Power supply unit, control method, and program for an aerosol generator, and power supply unit for a suction device.

Abstract

The system detects malfunctions in the power supply unit of the aerosol generator and generates an error signal corresponding to the type of malfunction. [Solution] The power supply unit of the aerosol generator comprises a power supply and a control unit. The power supply supplies power to the load that atomizes the aerosol source. The control unit acquires operating values ​​related to the operation of the power supply and determines whether the power supply is in a normal state or a malfunction state based on the operating values. The malfunction state includes multiple states. When the control unit detects a state that is included in the multiple states, it generates an error signal of a type corresponding to the detected state.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a power supply unit, a control method, a program of an aerosol generating device, and a power supply unit of a suction device.

Background Art

[0002] There is known an aerosol generating device that allows a user to experience an aerosol generated by atomizing an aerosol source with an electrical load such as a heater. Such an aerosol generating device often incorporates a power source such as a battery as a power source.

[0003] As a technology related to the aerosol generating device, there is known a technology for notifying that the remaining amount of the power source has decreased or the like by using a light emitting diode (LED) or the like.

[0004] Patent Document 1 discloses a technology for activating an indicator that notifies that the power supply needs to be replaced when the power supply voltage becomes less than the threshold voltage.

[0005] Patent Document 2 discloses a technology for adjusting the brightness of illumination or the like according to the power source level.

[0006] Patent Document 3 discloses a technology for causing a light emitting element to emit light when a smoking act is performed using an electronic cigarette.

[0007] Patent Document 4 discloses a technology for causing an LED to emit light in different colors according to the remaining amount of the power source.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0008]

Patent Document 1

Patent Document 2

[0009] Continuous use of an aerosol generator may cause malfunctions in the power supply due to aging or other factors. When repairs are needed to resolve such malfunctions, it is necessary to understand the nature or cause of the malfunction. This often requires significant effort, including various inspections. Therefore, a technology that allows for easy identification of the nature or cause of power supply malfunctions is desirable.

[0010] The present invention has been made in view of the above circumstances and relates to a power supply unit for an aerosol generator, a control method, a program, and a power supply unit for a suction device, which enable easy identification of the nature or cause of malfunctions occurring in the power supply. [Means for solving the problem]

[0011] An example of the present invention provides a power supply unit for an aerosol generating apparatus comprising a power supply and a control unit. The power supply provides power to the load that atomizes the aerosol source. The control unit acquires operating values ​​related to the operation of the power supply and determines whether the power supply is in a normal state or a malfunction state based on these values. A malfunction state includes multiple states. When the control unit detects a state that is included in multiple states, it generates an error signal of the type corresponding to the detected state. [Effects of the Invention]

[0012] According to the present invention, the nature or cause of a malfunction in the power supply can be easily identified. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0013] [Figure 1] A block diagram showing an example of the configuration of an aerosol generating device according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 2] A graph for explaining a first example of malfunction detection processing by a control unit according to the same embodiment. [Figure 3] A graph for explaining a second example of malfunction detection processing by a control unit according to the same embodiment. [Figure 4] A graph for explaining a third example of malfunction detection processing by a control unit according to the same embodiment. [Figure 5] A graph for explaining a fourth example of malfunction detection processing by a control unit according to the same embodiment. [Figure 6] A graph for explaining a fifth example of malfunction detection processing by a control unit according to the same embodiment. [Figure 7] A flowchart showing a first example of malfunction detection processing and an example of malfunction notification processing related to the processing. [Figure 8] A flowchart showing a second example of malfunction detection processing and an example of malfunction notification processing related to the processing. [Figure 9] A flowchart showing a third example of malfunction detection processing and an example of malfunction notification processing related to the processing. [Figure 10] A flowchart showing a fourth example of malfunction detection processing and an example of malfunction notification processing related to the processing. [Figure 11] A flowchart showing a fifth example of malfunction detection processing and an example of malfunction notification processing related to the processing. [Figure 12] A flowchart showing examples of notification processing for the first to fifth malfunction states during suction by the user.

Embodiments for Carrying Out the Invention

[0014] Hereinafter, embodiments will be described with reference to the drawings. In the drawings, the same reference numerals are given to the same functions and components, and the description thereof is omitted or briefly described.

[0015] In this embodiment, an aerosol generating device will be described. The aerosol generating device according to this embodiment is, for example, an inhaler for a user to inhale the generated aerosol. The inhaler may be a heated tobacco or an e-cigarette, but is not limited thereto, and may be, for example, a device for inhaling medicine. Note that the inhaler may generate invisible vapor instead of generating aerosol.

[0016] FIG. 1 is a block diagram showing an example of the configuration of an aerosol generating device 1 according to this embodiment. As shown in FIG. 1, the aerosol generating device 1 includes a cartridge unit 100, a capsule unit 200, and a power supply unit 300. The aerosol generating device 1 may have, for example, a substantially cylindrical shape, which is a shape that is easy for a user to hold the aerosol generating device 1. Note that the cartridge unit 100, the capsule unit 200, and the power supply unit 300 may each be configured to be non-removable, or may each be configured to be removable. The cartridge unit 100, the capsule unit 200, and the power supply unit 300 may each be configured to be non-removable, or may each be configured to be removable.

[0017] As shown in FIG. 1, the cartridge unit 100 includes a storage unit 110, a supply unit 120, and an atomization unit 140 including a load 130.

[0018] The storage unit 110 is a container for storing a liquid aerosol source that is atomized by heating. The aerosol source is, for example, a polyol-based material such as glycerin or propylene glycol. Further, the aerosol source may be a mixed solution containing nicotine solution, water, fragrance, etc. And the aerosol source may be a solid that does not require the storage unit 110.

