Support methods and programs

Abstract

Provided are a support method and a support program. A processor of electronic equipment 30 performs: a first step (step S1) for requesting input of information (preference information) for identifying a user's preferred flavor and taste of an aerosol-forming substance; a second step (step S2) for, on the basis of the input information, determining a first category, which is the category most preferred by the user among a plurality of categories (regular, menthol, flavor) for aerosol-forming substances 11 that can be used in an aerosol generation device 10; and a third step (step S3) for selecting an aerosol-forming substance 11 of a second category from among the plurality of categories other than the first category, and producing an output to promote trial use of the selected aerosol-forming substance 11.

Description

[Technical field]

[0001] The present invention relates to an assistance method and an assistance program. [Background technology]

[0002] Patent Document 1 discloses a method for determining taste preference for food by taking into account salt concentration. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0003] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2021-60990 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0004] An aerosol generating device that allows aerosol with a flavor to be inhaled is known. There are a wide variety of flavors of aerosols that can be inhaled by an aerosol generating device. The term "flavor" refers to a concept that includes one or both of the flavor and the smoking taste. The smoking taste is a general term for the stimulation of the throat and lungs, taste, and smell that are recognized by inhaling the components generated when tobacco leaves are heated. The flavor is a general term for the taste and smell that are recognized by inhaling the components of additives added to tobacco leaves. Hereinafter, the stimulation in the smoking taste is defined as the tobacco feel. In addition, the taste and smell (such as a refreshing or refreshing feeling) recognized by inhaling menthol as an additive are collectively defined as the menthol feel. In addition, the smell (aroma) recognized by inhaling a flavoring as an additive is defined as the flavor feel.

[0005] Users of the aerosol generating device select an aerosol forming body according to their personal preferences. However, the aerosol forming body to be used may be determined based on the environment in which the device is used or the user's past usage history, and the user may not be able to select a truly suitable aerosol forming body from among the wide variety of aerosol forming bodies available.

[0006] An object of the present invention is to provide a method and program for assisting a user in finding an aerosol former that suits his / her preferences. [Means for solving the problem]

[0007] The method of the present invention is directed to assisting a user of an aerosol generating device in finding an aerosol former that matches the user's preferences. , electronic equipment executes The support method includes a first step of requesting input of information for identifying the flavor and taste of an aerosol-forming body preferred by a user, a second step of determining a first category that is the user's most preferred category among a plurality of categories of aerosol-forming bodies usable in the aerosol generating device based on the input information, and a third step of selecting an aerosol-forming body in a second category other than the first category among the plurality of categories and outputting an output to encourage a user to try out the selected aerosol-forming body. and when there are a plurality of aerosol-forming bodies belonging to the same second category, in the third step, an aerosol-forming body having a flavor similar to that specified by the information is preferentially selected from the plurality of aerosol-forming bodies. It is something.

[0008] An assistance program according to one aspect of the present invention is an assistance program for assisting a user of an aerosol generating device in finding an aerosol forming body that matches the preferences of the user, the assistance program being executed by a processor to include a first step of requesting input of information for identifying the flavor or taste of the aerosol forming body preferred by the user, a second step of determining a first category that is the user's most preferred category among a plurality of categories of aerosol forming bodies usable in the aerosol generating device based on the input information, and a third step of selecting an aerosol forming body in a second category other than the first category among the plurality of categories, and outputting an instruction to try out the selected aerosol forming body. and when there are a plurality of aerosol-forming bodies belonging to the same second category, in the third step, an aerosol-forming body having a flavor similar to that specified by the information is preferentially selected from the plurality of aerosol-forming bodies. It is something. Effect of the Invention

[0009] According to the present invention, it is possible to provide a method and a program for assisting a user in finding an aerosol forming material that suits his / her preferences. [Brief description of the drawings]

[0010] [Figure 1] 1 is a schematic diagram showing a schematic configuration of a support system 1. FIG. [Diagram 2] 1 is a schematic diagram showing a first configuration example of an aerosol generation device 10. FIG. [Diagram 3] 2 is a schematic diagram showing a second configuration example of the aerosol generation device 10. FIG. [Figure 4] FIG. 2 is a diagram showing an example of a list of aerosol forming bodies 11 included in a sample set 20. [Diagram 5] 10 is a flowchart for explaining the operation of the processor of the electronic device 30. [Figure 6] 10 is a flowchart for explaining the operation of the processor of the electronic device 30. [Figure 7] 13 is a diagram showing an example of a screen displayed on a display device of the electronic device 30. FIG. [Figure 8] 13 is a diagram showing an example of a screen displayed on a display device of the electronic device 30. FIG. [Figure 9] 13 is a diagram showing an example of a screen displayed on a display device of the electronic device 30. FIG. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0011] 1 is a schematic diagram showing a schematic configuration of the support system 1. The support system 1 is a system that supports a user of an aerosol generating device 10 in discovering an aerosol forming body that matches the user's preference by having the user try an aerosol forming body that the user has not yet used. The support system 1 includes the aerosol generating device 10 owned by the user, an electronic device 30 including a display device such as a smartphone, a tablet terminal, or a personal computer, and a sample set 20 provided to the user by a system administrator.

[0012] The aerosol generating device 10 is a device that consumes power to atomize an aerosol source contained in an attached aerosol forming body to generate an aerosol, and makes the generated aerosol inhalable. The aerosol generating device 10 is capable of mounting a plurality of types of aerosol forming bodies. The aerosol generating device 10 has a variety of configurations and is not particularly limited, but a representative configuration example of the aerosol generating device 10 will be described below with reference to Figs. 2 and 3.

