Flavor inhalation device or aerosol generating device, its control method and its program

Abstract

Provided is a flavor inhaler that delivers a psychological effect that is effective for a user.　A device (200), which is a flavor inhaler or an aerosol generating device, comprises a sense stimulating element (210), a heart rate acquisition unit (220) for acquiring the heart rate of a user, and a control unit (240) for operating the sense stimulation element. The operation of the sense stimulation element (210) has periodicity. The control unit (240) is configured to operate the sense stimulation element (210) such that the operation period of the sense stimulation element (210) is based on the heart rate obtained by the heart rate acquisition unit (220).

Description

[Technical field]

[0001] The present application relates to a flavor inhalation device or an aerosol generating device (hereinafter referred to as a "flavor inhalation device, etc."). More specifically, the present application relates to a flavor inhalation device, etc. having a sensory stimulation element that operates based on a user's heart rate.

[0002] The flavor inhalation device is a device for inhaling flavors, and includes heated flavor inhalation devices (which generate flavors by heating) and non-heated flavor inhalation devices (which generate flavors by ultrasonic atomization, for example). Flavor inhalation devices include, but are not limited to, electronic cigarettes, heated cigarettes, and conventional cigarettes. An "aerosol generating device" is a device for inhaling the generated aerosol, and includes heated aerosol generating devices (which generate aerosols by heating) and non-heated aerosol generating devices (which generate aerosols by ultrasonic atomization, for example). Aerosol generating devices include, but are not limited to, electronic cigarettes, heated cigarettes, and medical nebulizers. Flavor inhalation devices and the like include so-called RRPs (Reduced-Risk Products). [Background technology]

[0003] It has been known that the act of smoking cigarettes (conventional tobacco) brings about psychological effects such as awakening and sedation to the user. In recent years, flavor inhalation devices equipped with electronic devices, such as heat-not-burn tobacco and electronic cigarettes, have become popular as an alternative to cigarettes. Attempts have been made to use these flavor inhalation devices to measure the user's heart rate and provide the user with certain functions (see, for example, Patent Document 1).

[0004] For example, it is being considered to provide various values ​​to users by measuring their heart rate. As in Patent Document 1, one such example is to notify the user or to notify a medical institution when the heart rate is above a predetermined value. On the other hand, there are also users who seek psychological effects from the act of smoking as one of the various values. For such users, there is a demand for a flavor inhaler that enhances the psychological effects. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0005] [Patent Document 1] Special Publication No. 2021-500002 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0006] The present invention has been made in view of the above, and an object of the present invention is to provide a flavor inhalation device or the like that provides an effective psychological effect to a user. [Means for solving the problem]

[0007] In order to solve the above problem, according to an embodiment of the present invention, there is provided a device which is a flavor inhalation instrument or an aerosol generating apparatus, comprising a sensory stimulation element, a heart rate acquisition unit for acquiring a user's heart rate, and a control unit for operating the sensory stimulation element, wherein the operation of the sensory stimulation element is periodic, and the control unit is configured to operate the sensory stimulation element such that the period of the operation of the sensory stimulation element is based on the heart rate acquired by the heart rate acquisition unit.

[0008] In one embodiment, the heart rate acquisition unit may be a heart rate sensor, and the heart rate sensor may be a pulse wave sensor.

[0009] In one embodiment, the heart rate acquisition unit may be a communication unit configured to acquire the heart rate from an external device.

[0010] In one embodiment, the period of operation of the sensory stimulation element may be within a range of 80% to 120% of a period corresponding to the acquired heart rate.

[0011] In one embodiment, the device has an awake mode and a sedation mode, and the control unit may be further configured to operate the sensory stimulation element such that the period of operation of the sensory stimulation element is shorter than a period corresponding to the acquired heart rate in the awake mode and longer than a period corresponding to the acquired heart rate in the sedation mode.

[0012] In one embodiment, an operating intensity of the sensory stimulation elements in the wake mode may be greater than an operating intensity of the sensory stimulation elements in the sedation mode.

[0013] In one embodiment, the device may be configured to determine whether the user is awake and / or sedated by comparing the heart rate at the start of acquisition with the heart rate at the end of acquisition, and to notify the user of the determination result.

[0014] In one embodiment, in one cycle of the operation of the sensory stimulation element, the operation time of the sensory stimulation element may be 0.05 seconds or more and 0.5 seconds or less.

[0015] In one embodiment, the sensory stimulation element may be one or more of a transducer, a light emitting element, and an acoustic element.

[0016] In one embodiment, the heart rate acquired by the heart rate acquisition unit may be a moving average of the user's heart rates measured over a predetermined period of time.

[0017] In order to solve the above problem, according to another embodiment of the present invention, there is provided a method for operating a device which is a flavor inhalation instrument or an aerosol generating device, the device comprising a sensory stimulation element, a heart rate acquisition unit for acquiring a user's heart rate, and a control unit for operating the sensory stimulation element, the operation of the sensory stimulation element being periodic, and the method including a step of the control unit operating the sensory stimulation element such that the period of the operation of the sensory stimulation element is based on the heart rate acquired by the heart rate acquisition unit.

