Suction device

Abstract

An inhalation device equipped with a liquid storage section 123 storing a liquid that generates an aerosol when heated, a heating section 121 that heats the liquid, an electric power supply section 111 that stores electric power, and a control section 116 that controls the electric power supply from the electric power supply section 111 to the heating section 121, wherein: when predetermined first conditions are satisfied, the control section 116 performs first heating to raise the temperature of the liquid to a first temperature, at which the liquid vaporizes, or higher; when predetermined second conditions are satisfied before the first conditions are satisfied, the control section 116 performs second heating to make the temperature of the liquid to be a second heating temperature or higher but lower than the first temperature; and, in the case where transition to the first heating occurs during the second heating, the amount of the electric power in the first heating is made smaller than the amount of the electric power in the first heating in the case where transition to the first heating occurs without performing the second heating.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This Disclosure relates to a suction device.

Background Art

[0002] In recent years, technologies for rapidly providing an aerosol when suction is performed by a user have been proposed. For example, the device described in Patent Document 1 includes a heater that generates an aerosol by heating an aerosol source, and a controller that can change the amount of power supplied to the heater in order to heat the aerosol source at a preheating temperature lower than the heating temperature for generating the aerosol.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0003]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0004] In the technology described in Patent Document 1, when the suction operation by the user is not being performed, preheating is performed to heat the aerosol source at a preheating temperature lower than the heating temperature for generating the aerosol. If the temperature of the heating unit becomes too high due to this preheating, the amount of the aerosol source that is atomized becomes larger than the amount of the liquid, which is the aerosol source, that is guided to the heating unit. Eventually, there is a risk that the aerosol source that can be heated will run out even though the user is sucking. And when the aerosol source that can be heated runs out, no aerosol is generated, so the user cannot suck the aerosol even though they are sucking. This Disclosure aims to provide a suction device that can suppress the depletion of the aerosol source that can be heated during suction.

Means for Solving the Problems

[0005] According to one aspect of the present disclosure, A suction device comprising a liquid storage unit for storing a liquid that generates an aerosol when heated, a heating unit for heating the liquid, a power supply unit for accumulating power, and a control unit for controlling power supply from the power supply unit to the heating unit, wherein the control unit performs a first heating to set the temperature of the liquid to a first temperature or higher at which the liquid vaporizes when a predetermined first condition is satisfied, and performs a second heating to set the temperature of the liquid to a temperature equal to or higher than a second temperature and lower than the first temperature when a predetermined second condition is satisfied before the first condition is satisfied, and the amount of power in the first heating when shifting to the first heating during the second heating is made smaller than the amount of power in the first heating when shifting to the first heating without performing the second heating. is provided.

Advantages of the Invention

[0006] According to the first feature, it is possible to suppress the aerosol source that can be heated during suction from disappearing. According to the second feature, the amount of power in the first heating when shifting to the first heating during the second heating can be made more accurately smaller than the amount of power in the first heating when shifting to the first heating without performing the second heating. According to the third feature, the amount of power in the first heating when shifting to the first heating during the second heating can be made more accurately smaller than the amount of power in the first heating when shifting to the first heating without performing the second heating. According to the fourth feature, since the heating unit is not heated more than necessary, it is possible to more accurately suppress the aerosol source that can be heated during suction from disappearing. According to the fifth feature, even if the amount of liquid stored in the liquid storage unit is small, it is possible to more accurately suppress the aerosol source that can be heated during suction from disappearing. According to the sixth feature, since preheating is performed based on the operation of the user who performs the suction operation, it is possible to more accurately suppress the waste of power used for heating.

Brief Description of the Drawings

[0007]

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Embodiments for Carrying Out the Invention

[0008] Hereinafter, with reference to the accompanying drawings, the embodiments Disclosure relating thereto will be described in detail. <First Embodiment> FIG. 1 is an example of a perspective view showing the schematic configuration of the suction device 1. FIG. 2 is an example of a cross-sectional view showing the schematic configuration of the suction device 1. FIG. 3 is a diagram schematically showing an example of the schematic configuration of the suction device 1. The suction device 1 according to the first embodiment is a device that generates a substance to be suctioned by the user. Hereinafter, it will be described on the assumption that the substance generated by the suction device 1 is an aerosol. Alternatively, the substance generated by the suction device 1 may be a gas.

[0009] The suction device 1 generates an aerosol by heating an aerosol source as a liquid. The suction device 1 includes a power supply unit 110, a cartridge 120, a case 10 that houses the power supply unit 110 and the cartridge 120, a mouthpiece 124, and an end cap 20 that houses a part of the mouthpiece 124. The power supply unit 110 and the cartridge 120 are configured to be detachable from each other. Suction by the user is performed with the cartridge 120 attached to the power supply unit 110.

[0010] As shown in FIG. 3, the power supply unit 110 includes a power supply unit 111, a sensor unit 112, a notification unit 113, a storage unit 114, a communication unit 115, and a control unit 116. The power supply unit 110 also includes an operation unit 117 that can be operated by the user and a DC / DC converter 118. The cartridge 120 includes a heating unit 121, a liquid guiding unit 122, and a liquid storage unit 123. An air flow path 180 is formed in the suction device 1. Hereinafter, each component will be described in order.

[0011] (Power supply unit 110) The power supply unit 111 stores electric power. Then, the power supply unit 111 supplies electric power to each component of the suction device 1. The power supply unit 111 can be configured by a rechargeable battery such as a lithium-ion secondary battery, for example. The power supply unit 111 may be charged by being connected to an external power supply by a USB (Universal Serial Bus) cable or the like. Further, the power supply unit 111 may be charged in a state of being non-connected to the power transmission side device by wireless power transmission technology. Alternatively, only the power supply unit 111 may be removable from the suction device 1, and it may be possible to replace it with a new power supply unit 111.

[0012] The sensor unit 112 detects various information related to the suction device 1. As an example, the sensor unit 112 includes a pressure sensor 112p such as a microphone condenser, a flow sensor 112q that detects the amount of the aerosol source stored in the liquid storage unit 123, and a temperature sensor 112t that detects the temperature of the heating unit 121. Then, the sensor unit 112 outputs the detected information to the control unit 116. For example, when the pressure sensor 112p detects a numerical value associated with suction by the user, the sensor unit 112 outputs information indicating that suction by the user has been performed to the control unit 116.

[0013] The notification unit 113 notifies the user of information. As an example, the notification unit 113 is constituted by a light emitting device such as an LED (Light Emitting Diode). In that case, when the state of the power supply unit 111 requires charging, when the power supply unit 111 is charging, and when an abnormality occurs in the suction device 1, etc., the notification unit 113 emits light in different light emission patterns. The light emission pattern here is a concept including color, lighting / extinguishing timing, etc. The notification unit 113 may be constituted by a display device that displays an image, a sound output device that outputs sound, a vibration device that vibrates, etc., together with or instead of the light emitting device.

[0014] The storage unit 114 stores various information for the operation of the suction device 1. The storage unit 114 is constituted by a non-volatile storage medium such as a flash memory, for example. An example of the information stored in the storage unit 114 is information related to the OS (Operating System) of the suction device 1, such as the control content of various components by the control unit 116. Another example of the information stored in the storage unit 114 is information related to suction by the user, such as the number of suction times, suction time, and cumulative suction time.

[0015] The communication unit 115 is a communication interface for transmitting and receiving information between the suction device 1 and other devices. The communication unit 115 performs communication compliant with any wired or wireless communication standard. As such a communication standard, for example, Wireless LAN (Local Area Network), wired LAN, Wi-Fi (registered trademark), or Bluetooth (registered trademark) etc. may be adopted. As an example, the communication unit 115 transmits information regarding suction by the user to a smartphone in order to display the information regarding suction by the user on the smartphone. As another example, the communication unit 115 receives new OS information from a server in order to update the information of the OS stored in the storage unit 114.

[0016] The control unit 116 functions as an arithmetic processing device and a control device, and controls the overall operation within the suction device 1 according to various programs. The control unit 116 is realized by, for example, an electronic circuit such as a CPU (Central Processing Unit) and a microprocessor. Additionally, the control unit 116 may include a ROM (Read Only Memory) that stores programs, arithmetic parameters, etc. to be used, and a RAM (Random Access Memory) that temporarily stores parameters that change as appropriate. The suction device 1 executes various processes based on the control by the control unit 116. Power supply from the power supply unit 111 to other components, charging of the power supply unit 111, detection of information by the sensor unit 112, notification of information by the notification unit 113, storage and reading of information by the storage unit 114, and transmission and reception of information by the communication unit 115 are examples of processes controlled by the control unit 116. Other processes executed by the suction device 1, such as input of information to each component and processes based on the information output from each component, are also controlled by the control unit 116.

[0017] The operation unit 117 is composed of a button-type switch, a touch panel, or the like. The operation unit 117 outputs the information operated by the user to the control unit 116. For example, when a predetermined activation operation is performed on the operation unit 117 in a state where the power supply unit 110 is in the power-off state, the operation unit 117 outputs an activation command for the power supply unit 110 to the control unit 116. When the control unit 116 acquires this activation command, it activates the power supply unit 110. The predetermined activation operation by the operation unit 117 can be exemplified as the operation unit 117 being quickly pressed three times in a row.