[0013] Fig. 2 is a schematic diagram showing a first configuration example of the aerosol generation device 10. The aerosol generation device 100A shown in Fig. 2 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 storage 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.

[0014] The power supply unit 111A accumulates power. The power supply unit 111A supplies power to each component of the aerosol generation device 100A under the control of the control unit 116A. The power supply unit 111A may be configured by, for example, a rechargeable battery such as a lithium ion secondary battery.

[0015] The sensor unit 112A acquires various information related to the aerosol generation device 100A. As an example, the sensor unit 112A is configured with a pressure sensor such as a condenser microphone, a flow rate sensor, a temperature sensor, or the like, and acquires a value associated with inhalation by the user. As another example, the sensor unit 112A is configured with an input device that accepts input of information from the user, such as a button or a switch.

[0016] Notification unit 113A notifies the user of information. Notification unit 113A is configured, for example, by a light emitting device that emits light, a display device that displays an image, a sound output device that outputs sound, or a vibration device that vibrates.

[0017] The storage unit 114A stores various types of information for the operation of the aerosol generation device 100 A. The storage unit 114A is configured by, for example, a non-volatile storage medium such as a flash memory.

[0018] The communication unit 115A is a communication interface capable of performing communication in compliance with any wired or wireless communication standard, such as Wi-Fi (registered trademark) or Bluetooth (registered trademark).

[0019] The control unit 116A functions as an arithmetic processing unit and a control unit, and controls the overall operation of the aerosol generation device 100A according to various programs. The control unit 116A is realized by an electronic circuit such as a CPU (Central Processing Unit) or a microprocessor.

[0020] The liquid storage unit 123 stores the aerosol source. The aerosol source is atomized to generate the aerosol. The aerosol source is a liquid such as, for example, a polyhydric alcohol such as glycerin and propylene glycol, or water. The aerosol source may include a flavor component derived from tobacco or a non-tobacco source.

[0021] 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.

[0022] The heating unit 121A generates an aerosol by heating the aerosol source and atomizing the aerosol source. In the example shown in FIG. 2, the heating unit 121A is configured as a coil and is wound around the liquid guiding unit 122. When the heating unit 121A generates heat, the aerosol source held in the liquid guiding 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 that the user has started inhaling and / or that predetermined information has been input. Then, power supply may be stopped when the sensor unit 112A detects that the user has stopped inhaling and / or that predetermined information has been input.

[0023] The flavor source 131 is a component for imparting flavor components to the aerosol. The flavor source 131 may include flavor components derived from tobacco or non-tobacco (e.g., from additives such as menthol or flavorings).

[0024] 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.

[0025] 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.

[0026] An example of the configuration of the aerosol generation device 100A has been described above. Of course, the configuration of the aerosol generation device 100A is not limited to the above, and may have various configurations as exemplified below. As an example, the aerosol generation device 100A may not include the flavoring cartridge 130. In that case, the mouthpiece 124 is provided in the cartridge 120. As another example, the aerosol generation device 100A may include multiple types of aerosol sources. Multiple types of aerosols generated from multiple types of aerosol sources may be mixed in the air flow path 180 and cause a chemical reaction to generate further types of aerosols. In addition, the means for atomizing the aerosol source is not limited to heating by the heating unit 121A. For example, the means for atomizing the aerosol source may be vibration atomization or induction heating.

[0027] In the aerosol generation device 100A shown in FIG. 2, the cartridge 120 and the flavor imparting cartridge 130 (only the cartridge 120 when the flavor imparting cartridge 130 is omitted) constitute an aerosol forming body.

[0028] (2) Second configuration example 3 is a schematic diagram showing a second configuration example of the aerosol generation device 10. The aerosol generation device 100B shown in FIG. 3 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.

[0029] 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 aerosol generation device 100A of the first configuration example.

[0030] 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 holding part 140 has an opening 142 that connects the internal space 141 to the outside, and holds the stick-shaped substrate 150 inserted into the internal space 141 from the opening 142. 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 for air to be supplied to the stick-shaped substrate 150. An air inlet hole that 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 that is an exit of air from such a flow path is the opening 142.

[0031] The stick-type substrate 150 includes a substrate portion 151 and a mouthpiece portion 152. The substrate portion 151 includes an aerosol source. The substrate portion 151 may further include a flavor 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 mouthpiece portion 152 protrudes from the opening 142. When the user holds the mouthpiece 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.

[0032] 3, the heating unit 121B is configured in a film shape and is disposed 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.

[0033] 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.

[0034] An example of the configuration of the aerosol generating device 100B has been described above. Of course, the configuration of the aerosol generating device 100B is not limited to the above, and various configurations can be used, as exemplified below. As an example, the heating unit 121B may be configured in a blade shape and arranged to protrude from the bottom 143 of the holding unit 140 into the internal space 141. In that case, the blade-shaped heating unit 121B is inserted into the base material 151 of the stick-shaped substrate 150 and heats the base material 151 of the stick-shaped substrate 150 from the inside. As another example, the heating unit 121B may be arranged to cover the bottom 143 of the holding unit 140. In addition, 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.

[0035] As another example, the holding unit 140 may include an opening / 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 clamp the stick-shaped substrate 150 inserted into the internal space 141 by opening and closing the outer shell. 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. In addition, 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.

[0036] Moreover, the aerosol generating device 100B may further include the heating unit 121A, the liquid guiding unit 122, the liquid storage unit 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 unit 121A flows into the internal space 141 and is further mixed with the aerosol generated by the heating unit 121B, and reaches the oral cavity of the user.

