Aerosol generator power supply unit

Abstract

Provided is an aerosol generating device with which favorable flavor inhaling taste is achieved.　This power supply unit 110 comprises: a power supply part 111A; a vibration generating part 110A disposed in the vicinity of a flavor source 131 that applies flavor to an aerosol generated by atomizing an aerosol source by means of a heating part 121A; and a control part 116A that performs power supply control from the power supply part 111A to the heating part 121A and the vibration generating part 110A.

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present invention relates to a power supply unit for an aerosol generating device. [Background technology]

[0002] Patent Document 1 describes a flavor inhaler having an atomizing section that generates an aerosol from an aerosol source, and a flavor source that is provided downstream of the atomizing section.

[0003] Patent Document 2 describes an aerosol generating system comprising: a liquid storage portion having a housing for holding a liquid aerosol-forming substrate; heating means arranged to heat the liquid aerosol-forming substrate; a vibratable element having a plurality of passages through which the heated liquid aerosol-forming substrate passes to form an aerosol; and an actuator arranged to vibrate the vibratable element to generate an aerosol. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0004] [Patent Document 1] International Publication No. 2018 / 020619 [Patent Document 2] Japan Special Publication No. 2019-502364 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0005] An object of the present invention is to provide a power supply unit for an aerosol generating device that can provide a good aroma and taste. [Means for solving the problem]

[0006] A power supply unit of an aerosol generating device according to one aspect of the present invention includes a power supply, a vibration generating unit separate from the atomizing unit and disposed near a flavor source that imparts a flavor to an aerosol generated by atomizing the aerosol source with the atomizing unit, and a processor that controls the supply of power from the power supply to the atomizing unit and the vibration generating unit. The vibration generating unit includes a plurality of vibrators, and the plurality of vibrators include at least one pair of two vibrators arranged opposite each other across a center position of a container that contains the flavor source, and the plurality of vibrators include a first pair of two vibrators aligned in a first direction and a second pair of two vibrators aligned in a second direction that intersects with the first direction, and the processor controls the first pair and the second pair to start vibration at different timings. This is what is done. [Effects of the Invention]

[0007] According to the present invention, it is possible to inhale an aerosol with a good flavor and aroma. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0008] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram illustrating a first configuration example of an aerosol generating device. [Figure 2] 2 is a schematic diagram showing an example of the structure of a power supply unit 110 shown in FIG. [Figure 3] 3 is a plan view of the holding portion 118 shown in FIG. 2, viewed from the cartridge holding portion 117 side. [Figure 4] 4 is a timing chart for explaining an example of driving the four piezoelectric elements 119 shown in FIG. 3. [Figure 5] 10 is a timing chart for explaining control examples EX5 and EX6 of the heating unit 121A and the vibration generating unit 110A. [Figure 6] 10 is a timing chart for explaining control examples EX7 and EX8 of the heating part 121A and the vibration generating part 110A. [Figure 7] 10A and 10B are diagrams showing modified examples of the structure of the power supply unit 110. [Figure 8] 8 is a timing chart for explaining an example of control of a heating part 121A, a vibration generating part 110A, and a heater HTR in the power supply unit 110 shown in FIG. 7. [Figure 9] FIG. 2 is a schematic diagram illustrating a second configuration example of the aerosol generating device. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0009] The aerosol generating device of the embodiment is a device that consumes power to atomize an aerosol source contained in an attached aerosol forming body to generate an aerosol, and makes the generated aerosol inhalable. The aerosol generating device has a variety of configurations and is not particularly limited, but a typical configuration example of the aerosol generating device will be described below with reference to FIG.

[0010] FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram showing a first configuration example of an aerosol generation device. The aerosol generation device 100A shown in FIG. 1 includes a power supply unit 110, and a cartridge 120 and a flavor imparting cartridge 130 that constitute an aerosol-forming substrate. The power supply unit 110 includes a vibration generating unit 110A, a power supply unit 111A, a sensor unit 112A, a notification unit 113A, a memory unit 114A, a communication unit 115A, and a control unit 116A. The cartridge 120 includes a heating unit 121A, a liquid guiding unit 122, and a liquid storage unit 123. The flavor imparting cartridge 130 includes a flavor source 131 and a mouthpiece 124. An air flow path 180 is formed in the cartridge 120 and the flavor imparting cartridge 130.

[0011] The vibration generating unit 110A includes at least one vibrator. The vibrator is, for example, a piezoelectric element, a vibration motor, or a voice coil motor. The vibration generating unit 110A is disposed near the flavoring cartridge 130 (in other words, the flavor source 131) and vibrates the flavoring cartridge 130. The distance between the vibration generating unit 110A and the flavoring cartridge 130 is set to a small value so that most of the energy of the vibrations generated by the vibration generating unit 110A is transmitted to the flavoring cartridge 130. Preferably, the vibration generating unit 110A is disposed in contact with a member (cartridge holding unit 117 described below) that holds the flavoring cartridge 130. The vibration generating unit 110A is preferably configured to more strongly vibrate at least a portion of the housing of the power supply unit 110 and the member that holds the flavoring cartridge 130. Ideally, it is preferable to vibrate only the housing of the power supply unit 110 and the member that holds the flavoring cartridge 130, and it is preferable that the vibration generated by the vibration generating unit 110A is transmitted substantially only to the housing of the power supply unit 110 and the member that holds the flavoring cartridge 130.

[0012] The power supply unit 110 may further include a vibration generating unit for notification (for example, a vibration motor) separate from the vibration generating unit 110A, for vibrating the housing to notify the user. The major difference between such a vibration generating unit for notification and the vibration generating unit 110A is that the vibration generating unit 110A is located closer to the flavor source 131 than the vibration generating unit for notification.

[0013] The power supply unit 111A stores electric power. Then, the power supply unit 111A supplies electric power to each component of the aerosol generation device 100A based on the control of the control unit 116A. The power supply unit 111A can be configured by, for example, a rechargeable battery such as a lithium ion secondary battery.

