Suction device, control method, and program

Abstract

A control unit (116) of an inhalation device (100) begins control of a heating unit (121) in a control mode defined by a heating profile in response to an aerosol generation request, acquires information that represents an inhalation mode for a first period in which the heating unit (121) is controlled in the control mode defined by the heating profile, and changes the control mode of the heating unit (121) for a second period that is after the first period from the control mode defined by the heating profile to a control mode based on the acquired inhalation mode for the first period.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a suction device, a control method, and a program.

Background Art

[0002] Conventionally, for example, there is known a suction device that generates an aerosol to which a flavor component is added and allows a user to inhale the generated aerosol. Such a suction device typically delivers an aerosol generated by heating a base material having an aerosol source with a heating unit (also referred to as a "heating element") that is an electric resistance type or induction heating type heater to the user. In addition, some of such suction devices are configured to control the temperature of the heating unit according to a pre-prepared control profile (also referred to as a "heating profile" or "target temperature profile") (see, for example, Patent Document 1 below).

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0003]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0004] The heating profile is typically designed so that the flavor experienced by the user is optimized on the premise that standard suction is performed. However, standard suction assumed in the heating profile is not necessarily performed on the suction device. For example, the suction mode for the suction device not only has individual differences among users, but can also vary depending on the mood at the time of suction even for the same user.

[0005] If the standard suction assumed in the heating profile is not being performed, and the control is carried out according to the heating profile, then situations such as the heating unit stopping even though sufficient aerosol sources remain on the substrate, or the heating unit continuing unnecessarily even though the aerosol sources on the substrate have been depleted, may occur. Such situations are undesirable from the standpoint of improving user satisfaction with the suction device (in other words, the marketability of the suction device).

[0006] The present invention provides an inhalation device, control method, and program that can appropriately consume a substrate containing an aerosol source and provide a high-quality smoking experience to the user, even when inhalation is performed in a manner different from the standard inhalation assumed in the heating profile. [Means for solving the problem]

[0007] The first invention is, A heating unit that heats a substrate having an aerosol source to generate an aerosol, Canada The system includes a control unit that controls the operation of the heating unit based on a thermal profile, A suction device that allows a user to inhale an aerosol generated by the heating unit, The heating profile is information that defines the duration of each time interval included in a plurality of consecutive time intervals along the time axis, and the target temperature, which is the target value of the heating section. The control unit, In response to a request for aerosol generation, control of the heating unit is initiated in the control mode defined by the heating profile. Information representing the suction mode during the first period in which the heating section is controlled in the control mode defined by the heating profile is obtained. The control mode of the heating unit in the second period following the first period is changed from the control mode defined by the heating profile to the control mode based on the suction mode in the first period. The aforementioned If the suction time in the first period is equal to or greater than a first predetermined value, the duration of any of the time intervals included in the second period is shortened to less than the duration defined by the heating profile. If the suction time in the first period is less than a second predetermined value which is smaller than the first predetermined value, the duration of any of the time intervals included in the second period shall be extended beyond the duration defined by the heating profile. , It is a suction device.

[0008] The second invention is, A computer controls a suction device that includes a heating unit that heats a substrate having an aerosol source to generate an aerosol, and allows the user to inhale the aerosol generated by the heating unit. In response to a request for aerosol generation , Canada Control of the heating unit is started in a control mode defined by the thermal profile. The heating profile is information that defines the duration of each time interval included in a plurality of consecutive time intervals along the time axis, and the target temperature, which is the target value of the heating section. Information representing the suction mode during the first period in which the heating section is controlled in the control mode defined by the heating profile is obtained. The control mode of the heating unit in the second period following the first period is changed from the control mode defined by the heating profile to the control mode based on the suction mode in the first period. Execute the process, The aforementioned If the suction time in the first period is equal to or greater than a first predetermined value, the duration of any of the time intervals included in the second period is shortened to less than the duration defined by the heating profile. If the suction time in the first period is less than a second predetermined value which is smaller than the first predetermined value, the duration of any of the time intervals included in the second period shall be extended beyond the duration defined by the heating profile. , This is a control method.

[0009] The third invention is, A computer controls a suction device that includes a heating unit that heats a substrate having an aerosol source to generate an aerosol, and allows the user to inhale the aerosol generated by the heating unit. In response to a request for aerosol generation , Canada Control of the heating unit is started in a control mode defined by the thermal profile. The heating profile is information that defines the duration of each time interval included in a plurality of consecutive time intervals along the time axis, and the target temperature, which is the target value of the heating section. Information representing the suction mode during the first period in which the heating section is controlled in the control mode defined by the heating profile is obtained. The control mode of the heating unit in the second period following the first period is changed from the control mode defined by the heating profile to the control mode based on the suction mode in the first period. Execute the process, The aforementioned If the suction time in the first period is equal to or greater than a first predetermined value, the duration of any of the time intervals included in the second period is shortened to less than the duration defined by the heating profile. If the suction time in the first period is less than a second predetermined value which is smaller than the first predetermined value, the duration of any of the time intervals included in the second period shall be extended beyond the duration defined by the heating profile. , It is a program.

Advantages of the Invention

[0010] According to the present invention, even if suction is performed in a suction mode different from the standard suction based on the heating profile, it is possible to appropriately consume the substrate having the aerosol source and provide a high-quality smoking experience to the user. A suction device, a control method, and a program can be provided.

Brief Description of the Drawings

[0011] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram schematically showing the suction device of the present embodiment. [Figure 2] FIG. 2 is a diagram showing an example of the heating profile in the present embodiment. [Figure 3] FIG. 3 is a diagram showing an example of the suction performed on the suction device of the present embodiment. [Figure 4] FIG. 4 is a diagram (part 1) showing a modification example of the control mode when the suction time, suction amount, or suction intensity in the first acquisition target period is equal to or greater than the first predetermined value. [Figure 5] FIG. 5 is a diagram (part 1) showing a modification example of the control mode when the suction time, suction amount, or suction intensity in the first acquisition target period is less than the second predetermined value. [Figure 6] FIG. 6 is a diagram showing a modification example of the control mode when the suction time, suction amount, or suction intensity in the second acquisition target period is equal to or greater than the third predetermined value. [Figure 7] FIG. 7 is a diagram showing a modification example of the control mode when the suction time, suction amount, or suction intensity in the second acquisition target period is less than the fourth predetermined value. [Figure 8] FIG. 8 is a flowchart showing an example of the process executed by the control unit of the suction device of the present embodiment. [Figure 9] FIG. 9 is a diagram (part 2) showing a modification example of the control mode when the suction time, suction amount, or suction intensity in the first acquisition target period is equal to or greater than the first predetermined value. [Figure 10]Figure 10 is a diagram (part 2) showing an example of a change in the control method when the suction time, suction volume, or suction intensity during the first acquisition period is less than the second predetermined value. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0012] Hereinafter, a suction device, control method, and program according to one embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings. In the following, identical or similar elements will be denoted by the same or similar reference numerals, and their descriptions may be omitted or simplified as appropriate.

[0013] <1. Example of suction device configuration> The suction device of this embodiment is a device that generates a substance to be aspirated by the user and makes the generated substance available for the user to aspirate. In the following description, the substance generated by the suction device of this embodiment will be described as an aerosol, but it is not limited to aerosols and may be a gas, for example.

[0014] Figure 1 is a schematic diagram illustrating the suction device of this embodiment. As shown in Figure 1, a stick-type substrate 150 having a flavor-generating substrate such as a filling material containing an aerosol source and a flavor source, which are sources of inhaled components, is inserted into the suction device 100 of this embodiment. The stick-type substrate 150 inserted into the suction device 100 generates an aerosol containing flavor components by being heated from its outer circumference.

[0015] The aerosol source may be a liquid such as glycerin and polyhydric alcohols such as propylene glycol, or water, but is not limited to a liquid and may be a solid. The flavor source is a component for imparting flavor components to the generated aerosol, and may include, for example, tobacco-derived or non-tobacco-derived flavor components. Examples of tobacco-derived flavor components include tobacco granules, which are tobacco raw materials molded into granules, and shredded tobacco. Examples of non-tobacco-derived flavor components include plants other than tobacco (e.g., mint, herbs, or Chinese medicine) and fragrances such as menthol.

[0016] Furthermore, the aerosol source may contain flavoring components derived from tobacco or non-tobacco. Also, if the inhalation device 100 is a medical inhaler such as a nebulizer, the aerosol source may contain a drug.

[0017] As shown in Figure 1, the suction device 100 includes a power supply unit 111, a sensor unit 112, a notification unit 113, a storage unit 114, a communication unit 115, a control unit 116, a heating unit 121, a holding unit 140, and a heat insulating unit 144.

[0018] The power supply unit 111 stores power. Then, based on the control by the control unit 116, the power supply unit 111 supplies power to each component of the suction device 100. The power supply unit 111 may be composed of a rechargeable battery, such as a lithium-ion secondary battery.

[0019] The sensor unit 112 acquires various information related to the suction device 100. The sensor unit 112 is composed of, for example, a pressure sensor such as a condenser microphone, a flow sensor, a temperature sensor, or a voltage sensor, and acquires values ​​associated with suction by the user.

[0020] As an example, the sensor unit 112 may be configured to include a pressure sensor (hereinafter also referred to as a "puff sensor") that detects the pressure inside the suction device 100. As will be described later, the control unit 116 can detect suction to the suction device 100 based on the value detected by the puff sensor.

[0021] As another example, the sensor unit 112 may be configured to include a flow sensor that detects the flow rate (hereinafter also simply referred to as "flow rate") generated by suction to the suction device 100. Furthermore, as yet another example, the sensor unit 112 may be configured to include a temperature sensor (hereinafter also referred to as "puff thermistor") that detects the temperature of the heating unit 121 (or a predetermined location near the heating unit 121). Also as yet another example, the sensor unit 112 may be configured to include a voltage sensor that detects the potential difference (hereinafter also referred to as "voltage") applied to the heating resistor constituting the heating unit 121.

[0022] Furthermore, the sensor unit 112 may further include, for example, an input device such as an operation button or operation switch that accepts information input from the user, and may acquire information input from the user.

[0023] The notification unit 113 notifies the user of information. The notification unit 113 may consist of, for example, a light-emitting device, a display device that displays an image, a sound output device that outputs sound, or a vibrating device that vibrates. As the light-emitting device, for example, an LED (Light Emitting Diode) may be used. As the display device, for example, a liquid crystal display or an OLED (Organic Electro Luminescence Diode) display may be used. As the sound output device, for example, a speaker configured to convert an electrical signal representing sound into physical sound (i.e., vibration of air) may be used. As the vibrating device, for example, a vibrator comprising an eccentric weight and a motor that rotates the eccentric weight may be used.

[0024] The storage unit 114 stores various information (e.g., various data and various programs) for the operation of the suction device 100. The storage unit 114 may be composed of a non-volatile storage medium such as flash memory. Examples of information stored in the storage unit 114 include a heating profile. Here, the heating profile is information that defines the time-series progression of the target temperature (hereinafter also simply referred to as "target temperature"), which is the target temperature of the heating unit 121. An example of a heating profile will be described later with reference to Figure 2.

[0025] The communication unit 115 is a communication interface capable of performing communication in accordance with any wired or wireless communication standard. Examples of such communication standards include, in the case of wireless communication, Wi-Fi®, Bluetooth®, or Near Field Communication. In the case of wired communication, it may be connected via, for example, a USB (Universal Serial Bus) external connection terminal and a data communication cable.

[0026] The control unit 116 functions as an arithmetic processing unit and control unit, and controls the overall operation of the suction device 100 according to various programs. An example of the control performed by the control unit 116 will be described later, so it will not be explained here. The control unit 116 is implemented by an electronic circuit such as a CPU (Central Processing Unit) or a microprocessor.