[0019] The supply unit 120 is, for example, a wick formed by twisting fibrous material such as glass fibers. One end of the supply unit 120 is connected to the storage unit 110. The other end of the supply unit 120 is connected to the load 130 or positioned near the load 130. With such a configuration, the supply unit 120 can guide the aerosol source drawn up from the storage unit 110 to the load 130 or its vicinity. The supply unit 120 may also be made of a wick formed of porous ceramic.

[0020] The load 130 provided in the atomizing unit 140 is, for example, a coil-shaped heater that generates heat when power is supplied. The load 130 may be wrapped around the supply unit 120 or covered by the supply unit 120. Power is supplied to the load 130 from the power supply unit 320, which will be described later, based on control by the control unit 360, which will be described later, included in the power supply unit 300. When power is supplied to the load 130, the aerosol source guided by the supply unit 120 is heated by the load 130, and an aerosol is generated.

[0021] The capsule unit 200 contains a flavor source 210, as shown in Figure 1.

[0022] The flavor source 210 is composed of raw material pieces of plant material that impart flavor components to the aerosol. The raw material pieces constituting the flavor source may include, for example, molded bodies made by shaping materials such as shredded tobacco or tobacco raw materials into granular or sheet-like forms. Alternatively, non-tobacco plants (e.g., mint, herbs, etc.) may be used as raw material pieces for the flavor source 210. Furthermore, the flavor source 210 may be imparted with flavorings such as menthol.

[0023] Figure 1 shows the airflow in the cartridge unit 100 and capsule unit 200 with dotted arrows. Air taken in from the outside through an air intake (not shown) passes through the aerosol generator 1 (cartridge unit 100 and capsule unit 200), where it is mixed with aerosol, flavor components are added, and it is then inhaled by the user. Specifically, the air taken in from the outside passes through the atomizing unit 140 in the cartridge unit 100. As this air passes through the atomizing unit 140, it is mixed with the aerosol generated by the load 130 provided in the atomizing unit 140. Then, as the air mixed with aerosol passes through the capsule unit 200, flavor components derived from the flavor source 210 contained in the capsule unit 200 are added to the air mixed with aerosol. Then, the air mixed with aerosol and with added flavor components is inhaled by the user from the end of the capsule unit 200. In other words, the aerosol with added flavor components is inhaled by the user.

[0024] As shown in Figure 1, the power supply unit 300 includes a power button 310, a power supply unit 320, a sensor unit 330, a storage unit 340, a notification unit 350, a control unit 360, and a time measurement unit 370.

[0025] The power supply unit 300 generates different error signals depending on the type of malfunction that occurs in the power supply unit 320. Malfunctions in the power supply unit 320 include, for example, deterioration of the power supply unit 320 and / or power supply failure.

[0026] The power button 310 is used to change the operating state of the aerosol generator 1. When the power button 310 is pressed and the power is turned ON, the aerosol generator 1 enters the active state, which will be described later. Also, when the aerosol generator 1 is in the active state, and the power button 310 is pressed and the power is turned OFF, the aerosol generator 1 transitions from the active state to the dormant state, which will be described later.

[0027] The power supply unit 320 is a rechargeable battery, such as a lithium-ion secondary battery, and is not limited to any particular type. Based on the control of the control unit 360, the power supply unit 320 supplies power to each part of the aerosol generator 1. The power supply unit 320 also includes a temperature sensor 321, such as a thermistor. The temperature sensor 321 is provided, for example, in the battery pack of the power supply unit 320. Information indicating the temperature of the power supply unit 320, measured by the temperature sensor 321, is stored in the storage unit 340 by the control unit 360. The power supply unit 320 can be in a normal state without malfunction, or in a malfunction state where a malfunction occurs.

[0028] The sensor unit 330 is a sensor that outputs a predetermined output value (e.g., a voltage value or a current value) to the control unit 360 according to the flow rate and / or flow velocity of the gas passing through the installation location of the sensor unit 330. Such a sensor unit 330 is used to detect suction actions by the user (actions that request aerosol generation from the aerosol generator 1). Various types of sensors can be used for the sensor unit 330, but for example, a microphone condenser, a pressure sensor, or a fluid sensor can be used.

[0029] The memory unit 340 is, for example, a non-volatile memory. The memory unit 340 stores data D1, which contains various information acquired by the control unit 360. The memory unit 340 also stores data D2, which contains various information used to control the control unit 360. Furthermore, the memory unit 340 stores data D3, which contains various information generated by the control unit 360.

[0030] Here, data D1 stores information including, for example, operating values ​​related to the operation of the power supply unit 320. Specifically, for example, data D1 includes information indicating the voltage value of the power supply unit 320, the total charging time of the power supply unit 320, and the temperature of the power supply unit 320. Data D2 also includes, for example, various predetermined thresholds, various predetermined voltage ranges, and information indicating the relationship between the nature of a malfunction that occurred in the power supply unit 320 and the error signal corresponding to that nature. Furthermore, data D3 includes, for example, malfunction information indicating the nature or cause of a malfunction that occurred in the power supply unit 320.

[0031] When the notification unit 350 receives an error signal generated by the control unit 360 based on data D2 in response to a malfunction in the power supply unit 320, it outputs, for example, light and / or sound according to the error signal. The notification unit 350 may also vibrate, for example, according to the error signal received from the control unit 360. Specifically, the notification unit 350 may be, for example, a light-emitting device such as an LED, a sound-outputting device such as a speaker, or a vibration-generating device.

