Fragrance attracting device or aerosol generating device, control method thereof, and program thereof

Abstract

Provided is a flavor inhaler or the like that can improve the value of the flavor inhaler or the like by providing a user with a stimulus during preheat waiting time and that provides the user with a psychological effect during the preheat waiting time.　A device (100A) is a flavor inhaler or an aerosol generation apparatus, and comprises a tactile stimulation element (113A) and a control part (116A) for controlling the tactile stimulation element (113A). The control part (116A) actuates the tactile stimulation element (113A) during the preheating of a flavor source or an aerosol source.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a fragrance attracting device or an aerosol generating device (hereinafter referred to as "fragrance attracting device etc.").

Background Art

[0002] As an alternative to cigarettes, fragrance attracting devices such as heated tobacco that heats a stick-shaped smoking article and attracts the generated fragrance have become widespread. For example, Patent Document 1 discloses an aerosol generating device capable of notifying a user of information such as the start and completion of preheating, the remaining battery level, and the completion of charging of the holder by vibration.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0003]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0004] By the way, in a fragrance attracting device that requires preheating, usually, the preheating time is often about ten to several tens of seconds. After the heating of the fragrance attracting device etc. is started, the user has to wait for the preheating to be completed before sucking. This waiting time is not present in cigarettes that can be lit with a lighter and sucked immediately. During this time, the user has nothing to do, and even a time of about ten to several tens of seconds feels long for users who want to suck immediately.

[0005] In view of such problems, the present invention aims to improve the value of a fragrance attracting device etc. by providing a stimulus to the user during the preheating waiting time, and to provide a fragrance attracting device etc. that gives a psychological effect to the user during the preheating waiting time.

Means for Solving the Problems

[0006] To solve the above problems, one aspect of the present invention is a device which is a flavor attracting appliance or an aerosol generating device, comprising a tactile stimulation element and a control unit for controlling the tactile stimulation element, wherein the control unit operates the tactile stimulation element during preheating of a flavor source or an aerosol source.

[0007] Further, another aspect of the present invention is the above device, wherein the control unit operates the tactile stimulation element a plurality of times during the preheating.

[0008] Further, another aspect of the present invention is the above device, wherein the control unit operates the tactile stimulation element at regular intervals during the preheating.

[0009] Further, another aspect of the present invention is the above device, wherein the control unit changes the interval of operation of the tactile stimulation element during the preheating.

[0010] Further, another aspect of the present invention is the above device, wherein the control unit changes the operation intensity of the tactile stimulation element during the preheating.

[0011] Further, another aspect of the present invention is the above device, wherein the control unit acquires a signal related to the temperature of the flavor source or the aerosol source, or the temperature of a heating unit included in the device during the preheating, and changes the operation of the tactile stimulation element according to the signal.

[0012] Further, another aspect of the present invention is the above device, wherein the control unit operates the tactile stimulation element at the start or end of the preheating of the flavor source or the aerosol source.

[0013] Further, another aspect of the present invention is the above device, wherein the operation of the tactile stimulation element during the preheating is different from the operation at the start or end of the preheating.

[0014] Further, another aspect of the present invention is the above device, wherein the operation of the tactile stimulation element is vibration.

[0015] In addition, another aspect of the present invention is the above-described device in which the vibration is composed of a plurality of main vibrations, and each of the plurality of main vibrations is composed of a plurality of sets of vibrations.

[0016] In addition, another aspect of the present invention is the above-described device in which the plurality of sets of vibrations are sets of vibrations whose intensity gradually weakens.

[0017] In addition, another aspect of the present invention is the above-described device in which the vibration is a continuous single vibration, and the intensity of the vibration changes in a certain pattern over time.

[0018] In addition, another aspect of the present invention is a control method for a device that is a fragrance attracting device or an aerosol generating device including a tactile stimulator and a fragrance source or an aerosol source, the control method including the step of operating the tactile stimulator during preheating of the fragrance source or the aerosol source.

[0019] In addition, another aspect of the present invention is a program for causing a processor of a device that is a fragrance attracting device or an aerosol generating device including a tactile stimulator and a fragrance source or an aerosol source to execute a step of operating the tactile stimulator during preheating of the fragrance source or the aerosol source.

Brief Description of the Drawings

[0020]

Figure 1A

Figure 1B

Figure 2

Figure 3

Figure 4

Figure 5

Figure 6

Figure 7

Figure 8

Figure 9

Figure 10

Figure 11A

Figure 11B

Figure 11C

Figure 11D

Figure 12

Figure 13

Figure 14

Embodiments for Carrying Out the Invention

[0021] Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the drawings. The aroma attracting device or the like according to the present embodiment is an aroma attracting device or the like that can reduce the idleness during the preheating period by giving a tactile stimulus to the user during the preheating period, or make the time until the preheating is completed feel shorter.

[0022] Also, the flavor suction device and the like according to the present embodiment are a flavor suction device or an aerosol generating device, which is a device that generates a substance to be suctioned by a user. The substance generated by the flavor suction device and the like may be an aerosol or a gas that is not an aerosol. Further, the flavor suction device is a device for suctioning a flavor, and, without limitation, may be a device for, for example, an electronic cigarette, a heated tobacco product, a conventional tobacco product, and the like. Further, the aerosol generating device is a device for suctioning the generated aerosol, and, without limitation, may be a device for, for example, an electronic cigarette, a heated tobacco product, a medical nebulizer, and the like. Further, the flavor suction device and the like include so-called RRP (Reduced-Risk Products).

[0023] (Configuration of flavor suction device etc.)

[0024] (First configuration example) FIG. 1A is a schematic diagram schematically showing a first configuration example of a flavor suction device and the like. As shown in FIG. 1A, the flavor suction device and the like 100A according to this configuration example includes a power supply unit 110, a cartridge 120, and a flavor-imparting cartridge 130. The power supply unit 110 includes a power supply unit 111A, a sensor unit 112A, a notification unit 113A, a storage unit 114A, a communication unit 115A, and a control unit 116A. The cartridge 120 includes a heating unit 121A, a liquid guiding unit 122, and a liquid storage unit 123. The flavor-imparting cartridge 130 includes a flavor source 131 and a mouthpiece 124. An air flow path 180 is formed in the cartridge 120 and the flavor-imparting cartridge 130.

[0025] Note that the cartridge 120 and the flavor-imparting cartridge 130 are an example of a so-called "refill". At least a part of one or both of the refills 120 and 130 may be colored according to the type of the refill. Further, the component colored according to the type is not limited to the refill, and may be any component attached to the flavor suction device and the like 100A.

[0026] The power supply unit 111A stores electric power. Then, based on the control by the control unit 116A, the power supply unit 111A supplies electric power to each component of the fragrance suction device 100A and the like. The power supply unit 111A can be constituted by a rechargeable battery such as a lithium-ion secondary battery, for example.

