Non-burning flavor inhaler and aerosol delivery method

Abstract

To provide a novel non-combustion flavor inhaler control circuit.SOLUTION: The non-combustion flavor inhaler control circuit comprises a control unit to control power output to an atomization unit, which atomizes an aerosol source without combustion. The control unit repeats stop and restart of the power output to the atomization unit so that the aerosol supply is within a prescribed range and, during puffing motion of a user, stops supply of the power output to the atomization unit.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 7

Description

[Technical field]

[0001] The present invention relates to a non-combustion type flavor inhaler having an atomizing section that atomizes an aerosol source without combustion. and aerosol delivery methods. [Background technology]

[0002] Conventionally, a non-combustion type flavor inhaler for inhaling flavor without combustion is known. The baking type flavor inhaler comprises an atomizing unit that atomizes the aerosol source without combustion, and a The non-combustion type flavor inhaler has a sensor for detecting the puffing action of the inhaler. In response, the supply of power output to the atomization unit is started (for example, Patent Document 1). [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0003] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 11-089551 Summary of the Invention

[0004] A first aspect of the present invention relates to a non-combustion type flavor inhaler, the non-combustion type flavor inhaler comprising: an atomization unit that atomizes an aerosol source in a cylindrical body; and a control unit that supplies a power output to the atomization unit so that an amount of aerosol supplied increases over a predetermined period of time, and then controls the supply of the power output to the atomization unit so that the amount of aerosol supplied falls within a desired amount range; The control unit controls the operation in accordance with an elapsed time from when the supply of power output to the atomization unit is started, The operation includes reducing the amount of aerosol supplied, then increasing the amount of aerosol supplied, and then reducing the amount of aerosol supplied, and the control unit causes the notification unit to issue an alert in response to the passage of a certain period of time that is shorter than the specified period from the start of supplying power output to the nebulization unit, and the control unit terminates the operation based on the fact that a specified number of puffing operations have been performed. Below, we describe some features of the invention described in this specification that are separate from the above-mentioned invention, but which are related to the inventions described in the claims of the parent application of this application and are not the inventions described in the claims of this application. A first feature is a non-combustion type flavor inhaler comprising an atomization unit that atomizes an aerosol source without combustion, and a control unit that controls power output to the atomization unit, wherein the control unit starts supplying power output to the atomization unit before a user starts a puffing action, and stops supplying power output to the atomization unit while the user is puffing.

[0005] A second feature of the present invention is that, in the first feature, the non-combustion type flavor inhaler is configured such that a puffing action of a user When the atomization is performed, the atomization switch is switched to a state in which the supply of power output to the atomization unit is stopped. The gist of the invention is that it is equipped with a switch.

[0006] A third feature is the second feature, wherein the atomization switch is turned on when a user performs a puffing operation. When the power supply to the atomization unit is stopped, the power supply is switched to a state in which the power supply to the atomization unit is started. This is a summary.

[0007] A fourth feature is the second feature or the third feature, wherein the atomization switch controls a puff operation. The control unit is linked to a suction sensor that detects the puffing operation by the suction sensor. When the detection is made, the supply of power output to the atomization unit is stopped.

[0008] A fifth feature is the second feature to the fourth feature, wherein the atomization switch is The control unit is linked to a suction sensor that detects a puffing operation. When the puffing operation is no longer detected, the supply of power output to the atomizing unit is started. The gist of the paper is as follows.

[0009] A sixth feature is the second or third feature, wherein the atomization switch is an operation interface. The control unit is linked to a user operation on the operation interface. When the user operation is no longer performed on the atomization unit, the supply of power output to the atomization unit is stopped. The gist of this is to

[0010] A seventh feature is any one of the second, third and sixth features, wherein the atomization The switch is linked to a user operation on the operation interface, and the control unit When a user operation is performed on the operation interface, a power supply to the atomization unit is The gist of the process is to start supplying power.

[0011] The eighth feature is the first feature, wherein the non-combustion type flavor inhaler has an operation interface The operation interface is switched to an on state when a user operation is being performed on the operation interface. A first switch that is switched to an off state when no user operation is being performed on the device, and The device switches to the on state when the user starts puffing and to the off state when the user stops puffing. a second switch that is switched to an off state, and the control unit is When the state is switched to the nebulization state, the supply of power output to the nebulization unit is started, and When the second switch is switched to the on state, the supply of power output to the atomization unit is stopped. The gist of this is to stop

[0012] A ninth feature is any one of the first to eighth features, wherein the control unit controls the fog. When a first time has elapsed since the start of supplying power output to the atomizing unit, The gist of this is to stop the supply of power output to the equipment.

[0013] A tenth feature in the ninth feature is that the control unit determines whether the first time period has elapsed. When a second time has elapsed since the supply of power output to the atomization unit was stopped, The gist of the measure is to resume the supply of power output to the

[0014] An eleventh feature is the non-burning type flavor in any one of the first to tenth features. The inhaler is capable of supplying a desired amount of aerosol during a period during which the desired amount of aerosol can be supplied. The gist of the present invention is that it has a notification unit that notifies the user that the function is available.

[0015] A twelfth feature is any one of the first to eleventh features, wherein a desired amount of aerosol is During the period when the aerosol cannot be supplied, the company will report that it is not possible to supply the desired amount of aerosol. The gist of the invention is that it has an alarm unit that notifies the user of the abnormality.

[0016] The thirteenth feature is, in the first to twelfth features, that the atomizing unit generates The wall surface exposed to the aerosol flow path is provided with an absorbing material that absorbs condensed aerosol. The gist of the present report is that

[0017] A fourteenth feature is any one of the first to thirteenth features, The inhaler includes a suction sensor that detects a puffing operation, and the control unit detects the puffing operation by the suction sensor. When the puffing operation is detected by the suction sensor from a non-inhalation state in which the puffing operation is not detected, The state was switched to the suction state and the state was switched from the suction state to the non-suction state. At this time, a current supply process for the atomization part is triggered.

[0018] A fifteenth aspect of the present invention is an aerosol delivery method, comprising: Aerosol is generated in the suction path in a state where no fluid flow is generated in the suction path. A step A of dissolving the aerosol in the air, and a step B of dissolving the aerosol in the air while stopping the generation of the aerosol after the step A. moving the aerosol into the user's mouth by fluid flow in the suction pathway. The gist of the invention is that it includes Group A and Group B.

[0019] The 16th feature in the 13th feature is that, in the step A, the operation interface is When a user operation is performed, a step of starting supply of power output to the atomization unit. and in step B, when a user operation on the operation interface is no longer performed, When the atomization unit is turned on, the supply of power output to the atomization unit is stopped. do.

