Aerosol generation system and control method

Abstract

[Problem] To provide a mechanism capable of further improving the quality of user experience. [Solution] An aerosol generating system comprising: a power source unit; a heating unit that heats an aerosol source by using power supplied from the power source unit; a temperature changing unit that changes the temperature in following with a temperature change of the heating unit; and a control unit that controls operation of the heating unit on the basis of the difference between the temperature of the heating unit and the temperature of the temperature changing unit, the difference therebetween being indicated by a first measured value measured as a parameter corresponding to the temperature of the heating unit and a second measured value measured as a parameter corresponding to the temperature of the temperature changing unit.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present disclosure relates to an aerosol generation system and a control method.

Background Art

[0002] Suction devices that generate substances to be inhaled by users, such as electronic cigarettes and nebulizers, have become widespread. For example, a suction device uses a base material including an aerosol source for generating an aerosol and a flavor source for imparting a flavor component to the generated aerosol, etc., to generate an aerosol to which a flavor component is imparted. A user can experience the taste by inhaling the aerosol to which a flavor component is imparted, generated by the suction device. The operation of a user inhaling an aerosol is hereinafter also referred to as a puff or a puff operation.

[0003] The taste experienced by a user is greatly affected by the temperature at which the aerosol source is heated. Therefore, it is desirable to heat the aerosol source at an appropriate temperature. In this regard, Patent Document 1 below discloses providing a component whose resistance changes with temperature change and using it to control the temperature of the heating part.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0004]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0005] However, the technology disclosed in the above patent document has been developed for only a short time and has room for improvement from various viewpoints.

[0006] Therefore, the present disclosure has been made in view of the above problems, and an object of the present disclosure is to provide a mechanism capable of further improving the quality of the user experience.

Means for Solving the Problem

[0007] According to an aspect of the present disclosure, in order to solve the above problems, there is provided an aerosol generation system including a power supply unit, a heating unit that heats an aerosol source using the power supplied from the power supply unit, a temperature change unit that changes in temperature following the temperature change of the heating unit, and a control unit that controls the operation of the heating unit based on the difference between the temperature of the heating unit and the temperature of the temperature change unit, which is indicated by a first measurement value measured as a parameter corresponding to the temperature of the heating unit and a second measurement value measured as a parameter corresponding to the temperature of the temperature change unit.

[0008] The control unit may switch a parameter used as a basis for controlling power supply to the heating unit based on the difference between the temperature of the heating unit and the temperature of the temperature change unit.

[0009] The control unit may switch a parameter used as a basis for restarting power supply to the heating unit after temporarily stopping the power supply to the heating unit based on the difference between the temperature of the heating unit and the temperature of the temperature change unit.

[0010] When the difference between the temperature of the heating unit and the temperature of the temperature change unit is included in a first range, the control unit may restart power supply to the heating unit based on the second measurement value.

[0011] When the difference between the temperature of the heating unit and the temperature of the temperature change unit exceeds the first range and is included in a second range wider than the first range, the control unit may restart power supply to the heating unit based on the elapsed time.

[0012] When the difference between the temperature of the heating unit and the temperature of the temperature change unit exceeds the second range, the control unit may perform at least one of stopping power supply to the heating unit or prohibiting power supply to the heating unit.

[0013] The control unit may set the first range and the second range based on the difference between the temperature of the heating unit acquired when the heating by the heating unit is first executed and the temperature of the temperature change unit.

[0014] The aerosol generation system includes a storage unit that stores information, and the control unit controls the operation of the heating unit based on control information that defines the time-series transition of the target value of the temperature for heating the aerosol source. In a sampling period that is part of the period in which the time-series transition of the target value is defined by the control information, the difference between the temperature of the heating unit and the temperature of the temperature change unit is acquired and stored in the storage unit, and the operation of the heating unit may be controlled based on the difference between the temperature of the heating unit and the temperature of the temperature change unit stored in the storage unit.

[0015] The control unit acquires the difference between the temperature of the heating unit and the temperature of the temperature change unit a plurality of times during the sampling period, stores the statistical value of the differences between the temperatures of the plurality of heating units and the temperature of the temperature change unit in the storage unit, and may control the operation of the heating unit based on the statistical value of the difference between the temperature of the heating unit and the temperature of the temperature change unit stored in the storage unit.

[0016] The period in which the time-series transition of the target value is defined by the control information includes a period in which the temperature of the heating unit is temporarily decreased in the middle, and the control unit stops power supply to the heating unit during the period in which the temperature of the heating unit is decreased, and the sampling period may be a period after the period in which the temperature of the heating unit is decreased.

[0017] The control unit may set the sampling period based on the first measurement value when starting the heating by the heating unit based on the control information.

[0018] The higher the temperature of the heating unit indicated by the first measurement value when starting the heating by the heating unit based on the control information, the earlier the control unit may set the timing for starting the sampling period.

[0019] The heating unit is a resistive heating element that generates heat when an electric current is applied, the first measured value is the electrical resistance value of the resistive heating element, the temperature change unit is a resistor whose electrical resistance value changes in response to a temperature change, and the second measured value may be the electrical resistance value of the resistor.

[0020] The aerosol generation system may further include a substrate containing the aerosol source.

[0021] Also, in order to solve the above problems, according to another aspect of the present disclosure, there is provided a control method for controlling an aerosol generation system, the aerosol generation system including a power supply unit, a heating unit that uses the power supplied from the power supply unit to heat an aerosol source, and a temperature change unit that changes in temperature following the temperature change of the heating unit, the control method including controlling the operation of the heating unit based on a difference between the temperature of the heating unit and the temperature of the temperature change unit, the difference being indicated by a first measured value measured as a value corresponding to the temperature of the heating unit and a second measured value measured as a value corresponding to the temperature of the temperature change unit.

Advantages of the Invention

[0022] As described above, according to the present disclosure, a mechanism capable of further improving the quality of the user experience is provided.

Brief Description of the Drawings

[0023]

Figure 1

Figure 2

Figure 3

Figure 4

Best Mode for Carrying Out the Invention

[0024] Hereinafter, preferred embodiments of the present disclosure will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. In the present specification and drawings, components having substantially the same functional configuration are denoted by the same reference numerals, and redundant description is omitted.

[0025] <1. Configuration Example of Suction Device> The suction device is a device that generates a substance to be suctioned by a user. Hereinafter, it will be described on the assumption that the substance generated by the suction device is an aerosol. Alternatively, the substance generated by the suction device may be a gas.