[0027] The holding part 140 has an internal space 141 and holds the stick-type substrate 150 while accommodating a portion of the stick-type substrate 150 in the internal space 141. The holding part 140 has an opening 142 that communicates the internal space 141 with the outside and holds the stick-type substrate 150 inserted into the internal space 141 from the opening 142. For example, the holding part 140 is a cylindrical body with the opening 142 and bottom 143 as its base, defining a columnar internal space 141. The holding part 140 also has the function of defining a flow path for air supplied to the stick-type substrate 150. An air inlet hole, which is the entrance for air to such a flow path, is located, for example, at the bottom 143. On the other hand, the air outlet hole, which is the exit for air from such a flow path, is the opening 142.

[0028] The stick-type base material 150 includes a base material portion 151 and a mouthpiece portion 152. The base material portion 151 is configured to include, for example, an aerosol source. When the stick-type base material 150 is held by the holding portion 140, at least a part of the base material portion 151 is housed in the internal space 141, and at least a part of the mouthpiece portion 152 protrudes from the opening 142. When the user puts the mouthpiece portion 152 protruding from the opening 142 in their mouth and sucks, air flows into the internal space 141 from an air inlet hole (not shown) and reaches the user's oral cavity together with the aerosol generated from the base material portion 151.

[0029] The heating unit 121 generates an aerosol by, for example, heating the aerosol source, thereby atomizing the aerosol source. In this embodiment, for example, the heating unit 121 is configured in a film-like form and is arranged to cover the outer circumference of the holding unit 140. The heating unit 121 generates heat when power is supplied from the power supply unit 111. When the heating unit 121 generates heat, the base material portion 151 of the stick-type base material 150 is heated from the outer circumference, and an aerosol is generated.

[0030] For example, when the sensor unit 112 detects that the user has started suctioning and / or that predetermined information has been entered, power supply from the power supply unit 111 to the heating unit 121 may be initiated. Subsequently, when the sensor unit 112 detects that the user has stopped suctioning and / or that predetermined information has been entered, power supply from the power supply unit 111 to the heating unit 121 may be stopped. As mentioned above, power supply from the power supply unit 111 to the heating unit 121 can be controlled by the control unit 116.

[0031] The heat insulating section 144 prevents heat transfer from the heating section 121 to other components. For example, the heat insulating section 144 may be made of a vacuum insulating material or an aerogel insulating material.

[0032] The above describes one example configuration of the suction device 100. Of course, the suction device 100 is not limited to the above configuration and can take on a variety of configurations as exemplified below.

[0033] As an example, the heating section 121 may be configured in a blade shape and positioned to protrude from the bottom 143 of the holding section 140 into the internal space 141. In this case, the blade-shaped heating section 121 is inserted into the base material section 151 of the stick-shaped base material 150 and heats the base material section 151 of the stick-shaped base material 150 from the inside. As another example, the heating section 121 may be positioned to cover the bottom 143 of the holding section 140. Furthermore, the heating section 121 may be configured as a combination of two or more of the following: a first heating section that covers the outer circumference of the holding section 140, a blade-shaped second heating section, and a third heating section that covers the bottom 143 of the holding section 140.

[0034] As another example, the holding portion 140 may include an opening / closing mechanism such as a hinge that opens and closes a part of the outer shell forming the internal space 141. The holding portion 140 may then clamp the stick-shaped base material 150 inserted into the internal space 141 by opening and closing the outer shell. In this case, the heating portion 121 may be provided at the clamping location in the holding portion 140 and may heat the stick-shaped base material 150 while pressing it.

[0035] Furthermore, the means for atomizing the aerosol source is not limited to heating by the heating unit 121, but may also be induction heating, for example. The suction device 100 may also have multiple types of aerosol sources. Moreover, multiple types of aerosols generated from multiple types of aerosol sources may be mixed and undergo a chemical reaction to generate even more types of aerosols.

[0036] <2. Heating Profile> A heating profile, which is information that defines the time-series progression of a target temperature, can, for example, be information that defines the duration and target temperature of each time interval included in a series of consecutive time intervals along a time axis. Alternatively, in a heating profile, the duration of a time interval may not be defined, but a target temperature for that time interval may be defined, and the time interval may end when that target temperature is reached.

[0037] Figure 2 shows an example of a heating profile in this embodiment. The vertical axis in Figure 2 represents the target temperature [°C]. The vertical axis in Figure 2 represents time [sec], more specifically, the elapsed time since the start of control based on the heating profile.

[0038] As shown in Figure 2, the heating profile of this embodiment defines the duration and target temperature of each time interval, which is continuous along the time axis, consisting of a first time interval S1, a second time interval S2, a third time interval S3, a fourth time interval S4, a fifth time interval S5, and a sixth time interval S6.

[0039] Each of the first time interval S1, the second time interval S2, the third time interval S3, the fourth time interval S4, the fifth time interval S5, and the sixth time interval S6 is provided in this order from the front in time series. And with the end of the sixth time interval S6 which is the last time interval, the heating by the heating unit 121 (in other words, the power supply to the heating unit 121) is stopped. Thereby, as shown by the dashed line in FIG. 2, after the end of the sixth time interval S6, the temperature of the heating unit 121 gradually decreases.

[0040] In the heating profile of the present embodiment, the first time interval S1 is a time interval with a time length of tm1 [sec] and a target temperature of T1 [° C]. The second time interval S2 is a time interval with a time length of tm2 [sec] and a target temperature of T1 [° C]. The third time interval S3 is a time interval with a time length of tm3 [sec] and a target temperature of T2 [° C] (where T2 <T1).

[0041] The fourth time interval S4 is a time interval with a time length of tm4 [sec] and a target temperature of T2 [° C]. As an example, in the present embodiment, the fourth time interval S4 is the longest time interval. That is, tm4 is longer than any of the aforementioned tm1 to tm3 and the following tm5 and tm6.

[0042] The fifth time interval S5 is a time interval with a time length of tm5 [sec] and a target temperature of T3 [° C] (where T3 > T2 and T3 <T1). The sixth time interval S6 is a time interval with a time length of tm6 [sec] and a target temperature of T3 [° C]. As described above, the sixth time interval S6 is the last time interval and is the time interval immediately before the heating by the heating unit 121 is stopped.

[0043] By the way, the time intervals included in the heating profile can be roughly classified into three types: a temperature rising interval, a temperature falling interval, and a temperature maintaining interval.

[0044] Here, the heating interval is the time interval in which the heating unit 121 is heated (in other words, the temperature of the heating unit 121 rises). For example, the heating interval is the time interval in which the target temperature is assumed to be higher than the temperature of the heating unit 121 at the start (for example, the target temperature of the previous time interval). In this embodiment, the first time interval S1 and the fifth time interval S5 are the heating intervals. Hereinafter, the first time interval S1 will also be referred to as the "first heating interval S1," and the fifth time interval S5 will also be referred to as the "second heating interval S5."

[0045] Furthermore, the cooling-down section is a time period in which the heating section 121 is cooled down (in other words, the temperature of the heating section 121 decreases). For example, the cooling-down section is a time period in which the target temperature is expected to be lower than the temperature of the heating section 121 at the start (for example, the target temperature of the previous time period). In this embodiment, the third time period S3 is the heating-up section. Hereinafter, the third time period S3 will also be referred to as the "cooling-down section S3".

[0046] The temperature maintenance interval is a time interval in which the control unit 116 controls the heating unit 121 to maintain a constant temperature. For example, the temperature maintenance interval is a time interval in which the temperature of the heating unit 121 at the start (for example, the target temperature of the previous time interval) is assumed to be approximately equal to the target temperature. In this embodiment, the second time interval S2, the fourth time interval S4, and the sixth time interval S6 are the temperature maintenance intervals. Hereinafter, the second time interval S2 will also be referred to as the "first temperature maintenance interval S2", the fourth time interval S4 as the "second temperature maintenance interval S4", and the sixth time interval S6 as the "third temperature maintenance interval S6".

[0047] In the temperature maintenance section, control is performed to maintain the temperature of the heating section 121 at a constant temperature, but it should be noted that in reality, the temperature of the heating section 121 may fluctuate. Factors that may cause the temperature of the heating section 121 to fluctuate in the temperature maintenance section include, for example, a decrease in the temperature of the heating section 121 due to user inhalation, or hunting in the PID control (Proportional-Integral-Differential Controller).

[0048] As described above, the heating profile of this embodiment includes a first temperature increase section S1 provided first, a temperature decrease section S3 provided after the first temperature increase section S1 and having a target temperature lower than that of the first temperature increase section S1, a third temperature maintenance section S6 provided after the temperature decrease section S3 and having a target temperature higher than that of the temperature decrease section S3, and a second temperature maintenance section S4 as a low temperature section having a target temperature lower than that of the third temperature maintenance section S6.

[0049] More specifically, in the heating profile of this embodiment, the first temperature increase section S1, the first temperature maintenance section S2, the temperature decrease section S3, the second temperature maintenance section S4, the second temperature increase section S5, and the third temperature maintenance section S6 are provided in this order from the front in time series. The target temperature of the heating unit 121 is set to T1 [°C] in the first temperature increase section S1 and the first temperature maintenance section S2, set to T2 [°C] (T2 < T1) in the temperature decrease section S3 and the second temperature maintenance section S4, and set to T3 [°C] (T2 < T3 < T1) in the second temperature increase section S5 and the third temperature maintenance section S6.

[0050] In the suction device 100, the period during which a sufficient amount of aerosol is assumed to be generated is also referred to as the "suction possible period (or puff possible period)". The period from the start of heating to the start of the suction possible period is also referred to as the "preheating period". The heating performed during the preheating period is also referred to as "preheating". In the example of this embodiment, the first temperature increase section S1 is the preheating period. Also, the first temperature maintenance section S2, the temperature decrease section S3, the second temperature maintenance section S4, the second temperature increase section S5, and the third temperature maintenance section S6 are the suction possible periods.

[0051] For example, the notification unit 113 of the suction device 100 notifies the user of the timing when the suction period begins and ends. Specifically, the notification unit 113 notifies the user at the timing when the first temperature maintenance interval S2 begins (in other words, the timing when the first heating interval S1 ends) and at the timing when the third temperature maintenance interval S6 ends. By notifying the user of the timing when the suction period begins and ends in this way, the user can perform suction on the suction device 100 during the suction period by referring to such notifications.

[0052] Furthermore, the manner in which notifications are given at the start of the suction period (i.e., the start of the first temperature maintenance interval S2) and the manner in which notifications are given at the end of the suction period (i.e., the end of the third temperature maintenance interval S6) may be different from each other. By making the manner of notifications given at the start and end of the suction period different in this way, it becomes possible to clearly inform the user that the suction period has started and ended.

[0053] <3. Control Unit> The control unit 116 of the suction device 100 controls the operation of the heating unit 121 based on the heating profile. This ensures that the aerosol is generated as planned by the heating profile. The heating profile is typically designed to optimize the flavor the user experiences when inhaling the aerosol generated from the stick-type substrate 150. Therefore, controlling the operation of the heating unit 121 based on the heating profile optimizes the flavor the user experiences.

[0054] More specifically, the control unit 116 starts controlling the heating unit 121 in a control manner defined by the heating profile in response to a request for aerosol generation. Here, the request for aerosol generation can be, for example, an operation to instruct the start of heating. For example, the operation to instruct the start of heating can be the pressing of a predetermined operation button provided on the suction device 100. Alternatively, the operation to instruct the start of heating may be a suction operation on the suction device 100, or the reception of predetermined information from another device such as a smartphone. The control unit 116 can detect the request for aerosol generation based on information acquired by, for example, the sensor unit 112 or the communication unit 115.

[0055] To elaborate on the control of the heating unit 121 based on the heating profile, the control unit 116 controls the operation of the heating unit 121 based on the difference between the target temperature corresponding to the elapsed time since the start of control based on the heating profile and the actual temperature of the heating unit 121 (hereinafter also referred to as "actual temperature"). More specifically, at this time, the control unit 116 controls the temperature of the heating unit 121 so that the time series change of the actual temperature of the heating unit 121 is the same as the time series change of the target temperature defined in the heating profile.

[0056] Temperature control of the heating unit 121 can be achieved, for example, by known feedback control. For example, the control unit 116 supplies power from the power supply unit 111 to the heating unit 121 in the form of pulses obtained by pulse width modulation (PWM) or pulse frequency modulation (PFM). In this case, the control unit 116 can control the temperature of the heating unit 121 by adjusting the duty cycle of the power pulses.