[0018] The DC / DC converter 118 is connected between the heating unit 121 and the power supply unit 111 in a state where the cartridge 120 is mounted on the power supply unit 110. The control unit 116 is connected between the DC / DC converter 118 and the power supply unit 111. The DC / DC converter 118 is a boost circuit capable of boosting the input voltage, and is configured to be able to supply the voltage obtained by boosting the input voltage or the input voltage to the heating unit 121. According to the DC / DC converter 118, the power supplied to the heating unit 121 can be adjusted. As the DC / DC converter 118, for example, a switching regulator that converts the input voltage to a desired output voltage by controlling the on / off time of the switching element while monitoring the output voltage can be used. When a switching regulator is used as the DC / DC converter 118, by controlling the switching element, it is also possible to output the input voltage as it is without boosting it.

[0019] The temperature sensor 112t has a voltage sensor and a current sensor. The voltage sensor measures and outputs the voltage value applied to the heating unit 121. The current sensor measures and outputs the current value flowing through the heating unit 121. The output of the voltage sensor and the output of the current sensor are respectively input to the control unit 116. The control unit 116 acquires the resistance value of the heating unit 121 based on the output of the voltage sensor and the output of the current sensor, and acquires the temperature of the heating unit 121 corresponding to this resistance value. The temperature of the heating unit 121 can be regarded as being substantially the same as the temperature of the aerosol source heated by the heating unit 121.

[0020] In addition, when obtaining the resistance value of the heating unit 121, if a configuration is adopted in which a constant current is passed through the heating unit 121, the temperature sensor 112t does not have to have a current sensor. Similarly, when obtaining the resistance value of the heating unit 121, if a configuration is adopted in which a constant voltage is applied to the heating unit 121, the temperature sensor 112t does not have to have a voltage sensor. Also, the temperature sensor 112t may be, for example, a thermistor disposed in the vicinity of the heating unit 121.

[0021] (Cartridge 120) The liquid storage unit 123 stores an aerosol source. The aerosol source is atomized by being heated to generate an aerosol. The aerosol source is, for example, a polyhydric alcohol such as glycerin and propylene glycol, and a liquid such as water. The aerosol source may further contain a tobacco raw material or an extract derived from a tobacco raw material that releases a flavor component when heated. The aerosol source may further contain nicotine. When the suction device 1 is a medical inhaler such as a nebulizer, the aerosol source may contain a drug for a patient to inhale.

[0022] The liquid guiding 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 guiding unit 122 according to the present embodiment is a wick formed by twisting a fiber material such as glass fiber or a porous material such as porous ceramic. The liquid guiding unit 122 is in liquid communication with the liquid storage unit 123. Therefore, the aerosol source stored in the liquid storage unit 123 spreads throughout the liquid guiding unit 122 by capillary action.

[0023] The heating unit 121 atomizes the aerosol source by heating it to generate an aerosol. The heating unit 121 is made of any material such as metal or polyimide and has any shape such as coil shape, film shape or blade shape. The heating unit 121 is disposed close to the liquid guiding unit 122. In the example shown in FIGS. 2 and 3, the heating unit 121 is composed of a metal coil and is wound around the liquid guiding unit 122. Therefore, when the heating unit 121 generates heat, the aerosol source held by the liquid guiding unit 122 is heated and atomized to generate an aerosol. The heating unit 121 generates heat when powered by the power supply unit 111.

[0024] (Air flow path 180) The air flow path 180 is a flow path for air inhaled by the user. The air flow path 180 has an air inlet hole 181 which is an inlet of air into the air flow path 180 and an air outlet hole 182 which is an outlet of air from the air flow path 180 at both ends. As the user inhales, air flows into the air flow path 180 through the air inlet hole 181 and flows out of the air flow path 180 through the air outlet hole 182. It can be exemplified that the air inlet hole 181 is formed around the operation unit 117. The air outlet hole 182 is formed in the mouthpiece 124.

[0025] The liquid guiding unit 122 is disposed in the middle of the air flow path 180. The aerosol generated by the heating unit 121 is mixed with the air flowing in from the air inlet hole 181. Then, as the user inhales, the mixed fluid of the aerosol and the air is transported to the air outlet hole 182 as shown by the arrow 190.

[0026] (Case 10) The case 10 has a cylindrical power supply unit case 11 that houses the power supply unit 110 and a cylindrical cartridge case 12 that houses the cartridge 120. An operation unit 117 operable by a user is provided on the power supply unit case 11 in a state of being exposed from the surface of the power supply unit case 11. An air inlet hole 181 for taking in outside air is formed inside the power supply unit case 11. It can be exemplified that the air inlet hole 181 is formed around the operation unit 117. A pressure sensor 112p is provided near the operation unit 117. The pressure sensor 112p is configured to output a value of a pressure change in the power supply unit 110 caused by the user's suction via the mouthpiece 124. The pressure sensor 112p outputs, for example, the flow rate of air sucked from the air inlet hole 181 toward the mouthpiece 124, in other words, an output value corresponding to the pressure that changes according to the user's suction.

[0027] (End cap 20) The end cap 20 has a cylindrical first cylindrical portion 21 fitted inside the opening on the side of the cartridge case 12 opposite to the power supply unit case 11, and a cylindrical second cylindrical portion 22 provided outside the cartridge case 12. A part of the first cylindrical portion 21 on the cartridge case 12 side is fitted into the cartridge case 12, and it has a flange portion that abuts against the end face of the cartridge case 12. The outer peripheral surface diameter of the second cylindrical portion 22 is smaller than the outer peripheral surface diameter of the first cylindrical portion 21, and the inner peripheral surface diameter is the same as the inner peripheral surface diameter of the first cylindrical portion 21.

[0028] (Mouthpiece 124) The mouthpiece 124 is a cylindrical member, and a part of it on the cartridge case 12 side is fitted inside the end cap 20, and it has a flange portion that abuts against the end face of the end cap 20. The mouthpiece 124 is a member that is bitten by the user during suction. An air outlet hole 182 of the air flow path 180 is formed in the mouthpiece 124. By biting and sucking the mouthpiece 124, the user can take into the oral cavity the mixed fluid of aerosol and air transported by the air flow path 180.

[0029] (Heating Control of Heating Unit 121 by Control Unit 116) The control unit 116 is activated when the power supply of the suction device 1 is turned on. For example, the power supply of the suction device 1 is turned on when the operation unit 117 is quickly pressed three times continuously. Then, when a predetermined condition is satisfied, the control unit 116 supplies power to the heating unit 121 to raise the temperature of the aerosol source, which is a liquid, to a temperature equal to or higher than a first temperature at which the aerosol is atomized to generate an aerosol. It can be exemplified that the case where the predetermined condition is satisfied is when the output value of the pressure sensor 112p of the sensor unit 112 becomes equal to or higher than a predetermined threshold value. The case where the output value of the pressure sensor 112p becomes equal to or higher than the threshold value can be exemplified, for example, when the user holds the mouthpiece 124 and sucks, and the flow rate and pressure of the air sucked from the air inlet hole 181 toward the mouthpiece 124 change, causing the output value of the pressure sensor 112p to exceed the threshold value. Hereinafter, the case where the user holds the mouthpiece 124 and sucks may be referred to as a "sucking operation". The first temperature can be exemplified as the boiling point of the aerosol source.

[0030] In this way, when a sucking operation is performed by the user, for example, the control unit 116 supplies power to the heating unit 121 to heat the heating unit 121 so as to raise the temperature of the aerosol source to a temperature equal to or higher than the boiling point. Hereinafter, supplying power to the heating unit 121 to heat the heating unit 121 so as to raise the temperature of the aerosol source to a temperature equal to or higher than the boiling point may be referred to as "sucking heating". The control unit 116 starts the sucking heating when a predetermined condition is satisfied. Also, the above-mentioned predetermined condition may be referred to as a "sucking heating condition". The sucking heating condition can be exemplified as the output value of the pressure sensor 112p becoming equal to or higher than the threshold value.

[0031] When performing suction heating, the control unit 116 controls, for example, the power value supplied to the heating unit 121 so that it becomes a power value predetermined as the power value during suction heating. It can be exemplified that the predetermined power value is obtained through experiments in advance and stored in the storage unit 114 or ROM. Also, it can be exemplified that the predetermined power value is determined such that the temperature of the heating unit 121 during suction heating becomes the suction heating target temperature described later.

[0032] The control unit 116 may set the target temperature of the heating unit 121 during suction heating to be equal to or higher than the first temperature, and control the power supply so that the temperature of the heating unit 121 during suction heating becomes this target temperature. Hereinafter, the target temperature of the heating unit 121 during suction heating may be referred to as the "suction heating target temperature". The suction heating target temperature can be exemplified as being 180 ℃ degrees.

[0033] When performing suction heating, the control unit 116 may control the power supplied to the heating unit 121 via the DC / DC converter 118 so that the temperature of the heating unit 121 detected by the temperature sensor 112t becomes the suction heating target temperature. For example, the control unit 116 may control the power supplied to the heating unit 121 based on the deviation between the suction heating target temperature stored in the storage unit 114 and the actual temperature of the heating unit 121 detected by the temperature sensor 112t (hereinafter sometimes referred to as the "actual temperature"). The temperature control of the heating unit 121 can be realized by, for example, known feedback control. Note that the control unit 116 may control the power supplied to the heating unit 121 based on the deviation between the actual temperature and a temperature (hereinafter sometimes referred to as the "suction heating set temperature") set to a value smaller than the suction heating target temperature (for example, 175 degrees) so that the actual temperature does not exceed the suction heating target temperature.

[0034] While the output value of the pressure sensor 112p is equal to or greater than the threshold value, in other words, while the user is continuing the suction operation, the control unit 116 performs suction heating on the assumption that the suction heating condition is satisfied. However, when the period during which the output value of the pressure sensor 112p is equal to or greater than the threshold value reaches a predetermined upper limit time (for example, 2.4 seconds), the control unit 116 stops power supply to the heating unit 121 regardless of the output value of the pressure sensor 112p.