[0026] FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram schematically showing a configuration example of the suction device. As shown in FIG. 1, the suction device 100 according to this configuration example includes a power supply unit 111, a sensor unit 112, a notification unit 113, a storage unit 114, a communication unit 115, a control unit 116, a heating unit 121, a holding unit 140, and a heat insulation unit 144.

[0027] The power supply unit 111 accumulates electric power. Then, based on the control by the control unit 116, the power supply unit 111 supplies electric power to each component of the suction device 100. The power supply unit 111 can be configured by a rechargeable battery such as a lithium-ion secondary battery, for example.

[0028] The sensor unit 112 acquires various information regarding the suction device 100. As an example, the sensor unit 112 is composed of a pressure sensor such as a condenser microphone, a flow rate sensor, a temperature sensor, etc., and acquires values associated with suction by the user. As another example, the sensor unit 112 is composed of an input device such as a button or a switch that receives input of information from the user.

[0029] In particular, the sensor unit 112 has a thermistor 117 for detecting the temperature of the heating unit 121 from outside the heating unit 121. The thermistor 117 is an example of a temperature change part that changes in temperature following the temperature change of the heating unit 121. The thermistor 117 is arranged in the vicinity of the heating unit 121, such as being in close contact with the heating unit 121, and its temperature changes due to heat transfer from the heating unit 121. Then, the temperature of the thermistor 117 is detected as the temperature of the heating unit 121. The thermistor 117 includes a resistor whose electrical resistance value changes according to the temperature change. And based on the electrical resistance value of the resistor, the temperature of the thermistor 117 is calculated. The thermistor 117 can be configured as, for example, an NTC (negative temperature coefficient) thermistor, a PTC (positive temperature coefficient) thermistor, or a CTR (critical temperature resistor) thermistor. Alternatively, a resistance temperature detector composed of platinum or the like may be used as the temperature change part. The resistance temperature detector may sometimes be referred to as an RTD (Resistance Temperature Detector).

[0030] The notification unit 113 notifies the user of information. The notification unit 113 is composed of, for example, a light-emitting device that emits light, a display device that displays an image, a sound output device that outputs sound, or a vibration device that vibrates.

[0031] The storage unit 114 stores various information for the operation of the suction device 100. The storage unit 114 is composed of, for example, a non-volatile storage medium such as a flash memory.

[0032] The communication unit 115 is a communication interface capable of performing communication conforming to any wired or wireless communication standard. As such a communication standard, for example, standards using Wi-Fi (registered trademark), Bluetooth (registered trademark), or LPWA (Low Power Wide Area) may be adopted.

[0033] The control unit 116 functions as an arithmetic processing unit and a control device, and controls the overall operation within the suction device 100 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.

[0034] 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 with 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 with the opening 142 and the bottom 143 as the bottom surface, and defines a columnar internal space 141. An air flow path for supplying air to the internal space 141 is connected to the holding unit 140. The air inlet hole, which is the inlet of air into the air flow path, is arranged, for example, on the side surface of the suction device 100. The air outlet hole, which is the outlet of air from the air flow path to the internal space 141, is arranged, for example, on the bottom 143.

[0035] The stick-shaped base material 150 includes a base material part 151 and a suction port part 152. The base material part 151 includes an aerosol source. 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 suction device 100 is a medical inhaler such as a nebulizer, the aerosol source may contain a drug. In this configuration example, the aerosol source is not limited to a liquid and may be a solid. In a state where the stick-shaped base material 150 is held by the holding unit 140, at least a part of the base material part 151 is accommodated in the internal space 141, and at least a part of the suction port part 152 protrudes from the opening 142. Then, when the user holds and sucks the suction port part 152 protruding from the opening 142, air flows into the internal space 141 via an air flow path (not shown) and reaches the user's oral cavity together with the aerosol generated from the base material part 151.

[0036] The heating unit 121 atomizes the aerosol source by heating it to generate an aerosol. The heating unit 121 uses the electric power supplied from the power supply unit 111 to heat the aerosol source. In particular, the heating unit 121 is configured as a resistance heating element that generates heat due to electrical resistance when an electric current is applied. In the example shown in FIG. 1, the heating unit 121 is configured in a film shape and is arranged to cover the outer periphery of the holding unit 140. Then, when the heating unit 121 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. The heating unit 121 generates heat when power is supplied from the power supply unit 111. As an example, power may be supplied when the user starts suction and / or when predetermined information is detected by the sensor unit 112. And when it is detected by the sensor unit 112 that the user has finished suction and / or when predetermined information is input, the power supply may be stopped.

[0037] The heat insulation part 144 prevents heat transfer from the heating part 121 to other components. For example, the heat insulation part 144 is composed of a vacuum heat insulating material, an aerogel heat insulating material, or the like.

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

[0039] As an example, the heating unit 121 may be configured in a blade shape and arranged to protrude from the bottom 143 of the holding unit 140 into the internal space 141. In that case, the blade-shaped heating unit 121 is inserted into the base material portion 151 of the stick-shaped base material 150 and heats the base material portion 151 of the stick-shaped base material 150 from the inside. As another example, the heating unit 121 may be arranged to cover the bottom 143 of the holding unit 140. Further, the heating unit 121 may be configured as a combination of two or more of a first heating unit that covers the outer periphery of the holding unit 140, a blade-shaped second heating unit, and a third heating unit that covers the bottom 143 of the holding unit 140.

[0040] 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. Then, by opening and closing the outer shell, the holding part 140 may sandwich the stick-shaped base material 150 inserted into the internal space 141. In that case, the heating part 121 may be provided at the sandwiching portion in the holding part 140 and may heat while pressing the stick-shaped base material 150.

[0041] The stick-shaped base material 150 contains an aerosol source and is an example of a base material that contributes to the generation of an aerosol. The suction device 100 is an example of an aerosol generating device that heats the stick-shaped base material 150 to generate an aerosol. An aerosol is generated by the combination of the suction device 100 and the stick-shaped base material 150. Therefore, the combination of the suction device 100 and the stick-shaped base material 150 may be regarded as an aerosol generation system.

[0042] <2. Technical Features> <2.1. Heating Profile> The control part 116 controls the operation of the heating part 121 based on the heating profile. The control of the operation of the heating part 121 is realized by controlling the power supply from the power supply part 111 to the heating part 121. The heating part 121 heats the stick-shaped base material 150 using the electric power supplied from the power supply part 111.

