Flavor inhaler or aerosol generator

Abstract

Provided is a configuration for a flavor inhalation instrument or the like, with which it is possible to detect the motion of the flavor inhalation instrument or the like more accurately.　A flavor inhalation instrument 100 or the like comprises: a housing 2400; a heating unit that heats a flavor source or an aerosol source; and an inertia sensor 2420 that detects a change in angular velocity or acceleration. The inertia sensor 2420 is disposed inside the housing 2400 at a location out of contact with the heating unit.

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present application relates to a flavor inhaler or an aerosol generating device (hereinafter referred to as a "flavor inhaler, etc."). More specifically, the present application relates to a flavor inhaler, etc. that is controlled based on the movement of the flavor inhaler, etc.

[0002] Note that a flavor inhalation device is a device for inhaling flavors, and includes, but is not limited to, electronic cigarettes, heated tobacco products, and conventional cigarettes. Furthermore, an "aerosol generating device" is a device for inhaling the generated aerosol, and includes, but is not limited to, electronic cigarettes, heated tobacco products, and medical nebulizers. Furthermore, flavor inhalation devices and the like include so-called reduced-risk products (RRPs). [Background technology]

[0003] Unlike cigarettes, flavor inhalation devices such as heated tobacco products often incorporate electronic devices, and in recent years, they have become increasingly multifunctional. Along with this trend, flavor inhalation devices equipped with motion sensors have been developed to detect whether the flavor inhalation device has been dropped or to detect specific movements (motions) of the flavor inhalation device by the user. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0004] [Patent Document 1] Patent Publication No. 2021-58212 [Patent Document 2] Special Publication No. 2017-509339 [Patent Document 3] International Publication No. 2020 / 008028 [Patent Document 4] International Publication No. 2020 / 234053 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0005] However, the use of motion sensors in flavor inhalers is limited to detecting whether the flavor inhaler has been dropped or detecting specific preset user actions to turn on / off specific functions, such as unlocking the flavor inhaler. There is a demand for providing users with diverse value from flavor inhalers by controlling the functions of the flavor inhaler based on motion data obtained by a motion sensor. [Means for solving the problem]

[0006] The present invention has been made in view of the above, and one of its objects is to provide a flavor inhaler or the like that is controlled based on the movement of the flavor inhaler or the like.

[0007] According to an embodiment of the present invention, there is provided a device that is a flavor inhaler or an aerosol generating apparatus, the device comprising: a vibrator; a sensor configured to detect movement of the device; a conversion unit configured to convert input data representing the detected movement into vibration data for vibrating the vibrator; and a control unit configured to vibrate the vibrator based on the vibration data.

[0008] In one embodiment, the input data may include data representing the acceleration or angular velocity of the sensed movement.

[0009] In one embodiment, the conversion unit may be further configured to use a representative value included in the input data.

[0010] In one embodiment, using the representative value included in the input data can include converting the representative value into a vibration intensity of the vibrator.

[0011] In one embodiment, using the representative value included in the input data can include converting the representative value into a vibration pattern of the vibrator.

[0012] In one embodiment, the conversion unit may be further configured to divide the input data into a plurality of data each representing the detected movement in a respective one of a plurality of time periods, and convert a representative value included in each of the divided data into vibration intensities of the vibrator at different times.

[0013] In one embodiment, the sensor may be further configured to detect movement of the device about at least a first axis and a second axis, and the input data may include at least first input data and second input data representing the detected movement about the first axis and the second axis, respectively.

[0014] In one embodiment, the conversion unit may be further configured to convert the first input data into a vibration intensity of the vibrator, convert the second input data into a vibration pattern of the vibrator, or select one of a plurality of predetermined vibration patterns as the vibration pattern of the vibrator based on the second input data.

[0015] In one embodiment, the vibration pattern may be specified by at least one of a vibration time, a vibration pause time, and a vibration strength correction factor.

[0016] In one embodiment, the control unit may be further configured to vibrate the vibrator based on the vibration data when suction of the device is being performed.

[0017] In one embodiment, the control unit may be further configured to vibrate the vibrator based on the vibration data and such that the strength of the suction is proportional to the vibration strength of the vibrator.

[0018] In one embodiment, the control unit may be further configured to record a suction time, which is the length of time for which the suction was performed, and to change the length of time for which the vibrator is vibrated based on the vibration data, depending on the suction time.

[0019] According to an embodiment of the present invention, there is provided a control method for a device that is a flavor inhaler or an aerosol generating device equipped with a vibrator, the control method including the steps of detecting movement of the device, converting input data representing the detected movement into vibration data for vibrating the vibrator, and vibrating the vibrator based on the vibration data.

[0020] According to an embodiment of the present invention, a program is provided that causes a processor of a device that is a flavor inhaler or an aerosol generating device equipped with a vibrator to execute the steps of detecting movement of the device, converting input data representing the detected movement into vibration data for vibrating the vibrator, and vibrating the vibrator based on the vibration data.

[0021] According to an embodiment of the present invention, there is provided a device that is a flavor inhaler or an aerosol generating apparatus, the device comprising: a sensor configured to detect movement of the device; a conversion unit configured to convert input data representing the detected movement into functional data for controlling a function of the device; and a control unit configured to control the function of the device based on the functional data.

[0022] In one embodiment, the conversion unit may be further configured to convert continuous values ​​contained in the input data into continuous or discrete values ​​contained in the functional data.

[0023] In one embodiment, the functionality of the device may include one or more of: generating heat to generate a flavor; emitting sound; emitting light; and displaying a predetermined indication.

[0024] In one embodiment, the input data may include data representing the acceleration or angular velocity of the sensed movement.

[0025] In one embodiment, the conversion unit may be further configured to use a representative value included in the input data.

[0026] In one embodiment, using the representative value included in the input data may further comprise converting the representative value into an intensity related to the function of the device.

[0027] In one embodiment, using the representative values ​​included in the input data may further comprise converting the representative values ​​into a pattern related to the function of the device.

[0028] In one embodiment, the conversion unit may be further configured to divide the input data into a plurality of data each representing the detected movement in a respective one of a plurality of time periods, and convert a representative value included in each divided data into an intensity related to the function of the device at a different timing.

[0029] In one embodiment, the sensor may be further configured to detect movement of the device about at least a first axis and a second axis, and the input data may include at least first input data and second input data representing the detected movement about the first axis and the second axis, respectively.

[0030] In one embodiment, the conversion unit may be further configured to convert the first input data into an intensity related to the function of the device, convert the second input data into a pattern related to the function of the device, or select one of a plurality of predetermined patterns as the pattern related to the function of the device based on the second input data.

[0031] In one embodiment, the pattern associated with the function of the device may be determined by at least one of the time the function is active, the time the function is idle, and a correction factor for the intensity of the function.

[0032] In one embodiment, the device may be configured to apply heat to generate flavor, and the input data may be acquired when the heat is not being applied.

[0033] According to an embodiment of the present invention, there is provided a method for controlling a device that is a flavor inhaler or an aerosol generating device, the method including the steps of detecting movement of the device, converting input data representing the detected movement into functional data for controlling a function of the device, and controlling the function of the device based on the functional data.

[0034] According to an embodiment of the present invention, a program is provided that causes a processor of a device that is a flavor inhaler or an aerosol generating device to perform the steps of detecting movement of the device, converting input data representing the detected movement into functional data for controlling a function of the device, and controlling the function of the device based on the functional data.

[0035] According to an embodiment of the present invention, there is provided a device that is a flavor inhaler or an aerosol generating apparatus, the device comprising: a vibrator; an inertial sensor; a memory unit that stores vibration data for vibrating the vibrator, the vibration data being generated by converting inertial data acquired by the inertial sensor; and a control unit configured to read the vibration data from the memory unit and vibrate the vibrator based on the vibration data.

[0036] In one embodiment, the vibration data may include values ​​related to vibration intensity or vibration duration.

[0037] In one embodiment, the storage unit may store the inertial data. The device may further include a conversion unit configured to read the inertial data from the storage unit and convert the inertial data into the vibration data.

[0038] In one embodiment, the inertial sensor may be an angular rate sensor, and the inertial data may include data representing angular rate.

[0039] In one embodiment, the inertial sensor may be an angular velocity sensor, and the inertial data may include data representing an angular velocity. The converter may be configured to convert the data representing the angular velocity into vibration data including a predetermined minimum vibration intensity or a predetermined minimum vibration time when the angular velocity is equal to or less than a predetermined minimum value, and to convert the data representing the angular velocity into vibration data including a predetermined maximum vibration intensity or a predetermined maximum vibration time when the angular velocity is equal to or greater than a predetermined maximum value.

[0040] In one embodiment, the inertial sensor may be an angular velocity sensor, and the inertial data may include data representing an angular velocity. The converter may be configured to convert data representing the angular velocity, the data having an angular velocity of 10 dps or greater, into the vibration data.

[0041] In one embodiment, the sampling rate of the angular velocity sensor may be 1 Hz or more and 1 kHz or less.

[0042] In one embodiment, the device may further comprise a communication unit configured to communicate the inertial data and / or the vibration data to an external device.

[0043] Another object of the present invention is to provide an external device that cooperates with the flavor inhaler or the like.

[0044] According to an embodiment of the present invention, there is provided an apparatus comprising: a communication unit configured to receive input data from a device that is a flavor inhaler or an aerosol generating apparatus, the input data representing movement of the device detected by a sensor in the device; and a conversion unit configured to convert the input data into vibration data for vibrating a vibrator in the device or function data for controlling a function of the device, wherein the communication unit is further configured to transmit the vibration data or the function data to the device.

[0045] In one embodiment, the input data may include data representing the acceleration or angular velocity of the sensed movement.

[0046] In one embodiment, the conversion unit may be further configured to use a representative value included in the input data.

[0047] In one embodiment, using the representative value included in the input data may include converting the representative value into a vibration intensity of the vibrator or an intensity related to the function of the device.

[0048] In one embodiment, using the representative value included in the input data may include converting the representative value into a vibration pattern of the vibrator or a pattern related to the function of the device.

[0049] In one embodiment, the conversion unit may be further configured to divide the input data into a plurality of data each representing the detected movement in a respective time period among a plurality of time periods, and convert a representative value included in each of the divided data into a vibration intensity of the vibrator or an intensity related to the function of the device at a different timing.

[0050] In one embodiment, the sensor may be configured to sense movement of the device about at least a first axis and a second axis, and the input data may include at least first input data and second input data representing the sensed movement about the first axis and the second axis, respectively.

[0051] In one embodiment, the conversion unit may be further configured to convert the first input data into a vibration intensity of the vibrator or an intensity related to the function of the device, convert the second input data into a vibration pattern of the vibrator or a pattern related to the function of the device, or select, based on the second input data, one of a plurality of vibration patterns predetermined as a vibration pattern of the vibrator or one of a plurality of patterns predetermined as a pattern related to the function of the device.

[0052] In one embodiment, the vibration pattern may be specified by at least one of a vibration time, a vibration pause time, and a vibration intensity correction coefficient. The pattern related to the function of the device may be specified by at least one of a time when the function is active, a time when the function is paused, and a correction coefficient for the intensity related to the function.

[0053] In one embodiment, the apparatus may further comprise a charging unit configured to charge a rechargeable power source within the device.

[0054] According to an embodiment of the present invention, there is provided a method for controlling an apparatus configured to communicate with a device that is a flavor inhaler or an aerosol generating device, the method including the steps of receiving input data from the device representing movement of the device detected by a sensor in the device, converting the input data into vibration data for vibrating a vibrator in the device or functional data for controlling a function of the device, and transmitting the vibration data or the functional data to the device.

[0055] According to an embodiment of the present invention, there is provided a program that causes an apparatus configured to communicate with a device that is a flavor inhaler or an aerosol generating device to perform the following steps: receiving input data from the device representing movement of the device detected by a sensor in the device; converting the input data into vibration data for vibrating a vibrator in the device or functional data for controlling a function of the device; and transmitting the vibration data or the functional data to the device.

[0056] According to an embodiment of the present invention, there is provided a device that is a flavor inhaler or an aerosol generating apparatus, the device comprising: a vibrator; a sensor configured to detect movement of the device; a communication unit configured to transmit input data representing the detected movement to an external device and receive, from the external device, vibration data for vibrating the vibrator or functional data for controlling a function of the device, the vibration data being obtained by converting the input data; and a control unit configured to vibrate the vibrator based on the vibration data or control the function of the device based on the functional data.

[0057] In one embodiment, the control unit may be further configured to vibrate the vibrator based on the vibration data or control the function of the device based on the function data when suction of the device is being performed.

[0058] In one embodiment, the control unit may be further configured to vibrate the vibrator based on the vibration data and such that the suction strength is proportional to the vibration strength of the vibrator, or to control the function of the device based on the function data and such that the suction strength is proportional to the strength related to the function of the device.

[0059] In one embodiment, the control unit may be further configured to record a suction time, which is the length of time that the suction is performed, and to change the length of time that the vibrator is vibrated based on the vibration data or the length of time that the function of the device is functioning based on the function data, depending on the suction time.

[0060] According to an embodiment of the present invention, there is provided a method for operating a device that is a flavor inhaler or an aerosol generating device equipped with a vibrator, the method including the steps of: detecting movement of the device; transmitting input data representing the detected movement to an external device; receiving, from the external device, vibration data for vibrating the vibrator or function data for controlling a function of the device, the vibration data being obtained by converting the input data; and vibrating the vibrator based on the vibration data or controlling the function of the device based on the function data.

[0061] According to an embodiment of the present invention, there is provided a program that causes a device that is a flavor inhaler or an aerosol generating device equipped with a vibrator to execute the steps of: detecting movement of the device; transmitting input data representing the detected movement to an external device; receiving from the external device vibration data for vibrating the vibrator or functional data for controlling a function of the device, the vibration data being obtained by converting the input data; and vibrating the vibrator based on the vibration data or controlling the function of the device based on the functional data.

[0062] According to an embodiment of the present invention, there is provided a device that is a flavor inhaler or an aerosol generating apparatus, the device comprising: at least one sensory stimulation element configured to provide a sensory stimulation to a user; a sensor configured to detect movement of the device; and a controller configured to activate the at least one sensory stimulation element when the sensor obtains input data representing the detected movement.

[0063] In one embodiment, the at least one element may include at least one of a transducer, a light emitting element, and an acoustic element.

[0064] In one embodiment, the input data may include data representing the acceleration or angular velocity of the sensed movement.

[0065] In one embodiment, the sensor may be further configured to obtain the input data when the device is not generating aerosol by heating.

[0066] In one embodiment, the device may include two or more sensory stimulation elements configured to provide a sensory stimulation to a user, and the control unit may be configured to further activate a sensory stimulation element of the two or more sensory stimulation elements that is different from the at least one sensory stimulation element while the sensor is activated.

[0067] In one embodiment, the device may further comprise a conversion unit configured to convert the input data into sensory stimulation data for operating the at least one sensory stimulation element.

[0068] In one embodiment, the conversion unit may be further configured to use a representative value included in the input data.

[0069] In one embodiment, using the representative value included in the input data may include converting the representative value into an intensity related to the sensory stimulation of the at least one sensory stimulation element.

[0070] In one embodiment, using the representative value included in the input data may include converting the representative value into a pattern related to the sensory stimulation of the at least one sensory stimulation element.

[0071] In one embodiment, the conversion unit may be further configured to divide the input data into a plurality of data each representing the movement detected in each of a plurality of time periods, and convert a representative value contained in each of the divided data into an intensity related to the sensory stimulation of the at least one sensory stimulation element at a different timing.

[0072] In one embodiment, the sensor may be further configured to sense movement of the device about at least a first axis and a second axis, and the input data may include at least first input data and second input data representing the sensed movement about the first axis and the second axis, respectively.