[0035] On the other hand, before the suction heating condition is satisfied, when a condition (hereinafter sometimes referred to as a "preheating start condition") that is different from the suction heating condition is satisfied, the control unit 116 supplies power to the heating unit 121 to make the temperature of the aerosol source a temperature equal to or higher than the second temperature and lower than the first temperature. The second temperature can be exemplified as, for example, 40 degrees.

[0036] As described above, when the preheating start condition is satisfied before suction is performed by the user, the control unit 116 supplies power to the heating unit 121 to heat the heating unit 121 so that the temperature of the aerosol source is a temperature equal to or higher than the second temperature and lower than the first temperature. Hereinafter, supplying power to the heating unit 121 to heat the heating unit 121 so that the temperature of the aerosol source is a temperature equal to or higher than the second temperature and lower than the first temperature may be referred to as "preheating". The control unit 116 starts preheating when the preheating start condition is satisfied. The preheating start condition can be exemplified as being satisfied when a predetermined operation (for example, a single press) that is predetermined for the operation unit 117 is performed. Note that the target for performing the predetermined operation may be an operation unit different from the operation unit 117 that is the target for performing a predetermined activation operation to turn on the power unit 110. Further, the predetermined operation is not limited to a single press.

[0037] When performing preliminary heating, the control unit 116 controls, for example, the power value supplied to the heating unit 121 so that it becomes a power value predetermined as the power value during preliminary heating. The predetermined power value can be exemplified as a value obtained by conducting experiments in advance and stored in the storage unit 114 or the ROM. Further, it can be exemplified that the predetermined power value is determined such that the temperature of the heating unit 121 during preliminary heating becomes a preliminary heating target temperature described later.

[0038] The control unit 116 may set the target temperature of the heating unit 121 during preliminary heating to a temperature that is equal to or higher than the second temperature and lower than the boiling point of the aerosol source, and control the power supply so that the temperature of the heating unit 121 during preliminary heating becomes this target temperature. Hereinafter, the target temperature of the heating unit 121 during preliminary heating may be referred to as the "preliminary heating target temperature". The preliminary heating target temperature can be exemplified as 50 degrees.

[0039] When performing preliminary heating, the control unit 116 may control the power supplied to the heating unit 121 via the DC / DC converter 118 so that the temperature of the heating unit 121 detected by the temperature sensor 112t becomes the preliminary heating target temperature. For example, the control unit 116 may control the power supplied to the heating unit 121 based on the deviation between the preliminary heating target temperature stored in the storage unit 114 and the actual temperature (real temperature) of the heating unit 121 detected by the temperature sensor 112t. The temperature control of the heating unit 121 can be realized, for example, by known feedback control. Note that the control unit 116 may control the power supplied to the heating unit 121 based on the deviation between the temperature (hereinafter, may be referred to as the "preliminary heating set temperature") set to a value smaller than the preliminary heating target temperature (for example, 45 degrees) so that the real temperature does not exceed the preliminary heating target temperature and the real temperature.

[0040] In addition, since the preliminary heating target temperature is lower than the suction heating target temperature, the control unit 116 makes the power value during preliminary heating smaller than the power value during suction heating. For example, the control unit 116 makes the duty ratio of the PWM signal output to the DC / DC converter 118 during preliminary heating smaller than the duty ratio during suction heating. For example, it can be exemplified that the duty ratio during suction heating is 90% and the duty ratio during preliminary heating is 30%.

[0041] Note that when the control unit 116 performs preliminary heating, the duty ratio may be fixed at 30% until the actual temperature reaches the preliminary heating set temperature, and after the actual temperature reaches the preliminary heating set temperature, the duty ratio may be changed based on the deviation between the actual temperature and the set temperature. Similarly, when the control unit 116 performs suction heating, the duty ratio may be fixed at 90% until the actual temperature reaches the suction heating set temperature, and after the actual temperature reaches the suction heating set temperature, the duty ratio may be changed based on the deviation between the actual temperature and the set temperature.

[0042] When the suction heating condition is satisfied while the control unit 116 is performing preliminary heating, the control unit 116 performs suction heating. Therefore, in the suction device 1, as the control unit 116 controls the power supply to the heating unit 121 as described above, in the process of shifting to suction heating, there are cases where suction heating is performed after preliminary heating and cases where suction heating is performed without preliminary heating. In the following description, the suction heating when shifting to suction heating after preliminary heating may be referred to as "first suction heating", and the suction heating when shifting to suction heating without preliminary heating may be referred to as "second suction heating".

[0043] On the other hand, when the control unit 116 is performing preliminary heating and a predetermined condition (hereinafter sometimes referred to as the "preliminary heating end condition") for ending the preliminary heating is satisfied before the suction heating condition is satisfied, the control unit 116 stops the preliminary heating. This is to suppress wasteful power consumption associated with preliminary heating. The preliminary heating end condition can be exemplified by the fact that a predetermined time (for example, 10 seconds) has elapsed after the start of preliminary heating.

[0044] In the suction device 1 configured as described above, in the case of the first suction heating that performs preliminary heating before performing suction heating, it is easier to reach the suction heating target temperature earlier than in the case of the second suction heating that does not perform preliminary heating. Therefore, in the case of the first suction heating, the temperature of the aerosol source is more likely to reach the temperature at which it is atomized to generate an aerosol earlier than in the case of the second suction heating. Therefore, in the suction device 1, the amount of aerosol generated at the initial stage of suction by the user is larger when the first suction heating is performed than when the second suction heating is performed. This is due to the following reasons.

[0045] The liquid guiding portion 122 guides and holds the aerosol source, which is the liquid stored in the liquid storage portion 123, by capillary action. The heating portion 121 is disposed close to the liquid guiding portion 122 and generates heat to atomize the aerosol source to generate an aerosol. Therefore, the larger the amount of power supplied to the heating portion 121, the larger the amount of aerosol generated.

[0046] During the second suction heating, since power is supplied to the heating portion 121 after the suction operation is performed by the user, most of the power supplied at the initial stage of suction is consumed in raising the temperature of the liquid that is the aerosol source, and the amount of power consumed to vaporize the liquid decreases. As a result, the amount of aerosol generated at the initial stage of suction decreases.

[0047] On the other hand, during the first suction heating that shifts after performing preliminary heating, power is supplied to the heating portion 121 before the suction operation is performed by the user, and the temperature of the liquid that is the aerosol source is rising. Therefore, during the first suction heating, compared with the second suction heating, the amount of power consumed in raising the temperature of the liquid among the power supplied at the initial stage of suction is less, and the amount of power consumed to vaporize the liquid increases. As a result, the first suction heating generates a larger amount of aerosol at the initial stage of suction than the second suction heating.

[0048] From the above, by performing preliminary heating before performing suction heating, the amount of aerosol that can be suctioned at the initial stage of suction can be increased.

[0049] However, in a configuration where the heating unit 121 atomizes the aerosol source induced by the liquid guiding unit 122 due to capillary action to generate an aerosol, the following events may occur. That is, when the amount of electric power supplied to the heating unit 121 becomes too large, the amount of aerosol source atomized becomes larger than the amount of aerosol source induced by the liquid guiding unit 122, and ultimately, there may be no aerosol source for generating an aerosol at the heating unit 121. If there is no aerosol source, since no aerosol is generated at the heating unit 121, the user cannot suction the aerosol even if a suction operation is performed.

[0050] Therefore, the control unit 116 makes the amount of electric power (electrical energy) during the first suction heating smaller than the amount of electric power (electrical energy) during the second suction heating. Thereby, it is suppressed that the amount of aerosol source atomized becomes larger than the amount of aerosol source induced by the liquid guiding unit 122, and ultimately, it is suppressed that there is no aerosol source for generating an aerosol at the heating unit 121.

[0051] In order to make the amount of electric power (hereinafter, may be referred to as "first suction heating electric power amount") during the first suction heating smaller than the amount of electric power (hereinafter, may be referred to as "second suction heating electric power amount") during the second suction heating, the control unit 116 controls the power supply to the heating unit 121 as follows.

[0052] The control unit 116 makes the power (hereinafter, may be referred to as "first suction heating power") supplied to the heating unit 121 during the first suction heating smaller than the power (hereinafter, may be referred to as "second suction heating power") supplied to the heating unit 121 during the second suction heating (first suction heating power < second suction heating power).

[0053] For example, when performing the first suction heating, the control unit 116 makes the power value supplied to the heating unit 121 smaller than the power value predetermined as the power value to be supplied to the heating unit 121 when performing the second suction heating.

[0054] For example, the control unit 116 makes the duty ratio of the PWM signal output to the DC / DC converter 118 during the first suction heating smaller than the duty ratio during the second suction heating. For example, the control unit 116 can exemplify that the duty ratio during the first suction heating is 70% and the duty ratio during the second suction heating is 90%. Note that when performing the first suction heating, the control unit 116 may fix the duty ratio at 70% until the actual temperature reaches the suction heating set temperature, and after the actual temperature reaches the suction heating set temperature, change the duty ratio based on the deviation between the actual temperature and the set temperature. Also, when performing the second suction heating, the control unit 116 may fix the duty ratio at 90% until the actual temperature reaches the suction heating set temperature, and after the actual temperature reaches the suction heating set temperature, change the duty ratio based on the deviation between the actual temperature and the set temperature.