[0037] In the aerosol-generating device 100B shown in FIG. 3, a stick-shaped substrate 150 constitutes an aerosol-forming body.

[0038] 1 has installed therein a predetermined application program (assistance program) provided by a system administrator. The electronic device 30 includes a processor such as a CPU and a memory, and the processor executes the application program to assist the user in finding an aerosol forming material that matches his or her preferences.

[0039] The sample set 20 includes a plurality of types of aerosol forming bodies 11 that can be used in the aerosol generation device 10, and is mailed to the user's home, for example. The user provides the system administrator with information on aerosol forming bodies that the user has used in advance. The system administrator creates a sample set 20 including a plurality of types of aerosol forming bodies 11 that the user has not used according to this information, and provides it to the user. Note that, although it is assumed here that the user tries out the aerosol forming bodies 11 at home, it is also assumed that the sample set 20 is provided to the user at a store, and the user tries out the aerosol forming bodies 11 at the store.

[0040] The flavor and aroma of each aerosol-forming body 11 included in sample set 20 is evaluated in advance by sensory evaluation, and is defined by a combination of at least information indicating the intensity of the tobacco sensation, information indicating the intensity of the menthol sensation, and information indicating the intensity of the flavor sensation. In the following description, the information indicating the intensity of each of the tobacco sensation, the menthol sensation, and the flavor sensation is described as a numerical value (evaluation value) indicating a level of the intensity when the intensity is evaluated on a nine-level scale. The larger the evaluation value, the stronger the corresponding sensation is obtained. For example, a flavor with a tobacco sensation evaluation value of "1" indicates a flavor with a very weak tobacco sensation. Also, a flavor with a tobacco sensation evaluation value of "9" indicates a flavor with a very strong tobacco sensation.

[0041] Moreover, the multiple types of aerosol forming bodies 11 included in the sample set 20 are divided into multiple categories according to the flavor and aroma. An example in which the multiple categories are three, regular, menthol, and flavor, will be described below. The aerosol forming body 11 belonging to the menthol category corresponds to the aerosol forming body 11 belonging to the regular category to which an additive such as menthol for imparting a refreshing feeling is further added. Moreover, the aerosol forming body 11 belonging to the flavor category corresponds to the aerosol forming body 11 belonging to the menthol category to which an additive such as a flavor for imparting a scent is further added.

[0042] The regular category is a category to which the aerosol forming body 11 having the maximum evaluation value of the tobacco feel among the tobacco feel, the menthol feel, and the flavor feel belongs. The menthol category is a category to which the aerosol forming body 11 having the maximum evaluation value of the menthol feel among the tobacco feel, the menthol feel, and the flavor feel belongs. The flavor category is a category to which the aerosol forming body 11 having the maximum evaluation value of the flavor feel among the tobacco feel, the menthol feel, and the flavor feel belongs. Hereinafter, the regular category is defined as a category corresponding to the tobacco feel. Also, the menthol category is defined as a category corresponding to the menthol feel. Also, the flavor category is defined as a category corresponding to the flavor feel.

[0043] FIG. 4 is a diagram showing an example of a list of the aerosol forming bodies 11 included in the sample set 20. Nine aerosol forming bodies 11 of brands A to I are shown in FIG. The items of tobacco feel, menthol feel, and flavor feel corresponding to each brand show the evaluation values ​​of the respective sensations. For example, brand A is an aerosol forming body 11 having a smoking flavor with an evaluation value of "4" for the tobacco feel, and an evaluation value of "0" for the menthol feel and flavor feel. In the example of FIG. 4, the aerosol forming bodies 11 of brands A, B, and C belong to the regular category. Moreover, the aerosol forming bodies 11 of brands D, E, and F belong to the menthol category. Moreover, the aerosol forming bodies 11 of brands G, H, and I belong to the flavor category.

[0044] 5 and 6 are flowcharts for explaining the operation of the processor of the electronic device 30. FIGs. 7, 8, and 9 are diagrams showing examples of screens displayed on the display device of the electronic device 30.

[0045] The processor of the electronic device 30 first requests the user to input information (information indicating the user's preference) for identifying the flavor and aroma of the aerosol-forming body 11 that the user prefers (step S1). The processor of the electronic device 30 prompts the user to input information by displaying, for example, a screen shown in FIG. 7 on the display device.

[0046] 7 displays three items, tobacco feel, menthol feel, and flavor feel, and each item is associated with a slide bar, indicated by a thick line, whose right end can be moved left and right, and a scale. The scale includes a scale corresponding to an evaluation value of "1" (weak), a scale corresponding to an evaluation value of "3" (slightly weak), a scale between "weak" and "slightly weak" corresponding to an evaluation value of "2", a scale corresponding to an evaluation value of "5" (normal), a scale between "slightly weak" and "normal" corresponding to an evaluation value of "4", a scale corresponding to an evaluation value of "7" (slightly strong), a scale between "normal" and "slightly strong" corresponding to an evaluation value of "6", a scale corresponding to an evaluation value of "9" (strong), and a scale between "slightly strong" and "strong" corresponding to an evaluation value of "8".

[0047] The user aligns the right end of each of the five slide bars with one of the scale marks and then operates the "Next" button. This causes the evaluation value corresponding to the scale mark at the right end position of each slide bar to be input to the processor of the electronic device 30. For example, when the "Next" button is operated in the state of the slide bars shown in Fig. 7, user preference information with the tobacco feel evaluation value of "5", the menthol feel evaluation value of "5", and the flavor feel evaluation value of "5" is input to the processor of the electronic device 30.