[0018] In order to solve the above problem, according to another embodiment of the present invention, there is provided a program for causing a processor of a flavor inhalation device or an aerosol generating device to execute the above operating method. Effect of the Invention

[0019] According to an embodiment of the present invention, an effective psychological effect can be provided to a user of a flavor inhalation device or the like through sensory stimulation. [Brief description of the drawings]

[0020] [Figure 1A] FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram showing a configuration example of a flavor inhalation device according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 1B] FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram showing a configuration example of a flavor inhalation device according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Diagram 2] FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram showing a configuration example of a flavor inhalation device according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 3A] 13 is a diagram for explaining the position of a heartbeat sensor included in a flavor inhalation device, etc. [Figure 3B] 13 is a diagram for explaining the position of a heartbeat sensor included in a flavor inhalation device, etc. [Figure 4] 11 is a flowchart of an example process executed by a control unit included in a flavor inhalation device or the like. [Figure 5A] 11 is a flowchart of an example process executed by a control unit included in a flavor inhalation device or the like. [Figure 5B]11 is a flowchart of an example process executed by a control unit included in a flavor inhalation device or the like. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0021] 1. Embodiments of the Present Invention An embodiment of the present invention is a flavor inhalation device having a function of providing a sensory stimulus to a user.

[0022] 1-1 First configuration example FIG. 1A is a schematic diagram showing a first configuration example of a flavor inhalation tool or the like. As shown in FIG. 1A, a flavor inhalation tool or the like 100A according to this configuration example includes a power supply unit 110, a cartridge 120, and a flavor imparting cartridge 130. The power supply unit 110 includes a power supply section 111A, a sensor section 112A, a notification section 113A, a memory section 114A, a communication section 115A, and a control section 116A. The cartridge 120 includes a heating section 121A, a liquid guiding section 122, and a liquid storage section 123. The flavor imparting cartridge 130 includes a flavor source 131 and a mouthpiece 124. An air flow path 180 is formed in the cartridge 120 and the flavor imparting cartridge 130.

[0023] The power supply unit 111A accumulates power. The power supply unit 111A supplies power to each component of the flavor inhaler 100A under the control of the control unit 116A. The power supply unit 111A may be configured, for example, by a rechargeable battery such as a lithium ion secondary battery.

[0024] The sensor unit 112A acquires various information related to the flavor inhalation tool 100A. The sensor unit 112A may include a pressure sensor such as a microphone capacitor, a flow rate sensor, or a temperature sensor, and acquires values ​​associated with inhalation by the user. The sensor unit 112A may also include an input device such as a button or a switch that accepts information input from the user. Furthermore, the sensor unit 112A may also include a heart rate sensor for acquiring the heart rate of the user of the flavor inhalation tool 100A. Note that multiple heart rate sensors may be provided.

[0025] The notification unit 113A notifies the user of information. In this embodiment, the notification unit 113A includes a sensory stimulation element configured to give a sensory stimulation to the user. The sensory stimulation element may be one or more of a light-emitting element that emits light, an acoustic element that outputs sound, and a vibrator that vibrates. That is, the sensory stimulation element may be an acoustic element, a light-emitting element, or a vibrator, or a combination of two or more of these. The notification unit 113A may include a display device that displays a message.

[0026] The storage unit 114A stores various information for the operation of the flavor inhalation tool 100A. The storage unit 114A is configured by a non-volatile storage medium such as a flash memory. The storage unit 114A may include a volatile memory that provides a working area for control by the control unit 116A. An example of information stored in the storage unit 114A is the user's heart rate, which will be described later.

[0027] The communication unit 115A may include a communication interface (including a communication electronic circuit that may include a communication module and an antenna, etc.; the same applies below) that complies with a predetermined LPWA wireless communication standard or a wireless communication standard having similar restrictions. As such a communication standard, Sigfox, LoRA-WAN, etc. may be adopted. The communication unit 115A may be a communication interface that is capable of performing communication that complies with any wired or wireless communication standard. As such a communication standard, for example, Wi-Fi (registered trademark), Bluetooth (registered trademark), etc. may be adopted. The communication unit 115A may be configured to communicate with an external device (not shown).

[0028] The control unit 116A functions as an arithmetic processing unit and a control unit, and controls the overall operation of the flavor inhalation tool 100A according to various programs. The control unit 116A is realized by electronic circuits such as a CPU (Central Processing Unit) and a microprocessor. The control unit 116A may include a conversion unit 117A, which will be described later in detail.

[0029] The liquid storage unit 123 stores the aerosol source. The aerosol source is atomized to generate an aerosol. The aerosol source is a liquid such as polyhydric alcohols such as glycerin and propylene glycol, and water. The aerosol source may contain a flavor component derived from tobacco or non-tobacco. When the flavor inhalation device 100A is a medical inhaler such as a nebulizer, the aerosol source may contain a medicine.

[0030] The liquid guide unit 122 guides and holds the aerosol source, which is a liquid stored in the liquid storage unit 123, from the liquid storage unit 123. The liquid guide unit 122 is, for example, a wick formed by twisting a fiber material such as glass fiber or a porous material such as porous ceramic. In this case, the aerosol source stored in the liquid storage unit 123 is guided by the capillary effect of the wick.

