Circuit unit of aerosol generating device, aerosol generating device and program

Abstract

When a second control that does not involve the generation of an aerosol is performed prior to a first control that involves the generation of an aerosol, liquid depletion during inhalation is suppressed regardless of how the user uses the aerosol generating device. [Solution] A circuit unit of an aerosol generating device is provided with a control unit that controls the supply of power to a load that heats a liquid aerosol source. When a second control is performed to heat the load to a second temperature lower than the first temperature before a first control to heat the load to a first temperature at which aerosol is generated, and when the interval between aspirations of aerosol is shorter than the first period, the control unit controls at least one of the amount of power supplied to the load in the first control and the amount of power supplied to the load in the second control to be smaller than a reference value so as to prevent liquid drying up during aspiration of the aerosol.

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present invention relates to a circuit unit for an aerosol generation device, an aerosol generation device, and a program. [Background technology]

[0002] In an aerosol generator that generates aerosols by heating a liquid containing a fragrance or the like, electricity is turned on to the heater in response to the detection of a user's inhalation, and the liquid in a glass fiber called a wick is atomized (aerosolized). Here, the aerosol is generated when the temperature of the liquid in the wick reaches its boiling point. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0003] [Patent Document 1] US Patent Application Publication No. 2020 / 0329776 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0004] Recent aerosol generators are sometimes equipped with a function that allows the heater to be energized even when suction is not in progress, thereby preheating the liquid to the temperature required for suction. This function is called "preheating" to distinguish it from heating that generates aerosols (hereinafter referred to as "main heating"). Preheating does not heat the liquid to the temperature required for aerosol generation. When the preheating function is activated, the liquid temperature at the start of suction is higher than when preheating is not used, so the power supplied to the heater can be used efficiently to generate aerosol, making it possible to generate a high concentration aerosol from the start of suction. However, the supply of liquid to the wick depends on the capillary effect. Therefore, if the main heating time after preheating is long, the liquid cannot be supplied to the wick in time, and aerosol generation will stop even if the heater continues to be powered. This phenomenon is called liquid starvation. Therefore, when the preheating function is activated, a control is adopted to shorten the main heating time compared to when the preheating function is not activated, as a countermeasure against liquid drying up. However, even if the main heating time is shortened to prevent liquid drying up, if suction actions are repeated with shorter intervals between suctions (hereinafter also referred to as "puff intervals") compared to standard suction actions, the liquid temperature in the wick will not drop easily even after the main heating is stopped. As a result, if suction actions with short puff intervals are repeated, liquid drying up will occur.

[0005] According to one aspect of the present disclosure, a technology is provided that suppresses liquid drying up during inhalation regardless of how the user uses the aerosol generating device when a second control that does not involve the generation of aerosol is performed prior to a first control that involves the generation of aerosol. [Means for solving the problem]

[0006] According to one aspect of the present disclosure, there is provided a circuit unit of an aerosol generating device having a control unit that controls the supply of power to a load that heats a liquid aerosol source, wherein when a first control that heats the load to a first temperature at which an aerosol is generated is performed before a second control that heats the load to a second temperature lower than the first temperature, and when the interval between aspirations of aerosol is shorter than the first period, the control unit controls at least one of the amount of power supplied to the load in the first control and the amount of power supplied to the load in the second control to be less than a reference value so as to suppress the occurrence of liquid drying up during the aerosol aspiration. [Effects of the Invention]

[0007] According to one aspect of the present disclosure, a technology can be provided that suppresses liquid drying up during inhalation regardless of how the user uses the aerosol generating device when a second control that does not involve the generation of aerosol is performed prior to a first control that involves the generation of aerosol. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0008] [Figure 1]1 is a diagram illustrating an example of the external configuration of an aerosol generation device assumed in the first embodiment. FIG. [Figure 2] FIG. 1 is a diagram schematically illustrating the internal configuration of an aerosol generation device assumed in the first embodiment. [Figure 3] 1 is a diagram illustrating the preheating time and the main heating time, where (A) shows the arrangement of the preheating time and the main heating time, and (B) shows the temperature change of the aerosol source. [Figure 4] 10 is a flowchart illustrating an example of control of the main heating time by the control unit used in the first embodiment. [Figure 5] 10A and 10B are diagrams illustrating examples of main heating time settings depending on whether preheating is performed and the length of the puff interval. (A) shows an example of main heating time settings without preheating, and (B) shows an example of main heating time settings with preheating. [Figure 6] 1 is a diagram illustrating the relationship between puff intervals and main heating time settings in embodiment 1. (A) shows an example of suction timing, (B) shows an example of main heating time settings without preheating, and (C) shows an example of main heating time settings with preheating. [Figure 7] 10 is a flowchart illustrating an example of control of the main heating time by the control unit used in the second embodiment. [Figure 8] 10A and 10B are diagrams illustrating the relationship between puff intervals and main heating time settings in embodiment 2. (A) shows an example of suction timing, (B) shows an example of main heating time settings without preheating, and (C) shows an example of main heating time settings with preheating. [Figure 9] 11 is a flowchart illustrating an example of control of the main heating time by the control unit used in the third embodiment. [Figure 10] 10A and 10B are diagrams illustrating the relationship between puff intervals and main heating time settings in embodiment 3. (A) shows an example of suction timing, (B) shows an example of main heating time settings without preheating, and (C) shows an example of main heating time settings with preheating. [Figure 11] 13 is a flowchart illustrating an example of control of the main heating time by the control unit used in the fourth embodiment. [Figure 12] 10A and 10B are diagrams illustrating the relationship between puff intervals and main heating time settings in embodiment 4. (A) shows an example of suction timing, (B) shows an example of main heating time settings without preheating, and (C) shows an example of main heating time settings with preheating. [Figure 13] FIG. 10 is a diagram schematically illustrating the internal configuration of an aerosol generation device assumed in the fifth embodiment. [Figure 14] 13 is a flowchart illustrating an example of control of the main heating time by the control unit used in the fifth embodiment. [Figure 15] 10A and 10B are diagrams illustrating the relationship between puff intervals and main heating time settings in embodiment 5. (A) shows an example of suction timing, (B) shows the temperature change in the heating unit without preheating, (C) shows an example of main heating time settings without preheating, (D) shows the temperature change in the heating unit with preheating, and (E) shows an example of main heating time settings with preheating. [Figure 16] FIG. 20 is a diagram schematically illustrating the internal configuration of an aerosol generation device assumed in a sixth embodiment. [Figure 17] 13 is a flowchart illustrating an example of control of the main heating time by the control unit used in the sixth embodiment. [Figure 18] 10A and 10B are diagrams illustrating the relationship between the puff interval and the setting of the main heating time in embodiment 6. (A) shows an example of the timing of inhalation, (B) shows the change in the resistance value of the heating unit when preheating is not performed, (C) shows an example of the setting of the main heating time when preheating is not performed, (D) shows the change in the resistance value of the heating unit when preheating is performed, and (E) shows an example of the setting of the main heating time when preheating is performed. [Figure 19] FIG. 12 is a diagram schematically illustrating the internal configuration of an aerosol generation device assumed in a seventh embodiment. [Figure 20] 13 is a flowchart illustrating an example of control of the main heating time by the control unit used in the seventh embodiment. [Figure 21]10 is a diagram illustrating the relationship between the puff interval and the setting of the main heating time in embodiment 7. (A) shows an example of the suction timing, (B) shows the temperature change in the liquid guiding part when preheating is not performed, (C) shows an example of the setting of the main heating time when preheating is not performed, (D) shows the temperature change in the liquid guiding part when preheating is performed, and (E) shows an example of the setting of the main heating time when preheating is performed. [Figure 22] FIG. 13 is a diagram schematically illustrating the internal configuration of an aerosol generation device assumed in the eighth embodiment. [Figure 23] 13 is a flowchart illustrating an example of control of the main heating time by the control unit used in the eighth embodiment. [Figure 24] 10A and 10B are diagrams illustrating the relationship between puff intervals and main heating time settings in embodiment 8. (A) shows an example of suction timing, (B) shows changes in ambient air temperature, (C) shows an example of main heating time settings without preheating, and (D) shows an example of main heating time settings with preheating. [Figure 25] 13 is a flowchart illustrating an example of control of the main heating time by the control unit used in the ninth embodiment. [Figure 26] 13A and 13B are diagrams illustrating the relationship between the puff interval and the setting of the main heating time in embodiment 9. (A) shows an example of the timing of inhalation, (B) shows an example of the setting of the main heating time when the predicted puff interval is equal to or longer than the first period, and (C) shows an example of the setting of the main heating time when the predicted puff interval is shorter than the first period. [Figure 27] 22 is a flowchart illustrating an example of control of the main heating time by the control unit used in the tenth embodiment. [Figure 28] 13A and 13B are diagrams illustrating the relationship between the puff interval and the setting of the main heating time in embodiment 10. (A) shows an example of the timing of inhalation, (B) shows an example of the setting of the main heating time when the number of consecutive short puffs is equal to or less than the first number, and (C) shows an example of the setting of the main heating time when the number of consecutive short puffs is greater than the first number. [Figure 29] 23 is a flowchart illustrating an example of control of the main heating time by the control unit used in the eleventh embodiment. [Figure 30] 23 is a flowchart illustrating an example of control of the main heating time by the control unit used in the twelfth embodiment. [Figure 31] FIG. 22 is a diagram schematically illustrating the internal configuration of an aerosol generating device assumed in the thirteenth embodiment. [Figure 32] 23 is a flowchart illustrating an example of control of the main heating time by the control unit used in the thirteenth embodiment. [Figure 33] 10 is a flowchart illustrating an example of a process for setting a main heating time without preheating and an example of a process for setting a main heating time with preheating. [Figure 34] 1A and 1B are diagrams illustrating examples of setting the main heating time according to the amount of remaining liquid when preheating is performed and when preheating is performed, where (A) is an example of setting the main heating time when preheating is performed and (B) is an example of setting the main heating time when preheating is performed. [Figure 35] 23 is a flowchart illustrating an example of control of the main heating time by the control unit used in the fourteenth embodiment. [Figure 36] 23 is a flowchart illustrating an example of control of the main heating time by the control unit used in the fifteenth embodiment. [Figure 37] 23 is a flowchart illustrating an example of control of the main heating time by the control unit used in the sixteenth embodiment. [Figure 38] FIG. 20 is a diagram illustrating an example of the external configuration of an aerosol generating device assumed in the seventeenth embodiment. [Figure 39] FIG. 22 is a diagram schematically illustrating an example of the internal configuration of an aerosol generating device assumed in the eighteenth embodiment. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0009] Hereinafter, an embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings. In each drawing, the same parts are designated by the same reference numerals.

[0010] <First Embodiment> <Exterior configuration> FIG. 1 is a diagram illustrating an example of the external configuration of an aerosol generation device 1 assumed in the first embodiment. The aerosol generation device 1 shown in Fig. 1 is a form of electronic cigarette, which generates flavored aerosol without combustion. The electronic cigarette shown in Fig. 1 has a roughly cylindrical shape. The aerosol generating device 1 shown in Fig. 1 is composed of multiple units, which are a power supply unit 10, a cartridge 20 containing an aerosol source, and a cartridge 30 containing a flavor source.

[0011] In the present embodiment, the cartridge 20 is detachable from the power supply unit 10, and the cartridge 30 is detachable from the cartridge 20. In other words, both the cartridge 20 and the cartridge 30 are replaceable. The power supply unit 10 has built-in electronic circuits and the like. The power supply unit 10 is a type of circuit unit. Incidentally, a power button 11 is provided on the side of the power supply unit 10. The power button 11 is an example of an operation unit used to input user instructions to the power supply unit 10.

[0012] The cartridge 20 incorporates a liquid storage section that stores the liquid that is the aerosol source, a liquid guide section that draws the liquid from the liquid storage section by capillary action, and a heating section that heats and vaporizes the liquid held in the liquid guide section. An air inlet hole (hereinafter referred to as "air inlet hole") 21 is provided on the side of the cartridge 20. Air that flows in through the air inlet hole 21 passes through the cartridge 20 and is discharged from the cartridge 20. The cartridge 20 is also called an atomizer. A flavor unit that adds flavor to the aerosol is built into the cartridge 30. The cartridge 30 is provided with a mouthpiece 31.

[0013] <Internal structure> FIG. 2 is a diagram schematically showing the internal configuration of the aerosol generation device 1 assumed in the first embodiment. The aerosol generating device 1 is composed of a power supply unit 10 and cartridges 20 and 30. The power supply unit 10 includes a power supply unit 111, a puff sensor 112, a power button sensor 113, a notification unit 114, a storage unit 115, a communication unit 116, and a control unit 117 built therein. The cartridge 20 includes a heating section 211, a liquid guide section 212, and a liquid storage section 213 built therein.

[0014] The cartridge 30 contains a flavor source 311. One end of the cartridge 30 is used as a mouthpiece 31. An air flow path 40 connected to the air inlet hole 21 is formed inside the cartridges 20 and 30 . The power supply unit 111 is a device that stores the power required for operation. The power supply unit 111 supplies power to each component of the aerosol generation device 1 under the control of the control unit 117. The power supply unit 111 is configured by a rechargeable battery such as a lithium ion secondary battery.

[0015] Puff sensor 112 is a sensor that detects the inhalation of aerosol by a user, and is configured by, for example, a flow rate sensor. Puff sensor 112 is an example of a first sensor. The power button sensor 113 is a sensor that detects an operation on the power button 11 (see FIG. 1), and is configured by, for example, a pressure sensor. Note that the power supply unit 10 is provided with various sensors in addition to the puff sensor 112 and the power button sensor 113. The notification unit 114 is a device used to notify the user of information, and may be, for example, a light emitting device, a display device, a sound output device, or a vibration device.

[0016] The storage unit 115 is a device that stores various types of information necessary for the operation of the aerosol generation device 1. For the storage unit 115, a non-volatile storage medium such as a flash memory is used. The communication unit 116 is a communication interface that complies with a wired or wireless communication standard, such as Wi-Fi (registered trademark) or Bluetooth (registered trademark). The control unit 117 is a device that functions as an arithmetic processing unit or a control unit, and controls the overall operation of the aerosol generation device 1 through the execution of various programs. The control unit 117 is realized by electronic circuits such as a CPU (Central Processing Unit) and an MPU (Micro Processing Unit).

[0017] The liquid storage unit 213 is a tank that stores an aerosol source. The aerosol source stored in the liquid storage unit 213 is atomized to generate an aerosol. The aerosol source may include a liquid such as a polyhydric alcohol, such as glycerin or propylene glycol, or water, and may include tobacco-derived or non-tobacco-derived flavoring ingredients. When the aerosol generating device 1 is a medical inhaler such as a nebulizer, the aerosol source may contain a medicament.

[0018] Liquid guide 212 is a member that guides and holds the aerosol source, which is a liquid, from liquid storage 213 to the heating region. A member called a wick, which is made of a fiber material such as glass fiber or a porous material such as porous ceramic, is used for liquid guide 212. When liquid guide 212 is made of a wick, the aerosol source stored in liquid storage 213 is guided to the heating region by capillary action of the wick.

[0019] Heating unit 211 is a member that generates an aerosol by heating the aerosol source held in a heating region and atomizing the aerosol source. In the case of Fig. 2, the heating unit 211 is a coil that is wound around the liquid guiding unit 212. The region of the liquid guiding unit 212 around which the coil is wound becomes the heating region. Due to the heat generated by the heating unit 211, the temperature of the aerosol source held in the heating region rises to the boiling point, and an aerosol is generated. The boiling point is an example of the first temperature. The heating unit 211 generates heat when power is supplied from the power supply unit 111. Power supply to the heating unit 211 starts when a predetermined condition is met. The predetermined condition may be, for example, the user starting inhalation, pressing the power button 11 a predetermined number of times, or inputting predetermined information. However, in the present embodiment, power supply to the heating unit 211 starts when inhalation is detected.

[0020] The power supply to the heating unit 211 is stopped when a predetermined condition is satisfied. The predetermined condition may be, for example, the user finishing suction, the end of the main heating time described below, a long press of the power button 11, or the input of predetermined information. However, in the present embodiment, the power supply to the heating unit 211 is stopped when suction finishes. Here, the heating unit 211 is an example of a load that consumes power.

[0021] Flavor source 311 is a component that imparts flavor components to the aerosol generated within cartridge 20. Flavor source 311 includes tobacco-derived or non-tobacco-derived flavor components. The air flow path 40 that passes through the interior of the cartridge 20 and the cartridge 30 is a flow path for the air and aerosol inhaled by the user. The air flow path 40 has a tubular structure with the air inlet hole 21 as the air inlet and the air outlet hole 42 as the air outlet. A liquid guide section 212 is disposed on the upstream side of the air flow path 40, and a flavor source 311 is disposed on the downstream side.

[0022] As the user inhales, air flowing in from air inlet 21 is mixed with the aerosol generated by heating unit 211. The mixed gas passes through flavor source 311 and is transported to air outlet 42, as shown by arrow 41. As the mixed gas of aerosol and air passes through flavor source 311, the flavor components of flavor source 311 are imparted to the gas. It is also possible to use the flavor source 311 without attaching it to the cartridge 30 .

[0023] Mouthpiece 31 is a member that is held in the user's mouth when inhaling. Mouthpiece 31 is provided with air outlet holes 42. By holding mouthpiece 31 in the mouth and inhaling, the user can take in a mixture of aerosol and air into the oral cavity. An example of the internal configuration of the aerosol generation device 1 has been described above, but the configuration shown in FIG. 2 is merely one embodiment. For example, the aerosol generation device 1 may be configured without including the cartridge 30. In this case, the cartridge 20 is provided with a mouthpiece 31.

[0024] The aerosol generating device 1 may also include multiple types of aerosol sources. Multiple types of aerosols generated from the multiple types of aerosol sources may be mixed in the air flow path 40 to cause a chemical reaction, thereby generating yet another type of aerosol. Furthermore, the means for atomizing the aerosol source is not limited to heating by the heating unit 211. For example, induction heating technology may be used to atomize the aerosol source.

[0025] <Controlling the length of the main heating time> <Preheating and main heating> In this embodiment, it is assumed that the heating unit 211 (see FIG. 2) has a function of preliminarily heating the heating unit 211 prior to the main heating. FIG. 3 is a diagram illustrating the preheating time LT0 and the main heating time LT11. (A) shows the arrangement of the preheating time LT0 and the main heating time LT11, and (B) shows the temperature change of the aerosol source. The vertical axis in FIG. 3(A) represents the puff intensity, the vertical axis in FIG. 3(B) represents the temperature, and the horizontal axis in FIGS. 3(A) and 3(B) represents the time. The puff intensity is detected by a puff sensor. In this embodiment, the puff intensity is detected by the presence or absence of a puff, but it may also be defined as the amount of air inhaled. The main heating times LT1 and LT11 are times for heating the aerosol source held in the liquid guiding portion 212 (see FIG. 2) to the vaporization temperature. The main heating times LT1 and LT11 are an example of the first control.

[0026] On the one hand, as shown in Fig. 3(A), the preheating time LT0 is the time arranged immediately before the main heating time LT11, and it is the time for preheating the aerosol source. In other words, the preheating is for preheating the liquid temperature of the aerosol source in the liquid guiding portion 212 to a temperature not lower than room temperature and lower than the boiling point. The preheating time LT0 is an example of the second control. In Fig. 3(A), when preheating is used, the main heating time is denoted as LT11, and when preheating is not used, the main heating time is denoted as LT1 for distinction.