[0027] The sensor unit 112A acquires various information regarding the fragrance suction device 100A and the like. The sensor unit 112A may include a pressure sensor such as a microphone condenser, a flow sensor, or a temperature sensor. Further, the sensor unit 112A may include an input device such as a button or a switch that receives input of information from the user. Furthermore, the sensor unit can include a sensor configured to detect the movement of the fragrance suction device and the like.

[0028] The notification unit 113A has a function of notifying various information to the user. The notification unit 113A in the present embodiment may include a tactile stimulation element such as a vibration device including a vibrator configured to give a tactile stimulus to the user, a thermoelectric element for transmitting heat to the user, or an electrode for giving an electrical stimulus to the user. The vibrator may be, for example, a vibration motor, a linear vibration actuator, a piezo element, or the like. Further, the thermoelectric element may be, for example, a Peltier element. Further, the notification unit 113A may further include a display device that displays a message or an image, a light emitting device or a light emitting element such as an LED (Light Emitting Diode) that emits light, or a sound output device or an acoustic element that outputs sound.

[0029] The storage unit 114A stores various information for the operation of the fragrance suction device 100A and the like. The storage unit 114A is constituted by a non-volatile storage medium such as a flash memory, for example. The storage unit 114A may include a volatile memory that provides a work area for control by the control unit 116A. Further, the storage unit 114A holds data for controlling a heating profile and a tactile stimulation element, which will be described later.

[0030] The communication unit 115A can include a communication interface (including a communication module) compliant with a predetermined LPWA wireless communication standard or a wireless communication standard with similar restrictions. Such communication standards as Sigfox and LoRA-WAN can be adopted. The communication unit 115A may be a communication interface capable of performing communication compliant with any wired or wireless communication standard. Such communication standards as, for example, Wi-Fi (registered trademark) or Bluetooth (registered trademark) can be adopted.

[0031] The control unit 116A functions as an arithmetic processing unit and a control device, and controls the overall operations within the flavor attracting device 100A according to various programs. The control unit 116A is realized by, for example, an electronic circuit such as a CPU (Central Processing Unit) and a microprocessor. For example, the control unit 116A executes control for performing heat treatment of the aerosol source in the heating unit 121A. As an example, the control unit 116A can control the heat treatment according to a heating profile indicating how to heat the aerosol source. Also, in the present embodiment, the control unit 116A can control the tactile stimulation element according to data indicating how to give a tactile stimulation to the user of the flavor attracting device 100A during the preheating period.

[0032] The liquid storage unit 123 stores the aerosol source. By atomizing the aerosol source, an aerosol is generated. 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 contain a flavor component derived from tobacco or non-tobacco. When the flavor attracting device 100A is a medical inhaler such as a nebulizer, the aerosol source may contain a drug.

[0033] The liquid guiding part 122 guides and holds an aerosol source, which is a liquid stored in the liquid storage part 123, from the liquid storage part 123. The liquid guiding part 122 is, for example, a wick formed by twisting a fibrous material such as glass fiber or a porous material such as porous ceramic. In that case, the aerosol source stored in the liquid storage part 123 is guided by the capillary action of the wick.

[0034] The heating part 121A atomizes the aerosol source by heating it to generate an aerosol. In the example shown in Fig. 1A, the heating part 121A is configured as a coil and wound around the liquid guiding part 122. When the heating part 121A generates heat, the aerosol source held by the liquid guiding part 122 is heated and atomized to generate an aerosol. The heating part 121A generates heat when powered by the power supply part 111A. As an example, when it is detected by the sensor part 112A that the user has started suction, and that predetermined information has been input, or that the user has operated a button or a switch or the like at an arbitrary timing, etc., it may be powered. And when it is detected by the sensor part 112A that either or both of the user has ended suction and that predetermined information has been input, the power supply may be stopped.

[0035] The flavor source 131 is a component for imparting a flavor component to the aerosol. The flavor source 131 may contain a flavor component derived from tobacco or non - tobacco.

[0036] The air flow path 180 is a path for air to be sucked by the user. The air flow path 180 has a tubular structure with both ends being an air inlet hole 181 which is an entrance of air into the air flow path 180 and an air outlet hole 182 which is an exit of air from the air flow path 180. In the middle of the air flow path 180, a liquid guiding part 122 is arranged on the upstream side (the side close to the air inlet hole 181), and a fragrance source 131 is arranged on the downstream side (the side close to the air outlet hole 182). The air flowing in from the air inlet hole 181 due to the user's suction is mixed with the aerosol generated by the heating part 121A, and as shown by the arrow 190, it passes through the fragrance source 131 and is transported to the air outlet hole 182. When the mixed fluid of aerosol and air passes through the fragrance source 131, the fragrance components contained in the fragrance source 131 are imparted to the aerosol.

[0037] The mouthpiece 124 is a member that the user holds in the mouth during suction. The air outlet hole 182 is arranged in the mouthpiece 124. By holding the mouthpiece 124 and sucking, the user can take the mixed fluid of aerosol and air into the oral cavity.

[0038] The configuration example of the fragrance suction device 100A etc. has been described above. Of course, the configuration of the fragrance suction device 100A etc. is not limited to the above, and it can take various configurations exemplified below.

[0039] As an example, the fragrance suction device 100A etc. may not include the fragrance - imparting cartridge 130. In that case, the mouthpiece 124 is provided on the cartridge 120.

[0040] As another example, the fragrance suction device 100A etc. may include a plurality of types of aerosol sources. A plurality of types of aerosols generated from the plurality of types of aerosol sources are mixed in the air flow path 180 and undergo a chemical reaction, so that another type of aerosol may be generated.

[0041] Also, the means for atomizing the aerosol source is not limited to heating by the heating part 121A. For example, the means for atomizing the aerosol source may be vibration atomization or induction heating.

[0042] (Second Configuration Example) FIG. 1B is a schematic diagram schematically showing a second configuration example of a fragrance attracting device or the like. As shown in FIG. 1B, the fragrance attracting device or the like 100B according to this configuration example includes a power supply unit 111B, a sensor unit 112B, a notification unit 113B, a storage unit 114B, a communication unit 115B, a control unit 116B, a heating unit 121B, a holding unit 140, and a heat insulating unit 144.

[0043] Each of the power supply unit 111B, the sensor unit 112B, the notification unit 113B, the storage unit 114B, the communication unit 115B, and the control unit 116B is substantially the same as the corresponding component included in the fragrance attracting device or the like 100A according to the first configuration example.