[0014] The sensor unit 112A acquires various information related to the aerosol generation device 100A. As an example, the sensor unit 112A is configured with an suction sensor configured with a pressure sensor such as a condenser microphone, a flow rate sensor, or a temperature sensor, and acquires values ​​associated with inhalation by the user. As another example, the sensor unit 112A is configured with an input device such as a button or a switch that accepts information input from the user.

[0015] Notification unit 113A notifies the user of information. Notification unit 113A is configured by, for example, a light emitting device that emits light, a display device that displays an image, a sound output device that outputs sound, or a vibration device that vibrates (the vibration generating unit for notification described above).

[0016] The storage unit 114A stores various types of information for the operation of the aerosol generation device 100 A. The storage unit 114A is configured by a nonvolatile storage medium such as a flash memory, for example.

[0017] The communication unit 115A is a communication interface capable of performing communication in accordance with any wired or wireless communication standard, such as Wi-Fi (registered trademark) or Bluetooth (registered trademark).

[0018] The control unit 116A controls the overall operation of the aerosol generation device 100A in accordance with various programs. The control unit 116A is realized by an electronic circuit including a processor such as a CPU (Central Processing Unit) or an MCU (Micro Controller Unit). The control unit 116A may perform processing using a single processor, or may share processing among multiple processors.

[0019] The liquid reservoir 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 include tobacco-derived or non-tobacco-derived flavor components.

[0020] 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.

[0021] The heating unit 121A generates aerosol by heating the aerosol source and atomizing the aerosol source. In the example shown in FIG. 1, the heating unit 121A is configured as a resistor and is wound around the liquid guiding unit 122. When the resistor constituting 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. As an example, power may be supplied to the heating unit 121A when the sensor unit 112A detects that the user has started inhaling and / or that predetermined information has been input. Then, power supply to the heating unit 121A may be stopped when the sensor unit 112A detects that the user has stopped inhaling and / or that predetermined information has been input.

[0022] The flavor source 131 is a component for imparting flavor components to the aerosol. The flavor source 131 is composed of raw material pieces (solid material) that impart flavor components to the aerosol. The lower limit of the size of the raw material pieces is preferably 0.2 mm or more and 1.2 mm or less, and more preferably 0.2 mm or more and 0.7 mm or less. The smaller the size of the raw material pieces that make up the flavor source 131, the greater the specific surface area, and therefore the easier it is for flavor components to be released from the raw material pieces that make up the flavor source 131. As the raw material pieces that make up the flavor source 131, cut tobacco or a molded product obtained by molding tobacco raw material into granules can be used. The flavor source 131 may be composed of plants other than tobacco (e.g., mint, herbs, etc.). The flavor source 131 may be imparted with a flavoring such as menthol.

[0023] The raw material pieces constituting the flavor source 131 are obtained, for example, by sieving in accordance with JIS Z 8815 using a stainless steel sieve conforming to JIS Z 8801. For example, the raw material pieces are sieved using a stainless steel sieve with 0.71 mm openings by dry mechanical shaking for 20 minutes to obtain raw material pieces that pass through the stainless steel sieve with 0.71 mm openings. Next, the raw material pieces are sieved using a stainless steel sieve with 0.212 mm openings by dry mechanical shaking for 20 minutes to remove the raw material pieces that pass through the stainless steel sieve with 0.212 mm openings. In other words, the raw material pieces constituting the flavor source 131 are raw material pieces that pass through the stainless steel sieve (mesh opening = 0.71 mm) that defines the upper limit but do not pass through the stainless steel sieve (mesh opening = 0.212 mm) that defines the lower limit. Therefore, in the embodiment, the lower limit of the size of the raw material pieces constituting the flavor source 131 is defined by the opening size of the stainless steel sieve that defines the lower limit. The upper limit of the size of the raw material pieces constituting the flavor source 131 is defined by the opening size of the stainless steel sieve that defines the upper limit.

[0024] 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 (closer to the air inlet 181) and a flavor source 131 is disposed on the downstream 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 heating in 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.

[0025] 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.

[0026] FIG. 2 is a schematic diagram showing an example of the structure of the power supply unit 110 shown in FIG. 1. A housing 110a of the power supply unit 110 has a storage section 130A and a storage section 120A arranged side by side. The storage section 130A stores a cylindrical cartridge holding section 117 and a cylindrical holding section 118 that holds the vibration generating section 110A. The storage section 120A stores the cartridge 120. The storage sections 130A and 120A are connected via a through-hole formed in the housing 110a. The housing 110a stores a power supply section 111A next to the storage section 130A and the storage section 120A.

[0027] The flavor imparting cartridge 130 is inserted into the cartridge holding portion 117 from above. A gap is provided between the side surface of the cartridge holding portion 117 and the inner peripheral surface of the storage portion 130A. The cartridge holding portion 117 is supported by the wall portion of the storage portion 130A in a state in which it can move slightly in the radial direction of the storage portion 130A (synonymous with the radial direction of the flavor imparting cartridge 130). Due to the gap, even if the cartridge holding portion 117 vibrates, the vibrations of the cartridge holding portion 117 are prevented from being transmitted to the housing 110a.

[0028] The holding portion 118 is disposed below the cartridge holding portion 117. A plurality of piezoelectric elements 119 constituting the vibration generating unit 110A are provided on the surface of the holding portion 118 facing the cartridge holding portion 117. The plurality of piezoelectric elements 119 are in contact with the bottom surface of the cartridge holding portion 117. The surface of the holding portion 118 opposite the cartridge holding portion 117 side is fixed to the bottom surface of the storage portion 130A. The vibration generating unit 110A may also be provided on the surface of the holding portion 118 opposite the cartridge holding portion 117 side. In this case, the vibration generating unit 110A is fixed to the bottom surface of the storage portion 130A, and the upper surface of the holding portion 118 and the bottom surface of the cartridge holding portion 117 are fixed. In this way, it is preferable that the vibration generating unit 110A be disposed opposite the bottom surface of the flavor imparting cartridge 130 held in the cartridge holding portion 117. It is preferable that cartridge holding portion 117 is disposed in storage portion 130A so as to be out of contact with any member other than holding portion 118 and piezoelectric element 119. Furthermore, it is preferable that the gap between cartridge holding portion 117 and the inner circumferential surface of storage portion 130A is large enough that cartridge holding portion 117 does not come into contact with the inner circumferential surface even when cartridge holding portion 117 vibrates to the maximum extent. This prevents the vibration of cartridge holding portion 117 from attenuating and from being transmitted to housing 110a.

