Control method for a suction device, power supply unit for a suction device, and program for a suction device.

Abstract

Provided is a control method for a power supply unit of an inhalation device that can generate aerosol by heating an aerosol source, the control method comprising: a detection step (504) for detecting another inhalation device on the basis of a first signal received from another inhalation device satisfying a prescribed condition; a transmission step (509) for transmitting, to the another inhalation device, a second signal requesting to establish a communication connection if the number of times the another inhalation device has been detected reaches a prescribed number of times which is two or more; a determination step (510) for determining, on the basis of a response signal to the second signal having been received from the another inhalation device, that the communication connection with the another inhalation device is successful; and a transition step (511) for transitioning, on the basis of it having been determined that the communication connection is successful, to a state in which prescribed data regarding heating of the aerosol source can be transmitted and received.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a control method for a suction device for sucking aerosols, gases, etc., a power supply unit of the suction device, and a program for the suction device.

Background Art

[0002] In recent years, technologies for communicating between electronic cigarettes have been developed. For example, technologies for electronic cigarettes to perform P2P (Peer to Peer) communication with other electronic cigarettes have been developed.

[0003] Patent Document 1 (International Publication No. 2015 / 149339) discloses that one electronic cigarette transmits request information for requesting tar flavor information of tobacco, and another electronic cigarette that has received the request information generates response information for conveying the tar flavor of tobacco according to the request information and returns it.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0004]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0005] By the way, when one electronic cigarette performs P2P, if a plurality of electronic cigarettes exist around, there is a risk of connecting to an unintended electronic cigarette other than the desired one. If one electronic cigarette connects to an unintended electronic cigarette other than the desired one, there is a risk that information will be sent to an unintended recipient.

[0006] However, although Patent Document 1 discloses a technology for communicating between electronic cigarettes and conveying the tar flavor of tobacco, it does not disclose a technology for connecting to a desired electronic cigarette. Therefore, the electronic cigarette described in Patent Document 1 may convey the tar flavor of tobacco to an unintended recipient.

[0007] In view of the above problems, the present invention provides a technology that allows suction devices to be connected to each other when they are connected via P2P. [Means for solving the problem]

[0008] To solve the first problem described above, an embodiment of the present disclosure provides a control method for a power supply unit of a suction device capable of generating an aerosol by heating an aerosol source, the control method comprising: a detection step of detecting another suction device based on whether a first signal received from another suction device satisfies predetermined conditions; a transmission step of transmitting a second signal to the other suction device requesting the establishment of a communication connection when the number of times the other suction device has been detected reaches two or more predetermined times; a determination step of determining that a communication connection with the other suction device has been successfully established based on the receipt of a response signal to the second signal from the other suction device; and a transition step of transitioning to a state in which predetermined data relating to the heating of the aerosol source can be transmitted and received based on the determination that the communication connection has been successful.

[0009] In one embodiment, the control method, in the detection step, determines whether a predetermined condition is met for each of the multiple first signals received from each of the multiple other suction devices, and can detect the other suction devices among the multiple other suction devices that transmitted the first signal that met the predetermined condition.

[0010] In one embodiment, the control method can continue detecting other suction devices in the detection step until one of the plurality of other suction devices has been detected a predetermined number of times.

[0011] In one embodiment, the control method can terminate the detection of any other suction device if, among the plurality of other suction devices, the number of times it has been detected reaches a predetermined number.

[0012] In one embodiment, the control method further includes a storage step that stores the number of times the other suction device has been detected when the other suction device is detected in the detection step, and the number of detections can be stored for each of the multiple other suction devices in the storage step.

[0013] In one embodiment, the control method stores information contained in the first signal, which pertains to the other suction device, during the storage step, and during the transmission step, transmits the second signal to the other suction device based on the stored information about the other suction device.

[0014] In one embodiment, the control method may further include a decision step of determining the other suction device as the suction device to be connected to, based on the number of times the other suction device has been detected reaching a predetermined number of times, which is 2 or more.

[0015] In one embodiment, the control method further includes a receiving step of starting a scanning process for a first signal from the other suction device based on the detection of a predetermined action by the user, wherein the scanning process does not need to be started in the receiving step even if the predetermined action by the user is detected while the aerosol source is being heated.