[0027] The liquid temperature of the aerosol source during preheating is maintained at a target temperature near the boiling point. The target temperature here is an example of the second temperature. As a result, the power supplied at the start of the main heating time LT11 can be allocated more to the generation of aerosol than to the increase in the liquid temperature of the aerosol source. In the case of this embodiment, the preheating time LT0 uses a predetermined fixed value. As a result, aerosol generation becomes possible immediately after the start of the main heating time LT11, and as a result, it becomes possible to increase the total amount of aerosol generated within the main heating time LT11.

[0028] As shown in Fig. 3(B), the time from the start of the main heating time LT11 until the temperature of the aerosol source reaches the boiling point is TD1 when preheating is not used, but can be shortened to TD2 (<TD1) when preheating is used. Therefore, if the length of the main heating time LT11 is the same as when preheating is not used, more aerosol can be generated when preheating is used.

[0029] The temperature of the heating portion 211 rises with the start of power supply and drops with the stop of power supply. The temperature of the heating portion 211 during the main heating time rises above the boiling point of the aerosol with the start of power supply and drops below the boiling point of the aerosol with the stop of power supply. In this embodiment, the main heating time LT11 is linked to the user's inhalation of the aerosol generation device 1 (see FIG. 1). That is, the main heating times LT1 and LT11 start when the user starts inhaling the aerosol, and the main heating times LT1 and LT11 end when the user stops inhaling the aerosol.

[0030] In this embodiment, the time for which power is supplied to the heating part 211 and the time for which the aerosol is generated from the liquid guiding part 212 are considered to be substantially the same. However, strictly speaking, the power consumed immediately after the start of supply is used to increase the temperature of the aerosol source held in liquid guiding section 212. Therefore, there is a time lag until the liquid temperature of the aerosol source reaches the boiling point and aerosol generation starts.

[0031] 3(A) and 3(B), the main heating time LT11 when preheating is used is shorter than the main heating time LT1 when preheating is not used, in order to make the amount of aerosol generated during the main heating time LT1 the same as the amount of aerosol generated during the main heating time LT11. In other words, when the amount of aerosol generated is controlled to be the same as when preheating is not performed, the main heating time LT11 when preheating is performed can be made shorter than the main heating time LT1 when preheating is not performed.

[0032] One reason why preheating promotes aerosol generation is that the viscosity of the aerosol source at the start of the main heating time LT11 is lower than when preheating is not used. The lower the viscosity of the aerosol source, the higher the liquid delivery speed to the liquid guide section 212, and as a result, the amount of liquid supplied increases. However, the longer the preheating time L0, the more power is consumed. Therefore, the length of the preheating time L0 must be set taking into consideration the balance with the power consumed during the main heating time LT11.

[0033] <Control content> 4 is a flowchart illustrating an example of control of the main heating time by the control unit 117 (see FIG. 2) used in the first embodiment. The control by the control unit 117 is realized through the execution of a program. Therefore, the control unit 117 is a form of a computer. In FIG. 4, the symbol S is used to mean a step.

[0034] First, the control unit 117 determines whether or not preheating is on (Step 1). That is, the control unit 117 determines whether or not the preheating mode is on or off. In other words, the aerosol generation device 1 of this embodiment is provided with a preheating mode, but whether the preheating mode is used in an on state or an off state is determined by the user. For example, the preheating mode may be turned on or off by a specific operation on the power button 11 (see FIG. 1), or may be turned on or off by an instruction from an external device such as a smartphone connected via Bluetooth (registered trademark) or USB (Universal Serial Bus). The aerosol generation device 1 may also be provided with a dedicated button for turning on and off the preheating mode.

[0035] If a negative result is obtained in step 1 (that is, if the preheating mode is off), control unit 117 determines whether or not the start of inhalation has been detected by puff sensor 112 (see FIG. 2) (step 2). If the start of inhalation of the aerosol by the user is not detected, the control unit 117 obtains a negative result in step 2. While a negative result is obtained in step 2, the control unit 117 repeats the determination in step 2. On the other hand, if it is detected that the user has started inhaling the aerosol, the control unit 117 obtains a positive result in step 2. If a positive result is obtained in step 2, the control unit 117 starts main heating (step 1100), and then obtains the immediately preceding puff interval (step 3).

[0036] In this embodiment, the previous puff interval is given as the time from the end of the previous puff to the start of the current puff. The puff interval may be measured, for example, by a timer, or may be calculated as the difference between the end time of the previous puff and the start time of the current puff. The time is obtained, for example, from a timer built into the control unit 117 or an integrated circuit that implements a timer function. When the puff interval is acquired, the control unit 117 determines whether the puff interval is shorter than the first period (step 4). The first period is set taking into consideration the supply capacity of the aerosol source by the liquid guide portion 212 and the time until the liquid runs out. In the present embodiment, the first period is set to, for example, 10 seconds. Of course, this value is just an example.

[0037] If the puff interval is equal to or greater than the first period, the control unit 117 obtains a negative result in step 4. In this case, the control unit 117 sets the current main heating time LT1 as the reference time L1 (step 5). The reference time L1 here is an example of the second period. In the present embodiment, for example, 2.4 seconds is used as the reference time. Of course, this value is an example of the reference time L1. The reference time L1 is set to a time at which the liquid will not run dry due to the inhalation of the aerosol by an assumed standard user when the puff interval is longer than the threshold value. On the other hand, if the puff interval is shorter than the first period, the control unit 117 obtains a positive result in step 4. This case is called a "short puff."

[0038] A short puff refers to a state in which the puff interval is shorter than the first period. At this time, the control unit 117 sets the main heating time LT1 this time to a time L2 that is shorter than the reference time (step 6). In the present embodiment, only the main heating time LT1 is shortened, and the voltage value and current value supplied to the heating unit 211 remain the same regardless of the puff interval. In this embodiment, the time L2 is set to, for example, 1.7 seconds. Of course, this value is an example of the main heating time LT1 for a short puff. The shorter the time L2, the less likely it is that the liquid drying-up phenomenon, in which no aerosol is generated even when the aerosol source is heated, will occur.

[0039] After setting the main heating time LT1 in step 5 or step 6, the control unit 117 determines whether or not it is time to end the main heating (step 8). In this embodiment, the main heating ends, for example, when the set main heating time LT1 ends, the user stops inhaling the aerosol, or a forced termination operation is performed. Therefore, even if the set main heating time LT1 remains, if it is determined that the main heating has ended, the supply of power to the heating unit 211 ends. The passage of the main heating time LT1 is monitored based on the elapsed time from the start of power supply to the heating unit 211. The forced shutdown operation is performed, for example, by pressing and holding the power button 11 (see FIG. 1). Pressing and holding the power button 11 means that the power button 11 is held down for a predetermined period of time or longer. For example, if the power button 11 is pressed for three seconds or longer, the control unit 117 determines that a long press operation has been performed.

[0040] As long as a negative result is obtained in step 8, the control unit 117 repeats the determination in step 8. During this time, the supply of power to the heating unit 211 continues. On the other hand, if a positive result is obtained in step 8, the control unit 117 ends the main heating (step 9). That is, the power supply to the heating unit 211 is stopped. This completes one cycle of suction. In addition, if a short puff is detected when preheating is used, the main heating time LT11 will be shorter than the reference time L1, and therefore the amount of power supplied to the heating unit 211 during one suction cycle will be smaller than the amount of power (reference value) supplied in the case of the reference time L1.

[0041] On the other hand, if a positive result is obtained in step 1 (i.e., if the preheating mode is on), the control unit 117 also determines whether the immediately preceding puff interval was a short puff or not, and sets the main heating time LT11 according to the result of the determination. First, the control unit 117 determines whether or not the start of inhalation has been detected by the puff sensor 112 (step 2A). If the start of inhalation of the aerosol by the user is not detected, the control unit 117 obtains a negative result in step 2 A. While a negative result is obtained in step 2 A, the control unit 117 repeats the determination in step 2 A.

[0042] On the other hand, if the start of inhalation of aerosol by the user is detected, the control unit 117 obtains a positive result in step 2A. If a positive result is obtained in step 2A, the control unit 117 starts main heating after the end of preheating (step 1100A), and then obtains the immediately preceding puff interval (step 3A). The preheating may be started, for example, when a predetermined operation on the power button 11 is detected. When the puff interval is acquired, the control unit 117 determines whether the puff interval is shorter than the first period (Step 4A). However, the threshold used for the determination in Step 4A may be different from that in Step 4. For example, the threshold used for the determination in Step 4A may be smaller than the threshold used for the determination in Step 4. If the puff interval is equal to or longer than the first period, the control unit 117 obtains a negative result in step 4A. In this case, the control unit 117 sets the current main heating time LT11 to a time L2 that is shorter than the reference time (step 6). That is, the main heating time LT11 when preheating is used is shorter than the main heating time LT1 when preheating is not used, even for the same puff interval. This prevents the liquid from drying up, which is specific to preheating. However, if a negative result is obtained in step 4A, the main heating time need only be shorter than the reference time L1, and does not necessarily have to be L2.

[0043] In this embodiment, the main heating time LT11 when no short puff is detected when preheating is used (i.e., when the result in step 4A is negative) and the main heating time LT1 when a short puff is detected when preheating is not used (i.e., when the result in step 4A is positive) are set to the same time L2, but they do not have to be the same time. For example, the length of the main heating time LT11 when a negative result is obtained in step 4A may be set to a value shorter than the length of the main heating time LT1 when a positive result is obtained in step 4.

[0044] On the other hand, when an affirmative result is obtained in step 4A, the control unit 117 sets the current main heating time LT11 to a time L3 (<L2) shorter than the reference time L1 (step 7). As a result, even in a situation where the liquid temperature at the start of the main heating is higher than expected due to a short puff, the occurrence of liquid depletion can be avoided. After setting the main heating time LT11 in step 6 or step 7, the control unit 117 sequentially executes the processes of steps 8 and 9 to end one cycle of suction.

[0045] FIG. 5 is a diagram for explaining an example of setting the main heating time according to the presence or absence of preheating and the length of the puff interval. (A) shows an example of setting the main heating time LT1 when there is no preheating, and (B) shows an example of setting the main heating time LT11 when there is preheating. As shown in FIG. 5(A), when there is no preheating, the main heating time LT1 (i.e., L1) when the puff interval is long is 2.4 seconds, and the main heating time LT1 (i.e., L2) when the puff interval is short is 1.7 seconds. As shown in FIG. 5(B), when preheating is used, the main heating time LT11 (i.e., L2) when the puff interval is long is 1.7 seconds, and the main heating time LT11 (i.e., L3) when the puff interval is short is 1.2 seconds.

[0046] FIG. 6 is a diagram for explaining the relationship between the puff interval and the setting of the main heating time in Embodiment 1. (A) shows an example of the timing of suction (puff), (B) shows an example of setting the main heating time when there is no preheating, and (C) shows an example of setting the main heating time when there is preheating. The vertical axis in FIG. 6(A) is the puff intensity, the vertical axes in FIGS. 6(B) and (C) are the heating intensities, and the horizontal axis in FIGS. 6(A) to (C) is time. The heating intensity is the amount of electric power and is given by the product of the voltage value and the current value supplied to the heating unit 211. The number of times of suction (puff) in FIG. 6(A) is 5 times. In the case of Fig. 6(A), the interval between the first puff and the second puff is IT1, the interval between the second puff and the third puff is IT2, the interval between the third puff and the fourth puff is IT3, and the interval between the fourth puff and the fifth puff is IT4. In this example, the puff intervals IT3 and IT4 between the third and fourth puffs are shorter than the first period. That is, the puff intervals between the third and fourth puffs are determined to be short puffs. Therefore, the puff intervals IT1 and IT2 between the first and second puffs are not short puffs.

[0047] For this reason, in the case of Fig. 6(B) corresponding to no preheating, the main heating times of the first puff, the second puff, and the third puff are set to the reference time L1, while the main heating times of the fourth puff and the fifth puff are set to a time L2 shorter than the reference time L1. As a result, even when the puff interval until the start of the fourth puff is short and the supply amount of the aerosol source supplied to the heating unit 211 until the start of suction is small, the main heating time LT1 is shortened compared to the reference time L1, so liquid depletion does not occur during the fourth puff. The same applies to the fifth puff. In addition, in the puffs after the sixth puff, when the interval between the immediately preceding puffs becomes longer than the threshold value, the main heating time LT1 for that suction cycle is set to the reference time L1 again.

[0048] On the other hand, in the case of Fig. 6(C) corresponding to preheating, the main heating time LT11 of the first puff, the second puff, and the third puff is set to L2 shorter than the reference time L1, while the main heating time LT11 of the fourth puff and the fifth puff is set to a time L3 (<L2) shorter than the reference time L1. As a result, even when the puff interval until the start of the fourth puff is short and the supply amount of the aerosol source supplied to the heating unit 211 until the start of suction is small, the main heating time LT11 is further shortened, so liquid depletion does not occur during the fourth puff. The same applies to the fifth puff. When preheating is used, since the generation efficiency of the aerosol source is high, even if the main heating time LT11 is shortened, the user will not recognize a shortage of aerosol.

[0049] Incidentally, in Figures 6(B) and (C), the period during which the user inhales the aerosol and the heating time of the heating unit 211 (see Figure 2) are matched within a preset main heating time, but the main heating may be started by turning on the power button 11 (see Figure 1), or the main heating may be continued until the main heating time has elapsed even after the user has finished inhaling. In these cases, the puff interval does not coincide with the time during which main heating is stopped, but like the control example described above, liquid drying up during short puffs can be effectively suppressed.

[0050] <Embodiment 2> In the second embodiment, the puff interval is defined as a period during which the supply of power to the heating unit 211 (see FIG. 2) is stopped. In this embodiment, power supply to the heating unit 211 is started by a predetermined operation on the power button 11 (see FIG. 1), and power supply to the heating unit 211 is ended when a preset main heating time has elapsed or when the user forcibly terminates power supply. However, as in the first embodiment, power may be supplied to the heating unit 211 in accordance with the inhalation of the aerosol by the user.

[0051] Other configurations of the aerosol generation device 1 (see FIG. 1) in this embodiment are the same as those in embodiment 1. That is, the external configuration and internal configuration of the aerosol generation device 1 are the same as those in embodiment 1. Fig. 7 is a flowchart illustrating an example of control of the main heating time by the control unit 117 (see Fig. 2) used in the second embodiment. In Fig. 7, parts corresponding to those in Fig. 4 are assigned the same reference numerals. The control by the control unit 117 is realized through the execution of a program.

[0052] In the present embodiment as well, the control unit 117 first determines whether or not preheating is performed (step 1). If a negative result is obtained in step 1 (i.e., if the preheating mode is off), the control unit 117 determines whether or not the start of heating by the heating unit 211 has been detected (step 11). That is, it is determined whether or not main heating has started. The start of heating by the heating unit 211 is detected, for example, by the turning on of the power button 11 (see FIG. 1), the start of suction by the user, or the like. The on operation here is an operation to instruct the start of power supply to the heating unit 211, and refers to, for example, pressing the power button 11 for a long time. The start of heating of the aerosol source by the heating unit 211 may be detected by detecting the current for main heating, detecting the voltage for main heating, a change in the resistance value of the heating unit 211, a temperature increase in the liquid guiding unit 212, or the like.

[0053] If the start of heating by the heating unit 211 is not detected, the control unit 117 obtains a negative result in step 11. While a negative result is obtained in step 11, the control unit 117 repeats the determination in step 11. On the other hand, if the start of heating by the heating unit 211 is detected, the control unit 117 obtains a positive result in step 11. If a positive result is obtained in step 11, the control unit 117 acquires the immediately preceding heating stop time (step 12). The immediately preceding heating stop time is given as the elapsed time from the end of heating in the previous suction cycle to the start of heating in the current suction cycle. Incidentally, the heating stop time refers to a period other than the main heating. Therefore, the period during pre-heating is also included in the heating stop time. The heating stop time may be measured by a timer, for example, or may be calculated as the difference between the time when the previous heating ended and the time when the current heating started.

[0054] When the heating stop time is acquired, the control unit 117 determines whether or not the heating stop time is shorter than the first period (step 13). As in the first embodiment, the first period here is set taking into account the supply capacity of the aerosol source by the liquid guide section 212 and the time it takes for the liquid to dry up. In the present embodiment, the first period is set to, for example, 10 seconds. Of course, this value is just an example. Note that the first period is not an absolute value.

[0055] If the heating stop time is equal to or longer than the first period, the control unit 117 obtains a negative result in step 13. In this case, the control unit 117 sets the current main heating time to the reference time L1 (step 5). On the other hand, if the heating stop time is shorter than the first period, that is, if the condition for a short puff is met, the control unit 117 sets the current main heating time to a time L2 that is shorter than the reference time (step 6). After setting the main heating time LT1 in step 5 or step 6, the control unit 117 executes steps 8 and 9 in order, completing one cycle of suction.

[0056] On the other hand, if a positive result is obtained in step 1 (i.e., if the preheating mode is on), the control unit 117 also determines whether or not the start of heating by the heating unit 211 has been detected (step 11A). That is, it determines whether or not the preheating has ended and the main heating has started. If the start of heating by heating unit 211 is not detected, control unit 117 obtains a negative result in step 11A. While a negative result is obtained in step 11A, control unit 117 repeats the determination in step 11A. On the other hand, if the start of heating by heating unit 211 is detected, control unit 117 obtains a positive result in step 11A. If a positive result is obtained in step 11A, control unit 117 obtains the immediately preceding heating stop time (step 12A).

[0057] When the heating stop time is acquired, the control unit 117 determines whether the heating stop time is shorter than the first period (step 13A). However, the threshold used for the determination in step 13A may be different from that in step 13. For example, the threshold used for the determination in step 13A may be smaller than the threshold used for the determination in step 13. If the heating stop time is equal to or longer than the first period, the control unit 117 obtains a negative result in step 13A. In this case, the control unit 117 sets the main heating time this time to time L2, which is shorter than the reference time L1 (step 6). However, if a negative result is obtained in step 3A, the main heating time does not necessarily have to be L2, as long as it is shorter than the reference time L1. On the other hand, when the heating stop time is shorter than the first period, that is, when the short puff condition is satisfied, the control unit 117 sets the current main heating time to a time L3 (<L2) shorter than the reference time (step 7). After setting the main heating time LT11 in step 6 or step 7, the control unit 117 executes steps 8 and 9 in order to end one cycle of suction.

[0058] As described above, the control unit 117 in the present embodiment pays attention to the heating stop time, which is the period during which aerosol generation stops, and detects the occurrence of short puffs that cause liquid depletion. Therefore, the occurrence of liquid depletion can be effectively suppressed. Also in the present embodiment, when a short puff is detected during the use of preheating, the main heating time LT11 becomes shorter than the reference time L1. Therefore, the amount of power supplied to the heating unit 211 during one cycle of suction is smaller than the amount of power (reference value) supplied in the case of the reference time L1.