[0031] The heating unit 121A generates an aerosol by heating the aerosol source and atomizing the aerosol source. In the example shown in FIG. 1A, the heating unit 121A is configured as a coil and is wound around the liquid guide unit 122. When the heating unit 121A generates heat, the aerosol source held in the liquid guide unit 122 is heated and atomized, and an aerosol is generated. The heating unit 121A generates heat when power is supplied from the power supply unit 111A. As an example, power may be supplied when the sensor unit 112A detects either or both of the user starting inhalation and the input of predetermined information. Then, power supply may be stopped when the sensor unit 112A detects either or both of the user ending inhalation and the input of predetermined information.

[0032] The flavor source 131 is a component for imparting flavor components to the aerosol. The flavor source 131 may include tobacco-derived or non-tobacco-derived flavor components.

[0033] The air flow path 180 is a flow path for air inhaled by the user. The air flow path 180 has a tubular structure with an air inlet hole 181, which is an inlet for air into the air flow path 180, and an air outlet hole 182, which is an outlet for air from the air flow path 180, at both ends. In the middle of the air flow path 180, the liquid guide section 122 is disposed on the upstream side (the side closer to the air inlet hole 181), and the flavor source 131 is disposed on the downstream side (the side closer to the air outlet hole 182). The air that flows in from the air inlet hole 181 as the user inhales is mixed with the aerosol generated by the heating section 121A, and is transported to the air outlet hole 182 through the flavor source 131 as shown by the arrow 190. When the mixed fluid of the aerosol and the air passes through the flavor source 131, the flavor components contained in the flavor source 131 are imparted to the aerosol.

[0034] Mouthpiece 124 is a member that is held in the mouth of a user when inhaling. Air outlet hole 182 is arranged in mouthpiece 124. By holding mouthpiece 124 in the mouth and inhaling, the user can take in a mixed fluid of aerosol and air into the oral cavity.

[0035] The above describes exemplary configurations of the flavor inhalation tool 100A. Of course, the configuration of the flavor inhalation tool 100A is not limited to the above, and various configurations such as those shown below may be used.

[0036] As an example, the flavor inhalation device 100A may not include the flavor imparting cartridge 130. In that case, the cartridge 120 is provided with the mouthpiece 124.

[0037] As another example, the flavor inhalation device 100A may include a plurality of aerosol sources. A plurality of aerosols generated from the plurality of aerosol sources may be mixed in the air flow path 180 and undergo a chemical reaction to generate yet another aerosol.

[0038] Furthermore, the means for atomizing the aerosol source is not limited to heating by the heating unit 121 A. For example, the means for atomizing the aerosol source may be vibration atomization or induction heating.

[0039] 1-2 Second configuration example 1B is a schematic diagram showing a second configuration example of a flavor inhalation tool, etc. As shown in FIG. 1B, a flavor inhalation tool, etc. 100B according to this configuration example includes a power supply unit 111B, a sensor unit 112B, a notification unit 113B, a storage unit 114B, a communication unit 115B, a control unit 116B, a heating unit 121B, a holding unit 140, and a heat insulating unit 144.

[0040] Each of the power supply unit 111B, the sensor unit 112B, the notification unit 113B, the memory unit 114B, the communication unit 115B, and the control unit 116B is substantially identical to the corresponding components included in the flavor inhalation device 100A of the first configuration example.

[0041] The holding part 140 has an internal space 141, and holds the stick-shaped substrate 150 while accommodating a part of the stick-shaped substrate 150 in the internal space 141. The stick-shaped substrate 150 is also an example of a "refill". The holding part 140 has an opening 142 that connects the internal space 141 to the outside, and holds the stick-shaped substrate 150 inserted from the opening 142 into the internal space 141. For example, the holding part 140 is a cylindrical body with the opening 142 and the bottom part 143 as the bottom surface, and defines a columnar internal space 141. The holding part 140 also has a function of defining a flow path of air supplied to the stick-shaped substrate 150. An air inlet hole, which is an entrance of air to such a flow path, is arranged in the bottom part 143, for example. On the other hand, an air outlet hole, which is an exit of air from such a flow path, is the opening 142.

[0042] The stick-type substrate 150 includes a substrate portion 151 and a suction mouth portion 152. The substrate portion 151 includes an aerosol source. In this configuration example, the aerosol source is not limited to a liquid, and may be a solid. When the stick-type substrate 150 is held by the holder 140, at least a part of the substrate portion 151 is accommodated in the internal space 141, and at least a part of the suction mouth portion 152 protrudes from the opening 142. When the user holds the suction mouth portion 152 protruding from the opening 142 in his / her mouth and inhales, air flows into the internal space 141 from an air inlet hole (not shown) and reaches the user's mouth together with the aerosol generated from the substrate portion 151.

[0043] The heating unit 121B has a configuration similar to that of the heating unit 121A according to the first configuration example. However, in the example shown in Fig. 1B, the heating unit 121B is configured in a film shape and is arranged so as to cover the outer periphery of the holding unit 140. When the heating unit 121B generates heat, the substrate unit 151 of the stick-shaped substrate 150 is heated from the outer periphery, and an aerosol is generated.

[0044] The heat insulating section 144 prevents heat transfer from the heating section 121B to other components. For example, the heat insulating section 144 is made of a vacuum heat insulating material, an aerogel heat insulating material, or the like.

[0045] The above describes exemplary configurations of the flavor inhalation tool 100B. Of course, the configuration of the flavor inhalation tool 100B is not limited to the above, and may take various configurations, as exemplified below.