[0044] 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. Note that the stick-shaped base material 150 is also an example of a so-called "refill". 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 also has a function of defining a flow path for air supplied to the stick-shaped base material 150. The air inlet hole, which is an inlet of air into such a flow path, is disposed, for example, at the bottom 143. On the other hand, the air outlet hole, which is an outlet of air from such a flow path, is the opening 142.

[0045] The stick-shaped base material 150 includes a base material portion 151 and a suction port portion 152. The base material portion 151 contains an aerosol source. The aerosol source may be solid or liquid, and is atomized by heating to generate an aerosol. The aerosol source may be, for example, a tobacco-derived product such as processed cut tobacco or a tobacco raw material formed into a granular, sheet-like, or powdery shape. Also, the aerosol source may include non-tobacco-derived products made from plants other than tobacco (such as mint and herbs). As an example, the aerosol source may contain a fragrance component such as menthol. When the fragrance suction device 100 is a medical inhaler, the aerosol source may contain a drug for the patient to inhale. In a state where the stick-shaped base material 150 is held by the holding portion 140, at least a part of the base material portion 151 is accommodated in the internal space 141, and at least a part of the suction port portion 152 protrudes from the opening 142. Then, when the user holds and sucks the suction port portion 152 protruding from the opening 142, air flows into the internal space 141 from an air inlet hole (not shown) and reaches the user's oral cavity together with the aerosol generated from the base material portion 151.

[0046] The heating portion 121B has the same configuration as the heating portion 121A according to the first configuration example. However, in the example shown in FIG. 1B, the heating portion 121B is configured in a film shape and is arranged to cover the outer periphery of the holding portion 140. When the heating portion 121B generates heat, the base material portion 151 of the stick-shaped base material 150 is heated from the outer periphery, and an aerosol is generated.

[0047] The heat insulating portion 144 prevents heat transfer from the heating portion 121B to other components. For example, the heat insulating portion 144 is composed of a vacuum heat insulating material, an aerogel heat insulating material, or the like.

[0048] The configuration example of the fragrance suction device 100B has been described above. Of course, the configuration of the fragrance suction device 100B is not limited to the above, and can take various configurations exemplified below.

[0049] As an example, the heating part 121B may be configured in a blade shape and arranged to protrude from the bottom 143 of the holding part 140 into the internal space 141. In that case, the blade-shaped heating part 121B is inserted into the base material part 151 of the stick-shaped base material 150, and heats the base material part 151 of the stick-shaped base material 150 from the inside. As another example, the heating part 121B may be arranged to cover the bottom 143 of the holding part 140. Further, the heating part 121B may be configured as a combination of two or more of a first heating part that covers the outer periphery of the holding part 140, a blade-shaped second heating part, and a third heating part that covers the bottom 143 of the holding part 140.

[0050] As another example, the holding part 140 may include an opening / closing mechanism such as a hinge that opens and closes a part of the outer shell forming the internal space 141. And the holding part 140 may sandwich the stick-shaped base material 150 inserted into the internal space 141 by opening and closing a part of the outer shell. In that case, the heating part 121B may be provided at the sandwiching portion in the holding part 140 and heat while pressing the stick-shaped base material 150.

[0051] Also, the means for atomizing the aerosol source is not limited to heating by the heating part 121B. For example, the means for atomizing the aerosol source may be induction heating. Further, for example, the fragrance attracting device 100B itself does not include a heating element, and the stick-shaped base material 150 may have a heating element. In this case, the fragrance attracting device 100B may be configured such that the aerosol source contained in the base material part 151 is atomized by sending a certain kind of energy to the heating element of the stick-shaped base material 150. More specifically, for example, a susceptor may be embedded in the stick-shaped base material 150 in advance, the fragrance attracting device 100B includes a coil for generating a magnetic field, and the aerosol source may be atomized by induction heating.

[0052] Further, the flavor attracting device 100B etc. may further include a heating unit 121A, a liquid guiding unit 122, a liquid storage unit 123, and an air flow path 180 according to the first configuration example, and the air outlet hole 182 of the air flow path 180 may also serve as an air inlet hole to the internal space 141. In this case, the mixed fluid of the aerosol and air generated by the heating unit 121A flows into the internal space 141 and is further mixed with the aerosol generated by the heating unit 121B, and reaches the user's oral cavity.

[0053] (Heating profile) FIG. 2 is a diagram showing an example of a heating profile. In the example shown in FIG. 2, the heating profile is a graph representing the time change of the target temperature in the control of the heating unit 121. The temperature control of the heating unit 121 can be realized by, for example, known feedback control. Specifically, the control unit 116 can supply the power from the power supply unit 111 to the heating unit 121 in the form of pulses by pulse width modulation (PWM) or pulse frequency modulation (PFM). In this case, the control unit 116 can control the temperature of the heating unit 121 by adjusting the duty ratio of the power pulses.

[0054] In feedback control, the control unit 116 measures or estimates the temperature of the heating unit 121, and controls the power supplied to the heating unit 121, for example, the duty ratio described above, based on the difference between the measured or estimated temperature of the heating unit 121 and the target temperature. The feedback control may be, for example, PID control. The temperature of the heating unit 121 can be quantified, for example, by measuring or estimating the electrical resistance value of the heating resistor constituting the heating unit 121. This is because the electrical resistance value of the heating resistor changes according to the temperature. The electrical resistance value of the heating resistor can be estimated, for example, by measuring the voltage drop amount across the heating resistor. The voltage drop amount across the heating resistor can be measured by a voltage sensor that measures the potential difference applied to the heating resistor. In other examples, the temperature of the heating unit 121 can be measured by a temperature sensor installed near the heating unit 121.

[0055] As described above, the control unit 116 controls the power supplied to the heating unit 121 so that the actual temperature of the heating unit 121 approaches the target temperature of the heating profile. In the example of FIG. 2, for example, when the detection of the insertion of the stick-shaped substrate 150, a heating start request from the user by pressing a button or the like, etc. is used as a trigger and the power supply from the power supply unit 111 to the heating unit 121 is started, the control unit 116 first controls the temperature of the heating unit 121 toward the first target temperature TA1 during the first period P1. That is, the control unit 116 heats the heating unit 121 from the initial temperature toward the first target temperature TA1. In the first period P1, when the heating unit 121 reaches the first target temperature TA1, the control unit 116 controls so that the temperature of the heating unit 121 maintains the first target temperature TA1.

[0056] The first target temperature TA1 is preferably 225 to 240°C, may typically be 230°C, and may further be 300°C or 350°C. By setting the first target temperature TA1 relatively high in the first period P1, the temperature increase rate of the heating unit 121 can be increased. By increasing the temperature increase rate of the heating unit 121, the period from the start of the power supply to the heating unit 121 until aerosol suction becomes possible can be shortened.