[0043] A heating profile is control information for controlling the temperature at which an aerosol source is heated. The heating profile may be control information for controlling the temperature of the heating unit 121. As an example, the heating profile may include a target value of the temperature at which the aerosol source is heated (hereinafter also referred to as the target temperature). The target temperature may change according to the elapsed time since the start of heating. In that case, the heating profile includes information defining the time-series transition of the target temperature. As another example, the heating profile may include a parameter (hereinafter also referred to as a power supply parameter) that defines the power supply method to the heating unit 121. The power supply parameter includes, for example, the voltage applied to the heating unit 121, the ON / OFF of the power supply to the heating unit 121, or the method of feedback control to be adopted. The ON / OFF of the power supply to the heating unit 121 may be regarded as the ON / OFF of the heating unit 121.

[0044] The control unit 116 controls the operation of the heating unit 121 so that the temperature of the heating unit 121 (hereinafter also referred to as the actual temperature) changes in the same manner as the target temperature defined in the heating profile. The heating profile is typically designed so that the flavor experienced by the user is optimized when the user inhales the aerosol generated from the stick-shaped substrate 150. Therefore, by controlling the operation of the heating unit 121 based on the heating profile, the flavor experienced by the user can be optimized.

[0045] The temperature control of the heating unit 121 can be achieved by, for example, known feedback control. The feedback control may be, for example, PID control (Proportional-Integral-Differential Controller). 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 that case, the control unit 116 can control the temperature of the heating unit 121 by adjusting the duty ratio or frequency of the power pulses in the feedback control. Alternatively, the control unit 116 may perform simple on / off control in the feedback control. For example, the control unit 116 may execute heating by the heating unit 121 until the actual temperature reaches the target temperature, interrupt the heating by the heating unit 121 when the actual temperature reaches the target temperature, and resume the heating by the heating unit 121 when the actual temperature becomes lower than the target temperature.

[0046] As an example, the temperature of the heating unit 121 can be quantified by measuring or estimating the electrical resistance value of the heating unit 121 (more precisely, the resistive heating element that constitutes the heating unit 121). This is because the electrical resistance value of the resistive heating element changes according to the temperature. The electrical resistance value of the resistive heating element can be estimated, for example, by measuring the amount of voltage drop across the resistive heating element. The amount of voltage drop across the resistive heating element can be measured by a voltage sensor that measures the potential difference applied to the resistive heating element. The electrical resistance value of the resistive heating element that constitutes the heating unit 121 is an example of a first measured value measured as a value corresponding to the temperature of the heating unit 121. The temperature of the heating unit 121 calculated based on the measured first measured value is hereinafter also referred to as the heater temperature.

[0047] As another example, the temperature of the heating unit 121 can be quantified by measuring or estimating the electrical resistance value of the thermistor 117 (more precisely, the resistor that constitutes the thermistor 117). This is because the temperature of the thermistor 117 changes in response to the temperature change of the heating unit 121, and the electrical resistance value of the resistor that constitutes the thermistor 117 changes in response to the temperature. The electrical resistance value of the resistor can be estimated, for example, by measuring the amount of voltage drop across the resistor. The amount of voltage drop across the resistor can be measured by a voltage sensor that measures the potential difference applied across the resistor. The electrical resistance value of the resistor that constitutes the thermistor 117 is an example of a second measured value measured as a value corresponding to the temperature of the thermistor 117. The temperature of the thermistor 117 calculated based on the second measured value is hereinafter also referred to as the thermistor temperature.

[0048] The period from the start to the end of the process of generating the aerosol using the stick-shaped substrate 150 is hereinafter also referred to as the heating session. In other words, the heating session is a period during which the operation of the heating unit 121 is controlled based on the heating profile. The start timing of the heating session is the timing at which heating based on the heating profile is started. The end timing of the heating session is the timing at which a sufficient amount of aerosol is no longer generated. The heating session includes a preheating period and a puffable period following the preheating period. The puffable period is a period during which a sufficient amount of aerosol is assumed to be generated. The preheating period is the period from the start of heating until the puffable period starts. The heating performed during the preheating period is also referred to as preheating.

[0049] An example of the heating profile is shown in Table 1 below.

[0050]

Table 1

[0051] As shown in Table 1, the heating profile may be divided into a plurality of periods, and the time-series changes in the target temperature and the power supply parameters may be defined for each period. In the example shown in Table 1, the heating profile is divided into a total of eight periods from STEP0 to STEP7. In each STEP, the time-series changes in the target temperature and the power supply parameters are defined. The STEP defined in the heating profile is an example of the unit period in the present embodiment.

[0052] In each STEP, time control may be performed. Time control is control to end the STEP triggered by the elapse of a predetermined time (i.e., the duration set for each STEP). When time control is performed, the rate of change of the temperature of the heating unit 121 may be controlled so that the temperature of the heating unit 121 reaches the target temperature at the end of the duration. Alternatively, when time control is performed, the temperature of the heating unit 121 may be controlled so that the temperature of the heating unit 121 reaches the target temperature during the duration and then maintains the target temperature until the duration elapses. In the example shown in Table 1 above, time control is performed in STEP1 and in STEP4 to STEP7.

[0053] In each STEP, time control may not be performed. When time control is not performed, the STEP ends triggered by the temperature of the heating unit 121 reaching a predetermined temperature (i.e., the target temperature set for each STEP). Therefore, the duration of the STEP in which time control is not performed expands or contracts according to the rate of temperature change. In the example shown in Table 1 above, time control is not performed in STEP0, STEP2, and STEP3.

[0054] The temperature change of the heating unit 121 when the control unit 116 performs temperature control according to the heating profile shown in Table 1 will be described with reference to FIG. 2. FIG. 2 is a graph showing an example of the temperature change of the heating unit 121 when temperature control is performed based on the heating profile shown in Table 1. The horizontal axis of the graph 20 is time (seconds). The vertical axis of the graph 20 is the temperature of the heating unit 121. The line 21 shows the temperature change of the heating unit 121. As shown in FIG. 2, the temperature of the heating unit 121 changes in the same manner as the change in the target temperature defined in the heating profile. Hereinafter, an example of the heating profile will be described with reference to Table 1 and FIG. 2.

[0055] As shown in Table 1 and FIG. 2, in STEP0, the temperature of the heating unit 121 rises from the initial temperature to 300°C. The initial temperature is the temperature of the heating unit 121 at the start of heating. In STEP0, time control is not performed. Therefore, STEP0 ends when the temperature of the heating unit 121 reaches 300°C. In the example shown in FIG. 2, STEP0 ends in 20 seconds. Thereafter, in STEP1, the temperature of the heating unit 121 is maintained at 300°C. The end of STEP1 marks the end of the preheating period, and the start of STEP2 starts the puffable period.