[0048] The evaluation value of the tobacco feel included in the preference information constitutes first information indicating the strength of the tobacco feel preferred by the user. The evaluation value of the menthol feel included in the preference information constitutes second information indicating the strength of the menthol feel preferred by the user. The evaluation value of the flavor feel included in the preference information constitutes third information indicating the strength of the flavor feel preferred by the user.

[0049] The processor of the electronic device 30 that has received the preference information determines the order of categories that the user prefers based on the preference information (step S2). Specifically, the processor of the electronic device 30 determines the category corresponding to the sensation with the highest evaluation value among the preference information as the user's most preferred category (first category). For example, when preference information with the highest evaluation value of tobacco sensation is input, the processor of the electronic device 30 determines the regular category corresponding to tobacco sensation as the first category.

[0050] When two or more of the three evaluation values ​​included in the preference information are maximum, the processor of the electronic device 30 assigns increasing priority to the categories corresponding to the sensations of the two or more evaluation values ​​in the order of flavor, menthol, and regular, and determines the category with the higher priority as the number one category that the user prefers most.

[0051] For example, when preference information with the highest evaluation values ​​for tobacco feel and menthol feel is input, the processor of the electronic device 30 determines the menthol category, which has the highest priority, as the first category out of the regular category corresponding to the tobacco feel and the menthol category corresponding to the menthol feel as the second category (second category).The processor of the electronic device 30 also determines the flavor category corresponding to the flavor feel with the lowest evaluation value as the third category (second category).

[0052] For example, when preference information with the highest evaluation values ​​for tobacco feel and flavor feel is input, the processor of the electronic device 30 determines the flavor category with the highest priority among the regular category corresponding to the tobacco feel and the flavor category corresponding to the flavor feel as the first category, and determines the regular category as the second category (second category). Also, the processor of the electronic device 30 determines the flavor category corresponding to the flavor feel with the lowest evaluation value as the third category (second category).

[0053] For example, when preference information with the highest evaluation values ​​for menthol feel and flavor feel is input, the processor of the electronic device 30 determines the flavor category with the highest priority out of the menthol category corresponding to the menthol feel and the flavor category corresponding to the flavor feel as the first category, and determines the menthol category as the second category (second category).The processor of the electronic device 30 also determines the regular category corresponding to the tobacco feel with the lowest evaluation value as the third category (second category).

[0054] For example, when preference information in which the evaluation values ​​of tobacco feel, menthol feel, and flavor feel are all maximized is input, the processor of the electronic device 30 determines the flavor category with the highest priority as the first category, the menthol category with the next highest priority as the second category (second category), and the regular category with the lowest priority as the third category (second category).

[0055] After processing step S2, the processor of the electronic device 30 selects the brand that is closest to the user's preference from among the brands belonging to the third lowest category in the sample set 20, and outputs an output encouraging the user to try that brand (step S3).

[0056] A method for selecting a brand that is closest to the user's preference from among multiple brands in a specific category is, for example, as follows. First, the sum of the absolute values ​​of the differences between the three evaluation values ​​included in the preference information and the three evaluation values ​​of the brands included in this specific category is calculated as a similarity score. Then, among the brands in the specific category, the one with the smallest calculated similarity score is selected as the brand that is closest to the user's preference.

[0057] For example, assume that preference information with an evaluation value of tobacco feel of "8", an evaluation value of menthol feel of "3", and an evaluation value of flavor feel of "0" is input. In this case, in step S3, the processor of the electronic device 30 selects the regular category that is closest to the user's preference. First, the processor of the electronic device 30 calculates the absolute value (= "4") of the difference between the evaluation value of tobacco feel of brand A of "4" and the evaluation value of tobacco feel of "8" in the preference information, calculates the absolute value (= "3") of the difference between the evaluation value of menthol feel of brand A of "0" and the evaluation value of menthol feel of "3" in the preference information, calculates the absolute value (= "0") of the difference between the evaluation value of flavor feel of brand A of "0" and the evaluation value of flavor feel of "0" in the preference information, and obtains the sum of these (= "7") as the similarity score.

[0058] In addition, the processor of the electronic device 30 calculates the absolute value (=“2”)) of the difference between the tobacco feel evaluation value of brand B of “6” and the tobacco feel evaluation value of “8” in the preference information, calculates the absolute value (=“3”)) of the difference between the menthol feel evaluation value of brand B of “0” and the menthol feel evaluation value of the preference information of “3”, and calculates the absolute value (=“0”)) of the difference between the flavor feel evaluation value of brand B of “0” and the flavor feel evaluation value of “0” in the preference information, and obtains the sum of these (=“5”)) as the similarity score.

[0059] In addition, the processor of the electronic device 30 calculates the absolute value (=“3”) of the difference between the tobacco feel evaluation value of brand C of “5” and the tobacco feel evaluation value of “8” in the preference information, calculates the absolute value (=“3”) of the difference between the menthol feel evaluation value of brand C of “0” and the menthol feel evaluation value of the preference information of “3”, calculates the absolute value (=“0”) of the difference between the flavor feel evaluation value of brand C of “0” and the flavor feel evaluation value of “0” in the preference information, and obtains the sum of these (=“6”) as the similarity score.

[0060] Then, the processor of the electronic device 30 selects the brand B with the smallest similarity score as the brand closest to the user's preference. If there are multiple brands with the smallest similarity scores, the processor may select the more popular brand as the brand closest to the user's preference, taking into consideration sales performance information of the multiple brands.