[0029] The vibration generating unit 110A may be provided at a position where it can transmit the vibration of a vibrator such as a piezoelectric element to the flavoring cartridge 130, and may be provided, for example, on the side surface of the cartridge holding unit 117. In this case, the holding unit 118 can be omitted.

[0030] The aerosol generated in the cartridge 120 passes through the hollow portion of the holding portion 118 and reaches the hollow portion of the cartridge holding portion 117, passes through the flavor source 131 of the flavoring cartridge 130 inserted in this hollow portion, and is delivered from the mouthpiece 124 into the user's mouth.

[0031] 3 is a plan view of the holding portion 118 shown in FIG. 2 as seen from the cartridge holding portion 117 side. FIG. 3 shows the position of the center Ax of the cartridge holding portion 117 (in other words, the center of the flavoring cartridge 130 inserted into the cartridge holding portion 117). In the example of FIG. 3, four piezoelectric elements 119 are arranged on the surface of the holding portion 118 facing the cartridge holding portion 117. The four piezoelectric elements 119 are divided into a first pair of piezoelectric elements 119a and 119c that face each other across the center Ax, and a second pair of piezoelectric elements 119b and 119d that are aligned in a direction intersecting (orthogonal in the example shown) the direction in which the first pair are aligned and that face each other across the center Ax.

[0032] The control unit 116A controls the supply of power from the power supply unit 111A to the heating unit 121A (hereinafter also referred to as power supply control of the heating unit 121A) and the supply of power from the power supply unit 111A to the vibration generating unit 110A (hereinafter also referred to as power supply control of the vibration generating unit 110A). When power is supplied to the vibration generating unit 110A, a piezoelectric element 119 constituting the vibration generating unit 110A vibrates. The vibration of the piezoelectric element 119 is transmitted to the cartridge holding unit 117 and then to the flavor imparting cartridge 130 inserted in the cartridge holding unit 117. As a result, the flavor source 131 contained in the flavor imparting cartridge 130 can be vibrated. It is preferable to add a vibration-proof material or the like to the housing 110a of the power supply unit 110 so that the vibration of the piezoelectric element 119 is not transmitted to the housing 110a.

[0033] Flavor source 131 contains a large number of fine solid particles containing flavor components such as nicotine and menthol. When flavor source 131 vibrates, the bonds between the flavor components and the solid particles can be weakened due to collisions and friction between the solid particles, thereby creating a state in which the flavor components are more easily released from flavor source 131. Heat is generated by friction between the solid particles, and the temperature rises, which also makes the flavor components more easily released. Furthermore, when flavor source 131 vibrates, gaps can be formed between the solid particles, thereby increasing the contact area between each solid particle and the aerosol. Therefore, for example, by starting aerosol generation after vibrating flavor source 131 or by generating aerosol and vibrating flavor source 131 simultaneously, the amount of flavor components imparted to the aerosol can be increased compared to when aerosol is generated without vibrating flavor source 131. As a result, aerosol with a good flavor and taste can be generated.

[0034] Next, a preferred example of driving the vibrators when the vibration generating unit 110A includes multiple vibrators will be described. In the following description, "vibrating two vibrators at the same timing" means that the vibration start timing and vibration end timing of these two vibrators are matched. Also, "vibrating two vibrators at different timings" means that one or both of the vibration start timing and vibration end timing of these two vibrators are not matched.

[0035] Fig. 4 is a timing chart for explaining an example of driving the four piezoelectric elements 119 shown in Fig. 3. In Fig. 4, the rising period of the pulse waveform indicates the period when current is being passed through the piezoelectric elements 119 (the period when they are vibrating), and the falling period indicates the period when current is not being passed through the piezoelectric elements 119 (the period when they are not vibrating). Fig. 4 shows four driving examples EX0 to EX4 as examples of driving the four piezoelectric elements 119.

[0036] <Drive example EX0> The control section 116A performs control so that all four piezoelectric elements 119 included in the vibration generating section 110A vibrate at the same timing. According to the driving example EX0, the control can be most simplified.

[0037] <Drive example EX1, Drive example EX2> The control unit 116A performs control to vibrate the first pair and the second pair with the same period but at different timings. Specifically, as shown in driving example EX1 in Fig. 4, the control unit 116A sets the drive periods of the piezoelectric elements 119a to 119d to be the same, and shifts the drive periods of the first pair and the second pair by a half period. Alternatively, as shown in driving example EX2 in Fig. 4, the control unit 116A sets the drive periods of the piezoelectric elements 119a to 119d to be the same, and shifts the drive periods of the first pair and the second pair by a quarter period.

[0038] According to the drive examples EX1 and EX2, the drive cycle is unified, which simplifies the control and allows complex vibrations to be applied to the flavor source 131. Furthermore, according to the drive example EX1, the period during which the vibration by the vibration generating unit 110A is stopped can be eliminated, so that the flavor source 131 is vibrated continuously, effectively creating a state in which the flavor components are easily imparted to the aerosol.

[0039] <Drive example EX3> The control unit 116A controls the first pair and the second pair to vibrate at different cycles. Specifically, as shown in Drive Example EX3 in FIG. 4, the control unit 116A sets the drive cycle of each of the piezoelectric elements 119a and 119c to a first value, and sets the drive cycle of each of the piezoelectric elements 119b and 119d to a second value different from the first value (a value longer than the first value in the illustrated example). Drive Example EX3 allows more complex vibrations to be imparted to the flavor source 131.