[0059] FIG. 8 is a diagram for explaining the relationship between the puff interval and the setting of the main heating time in Embodiment 2. (A) shows an example of the timing of suction (puff), (B) shows an example of the setting of the main heating time LT1 without preheating, and (C) shows an example of the setting of the main heating time LT11 with preheating. The vertical axis in FIG. 8(A) is the puff intensity, the vertical axes in FIGS. 8(B) and (C) are the heating intensities, and the horizontal axis in FIGS. 8(A) to (C) is time. FIG. 8(A) shows a case where the period during which the heating unit 211 is heated does not match the period of the user's suction. That is, it shows a case where the heating of the heating unit 211 is started by an on operation of the power button 11 or the like and the heating ends after the elapse of the preset main heating time. However, as described above, it is also possible to match the time during which the heating unit 211 is heated with the time during which the user sucks the aerosol.

[0060] In the case of FIG. 8(A) as well, the number of times of suction (puff) is 5 times. In the case of Fig. 8(B) corresponding to no preheating, the heating stop time giving the interval between the first puff and the second puff is IT11, the heating stop time giving the interval between the second puff and the third puff is IT12, the heating stop time giving the interval between the third puff and the fourth puff is IT13, and the heating stop time giving the interval between the fourth puff and the fifth puff is IT14. In this example, the interval between the third and fourth puffs is shorter than the first period. That is, the interval between the third and fourth puffs is determined to be a short puff.

[0061] Therefore, in the case of no preheating, the main heating time LT1 of the first puff, the second puff, and the third puff is set to the reference time L1, while the main heating time LT1 of the fourth puff and the fifth puff is set to a time L2 shorter than the reference time L1. As a result, even when the puff interval until the start of the fourth puff is short and the supply amount of the aerosol source supplied to the heating unit 211 until the start of suction is small, the main heating time LT1 is shortened compared to the reference time L1, so liquid depletion does not occur during the fourth puff. The same applies to the fifth puff. In addition, in the puffs after the sixth puff, when the interval between the immediately preceding puffs becomes longer than the threshold value, the main heating time LT1 of that suction cycle is set to the reference time L1 again.

[0062] On the other hand, in the case of Fig. 8(C) corresponding to preheating, the heating stop time giving the interval between the first puff and the second puff is IT21, the heating stop time giving the interval between the second puff and the third puff is IT22, the heating stop time giving the interval between the third puff and the fourth puff is IT23, and the heating stop time giving the interval between the fourth puff and the fifth puff is IT24. In this example, the interval between the third and fourth puffs is shorter than the first period. That is, the interval between the third and fourth puffs is determined to be a short puff.

[0063] Therefore, the main heating time LT11 of the first puff, the second puff, and the third puff is set to L2 shorter than the reference time L1, while the main heating time LT11 of the fourth puff and the fifth puff is set to a time L3 (<L2) shorter than the reference time L1. As a result, even if the puff interval until the start of the fourth puff is short and the amount of aerosol source supplied to heating unit 211 before the start of suction is small, the actual heating time LT11 is further shortened, so that the liquid does not run out during the fourth puff. The same applies to the fifth puff.

[0064] <Third Embodiment> In the third embodiment, the puff interval is defined as the elapsed time from the stop of the previous power supply to the heating unit 211 (see FIG. 2) until the start of the current suction. In other words, this corresponds to a combined control of the first and second embodiments. Other configurations of the aerosol generation device 1 (see FIG. 1) in this embodiment are the same as those in embodiment 1. That is, the external configuration and internal configuration of the aerosol generation device 1 are the same as those in embodiment 1. Fig. 9 is a flowchart illustrating an example of control of the main heating time by the control unit 117 (see Fig. 2) used in the third embodiment. In Fig. 9, parts corresponding to those in Fig. 4 are assigned the same reference numerals. The control by the control unit 117 is realized through the execution of a program.

[0065] In the present embodiment as well, the control unit 117 first determines whether or not preheating is performed (step 1). If a negative result is obtained in step 1 (i.e., if the preheating mode is off), the control unit 117 determines whether or not the start of heating by the heating unit 211 has been detected (step 21). That is, it is determined whether or not main heating has started. If the start of heating by the heating unit 211 is not detected, the control unit 117 obtains a negative result in step 21. While a negative result is obtained in step 21, the control unit 117 repeats the determination in step 21.

[0066] On the other hand, if the start of heating by heating unit 211 is detected, control unit 117 obtains a positive result in step 21. If a positive result is obtained in step 21, control unit 117 obtains the end time of the previous heating (step 22). In the present embodiment, the end time of heating refers to the time when the main heating is ended. Next, the control unit 117 determines whether or not the start of inhalation has been detected by the puff sensor 112 (step 23). If the start of inhalation of the aerosol by the user is not detected, the control unit 117 obtains a negative result in step 23. While a negative result is obtained in step 23, the control unit 117 repeats the determination in step 23. Note that even if a negative result is obtained in step 23, the control unit 117 forcibly ends heating if a predetermined condition is met. The predetermined condition may be, for example, that a puff is not detected within a predetermined time.

[0067] On the other hand, if the start of inhalation of aerosol by the user is detected, the control unit 117 obtains a positive result in step 23. If a positive result is obtained in step 23, the control unit 117 acquires the start time of the current puff (step 24). The start time of the current puff is the time when a positive result is obtained in step 23. Next, the control unit 117 calculates the elapsed time from the end time of the previous heating to the start time of the current puff (step 25). When the elapsed time is calculated, the control unit 117 determines whether the elapsed time is shorter than the first period (step 26).

[0068] If the elapsed time is equal to or greater than the first period, the control unit 117 obtains a negative result in step 26. In this case, the control unit 117 sets the current main heating time to the reference time L1 (step 5). On the other hand, if the elapsed time is shorter than the threshold value, the control unit 117 obtains a positive result in step 26. In this case, the control unit 117 sets the current main heating time to a time L2 that is shorter than the reference time (step 6). After setting the main heating time LT1 in step 5 or step 6, the control unit 117 executes steps 8 and 9 in order, completing one cycle of suction.

[0069] On the other hand, if a positive result is obtained in step 1 (i.e., if the preheating mode is on), the control unit 117 also determines whether or not the start of heating by the heating unit 211 has been detected (step 21A). That is, it determines whether or not the preheating has ended and the main heating has started. If the start of heating by heating unit 211 is not detected, control unit 117 obtains a negative result in step 21A. While a negative result is obtained in step 21A, control unit 117 repeats the determination in step 21A. On the other hand, if the start of heating by heating unit 211 is detected, control unit 117 obtains a positive result in step 21A. If a positive result is obtained in step 21A, control unit 117 obtains the most recent heating end time (step 22A).

[0070] Next, the control unit 117 determines whether or not the start of inhalation has been detected by the puff sensor 112 (step 23A). If the start of inhalation of the aerosol by the user is not detected, the control unit 117 obtains a negative result in step 23 A. While a negative result is obtained in step 23 A, the control unit 117 repeats the determination in step 23 A. On the other hand, if the start of inhalation of aerosol by the user is detected, the control unit 117 obtains a positive result in step 23A. If a positive result is obtained in step 23A, the control unit 117 acquires the start time of the current puff (step 24A). The start time of the current puff is the time when a positive result is obtained in step 23A.

[0071] Next, control unit 117 calculates the elapsed time from the end time of the previous heating to the start time of the current puff (step 25A). When the elapsed time is calculated, the control unit 117 determines whether the elapsed time is shorter than the first period (step 26A). However, the threshold used for the determination in step 26A may be different from that in step 26. For example, the threshold used for the determination in step 26A may be smaller than the threshold used for the determination in step 26. When the elapsed time is longer than or equal to the first period, the control unit 117 obtains a negative result in step 26A. In this case, the control unit 117 sets the current main heating time to a time L2 shorter than the reference time (step 6). However, the main heating time when a negative result is obtained in step 26A only needs to be shorter than the reference time L1, and does not necessarily have to be L2.

[0072] On the other hand, when the elapsed time is shorter than the first period, that is, when the short puff condition is satisfied, the control unit 117 sets the current main heating time to a time L3 (<L2) shorter than the reference time (step 7). After setting the main heating time according to step 6 or step 7, the control unit 117 executes steps 8 and 9 in sequence to end one cycle of suction.

[0073] As described above, the control unit 117 in the present embodiment pays attention to the elapsed time from the time when the previous heating ended to the start of the current aerosol suction, and detects the occurrence of a short puff that causes liquid depletion. Therefore, the occurrence of liquid depletion can be effectively suppressed. Also in the present embodiment, when a short puff is detected during the use of preheating, the main heating time LT11 becomes shorter than the reference time L1, so the amount of power supplied to the heating unit 211 during one cycle of suction is smaller than the amount of power (reference value) supplied in the case of the reference time L1.

[0074] FIG. 10 is a diagram for explaining the relationship between the puff interval and the setting of the main heating time in Embodiment 3. (A) shows an example of the timing of suction (puff), (B) shows an example of the setting of the main heating time without preheating, and (C) shows an example of the setting of the main heating time with preheating. The vertical axis in FIG. 10(A) is the puff intensity, the vertical axis in FIGS. 10(B) and (C) is the heating intensity, and the horizontal axis in FIGS. 10(A) to (C) is time. 10(A) to 10(C) also show cases where the heating period of heating unit 211 does not coincide with the period of inhalation by the user. That is, they show cases where heating unit 211 starts heating when power button 11 is turned on, and heating ends after a preset main heating time has elapsed. However, as mentioned above, it is also possible to make the heating period of heating unit 211 coincide with the period of inhalation of the aerosol by the user.

[0075] In the case of FIG. 10(A), the number of puffs is also five. In the case of Figure 10(B), which corresponds to no preheating, the elapsed time giving the interval between the first and second puffs is IT21, the elapsed time giving the interval between the second and third puffs is IT22, the elapsed time giving the interval between the third and fourth puffs is IT23, and the elapsed time giving the interval between the fourth and fifth puffs is IT24. In this example, the interval between the third and fourth puffs is shorter than the first period. That is, the interval between the third and fourth puffs is determined to be a short puff.

[0076] Therefore, the main heating time LT1 for the first, second, and third puffs is set to the reference time L1, while the main heating time LT1 for the fourth and fifth puffs is set to a time L2 that is shorter than the reference time L1. As a result, even if the puff interval until the start of the fourth puff is short and the amount of aerosol source supplied to heating unit 211 before the start of suction is small, the actual heating time LT1 is shorter than the reference time L1, so the liquid will not run out during the fourth puff. The same applies to the fifth puff. In the sixth or subsequent puffs, if the immediately preceding puff interval is longer than the threshold value, the main heating time LT1 for that inhalation is again set to the reference time L1.

[0077] On the other hand, in the case of Fig. 10(C) corresponding to preheating, the elapsed time IT31 gives the interval between the first puff and the second puff, the elapsed time IT32 gives the interval between the second puff and the third puff, the elapsed time IT33 gives the interval between the third puff and the fourth puff, and the elapsed time IT34 gives the interval between the fourth puff and the fifth puff. In this example, the interval between the third and fourth puffs is shorter than the first period. That is, the interval between the third and fourth puffs is determined to be a short puff.

[0078] Therefore, the main heating times LT11 of the first puff, the second puff, and the third puff are set to L2, which is shorter than the reference time L1, while the main heating times LT11 of the fourth puff and the fifth puff are set to a time L3 (<L2), which is shorter than the reference time L1. As a result, even when the puff interval until the start of the fourth puff is short and the supply amount of the aerosol source supplied to the heating unit 211 until the start of suction is small, the main heating time LT11 is further shortened, so that liquid depletion does not occur during the fourth puff. The same applies to the fifth puff.

[0079] <Embodiment 4> In Embodiment 4, the puff interval is defined as the period from the on-operation to the off-operation of the power button 11 (see Fig. 1). Also in the case of this embodiment, power supply to the heating unit 211 is started by an on-operation of the power button 11, and power supply to the heating unit 211 ends when the preset main heating time elapses or by an off-operation by the user. In the case of this embodiment, the end of power supply due to the elapse of the preset main heating time is regarded as the end of power supply due to an off-operation by the user.

[0080] Other configurations of the aerosol generating device 1 (see Fig. 1) in this embodiment are the same as those in Embodiment 1. That is, the external configuration and the internal configuration of the aerosol generating device 1 are the same as those in Embodiment 1. Fig. 11 is a flowchart illustrating an example of control of the main heating time by the control unit 117 (see Fig. 2) used in the fourth embodiment. In Fig. 11, parts corresponding to those in Fig. 4 are assigned the same reference numerals. The control by the control unit 117 is realized through the execution of a program. In the present embodiment as well, the control unit 117 first determines whether or not preheating is performed (step 1). If a negative result is obtained in step 1 (i.e., if the preheating mode is off), the control unit 117 determines whether or not an on operation of the power button 11 has been detected (step 31). That is, it is determined whether or not main heating has started.

[0081] If an ON operation of the power button 11 is not detected, the control unit 117 obtains a negative result in step 31. While a negative result is obtained in step 31, the control unit 117 repeats the determination in step 31. On the other hand, if an ON operation of the power button 11 is detected, the control unit 117 obtains a positive result in step 31. If a positive result is obtained in step 31, the control unit 117 obtains the time of this ON operation (step 32). When the time of the ON operation is acquired, the control unit 117 acquires the time of the immediately preceding OFF operation (step 33).

[0082] Next, the control unit 117 calculates the elapsed time from the immediately preceding OFF operation to the current ON operation (step 34). When the elapsed time is calculated, the control unit 117 determines whether the elapsed time is shorter than the first period (step 35). If the elapsed time is equal to or greater than the first period, the control unit 117 obtains a negative result in step 35. In this case, the control unit 117 sets the current main heating time to the reference time L1 (step 5).

[0083] If the elapsed time is shorter than the first period, the control unit 117 obtains a positive result in step 35. In this case, the control unit 117 sets the current main heating time to a time L2 that is shorter than the reference time (step 6). After setting the main heating time in step 5 or step 6, the control unit 117 executes steps 8 and 9 in order, completing one cycle.

[0084] On the other hand, if a positive result is obtained in step 1 (i.e., if the preheating mode is on), the control unit 117 determines whether or not an on operation of the power button 11 has been detected (step 31A). That is, it determines whether or not the preheating has ended and the main heating has started. If an ON operation of the power button 11 is not detected, the control unit 117 obtains a negative result in step 31A. While a negative result is obtained in step 31A, the control unit 117 repeats the determination in step 31A. On the other hand, if an ON operation of the power button 11 is detected, the control unit 117 obtains a positive result in step 31A. If a positive result is obtained in step 31A, the control unit 117 obtains the time of this ON operation (step 32A).

[0085] When the time of the ON operation is acquired, the control unit 117 acquires the time of the immediately preceding OFF operation (step 33A). Next, the control unit 117 calculates the elapsed time from the immediately preceding OFF operation to the current ON operation (step 34A). When the elapsed time is calculated, the control unit 117 determines whether the elapsed time is shorter than the first period (step 35A). However, the threshold used for the determination in step 35A may be different from that in step 35. For example, the threshold used for the determination in step 35A may be smaller than the threshold used for the determination in step 35.

[0086] If the elapsed time is equal to or longer than the first period, the control unit 117 obtains a negative result in step 35A. In this case, the control unit 117 sets the current main heating time to time L2, which is shorter than the reference time (step 6). However, when a negative result is obtained in step 35A, the main heating time does not necessarily have to be L2, as long as it is shorter than the reference time L1. When the elapsed time is shorter than the first period, the control unit 117 obtains an affirmative result in step 35A. In this case, the control unit 117 sets the current main heating time to a time L3 (<L2) shorter than the reference time (step 7). After setting the main heating time in step 6 or step 7, the control unit 117 executes steps 8 and 9 in sequence to end one cycle of suction.

[0087] In the case of this embodiment, the control unit 117 detects the occurrence of short puffs that cause liquid depletion based on the relationship between the elapsed time from the off operation to the on operation of the power button 11 and the first period. Therefore, the occurrence of liquid depletion can be effectively suppressed. Also in this embodiment, when a short puff is detected during the use of preheating, the main heating time becomes shorter than the reference time L1. Therefore, the amount of power supplied to the heating unit 211 during one cycle of suction is smaller than the amount of power (reference value) supplied in the case of the reference time L1.

[0088] FIG. 12 is a diagram for explaining the relationship between the puff interval and the setting of the main heating time in Embodiment 4. (A) shows an example of the timing of suction (puff), (B) shows an example of the setting of the main heating time without preheating, and (C) shows an example of the setting of the main heating time with preheating. The vertical axis in FIG. 12(A) is the puff intensity, the vertical axis in FIGS. 12(B) and (C) is the heating intensity, and the horizontal axis in FIGS. 12(A) to (C) is time. FIGS. 12(A) to (C) also show the case where the period during which the heating unit 211 is heated does not match the period of the user's suction. That is, it shows the case where the user sucks the aerosol during an arbitrary period within the main heating period started by the on operation of the power button 11.

[0089] In the case of FIG. 12(A) as well, the number of times of suction (puff) is 5 times. In the case of Fig. 12(B) corresponding to no preheating, the elapsed time giving the interval between the first puff and the second puff is IT41, the elapsed time giving the interval between the second puff and the third puff is IT42, the elapsed time giving the interval between the third puff and the fourth puff is IT43, and the elapsed time giving the interval between the fourth puff and the fifth puff is IT44. In this example, the interval between the third and fourth puffs is shorter than the first period. That is, the interval between the third and fourth puffs is determined to be a short puff.

[0090] Therefore, the main heating time LT1 of the first puff, the second puff, and the third puff is set to the reference time L1, while the main heating time LT1 of the fourth puff and the fifth puff is set to a time L2 shorter than the reference time L1. As a result, even when the puff interval until the start of the fourth puff is short and the supply amount of the aerosol source supplied to the heating unit 211 until the start of suction is small, the main heating time LT1 is shortened from the reference time L1, so liquid depletion does not occur during the fourth puff. The same applies to the fifth puff. Note that in the puffs after the sixth puff, when the interval between the immediately preceding puffs becomes longer than the threshold value, the main heating time LT1 of that suction cycle is set to the reference time L1 again.

[0091] On the other hand, in the case of Fig. 12(C) corresponding to preheating, the elapsed time giving the interval between the first puff and the second puff is IT51, the elapsed time giving the interval between the second puff and the third puff is IT52, the elapsed time giving the interval between the third puff and the fourth puff is IT53, and the elapsed time giving the interval between the fourth puff and the fifth puff is IT5-4. In this example, the interval between the third and fourth puffs is shorter than the first period. That is, the interval between the third and fourth puffs is determined to be a short puff.

[0092] Therefore, the main heating time LT11 of the first puff, the second puff, and the third puff is set to L2 shorter than the reference time L1, while the main heating time LT11 of the fourth puff and the fifth puff is set to a time L3 (<L2) shorter than the reference time L1. As a result, even if the puff interval until the start of the fourth puff is short and the amount of aerosol source supplied to heating unit 211 before the start of suction is small, the actual heating time LT11 is further shortened, so that the liquid does not run out during the fourth puff. The same applies to the fifth puff. In this embodiment, the on and off operations of the power button 11 are detected, but if the supply of power to the heating unit 211 is performed through the operation of another button or GUI, the control operation described in this embodiment can be performed by detecting these operations.