[0061] After selecting one brand from the third-ranked category, the processor of the electronic device 30 prompts the user to try the selected brand by displaying, for example, a screen shown in FIG. 8 on the display device.

[0062] When the processor of the electronic device 30 detects an operation of the "Next" button while the screen shown in FIG. 8 is displayed, it causes the display device to display the screen shown in FIG. 9 and requests the user to input an evaluation of the brand that was encouraged to be tried by the user in step S3 (step S4).

[0063] The screen shown in Fig. 9 displays five evaluation items: tobacco feel, flavor intensity, aroma, richness, and smoothness. In addition, a slide bar indicated by a thick line and capable of moving the right end left and right, and a scale are displayed corresponding to each evaluation item. The scale includes a scale corresponding to an evaluation value of "1" (not enough), a scale corresponding to an evaluation value of "3" (slightly weak), a scale between "not enough" and "slightly weak" corresponding to an evaluation value of "2", a scale corresponding to an evaluation value of "5" (appropriate), a scale between "slightly weak" and "appropriate" corresponding to an evaluation value of "4", a scale corresponding to an evaluation value of "7" (strong), a scale between "appropriate" and "strong" corresponding to an evaluation value of "6", a scale corresponding to an evaluation value of "9" (too strong), and a scale between "strong" and "too strong" corresponding to an evaluation value of "8".

[0064] The user operates the "Send" button after aligning the right end of each of the five slide bars shown in FIG. 9 with one of the scales. As a result, the evaluation value corresponding to the scale at the right end position of each slide bar is input to the processor of the electronic device 30. When the processor of the electronic device 30 receives the input of each evaluation value, it calculates the sum of the absolute values ​​of the differences between the evaluation value for each evaluation item input and the reference value (here, "5") of the evaluation value for that evaluation item, and holds this sum as the evaluation score of the brand encouraged to be tried in step S3 (in other words, the brand tried by the user). For example, it is assumed that the evaluation values ​​of tobacco feel, flavor strength, aroma, richness, and smoothness are 3, 3, 5, 3, and 4, respectively. In this case, the processor of the electronic device 30 calculates |3-5|+|3-5|+|5-5|+|3-5|+|4-5| to obtain the numerical value "7" as the evaluation score. The smaller the brand's evaluation score, the closer the brand's flavor and aroma are to the user's taste.

[0065] Although five evaluation items are shown on the screen shown in FIG. 9, it is sufficient that at least one evaluation item is displayed on this screen. For example, if the tried brand belongs to the regular category, it is sufficient that at least the evaluation item for tobacco feel is displayed. Also, if the tried brand belongs to the menthol category, it is sufficient that at least the evaluation item for menthol feel is displayed. Also, if the tried brand belongs to the flavor category, it is sufficient that at least the evaluation item for flavor feel is displayed.

[0066] As shown in Fig. 9, in addition to the sensory evaluation items (hereinafter referred to as main evaluation items) corresponding to the category of the brand tried, the screen for the user to input the evaluation may additionally display other evaluation items (hereinafter referred to as sub-evaluation items) for evaluating the aroma and flavor other than the sensory evaluation items in that category. Furthermore, when calculating the above evaluation score, the evaluation values ​​of these sub-evaluation items may be weighted lower than the evaluation value of the main evaluation item.

[0067] For example, assume that the evaluation values ​​of tobacco feel (main evaluation item), flavor strength (sub-evaluation item), aroma (sub-evaluation item), richness (sub-evaluation item), and smoothness (sub-evaluation item) entered according to the screen shown in Fig. 9 are 3, 3, 5, 3, and 4, respectively. In this case, the processor of the electronic device 30 may determine the numerical value "4.5" obtained by calculating |3-5|+(|3-5|+|5-5|+|3-5|+|4-5|)×0.5 as the evaluation score.

[0068] The processor of the electronic device 30 calculates and holds an evaluation score based on the evaluation value input in response to the request in step S4, and then selects a brand that is closest to the user's preference from among the brands belonging to the second most popular category in the sample set 20, and outputs an output to encourage the user to try the brand (step S5). The process of step S5 is similar to the process of step S3, except that the category and brand selected are different. After step S5, the processor of the electronic device 30 causes the display device to display a screen equivalent to FIG. 9, and requests the user to input an evaluation for the brand that was encouraged to be tried in step S5 (step S6). The processor of the electronic device 30 then calculates and holds an evaluation score for the brand that was encouraged to be tried in step S5, based on the evaluation value input in response to the request in step S6.

[0069] Next, the processor of the electronic device 30 selects a brand that is closest to the user's preference from among the brands belonging to the top-ranked category in the sample set 20, and outputs an output to encourage the user to try the brand (step S7). The process of step S7 is similar to the process of step S3, except that the selected category and brand are different. After step S7, the processor of the electronic device 30 displays a screen equivalent to FIG. 9 on the display device, and requests the user to input an evaluation of the brand that was encouraged to be tried in step S7 (step S8). Then, the processor of the electronic device 30 calculates and holds an evaluation score of the brand that was encouraged to be tried in step S7, based on the evaluation value input in response to the request in step S8.

[0070] Up to this point, it has been assumed that the evaluation score is calculated each time an evaluation value is input by the user, but after processing of step S8, the processor of the electronic device 30 may also calculate the evaluation scores for the brands in each category tried by the user collectively based on the evaluation values ​​input by the user.