[0055] Alternatively, the control unit 116 makes the first suction heating power the same as the second suction heating power, and makes the upper limit time for continuing the first suction heating (hereinafter, may be referred to as the "first suction heating upper limit time") shorter than the upper limit time for continuing the second suction heating (hereinafter, may be referred to as the "second suction heating upper limit time") (first suction heating upper limit time < second suction heating upper limit time). It can be exemplified that the first suction heating upper limit time is 1.7 seconds and the second suction heating upper limit time is 2.4 seconds.

[0056] When the control unit 116 makes the first suction heating power smaller than the second suction heating power, the first suction heating upper limit time and the second suction heating upper limit time may be made the same. Alternatively, if the control unit 116 is to make the first suction heating power amount less than the second suction heating power amount, when making the first suction heating power smaller than the second suction heating power, the first suction heating upper limit time and the second suction heating upper limit time may be made different, and the first suction heating upper limit time may be made longer or shorter than the second suction heating upper limit time. By the control unit 116 making the first suction heating power smaller than the second suction heating power and making the first suction heating upper limit time shorter than the second suction heating upper limit time, it becomes possible to make the first suction heating power amount accurately less than the second suction heating power amount.

[0057] Figure 4 is a flowchart showing an example of the procedure of the heating process performed by the control unit 116. The control unit 116 repeatedly executes this process, for example, at a predetermined control cycle (for example, every 1 millisecond). The control unit 116 determines whether the preheating start condition is satisfied (S401). If the preheating start condition is satisfied (YES in S401), the control unit 116 performs preheating (S402). Thereafter, the control unit 116 determines whether the suction heating condition is satisfied (S403). If the suction heating condition is satisfied (YES in S403), the control unit 116 performs the first suction heating (S404). Thereafter, it is determined whether the suction operation has ended (S405). If it is determined that the suction operation has not ended (NO in S405), the control unit 116 determines whether the first suction heating upper limit time has been reached (S406). If the first suction heating upper limit time has not been reached (NO in S406), the control unit 116 performs the processes after S405. If the first suction heating upper limit time has been reached (YES in S406), or if the suction operation has ended (YES in S405), the control unit 116 stops the power supply from the power supply unit 111 to the heating unit 121 to stop the heating (S407).

[0058] On the other hand, if it is determined in S403 that the user is not performing a suction operation (NO in S403), the control unit 116 determines whether the preheating end condition is satisfied (S408). If the preheating end condition is not satisfied (NO in S408), the control unit 116 performs the processes after S402. On the other hand, if the preheating end condition is satisfied (YES in S408), the control unit 116 stops the power supply from the power supply unit 111 to the heating unit 121 to stop the heating (S407).

[0059] On the one hand, if it is determined in S401 that the preheating start condition is not satisfied (NO in S401), the control unit 116 determines whether the suction heating condition is satisfied (S409). If the suction heating condition is not satisfied (NO in S409), the control unit 116 ends this process. On the other hand, if the suction heating condition is satisfied (YES in S409), the control unit 116 performs the second suction heating (S410). Then, it is determined whether the suction operation has ended (S411). If it is determined that the suction operation has not ended (NO in S411), the control unit 116 determines whether the second suction heating upper limit time has been reached (S412). If the second suction heating upper limit time has not been reached (NO in S412), the control unit 116 performs the processes after S411. If the second suction heating upper limit time has been reached (YES in S412), or if the suction operation has ended (YES in S411), the control unit 116 stops the power supply from the power supply unit 111 to the heating unit 121 to stop the heating (S407).

[0060] FIG. 5 is a timing chart for explaining the operation of the suction device 1. FIG. 5(a) is a timing chart when performing the first suction heating, and FIG. 5(b) is a timing chart when performing the second suction heating.

[0061] More specifically, Fig. 5(a) shows the operations when an operation to turn on the power supply of the suction device 1 is performed at time t1, then it is detected that the preliminary heating start condition is satisfied at time t2 thereafter, and then it is detected that the first suction operation is performed at time t3 (when it is detected that the suction heating condition is satisfied). Also, Fig. 5(a) shows the operations when it is detected that the first suction operation stops at time t4, then it is detected that the preliminary heating start condition is satisfied at time t5 thereafter, and then it is detected that the second suction operation is performed at time t6.

[0062] Fig. 5(b) shows the operations when an operation to turn on the power supply of the suction device 1 is performed at time t1, and then it is detected that the first suction operation is performed at time t3 (when it is detected that the suction heating condition is satisfied). Also, Fig. 5(b) shows the operations when it is detected that the first suction operation stops at time t4, and then it is detected that the second suction operation is performed at time t6.

[0063] Note that in the timing chart shown in Fig. 5, the case where the duty ratio for the first suction heating is 70% and the duty ratio for the second suction heating is 90% is shown.

[0064] Fig. 5(c) is a diagram showing the temperature change of the heating unit 121 when the suction device 1 operates as shown in Fig. 5(a) (hereinafter, sometimes referred to as "Case 1") and when it operates as shown in Fig. 5(b) (hereinafter, sometimes referred to as "Case 2"). The temperature change in Case 1 is shown by a solid line, and the temperature change in Case 2 is shown by a dashed line.

[0065] Since the duty ratio for the first suction heating is 70% and the duty ratio for the second suction heating is 90%, the temperature rise rate of the heating unit 121 after the suction operation starts is higher in Case 2 than in Case 1. However, in the case of Case 1, since preheating is performed before suction heating, it is easier to reach the suction heating target temperature earlier than in the case of Case 2. Therefore, in the case of Case 1, the temperature of the aerosol source is more likely to reach the temperature at which it atomizes to generate aerosol earlier than in the case of Case 2. As a result, in the suction device 1, the amount of aerosol generated at the initial stage of suction by the user is larger when the first suction heating is performed than when the second suction heating is performed.

[0066] Note that, as an example, the duty ratio for the first suction heating is 70% and the duty ratio for the second suction heating is 90% in order to make the first suction heating power smaller than the second suction heating power, but it is not particularly limited to these duty ratios. It is desirable to set both duty ratios so that the time from the start of suction heating to reaching the suction heating target temperature when the first suction heating is performed after reaching the preheating target temperature is shorter than the time from the start of suction heating to reaching the suction heating target temperature when the second suction heating is performed.

[0067] As described above, the suction device 1 includes a liquid storage unit 123 that stores a liquid which is an aerosol source that generates an aerosol when heated, a heating unit 121 that heats the liquid, a power supply unit 111 that accumulates electric power, and a control unit 116 that controls power supply from the power supply unit 111 to the heating unit 121. And when a suction heating condition, which is an example of a predetermined first condition, is satisfied, the control unit 116 performs suction heating, which is an example of a first heating, to make the temperature of the liquid that is the aerosol source equal to or higher than a first temperature (for example, boiling point) at which the liquid vaporizes. On the other hand, when a preliminary heating start condition, which is an example of a predetermined second condition, is satisfied before the suction heating condition is satisfied, the control unit 116 performs preliminary heating, which is an example of a second heating, to make the temperature of the liquid that is the aerosol source equal to or higher than a second temperature (for example, 40 degrees) and lower than the first temperature (for example, boiling point). And the control unit 116 makes the amount of electric power in the first suction heating that shifts to suction heating during preliminary heating smaller than the amount of electric power in the second suction heating that shifts to suction heating without performing preliminary heating.

[0068] That is, when the preliminary heating start condition is satisfied before the suction heating condition is satisfied, the suction device 1 performs preliminary heating, and then performs suction heating when the suction heating condition is satisfied. According to the suction device 1 configured in this way, by performing suction heating after performing preliminary heating, the amount of aerosol at the initial stage of suction is larger than that when suction heating is performed without performing preliminary heating.

[0069] Note that although the second temperature is exemplified as 40 degrees, it is not particularly limited to 40 degrees. Since the purpose of preheating is to increase the temperature of the liquid, which is the aerosol source, in advance before performing suction heating, the second temperature may be higher than the temperature at the location where the suction device 1 is used. For example, if the region where the suction device 1 is used is Japan, the second temperature may be higher than the air temperature in Japan. Since the air temperature changes according to the season, the second temperature may be changed according to the season. Also, although the preheating target temperature is exemplified as 50 degrees, it is not particularly limited to 50 degrees. The preheating target temperature may be changed in the same manner as the change in the second temperature, such as setting it to the second temperature + 10 degrees. Similarly, when the power value supplied to the heating unit 121 during preheating is set to a predetermined power value, the predetermined power value may be changed in the same manner as the change in the second temperature. That is, this predetermined power value and the preheating target temperature may be changed according to the region and season where the suction device 1 is used.

[0070] Further, according to the suction device 1, since the amount of electric power in the first suction heating is smaller than the amount of electric power in the second suction heating, even if preheating is performed, it is possible to suppress the amount of the aerosol source to be atomized from becoming larger than the amount of the aerosol source induced by the liquid induction unit 122. As a result, according to the suction device 1, even if preheating is performed, it is possible to suppress the situation where there is no aerosol source that can be heated by the heating unit 121, which is necessary for generating an aerosol during suction.

[0071] For example, the control unit 116 makes the upper limit time for continuing the first suction heating shorter than the upper limit time for continuing the second suction heating (the first suction heating upper limit time < the second suction heating upper limit time). Thereby, since the amount of electric power in the first suction heating becomes smaller with a higher certainty than the amount of electric power in the second suction heating, it is possible to suppress with a higher certainty the situation where there is no aerosol source that can be heated by the heating unit 121, which is necessary for generating an aerosol during suction.

