new one. [Explanation of symbols]

[0126] 1 Aerosol aspirator 10 Power supply unit 12 Power supply 20 First Cartridge 21 Load 22 Aerosol Sources 31 Flavor source 30 2nd Cartridge 50 MCU

Claims

[Claim 1] a power source capable of discharging to a load for generating an aerosol from an aerosol generating source; A power supply unit for an aerosol inhaler, comprising: a control unit that controls at least one of charging and discharging of the power supply so that the power supply does not enter one or both of a fully charged state and a discharge end state, The dischargeable power amount is the amount obtained by subtracting the amount of stored power of the power source that does not allow discharging from the amount of stored power of the power source when charging of the power source is completed, The control unit is a power supply unit for an aerosol inhaler that controls at least one of the charging and discharging of the power supply so that the dischargeable amount of power in a first state in which charging of the power supply is completed and a numerical indicator indicating the degradation state of the power supply is above a threshold value or a numerical indicator indicating the healthy state of the power supply is below a threshold value is equal to or greater than the amount of power required to supply to the load to empty the remaining amount of the unused aerosol generation source.

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