[0040] <Drive example EX4> Control unit 116A performs control to vibrate each of piezoelectric elements 119a to 119d at different timings. Specifically, as shown in drive example EX4 in Fig. 4, control unit 116A sets the drive period of each of piezoelectric elements 119a and 119c to a first value, and sets the drive period of each of piezoelectric elements 119b and 119d to a second value different from the first value. Furthermore, control unit 116A shifts the drive period of piezoelectric element 119a and the drive period of piezoelectric element 119c by half a period, and shifts the drive period of piezoelectric element 119b and the drive period of piezoelectric element 119d by half a period.

[0041] According to the driving example EX4, more complex vibrations can be applied to the flavor source 131. Furthermore, since the period during which the vibration by the vibration generating unit 110A is stopped can be eliminated, the flavor source 131 can be vibrated continuously, effectively creating a state in which the flavor components can be easily imparted to the aerosol.

[0042] The vibrator included in the vibration generating unit 110A is power-controlled to achieve a desired oscillation frequency by fixed frequency oscillation, PLL (phase locked loop) oscillation, FM (frequency modulation) oscillation, AM (amplitude modulation) oscillation, intermittent oscillation, etc. The oscillation frequency of the vibrator included in the vibration generating unit 110A is not particularly limited, but is preferably set to a value in the inaudible range so that the user does not recognize that the flavor source 131 is vibrating.

[0043] 2 and 3, a plurality of piezoelectric elements 119 are provided, but the number of piezoelectric elements 119 may be one. In this case, for example, by providing a configuration in which an annular piezoelectric element 119 is fixed to the surface of the holding portion 118, the flavoring cartridge 130 can be stably vibrated.

[0044] Next, control examples of the heating unit 121A and the vibration generating unit 110A will be described. FIGS. 5 and 6 are timing charts for explaining control examples EX5 to EX8 of the heating unit 121A and the vibration generating unit 110A. The "vibration generation period" in FIGS. 5 and 6 indicates the period during which the rising period of the waveform is controlling the power supply to the vibration generating unit 110A (the control exemplified in FIG. 4). The "aerosol generation period" in FIGS. 5 and 6 indicates the period during which the rising period of the waveform is controlling the power supply to the heating unit 121A (on / off control of a switching element provided between the heating unit 121A and the power supply unit 111A). During the period during which the power supply control of the heating unit 121A is being performed, power is intermittently supplied to the heating unit 121A so that the temperature of the heating unit 121A reaches a target temperature, and the aerosol source in the flavoring cartridge 130 is atomized to generate aerosol.

[0045] <Control example EX5> When the operating mode of the power supply unit 110 transitions to a suction mode in which aerosol can be inhaled, the control unit 116A starts controlling the power supply to the vibration generating unit 110A. The transition to the suction mode may be performed by a user operation, such as pressing a button. Thereafter, when the control unit 116A detects the user's inhalation based on the output of the sensor unit 112A, it stops controlling the power supply to the vibration generating unit 110A and simultaneously starts controlling the power supply to the heating unit 121A. When the control unit 116A detects that a predetermined time has elapsed since starting the power supply control to the heating unit 121A or that the user has finished inhaling, it stops controlling the power supply to the heating unit 121A at timing tb and simultaneously starts controlling the power supply to the vibration generating unit 110A. In the suction mode, the above operations are repeated. Note that the operations after timing tb may be any of Control Examples EX6 to EX8, which will be described later. In other words, Control Examples EX5 to EX8 may be combined as appropriate within a range in which no contradictions occur.

[0046] In this way, in control example EX5, the aerosol is generated after the flavor source 131 is vibrated. Therefore, a sufficient amount of flavor components can be imparted to the aerosol immediately after the aerosol is generated, thereby increasing the user's satisfaction. Furthermore, since power is not supplied to the vibration generating unit 110A and the heating unit 121A simultaneously, the maximum amount of current output from the power supply unit 111A can be reduced. As a result, deterioration of the power supply unit 111A can be suppressed.

[0047] Note that control unit 116A may stop the power supply control of vibration generating unit 110A at timing ta during the period when power supply control of heating unit 121A is being performed. By doing so, a state in which flavor components are easily imparted to the aerosol can be maintained even while the aerosol is being generated, and an aerosol with a good flavor and aroma can be provided to the user.

[0048] <Control example EX6> In the suction mode, when control unit 116A detects that the user is inhaling based on the output of sensor unit 112A, it starts controlling the power supply to vibration generating unit 110A. After a predetermined time has elapsed since control unit 116A started controlling the power supply to vibration generating unit 110A, control unit 116A stops controlling the power supply to vibration generating unit 110A and simultaneously starts controlling the power supply to heating unit 121A. When a predetermined time has elapsed since control unit 116A started controlling the power supply to heating unit 121A or when control unit 116A detects that the user has finished inhaling, it stops controlling the power supply to heating unit 121A. Thereafter, the same operation is repeated.

[0049] In control example EX6, the same effect as in control example EX5 can be obtained. Furthermore, compared to control example EX5, the driving period of the vibration generating section 110A can be shortened, so that power consumption can be reduced.

[0050] The control unit 116A may stop the power supply control of the vibration generating unit 110A during the period in which the power supply control of the heating unit 121A is being performed, or at the end of this period.

[0051] <Control example EX7> In the suction mode, when control unit 116A detects the user's inhalation based on the output of sensor unit 112A, it simultaneously starts controlling the power supply to vibration generating unit 110A and the power supply to heating unit 121A. At timing ta, a predetermined time after detecting suction, control unit 116A stops controlling the power supply to vibration generating unit 110A. When a predetermined time has elapsed since starting control of the power supply to heating unit 121A or when control unit 116A detects that the user has finished inhaling, it stops controlling the power supply to heating unit 121A at timing tb. Thereafter, the same operations are repeated.