[0072] Alternatively, the control unit 116 makes the power supplied during the first suction heating smaller than the power supplied during the second suction heating (first suction heating power < second suction heating power). As a result, the amount of electric power in the first suction heating becomes significantly smaller than the amount of electric power in the second suction heating, so there is a high probability of suppressing the situation where the aerosol source that can be heated by the heating unit 121 and is necessary for generating an aerosol during suction no longer exists.

[0073] Further, the control unit 116 makes the upper limit time for continuing the first suction heating shorter than the upper limit time for continuing the second suction heating (first suction heating upper limit time < second suction heating upper limit time), and makes the power supplied during the first suction heating smaller than the power supplied during the second suction heating (first suction heating power < second suction heating power). As a result, there is a higher probability of suppressing the situation where the aerosol source that can be heated by the heating unit 121 and is necessary for generating an aerosol during suction no longer exists.

[0074] In addition, the control unit 116 controls the temperature of the heating unit 121 so as not to exceed the target temperature. As a result, it is possible to suppress the temperature of the heating unit 121 from rising more than necessary, so even if preheating is performed, there is a high probability of suppressing the situation where the aerosol source that can be heated by the heating unit 121 and is necessary for generating an aerosol during suction no longer exists.

[0075] Moreover, the suction device 1 includes a flow rate sensor 112q as an example of a detection unit that detects the amount of liquid stored in the liquid storage unit 123 (hereinafter, may be referred to as "remaining amount"), and the control unit 116 changes the amount of electric power for suction heating according to the amount of liquid (remaining amount) detected by the flow rate sensor 112q. For example, the control unit 116 changes at least one of the first suction heating upper limit time and the first suction heating power according to the remaining amount.

[0076] FIG. 6(a) is a diagram showing an example of the relationship between the remaining amount and the first suction heating upper limit time. As shown in FIG. 6(a), when the remaining amount is equal to or greater than a predetermined amount, the control unit 116 sets the first suction heating upper limit time to a predetermined time. The predetermined time can be exemplified as 1.7 seconds. The predetermined amount can be exemplified as 30% of the maximum amount when the remaining amount is 100% when it is the same as the maximum amount that can be stored in the liquid storage unit 123.

[0077] And, as shown in FIG. 6(a), when the remaining amount is less than the predetermined amount, the control unit 116 gradually shortens the first suction heating upper limit time from the predetermined time as the remaining amount decreases. Thereby, it is highly likely to be suppressed that there is no aerosol source that can be heated by the heating unit 121, which is necessary for generating an aerosol during suction.

[0078] FIG. 6(b) is a diagram showing an example of the relationship between the remaining amount and the first suction heating power. As shown in FIG. 6(b), when the remaining amount is equal to or greater than the predetermined amount, the control unit 116 sets the first suction heating power when performing the first suction heating to a predetermined power. The predetermined power can be exemplified as 4 W. And, as shown in FIG. 6(b), when the remaining amount is less than the predetermined amount, the control unit 116 gradually reduces the first suction heating power when performing the first suction heating from the predetermined power as the remaining amount decreases. Thereby, it is highly likely to be suppressed that there is no aerosol source that can be heated by the heating unit 121, which is necessary for generating an aerosol during suction.

[0079] (Regarding the start of preheating) Hereinafter, a modified example of the preheating start condition will be described. Here, by performing preliminary heating before the suction operation, it becomes possible to suck a high atomization amount from the initial stage of suction. However, if the suction operation is not performed after the preliminary heating, the power for the preliminary heating will be wasted. Also, if the time from the start of the preliminary heating until the target temperature of the preliminary heating is reached is referred to as the "minimum heating time", starting the preliminary heating before the minimum heating time at which the suction operation is performed can suppress the power consumption for maintaining the target temperature of the preliminary heating after reaching the target temperature of the preliminary heating. The minimum heating time depends on the specifications of the heating unit 121 and the target temperature of the preliminary heating, but can be exemplified as being 2 seconds or less. When the minimum heating time is 2 seconds, if the preliminary heating is started 2 seconds before the suction operation is performed, the target temperature of the preliminary heating can be sufficiently reached when the suction operation is performed. From the above, it is desirable to start the preliminary heating before the minimum heating time at which the suction operation is accurately performed.

[0080] As events that are expected to satisfy the suction heating conditions, the following can be considered. (1) The suction device 1 has been moved to the mouth. This is because the user moves the suction device 1 to the mouth before performing the suction operation. In particular, it is considered that the suction device 1 is moved to the mouth during the first suction operation. (2) The suction device 1 is near the mouth. This is because the suction device 1 is near the mouth when the user performs the suction operation. In particular, before the second and subsequent suction operations, it is considered that the suction device 1 may be continuously kept near the mouth after the previous suction operation. (3) The suction device 1 has touched the lip. This is because the user holds the mouthpiece 124 when performing the suction operation. Therefore, taking the above (1) to (3) as the preliminary heating start conditions, it may be possible to detect that the preliminary heating start conditions are satisfied as described below.

[0081] FIG. 7 is a diagram showing an example of the schematic configuration of the sensor unit 112 and the control unit 116 according to the modified example. In the case of (1) above, it can be exemplified that the control unit 116 detects that the preliminary heating start condition is satisfied as follows. Before the user performs the suction operation, for example, it is conceivable that the user picks up and lifts the suction device 1 placed on a desk or a table. Therefore, the sensor unit 112 has a gyro sensor 112j, and it can be exemplified that the control unit 116 detects that the preliminary heating start condition is satisfied when the output value of the gyro sensor 112j indicates that the orientation of the suction device 1 has been changed from horizontal to vertical. The gyro sensor 112j can be exemplified as being provided inside the power supply unit case 11. When the suction device 1 is placed on a desk or a table, it is in a horizontal orientation where the heights of the power supply unit 111 and the mouthpiece 124 are the same. On the other hand, when the user is performing the suction operation, as shown in FIG. 1, the mouthpiece 124 is in a vertical orientation where it is located above the power supply unit 110, in other words, the height of the mouthpiece 124 is greater than the height of the power supply unit 111. Therefore, it can be exemplified that the control unit 116 detects that the preliminary heating start condition is satisfied when the output value of the gyro sensor 112j changes from a value indicating that the heights of the power supply unit 111 and the mouthpiece 124 are the same to a value indicating that the height of the mouthpiece 124 is greater than the height of the power supply unit 111. The state where the heights of the power supply unit 111 and the mouthpiece 124 are the same is not limited to the case where the heights of the power supply unit 111 and the mouthpiece 124 are exactly the same. For example, the case where the height difference between the power supply unit 111 and the mouthpiece 124 is 1 cm or less may also be acceptable. This is because when the height difference between the power supply unit 111 and the mouthpiece 124 is 1 cm or less, the suction device 1 can be regarded as being in a horizontal orientation.

[0082] Also, since the user touches the suction device 1 with their hand before performing the suction operation, the sensor unit 112 has a tactile sensor 112s, and the control unit 116 may detect that the preliminary heating start condition is satisfied when the output value of the tactile sensor 112s indicates that the hand is touching the suction device 1. Note that the tactile sensor 112s can be exemplified as being mounted on the power supply unit case 11 in a state of being exposed from the surface of the power supply unit case 11 that houses the power supply unit 110.

[0083] Also, before the user performs the suction operation, it is conceivable that the suction device 1 is moved from near the waist to the mouth area, for example. Therefore, the sensor unit 112 has an acceleration sensor 112a, and the control unit 116 may detect that the preliminary heating start condition is satisfied when the output value of the acceleration sensor 112a becomes equal to or greater than a predetermined threshold value. When the suction device 1 is moved from bottom to top, a downward inertial force acts, and the acceleration sensor 112a indicates a positive acceleration. When the suction device 1 is moved from top to bottom, an upward inertial force acts, and the acceleration sensor 112a indicates a negative acceleration. Therefore, when the output value of the acceleration sensor 112a becomes equal to or greater than a predetermined threshold value, it can be considered that the user has moved the suction device 1 from near the waist to the mouth area in order to perform the suction operation. The acceleration sensor 112a can be exemplified as being provided inside the power supply unit case 11.

[0084] Also, when the suction device 1 is moved from near the waist to the mouth area, it is conceivable that the height of the suction device 1 changes by the amount of the height difference between near the waist and the mouth area. Therefore, the sensor unit 112 has a height sensor 112h, and the control unit 116 may detect that the preliminary heating start condition is satisfied when the change amount of the output value of the height sensor 112h becomes equal to or greater than a predetermined threshold value. The height sensor 112h can be exemplified as being provided inside the power supply unit case 11. Note that instead of using the output value of the height sensor 112h, the control unit 116 may estimate that the suction device 1 has been moved from near the waist to the mouth area when the change amount of the output value of the pressure sensor 112p becomes equal to or greater than a predetermined threshold value, and detect that the preliminary heating start condition is satisfied.

[0085] Also, when the user moves the suction device 1 to the vicinity of the mouth before performing the suction operation, the distance between the suction device 1 and the mouth becomes smaller. Therefore, the suction device 1 has a LiDAR (Light Detection and Ranging) 112l for measuring the distance between the suction device 1 and the mouth, and when the output value of the LiDAR 112l indicates that the distance between the suction device 1 and the mouth has become equal to or less than a predetermined threshold value, the control unit 116 may detect that the preliminary heating start condition has been satisfied. When the user moves the suction device 1 to the vicinity of the mouth to perform the suction operation, usually, since the user moves the suction device 1 upward from a position below the mouth to the vicinity of the mouth, assuming that the LiDAR 112l measures the distance to the lower lip, it can be exemplified that when the distance measured by the LiDAR 112l becomes equal to or less than a predetermined threshold value, the control unit 116 detects that the preliminary heating start condition has been satisfied. Alternatively, assuming that the LiDAR 112l measures the distance to the nose, the control unit 116 uses the distance measured by the LiDAR 112l and the distance between the nose and the part where the upper lip and the lower lip come into contact, which is stored in the storage unit 114 or the ROM in advance, to estimate the distance between the part where the upper lip and the lower lip come into contact and the suction device 1, and when the estimated distance becomes equal to or less than a predetermined threshold value, the control unit 116 may detect that the preliminary heating start condition has been satisfied. It should be noted that the LiDAR 112l can be exemplified as being attached to, for example, the end cap 20. Alternatively, the LiDAR 112l may be attached to the mouthpiece 124.