[0093] <Fifth Embodiment> In the fifth embodiment, an example of a method for indirectly detecting the occurrence of a short puff will be described. As described above, when the puff interval is short, reheating of the aerosol source starts before the liquid temperature of the aerosol source in the liquid guiding section 212 has sufficiently dropped. In the present embodiment, attention is focused on this phenomenon. In the present embodiment, the external configuration of the aerosol generation device 1 is the same as that in embodiment 1. However, the internal configuration of the aerosol generation device 1 assumed in this embodiment is partially different from that in embodiment 1. Fig. 13 is a diagram schematically showing the internal configuration of the aerosol generation device 1 assumed in the embodiment 5. In Fig. 13, parts corresponding to those in Fig. 2 are assigned the same reference numerals.

[0094] The aerosol-generating device 1 shown in Fig. 13 differs from the aerosol-generating device 1 shown in Fig. 2 in that a coil temperature sensor 113A is provided. The heating part 211 is a coil. The coil temperature sensor 113A is, for example, a thermistor. The thermistor is disposed near the coil. The coil temperature sensor 113A is an example of a second sensor. However, instead of using the coil temperature sensor 113A, the value of the current flowing through the heating unit 211 may be measured, or the voltage appearing across a resistor connected in series to the heating unit 211 may be measured. When the puff interval is short, the temperature of the heating unit 211 at the start of inhalation is higher than when the puff interval is long, and the resistance value of the heating unit 211 is higher. Therefore, when the puff interval is short, it is more difficult for current to flow than when the puff interval is long.

[0095] Therefore, the temperature of the heating section 211 can be detected by monitoring the value of the current flowing through the heating section 211 (i.e., the "current value") and the value of the voltage appearing across a resistor connected in series to the heating section 211 (i.e., the "voltage value"). For example, if a table is prepared that associates the relationship between current values ​​or voltage values ​​and the temperature of the heating unit 211, the control unit 117 reads out the temperature corresponding to the measured current value or voltage value from the table. Furthermore, for example, if a conversion formula for the current value or voltage value and the temperature of the heating unit 211 is prepared, the control unit 117 substitutes the measured current value or voltage value into a variable to calculate the corresponding temperature.

[0096] Fig. 14 is a flowchart illustrating an example of control of the main heating time by the control unit 117 (see Fig. 2) used in embodiment 5. In Fig. 12, parts corresponding to those in Fig. 4 are assigned the same reference numerals. The control by the control unit 117 is realized through the execution of a program. In the present embodiment as well, the control unit 117 first determines whether or not preheating is performed (step 1).

[0097] If a negative result is obtained in step 1 (that is, if the preheating mode is off), control unit 117 determines whether or not the start of inhalation has been detected by puff sensor 112 (step 41). If the start of inhalation of the aerosol by the user is not detected, the control unit 117 obtains a negative result in step 41. While a negative result is obtained in step 41, the control unit 117 repeats the determination in step 41.

[0098] On the other hand, if the start of inhalation of the aerosol by the user is detected, the control unit 117 obtains a positive result in step 41. If a positive result is obtained in step 41, the control unit 117 starts main heating (step 1100), and then obtains the temperature of the coil at the start of inhalation (step 42). The temperature of the coil is the temperature of the heating unit 211. When the coil temperature is acquired, the control unit 117 determines whether the coil temperature at the start of suction is higher than a first temperature reference (step 43). The first temperature reference is set to an intermediate value between the temperature occurring in the case of a short puff and the temperature occurring in the case of a non-short puff.

[0099] If the temperature of the coil is equal to or lower than the first temperature reference, the control unit 117 obtains a negative result in step 43. In this case, the control unit 117 sets the current main heating time to the reference time L1 (step 5). On the other hand, if the temperature of the coil is higher than the first temperature reference, the control unit 117 obtains a positive result in step 43. In this case, the control unit 117 sets the current main heating time to time L2, which is shorter than the reference time (step 6). After setting the main heating time in step 5 or step 6, the control unit 117 executes steps 8 and 9 in order, completing one cycle of suction.

[0100] On the other hand, if a positive result is obtained in step 1 (that is, if the preheating mode is on), the control unit 117 also determines whether or not the start of preheating has been detected (step 41A). If the start of preheating is not detected, the control unit 117 obtains a negative result in step 41 A. As long as a negative result is obtained in step 41 A, the control unit 117 repeats the determination in step 41 A.

[0101] On the other hand, if the start of preheating is detected, the control unit 117 obtains a positive result in step 41 A. If a positive result is obtained in step 41 A, the control unit 117 starts main heating after the end of preheating (step 1100A), and then obtains the temperature of the coil at the start of preheating (step 42A). When the temperature of the coil is acquired, the control unit 117 determines whether the temperature of the coil at the start of preheating is higher than the first temperature reference (step 43A). However, the threshold value used for the determination in step 43A may be different from that in step 43. For example, the threshold value used for the determination in step 43A may be smaller than the threshold value used for the determination in step 43.

[0102] When the temperature of the coil is below the first temperature reference, the control unit 117 obtains a negative result in step 43A. In this case, the control unit 117 sets the current main heating time to a time L2 shorter than the reference time (step 6). However, the main heating time when a negative result is obtained in step 43A only needs to be shorter than the reference time L1, and does not necessarily have to be L2. On the other hand, when the temperature of the coil is higher than the first temperature reference, the control unit 117 obtains a positive result in step 43A. In this case, the control unit 117 sets the current main heating time to a time L3 (<L2) shorter than the reference time (step 7). After setting the main heating time according to step 6 or step 7, the control unit 117 executes steps 8 and 9 in sequence to end one cycle of suction.

[0103] In the case of this embodiment, the control unit 117 focuses on the temperature of the heating unit 211 that generates the aerosol and detects the occurrence of a short puff that causes liquid depletion. Therefore, the occurrence of liquid depletion can be effectively suppressed. Also in this embodiment, when a short puff is detected during the use of preheating, the main heating time LT11 becomes shorter than the reference time L1, so the amount of power supplied to the heating unit 211 during one cycle of suction is smaller than the amount of power (reference value) supplied in the case of the reference time L1.

[0104] 15 is a diagram illustrating the relationship between the puff interval and the setting of the main heating time in embodiment 5. (A) shows an example of the timing of inhalation (puffing), (B) shows the temperature change of the heating unit 211 without preheating, (C) shows an example of the setting of the main heating time without preheating, (D) shows the temperature change of the heating unit 211 with preheating, and (E) shows an example of the setting of the main heating time with preheating. The vertical axis in FIG. 15(A) represents the puff intensity, the vertical axes in FIGS. 15(B) and (D) represent the temperature, and the vertical axes in FIGS. 15(C) and (E) represent the heating intensity. The horizontal axes in FIGS. 15(A) to (E) represent time.

[0105] In the case of FIG. 15(A), the number of suctions (puffs) is also five. 15(B), which corresponds to no preheating, the temperature TA of heating unit 211 at the start of the first, second, third, and fifth puffs is lower than the first temperature reference. However, the temperature TB of heating unit 211 at the start of the fourth puff is higher than the first temperature reference. This is because the puff intervals are short and heating unit 211 cannot cool down in time.

[0106] Therefore, in the example shown in Figure 15(C), the main heating time LT1 for the first puff, second puff, third puff, and fifth puff is set to the reference time L1, while the main heating time LT1 for the fourth puff is set to a time L2 that is shorter than the reference time L1. As a result, even if the puff interval until the start of the fourth puff is short and the amount of aerosol source supplied to the heating unit 211 before the start of suction is small, the actual heating time LT1 is shorter than the reference time L1, so that liquid does not run out during the fourth puff.

[0107] 15(D), which corresponds to the case where preheating is performed, the temperature TA of the heating unit 211 at the start of the first, second, third, and fifth puffs is lower than the first temperature reference. However, the temperature TB of the heating unit 211 at the start of the fourth puff is higher than the first temperature reference. Therefore, in the example shown in FIG. 15(E), the main heating time LT11 for the first puff, the second puff, the third puff, and the fifth puff is set to time L2, while the main heating time for the fourth puff is set to time L3. As a result, even if the puff interval until the start of the fourth puff is short and the amount of aerosol source supplied to the heating unit 211 before the start of suction is small, the actual heating time LT11 is shorter than the reference time L1, so that liquid does not run out during the fourth puff.

[0108] <Sixth Embodiment> An example of a method for indirectly detecting the occurrence of a short puff will also be described in embodiment 6. In this embodiment, it is detected through a change in resistance value that heating unit 211 is in a high temperature state at the start of suction. In the present embodiment, the external configuration of the aerosol generation device 1 is the same as that in embodiment 1. However, the internal configuration of the aerosol generation device 1 assumed in this embodiment is partially different from that in embodiment 1.

[0109] Fig. 16 is a diagram schematically showing the internal configuration of the aerosol generation device 1 assumed in the embodiment 6. In Fig. 16, parts corresponding to those in Fig. 2 are assigned the same reference numerals. 2 in that the aerosol-generating device 1 shown in Fig. 16 is provided with a resistance value sensor 113B. The resistance value sensor 113B measures the resistance value of the heating unit 211. The resistance value sensor 113B detects the resistance value of the heating unit 211, for example, by measuring the value of a current flowing through the heating unit 211. This method detects a change in the resistance value caused by a change in the temperature of the heating unit 211 as a change in the current value.

[0110] Furthermore, the resistance value sensor 113B detects a change in the resistance value of the heating unit 211, for example, by measuring a voltage value appearing across both ends of a resistor connected in series to the heating unit 211. This method detects a change in the resistance value of the heating unit 211 caused by a temperature change through a change in voltage appearing across both ends of the resistor connected in series to the heating unit 211.

[0111] Fig. 17 is a flowchart illustrating an example of control of the main heating time by the control unit 117 (see Fig. 2) used in the sixth embodiment. In Fig. 17, parts corresponding to those in Fig. 4 are assigned the same reference numerals. The control by the control unit 117 is realized through the execution of a program. In this embodiment, the control unit 117 also first determines whether or not preheating is performed (step 1). If a negative result is obtained in step 1 (i.e., if the pre-heating mode is off), the control unit 117 determines whether the start of inhalation has been detected by the puff sensor 112 (step 51). This determination is made when main heating is started by the start of inhalation by the user.

[0112] As in the second embodiment, it may be determined whether heating by the heating unit 211 has started, or as in the fourth embodiment, it may be determined whether the power button 11 (see FIG. 1) has been turned on. If the start of inhalation of the aerosol by the user is not detected, the control unit 117 obtains a negative result in step 51. While a negative result is obtained in step 51, the control unit 117 repeats the determination in step 51.

[0113] On the other hand, if the start of inhalation of the aerosol by the user is detected, the control unit 117 obtains a positive result in step 51. If a positive result is obtained in step 51, the control unit 117 starts main heating (step 1100), and then obtains the resistance value of the coil at the start of inhalation (step 52). The resistance value of the coil is the resistance value of the heating unit 211. When the resistance value of the coil is acquired, the control unit 117 determines whether the resistance value of the coil at the start of inhalation is greater than the first resistance value (step 53). The first resistance value is determined based on the actual measured value of the change in resistance value according to the elapsed time from the end of power supply to the heating unit 211. The first resistance value is set to an intermediate value between the resistance value that appears in the case of a short puff and the resistance value that appears in the case of a non-short puff.

[0114] If the resistance value of the coil is equal to or less than the first resistance value, the control unit 117 obtains a negative result in step 53. In this case, the control unit 117 sets the current main heating time to the reference time L1 (step 5). On the other hand, if the resistance value of the coil is greater than the first resistance value, the control unit 117 obtains a positive result in step 53. In this case, the control unit 117 sets the current main heating time to a time L2 that is shorter than the reference time (step 6). After setting the main heating time in step 5 or step 6, the control unit 117 executes steps 8 and 9 in order, completing one cycle of suction.

[0115] On the other hand, if a positive result is obtained in step 1 (that is, if the preheating mode is on), the control unit 117 determines whether or not the start of preheating has been detected (step 51A). If the start of preheating is not detected, the control unit 117 obtains a negative result in step 51 A. As long as a negative result is obtained in step 51 A, the control unit 117 repeats the determination in step 51 A. On the other hand, if the start of preheating is detected, the control unit 117 obtains a positive result in step 51 A. If a positive result is obtained in step 51 A, the control unit 117 starts main heating after the end of preheating (step 1100A), and then obtains the resistance value of the coil at the start of preheating (step 52A).

[0116] When the resistance value of the coil is acquired, the control unit 117 determines whether the resistance value of the coil at the start of preheating is greater than the first resistance value (step 53A). However, the threshold value used for the determination in step 53A may be different from that used in step 53. For example, the threshold value used for the determination in step 53A may be smaller than the threshold value used for the determination in step 53. If the resistance value of the coil is equal to or less than the first resistance value, the control unit 117 obtains a negative result in step 53A. In this case, the control unit 117 sets the main heating time this time to time L2, which is shorter than the reference time (step 6). However, when a negative result is obtained in step 53A, the main heating time does not necessarily have to be L2, as long as it is shorter than the reference time L1. On the other hand, when the resistance value of the coil is greater than the first resistance value, the control unit 117 obtains an affirmative result in step 53A. In this case, the control unit 117 sets the current main heating time to a time L3 (<L2) shorter than the reference time (step 7). After setting the main heating time in step 6 or step 7, the control unit 117 sequentially executes steps 8 and 9 to end one cycle of suction.

[0117] In the case of this embodiment, the control unit 117 focuses on the resistance value of the heating unit 211 that generates the aerosol and detects the occurrence of short puffs that cause liquid depletion. Therefore, the occurrence of liquid depletion can be effectively suppressed. Also in this embodiment, when a short puff is detected during preheating, the main heating time LT11 becomes shorter than the reference time L1. Therefore, the amount of electric power supplied to the heating unit 211 during one cycle of suction is smaller than the amount of electric power (reference value) supplied in the case of the reference time L1.

[0118] FIG. 18 is a diagram for explaining the relationship between the puff interval and the setting of the main heating time in Embodiment 6. (A) shows an example of the timing of suction (puff), (B) shows the change in the resistance value of the heating unit 211 without preheating, (C) shows an example of the setting of the main heating time without preheating, (D) shows the change in the resistance value of the heating unit 211 with preheating, and (E) shows an example of the setting of the main heating time with preheating. The vertical axis in FIG. 18(A) is the puff intensity, the vertical axis in FIGS. 18(B) and (D) is the resistance value, the vertical axis in FIGS. 18(C) and (E) is the heating intensity, and the horizontal axis in FIGS. 18(A) to (E) is time.

[0119] Also in the case of FIG. 18(A), the number of times of suction (puff) is 5 times. In the case of FIG. 18(A), it is assumed that the interval between the first puff and the second puff and the interval between the second puff and the third puff are relatively long, and the interval between the third puff and the fourth puff and the interval between the fourth puff and the fifth puff are relatively short. 18(B), the resistance value RA of the coil is lower than the first resistance value at the start of the second puff, the start of the third puff, and the start of the fifth puff. This is because the temperature of the coil has dropped and the resistance value has also dropped as time has passed since the end of the previous heating.

[0120] However, the resistance value RB of the coil at the start of the fourth puff is higher than the first resistance value because the interval between the third and fourth puffs is short and the temperature of the heating unit 211 has not yet dropped sufficiently. Therefore, in the example shown in Figure 18(C), the main heating time LT1 for the first, second, third and fifth puffs is set to the reference time L1, while the main heating time LT1 for the fourth puff is set to a time L2 that is shorter than the reference time L1. As a result, even if the puff interval until the start of the fourth puff is short and the amount of aerosol source supplied to the heating unit 211 before the start of suction is small, the actual heating time LT1 is shorter than the reference time L1, so that liquid does not run out during the fourth puff.

[0121] 18(D), which corresponds to the case where preheating is performed, the resistance value RA of the coil is lower than the first resistance value at the start of the first, second, third, and fifth preheating cycles. This is because the temperature of the coil has decreased and the resistance value has also decreased as time has passed since the end of the previous heating cycle.

[0122] However, the resistance value RB of the coil at the start of the fourth preheating is higher than the first resistance value because the interval between the third and fourth puffs is short and the temperature of the heating unit 211 has not yet dropped sufficiently. Therefore, in the example shown in Figure 18(E), the main heating time LT11 for the first, second, third and fifth puffs is set to time L2, while the main heating time LT11 for the fourth puff is set to time L3. As a result, even if the puff interval until the start of the fourth puff is short and the amount of aerosol source supplied to the heating unit 211 before the start of suction is small, the actual heating time LT11 is shorter than the reference time L1, so that liquid does not run out during the fourth puff.

[0123] <Seventh Embodiment> An example of a method for indirectly detecting the occurrence of a short puff will also be described in embodiment 7. In this embodiment, it is detected from the temperature change of the liquid guiding portion 212 that the heating portion 211 is in a high temperature state at the start of suction. In the present embodiment, the external configuration of the aerosol generation device 1 is the same as that in embodiment 1. However, the internal configuration of the aerosol generation device 1 assumed in this embodiment is partially different from that in embodiment 1.

[0124] Fig. 19 is a diagram schematically showing the internal configuration of the aerosol generation device 1 assumed in the embodiment 7. In Fig. 19, parts corresponding to those in Fig. 2 are assigned the same reference numerals. The aerosol generation device 1 shown in Fig. 19 differs from the aerosol generation device 1 shown in Fig. 2 in that it is provided with a liquid temperature sensor 113C. The liquid temperature sensor 113C measures the temperature of the liquid guiding section 212. For this reason, the liquid temperature sensor 113C is disposed in the vicinity of the liquid guiding section 212. For example, a temperature sensor or a thermistor is used as the liquid temperature sensor 113C. The liquid temperature sensor 113C is an example of a third sensor.

[0125] Fig. 20 is a flowchart illustrating an example of control of the main heating time by the control unit 117 (see Fig. 2) used in the seventh embodiment. In Fig. 20, parts corresponding to those in Fig. 4 are assigned the same reference numerals. The control by the control unit 117 is realized through the execution of a program. In this embodiment, the control unit 117 also first determines whether or not preheating is performed (step 1). If a negative result is obtained in step 1 (that is, if the preheating mode is off), control unit 117 determines whether or not the start of inhalation has been detected by puff sensor 112 (step 61). If the start of inhalation of the aerosol by the user is not detected, the control unit 117 obtains a negative result in step 61. While a negative result is obtained in step 61, the control unit 117 repeats the determination in step 61.

[0126] On the other hand, if the start of inhalation of the aerosol by the user is detected, the control unit 117 obtains a positive result in step 61. If a positive result is obtained in step 61, the control unit 117 starts main heating (step 1100), and then acquires the liquid temperature at the start of inhalation (step 62). The liquid temperature is the temperature of the liquid guide unit 212. When the temperature of the liquid guiding unit 212 is acquired, the control unit 117 determines whether the liquid temperature at the start of suction is higher than a second temperature reference value (step 63). The second temperature reference value is determined according to the actual measurement value of the change in the liquid temperature according to the elapsed time from the end of the supply of power to the heating unit 211.

[0127] If the liquid temperature is equal to or lower than the second temperature reference, the control unit 117 obtains a negative result in step 63. In this case, the control unit 117 sets the current main heating time to the reference time L1 (step 5). On the other hand, if the liquid temperature is higher than the second temperature reference value, the control unit 117 obtains a positive result in step 63. In this case, the control unit 117 sets the current main heating time to a time L2 that is shorter than the reference time (step 6). After setting the main heating time in step 5 or step 6, the control unit 117 executes steps 8 and 9 in order, completing one cycle of suction.