[0046] As one example, the heating unit 121B may be configured in a blade shape and disposed so as to protrude from the bottom 143 of the holding unit 140 into the internal space 141. In this case, the blade-shaped heating unit 121B is inserted into the substrate 151 of the stick-shaped substrate 150 and heats the substrate 151 of the stick-shaped substrate 150 from the inside. As another example, the heating unit 121B may be disposed so as to cover the bottom 143 of the holding unit 140. Furthermore, the heating unit 121B may be configured as a combination of two or more of a first heating unit covering the outer periphery of the holding unit 140, a blade-shaped second heating unit, and a third heating unit covering the bottom 143 of the holding unit 140.

[0047] As another example, the holding unit 140 may include an opening and closing mechanism such as a hinge that opens and closes a part of the outer shell that forms the internal space 141. The holding unit 140 may then open and close the outer shell to clamp the stick-shaped substrate 150 inserted into the internal space 141. In this case, the heating unit 121B may be provided at the clamping location in the holding unit 140, and may heat the stick-shaped substrate 150 while pressing it.

[0048] Furthermore, the means for atomizing the aerosol source is not limited to heating by the heating unit 121B. For example, the means for atomizing the aerosol source may be induction heating.

[0049] Moreover, the flavor inhalation device etc. 100B may further include the heating section 121A, the liquid guide section 122, the liquid storage section 123, and the air flow path 180 according to the first configuration example, and the air outlet hole 182 of the air flow path 180 may also serve as an air inlet hole to the internal space 141. In this case, the mixed fluid of the aerosol and air generated by the heating section 121A flows into the internal space 141 and is further mixed with the aerosol generated by the heating section 121B, and reaches the oral cavity of the user.

[0050] 1-3 Simplified configuration example 2 is a schematic diagram showing a simplified configuration example of the flavor inhalation device 100A or 100B described above, in which only components particularly related to the embodiment of the present invention are extracted. Thus, 200 indicates the flavor inhalation device 100A or 100B.

[0051] Reference numeral 210 denotes the sensory stimulation element described above that is included in the notification unit 113A or 113B. Note that the sensory stimulation element 210 may be considered to be separate from the notification unit 113A or 113B.

[0052] 220 indicates a heartbeat acquisition unit for acquiring the heartbeat of the user of the flavor inhalation tool or the like 200. The heartbeat acquisition unit 220 may be the above-mentioned heartbeat sensor included in the sensor unit 112A or 112B for acquiring the heartbeat of the user of the flavor inhalation tool or the like 200. Alternatively, the heartbeat acquisition unit 220 may be the communication unit 115A or 115B configured to acquire the heartbeat of the user of the flavor inhalation tool or the like 200 from an external device (not shown). The external device may be one that includes a heartbeat sensor or is configured to communicate with another external device (not shown) that includes a heartbeat sensor, and specifically may be a smartphone, a wearable device (such as a smart watch), a heartbeat monitor with a communication function, or the like, but is not limited thereto.

[0053] 240 indicates the control unit 116A or 116B.

[0054] 1-4 About the Sensory Stimulator 210 As described above, the sensory stimulation element 210 may be one or more of a light-emitting element that emits light, an acoustic element that outputs sound, and a vibrator that vibrates, but it has been found that a vibrator is suitable as the sensory stimulation element for the application of this embodiment, which is to awaken or calm the user, as described below. Specifically, the vibrator may be a vibration motor, a linear vibration actuator, or the like. Note that, as described below, the sensory stimulation element 210 is controlled so that its operation has periodicity.

[0055] 1-5 Heart Rate Acquisition Unit 220 1-5-1 Types of heart rate sensors The heartbeat sensor which is the heartbeat acquisition unit 220 and the heartbeat sensor provided in the external device or another external device which communicates with the external device (hereinafter referred to as "external device, etc.") may be a known sensor capable of detecting the heartbeat using electrocardiogram, photoplethysmography, sphygmomanometer, phonocardiogram, etc. Note that when the heartbeat acquisition unit 220 is a heartbeat sensor and therefore the flavor inhalation device, etc. 200 is provided with a heartbeat sensor, a pulse wave sensor, in particular a reflective pulse wave sensor using the photoplethysmography, would be suitable as such a heartbeat sensor. Hereinafter, the heartbeat sensor provided in the flavor inhalation device, etc. 200 as the heartbeat acquisition unit 220 will be referred to as the "heartbeat sensor 220." 1-5-2 Heart rate sensor position The heartbeat sensor 220 can be disposed at an appropriate position according to the type and the shape of the flavor inhalation tool 200. For example, when the heartbeat sensor 220 is a pulse wave sensor, particularly a reflective pulse wave sensor using a photoplethysmography method, the sensor is preferably disposed at a position on the flavor inhalation tool 200 where the user can touch it with his / her finger. This is because, in general, it is difficult for a pulse wave sensor to detect pulse waves from the palm of the hand, and therefore to detect the heartbeat.

[0056] 3A and 3B are diagrams illustrating exemplary positions at which the pulse wave sensor is disposed in accordance with the shape of the flavor inhaler 200 when the pulse wave sensor is used as the heartbeat sensor 220. FIG.