[0052] In this way, in Control Example EX7, the generation of aerosol and the vibration of flavor source 131 start simultaneously, so that a sufficient amount of flavor components can be imparted to the aerosol immediately after the aerosol is generated, thereby increasing the user's satisfaction. Furthermore, even while the aerosol is being generated, a state in which the flavor components can be easily imparted to the aerosol can be maintained, and an aerosol with a good flavor and taste can be provided to the user.

[0053] The control unit 116A may set the timing at which the control of the power supply to the vibration generating unit 110A is stopped as the timing tb at which the control of the power supply to the heating unit 121A is ended.

[0054] <Control example EX8> In the suction mode, when control unit 116A detects inhalation by the user based on the output of sensor unit 112A, it starts controlling the power supply to heating unit 121A. After that, when a predetermined time has elapsed, control unit 116A starts controlling the power supply to vibration generating unit 110A.

[0055] The control unit 116A stops the power supply control of the vibration generating unit 110A at timing ta, which is a predetermined time after the control of the power supply of the vibration generating unit 110A is started. When the control unit 116A detects that a predetermined time has elapsed since the control of the power supply of the heating unit 121A was started, or that the user has finished inhaling, the control unit 116A stops the power supply control of the heating unit 121A at timing tb. Thereafter, the same operation is repeated.

[0056] Control example EX8 can achieve the same effect as control example EX7. Furthermore, compared to control example EX7, the driving period of vibration generating unit 110A is shorter, which can reduce power consumption. Furthermore, in control example EX8, vibration of flavor source 131 begins after the aerosol has passed through flavor source 131, that is, after flavor source 131 has become moist. By vibrating flavor source 131 in a moist state, vibration can be efficiently transmitted to solid matter within flavor source 131.

[0057] The control unit 116A may set the timing at which the control of the power supply to the vibration generating unit 110A is stopped as the timing tb at which the control of the power supply to the heating unit 121A is ended.

[0058] In any of the above control examples EX5 to EX8, it is assumed that repeated inhalation will cause the flavor components of the flavor source 131 to be consumed, making it difficult for the flavor components to be imparted to the aerosol. Therefore, the control unit 116A may change the control content of the vibration generating unit 110A based on the elapsed time from the first inhalation detection or the cumulative number of inhalations since the inhalation mode was entered.

[0059] For example, when the elapsed time or the cumulative number of puffs exceeds a threshold, control unit 116A changes the amplitude of the voltage applied to the vibrator included in vibration generating unit 110A or changes the frequency of the voltage so that the vibration of the vibrator becomes stronger compared to when the elapsed time or the cumulative number of puffs is equal to or less than the threshold. Stronger vibration of the vibrator increases the collisions and friction between the solids of flavor source 131, making it easier to release flavor components. This allows the generation of aerosol with a good flavor and aroma to be maintained even during the latter half of the inhalation mode, when puffs are repeated.

[0060] A motion sensor may be attached to the cartridge holding unit 117, and the control unit 116A may acquire the vibration frequency of the cartridge holding unit 117 (a value that substantially coincides with the vibration frequency of the flavoring cartridge 130) based on the output of the motion sensor, and perform feedback control to control the power supplied to the vibration generating unit 110A so that the acquired vibration frequency converges to a target value. In this case, if the vibration frequency acquired from the motion sensor deviates from the target value by a threshold value or more, the control unit 116A may stop control of the power supply to the vibration generating unit 110A and cause the notification unit 113A to notify an error.

[0061] The configuration of the aerosol generating device 100A is not limited to the above, and for example, a heating unit (similar to the heating unit 121A) that heats the flavor imparting cartridge 130 (flavor source 131) may be further added.

[0062] Fig. 7 is a diagram showing a modified example of the structure of the power supply unit 110. The power supply unit 110 shown in Fig. 7 has the same configuration as the power supply unit 110 shown in Fig. 3, except that a film-shaped heater HTR is additionally provided as a heating unit on the side surface of the cartridge holding portion 117.

[0063] Although the heater HTR is in the form of a film, the shape is not particularly limited. Furthermore, the position of the heater HTR is not limited to the side surface of the cartridge holding portion 117. For example, the vibration generating unit 110A may be provided on the side surface of the cartridge holding portion 117, and the heater HTR may be provided on the bottom surface of the cartridge holding portion 117.

[0064] 7 further controls the supply of power from the power supply unit 111A to the heater HTR (hereinafter also referred to as power supply control for the heater HTR). The heater HTR generates heat using the power from the power supply unit 111A, and heats the flavoring cartridge 130 inserted into the cartridge holding unit 117.

[0065] 8 is a timing chart for explaining an example of control of the heating unit 121A, vibration generating unit 110A, and heater HTR in the power supply unit 110 shown in FIG. 7. The "vibration generation period" and "aerosol generation period" shown in FIG. 8 are the same as those explained in FIGS. 5 and 6. In the "heating period" shown in FIG. 8, the rising period of the waveform indicates the period during which power supply control to the heater HTR is being performed. During the period during which power supply control to the heater HTR is being performed, power is supplied to the heater HTR intermittently or continuously so that the temperature of the heater HTR (in other words, the temperature of the flavor source 131) converges to a target temperature.

[0066] When the operating mode of the power supply unit 110 transitions to the suction mode, the control unit 116A starts controlling the power supply to the heater HTR. After a predetermined time has elapsed since starting the power supply control to the heater HTR, the control unit 116A starts controlling the power supply to the vibration generating unit 110A. Thereafter, when the control unit 116A detects the user's inhalation based on the output of the sensor unit 112A, it stops controlling the power supply to the heater HTR and simultaneously starts controlling the power supply to the heating unit 121A. When a predetermined time has elapsed since starting the power supply control to the heating unit 121A or when it detects that the user has finished inhaling, the control unit 116A stops controlling the power supply to the heating unit 121A and the vibration generating unit 110A at timing tc and then starts controlling the power supply to the heater HTR. The above operations are repeated in the suction mode. The transition to the suction mode may be performed by a user operation, such as pressing a button. Alternatively, the suction mode may be terminated by stopping the power supply control of the heating unit 121A and the vibration generating unit 110A when a predetermined time has elapsed since detecting the user's inhalation or when it is detected that the user's inhalation has ended. In this case, it is not necessary to resume the power supply control of the heater HTR by stopping the power supply control of the heating unit 121A, and the control unit 116A may start the power supply control of the heater HTR when the mode is shifted to the suction mode again.