[0057] In feedback control, the control unit 116 can control the power supplied to the heating unit 121, such as the duty cycle, based on the difference between the actual temperature and the target temperature. Alternatively, the feedback control may be PID control, for example. Or, the control unit 116 may perform simple ON-OFF control. For example, the control unit 116 may perform heating by the heating unit 121 until the actual temperature reaches the target temperature, stop heating by the heating unit 121 when the actual temperature reaches the target temperature, and restart heating by the heating unit 121 when the actual temperature falls below the target temperature.

[0058] The temperature of the heating section 121 can be obtained (in other words, quantified) by, for example, measuring or estimating the electrical resistance of the heat-generating resistor that constitutes the heating section 121. This is because the electrical resistance of the heat-generating resistor changes with temperature. The electrical resistance of the heat-generating resistor can be estimated (i.e., obtained) by, for example, measuring the voltage drop across the heat-generating resistor. The voltage drop across the heat-generating resistor can be measured (i.e., obtained) by a voltage sensor that measures the potential difference applied to the heat-generating resistor. As another example, the temperature of the heating section 121 may be measured by a temperature sensor (puff thermistor) installed near the heating section 121.

[0059] Furthermore, the control unit 116 stops heating by the heating unit 121 when a predetermined time has elapsed since the start of control based on the heating profile. The timing for stopping heating by the heating unit 121 is, for example, when the last time interval in the heating profile (the third temperature maintenance interval S6 in this embodiment) has ended.

[0060] In other words, after heating by the heating unit 121 begins, the aerosol source and flavor components of the heated stick-type substrate 150 gradually decrease over time. Heating by the heating unit 121 is typically stopped at a time when it is expected that at least one of the aerosol source and flavor components of the stick-type substrate 150 will decrease to the point where it will no longer be possible to deliver a sufficient amount of aerosol with an appropriate amount of flavor components to the user. In other words, the heating profile is designed so that the final time interval ends at a time when it is expected that the aerosol source or flavor components of the stick-type substrate 150 will decrease to the point where it will no longer be possible to deliver a sufficient amount of aerosol with an appropriate amount of flavor components to the user, assuming standard inhalation.

[0061] Furthermore, the aerosol source and flavor components of the stick-type substrate 150 are also reduced by suction performed by the suction device 100. Therefore, even before a predetermined time has elapsed since the start of control based on the heating profile, the control unit 116 may stop heating by the heating unit 121 if a predetermined number of suctions (for example, 15 times) have been performed since the start of control based on the heating profile. Hereinafter, the number of suctions that triggers the condition for stopping heating by the heating unit 121 in this case will also be referred to as the "number of possible suctions".

[0062] Furthermore, the control unit 116 may, for example, stop heating by the heating unit 121 when a predetermined operation button provided on the suction device 100 is pressed. In this way, the user can stop heating by the heating unit 121 at a timing of their choosing.

[0063] Incidentally, the heating profile is designed to optimize the flavor experienced by the user, assuming standard inhalation. However, the standard inhalation assumed in the heating profile is not always performed on the inhalation device 100. For example, the inhalation pattern on the inhalation device 100 varies from user to user, and can even change depending on the user's mood at the time of inhalation.

[0064] If, under circumstances where the standard inhalation assumed in the heating profile is not occurring, the control is carried out according to the heating profile, it is possible that heating by the heating unit 121 will stop even though sufficient aerosol sources and flavor components remain in the stick-type substrate 150, or that heating by the heating unit 121 will continue unnecessarily even though the aerosol sources or flavor components in the stick-type substrate 150 are nearly depleted to the point where a sufficient amount of aerosol with an appropriate amount of flavor components cannot be delivered to the user (in other words, heating by the heating unit 121 will continue unnecessarily). Such situations are undesirable from the standpoint of improving user satisfaction with the inhalation device 100 (i.e., the marketability of the inhalation device 100).

[0065] In other words, even if suction is performed in a manner different from the standard suction assumed in the heating profile, it is desirable from the perspective of improving the marketability of the suction device 100 to appropriately consume the stick-type substrate 150 containing the aerosol source, etc., and provide the user with a high-quality smoking experience.

[0066] Therefore, the control unit 116 acquires information representing the suction mode applied to the suction device 100 (hereinafter also simply referred to as "suction mode in the first period") during the first period in which the heating unit 121 is controlled in a control mode defined by the heating profile. Here, the suction mode in the first period may be, for example, the suction time in the first period, the suction amount in the first period, or the suction intensity in the first period. Furthermore, the suction mode in the first period may be a combination of two or more of the suction time, suction amount in the first period, and suction intensity in the first period (for example, a combination of suction time and suction intensity). Specific examples of the suction time in the first period, the suction amount in the first period, and the suction intensity in the first period will be described later as the suction time in the acquisition target period, the suction amount in the acquisition target period, and the suction intensity in the acquisition target period, respectively.

[0067] Then, the control unit 116 changes the control mode of the heating unit 121 in the second period, which is the period after the first period, from the control mode defined by the heating profile to the control mode based on the acquired suction mode in the first period. As a result, even if the suction mode in the first period is different from standard suction, the heating unit 121 can be appropriately controlled in the subsequent second period, taking into account the suction mode in the first period (i.e., the suction actually performed in the first period). Therefore, it becomes possible to appropriately consume the stick-type substrate 150 and provide the user with a high-quality smoking experience. The control unit 116 will be described in more detail below.

[0068] <4-1. Acquisition period> The control unit 116 acquires information representing the suction pattern during a predetermined acquisition period based on the detection results of the sensor unit 112 during that acquisition period, for example, when the heating unit 121 is controlled in a control manner defined by the heating profile.

[0069] The acquisition period can be, for example, the period from when control of the heating unit 121 is started in the control mode defined by the heating profile (i.e., when control based on the heating profile is started) until a predetermined time has elapsed. This makes it possible to secure a reasonably long period for acquisition. Also, considering that control based on the heating profile is started when there is a request for aerosol generation, the acquisition period can also be the period from when there is a request for aerosol generation until a predetermined time has elapsed.

[0070] In this embodiment, as shown in Figure 2, a first acquisition period A1 and a second acquisition period A2 are provided as the acquisition target period.

[0071] The first acquisition target period A1 is the period from when the control based on the heating profile starts (i.e., when the elapsed time is 0) to the first timing ti1 when the first predetermined time Tm1, which is set in advance by the manufacturer of the suction device 100 or the like, has elapsed. For example, the first predetermined time Tm1 is set to be shorter than half of the period from when the control based on the heating profile starts to when the heating by the heating unit 121 stops (i.e., tm1 + tm2 + tm3 + tm4 + tm5 + tm6). Also, the first predetermined time Tm1 is, for example, set to satisfy (tm1 + tm2 + tm3) < Tm1 < (tm1 + tm2 + tm3 + tm4 - Δta). Thereby, the first timing ti1 is the timing during the second temperature maintenance section S4. Note that Δta will be described later.

[0072] The second acquisition target period A2 is the period from when the control based on the heating profile starts (i.e., when the elapsed time is 0) to the second timing ti2 when the second predetermined time Tm2 (where Tm2 > Tm1), which is set in advance by the manufacturer of the suction device 100 or the like, has elapsed. For example, the second predetermined time Tm2 is set to satisfy (tm1 + tm2 + tm3 + tm6 + tm5) < Tm2 < (tm1 + tm2 + tm3 + tm4 + tm5 + tm6 - Δtc). Thereby, the second timing ti2 is the timing during the third temperature maintenance section S6. Note that Δtc will be described later.

[0073] Here, in the example described, the period from when the control based on the heating profile starts to when the first predetermined time Tm1 has elapsed is taken as the first acquisition target period A1, but it is not limited to this.

[0074] For example, the period from when control based on the heating profile is started (i.e., when control of the heating unit 121 is started in the control manner defined by the heating profile) until a first predetermined number of suctions (e.g., 5 times) are performed may be defined as the first acquisition period A1. In this way, it is possible to secure a reasonably long period as the first acquisition period A1. Similarly, the period from when control based on the heating profile is started until a second predetermined number of suctions (e.g., 10 times), which is greater than the first predetermined number, may be defined as the second acquisition period A2. In this case, the first and second predetermined number of suctions shall be greater than 0 and less than the number of suctions that can be performed as described above.

[0075] Furthermore, in the example described here, the start time of the first acquisition period A1 was set to when control based on the heating profile started, but it is not limited to this, and may also be set to when the suction period starts (for example, when the first temperature maintenance interval S2 starts). In this way, it is possible to secure a reasonably long period as the first acquisition period A1. Similarly, the start time of the second acquisition period A2 is not limited to when control based on the heating profile started, but may also be set to, for example, when the suction period starts.

[0076] <4-2. Suction time during the acquisition period> Next, we will explain the "suction time during the acquisition period" that the control unit 116 can acquire. Here, the suction time during the acquisition period can be, for example, the maximum suction time from a single suction during the acquisition period, or the cumulative value of the suction times from multiple suctions during the acquisition period. In this way, the suction time during the acquisition period acquired by the control unit 116 can represent the suction pattern during the acquisition period.

[0077] Figure 3 shows an example of suction applied to the suction device of this embodiment. The horizontal axis in Figure 3 represents time. Figure 3(a) shows the presence or absence of heating (ON / OFF) at each time period shown on the horizontal axis of Figure 3. Figure 3(b) shows the presence or absence of suction (ON / OFF) at each time period shown on the horizontal axis of Figure 3. And Figure 3(c) shows the flow rate at each time period shown on the horizontal axis of Figure 3.

[0078] The example shown in Figure 3 illustrates a case where two aspiration operations, the first aspiration Pf1 and the second aspiration Pf2, are performed during the acquisition target period AX (e.g., the first acquisition target period A1), which is from the time a request for aerosol generation until a predetermined time (e.g., the first predetermined time Tm1) has elapsed.

[0079] The first suction Pf1 is performed from time t11 to time t12, and its suction duration is tm10. Here, the suction duration is the length of time from when the suction starts (time t11 in the case of the first suction Pf1) to when the suction ends (time t12 in the case of the first suction Pf1). The second suction Pf2 is performed from time t21, after time t12, to time t22, after time t21, and its suction duration is tm20 (where tm20 > tm10).

[0080] More specifically, the control unit 116 determines that suction to the suction device 100 has started when the value detected by the puff sensor changes from a state below a predetermined threshold to a state above that threshold. "When suction has started" can mean, for example, when the control unit 116 determines that suction to the suction device 100 has started. Furthermore, the control unit 116 determines that suction to the suction device 100 has ended when the value detected by the puff sensor changes from a state above that threshold to a state below that threshold. "When suction has ended" can mean, for example, when the control unit 116 determines that suction to the suction device 100 has ended. In other words, the control unit 116 can obtain the suction time based on the detection result of the puff sensor.

[0081] As another example, the control unit 116 may determine that suction to the suction device 100 has started when the value detected by the flow sensor changes from a state below a predetermined threshold to a state above that threshold. Alternatively, the control unit 116 may determine that suction to the suction device 100 has ended when the value detected by the flow sensor changes from a state above the threshold to a state below that threshold. In other words, the control unit 116 may obtain the suction time based on the detection result of the flow sensor.

[0082] In the example shown in Figure 3, the maximum suction time for a single suction during the acquisition period AX is tm20. Therefore, if the control unit 116 is configured to acquire the maximum suction time for a single suction during the acquisition period as the suction time for that acquisition period, the control unit 116 only needs to acquire tm20 as the suction time for the acquisition period AX.

[0083] Furthermore, the cumulative value of suction time from multiple suctions during the acquisition period AX is tm10 + tm20. Therefore, if the control unit 116 is configured to acquire the cumulative value of suction time from multiple suctions during the acquisition period as the suction time for that acquisition period, the control unit 116 only needs to acquire tm10 + tm20 as the suction time for the acquisition period AX. In other words, the control unit 116 may acquire the cumulative value of suction time from all suctions during the acquisition period as the suction time for that acquisition period.