[0057] The control unit 116 may be configured to notify the user that the suction possible period has started during the first period P1 and within the period in which the temperature of the heating unit 121 is maintained at the first target temperature TA1. The notification that the suction possible period has started can be performed under the control of the notification unit 113, and can be performed, for example, by controlling the emission color of a light emitting element such as an LED to change, changing the emission pattern, etc., or a combination thereof.

[0058] In the example of FIG. 2, the notification that the aspirable period has started is made at timing T2. More specifically, the notification that the aspirable period has started may be made at the earlier of timing T2 when a predetermined period P1b has elapsed after the temperature of the heating unit 121 reaches the first target temperature, and the timing when a predetermined period has elapsed since the start of power supply to the heating unit 121. The predetermined period P1b is preferably 20 to 26 seconds and may typically be 23 seconds. Preferably, the control unit 116 may be configured to notify that the aspirable period has started in the second half of the first period P1. The second half of the first period P1 means the period after the middle of the first period P1.

[0059] In this example, the control unit 116 shifts to a second period P2, which will be described later, at timing T3 when a predetermined period P1c has elapsed since the timing T2 at which the start of the aspirable period was notified. The predetermined period P1c is 5 to 15 seconds. According to this, it is assumed that the user performs the first aspiration operation during the first period P1. That is, while the heater temperature is maintained near the first target temperature TA1, which is the highest temperature of the heating profile, the user can be made to perform the first aspiration operation.

[0060] The first period P1 varies depending on the heating state of the heating unit 121 and the smoking article 110, the ambient temperature, etc., but may typically be in the range of 35 to 55 seconds. Therefore, the period from timing T1 to T2 corresponds to a so-called preheating period, but in this embodiment, the preheating period is assumed to be about a dozen to several tens of seconds in length.

[0061] Regarding the aerosol suction available period hereafter, various temperature control methods can be considered. In the example of FIG. 2, during the second period P2 after the first period P1, the control unit 116 controls the heating unit 121 to lower the temperature of the heating unit 121 from the first target temperature TA1 and maintain it at a second target temperature TA2 lower than the first target temperature TA1. Also, during the third period P3 after the second period P2, the control unit 116 controls the heating unit 121 to lower the temperature of the heating unit 121 from the second target temperature TA2 and maintain it at a third target temperature TA3 lower than the second target temperature TA2. Since the second period is maintained at a temperature higher than the third period P3, it becomes a period during which aerosol can be stably supplied.

[0062] Note that the control unit 116 may have a first off period in which power supply to the heating unit 121 is stopped from the end of the first period P1 to the start of the second period P2. By providing the first off period, the temperature drop from the first target temperature TA1 to the second target temperature TA2 can be achieved in the shortest time. The first off period is assumed to be in the range of, for example, 15 to 20 seconds. The control unit 116 can continue to measure the temperature of the heating unit 121 even during the first off period. In this case, the control unit 116 can be configured to resume power supply to the heating unit 121 when the temperature of the heating unit 121 drops near the second target temperature TA2.

[0063] Then, the control unit 116 stops power supply to the heating unit 121 simultaneously with the end of the third period P3. Next, the control unit 116 notifies the end of the aerosol suction available period at timing T7 after a predetermined period has elapsed since the power supply to the heating unit 121 was stopped (timing T6). That is, even after the power supply to the heating unit 121 is stopped, until a predetermined period has elapsed, the user can be prompted to perform the aerosol suction operation, and the user can taste the aerosol due to the residual heat of the heating unit 121 and the smoking article 110. Note that the notification of the end of the aerosol suction available period can be performed by the notification unit 113, for example, by controlling the emission color change of a light emitting element such as an LED, changing the emission pattern, or a combination thereof.

[0064] Further, the control unit 116 may notify the user that the end of the aspiratable period is approaching at a timing T5 that is a predetermined period Pe earlier than the timing T7 at which the end of the aspiratable period is notified. Such notification can be performed, for example, 20 to 40 seconds before the end of the aspiratable period. Such notification can be performed by the notification unit 113, and can be performed, for example, by controlling the emission color of a light-emitting element such as an LED to change, changing the emission pattern, or a combination thereof.

[0065] In the above-described aspect, the control unit 116 stops the power supply to the heating unit 121 at the end of the third period P3. In addition to this, the control unit 116 may stop the power supply to the heating unit 121 even within the second period P2 or the third period P3 when the number of suction operations by the user exceeds a predetermined number. The suction operation by the user can be detected, for example, by the above-described temperature sensor.

[0066] The heating profile representing the temperature control as illustrated in FIG. 2 is stored in the storage unit 114 of the flavor aspirator 100 or the like, and the control unit 116 can read the heating profile from the storage unit 114 and execute the control of the heating unit 121 in the preheating period and the aspiratable period according to the heating profile.

[0067] (Variation 1 of tactile stimulation) In the flavor aspirator 100 according to the present embodiment, in the above-described preheating period (the period from timing T0 to T2 in FIG. 2), the control unit 116 controls the tactile stimulation element included in the notification unit 113 to give a tactile stimulation to the user. Hereinafter, variations of the tactile stimulation will be described. In the following description, as an example, the case where the tactile stimulation element of the notification unit 113 is a vibration device such as a vibrator and the user is given vibration will be described.

[0068] Figs. 3 to 6 are diagrams illustrating variations in tactile stimuli. In Figs. 3 to 6, the horizontal axis of the graph represents time, and the vertical axis represents the intensity of vibration. That is, each bar shown in the graph represents the timing and intensity at which the control unit 116 controls a vibration device such as a vibration element that is the notification unit 113 to cause vibration.

[0069] The example shown in Fig. 3 represents the case where the control unit 116 controls the vibration device (notification unit 113) such that the interval between vibrations given to the user is constant and the intensity of vibration is constant. Also, at the start and end of preheating, it is shown that the notification unit 113 issues a notification using a different element or device etc. than during preheating (the period excluding the start and end of the preheating period during the preheating period). At the start and end of preheating, for example, the control unit 116 may execute control for changing the emission color of a light-emitting element such as an LED, changing the emission pattern (lighting, flashing, etc.), outputting sound, or outputting an image, character, or symbol etc. to the display, etc., other than vibration. Further, at the start and end of preheating, a tactile stimulus may be given to the user using a tactile stimulus element (a thermoelectric element, an electrode, etc.) different from the tactile stimulus element (in this example, the vibration device) used during preheating. (These embodiments can be similarly applied to other examples of tactile stimuli described hereinafter.)