[0032] In this manner, the notification unit 350 provides different types of notifications depending on the type of error signal received from the control unit 360. With this configuration, the user of the aerosol generator 1 can be notified of the nature or cause of a malfunction that has occurred in the power supply unit 320. The types of notifications provided by the notification unit 350 in response to malfunctions in the power supply unit 320, as described below, are examples; for example, light, sound, vibration, etc., may be freely combined to provide notifications according to the nature of the malfunction.

[0033] When the control unit 360 receives notification from the power button 310 that the power button 310 has been pressed, it transitions the aerosol generator 1 to one of two operating states. The two operating states are an active state (corresponding to the power-on state) in which power can be supplied to each part of the aerosol generator 1 from the power supply unit 320, and a dormant state (corresponding to the power-off state) in which power cannot be supplied to each part of the aerosol generator 1 from the power supply unit 320, or only a very small amount of power can be supplied. When the aerosol generator 1 is in the active state, when the sensor unit 330 detects an inhalation operation by the user, the control unit 360 causes the power supply unit 320 to supply power to the load 130, thereby atomizing the aerosol source. However, when the power supply unit 300 is in the dormant state, even if the user performs an inhalation operation, the control unit 360 does not cause the power supply unit 320 to supply power to the load 130. Therefore, the aerosol source is not atomized.

[0034] Furthermore, when the control unit 360 acquires operating values ​​related to the operation of the power supply unit 320, it stores data D1 containing these operating values ​​in the storage unit 340. Here, the operating values ​​include, for example, the voltage value of the power supply unit 320, the total charging time of the power supply unit 320, and information indicating the temperature of the power supply unit 320.

[0035] Then, for example, when the power supply unit 320 is charging or discharging, the control unit 360 reads data D1 and D2 from the storage unit 340 and determines whether the state of the power supply unit 320 is normal or malfunctioning based on the operating value contained in data D1 and various predetermined threshold values ​​and / or various predetermined voltage ranges contained in D2. If the control unit 360 determines that the state of the power supply unit 320 is malfunctioning, it identifies the nature or cause of the malfunction in the power supply unit 320 and stores data D3, which contains malfunction information indicating the nature or cause of the malfunction, in the storage unit 340.

[0036] In this embodiment, the malfunction state of the power supply unit 320 is subdivided according to the nature or cause of the malfunction in the power supply unit 320. When the control unit 360 detects any of the states included in the malfunction state, it generates an error signal of a type corresponding to the detected state. The control unit 360 then transmits the generated error signal to the notification unit 350, causing the notification unit 350 to provide a notification of a type based on the error signal. In other words, the control unit 360 causes the notification unit 350 to provide a notification of a different type depending on the type of error signal.

[0037] In this embodiment, the control unit 360 may, for example, cause the notification unit 350 to execute a notification based on a generated signal when it detects a malfunction (for example, when it generates an error signal), when it switches the aerosol generator 1 to an active state (for example, when it receives a signal to turn on the power by pressing the power button 310), when it detects the start of aerosol inhalation (for example, when it receives a generation request signal from the sensor unit 330), when aerosol inhalation is taking place (for example, when it can be determined that the inhalation operation is continuing based on the output of the sensor unit 330), when it starts charging the power supply unit 320 (for example, when it detects that the charging connector has been connected to the power supply unit 300), or when it is charging the power supply unit 320 (for example, when the power supply voltage of the power supply unit 320 is increasing).

[0038] As a first notification mode, the control unit 360 generates different types of light for each type of error signal in the notification unit 350. For example, when the notification unit 350 receives an error signal, it may alternately emit cool-colored light and warm-colored light.

[0039] As a second notification method, the control unit 360 generates vibrations in the notification unit 350 that differ in nature depending on the type of error signal.

[0040] As a third notification method, the control unit 360 generates a different type of sound for each type of error signal in the notification unit 350.

[0041] The control unit 360 may prohibit charging and discharging of the power supply unit 320 if it determines that the power supply unit 320 is in a malfunction state. Alternatively, the control unit 360 may stop heating the load 130 if it determines that the power supply unit 320 is in a malfunction state. Such a configuration can prevent the malfunction in the power supply unit 320 from progressing.

[0042] The following describes a specific example of the process by which the control unit 360 determines whether or not the power supply unit 320 is in a malfunction state (hereinafter referred to as the "malfunction detection process"). In this embodiment, the malfunction state of the power supply unit 320 is described as including the first to fifth malfunction states.

[0043] (Example 1 of defect detection processing) Figure 2 is a graph illustrating a first example of the fault detection process performed by the control unit 360. In the graph shown in Figure 2, the horizontal axis represents time, and the vertical axis represents the voltage of the power supply unit 320. In the example shown in Figure 2, the control unit 360 detects an internal short circuit, which is one of the faults in the power supply unit 320.

[0044] As shown in Figure 2, the voltage range of the power supply unit 320 is divided into three ranges based on the voltage value of the power supply unit 320: the normal operating range, the over-discharge range, and the deep-discharge range. Here, the normal operating range is the voltage range from the discharge termination voltage (e.g., 3.0V) to the full charge voltage (e.g., 4.0V). The over-discharge range is the voltage range from the discharge termination voltage to the MCU (Micro Controller Unit: control unit 360). This is the voltage range up to the (equivalent) operating guarantee voltage. The deep discharge region is the voltage range from the MCU operating guarantee voltage to zero voltage (the state where the voltage value of the power supply unit 320 is 0V). Here, the SOC (State Of Charge) shown in Figure 2 represents the charge rate of the power supply unit 320, and the discharge termination. The voltage is 0%, and the full charge voltage is 100%.