[0020] In the above-mentioned feature, the user operation on the operation interface is a puffing action by the user. It should be noted that the operation interface does not include the above. However, it is an interface that is directly operated by the user's hands, etc., and is called an operation interface. The user operation on the interface is, for example, a button operation, a lever operation, a switch operation, etc. do. [Brief description of the drawings]

[0021] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is a diagram showing a flavor inhaler 100 according to an embodiment. [Diagram 2] FIG. 2 is a diagram showing the atomization unit 111 according to the embodiment. [Diagram 3] FIG. 3 is a diagram showing a block configuration of the flavor inhaler 100 according to the embodiment. [Figure 4] FIG. 4 is a diagram for explaining an example of control of power output to the atomization part 111R according to this embodiment. [Diagram 5] FIG. 5 is a flow diagram illustrating an aerosol delivery method according to an embodiment. [Figure 6] FIG. 6 is a flow diagram illustrating an aerosol delivery method according to an embodiment. [Figure 7] FIG. 7 is a flow diagram illustrating an aerosol delivery method according to an embodiment. [Figure 8] FIG. 8 is a diagram showing a block configuration of a flavor inhaler 100 according to the first modified example. [Figure 9] FIG. 9 is a diagram for explaining an example of control of power output to the atomization part 111R according to the first modified example. [Figure 10] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing a block configuration of a flavor inhaler 100 according to the second modified example. [Figure 11] FIG. 11 is a flow diagram showing an aerosol delivery method according to the second modified example. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0022] Hereinafter, an embodiment will be described. In the following description of the drawings, In the drawings, the same or similar reference numerals are used to refer to similar parts. However, the drawings are schematic. It should be noted that the ratio of each dimension may differ from the actual one.

[0023] Therefore, the specific dimensions should be determined by taking into consideration the following explanation. Of course, there are parts with different dimensional relationships and ratios between them. .

[0024] [Outline of the embodiment] The non-combustion type flavor inhaler described in the background art above has a function of detecting a puffing operation and controlling an atomization unit. However, the aerosol is generated by the atomizing section. The temperature of the atomizing section changes during the process, so the particle size distribution of the particles that make up the aerosol changes. In other words, the air spreads out during one puff or between multiple puffs. The particle sizes of the particles that make up the aerosol vary.

[0025] The non-combustion type flavor inhaler according to the embodiment includes an atomization section that atomizes an aerosol source without combustion. and a control unit that controls a power output to the atomization unit, the control unit being configured to control the power output of a user. supplying power output to the atomizing unit before the start of the puffing operation, and During operation, the supply of power output to the atomization unit is stopped.

[0026] In the embodiment, the control unit stops supplying power output to the atomization unit during a puffing operation by the user. While the aerosol is being generated by the atomizing unit, the user puffs the Therefore, the temperature of the atomizing part does not change during one puffing operation or between multiple puffing operations. In this case, the particle size variation of the particles constituting the aerosol is suppressed.

[0027] [Embodiment] (Non-combustion flavor inhaler) In the following, a non-burning flavor inhaler according to an embodiment will be described. 1 is a diagram showing a non-burning type flavor inhaler 100 according to a first embodiment of the present invention. It is a device for inhaling flavor and aroma components without causing any discomfort, and is used in the direction from the non-suction end to the mouth end. The atomization unit 11 according to the embodiment has a shape extending along a certain direction A. In the following description, the non-combustion type flavor inhaler 100 is simply referred to as a flavor inhaler. It should be noted that it is referred to as 100.

[0028] As shown in FIG. 1, the flavor inhaler 100 includes an inhaler body 110, a cartridge 130, and has.

[0029] The inhaler body 110 constitutes the main body of the flavor inhaler 100 and holds the cartridge 130. Specifically, the inhaler body 110 is an inhaler housing 110X. The cartridge 130 is connected to the mouth end of the inhaler housing 110X. The inhaler body 110 includes an atomizing unit configured to atomize the aerosol source without combustion. The vehicle has an electric unit 111 and an electrical equipment unit 112.

[0030] In the embodiment, the atomization unit 111 is a first part constituting a part of the inhaler housing 110X. The atomization unit 111 has a cylinder 111X. As shown in FIG. The reservoir 111P, the wick 111Q, and the atomizing portion 111R. The atomizing unit 111Q and the atomizing unit 111R are housed in a first cylindrical body 111X. The first cylindrical body 111X has a predetermined The reservoir 111P has a tubular shape (for example, a cylindrical shape) extending along the direction A. For example, the reservoir 111P is made of a material such as a resin web. The wick 111Q is a porous body that receives the aerosol supplied from the reservoir 111P. For example, the wick 111Q is made of glass fiber. The atomizing unit 111R is configured with an aerosol source held by a wick 111Q. The atomization unit 111R is, for example, a wick 111Q wound at a predetermined pitch. It is composed of a thermal resistor (e.g., a heating wire).

[0031] The aerosol source is a liquid, such as glycerin or propylene glycol. The source may be, for example, a porous body made of a material such as a resin web, as described above. The porous body may be made of non-tobacco material, and may be held in place by tobacco material. The aerosol source may be composed of a flavor component (e.g., nicotine component, etc.). Alternatively, the aerosol source may be free of flavoring ingredients.

[0032] In the embodiment, a wall surface exposed to a flow path of the aerosol generated by the atomizing unit 111R An absorbing member 111S for absorbing the condensed aerosol is provided in the aerosol passage. The wall surface exposed to the aerosol is, for example, the inner surface of the first cylindrical body 111X exposed to the aerosol flow path, The outer surface of the reservoir 111P exposed to the flow path of the sol is an example of the absorbing member 111S. When the absorbing member 111S is not in contact with the reservoir 111P, the absorbing member 111S absorbs the air. The aerosol (condensed aerosol) is transported from the absorbing member 111S to the atomizing section 111S by utilizing the capillary phenomenon. On the other hand, it is preferable that the absorbing member 111S is connected to the reservoir 111P. When the aerosol is in contact with the absorbing member 111S, the aerosol (condensed aerosol) absorbed by the absorbing member 111S is The sol is preferably conducted from the absorbing member 111S to the reservoir 111P. 111S may be any material that has the function of absorbing condensed aerosols, for example, The reservoir 111P may be made of the same material (resin web), and the wick 1 It may be made of the same material as 11Q (fiberglass).

[0033] The electrical equipment unit 112 is a second cylindrical body 112X which constitutes a part of the inhaler housing 110X. In the embodiment, the electrical equipment unit 112 has an inlet 112A. As shown in FIG. 2, the air flowing in from the inlet 112A is supplied to the atomizing unit 111 (the atomizing section 112A). In detail, the electrical unit 112 includes a power source 10 and a suction sensor 20. The device has a power source 10, a push button 30, a light emitting element 40, and a control circuit 50. The actuator 20, the push button 30 and the control circuit 50 are housed in the second cylindrical body 112X. 112X has a tubular shape (for example, a cylindrical shape) extending along a predetermined direction A.

[0034] The power source 10 is, for example, a lithium ion battery. For example, the power supply 10 supplies the suction sensor 20 and the control circuit 50 with the power required for the operation. The power source 10 also stores the power to be supplied to the atomization unit 111 (atomization section 111R). The power supplied to the battery is stored.

[0035] The suction sensor 20 is connected to a suction passage extending from the inlet 112A to the outlet 130A. The suction sensor 20 detects the fluid flow in the passage from the inlet 112A to the outlet 112B. When the fluid flow to the 30A side is equal to or greater than a predetermined threshold, suction (suction state) is detected. The sensor 20 detects whether the flow of fluid from the inlet 112A to the outlet 130A exceeds a predetermined threshold. If the difference is less than the predetermined value, non-aspiration (non-aspiration state) is detected.

[0036] The push button 30 is configured to be pushed from the outside to the inside of the flavor inhaler 100. In an embodiment, the push button 30 is provided at the non-mouth end of the flavor inhaler 100, The nozzle is configured to be pushed in a direction from the non-suction end toward the suction end (i.e., a predetermined direction A). For example, when the flavor inhaler 100 is not powered on, the push button 30 When the flavor inhaler 100 is continuously pressed a predetermined number of times, On the other hand, when the flavor inhaler 100 is turned on, the push button 30 is If the switch is pressed continuously a certain number of times, the flavor inhaler 100 may be turned off. Or, if a predetermined time has passed since the puffing operation was performed without the puffing operation being performed. Additionally, the power supply to the flavor inhaler 100 may be cut off.