[0128] On the other hand, if a positive result is obtained in step 1 (that is, if the preheating mode is on), the control unit 117 determines whether or not the start of preheating has been detected (step 61A). If the start of preheating is not detected, the control unit 117 obtains a negative result in step 61 A. As long as a negative result is obtained in step 61 A, the control unit 117 repeats the determination in step 61 A.

[0129] On the other hand, when the start of preheating is detected, the control unit 117 obtains an affirmative result in step 61A. When an affirmative result is obtained in step 61A, the control unit 117 starts main heating after the completion of preheating (step 1100A), and then acquires the liquid temperature at the start of preheating (step 62A). The liquid temperature is the temperature of the liquid guiding unit 212. When the temperature of the liquid guiding unit 212 is acquired, the control unit 117 determines whether the liquid temperature at the start of preheating is greater than the second temperature reference (step 63A). However, the threshold value used for the determination in step 63A may be different from that in step 63. For example, the threshold value used for the determination in step 63A may be smaller than the threshold value used for the determination in step 63. When the liquid temperature is below the second temperature reference, the control unit 117 obtains a negative result in step 63A. In this case, the control unit 117 sets the current main heating time to a time L2 shorter than the reference time (step 6). However, the main heating time when a negative result is obtained in step 63A only needs to be shorter than the reference time L1, and does not necessarily have to be L2. On the other hand, when the liquid temperature is higher than the second temperature reference, the control unit 117 obtains an affirmative result in step 63A. In this case, the control unit 117 sets the current main heating time to a time L3 (<L2) shorter than the reference time (step 7). After setting the main heating time according to step 6 or step 7, the control unit 117 sequentially executes steps 8 and 9 to end one cycle of suction.

[0130] In the case of this embodiment, the control unit 117 pays attention to the liquid temperature of the heating unit 211 that generates the aerosol and detects the occurrence of short puffs that cause liquid depletion. Therefore, the occurrence of liquid depletion can be effectively suppressed. Also in this embodiment, when a short puff is detected during the use of preheating, the main heating time LT11 becomes shorter than the reference time L1, so the amount of electric power supplied to the heating unit 211 during one cycle of suction is smaller than the amount of electric power (reference value) supplied in the case of the reference time L1.

[0131] 21 is a diagram illustrating the relationship between the puff interval and the setting of the main heating time in embodiment 7. (A) shows an example of the timing of suction (puffing), (B) shows the change in temperature of the liquid guiding portion 212 without preheating, (C) shows an example of the setting of the main heating time without preheating, (D) shows the change in temperature of the liquid guiding portion 212 with preheating, and (E) shows an example of the setting of the main heating time with preheating. The vertical axis in FIG. 21(A) represents the puff intensity, the vertical axes in FIGS. 21(B) and (D) represent the temperature, the vertical axis in FIGS. 21(C) and (E) represents the heating intensity, and the horizontal axes in FIGS. 21(A) to (E) represent time.

[0132] In the case of Figure 21(A), the number of inhalations (puffs) is also 5. In the case of Figure 21(A), it is assumed that the intervals between the first and second puffs and between the second and third puffs are relatively long, and the intervals between the third and fourth puffs and between the fourth and fifth puffs are relatively short. 21(B), which corresponds to no pre-heating, the liquid temperature TA is lower than the second temperature reference at the start of the first puff, the start of the second puff, the start of the third puff, and the start of the fifth puff. This is because heating is started when the liquid temperature has dropped to room temperature or close to room temperature as a result of the passage of time since the end of the previous heating.

[0133] However, the liquid temperature TB at the start of the fourth puff is higher than the second temperature reference value because the interval between the third and fourth puffs is short and the temperature of the liquid guiding portion 212 has not yet dropped sufficiently. Therefore, in the example shown in Figure 21(C), the main heating time LT1 for the first puff, second puff, third puff, and fifth puff is set to the reference time L1, while the main heating time LT1 for the fourth puff is set to a time L2 that is shorter than the reference time L1. As a result, even if the puff interval until the start of the fourth puff is short and the amount of aerosol source supplied to the heating unit 211 before the start of suction is small, the actual heating time LT1 is shorter than the reference time L1, so that liquid does not run out during the fourth puff.

[0134] In the example of Fig. 21(D) corresponding to the case with pre-heating, the liquid temperature TA is lower than the second temperature reference at the start of the first puff, the start of the second puff, the start of the third puff, and the start of the fifth puff. This is because heating is started when the liquid temperature has dropped to room temperature or close to room temperature as a result of the passage of time since the end of the previous heating. However, the liquid temperature TB at the start of the fourth puff is higher than the second temperature reference value because the interval between the third and fourth puffs is short and the temperature of the liquid guiding portion 212 has not yet dropped sufficiently.

[0135] Therefore, in the example shown in FIG. 21(E), the main heating time LT11 for the first puff, the second puff, the third puff, and the fifth puff is set to time L2, while the main heating time LT11 for the fourth puff is set to time L3. As a result, even if the puff interval until the start of the fourth puff is short and the amount of aerosol source supplied to the heating unit 211 before the start of suction is small, the actual heating time LT11 is shorter than the reference time L1, so that liquid does not run out during the fourth puff. Since the main heating time LT11 corresponding to the fourth puff is shortened, the heating stop time of the heating unit 211 is lengthened even if the interval between the fourth and fifth puffs is short. Therefore, the liquid temperature can be lowered below the second temperature reference by the time the fifth puff starts. Therefore, the main heating time LT11 corresponding to the fifth puff returns to time L2 again.

[0136] <Embodiment 8> In this embodiment, it is assumed that the temperature of the environment in which the aerosol generation device 1 is used is low. In countries or regions at high latitudes, the outside temperature is low in winter. When the outside temperature is low, the temperature of the aerosol source liquid stored in the liquid storage unit 213 of the aerosol generation device 1 also drops, and at the same time, the viscosity increases. When the viscosity increases, the aerosol liquid delivery speed decreases compared to when the temperature is high, not only when the puff interval is short but also when the puff interval is long. As a result, if the amount of aerosol source supplied to the heating unit 211 before the start of suction falls below the amount of liquid necessary to generate aerosol, a phenomenon similar to liquid depletion occurs. Therefore, in this embodiment, attention is focused on the temperature of the environment or atmosphere in which the aerosol generation device 1 is used.

[0137] In the present embodiment, the external configuration of the aerosol generation device 1 is the same as that of embodiment 1. However, the internal configuration of the aerosol generation device 1 assumed in this embodiment is partially different from that of embodiment 1. Fig. 22 is a diagram schematically showing the internal configuration of the aerosol generation device 1 assumed in the embodiment 8. In Fig. 22, parts corresponding to those in Fig. 2 are assigned the same reference numerals. The aerosol generation device 1 shown in Fig. 22 differs from the aerosol generation device 1 shown in Fig. 2 in that it is provided with an air temperature sensor 113D. The air temperature sensor 113D measures the ambient air temperature. For this reason, it is desirable to place the air temperature sensor 113D as far away as possible from the heat source within the device. However, since the viscosity of the aerosol source depends on the temperature of the liquid in the aerosol source stored in the liquid storage unit 213, a liquid temperature sensor may be placed near the liquid storage unit 213.

[0138] Fig. 23 is a flowchart illustrating an example of control of the main heating time by the control unit 117 (see Fig. 2) used in the eighth embodiment. In Fig. 23, parts corresponding to those in Fig. 4 are assigned the same reference numerals. The control by the control unit 117 is realized through the execution of a program. In this embodiment, the control unit 117 also first determines whether or not preheating is performed (step 1). If a negative result is obtained in step 1 (i.e., if the pre-heating mode is off), the control unit 117 determines whether the start of inhalation has been detected by the puff sensor 112 (step 71). This determination is made when main heating is started by the start of inhalation by the user.

[0139] If the start of inhalation of the aerosol by the user is not detected, the control unit 117 obtains a negative result in step 71. While a negative result is obtained in step 71, the control unit 117 repeats the determination in step 71. On the other hand, if the start of inhalation of aerosol by the user is detected, the control unit 117 obtains a positive result in step 71. If a positive result is obtained in step 71, the control unit 117 starts main heating (step 1100), and then acquires the air temperature at the start of inhalation (step 72). The air temperature is the air temperature around the aerosol generation device 1. When the ambient temperature is acquired, the control unit 117 determines whether the temperature at the start of suction is lower than a threshold value for determining the temperature (hereinafter referred to as the "temperature threshold") (step 73). The temperature threshold is determined according to the relationship between the viscosity of the aerosol source and the temperature.

[0140] If the air temperature is equal to or higher than the air temperature threshold, the control unit 117 obtains a negative result in step 73. In this case, the control unit 117 sets the current main heating time to the reference time L1 (step 5). On the other hand, if the air temperature is lower than the air temperature threshold, the control unit 117 obtains a positive result in step 73. In this case, the control unit 117 sets the current main heating time to a time L2 that is shorter than the reference time (step 6). After setting the main heating time LT1 in step 5 or step 6, the control unit 117 executes steps 8 and 9 in order, completing one cycle of suction.

[0141] If a positive result is obtained in step 1 (that is, if the preheating mode is on), the control unit 117 determines whether or not the start of preheating has been detected (step 71A). If the start of preheating is not detected, the control unit 117 obtains a negative result in step 71A. While a negative result is obtained in step 71A, the control unit 117 repeats the determination in step 71A. On the other hand, if the start of preheating is detected, the control unit 117 obtains an affirmative result in step 71A. When an affirmative result is obtained in step 71A, the control unit 117 starts main heating after the completion of preheating (step 1100A), and then acquires the ambient temperature at the start of preheating (step 72A). When the ambient temperature is acquired, the control unit 117 determines whether the temperature at the start of preheating is lower than the temperature threshold for temperature determination (step 73A). However, the threshold used for the determination in step 73A may be different from that in step 73. For example, the threshold used for the determination in step 73A may be smaller than the threshold used for the determination in step 73.

[0142] When the temperature is equal to or higher than the temperature threshold, the control unit 117 obtains a negative result in step 73A. In this case, the control unit 117 sets the current main heating time to a time L2 shorter than the reference time (step 6). However, the main heating time when a negative result is obtained in step 73A only needs to be shorter than the reference time L1, and does not necessarily have to be L2. On the other hand, when the temperature is lower than the temperature threshold, the control unit 117 obtains an affirmative result in step 73A. In this case, the control unit 117 sets the current main heating time to a time L3 (<L2) shorter than the reference time (step 7). After setting the main heating time LT11 according to step 6 or step 7, the control unit 117 executes steps 8 and 9 in order to end one cycle of suction.

[0143] In the case of this embodiment, the control unit 117 pays attention to the ambient temperature at which the generation efficiency of the aerosol decreases and detects the use in an environment where liquid depletion occurs. Therefore, the occurrence of liquid depletion can be effectively suppressed. Figure 24 is a diagram illustrating the relationship between puff intervals and main heating time settings in embodiment 8. (A) shows an example of inhalation (puff) timing, (B) shows changes in ambient air temperature, (C) shows an example of main heating time settings without preheating, and (D) shows an example of main heating time settings with preheating. The vertical axis in Figure 24(A) is puff intensity, the vertical axis in Figure 24(B) is air temperature, the vertical axis in Figures 24(C) and (D) is heating intensity, and the horizontal axis in Figures 24(A) to (D) is time.

[0144] Figure 24(B) shows the change in ambient temperature in which the aerosol generation device 1 is used. Figure 24(B) assumes a situation in which the temperature drops enough to affect the viscosity of the aerosol source as a result of moving from a heated room to outdoors in winter. In the case of Figure 24(A), the number of inhalations (puffs) is also 5. In the case of Figure 24(A), the interval between the first and second puffs, the interval between the second and third puffs, the interval between the third and fourth puffs, and the interval between the fourth and fifth puffs are not short puffs. However, the first, second, and third puffs are performed indoors, while the fourth and fifth puffs are performed outdoors, so in Figure 24(B), the temperature drops between the third and fourth puffs.

[0145] Between the third and fourth puffs, there is enough time for the liquid temperature of the aerosol source to drop, and as a result, the liquid temperature of the aerosol source is assumed to be close to the air temperature at the start of the fourth puff. Also, the liquid temperature of the aerosol source at that time is assumed to have dropped to a value lower than the air temperature threshold. Therefore, in the example shown in Figure 24(C), the main heating time LT1 for the first puff, the second puff, and the third puff is set to the reference time L1, while the main heating time LT1 for the fourth puff and the fifth puff is set to a time L2 that is shorter than the reference time L1.

[0146] Similarly, in the example shown in FIG. 24(D), the main heating time LT11 for the first, second, and third puffs is set to time L2, while the main heating time LT11 for the fourth and fifth puffs is set to time L3. As a result, in the fourth and fifth puffs, even if the amount of aerosol source supplied to the heating unit 211 before the start of suction is small due to low ambient temperature, the actual heating time LT11 is shorter than the reference time L1, so liquid drying up does not occur.

[0147] <Ninth Embodiment> In this embodiment, a case will be described in which the occurrence of liquid drying up is predicted and the main heating time is controlled. The other configurations of the aerosol generation device 1 (see FIG. 1) in this embodiment are the same as those in the first embodiment. That is, the external configuration and internal configuration of the aerosol generation device 1 are the same as those in the first embodiment. Fig. 25 is a flowchart illustrating an example of control of the main heating time by the control unit 117 (see Fig. 2) used in the ninth embodiment. In Fig. 25, parts corresponding to those in Fig. 4 are assigned the same reference numerals. The control by the control unit 117 is realized through the execution of a program. In this embodiment, the control unit 117 first determines whether or not preheating is performed (step 1).

[0148] If a negative result is obtained in step 1 (that is, if the preheating mode is off), control unit 117 determines whether or not the start of inhalation has been detected by puff sensor 112 (step 81). If the start of inhalation of the aerosol by the user is not detected, the control unit 117 obtains a negative result in step 81. While a negative result is obtained in step 81, the control unit 117 repeats the determination in step 81. On the other hand, if the start of inhalation of aerosol by the user is detected, the control unit 117 obtains a positive result in step 81. If a positive result is obtained in step 81, the control unit 117 starts main heating (step 1100), and then acquires a history of the past multiple puff intervals (step 82). The number of puff interval histories to be acquired is set in advance. For example, 3 to 5 histories are acquired. Since the purpose is to prevent the liquid from drying up in the next suction, increasing the number of acquired histories will not reveal the most recent suction trends. On the other hand, increasing the number of acquired histories will enable analysis of the user's suction trends over a long period of time. Once the history of the past puff intervals has been acquired, the control unit 117 predicts the next puff interval (step 83). In the above-described embodiment, the latest puff interval is acquired every time a new inhalation is started, but in this embodiment, the puff interval is predicted before the next inhalation is started.

[0149] Subsequently, the control unit 117 determines whether the predicted next puff interval is shorter than the first period (step 84). If the predicted next puff interval is equal to or greater than the first period, the control unit 117 obtains a negative result in step 84. In this case, the control unit 117 sets the current main heating time to the reference time L1 (step 5). On the other hand, if the predicted next puff interval is shorter than the first period, the control unit 117 obtains a positive result in step 84. In this case, the control unit 117 sets the current main heating time to time L2, which is shorter than the reference time (step 6). After setting the main heating time LT1 in step 5 or step 6, the control unit 117 executes steps 8 and 9 in order, completing one cycle of suction.

[0150] On the other hand, if a positive result is obtained in step 1 (that is, if the preheating mode is on), control unit 117 determines whether or not the start of inhalation has been detected by puff sensor 112 (step 81A). When the start of aerosol inhalation by the user is not detected, the control unit 117 obtains a negative result in step 81A. While a negative result is obtained in step 81A, the control unit 117 repeats the determination in step 81A. On the other hand, when the start of aerosol inhalation by the user is detected, the control unit 117 obtains a positive result in step 81A. When a positive result is obtained in step 81A, the control unit 117 starts main heating after the completion of preheating (step 1100A), and subsequently, acquires the history of puff intervals for a plurality of past times (step 82A). When the history of puff intervals for a plurality of past times is acquired, the control unit 117 predicts the next puff interval (step 83A). Subsequently, the control unit 117 determines whether the predicted next puff interval is shorter than the first period (step 84A). However, the threshold value used for the determination in step 84A may be different from that in step 84. For example, the threshold value used for the determination in step 84A may be smaller than the threshold value used for the determination in step 84.

[0151] When the predicted next puff interval is equal to or longer than the first period, the control unit 117 obtains a negative result in step 84A. In this case, the control unit 117 sets the current main heating time to a time L2 shorter than the reference time L1 (step 6). However, the main heating time when a negative result is obtained in step 84A only needs to be shorter than the reference time L1 and does not necessarily have to be L2. On the other hand, when the predicted next puff interval is shorter than the first period, the control unit 117 obtains a positive result in step 84A. In this case, the control unit 117 sets the current main heating time to a time L3 (<L2) shorter than the reference time (step 7). After setting the main heating time LT11 in step 6 or step 7, the control unit 117 sequentially executes steps 8 and 9 to end one cycle of inhalation.

[0152] In this embodiment, if the predicted value satisfies the condition for a short puff, the control unit 117 preemptively shortens the main heating time. As a result, if the puff interval immediately before the start of the next inhalation is a short puff, the next main heating time will be the same as in the other embodiments described above. On the other hand, if the puff interval immediately before the start of the next inhalation is not a short puff, the main heating time is shorter than in the other embodiments described above, which effectively lengthens the puff interval until the next inhalation, making it less likely that the liquid will run out. In this embodiment as well, when the predicted value is a short puff, the main heating time LT11 is shorter than the reference time L1, and therefore the amount of power supplied to the heating section 211 during one suction cycle is smaller than the amount of power (reference value) supplied in the case of the reference time L1.

[0153] 26 is a diagram illustrating the relationship between the puff interval and the setting of the main heating time in embodiment 9. (A) shows an example of the timing of inhalation (puffing), (B) shows an example of setting the main heating time when the predicted puff interval is equal to or longer than the first period, and (C) shows an example of setting the main heating time when the predicted puff interval is shorter than the first period. The vertical axis in Fig. 26(A) represents puff intensity, the vertical axis in Figs. 26(B) and (C) represents heating intensity, and the horizontal axis in Figs. 26(A) to (C) represents time. In FIG. 26(A), before the (M+1)th puff starts, the next puff interval is predicted from the puff intervals of N puffs. In the example of Figure 26(B), since the predicted puff interval is not a short puff, if there is no preheating, the main heating time LT1 is set to the reference time L1, and if there is preheating, the main heating time LT11 is set to the time L2. In the example of Figure 26(C), since the predicted puff interval is a short puff, if preheating is not performed, the main heating time LT1 is set to time L2, and if preheating is performed, the main heating time LT11 is set to time L3.

[0154] <Tenth Embodiment> In this embodiment, the main heating time is also set using the puff intervals of the past several times. However, in this embodiment, the main heating time of the ongoing suction is set after the start of the current suction, rather than being predicted, as in the first to seventh embodiments. Other configurations of the aerosol generation device 1 (see FIG. 1) in this embodiment are the same as those in embodiment 1. That is, the external configuration and internal configuration of the aerosol generation device 1 are the same as those in embodiment 1.