[0084] Furthermore, for example, if the sensor unit 112 includes a flow sensor capable of detecting the flow rate generated by suction applied to the suction device 100, the control unit 116 may, based on the detection result of the flow sensor, acquire the length of the period during which the flow rate is equal to or greater than a threshold value as the suction time during the acquisition period. In this way, the suction time during the acquisition period acquired by the control unit 116 can represent the suction pattern during the acquisition period.

[0085] More specifically, in the example shown in Figure 3, tm11 is defined as the length of time during the suction time tm10 of the first suction Pf1 when the flow rate per unit time is equal to or greater than a predetermined threshold ThX. Similarly, tm21 is defined as the length of time during the suction time tm20 of the second suction Pf2 when the flow rate per unit time is equal to or greater than the threshold ThX (where tm21 > tm11).

[0086] In this case, the length of the period during the acquisition period AX in which the flow rate per unit time is equal to or greater than the threshold ThX will be tm11 + tm21. Therefore, if the control unit 116 is configured to acquire the length of the period during which the flow rate is equal to or greater than the threshold as the suction time during the acquisition period, the control unit 116 only needs to acquire tm11 + tm21 as the suction time during the acquisition period AX. The threshold ThX is set in advance in the control unit 116 by, for example, the manufacturer of the suction device 100.

[0087] <4-3. Amount of suction during the acquisition period> Next, we will explain the "amount of suction during the acquisition period" that the control unit 116 can acquire. If the control unit 116 is configured to acquire the amount of suction during the acquisition period described below, the sensor unit 112 may be configured to include, for example, the flow rate sensor mentioned above. The control unit 116 then acquires the amount of suction during the acquisition period described below based on the detection result of the flow rate sensor.

[0088] Here, the suction amount during the acquisition period can be, for example, the maximum flow rate generated by a single suction during the acquisition period, the cumulative value of the flow rates generated by multiple suctions during the acquisition period, or the maximum flow rate per unit time during the acquisition period. This allows the suction amount acquired by the control unit 116 during the acquisition period to represent the suction pattern during the acquisition period.

[0089] In the example shown in Figure 3, the flow rate generated by the first suction Pf1, more specifically, the cumulative value of the flow rates at each point during the first suction Pf1, is defined as Fw10. The flow rate generated by the second suction Pf2, more specifically, the cumulative value of the flow rates at each point during the second suction Pf2, is defined as Fw20 (where Fw20 > Fw10). The maximum flow rate per unit time during the acquisition period AX is assumed to be Fw21 at point t23 during the second suction Pf2.

[0090] In the example shown in Figure 3, the maximum flow rate generated by a single suction during the acquisition period AX is Fw20. Therefore, if the control unit 116 is configured to acquire the maximum flow rate generated by a single suction during the acquisition period as the suction amount for that period, the control unit 116 only needs to acquire Fw20 as the suction amount for the acquisition period AX.

[0091] Furthermore, the cumulative value of the flow rates generated by multiple suctions during the acquisition period AX is Fw10 + Fw20. Therefore, if the control unit 116 is configured to acquire the cumulative value of the flow rates generated by multiple suctions during the acquisition period as the suction amount for that acquisition period, the control unit 116 only needs to acquire Fw10 + Fw20 as the suction amount for the acquisition period AX. In other words, the control unit 116 may acquire the cumulative value of the flow rates generated by all suctions during the acquisition period as the suction amount for that acquisition period.

[0092] Furthermore, the maximum flow rate per unit time during the acquisition period AX is Fw21. Therefore, if the control unit 116 is configured to acquire the maximum flow rate per unit time during the acquisition period as the suction amount during that period, the control unit 116 only needs to acquire Fw21 as the suction amount during the acquisition period AX.

[0093] Furthermore, the control unit 116 may acquire the suction amount during the acquisition period based on the suction time during the acquisition period and FwX, which is the standard suction amount per unit time. For example, if the estimated flow rate generated by the first suction Pf1 is Fw10', this estimated value Fw10' can be expressed as Fw10' = tm10 × FwX, using the suction time tm10 of the first suction Pf1 and the standard suction amount FwX. Similarly, if the estimated flow rate generated by the second suction Pf2 is Fw20', this estimated value Fw20' can be expressed as Fw20' = tm20 × FwX, using the suction time tm20 of the second suction Pf2 and the standard suction amount FwX.

[0094] Furthermore, using the estimated values ​​Fw10' and Fw20' mentioned above, the cumulative value (estimated value) of the flow rate generated by multiple suctions during the acquisition period AX can be expressed as Fw10' + Fw20'. Therefore, if the control unit 116 is configured to acquire the cumulative value of the flow rate generated by multiple suctions during the acquisition period as the suction amount for that acquisition period, the control unit 116 may also acquire Fw10' + Fw20' as the suction amount for the acquisition period AX. In this way, it becomes possible to acquire the suction amount during the acquisition period even if the sensor unit 112 does not have a flow rate sensor. In other words, the acquisition of the suction amount during the acquisition period can be realized with a simpler configuration.

[0095] <4-4. Suction strength during the acquisition period> Next, we will explain the "suction strength during the acquisition period" that the control unit 116 can acquire. Here, suction strength can be, for example, an evaluation value representing the strength (in other words, "depth") of the suction applied to the suction device 100.

[0096] For example, the stronger (in other words, "deeper") the suction applied to the suction device 100, the greater the flow rate generated by the suction, and therefore the greater the decrease (i.e., change) in the temperature of the heating unit 121. Therefore, the change in the temperature of the heating unit 121 may be used as the suction strength. In this case, the control unit 116 determines that the steeper the temperature of the heating unit 121 drops, the greater the flow rate and the higher the suction strength.

[0097] Furthermore, considering that the electrical resistance value of the heating resistor constituting the heating unit 121 changes with the temperature of the heating unit 121, the change in the electrical resistance value of the heating resistor may be used as the suction strength. In this case as well, the control unit 116 will determine that the flow rate is high and the suction strength is high when the electrical resistance value of the heating resistor changes in a way that indicates that the temperature of the heating unit 121 is dropping rapidly.

[0098] Furthermore, the stronger the suction applied to the suction device 100, the greater the flow rate generated by the suction, and therefore the greater the change in pressure within the suction device 100. For this reason, the change in pressure within the suction device 100 may be used as the suction strength. In this case, the control unit 116 determines that the steeper the pressure within the suction device 100 rises, the greater the flow rate and the higher the suction strength.

[0099] Furthermore, since a stronger suction to the suction device 100 results in a larger flow rate, the flow rate (for example, the flow rate per unit time) itself may be used as the suction strength. In this case, the control unit 116 determines that a higher flow rate corresponds to a higher suction strength.

[0100] To explain in more detail, for example, let's assume that the sensor unit 112 includes a puff thermistor. In this case, the control unit 116 acquires the amount of temperature change of the heating unit 121 (or a predetermined location near the heating unit 121) per unit time based on the detection result of the puff thermistor during the acquisition period, as the suction strength per unit time. The control unit 116 then acquires the maximum value of the acquired suction strength per unit time (in this case, for example, the amount of temperature change of the heating unit 121), or the cumulative value of the acquired suction strength per unit time, as the suction strength for the acquisition period.

[0101] As another example, the sensor unit 112 may be configured to include the aforementioned voltage sensor. In this case, the control unit 116 may acquire the change in the electrical resistance value of the heating resistor per unit time as the suction strength per unit time, based on the detection result of the voltage sensor during the acquisition period. The control unit 116 may then acquire the maximum value of the acquired suction strength per unit time (in this case, the change in the electrical resistance value of the heating resistor), or the cumulative value of the acquired suction strength per unit time, as the suction strength for the acquisition period.

[0102] As another example, the sensor unit 112 may be configured to include a puff sensor. In this case, the control unit 116 may acquire the amount of change in pressure inside the suction device 100 per unit time as the suction strength per unit time, based on the detection result of the puff sensor during the acquisition period. The control unit 116 may then acquire the maximum value of the acquired suction strength per unit time (in this case, the amount of change in pressure inside the suction device 100), or the cumulative value of the acquired suction strength per unit time, as the suction strength for the acquisition period.

[0103] Furthermore, the control unit 116 may determine the suction intensity for each suction performed during the acquisition period and acquire the maximum value among the determined suction intensities for each suction as the suction intensity for the acquisition period. In addition, the control unit 116 may acquire the sum of the suction intensities for each of a predetermined number of suctions performed during the acquisition period as the suction intensity for the acquisition period. Furthermore, when determining the suction intensity for each suction, the control unit 116 may determine the value calculated by multiplying the maximum value of the suction intensity in that suction by the suction duration of that suction as the suction intensity for that suction.

[0104] As another example, if the sensor unit 112 is configured to include a flow sensor, the control unit 116 may, for example, acquire the maximum flow rate per unit time during the acquisition period as the suction strength during the acquisition period.

[0105] The manufacturer of the suction device 100 may appropriately determine which of the following the control unit 116 acquires: suction time, suction volume, or suction intensity during the acquisition period. Similarly, if the control unit 116 is configured to acquire the suction time during the acquisition period, the manufacturer of the suction device 100 may appropriately determine which of the aforementioned values ​​is acquired as the suction time during that period. Likewise, if the control unit 116 is configured to acquire the suction volume during the acquisition period, the manufacturer of the suction device 100 may appropriately determine which of the aforementioned values ​​is acquired as the suction volume during that period. Furthermore, if the control unit 116 is configured to acquire the suction intensity during the acquisition period, the manufacturer of the suction device 100 may appropriately determine which of the aforementioned values ​​is acquired as the suction intensity during that period.

[0106] <5. Changes in control modes based on suction modes during the acquisition period> Next, an example of how the control mode of the heating unit 121 can be changed by the control unit 116 based on the suction pattern during the acquisition period will be described. As mentioned above, in this embodiment, there are two acquisition periods: a first acquisition period A1 up to the first timing ti1, and a second acquisition period A2 up to the second timing ti2. Below, we will first describe an example of how the control mode of the heating unit 121 can be changed based on the suction pattern during the first acquisition period A1.

[0107] Figure 4 is a diagram (part 1) showing an example of a change in the control mode when the suction time, suction volume, or suction intensity during the first acquisition period is equal to or greater than the first predetermined value. The vertical axis in Figure 4 represents the target temperature [°C]. The vertical axis in Figure 4 represents time [sec].

[0108] As shown in Figure 4, if the suction time, suction volume, or suction intensity during the first acquisition period A1 is equal to or greater than a first predetermined value Th1, the control unit 116 changes (shortens) the duration of the second temperature maintenance interval S4 (i.e., the fourth time interval S4) from the original tm4 [sec] to tm4a [sec], which is shorter than tm4 [sec]. Here, tm4a can be, for example, tm4 minus a constant value Δta (where Δta > 0) (i.e., tm4a = tm4 - Δta). The first predetermined value Th1 and the constant value Δta are set in advance in the control unit 116 by, for example, the manufacturer of the suction device 100.

[0109] In other words, if the suction time, suction volume, or suction intensity during the first acquisition period A1 is equal to or greater than the first predetermined value Th1, then the consumption of the aerosol source and flavoring components during the first acquisition period A1 is considered to be greater than that assumed during the heating profile design. Therefore, in this case, the aerosol source or flavoring components contained in the stick-type substrate 150 are considered to decrease at a faster rate than assumed during the heating profile design.

[0110] Therefore, if the suction time, suction volume, or suction intensity during the first acquisition period A1 is equal to or greater than the first predetermined value Th1, the control unit 116 shortens the second temperature maintenance interval S4, thereby accelerating the timing at which heating by the heating unit 121 is stopped. This makes it possible to avoid a situation where heating by the heating unit 121 is wasted even though the aerosol source or flavoring components contained in the stick-type substrate 150 are almost depleted. Furthermore, by suppressing unnecessary heating by the heating unit 121, the wasteful consumption of power by the power supply unit 111 can also be suppressed.

[0111] Figure 5 is a diagram (part 1) showing an example of a change in the control method when the suction time, suction volume, or suction intensity during the first acquisition period is less than the second predetermined value. The vertical axis in Figure 5 represents the target temperature [°C]. The vertical axis in Figure 5 represents time [sec].