[0056] For the user, it is desirable that the preheating time is short. However, if the stick-shaped substrate 150 is not sufficiently heated, moisture may remain inside the stick-shaped substrate 150 without being completely evaporated. If the user puffs in that state, there is a risk that hot water vapor will be delivered into the user's mouth. Therefore, it is desirable to rapidly increase the temperature of the heating unit 121 to 300°C in STEP0 and ensure a certain duration for STEP1.

[0057] As shown in Table 1 and Figure 2, in STEP2, the temperature of the heating unit 121 drops to 220°C. In STEP2, time control is not implemented. Therefore, STEP2 ends triggered by the temperature of the heating unit 121 reaching 220°C. In the example shown in Figure 2, STEP2 ends in 10 seconds. In STEP2, the power supply to the heating unit 121 is turned off. Therefore, it is possible to reduce the temperature of the heating unit 121 at the fastest speed. By reducing the temperature of the heating unit 121 during the heating session in this way, rapid consumption of the aerosol source can be prevented. As a result, it is possible to prevent depletion of the aerosol source during the heating session.

[0058] As shown in Table 1 and Figure 2, next, in STEP3, the temperature of the heating unit 121 rises to 230°C. In STEP3, time control is not implemented. Therefore, STEP3 ends triggered by the temperature of the heating unit 121 reaching 230°C. In the example shown in Figure 2, STEP3 ends in 5 seconds. By providing a period for the temperature of the heating unit 121 to rise again after reducing it in this way, it is possible to prevent excessive temperature drop of the heating unit 121.

[0059] As shown in Table 1 and Figure 2, next, from STEP4 to STEP6, the temperature of the heating unit 121 rises step by step to 260°C. By gradually raising the temperature of the heating unit 121 in this way, it is possible to suppress the power consumption throughout the heating session while maintaining the amount of aerosol generated.

[0060] As shown in Table 1 and Figure 2, in STEP7, the temperature of the heating unit 121 drops. In STEP7, the power supply to the heating unit 121 is turned off. In STEP7, while the duration is specified, the target temperature is not specified. Therefore, STEP7 ends triggered by the end of the duration. In STEP7, due to the residual heat of the stick-shaped substrate 150, a sufficient amount of aerosol can be generated. Therefore, in this example, with the end of STEP7, the puffable period, that is, the heating session ends.

[0061] The notification unit 113 may notify the user of information indicating the timing when the preheating ends. For example, the notification unit 113 may notify information that foretells the end of the preheating before the preheating ends, or may notify information indicating that the preheating has ended at the timing when the preheating has ended. The notification to the user may be performed, for example, by lighting of an LED or vibration. The user can perform puffing immediately after the end of the preheating with reference to such notification.

[0062] Similarly, the notification unit 113 may notify the user of information indicating the timing when the puffable period ends. For example, the notification unit 113 may notify information that foretells the end of the puffable period before the puffable period ends, or may notify information indicating that the puffable period has ended at the timing when the puffable period has ended. The notification to the user may be performed, for example, by lighting of an LED or vibration. The user can perform puffing until the end of the puffable period with reference to such notification.

[0063] Note that the heating profile described above is merely an example, and various other examples are conceivable. As an example, the number of STEPs, the duration of each STEP, and the target temperature may be changed as appropriate.

[0064] <2.2. Technical Problem> In the example shown in Table 1 and FIG. 2 above, in the STEP in which power is supplied to the heating unit 121, the control unit 116 can control the operation of the heating unit 121 by comparing the heater temperature with the target temperature. On the other hand, in a STEP such as STEP2 in which power is not supplied to the heating unit 121, it is difficult to obtain the heater temperature. Therefore, the control unit 116 can control the operation of the heating unit 121 by comparing the thermistor temperature with the target temperature.

[0065] Here, the measurement accuracy of the electrical resistance value of the thermistor 117 may deteriorate. An example of the cause is the aging deterioration of the thermistor 117. In that case, it becomes difficult to appropriately control the operation of the heating unit 121 during the period of controlling the operation of the heating unit 121 based on the thermistor temperature as in STEP2. Also, the thermistor temperature can be used for a protection function such as stopping the heating by the heating unit 121 when thermal runaway occurs, which is a phenomenon in which the temperature of the heating unit 121 rises excessively. When the measurement accuracy of the electrical resistance value of the thermistor 117 deteriorates, there is a risk that it will be difficult to appropriately apply the protection function. Thus, the deterioration of the measurement accuracy of the electrical resistance value of the thermistor 117 can cause a deterioration in the quality of the user experience.

[0066] Therefore, in the present embodiment, a mechanism is provided to prevent the deterioration of the quality of the user experience caused by the deterioration of the measurement accuracy of the electrical resistance value of the thermistor 117.

[0067] <2.3. Operation control of the heating unit 121> (1) Control based on the difference between the heater temperature and the thermistor temperature The control unit 116 controls the operation of the heating unit 121 based on the difference between the heater temperature and the thermistor temperature indicated by the electrical resistance value of the heating unit 121 and the electrical resistance value of the thermistor 117. Specifically, first, the control unit 116 calculates the heater temperature based on the electrical resistance value of the heating unit 121 and calculates the thermistor temperature based on the electrical resistance value of the thermistor 117. Next, the control unit 116 determines the deterioration of the measurement accuracy of the electrical resistance value of the thermistor 117 based on the difference between the heater temperature and the thermistor temperature. Then, the control unit 116 controls the operation of the heating unit 121 according to the degree of deterioration of the measurement accuracy of the electrical resistance value of the thermistor 117. According to such a configuration, it becomes possible to prevent the deterioration of the quality of the user experience caused by the deterioration of the measurement accuracy of the electrical resistance value of the thermistor 117.

[0068] The control unit 116 may switch the parameter used as the basis for controlling the power supply to the heating unit 121 based on the difference between the heater temperature and the thermistor temperature. According to such a configuration, it becomes possible to control the operation of the heating unit 121 based on an appropriate parameter.