[0073] In one embodiment, the conversion unit may be further configured to convert the first input data into an intensity related to the sensory stimulation of the at least one sensory stimulation element, convert the second input data into a pattern related to the sensory stimulation of the at least one sensory stimulation element, or select one of a plurality of patterns related to sensory stimulation predetermined as the pattern related to the sensory stimulation of the at least one sensory stimulation element based on the second input data.

[0074] In one embodiment, the pattern of the sensory stimulation may be determined by at least one of the time the sensory stimulation element is active, the time the sensory stimulation element is idle, and a correction coefficient for the intensity of the sensory stimulation.

[0075] According to an embodiment of the present invention, there is provided a method for controlling a device that is a flavor inhaler or an aerosol generating apparatus, the method comprising the steps of detecting movement of the device and, when obtaining input data representing the detected movement, operating at least one sensory stimulation element configured to provide a sensory stimulation to a user.

[0076] According to an embodiment of the present invention, there is provided a program for causing a device that is a flavor inhaler or an aerosol generating device to perform the steps of detecting movement of the device and, when acquiring input data representing the detected movement, operating at least one sensory stimulation element configured to provide a sensory stimulation to a user.

[0077] It is still another object of the present invention to provide a configuration of a flavor inhaler or the like that can more accurately detect the movement of the flavor inhaler or the like.

[0078] According to an embodiment of the present invention, there is provided a device that is a flavor inhaler or an aerosol generating apparatus, comprising a housing, a heating unit that heats a flavor source or an aerosol source, and an inertial sensor that detects changes in angular velocity or acceleration, wherein the inertial sensor is positioned in the housing at a position that is not in contact with the heating unit.

[0079] In one embodiment, any one of three mutually orthogonal coordinate axes in the inertial sensor may be disposed substantially parallel to any one of three mutually orthogonal coordinate axes in the housing.

[0080] In one embodiment, the housing has a thick, approximately rectangular parallelepiped shape with approximately rectangular faces, and the three coordinate axes of the housing may be defined as a Z axis extending along the longitudinal direction of the approximately rectangular shape, a Y axis extending along the lateral direction of the approximately rectangular shape, and an X axis perpendicular to the Z axis and the Y axis. In this case, the housing and the inertial sensor may be arranged such that the X axis, the Y axis, and the Z axis of the inertial sensor are approximately parallel to the X axis, the Y axis, and the Z axis of the housing, respectively.

[0081] In one embodiment, the housing has a substantially cylindrical shape and has a button or a light-emitting element on a surface of the housing, and the three coordinate axes of the housing are defined as a longitudinal direction of the substantially cylindrical shape as a Z-axis, a direction perpendicular to the button or the light-emitting element as a Y-axis, and a direction perpendicular to the Z-axis and the Y-axis as an X-axis, and the housing and the inertial sensor may be arranged such that the X-axis, Y-axis, and Z-axis of the inertial sensor are substantially parallel to the X-axis, Y-axis, and Z-axis of the housing, respectively.

[0082] In one embodiment, the device may further include a microcontroller, and the inertial sensor may be mounted on a substrate on which the microcontroller is mounted.

[0083] In one embodiment, the inertial sensor may further include a microcontroller, and the inertial sensor may be mounted on a substrate different from the substrate on which the microcontroller is mounted.

[0084] In one embodiment, at least a part of a surface of the inertial sensor opposite to a surface in contact with a substrate on which the inertial sensor is mounted may be covered with a heat insulating material.

[0085] In one embodiment, the device has a battery, and the inertial sensor may be positioned relative to the battery so as to be closer to the user than the battery when the user inhales the flavor inhaler or the substance generated by the aerosol generating device.

[0086] In one embodiment, the inertial sensor may be an angular rate sensor. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0087] [Figure 1A] 1 is a schematic diagram showing a configuration example of a flavor inhaler according to an embodiment of the present invention; [Figure 1B] 1 is a schematic diagram showing a configuration example of a flavor inhaler according to an embodiment of the present invention; [Figure 2] 1 is a schematic diagram showing a simplified configuration example of a flavor inhaler according to an embodiment of the present invention; [Figure 3] 1 is a graph plotting values ​​contained in example input data. [Figure 4] 1 is a graph plotting values ​​contained in example input data. [Figure 5] FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating vibration intensity. [Figure 6A] 10 is a table showing a plurality of predetermined vibration patterns. [Figure 6B] 10 is a table showing a plurality of predetermined vibration patterns. [Figure 7] 10 is a flowchart of an example process for vibrating a vibrator based on vibration data. [Figure 8A] 10 is a flowchart of an example process for vibrating a vibrator based on vibration data. [Figure 8B] 10 is a flowchart of an example process for vibrating a vibrator based on vibration data. [Figure 9] 10 is a graph plotting changes in pressure detected by a pressure sensor. [Figure 10] 3A and 3B are schematic diagrams illustrating exemplary vibration modes of a vibrator. [Figure 11] 3A and 3B are schematic diagrams illustrating exemplary vibration modes of a vibrator. [Figure 12A] 3A and 3B are schematic diagrams illustrating exemplary vibration modes of a vibrator. [Figure 12B] 3A and 3B are schematic diagrams illustrating exemplary vibration modes of a vibrator. [Figure 13] 1 is a flowchart of a method for controlling a flavor inhaler or the like according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 14] 1 is a schematic diagram showing a simplified configuration example of a flavor inhaler according to an embodiment of the present invention; [Figure 15] 10 is a flowchart of an example process for controlling a function subject based on function data. [Figure 16A]10 is a flowchart of an example process for controlling a function subject based on function data. [Figure 16B] 10 is a flowchart of an example process for controlling a function subject based on function data. [Figure 17] 1 is a flowchart of a method for controlling a flavor inhaler or the like according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 18] 1 is a schematic diagram showing a simplified configuration example of a flavor inhalation device and an external device according to an embodiment of the present invention; [Figure 19] FIG. 10 is a sequence diagram showing the operation of the flavor inhaler and the external device according to the embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 20] 1 is a schematic diagram showing a simplified configuration example of a flavor inhaler according to an embodiment of the present invention; [Figure 21] 1 is a flowchart of a method for controlling a flavor inhaler or the like according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 22] 1 is a flowchart illustrating an example of the operation of a flavor inhaler and the like according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 23] 1 is a flowchart illustrating an example of the operation of a flavor inhaler and the like according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 24] FIG. 1 is a diagram illustrating an example of a hardware configuration of a flavor inhaler according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 25] 1 is a diagram showing an example of a state in which a user holds a flavor inhaler according to an embodiment of the present invention. FIG. [Figure 26] 1A and 1B are diagrams illustrating examples of sensor arrangement in a flavor inhaler or the like according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 27] 1A and 1B are diagrams illustrating examples of sensor arrangement in a flavor inhaler or the like according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 28] 1A and 1B are diagrams illustrating examples of sensor arrangement in a flavor inhaler or the like according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 29] 1A and 1B are diagrams illustrating examples of sensor arrangement in a flavor inhaler or the like according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 30] 1A and 1B are diagrams illustrating examples of sensor arrangement in a flavor inhaler or the like according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 31] FIG. 1 is a diagram illustrating an example of a hardware configuration of a flavor inhaler according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 32] FIG. 1 is a diagram illustrating an example of a hardware configuration of a flavor inhaler according to an embodiment of the present invention. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0088] 1. First embodiment of the present invention The flavor inhaler according to the first embodiment of the present invention is a device that generates a substance to be inhaled by a user. In the following description, the substance generated by the flavor inhaler is described as an aerosol. Alternatively, the substance generated by the flavor inhaler may be a gas other than an aerosol.

[0089] 1-1 First configuration example FIG. 1A is a schematic diagram showing a first configuration example of a flavor inhaler or the like. As shown in FIG. 1A, a flavor inhaler or 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 section 111A, a sensor section 112A, a notification section 113A, a memory section 114A, a communication section 115A, and a control section 116A. The cartridge 120 includes a heating section 121A, a liquid guiding section 122, and a liquid storage section 123. The flavor imparting cartridge 130 includes a flavor source 131 and a mouthpiece 124. An air flow path 180 is formed in the cartridge 120 and the flavor imparting cartridge 130.

[0090] The cartridge 120 and the flavor-imparting cartridge 130 are examples of "refills" described below. In this embodiment, at least a portion of one or both of the refills 120 and 130 is colored according to the type of the refill. Furthermore, the coloring according to the type is not limited to the refill, and may be any component attached to the flavor inhaler 100A.

[0091] The power supply unit 111A stores power and supplies power to each component of the flavor inhaler 100A under the control of the control unit 116A. The power supply unit 111A may be configured with, for example, a rechargeable battery such as a lithium ion secondary battery.

[0092] The sensor unit 112A acquires various information related to the flavor inhaler 100A. The sensor unit 112A may include a pressure sensor such as a microphone capacitor, a flow rate sensor, or a temperature sensor, and acquires values ​​associated with inhalation by the user. The sensor unit 112A may also include an input device such as a button or a switch that accepts information input from the user. Furthermore, the sensor unit may include a sensor configured to detect the movement of the flavor inhaler.

[0093] The notification unit 113A notifies the user of information. In this embodiment, the notification unit 113A includes a display device that displays a message. The notification unit 113A may include, for example, a light-emitting device or a light-emitting element that emits light, a display device that displays an image, a sound output device or an acoustic element that outputs sound, or a vibration device including a vibrator, all of which are configured to provide a sensory stimulus to the user.

[0094] The storage unit 114A stores various information for the operation of the flavor inhaler 100A. The storage unit 114A is configured with a non-volatile storage medium such as a flash memory. The storage unit 114A may include a volatile memory that provides a working area for control by the control unit 116A.

[0095] The communication unit 115A may include a communication interface (including a communication module) that complies with a predetermined LPWA wireless communication standard or a wireless communication standard having similar restrictions. Examples of such a communication standard include Sigfox and LoRA-WAN. The communication unit 115A may also be a communication interface that is capable of performing communication that complies with any wired or wireless communication standard. Examples of such a communication standard that may be adopted include Wi-Fi (registered trademark) and Bluetooth (registered trademark).

[0096] The control unit 116A functions as a calculation processing unit and a control unit, and controls the overall operation of the flavor inhaler 100A in accordance with various programs. The control unit 116A is realized by electronic circuits such as a CPU (Central Processing Unit) and a microprocessor. The control unit 116A may include a conversion unit 117A, which will be described in detail later.

[0097] The liquid storage unit 123 stores an aerosol source. The aerosol source is atomized to generate an aerosol. The aerosol source is a liquid such as a polyhydric alcohol, such as glycerin or propylene glycol, or water. The aerosol source may contain a tobacco-derived or non-tobacco-derived flavor component. When the flavor inhalation device 100A is a medical inhaler, such as a nebulizer, the aerosol source may contain a drug.

[0098] The liquid guide portion 122 guides and holds the aerosol source, which is a liquid stored in the liquid storage portion 123, from the liquid storage portion 123. The liquid guide portion 122 is, for example, a wick formed by twisting a fiber material such as glass fiber or a porous material such as porous ceramic. In this case, the aerosol source stored in the liquid storage portion 123 is guided by the capillary effect of the wick.

[0099] The heating unit 121A generates aerosol by heating the aerosol source and atomizing the aerosol source. In the example shown in FIG. 1A, the heating unit 121A is configured as a coil and is wound around the liquid guiding unit 122. When the heating unit 121A generates heat, the aerosol source held in the liquid guiding unit 122 is heated and atomized, generating aerosol. The heating unit 121A generates heat when power is supplied from the power supply unit 111A. For example, power may be supplied when the sensor unit 112A detects either or both of the user starting inhalation and the input of predetermined information. Then, power supply may be stopped when the sensor unit 112A detects either or both of the user stopping inhalation and the input of predetermined information.

[0100] Flavor source 131 is a component for imparting flavor components to the aerosol. Flavor source 131 may include tobacco-derived or non-tobacco-derived flavor components.

[0101] The air flow path 180 is a path for air inhaled by the user. The air flow path 180 has a tubular structure with an air inlet 181, which is an entrance for air into the air flow path 180, and an air outlet 182, which is an exit for air from the air flow path 180, at both ends. In the middle of the air flow path 180, a liquid guide section 122 is disposed on the upstream side (the side closer to the air inlet 181) and a flavor source 131 is disposed on the downstream side (the side closer to the air outlet 182). Air flowing in from the air inlet 181 as the user inhales is mixed with the aerosol generated by the heating section 121A and, as shown by arrow 190, passes through the flavor source 131 and is transported to the air outlet 182. When the mixed fluid of the aerosol and air passes through the flavor source 131, flavor components contained in the flavor source 131 are imparted to the aerosol.

[0102] Mouthpiece 124 is a member that is held in the mouth by the user when inhaling. Air outlet holes 182 are arranged in mouthpiece 124. By holding mouthpiece 124 in the mouth and inhaling, the user can take in the mixed fluid of the aerosol and air into the oral cavity.

[0103] The above describes exemplary configurations of the flavor inhaler 100A. Of course, the configuration of the flavor inhaler 100A is not limited to the above, and various configurations such as those exemplified below may be used.

[0104] As an example, the flavor inhalation device 100A may not include the flavor-imparting cartridge 130. In that case, the cartridge 120 is provided with the mouthpiece 124.

[0105] As another example, the flavor inhalation device 100A may include multiple types of aerosol sources. Multiple types of aerosols generated from the multiple types of aerosol sources may be mixed in the air flow path 180 and undergo a chemical reaction to generate additional types of aerosols.

[0106] Furthermore, the means for atomizing the aerosol source is not limited to heating by the heating unit 121 A. For example, the means for atomizing the aerosol source may be vibration atomization or induction heating.

[0107] 1-2 Second configuration example 1B is a schematic diagram showing a second configuration example of a flavor inhaler, etc. As shown in FIG. 1B, a flavor inhaler, etc. 100B according to this configuration example includes a power supply unit 111B, a sensor unit 112B, a notification unit 113B, a memory unit 114B, a communication unit 115B, a control unit 116B, a heating unit 121B, a holding unit 140, and a heat insulating unit 144.

[0108] Each of the power supply unit 111B, the sensor unit 112B, the notification unit 113B, the memory unit 114B, the communication unit 115B, and the control unit 116B is substantially identical to the corresponding component included in the flavor inhalation device 100A according to the first configuration example.

[0109] The holding part 140 has an internal space 141 and holds the stick-shaped substrate 150 while accommodating a portion of the stick-shaped substrate 150 in the internal space 141. The stick-shaped substrate 150 is also an example of a "refill." The holding part 140 has an opening 142 that connects the internal space 141 to the outside, and holds the stick-shaped substrate 150 inserted into the internal space 141 through the opening 142. For example, the holding part 140 is a cylindrical body with the opening 142 and a bottom 143 as its bottom surface, and defines a columnar internal space 141. The holding part 140 also has the function of defining a flow path for air to be supplied to the stick-shaped substrate 150. An air inlet, which is an entrance for air to this flow path, is located, for example, in the bottom 143. On the other hand, an air outlet, which is an exit for air from this flow path, is the opening 142.

[0110] Stick-shaped substrate 150 includes substrate portion 151 and mouthpiece portion 152. Substrate portion 151 includes an aerosol source. Note that in this configuration example, the aerosol source is not limited to a liquid and may be a solid. When stick-shaped substrate 150 is held by holder 140, at least a portion of substrate portion 151 is contained in internal space 141, and at least a portion of mouthpiece portion 152 protrudes from opening 142. When a user holds mouthpiece portion 152 protruding from opening 142 in their mouth and inhales, air flows into internal space 141 through an air inlet hole (not shown) and reaches the user's mouth together with the aerosol generated from substrate portion 151.