[0112] As shown in Figure 5, if the suction time, suction volume, or suction intensity during the first acquisition period A1 is less than a second predetermined value Th2 (for example, second predetermined value Th2 < first predetermined value Th1), the control unit 116 changes (extends) the duration of the second temperature maintenance interval S4 from the initial tm4 [sec] to tm4b [sec], which is longer than tm4 [sec]. Here, tm4b can be, for example, tm4 plus a constant value Δtb (where Δta > 0) (i.e., tm4b = tm4 + Δtb). The second predetermined value Th2 and the constant value Δtb are set in advance in the control unit 116 by, for example, the manufacturer of the suction device 100. The absolute value of the constant value Δtb may also be equal to the absolute value of the constant value Δta mentioned above.

[0113] In other words, if the suction time, suction volume, or suction intensity during the first acquisition period A1 is less than the second predetermined value Th2, it is considered that the consumption of aerosol sources and flavor components during the first acquisition period A1 is less than assumed when designing the heating profile. Therefore, in this case, it is considered that the aerosol sources or flavor components contained in the stick-type substrate 150 remain in the stick-type substrate 150 for a longer period than assumed when designing the heating profile.

[0114] Therefore, if the suction time, suction volume, or suction intensity during the first acquisition period A1 is less than the second predetermined value Th2, the control unit 116 extends the second temperature maintenance interval S4, thereby increasing the period during which heating by the heating unit 121 continues (in other words, the period during which aerosols are generated). This makes it possible to avoid situations where heating by the heating unit 121 is stopped even though sufficient aerosol sources and flavor components remain in the stick-type substrate 150.

[0115] Furthermore, if the suction time, suction volume, or suction intensity during the first acquisition period A1 is greater than or equal to the second predetermined value Th2 and less than the first predetermined value Th1, the control unit 116 will, for example, leave the duration of the second temperature maintenance interval S4 (i.e., the fourth time interval S4) at the original tm4 [sec]. This makes it possible to continue generating aerosols as planned by the heating profile if the consumption of the aerosol source and flavor components during the first acquisition period A1 is not expected to differ significantly from what was assumed during the heating profile design.

[0116] Next, we will explain examples of changes to the control mode based on the suction pattern during the second acquisition target period A2. Figure 6 shows examples of changes to the control mode when the suction time, suction volume, or suction intensity during the second acquisition target period is equal to or greater than the third predetermined value. The vertical axis in Figure 6 represents the target temperature [°C]. The vertical axis in Figure 6 represents time [sec].

[0117] As shown in Figure 6, if the suction time, suction volume, or suction intensity during the second acquisition period A2 is greater than or equal to the third predetermined value Th3, the control unit 116 changes (shortens) the duration of the third temperature maintenance interval S6 (i.e., the sixth time interval S6) from the original tm6 [sec] to tm6a [sec], which is shorter than tm6 [sec]. Here, tm6a can be, for example, tm6 minus a constant value Δtc (where Δtc > 0) (i.e., tm6a = tm6 - Δtc). The third predetermined value Th3 and the constant value Δtc are set in advance in the control unit 116 by, for example, the manufacturer of the suction device 100. The constant value Δtc may also be equal to the constant value Δta mentioned above.

[0118] In other words, if the suction time, suction volume, or suction intensity during the second acquisition period A2 is equal to or greater than the third predetermined value Th3, then the consumption of aerosol sources and flavor components during the second acquisition period A2 is considered to be greater than assumed during the heating profile design. Therefore, in this case, the aerosol sources or flavor components contained in the stick-type substrate 150 are considered to decrease at a faster rate than assumed during the heating profile design.

[0119] Therefore, if the suction time, suction volume, or suction intensity during the second acquisition period A2 is equal to or greater than the third predetermined value Th3, the control unit 116 shortens the third temperature maintenance interval S6, thereby bringing forward the timing at which heating by the heating unit 121 is stopped. This makes it possible to avoid a situation where heating by the heating unit 121 is wasted even though the aerosol source or flavoring components contained in the stick-type substrate 150 are almost depleted. Furthermore, by suppressing unnecessary heating by the heating unit 121, the wasteful consumption of power by the power supply unit 111 can also be suppressed.

[0120] Figure 7 shows an example of a change in the control method when the suction time, suction volume, or suction intensity during the second acquisition period is less than the fourth predetermined value. In Figure 7, the vertical axis represents the target temperature [°C]. In Figure 7, the vertical axis represents time [sec].

[0121] As shown in Figure 7, if the suction time, suction volume, or suction intensity during the second acquisition period A2 is less than the fourth predetermined value Th4 (for example, the fourth predetermined value Th4 < the third predetermined value Th3), the control unit 116 changes (extends) the duration of the third temperature maintenance interval S6 from the initial tm6 [sec] to tm6b [sec], which is longer than tm6 [sec]. Here, tm6b can be, for example, tm6 plus a constant value Δtd (where Δtd > 0) (i.e., tm6b = tm6 + Δtd). The fourth predetermined value Th4 and the constant value Δtd are set in advance in the control unit 116 by, for example, the manufacturer of the suction device 100. The constant value Δtd may also be equal to the constant value Δtb mentioned above.

[0122] In other words, if the suction time, suction volume, or suction intensity during the second acquisition period A2 is less than the fourth predetermined value Th4, it is considered that the consumption of aerosol sources and flavor components during the second acquisition period A2 is less than assumed during the heating profile design. Therefore, in this case, it is considered that the aerosol sources or flavor components contained in the stick-type substrate 150 remain in the stick-type substrate 150 for a longer period than assumed during the heating profile design.

[0123] Therefore, if the suction time, suction volume, or suction intensity during the second acquisition period A2 is less than the fourth predetermined value Th4, the control unit 116 extends the third temperature maintenance section S6, thereby increasing the period during which heating by the heating unit 121 continues (in other words, the period during which aerosols are generated). This makes it possible to avoid situations where heating by the heating unit 121 is stopped even though sufficient aerosol sources and flavor components remain in the stick-type substrate 150.

[0124] Furthermore, if the suction time, suction volume, or suction intensity during the second acquisition period A2 is greater than or equal to the fourth predetermined value Th4 and less than the third predetermined value Th3, the control unit 116 will, for example, leave the duration of the third temperature maintenance interval S6 (i.e., the sixth time interval S6) at the original tm6 [sec]. This makes it possible to continue generating aerosols as planned by the heating profile if the consumption of aerosol sources and flavor components during the second acquisition period A2 is not expected to differ significantly from what was assumed during the heating profile design.

[0125] <6. Processing executed by the control unit> Next, an example of a process performed by the control unit 116 to change the control mode of the heating unit 121 will be described. Figure 8 is a flowchart showing an example of a process performed by the control unit of the suction device in this embodiment. Note that the program that causes the control unit 116 to perform the series of processes shown in Figure 8 is stored in advance in the storage unit 114, for example.

[0126] As shown in Figure 8, the control unit 116 waits until there is a request to generate an aerosol (loop of step Sp10: No), and when there is a request to generate an aerosol (step Sp10: Yes), it starts controlling the heating unit 121 in the control mode defined by the heating profile (step Sp11). The control unit 116 also starts a process to acquire information representing the suction mode (i.e., the suction time, suction volume, or suction intensity mentioned above) during the first acquisition target period A1 and the second acquisition target period A2 (hereinafter also referred to as the "suction mode acquisition process") (step Sp12).

[0127] For example, if the first acquisition period A1 and the second acquisition period A2 are set to start when the control based on the heating profile is initiated, then step Sp12 is executed (i.e., the suction mode acquisition process is initiated) when the control based on the heating profile is initiated. Also, if the first acquisition period A1 and the second acquisition period A2 are set to start when the suction-possible period is initiated, then step Sp12 is executed (i.e., the suction mode acquisition process is initiated) when the suction-possible period is initiated.

[0128] The suction pattern acquisition process involves, for example, processing at least one of the following: suction time as described in <4-2. Suction time during the acquisition period>, suction volume as described in <4-3. Suction volume during the acquisition period>, and suction intensity as described in <4-4. Suction intensity during the acquisition period>. The parameters to be acquired by the suction pattern acquisition process are set in advance by the manufacturer of the suction device 100, etc.

[0129] More specifically, in the suction pattern acquisition process, for example, the control unit 116 monitors whether or not suction is being applied to the suction device 100, and each time suction is detected, it acquires the suction time, the flow rate generated by the suction, or the suction intensity of the suction. If the maximum value of the suction time, flow rate, or suction intensity for a single suction is acquired as the suction time, flow rate, or suction intensity for the acquisition period, the control unit 116 compares the maximum value of suction performed up to that point during the acquisition period with the value of the current suction and stores the larger of the two in the storage unit 114. If the cumulative value of suction time, flow rate, or suction intensity from multiple suctions is acquired as the suction time, flow rate, or suction intensity for the acquisition period, the control unit 116 also adds the value of the current suction to the cumulative value of suction performed up to that point during the acquisition period and stores the cumulative result in the storage unit 114. As a result, the memory unit 114 can store the suction time, suction volume, or suction intensity for the first acquisition period A1 and the second acquisition period A2.

[0130] Furthermore, the control unit 116 may store the history of the suction time, flow rate, or suction intensity for each suction performed on the suction device 100 in the storage unit 114, and when it determines that the first timing ti1 or the second timing ti2 has arrived (see steps Sp13 and Sp18), it may refer to the above history to obtain the suction time, flow rate, or suction intensity for the acquisition period.

[0131] Then, the control unit 116 waits for the first timing ti1 to occur while executing the suction pattern acquisition process (loop of step Sp13: No), and when the first timing ti1 occurs (step Sp13: Yes), it determines whether the suction time, suction amount, or suction intensity in the first acquisition target period A1 is equal to or greater than a first predetermined value Th1 (step Sp14).

[0132] Then, if the control unit 116 determines that the suction time, suction amount, or suction intensity during the first acquisition target period A1 is equal to or greater than a first predetermined value Th1 (step Sp14: Yes), it shortens the second temperature maintenance interval S4 (step Sp15) and proceeds to the process in step Sp18.

[0133] Furthermore, if the control unit 116 determines that the suction time, suction volume, or suction intensity during the first acquisition target period A1 is not equal to or greater than a first predetermined value Th1 (step Sp14: No), it determines whether the suction time, suction volume, or suction intensity during the first acquisition target period A1 is less than a second predetermined value Th2 (step Sp16).

[0134] Then, if the control unit 116 determines that the suction time, suction amount, or suction intensity during the first acquisition target period A1 is less than the second predetermined value Th2 (step Sp16: Yes), it extends the second temperature maintenance interval S4 (step Sp17) and proceeds to the process in step Sp18.

[0135] Furthermore, if the control unit 116 determines that the suction time, suction volume, or suction intensity during the first acquisition target period A1 is not less than the second predetermined value Th2 (step Sp16: No), it proceeds directly to the process in step Sp18. In this case, the duration of the second temperature maintenance interval S4 remains the same as the original tm4 [sec].

[0136] Then, the control unit 116 continues to execute the suction mode acquisition process while waiting for the second timing ti2 to occur (loop of step Sp18: No), and when the second timing ti2 occurs (step Sp18: Yes), it terminates the suction mode acquisition process that was started in step Sp12 and determines whether the suction time, suction amount, or suction intensity in the second acquisition target period A2 is equal to or greater than the third predetermined value Th3 (step Sp19).

[0137] Then, when the control unit 116 determines that the suction time, suction amount, or suction intensity during the second acquisition target period A2 is equal to or greater than the third predetermined value Th3 (step Sp19: Yes), it shortens the third temperature maintenance interval S6 (step Sp20) and terminates the series of processes shown in Figure 8.

[0138] Furthermore, if the control unit 116 determines that the suction time, suction volume, or suction intensity during the second acquisition target period A2 is not equal to or greater than the third predetermined value Th3 (step Sp19: No), it determines whether the suction time, suction volume, or suction intensity during the second acquisition target period A2 is less than the fourth predetermined value Th4 (step Sp21).