[0069] In particular, the control unit 116 may switch the parameter used as the basis for restarting the power supply to the heating unit 121 after temporarily stopping the power supply to the heating unit 121 based on the difference between the heater temperature and the thermistor temperature. As described above with reference to Table 1 and FIG. 2, the heating session includes a period in which the temperature of the heating unit 121 is temporarily decreased as in STEP2. Then, the control unit 116 stops the power supply to the heating unit 121 during the period in which the temperature of the heating unit 121 is temporarily decreased. Thereafter, the control unit 116 restarts the power supply to the heating unit 121. In particular, the control unit 116 restarts the power supply to the heating unit 121 at a timing based on the parameter selected based on the difference between the heater temperature and the thermistor temperature. According to such a configuration, it becomes possible to appropriately control the temperature decrease of the heating unit 121.

[0070] Hereinafter, an example of specific control content will be described with reference to FIG. 3. FIG. 3 is a diagram for explaining an example of the control content of the operation of the heating unit 121 according to the present embodiment. In FIG. 3, the difference between the heater temperature and the thermistor temperature is taken as the vertical axis, and the control content corresponding to the difference between the heater temperature and the thermistor temperature is described along the vertical axis.

[0071] As shown in FIG. 3, when the difference between the heater temperature and the thermistor temperature is included in the first range, the control unit 116 may resume power supply to the heating unit 121 based on the thermistor temperature. The first range is set as a range in which, when the difference between the heater temperature and the thermistor temperature is included in the first range, the heater temperature and the thermistor temperature may be regarded as being the same. As an example, the first range is a range of ±3°C. For example, when the difference between the heater temperature and the thermistor temperature is included in the first range, the control unit 116 resumes power supply to the heating unit 121 triggered by the fact that the thermistor temperature has dropped to the target temperature at the end of STEP2 defined in the heating profile. According to such a configuration, even during a period when it is difficult to obtain the heater temperature as in STEP2, by referring to the thermistor temperature instead, it becomes possible to change the temperature of the heating unit 121 as defined in the heating profile.

[0072] As shown in FIG. 3, when the difference between the heater temperature and the thermistor temperature exceeds the first range and is included in a second range that is wider than the first range, the control unit 116 may resume power supply to the heating unit 121 based on the elapsed time. The second range is set as a range in which, when the difference between the heater temperature and the thermistor temperature is included in the second range, it is assumed that no problems such as thermal runaway will occur. As an example, the second range is a range of ±10°C. For example, when the difference between the heater temperature and the thermistor temperature exceeds the first range and is included in the second range, the control unit 116 resumes power supply to the heating unit 121 triggered by the fact that a predetermined time has elapsed since the start of STEP2. The predetermined time may be defined in the heating profile. Alternatively, the predetermined time may be calculated based on the decrease width of the target temperature in STEP2. According to such a configuration, even when there is an error between the heater temperature and the thermistor temperature and it is difficult to control based on the thermistor temperature, it becomes possible to change the temperature of the heating unit 121 within a range that does not deviate significantly from the target temperature defined in the heating profile.

[0073] As shown in FIG. 3, when the difference between the heater temperature and the thermistor temperature exceeds the second range, the control unit 116 may perform at least one of prohibiting power supply to the heating unit 121 or stopping the power supply to the heating unit 121. Stopping the power supply to the heating unit 121 refers to the concept of stopping the power supply to the heating unit 121 during operation. Prohibiting the power supply to the heating unit 121 is a concept that includes not only stopping the power supply to the heating unit 121 but also not performing the power supply to the heating unit 121. According to such a configuration, even when the protection function does not work well due to deterioration of the measurement accuracy of the electrical resistance value of the thermistor 117, it is possible to prevent the occurrence of problems such as thermal runaway.

[0074] (2) Acquisition timing of the difference between the heater temperature and the thermistor temperature The control unit 116 may acquire the difference between the heater temperature and the thermistor temperature during a sampling period, which is a part of the heating session, and store it in the storage unit 114. Then, the control unit 116 may control the operation of the heating unit 121 based on the difference between the heater temperature and the thermistor temperature stored in the storage unit 114. Typically, the control unit 116 uses the difference between the heater temperature and the thermistor temperature acquired in a certain heating session to control the operation of the heating unit 121 in subsequent heating sessions. For example, the control unit 116 may provide a sampling period at a rate of once per a plurality of heating sessions to acquire the difference between the heater temperature and the thermistor temperature, and divert the acquired difference between the heater temperature and the thermistor temperature in subsequent heating sessions. According to such a configuration, it is possible to reduce the processing load of the suction device 100. Of course, the difference between the heater temperature and the thermistor temperature acquired in a certain heating session may be used to control the operation of the heating unit 121 in the same heating session.

[0075] During the sampling period, the control unit 116 may obtain the difference between the heater temperature and the thermistor temperature a plurality of times, and cause the storage unit 114 to store the statistical value of the differences between the plurality of heater temperatures and the thermistor temperature. Then, the control unit 116 may control the operation of the heating unit 121 based on the statistical value of the difference between the heater temperature and the thermistor temperature stored in the storage unit 114. The statistical value can be calculated by various statistical methods such as the average value, weighted average value, or median value. According to such a configuration, it becomes possible to more accurately determine the deterioration of the measurement accuracy of the electrical resistance value of the thermistor 117.

[0076] It is desirable that the sampling period be a period after the period in which the temperature of the heating unit 121 is temporarily decreased. In the example described with reference to Table 1 and FIG. 2, it is desirable that the sampling period be a period after STEP3. In STEP0 and STEP1, since the heater temperature is rising rapidly or immediately after rising rapidly, a large difference naturally occurs between the heater temperature and the thermistor temperature. This is because the thermistor temperature rises while following the heater temperature but with a delay. That is, the difference between the heater temperature and the thermistor temperature in STEP0 and STEP1 is the sum of the value due to the deterioration of the measurement accuracy of the electrical resistance value of the thermistor 117 and the value due to the delay in the temperature rise of the thermistor temperature. On the other hand, after STEP3, it is considered that the thermistor temperature has risen sufficiently until it approaches the heater temperature. That is, the difference between the heater temperature and the thermistor temperature after STEP3 is considered to converge to a value that includes only the value due to the deterioration of the measurement accuracy of the electrical resistance value of the thermistor 117 and does not include the value due to the delay in the temperature rise of the thermistor temperature. Therefore, according to such a configuration, it becomes possible to more accurately determine the deterioration of the measurement accuracy of the electrical resistance value of the thermistor 117.

[0077] Here, so-called chain smoking may be performed, in which the stick-shaped substrate 150 is replaced at short intervals and heated multiple times. When chain smoking is performed, the initial temperature of the heating unit 121 during the second and subsequent heating operations becomes higher than the initial temperature of the heating unit 121 during the first heating operation. And the higher the initial temperature, the earlier the timing at which the difference between the heater temperature and the thermistor temperature converges.