[0111] The heating unit 121B has a configuration similar to that of the heating unit 121A according to the first configuration example. However, in the example shown in Fig. 1B, the heating unit 121B is configured in a film shape and is arranged so as to cover the outer periphery of the holding unit 140. When the heating unit 121B generates heat, the substrate unit 151 of the stick-shaped substrate 150 is heated from the outer periphery, and an aerosol is generated.

[0112] The heat insulating section 144 prevents heat transfer from the heating section 121B to other components. For example, the heat insulating section 144 is made of a vacuum heat insulating material, an aerogel heat insulating material, or the like.

[0113] The above describes exemplary configurations of the flavor inhaler 100B. Of course, the configuration of the flavor inhaler 100B is not limited to the above, and various configurations such as those exemplified below may be used.

[0114] As one example, the heating unit 121B may be configured in a blade shape and disposed so as to protrude from the bottom 143 of the holding unit 140 into the internal space 141. In this case, the blade-shaped heating unit 121B is inserted into the substrate 151 of the stick-shaped substrate 150 and heats the substrate 151 of the stick-shaped substrate 150 from the inside. As another example, the heating unit 121B may be disposed so as to cover the bottom 143 of the holding unit 140. Furthermore, the heating unit 121B may be configured as a combination of two or more of a first heating unit covering the outer periphery of the holding unit 140, a blade-shaped second heating unit, and a third heating unit covering the bottom 143 of the holding unit 140.

[0115] As another example, the holding unit 140 may include an opening / closing mechanism such as a hinge that opens and closes a portion of the outer shell that forms the internal space 141. The holding unit 140 may then open and close the outer shell to clamp the stick-shaped substrate 150 inserted into the internal space 141. In this case, the heating unit 121B may be provided at the clamping location in the holding unit 140, and may heat the stick-shaped substrate 150 while pressing it.

[0116] Furthermore, the means for atomizing the aerosol source is not limited to heating by heating unit 121B, but may be induction heating, for example.

[0117] The flavor inhaler 100B may further include the heating unit 121A, the liquid guide unit 122, the liquid storage unit 123, and the air flow path 180 according to the first configuration example, and the air outlet hole 182 of the air flow path 180 may also serve as an air inlet hole to the internal space 141. In this case, the mixed fluid of the aerosol and air generated by the heating unit 121A flows into the internal space 141 and is further mixed with the aerosol generated by the heating unit 121B, and reaches the oral cavity of the user.

[0118] 1-3 Simplified configuration example 2 is a schematic diagram showing a simplified configuration example of the flavor inhaler 100A or 100B described above, in which only components particularly related to one embodiment of the present invention are extracted and simplified. Accordingly, 200 denotes the flavor inhaler 100A or 100B.

[0119] Reference numeral 210 denotes the above-mentioned vibrator included in notification unit 113A or 113B. Note that vibrator 210 may be considered separate from notification unit 113A or 113B. In the following description, it is assumed that the vibration of vibrator 210 is controlled by PWM, and that the vibration intensity is configured to be proportional to the PWM duty ratio. However, it will be understood that the vibration of vibrator 210 may be controlled by another method.

[0120] Reference numeral 220 denotes the sensor included in the sensor unit 112A or 112B and configured to detect the movement of the flavor inhaler or the like 200. This sensor may be an inertial sensor (motion sensor) such as an acceleration sensor or an angular velocity sensor (gyro sensor). The sampling rate of the angular velocity sensor may be 1 Hz or more and 1 kHz or less. The inertial data acquired by the inertial sensor may be stored in the storage unit 114A or 114B.

[0121] Reference numeral 230 denotes the above-described converter 117A or 117B included in the control unit 116A or 116B. The converter 230 may be considered separate from the control unit 116A or 116B. The converter 230 is configured to convert data representing the movement detected by the sensor 220 into data for vibrating the vibrator 210. Herein, the former data can be considered as input for outputting the latter data or for vibrating the vibrator 210, and therefore will be referred to as "input data" hereinafter. Furthermore, the latter data is data for vibrating the vibrator 210, and therefore will be referred to as "vibration data" hereinafter. The converter 117A or 117B may read inertial data from the storage unit 114A or 114B as input data. The vibration data may be stored in the storage unit 114A or 114B.

[0122] Reference numeral 240 denotes control unit 116A or 116B. Note that control unit 240 may be considered as control unit 116A or 116B without conversion unit 230. Control unit 240 is configured to vibrate vibrator 210 based on vibration data. In this case, control unit 240 may read out the vibration data from storage unit 114A or 114B.

[0123] 1-4 Sensor 220 and input data The sensor 220 is configured to repeatedly detect the movement of the flavor inhaler 200. The period at which the sensor 220 detects the movement of the flavor inhaler 200 may be constant or variable. Since the sensor 220 may be an inertial sensor such as an acceleration sensor or an angular velocity sensor as described above, the input data representing the movement of the flavor inhaler 200 may include multiple pairs of acceleration or angular velocity values ​​of the movement of the flavor inhaler 200 and the time at which the values ​​were detected or indexes assigned to the values. The input data may be configured such that values ​​assigned smaller indexes represent acceleration or angular velocity values ​​of the movement of the flavor inhaler 200 detected earlier. It should be understood that the index may be omitted or not included in the input data. Furthermore, the sensor 220 may be configured to detect only movements whose acceleration or angular velocity values ​​are equal to or greater than a predetermined threshold.

[0124] The sensor 220 has multiple axes, typically three mutually orthogonal axes, defined. Therefore, the input data can include data representing the movement of the flavor inhaler 200 along each of the multiple axes detected by the sensor 220. Hereinafter, data representing the movement of the flavor inhaler 200 along each axis will be referred to as "partial input data." The partial input data can include acceleration or angular velocity values ​​of the movement of the flavor inhaler 200 along one axis. Note that the movement along an axis refers to a movement determined with reference to an axis, such as a movement along the axis or a movement rotating around the axis. Therefore, the acceleration or angular velocity value of the movement along the axis can be the acceleration value in the direction along the axis or the angular velocity value in the direction rotating around the axis. Figure 3 shows a graph 300 plotting values ​​included in exemplary input data. The vertical axis of the graph 300 corresponds to the acceleration or angular velocity value, and the horizontal axis corresponds to the time or index described above. Each of 310A to 310C shows a plot of the values ​​included in the respective partial input data.

[0125] The input data may include only data representing the movement of a specific axis among the multiple axes of the flavor inhaler 200. For example, the specific axis may be selected as the axis for which the maximum acceleration or angular velocity value is detected by the sensor 220 within a predetermined time period. Alternatively, the specific axis may be selected as the axis for which the sum of the absolute values ​​of the acceleration or angular velocity values ​​detected by the sensor 220 within a predetermined time period is the largest.

[0126] The input data may include data representing a composite of multiple axis-related motions of the flavor inhaler 200. Such a composite may be achieved, for example, by summing values ​​of acceleration or angular velocity of the motion of the flavor inhaler 200 sensed by the sensor 220 at the same time or timing for each axis of the multiple axes.

[0127] The input data may include data that has been subjected to predetermined processing on data that represents the movement of the flavor inhaler 200. For example, the input data may include a value obtained by taking a moving average of the acceleration or angular velocity values ​​of the movement of the flavor inhaler 200 and smoothing the moving average.

[0128] The input data includes values ​​of acceleration or angular velocity of the movement of the flavor inhaler 200 detected by the sensor 220 at different times or timings. Therefore, the input data can be divided into a plurality of data (each of which includes a value of acceleration or angular velocity of the movement in the respective time periods) representing the detected movement in each of the plurality of time periods. Each of 320A to 320C in FIG. 3 indicates a time period corresponding to each divided data. Note that the length of the time period corresponding to each divided data may be constant or may vary.

[0129] 1-5 Conversion unit 230 and vibration data 1-5-1 Simple conversion approach The vibration data may include a plurality of values ​​representing vibration intensities, each corresponding to a vibration at a different time or timing of the vibrator 210. Such a value D[ ] can be calculated by the following formula: D[i]=D min +(D max -D min )×(A[i]-A min ) / (A max -A min ) (1) where D min is the minimum value established for vibration strength, and D max is the maximum value defined for vibration strength, and A min is the minimum value determined for the input data, and A max is the maximum value determined for the input data, A[i] is the i-th value included in the input data, and D[i] is the i-th value representing the vibration intensity. i may be considered to be equal to the index mentioned above. Furthermore, when the input data represents movement along multiple axes, A[i] may be the i-th value included in one of the multiple partial input data, or may be the i-th value of a combination of multiple partial input data (for example, the sum of the i-th values ​​included in each partial input data). The minimum and maximum values ​​determined for the input data may be the minimum and maximum values ​​that the input data can contain, respectively. Furthermore, D min , D max , A min and A max can be arbitrarily set as a parameter. It will be understood that the conversion unit 230 using the formula (1) can be considered to be configured to convert A[], which is a continuous value included in the input data, into D[], which is a continuous value included in the vibration data.

[0130] In addition, the input data is equal to or less than a predetermined minimum value (A[i]≦A min ), the conversion unit 230 converts the input data into a predetermined minimum vibration strength (D min ) may be converted into vibration data including the input data greater than or equal to a predetermined maximum value (A[i] ≥ A max), the conversion unit 230 converts the input data into a predetermined maximum vibration intensity (D max ) may be converted into vibration data including

[0131] A max and A min may be set in various ways. For example, A max and A min may be set in the flavor inhaler 200 from the beginning. max and A min may be automatically set by the control unit 240 or the like based on the movement of the flavor inhaler 200 when the user uses the flavor inhaler 200. Alternatively, the flavor inhaler 200 may have a setting mode for Amax and Amin. In this case, the flavor inhaler 200 or an external device communicating with the flavor inhaler 200 instructs the user to intentionally shake the flavor inhaler 200 strongly and weakly, or to shake the flavor inhaler 200 for a predetermined time, and the control unit 240 sets A based on the movement of the flavor inhaler 200 at that time. max and A min may be set.

[0132] According to such vibration data, the detected movement of the flavor inhaler or the like 200 can be directly converted into vibration of the vibrator 210, as will be described later.

[0133] Furthermore, when the flavor inhaler etc. 200 has a plurality of vibrators, the vibration data for each vibrator may be converted using different partial input data.

[0134] 1-5-2 Box Approach The conversion unit 230 can be further configured to use a representative value included in the input data. Using the representative value included in the input data may convert the representative value included in the input data into a vibration intensity or a vibration pattern of the vibrator 210.

[0135] The representative value included in the input data may be the maximum value or extreme value (e.g., maximum value), average value, median value, a predetermined number or middle value included in the data, etc. (hereinafter referred to as "maximum value, etc.") of the values ​​of acceleration or angular velocity of the movement included in the input data (if the input data represents movement about multiple axes, each partial input data out of the multiple partial input data). Furthermore, the representative value may be found for each of the divided data described above. Therefore, multiple representative values ​​can be found from the input data.

[0136] The extreme values ​​may be obtained by the following method. FIG. 4 shows a graph 400 plotting values ​​contained in exemplary input data (which may be considered partial input data). The vertical axis of graph 400 corresponds to the acceleration or angular velocity value, and the horizontal axis corresponds to the time or index described above. 410 indicates a predetermined threshold, and 420A-420C indicate portions of the exemplary data that are equal to or greater than the predetermined threshold 410. The data in such portions 420A-420C of the exemplary data can be treated as separate data, and maximum values ​​430A-430C in each of portions 420A-420C can be treated as the extreme values ​​for the separate data (420A-420C). When obtaining extreme values ​​using such a method, it should be noted that the number of obtained extreme values ​​varies depending on the value set for the predetermined threshold 410.

[0137] When there are multiple maximum values, the maximum values ​​may be sorted in descending order, and a predetermined number of the maximum values ​​may be used as the representative value.

[0138] 1-5-2-1 Vibration intensity The vibration data can include a value representing a reference vibration intensity (hereinafter referred to as "reference vibration intensity") when vibrating the vibrator 210. Such a value D ref can be calculated by the following formula: D ref =D min +(D max -D min )×(A rep -Amin ) / (A max -A min ) (2) where A rep is a representative value of the input data (or one of the partial input data if the input data represents motion along multiple axes), and D ref is a value that represents the reference vibration strength. rep can be obtained from A[], which is a continuous value included in the input data, so the conversion unit 230 using equation (2) converts A[], which is a continuous value included in the input data, into D, which is a discrete value included in the vibration data. ref It will be understood that the present invention can be considered to be configured to convert

[0139] In addition, the representative value of the input data is equal to or less than a predetermined minimum value (A rep ≦A min ), the conversion unit 230 converts the input data into a predetermined minimum vibration strength (D min ) may be converted into vibration data containing the representative value of the input data that is equal to or greater than a predetermined maximum value (A rep ≧A max ), the conversion unit 230 converts the input data into a predetermined maximum vibration intensity (D max ) may be converted into vibration data containing max and A min may be set in a variety of ways.

[0140] The vibration data may also include values ​​representing multiple reference vibration intensities, and such values ​​D ref [ ] can be calculated using the following formula: D ref [j]=D min +(D max -D min )×(A rep [j]-A min ) / (A max -A min ) (3) where A rep[j] is the jth representative value of the input data (one of the multiple partial input data if the input data represents motion along multiple axes), and D ref [j] is the value representing the jth reference vibration intensity. rep Since [j] can be obtained from A[], which is a continuous value included in the input data, the conversion unit 230 using the formula (3) also converts A[], which is a continuous value included in the input data, into D, which is a discrete value included in the vibration data. ref It will be understood that it can be considered to be configured to convert to [j].

[0141] In addition, the representative value of the input data is equal to or less than a predetermined minimum value (A rep [j]≦A min ), the conversion unit 230 converts the input data into a predetermined minimum vibration strength (D min ) may be converted into vibration data containing the representative value of the input data that is equal to or greater than a predetermined maximum value (A rep [j]≧A max ), the conversion unit 230 converts the input data into a predetermined maximum vibration intensity (D max ) may be converted into vibration data including

[0142] 1-5-2-2 Vibration Pattern The vibration data may include a value representing a vibration pattern when vibrating the vibrator 210. The vibration pattern may be identified by at least one of a vibration time, a vibration pause time, and a vibration intensity correction coefficient, which will be described later, and the value representing the vibration pattern included in the vibration data may be at least one of a vibration time, a vibration pause time, a vibration intensity correction coefficient, and an index, which will be described later, for selecting one vibration pattern. It should be understood that a vibration pattern may be identified by other parameters in addition to or instead of the vibration time, the vibration pause time, and the vibration intensity correction coefficient. For example, the vibration pattern, which will be described later regarding the index, may also be identified by vibration intensity or a reference vibration intensity.

[0143] 1-5-2-2-1 Vibration time and vibration rest time The control unit 240 can vibrate the vibrator 210 in a manner that alternates between a period of vibration and a period of vibration pause. Therefore, as described above, the value representing the vibration pattern can include one or both of a vibration time, which is the length of the period of vibration, and a vibration pause time, which is the length of the period of vibration pause.

[0144] The vibration time T[ ] can be calculated using the following formula: T[k]=T min +(T max -T min )×(A rep [k]-A min ) / (A max -A min ) (4) where T min is the minimum length of the vibration time, and T max is the maximum length of vibration time, and A rep [k] is the kth representative value of the input data (if the input data represents motion on multiple axes, one of the multiple partial input data), and C[k] is the kth vibration intensity correction coefficient. min and T max can be set arbitrarily as a parameter. rep Since [k] can be obtained from A[], which is a continuous value contained in the input data, it can be understood that the conversion unit 230 using equation (4) can also be considered to be configured to convert A[], which is a continuous value contained in the input data, into T[k], which is a discrete value contained in the vibration data.

[0145] In addition, the representative value of the input data is equal to or less than a predetermined minimum value (A rep ≦A min ), the conversion unit 230 converts the input data into a predetermined minimum vibration time (T min ) may be converted into vibration data containing the representative value of the input data that is equal to or greater than a predetermined maximum value (A rep ≧A max ), the conversion unit 230 converts the input data into a predetermined maximum vibration time (T max) may be converted into vibration data containing max and A min may be set in a variety of ways.