[0057] 300A and 300B indicate the flavor inhalation device 200, etc.

[0058] Reference numeral 310A denotes the stick-shaped substrate 150, and 310B denotes the mouthpiece 124.

[0059] 315B indicates a button.

[0060] 320A and 320B indicate suitable ranges for arranging the heartbeat sensor 220 according to the shapes of the flavor inhalation tools 300A and 300B, respectively. That is, in the flavor inhalation tools 300A and 300B, it is preferable to arrange the heartbeat sensor 220 at any position within the ranges 320A and 320B, respectively. The range 320A includes the side (part perpendicular to the paper) and back (part not shown on the paper) of the flavor inhalation tool 300A. The range 320B is intended for the back (part not shown on the paper) of the flavor inhalation tool 300B where the button 315B is not present.

[0061] In addition, a mark may be added to the flavor inhalation device 200 indicating the position where the heartbeat sensor 220 is located, thereby making it possible to inform the user of the position of the heartbeat sensor 220.

[0062] Furthermore, a plurality of heart rate sensors 220 may be mounted on the flavor inhaler 200. Therefore, the heart rate measured by the heart rate sensor 220, which will be described later, may be a heart rate measured by one of the plurality of heart rate sensors. Alternatively, the heart rate measured by the heart rate sensor, which will be described later, may be an average of the heart rates measured by the plurality of heart rate sensors.

[0063] The heart rate sensor included in the external device may be disposed at an appropriate position on the external device depending on the type and shape of the external device.

[0064] 1-5-3 Heart rate acquisition method In this embodiment, the heart rate is defined as the number of heartbeats occurring in a given time (usually 1 minute = 60 seconds.) The user's heart rate may be acquired by any method, but an example method will be described below.

[0065] The user's heart rate can be measured using the number of user's heart beats detected in a given period of time according to the following formula: A = a × (60 / T) (1) Here, A is the measured heart rate, a is the number of the user's heartbeats detected in a predetermined period, and T is the length of the predetermined period (unit: second).

[0066] The heart rate of the user acquired by the heart rate acquisition unit 220 can be the heart rate measured as described above.

[0067] Alternatively, the heart rate of the user acquired by the heart rate acquisition unit 220 can be the moving average of the heart rates measured as described above multiple times. For example, the heart rate acquired after the nth measurement of the heart rate can be the average of the heart rate measured at the nth time, the heart rate measured at the (n - 1)th time,..., and the heart rate measured at the (n - i)th time, where 0 < i < n. In other words, the heart rate of the user acquired by the heart rate acquisition unit 220 can be the average of the measured heart rates for the past (i + 1) times. Note that the value of i may be different each time the heart rate is acquired. For example, the heart rate acquired for the first time can be the average of the measured heart rates for the past 3 times (i = 2), the heart rate acquired for the second time can be the average of the measured heart rates for the past 4 times (i = 3),..., and the heart rate acquired for the jth time can be the average of the measured heart rates for the past (j + 2) times (i = j + 1). In this case, an upper limit may be set for the number of past measurements used for taking the average. For example, setting the upper limit to 10, the heart rates acquired after the 8th time can all be the average of the measured heart rates for the past 10 times.

[0068] Note that when measuring the heart rate multiple times as described above, the length (T) of the predetermined period in each measurement may be the same or different.

[0069] 1 - 6 About the control unit 240 FIG. 4 is a flowchart of an exemplary process 400 executed by the control unit 240. According to the exemplary process 400, the sensory stimulation element 210 will operate, and its operation is controlled to have periodicity.

[0070] 410 indicates a step of determining whether to start a sensory stimulation for the user.

[0071] The sensory stimulation for the user can be linked with the inhalation of the flavor inhalation device 200 by the user. Therefore, in step 410, it is determined whether the user has started inhaling the flavor inhalation device 200, and if it is determined that the inhalation has started, it is determined that the sensory stimulation should be started. Note that the method of determining whether the inhalation has started is arbitrary, and for example, it can be determined using the above-mentioned pressure sensor provided in the flavor inhalation device 200 and configured to detect a pressure change due to inhalation. More specifically, for example, it can be determined that the inhalation has started when the pressure measured by the pressure sensor falls below a predetermined threshold.

[0072] Alternatively, in step 410, it can be determined that the sensory stimulation should be started when heating is started by the above-mentioned heating unit 121A or 121B included in the flavor inhalation instrument 200. Alternatively, it can be determined that the sensory stimulation should be started when a predetermined operation is performed on an input device such as the above-mentioned button or switch included in the flavor inhalation instrument 200.

[0073] If it is determined that the sensory stimulation should begin, processing proceeds to step 420; otherwise, processing returns to step 410.

[0074] 420 indicates a step of acquiring the user's heart rate using the heart rate acquisition unit 220. The method of acquiring the user's heart rate is as described above. Step 420 may include a step of acquiring the user's heart rate by the heart rate sensor 220 (a heart rate sensor provided in the flavor inhalation tool 200 as the heart rate acquisition unit 220). Alternatively, step 420 may include a step of acquiring the user's heart rate from an external device. Note that the measurement of the user's heart rate (described above) for acquiring the user's heart rate may be performed in step 420, but may also be repeatedly performed asynchronously in parallel with the execution of the exemplary process 400. For example, the measurement of the user's heart rate may be started by turning on the power of the flavor inhalation tool 200 and may be ended by turning it off. Alternatively, the measurement of the user's heart rate may be started when the heating of the above-mentioned heating unit 121A or 121B provided in the flavor inhalation tool 200 starts and may be ended when the heating is ended. Alternatively, the measurement of the user's heart rate may be started and ended by performing a predetermined operation on an input device such as the above-mentioned button or switch provided in the flavor inhalation device 200. The obtained heart rate may be displayed on the display device that displays the above-mentioned message.