[0067] In this way, by starting the supply of power to the vibration generating unit 110A while power is being supplied to the heater HTR, it is possible to generate an aerosol with sufficient heat and vibration imparted to the flavor source 131. As a result, it is possible to generate an aerosol imparted with many flavor components.

[0068] 8, the control unit 116A may start controlling the power supply to the heater HTR, and then start controlling the power supply to the vibration generating unit 110A after the temperature of the flavor source 131 reaches a predetermined value. This allows vibration to be applied to the flavor source 131 in a state where the flavor source 131 is sufficiently heated, effectively creating a state in which the flavor components are easily imparted to the aerosol.

[0069] 8, the control unit 116A may synchronize the start timing of the power supply control of the vibration generating unit 110A with the start timing of the power supply control of the heater HTR, thereby enabling the aerosol to be generated in a state where sufficient heat and vibration are imparted to the flavor source 131.

[0070] Furthermore, in the control example of FIG. 8, the control unit 116A may end the power supply control of the vibration generating unit 110A at the same timing as the timing at which suction is detected, or at a timing between the timing at which suction is detected and timing tc.

[0071] Furthermore, in the control example of FIG. 8 , the control unit 116A may synchronize the start timing of the power supply control of the vibration generating unit 110A with the start timing of the power supply control of the heating unit 121A, or may set the start timing of the power supply control of the heating unit 121A later than the start timing of the power supply control of the heating unit 121A. In this case, the control unit 116A may cause the vibration generating unit 110A to generate vibration after inhalation detection only if the flavor source 131 has not been heated to the target temperature during the heating period. In other words, if the flavor source 131 has reached the target temperature at the time of inhalation detection, the vibration of the vibration generating unit 110A may be omitted during the subsequent aerosol generation period. In this case, if the vibration generating unit 110A generates vibration after inhalation detection only if the flavor source 131 has not been heated to the target temperature during the heating period, it is preferable to determine the intensity of the vibration generated by the vibration generating unit 110A based on the temperature of the flavor source 131 immediately before inhalation detection. For example, it is preferable to increase the intensity of the vibration as the temperature of the flavor source 131 immediately before inhalation detection decreases.

[0072] In the aerosol generation device 100A, the means for heating the aerosol source is not limited to direct heating by the heating unit 121A. For example, the aerosol source may be heated by induction heating. When induction heating is employed, the heating unit 121A may be a reactor, and a susceptor may be housed inside the liquid storage unit 123. In this configuration, the susceptor can be heated by induction heating when power is supplied to the reactor, thereby heating the aerosol source. Alternatively, the aerosol source may be atomized by ultrasonic vibration instead of heating. When atomization by ultrasonic vibration is employed, the heating unit 121A is replaced with an ultrasonic vibrator.

[0073] In the power supply unit 110, the means for heating the flavor source 131 is not limited to direct heating by the heater HTR. For example, the flavor source 131 may be heated by induction heating. When induction heating is employed, the heater HTR may be a reactor, and a susceptor may be housed inside the flavor source 131. In this configuration, the flavor source 131 can be heated by induction heating the susceptor when power is supplied to the reactor.

[0074] Fig. 9 is a schematic diagram showing a second configuration example of an aerosol-generating device. The aerosol-generating device 100B shown in Fig. 9 includes a power supply unit 110C including a vibration generating unit 111B, a power supply unit 111C, a sensor unit 112B, a notification unit 113B, a storage unit 114B, a communication unit 115B, a control unit 116B, a heating unit 121B, a holding unit 140, and a heat insulating unit 144, and a stick-shaped substrate 150 constituting an aerosol-forming body.

[0075] Each of the vibration generating unit 111B, power supply unit 111C, sensor unit 112B, notification unit 113B, memory unit 114B, communication unit 115B, and control unit 116B is substantially identical to the corresponding components included in the aerosol generating device 100A of the first configuration example.

[0076] 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 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 in, for example, the bottom 143. On the other hand, an air outlet, which is an exit for air from this flow path, is the opening 142.

[0077] Stick-shaped substrate 150 includes substrate portion 151 and mouthpiece portion 152. Substrate portion 151 includes an aerosol source and a flavor 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 in 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.

[0078] 9, the heating unit 121B is a sheet-like heater and is arranged 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. In the example shown in FIG. 9, the vibration generating unit 111B is arranged, for example, in contact with the holding unit 140, and vibrates the holding unit 140, thereby vibrating the stick-shaped substrate 150 containing the flavor source and the aerosol source.

[0079] The heat insulating part 144 prevents heat transfer from the heating part 121B to other components. For example, the heat insulating part 144 is made of a vacuum heat insulating material, an aerogel heat insulating material, or the like. The heat insulating part 144 may have a vibration-proof function to prevent vibrations of the holding part 140 from being transmitted to the outside.

[0080] In the above-described aerosol generation device 100B, the aerosol source and the flavor source contained in the base unit 151 are simultaneously heated by the heating unit 121B, thereby generating an aerosol. For example, the control unit 116B starts control of supplying power to the vibration generating unit 111B before a period in which power is supplied to the heating unit 121B, or starts control of supplying power to the vibration generating unit 111B simultaneously with the start of this period or after a predetermined time has elapsed since the start of this period. This enables generation of an aerosol in a state in which the flavor components are easily released.

[0081] The configuration of the aerosol generation device 100B is not limited to the above, and various configurations such as those exemplified below may be used. As an example, the heating unit 121B may be configured with a blade-shaped heater and disposed so as to protrude from the bottom 143 of the holder 140 into the internal space 141. In this case, the heating unit 121B is inserted into the substrate 151 and heats the substrate 151 of the stick-shaped substrate 150 from the inside. The means for heating the substrate 151 is not limited to direct heating by the heating unit 121B. For example, the substrate 151 may be heated by induction heating.