[0037] The light emitting element 40 is a light source such as an LED or an electric lamp. The light emitting element 40 is provided on the side wall adjacent to the non-suction end. As a result, light is emitted only on the end surface of the non-suction end along the axis of the predetermined direction A. Compared to the case where the device is provided, the user can see the light emitting power of the light emitting device 40 during the puffing operation. The light emitting element 40 emits a light in a pattern that is easily visible to the user. This is a pattern that notifies the user of the status 0.

[0038] In the embodiment, the light emitting element 40 emits a notification that a desired amount of aerosol can be supplied. Here, the light emitting element 40 may be configured as a notification unit for notifying the period during which a desired amount of aerosol can be supplied. From the start to the end of the process, the device continuously notifies the user that the desired amount of aerosol can be supplied. Alternatively, the light emitting element 40 may indicate that the desired amount of aerosol cannot be supplied. Here, the light emitting element 40 may constitute a notification unit. The fact that the desired amount of aerosol cannot be supplied continues throughout the entire period from the start to the end of the period. The notification may be made automatically.

[0039] The control circuit 50 controls the operation of the flavor inhaler 100. Specifically, the control circuit 50 The control circuit 5 controls the power output to the atomization unit 111 (atomization section 111R). 0 controls the light emitting element 40.

[0040] The cartridge 130 is configured to be connectable to the inhaler body 110 that constitutes the flavor inhaler 100. The cartridge 130 is disposed on the flow path of the gas (hereinafter, air) sucked in from the mouth. In other words, the cartridge 130 is disposed downstream of the atomization unit 111. The atomizing unit 111 does not necessarily have to be provided on the intake side of the atomizing unit 111 in terms of physical space. In the aerosol flow path that guides the aerosol generated from the atomizing unit 111 to the suction port side, It is sufficient that it is provided downstream of the atomization unit 111.

[0041] Specifically, the cartridge 130 includes a cartridge housing 131 and a flavor source 132. The cartridge 130 has a mouthpiece 133A and a filter 133B. The outlet 130A is provided at

[0042] The cartridge housing 131 has a tubular shape (for example, a cylindrical The cartridge housing 131 contains a flavor source 132. The cartridge housing 131 is inserted into the inhaler housing 110X along a predetermined direction A. The device is configured to receive

[0043] The flavor source 132 has a continuous suction path from the inlet 112A to the outlet 130A. The atomizing unit 111 is provided on the outlet 130A (mouthpiece) side. The flavor source 132 imparts flavor components to the aerosol generated from the aerosol source. The flavor components imparted to the aerosol by the flavor source 132 are then delivered to the outlet 130. It is carried to A (suction port).

[0044] In an embodiment, the flavor source 132 is configured to add a flavor to the aerosol generated from the atomization unit 111. It is made up of pieces of raw material that impart flavor components. The size of the raw material pieces is 0.2 mm or more and 1. The size of the raw material pieces is preferably 0.2 mm or more and 0.7 mm or less. The smaller the size of the raw material pieces constituting the flavor source 132, the Due to the increase in specific surface area, flavor components are released from the raw material pieces that make up the flavor source 132. Therefore, when imparting a desired amount of flavor component to the aerosol, the amount of raw material pieces is The raw material pieces constituting the flavor source 132 may be cut tobacco or granulated tobacco raw material. However, the flavor source 132 may be a tobacco raw material in a sheet form. The raw material pieces constituting the flavor source 132 may be made of any material other than tobacco. The flavor source 132 may be constituted by plants (e.g., mint, herbs, etc.). It may also be flavored with a flavoring such as tolu.

[0045] Here, the raw material pieces constituting the flavor source 132 are, for example, in accordance with JIS Z 8801. It is obtained by sieving using a stainless steel sieve in accordance with JIS Z 8815. For example, a stainless steel sieve with 0.71 mm openings is used, and the dry and mechanical shaking method is used. Therefore, the raw material pieces were sieved for 20 minutes into stainless steel pieces with 0.71 mm openings. The raw material pieces that pass through the sieve are obtained. Then, they are sieved through a stainless steel sieve with 0.212 mm openings. The raw material pieces were sieved by dry mechanical shaking for 20 minutes using Then, the raw material pieces that pass through a stainless steel sieve having an opening of 0.212 mm are removed. The raw material pieces constituting the flavor source 132 are sieved through a stainless steel sieve (mesh size: 0.71 m) that specifies the upper limit. The raw materials that pass through the stainless steel sieve (opening = 0.212 mm) that specifies the lower limit are Therefore, in an embodiment, the lower limit of the size of the ingredient pieces constituting the flavor source 132 is It is defined by the aperture of the stainless steel sieve that specifies the lower limit. The upper limit of the size of the raw material pieces is defined by the opening of the stainless steel sieve which defines the upper limit.

[0046] In an embodiment, the flavor source 132 is a tobacco source having an alkaline pH. The pH of this source is preferably greater than 7, more preferably greater than 8. By making the value larger than 7, the flavor and aroma components generated from the tobacco source are aerosolized. This allows the desired amount of flavor and aroma components to be delivered to the aerosol. The amount of tobacco source can be controlled when administering the tobacco. It is preferable that the pH is 12 or less, and more preferable that the pH is 10 or less. Therefore, the flavor inhaler 100 (for example, the cartridge 130 or the inhaler body 110) Damage (corrosion, etc.) can be suppressed more effectively.

[0047] The flavor components generated from the flavor source 132 are carried by aerosols. It should be noted that the flavor source 132 itself does not need to be heated.

[0048] The mesh 133A closes the opening in the cartridge housing 131 upstream of the flavor source 132. The filter 133B is disposed downstream of the flavor source 132 so as to block the cartridge. The mesh 133A is provided to close the opening of the edge housing 131. The mesh 133A has a roughness such that the raw material pieces constituting the mesh 133A do not pass through. The filter 133B has an aperture of 0.077 mm or more and 0.198 mm or less. The filter 133B is, for example, an acetate filter. It is preferable that the filter 133B is a filter that does not allow the raw material pieces constituting the flavor source 132 to pass through. It has a roughness of about

[0049] (Block configuration) The block configuration of the non-combustion type flavor inhaler according to the embodiment will be described below. FIG. 3 is a diagram showing a block configuration of the flavor inhaler 100 according to the embodiment.

[0050] As shown in FIG. 3, the control circuit 50 includes a power switch 51, an atomization switch 52, and a control The second embodiment has a portion 53.

[0051] The power switch 51 is switched to an on state when the flavor inhaler 100 is powered on. When the power supply of the flavor inhaler 100 is cut off, the flavor inhaler 100 is switched to the off state. The switch 51 is connected to the push button 30, and when the flavor inhaler 100 is turned on, When the push button 30 is pressed a predetermined number of times in a non-operating state, the switch is turned on. On the other hand, the power switch 51 may be switched to the on state when the flavor inhaler 100 is turned on. When the push button 30 is pressed a predetermined number of times in the inserted state, Alternatively, the power switch 51 may be switched to the off state upon the end of the puffing operation. The device has a timer that starts when the device is turned off and switches to the off state when the timer expires (a specified time has elapsed). may be replaced.