[0146] The vibration rest time Z[ ] can be calculated using the following formula: Z[k]=T0-T[k] (5) Here, T0 is the length of one cycle consisting of one vibration period and one vibration pause period. Note that T0 can be set arbitrarily as a parameter. Furthermore, since T[k] can ultimately be calculated from A[], which is a continuous value contained in the input data, as described above, it can be understood that the conversion unit 230 using equation (5) can also be considered to be configured to convert A[], which is a continuous value contained in the input data, into Z[k], which is a discrete value contained in the vibration data. The vibration pause time Z[ ] may be a fixed value.

[0147] 1-5-2-2-2 Vibration intensity correction coefficient The control unit 240 can derive one or more vibration intensities from one reference vibration intensity. Therefore, as described above, the value representing the vibration pattern can include a vibration intensity correction coefficient for deriving the vibration intensity. The vibration intensity correction coefficient C[] can be calculated using the following formula: C[k]=C0×(A rep [k]-A min ) / (A max -A min ) (6) where C0 is a predetermined correction coefficient, and A rep [k] is the kth representative value of the input data (if the input data represents motion on multiple axes, one of the multiple partial input data), and C[k] is the kth vibration intensity correction coefficient. The other variables are the same as in equation (1). Note that C0 can be set arbitrarily as a parameter. Also, A repSince [k] can be obtained from A[], which is a continuous value contained in the input data, it can be understood that the conversion unit 230 using equation (6) can also be considered to be configured to convert A[], which is a continuous value contained in the input data, into C[k], which is a discrete value contained in the vibration data.

[0148] The vibration intensity may be derived by any method, and the derived vibration intensity value may be obtained, for example, by multiplying the reference vibration intensity value by a vibration intensity correction coefficient. Alternatively, the derived vibration intensity value D dev For example, [ ] can be calculated using the following formula: D dev [k]=D min +(D ref -D min )×C[k] (7) where D dev [k] is the kth derived vibration intensity value. Also, D ref Instead of D ref [k] may also be used.

[0149] FIG. 5 is a diagram illustrating one reference vibration intensity and three derived vibration intensities. 510A shows a block illustrating one reference vibration intensity. 510B, 510C, and 510D show blocks illustrating three vibration intensities derived by multiplying the value of reference vibration intensity 510A by predetermined vibration intensity correction coefficients C[1], C[2], and C[3], respectively. In this diagram, C[1]=1, C[2]=1.2, and C[3]=0.5, and the heights of blocks 510A-510D correspond to the vibration intensity values.

[0150] The value representing the vibration pattern may be a vibration time, a vibration pause time, or a vibration intensity correction coefficient associated with each representative value. The vibration pattern PT[k] represented by the k-th representative value can be expressed, for example, as follows: PT[k]=(T[],Z[],C[]) For example, when the vibration time, vibration rest time, and vibration intensity correction coefficient are all calculated using the same representative value, PT[k]=(T[k],Z[k],C[k]) This becomes: In this case, a vibration pattern exists for each representative value. One or more of the vibration time, vibration rest time, and vibration intensity correction coefficient may be set to fixed values.

[0151] 1-5-2-2-3 Index for selecting one vibration pattern Alternatively, the value representing the vibration pattern may be an index value for selecting one of a plurality of predetermined vibration patterns. Such an index value may be equal to the number of representative values ​​included in the input data (one of a plurality of partial input data when the input data represents a movement about a plurality of axes). Alternatively, such an index value may be determined by comparing the representative value included in the input data (one of a plurality of partial input data when the input data represents a movement about a plurality of axes) with a threshold value. For example, the number of predetermined vibration patterns (maximum index value) may be set to i max If the representative value is less than a predetermined first threshold, it is set to 1, if it is equal to or greater than the predetermined first threshold and less than a predetermined second threshold, it is set to 2, ..., if it is equal to or greater than a predetermined (i max -2) threshold or more predetermined (i max -1) If it is less than the threshold, i max -1 to the given (i max -1) If it is equal to or greater than the threshold, max may be used as the index value. Note that the number of representative values ​​can be determined from A[], which is a continuous value contained in the input data, so it will be understood that the conversion unit 230 using such a method can also be considered to be configured to convert A[], which is a continuous value contained in the input data, into an index value, which is a discrete value contained in the vibration data.

[0152] Each of the plurality of vibration patterns may be specified by one or more of a vibration time, a vibration pause time, a vibration intensity correction coefficient, a vibration intensity, or a reference vibration intensity. In other words, the index may uniquely determine one or more of a vibration time, a vibration pause time, a vibration intensity correction coefficient, a vibration intensity, or a reference vibration intensity.

[0153] 6A and 6B each show a table representing a plurality of predetermined vibration patterns when the number of predetermined vibration patterns (maximum index value) is five.

[0154] In FIG. 6A , the first vibration pattern is identified by one vibration intensity correction coefficient of 1, the second vibration pattern is identified by two vibration intensity correction coefficients of 0.5 and 1, the third vibration pattern is identified by three vibration intensity correction coefficients of 0.3, 0.5, and 1, the fourth vibration pattern is identified by four vibration intensity correction coefficients of 0.3, 0.5, 0.7, and 1, and the fifth vibration pattern is identified by five vibration intensity correction coefficients of 0.2, 0.4, 0.6, 0.8, and 1.

[0155] The first vibration pattern in FIG. 6B is identified by one vibration intensity value of 80, the second vibration pattern is identified by two vibration intensity values ​​of 40 and 80, the third vibration pattern is identified by three vibration intensity values ​​of 24, 48, and 80, the fourth vibration pattern is identified by four vibration intensity values ​​of 24, 40, 56, and 80, and the fifth vibration pattern is identified by five vibration intensity values ​​of 16, 32, 48, 64, and 80.

[0156] 1-5-2-3 Other The conversion unit 230 can obtain the above-mentioned value representing the vibration intensity and value representing the vibration pattern based on different partial input data. That is, the conversion unit 230 may convert one of the plurality of partial input data (hereinafter referred to as "first input data") into the vibration intensity of the vibrator 210, and convert another of the plurality of partial input data (hereinafter referred to as "second input data") into a vibration pattern. Furthermore, the conversion unit 230 may convert the second input data and one of the other partial input data different from the first input data and the second input data (hereinafter referred to as "third input data") into a vibration pattern. That is, for example, the vibration time specifying the vibration pattern may be determined from the second input data, and the vibration intensity correction coefficient specifying the vibration pattern may be determined from the third input data. Alternatively, the conversion unit 230 may select one of a plurality of predetermined vibration patterns as the vibration pattern of the vibrator 210 based on the second input data.

[0157] When the flavor inhaler etc. 200 has multiple vibrators, the vibration data for each vibrator may be converted using one or more of the first input data, the second input data, and the third input data.

[0158] The conversion unit 230 may be configured not to use values ​​contained in the input data that are less than a predetermined threshold or that are outside a predetermined range when generating vibration data. For example, if the sensor 220 is an angular velocity sensor and the input data includes data representing angular velocity, the conversion unit 230 may convert data representing angular velocity that has an angular velocity of 10 dps or greater into vibration data. Alternatively, the conversion unit 230 may be configured to generate vibration data by regarding values ​​contained in the input data that are less than a predetermined threshold or that are outside a predetermined range as predetermined values.

[0159] The converter 230 may be configured to generate input data based on the output from the sensor 220 to generate the vibration data. The converter 230 may be configured to store the input data in the storage unit 114A or 114B and convert the stored input data into the vibration data.

[0160] The conversion unit 230 may be configured to store the generated vibration data in the storage unit 114A or 114B. The control unit 240 may be configured to use stored vibration data generated in the past. The vibration data may be editable within the flavor inhaler 200 or by an external device.

[0161] The conversion unit 230 may be configured to be able to select a method for converting input data into vibration data. The control unit 240 may be configured to vibrate the vibrator 210 based on the vibration data converted by different methods, and to be able to check the vibration mode.

[0162] The communication unit 115A or 115B may be configured to communicate inertial data and / or vibration data to the outside.

[0163] 1-6 Control Unit 240 The following describes a method in which control unit 240 vibrates vibrator 210 based on vibration data.

[0164] 1-6-1 Simple conversion approach FIG. 7 is a flowchart of an example process 700 performed by the control unit 240 for vibrating the vibrator 210 based on the vibration data.

[0165] Step 710 indicates a step of determining whether the flavor inhaler 200 has started inhaling by the user. The method of determining whether inhalation has started is arbitrary, and can be determined, for example, by using a pressure sensor included in the flavor inhaler 200 and configured to detect a pressure change due to inhalation. In particular, the control unit 240 may determine that inhalation has started when a pressure strength P, which will be described later, becomes less than a predetermined threshold. If it is determined that inhalation has started, the process proceeds to step 720; otherwise, the process returns to step 710.

[0166] 720 indicates a step of sequentially obtaining the vibration intensity values ​​D[ ] included in the vibration data.

[0167] 730 indicates a step of vibrating the vibrator 210 at the vibration intensity value obtained for a predetermined time. The predetermined time will be described later.

[0168] Step 740 indicates a step of determining whether the user has finished inhaling in the flavor inhaler 200. The method of determining whether the user has finished inhaling may be any method, for example, using the pressure sensor described above. In particular, the control unit 240 may determine that the user has finished inhaling when the pressure intensity P described above is equal to or greater than a predetermined threshold. If it is determined that the user has finished inhaling, the process ends. If not, the process proceeds to step 750.

[0169] 750 shows a step of determining whether more vibration intensity values ​​D[] can be obtained from the vibration data. If the control unit 240 has not yet obtained all of the vibration intensity values ​​D[] from the vibration data, it can determine that more vibration intensity values ​​D[] can be obtained from the vibration data. If it is determined that more vibration intensity values ​​D[] can be obtained from the vibration data, the process returns to step 720; otherwise, the process ends.

[0170] According to the exemplary process 700, the vibrator 210 can be vibrated based on the vibration data while the flavor inhaler 200 is inhaling. Furthermore, according to the exemplary process 700, the detected movement of the flavor inhaler 200 can be directly converted into vibration of the vibrator 210.

[0171] The predetermined time in step 730 may be, for example, equal to the length of a period during which the sensor 220 detects the movement of the flavor inhaler 200. In this case, the detected movement of the flavor inhaler 200 and the vibration of the vibrator 210 can be synchronized in time.

[0172] Alternatively, the predetermined time in step 730 may be varied depending on the inhalation time, which is the length of time during which inhalation was performed in the flavor inhaler 200. For example, the predetermined time in step 730 may be set so that the length of time from when step 720 was first executed until the determination in step 750 is "No" is shorter than, equal to, or longer than the inhalation time. In this case, the length of time during which the vibrator 210 vibrates is compressed or extended depending on the inhalation time. The control unit 240 can record the length of time during which the user previously inhaled using the flavor inhaler 200, and can use such length of time (or a statistical value such as the average value of such length of time) as the inhalation time. Note that the length of time during which the user previously inhaled using the flavor inhaler 200 may be the length of the period from when the pressure P became less than the predetermined threshold to when it became equal to or greater than the predetermined threshold.

[0173] Alternatively, the vibration intensity values ​​D[] included in the vibration data acquired in step 720 may be selective. In this case, the vibration intensity values ​​D[] included in the vibration data may be thinned out and acquired at predetermined intervals. For example, if every third vibration intensity value D[] included in the vibration data is thinned out and acquired, the vibration intensity values ​​acquired before the determination in step 750 is No will be D[1], D[2], D[4], D[5], D[7], . . . (In other words, every third vibration intensity value D[3], D[6], . . . will not be acquired.) The thinning interval may be set arbitrarily or may be set according to the suction time or suction intensity. The thinning interval may also be variable. For example, the thinning interval may be changed according to the suction intensity. The thinning interval may be set as follows: when the suction strength is equal to or greater than a first threshold, the thinning interval is every other pixel; when the suction strength is equal to or greater than a second threshold but less than the first threshold, the thinning interval is every third pixel; and when the suction strength is equal to or greater than an n-th threshold but less than an n-1-th threshold, the thinning interval is every n pixels. The threshold interval may be linear or arbitrary. The thinning interval according to the suction strength may be set by measuring the suction strength a predetermined number of times during one suction, or by measuring the suction strength in real time during one suction.

[0174] 1-6-2 Box Approach 1 FIG. 8A is a flowchart of an example process 800A executed by control unit 240 for vibrating transducer 210 based on vibration data.

[0175] 810A indicates a step of determining whether the user has started inhaling in the flavor inhaler 200. Step 810A may be similar to step 710. If it is determined that the user has started inhaling, the process proceeds to step 820A; otherwise, the process returns to step 810A.

[0176] 820A shows a step of determining the vibration intensity and vibration time when vibrating the vibrator 210. The method of determining the vibration intensity and vibration time will be described later.

[0177] 830A shows the step of vibrating the vibrator 210 for the determined vibration time with the determined vibration intensity.

[0178] 840A shows a step of determining a vibration rest time. The method of determining the vibration rest time will be described later.

[0179] 850A shows the step of waiting for the determined vibration pause time.

[0180] Step 860A indicates a step of determining whether the user has finished inhaling in the flavor inhaler 200. Step 860 may be similar to step 740. If it is determined that the user has finished inhaling, the process ends; otherwise, the process returns to step 820A.

[0181] 1-6-2-1 Determining vibration intensity In step 820A, one of one or more reference vibration intensities whose values ​​are included in the vibration data may be selected in sequence and cyclically as the vibration intensity to be determined.

[0182] Alternatively, in step 820A, one of one or more vibration intensities derived based on the value of the reference vibration intensity included in the vibration data and one or more vibration intensity correction coefficients identified by the vibration pattern can be selected in sequence and cyclically as the vibration intensity to be determined.

[0183] Alternatively, in step 820A, one of one or more vibration intensities derived based on the reference vibration intensity value included in the vibration data and one or more vibration intensity correction coefficients of a vibration pattern selected by an index included in the vibration data can be selected in sequence and cyclically as the vibration intensity to be determined.

[0184] Alternatively, in step 820A, one of one or more vibration intensities of a vibration pattern selected by an index included in the vibration data can be selected in order and cyclically as the vibration intensity to be determined.

[0185] Alternatively, in step 820A, the vibration strength determined based on the vibration data as described above may be corrected in accordance with the strength of suction, and the vibration strength may be the vibration strength that is finally determined.

[0186] Figure 9 is a graph 900 plotting changes in pressure detected by a pressure sensor. The vertical axis of graph 900 corresponds to the detected pressure value, and the horizontal axis corresponds to time. 910 indicates the pressure value before suction is applied, i.e., atmospheric pressure. The suction strength P can be calculated using the following formula: P=p0-p (8) Here, p0 is the pressure value before suction is performed, i.e., the atmospheric pressure value, and p is the pressure value detected when the corresponding step is performed.

[0187] The vibration intensity value D is finally determined in step 820A. determined can be calculated by the following formula: D determined =D data ×P / P stn (9) where D data is the value of vibration intensity determined based on the vibration data as described above, and P stn is the reference strength of attraction. stn is the maximum suction strength P max and P max can be experimentally determined by any method, such as sucking as strongly as possible with a flavor inhaler. stn may be the expected normal suction strength, and the value of such strength may be a literature value. stn may be automatically set by the control unit 240 or the like based on the inhalation of the flavor inhaler or the like 200 by the user. Alternatively, the flavor inhaler or the like 200 may be configured to stnIn this case, the flavor inhaler 200 or an external device communicating with the flavor inhaler 200 instructs the user to inhale the flavor inhaler 200, and the control unit 240 determines the P stn The vibration intensity value D obtained in this way may be set as determined According to this, the control unit 240 is configured to vibrate the vibrator 210 based on the vibration data and so that the suction strength and the vibration strength of the vibrator 210 are proportional to each other.