[0075] 430 shows the step of setting a period of operation of the sensory stimulation element 210 based on the acquired heart rate of the user.

[0076] The operation cycle of the sensory stimulation element 210 is preferably within a range of 80% to 120% of the cycle corresponding to the acquired heart rate, and more preferably within a range of 90% to 110%. As described above, the "heart rate" is defined as the number of heartbeats occurring in a given time, and the "cycle corresponding to the heart rate" may be derived by the following formula. P=T0 / A (2) Here, P is a period (unit: seconds) corresponding to the heart rate, T0 is a predetermined time length (unit: seconds, typically 60 seconds), and A is the heart rate.

[0077] The flavor inhalation tool 200 can have an awakening mode and a sedation mode, and the user can set the mode by any method, for example, by performing a predetermined operation on an input device such as the above-mentioned button or switch provided on the flavor inhalation tool 200. When the flavor inhalation tool 200 is in the awakening mode, the operation cycle of the sensory stimulation element 210 to be set is preferably shorter than the cycle corresponding to the acquired heart rate, specifically, preferably 80% to 99% of the cycle corresponding to the acquired heart rate, and more preferably 90% to 95%. When the flavor inhalation tool 200 is in the sedation mode, the operation cycle of the sensory stimulation element 210 to be set is preferably longer than the cycle corresponding to the acquired heart rate, specifically, preferably 101% to 120% of the cycle corresponding to the acquired heart rate, and more preferably 105% to 110%.

[0078] 440 shows the step of operating the sensory stimulation element 210 at a set period.

[0079] In one operation cycle of the sensory stimulation element 210, the time during which the sensory stimulation element 210 actually operates is preferably close to the time required for one beat of the user's heart (not the time between heartbeats, but the time the heart actually moves.) Therefore, specifically, in one operation cycle of the sensory stimulation element 210, the time during which the sensory stimulation element 210 actually operates may be preferably 0.05 seconds to 0.5 seconds, and more preferably 0.2 seconds to 0.3 seconds.

[0080] When the flavor inhalation device 200 is in the awakening mode, the operating intensity of the sensory stimulation element 210 may be set to be greater than when the flavor inhalation device 200 is in the sedative mode.

[0081] Sensory stimulation element 210 may also be used to give some kind of notification to the user (notification of start of heating of the aerosol source, notification of pre-heating of the aerosol source, notification of end of heating of the aerosol source, etc.), but is preferably configured to be able to distinguish between operations related to such notifications and operations in step 440. For example, when a vibrator is used as sensory stimulation element 210, it is preferable to make the manner (vibration frequency, vibration intensity, vibration pattern, etc.) of vibration related to the former operation and vibration related to the latter operation different.

[0082] 450 shows the step of determining whether the sensory stimulation to the user should be terminated.

[0083] As described above, the sensory stimulation for the user can be linked with the inhalation of the flavor inhalation tool 200 by the user. Therefore, in step 450, it is determined whether the inhalation by the user has ended in the flavor inhalation tool 200, and if it is determined that the inhalation has ended, it is determined that the sensory stimulation should be ended. Note that the method of determining whether the inhalation has ended is arbitrary, and for example, it can be determined using the above-mentioned pressure sensor provided in the flavor inhalation tool 200 and configured to detect a pressure change due to inhalation. More specifically, for example, it can be determined that the inhalation has ended when the pressure measured by the pressure sensor exceeds a predetermined threshold value.

[0084] Alternatively, in step 450, it can be determined that the sensory stimulation should be terminated when heating is terminated by the above-described heating unit 121A or 121B included in the flavor inhalation tool 200. Alternatively, it can be determined that the sensory stimulation should be terminated when a predetermined operation is performed on an input device such as the above-described button or switch included in the flavor inhalation tool 200.

[0085] If it is determined that the sensory stimulation should be terminated, the process ends; otherwise, the process returns to step 420.

[0086] It will be understood that, according to steps 420 to 440, the control section 240 operates the sensory stimulation element 210 such that the operation cycle of the sensory stimulation element 210 is based on the heart rate acquired by the heart rate acquisition section 220.

[0087] The controller 240 may execute a process to determine whether the user is awake as a result of the sensory stimulation. Fig. 5A is a flow chart of an example process 500A executed by the controller 240 to determine whether the user is awake. The example process 500A may be executed in parallel with the example process 400.

[0088] 510A shows a step of determining whether the determination of whether the user is awake should be started. The criterion for determining whether the determination of whether the user is awake should be started is arbitrary. For example, when the flavor inhalation tool 200 is set to the awakening mode, it may be determined that the determination of whether the user is awake should be started. Alternatively, for example, when the flavor inhalation tool 200 is set to the awakening mode, it may be determined that the determination of whether the user is awake should be started when it is determined that the user has started inhaling, when heating of the flavor inhalation tool 200 has started, or when a predetermined operation is performed on an input device such as a button or switch. If it is determined that the determination of whether the user is awake should be started, the process proceeds to step 520A, and if not, the process returns to step 510A.