[0052] The atomization switch 52 is a switch that turns on the power to the atomization unit 111R when the user performs a puffing action. The source power supply is switched off and the user is prevented from puffing. When the power supply to the atomizing unit 111R is stopped, the power supply is switched to the ON state. In an embodiment, the atomization switch 52 is in conjunction with an aspiration sensor that detects the puffing action. The atomization switch 52 is turned off when the suction sensor 20 detects a puffing operation. On the other hand, the atomization switch 52 is switched to the on state when the suction sensor 20 detects a puffing operation. When the alarm is no longer being received, it switches to the on state.

[0053] Here, a state in which the suction sensor 20 does not detect a puffing operation is called a non-inhalation state. The state in which the puffing operation is detected by the suction sensor 20 may be referred to as the suction state. Therefore, the atomization switch 52 is turned off by switching from the non-suction state to the suction state. The state is switched to ON when the attracting state is switched to OFF, and is switched to ON when the attracting state is switched to non-attracting state.

[0054] The control unit 53 controls the flavor inhaler 100 when the flavor inhaler 100 is powered on. Control.

[0055] First, the control unit 53 controls the power output to the atomization unit 111R. The control unit 53 controls the supply of power output to the atomizing unit 111R before the user starts a puffing operation. At the same time, the supply of power output to the nebulizing unit 111R is stopped during the user's puffing operation. In the embodiment, when the atomization switch 52 is turned off, the control unit 53 stops the atomization. The control unit 53 stops the supply of power output to the atomization unit 111R. When the switch 52 is turned on, the supply of power output to the atomization part 111R is started. In other words, when the suction sensor 20 detects a puffing operation, the control unit 53 controls the atomization The control unit 53 stops the supply of power output to the suction sensor 20. When the puffing operation is no longer detected by the Start.

[0056] Here, the magnitude of the power output is determined based on the case where a voltage is continuously applied to the atomizing part 111R. In this case, it is defined by the value of the voltage applied to the atomizing part 111R. The magnitude of the output is the case where a voltage is applied intermittently to the atomizing part 111R (pulse control ) the value of the voltage applied to the atomizing part 111R, the pulse width and the pulse interval It is defined by at least one of the parameters.

[0057] In the embodiment, the control unit 53 starts supplying power output to the atomization unit 111R. When the first time period has elapsed since the start of the spraying, the supply of power output to the atomizing unit 111R may be stopped. Here, the first time is a time period during which the amount of aerosol supplied is a desired amount, regardless of the length of time during which the aerosol is not inhaled. In other words, the first time is the time required for the amount of aerosol to be supplied to reach the desired amount. This is the time set to ensure that the upper limit of the range is not exceeded.

[0058] For example, the upper limit of the first time is preferably 5 seconds. More preferably, More preferably, the upper limit of the first time period is 4 seconds, and even more preferably, the upper limit of the first time period is 3 seconds. Preferably, the lower limit of the first time period is 0.5 seconds. More preferably, the lower limit of the first time period is 1 second. And even more preferably, the lower limit of the first time period is 1.5 seconds. For example, the first time period is 0. The first time period is preferably from 5 seconds to 5 seconds. More preferably, the first time period is from 1 second to 4 seconds. It is even more preferable that the first time period is not less than 1.5 seconds and not more than 3 seconds. It is preferable.

[0059] In the embodiment, the control unit 53 controls the power supply to the atomization unit 111R after the first time period has elapsed. When a second time has elapsed since the supply of power was stopped, the power output to the atomizing unit 111R is The supply may be resumed. Here, during the second time, the aerosol is applied to the wall surface exposed to the aerosol flow path. The amount of aerosol dispensed is prevented from falling below the lower limit of the desired amount range due to condensation of the sol. The time is set to make the condensation absorbed by the absorbing member 111S. The subsequent aerosol may be re-atomized by re-applying the power output.

[0060] As described above, when the absorbing member 111S is not in contact with the reservoir 111P, the absorbing member The aerosol (condensed aerosol) absorbed by the collecting member 111S is condensed by capillary action. It is preferable that the absorbing member 111S is guided to the atomizing part 111R by using the absorbing member 111S. When the member 111S is in contact with the reservoir 111P, the liquid is absorbed by the absorbing member 111S. The collected aerosol (condensed aerosol) is transferred from the absorbing member 111S to the reservoir 111P. It is preferable to be guided by

[0061] Secondly, the control unit 53 controls the light emitting element 40. In the embodiment, the control unit 53 The light emitting element 40 may be controlled to notify the user that a desired amount of aerosol is available. The control unit 53 controls the aerosol supply amount in accordance with the predetermined amount from the start to the end of the period during which the aerosol supply amount can be supplied. The light emitting element 40 may be controlled to continuously indicate that the desired amount of aerosol is available. For example, the start timing of the period during which a desired amount of aerosol can be supplied is The timing when a certain time shorter than the first time has elapsed since the start of supplying power output to The certain period of time is, for example, from the start of the supply of power output to the atomization part 111R. This is the time it takes for the aerosol supply to reach the lower limit of the desired range.

[0062] In addition, the control unit 53 controls the light-emitting element 54 to notify the user that the desired amount of aerosol cannot be supplied. The control unit 53 may control the supply of the aerosol in the desired amount. From start to finish, the system continuously notifies the user that the desired amount of aerosol cannot be supplied. The light emitting element 40 may be controlled so as to emit light that is not capable of supplying a desired amount of aerosol. The start timing is, for example, the timing at which the supply of power output to the atomizing part 111R is started. The end timing of the period in which the desired amount of aerosol cannot be supplied is the end timing of the period in which the desired amount of aerosol cannot be supplied. This is the same as the start timing of the period during which aerosol can be supplied.

[0063] Thirdly, the control unit 53 controls switching from a non-suction state to a suction state and from a suction state to a non-suction state. When the state is switched to the spray state, a power supply process for the atomizing unit 111R may be triggered. In other words, the first puffing operation does not generate aerosol, but is a puffing operation for the atomizing unit 111R. The power supply process for the atomizing unit 111R is performed to trigger the power supply process for the atomizing unit 111R. This is a process of generating an aerosol by supplying a power output to unit 111R.

[0064] For example, the initial puff action is used to authenticate whether the user is a legitimate user. For example, if the response value of the suction sensor 20 accompanying the first puffing operation satisfies a predetermined condition (e.g. For example, if the condition that the gradient of the flow velocity is equal to or greater than a predetermined value is satisfied, the user is determined to be a legitimate user. The first puff operation is the first puff operation after the power supply of the flavor inhaler 100 is turned on. The first puffing action may be a puffing action, and may be the first puffing action after a predetermined time has elapsed without a puffing action. Here, the control unit 53 may change the initial puffing operation from a non-inhalation state to an inhalation state. Switching to the attraction state and switching from the attraction state to the non-attraction state must occur within the trigger time. In this case, it is not necessary to trigger the power supply process for the atomizing unit 111R. Regarding the International Application No. PCT / JP2015 / 63036 (issued on April 30, 2015), The entire contents of the application are incorporated by reference.

[0065] (Control example) An example of controlling the power output to the atomizing unit 111R according to the embodiment will be described below. FIG. 4 is a diagram illustrating an example of control of the power output to the atomization unit 111R according to the embodiment. This is a diagram of.