[0188] 1-6-2-2 Determining vibration time In step 820A, a predetermined length of time may be determined as a vibration time.

[0189] Alternatively, in step 820A, the vibration time included in the vibration data may be used as the determined vibration time.

[0190] 1-6-2-3 Determining vibration pause time In step 840A, a predetermined length of time may be determined as a vibration rest period.

[0191] Alternatively, in step 840A, the vibration pause time included in the vibration data may be used as the determined vibration pause time.

[0192] Alternatively, in step 840A, the vibration pause time may be determined according to the strength of suction. Such vibration pause time Z can be calculated as follows: Z=Z max -(Z max -Z min )×P / P max (10) where Z min is the minimum value of the predetermined vibration rest time, and Z max is the maximum value of the predetermined vibration rest time.

[0193] It should be noted that the determination of the vibration pause time may be performed together with the determination of the vibration time and vibration intensity in step 820A.

[0194] 1-6-3 Box Approach No. 2 Furthermore, the vibration intensity, vibration duration, and vibration pause time may be determined and stored in advance from vibration data including a reference vibration intensity and vibration pattern. In this case, when suction is detected, the control unit 240 can read out one or more different stored vibration intensities, vibration durations, and vibration pause times, and vibrate the vibrator according to the read out one or more different vibration intensities, vibration durations, and vibration pause times.

[0195] FIG. 8B is a flowchart of another example process 800B executed by control unit 240 for vibrating transducer 210 based on vibration data.

[0196] Step 810B indicates a step of determining whether the user has started inhaling in the flavor inhaler 200. Step 810B may be similar to step 710. If it is determined that the user has started inhaling, the process proceeds to step 820B; otherwise, the process returns to step 810B.

[0197] 820B shows a step of acquiring from storage unit 114A or 114B values ​​of vibration intensity, vibration time, and vibration pause time for vibrating vibrator 210. The acquired vibration intensity, vibration time, and vibration pause time may be one of one or more different vibration intensities, vibration times, and vibration pause times that have been determined in advance by the above-described method and stored in storage unit 114A or 114B.

[0198] 830B shows a step of vibrating the vibrator 210 for the acquired vibration time and with the acquired vibration intensity.

[0199] 840B shows a step of waiting for the acquired vibration pause time.

[0200] Step 850B indicates a step of determining whether the user has finished inhaling in the flavor inhaler 200. Step 850B may be similar to step 740. If it is determined that the user has finished inhaling, the process ends; otherwise, the process proceeds to step 860B.

[0201] 860B shows a step of determining whether the values ​​of the vibration intensity, vibration duration, and vibration pause time can still be acquired. In step 860B, if there are one or more different vibration intensities, vibration durations, and vibration pause times stored in memory unit 114A or 114B that have not yet been acquired, it can be determined that the values ​​of the vibration intensity, vibration duration, and vibration pause time can still be acquired. If it is determined that the values ​​of the vibration intensity, vibration duration, and vibration pause time can still be acquired, the process returns to step 820B; otherwise, the process ends.

[0202] 1-6-4 Specific examples of vibration modes of the vibrator 210 1-6-4-1 Vibration intensity number 3 and vibration pause time based on pressure FIG. 10 is a schematic diagram showing an example vibration mode 1000 of the vibrator 210 when three vibration intensities are determined in sequence and cyclically in step 820, and the vibration pause time is determined according to the strength of suction in step 840.

[0203] Graph 1000A shows the temporal change in the vibration mode of vibrator 210. The vertical axis of graph 1000A corresponds to vibration intensity, and the horizontal axis corresponds to time. Therefore, graph 1010A shows periods during which vibrator 210 is vibrating, and graph 1020A shows periods during which vibrator 210 is not vibrating. One vibrating period 1010A and one non-vibrating period 1020A to the right of it correspond to one execution of steps 820 to 850 of exemplary process 800. It can be seen that graph 1000 shows vibrations of three different vibration intensities repeatedly appearing in sequence.

[0204] Graph 1000B is a graph showing changes in suction strength of the flavor inhaler 200. The vertical axis of graph 1000B corresponds to suction strength, and the horizontal axis corresponds to time. Note that the horizontal axis of graph 1000A and the horizontal axis of graph 1000B are the same.

[0205] As is clear from graphs 1000A and 1000B, the length of non-vibration period 1020A changes depending on the strength of suction; more specifically, it can be seen that the stronger the strength of suction, the shorter the length of non-vibration period 1020A.

[0206] 1-6-4-2 Vibration intensity number 1 and vibration pause time based on pressure FIG. 11 is a schematic diagram showing an example vibration mode 1100 of the vibrator 210 when one vibration intensity is determined in a sequential and cyclical manner in step 820, i.e., one vibration intensity is continuously determined, and the vibration pause time is determined according to the strength of suction in step 840.

[0207] Graph 1100A shows the change over time in the vibration mode of vibrator 210. The vertical axis of graph 1100A corresponds to vibration intensity, and the horizontal axis corresponds to time. Graph 1110A therefore shows periods during which vibrator 210 is vibrating, and graph 1120A shows periods during which vibrator 210 is not vibrating. One vibrating period 1110A and one non-vibrating period 1120A to the right of it correspond to one execution of steps 820 to 850 of exemplary process 800. It can be seen that graph 1100 shows repeated vibrations of only one vibration intensity.

[0208] Graph 1100B is a graph showing changes in suction strength of the flavor inhaler 200. The vertical axis of graph 1100B corresponds to suction strength, and the horizontal axis corresponds to time. Note that the horizontal axis of graph 1100A and the horizontal axis of graph 1100B are the same.

[0209] As is clear from graphs 1100A and 1100B, the length of non-vibration period 1120A changes depending on the strength of suction; more specifically, it can be seen that the stronger the strength of suction, the shorter the length of non-vibration period 1120A.

[0210] 1-6-4-3 Vibration intensity number 1 and vibration intensity and vibration pause time based on pressure FIG. 12A is a schematic diagram showing an example vibration mode 1200A of vibrator 210 when one vibration intensity is determined sequentially and cyclically in step 820A, i.e., one vibration intensity is continuously determined, and in step 820A the vibration intensity is corrected according to the strength of suction, and in step 840A the vibration pause time is determined according to the strength of suction.

[0211] Graph 1202A is a graph showing temporal changes in the vibration mode of vibrator 210. The vertical axis of graph 1202A corresponds to vibration intensity, and the horizontal axis corresponds to time. Therefore, graph 1210A indicates periods during which vibrator 210 is vibrating, and graph 1220A indicates periods during which vibrator 210 is not vibrating. One vibrating period 1210A and one non-vibrating period 1220A to the right of it correspond to one execution of steps 820A to 850A of exemplary process 800A.

[0212] Graph 1204A is a graph showing changes in suction strength of the flavor inhaler 200. The vertical axis of graph 1204A corresponds to suction strength, and the horizontal axis corresponds to time. The horizontal axis of graph 1204A is the same as that of graph 1202A.

[0213] It can be seen that graph 1200A shows vibration intensity proportional to the strength of suction. Also, as is clear from graphs 1202A and 1204A, the length of non-vibration period 1220A changes depending on the strength of suction, and more specifically, the stronger the strength of suction, the shorter the length of non-vibration period 1220A.

[0214] 1-6-4-4 Vibration intensity number 3 and vibration intensity and vibration pause time based on pressure FIG. 12B is a schematic diagram 1200B showing an example vibration mode of vibrator 210 when three vibration intensities are determined in sequence and cyclically in step 820A, and the vibration intensities are corrected according to the strength of suction in step 820A, and the vibration pause time is determined according to the strength of suction in step 840A.

[0215] Graph 1202B is a graph showing temporal changes in the vibration mode of vibrator 210. The vertical axis of graph 1202B corresponds to vibration intensity, and the horizontal axis corresponds to time. Therefore, graph 1210B indicates periods during which vibrator 210 is vibrating, and graph 1220B indicates periods during which vibrator 210 is not vibrating. One vibrating period 1210B and one non-vibrating period 1220B to the right of it correspond to one execution of steps 820A to 850A of exemplary process 800A.

[0216] Graph 1204B is a graph showing changes in suction strength of the flavor inhaler 200. The vertical axis of graph 1204B corresponds to suction strength, and the horizontal axis corresponds to time. Note that the horizontal axis of graph 1204B is the same as that of graph 1202B.

[0217] It can be seen that graph 1200B shows vibration intensity proportional to the strength of suction. Also, as is clear from graphs 1202B and 1204B, the length of non-vibration period 1220B changes depending on the strength of suction, and more specifically, the stronger the strength of suction, the shorter the length of non-vibration period 1220B.

[0218] 1-7 Overall control flow of flavor inhalation device etc. 200 FIG. 13 is a flowchart of a control method 1300 for the flavor inhaler or the like 200.

[0219] Reference numeral 1310 denotes a step of detecting the movement of the flavor inhaler 200. This step may be executed by the sensor 220 included in the flavor inhaler 200. Alternatively, this step may be considered to be executed by a processor included in the flavor inhaler 200 using the sensor 220. The step of detecting the movement of the flavor inhaler 200 may be executed after a predetermined operation (such as pressing a button) on the flavor inhaler 200 by the user, or may be executed at various other times.

[0220] Reference numeral 1320 denotes a step of converting input data representing the detected movement of the flavor inhaler 200 into vibration data for vibrating the vibrator 210 included in the flavor inhaler 200. This step may be executed by the conversion unit 230 included in the flavor inhaler 200. Note that this step may also be considered to be executed by a processor included in the flavor inhaler 200 as the conversion unit 230.

[0221] Reference numeral 1330 denotes a step of vibrating the vibrator 210 based on the vibration data obtained in step 1320. This step may be executed by the control unit 240 included in the flavor inhaler 200 and may include the exemplary process 700 or 800 described above. This step may be considered to be executed by a processor included in the flavor inhaler 200 as the control unit 240. The step of vibrating the vibrator 210 based on the vibration data may be executed while the user is inhaling with the flavor inhaler 200, in response to a predetermined operation (such as pressing a button) by the user on the flavor inhaler 200, or at various other times. Furthermore, after creating the vibration data, the control unit 240 may automatically vibrate the vibrator 210 based on the vibration data so that the user can check the vibration data.

[0222] It goes without saying that the control method 1300 may be executed by a processor of the flavor inhaler 200 as a program.

[0223] The power supply unit 111A or 111B of the flavor inhaler 200 may include a rechargeable battery. In this case, the battery may be charged by a charging device electrically connected to the flavor inhaler 200. The charging device may include, in addition to the charging unit, at least one of a vibrator, a sensor, a conversion unit, a control unit, etc., similar to the components shown in FIG. 2 . When the flavor inhaler 200 is connected to such a charging device, at least some of the steps of the control method 1300 may be executed by components in the charging device.

[0224] According to the first embodiment of the present invention, when a user moves a flavor inhaler or the like, a wide variety of vibration data is generated. Based on the generated vibration data, the flavor inhaler or the like can be vibrated in a wide variety of ways. Therefore, the user can inhale the flavor inhaler or the like while feeling vibrations in a wide variety of ways, including ways that the user cannot predict. This improves the user experience.

[0225] 2. Second embodiment of the present invention The flavor inhaler etc. according to the first embodiment is configured to vibrate a vibrator based on vibration data converted from input data. On the other hand, the flavor inhaler etc. according to the second embodiment of the present invention is configured to control a predetermined function of the flavor inhaler etc. based on the vibration data converted from input data. Therefore, the flavor inhaler etc. according to the second embodiment of the present invention may be the same as the flavor inhaler etc. according to the first embodiment of the present invention, except that it does not need to include a vibrator.

[0226] The flavor inhaler and the like according to the second embodiment will be described below. In the following description, the equivalent of vibration data will be referred to as "functional data," the equivalent of "vibration intensity" will be referred to as "functional intensity," the equivalent of vibration pattern will be referred to as "functional pattern," the equivalent of vibration time will be referred to as "functional time," the equivalent of vibration pause time will be referred to as "functional pause time," and the equivalent of vibration intensity correction coefficient will be referred to as "functional intensity correction coefficient." Therefore, the content and derivation method of the functional data, functional intensity, functional pattern, functional time, functional pause time, and functional intensity correction coefficient may be the same as those of the vibration data, vibration intensity, vibration pattern, vibration time, vibration pause time, and vibration intensity correction coefficient, respectively.

[0227] 2-1 Simplified configuration example 14 is a schematic diagram showing a simplified configuration example of the flavor inhaler 100A or 100B described above, in which only components particularly related to this embodiment are extracted and simplified. Accordingly, 1400 denotes the flavor inhaler 100A or 100B.

[0228] Reference numeral 1410 denotes a functional entity controlled in this embodiment. This functional entity is, for example, but not limited to, the heating unit 121A or 121B, the light emitting device or light emitting element included in the notification unit 113A or 113B, the display device that displays the image included in the notification unit 113A or 113B, or the sound output device or acoustic element that outputs sound included in the notification unit 113A or 113B.

[0229] The function intensity of the light-emitting device or light-emitting element may control one or both of the light emission intensity and the light emission color (different colors can be assigned depending on the function intensity). The function intensity of the sound output device or audio device may control at least one of the sound intensity, sound pitch, and sound type (different sounds can be assigned depending on the function intensity). The function intensity of the display device may control at least one of the display hue, display brightness, display saturation, and displayed information (including images; different information is displayed depending on the function intensity). The function intensity of the heating unit 121A or 121B may control one or more of the temperature of the heating unit 121A or 121B, the current flowing through the heating unit 121A or 121B, the voltage applied to the heating unit 121A or 121B, and the power supplied to the heating unit 121A or 121B.

[0230] 1420 indicates a sensor similar to the sensor 220.

[0231] 1430 indicates a unit similar to the conversion unit 230.

[0232] Reference numeral 1440 denotes a component similar to the control unit 240, except that it controls the functioning entity 1410 based on function data rather than vibrating the vibrator based on vibration data.

[0233] 2-2 Simple conversion approach FIG. 15 is a flow chart of an example process 1500 executed by the control unit 1440 for controlling the function entity 1410 based on the function data.

[0234] Reference numeral 1510 denotes a step of determining whether the function of the functional entity 1410 should be executed in the flavor inhaler etc. 1400. This determination may be any determination that differs depending on the actual entity of the functional entity 1410. For example, this determination may be a determination of whether a button or switch included in the sensor unit 112A or 112B has been pressed. Alternatively, if the functional entity 1410 is the heating unit 121A or 121B, this determination may be, for example, a determination of whether inhalation has started. If it is determined that the function should be executed, the process proceeds to step 1520; if not, the process returns to step 1510.

[0235] 1520 indicates a step of sequentially acquiring values ​​of function strengths (corresponding to D[ ] for vibration strength) included in the function data.

[0236] 1530 indicates a step of controlling the function subject 1410 with the function strength whose value has been acquired for a predetermined time.

[0237] Step 1540 indicates a step of determining whether the execution of the function of the functional entity 1410 should be terminated in the flavor inhaler etc. 1400. This determination may be any determination that differs depending on the actual entity of the functional entity 1410. For example, this determination may be a determination of whether a button or switch included in the sensor unit 112A or 112B has been pressed again. Alternatively, if the functional entity 1410 is the heating unit 121A or 121B, this determination may be, for example, a determination of whether inhalation has ended. If it is determined that the execution of the function should be terminated, the process ends; if not, the process proceeds to step 1550.

[0238] Step 1550 indicates a step of determining whether more function intensity values ​​can be obtained from the function data. If not all function intensity values ​​have been obtained from the function data, the control unit 1440 can determine that more function intensity values ​​can be obtained from the function data. If it is determined that more function intensity values ​​can be obtained from the function data, the process returns to step 1520; otherwise, the process ends.