[0071] After step S8, the processor of the electronic device 30 determines the next brand to be recommended to the user based on the evaluation scores of the three brands calculated up to this point. Specifically, the processor of the electronic device 30 identifies the category to which the brand with the smallest evaluation score belongs. The processor of the electronic device 30 then selects the brand that is closest to the user's preference from among the brands in the sample set 20 that belong to this category, excluding brands that have already been recommended for trial, and outputs a message encouraging the user to try the brand (step S11).

[0072] For example, if the brand with the smallest evaluation score is brand A, the processor of the electronic device 30 selects brands B and C, other than brand A that has already been encouraged to try, as selection candidates among brands A, B, and C that belong to the regular category. The processor of the electronic device 30 then sets the evaluation value of tobacco feel corresponding to the regular category as a calculation criterion item, calculates the absolute value of the difference between the value of the calculation criterion item (evaluation value of tobacco feel) included in the preference information and the value of the calculation criterion item (evaluation value of tobacco feel) for each of brands B and C, and selects the brand with the smallest absolute value from brands B and C to encourage the user to try it. Note that if the absolute value is the same for brands B and C, the more popular brand can be selected based on sales performance information, etc.

[0073] After step S11, the processor of the electronic device 30 requests the user to input an evaluation of the brand that the user was encouraged to try in step S11 (step S12). Then, the processor of the electronic device 30 calculates and stores an evaluation score of the brand that the user was encouraged to try in step S11 based on the evaluation value input in response to the request in step S12.

[0074] Next, the processor of the electronic device 30 identifies the category to which the brand with the second smallest evaluation score belongs. Then, the processor of the electronic device 30 selects the brand that is closest to the user's preference from among the brands in the sample set 20 that belong to this category, excluding brands that have already been encouraged to try, and outputs an output encouraging the user to try the brand (step S13).

[0075] For example, if the brand with the second smallest evaluation score is brand D, the processor of the electronic device 30 selects brands E and F, other than brand D, which has already been encouraged to try, as selection candidates among brands D, E, and F belonging to the menthol category.The processor of the electronic device 30 then sets the evaluation value of the menthol feeling corresponding to the menthol category as a calculation criterion item, calculates the absolute value of the difference between the value of the calculation criterion item included in the preference information and the value of the calculation criterion item for each of brands E and F, selects the brand with the smallest absolute value from brands E and F, and encourages the user to try it.

[0076] After step S13, the processor of the electronic device 30 requests the user to input an evaluation of the brand that the user was encouraged to try in step S13 (step S14). Then, the processor of the electronic device 30 calculates and stores an evaluation score of the brand that the user was encouraged to try in step S13 based on the evaluation value input in response to the request in step S14.

[0077] Next, the processor of the electronic device 30 identifies the category to which the brand with the highest evaluation score belongs. Then, the processor of the electronic device 30 selects the brand that is closest to the user's preference from among the brands in the sample set 20 that belong to this category, excluding brands that have already been encouraged to try, and outputs an output encouraging the user to try the brand (step S15).

[0078] For example, if the brand with the third smallest evaluation score is brand G, the processor of the electronic device 30 selects brands H and I, other than brand G that has already been encouraged to try, as selection candidates from among brands G, H, and I that belong to the flavor category. The processor of the electronic device 30 then sets the evaluation value of the flavor sensation corresponding to the flavor category as a calculation criterion item, calculates the absolute value of the difference between the value of the calculation criterion item included in the preference information and the value of the calculation criterion item for each of brands H and I, and selects the brand with the smallest absolute value from brands H and I to encourage the user to try.

[0079] After step S15, the processor of the electronic device 30 requests the user to input an evaluation of the brand that the user was encouraged to try in step S15 (step S16). Then, the processor of the electronic device 30 calculates and stores an evaluation score of the brand that the user was encouraged to try in step S15 based on the evaluation value input in response to the request in step S16.

[0080] Thereafter, the processor of the electronic device 30 determines whether to continue the trial of other brands (step S17). The processor of the electronic device 30 may make the determination in step S17 by, for example, using a display device to confirm with the user whether or not to continue. The processor of the electronic device 30 may determine NO in step S17 when there is at least one untried brand in each of the three categories.

[0081] If the determination in step S17 is YES, the processor of the electronic device 30 identifies the brand with the smallest evaluation score among all the evaluation scores calculated up to that point. Then, the processor of the electronic device 30 selects the brand that is closest to the user's preference (the brand with the smallest absolute value of the difference from the evaluation value of the sensory preference information corresponding to that category) from among the brands that have not yet been encouraged to try in the category to which the identified brand belongs, and outputs an output encouraging the user to try that brand (step S18).

[0082] After step S18, the processor of the electronic device 30 requests the user to input an evaluation of the brand that the user was encouraged to try in step S18 (step S19). Then, the processor of the electronic device 30 calculates and stores an evaluation score of the brand that the user was encouraged to try in step S18 based on the evaluation value input in response to the request in step S19. After step S18, the process returns to step S17.

[0083] If the determination in step S17 is NO, the processor of the electronic device 30 outputs the brand with the smallest evaluation score among all the evaluation scores calculated up to this point as the user's most favorite brand (step S20). In step S20, for example, the user's favorite brands are displayed on the display device. This allows the user to find the brand that best suits his or her preferences from among brands that he or she has not used before.

[0084] 5 and 6, the processes from step S11 to step S16 may be omitted, and the process of step S20 may be performed after step S8. Alternatively, in the flowcharts shown in Figures 5 and 6, the processes from step S11 to step S16 may be omitted, and the processes of steps S18 and S19 may be performed after step S8, and then the process of step S20 may be performed.