[0066] As described above, the control unit 53 controls the atomization switch 52 to be in the on state (i.e., the non-inhalation state). ) the supply of power output to the atomization unit 111R is started. When the atomization switch 52 is turned off (i.e., in the suction state), the atomization unit 111R The supply of power output to the

[0067] In such a case, the control unit 53 controls the atomization unit 111R as shown in FIG. After the supply of the power output is started, the atomization switch 52 is turned on (i.e., the non-inhalation state). If the first time has elapsed while the power supply to the atomizing unit 111R is in the above-mentioned state, the power supply to the atomizing unit 111R is stopped. The first time is set to ensure that the aerosol delivery rate does not exceed the upper limit of the desired range. The first time is determined by the amount of aerosol remaining in the aerosol flow path. is variable.

[0068] In addition, the control unit 53 stops the supply of power output to the atomization unit 111R after the first time period has elapsed. After the atomization switch 52 is turned on (i.e., in the non-inhalation state) for a second period of time, When the time has elapsed, the supply of power output to the atomizing unit 111R is resumed. A time period determined so that the aerosol supply rate does not fall below the lower limit of the desired range. In the control example according to the embodiment, the supply of power output to the atomization part 111R is stopped and restarted. By repeatedly opening and closing the nozzle, the amount of aerosol supplied can be increased or decreased within a desired range. The desired amount range may be defined by an upper limit and a lower limit, with the lower limit being 0.1 mg or more. Preferably, the amount is 1.0 mg or more, and more preferably 1.0 mg or more. On the other hand, the upper limit of the desired amount is 1 It is preferably 0.0 mg or less, and more preferably 5.0 mg or less. It may be 1 mg or more and 10.0 mg or less, or 1.0 mg or more and 5.0 mg or less. The range of the desired amount may be determined based on a target value of the desired amount. For example, The range is within ±50% of the target value (for example, the target value of the desired amount is 2.0 mg). In this case, the desired amount is preferably in the range of 1.0 mg to 3.0 mg, and more preferably within ±2 5% or less (for example, if the target value of the desired amount is 2.0 mg, the range of the desired amount is It is more preferable that the amount is 1.5 mg or more and 2.5 mg or less.

[0069] Here, the control unit 53 controls the light emitting element 54 to notify the user that a desired amount of aerosol can be supplied. 40. The control unit 53 also notifies the user that the desired amount of aerosol cannot be supplied. In the control example according to the embodiment, the light emitting element 40 is controlled so that the mist is generated in the atomizing part 111R. from when the power output is started until the amount of aerosol delivered reaches the lower limit of the range of the desired amount; The user is notified that the desired amount of aerosol cannot be supplied. When the amount of aerosol supplied exceeds the lower limit of the range of the desired amount after the supply of the aerosol is started, The start of a period during which a desired amount of aerosol can be supplied is notified. The start timing is the first time from the start of the supply of power output to the atomizing unit 111R. This is the timing when a short fixed time has elapsed. The fixed time is, for example, From the start of supplying the power output to the time when the amount of aerosol supplied reaches the lower limit of the range of the desired amount. It's time.

[0070] Aerosol Delivery Methods The aerosol delivery method according to the embodiment will be described below. 5 to 7 are flow charts showing an aerosol delivery method according to an embodiment. The operation of 100 (control unit 53) will be mainly described.

[0071] As shown in FIG. 5, in step S10, the flavor inhaler 100 is powered on. For example, when the push button 30 is pressed continuously a predetermined number of times, the flavor inhaler 1 00 is powered on.

[0072] In step S20, the control unit 53 controls the power output associated with the puffing operation. Step S20 will be described later in detail (see FIGS. 6 and 7).

[0073] In step S30, the flavor inhaler 100 is powered off. For example, the power of the push button When the button 30 is pressed continuously a predetermined number of times, the power supply of the flavor inhaler 100 is cut off. Or, if a predetermined time has passed since the puffing operation was performed without the puffing operation being performed, In this case, the power supply to the flavor inhaler 100 may be cut off.

[0074] Next, the above-mentioned step S20 will be described in detail. FIG. 6 is a flow diagram showing an aerosol delivery method in accordance with the present invention. As shown in FIG. 6, step S201 In the flavor inhaler 100, the inhalation sensor 20 does not detect a puffing operation. It is in suction state.

[0075] In step S202, the control unit 53 detects that the non-suction state has been switched to the suction state. In other words, the control unit 53 determines whether the atomization switch 52 has been turned from an on state to an off state. If the result of the determination is YES, the control unit 53 The process proceeds to step S203. If the determination result is NO, the control unit 53 The process returns to step S201.

[0076] In step S203, the control unit 53 detects that the suction state has been switched to the non-suction state. In other words, the control unit 53 determines whether the atomization switch 52 is turned on from the off state. If the result of the determination is YES, the control unit 53 The process proceeds to step S204. If the result of the determination is NO, the control unit 53 does not Just wait.

[0077] In step S204, the control unit 53 switches from the non-suction state to the suction state and It is judged whether the state of attraction is switched to the state of non-attraction within the trigger time. That is, the control unit 53 determines whether the state is switched to the non-suction state or not after the state is switched to the suction state. The control unit 53 determines whether the time until the timing of the change is within the trigger time. If the result of the determination is YES, the process proceeds to step S205. If the determination result is NO, the process returns to step S201. The process of step 4 may be omitted.

[0078] In step S205, the control unit 53 triggers the power supply process for the atomization unit 111R. That is, the control unit 53 detects the After the first puffing operation is performed, the power output to the atomizing unit 111R is started. The initial puff action is used to authenticate whether the user is a legitimate user or not. The first puffing operation is the first puffing operation after the flavor inhaler 100 is turned on. It may be the first puffing operation after a predetermined time has elapsed without a puffing operation. The predetermined time period may be at least longer than the first time period and the second time period.

[0079] Here, control unit 53 starts supplying power output to atomization unit 111R and then The desired amount of aerosol cannot be delivered until the amount of sol delivered reaches the lower limit of the range of the desired amount. The control unit 53 may control the light emitting element 40 to notify the user of the fact. When the supply amount of the aerosol generated by 11R exceeds the lower limit of the range of the desired amount, The light emitting element 40 may be controlled to notify the user that the aerosol can be supplied. 40 is the period from the start to the end of the period during which the desired amount of aerosol can be supplied. Alternatively, the device may continuously notify the user that aerosol is available for supply.

[0080] After the process of step S205, the control unit 53 performs the process of step S211 shown in FIG. FIG. 7 shows the air flow rate during a puffing operation after authentication (e.g., the second or subsequent puffing operation). FIG. 1 is a flow diagram showing a method for delivering aerosol.

[0081] As shown in FIG. 7, in step S211, the control unit 53 changes the state from the non-suction state to the suction state. In other words, the control unit 53 determines whether the atomization switch 5 The control unit 53 determines whether the state of the switch 2 has changed from the ON state to the OFF state. If the result of the determination is NO, the control unit 53 proceeds to the process of step S212. If so, the process proceeds to step S216.

[0082] In step S212, the flavor inhaler 100 detects a puffing operation by the inhalation sensor 20. A detected aspirated state.

[0083] In step S213, the control unit 53 stops the supply of power output to the atomization unit 111R. Stop.

[0084] In step S214, it is determined whether the suction state has been switched to the non-suction state. In other words, the control unit 53 controls the atomization switch 52 to be turned on when the atomization switch 52 is turned off. If the result of the determination is YES, the control unit 53 returns to step S21. If the determination result is NO, the control unit 53 continues to perform the process until the suction state ends. Wait at.