[0239] According to the exemplary process 1500, the detected movement of the flavor inhaler or the like 1400 can be directly reflected in the control of the functional entity 1410.

[0240] 2-3 Box Approach (Part 1) FIG. 16A is a flowchart of an example process 1600A executed by the control unit 1440 for controlling the function entity 1410 based on the function data.

[0241] 1610A indicates a step of determining whether the function of the functional entity 1410 should be executed in the flavor inhaler etc. 1400. Step 1610A may be similar to step 1510. If it is determined that the function should be executed, the process proceeds to step 1620A; otherwise, the process returns to step 1610A.

[0242] 1620A shows the step of determining the function strength and function time for controlling the function subject 1410.

[0243] 1630A shows a step of controlling the function subject 1410 with the determined function time and determined function strength.

[0244] 1640A shows the step of determining downtime.

[0245] 1650A shows the step of waiting the determined downtime.

[0246] 1660A indicates a step of determining whether the execution of the function of the functional entity 1410 should be terminated in the flavor inhaler etc. 1400. Step 1660A may be similar to step 1540. If it is determined that the execution of the function should be terminated, the process ends; otherwise, the process returns to step 1620A.

[0247] 2-4 Box Approach (Part 2) The function intensity, function time, and function down time may be determined and stored in advance from function data including a reference function intensity and function pattern. In this case, when it is determined that a function should be executed, the control unit 240 can read one or more different function intensities, function times, and function down times stored and control the function subject 1410 based on the read one or more different function intensities, function times, and function down times.

[0248] FIG. 16B is a flowchart of an example process 1600B executed by the control unit 1440 for controlling the function subject 1410 based on the function data.

[0249] Step 1610B indicates a step of determining whether the function of the functional entity 1410 should be executed in the flavor inhaler etc. 1400. Step 1610B may be similar to step 1510. If it is determined that the function should be executed, the process proceeds to step 1620B; otherwise, the process returns to step 1610B.

[0250] 1620B shows a step of obtaining, from the storage unit 114A or 114B, values ​​of a function intensity, a function time, and a function down time for controlling the function subject 1410. The obtained function intensity, function time, and function down time may be one of one or more different function intensity, function time, and function down time determined in advance by the above-described method and stored in the storage unit 114A or 114B.

[0251] 1630B shows a step of controlling the function subject 1410 with the acquired function time and the acquired function strength.

[0252] 1640B shows the step of waiting for the acquired downtime.

[0253] 1650B indicates a step of determining whether the execution of the function of the functional entity 1410 should be terminated in the flavor inhaler etc. 1400. Step 1650B may be similar to step 1540. If it is determined that the execution of the function should be terminated, the process proceeds to step 1660B; otherwise, the process returns to step 1620B.

[0254] 1660B shows a step of determining whether values ​​of the function intensity, function time, and function down time can still be acquired. In step 1660B, if there are one or more different function intensities, function times, and function down times stored in memory unit 114A or 114B that have not yet been acquired, it can be determined that values ​​of the function intensity, function time, and function down time can still be acquired. If it is determined that values ​​of the function intensity, function time, and function down time can still be acquired, the process returns to step 1620B; if not, the process ends.

[0255] 2-5 Overall control flow of flavor inhaler etc. 1400 FIG. 17 is a flowchart of a control method 1700 for the flavor inhaler or the like 1400.

[0256] Reference numeral 1710 denotes a step of detecting the movement of the flavor inhaler 1400. This step may be performed by a sensor 1420 included in the flavor inhaler 1400. Alternatively, this step may be considered to be performed by a processor included in the flavor inhaler 1400 using the sensor 1420. For safety reasons, this step is preferably performed when the heating unit 121A or 121B is not functioning.

[0257] Reference numeral 1720 denotes a step of converting input data representing the detected movement of the flavor inhaler 1400 into functional data for controlling the functional entity 1410 included in the flavor inhaler 1400. This step may be executed by the conversion unit 1430 included in the flavor inhaler 1400. Note that this step may also be considered to be executed by the processor included in the flavor inhaler 1400 as the conversion unit 1430.

[0258] Reference numeral 1730 denotes a step of controlling the functional entity 1410 based on the functional data obtained in step 1420. This step may be executed by the control unit 1440 included in the flavor inhaler 1400, and may include the exemplary process 1500 or 1600 described above. This step may also be considered to be executed by a processor included in the flavor inhaler 1400 as the control unit 1440. The step of controlling the functional entity 1410 based on the functional data may be executed while the user is inhaling with the flavor inhaler 1400, in response to a predetermined operation (such as pressing a button) by the user on the flavor inhaler 1400, or at various other times. Furthermore, after creating the functional data, the control unit 1440 may automatically control the functional entity 1410 based on the functional data so that the user can confirm the functional data.

[0259] It goes without saying that the control method 1700 may be executed by a processor of the flavor inhaler or the like 1400 as a program.

[0260] The power supply unit 111A or 111B of the flavor inhaler 1400 may include a rechargeable battery. In this case, the battery may be charged by a charging device electrically connected to the flavor inhaler 1400. The charging device may include, in addition to the charging unit, at least one of a functional entity, a sensor, a conversion unit, a control unit, etc., similar to the components shown in FIG. 14 . When the flavor inhaler 1400 is connected to such a charging device, at least some of the steps of the control method 1400 may be executed by components in the charging device.

[0261] According to the second embodiment of the present invention, when a user operates the flavor inhaler, a wide variety of functional data is generated. Based on the generated functional data, the components of the flavor inhaler can be made to function in a wide variety of ways. This allows the user to inhale the flavor inhaler while experiencing a wide variety of stimulations, including those that the user cannot anticipate. This improves the user experience.

[0262] 3. Third embodiment of the present invention 3-1 Simplified configuration example FIG. 18 is a schematic diagram showing a simplified configuration example in which only components particularly related to the third embodiment of the present invention are extracted.

[0263] 18 shows a flavor inhaler 1800 and an external device 1810 according to this embodiment. The flavor inhaler 1800 includes a vibrator 1802, a functional main body 1803, a sensor 1804, a control unit 1806, and a communication unit 1808. The flavor inhaler 1800 may include both the vibrator 1802 and the functional main body 1803, or may include only one of them. The flavor inhaler 1800 may be the flavor inhaler 100A or 100B, or may be another flavor inhaler including the configuration shown in FIG. 18.

[0264] The vibrator 1802 may have the same configuration, function, etc. as the vibrator 210 described in relation to Fig. 2. The functional entity 1803 may have the same configuration, function, etc. as the functional entity 1410 described in relation to the second embodiment. The sensor 1804 may have the same configuration, function, etc. as the sensor 220 described in relation to Fig. 2 or the sensor 1420 described in relation to the second embodiment. The sensor 1804 detects movement of the flavor inhaler 1800 or the like. Input data representing the movement may be stored in a memory unit (not shown) of the flavor inhaler 1800 or the like.

[0265] The communication unit 1808 may include a communication interface (including a communication module) that complies with a predetermined LPWA wireless communication standard or a wireless communication standard having similar restrictions. Examples of such communication standards include Sigfox and LoRA-WAN. The communication unit 1808 may be a communication interface capable of performing communication in accordance with any wired or wireless communication standard. Examples of such communication standards include Wi-Fi (registered trademark) and Bluetooth (registered trademark). The flavor inhaler 1800 can communicate with an external device 1810 via the communication unit 1808. For example, the communication unit 1808 transmits input data representing the movement of the flavor inhaler 1800, detected by the sensor 1804, to the external device 1810. The communication unit 1808 also receives, from the external device 1810, vibration data for vibrating the vibrator 1802 or function data for controlling the functional entity 1803, which are obtained by converting the input data in the external device 1810.

[0266] The control unit 1806 may be considered as the control unit 116A or 116B excluding the conversion unit 230 or the conversion unit 1430. The control unit 1806 is configured to vibrate the vibrator 1802 or control the functional entity 1803 based on vibration data received from the external device 1810.

[0267] The external device 1810 includes a conversion unit 1812 and a communication unit 1814. The external device 1810 includes a control unit 1816 configured to control components within the external device 1810, such as the conversion unit 1812 and the communication unit 1814.

[0268] The external device 1810 may be a personal computer (PC), a server, a mobile phone (including a smartphone), a tablet computer, a personal digital assistant, a wearable computer, or any other device configured to communicate with the flavor inhaling device 1800. The external device 1810 may be a device for charging the flavor inhaling device 1800, and may have a charging unit configured to charge a rechargeable battery within the flavor inhaling device 1800.

[0269] The communication unit 1814 may have the same function as the communication unit 1808. The external device 1810 can communicate with the flavor inhaler or the like 1800 via the communication unit 1814. For example, the communication unit 1814 receives input data from the flavor inhaler or the like 1800, which is detected by the sensor 1804 and indicates the movement of the flavor inhaler or the like 1800.

[0270] The conversion unit 1812 may have the same function as the conversion unit 230 or the conversion unit 1430. The conversion unit 1812 is configured to convert input data received by the communication unit 1814 into vibration data for vibrating the vibrator 1802 or functional data for controlling the functional entity 1803. The input data, vibration data, or functional data may be stored in a memory unit (not shown) in the external device 1810. The input data, vibration data, or functional data may be editable by the external device 1810. The communication unit 1814 transmits the vibration data or functional data to the flavor inhaler 1800 or the like. The communication unit 1814 may also transmit the vibration data or functional data to various devices other than the flavor inhaler 1800 that can communicate with the external device 1810. For example, a user of the external device 1810 can share favorite vibration data or functional data stored in the memory unit of the external device 1810 with a friend by transmitting the vibration data or functional data to the friend's smartphone or the like.

[0271] The sensor 1804 and the input data are similar to the sensor 220 described in Sections 1-4 or the sensor 1420 and the input data described in relation to the second embodiment, respectively, and therefore will not be described in detail here.

[0272] The converter 1812 is similar to the converter 230 described in Sections 1-5 or the converter 1430 described in relation to the second embodiment, except that it is disposed in the external device 1810. The vibration data generated by the converter 1812 is similar to the vibration data described in Sections 1-5. The function data generated by the converter 1812 is similar to the function data described in relation to the second embodiment. Therefore, detailed descriptions of the converter 1812, the vibration data, and the function data will be omitted here.

[0273] The control unit 1806 is similar to the control unit 240 described in Sections 1-6 or the control unit 1440 described in relation to the second embodiment, and therefore a detailed description thereof will be omitted here.

[0274] 3-2 Control method of flavor inhaler 1800 and external device 1810 FIG. 19 is a sequence diagram showing the operation of the flavor inhaler 1800 and the external device 1810 of this embodiment.

[0275] In step 1910, the flavor inhaler or the like 1800 detects the movement of the flavor inhaler or the like 1800. Step 1910 may be performed by the sensor 1804 or may be performed by the control unit 1806 via the sensor 1804, for example.

[0276] In step 1912, the flavor inhaler or the like 1800 transmits input data representing the detected movement to the external device 1810. Step 1912 may be performed by, for example, the communication unit 1808 or by the control unit 1806 via the communication unit 1808.

[0277] In step 1914, the external device 1810 receives input data from the flavor inhaler or the like 1800. Step 1914 may be performed by, for example, the communication unit 1814 or by the control unit 1816 via the communication unit 1814.

[0278] In step 1916, the external device 1810 converts the input data into vibration data for vibrating the vibrator 1802 in the flavor inhaler 1800 or function data for controlling the function entity 1803 in the flavor inhaler 1800. Step 1916 may be executed by, for example, the conversion unit 1812, or may be executed by the control unit 1816 via the conversion unit 1812.

[0279] In step 1918, the external device 1810 transmits the vibration data or the function data to the flavor inhaler or the like 1800. Step 1918 may be performed by, for example, the communication unit 1814 or by the control unit 1816 via the communication unit 1814.

[0280] In step 1920, the flavor inhaler etc. 1800 receives vibration data or function data from the external device 1810. Step 1920 may be performed by, for example, the communication unit 1808 or by the control unit 1806 via the communication unit 1808.

[0281] In step 1922, the flavor inhaler or the like 1800 vibrates the vibrator 1802 based on the vibration data, or controls the function subject 1803 based on the function data. Step 1922 may be executed by the control unit 1806.

[0282] A program stored in a memory unit or the like of the flavor inhaler or the like 1800 may cause the flavor inhaler or the like 1800 to execute steps 1910 , 1912 , 1920 and 1922 .

[0283] A program stored in a storage unit or the like of the external device 1810 may cause the external device 1810 to execute steps 1914 , 1916 , and 1918 .

[0284] According to the third embodiment of the present invention, at least a part of the operations (e.g., conversion of input data into vibration data or functional data) performed by the flavor inhaler or the like in the first or second embodiment is performed by an external device. This simplifies the configuration of the flavor inhaler or the like. Furthermore, the various vibration data or functional data created can be stored and managed in the external device.

[0285] 4. Fourth embodiment of the present invention Alternatively or in addition to the above-described embodiments, the flavor inhaler or the like of the present invention may be configured to activate at least one sensory stimulation element that provides a sensory stimulation to a user when the sensor is acquiring input data representing detected movement of the flavor inhaler or the like.

[0286] In the following description of the fourth embodiment, "sensory stimulus data" includes the vibration data in the first embodiment or the functional data in the second embodiment, "sensory stimulus intensity" includes the vibration intensity in the first embodiment or the functional intensity in the second embodiment, "sensory stimulus pattern" includes the vibration pattern in the first embodiment or the functional pattern in the second embodiment, "sensory stimulus time" includes the vibration time in the first embodiment or the functional time in the second embodiment, "sensory stimulus pause time" includes the vibration pause time in the first embodiment or the functional pause time in the second embodiment, and "sensory stimulus intensity correction coefficient" includes the vibration intensity correction coefficient in the first embodiment or the functional intensity correction coefficient in the second embodiment. The content and derivation method of the sensory stimulus data, sensory stimulus intensity, sensory stimulus pattern, sensory stimulus time, sensory stimulus pause time, and sensory stimulus intensity correction coefficient in the fourth embodiment may be similar to the content and derivation method of the vibration data, vibration intensity, vibration pattern, vibration time, vibration pause time, and vibration intensity correction coefficient in the first embodiment, or the content and derivation method of the functional data, functional intensity, functional pattern, functional time, functional pause time, and functional intensity correction coefficient in the second embodiment.

[0287] 4-1 Simplified configuration example 20 is a schematic diagram showing a simplified configuration example of the flavor inhaler 100A or 100B described above, in which only the components particularly related to this embodiment are extracted and simplified. Therefore, 2000 indicates the flavor inhaler 100A or 100B.

[0288] The flavor inhalation device etc. 2000 includes at least one element 2010 (hereinafter also referred to as the "sensory stimulation element 2010") configured to provide a sensory stimulation to the user, a sensor 2020, a conversion unit 2030, and a control unit 2040.

[0289] The sensory stimulation element 2010 is one of the above-mentioned vibrators 210 or functional main body 1410 that can provide a sensory stimulation. Therefore, the sensory stimulation element 2010 includes, for example, but is not limited to, the vibrator 210, a light emitting device or light emitting element that emits light and is included in the notification unit 113A or 113B, a display device that displays an image included in the notification unit 113A or 113B, or a sound output device or acoustic element that outputs sound and is included in the notification unit 113A or 113B.

[0290] The sensor 2020 is the sensor 220 or 1420 described above. The sensor 2020 is configured to detect movement of the flavor inhaler 2000. The sensor 2020 operates as described in the above embodiments. Furthermore, the sensor 2020 may be configured to acquire input data when the flavor inhaler 2000 is not generating flavor or aerosol by heating. As in the above embodiments, the input data may include data representing the acceleration or angular velocity of the detected movement.