[0155] Fig. 27 is a flowchart illustrating an example of control of the main heating time by the control unit 117 (see Fig. 2) used in embodiment 10. In Fig. 27, parts corresponding to those in Fig. 4 are assigned the same reference numerals. The control by the control unit 117 is realized through the execution of a program. In this embodiment, the control unit 117 first determines whether or not preheating is performed (step 1). If a negative result is obtained in step 1 (i.e., if the preheating mode is off), the control unit 117 determines whether the start of inhalation has been detected by the puff sensor 112 (step 91). The determination in step 91 is repeated as long as a negative result is obtained in step 91.

[0156] If a positive result is obtained in step 91, control unit 117 starts main heating (step 1100), and then acquires the history of the past puff intervals, including the current puff interval (step 92). In the present embodiment, an actual measurement value is used instead of a prediction, so the current puff interval is also measured. The number of puff interval histories to be acquired is set in advance. For example, 3 to 5 histories are acquired. The number of puff interval histories to be acquired is set within a range that allows the most recent inhalation tendency to be detected. When the history of the past multiple puff intervals is acquired, control unit 117 acquires the number of consecutive puff intervals that are shorter than the threshold value up to this point (step 93). The more consecutive puff intervals there are, the higher the possibility that the liquid temperature of the aerosol source will be high at the start of inhalation, and the higher the possibility that the supply of the aerosol source will not be able to keep up during main heating. Note that instead of the number of consecutive times up to now, the maximum value of the number of consecutive times within the acquired history may be obtained. Even if it is not the number of consecutive times up to now, it is possible to know that the liquid temperature may be high.

[0157] Subsequently, the control unit 117 determines whether the number of consecutive times is greater than the first number of times (step 94). When the number of consecutive times is less than or equal to the first number of times, the control unit 117 obtains a negative result in step 94. In this case, the control unit 117 sets the current main heating time to the reference time L1 (step 5). The reference time L1 is a fixed value. On the other hand, when the number of consecutive times is greater than the first number of times, the control unit 117 obtains an affirmative result in step 94. In this case, the control unit 117 sets the current main heating time to a shorter time L2A (<L1) as the number of consecutive times increases (step 95). The time L2A is a variable value shorter than the reference time L1.

[0158] [[ID=十一]] In the case of this embodiment, the control unit 117 sets the time L2A to a shorter value step by step as the number of consecutive times increases. For example, the main heating time LT1 is shortened by 0.2 seconds × the number of consecutive times. This example is an example of linearly shortening the time L2A according to the number of consecutive times. However, the time L2A may be shortened non-linearly according to a quadratic curve or the like. After setting the main heating time LT1 in step 5 or step 95, the control unit 117 sequentially executes steps 8 and 9 to end one cycle of suction.

[0159] On the other hand, when an affirmative result is obtained in step 1 (that is, when the preheating mode is on), the control unit 117 determines whether the suction has been detected by the puff sensor 112 (step 91A). The determination in step 91A is repeated while a negative result is obtained in step 91A. When an affirmative result is obtained in step 91A, the control unit 117 starts the main heating after the preheating ends (step 1100A), and subsequently, acquires the history of the puff intervals of a plurality of past times including the current puff interval (step 92A). When the history of the past puff intervals is acquired, the control unit 117 acquires the number of consecutive puff intervals that are shorter than the threshold value up to this point (step 93A). Next, control unit 117 determines whether the number of consecutive times is greater than the first number of times (step 94A). However, the threshold used for the determination in step 94A may be different from that used in step 94. For example, the threshold used for the determination in step 94A may be smaller than the threshold used for the determination in step 94.

[0160] If the number of consecutive occurrences is equal to or less than the first number, the control unit 117 obtains a negative result in step 94A. In this case, the control unit 117 sets the main heating time this time to time L2, which is shorter than the reference time (step 6). Time L2 is a fixed value. However, when a negative result is obtained in step 94A, the main heating time does not necessarily have to be L2, as long as it is shorter than the reference time L1. On the other hand, if the number of consecutive times is greater than the first number of times, the control unit 117 obtains a positive result in step 94A. In this case, the control unit 117 sets the main heating time this time to a time L3A that becomes shorter as the number of consecutive times increases (step 96). The time L3A here is a variable value that is shorter than the time L2. After setting the main heating time in step 6 or step 96, the control unit 117 executes steps 8 and 9 in order, completing one cycle of suction.

[0161] In the present embodiment, the more consecutive short puffs appear, the shorter the main heating time becomes, as control unit 117. This is because the more consecutive short puffs appear, the more consecutive main heating continues with the liquid temperature of the aerosol source high, and the more likely the liquid will run out due to an increase in the amount of aerosol generated. However, in this embodiment, the main heating time becomes shorter as the number of consecutive short puffs increases, so liquid drying up is effectively suppressed.

[0162] 28 is a diagram illustrating the relationship between the puff interval and the setting of the main heating time in embodiment 10. (A) shows an example of the timing of inhalation (puffing), (B) shows an example of the setting of the main heating time when the number of consecutive short puffs is equal to or less than the first number, and (C) shows an example of the setting of the main heating time when the number of consecutive short puffs is greater than the first number. The vertical axis in FIG. 28(A) represents puff intensity, the vertical axis in FIGS. 28(B) and (C) represents heating intensity, and the horizontal axis in FIGS. 28(A) to (C) represents time. FIG. 28(A) illustrates how the number of consecutive short puffs up to this point among the N puff intervals up to the Mth puff is acquired. In the example of Figure 28(B), since the number of consecutive times is less than the first number, the main heating time LT1 when preheating is not performed is set to the reference time L1, and the main heating time LT11 when preheating is performed is set to the time L2. In the example of Figure 28(C), since the number of consecutive times is greater than the first number, the main heating time LT1 when preheating is not performed is set to a time L2A that is shorter than the reference time, and the main heating time LT11 when preheating is performed is set to a time L3A that is shorter than the time L2.

[0163] <Embodiment 11> In this embodiment, a modification of embodiment 10 will be described. In embodiment 10, the number of consecutive short puffs is counted, but if the puff interval exceeds a threshold even slightly, the count is reset. However, in some cases, it may be preferable to treat puffs that exceed the threshold as short puffs in order to prevent liquid drying up, such as in the case of a user whose puff interval slightly exceeds the threshold or whose puff interval fluctuates slightly on either side of the threshold.

[0164] For these users, even if the number of puffs acquired in step 93 (see FIG. 27) is small, the liquid temperature at the start of main heating is likely to be high, just as in the case of many consecutive short puffs. In this embodiment, a countermeasure against this type of phenomenon will be described. Other configurations of the aerosol generation device 1 (see FIG. 1) in this embodiment are the same as those in embodiment 1. That is, the external configuration and internal configuration of the aerosol generation device 1 are the same as those in embodiment 1.

[0165] Fig. 29 is a flowchart illustrating an example of control of the main heating time by the control unit 117 (see Fig. 2) used in embodiment 11. In Fig. 29, parts corresponding to those in Fig. 27 are assigned the same reference numerals. The control by the control unit 117 is realized through the execution of a program. In this embodiment, the control unit 117 first determines whether or not preheating is performed (step 1). If a negative result is obtained in step 1 (i.e., if the preheating mode is off), the control unit 117 determines whether the start of inhalation has been detected by the puff sensor 112 (step 91). The determination in step 91 is repeated as long as a negative result is obtained in step 91.

[0166] If a positive result is obtained in step 91, control unit 117 starts main heating (step 1100), and then acquires the history of the past puff intervals, including the current puff interval (step 92). In the present embodiment, an actual measurement value is used instead of a prediction, so the current puff interval is also measured. When the history of the past multiple puff intervals is acquired, the control unit 117 acquires the number of consecutive puff intervals up to this point that are shorter than the value obtained by adding a margin α to the first number for determining a short puff (shown as "threshold value + α" in Figure 29) (step 101). The value obtained by adding a margin value α to the first number of times for short puff determination is a threshold value for determining pseudo short puffs. The margin value α is given in advance through an empirical rule or the like. The margin value α is an example of the third period. The number of times acquired in step 101 is likely to be greater than the number of times acquired in step 93 (see FIG. 27). Next, the control unit 117 determines whether the number of consecutive times is greater than the first number of times (step 94).

[0167] When the number of consecutive times is less than or equal to the first number of times, the control unit 117 obtains a negative result in step 94. In this case, the control unit 117 sets the current main heating time to the reference time L1 (step 5). On the other hand, when the number of consecutive times is greater than the first number of times, the control unit 117 obtains an affirmative result in step 94. In this case, the control unit 117 sets the current main heating time to a shorter time L2A (<L1) as the number of consecutive times increases (step 95). After setting the main heating time in step 5 or step 95, the control unit 117 sequentially executes steps 8 and 9 to end one cycle of suction.

[0168] On the other hand, when an affirmative result is obtained in step 1 (that is, when the preheating mode is on), the control unit 117 determines whether the start of suction is detected by the puff sensor 112 (step 91A). The determination in step 91A is repeated while a negative result is obtained in step 91A. When an affirmative result is obtained in step 91A, the control unit 117 starts the main heating after the preheating ends (step 1100A), and then acquires the history of the puff intervals of a plurality of past times including the current puff interval (step 92A). In the case of this embodiment, since measured values rather than predictions are used, the current puff interval is also measured.

[0169] When the history of the puff intervals of a plurality of past times is acquired, the control unit 117 acquires the number of consecutive times that the puff interval is shorter than the value obtained by adding the margin to the threshold for short puff determination (that is, the first number of times + α) (step 101A). The number of times acquired in step 101A is likely to be larger than the number of times acquired in step 93A (see FIG. 27). Subsequently, the control unit 117 determines whether the number of consecutive times is greater than the first number of times (step 94A). However, the threshold used for the determination in step 94A may be different from that in step 94. For example, the threshold used for the determination in step 94A may be smaller than the threshold used for the determination in step 94.

[0170] When the number of consecutive times is less than or equal to the first number of times, the control unit 117 obtains a negative result in step 94A. In this case, the control unit 117 sets the current main heating time to a time L2 shorter than the reference time (step 6). However, the main heating time when a negative result is obtained in step 94A only needs to be shorter than the reference time L1, and does not necessarily have to be L2. On the other hand, when the number of consecutive times is more than the first number of times, the control unit 117 obtains an affirmative result in step 94A. In this case, the control unit 117 sets the current main heating time to a shorter time L3A (<L2) as the number of consecutive times increases (step 96). After setting the main heating time according to step 6 or step 96, the control unit 117 sequentially executes steps 8 and 9 to end one cycle of suction. In the case of this embodiment, since the control unit 117 counts the number of consecutive times including the pseudo short puff, even if the pseudo short puffs are consecutive, liquid depletion is effectively suppressed.

[0171] <Embodiment 12> In this embodiment, a modification example for Embodiments 1 to 7 will be described. In Embodiment 1, the main heating times LT1 and LT11 when determined as short puffs were fixed values. That is, in the case of no preheating, it was time L2, and in the case of preheating, it was time L3. In other words, the amount of electric power supplied to the heating unit 211 (see FIG. 2) during short puffs was always constant. In this embodiment, the amount of electric power supplied to the heating unit 211 during short puffs is made smaller as the previous puff interval is shorter. Other configurations of the aerosol generating device 1 (see FIG. 1) in this embodiment are the same as those in Embodiment 1. That is, the external configuration and internal configuration of the aerosol generating device 1 are the same as those in Embodiment 1.

[0172] FIG. 30 is a flowchart for explaining an example of control of the main heating time by the control unit 117 (see FIG. 2) used in the twelfth embodiment. In FIG. 30, reference numerals corresponding to the corresponding parts in FIG. 4 are shown. The control by the control unit 117 is realized through the execution of a program. That is, FIG. 30 explains a modification of the first embodiment. Also in the case of the present embodiment, the control unit 117 first determines whether or not there is preheating (step 1). When a negative result is obtained in step 1 (that is, when the preheating mode is off), the control unit 117 determines whether or not the start of suction has been detected by the puff sensor 112 (step 2).

[0173] If the start of aerosol suction by the user is not detected, the control unit 117 obtains a negative result in step 2. While a negative result is obtained in step 2, the control unit 117 repeats the determination in step 2. On the other hand, when the start of aerosol suction by the user is detected, the control unit 117 obtains a positive result in step 2. When a positive result is obtained in step 2, the control unit 117 starts the main heating (step 1100), and then obtains the previous puff interval (step 3). When the puff interval is obtained, the control unit 117 determines whether or not the puff interval is shorter than the first period (step 4).

[0174] When the puff interval is longer than or equal to the first period, the control unit 117 obtains a negative result in step 4. In this case, the control unit 117 sets the current main heating time to the reference time L1 (step 5). On the other hand, when the puff interval is shorter than the first period, the control unit 117 obtains a positive result in step 4. In this case, the control unit 117 sets the current main heating time to a shorter time L2A (<L1) as the previous puff interval is shorter (step 111). Note that the time L2A may be linearly shortened according to the number of consecutive times, or may be non-linearly shortened such as a quadratic curve. After setting the main heating time by step 5 or step 111, the control unit 117 executes steps 8 and 9 in order to end one cycle of suction.

[0175] On the other hand, if a positive result is obtained in step 1 (that is, if the preheating mode is on), control unit 117 determines whether or not the start of inhalation has been detected by puff sensor 112 (step 2A). If the start of inhalation of the aerosol by the user is not detected, the control unit 117 obtains a negative result in step 2 A. While a negative result is obtained in step 2 A, the control unit 117 repeats the determination in step 2 A.

[0176] On the other hand, if the start of inhalation of aerosol by the user is detected, the control unit 117 obtains a positive result in step 2A. If a positive result is obtained in step 2A, the control unit 117 starts main heating after the end of pre-heating (step 1100A), and then obtains the immediately preceding puff interval (step 3A). When the puff interval is acquired, the control unit 117 determines whether the puff interval is shorter than the first period (Step 4A). However, the threshold used for the determination in Step 4A may be different from that in Step 4. For example, the threshold used for the determination in Step 4A may be smaller than the threshold used for the determination in Step 4. If the puff interval is equal to or greater than the first period, the control unit 117 obtains a negative result in step 4A. In this case, the control unit 117 sets the current main heating time to L2, which is shorter than the reference time (step 112).

[0177] On the other hand, if the puff interval is shorter than the first period, the control unit 117 obtains a positive result in step 4A. In this case, the control unit 117 sets the current main heating time to a time L3A that is shorter as the previous puff interval is shorter (step 113). After setting the main heating time in step 112 or step 113, the control unit 117 executes steps 8 and 9 in order, thereby completing one cycle of suction. In the case of this embodiment, the shorter the immediately preceding puff interval, the less power is supplied to the heating unit 211 during the main heating period, thereby suppressing the possibility of liquid drying up.

[0178] When the method of this embodiment is applied to the method of the second embodiment, the main heating time is shortened as the time from the end of the previous heating to the start of the current heating is shorter. When the method of this embodiment is applied to the method of the third embodiment, the main heating time is shortened as the time from the end of the previous heating to the start of the current suction is shorter. When the method of this embodiment is applied to the method of embodiment 4, the main heating time is shortened as the time from the immediately preceding OFF operation of the power button 11 to the current ON operation is shorter. When the method of this embodiment is applied to the method of the fifth embodiment, the higher the temperature of the heating unit 211 at the start of suction, the shorter the length of the main heating time is made. When the method of this embodiment is applied to the method of the sixth embodiment, the lower the resistance value of the heating unit 211 at the start of suction, the shorter the length of the main heating time is made. When the method of this embodiment is applied to the method of the seventh embodiment, the higher the temperature of the liquid guide portion 212 at the start of suction, the shorter the length of the main heating time is made.

[0179] <Embodiment 13> In this embodiment, a control method that focuses on the amount of liquid remaining in the aerosol source at the start of main heating will be described. As described above, the supply of the aerosol source to the liquid guide portion 212 is due to capillary action. In this embodiment, a control method will be described for the case where the speed of the liquid delivery due to capillary action depends on the amount of remaining liquid. For example, in a situation where the liquid supply speed is reduced due to a decrease in the amount of remaining liquid, a control example will be described for the case where the amount of liquid from the aerosol source that can be supplied during one suction is less than when the amount of remaining liquid is large. In this case, not enough aerosol will be generated during one suction. Therefore, if the main heating time is the same regardless of the amount of remaining liquid, the supply of the aerosol source may not be enough, and a phenomenon similar to liquid drying up may occur. Therefore, in this embodiment, the length of the main heating time is controlled taking into consideration the amount of remaining liquid.

[0180] In the present embodiment, the external configuration of the aerosol generation device 1 is the same as that in embodiment 1. However, the internal configuration of the aerosol generation device 1 assumed in this embodiment is partially different from that in embodiment 1. Fig. 31 is a diagram schematically showing the internal configuration of the aerosol generation device 1 assumed in the embodiment 13. In Fig. 31, parts corresponding to those in Fig. 2 are assigned the same reference numerals. The aerosol generation device 1 shown in FIG. 31 differs from the aerosol generation device 1 shown in FIG. 2 in that a remaining liquid amount sensor 113E is provided.

[0181] The remaining liquid level sensor 113E may be, for example, a level switch, a level gauge, a capacitance sensor, or a sensor that measures the distance to the liquid level. The distance to the liquid level can be measured by, for example, the time it takes for an ultrasonic wave, an electromagnetic wave, or a laser to be reflected by the liquid surface and return. However, the amount of remaining liquid to be finally used is corrected by the control unit 117 using information on the attitude of the aerosol generation device 1. For example, an output signal from a gyro sensor is used as the information on the attitude. In this embodiment, residual liquid amount sensor 113E is used, but it is also possible to calculate the residual liquid amount by calculation. For example, the amount of liquid consumed per suction can be calculated as a function of the amount of power supplied to heating unit 211, and the residual liquid amount at each time point can be calculated by subtracting the integral value from the initial value.

[0182] Fig. 32 is a flowchart illustrating an example of control of the main heating time by the control unit 117 (see Fig. 2) used in embodiment 13. In Fig. 32, parts corresponding to those in Fig. 4 are assigned the same reference numerals. The control by the control unit 117 is realized through the execution of a program. In the present embodiment as well, the control unit 117 first determines whether or not preheating is performed (step 1). If a negative result is obtained in step 1 (that is, if the preheating mode is off), the control unit 117 sets the main heating time without preheating according to the remaining liquid amount and the puff interval (step 121). On the other hand, if a positive result is obtained in step 1 (that is, if the preheating mode is on), the control unit 117 sets the main heating time with preheating according to the remaining liquid amount and the puff interval (step 122).

[0183] Fig. 33 is a flowchart illustrating an example of the process for setting the main heating time without preheating and an example of the process for setting the main heating time with preheating. In Fig. 33, parts corresponding to those in Fig. 4 are assigned the same reference numerals. Note that in Fig. 33, reference numerals without parentheses indicate an example of the process for setting the main heating time without preheating, and reference numerals with parentheses indicate an example of the process for setting the main heating time with preheating. First, an example of the process for setting the main heating time LT1 without preheating will be described. The control unit 117 determines whether or not the start of inhalation has been detected by the puff sensor 112 (see FIG. 2) (Step 2). If the start of inhalation of the aerosol by the user is not detected, the control unit 117 obtains a negative result in step 2. While a negative result is obtained in step 2, the control unit 117 repeats the determination in step 2. On the other hand, if the start of inhalation of aerosol by the user is detected, the control unit 117 obtains a positive result in step 2. If a positive result is obtained in step 2, the control unit 117 starts main heating (step 1100), then acquires the immediately preceding puff interval (step 3), and subsequently acquires the remaining liquid volume (step 131).