[0070] Also, notifications may be made using the same elements or devices, etc. as during preheating at the start and end of preheating. For example, a vibration device may be configured to vibrate at the start, during, and end of preheating. In that case, at the start and end of preheating, it may vibrate with a vibration pattern different from that during preheating. For example, at the start and end of preheating, it may vibrate stronger, weaker, longer, shorter, or more times than during preheating. This can be expected to serve the role of notifying the user at the start and end of preheating, while eliminating the boredom of holding during preheating and making the waiting time until preheating is completed feel shorter. Also, by using the same elements or devices, etc. at the start and end of preheating as during preheating, it is not necessary to provide multiple types of elements or devices, etc., which also contributes to reducing the weight of the fragrance attracting device 100, etc. (These embodiments can be similarly applied in other examples of tactile stimuli described hereinafter.)

[0071] The example shown in FIG. 4 represents the case where the control unit 116 controls the vibration device (notification unit 113) so that the intensity of the vibration given to the user is constant, but the interval between vibrations gradually becomes shorter. In this case, the interval between vibrations may become shorter linearly or non-linearly. For example, the interval from the (N - 1)th vibration to the Nth vibration may be (the number of vibrations planned + 1 - N) seconds. Also, for example, the interval between vibrations may become shorter exponentially. Also, the control unit 116 may control the vibration device (notification unit 113) so that the interval between vibrations gradually becomes longer. In this case as well, the interval between vibrations may become longer linearly or non-linearly. For example, the interval from the (N - 1)th vibration to the Nth vibration may be N seconds. Also, for example, the interval between vibrations may become longer exponentially. Also, the interval between vibrations may change periodically. For example, the interval between vibrations may alternate between long and short.

[0072] The example shown in Fig. 5 represents the case where the control unit 116 controls the vibration device (notification unit 113) such that the interval of the vibrations given to the user is constant, but the intensity gradually increases. In this case, the intensity of the vibration may increase linearly or non-linearly. For example, the intensity of the N-th vibration may be A (predetermined intensity) * N. Also, for example, the intensity of the vibration may increase exponentially. Further, the control unit 116 may control the vibration device (notification unit 113) such that the intensity of the vibration gradually decreases. In this case, the intensity of the vibration may decrease linearly or non-linearly. For example, the intensity of the N-th vibration may be A (predetermined intensity) * (the total number of scheduled vibrations + 1 - N). Also, for example, the intensity of the vibration may decrease exponentially. Further, the intensity of the vibration may change periodically. For example, the intensity of the vibration may alternate between strong and weak.

[0073] Moreover, the control unit 116 may control the vibration device (notification unit 113) such that the interval and intensity of the vibration change with each vibration. For example, the interval of the vibration may become shorter while the intensity of the vibration increases or decreases. Also, the interval of the vibration may become longer while the intensity of the vibration increases or decreases.

[0074] Also, the vibration time of each vibration may be fixed or variable. For example, the vibration time may become longer or shorter each time the vibration device vibrates. Also, the vibration time of each vibration may change linearly or non-linearly. For example, the control unit 116 may control the vibration device (notification unit 113) such that the vibration time of the N-th vibration is X (predetermined time length) * N, or the control unit 116 may control the vibration device (notification unit 113) such that the vibration time of the N-th vibration is X (predetermined time length) * (the total number of scheduled vibrations + 1 - N). Also, the vibration time may change periodically. For example, the vibration time may alternate between long and short.

[0075] Also, each vibration may be a collection of multiple vibrations. That is, regarding a collection of multiple vibrations as one operation, the control unit 116 may execute each control as described above. FIG. 6 is a diagram illustrating a case where each vibration is a collection of multiple vibrations. As shown in FIG. 6, the vibration device may be configured to vibrate once at the start of preheating, vibrate three times at short intervals at the end of preheating, and vibrate twice at short intervals during preheating, and repeat this while gradually increasing (or gradually decreasing) the vibration intensity at regular time intervals. According to such a vibration pattern, it is possible to clearly notify the user of the start and end of preheating only by the vibration device, and during preheating, it is expected to eliminate the boredom of holding and make the waiting time until preheating is completed feel shorter. Further, by using only the vibration device at the start of preheating, during preheating, and at the end of preheating, it is not necessary to provide other types of elements or devices, etc., which also contributes to the weight reduction of the fragrance attracting device 100, etc. As described above, at the start and end of preheating, notifications may be made using elements or devices different from those during preheating. Thereby, it is possible to clearly distinguish for the user between the notifications at the start and end of preheating and the vibration pattern during preheating.

[0076] Further, for example, the vibration may be changed in relation to the temperature of the heating unit 121. For example, as the temperature of the heating unit 121 rises, the vibration interval of the vibration device may become shorter or longer, the vibration intensity may increase or decrease, or the vibration time may become longer or shorter, etc. The control unit 116 can determine the temperature of the heating unit 121 by using signals such as a thermometer provided near the heating unit 121, the electrical resistance of the heater, and the inductance of the coil.

[0077] Also, during preheating, a vibration with a long vibration time may be given to the user once. In this case, the vibration may have a constant intensity or a changing intensity. Also, the intensity of the vibration during vibration may change periodically. For example, a strong vibration and a weak vibration may be alternately given to the user every 3 seconds. Also, the intensity of the vibration during vibration may change so as to periodically increase or decrease. Also, the vibration time at each intensity may change periodically. Furthermore, vibration may always be given to the user during preheating.

[0078] Also, in the tactile stimulus pattern described above, the case where the tactile stimulus element is a vibration device such as a vibrator and vibration is given to the user has been described, but it is not limited to this. The tactile stimulus element may be a thermoelectric element and may be adapted to transmit heat to the user. Also, the tactile stimulus element may be an electrode and may be adapted to give an electrical stimulus to the user.

[0079] Also, in addition to the tactile stimulus to the user by the tactile stimulus element described above during preheating, as some kind of notification to the user, change the emission color of a light-emitting element such as an LED, change the emission pattern (lighting, blinking, etc.), execute voice output, or output an image, character, or symbol etc. to a display. By this, it is possible to give a psychological effect such as eliminating the boredom during the preheating period or making the preheating time feel shorter, and at the same time, convenience for the user can be ensured.

[0080] (Test) The inventors conducted tests on the fragrance attracting device etc. according to the present invention as follows.

[0081] (1) Outline of the test · The number of subjects was 7. · As a substitute for the fragrance attracting device etc. according to the present invention, each subject was made to hold a rod-shaped vibrator about 10 cm (centimeters) in length. · The vibrator was vibrated with 3 samples (vibration patterns). · The duration of the sample was set to two types, 10 seconds and 20 seconds, corresponding to the preheating time. That is, six types of tests (3 samples × 2 types of durations) were conducted for each subject. · For each experience of one sample, the subject answered questions from the answering software. Further, after presenting 3 samples, questions were asked by the moderator. This was carried out for the sample durations of 10 seconds and 20 seconds. · In order to prevent the subject from counting the number of seconds during the test, "mental arithmetic aloud" was carried out. (Mental arithmetic aloud: Performing the calculation of adding 7 to a random two-digit integer (50 or less) out loud.)