[0089] 520A shows a step of acquiring the user's heart rate using the heart rate acquisition unit 220. The heart rate acquired in this step is hereinafter referred to as r0. This step may be the same as step 420. Alternatively, the heart rate acquired in the most recently executed step 420 may be used as the heart rate acquired in this step.

[0090] 530A shows a step of waiting for a predetermined time before executing the process. The length of the predetermined time is arbitrary. For example, the length of the predetermined time may be set based on the length of time required for a typical or user-specific smoking bout, such that step 520A is performed at the beginning of a smoking bout and step 540A, which will be described later, is performed at the end of a smoking bout.

[0091] 540A shows a step of acquiring the user's heart rate using the heart rate acquisition unit 220. The heart rate acquired in this step is hereinafter referred to as r1. This step may be similar to step 520A.

[0092] 550A indicates a step of comparing the heart rate r0 acquired in step 520A with the heart rate r1 acquired in step 540A to determine whether the heart rate has increased.

[0093] Specifically, in this step, a comparison can be made based back on the following formula: r1-r0-R>T a (3) Here, R is a correction term larger than 0. In other words, while smoking generally increases the heart rate, the correction term is provided to offset this increase and determine whether the increase in heart rate is due to sensory stimulation alone. The correction term may be determined experimentally, and may be a function of time. The correction term may be omitted if strictness is not required. a is a predetermined threshold, which may be empirically determined and may be zero.

[0094] If equation (3) is true, processing continues to step 570A, otherwise processing continues to step 580A.

[0095] 570A shows a step of determining that the user is awake. This step may include a step of performing any process, such as a predetermined notification in the flavor inhalation device 200.

[0096] 580A shows a step of determining whether the determination of whether the user has woken up should be terminated. The criteria for determining whether the determination of whether the user has woken up should be terminated are arbitrary. For example, when it is determined that the inhalation by the user has ended, when the heating of the flavor inhalation tool 200 has ended, or when a predetermined operation has been performed on an input device such as a button or a switch, it can be determined that the determination of whether the user has woken up should be terminated. Alternatively, for example, when it is determined that a predetermined number of inhalations have ended since it was determined that the determination of whether the user has woken up should be started, it can be determined that the determination of whether the user has woken up should be terminated. Alternatively, for example, when a predetermined time has elapsed since it was determined that the determination of whether the user has woken up should be started, it can be determined that the determination of whether the user has woken up should be terminated. If it is determined that the determination of whether the user has woken up should be terminated, the process ends, and if not, the process returns to step 530A.

[0097] Controller 240 may execute a process to determine whether the user is sedated as a result of the sensory stimulation. Figure 5B is a flow chart of an example process 500B executed by controller 240 to determine whether the user is sedated. Example process 500B may be executed in parallel with example process 400.

[0098] 510B shows a step of determining whether to start determining whether the user is sedated. The criterion for determining whether to start determining whether the user is sedated is arbitrary. For example, when the flavor inhalation device 200 is set to the sedation mode, it may be determined that the determination of whether the user is sedated should be started. Alternatively, for example, when the flavor inhalation device 200 is set to the sedation mode, it may be determined that the determination of whether the user is sedated should be started when it is determined that the user has started inhaling, when heating of the flavor inhalation device 200 has started, or when a predetermined operation is performed on an input device such as a button or switch. If it is determined that the determination of whether the user is sedated should be started, the process proceeds to step 520B, and if not, the process returns to step 510B.

[0099] Steps 520B to 540B may be similar to steps 510A to 540A, respectively. However, the predetermined time in step 530B may be the same as or different from the predetermined time in step 530A.

[0100] 550B indicates a step of comparing the heart rate r0 acquired in step 520B with the heart rate r1 acquired in step 540B to determine whether the heart rate has decreased.

[0101] Specifically, in this step, a comparison can be made based back on the following formula: r1-r0-R <T s (4) Here, the correction term R may be omitted if strictness is not required. s is a predetermined threshold, which may be empirically determined and may be zero.

[0102] If equation (4) is true, processing continues to step 570B; otherwise, processing continues to step 580B.

[0103] 570B shows a step of determining that the user has calmed down. This step may include a step of performing any process, such as a predetermined notification in the flavor inhalation device 200.

[0104] 580B shows a step of determining whether the determination of whether the user is sedated should be terminated. The criteria for determining whether the determination of whether the user is sedated should be terminated are arbitrary. For example, when it is determined that the inhalation by the user has ended, when the heating of the flavor inhalation tool 200 has ended, or when a predetermined operation has been performed on an input device such as a button or switch, it can be determined that the determination of whether the user is sedated should be terminated. Alternatively, for example, when it is determined that a predetermined number of inhalations have ended since it was determined that the determination of whether the user is sedated should be started, it can be determined that the determination of whether the user is sedated should be terminated. Alternatively, for example, when a predetermined time has elapsed since it was determined that the determination of whether the user is sedated should be started, it can be determined that the determination of whether the user is sedated should be terminated. If it is determined that the determination of whether the user is sedated should be terminated, the process ends, and if not, the process returns to step 530B.