[0085] In step S215, the control unit 53 stops the supply of power output to the atomization unit 111R. At this time, the control unit 53 controls the supply amount of the aerosol generated by the atomizing unit 111R to be equal to or larger than the predetermined amount. The device is configured to notify the user that the desired amount of aerosol cannot be supplied until the desired amount exceeds the lower limit of the range. The control unit 53 may control the light emitting element 40 in the above manner. When the amount of sol supplied exceeds the lower limit of the range of the desired amount, a desired amount of aerosol can be supplied. The control unit 53 may control the light emitting element 40 to notify the user of the fact that the light emitting element 40 is not in a position where the light emitting element 40 is ... After step S25, the process returns to step S211.

[0086] In step S216, the control unit 53 stops the supply of power output to the atomization unit 111R. It is determined whether the first time has elapsed since the start of the process. Note that the first time is determined by the time the process is started. This is the time set to prevent the amount of aerosol supplied from exceeding the upper limit of the desired amount range. If the determination result is YES, the control unit 53 proceeds to the process of step S217. If the determination result is NO, the control unit 53 returns to the process of step S211.

[0087] In step S217, the control unit 53 stops the supply of power output to the atomization unit 111R. At this time, the control unit 53 controls the supply amount of the aerosol generated by the atomizing unit 111R to a predetermined amount. When the amount falls below the lower limit of the range of the desired amount, a notification is given that the desired amount of aerosol cannot be supplied. The light emitting element 40 may be controlled so as to supply a desired amount of aerosol. The fact that the desired amount of aerosol cannot be supplied from the start to the end of the period in which the aerosol is not available The notification may be made continuously.

[0088] However, as in the control example shown in FIG. 4, when the amount of aerosol supplied exceeds the lower limit of the range of the desired amount, If the amount of aerosol supplied increases or decreases within a desired range after the It should be noted that the amount of the desired amount of the There is no need to notify in step S217 that the desired amount of aerosol cannot be supplied.

[0089] In step S218, the control unit 53 controls the atomization unit 111R to It is determined whether a second time has elapsed since the supply of power output to the power supply unit was stopped. As described above, the amount of aerosol supplied is set not to fall below the lower limit of the range of the desired amount. If the determination result is YES, the control unit 53 returns to step If the determination result is NO, the control unit 53 returns to step S219. Proceed to processing 20.

[0090] In step S219, the control unit 53 determines whether the end condition is satisfied. If the determination result is YES, the control unit 53 ends the series of processes. If the result of the determination is NO, the process returns to step S221. It may be that a predetermined time has elapsed without any puffing action being performed, or that a predetermined number of puffing actions have been performed. It may also be something that has been done.

[0091] In step S220, the control unit 53 detects that the non-suction state has been switched to the suction state. In other words, the control unit 53 determines whether the atomization switch 52 has been turned from an on state to an off state. If the result of the determination is YES, the control unit 53 The process proceeds to step S212. If the determination result is NO, the control unit 53 The process returns to step S218.

[0092] In step S221, the control unit 53 stops the supply of power output to the atomization unit 111R. Here, control unit 53 restarts the process of the step S205 by When the amount of the aerosol supplied exceeds the lower limit of the range of the desired amount, the desired amount of the aerosol is supplied. The light emitting element 40 may be controlled to notify the user that a desired amount of the liquid can be supplied. A desired amount of aerosol is supplied from the start to the end of the period during which the aerosol can be supplied. The availability of the supply may be continuously notified.

[0093] However, as in the control example shown in FIG. 4, when the amount of aerosol supplied exceeds the lower limit of the range of the desired amount, If the amount of aerosol supplied increases or decreases within a desired range after the It should be noted that the amount of fog is maintained above the lower limit of the desired range. The timing when the supply amount of the aerosol generated in the chemical unit 111R exceeds the lower limit of the range of the desired amount In the case where the desired amount of aerosol can be supplied only once, step S21 It is not necessary for the control unit 53 to notify the user that the desired amount of aerosol can be supplied. After step S221, the process returns to step S211.

[0094] As discussed above, the aerosol delivery method includes various steps, but the embodiments are not limited thereto. The aerosol delivery method includes the steps of generating an aerosol within the inhalation pathway. Step A (i.e., step S205, step S215, step S221) and step After step A, the aerosol generation is stopped, and the aerosol is suctioned by the fluid flow in the suction path. and step B (i.e., step S213) of moving the device into the user's oral cavity. It is sufficient to include at least one of these.

[0095] (Action and Effects) In the embodiment, the control unit 53 controls the power output to the atomization unit 111R during the user's puffing operation. The supply of the aerosol is stopped during the generation of the aerosol by the atomizing unit 111R. The temperature of the atomizing part 111R does not change due to the puffing action of the atomizer. The particle size of the particles that make up the aerosol varies during a puff or between multiple puffs. The behavior is suppressed.

[0096] In the embodiment, the control unit 53 starts supplying power output to the atomization unit 111R. When the first time period has elapsed, the supply of power output to the atomizing part 111R is stopped. Therefore, the amount of aerosol supplied can be kept within a desired amount, regardless of the interval between puffing operations.

[0097] In the embodiment, the control unit 53 controls the power supply to the atomization unit 111R after the first time period has elapsed. When a second time has elapsed since the supply of power was stopped, the power output to the atomizing unit 111R is The supply is resumed. This causes the aerosol to condense on the wall surface exposed to the aerosol flow path. By doing so, it is possible to prevent the amount of aerosol supplied from falling below the lower limit of the range of the desired amount. can be done.

[0098] In an embodiment, the light emitting element 40 emits a desired amount of aerosol for a period of time during which the desired amount of aerosol can be delivered. This allows the user to know when the appropriate amount of aerosol can be supplied. This can facilitate the initiation of a puffing action in the patient.

[0099] In an embodiment, the light emitting element 40 is configured to emit a light having a desired amount of aerosol during a period in which the light emitting element 40 is unable to emit a desired amount of aerosol. In this way, the user is informed that the desired amount of aerosol cannot be supplied. This can suppress the start of the puffing action during timing.

[0100] In the embodiment, the wall surface exposed to the flow path of the aerosol generated by the atomizing unit 111R is The absorbing member 111S is provided to absorb the condensed aerosol. Re-atomization of aerosols absorbed by material 111S reduces waste of aerosol sources It is possible.

[0101] In the embodiment, the control unit 53 controls switching from the non-suction state to the suction state and switching from the suction state to the non-suction state. When the state is switched to the suction state, a power supply process for the atomizing unit 111R is triggered. This makes it possible to appropriately trigger the power supply process for the atomization part 111R. Furthermore, the initial puffing action can also be used for user authentication.

[0102] [Change Example 1] The following describes a first modification of the embodiment. This article will mainly explain the differences between the two.

[0103] Specifically, in this embodiment, the atomization switch 52 is linked to the suction sensor 20. In contrast, in the first modified example, the atomization switch 52 is an operation interface as shown in FIG. The control unit 80 is connected to the operation interface 80 and is linked to user operations on the operation interface 80. The operation interface 80 may be the push button 30 described above. It may be an interface provided separately from the interface 30.