[0086] Also, when the suction device 1 is moved to the vicinity of the user's mouth, taking advantage of the fact that the infrared sensor 112i can measure the user's body temperature, the suction device 1 has an infrared sensor 112i, and when the output value of the infrared sensor 112i becomes equal to or greater than a predetermined threshold value, the control unit 116 may detect that the preliminary heating start condition has been satisfied. It should be noted that the infrared sensor 112i can be exemplified as being attached to, for example, the end cap 20. Alternatively, the infrared sensor 112i may be attached to the mouthpiece 124.

[0087] Further, the suction device 1 has a camera 112c, and the control unit 116 may detect that the preliminary heating start condition is satisfied when the camera 112c captures an image of the suction device 1 approaching the user's mouth. The image captured by the camera 112c may be a still image or a moving image. In the case of a still image, the camera 112c may capture an image, for example, every 1 millisecond. Note that the camera 112c can be exemplified as being mounted on the end cap 20, for example. Alternatively, the camera 112c may be mounted on the mouthpiece 124.

[0088] Further, in the case of (2) above, the control unit 116 can be exemplified as detecting that the preliminary heating start condition is satisfied as follows. When the suction device 1 is near the user's mouth, taking advantage of the fact that the odor sensor 112n can measure volatile sulfur compounds generated in the user's mouth, the suction device 1 has the odor sensor 112n, and the control unit 116 may detect that the preliminary heating start condition is satisfied when the output value of the odor sensor 112n is equal to or greater than a predetermined threshold. Alternatively, as the odor sensor 112n, a sensor capable of measuring the fragrance component contained in the aerosol that can be sucked by the suction device 1 is used, and the control unit 116 may detect that the preliminary heating start condition is satisfied when the output value of the odor sensor 112n is equal to or greater than a predetermined threshold.

[0089] Further, since the user's exhaled breath has a very high humidity, in view of the fact that the output value of the humidity sensor 112k becomes equal to or greater than a predetermined threshold when the humidity sensor 112k is near the user's mouth, the sensor unit 112 has the humidity sensor 112k, and the control unit 116 may detect that the preliminary heating start condition is satisfied when the output value of the humidity sensor 112k becomes equal to or greater than a predetermined threshold.

[0090] In addition, since the user's exhaled breath has a higher CO2 concentration than the outside air, considering that if the CO2 sensor 112o is near the user's mouth, the output value of the CO2 sensor 112o will be equal to or higher than a predetermined threshold, the sensor unit 112 has the CO2 sensor 112o, and the control unit 116 may detect that the preliminary heating start condition is satisfied when the output value of the CO2 sensor 112o becomes equal to or higher than the predetermined threshold. Note that the odor sensor 112n, the humidity sensor 112k, and the CO2 sensor 112o can be exemplified as being mounted on the end cap 20, for example. Alternatively, the odor sensor 112n, the humidity sensor 112k, and the CO2 sensor 112o may be mounted on the mouthpiece 124.

[0091] Also, even in the case of (2) above, similar to the case of (1) above, when the output value of the infrared sensor 112i is equal to or higher than a predetermined threshold, the control unit 116 may detect that the preliminary heating start condition is satisfied assuming that the suction device 1 is near the mouth. Further, when the output value of the LiDAR 112l indicates that the distance between the suction device 1 and the mouth is equal to or less than a predetermined threshold, the control unit 116 may detect that the preliminary heating start condition is satisfied. Further, when the camera 112c captures an image of the suction device 1 being near the user's mouth, the control unit 116 may detect that the preliminary heating start condition is satisfied.

[0092] Also, in the case of (3) above, the tactile sensor 112m is mounted in a state of being exposed from the surface of the mouthpiece 124, and the control unit 116 can be exemplified as detecting that the preliminary heating start condition is satisfied when the output value of the tactile sensor 112m indicates that the mouth is touching the mouthpiece 124.

[0093] Note that the suction device 1 has at least two or more of the gyro sensor 112j, tactile sensor 112s, acceleration sensor 112a, altitude sensor 112h, LiDAR 112l, infrared sensor 112i, camera 112c, odor sensor 112n, tactile sensor 112m, humidity sensor 112k, and CO2 sensor 112o described above. The control unit 116 may detect that the preliminary heating start condition is satisfied based on the output values from two or more sensors or the like. For example, during the first suction operation, the control unit 116 may detect that the preliminary heating start condition is satisfied when the output value of the gyro sensor 112j indicates that the orientation of the suction device 1 is vertical and the output value of the acceleration sensor 112a indicates that the suction device 1 has moved from bottom to top. Also, during the suction operations after the first time, the control unit 116 may detect that the preliminary heating start condition is satisfied when the output value of the gyro sensor 112j indicates that the orientation of the suction device 1 is vertical and the output value of the infrared sensor 112i is equal to or greater than a predetermined threshold value. Thereby, it becomes possible to more accurately detect that the preliminary heating start condition is satisfied.

[0094] In addition, the suction device 1 has at least three or more of the above-described gyro sensor 112j, tactile sensor 112s, acceleration sensor 112a, altitude sensor 112h, LiDAR 112l, infrared sensor 112i, camera 112c, odor sensor 112n, tactile sensor 112m, humidity sensor 112k, and CO2 sensor 112o. The control unit 116 may detect that the preliminary heating start condition is satisfied based on the output values from three or more sensors or the like. For example, during the first suction operation, the control unit 116 may detect that the preliminary heating start condition is satisfied when the output value of the gyro sensor 112j indicates that the orientation of the suction device 1 is vertical, the output value of the acceleration sensor 112a indicates that the suction device 1 has moved upward from below, and the output value of the infrared sensor 112i is equal to or greater than a predetermined threshold. Also, during the suction operations after the first time, the control unit 116 may detect that the preliminary heating start condition is satisfied when the output value of the gyro sensor 112j indicates that the orientation of the suction device 1 is vertical, the output value of the infrared sensor 112i is equal to or greater than a predetermined threshold, and the output value of the odor sensor 112n is equal to or greater than a predetermined threshold. This makes it possible to more accurately detect that the preliminary heating start condition is satisfied.

[0095] Further, the suction device 1 learns the time interval between consecutive suction operations, and the control unit 116 may regard that the preliminary heating start condition is satisfied when it is before the minimum heating time of the time expected for the (n + 1)-th suction operation to start after the n-th suction operation. For example, the control unit 116 calculates the average value of the time intervals between consecutive suction operations and stores this average value in the storage unit 114 as the average time interval. Then, the control unit 116 may regard that the preliminary heating start condition is satisfied when (average time interval - minimum heating time) has elapsed after the n-th suction operation. For example, when the average time interval is 15 seconds and the minimum heating time is 2 seconds, the control unit 116 may detect that the preliminary heating start condition is satisfied when 13 seconds have elapsed after the n-th suction operation.

[0096] (Regarding the end of preliminary heating) As described above, in the suction device 1, after performing preheating, when the preheating end condition is satisfied, the control unit 116 stops the preheating. For example, after starting the preheating, the control unit 116 stops the preheating when a predetermined time (e.g., 10 seconds) has elapsed. Therefore, compared with a configuration in which the preheating is continued until the suction operation is performed after starting the preheating, the period for performing the preheating can be shortened, so that the power consumption for the preheating can be suppressed.

[0097] Note that the preheating end condition may be the following conditions in addition to the above-described case where a predetermined time (e.g., 10 seconds) has elapsed after starting the preheating. The control unit 116 can be exemplified by setting the output value of the gyro sensor 112j indicating that the orientation of the suction device 1 has been changed from vertical to horizontal as the preheating end condition. In other words, the control unit 116 can be exemplified by setting the output value of the gyro sensor 112j changing from a value indicating a state where the altitude of the mouthpiece 124 is higher than the altitude of the power supply unit 111 to a value indicating a state where the altitudes of the power supply unit 111 and the mouthpiece 124 are the same as the preheating end condition. This is because when the suction device 1 is placed on, for example, a desk or a table, it is considered that the suction operation is unlikely to be performed within the minimum heating time.

[0098] Further, the control unit 116 may use, as the preheating end condition, that the output value of the tactile sensor 112s no longer indicates that a hand is touching the suction device 1. This is because when the user removes their hand from the suction device 1, it is considered that the suction operation is unlikely to be performed within the minimum heating time.

[0099] Further, the control unit 116 may use, as the preheating end condition, that the output value of the acceleration sensor 112a, which becomes a negative acceleration when the suction device 1 is moved downward from above, has become equal to or less than a predetermined negative threshold value. This is because when the user moves the suction device 1, for example, from near the mouth to near the waist, it is considered that the suction operation is unlikely to be performed within the minimum heating time.