[0105] As will be apparent to those skilled in the art, it is also possible to determine whether the user is awake or calm based on fluctuations in heart rate or heartbeat intervals.

[0106] Therefore, the control unit 240 may measure the user's heart rate multiple times using the heart rate sensor 220, perform a Fourier transform on the multiple measured heart rates (measurement data in the time domain) to obtain measurement data in the frequency domain, and perform a process of determining whether the user is awake or sedated based on the frequency components contained in the measurement data in the frequency domain.

[0107] The control unit 240 may also perform a process of Fourier transforming a plurality of measured heart rates (measurement data in the time domain) obtained from an external device to obtain measurement data in the frequency domain, and determining whether the user is awake or sedated based on the frequency components contained in the measurement data in the frequency domain. The measurement data in the frequency domain may be generated by an external device or the like, and the control unit 240 may obtain the measurement data in the frequency domain from the external device.

[0108] 2. Another embodiment of the present invention

[0109] Another embodiment of the present invention is a method of operation of a flavor inhaler or the like 200. The method of operation may include the example processes described above, such as example process 400.

[0110] Yet another embodiment of the present invention is a program that causes a processor of the flavor inhalation device 200 to execute the above-described operating method.

[0111] 3. Conclusion Although the embodiment of the present invention has been described above, it goes without saying that the present invention is not limited to the above-mentioned embodiment and may be embodied in various different forms within the scope of the technical concept thereof.

[0112] Moreover, the scope of the present invention is not limited to the exemplary embodiments shown and described, but includes all embodiments that achieve the same effect as the object of the present invention. Furthermore, the scope of the present invention is not limited to the combination of the features of the invention defined by each claim, but may be defined by any desired combination of specific features among all the respective features disclosed. [Explanation of symbols]

[0113] 100A, 100B, 200, 300A, 300B…Flavor suction equipment, etc. 110…Power supply unit 111A, 111B...Power supply section 112A, 112B…Sensor section 113A, 113B…Notification section 114A, 114B...Storage section 115A, 115B…Communication Department 116A, 116B, 240...Control unit 120…Cartridge 121A, 121B...Heating section 122...liquid guide part 123...Liquid storage section 124, 310B...Mouthpiece 130...Flavoring cartridge 131...Flavour source 140...Holding part 141…Interior space 142…Aperture 143…Bottom 144…Insulation section 150, 310A...Stick-type substrate 151...Base material part 152...Suction part 180…Air flow path 181...Air inlet 182…Air outlet hole 210...Sensory stimulation element 220…Heart rate acquisition unit 315B…Button 320A, 320B: Area for placing heart rate sensor

Claims

1. A device that is a flavor inhaler or an aerosol generating device, comprising: A sensory stimulation element; A heart rate acquisition unit for acquiring a heart rate of a user; A control unit for operating the sensory stimulation element; Equipped with The operation of the sensory stimulation element is periodic, The control unit is configured to operate the sensory stimulation element such that a cycle of the operation of the sensory stimulation element is based on the heart rate acquired by the heart rate acquisition unit. device.

2. The device according to claim 1 , wherein the heart rate acquisition unit is a heart rate sensor.

3. The device of claim 2 , wherein the heart rate sensor is a pulse wave sensor.

4. The device according to claim 1 , wherein the heart rate acquisition unit is a communication unit configured to acquire the heart rate from an external device.

5. 5. A device according to claim 1, wherein the period of operation of the sensory stimulation element is within a range of 80% to 120% of a period corresponding to the acquired heart rate.

6. A device according to any one of claims 1 to 5, comprising: It has an awakening mode and a calming mode, The control unit is further configured to operate the sensory stimulation element such that a period of the operation of the sensory stimulation element is shorter than a period corresponding to the acquired heart rate in the wakefulness mode and longer than a period corresponding to the acquired heart rate in the sedation mode. device.

7. 7. The device of claim 6, wherein an operating intensity of the sensory stimulation elements in the wake mode is greater than an operating intensity of the sensory stimulation elements in the sedation mode.

8. 8. A device as described in any one of claims 1 to 7, configured to determine whether the user is awake and / or sedated by comparing the heart rate at the start of acquisition with the heart rate at the end of acquisition, and to notify the user of the determination result.

9. A device according to claim 1 , wherein the operation time of the sensory stimulation element during one cycle of the operation of the sensory stimulation element is between 0.05 seconds and 0.5 seconds.

10. 10. The device of claim 1, wherein the sensory stimulation element is one or more of a transducer, a light emitting element, and an acoustic element.

11. The device according to claim 1 , wherein the heart rate acquired by the heart rate acquisition unit is a moving average of the user's heart rates measured over a predetermined period of time.

12. 1. A method of operating a device that is a flavor inhaler or an aerosol generating device, the device comprising: A sensory stimulation element; A heart rate acquisition unit for acquiring a heart rate of a user; A control unit for operating the sensory stimulation element; Equipped with The operation of the sensory stimulation element is periodic, The method includes a step in which the control unit operates the sensory stimulation element so that a period of the operation of the sensory stimulation element is based on the heart rate acquired by the heart rate acquisition unit.

13. A program that causes a processor of a flavor inhaler or aerosol generating device to execute the method according to claim 12.

Images