[0104] The operation interface 80 is an interface configured to be operated before the start of a puffing operation. That is, the user can operate the operation interface during the period when the user is not performing the puffing operation. The user operates the switch 80 and does not operate the operation interface 80 during the period in which the puffing action is performed. Therefore, the atomization switch 52 is not operated by the user via the operation interface 80. On the other hand, the atomization switch 52 is switched to the off state when the operation interface 8 When a user operation is performed on 0, it switches to the on state. A state in which a user operation is being performed on the interface 80 is a non-attraction state, and A state in which no user operation is being performed on the base 80 is a suction state.

[0105] In the first modification, the control unit 53 detects a user operation on the operation interface 80. When the power supply is turned on, the power supply to the atomizing unit 111R is started, and the operation interface is When the user operation on the base 80 is no longer performed, the power output to the atomization unit 111R is The supply of will be stopped.

[0106] Here, in the case where the control of the embodiment is applied to the first modified example, Therefore, the time when a puffing action is detected is changed to the time when a user operation is performed on the operation interface 80. "When the puffing operation is detected by the suction sensor 20" and "When the puffing operation is detected by the suction sensor 20" "When the user operation is performed on the operation interface 80" has been changed to "When the user operation is performed on the operation interface 80" This can be read as follows.

[0107] Assuming such a change, in the first modification, the aerosol is absorbed in the suction path. Step A (steps S205, S213, and S219 described above) ) is a function for the atomizing unit 111R when a user operation is performed on the operation interface 80. This is a step of starting to supply a power output to the aerosol generator, and stopping the generation of the aerosol after step A. With the device turned off, the aerosol is transported into the user's mouth by the fluid flow in the suction pathway. Step B is performed when the user operation on the operation interface 80 is no longer performed. This is the step of stopping the supply of power output to the atomization part 111R.

[0108] (Control example) An example of controlling the power output to the atomizing unit 111R according to the first modification will be described below. FIG. 9 is a diagram for explaining an example of control of power output to the atomization unit 111R according to the first modified example. This is a diagram of.

[0109] As described above, the control unit 53 receives a user operation on the operation interface 80. When the operation is completed, the control unit 53 starts supplying power output to the atomizing unit 111R. When the user is not performing any operation on the interface 80, the power supply to the atomizing unit 111R is turned on. Stop the power supply.

[0110] In such a case, the control unit 53 controls the atomization unit 111R as shown in FIG. After the supply of the power output is started, the atomization switch 52 is turned on (i.e., the non-inhalation state). If the first time has elapsed while the power supply to the atomizing unit 111R is in the above-mentioned state, the power supply to the atomizing unit 111R is stopped. In other words, if the user operation on the operation interface 80 continues, Even if the atomizing unit 111R is turned on, the supply of power output to the atomizing unit 111R is stopped. This is a time determined so that the supply amount does not exceed the upper limit of the range of the desired amount. In the control example according to the first modification, the second time is used to set the desired amount above the lower limit of the range. There is no control to maintain the aerosol supply rate.

[0111] Here, the control unit 53 controls the light emitting element 54 to notify the user that a desired amount of aerosol can be supplied. 40. The control unit 53 also notifies the user that the desired amount of aerosol cannot be supplied. In the control example according to the first modification, the amount of aerosol supplied is controlled to a predetermined amount. When the amount is below the lower limit of the desired amount range, a notification is issued that the desired amount of aerosol cannot be supplied. When the aerosol supply rate is above the lower limit of the range of the desired amount, the desired amount of air is The user is notified that the sol is available.

[0112] (Action and Effects) In the first modification, the operation interface 80 can be used instead of the suction sensor 20. The same effect as in the embodiment can be obtained. In addition, the second time period can be used to set the desired amount range. Since the control for maintaining the aerosol supply amount so as to exceed the lower limit is omitted, In comparison, power consumption and processing load are reduced.

[0113] [Change Example 2] The following describes a second modification of the embodiment. This article will mainly explain the differences between the two.

[0114] In this embodiment, an atomization switch 52 is provided that is linked to the suction sensor 20. On the other hand, in the second modification, as shown in FIG. 10, A first switch 57 and a second switch 58 linked to the suction sensor 20 are provided. The interface 80 may be the push button 30 described above, 0 may be an interface provided separately.

[0115] In the second modification, the first switch 57 is operated by a user through the operation interface 80. When a user operation is performed on the operation interface 80, the operation switch 81 switches to the ON state. On the other hand, the second switch 58 is switched to the off state when the suction sensor is no longer in operation. When the puffing operation is detected by the suction sensor 20, the puffing operation is switched to the ON state. When the puffing motion is no longer detected, the second switch is switched to the off state. The switch 58 is switched to an on state when the user starts a puffing operation, and Upon termination it switches to the off state.

[0116] In the second modification, when the first switch 57 is switched to the on state, the control unit 53 The supply of power output to the atomizing unit 111R is started, and the second switch 58 is turned on. When the state is switched to the above, the supply of power output to the atomizing part 111R is stopped. In other words, the control unit 53 controls the fog when a user operation is performed on the operation interface 80. The power output to the operation unit 111R is started, and the operation interface 80 is started. Even if a user operation is being performed, the suction sensor 20 detects a puffing operation. When this is done, the supply of power output to the atomizing part 111R is stopped.

[0117] In this way, in the second modification, the power supply output to the atomizing part 111R is started. The device is operated by a user through the operation interface 80 (when the first switch 57 is The puffing operation is no longer detected by the suction sensor 20. It should be noted that this does not mean that the second switch 58 is switched to the OFF state. do.

[0118] In the second modification, the operation interface 80 controls the power output to the atomizing unit 111R. It is used as an interface to start the supply of force. Therefore, the control unit 53 When the user operation on the operation interface 80 is no longer performed, the atomization unit 111 It is not necessary to stop the supply of power output to R. However, the second modification example is not limited to this. Specifically, the control unit 53 detects that the user's operation on the operation interface 80 is When the atomization is no longer performed, the supply of power output to the atomization unit 111R may be stopped. Specifically, a user operation is being performed on the operation interface 80 (i.e., the first Under the assumption that the switch 57 is in the on state, the power output to the atomizing unit 111R is The supply of force may be considered permissible.

[0119] In addition, in the second modification, as in the first modification, the power output to the atomizing part 111R is restricted. It should be noted that the control shown in FIG. 9 is performed as the control. The aerosol supply is controlled to remain above the lower limit of the desired range using the time. I can't.

[0120] In the second modification, in terms of stopping the supply of power output to the nebulizing unit 111R, The second switch 58 associated with the sensor 20 may be considered to be the atomization switch. In terms of starting the supply of power output to the unit 111R, the power output is controlled by the operation interface 80. The first switch 57 may be considered to be the atomization switch.

[0121] Aerosol Delivery Methods The aerosol delivery method according to the second modification will be described below. FIG. 11 is a flow diagram showing an aerosol delivery method according to Example 2. The operation of the control unit 53 will be mainly described. In FIG. 11, the operation of step S20 shown in FIG. The details will be explained below.

[0122] As shown in FIG. 11, in step S311, the first switch 57 is in the OFF state. That is, no user operation has been performed on the operation interface 80.

[0123] In step S312, the control unit 53 determines whether a termination condition is satisfied. If the determination result is YES, the control unit 53 ends the series of processes. If the result of the determination is NO, the process returns to step S313. It may be that a predetermined time has elapsed without any puffing action being performed, or that a predetermined number of puffing actions have been performed. It may also be something that has been done.