[0045] As shown in Figure 2, the control unit 360 charges the power supply unit 320 by pre-charging, constant current charging, or constant voltage charging, based on the voltage value of the power supply unit 320. Pre-charging refers to charging performed, for example, when the voltage range of the power supply unit 320 is in the over-discharge or deep-discharge range. Constant current charging refers to charging performed with a constant current value in the interval between the discharge end voltage and the full charge voltage (normal operating range). Constant voltage charging is charging performed to maintain the voltage value of the power supply unit 320 at a predetermined voltage value, for example, to maintain the voltage value of the power supply unit 320 at the full charge voltage.

[0046] In this case, if constant current charging is performed in the normal operating range when there is no malfunction in the power supply unit 320, the voltage value of the power supply unit 320 will rise as the charging time progresses.

[0047] In the first example of the malfunction detection process, such characteristics are used to detect a malfunction in the power supply unit 320. Specifically, the control unit 360 detects a malfunction in the power supply unit 320 based on the change in voltage value during charging. More specifically, the control unit 360 determines that the power supply unit 320 is in a first malfunction state when it detects that the decrease amount ΔV of the voltage value of the power supply unit 320 per predetermined time T1 is greater than or equal to a first threshold TH1, that is, when a voltage drop occurs despite charging. When the control unit 360 determines that the state of the power supply unit 320 is in a first malfunction state, it causes the storage unit 340 to store first malfunction information indicating the first malfunction state as data D3.

[0048] The control unit 360 calculates and confirms the aforementioned decrease amount ΔV per predetermined time T1 and threshold TH1 based on the data D1 and data D2 stored in the storage unit 340 and the output from the time measurement unit 370. The time measurement unit 370 is, for example, a device capable of measuring time, such as a stopwatch or clock. The time measurement unit 370 may be incorporated into the control unit 360, for example.

[0049] (Second example of defect detection processing) Figure 3 is a graph illustrating a second example of the fault detection process performed by the control unit 360. Parts of the graph in Figure 3 that are common to the graph in Figure 2 will not be explained. In the example shown in Figure 3, the control unit 360 detects a degradation in capacity, which is one of the faults of the power supply unit 320.

[0050] In the example shown in Figure 3, a first voltage range VR1 included in the normal operating range is defined. That is, the first voltage range VR1 is defined as the voltage value between the lower limit (discharge termination voltage) and the upper limit (full charge voltage) of the normal operating range.

[0051] In the second example of the malfunction detection process, the control unit 360 detects a malfunction in the power supply unit 320 based on the time it takes for the voltage value of the power supply unit 320 to rise from the lower limit to the upper limit of the first voltage range VR1. Specifically, when the power supply unit 320 is being charged, the control unit 360 determines that the power supply unit 320 is in a second malfunction state when it detects that the time T2 required for the voltage value of the power supply unit 320 to rise from the lower limit to the upper limit of the first voltage range VR1 is less than or equal to the second threshold TH2. When the control unit 360 determines that the state of the power supply unit 320 is in a second malfunction state, it stores second malfunction information indicating the second malfunction state as data D3 in the storage unit 340.

[0052] The control unit 360 calculates and verifies the voltage value of the power supply unit 320, the first voltage range VR1, the time T2, and the threshold TH2 based on the data D1 and data D2 stored in the memory unit 340 and the output from the time measurement unit 370.

[0053] (Example 3 of defect detection processing) Figure 4 is a graph illustrating a third example of the fault detection process performed by the control unit 360. Regarding the graph in Figure 4, explanations of parts common to the graph in Figure 2 will be omitted. In the example shown in Figure 3, the control unit 360 detects degradation due to over-discharge, which is one of the faults of the power supply unit 320.

[0054] In the example shown in Figure 4, a second voltage range VR2 is defined that is included in the deep discharge region and / or the over-discharge region.

[0055] In the third example of the malfunction detection process, the control unit 360 detects a malfunction in the power supply unit 320 based on the time it takes for the voltage value of the power supply unit 320 to move from the lower limit to the upper limit of the second voltage range VR2. Specifically, when the power supply unit 320 is being charged by pre-charging, the control unit 360 determines that the power supply unit 320 is in a third malfunction state when it detects that the time T3 required for the voltage value of the power supply unit 320 to move from the lower limit to the upper limit of the second voltage range VR2 is greater than or equal to the third threshold TH3. When the control unit 360 determines that the state of the power supply unit 320 is in the third malfunction state, it stores third malfunction information indicating the third malfunction state as data D3 in the storage unit 340.

[0056] Furthermore, the control unit 360 calculates and confirms the voltage value of the power supply unit 320, the second voltage range VR2, the time T3, and the threshold TH3 based on the data D1 and data D2 stored in the memory unit 340 and the output from the time measurement unit 370.

[0057] (Fourth example of defect detection processing) Figure 5 is a graph illustrating a fourth example of the fault detection process by the control unit 360. The vertical axis of the graph shown in Figure 5 represents the total charging time T4 of the power supply unit 320. In the example shown in Figure 5, the control unit 360 detects the lifespan of the power supply unit 320, which is one of the faults in the power supply unit 320. Detect.

[0058] The control unit 360 measures the total charging time T4 of the power supply unit 320 as an operating value of the power supply unit 320 and stores the measured total charging time T4 as data D1 in the storage unit 340. When the control unit 360 detects that the total charging time T4 of the power supply unit 320 shown in data D1 is greater than or equal to the fourth threshold TH4 shown in data D2, it determines that the power supply unit 320 is in a fourth malfunction state. If the control unit 360 determines that the state of the power supply unit 320 is in a fourth malfunction state, it stores fourth malfunction information indicating the fourth malfunction state in the storage unit 340.