[0078] Therefore, the control unit 116 may set the sampling period based on the initial temperature of the heating unit 121. In particular, the control unit 116 may set the timing to start the sampling period earlier as the initial temperature of the heating unit 121 is higher. As the initial temperature of the heating unit 121, the heater temperature at the start of heating, that is, when the heating by the heating unit 121 based on the heating profile starts, may be used. For example, when the heater temperature at the start of heating is less than a predetermined threshold, the control unit 116 may set STEP5 and STEP6 as the sampling period. On the other hand, when the heater temperature at the start of heating is greater than or equal to a predetermined threshold, the control unit 116 may set STEP3 to STEP6 as the sampling period. According to such a configuration, when chain smoking is performed and the difference between the heater temperature and the thermistor temperature converges quickly, a long sampling period can be ensured, and it becomes possible to accurately determine the deterioration of the measurement accuracy of the electrical resistance value of the thermistor 117.

[0079] The control unit 116 may set the sampling period based on the heater temperature at the start of heating or, alternatively, based on other information that affects the presence or absence of chain smoke. As an example, the control unit 116 may set the sampling period based on the thermistor temperature at the start of heating. In that case, the control unit 116 may set the timing at which the sampling period starts earlier as the thermistor temperature at the start of heating is higher. As another example, the control unit 116 may set the sampling period based on the elapsed time from when heating based on the heating profile was last executed until it is executed this time. In that case, the control unit 116 may set the timing at which the sampling period starts earlier as the elapsed time from when heating based on the heating profile was last executed until it is executed this time is shorter. Any configuration can ensure a long sampling period when chain smoke occurs and the difference between the heater temperature and the thermistor temperature converges quickly, making it possible to accurately determine the deterioration of the thermistor 117.

[0080] (3) Absorption of individual differences The control unit 116 may set the first range and the second range based on the difference between the heater temperature and the thermistor temperature obtained when the heating by the heating unit 121 is first executed. For example, the control unit 116 sets a range of ±3°C, which is used as a reference for the difference between the heater temperature and the thermistor temperature obtained when the heating by the heating unit 121 is first executed, as the first range, and sets a range of ±10°C as the second range. When the heating by the heating unit 121 is first executed refers to, for example, the timing when heating is first executed after the suction device 100 is shipped and purchased. The difference between the heater temperature and the thermistor temperature obtained when the heating by the heating unit 121 is first executed corresponds to the individual differences of the heating unit 121 or the thermistor 117. According to such a configuration, it is possible to absorb the individual differences of the heating unit 121 or the thermistor 117 and appropriately control the operation of the heating unit 121.

[0081] As another measure for absorbing individual differences in the heating unit 121 or the thermistor 117, before shipment from the factory, the calculation method of the heater temperature or the thermistor temperature may be calibrated so that the heater temperature and the thermistor temperature match or the difference between the heater temperature and the thermistor temperature is within a predetermined range. Calibrating the calculation method of the heater temperature means setting the correspondence between the electrical resistance value of the heating unit 121 and the heater temperature calculated from the electrical resistance value. Calibrating the calculation method of the thermistor temperature means setting the correspondence between the electrical resistance value of the thermistor 117 and the thermistor temperature calculated from the electrical resistance value. As an example, at the timing when the heater temperature reaches an arbitrary target temperature defined in the heating profile, the calculation method of the heater temperature or the thermistor temperature is calibrated so that the heater temperature and the thermistor temperature match or the difference between the heater temperature and the thermistor temperature is within a predetermined range. The calibration may be performed for a plurality of target temperatures defined in the heating profile.

[0082] (4) Flow of processing Hereinafter, with reference to FIG. 4, the flow of processing executed by the suction device 100 according to the present embodiment will be described. FIG. 4 is a flowchart showing an example of the flow of processing executed by the suction device 100 according to the present embodiment.

[0083] As shown in FIG. 4, first, the control unit 116 acquires a user operation instructing the start of heating (step S102). An example of a user operation instructing the start of heating is an operation on the suction device 100, such as operating a switch provided on the suction device 100. Another example of a user operation instructing the start of heating is inserting the stick-shaped base material 150 into the suction device 100.

[0084] Next, the control unit 116 determines whether or not the difference between the heater temperature and the thermistor temperature acquired in the previous heating session is included in the second range (step S104). For example, the control unit 116 makes such a determination by referring to the difference between the heater temperature and the thermistor temperature acquired in the previous heating session, which is stored in the storage unit 114.

[0085] If it is determined that the difference between the heater temperature and the thermistor temperature acquired in the previous heating session is not included in the second range (step S104: NO), the control unit 116 prohibits heating (step S108). That is, the control unit 116 ends the process without performing power supply to the heating unit 121.

[0086] On the other hand, if it is determined that the difference between the heater temperature and the thermistor temperature acquired in the previous heating session is included in the second range (step S104: YES), the control unit 116 starts heating. That is, the control unit 116 starts power supply to the heating unit 121.

[0087] Next, the control unit 116 acquires the initial temperature of the heating unit 121 (step S110). For example, the control unit 116 acquires the heater temperature at the start of power supply to the heating unit 121.

[0088] Next, the control unit 116 sets a sampling period based on the initial temperature of the heating unit 121 (step S112).

[0089] Next, the control unit 116 determines whether or not to temporarily turn off the heating (step S114). For example, when STEP2 in the heating profile shown in Table 1 starts, the control unit 116 temporarily stops power supply to the heating unit 121 and determines to temporarily turn off the heating.

[0090] If it is determined not to temporarily turn off the heating (step S114: NO), the process proceeds to step S126.

[0091] When it is determined that the heating is to be temporarily turned off (step S114: YES), the control unit 116 stops the power supply to the heating unit 121 and turns off the heating (step S116).

[0092] Next, the control unit 116 determines whether the difference between the heater temperature and the thermistor temperature obtained in the previous heating session is included in the first range (step S118). For example, the control unit 116 makes such a determination by referring to the difference between the heater temperature and the thermistor temperature obtained in the previous heating session, which is stored in the storage unit 114.

[0093] When it is determined that the difference between the heater temperature and the thermistor temperature obtained in the previous heating session is included in the first range (step S118: YES), the control unit 116 resumes heating based on the thermistor temperature (step S120). For example, when the heating is temporarily turned off in STEP2, when the thermistor temperature drops to the target temperature set at the end of STEP2, STEP2 is terminated and the power supply to the heating unit 121 is resumed. Thereafter, the process proceeds to step S124.