[0291] The control unit 2040 is the control unit 240 or 1440 described above. The control unit 2040 is configured to activate the sensory stimulation element 2010 when the sensor 2020 acquires input data representing detected movement. The control unit 2040 operates as described in each of the above-described embodiments. The sensory stimulation element 2010 may include two or more sensory stimulation elements configured to provide sensory stimulation to the user. In that case, the control unit 2040 may be configured to further activate a sensory stimulation element of the two or more sensory stimulation elements that is different from the at least one sensory stimulation element described above while the sensor 2020 is activated.

[0292] The conversion unit 2030 is the above-described conversion unit 230 or 1430. The conversion unit 2030 is configured to convert input data into sensory stimulation data for causing the sensory stimulation element 2010 to function.

[0293] As described in relation to the first and second embodiments, the conversion unit 2030 may be configured to directly convert the value of the input data into a sensory stimulus intensity. In this case, the movement of the flavor inhaler 2000 detected by the sensor 2020 can be directly provided to the user in real time. The input data may also be data representing a combination of movements of the flavor inhaler 2000 along multiple axes. Such a combination may be, for example, the sum of values ​​detected by the sensor 2020 at the same time or timing along each of the multiple axes.

[0294] As described with respect to the first and second embodiments, the conversion unit 2030 may be configured to use a representative value included in the input data. As described with respect to the first and second embodiments, using the representative value included in the input data may include converting the representative value into a sensory stimulus intensity (intensity related to the sensory stimulus) of the sensory stimulus element 2010. Furthermore, as described with respect to the first and second embodiments, using the representative value included in the input data may include converting the representative value into a sensory stimulus pattern (pattern related to the sensory stimulus) of the sensory stimulus element 2010.

[0295] As described with respect to the first and second embodiments, the conversion unit 2030 may be configured to divide the input data into a plurality of data pieces each representing a detected movement in a respective one of the plurality of time periods. In addition, the conversion unit 2030 may be configured to convert a representative value included in each of the divided data pieces into the sensory stimulus intensity of the sensory stimulation element 2010 at a different timing.

[0296] As described with respect to the first and second embodiments, the sensor 2020 may be configured to detect movement of the flavor inhaler 2000 about at least a first axis and a second axis, and the input data may include at least first input data and second input data representing the detected movement about the first axis and the second axis, respectively.

[0297] As described with respect to the first and second embodiments, the conversion unit 2030 may be configured to convert the first input data into a sensory stimulation intensity of the sensory stimulation element 2010, convert the second input data into a sensory stimulation pattern of the sensory stimulation element 2010, or select one of a plurality of predetermined sensory stimulation patterns as the sensory stimulation pattern of the sensory stimulation element 2010 based on the second input data.

[0298] As described with respect to the first and second embodiments, the sensory stimulation pattern may include at least one of a sensory stimulation time (the time during which the sensory stimulation element functions), a sensory stimulation rest time (the time during which the sensory stimulation element rests), and a sensory stimulation intensity correction coefficient (the correction coefficient for the intensity of the sensory stimulation).

[0299] 4-2 Control method for flavor inhalers, etc. 2000 FIG. 21 is a flowchart of a control method 2100 for the flavor inhaler or the like 2000.

[0300] The control method 2100 may be initiated in response to activation of an input mode of the flavor inhaler 2000. For example, the input mode of the flavor inhaler 2000 may be activated in response to a user pressing a button provided on the flavor inhaler 2000, a user shaking the flavor inhaler 2000 a predetermined number of times (e.g., shaking it three times within a predetermined time), or receiving a mode change instruction from an external device such as a smartphone that communicates with the flavor inhaler 2000. The activation and termination of the input mode may be notified to the user by operating a vibrator, an acoustic element, a light-emitting element, or the like provided on the flavor inhaler 2000.

[0301] The flavor inhaler etc. 2000 may be configured not to execute the control method 2100 while power is being supplied to the heating unit 121A or 121B. The flavor inhaler etc. 2000 may be configured not to execute the control method 2100 while the stick-shaped substrate 150 is inserted into the flavor inhaler etc. 100B.

[0302] In step 2110, the sensor 2020 detects the movement of the flavor inhaler or the like 2000. Step 2110 may be performed by the sensor 2020, or may be performed by the control unit 2040 via the sensor 2020.

[0303] In step 2120, the control unit 2040 activates the sensory stimulation element 2010 while receiving input data representing the detected movement. In one example, if the sensory stimulation element 2010 includes a light-emitting element, in step 2120, the control unit 2040 may activate the light-emitting element in a manner (e.g., color, blinking cycle) different from the manner in which the light-emitting element is illuminated while power is being supplied to the heating unit 121A or 121B. During the input mode, the sensory stimulation element 2010 functions when movement of the flavor inhaler 2000 is detected, and may function differently from the manner in which the sensory stimulation element 2010 functions when movement of the flavor inhaler 2000 is not detected. For example, if the sensory stimulation element 2010 includes a vibrator or an acoustic element in addition to a light-emitting element, the light-emitting element may always be illuminated during the input mode, while the vibrator or acoustic element may additionally function only when movement of the flavor inhaler 2000 is detected during the input mode.

[0304] The length of the period during which the input data is acquired in the process 2100 may be predetermined. The length of the period during which the input data is acquired may be selected from a plurality of preset options. The length of the period during which the input data is acquired may be set by a user operating a button on the flavor inhaler 2000 or by sending an instruction from an external device. The period during which the input data is acquired may be 1 to 20 seconds, and preferably 3 to 10 seconds.

[0305] A program stored in a storage unit or the like of the flavor inhaler or the like 2000 may cause the flavor inhaler or the like 2000 to execute the control method 2100.

[0306] FIG. 22 is a flowchart showing an example of the operation executed by the control unit 2040 of the flavor inhaler 2000.

[0307] In step 2210, control unit 2040 determines whether sensor 2020 is currently acquiring input data representing detected movement. If sensor 2020 is not currently acquiring input data representing detected movement (No in step 2210), the process returns to before step 2210. If sensor 2020 is currently acquiring input data representing detected movement (Yes in step 2210), the process proceeds to step 2220.

[0308] In step 2220, the control unit 2040 acquires the value of the sensory stimulus intensity included in the sensory stimulus data of the sensory stimulus element 2010. Step 2220 is similar to step 720 in Fig. 7 or step 1520 in Fig. 15, and therefore a detailed description thereof will be omitted here.

[0309] In step 2230, the control unit 2040 causes the sensory stimulation element 2010 to function for a predetermined sensory stimulation time at the acquired sensory stimulation intensity. Step 2230 is similar to step 730 or step 1530, and therefore a detailed description thereof will be omitted here.

[0310] In step 2240, the control unit 2040 determines whether the operation of the sensor 2020 has ended. If the operation of the sensor 2020 has ended (Yes in step 2240), the process ends. If the operation of the sensor 2020 has not ended (No in step 2240), the process returns to before step 2220.

[0311] A program stored in a storage unit or the like of the flavor inhaler or the like 2000 may cause the flavor inhaler or the like 2000 to execute the process 2200 .

[0312] According to process 2200, when the flavor inhaler or the like is not inhaling, the sensory stimulation element is activated while the user is performing an action such as shaking the flavor inhaler or the like, thereby providing the user with a sensory stimulation. This allows the user to perceive that the flavor inhaler or the like is acquiring input data based on the user's action.

[0313] FIG. 23 is a flowchart showing an example of the operation executed by the control unit 2040 of the flavor inhaler 2000.

[0314] The process of step 2310 is similar to the process of step 2210.

[0315] In step 2320, the control unit 2040 determines the sensory stimulation intensity and the sensory stimulation time when operating the sensory stimulation element 2010. Step 2320 is similar to step 820 in Fig. 8 or step 1620 in Fig. 16, and therefore a detailed description thereof will be omitted here.

[0316] In step 2330, the control unit 2040 causes the sensory stimulation element 2010 to function for the determined sensory stimulation time and at the determined sensory stimulation intensity. Step 2330 is similar to step 830 or step 1630, and therefore a detailed description thereof will be omitted here.

[0317] In step 2340, the control unit 2040 determines the sensory stimulation pause time of the sensory stimulation element 2010. Step 2340 is similar to step 840 or step 1640, and therefore a detailed description thereof will be omitted here.

[0318] In step 2350, the control unit 2040 causes the sensory stimulation element 2010 to wait for the determined sensory stimulation pause time. Step 2350 is similar to step 850 or step 1650, and therefore a detailed description thereof will be omitted here.

[0319] In step 2360, control unit 2040 determines whether operation of sensor 2020 has ended. If operation of sensor 2020 has ended (Yes in step 2360), the process ends. If operation of sensor 2020 has not yet ended (No in step 2360), the process returns to before step 2320.

[0320] A program stored in a storage unit or the like of the flavor inhaler or the like 2000 may cause the flavor inhaler or the like 2000 to execute the process 2300.

[0321] According to the process 2300, when the flavor inhaler or the like is not inhaling, the sensory stimulation element is activated while the user is performing an action such as shaking the flavor inhaler or the like, thereby providing the user with a sensory stimulation, which allows the user to perceive that the flavor inhaler or the like is acquiring input data based on the user's action.

[0322] According to the fourth embodiment of the present invention, when a user moves a flavor inhaler or the like, a wide variety of sensory stimulus data is generated. While the user is moving the flavor inhaler or the like, the sensory stimulus elements of the flavor inhaler or the like can be made to function in a wide variety of ways based on the generated sensory stimulus data. Therefore, the user can perceive that the movement of the flavor inhaler or the like is being detected by a sensor, that input data representing the movement is being generated, and that the sensory stimulus data is being generated based on the input data. Furthermore, even when the user is not inhaling the flavor inhaler or the like, the user can feel stimuli in a wide variety of ways, including ways that the user cannot anticipate. This improves the user experience.

[0323] 5. Fifth embodiment of the present invention An example of the hardware configuration of the flavor inhaler etc. according to each of the above-mentioned embodiments will be described below. Fig. 24 is a diagram showing an example of the hardware configuration of the flavor inhaler etc. 100 (100A, 100B), and in particular, a diagram showing an example of the positional relationship between the housing 2400 of the flavor inhaler etc. 100 and the sensor 2420.

[0324] In this example, the housing 2400 of the flavor inhaler 100 is a thick, approximately rectangular parallelepiped shape having a pair of approximately parallel, approximately rectangular faces 2401 and 2402. In Fig. 24, the X-axis, Y-axis, and Z-axis, which are three coordinate axes of the three-dimensional coordinate system (right-handed coordinate system) in the housing 2400, are indicated by solid lines, and the X'-axis, Y'-axis, and Z'-axis, which are three coordinate axes of the three-dimensional coordinate system (right-handed coordinate system) in the sensor 2420, are indicated by dashed lines. For example, assuming that a user holds the flavor inhaler 100 shown in Fig. 24 between their thumb and fingers other than the thumb, such as their index finger, while touching two substantially parallel surfaces 2411 and 2412 that form the thickness portion of the substantially rectangular parallelepiped shape of the housing 2400 (in the Y-axis direction), as shown in Fig. 25, the X-axis of the housing 2400 can correspond to an axis that detects the up and down movement of the user's wrist when the user holds the flavor inhaler 100, the Z-axis can correspond to an axis that detects the inward and outward movement of the user's wrist, and the Y-axis can correspond to an axis that detects the twisting movement of the user's wrist. Here, "twisting the wrist" refers to the action of rotating the hand (wrist) around an axis that is the direction from the user's elbow to the wrist. Furthermore, "up and down of the wrist" refers to the action of rotating the wrist around an axis perpendicular to the palm (or the action of moving the arm with the little finger at the bottom and the index finger at the top, using the elbow as the axis of rotation). Furthermore, "movement of the wrist inward and outward" refers to the action of bending the wrist inward or outward around an axis that is approximately perpendicular to the direction from the user's elbow to the wrist and parallel to the palm (the same applies below). In this example, the three-dimensional coordinate system in the housing 2400 and the sensor 2420 will be described as a right-handed coordinate system, but is not limited to this. It may also be a left-handed coordinate system, or they may be different.

[0325] In this example, the three coordinate axes of the housing 2400 are defined as follows: the longitudinal direction of the substantially rectangular surface of the housing 2400 is the Z axis; the lateral direction of the substantially rectangular surface is the Y axis; and the direction orthogonal to the Z axis and the Y axis (the direction perpendicular to the substantially rectangular surface and the thickness direction of the substantially rectangular parallelepiped shape) is the X axis. In FIG. 24 , the housing 2400 and the sensor 2420 are arranged so that the three coordinate axes, the X axis, the Y axis, and the Z axis, of the housing 2400 are approximately parallel to the three coordinate axes, the X′ axis, the Y′ axis, and the Z′ axis, of the sensor 2420. In this way, when the directions of the three coordinate axes of the housing 2400 and the three coordinate axes of the sensor 2420 match, the vibration (data) detected by the sensor 2420 becomes the vibration (data) of the housing 2400 as it is, which is preferable because the processing for vibration detection is simplified. However, the present invention is not limited to such a configuration. If the orientation of the three coordinate axes in the housing 2400 does not match the orientation of the three coordinate axes in the sensor 2420, the positional relationship between the three coordinate axes in the housing 2400 and the sensor 2420 is known in advance, and therefore, it is possible to calculate the direction and strength of the vibration of the housing 2400 by adding data indicating the difference resulting from the positional relationship to the vibration data detected by the sensor 2420.

[0326] 24 is merely an example, and for example, any one of the three coordinate axes X'-axis, Y'-axis, and Z'-axis of the sensor 2420 may be arranged substantially parallel to any one of the three coordinate axes X-axis, Y-axis, and Z-axis of the housing 2400. Even in this case, for the coordinate axes of the housing 2400 and the coordinate axes of the sensor 2420 that are arranged substantially parallel, there is no need to perform complex calculations on the vibration data detected by the sensor 2420, and therefore the processing related to the vibration of the flavor inhaler 100 can be reduced.

[0327] Note that sensor 2420 is included in sensor unit 112A in Fig. 1A or 112B in Fig. 1B, and sensor 2420 in Fig. 24 may be considered as sensor unit 112A or sensor unit 112B. Examples of sensor 2420 may include sensor 220, sensor 1420, and sensor 1804 described above.

[0328] In the above description of Figure 24, the expression "almost to" means that it does not have to match exactly (the same applies below). For example, "almost parallel" and "almost perpendicular" mean that some deviation from the parallel or perpendicular position is acceptable. The deviation is acceptable if it is about 10°, for example.

[0329] Next, an example of the arrangement of the sensor 2420 in the flavor inhaler 100 will be described. Figures 26 to 30 are diagrams showing an example of the arrangement of the sensor 2420 in the flavor inhaler 100. Figures 26 to 28 explain an example of the arrangement of the sensor 2420 in the flavor inhaler 100B in Figure 1B, and Figures 29 and 30 explain an example of the arrangement of the flavor inhaler 100A in Figure 1A.

[0330] 26 shows the stick-shaped substrate 150 of the flavor inhaler 100B, a battery 111B (corresponding to the power supply unit 111B in FIG. 1B, the same applies below), a sensor 2420 (sensor unit 112B), and a microcontroller 116B (corresponding to the control unit 116B in FIG. 1B, the same applies below). Note that the sensor 2420 (112B) is disposed in a position in the housing of the flavor inhaler 100B that does not come into contact with the heating unit that heats the stick-shaped substrate 150 (the same applies to FIGS. 27 to 30, which will be described later).

[0331] 26, the sensor 2420 (112B) and the microcontroller 116B are arranged on the same printed circuit board 2630. On the other hand, in FIGS. 27 and 28, the sensor 2420 (112B) and the microcontroller 116B are arranged on different printed circuit boards 2630. Specifically, a first printed circuit board 2630a and a second printed circuit board 2630b are connected to each other by a flexible substrate 2640, the microcontroller 116B is arranged on the first printed circuit board 2630a, and the sensor 2420 (112B) is arranged on the second printed circuit board 2630b.