[0139] Then, if the control unit 116 determines that the suction time, suction volume, or suction intensity during the second acquisition target period A2 is less than the fourth predetermined value Th4 (step Sp21: Yes), it extends the third temperature maintenance period S6 (step Sp22) and terminates the series of processes shown in Figure 8.

[0140] Furthermore, if the control unit 116 determines that the suction time, suction volume, or suction intensity during the second acquisition target period A2 is not less than the fourth predetermined value Th4 (step Sp21: No), it terminates the series of processes shown in Figure 8. In this case, the duration of the third temperature maintenance interval S6 remains the same as the original tm6 [sec].

[0141] As described above, the control unit 116 acquires information representing the suction mode during the first acquisition period A1 based on the detection results of the sensor unit 112 during the first acquisition period A1, in which the heating unit 121 is controlled in a control mode defined by the heating profile. Then, the control unit 116 changes the control mode of the heating unit 121 during the period after the first acquisition period A1 from the control mode defined by the heating profile to a control mode based on the suction mode during the first acquisition period A1.

[0142] Specifically, if the suction time, suction volume, or suction intensity during the first acquisition period A1 is greater than or equal to a first predetermined value Th1, the control unit 116 shortens the duration of the second temperature maintenance interval S4 to less than the tm4 [sec] specified in the heating profile. This allows the heating unit 121 to stop heating earlier than when controlled according to the heating profile, if the consumption of aerosol sources or flavor components during the first acquisition period A1 is considered to be greater than assumed when the heating profile was designed. Thus, it is possible to avoid situations where heating by the heating unit 121 is wasted even when the aerosol sources or flavor components contained in the stick-type substrate 150 are almost depleted.

[0143] Similarly, if the suction time, suction volume, or suction intensity during the second acquisition period A2 is greater than or equal to the third predetermined value Th3, the control unit 116 shortens the duration of the third temperature maintenance interval S6 to less than the tm6 [sec] specified in the heating profile. This allows the heating unit 121 to stop heating earlier than when controlled according to the heating profile, if the consumption of aerosol sources or flavor components during the second acquisition period A2 is considered to be greater than assumed when the heating profile was designed. Thus, it is possible to avoid situations where heating by the heating unit 121 is wasted even when the aerosol sources or flavor components contained in the stick-type substrate 150 are nearly depleted.

[0144] Furthermore, if the suction time, suction volume, or suction intensity during the first acquisition period A1 is less than the second predetermined value Th2, the control unit 116 extends the duration of the second temperature maintenance interval S4 to be longer than the tm4 [sec] specified in the heating profile. This allows the second temperature maintenance interval S4 to be extended if the amount of aerosol source and flavor component consumed during the first acquisition period A1 is considered to be less than assumed when the heating profile was designed, thereby extending the duration of heating by the heating unit 121 (in other words, the duration of aerosol generation) compared to when it is controlled according to the heating profile. Thus, it is possible to avoid situations where heating by the heating unit 121 is stopped even though sufficient aerosol source and flavor component remain in the stick-type substrate 150.

[0145] Similarly, if the suction time, suction volume, or suction intensity during the second acquisition period A2 is less than the fourth predetermined value Th4, the control unit 116 extends the duration of the third temperature maintenance interval S6 to be longer than the tm6 [sec] specified in the heating profile. This allows the third temperature maintenance interval S6 to be extended if the amount of aerosol source and flavor component consumed during the second acquisition period A2 is considered to be less than assumed when the heating profile was designed, thereby extending the duration of heating by the heating unit 121 (in other words, the duration of aerosol generation) compared to when it is controlled according to the heating profile. Thus, it is possible to avoid situations where heating by the heating unit 121 is stopped even though sufficient aerosol source and flavor component remain in the stick-type substrate 150.

[0146] In the example described above, a first acquisition period A1 and a second acquisition period A2 are set as acquisition periods, and the control unit 116 can change the length of the second temperature maintenance interval S4 based on the suction time, suction volume, or suction intensity in the first acquisition period A1, and the length of the third temperature maintenance interval S6 based on the suction time, suction volume, or suction intensity in the second acquisition period A2, but the method is not limited to this.

[0147] For example, only a first acquisition period A1 may be provided as the acquisition period, and the control unit 116 may change only the duration of the second temperature maintenance interval S4 based on the suction time, suction volume, or suction intensity during the first acquisition period A1. Alternatively, only a first acquisition period A1 may be provided as the acquisition period, and the control unit 116 may change only the duration of the third temperature maintenance interval S6 based on the suction time, suction volume, or suction intensity during the first acquisition period A1. Alternatively, only a first acquisition period A1 may be provided as the acquisition period, and the control unit 116 may change the duration of the second temperature maintenance interval S2 and the third temperature maintenance interval S6 based on the suction time, suction volume, or suction intensity during the first acquisition period A1. As another example, only a second acquisition period A2 may be provided as the acquisition period, and the control unit 116 may change only the duration of the third temperature maintenance interval S6 based on the suction time, suction volume, or suction intensity during the second acquisition period A2.

[0148] By shortening the acquisition period as much as possible, such as limiting it to only the first acquisition period A1, it becomes possible to reduce the burden on the control unit 116 required for processing to acquire information representing the suction pattern (suction time, suction volume, or suction intensity) during the acquisition period.

[0149] For example, as mentioned above, by limiting the first acquisition target period A1 to less than half the period from when the control based on the heating profile is started until the heating by the heating unit 121 is stopped, the control unit 116 only needs to perform the process of acquiring information representing the suction pattern during the acquisition target period during the first half of the period in which the control based on the heating profile is performed. Therefore, the control unit 116 does not need to perform the process of acquiring information representing the suction pattern during the acquisition target period during the second half of the period in which the control based on the heating profile is performed, thereby reducing the processing load on the control unit 116.

[0150] Furthermore, there may be three or more acquisition target periods, for example, by adding other acquisition target periods in addition to the first acquisition target period A1 and the second acquisition target period A2. By setting up acquisition target periods in detail, it becomes possible to change the control mode of the heating unit 121 more precisely according to the suction mode in each acquisition target period.

[0151] Furthermore, the control unit 116 changes the length of the third temperature maintenance interval S6, which is the time interval immediately before heating by the heating unit 121 is stopped, according to the suction pattern during the acquisition period, such as the second acquisition period A2. As a result, until the third temperature maintenance interval S6, which is the time interval immediately before heating by the heating unit 121 is stopped, it becomes possible to generate aerosols as planned by the heating profile, regardless of the user's suction pattern (i.e., even if the suction time, suction volume, or suction intensity during the acquisition period, such as the second acquisition period A2, is above or below a predetermined value).

[0152] Furthermore, in the example described above, the temperature maintenance sections in which the temperature of the heating unit 121 is kept approximately constant, such as the second temperature maintenance section S4 and the third temperature maintenance section S6, were used as the time sections in which the length of the time is changed. Instead of temperature maintenance sections, it is also conceivable to use a time section in which the temperature of the heating unit 121 changes, such as a heating section or a cooling section (for example, the second heating section S5), as the time section in which the length of the time is changed. However, if this is done, when the time section in which the temperature of the heating unit 121 changes is shortened, it may result in insufficient time for the temperature of the heating unit 121 to reach the target temperature, or the temperature of the heating unit 121 to change rapidly in order to reach the target temperature. Such situations are undesirable from the standpoint of providing users with a high-quality smoking experience.

[0153] In contrast, if the temperature maintenance intervals in which the heating unit 121 temperature is kept approximately constant, such as the second temperature maintenance interval S4 and the third temperature maintenance interval S6, are designated as time intervals in which the duration is changed, then even if the duration is shortened, it is less likely that the temperature of the heating unit 121 will not reach the target temperature or that the temperature of the heating unit 121 will change rapidly. Therefore, by designating the temperature maintenance intervals as time intervals in which the duration is changed, it is possible to suppress situations in which the quality of the user's smoking experience may deteriorate even if the duration of the duration is changed.

[0154] Furthermore, in the example described above, the second temperature maintenance interval S4, which is a low-temperature interval with a relatively low target temperature, was designated as the time interval in which the time length is to be changed. In low-temperature intervals such as the second temperature maintenance interval S4, the power supplied to the heating unit 121 per unit time is less than in time intervals with a relatively high target temperature. Therefore, by designating a low-temperature interval such as the second temperature maintenance interval S4 as the time interval in which the time length is to be changed, the time interval can be extended while suppressing the increase in power consumed by the heating unit 121. In addition, low-temperature intervals such as the second temperature maintenance interval S4 are typically set to a certain length, and there is ample room to change the time length, so changing the time length is also easy.

[0155] Furthermore, in the examples described above, the duration of subsequent time intervals is changed based on the suction pattern during the target acquisition period, such as the first acquisition period A1, but this is not limited to this. For example, the control unit 116 may change the target temperature of subsequent time intervals based on the suction pattern during the target acquisition period, such as the first acquisition period A1.

[0156] The following describes in detail an example in which the control unit 116 changes the target temperature for subsequent time intervals based on the suction pattern during the acquisition target period, such as the first acquisition target period A1. In the following explanation, only the parts that differ from the example described above will be explained, and the explanation of parts that are the same as the example described above will be omitted or simplified as appropriate.

[0157] Figure 9 is a diagram (part 2) showing an example of a change in the control method when the suction time, suction volume, or suction intensity during the first acquisition target period is equal to or greater than the first predetermined value. Figure 10 is a diagram (part 2) showing an example of a change in the control method when the suction time, suction volume, or suction intensity during the first acquisition target period is less than the second predetermined value. In Figures 9 and 10, the vertical axis represents the target temperature [°C]. In Figures 9 and 10, the vertical axis represents time [sec]. In the examples shown in Figures 9 and 10, it is assumed that only the first acquisition target period A1 is set as the acquisition target period.

[0158] As shown in Figure 9, if the suction time, suction volume, or suction intensity during the first acquisition period A1 is equal to or greater than a first predetermined value Th1, the control unit 116 changes the target temperature for the third temperature maintenance period S6 (i.e., the sixth time period S6) from the initial T3[°C] to T3a[°C], which is higher than T3[°C] (i.e., increases it). Here, T3a can be, for example, T3 plus a constant value ΔTa (where ΔTa>0) (i.e., T3a=T3+ΔTa). The constant value ΔTa is set in advance in the control unit 116 by, for example, the manufacturer of the suction device 100.

[0159] The amount of aerosol generated when the stick-type substrate 150 is heated, and the amount of flavor components imparted to the aerosol, depends on the heating temperature and the amount of aerosol source and flavor components remaining on the stick-type substrate 150 at the time of heating. More specifically, the amount of aerosol generated when the stick-type substrate 150 is heated, and the amount of flavor components imparted to the aerosol, increases with higher heating temperatures, and also increases with the amount of aerosol source and flavor components remaining on the stick-type substrate 150 at the time of heating.

[0160] If the inhalation time, inhalation volume, or inhalation intensity during the first acquisition period A1 is equal to or greater than the first predetermined value Th1, it is considered that the amount of aerosol source and flavor components remaining in the stick-type substrate 150 is less than assumed during the design of the heating profile. Therefore, in such cases, even if heated at the target temperature specified in the heating profile, there may be insufficient aerosol or flavor components imparted to the aerosol, potentially failing to provide users with a high-quality smoking experience.

[0161] Therefore, if the inhalation time, inhalation volume, or inhalation intensity in the first acquisition target period A1 is equal to or greater than a first predetermined value Th1, the control unit 116 raises the target temperature of the third temperature maintenance section S6 to a higher level than the target temperature defined in the heating profile. This makes it possible to increase the amount of aerosol generated in the third temperature maintenance section S6 and the flavor components imparted to the aerosol compared to when the control is performed according to the heating profile. Thus, it becomes possible to provide the user with a high-quality smoking experience even in the third temperature maintenance section S6.

[0162] Furthermore, as shown in Figure 10, if the suction time, suction volume, or suction intensity during the first acquisition period A1 is less than the second predetermined value Th2, the control unit 116 changes the target temperature for the third temperature maintenance period S6 (i.e., the sixth time period S6) from the initial T3[°C] to T3b[°C], which is lower than T3[°C] (i.e., reduces it). Here, T3b can be, for example, T3 minus a constant value ΔTb (where ΔTa>0) (i.e., T3b=T3-ΔTb). The constant value ΔTb is, for example, pre-set in the control unit 116 by the manufacturer of the suction device 100.