[0085] As described above, according to the support system 1, the electronic device 30 outputs a message encouraging the user to try a brand in a category other than the user's most preferred category, so that the user can have an opportunity to try a brand in a category that the user would not normally choose. As a result, the user can discover that a brand in a new category matches their preferences, and the user's aerosol inhalation experience can be enriched.

[0086] In addition, for at least the first three brands to be tried, the output prompting the user to try is performed in order from the brand that belongs to the category furthest from the user's preference to the brand that belongs to the user's most preferred category. In this way, by gradually moving the brands that are prompted to be tried closer to the user's preferred brands, the user can easily find the category that they truly prefer.

[0087] In addition, after the first three brands are tried, the next three brands are tried in order of the category closest to the user's preference, based on the evaluation scores for the first three brands. That is, when six brands are tried, the brands farthest from the user's preference are tried in order of the category closest to the user's preference, and then the brands close to the user's preference are tried in order of the category closest to the user's preference. This makes it possible to suppress a large change in flavor and taste between brands tried in succession, and to perform a more accurate evaluation of each brand. As a result, the user can easily find a category that is truly in his or her preference. From the viewpoint of performing an accurate evaluation of each brand, it is preferable that the processor of the electronic device 30 outputs an output to encourage the user to take a break or drink water at the timing when the user inputs an evaluation value in accordance with the processes of steps S4, S6, S8, S12, S14, S16, and S19.

[0088] In the above explanation, an example was given in which there are three categories of aerosol forming materials, but even if there are two or four or more categories, it is possible to similarly assist the user in finding a brand that suits their preferences.

[0089] 5 and 6 are all performed by the processor of the electronic device 30, but a processor of a server connected to the electronic device 30 via a network such as the Internet may be configured to perform all or part of the processes shown in Figures 5 and 6. Alternatively, the processor of the server and the processor of the electronic device 30 may work together to perform the processes shown in Figures 5 and 6.

[0090] This specification describes at least the following items. Note that, in parentheses, components corresponding to those in the above-mentioned embodiment are shown, but the present invention is not limited to these.

[0091] (1) A method for assisting a user of an aerosol generating device (aerosol generating device 10) in finding an aerosol forming material that matches the user's preferences, comprising: A first step (step S1) of requesting input of information (preference information) for identifying the flavor and taste of the aerosol-forming body preferred by the user; A second step (step S2) of determining a first category (a category most preferred by the user) among a plurality of categories (regular, menthol, flavor) of aerosol forming bodies that can be used in the aerosol generating device based on the input information; and a third step (step S3, step S5) of selecting an aerosol forming material in a second category (a second or third category) other than the first category from among the plurality of categories, and outputting an instruction to try out the selected aerosol forming material. How to help.

[0092] According to (1), by outputting a message encouraging the user to try out aerosol forming bodies of a category other than the category that the user most likes, the user can have the opportunity to try aerosol forming bodies of a category that the user would not normally choose. As a result, the user can discover that aerosol forming bodies of a new category match his / her preferences, thereby enriching the user's aerosol inhalation experience.

[0093] (2) The support method according to (1), When there are a plurality of aerosol-forming bodies belonging to the same second category, in the third step, an aerosol-forming body having a flavor similar to that specified by the information is preferentially selected from the plurality of aerosol-forming bodies. How to help.

[0094] According to (2), the aerosol-forming bodies that are close to the flavor and taste desired by the user are preferentially selected from among the plurality of aerosol-forming bodies that belong to the second category, so that the user can preferentially try aerosol-forming bodies that are close to his / her preference, even if the aerosol-forming bodies are in a category that he / she would not normally select.

[0095] (3) The support method according to (1) or (2), There are three or more of the above categories, In the third step, at least one aerosol former is selected from each of the two or more second categories. How to help.

[0096] According to (3), the user can have the opportunity to try aerosol formers of multiple categories that he or she would not normally choose. As a result, the user can discover a new category of aerosol formers that match his or her preferences, thereby enriching the user's aerosol inhalation experience.

[0097] (4) The support method according to (3), A fourth step (step S7) of selecting an aerosol forming material in the first category and outputting an instruction to try out the aerosol forming material is further provided. How to help.

[0098] According to (4), the user also has the opportunity to try aerosol formers in the category that he / she likes the most. As a result, the user can try out aerosol formers that are in the category that he / she likes the most but that he / she has not used before, and thus can make new discoveries within the category that he / she likes.

[0099] (5) The support method according to (4), The fourth step is carried out after the third step. How to help.

[0100] According to (5), the user can try out aerosol forming bodies belonging to each category in order from the category least preferred to the most preferred category. This makes it easier for the user to find a category that has a true preference, compared to the case where the user tries out aerosol forming bodies in the most preferred category first.

[0101] (6) A support method according to any one of (1) to (5), The information includes first information indicating the intensity of stimulation recognized when the aerosol is inhaled, second information indicating the intensity of a refreshing sensation recognized when the aerosol is inhaled, and third information indicating the intensity of an aroma recognized when the aerosol is inhaled. How to help.

[0102] According to (6), by allowing a user to input preferences for stimulation, cool feeling, and fragrance strength, the category that the user prefers most can be determined with high accuracy.