[0100] Further, in view of the fact that the amount of change in altitude becomes a negative value when the suction device 1 is moved from top to bottom, the control unit 116 may use, as a preheating end condition, the fact that the amount of change in the output value of the altitude sensor 112h has become equal to or less than a predetermined negative threshold value. This is because when the user moves the suction device 1, for example, from near the mouth to near the waist, it is considered unlikely that the suction operation will be performed within the minimum heating time. Note that instead of using the output value of the altitude sensor 112h, the control unit 116 may also assume that the suction device 1 has been moved from near the mouth to near the waist when the amount of change in the output value of the pressure sensor 112p has become equal to or less than a predetermined negative threshold value, and determine that the preheating end condition is satisfied.

[0101] Also, when the distance between the suction device 1 and the mouth is large, it is unlikely that the suction operation will be performed within the minimum heating time. Therefore, the control unit 116 may use the following items as the preheating end condition. In other words, the preheating end condition may be set to be satisfied when the distance from the user's mouth exceeds a predetermined threshold value. For example, the control unit 116 may use, as the preheating end condition, the fact that the output value of the LiDAR 112l indicates that the distance between the suction device 1 and the mouth has exceeded a predetermined threshold value. Also, the control unit 116 may use, as the preheating end condition, the fact that the output value of the infrared sensor 112i has become less than a predetermined threshold value. Also, the control unit 116 may use, as the preheating end condition, the fact that the camera 112c has captured an image indicating that the suction device 1 is not near the user's mouth. Also, the control unit 116 may use, as the preheating end condition, the fact that the output value of the odor sensor 112n is less than a predetermined threshold value. Also, the control unit 116 may use, as the preheating end condition, the fact that the output value of the humidity sensor 112k is less than a predetermined threshold value. Also, the control unit 116 may use, as the preheating end condition, the fact that the output value of the CO2 sensor 112o is less than a predetermined threshold value.

[0102] Note that the suction device 1 has at least two or more of the above-described gyro sensor 112j, tactile sensor 112s, acceleration sensor 112a, altitude sensor 112h, LiDAR 112l, infrared sensor 112i, camera 112c, odor sensor 112n, tactile sensor 112m, humidity sensor 112k, and CO2 sensor 112o. The control unit 116 may determine whether the preheating end condition is satisfied based on the output values from two or more sensors or the like.

[0103] For example, when the output value of the acceleration sensor 112a indicates that the suction device 1 has moved from top to bottom and the output value of the gyro sensor 112j indicates that the orientation of the suction device 1 is horizontal, the control unit 116 may determine that the preheating end condition is satisfied. Also, when the output value of the acceleration sensor 112a indicates that the suction device 1 has moved from top to bottom and the output value of the infrared sensor 112i is less than a predetermined threshold value, the control unit 116 may determine that the preheating end condition is satisfied. Thereby, it becomes possible to more accurately determine that the suction operation will not be performed within the minimum heating time.

[0104] By setting the preheating end condition to the above-described condition, the control unit 116 can accurately determine that it is unlikely that the suction operation will be performed within the minimum heating time and stop the preheating, so that wasteful power consumption associated with the preheating can be suppressed.

[0105] Note that if the control unit 116 stops the preheating when the preheating end condition is satisfied after performing the preheating, the timing for starting the preheating is not limited to the case where an event that is expected to satisfy the suction heating condition is detected. For example, the control unit 116 may start the preheating when the power of the suction device 1 is turned on and activated, and then stop the preheating when the preheating end condition is satisfied. Also, the control unit 116 may change from suction heating to preheating at the timing when the nth suction operation is completed, and then stop the preheating when the preheating end condition is satisfied.

[0106] <Second Embodiment> FIG. 8 is a diagram schematically showing an example of the schematic configuration of the suction device 2 according to the second embodiment. The suction device 2 according to the second embodiment is different from the suction device 1 according to the first embodiment in that it includes a flavor - imparting cartridge 130. Further, the suction device 2 is different from the suction device 1 in that it has a case 210 instead of the case 10. Hereinafter, the differences from the first embodiment will be described. The same components in the first embodiment and the second embodiment are denoted by the same reference numerals, and detailed descriptions thereof are omitted.

[0107] The flavor - imparting cartridge 130 has a flavor source 131. The flavor source 131 is a component for imparting a flavor component to the aerosol. The flavor source 131 may be derived from tobacco, such as a processed product obtained by molding cut tobacco or tobacco raw materials into a granular, sheet - like, or powdery form. Further, the flavor source 131 may include non - tobacco - derived materials made from plants other than tobacco (for example, mint and herbs, etc.). As an example, the flavor source 131 may contain a fragrance component such as menthol. Note that the flavor source 131 may be disposed inside a container such as a capsule.

[0108] In the middle of the air flow path 185, in addition to the liquid guiding portion 122, the flavor source 131 is disposed on the downstream side of the liquid guiding portion 122 (the side closer to the air outlet hole 182). The aerosol generated by the heating portion 121 is mixed with the air flowing in from the air inlet hole 181. Then, with the suction by the user, the mixed fluid of the aerosol and the air is transported to the air outlet hole 182 through the flavor source 131 as shown by the arrow 192. When the mixed fluid of the aerosol and the air passes through the flavor source 131, the flavor component contained in the flavor source 131 is imparted to the aerosol.

[0109] The case 210 includes, in addition to the power supply unit case 11 and the cartridge case 12, a cylindrical flavor cartridge case 13 that houses the flavor cartridge 130. The flavor cartridge 130 and the cartridge 120 are configured to be detachable from each other. An end cap 20 is attached to the opening of the flavor cartridge case 13 on the side opposite to the cartridge case 12. The user's suction is performed in a state where the cartridge 120, the flavor cartridge 130, and the power supply unit 110 are attached to each other, the end cap 20 is attached to the flavor cartridge case 13, and the mouthpiece 124 is attached to the end cap 20.

[0110] Also in the suction device 2 according to the second embodiment configured as described above, the control unit 116 performs suction heating in the same manner as described in the first embodiment. Even if preheating is performed in advance, it is possible to suppress the situation where there is no aerosol source that can be heated by the heating unit 121, which is necessary for generating an aerosol during suction.

[0111] <Third Embodiment> FIG. 9 is a diagram schematically showing an example of the schematic configuration of the suction device 3 according to the third embodiment. The suction device 3 according to the third embodiment is different from the suction device 1 according to the first embodiment in that it includes a susceptor 161 and an electromagnetic induction source 162 instead of the heating unit 121. Hereinafter, the differences from the first embodiment will be described. The same components in the first embodiment and the third embodiment are denoted by the same reference numerals, and detailed descriptions thereof are omitted.

[0112] The susceptor 161 generates heat by electromagnetic induction. The susceptor 161 is made of a conductive material such as metal. The susceptor 161 is disposed close to the liquid induction unit 122. In the example shown in FIG. 9, the susceptor 161 is made of a metal wire and is wound around the liquid induction unit 122.

[0113] The electromagnetic induction source 162 causes the susceptor 161 to generate heat by electromagnetic induction. The electromagnetic induction source 162 is composed of, for example, a coiled wire. When an alternating current is supplied from the power supply unit 111, the electromagnetic induction source 162 generates a magnetic field. The electromagnetic induction source 162 is disposed at a position where the susceptor 161 overlaps the generated magnetic field. Therefore, when the magnetic field is generated, eddy currents are generated in the susceptor 161, and Joule heat is generated. Then, the aerosol source held by the liquid induction unit 122 is heated by such Joule heat and atomized, and an aerosol is generated.

[0114] In the suction device 3 according to the third embodiment configured as described above, the control unit 116 performs power supply control to the electromagnetic induction source 162 in the same manner as the power supply control to the heating unit 121 according to the first embodiment, and performs a heat treatment on the susceptor 161. Then, in the heat treatment of the susceptor 161, the control unit 116 performs suction heating in the same manner as described in the first embodiment, so that even if preheating is performed in advance, it is possible to suppress the situation where there is no aerosol source that can be heated by the heating unit 121, which is necessary for generating an aerosol during suction.

[0115] <Fourth Embodiment> FIG. 10 is a diagram schematically showing an example of the configuration of a suction device 4 according to the fourth embodiment. The suction device 4 according to the fourth embodiment is different from the suction device 1 according to the first embodiment in that an aerosol is generated by heating an aerosol source as a liquid and heating a base material containing the aerosol source. Further, the suction device 4 is different from the suction device 1 in that it has a case 410 instead of the case 10. Hereinafter, the differences from the first embodiment will be described. The same components in the first embodiment and the fourth embodiment are denoted by the same reference numerals, and detailed descriptions thereof are omitted.

[0116] The suction device 4 according to the fourth embodiment includes a base material heating unit 171, a holding unit 140, and a heat insulating unit 144 in addition to a power supply unit 110, a heating unit 121, a liquid guiding unit 122, and a liquid storage unit 123. In the suction device 4, suction is performed by the user with the stick-shaped base material 150 held by the holding unit 140.

[0117] The holding unit 140 has an internal space 141 and holds the stick-shaped base material 150 while accommodating a part of the stick-shaped base material 150 in the internal space 141. The holding unit 140 has an opening 142 that communicates the internal space 141 to the outside, and holds the stick-shaped base material 150 inserted into the internal space 141 from the opening 142. For example, the holding unit 140 is a cylindrical body having the opening 142 and the bottom 143 as a bottom surface, and defines a columnar internal space 141. The holding unit 140 is configured such that the inner diameter is smaller than the outer diameter of the stick-shaped base material 150 in at least a part of the height direction of the cylindrical body, and can hold the stick-shaped base material 150 by compressing the stick-shaped base material 150 inserted into the internal space 141 from the outer periphery. The holding unit 140 also has a function of defining an air flow path through the stick-shaped base material 150. The air inlet hole, which is an inlet of air into such a flow path, is disposed at the bottom 143, for example. On the other hand, the air outlet hole, which is an outlet of air from such a flow path, is the opening 142.