[0059] (Example 5 of the defect detection process) Figure 6 is a graph illustrating a fifth example of the fault detection process performed by the control unit 360. The vertical axis of the graph shown in Figure 6 represents the temperature of the power supply unit 320. In the example shown in Figure 6, the control unit 360 detects a temperature anomaly in the power supply unit 320, which is one of the faults in the power supply unit 320.

[0060] The control unit 360 obtains information indicating the temperature T5 of the power supply unit 320, measured by the temperature sensor 321, as an operating value of the power supply unit 320, from the temperature sensor 321 or from data D1 stored in the storage unit 340. The control unit 360 then determines that the power supply unit 320 is in a fifth malfunction state if the temperature T5 of the power supply unit 320 is greater than or equal to the fifth threshold TH5 indicated in data D2. When the control unit 360 determines that the state of the power supply unit 320 is in a fifth malfunction state, it stores fifth malfunction information indicating the fifth malfunction state in the storage unit 340.

[0061] The control unit 360 may, for example, acquire the temperature T5 of the power supply unit 320 when the aerosol generator 1 transitions from a dormant state to an active state, when the user is performing an inhalation operation, when charging of the power supply unit 320 begins, or when the power supply unit 320 is being charged, and the timing is not particularly limited.

[0062] The following describes a specific example of a malfunction notification process in which the control unit 360 notifies the notification unit 350 of the details or cause of a malfunction that occurred in the power supply unit 320.

[0063] Figure 7 is an example flowchart showing the first example of the defect detection process described above, and the defect notification process related to that process.

[0064] In step S701, the control unit 360 reads the data D1 stored in the memory unit 320 and obtains the voltage value of the power supply unit 320 when the power supply unit 320 is being charged in the normal operating range.

[0065] In step S702, the control unit 360 determines whether the decrease ΔV of the voltage value of the power supply unit 320 per predetermined time T1 is greater than or equal to the first threshold TH1, when the power supply unit 320 is being charged in the normal operating range.

[0066] If the decrease amount ΔV is less than the first threshold TH1 (step S702: No), the process returns to step S701.

[0067] If the decrease amount ΔV is greater than or equal to the first threshold TH1 (step S702: Yes), in step S703, the control unit 360 causes the storage unit 340 to store first malfunction information indicating that an internal short circuit has occurred in the power supply unit 320 as data D3.

[0068] Then, in step S704, the control unit 360 sends an error signal indicating the first malfunction state to the notification unit 350, causing the notification unit 350 to blink alternately in blue and red six times. In other words, the control unit 360 notifies the notification unit 350 that an internal short circuit has occurred in the power supply unit 320. Then the process ends. At the end of this process, the state of the aerosol generator 1 has transitioned to the idle state.

[0069] Figure 8 is an example flowchart showing the second example of the aforementioned defect detection process and the defect notification process related to that process.

[0070] In step S801, the control unit 360 acquires the voltage value of the power supply unit 320 when the power supply unit 320 is being charged in the normal operating range.

[0071] In step S802, the control unit 360 determines whether the time T2 required for the voltage value of the power supply unit 320 to rise from the lower limit to the upper limit of the first voltage range VR1 is less than or equal to the second threshold TH2, when the power supply unit 320 is being charged in the normal operating range.

[0072] If time T2 exceeds the second threshold TH2 (step S802: No), the process returns to step S801.

[0073] If time T2 is less than or equal to the second threshold TH2 (step S802: Yes), in step S803, the control unit 360 causes the storage unit 340 to store second malfunction information indicating that the capacity of the power supply unit 320 has deteriorated as data D3.

[0074] In step S804, the control unit 360 sends an error signal indicating a second malfunction state to the notification unit 350 and controls the notification unit 350 to blink alternately blue and red eight times. In other words, the control unit 360 notifies the notification unit 350 that the capacity of the power supply unit 320 has deteriorated. Then the process ends. At the end of this process, the state of the aerosol generator 1 has transitioned to the idle state.

[0075] Figure 9 is an example flowchart showing a third example of the aforementioned defect detection process and the defect notification process related to that process.

[0076] In step S901, the control unit 360 acquires the voltage value of the power supply unit 320 if the power supply unit 320 is pre-charged in the deep discharge range and / or over-discharge range.

[0077] In step S902, the control unit 360 determines whether the time T3 required for the voltage value of the power supply unit 320 to rise from the lower limit to the upper limit of the second voltage range VR2 is greater than or equal to the third threshold TH3, when the power supply unit 320 is pre-charged in the deep discharge range and / or over-discharge range.

[0078] If time T3 is less than the third threshold TH3 (step S902: No), the process returns to step S901.

[0079] If time T3 is greater than or equal to the third threshold TH3 (step S902: Yes), in step S903, the control unit 360 causes the storage unit 340 to store third malfunction information as data D3, indicating that deterioration due to over-discharge has occurred in the power supply unit 320.

[0080] In step S904, the control unit 360 sends an error signal indicating a third malfunction state to the notification unit 350 and controls the notification unit 350 to blink alternately blue and red 10 times. In other words, the control unit 360 notifies the notification unit 350 that the power supply unit 320 has deteriorated due to over-discharge. Then the process ends. At the end of this process, the aerosol generator 1 is in a paused state.