[0103] (7) The support method according to (6), the plurality of categories include a first category (regular) corresponding to the first information, a second category (menthol) corresponding to the second information, and a third category (flavor) corresponding to the third information, The first category includes aerosol formers (brands A, B, and C) that have the highest irritant strength among the irritant strength, cool sensation strength, and fragrance strength. The second category includes aerosol formers (brands D, E, and F) that have the greatest cooling sensation among the strength of stimulation, cooling sensation, and fragrance. The third category includes aerosol formers (brands G, H, and I) that have the strongest fragrance among the strength of stimulation, strength of cool sensation, and strength of fragrance. In the second step, one of the first category, the second category, and the third category corresponding to the maximum of the intensity of the stimulation based on the first information, the intensity of the refreshing sensation based on the second information, and the intensity of the fragrance based on the third information is determined as the first category. How to help.

[0104] According to (7), by allowing a user to input preferences for stimulation, cool feeling, and fragrance strength, the category that the user prefers most can be determined with high accuracy.

[0105] (8) The support method according to (7), In the second step, when two or more of the intensity of stimulation based on the first information, the intensity of refreshing sensation based on the second information, and the intensity of fragrance based on the third information are maximized, the categories corresponding to the two or more are prioritized in the order of the third category, the second category, and the first category, and the category having the higher priority is determined as the first category. How to help.

[0106] When the aerosol generated from the aerosol-forming body is inhaled, a stimulation can basically be felt, and if an additive that produces a refreshing sensation is added to the aerosol-forming body, an additional refreshing sensation can be felt, and if an additive that produces a fragrance is further added to the aerosol-forming body, a unique fragrance can be additionally felt. Since the additives are added in consideration of preferences, if a user prefers a category that does not contain additives and a category that contains additives (for example, when the intensity of stimulation and the intensity of the refreshing sensation or fragrance are respectively maximized), the category that contains additives is determined to be the one that the user prefers, and the user's preference can be accurately determined.

[0107] (9) A support program for supporting a user of an aerosol generating device (aerosol generating device 10) in finding an aerosol forming material that matches the user's preferences, A first step (step S1) of requesting input of information for identifying the flavor and taste of an aerosol forming body preferred by a user; A second step (step S2) of determining a first category (a category most preferred by the user) among a plurality of categories (regular, menthol, flavor) of aerosol forming bodies that can be used in the aerosol generating device based on the input information; and a third step (step S3, step S5) of selecting an aerosol forming material in a second category (a second or third category) other than the first category from among the plurality of categories, and outputting a message encouraging the user to try out the selected aerosol forming material. Support programs. [Explanation of symbols]

[0108] 1. Support System 10 Aerosol generator 11 Aerosol Formation 20 Sample Sets 30 Electronic equipment

Claims

1. 1. A method for assisting a user of an aerosol generating device in finding an aerosol forming material that matches the user's preferences, the method comprising: A first step of requesting input of information for identifying a flavor of the aerosol forming product preferred by the user; A second step of determining a first category, which is a category most preferred by the user, among a plurality of categories of aerosol forming bodies usable in the aerosol generating device based on the input information; and a third step of selecting an aerosol forming material of a second category other than the first category from among the plurality of categories, and outputting an output to prompt a user to try out the selected aerosol forming material, When there are a plurality of aerosol-forming bodies belonging to the same second category, in the third step, an aerosol-forming body having a flavor similar to that specified by the information is preferentially selected from the plurality of aerosol-forming bodies. How to help.

2. The method of claim 1, There are three or more categories, and in said third step, selecting at least one aerosol former from each of said two or more second categories. How to help.

3. The support method according to claim 2, and a fourth step of selecting an aerosol former from the first category and providing an output prompting a user to try out the aerosol former. How to help.

4. The support method according to claim 3, The fourth step is performed after the third step. How to help.

5. The support method according to any one of claims 1 to 4, The information includes first information indicating the intensity of stimulation recognized when the aerosol is inhaled, second information indicating the intensity of a refreshing sensation recognized when the aerosol is inhaled, and third information indicating the intensity of an aroma recognized when the aerosol is inhaled. How to help.

6. The support method according to claim 5, the plurality of categories include a first type category corresponding to the first information, a second type category corresponding to the second information, and a third type category corresponding to the third information; The first category includes an aerosol-forming body having the greatest irritation strength among the irritation strength, the refreshing sensation strength, and the fragrance strength; The second category includes an aerosol-forming body having the greatest intensity of cool sensation among the intensity of stimulation, the intensity of cool sensation, and the intensity of fragrance, The third category includes an aerosol-forming body having the greatest fragrance strength among the strength of stimulation, the strength of refreshing sensation, and the strength of fragrance, In the second step, one of the first category, the second category, and the third category corresponding to a maximum one of the intensity of the stimulation based on the first information, the intensity of the refreshing sensation based on the second information, and the intensity of the fragrance based on the third information is determined as the first category. How to help.

7. The support method according to claim 6, In the second step, when two or more of the intensity of stimulation based on the first information, the intensity of refreshing sensation based on the second information, and the intensity of fragrance based on the third information are maximized, the priority of the categories corresponding to the two or more is increased in the order of the third category, the second category, and the first category, and the category having the higher priority is determined as the first category. How to help.

8. A support program for supporting a user of an aerosol generating device in finding an aerosol forming material that matches the user's preferences, A first step of requesting input of information for identifying a flavor of the aerosol forming product preferred by the user; A second step of determining a first category, which is a category most preferred by the user, among a plurality of categories of aerosol forming bodies usable in the aerosol generating device based on the input information; a third step of selecting an aerosol forming material of a second category other than the first category from among the plurality of categories, and outputting an output prompting a user to try out the selected aerosol forming material; When there are a plurality of aerosol-forming bodies belonging to the same second category, in the third step, an aerosol-forming body having a flavor similar to that specified by the information is preferentially selected from the plurality of aerosol-forming bodies. Support programs.

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