[0094] When it is determined that the difference between the heater temperature and the thermistor temperature obtained in the previous heating session is not included in the first range (step S118: NO), the control unit 116 resumes heating based on the passage of time (step S122). For example, when the elapsed time since the heating was temporarily turned off in STEP2 reaches a predetermined time, STEP2 is terminated and the power supply to the heating unit 121 is resumed. Thereafter, the process proceeds to step S124.

[0095] In step S124, the control unit 116 obtains the difference between the heater temperature and the thermistor temperature during the sampling period and stores it in the storage unit 114 (step S124).

[0096] Next, the control unit 116 determines whether the end condition is satisfied (step S126). An example of the end condition is that the duration of STEP7 has elapsed. Another example of the end condition is that the number of cycles from the start of heating has reached a predetermined number.

[0097] If it is determined that the end condition is not satisfied (step S126: NO), the process returns to step S114.

[0098] On the other hand, if it is determined that the end condition is satisfied (step S126: YES), the control unit 116 ends the heating based on the heating profile (step S128). Thereafter, the process ends.

[0099] <3. Supplementary> As described above, the preferred embodiments of the present disclosure have been described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings, but the present disclosure is not limited to such examples. It is obvious that those having ordinary knowledge in the technical field to which the present disclosure pertains can conceive of various modification examples or correction examples within the scope of the technical idea described in the claims, and these are naturally understood to belong to the technical scope of the present disclosure.

[0100] In the above embodiment, an example in which the heating profile includes the target value of the temperature of the heating unit 121 has been described, but the present disclosure is not limited to such examples. The heating profile may include the target value of the parameter corresponding to the temperature of the heating unit 121. Examples of the parameter corresponding to the temperature of the heating unit 121 include the electrical resistance value of the heating unit 121 or the electrical resistance value of the thermistor 117.

[0101] In the above-described embodiment, an example in which the heating unit 121 is configured as a resistance heating element and generates heat by electric resistance has been described. However, the present disclosure is not limited to such an example. For example, the heating unit 121 may include an electromagnetic induction source such as a coil that generates a magnetic field and a susceptor that generates heat by induction heating, and the stick-shaped base material 150 may be heated by the susceptor. In this case, the control unit 116 applies an alternating current to the electromagnetic induction source to generate an alternating magnetic field, and allows the alternating magnetic field to penetrate the susceptor, thereby causing the susceptor to generate heat. The susceptor that generates heat by induction heating may be provided in the suction device 100. In this case, the temperature at which the aerosol source controlled based on the heating profile is heated is the temperature of the susceptor. The temperature of the susceptor can be estimated based on the electrical resistance value of the electromagnetic induction source.

[0102] In addition, the series of processes performed by each device described in this specification may be realized using any of software, hardware, and a combination of software and hardware. The program constituting the software is stored in advance, for example, in a recording medium (specifically, a non-temporary storage medium readable by a computer) provided inside or outside each device. Then, each program is read into the RAM when executed by a computer that controls each device described in this specification, for example, and is executed by a processing circuit such as a CPU. The recording medium is, for example, a magnetic disk, an optical disk, a magneto-optical disk, a flash memory, or the like. Further, the above computer program may be distributed via a network, for example, without using a recording medium. Further, the above computer may be a dedicated integrated circuit such as an ASIC, a general-purpose processor that executes functions by reading a software program, or a computer on a server used for cloud computing. In addition, the series of processes performed by each device described in this specification may be distributed and processed by a plurality of computers.

[0103] In addition, the processes described in this specification using flowcharts and sequence diagrams do not necessarily have to be executed in the order shown in the figures. Some process steps may be executed in parallel. Also, additional process steps may be adopted, and some process steps may be omitted.

[0104] Note that the following configurations also fall within the technical scope of the present disclosure. (1) A power supply unit, A heating unit that heats an aerosol source using the power supplied from the power supply unit, A temperature change unit that changes in temperature following the temperature change of the heating unit, A control unit that controls the operation of the heating unit based on the difference between the temperature of the heating unit and the temperature of the temperature change unit, which is indicated by a first measurement value measured as a parameter corresponding to the temperature of the heating unit and a second measurement value measured as a parameter corresponding to the temperature of the temperature change unit, An aerosol generation system comprising the above. (2) The control unit switches a parameter used as a basis for controlling power supply to the heating unit based on the difference between the temperature of the heating unit and the temperature of the temperature change unit. The aerosol generation system according to (1) above. (3) The control unit switches a parameter used as a basis for resuming power supply to the heating unit after temporarily stopping the power supply to the heating unit based on the difference between the temperature of the heating unit and the temperature of the temperature change unit. The aerosol generation system according to (2) above. (4) When the difference between the temperature of the heating unit and the temperature of the temperature change unit is included in a first range, the control unit resumes power supply to the heating unit based on the second measurement value. The aerosol generation system according to (3) above. (5) When the difference between the temperature of the heating unit and the temperature of the temperature change unit exceeds the first range and is included in a second range that is wider than the first range, the control unit resumes power supply to the heating unit based on the elapsed time. The aerosol generation system according to (4) above. (6) When the difference between the temperature of the heating unit and the temperature of the temperature change unit exceeds the second range, the control unit performs at least one of stopping power supply to the heating unit or prohibiting power supply to the heating unit. The aerosol generation system according to (5) above. (7) The control unit sets the first range and the second range based on the difference between the temperature of the heating unit and the temperature of the temperature change unit obtained when the heating by the heating unit is first executed. The aerosol generation system according to (5) or (6) above. (8) The aerosol generation system includes a storage unit that stores information. The control unit controls the operation of the heating unit based on control information that defines the time-series change of the target value of the temperature for heating the aerosol source, acquires the difference between the temperature of the heating unit and the temperature of the temperature change unit during a sampling period that is part of the period in which the time-series change of the target value is defined by the control information and stores it in the storage unit, controls the operation of the heating unit based on the difference between the temperature of the heating unit and the temperature of the temperature change unit stored in the storage unit. The aerosol generation system according to any one of (1) to (7) above. (9) The control unit acquires the difference between the temperature of the heating unit and the temperature of the temperature change unit a plurality of times during the sampling period, and stores the statistical value of the differences between the temperatures of the heating unit and the temperature change unit for the plurality of times in the storage unit. controls the operation of the heating unit based on the statistical value of the difference between the temperature of the heating unit and the temperature of the temperature change unit stored in the storage unit. The aerosol generation system according to the above (8). (10) The period in which the time-series transition of the target value is defined by the control information includes a period in which the temperature of the heating unit is temporarily decreased in the middle. The control unit stops power supply to the heating unit during the period in which the temperature of the heating unit is decreased. The sampling period is a period after the period in which the temperature of the heating unit is decreased. The aerosol generation system according to the above (8) or (9). (11) The control unit sets the sampling period based on the first measurement value when starting heating by the heating unit based on the control information. The aerosol generation system according to the above (10). (12) The higher the temperature of the heating unit indicated by the first measurement value when the control unit starts heating by the heating unit based on the control information, the earlier the control unit sets the timing to start the sampling period. The aerosol generation system according to the above (11). (13) The heating unit is a resistance heating element that generates heat when an electric current is applied. The first measurement value is the electrical resistance value of the resistance heating element. The temperature change unit is a resistor whose electrical resistance value changes according to a temperature change. The second measurement value is the electrical resistance value of the resistor. The aerosol generation system according to any one of the above (1) to (12). (14) The aerosol generation system further includes a substrate containing the aerosol source. The aerosol generation system according to any one of the above (1) to (13). (15) A control method for controlling an aerosol generation system, wherein the aerosol generation system is, a power supply unit, A heating unit that heats an aerosol source using the power supplied from the power supply unit; A temperature change unit that changes in temperature following the temperature change of the heating unit; and includes: The control method is as follows: Based on the difference between the temperature of the heating unit and the temperature of the temperature change unit, which is indicated by a first measurement value measured as a value corresponding to the temperature of the heating unit and a second measurement value measured as a value corresponding to the temperature of the temperature change unit, controlling the operation of the heating unit. A control method including the above.