[0124] In step S313, the control unit 53 controls the first switch 57 to change from the OFF state to the ON state. In other words, the control unit 53 determines whether the operation interface 80 has been switched to the If the determination result is YES, the control unit 53 If the result of the determination is NO, the control unit 53 proceeds to step S314. The process returns to step S311.

[0125] In step S314, the control unit 53 stops the supply of power output to the atomization unit 111R. Here, the control unit 53 controls the supply amount of the aerosol generated by the atomizing unit 111R to be a predetermined amount. When the lower limit of the desired amount range is exceeded, a notification is given that the desired amount of aerosol can be supplied. The light emitting element 40 may be controlled in this manner.

[0126] In step S315, the control unit 53 controls the second switch 58 to change from the OFF state to the ON state. In other words, the control unit 53 determines whether the suction sensor 20 has switched to the If the determination result is YES, the control unit 53 The control unit 53 proceeds to step S316 if the result of the determination is NO. Return to processing S318.

[0127] In step S316, the control unit 53 stops the supply of power output to the atomization unit 111R. Stop.

[0128] In step S317, the control unit 53 controls the second switch 58 to change from the on state to the off state. In other words, the control unit 53 determines whether the suction sensor 20 has switched to the If the determination result is YES, the control unit 53 In the flow shown in FIG. 11, the process of step S311 When returning to the first switch, even if the user operation on the operation interface 80 continues, On the other hand, the control unit 53 determines that the result of the determination is NO. In other words, when the user's puffing action is detected, the first If the second switch 58 is in the on state, the next step is not processed, so the operation input Even if the first switch 57 is turned on by a user operation on the interface 80, It should be noted that power output to the chemical unit 111R does not begin.

[0129] In step S318, the first switch 57 is switched from the on state to the off state. In other words, the control unit 53 determines whether the user operation on the operation interface 80 is If the determination result is YES, the control unit 53 The process proceeds to step S319. If the result of the determination is NO, the control unit 53 The process returns to step S320.

[0130] In step S319, the control unit 53 stops the supply of power output to the atomization unit 111R. At this time, the control unit 53 controls the supply amount of the aerosol generated by the atomizing unit 111R to a predetermined amount. When the amount falls below the lower limit of the range of the desired amount, a notification is given that the desired amount of aerosol cannot be supplied. The control unit 53 may control the light emitting element 40 in this manner. The process returns to step S311.

[0131] In step S320, the control unit 53 stops the supply of power output to the atomization unit 111R. It is determined whether the first time has elapsed since the start of the process. Note that the first time is determined by the time the process is started. This is the time set to prevent the amount of aerosol supplied from exceeding the upper limit of the desired amount range. If the determination result is YES, the control unit 53 proceeds to the process of step S321. If the determination result is NO, the control unit 53 returns to the process of step S315.

[0132] In step S321, the control unit 53 stops the supply of power output to the atomization unit 111R. At this time, the control unit 53 controls the supply amount of the aerosol generated by the atomizing unit 111R to a predetermined amount. When the amount falls below the lower limit of the range of the desired amount, a notification is given that the desired amount of aerosol cannot be supplied. The control unit 53 may control the light emitting element 40 in this manner. In the flow shown in FIG. 11, the process returns to step S311. At that time, even if the user operation on the operation interface 80 continues, the first switch 57 switches from an on state to an off state.

[0133] (Action and Effects) In the second modification, a first switch 57 and a second switch 5 Even if the second time period is used, the same effect as that of the embodiment can be obtained. In this case, the control for maintaining the aerosol supply rate above the lower limit of the range of the desired amount is omitted. Therefore, the power consumption and processing load are reduced compared to the embodiment.

[0134] [Other embodiments] The present invention has been described with reference to the above-mentioned embodiments. However, the present disclosure should not be construed as limiting the present invention. Alternative embodiments, implementations and operational techniques will become apparent.

[0135] In the embodiment, the cartridge 130 does not include the atomizing unit 111, but the embodiment However, the present invention is not limited to this. For example, the cartridge 130 and the atomization unit 111 The two may also constitute a single unit.

[0136] In the embodiment, the flavor inhaler 100 has a cartridge 130. However, the present invention is not limited to the above. The flavor inhaler 100 does not have a cartridge 130. In such a case, the aerosol source preferably contains a flavoring ingredient. stomach.

[0137] In the embodiment, the flavor inhaler 100 has a power switch 51. In other words, the suction sensor 20 is always energized. It's fine.

[0138] The push button 30 is provided at the non-mouth end of the flavor inhaler 100, but the embodiment is not limited thereto. For example, the push button 30 may be attached to the outer periphery of the inhaler housing 110X. It may be provided.

[0139] In the first and second modified examples, as shown in FIG. 9, the control using the second time, that is, There is no control to keep the aerosol supply above the lower limit of the desired range, but The embodiment is not limited to this. In the first and second modified examples, the same structure as shown in FIG. In this manner, control using the second time may be performed. After the first time has elapsed, the supply of power output to the atomizing unit 111R is stopped, and then the atomizing unit 111R starts to atomize. If the initialization switch 52 remains in the on state (i.e., the user does not operate the operation interface 80), When the second time has elapsed, the supply of power output to the atomizing unit 111R is stopped. The control unit 53 according to the second modification may restart the supply of the atomizing unit 11 after the first time period has elapsed. After the supply of power output to 1R is stopped, the first switch 57 is in the on state, and The second switch 58 remains in the OFF state (i.e., the user does not have any control over the operation interface 80). (The user operation continues and the puffing operation is not detected by the suction sensor 20), When the second time period has elapsed, the supply of power output to the atomization part 111R may be resumed.

[0140] Although not specifically mentioned in the embodiment, the atomization unit 111 is separate from the electrical component unit 112. The electrical equipment unit 112 may be provided as a single unit. . [Industrial Applicability]

[0141] According to the embodiment, it is possible to suppress the variation in particle size of the particles constituting the aerosol. It is possible to provide a non-combustion type flavor inhaler and an aerosol delivery method.

Claims

1. An atomization section that atomizes the aerosol source in the cylindrical body; a control unit that supplies a power output to the atomizing unit so that the amount of aerosol supplied increases over a predetermined period of time, and then controls the supply of the power output to the atomizing unit so that the amount of aerosol supplied falls within a desired amount range; The control unit controls the operation in accordance with an elapsed time from when the supply of power output to the atomization unit is started, the operations include decreasing the rate of delivery of the aerosol, then increasing the rate of delivery of the aerosol, then decreasing the rate of delivery of the aerosol; the control unit causes the notification unit to give a notification in response to a lapse of a certain time period that is shorter than the predetermined period from the start of supply of power output to the atomization unit, The control unit ends the operation based on a predetermined number of puffing operations being performed. A non-combustion type flavor inhaler characterized by the above.

2. The predetermined period is a time determined so that the amount of aerosol supplied does not exceed the upper limit of the range.

2. The non-combustion type flavor inhaler according to claim 1 .

3. 3. The non-combustion type flavor inhaler according to claim 1, wherein the control unit controls the supply of power output to the atomization unit so as to suppress a temperature change of the atomization unit during a puffing operation.

4. In the operation, the supply amount of the aerosol is increased and then decreased so that a triangular peak is formed in the change in the supply amount of the aerosol.

4. The non-combustion type flavor inhaler according to claim 1, wherein the flavor inhaler is a flavor inhaler having a non-burning function.

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