[0163] If the inhalation time, inhalation volume, or inhalation intensity during the first acquisition period A1 is less than the second predetermined value Th2, it is considered that the amount of aerosol source and flavor components remaining in the stick-type substrate 150 is greater than assumed during the design of the heating profile. Therefore, in such cases, heating at the target temperature specified in the heating profile may result in an excess of aerosol or flavor components imparted to the aerosol, potentially failing to provide users with a high-quality smoking experience.

[0164] Therefore, if the inhalation time, inhalation volume, or inhalation intensity in the first acquisition target period A1 is less than the second predetermined value Th2, the control unit 116 lowers the target temperature of the third temperature maintenance section S6 to a lower temperature than the target temperature defined in the heating profile. This reduces the amount of aerosol generated in the third temperature maintenance section S6 and the flavor components imparted to the aerosol compared to when the control is performed according to the heating profile. Thus, it becomes possible to provide the user with a high-quality smoking experience even in the third temperature maintenance section S6.

[0165] As described above, the control unit 116 may change the target temperature for subsequent time intervals based on the suction pattern during the acquisition target period, such as the first acquisition target period A1.

[0166] Furthermore, the control unit 116 may change both the duration and target temperature of the subsequent time interval based on the suction pattern during the acquisition period, such as the first acquisition period A1.

[0167] As an example, if the suction time, suction volume, or suction intensity during the first acquisition target period A1 is equal to or greater than a first predetermined value Th1, the control unit 116 may shorten the duration of the third temperature maintenance section S6 to the aforementioned tm6a [sec] and raise the target temperature of the third temperature maintenance section S6 to the aforementioned T3a [°C].

[0168] As another example, if the suction time, suction volume, or suction intensity during the first acquisition target period A1 is less than the second predetermined value Th2, the control unit 116 may extend the duration of the third temperature maintenance section S6 to the aforementioned tm6b [sec] and lower the target temperature of the third temperature maintenance section S6 to the aforementioned T3b [°C].

[0169] Thus, even if the control unit 116 changes both the duration and target temperature of subsequent time intervals based on the inhalation pattern during the acquisition period, such as the first acquisition period A1, it is possible to appropriately consume the stick-type substrate 150 having an aerosol source and provide the user with a high-quality smoking experience.

[0170] Furthermore, the suction device 100 may have multiple heating profiles. For example, if there are two types of stick-type base material 150, a "menthol type" that contains menthol as a flavoring component and a "regular type" that does not contain menthol as a flavoring component, it is conceivable to provide a heating profile for the menthol type and a heating profile for the regular type.

[0171] In this configuration, the control unit 116 is configured to determine, for example, the type of stick-type substrate 150 (i.e., whether it is menthol type or regular type). As an example, the control unit 116 can determine the type of stick-type substrate 150 based on the information received by the user through the input device of the sensor unit 112, by receiving information indicating the type of stick-type substrate 150.

[0172] As another example, the sensor unit 112 may detect a predetermined physical quantity (for example, light transmittance, reflectance, or electrical resistance) in the stick-type substrate 150, which varies depending on the type. The control unit 116 may then determine the type of stick-type substrate 150 based on the physical quantity detected by the sensor unit 112.

[0173] Then, based on the determination result of the type of stick-type substrate 150, the control unit 116 selects a heating profile from among the multiple heating profiles of the suction device 100 to be used for controlling the heating unit 121 in this case, and controls the heating unit 121 based on the selected heating profile. For example, if the control unit 116 determines that the type of stick-type substrate 150 is menthol type, it selects a heating profile for menthol type, and if it determines that it is regular type, it selects a heating profile for regular type.

[0174] In this way, the control unit 116 determines the type of stick-type substrate 150 and selects a heating profile based on the determination result, thereby enabling the heating unit 121 to be controlled with an appropriate heating profile according to the type of stick-type substrate 150. Therefore, regardless of the type of stick-type substrate 150, the flavor enjoyed by the user can be optimized, and a high-quality smoking experience can be provided to the user.

[0175] The heating profile described in this embodiment may be a heating profile selected by the control unit 116 based on the determination result of the type of stick-type substrate 150.

[0176] Furthermore, if there are multiple heating profiles, the acquisition period may differ for each heating profile. Similarly, the time intervals in which the time length or target temperature is changed may also differ for each heating profile. Moreover, the amount of change in time length (e.g., Δta to Δtd as described above) or the amount of change in target temperature (e.g., ΔTa and ΔTb as described above) may also differ for each heating profile.

[0177] Furthermore, the control unit 116 modifies the time duration or target temperature (i.e., control mode) defined by the heating profile, based on the suction mode during the acquisition period, such as the first acquisition period A1.

[0178] As an example, as shown in Figure 4, if the suction time, suction volume, or suction intensity during the first acquisition period A1 is equal to or greater than a first predetermined value Th1, the control unit 116 sets the duration of the second temperature maintenance interval S4 to tm4a [sec], which is obtained by subtracting a constant value Δta [sec] from tm4 [sec] defined by the heating profile. As another example, as shown in Figure 9, if the suction time, suction volume, or suction intensity during the first acquisition period A1 is equal to or greater than a first predetermined value Th1, the control unit 116 sets the target temperature of the third temperature maintenance interval S6 to T3a [℃], which is obtained by adding a constant value ΔTa [℃] to T3 [℃] defined by the heating profile.

[0179] In this way, by using the time duration or target temperature defined by the heating profile as a base, and then changing said time duration or target temperature based on the suction pattern during the acquisition period, such as the first acquisition period A1, it becomes possible to appropriately consume the stick-type substrate 150 while suppressing the complexity of the suction device 100 configuration, thereby providing users with a high-quality smoking experience.

[0180] In contrast, one possible approach is to pre-prepare a number of heating profiles in the suction device 100, each corresponding to a different suction mode, and have the control unit 116 appropriately select the heating profile according to the user's suction mode. However, in this case, a large number of heating profiles would be required, and the storage unit 114 would also need to be made larger in capacity to store these numerous heating profiles. Therefore, in this case, the configuration of the suction device 100 may become complicated.

[0181] As described above, according to this embodiment, even if suction is performed in a manner different from the standard suction assumed in the heating profile, the stick-type substrate 150 having an aerosol source can be appropriately consumed, and a high-quality smoking experience can be provided to the user.

[0182] The control method for the suction device 100 described in the above-mentioned embodiment can be realized by executing a pre-prepared program on a computer (processor). This program is stored in a computer-readable storage medium and executed when read from the storage medium. This program may also be provided in the form of a non-transient storage medium such as flash memory, or it may be provided via a network such as the Internet. The computer that executes this program may be, for example, one included in the suction device 100 (e.g., the CPU of the suction device 100), but is not limited to this, and may also be one included in another device that can communicate with the suction device 100 (e.g., a smartphone or server device).

[0183] Although embodiments of the present invention have been described above with reference to the drawings, it goes without saying that the present invention is not limited to these embodiments. It is clear to those skilled in the art that various modifications or alterations can be conceived within the scope of the claims, and these are also understood to naturally fall within the technical scope of the present invention. Furthermore, the components of the embodiments described above may be combined in any way without departing from the spirit of the invention.

[0184] This specification contains at least the following information. The components and other elements corresponding to those in the embodiments described above are shown in parentheses as examples, but are not limited thereto.

[0185] (1) A heating unit (heating unit 121) that heats a substrate (stick-type substrate 150) having an aerosol source to generate an aerosol, The system includes a control unit (control unit 116) that controls the operation of the heating unit based on a heating profile that defines the time-series transition of the target temperature, which is a target value for the heating unit's temperature. A suction device (suction device 100) that allows the user to inhale the aerosol generated by the heating unit, The control unit, In response to a request for aerosol generation, control of the heating unit is initiated in the control mode defined by the heating profile. Information representing the suction mode during the first period in which the heating section is controlled in the control mode defined by the heating profile is obtained. The control mode of the heating unit in the second period following the first period is changed from the control mode defined by the heating profile to the control mode based on the suction mode in the first period. Suction device.

[0186] According to (1), the control mode of the heating unit in the second period following the first period in which the heating unit is controlled by a control mode defined by the heating profile can be changed to a control mode based on the suction mode in the first period. As a result, even if the suction mode in the first period is different from the standard suction assumed in the heating profile, the heating unit can be appropriately controlled in the subsequent second period, taking into account the suction that actually occurred in the first period. Therefore, it becomes possible to consume the substrate appropriately and provide the user with a high-quality smoking experience.

[0187] (2) The suction device described in (1), The heating profile is information that defines the duration of each time interval included in a plurality of consecutive time intervals (first time interval S1 to sixth time interval S6) along the time axis, and the target temperature. The control mode based on the suction mode in the first period is one in which the length of any of the time intervals included in the second period is changed according to the suction mode in the first period. Suction device.

[0188] According to (2), the duration of any time interval included in the second period following the first period can be changed according to the suction pattern in the first period. This makes it possible to either stop heating by the heating unit earlier or extend the period during which heating by the heating unit continues, depending on the suction pattern in the first period. Thus, it is possible to avoid situations where heating by the heating unit is stopped even though a sufficient aerosol source remains in the substrate, or where heating by the heating unit is continued unnecessarily even though the aerosol source contained in the substrate is almost depleted.

[0189] (3) The suction device described in (2), The control mode based on the suction mode in the first period is such that the length of the time interval (sixth time interval S6) within the time interval included in the second period, immediately before heating by the heating unit is stopped, is changed according to the suction mode in the first period. Suction device.

[0190] According to (3), the time interval in which the time length is changed is the time interval immediately before heating by the heating unit is stopped. Therefore, until the time interval immediately before heating by the heating unit is stopped, it is possible to generate aerosols as planned by the heating profile, regardless of the user's suction method.

[0191] (4) The suction device described in (2), The plurality of time intervals include a first heating interval (first time interval S1) provided initially, a cooling interval (third time interval S3) provided after the first heating interval and in which the target temperature is lower than that of the first heating interval, a second heating interval (fifth time interval S5) provided after the cooling interval and in which the target temperature is higher than that of the cooling interval, and a low-temperature interval (fourth time interval S4) in which the target temperature is lower than that of the second heating interval. The control mode based on the suction mode in the first period is one in which the duration of the low-temperature interval within the time interval included in the second period is changed according to the suction mode in the first period. Suction device.

[0192] According to (4), since the time interval in which the time length is changed is a low-temperature interval in which the target temperature is relatively low, the time interval can be extended while suppressing an increase in the power consumed by the heating unit.

[0193] (5) The suction device described in (2), The aforementioned plurality of time intervals include temperature maintenance intervals (fourth time interval S4, sixth time interval S6) in which the control unit controls the heating section to maintain a constant temperature. The control mode based on the suction mode in the first period is one in which the duration of the temperature maintenance interval within the time interval included in the second period is changed according to the suction mode in the first period. Suction device.

[0194] According to (5), since the time interval in which the duration is changed is a temperature maintenance interval in which the temperature of the heating element is kept approximately constant, even if the duration of the time interval is changed, it is possible to suppress situations in which the quality of the user's smoking experience may deteriorate.

[0195] (6) The suction device described in (1), The heating profile is information that defines the duration of each time interval included in a plurality of consecutive time intervals (first time interval S1 to sixth time interval S6) along the time axis, and the target temperature. The control mode based on the suction mode in the first period is one in which the target temperature for any time interval included in the second period is changed according to the suction mode in the first period. Suction device.

[0196] According to (6), the target temperature for any time interval included in the second period following the first period can be changed according to the inhalation pattern in the first period. This makes it possible to generate an appropriate amount of aerosol in the second period, even if the inhalation pattern in the first period differs from the standard inhalation assumed in the heating profile, thereby providing the user with a high-quality smoking experience.