[0082] This specification describes at least the following items. Note that the components in parentheses correspond to those in the above-described embodiment, but are not limited to these.

[0083] (1) A power supply (power supply unit 111A), a vibration generating unit (vibration generating unit 110A) separate from the atomizing unit (heating unit 121A), which is disposed near a flavor source (flavor source 131) that imparts flavor to the aerosol generated by atomizing the aerosol source with the atomizing unit (heating unit 121A); The power supply unit (power supply unit 110) of the aerosol generation device (aerosol generation device 100A) includes a processor (controller 116A) that controls the supply of power from the power supply to the atomization part and the vibration generating part.

[0084] According to (1), the flavor source can be vibrated by supplying power to the vibration generating unit. By vibrating the flavor source, the amount of flavor components imparted to the aerosol can be appropriately controlled, making it possible to generate an aerosol with a good flavor and taste.

[0085] (2) A power supply unit for the aerosol generating device according to (1), The power supply unit of the aerosol generating device, wherein the vibration generating unit more strongly vibrates at least a part of the flavor source out of the housing of the power supply unit and the flavor source.

[0086] According to (2), the amount of flavor component imparted to the aerosol can be appropriately controlled by a dedicated vibration generating unit for vibrating the flavor source.

[0087] (3) A power supply unit for the aerosol generating device according to (1) or (2), the aerosol source and the flavor source are contained in different containers; The vibration of the vibration generating unit is transmitted to a container (flavoring cartridge 130) that contains the flavor source.

[0088] According to (3), the container containing only the flavor source out of the aerosol source and the flavor source can be vibrated by the vibration generating unit, which allows for more appropriate control of the amount of flavor component imparted to the aerosol.

[0089] (4) A power supply unit for the aerosol generating device according to (3), The vibration generating unit is a power supply unit of the aerosol generating device, which is arranged opposite to the bottom surface of a container that contains the flavor source.

[0090] According to (4), a configuration for vibrating the flavor source can be easily realized.

[0091] (5) A power supply unit for the aerosol generating device according to any one of (1) to (4), The vibration generating unit is a power supply unit of the aerosol generating device, which includes a plurality of vibrators (piezoelectric elements 119).

[0092] According to (5), the vibration pattern given to the flavor source can be made more complex, and the amount of flavor component imparted to the aerosol can be more flexibly controlled.

[0093] (6) A power supply unit for the aerosol generating device according to (5), The power supply unit of the aerosol generating device, wherein the plurality of vibrators include at least one pair of vibrators arranged opposite each other across the center position of the container containing the flavor source.

[0094] According to (6), the vibration applied to the flavor source can be stabilized, and the amount of flavor component imparted to the aerosol can be controlled with high precision.

[0095] (7) A power supply unit for the aerosol generating device according to (5) or (6), The processor is a power supply unit for an aerosol generating device that causes all of the multiple vibrators to start vibrating at the same time.

[0096] According to (7), vibration control can be easily performed.

[0097] (8) A power supply unit for the aerosol generating device according to (6), The plurality of vibrators include, as the pairs, a first pair (a pair of piezoelectric element 119a and piezoelectric element 119c) in which two vibrators are aligned in a first direction, and a second pair (a pair of piezoelectric element 119b and piezoelectric element 119d) in which two vibrators are aligned in a second direction intersecting the first direction, The processor is a power supply unit of an aerosol generating device that starts vibrating the first pair and the second pair at different times.

[0098] According to (8), complex vibrations can be added to the flavor source.

[0099] (9) A power supply unit for the aerosol generating device according to (8), The processor is a power supply unit of an aerosol generating device that starts vibrating the first pair and the second pair at different cycles.

[0100] According to (9), complex vibrations can be added to the flavor source.

[0101] (10) A power supply unit for the aerosol generating device according to (5) or (6), The processor is a power supply unit for an aerosol generating device that causes all of the multiple vibrators to start vibrating at different times.

[0102] According to (10), complex vibrations can be added to the flavor source.

[0103] (11) A power supply unit for the aerosol generating device according to any one of (1) to (10), A power supply unit for an aerosol generating device, wherein the vibration frequency of the vibration generating unit is in the inaudible range.

[0104] According to (11), the user does not need to be aware that the vibration generating unit is vibrating, and the usability can be improved.

[0105] (12) A power supply unit for the aerosol generating device according to any one of (1) to (11), The vibration generating unit is a power supply unit for the aerosol generating device, which is composed of a piezoelectric element.

[0106] According to (12), the power supply unit can be made smaller.

[0107] (13) A power supply unit for the aerosol generating device according to any one of (1) to (12), The power supply unit of the aerosol generating device, wherein the processor starts vibration by the vibration generating unit after starting power supply to the atomizing unit.

[0108] According to (13), vibration is applied to the flavor source while the aerosol is passing through it, which effectively creates a condition in which flavor components are easily imparted to the aerosol. In addition, the operating period of the vibration generating unit can be reduced, which enables power saving.

[0109] (14) A power supply unit for the aerosol generating device according to (13), The power supply unit of the aerosol generating device, wherein the processor starts vibration by the vibration generating unit at the same time as starting power supply to the atomization unit.

[0110] According to (14), it is possible to generate aerosols with sufficient flavor components immediately after the start of aerosol generation.

[0111] (15) A power supply unit for the aerosol generating device according to (13), The power supply unit of the aerosol generating device, wherein the processor starts vibration by the vibration generating unit after a predetermined time has elapsed from the timing when power supply to the atomization unit is started.

[0112] According to (15), since vibration is applied to the flavor source after a large amount of aerosol has passed through the flavor source, it is possible to effectively create a state in which flavor components can be easily imparted to the aerosol.

[0113] (16) A power supply unit for the aerosol generating device according to any one of (1) to (12), The power supply unit of the aerosol generating device, wherein the processor starts vibration by the vibration generating unit prior to supplying power to the nebulization unit.