[0082] (2) Question items for each experience of one sample (answered with software) · How many seconds did the duration of the sample feel like? · How fast did the time pass?

[0083] (3) Presented vibration patterns The vibration patterns presented to the subjects were the following three. (i) Constant vibration: Vibration at a constant interval. It vibrates twice briefly at the start and end of the experience. (ii) Changing vibration: The intensity of the vibration gradually increases at a constant interval. It vibrates twice briefly at the start and end of the experience. (iii) Control: No vibration. (It vibrates twice briefly only at the start and end of the experience)

[0084] Figure 7 is a diagram showing the outline of the above (i) constant vibration. In the sample of constant vibration, the vibrator was controlled so that it vibrated twice briefly at the start and end of the experience (hereinafter referred to as "notification vibration"). The constant vibration was started 0.5 seconds after the notification vibration occurred, and the vibrator was controlled so that the notification vibration occurred 0.5 seconds after the constant vibration ended.

[0085] FIG. 8 is a diagram showing an overview of the above (ii) change vibration. In the sample of the change vibration, the vibrator was controlled so that notification vibration (short vibration twice) occurred at the start and end of the experience. The change vibration was started 0.5 seconds after the notification vibration occurred, and the vibrator was controlled so that the notification vibration occurred 0.5 seconds after the change ended. The vibrations occurred at regular intervals, and the vibrator was controlled so that the intensity of the vibration increased linearly.

[0086] (4) Test results FIGS. 9 and 10 are diagrams showing the response results of the subjects to the questions in the above (2).

[0087] FIG. 9 shows the responses of the subjects to the question "How many seconds did the sample duration feel like?". For example, the graph of "10 - control" represents the user's response to the sample of the above (iii) control with a sample duration of 10 seconds. According to the response results in FIG. 9, it can be seen that in both cases where the sample duration was 10 seconds and 20 seconds, "constant vibration" was felt to have a shorter duration than "control", and "changing vibration" was felt to have a shorter duration than "constant vibration". Also, the average value of "10 - constant" exceeds 10 seconds, but the average value of "10 - changing" is less than 10 seconds, the average value of "20 - constant" is about 17.6 seconds, and the average value of "20 - changing" is less than 17 seconds. Considering that the preheating time of an actual fragrance attracting device, etc. is generally in the range of ten-odd to dozens of seconds, it was found that the fragrance attracting device, etc. according to the present invention can be expected to have a sufficient effect of making the waiting time for preheating feel shorter.

[0088] In addition, FIG. 10 shows the answers of the subjects to the question of "how fast time passed", and represents the result of obtaining the average value by asking them to numerically answer how they felt when "very fast" was set to "0" and "very slow" was set to "100". According to the answer results in FIG. 10, it can be seen that "constant vibration" makes time feel like it passes faster than "control" both when the sample duration is 10 seconds and 20 seconds, and further, "changing vibration" makes time feel like it passes even faster than "constant vibration". According to the results in FIG. 10, it was found that the flavor attracting device and the like according to the present invention can be fully expected to have the effect of making the waiting time for preheating feel short.

[0089] (Variation 2 of tactile stimulation) Regarding further examples of variations of tactile stimulation, it will be described below. FIGS. 11A to D are diagrams showing examples of variations of visual stimulation described below. As shown in FIGS. 11A to D, in this example, the following four patterns of tactile stimulation are described. · Pattern 1 (FIG. 11A) · Pattern 2 (FIG. 11B) · Pattern 3 (FIG. 11C) · Pattern 4 (FIG. 11D)

[0090] Pattern 1 is a pattern in which the intensity of the vibration applied to the user is constant, but the interval between vibrations gradually becomes shorter. In FIG. 11A, the horizontal direction from left to right represents the passage of time, and each of the short horizontal lines indicates the generated vibration. Also, the star marks at both ends mean the start and end of preheating.

[0091] Pattern 2 is a vibration that "imitates the heartbeat" and is a pattern in which one major vibration is composed of a set of multiple vibrations whose intensity gradually weakens. In the example of FIG. 11B, one major vibration is composed of a set of three vibrations, but it is not limited to this, and one vibration may be composed of a set of two or four or more vibrations. Also, in this example, the intensity of the major vibration gradually decreases. Also, in the example of FIG. 11B, the intensity of multiple major vibrations gradually weakens, but this is just an example. The intensity of multiple major vibrations may gradually increase, increase and decrease, be constant, etc. Also, the interval between major vibrations may be constant, gradually shorten, or gradually lengthen. In this example, it is assumed that the interval between major vibrations gradually shortens.

[0092] Pattern 3 is a continuous single vibration, and is a pattern in which the intensity of the vibration rises and falls over time. Here, the horizontal axis of the graphs in FIGS. 11B and 11C represents time, and the vertical axis represents the intensity of the vibration. However, the bars at both ends of these graphs mean the start and end of preheating.

[0093] Pattern 4 is a pattern in which the intensity and interval of the vibration change randomly. The horizontal axis of the graph in FIG. 11D represents time, and the vertical axis represents the intensity of the vibration.

[0094] (Test) The inventors experimentally had 12 subjects experience a fragrance attracting device or the like that gives tactile stimuli of Patterns 1 to 4 with respect to the vibration patterns illustrated in FIGS. 11A to D, and had them evaluate on a 7-point scale for 5 evaluation items for each pattern. The details of the test are as follows.

[0095] 1. Conditions · The time from the start to the end of the vibration of each pattern is 25 seconds. · The presentation order of Patterns 1 to 4 is random for each subject. · The presentation method of each pattern is as follows.

[0096] (No Vibration) Only the start and end of the test are notified by vibration, and no vibration is presented from start to end.

[0097] (Pattern 1) The start and end of the test are notified to the subject by vibration, and "gradually shortening intervals" vibration is presented from start to end. (The intensity of the vibration is constant)

[0098] (Pattern 2) The start and end of the test are notified to the subject by vibration, and "simulating a heartbeat" vibration is presented from start to end. In the test, the vibration pattern described with reference to Fig. 11B was used. As time passes, the intensity of the vibration gradually decreases, and the interval of the vibration gradually becomes shorter. Also, in this test, the vibrations at the start and end of the test are composed of a set of multiple vibrations or vibrations that continue for a certain time (about 0.5 to 1 second) (note that the vibrations at the start and end may be composed in different forms). And, from the end point of the vibration at the start of the test to the start point of the vibration at the end of the test, it is 25 seconds. Note that this is the same for the other vibration patterns 1, 3, and 4.