[0184] When the remaining liquid amount is acquired, the control unit 117 determines whether the remaining liquid amount is less than a first remaining amount (step 132). The first remaining amount is determined, for example, by the relationship between the liquid transfer speed according to the remaining liquid amount and the liquid amount required when the main heating time is the reference time L1. If the remaining amount is equal to or greater than the first remaining amount, the control unit 117 obtains a negative result in step 132. In this case, the control unit 117 determines whether the puff interval is shorter than the first period (step 133).

[0185] When the puff interval is longer than or equal to the first period, the control unit 117 obtains a negative result in step 133. When a negative result is obtained in step 133, the control unit 117 sets the current main heating time LT1 to the reference time L1 (step 5). On the other hand, when the puff interval is shorter than the first period, the control unit 117 obtains an affirmative result in step 133. In this case, the control unit 117 sets the current main heating time to a time L2 shorter than the reference time (step 6).

[0186] If an affirmative result is obtained in step 132, the control unit 117 determines whether the puff interval is shorter than the first period (step 134). However, the threshold value used for the determination in step 134 may be different from that in step 133. For example, the threshold value used for the determination in step 134 may be smaller than the threshold value used for the determination in step 133. When the puff interval is longer than or equal to the first period, the control unit 117 obtains a negative result in step 134. When a negative result is obtained in step 134, the control unit 117 sets the current main heating time to a time L2 shorter than the reference time (step 6). However, the main heating time when a negative result is obtained in step 134 only needs to be shorter than the reference time L1 and does not necessarily have to be L2. On the other hand, when the puff interval is shorter than the first period, the control unit 117 obtains an affirmative result in step 134. In this case, the control unit 117 sets the current main heating time to a time L3 (<L2) that is shorter as the remaining liquid amount is less (step 135). Here too, the main heating time is shortened stepwise, for example. However, it may be shortened non-linearly according to a quadratic curve or the like. After setting the main heating time LT1 by step 5, or step 6, or step 135, the control unit 117 sequentially executes steps 8 and 9 to end one cycle of suction. The above is an example of setting the main heating time when there is no preheating.

[0187] Next, an example of the setting process for the main heating time LT11 with preheating will be described. The control unit 117 determines whether or not the start of inhalation has been detected by the puff sensor 112 (see FIG. 2) (Step 2A). If the start of inhalation of the aerosol by the user is not detected, the control unit 117 obtains a negative result in step 2 A. While a negative result is obtained in step 2 A, the control unit 117 repeats the determination in step 2 A. On the other hand, if the start of inhalation of aerosol by the user is detected, the control unit 117 obtains a positive result in step 2A. If a positive result is obtained in step 2A, the control unit 117 starts main heating after the end of pre-heating (step 1100A), then obtains the immediately preceding puff interval (step 3A), and then obtains the remaining liquid amount (step 131A).

[0188] When the remaining liquid amount is acquired, the control unit 117 determines whether the remaining liquid amount is less than the first remaining amount (step 132A). If the remaining amount is equal to or greater than the first remaining amount, the control unit 117 obtains a negative result in step 132A. In this case, the control unit 117 determines whether the puff interval is shorter than the first period (step 133A). If the puff interval is equal to or longer than the first period, the control unit 117 obtains a negative result in step 133A. If a negative result is obtained in step 133A, the control unit 117 sets the current main heating time to the reference time L1A (step 5A).

[0189] On the other hand, if the puff interval is shorter than the first period, the control unit 117 obtains a positive result in step 133A. In this case, the control unit 117 sets the current main heating time to a time L2A that is shorter than the reference time (step 6A). If a positive result is obtained in step 132A, control unit 117 determines whether the puff interval is shorter than the first period (step 134A). However, the threshold used for the determination in step 134A may be different from that used in step 133A. For example, the threshold used for the determination in step 134A may be smaller than the threshold used for the determination in step 133A.

[0190] When the puff interval is longer than the first period, the control unit 117 obtains a negative result in step 134A. When a negative result is obtained in step 134A, the control unit 117 sets the current main heating time to a time L2A shorter than the reference time (step 6A). However, the main heating time when a negative result is obtained in step 134A only needs to be shorter than the reference time L1, and does not necessarily have to be L2. On the other hand, when the puff interval is shorter than the first period, the control unit 117 obtains an affirmative result in step 134A. In this case, the control unit 117 sets the current main heating time to a time L3A (<L2A) that is shorter as the remaining liquid amount is less (step 135A). After setting the main heating time LT11 in step 5A, or step 6A, or step 135A, the control unit 117 sequentially executes steps 8 and 9 to end one cycle of suction.

[0191] FIG. 34 is a diagram for explaining setting examples of the main heating time according to the remaining liquid amount in the case of no preheating and the case of having preheating. (A) is a setting example of the main heating time LT1 in the case of no preheating, and (B) is a setting example of the main heating time LT11 in the case of having preheating. First, in the case of not using preheating, when the remaining liquid amount is greater than or equal to the first remaining amount and the puff interval is long, the main heating time LT1 is set to 2.4 seconds (i.e., L1). On the other hand, when the remaining liquid amount is less than the first remaining amount and corresponds to a short puff, the main heating time LT1 is set to 1.7 seconds (i.e., L2). Similarly, in the case of not using preheating, when the remaining liquid amount is less than the first remaining amount and the puff interval is long, the main heating time LT1 is set to 1.7 seconds (i.e., L2). This is because even if the remaining liquid amount is small, the risk of liquid depletion is reduced when the puff interval is long. On the other hand, when the remaining liquid amount is less than the first remaining amount and corresponds to a short puff, the main heating time LT1 is set to a variable value of 1.7 seconds (i.e., L3) or less.

[0192] On the other hand, when preheating is used, the remaining liquid amount is equal to or greater than the first remaining amount, and the puff interval is long, the main heating time LT11 is set to 1.7 seconds (i.e., L1A).On the other hand, when the remaining liquid amount is equal to or greater than the first remaining amount but corresponds to a short puff, the main heating time LT11 is set to 1.2 seconds (i.e., L2A). Similarly, when preheating is used, and the remaining liquid amount is less than the first remaining amount and the puff interval is long, the main heating time LT11 is set to 1.2 seconds (i.e., L2A). This is because even if the remaining liquid amount is small, the risk of liquid drying up is reduced if the puff interval is long. On the other hand, when the remaining liquid amount is less than the first remaining amount and corresponds to a short puff, the main heating time LT11 is set to a variable value of 1.2 seconds (i.e., L3A) or less.

[0193] When the method of this embodiment is applied to the method of the second embodiment, the time from the end of the previous heating to the start of the current heating may be used as the puff interval. When the method of this embodiment is applied to the method of the third embodiment, the time from the end of the previous heating to the start of the current suction may be used as the puff interval. When the method of this embodiment is applied to the method of the fourth embodiment, the time from the immediately preceding OFF operation of the power button 11 to the current ON operation may be used as the puff interval. When the method of this embodiment is applied to the method of the fifth embodiment, the temperature of the heating unit 211 at the start of suction and the step for determining the puff interval may be used as the step for determining the puff interval. When the method of this embodiment is applied to the method of the sixth embodiment, the resistance value of the heating unit 211 at the start of suction and the determination step thereof may be used for the puff interval and the determination step thereof. When the method of this embodiment is applied to the method of the seventh embodiment, the temperature of the liquid guiding portion 212 at the start of suction and the step for determining the puff interval may be used as the step for determining the puff interval.

[0194] <Embodiment 14> In this embodiment, a control operation when overheating is detected during the main heating time will be described. In this embodiment, the external configuration of the aerosol generation device 1 is the same as in embodiment 1. Note that this embodiment can be combined with any of embodiments 1 to 7, except for the provision of a coil temperature sensor 113A (see FIG. 13). Fig. 35 is a flowchart illustrating an example of control of the main heating time by the control unit 117 (see Fig. 2) used in the fourteenth embodiment. In Fig. 35, parts corresponding to those in Fig. 14 are assigned the same reference numerals. The control by the control unit 117 is realized through the execution of a program. The processing operation in this embodiment is carried out regardless of whether preheating is performed or not.

[0195] First, the control unit 117 determines whether or not the start of inhalation has been detected by the puff sensor 112 (step 41). As long as a negative result is obtained in step 41, the control unit 117 repeats the determination in step 41. On the other hand, if it is detected that the user has started inhaling the aerosol, the control unit 117 obtains a positive result in step 41. If a positive result is obtained in step 41, the control unit 117 starts main heating (step 1100), and then obtains the temperature of the coil at the start of inhalation (step 42). When the coil temperature is acquired, control unit 117 determines whether the coil temperature at the start of suction is higher than a third temperature reference (step 141). The third temperature reference is a threshold value for determining overheating.

[0196] If the acquired temperature is higher than the third temperature standard, the control unit 117 obtains a positive result in step 141. In this case, the control unit 117 forcibly ends the main heating (step 142). That is, the control unit 117 ends the supply of power to the heating unit 211 even if the set main heating time remains. Even after the supply of power is stopped, the temperature of the heating unit 211 remains high for a while, and therefore the generation of aerosol continues for a while.

[0197] By terminating heating before the set main heating time expires, the cooling time until the next inhalation can be extended compared to when heating is continued until the main heating time expires. As a result, the liquid temperature of the aerosol source at the start of the next inhalation is likely to be lower than when the control according to this embodiment is not adopted. Furthermore, by eliminating overheating, it becomes possible to continue using the aerosol generation device 1 within the design temperature range. On the other hand, if a negative result is obtained in step 141, the control unit 117 continues heating according to the set main heating time (step 143).

[0198] <Embodiment 15> In this embodiment, other control operations when overheating is detected during the main heating time will be described. In this embodiment, the external configuration of the aerosol generation device 1 is the same as in embodiment 1. Note that this embodiment can be combined with any of embodiments 1 to 7, except for the provision of a liquid temperature sensor 113C (see FIG. 19). Fig. 36 is a flowchart illustrating an example of control of the main heating time by the control unit 117 (see Fig. 2) used in the fifteenth embodiment. In Fig. 36, parts corresponding to those in Fig. 20 are assigned the same reference numerals. The control by the control unit 117 is realized through the execution of a program. Control unit 117 in this embodiment also determines whether or not the start of inhalation has been detected by puff sensor 112 (step 61).

[0199] As long as a negative result is obtained in step 61, the control unit 117 repeats the determination in step 61. If a positive result is obtained in step 61, control unit 117 starts main heating (step 1100), and then acquires the liquid temperature at the start of suction (step 62). The liquid temperature here is the temperature of liquid guide unit 212. When the liquid temperature is acquired, the control unit 117 determines whether the liquid temperature at the start of suction is higher than a fourth temperature reference value (step 151). The fourth temperature reference value is a threshold value for determining overheating.

[0200] If the acquired liquid temperature is higher than the fourth temperature standard, the control unit 117 obtains a positive result in step 151. In this case, the control unit 117 forcibly ends the main heating (step 152). That is, the control unit 117 ends the supply of power to the heating unit 211 even if the set main heating time remains. Even after the supply of power is stopped, the temperature of the heating unit 211 remains high for a while, and therefore the generation of aerosol continues for a while.

[0201] By terminating heating before the set main heating time expires, the cooling time until the next inhalation can be extended compared to when heating is continued until the main heating time expires. As a result, the liquid temperature of the aerosol source at the start of the next inhalation is likely to be lower than when the control according to this embodiment is not adopted. Furthermore, by eliminating overheating, it becomes possible to continue using the aerosol generation device 1 within the design temperature range. On the other hand, if a negative result is obtained in step 151, the control unit 117 continues heating according to the set main heating time (step 153).

[0202] <Embodiment 16> In this embodiment, when a short puff is detected, the main heating time is not shortened, but the voltage value or current value applied to the heating unit 211 is set to a low value, thereby suppressing the occurrence of liquid drying up. Other configurations of the aerosol generation device 1 (see FIG. 1) in this embodiment are the same as those in embodiment 1. That is, the external configuration and internal configuration of the aerosol generation device 1 are the same as those in embodiment 1. Fig. 37 is a flowchart illustrating an example of control of the main heating time by the control unit 117 (see Fig. 2) used in the sixteenth embodiment. In Fig. 37, parts corresponding to those in Fig. 4 are assigned the same reference numerals. The control by the control unit 117 is realized through the execution of a program.

[0203] In this embodiment, the control unit 117 also first determines whether or not preheating is performed (step 1). If a negative result is obtained in step 1 (that is, if the preheating mode is off), control unit 117 determines whether or not the start of inhalation has been detected by puff sensor 112 (see FIG. 2) (step 2). If the start of inhalation of the aerosol by the user is not detected, the control unit 117 obtains a negative result in step 2. While a negative result is obtained in step 2, the control unit 117 repeats the determination in step 2. On the other hand, if it is detected that the user has started inhaling the aerosol, the control unit 117 obtains a positive result in step 2. If a positive result is obtained in step 2, the control unit 117 starts main heating (step 1100), and then obtains the immediately preceding puff interval (step 3).

[0204] When the puff interval is acquired, the control unit 117 determines whether the puff interval is shorter than the first period (step 4). If the puff interval is equal to or greater than the first period, the control unit 117 obtains a negative result in step 4. In this case, the control unit 117 sets the maximum voltage value to be applied during this main heating period to the reference voltage value V1 (step 161). The reference voltage value here is the same as the voltage value used in the first embodiment and the like. The reference voltage value V1 here is an example of a second maximum voltage value. As mentioned above, it is also possible to specify a current value. If a positive result is obtained in step 4, the control unit 117 sets the maximum voltage value to be applied during this main heating time to a value V2 that is smaller than the reference voltage value (step 162). After setting the main heating time LT1 in step 161 or step 162, the control unit 117 executes steps 8 and 9 in this order.

[0205] On the other hand, if a positive result is obtained in step 1 (that is, if the preheating mode is on), control unit 117 determines whether or not the start of inhalation has been detected by puff sensor 112 (see FIG. 2) (step 2A). When the start of aerosol inhalation by the user is not detected, the control unit 117 obtains a negative result in step 2A. While a negative result is obtained in step 2A, the control unit 117 repeats the determination in step 2A. On the other hand, when the start of aerosol inhalation by the user is detected, the control unit 117 obtains a positive result in step 2A. When a positive result is obtained in step 2A, the control unit 117 starts main heating after the completion of preheating (step 1100A), and then acquires the previous puff interval (step 3A).

[0206] When the puff interval is acquired, the control unit 117 determines whether the puff interval is shorter than the first period (step 4A). However, the threshold value used for the determination in step 4A may be different from that in step 4. For example, the threshold value used for the determination in step 4A may be smaller than the threshold value used for the determination in step 4. When the puff interval is equal to or longer than the first period, the control unit 117 obtains a negative result in step 4A. In this case, the control unit 117 sets the maximum voltage value to be applied during the current main heating time to a value V2 smaller than the reference voltage value (step 162). However, the main heating time when a negative result is obtained in step 4A only needs to be shorter than the reference voltage value V1, and does not necessarily have to be V2. When a positive result is obtained in step 4A, the control unit 117 sets the maximum voltage value to be applied during the current main heating time to a value V3 (<V2) smaller than the reference voltage value (step 163). After setting the main heating time LT11 in step 162 or step 163, the control unit 117 executes steps 8 and 9 in sequence.

[0207] As explained above, in the present embodiment, in the case of short puffs, the main heating time is not shortened, but the maximum voltage value is set to a low value. The maximum voltage value set in step 163 is an example of a first maximum voltage value. As a result, the power supplied to the heating unit 211 during the main heating time is smaller than when the puff interval is not short. In other words, it is smaller than the reference value. Note that the lower the maximum voltage value is set relative to the reference voltage value, the smaller the power supplied to the heating unit 211 during the main heating time. Of course, it is also possible to specify a current value instead of a voltage value.

[0208] <Embodiment 17> In the above embodiment, the aerosol generation device 1 having the power button 11 (see FIG. 1) has been described, but the present invention can also be applied to an aerosol generation device 1 that does not have the power button 11. Fig. 38 is a diagram illustrating an example of the external configuration of the aerosol generation device 1 assumed in the embodiment 17. In Fig. 38, parts corresponding to those in Fig. 1 are assigned the same reference numerals. In the present embodiment, when the start of inhalation by the user is detected, the supply of power to the heating unit 211 (see FIG. 2) is started.

[0209] <Embodiment 18> In this embodiment, an aerosol generating device 1 having a mechanism for heating the aerosol source as a liquid, as well as a mechanism for heating the substrate containing the aerosol, will be described. Fig. 39 is a diagram schematically showing an example of the internal configuration of the aerosol generation device 1 assumed in the embodiment 18. In Fig. 39, parts corresponding to those in Fig. 2 are assigned the same reference numerals. The aerosol generating device 1 shown in Figure 39 includes a power supply unit 111, a puff sensor 112, a power button sensor 113, a notification unit 114, a memory unit 115, a communication unit 116, a control unit 117, a heating unit 211, a liquid guide unit 212, and a liquid storage unit 213, as well as a holding unit 301 used to hold the stick-shaped substrate 400, a heating unit 302 arranged on the outer periphery of the holding unit 301, and a heat insulating unit 303 arranged on the outer periphery of the heating unit 302.

[0210] 39 shows a state in which the stick-shaped substrate 400 is attached to the holding part 301. With the stick-shaped substrate 400 inserted in the holding part 301, the user performs a suction operation. The aerosol generation device 1 is formed with an air flow path 40 that transports air flowing in from the air inlet 21 through the liquid guide portion 212 to the bottom portion 301C of the holding portion 301. Therefore, as the user inhales, the air flowing in from the air inlet 21 flows through the air flow path 40 along the arrow 500. The aerosol generated in the heating portion 211 and the aerosol generated in the heating portion 302 are mixed with this air flow. In this embodiment, the control unit 117 controls the heating operation of the heating unit 302 in addition to the heating operation of the heating unit 211. In this case, the control unit 117 acquires information such as the temperature of the heating unit 302 using a sensor (not shown).

[0211] The holding part 301 has a roughly cylindrical shape. Therefore, the inside of the holding part 301 is hollow. This hollow is called the internal space 301A. The internal space 301A has roughly the same diameter as the stick-shaped substrate 400, and accommodates the stick-shaped substrate 400 inserted through the opening 301B in a state of contact with the tip of the stick-shaped substrate 400. In other words, the stick-shaped substrate 400 is held in the internal space 301A. The holder 301 has a bottom 301C on the opposite side of the opening 301B. The bottom 301C is connected to the air flow path 40.

[0212] The inner diameter of the holding part 301 is configured to be smaller than the outer diameter of the stick-shaped substrate 400 in at least a portion of the height direction of the cylindrical body. Therefore, the outer peripheral surface of the stick-shaped substrate 400 inserted into the internal space 301A from the opening 301B is compressed by the inner wall of the holding part 301. Due to this compression, the stick-shaped substrate 400 is held by the holding part 301. The holding portion 301 also has the function of defining an air flow path that passes through the stick-shaped substrate 400. The bottom portion 301C here is an air inlet for the holding portion 301, and the opening 301B is an air outlet for the holding portion 301.