[0118] The stick-shaped base material 150 is a stick-shaped member. The stick-shaped base material 150 has a base material portion 151 and a suction port portion 152. The base material part 151 contains an aerosol source. The aerosol source is atomized by being heated to generate an aerosol. The aerosol source may be derived from tobacco, such as a processed product obtained by shaping cut tobacco or tobacco raw materials into granular, sheet-like, or powdery forms. Further, the aerosol source may include non-tobacco-derived substances made from plants other than tobacco (e.g., mint and herbs, etc.). As an example, the aerosol source may contain a fragrance component such as menthol. When the suction device 4 is a medical inhaler, the aerosol source may contain a drug for the patient to inhale. Note that the aerosol source is not limited to a solid and may be, for example, a polyhydric alcohol such as glycerin and propylene glycol, or a liquid such as water. At least a part of the base material part 151 is accommodated in the internal space 141 of the holding part 140 in a state where the stick-shaped base material 150 is held by the holding part 140.

[0119] The suction port part 152 is a part that is held by the user during suction. At least a part of the suction port part 152 protrudes from the opening 142 in a state where the stick-shaped base material 150 is held by the holding part 140. Then, when the user holds and suctions the suction port part 152 protruding from the opening 142, air flows into the inside of the holding part 140 from the air inlet hole 187. The flowed-in air passes through the internal space 141 of the holding part 140, that is, passes through the base material part 151, and reaches the user's oral cavity together with the aerosol generated from the base material part 151.

[0120] The base material heating part 171 atomizes the aerosol source by heating the base material part 151 to generate an aerosol. The base material heating part 171 is made of an arbitrary material such as metal or polyimide. For example, the base material heating part 171 is configured in a film shape and is arranged to cover the outer periphery of the holding part 140. Then, when the base material heating part 171 generates heat, the aerosol source contained in the stick-shaped base material 150 is heated and atomized from the outer periphery of the stick-shaped base material 150 to generate an aerosol. The base material heating part 171 generates heat when powered by the power supply part 111.

[0121] Here, an air outlet hole 188 of the air flow path 186 is disposed at the bottom 143 of the holding portion 140. Through the air outlet hole 188, the internal space 141 of the holding portion 140 communicates with the air flow path 186.

[0122] The air flow path 186 is a path for air sucked by the user. The air flow path 186 has a tubular structure with an air inlet hole 187, which is an inlet of air into the air flow path 186, and an air outlet hole 188, which is an outlet of air from the air flow path 186, at both ends. With the suction by the user, air flows into the air flow path 186 from the air inlet hole 187, and air flows out from the air outlet hole 188 into the internal space 141 of the holding portion 140. As an example, the air inlet hole 187 is disposed at an arbitrary position of the suction device 4. On the other hand, the air outlet hole 188 is disposed at the bottom 143 of the holding portion 140. A liquid guiding portion 122 is disposed in the middle of the air flow path 186. The aerosol generated by the heating portion 121 is mixed with the air flowing in from the air inlet hole 187. Then, with the suction by the user, the mixed fluid of the aerosol and the air is transported into the internal space 141 of the holding portion 140 via the air outlet hole 188 as shown by the arrow 194. Then, the mixed fluid of the aerosol and the air transported into the internal space 141 of the holding portion 140 reaches the user's mouth together with the aerosol generated by the base material heating portion 171.

[0123] The case 410 has a power unit case 11 and a cylindrical heating portion case 412 that houses the heating portion 121, the liquid guiding portion 122, the liquid storage portion 123, the holding portion 140, the base material heating portion 171, the heat insulating portion 144, etc. It can be exemplified that the power unit case 11 and the heating portion case 412 are separate bodies and are configured to be detachable from each other. However, the power unit case 11 and the heating portion case 412 may be integrated.

[0124] FIG. 11 is a timing chart for explaining the operation of the suction device 4. In the suction device 4 according to the fourth embodiment configured as described above, after the power supply of the suction device 4 is turned on and activated, when an operation for starting the heating of the base material heating unit 171 (hereinafter sometimes referred to as "base material heating unit heating operation") is performed on the operation unit 117 at time t10, the control unit 116 starts power supply to the base material heating unit 171 and starts heating the base material heating unit 171. The base material heating unit heating operation can be exemplified by, for example, pressing and holding the operation unit 117 for 2 seconds or more. Then, the control unit 116 controls the power supplied to the base material heating unit 171 via the DC / DC converter 118 so as to realize the time-series transition of the target temperature defined in the heating profile stored in the storage unit 114 in advance. For example, the control unit 116 controls the power supplied to the base material heating unit 171 based on the deviation between the target temperature defined in the heating profile and the actual temperature (hereinafter sometimes referred to as "actual temperature") of the base material heating unit 171. The temperature control of the base material heating unit 171 can be realized by, for example, known feedback control.

[0125] The period from the start of heating of the base material heating unit 171 until the period during which the suction operation by the user becomes possible is started is referred to as the "preheating period", and the period when the preheating period ends and the stick-shaped base material 150 can generate a sufficient amount of aerosol may be referred to as the "suction possible period". The preheating period ends after the temperature of the base material heating unit 171 reaches a predetermined maximum temperature (for example, 295 degrees). For example, the preheating period can be exemplified by ending when a predetermined time (for example, 10 seconds) has elapsed after the temperature of the base material heating unit 171 reaches a predetermined maximum temperature (for example, 295 degrees). Also, the preheating period can be exemplified by ending when a predetermined time (for example, 30 seconds) has elapsed after the heating of the base material heating unit 171 starts. When the preheating period ends and the suction possible period is reached, the control unit 116 notifies the user that the suction possible period has been reached via the notification unit 113. During the suction possible period, the temperature of the base material heating unit 171 is maintained within a predetermined temperature range (for example, 230 degrees to 295 degrees).

[0126] In the suction device 4 according to the fourth embodiment configured as described above, when it is in the suction available period, the control unit 116 performs suction heating of the heating unit 121 by the same method as described in the first embodiment, so that even if preheating is performed in advance, it is possible to suppress the situation where there is no aerosol source that can be heated by the heating unit 121, which is necessary for generating aerosol during suction. And the control unit 116 of the suction device 4 may regard the end of the preheating period as the establishment of the preheating start condition when it becomes the suction available period. That is, the control unit 116 may start preheating the heating unit 121 when the preheating period ends and it becomes the suction available period. Thereby, it is possible to suppress wasteful power consumption associated with preheating with high accuracy.

[0127] Note that the suction device 4, similar to the suction device 1, has at least one of a gyro sensor 112j, a tactile sensor 112s, an acceleration sensor 112a, an altitude sensor 112h, a LiDAR 112l, an infrared sensor 112i, a camera 112c, an odor sensor 112n, a tactile sensor 112m, a humidity sensor 112k, and a CO2 sensor 112o. The control unit 116 may detect the establishment of the preheating start condition or determine the establishment of the preheating end condition based on the output value from one sensor or the like. It can be exemplified that the LiDAR 112l, the infrared sensor 112i, the camera 112c, the odor sensor 112n, the humidity sensor 112k, and the CO2 sensor 112o are mounted on the heating unit case 412. By being mounted on the heating unit case 412, it is possible to accurately grasp the magnitude of the distance between the suction device 4 and the mouth more accurately than when being mounted on the power supply unit case 11.

Explanation of Signs

[0128] 1, 2, 3, 4… suction device, 10… case, 11… power supply unit case, 12… cartridge case, 20… end cap, 110… power supply unit, 111… power supply section, 112… sensor section, 112p… pressure sensor, 112q… flow rate sensor, 112t… temperature sensor, 116… control section, 117… operation section, 118… DC / DC converter, 120… cartridge, 121… heating section, 122… liquid guiding section, 123… liquid storage section

Claims

1. A liquid storage unit for storing a liquid that generates an aerosol when heated; A heating unit for heating the liquid; A power supply unit for storing electric power; A control unit for controlling power supply from the power supply unit to the heating unit; Comprising: When a predetermined first condition is satisfied, the control unit performs a first heating to set the temperature of the liquid to a first temperature or higher at which the liquid vaporizes. When a predetermined second condition is satisfied before the first condition is satisfied, the control unit performs a second heating to set the temperature of the liquid to a temperature that is equal to or higher than a second temperature and lower than the first temperature. When shifting to the first heating during the second heating, the suction device reduces the amount of electric power in the first heating compared to the amount of electric power in the first heating when shifting to the first heating without performing the second heating.

2. The control unit shortens the upper limit time for continuing the first heating when shifting to the first heating during the second heating compared to the upper limit time for continuing the first heating when shifting to the first heating without performing the second heating. The suction device according to Claim 1.

3. The control unit reduces the electric power supplied during the first heating when shifting to the first heating during the second heating compared to the electric power supplied during the first heating when shifting to the first heating without performing the second heating. The suction device according to Claim 1 or 2.

4. The control unit controls so that the temperature of the heating unit does not exceed the target temperature. The suction device according to any one of Claims 1 to 3.

5. The control unit changes the amount of electric power in the first heating according to the amount of the liquid stored in the liquid storage unit. The suction device according to any one of Claims 1 to 4.

6. Comprising an operation unit operable by a user, The second condition is satisfied when a predetermined operation is performed on the operation unit. The suction device according to any one of Claims 1 to 5.

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