[0099] (Pattern 3) The start and end of the test are notified to the subject by vibration, and "sine wave-like" vibration is presented from start to end. More specifically, the intensity of the vibration changes in a certain pattern. In the test, the vibration pattern described with reference to Fig. 11C was used.

[0100] (Pattern 4) In addition to the start and end timings of the test, random vibrations are presented from start to end. The random vibration patterns are created by multiple types of short-time vibration patterns with no specific regularity in the intensity and pattern of the vibration, and they are generated at arbitrary timings without overlap from the start to the end of the preheating time.

[0101] 2. Procedure The subject is provided with a test device equivalent to the flavor suction device of this example. Vibration is presented by the subject pressing a button on the test device or by an operation of the control computer of the test implementer. Regarding the items displayed on the screen of the computer device, the subject himself / herself inputs answers to the computer device, and the subjective evaluation of the vibration experience is answered.

[0102] 3. Evaluation Items For each of the five evaluation items, the positive and negative evaluations are presented side by side in the left - right direction, and the subject is asked to answer which one of them is more applicable according to a 7 - level score value of "very much / quite / slightly / can't say either way / slightly / quite / very much". The evaluation items are: (i) whether it was fun during the vibration presentation, (ii) whether it was a calming time during the vibration presentation, (iii) whether it was a time when concentration was possible during the vibration presentation, (iv) whether the time of the vibration presentation felt like it passed quickly, (v) whether it was comfortable during the vibration presentation. Also, the positive and negative evaluations of each evaluation item are as follows. (Item i) It was a fun time - It was a boring time (Item ii) It was a calming time - It was a tense time (Item iii) It was a time when concentration was possible - It was a time when the mind wandered (Item iv) The time passed quickly - The time passed slowly (Item v) It was a comfortable time - It was an uncomfortable time

[0103] 4. Test Results Figures 12 and 13 are diagrams showing the results of the test. Figure 12 shows the results for item iv. Figure 13 shows the test results for item i. The bar graphs in Figures 12 and 13 show the average values of 12 subjects for the score values of each vibration pattern. Referring to Figure 12, the score values of all vibration patterns were higher than those without vibration (NoVibration). That is, it can be said that the subjects felt that time passed more quickly significantly when any vibration pattern was presented than when there was no vibration. Also, referring to Figure 13, the score values of all vibration patterns were higher than those without vibration (NoVibration). That is, it can be said that the subjects felt that it was a more enjoyable time when any vibration pattern was presented than when there was no vibration. Regarding this result, it can be said that it is significant for vibration patterns other than pattern 2 and there is a tendency towards significance for pattern 2. According to the results of the above test, when accompanied by vibration patterns 1 to 4, it was found that the effect of making the user feel more enjoyable during the preheating of the fragrance attracting device or the like and making the waiting time for preheating feel as if it passed more quickly than when there is no vibration can be sufficiently expected.

[0104] By the way, when preheating the fragrance attracting device or the like 100, (a) as shown in Figure 2, there is a method of preheating towards a target temperature determined in advance, and (b) there may be a method of determining the preheating time (length) in advance and controlling the heating unit 121 so that the preheating is completed within the preheating time. In the case of (b), the preheating time is known (determined) in advance. Therefore, for example, in the case of a vibration pattern as shown in Fig. 11B, if the entire preheating time is divided by the ratio (or a constant interval) at which the vibration interval is shortened, it is possible to determine at what timing the tactile stimulation element (notification unit 113) is vibrated. In the case of (a), the time when the preheating is completed is unknown. In this case, for example, the past preheating time may be stored in the storage unit 114, and if this past preheating time, or a plurality of past preheating times are stored, these average times may be assumed to be the future preheating time. Then, if this assumed preheating time is divided in consideration of the ratio (or a constant interval) at which the vibration interval is shortened, it is possible to determine at what timing the tactile stimulation element (notification unit 113) is vibrated. Furthermore, regardless of the assumed preheating time, each preprogrammed vibration pattern is reproduced, and if the actual preheating time is shorter than the reproduction time of the vibration pattern, the remaining time may not have the vibration pattern reproduced (no vibration).

[0105] Incidentally, the tactile stimulation as described above can be realized by the control unit 116 controlling the tactile stimulation element (notification unit 113) using the data for controlling the tactile stimulation element held in the storage unit 114. The data for controlling the tactile stimulation element may be stored in the storage unit 114 in advance, for example, by storing it in advance at the time of manufacturing the fragrance attracting device 100 or the like. On the other hand, by the user operating their smartphone or the like, data of the tactile stimulation pattern designated by the user may be downloaded from a server device holding data of various tactile stimulation patterns to the storage unit 114 of the fragrance attracting device 100 or the like.

[0106] FIG. 14 is a diagram showing a configuration example of a system when data of a tactile stimulation pattern is downloaded from a server device to a fragrance suction device 100 or the like. The system may include, for example, the fragrance suction device 100 or the like according to the present embodiment, a user device 200, and a server device 300. The user device 200 is a device used by a user of the fragrance suction device 100 or the like. The user device 200 may be configured as a general computer device, but is more preferably a portable computer device such as a smartphone, a feature phone, a PDA (Personal Digital Assistant), a notebook computer, or a tablet computer. However, it is not limited thereto. The user device 200 may be a stationary computer device such as a desktop computer, for example. The fragrance suction device 100 or the like and the user device 200, and the user device 200 and the server device 300 can transmit and receive data to and from each other by wired or wireless communication technologies, respectively. The user device 200 and the server device 300 may have a hardware configuration similar to that of a general computer device. The user device 200 and the server device 300 include, for example, a control unit, a RAM (Random Access Memory), a ROM (Read Only Memory), a built-in hard disk device, a removable memory such as an external hard disk device, a CD, a DVD, a USB memory, a memory stick, an SD card, etc., and an input / output user interface (keyboard, mouse, touch panel, speaker, microphone, LED (light emitting diode), etc.) for the user to input and output data to and from the user device 200 or the server device 300, a wired / wireless communication interface capable of communicating with other computer devices, and a display device such as a display. The control unit may be realized by an electronic circuit such as a CPU and a microprocessor, for example. By appropriately reading out programs and data necessary for processing stored in a storage area such as a hard disk device or a ROM into a memory area such as a RAM and executing them, each process in the user device 200 and the server device 300 can be executed.