[0332] Here, the sensor 2420 (112B) can be placed at various positions on the flavor inhaler 100B. However, as shown in Figures 26 and 27, if the sensor 2420 (112B) is placed at a position closer to the user than the battery 111B (closer to the opening 142) when the user inhales the substance generated by the flavor inhaler 100B, it is believed that a specific movement (motion) of the flavor inhaler 100B by the user is more likely to be detected.

[0333] First, because the flavor inhaler 100B is an instrument with which a user inhales a substance such as an aerosol generated by the flavor inhaler 100B, it is expected that a user will typically hold the flavor inhaler 100B so that the stick-shaped substrate 150 inserted into the opening 142 can be easily held in the mouth for easy inhalation. That is, it is expected that the flavor inhaler 100B will be held with the opening 142 facing up when inhaling. At this time, the position of the user's wrist (or elbow) will be lower than the position of the opening 142. Furthermore, when the user shakes the flavor inhaler 100B, the sensor 2420 (112B) will be farther from the user's wrist (or elbow) the closer it is to the opening 142, and therefore vibrations imparted to the flavor inhaler 100B due to centrifugal force will be more easily detected.

[0334] Furthermore, it is generally assumed that the battery 111B is the heaviest of all the components of the flavor inhaler 100B, and therefore, in order for a user to hold the flavor inhaler 100B stably, they are likely to hold it near the battery 111B (or the center of gravity of the battery 111B). Therefore, by arranging the sensor 2420 (112B) closer to the opening 142 than the battery 111B (or the center of gravity of the battery 111B), when a user applies vibrations to the flavor inhaler 100B by holding the flavor inhaler 100B near the battery 111B and shaking the flavor inhaler 100B, it is expected that the vibrations will be more easily detected. In other words, by arranging the sensor 2420 (112B) closer to the opening 142 than the center of gravity of the flavor inhaler 100B, it can be said that the vibrations applied by the user to the flavor inhaler 100B will be more easily detected. The position of the sensor 2420 (112B) in the flavor inhaler 100B described above is the same as that in FIG. 28 described later.

[0335] 26 and 27, similarly to Fig. 24, the housing of the flavor inhaler 100B may be a thick, approximately rectangular parallelepiped having a pair of approximately parallel, approximately rectangular faces, and the flavor inhaler 100B and the sensor 2420 (112B) may be arranged so that the X'-axis, Y'-axis, and Z'-axis of the sensor 2420 (112B) are approximately parallel to the X-axis, Y-axis, and Z-axis of the housing of the flavor inhaler 100B, respectively. In this case, Fig. 26 and Fig. 27, as well as Fig. 28 described later, are diagrams illustrating the internal configuration of the flavor inhaler 100B as viewed from a direction directly facing one of the approximately rectangular faces of the flavor inhaler 100B (corresponding to face 2401 or face 2402 in Fig. 24).

[0336] 27, the sensor 2420 (112B) and the microcontroller 116B are arranged on different printed circuit boards 2630. That is, the microcontroller 116B is arranged on the first printed circuit board 2630a, and the sensor 2420 (112B) is arranged on the second printed circuit board 2630b. In the example of FIG. 28, the first printed circuit board 2630a and the microcontroller 116B are arranged in an orientation perpendicular to the substantially rectangular surface (the YZ plane in FIG. 24) of the housing of the flavor inhaler 100B and parallel to the XZ plane in FIG. 24. The second printed circuit board 2630b and the sensor 2420 (112B) are arranged in an orientation perpendicular to the substantially rectangular surface (the YZ plane in FIG. 24) of the housing of the flavor inhaler 100B and parallel to the XY plane in FIG. 24. In this way, by arranging the microcontroller 116B and / or the sensor 2420 (112B) perpendicular to the substantially rectangular surface of the housing of the flavor inhaler 100B, the area occupied by each element on the substantially rectangular surface of the flavor inhaler 100B is reduced, thereby making it possible to reduce the overall size of the flavor inhaler 100B. Furthermore, when the sensor 2420 (112B) and the microcontroller 116B are arranged on different printed circuit boards 2630a and 2630b, respectively, as shown in Figures 27 and 28, this has the advantage that, compared to the battery 111B, when the sensor 2420 (112B) is arranged in a position closer to the user than the battery 111B when the user inhales a substance generated by the flavor inhaler 100B (closer to the opening 142 or the stick-shaped base material 150), the position of the sensor 2420 (112B) can be determined without affecting the position or size of the battery 111B.

[0337] Furthermore, in the sensor 2420 (112B) disposed on the second printed circuit board 2630b, at least a portion of the surface opposite to the surface in contact with the second printed circuit board 2630b on which the sensor 2420 (112B) is attached may be covered with a heat insulating material 2650. In the flavor inhaler 100B, the stick-shaped substrate 150 is heated by a heating unit (not shown) to generate aerosol. However, by covering at least a portion of the surface of the sensor 2420 (112B) opposite to the surface in contact with the second printed circuit board 2630b with the heat insulating material 2650, the sensor 2420 (112B) can be protected from the heat generated by the heating unit. This makes it possible to reduce failures and malfunctions of the sensor 2420 (112B).

[0338] Next, another example of the arrangement of the sensor 2420 in the flavor inhaler or the like 100 will be described with reference to Figures 29 and 30. Figure 29 shows the cartridge 120 and the flavor imparting cartridge 130 of the flavor inhaler or the like 100A (shown as a simplified integrated unit in Figure 29, and the same applies to Figure 30), the battery 111A (corresponding to the power supply unit 111A in Figure 1, and the same applies below), the sensor (sensor unit) 112A, and the microcontroller 116A (corresponding to the control unit 116A in Figure 1, and the same applies below). The sensor 112A and the microcontroller 116A are arranged on the same printed circuit board 2930. On the other hand, in Figure 30, the sensor 112A and the microcontroller 116A are arranged on different printed circuit boards 2930. More specifically, a first printed circuit board 2930a and a second printed circuit board 2930b are connected to each other by a flexible substrate 2940, with the microcontroller 116A being disposed on the first printed circuit board 2930a and the sensor 112A being disposed on the second printed circuit board 2930b.

[0339] 29 and 30, as in FIG. 24, the housing of the flavor inhaler 100A may be a thick, approximately rectangular parallelepiped shape having two substantially parallel, approximately rectangular faces. FIG. 31 shows an example of such a substantially rectangular parallelepiped shape, illustrating a configuration in which the housing 3100 and the sensor 3120 are arranged in the flavor inhaler 100A in the same positional relationship as in FIG. 29. Here, the sensor 3120 corresponds to the sensor 2420 (1112A) in FIG. 29. In the example shown in FIG. 31, the housing 3100 of the flavor inhaler 100A is a thick, approximately rectangular parallelepiped shape having a pair of substantially parallel, approximately rectangular faces 3101, 3102, but the longitudinal lengths of the two substantially rectangular faces 3101, 3102 of the housing 3100 are several times longer than the lateral lengths of the faces 3101, 3102, resulting in an elongated shape overall. 31, the X-axis, Y-axis, and Z-axis, which are three coordinate axes of the three-dimensional coordinate system (right-handed coordinate system) in the housing 3100, are indicated by solid lines, and the X'-axis, Y'-axis, and Z'-axis, which are three coordinate axes of the three-dimensional coordinate system (right-handed coordinate system) in the sensor 3120, are indicated by dashed lines. For example, assuming that a user holds the flavor inhaler 100A shown in FIG. 31 by pinching the thickness of the housing 3100 (in the X-axis direction) with the thumb and fingers other than the thumb, such as the index finger, while touching two surfaces 3101 and 3102, respectively, the X-axis of the housing 3100 around the X-axis can correspond to an axis that detects the twisting movement of the user's wrist when the user holds the flavor inhaler 100A, the Z-axis can correspond to an axis that detects the inward and outward movement of the user's wrist, and the Y-axis can correspond to an axis that detects the up and down movement of the user's wrist. In this example, the three-dimensional coordinate system in the housing 3100 and the sensor 3120 is described as a right-handed coordinate system, but is not limited to this. It may be a left-handed coordinate system, or may be different from each other.

[0340] 30, the first printed circuit board 2930a and the microcontroller 116A are oriented substantially parallel to the substantially rectangular surface (YZ plane in FIG. 24) of the housing of the flavor inhaler 100A. The second printed circuit board 2930b and the sensor 112A are arranged perpendicular to the substantially rectangular surface (YZ plane in FIG. 24) of the housing of the flavor inhaler 100A and parallel to the XY plane in FIG. 24. However, as in the example of FIG. 28, the first printed circuit board 2930a and the microcontroller 116A may also be arranged perpendicular to the substantially rectangular surface (YZ plane in FIG. 24) of the housing of the flavor inhaler 100A and parallel to the XZ plane in FIG. 24. In this way, by arranging the microcontroller 116A and / or the sensor 112A perpendicular to the substantially rectangular surface of the housing of the flavor inhaler 100B, the area occupied by each element on the substantially rectangular surface of the flavor inhaler 100A is reduced, thereby making it possible to reduce the overall size of the flavor inhaler 100A. Furthermore, by arranging the microcontroller 116A and / or the sensor 112A perpendicular to the longitudinal direction of the flavor inhaler 100A (parallel to the XY plane), the area occupied by each element on the substantially rectangular surface of the flavor inhaler 100A is also reduced, making it possible to reduce the overall size of the flavor inhaler 100A.

[0341] Also, in Figures 29 and 30, as explained in Figures 26 to 28, if the sensor 112A is placed in a position closer to the user (closer to the mouthpiece 124) than the battery 111A when the user inhales the substance generated by the flavor inhaler etc. 100A, it is thought that a specific movement (motion) of the flavor inhaler etc. 100A by the user will be more likely to be detected.

[0342] 1A may have a generally cylindrical shape. FIG. 32 is a diagram showing an example of a front view of the flavor inhaler 100A having an elongated, generally cylindrical shape. In the example of FIG. 32, the flavor inhaler 100A has a generally cylindrical housing 3200 and a button 3205 for user operation on its side. Here, for example, if the surface of the button 3205 is generally flat, and a linear direction perpendicular to this surface is defined as the Y axis of the housing 3200, and the longitudinal direction of the elongated, generally cylindrical housing 3200 is defined as the Z axis, then in a right-handed coordinate system, the X axis direction is the short side direction of the housing 3200 (the diameter direction of the bottom surface of the generally cylindrical (columnar) shape). Furthermore, in this case, sensor 3220 may be disposed such that the X'-axis, Y'-axis, and Z'-axis, which are three coordinate axes of the three-dimensional coordinate system (right-handed coordinate system) of sensor 3220, are approximately parallel to the X-axis, Y-axis, and Z-axis of housing 3200, respectively, as shown by dashed lines in FIG. 32. In this way, when the orientations of the three coordinate axes of housing 3200 and the orientations of the three coordinate axes of sensor 3220 match, the vibration (data) detected by sensor 3220 becomes the vibration (data) of housing 3200 as is, which is preferable because it further simplifies the processing for vibration detection. However, the present invention is not limited to this configuration, and the orientations of the three coordinate axes of housing 3200 and the orientations of the three coordinate axes of sensor 3220 do not have to match.

[0343] 32, assuming that the user holds the housing 3200 with their thumb touching the button 3205 so that the button 3205 can be operated with the thumb, the X-axis of the housing 3200 can correspond to an axis that detects the up and down movement of the user's wrist when the user holds the flavor inhaler 100, the Z-axis can correspond to an axis that detects the inward and outward movement of the user's wrist, and the Y-axis can correspond to an axis that detects the twisting movement of the user's wrist (however, this is just an example, and it is possible to determine as appropriate which movement of the user's wrist each axis corresponds to. The same applies to FIGS. 24 and 31.) Furthermore, if the flavor inhaler 100A does not have the button 3205, and if a logo or LED is provided on the side surface 3201 of the substantially cylindrical housing 3200, that portion may be assumed to be flat, and the three axes of the housing 3200 may be set as in FIG. 32. The term "substantially cylindrical" means that the housing 3200 as a whole is generally cylindrical, and does not necessarily have to be strictly cylindrical.

[0344] In each of the above examples, the sensor 2420 may be an inertial sensor (motion sensor) such as an acceleration sensor or an angular velocity sensor (gyro sensor). The acceleration sensor and angular velocity sensor may detect any one of 1 to 3 axes. The detection range of the angular velocity sensor is not limited to a specific range, but is preferably ±100 to ±5000 dps, and more preferably ±300 to ±2000 dps.

[0345] Although the embodiments of the present invention have been described above, it goes without saying that the present invention is not limited to the above-described embodiments and may be embodied in various different forms within the scope of the technical concept thereof.

[0346] Furthermore, the scope of the present invention is not limited to the exemplary embodiments shown and described, but includes all embodiments that achieve equivalent effects to those intended by the present invention. Furthermore, the scope of the present invention is not limited to the combination of inventive features defined by each claim, but can be defined by any desired combination of specific features from among all the respective disclosed features. [Explanation of symbols]

[0347] 100A, 100B, 200, 1400, 1800, 2000... Flavor suction equipment, etc. 110...Power supply unit 111A, 111B...Power supply section 112A, 112B...Sensor section 113A, 113B…Notification section 114A, 114B...Storage section 115A, 115B, 1808, 1814...Communication Department 116A, 116B, 240, 1440, 1806, 1816, 2040...Control section 117A, 117B, 230, 1430, 1812, 2030...Conversion unit 120...Cartridge 121A, 121B...Heating section 122...liquid guide part 123...Liquid storage section 124...mouthpiece 130...Flavoring cartridge 131...Flavour source 140...Holding part 141...Interior space 142...Aperture 143…Bottom 144...Insulation section 150...Stick-type base material 151...Base material part 152...Suction part 180...Air flow path 181...Air inlet 182...Air outlet 210, 1802...Oscillator 220, 1420, 1804, 2020, 2420, 3120, 3220...Sensors 1410, 1803...functional subject 1810...External device 2010…Sensory stimulation element 2400, 3100, 3200... Chassis 2630, 2630a, 2630b, 2930, 2930a, 2930b...Printed circuit boards 2640, 2940...Flexible PCB 2650…Insulation material 3205...Button

Claims

1. 1. A device that is a flavor inhaler or an aerosol generating device, comprising: The housing and a heating unit that heats the flavor source or the aerosol source; An inertial sensor that detects changes in angular velocity or acceleration Equipped with the inertial sensor is disposed in the housing at a position not in contact with the heating unit, the device further comprises a microcontroller; the inertial sensor is attached to a second board different from a first board on which the microcontroller is attached; The housing has a substantially rectangular parallelepiped shape with a certain thickness and a substantially rectangular surface, The device, wherein the first substrate and the second substrate are oriented perpendicular to the substantially rectangular surface.

2. 10. The device of claim 1, A device, wherein one of three mutually orthogonal coordinate axes in the inertial sensor is arranged substantially parallel to one of three mutually orthogonal coordinate axes in the housing.

3. 3. The device of claim 2, the three coordinate axes in the housing are defined as the longitudinal direction of the approximately rectangular shape as the Z axis, the lateral direction of the approximately rectangular shape as the Y axis, and the direction perpendicular to the Z axis and the Y axis as the X axis, and the housing and the inertial sensor are arranged such that the X axis, Y axis, and Z axis in the inertial sensor are approximately parallel to the X axis, Y axis, and Z axis in the housing, respectively.

4. 10. The device of claim 1, the device has a battery; A device, wherein the inertial sensor is positioned relative to the battery so as to be closer to the user than the battery when the user inhales the flavor inhaler or the substance generated by the aerosol generating device.

5. 10. The device of claim 1, The device, wherein the inertial sensor is an angular rate sensor.

Images