[0081] Figure 10 is an example flowchart showing the fourth example of the aforementioned defect detection process and the defect notification process related to that process.

[0082] In step S1001, the control unit 360 obtains the total charging time T4 of the power supply unit 320. For example, the control unit 360 reads the data D1 stored in the storage unit 340 and obtains the total charging time T4.

[0083] In step S1002, the control unit 360 determines whether the total charging time T4 of the power supply unit 320 is equal to or greater than the fourth threshold TH4.

[0084] If the total charging time T4 is less than the fourth threshold TH4 (step S1002: No), the process returns to step S1001.

[0085] If the total charging time T4 is greater than or equal to the fourth threshold TH4 (step S1002: Yes), in step S1003, the control unit 360 causes the storage unit 340 to store fourth malfunction information indicating that the power supply unit 320 has reached the end of its lifespan as data D3.

[0086] In step S1004, the control unit 360 sends an error signal indicating a fourth malfunction state to the notification unit 350 and controls the notification unit 350 to blink alternately blue and red 12 times. In other words, the control unit 360 causes the notification unit 350 to notify that the power supply unit 320 has reached the end of its lifespan. Then the process ends. At the end of this process, the state of the aerosol generator 1 has transitioned to the idle state.

[0087] Figure 11 is an example flowchart showing the fifth example of the aforementioned defect detection process and the defect notification process related to that process.

[0088] In step S1101, the control unit 360 obtains the temperature T5 of the power supply unit 320 from the temperature sensor 321 or the data D1 stored in the memory unit 340.

[0089] In step S1102, the control unit 360 determines whether the temperature T5 is greater than or equal to the fifth threshold TH5.

[0090] If the temperature T5 is less than the fifth threshold TH5 (step S1102: No), the process returns to step S1101.

[0091] If the temperature T5 is greater than or equal to the fifth threshold TH5 (step S1102: Yes), in step S1103, the control unit 360 causes the storage unit 340 to store fifth malfunction information indicating that a temperature abnormality has occurred in the power supply unit 320 as data D3.

[0092] In step S1104, the control unit 360 sends an error signal indicating a fifth malfunction state to the notification unit 350 and controls the notification unit 350 to blink blue and red 14 times. In other words, the control unit 360 notifies the notification unit 350 that a temperature abnormality has occurred in the power supply unit 320. Then the process ends. At the end of this process, the state of the aerosol generator 1 has transitioned to the idle state.

[0093] Figure 12 shows the notification process for the first to fifth malfunction states when a suction operation is performed by the user. An example of the process is shown in the flowchart. Note that the process shown in Figure 12 is explained assuming that it is performed after the processes in Figures 7 to 11 have been completed, but is not limited to that.

[0094] In step S1201, the control unit 360 determines whether the power button 310 has been pressed and whether the aerosol generator 1 has transitioned from a dormant state to an active state.

[0095] If the power button 310 is not pressed (step S1201: No), that is, if the aerosol generator 1 has not transitioned from a dormant state to an active state, the process returns to step S1201 and the notification process does not proceed.

[0096] When the power button 310 is pressed (step S1201: Yes), that is, when the aerosol generator 1 transitions from a dormant state to an active state, in step S1202, the control unit 360 determines whether or not malfunction information (specifically, at least one of the first to fifth malfunction information) is stored in the storage unit 340 as data D3.

[0097] If no malfunction information is stored in the memory unit 340 (step S1202: No), the notification process ends, and the control unit 360 performs normal aerosol generation control.

[0098] If malfunction information is stored in the storage unit 340 (step S1202: Yes), in step S1203, the control unit 360 determines whether or not the suction operation has been detected (for example, started) by the sensor unit 330.

[0099] If no suction is detected (step S1203: No), the process returns to step S1203.

[0100] If suction is detected (step S1203: Yes), in step S1204, the control unit 360 determines whether or not the first malfunction information is stored in the storage unit 340 as data D3.

[0101] If the first malfunction information is stored in the storage unit 340 (step S1204: Yes), in step S1205, the control unit 360 sends an error signal indicating the first malfunction state to the notification unit 350, causing the notification unit 350 to blink alternately in blue and red six times. In other words, the control unit 360 notifies the notification unit 350 that an internal short-circuit malfunction has occurred in the power supply unit 320. Then the process ends.

[0102] If the first malfunction information is not stored in the storage unit 340 (step S1204: No), in step S1206, the control unit 360 determines whether or not the second malfunction information is stored in the storage unit 340 as data D3.

[0103] If the second malfunction information is stored in the storage unit 340 (step S1206: Yes), in step S1207, the control unit 360 sends an error signal indicating the second malfunction state to the notification unit 350, causing the notification unit 350 to blink alternately in blue and red eight times. In other words, the control unit 360 notifies the notification unit 350 that a capacity degradation malfunction has occurred in the power supply unit 320. Then the process ends.

[0104] If the second defect information is not stored in the storage unit 340 (step S1206: No), in step S1208, the control unit 360 determines whether or not the third defect information is stored in the storage unit 340 as data D3.

[0105] If the third malfunction information is stored in the memory unit 340 (Step S1208: Ye s) In step S1209, the control unit 360 sends an error signal indicating a third malfunction state to the notification unit 350, causing the notification unit 350 to blink alternately blue and red 10 times. That is, the control unit 360 notifies the notification unit 350 that a malfunction due to degradation caused by over-discharge has occurred in the power supply unit 320. Then the process ends.

[0106] If the third type of malfunction information is not stored in the storage unit 340 (step S1208: No), in step S1210, the control unit 360 determines whether or not the fourth type of malfunction information is stored in the storage unit 340 as data D3.