[0107] The server device 300 pre - holds data of a plurality of tactile stimulation patterns in a storage area such as a RAM, a ROM, or a built - in hard disk device, for example. On the other hand, the user device 200 receives a list of data of a plurality of tactile stimulation patterns held by the server device 300 from the server device 300 as appropriate, and stores it in a storage area such as a RAM or a built - in hard disk device. The user checks the list displayed on the display device of the user device 200 and selects one or more tactile stimulation patterns that the user wants to download to the fragrance attracting device 100 or the like. Data indicating the one or more tactile stimulation patterns selected by the user is transmitted to the server device 300 by wired or wireless communication. When the server device 300 receives the data indicating the one or more tactile stimulation patterns, it transmits the data of the corresponding one or more tactile stimulation patterns to the user device 200. When the user device 200 receives the data of one or more tactile stimulation patterns from the server device 300, it transmits this data to the fragrance attracting device 100 or the like by, for example, Bluetooth communication or other wired or wireless communication. The fragrance attracting device 100 or the like stores the data of the one or more tactile stimulation patterns received from the user device 200 in the storage unit 114. Thereby, the control unit 116 of the fragrance attracting device 100 or the like controls the tactile stimulation element (notification unit 113) using the data of the one or more tactile stimulation patterns, and vibrates the tactile stimulation element (notification unit 113) according to the desired tactile stimulation pattern of the user.

[0108] So far, the embodiments of the present invention have been described. Needless to say, the present invention is not limited to the above - described embodiments, and may be implemented in various different forms within the scope of its technical idea.

[0109] Moreover, the scope of the present invention is not limited to the illustrated and described exemplary embodiments, but also includes all embodiments that bring about equivalent effects to those intended by the present invention. Furthermore, the scope of the present invention is not limited to the combination of the features of the invention defined by each claim, but may be defined by any desired combination of specific features among all the disclosed respective features.

[0110] Incidentally, the following configurations also belong to the technical scope of the present invention.

[0111] (1) A device that is an aroma attracting device or an aerosol generating device, a tactile stimulation element, a control unit that controls the tactile stimulation element, and the control unit operates the tactile stimulation element during preheating of an aroma source or an aerosol source.

[0112] (2) The device according to (1) above, wherein the control unit operates the tactile stimulation element a plurality of times during the preheating.

[0113] (3) The device according to (1) or (2) above, wherein the control unit operates the tactile stimulation element at regular intervals during the preheating.

[0114] (4) The device according to (1) or (2) above, wherein the control unit changes the interval of the operation of the tactile stimulation element during the preheating.

[0115] (5) The device according to any one of (1) to (4) above, wherein the control unit changes the operation intensity of the tactile stimulation element during the preheating.

[0116] (6) During the preheating, the control unit acquires a signal related to the temperature of the flavor source or the aerosol source, or the temperature of the heating unit provided in the device, and changes the operation of the tactile stimulation element according to the signal. The device according to any one of (1) to (5) above.

[0117] (7) The control unit operates the tactile stimulation element at the start or end of the preheating of the flavor source or the aerosol source. The device according to any one of (1) to (6) above.

[0118] (8) The operation of the tactile stimulation element during the preheating is different from the operation at the start or end of the preheating. The device according to (7) above.

[0119] (9) The operation of the tactile stimulation element is vibration. The device according to any one of (1) to (8) above.

[0120] (10) The vibration is composed of a plurality of main vibrations, and each of the plurality of main vibrations is composed of a plurality of sets of vibrations. The device according to (9) above.

[0121] (11) The plurality of sets of vibrations are sets of vibrations whose intensity gradually weakens. The device according to (10) above.

[0122] (12) The vibration is a continuous single vibration, and the intensity of the vibration changes in a certain pattern over time. The device according to (9) above.

[0123] (13) A control method for a device which is a flavor suction device or an aerosol generating device provided with a tactile stimulation element and a flavor source or an aerosol source, A control method including a step of operating the tactile stimulation element during the preheating of the flavor source or the aerosol source.

[0124] (14) A processor of a device, which is a fragrance suction device or an aerosol generating device including a tactile stimulation element and a fragrance source or an aerosol source, A program for causing the tactile stimulation element to operate during preheating of the fragrance source or the aerosol source.

Explanation of Signs

[0125] 100A, 100B... Fragrance suction devices, etc. 110... Power supply unit 111A, 111B... Power supply parts 112A, 112B... Sensor parts 113A, 113B... Notification parts 114A, 114B... Storage parts 115A, 115B... Communication parts 116A, 116B... Control parts 117A, 117B... Conversion parts 120... Cartridge 121A, 121B... Heating parts 122... Liquid guiding part 123... Liquid storage part 124... Mouthpiece 130... Fragrance cartridge 131... Fragrance source 140... Holding part 141... Internal space 142... Opening 143... Bottom 144... Heat insulation part 150... Stick-shaped base material 151... Base material part 152... Suction port part 180... Air flow path 181... Air inlet hole 182... Air outlet hole

Claims

1. A device which is a fragrance attracting appliance or an aerosol generating device, comprising a tactile stimulation element, and a control unit for controlling the tactile stimulation element, wherein the control unit operates the tactile stimulation element during preheating of a fragrance source or an aerosol source. A device.

2. The device according to claim 1, wherein the control unit operates the tactile stimulation element a plurality of times during the preheating.

3. The device according to claim 1, wherein the control unit operates the tactile stimulation element at regular intervals during the preheating.

4. The device according to claim 1, wherein the control unit changes an interval of operation of the tactile stimulation element during the preheating.

5. The device according to claim 1, wherein the control unit changes an operation intensity of the tactile stimulation element during the preheating.

6. The device according to claim 1, wherein the control unit acquires a signal regarding a temperature of the fragrance source or the aerosol source, or a temperature of a heating unit provided in the device during the preheating, and changes the operation of the tactile stimulation element according to the signal.

7. The device according to claim 1, wherein the control unit operates the tactile stimulation element at the start or end of preheating of the fragrance source or the aerosol source.

8. The device according to claim 7, wherein the operation of the tactile stimulation element during the preheating is different from the operation at the start or end of the preheating.

9. The device according to any one of claims 1 to 8, wherein the operation of the tactile stimulation element is vibration.

10. The device according to claim 9, wherein the vibration is composed of a plurality of main vibrations, and each of the plurality of main vibrations is composed of a plurality of sets of vibrations.

11. The device according to claim 10, wherein the plurality of sets of vibrations are sets of vibrations whose intensity gradually weakens.

12. The device according to claim 9, wherein the vibration is a continuous single vibration, and the intensity of the vibration changes in a certain pattern over time.

13. A control method for a device which is a fragrance attracting appliance or an aerosol generating device, comprising a tactile stimulation element and a fragrance source or an aerosol source, the control method including a step of operating the tactile stimulation element during preheating of the fragrance source or the aerosol source.

14. In a processor of a device which is a fragrance attracting appliance or an aerosol generating device, comprising a tactile stimulation element and a fragrance source or an aerosol source, A program for executing a step of operating the tactile stimulator during preheating of the fragrance source or the aerosol source.

Images