[0197] (7) A suction device according to any one of (1) to (6), The first period is the period from when the control of the heating unit is started or the suction period is started in the control mode defined by the heating profile until a predetermined time (first predetermined time Tm1, second predetermined time Tm2) has elapsed or until a predetermined number of suctions have been performed. Suction device.

[0198] According to (7), it becomes possible to secure a reasonably long period as the first period.

[0199] (8) The suction device described in (7), The first period is the period from when the control of the heating unit is started or the suction period is started in the control mode defined by the heating profile until the predetermined time has elapsed. The predetermined time is shorter than half of the period (tm1+tm2+tm3+tm4+tm5+tm6) from when the control of the heating unit is started or the suction period begins in the control mode defined by the heating profile until heating by the heating unit is stopped. Suction device.

[0200] According to (8), in the latter half of the period during which the heating section is controlled in a control manner defined by the heating profile, the control unit does not need to perform the process of acquiring the suction manner in the first period, thereby reducing the processing load on the control unit.

[0201] (9) A suction device according to any one of (1) to (8), The aforementioned heating profile is one selected heating profile from a plurality of pre-prepared heating profiles. The control unit is configured to be able to determine the type of the substrate, The first heating profile is a heating profile selected by the control unit based on the determination result of the type of substrate. Suction device.

[0202] According to (9), the heating section can be controlled by an appropriate heating profile according to the type of substrate.

[0203] (10) A suction device according to any one of (1) to (9), The suction method during the first period is any one of the following, or a combination of two or more of the following: suction time during the first period, suction volume during the first period, or suction intensity during the first period. Suction device.

[0204] According to (10), the control mode of the heating section in the second period can be changed according to the suction time in the first period, the suction amount in the first period, or the suction intensity in the first period.

[0205] (11) The suction device described in (10), The suction method during the first period includes at least the amount of suction during the first period. The suction volume during the first period is one of the following: the maximum flow rate generated by a single suction during the first period (Fw20), the cumulative flow rate generated by multiple suctions during the first period (Fw10 ​​+ Fw20), or the maximum flow rate per unit time during the first period (Fw21). Suction device.

[0206] According to (11), the control mode of the heating section in the second period can be changed according to the maximum flow rate generated by a single suction in the first period, the cumulative value of the flow rates generated by multiple suctions in the first period, or the maximum flow rate per unit time in the first period.

[0207] (12) The suction device described in (10), The suction method in the first period includes at least the suction time in the first period. The suction time in the first period is the length of the period during which the flow rate generated by suction in the first period is equal to or greater than a threshold (threshold ThX) (tm11 + tm21), the maximum value of the suction time for a single suction in the first period (tm20), or the cumulative value of the suction times for multiple suctions in the first period (tm10 + tm20). Suction device.

[0208] According to (12), the control mode of the heating section in the second period can be changed according to the length of the period in which the flow rate generated by suction in the first period is equal to or greater than a threshold, the maximum suction time for a single suction in the first period, or the cumulative value of the suction time for multiple suctions in the first period.

[0209] (13) The suction device described in (10), The suction method during the first period includes at least the suction intensity during the first period. The suction intensity during the first period is the maximum value of the suction intensity per unit time during the first period, or the cumulative value of the suction intensity per unit time during the first period. Suction device.

[0210] According to (13), the control mode of the heating section in the second period can be changed according to the maximum value of the suction intensity per unit time in the first period, or the cumulative value of the suction intensity per unit time in the first period.

[0211] (14) A computer (control unit 116) controls a suction device (suction device 100) which includes a heating unit (heating unit 121) that heats a substrate (stick-type substrate 150) having an aerosol source to generate an aerosol, and which allows the user to inhale the aerosol generated by the heating unit, In response to a request for aerosol generation, control of the heating unit is started in a control manner defined by a heating profile that defines the time-series transition of the target temperature, which is the target value of the heating unit's temperature (step Sp11). Information representing the suction mode during the first period in which the heating section is controlled in the control mode defined by the heating profile is obtained (step Sp12), The control mode of the heating unit in the second period following the first period is changed from the control mode defined by the heating profile to the control mode based on the suction mode in the first period (steps Sp14-Sp17, steps Sp19-Sp22). A control method for executing a process.

[0212] According to (14), the control mode of the heating unit in the second period following the first period in which the heating unit is controlled by the heating profile can be changed to a control mode based on the suction pattern in the first period. This allows the heating unit to be appropriately controlled in the second period, even if the suction pattern in the first period differs from the standard suction assumed in the heating profile, taking into account the suction actually performed in the first period. Thus, it becomes possible to consume the substrate appropriately and provide the user with a high-quality smoking experience.

[0213] (15) A computer (control unit 116) controls a suction device (suction device 100) which includes a heating unit (heating unit 121) that heats a substrate (stick-type substrate 150) having an aerosol source to generate an aerosol, and which allows the user to inhale the aerosol generated by the heating unit, In response to a request for aerosol generation, control of the heating unit is started in a control manner defined by a heating profile that defines the time-series transition of the target temperature, which is the target value of the heating unit's temperature (step Sp11). Information representing the suction mode during the first period in which the heating section is controlled in the control mode defined by the heating profile is obtained (step Sp12), The control mode of the heating unit in the second period following the first period is changed from the control mode defined by the heating profile to the control mode based on the suction mode in the first period (steps Sp14-Sp17, steps Sp19-Sp22). A program that executes a process.

[0214] According to (15), the control mode of the heating unit in the second period following the first period in which the heating unit is controlled in a control mode defined by the heating profile can be changed to a control mode based on the suction mode in the first period. As a result, even if the suction mode in the first period is different from the standard suction assumed in the heating profile, the heating unit can be appropriately controlled in the subsequent second period, taking into account the suction that actually occurred in the first period. Therefore, it becomes possible to consume the substrate appropriately and provide the user with a high-quality smoking experience. [Explanation of symbols]

[0215] 100 Suction device 112 Sensor unit (detection unit) 116 Control Unit 121 Heating section 150 Stick-type base material (base material) S1 First hour interval (time interval, first temperature rise interval) S2 Second time interval (time interval) S3 Third hour interval (hour interval, temperature reduction interval) S4 4th time interval (time interval, low temperature interval, temperature maintenance interval) S5 5th hour section (hour section, 2nd temperature rise section) S6 6th hour interval (time interval, temperature maintenance interval)

Claims

1. A heating unit that heats a substrate having an aerosol source to generate an aerosol, The system includes a control unit that controls the operation of the heating unit based on a heating profile, A suction device that allows a user to inhale an aerosol generated by the heating unit, The heating profile is information that defines the duration of each time interval included in a plurality of consecutive time intervals along the time axis, and the target temperature, which is the target value of the heating section. The control unit, In response to a request for aerosol generation, control of the heating unit is initiated in the control mode defined by the heating profile. Information representing the suction mode during the first period in which the heating section is controlled in the control mode defined by the heating profile is obtained. The control mode of the heating unit in the second period following the first period is changed from the control mode defined by the heating profile to the control mode based on the suction mode in the first period. If the suction time in the first period is equal to or greater than a first predetermined value, the duration of any of the time intervals included in the second period is shortened to a duration defined by the heating profile. If the suction time in the first period is less than a second predetermined value which is less than the first predetermined value, the duration of any of the time intervals included in the second period is extended beyond the duration defined by the heating profile. Suction device.

2. A suction device according to claim 1, The control mode based on the suction mode in the first period is one in which the length of the time interval within the second period, immediately before the heating by the heating unit is stopped, is changed according to the suction mode in the first period. Suction device.

3. A suction device according to claim 1, The plurality of time intervals include a first heating interval provided initially, a cooling interval provided after the first heating interval and in which the target temperature is lower than that of the first heating interval, a second heating interval provided after the cooling interval and in which the target temperature is higher than that of the cooling interval, and a low-temperature interval in which the target temperature is lower than that of the second heating interval. The control mode based on the suction mode in the first period is one in which the duration of the low-temperature interval within the time interval included in the second period is changed according to the suction mode in the first period. Suction device.

4. A suction device according to claim 1, The plurality of time intervals include a temperature maintenance interval in which the control unit controls the heating unit to maintain a constant temperature. The control mode based on the suction mode in the first period is one in which the duration of the temperature maintenance interval within the time interval included in the second period is changed according to the suction mode in the first period. Suction device.

5. A suction device according to claim 1, The control mode based on the suction mode in the first period is one in which the target temperature in any time interval included in the second period is changed according to the suction mode in the first period. Suction device.

6. A suction device according to any one of claims 1 to 5, The first period is the period from when the control of the heating unit is started or the suction period is started in the control mode defined by the heating profile until a predetermined time has elapsed or a predetermined number of suctions have been performed. Suction device.

7. A suction device according to claim 6, The first period is the period from when the control of the heating unit is started or the suction period is started in the control mode defined by the heating profile until the predetermined time has elapsed. The predetermined time is shorter than half the period from when the control of the heating unit is started or the suction period begins in the control mode defined by the heating profile until heating by the heating unit is stopped. Suction device.

8. A suction device according to any one of claims 1 to 5, The aforementioned heating profile is one selected heating profile from a plurality of pre-prepared heating profiles. The control unit is configured to be able to determine the type of the substrate, The first heating profile is a heating profile selected by the control unit based on the determination result of the type of substrate. Suction device.

9. A suction device according to any one of claims 1 to 5, The suction method during the first period is any one of the following: the suction time during the first period, the suction volume during the first period, or the suction intensity during the first period, or a combination of two or more of these. Suction device.

10. A suction device according to claim 9, The suction method during the first period includes at least the amount of suction during the first period. The amount of suction during the first period is one of the following: the maximum flow rate generated by a single suction during the first period, the cumulative value of the flow rates generated by multiple suctions during the first period, or the maximum flow rate per unit time during the first period. Suction device.

11. A suction device according to claim 9, The suction method in the first period includes at least the suction time in the first period. The suction time in the first period is the length of the period during which the flow rate generated by suction in the first period is equal to or greater than a threshold, the maximum suction time for a single suction in the first period, or the cumulative value of the suction times for multiple suctions in the first period. Suction device.

12. A suction device according to claim 9, The suction method during the first period includes at least the suction intensity during the first period. The suction intensity during the first period is the maximum value of the suction intensity per unit time during the first period, or the cumulative value of the suction intensity per unit time during the first period. Suction device.

13. A computer controls a suction device that includes a heating unit that heats a substrate having an aerosol source to generate an aerosol, and allows the user to inhale the aerosol generated by the heating unit. In response to a request for aerosol generation, control of the heating unit is initiated in a control manner defined by the heating profile. The heating profile is information that defines the duration of each time interval included in a plurality of consecutive time intervals along the time axis, and the target temperature, which is the target value of the heating section. Information representing the suction mode during the first period in which the heating section is controlled in the control mode defined by the heating profile is obtained. The control mode of the heating unit in the second period following the first period is changed from the control mode defined by the heating profile to the control mode based on the suction mode in the first period. Execute the process, If the suction time in the first period is equal to or greater than a first predetermined value, the duration of any of the time intervals included in the second period is shortened to a duration defined by the heating profile. If the suction time in the first period is less than a second predetermined value which is less than the first predetermined value, the duration of any of the time intervals included in the second period is extended beyond the duration defined by the heating profile. Control method.

14. A computer controls a suction device that includes a heating unit that heats a substrate having an aerosol source to generate an aerosol, and allows the user to inhale the aerosol generated by the heating unit. In response to a request for aerosol generation, control of the heating unit is initiated in a control manner defined by the heating profile. The heating profile is information that defines the duration of each time interval included in a plurality of consecutive time intervals along the time axis, and the target temperature, which is the target value of the heating section. Information representing the suction mode during the first period in which the heating section is controlled in the control mode defined by the heating profile is obtained. The control mode of the heating unit in the second period following the first period is changed from the control mode defined by the heating profile to the control mode based on the suction mode in the first period. Execute the process, If the suction time in the first period is equal to or greater than a first predetermined value, the duration of any of the time intervals included in the second period is shortened to a duration defined by the heating profile. If the suction time in the first period is less than a second predetermined value which is less than the first predetermined value, the duration of any of the time intervals included in the second period is extended beyond the duration defined by the heating profile. program.

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