[0107] If the fourth malfunction information is stored in the storage unit 340 (step S1210: Yes), in step S1211, the control unit 360 sends an error signal indicating the fourth malfunction state to the notification unit 350, causing the notification unit 350 to blink alternately blue and red 12 times. In other words, the control unit 360 notifies the notification unit 350 that a malfunction has occurred in the power supply unit 320, namely that it has reached the end of its lifespan. The notification process then ends.

[0108] If the fourth malfunction information is not stored in the storage unit 340 (step S1210: No), in step S1212, the control unit 360 determines that the fifth malfunction state is stored in the storage unit 340, sends an error signal indicating the fifth malfunction state to the notification unit 350, and causes the notification unit 350 to blink alternately red and blue 14 times. In other words, the control unit 360 notifies the notification unit 350 that a temperature abnormality malfunction has occurred in the power supply unit 320. Then the process ends.

[0109] As described above, the control unit 360 in this embodiment performs, for example, fault detection of the power supply unit 320 based on voltage drop during charging, fault detection of the power supply unit 320 based on charging speed, fault detection of the power supply unit 320 based on total charging time, and fault detection of the power supply unit 320 based on temperature. Based on such determinations, the control unit 360 detects that a fault has occurred in the power supply unit 320 and generates different error signals depending on the nature or cause of the fault. The control unit 360 then causes the notification unit 350 to send a notification in a manner based on the error signal. As a result, users and / or repairers can easily understand the nature or cause of the fault that occurred in the power supply unit 320 based on the manner of notification sent by the notification unit 350, and can take appropriate action after understanding the cause of the fault that occurred in the power supply unit 320.

[0110] Furthermore, in this embodiment, the user and / or repairer of the aerosol generator 1 can easily understand the nature or cause of any malfunction in the power supply unit 320. Therefore, there is no need to perform a separate electrical inspection to identify the type of malfunction in the aerosol generator 1 according to this embodiment. Consequently, in this embodiment, power waste can be prevented and energy-saving effects can be achieved.

[0111] In this embodiment, when the control unit 360 detects a malfunction in the power supply unit 320, it notifies the notification unit 350 of the malfunction at multiple timings. Of these multiple timings, the first timing may be when the malfunction is detected, and the second timing may be after the malfunction is detected. Here, the number of elements in the power supply unit 300 supplied with power from the power supply unit 320 at the first timing may be greater than the number of elements in the power supply unit 300 supplied with power from the power supply unit 320 at the second timing. The second timing may also be the timing when an instruction to switch the aerosol generator 1 to the power-on state is detected, or the timing when an aerosol generation request is detected.

[0112] Let me explain in more detail the timing of notifying of the malfunction status. In this embodiment, when a malfunction occurs in the power supply unit 320, the control unit 360 detects the occurrence of the malfunction and then... The notification unit 350 is instructed to send a notification according to the type of malfunction at the time the sensor unit 330 detects a suction action by the user after detecting the occurrence of the malfunction. However, the timing of the malfunction notification is not limited to these. For example, the control unit 360 may instruct the notification unit 350 to send a notification according to the type of malfunction at the time the occurrence of the malfunction is detected, and at the time the power button 310 is detected to have been pressed after the detection. Furthermore, the control unit 360 may send a notification according to the type of malfunction without supplying power to each part of the aerosol generator 1, such as the sensor unit 330 (without transitioning the aerosol generator 1 from a dormant state to an active state). In this case, for example, even if the power supply unit 320 cannot supply sufficient power to the sensor 330, etc., due to the malfunction that occurred, that is, even if it is difficult for the control unit 360 to send a second notification (corresponding to a second timing) according to the type of malfunction while the power supply unit 320 is supplying power to each part, the user can still receive a second notification according to the type of malfunction. In other words, the control unit 360 can reduce the power consumption required for the second notification, depending on the type of malfunction, compared to the power consumption required for the first notification (corresponding to the first timing) (by reducing the number of elements supplied with power by the power supply unit 300). This increases the opportunities to inform the user, etc., that a malfunction has occurred in the power supply unit 320, and the nature or type of the malfunction. Furthermore, it reduces the load on the malfunctioning power supply unit 320. Note that the number of elements of the aerosol generator 1 receiving power at the timing when the occurrence of the malfunction is detected is greater than the number of elements of the aerosol generator 1 receiving power at the timing when it is detected that the power button 310 has been pressed after the detection, so the same effect can be achieved even if such a timing for notifying malfunctions is adopted.

[0113] Furthermore, in this embodiment, notification of a malfunction may be given at various timings, such as when a malfunction is detected, when a user's suction action is detected, or when the aerosol generator 1 transitions to an active state. By notifying the user of a malfunction when a user's suction action is detected or when the aerosol generator 1 transitions to an active state, the user can easily recognize that a malfunction has occurred in the power supply unit 320 when using or starting to use the aerosol generator 1.

[0114] Furthermore, in this embodiment, the notification methods corresponding to the types of malfunction conditions exemplified in step S704 in Figure 7, step S804 in Figure 8, step S904 in Figure 9, step S1004 in Figure 10, step S1104 in Figure 11, and steps S1205, S1207, S1209, S1211, and S1212 in Figure 12 can be freely changed.

[0115] In this embodiment, each of the multiple states included in the malfunction state may be assigned a severity level. In this case, the control unit 360 may notify the notification unit 350 of the malfunction state only at the first timing for states with a severity level lower than a predetermined level, and may not notify the notification unit 350 of the malfunction state at the second timing. Furthermore, the control unit 360 may control the notification unit 350 such that the power consumption increases as the notification of a malfunction state related to a state with a higher severity level is increased.