[0114] According to (16), vibration is applied to the flavor source before the aerosol is generated, so that the aerosol can be generated in a state in which the flavor components are easily imparted to the aerosol. As a result, an aerosol with a good flavor and taste can be generated.

[0115] (17) A power supply unit for the aerosol generating device according to (16), The power supply unit of the aerosol generating device, wherein the processor stops vibration by the vibration generating unit and then starts supplying power to the atomizing unit.

[0116] According to (17), power is not supplied to the atomizing unit and the vibration generating unit at the same time, so deterioration of the power supply can be prevented.

[0117] (18) A power supply unit for the aerosol generating device according to (16), The power supply unit of the aerosol generating device, wherein the processor stops vibration by the vibration generating unit after starting power supply to the atomization unit.

[0118] According to (18), the flavor source can be vibrated while the aerosol is being generated, so that an aerosol with a good flavor can be generated.

[0119] (19) A power supply unit for the aerosol generating device according to any one of (13) to (15), The processor is a power supply unit of an aerosol generating device that supplies power to the atomization unit and the vibration generating unit in response to detection of inhalation by a user as a trigger.

[0120] According to (19), the generation of aerosol and the application of vibration to the flavor source are triggered by the user's inhalation, so that power can be used efficiently and deterioration of the power supply can be prevented.

[0121] (20) A power supply unit for the aerosol generating device according to any one of (1) to (19), Further provided is a heating unit (heater HTR) that heats the flavor source, A power supply unit of an aerosol generating device, wherein the processor further controls the supply of power from the power supply to the heating section.

[0122] According to (20), heating the flavor source can impart more flavor components to the aerosol.

[0123] (twenty one) A power supply unit for the aerosol generating device according to (20), The power supply unit of the aerosol generating device, wherein the processor starts supplying power to the vibration generating unit while supplying power to the heating unit.

[0124] According to (21), for example, aerosol can be generated by applying sufficient heat and vibration to the flavor source, so that aerosol containing many flavor components can be generated.

[0125] (twenty two) A power supply unit for the aerosol generating device according to (21), The processor is a power supply unit of an aerosol generating device that starts supplying power to the vibration generating unit after a predetermined time has elapsed since starting to supply power to the heating unit, or after the temperature of the flavor source reaches a predetermined value.

[0126] According to (22), vibration can be applied to the flavor source after it has been sufficiently heated, effectively creating a state in which flavor components are easily imparted to the aerosol. Furthermore, power consumption can be reduced compared to when vibration is applied throughout the entire heating period.

[0127] (twenty three) A power supply unit for the aerosol generating device according to any one of (1) to (22), The power supply unit of the aerosol generating device, wherein the flavor source is a solid. [Explanation of symbols]

[0128] 100A Aerosol Generator 110A vibration generating unit 110 Power Supply Unit 110a housing 111A power supply section 116A Control Unit 117 Cartridge holder 119a, 119b, 119c, 119d, 119 Piezoelectric elements 120 cartridges 121A heating section 130 Flavoring cartridge 131 Flavor source

Claims

1. Power supply and a vibration generating unit disposed near a flavor source that imparts a flavor to the aerosol generated by atomizing the aerosol source with the atomizing unit, the vibration generating unit being separate from the atomizing unit; A power supply unit of an aerosol generating apparatus including: a processor that controls the supply of power from the power supply to the atomizing unit and the vibration generating unit, the vibration generating unit includes a plurality of vibrators, the plurality of vibrators include at least one pair of vibrators arranged opposite each other across a center position of a container containing the flavor source; the plurality of vibrators include, as the pairs, a first pair in which two vibrators are aligned in a first direction and a second pair in which two vibrators are aligned in a second direction intersecting the first direction; The processor is a power supply unit of an aerosol generating device that starts vibrating the first pair and the second pair at different times.

2. A power supply unit for the aerosol generating device according to claim 1, The vibration generating unit is a power supply unit for an aerosol generating device that more strongly vibrates at least a part of the flavor source out of the housing of the power supply unit and the flavor source.

3. A power supply unit for the aerosol generating device according to claim 1 or 2, the aerosol source and the flavor source are contained in different containers; A power supply unit for an aerosol generating device, in which the vibration of the vibration generating unit is transmitted to a container containing the flavor source.

4. A power supply unit for the aerosol generating device according to claim 3, The vibration generating unit is a power supply unit of an aerosol generating device, which is arranged opposite to the bottom surface of a container that contains the flavor source.

5. A power supply unit for the aerosol generating device according to any one of claims 1 to 4, The power supply unit of the aerosol generating device, wherein the processor starts vibration by the vibration generating unit after starting the supply of power to the atomization unit.

6. A power supply unit for the aerosol generating device according to claim 5, The power supply unit of the aerosol generating device, wherein the processor starts vibration by the vibration generating unit after a predetermined time has elapsed from the timing when power supply to the atomization unit is started.

7. A power supply unit for the aerosol generating device according to any one of claims 1 to 4, The processor is a power supply unit of an aerosol generating device that starts vibration by the vibration generating unit prior to supplying power to the nebulization unit.

8. A power supply unit for the aerosol generating device according to claim 5 or 6, The processor is a power supply unit of an aerosol generating device that supplies power to the atomization unit and the vibration generating unit in response to the detection of inhalation by a user as a trigger.

9. A power supply unit for the aerosol generating device according to any one of claims 1 to 8, Further provided is a heating unit that heats the flavor source, The processor further controls the supply of power from the power source to the heating unit, and starts supplying power to the vibration generating unit during the period when power is being supplied to the heating unit.

10. A power supply unit for the aerosol generating device according to claim 9, The processor is a power supply unit of an aerosol generating device that starts supplying power to the vibration generating unit after a predetermined time has elapsed since starting to supply power to the heating unit, or after the temperature of the flavor source reaches a predetermined value.

11. A power supply unit for the aerosol generating device according to any one of claims 1 to 10, The power supply unit of an aerosol generating device, wherein the flavor source is a solid.

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