Explanation of reference numerals

[0105] 100 Suction device 111 Power supply unit 112 Sensor unit 113 Notification unit 114 Storage unit 115 Communication unit 116 Control unit 117 Thermistor 121 Heating unit 140 Holding unit 141 Internal space 142 Opening 143 Bottom 144 Heat insulation unit 150 Stick-shaped base material 151 Base material part 152 Suction port part

Claims

1. A power supply unit, a heating unit that heats an aerosol source using the power supplied from the power supply unit, a temperature change unit whose temperature changes following the temperature change of the heating unit, a control unit that controls the operation of the heating unit based on the difference between the temperature of the heating unit and the temperature of the temperature change unit, which is indicated by a first measured value measured as a parameter corresponding to the temperature of the heating unit and a second measured value measured as a parameter corresponding to the temperature of the temperature change unit, comprising, the control unit switches a parameter used as a basis for controlling power supply to the heating unit based on the difference between the temperature of the heating unit and the temperature of the temperature change unit, an aerosol generation system.

2. the control unit switches a parameter used as a basis for resuming power supply to the heating unit after temporarily stopping the power supply to the heating unit based on the difference between the temperature of the heating unit and the temperature of the temperature change unit, the aerosol generation system according to Claim 1.

3. when the difference between the temperature of the heating unit and the temperature of the temperature change unit is included in a first range, the control unit resumes power supply to the heating unit based on the second measured value, the aerosol generation system according to Claim 2.

4. when the difference between the temperature of the heating unit and the temperature of the temperature change unit exceeds the first range and is included in a second range wider than the first range, the control unit resumes power supply to the heating unit based on the elapsed time, the aerosol generation system according to Claim 3.

5. when the difference between the temperature of the heating unit and the temperature of the temperature change unit exceeds the second range, the control unit performs at least one of stopping power supply to the heating unit or prohibiting power supply to the heating unit, the aerosol generation system according to Claim 4.

6. the control unit sets the first range and the second range based on the difference between the temperature of the heating unit and the temperature of the temperature change unit obtained when the heating by the heating unit is first performed, the aerosol generation system according to Claim 4.

7. the aerosol generation system further comprises a storage unit that stores information, the control unit, controls the operation of the heating unit based on control information defining the time-series transition of the target value of the temperature for heating the aerosol source, In a sampling period that is part of a period in which the time-series transition of the target value is defined by the control information, obtain the difference between the temperature of the heating unit and the temperature of the temperature change unit, and store it in the storage unit. Control the operation of the heating unit based on the difference between the temperature of the heating unit and the temperature of the temperature change unit stored in the storage unit. The aerosol generation system according to any one of claims 1 to 6.

8. The control unit obtains the difference between the temperature of the heating unit and the temperature of the temperature change unit a plurality of times during the sampling period, and stores the statistical value of the differences between the temperatures of the plurality of heating units and the temperature of the temperature change unit in the storage unit. Control the operation of the heating unit based on the statistical value of the difference between the temperature of the heating unit and the temperature of the temperature change unit stored in the storage unit. The aerosol generation system according to claim 7.

9. The period in which the time-series transition of the target value is defined by the control information includes a period in which the temperature of the heating unit is temporarily decreased in the middle. The control unit stops power supply to the heating unit during the period in which the temperature of the heating unit is temporarily decreased. The sampling period is a period after the period in which the temperature of the heating unit is temporarily decreased. The aerosol generation system according to claim 7.

10. The control unit sets the sampling period based on the first measurement value when starting the heating by the heating unit based on the control information. The aerosol generation system according to claim 9.

11. The higher the temperature of the heating unit indicated by the first measurement value when starting the heating by the heating unit based on the control information, the earlier the control unit sets the timing to start the sampling period. The aerosol generation system according to claim 10.

12. The heating unit is a resistive heating element that generates heat when an electric current is applied. The first measurement value is the electrical resistance value of the resistive heating element. The temperature change unit is a resistor whose electrical resistance value changes according to a temperature change. The second measurement value is the electrical resistance value of the resistor. The aerosol generation system according to claim 1.

13. The aerosol generation system further includes a base material containing the aerosol source. The aerosol generation system according to claim 1.

14. A control method for controlling an aerosol generation system, wherein The aerosol generation system includes A power supply unit, A heating unit that heats an aerosol source using the power supplied from the power supply unit; A temperature change unit that changes in temperature following the temperature change of the heating unit; Comprising; The control method is; Based on the difference between the temperature of the heating unit and the temperature of the temperature change unit, which is indicated by a first measured value measured as a value corresponding to the temperature of the heating unit and a second measured value measured as a value corresponding to the temperature of the temperature change unit, controlling the operation of the heating unit; Controlling the operation of the heating unit includes switching a parameter used as a basis for controlling power supply to the heating unit based on the difference between the temperature of the heating unit and the temperature of the temperature change unit, a control method.

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