[0116] Let's explain the importance level in more detail. The control unit 360 can change the notification method according to the importance level of a malfunction that has occurred in the power supply unit 320. Specifically, for example, if a malfunction of a higher importance level than a predetermined level occurs in the power supply unit 320, the control unit 360 may notify the user of the malfunction using a combination of light, vibration, and sound, while if a malfunction of a lower importance level occurs, it may notify the user using only light, only vibration, or only sound. For high-importance malfunctions, the control unit 360 may notify the user using a method that consumes more power than for low-importance malfunctions. This makes it easier for users to recognize that a malfunction has occurred in the power supply unit 320, and the nature or cause of the malfunction. Furthermore, it makes it easier for users to recognize the importance level of the malfunction that has occurred in the power supply unit 320. However, this prevents overlooking a high-priority malfunction in the power supply unit 320. Information regarding the severity of the malfunction may also be stored in the memory unit 340.

[0117] Furthermore, in this embodiment, whether or not a second notification is sent depending on the nature or cause of the malfunction may be controlled based on the severity of the malfunction. For example, if the malfunction corresponding to the fourth malfunction information is set to a high severity level, and the malfunction corresponding to the fifth malfunction information is set to a low severity level, the control unit 360 may send a second notification regarding the malfunction corresponding to the fourth malfunction information, but not the second notification regarding the malfunction corresponding to the fifth malfunction information. This makes it possible to provide notifications that take into consideration malfunctions that are strongly desired not to progress. In addition, by omitting notifications for malfunctions of low severity, the consumption of power stored in the power supply unit 320 can be suppressed.

[0118] It should be noted that the present invention is not limited to the embodiments described above, and the components can be modified and implemented in practice without departing from the gist of the invention. Furthermore, various inventions can be formed by appropriately combining the multiple components disclosed in each embodiment. For example, some components may be removed from all the components shown in each embodiment. Moreover, components from different embodiments may be combined as appropriate. [Explanation of Symbols]

[0119] 1...Aerosol generator, 100...Cartridge unit, 110...Storage unit, 120...Supply unit, 130...Load, 140...Atomization unit, 200...Capsule unit, 210...Flavor source, 300...Power supply unit, 310...Power button, 320...Power supply unit, 321...Temperature sensor, 330...Sensor unit, 340...Storage unit, D1~D3...Data, 350...Notification unit, 360...Control unit, 370...Time measurement unit.

Claims

1. A battery that supplies power to a heater that heats the aerosol source, Notification section, The system includes a control unit that identifies the nature of a malfunction in the battery and causes the notification unit to perform a notification action corresponding to that nature, The notification unit performs the notification operation at a predetermined timing according to the nature of the battery malfunction identified by the control unit. An aerosol generating apparatus characterized in that the predetermined timing includes the time when the user sends a signal requesting that power be supplied from the battery to the heater and that the heater heat the aerosol source.

2. The control unit causes the notification unit to perform the notification operation corresponding to the nature of the battery malfunction without transitioning the aerosol generator to an active state. The aerosol generating apparatus according to claim 1, characterized in that...

3. The control unit acquires the voltage value of the battery, The nature of the battery malfunction is determined based on whether the voltage value of the battery is within a predetermined voltage range. An aerosol generating apparatus according to claim 1 or 2, characterized by the above.

4. The malfunction of the aforementioned battery includes a malfunction related to the charging of the aforementioned battery. An aerosol generating apparatus according to claim 3, characterized by the above.

5. The nature of the battery malfunction includes an internal short circuit in the battery, which is identified by the control unit based on the voltage value of the battery. An aerosol generating apparatus according to claim 3 or 4, characterized by the above.

6. The nature of the battery malfunction includes a degradation of the battery's capacity, which is determined by the control unit based on the battery's voltage value. An aerosol generating apparatus according to any one of claims 3 to 5, characterized by the above.

7. The nature of the battery malfunction includes degradation due to over-discharge of the battery, which is identified by the control unit based on the voltage value of the battery. An aerosol generating apparatus according to any one of claims 3 to 6, characterized by the above.

8. The nature of the battery malfunction includes the battery's lifespan, which is determined by the control unit based on the total charging time of the battery. An aerosol generating apparatus according to any one of claims 3 to 7, characterized by the above.

9. The control unit acquires information indicating the temperature of the battery, The nature of the battery malfunction includes a temperature anomaly of the battery, which is identified by the control unit based on information indicating the battery temperature. An aerosol generating apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 8, characterized by the above.

10. It also has a temperature sensor, The control unit identifies the occurrence of a temperature abnormality in the battery based on the output from the temperature sensor. An aerosol generating apparatus according to claim 9, characterized by the above.

11. The control unit causes the notification unit to perform the notification operation in a manner that consumes different amounts of power depending on the nature of the battery malfunction. An aerosol generating apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 10, characterized by the above.

12. Depending on the severity identified according to the nature of the battery malfunction, the notification unit is instructed to perform the notification operation in the manner in which the power consumption differs. An aerosol generating apparatus according to claim 11, characterized by the above.

13. The predetermined timing includes the time when a button is pressed to transition the state of the aerosol generator to a different state. An aerosol generating apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 12, characterized by the above.

14. The predetermined timing includes the time when power is supplied to the heater from the battery, An aerosol generating apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 13, characterized by the above.

15. The predetermined timing includes the time when the battery is being charged. An aerosol generating apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 14, characterized by the above.

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