[0213] Stick-shaped substrate 400 is a generally cylindrical member. Stick-shaped substrate 400 assumed in this embodiment is composed of substrate part 401 and mouthpiece part 402. The substrate 401 contains an aerosol source. The aerosol source is a substance that is atomized by heating to generate an aerosol. The aerosol source contained in the substrate 401 may be a tobacco-derived substance, such as cut tobacco or a processed product obtained by molding tobacco raw materials into granules, sheets, or powder. However, the aerosol source contained in the substrate 401 may also include non-tobacco-derived substances made from plants other than tobacco (e.g., mint and herbs). For example, the aerosol source may contain a flavoring component such as menthol.

[0214] When the aerosol generating device 1 is a medical inhaler, the aerosol source of the stick-shaped substrate 400 may contain a medicine to be inhaled by a patient. Note that the aerosol source is not limited to a solid, and may be a liquid such as a polyhydric alcohol such as glycerin or propylene glycol, or water. At least a portion of the substrate part 401 is accommodated in the internal space 301A of the holder 301 when the stick-shaped substrate 400 is held by the holder 301.

[0215] The suction mouth part 402 is a member that is held in the user's mouth when suctioning. At least a part of the suction mouth part 402 protrudes from the opening 301B when the stick-shaped substrate 400 is held by the holder 301. When the user holds suction mouthpiece 402 protruding from opening 301B in their mouth and sucks, as described above, air flows into bottom 301C of holding part 301 from air inlet hole 21. The flowing air passes through internal space 301A of holding part 301 and base part 401, and reaches the inside of the user's mouth. Note that the gas passing through internal space 301A of holding part 301 and base part 401 is mixed with aerosol generated from base part 401.

[0216] Heating unit 302 generates aerosol by atomizing the aerosol source contained in base member 401 by heating the aerosol source. Heating unit 302 is made of any material such as metal or polyimide. For example, heating unit 302 is made in the form of a film and is arranged to cover the outer periphery of holding unit 301. When the heating section 302 generates heat, the aerosol source contained in the stick-shaped substrate 400 is heated from the outer periphery of the stick-shaped substrate 400 and atomized, generating an aerosol.

[0217] The heating unit 302 generates heat when power is supplied from the power supply unit 111. For example, when a predetermined user input is detected by a sensor or the like (not shown), power supply to the heating unit 302 is started and an aerosol is generated. When the temperature of the stick-shaped substrate 400 reaches a predetermined temperature due to heating by the heating unit 302, aerosol generation begins, and the user can inhale it. Thereafter, when a sensor or the like (not shown) detects that a predetermined user input has been made, power supply to the heating unit 302 is stopped. It should be noted that while the puff sensor 112 detects the user's inhalation, power supply to the heating unit 302 may continue, and aerosol may be generated.

[0218] <Other embodiments> Although the embodiments of the present invention have been described above, the technical scope of the present invention is not limited to the scope of the above-described embodiments. It is clear from the claims that various modifications and improvements to the above-described embodiments are also included in the technical scope of the present invention.

[0219] For example, in the above embodiment, the heating stop time is acquired after the start of preheating (step 12A (see FIG. 7)), but the heating stop time may be acquired before the start of preheating. Furthermore, for example, in the above-described embodiment, the length of the main heating time is controlled according to the length of the heating stop time, but the length of the preheating time may be controlled according to the length of the heating stop time, or the lengths of both the main heating time and the preheating time may be controlled. That is, when preheating is performed before main heating, the amount of power supplied to the heating unit 211 during preheating may be controlled to be less than a reference value. Controlling the preheating time includes shortening the length of the preheating time below the reference length and setting the preheating time to zero. Alternatively, when preheating is performed before main heating, the amount of power supplied to the heating unit 211 during preheating and main heating may be controlled to be smaller than the reference value. The method for reducing the amount of power may be the same as the method for controlling the amount of power supplied to the heating unit 211 to be smaller during main heating.

[0220] <Additional Notes> (((1))) A circuit unit of an aerosol generating device having a control unit that controls the supply of power to a load that heats a liquid aerosol source, wherein when a first control that heats the load to a first temperature at which an aerosol is generated is performed before a second control that heats the load to a second temperature lower than the first temperature, and when the interval between aerosol suctions is shorter than the first period, the control unit controls at least one of the amount of power supplied to the load in the first control and the amount of power supplied to the load in the second control to be less than a reference value so as to suppress the occurrence of liquid drying up during the aerosol suction. (((2))) The circuit unit of the aerosol generating device described in (((1))) further comprises a first sensor that detects the inhalation of aerosol by a user, and when the time from the end of the previous inhalation detected by the first sensor to the start of the current inhalation is shorter than the first period, the control unit shortens at least one of the time for supplying power to the load in the first control and the time for supplying power to the load in the second control to be shorter than the second period. (((3))) The control unit of the aerosol generating device described in (((1))) shortens at least one of the time for supplying power to the load in the first control and the time for supplying power to the load in the second control to less than the second period when the time from the end of the heating cycle immediately before the end of the aerosol generation to the start of the current heating cycle is shorter than the first period. (((4))) The circuit unit of the aerosol generating device described in (((1))) further comprises a first sensor that detects the inhalation of aerosol by a user, and when the time from the end of heating immediately before the end of generation of aerosol from the aerosol source to the start of the current inhalation detected by the first sensor is shorter than the first period, the control unit shortens at least one of the time for supplying power to the load in the first control and the time for supplying power to the load in the second control to less than the second period. (((5))) A circuit unit of an aerosol generating device described in (((1))) has an operation unit that accepts user operations regarding the supply and stop of power to the load, and the control unit shortens at least one of the time for supplying power to the load in the first control and the time for supplying power to the load in the second control to less than the second period when the time from the previous power supply stop due to user operation on the operation unit to the start of the current power supply is shorter than the first period. (((6))) The circuit unit of the aerosol generating device described in (((1))) further comprises a first sensor that detects inhalation of an aerosol by a user and a second sensor that detects the temperature of the load, and the control unit shortens at least one of the time for which power is supplied to the load in the first control and the time for which power is supplied to the load in the second control to be shorter than a second period when the temperature detected by the second sensor at the start of inhalation of the aerosol detected by the first sensor is higher than a first temperature reference. (((7))) A circuit unit of an aerosol generating device as described in (((1))), further comprising a first sensor that detects inhalation of an aerosol by a user, wherein the control unit, when the resistance value of the load at the start of inhalation of the aerosol detected by the first sensor is higher than a first resistance value, shortens at least one of the time for supplying power to the load in the first control and the time for supplying power to the load in the second control to less than a second period. (((8))) The circuit unit of the aerosol generating device described in (((1))) further comprises a first sensor that detects inhalation of an aerosol by a user and a third sensor that detects the temperature of the aerosol source, and the control unit shortens at least one of the time for supplying power to the load in the first control and the time for supplying power to the load in the second control to less than a second period when the temperature detected by the third sensor at the start of inhalation of the aerosol detected by the first sensor is higher than a second temperature standard. (((9))) The control unit predicts the next interval based on the trend of the interval between aerosol inhalations over the past several times, and if the predicted interval is shorter than the first period, sets at least one of the time for supplying power to the load in the first control of the next inhalation and the time for supplying power to the load in the second control to be shorter than the second period.This is a circuit unit of the aerosol generating device described in (((1))). (((10))) The control unit acquires multiple past measurement values ​​of the interval between aerosol inhalations, and if the number of consecutive measurement values ​​shorter than the first period exceeds the first number, controls at least one of the time period for supplying power to the load in the first control and the time period for supplying power to the load in the second control in the next and subsequent inhalations to be gradually shorter than the second period as the number of consecutive measurement values ​​increases. (((1))) (((11))) A circuit unit of an aerosol generating device described in any one of (((1))) to (((8))), wherein, when the interval between aerosol suctions is shorter than the first period, the control unit controls at least one of the amount of power supplied to the load in the first control and the amount of power supplied to the load in the second control to be smaller the shorter the interval. (((12))) A circuit unit of an aerosol generating device described in any one of (((1))) to (((8))), wherein when the remaining amount of the aerosol source is less than a first remaining amount, the control unit controls at least one of the amount of power supplied to the load in the first control and the amount of power supplied to the load in the second control to be smaller the smaller the remaining amount. (((13))) A circuit unit of an aerosol generating device described in any one of (((1))) to (((8))), further comprising a second sensor that detects the temperature of the load, and wherein the control unit forcibly terminates heating of the load when the temperature detected by the second sensor during the first control period reaches a third temperature standard. (((14))) A circuit unit of an aerosol generating device described in any one of (((1))) to (((8))), further comprising a third sensor that detects the temperature of the aerosol source, and wherein the control unit forcibly terminates heating of the load when the temperature detected by the third sensor during the first control period reaches a fourth temperature standard. (((15))) A circuit unit of an aerosol generating device described in any one of (((1))) to (((8))), wherein the control unit controls a first maximum voltage value supplied to the load to generate an aerosol when the interval between aerosol suctions is shorter than the first period to a value smaller than a second maximum voltage value supplied to the load when the interval between aerosol suctions is longer than the first period. (((16))) An aerosol generating device having a control unit that controls the supply of power to a load that heats a liquid aerosol source, wherein when a first control that heats the load to a first temperature at which an aerosol is generated is performed before a second control that heats the load to a second temperature lower than the first temperature, and when the interval between aerosol suctions is shorter than the first period, the control unit controls at least one of the amount of power supplied to the load in the first control and the amount of power supplied to the load in the second control to be less than a reference value so as to suppress the occurrence of liquid drying up during the aerosol suction. (((17))) A program for causing a computer that controls the supply of power to a load that heats a liquid aerosol source to realize a function in which, when a first control is performed to heat the load to a first temperature at which an aerosol is generated, and a second control is performed to heat the load to a second temperature lower than the first temperature, and when the interval between aerosol suctions is shorter than the first period, the program controls at least one of the amount of power supplied to the load in the first control and the amount of power supplied to the load in the second control to be less than a reference value so as to suppress the occurrence of liquid drying up during the aerosol suction.

[0221] According to the circuit unit of the aerosol generating device described in (((1))), when a second control that does not involve the generation of aerosol is performed prior to a first control that involves the generation of aerosol, liquid depletion during inhalation can be suppressed regardless of how the user uses the aerosol generating device. According to the circuit unit of the aerosol generation device described in (((2))), when the second control is performed, it is possible to prevent the liquid from running out even if the user's inhalation interval is short. According to the circuit unit of the aerosol generation device described in (((3))), when the second control is performed, it is possible to prevent the liquid from running out even if the user's inhalation interval is short. According to the circuit unit of the aerosol generation device described in (((4))), when the second control is performed, it is possible to prevent the liquid from running out even if the user's inhalation interval is short. According to the circuit unit of the aerosol generation device described in (((5))), when the second control is performed, it is possible to prevent the liquid from running out even if the user's inhalation interval is short. According to the circuit unit of the aerosol generation device described in (((6))), when the second control is performed, it is possible to prevent the liquid from running out even if the user's inhalation interval is short. According to the circuit unit of the aerosol generation device described in (((7))), when the second control is performed, it is possible to prevent the liquid from running out even if the user's inhalation interval is short. According to the circuit unit of the aerosol generation device described in (((8))), when the second control is performed, it is possible to prevent the liquid from running out even if the user's inhalation interval is short. According to the circuit unit of the aerosol generating device described in (((9))), when the second control is performed, if it is detected that the user's inhalation intervals tend to be short, control can be executed to prevent liquid from running out. According to the circuit unit of the aerosol generating device described in (((10))), when the second control is performed, if it is confirmed that the user's inhalation intervals tend to be short, control can be executed to prevent liquid from running out. According to the circuit unit of the aerosol generation device described in (((11))), when the second control is performed, it is possible to prevent liquid from running out even if the user's inhalation interval is short. According to the circuit unit of the aerosol generation device described in (((12))), when the second control is performed, it is possible to prevent the liquid from running out even if the user's inhalation interval is short. According to the circuit unit of the aerosol generation device described in (((13))), even if an environment in which liquid depletion is likely to occur is detected when the second control is performed, liquid depletion can be suppressed. According to the circuit unit of the aerosol generation device described in (((14))), even if an environment in which liquid depletion is likely to occur is detected when the second control is performed, liquid depletion can be suppressed. According to the circuit unit of the aerosol generation device described in (((15))), when the second control is performed, it is possible to prevent the liquid from running out even if the user's inhalation interval is short. According to the aerosol generation device described in (((16))), when the second control is performed, it is possible to prevent the liquid from drying up during inhalation, regardless of the method of use of the aerosol generation device by the user. According to the program (((17))), when the second control is performed, it is possible to suppress liquid drying up during inhalation regardless of how the user uses the aerosol generation device. [Explanation of symbols]

[0222] 1...aerosol generating device, 10...power supply unit, 11...power button, 20, 30...cartridge, 21...air inlet hole, 40...air flow path, 42...air outlet hole, 112...puff sensor, 113...power button sensor, 113A...coil temperature sensor, 113B...resistance value sensor, 113C...liquid temperature sensor, 113D...air temperature sensor, 113E...residual liquid amount sensor, 117...control unit, 211, 302...heating unit, 212...liquid guide unit, 213...liquid storage unit

Claims

1. a control unit that controls the supply of power to a load that heats the liquid aerosol source; When a second control is performed to heat the load to a second temperature lower than a first temperature before a first control to heat the load to a first temperature at which an aerosol is generated, and an interval between aspirations of the aerosol is shorter than a first period, the control unit controls at least one of the amount of power supplied to the load in the first control and the amount of power supplied to the load in the second control to be smaller than a reference value so as to suppress the occurrence of liquid drying up during the aerosol aspiration. Circuit unit of the aerosol generator.

2. a first sensor for detecting inhalation of the aerosol by a user; when the time from the end of the previous suction to the start of the current suction, which is detected by the first sensor, is shorter than the first period, the control unit shortens at least one of the time for supplying power to the load in the first control and the time for supplying power to the load in the second control to be shorter than the second period. A circuit unit for the aerosol generating device according to claim 1 .

3. when a time from the end of heating immediately before the end of aerosol generation to the start of current heating is shorter than the first period, the control unit shortens at least one of a time for supplying power to the load in the first control and a time for supplying power to the load in the second control to be shorter than the second period; A circuit unit for the aerosol generating device according to claim 1 .

4. a first sensor for detecting inhalation of the aerosol by a user; when a time from the end of heating immediately before the end of generation of aerosol from the aerosol source to the start of a current suction detected by the first sensor is shorter than the first period, the control unit shortens at least one of a time for supplying power to the load in the first control and a time for supplying power to the load in the second control to be shorter than the second period; A circuit unit for the aerosol generating device according to claim 1 .

5. an operation unit that receives a user's operation regarding supplying and stopping the supply of power to the load; When a time period from the last power supply stop due to a user's operation on the operation unit to the current power supply start is shorter than the first period, the control unit shortens at least one of a time period for supplying power to the load in the first control and a time period for supplying power to the load in the second control to be shorter than the second period. A circuit unit for the aerosol generating device according to claim 1 .

6. a first sensor for detecting inhalation of the aerosol by a user and a second sensor for detecting a temperature of the load; When the temperature detected by the second sensor at the start of suction of the aerosol detected by the first sensor is higher than a first temperature reference, the control unit shortens at least one of a time period for supplying power to the load in the first control and a time period for supplying power to the load in the second control to be shorter than a second time period. A circuit unit for the aerosol generating device according to claim 1 .

7. a first sensor for detecting inhalation of the aerosol by a user; When the resistance value of the load detected by the first sensor at the start of suction of the aerosol is higher than a first resistance value, the control unit shortens at least one of the time for supplying power to the load in the first control and the time for supplying power to the load in the second control to be shorter than a second period. A circuit unit for the aerosol generating device according to claim 1 .

8. a first sensor for detecting inhalation of the aerosol by a user and a third sensor for detecting a temperature of the aerosol source; When the temperature detected by the third sensor at the start of suction of the aerosol detected by the first sensor is higher than a second temperature reference, the control unit shortens at least one of a time period for supplying power to the load in the first control and a time period for supplying power to the load in the second control to be shorter than a second time period. A circuit unit for the aerosol generating device according to claim 1 .

9. the control unit predicts the next interval from trends in the intervals between aerosol inhalations multiple times in the past, and if the predicted interval is shorter than the first period, sets at least one of the time period for supplying power to the load in the first control of the next inhalation and the time period for supplying power to the load in the second control to be shorter than the second period. A circuit unit for the aerosol generating device according to claim 1 .

10. the control unit acquires past measurement values ​​of the interval between inhalations of the aerosol, and when the number of consecutive times that measurement values ​​shorter than the first period appear exceeds the first number, controls at least one of the time period for supplying power to the load in the first control and the time period for supplying power to the load in the second control in subsequent inhalations to be shorter than the second period in a stepwise manner as the number of consecutive times increases. A circuit unit for the aerosol generating device according to claim 1 .

11. When an interval between suctions of the aerosol is shorter than the first period, the control unit controls at least one of the amount of power supplied to the load in the first control and the amount of power supplied to the load in the second control to be smaller as the interval becomes shorter. A circuit unit for the aerosol generating device according to any one of claims 1 to 8.

12. When the remaining amount of the aerosol source is less than a first remaining amount, the control unit controls at least one of the amount of power supplied to the load in the first control and the amount of power supplied to the load in the second control to be smaller as the remaining amount becomes smaller. A circuit unit for the aerosol generating device according to any one of claims 1 to 8.

13. a second sensor for detecting a temperature of the load; When the temperature detected by the second sensor during the first control period reaches a third temperature standard, the control unit forcibly ends heating of the load at that time. A circuit unit for the aerosol generating device according to any one of claims 1 to 8.

14. a third sensor for detecting a temperature of the aerosol source; When the temperature detected by the third sensor during the first control period reaches a fourth temperature standard, the control unit forcibly ends heating of the load at that time. A circuit unit for the aerosol generating device according to any one of claims 1 to 8.

15. the control unit controls a first maximum voltage value to be supplied to the load to generate the aerosol when the interval between aerosol suctions is shorter than the first period to a value smaller than a second maximum voltage value to be supplied to the load when the interval between aerosol suctions is longer than the first period; A circuit unit for the aerosol generating device according to any one of claims 1 to 8.

16. a control unit that controls the supply of power to a load that heats the liquid aerosol source; When a second control is performed to heat the load to a second temperature lower than a first temperature before a first control to heat the load to a first temperature at which an aerosol is generated, and an interval between aspirations of the aerosol is shorter than a first period, the control unit controls at least one of the amount of power supplied to the load in the first control and the amount of power supplied to the load in the second control to be smaller than a reference value so as to suppress the occurrence of liquid drying up during the aerosol aspiration. Aerosol generator.

17. a computer that controls the supply of power to a load that heats the liquid aerosol source; When a second control is performed to heat the load to a second temperature lower than a first temperature before a first control to heat the load to a first temperature at which an aerosol is generated, and the interval between aerosol suctions is shorter than the first period, at least one of the amount of power supplied to the load in the first control and the amount of power supplied to the load in the second control is controlled to be smaller than a reference value so as to suppress the occurrence of liquid drying up during the aerosol suction. A program to achieve this.

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