[0016] In one embodiment, the control method further includes a receiving step of starting a scanning process for a first signal from the other suction device based on the detection of a predetermined action by the user, wherein even if a predetermined action by the user is detected in the receiving step, the scanning process does not need to be started if the user terminal of the user of the suction device is in communication with the suction device.

[0017] In one embodiment, the first signal is an advertisement packet, and the second signal is a connection request signal. Based on the fact that the advertisement packet received from the other suction device satisfies predetermined conditions, the other suction device can be detected, and in the transmission step, the connection request signal can be transmitted to the other suction devices among the plurality of other suction devices whose detection count has reached the predetermined number.

[0018] To solve the above problems, an embodiment of the present disclosure provides a power supply unit for a suction device capable of generating an aerosol by heating an aerosol source, comprising: a communication unit that receives a first signal from another suction device; and a control unit that detects the other suction device based on whether the received first signal satisfies predetermined conditions, wherein the communication unit transmits a second signal to the other suction device requesting the establishment of a communication connection when the number of times the other suction device has been detected reaches two or more predetermined times, and the control unit determines that a communication connection with the other suction device has been successfully established based on the receipt of a response signal to the second signal from the other suction device, and transitions to a state in which predetermined data relating to the heating of the aerosol source can be transmitted and received based on the determination that the communication connection has been successful.

[0019] To solve the above problems, an embodiment of the present disclosure provides a program that causes a computer controlling a power supply unit of a suction device capable of generating an aerosol by heating an aerosol source to perform predetermined processing, the program causing the computer to execute: a detection step of detecting another suction device based on a first signal received from another suction device satisfying predetermined conditions; a transmission step of transmitting a second signal to the other suction device requesting the establishment of a communication connection when the number of times the other suction device has been detected reaches two or more predetermined times; a determination step of determining that a communication connection with the other suction device has been successfully established based on the receipt of a response signal to the second signal from the other suction device; and a transition step of transitioning to a state in which predetermined data relating to the heating of the aerosol source can be sent and received based on the determination that the communication connection has been successful.

Advantages of the Invention

[0020] According to an embodiment of the present disclosure, when the suction devices perform P2P connection, a technology that enables desired suction devices to be connected to each other can be provided.

Brief Description of the Drawings

[0021] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram schematically showing a first configuration example of a suction device. [Figure 2] FIG. 2 is a schematic diagram schematically showing a second configuration example of a suction device. [Figure 3] FIG. 3 is a sequence diagram showing an example of processing for starting P2P connection. [Figure 4] FIG. 4 is a sequence diagram showing an example of processing when the start of P2P connection is not accepted. [Figure 5] FIG. 5 is a sequence diagram showing an example of processing when the P2P connection process is aborted. [Figure 6] FIG. 6 is a flowchart showing an example of processing when the P2P connection process is executed. [Figure 7A] FIG. 7A is a flowchart showing another example of processing (Part 1) when the P2P connection process is executed. [Figure 7B] FIG. 7B is another flowchart showing another example of processing (Part 1) when the P2P connection process is executed. [Figure 8A] FIG. 8A is a flowchart showing another example of processing (Part 2) when the P2P connection process is executed. [Figure 8B] FIG. 8B is another flowchart showing another example of processing (Part 2) when the P2P connection process is executed.

Embodiments for Carrying Out the Invention

[0022] 1 Configuration of the Suction Device Hereinafter, a configuration example of a suction device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure will be described. <<1. Configuration Example of the Suction Device>> A suction device is a device that generates a substance to be aspirated by the user. In the following explanation, the substance generated by the suction device is assumed to be an aerosol. Alternatively, the substance generated by the suction device may be a gas.

[0023] (1) First example configuration Figure 1 is a schematic diagram illustrating a first configuration example of a suction device. As shown in Figure 1, the suction device 100A according to this configuration example includes a power supply unit 110, a cartridge 120, and a flavoring cartridge 130. The power supply unit 110 includes a power supply unit 111A, a sensor unit 112A, a notification unit 113A, a storage unit 114A, a communication unit 115A, and a control unit 116A. The cartridge 120 includes a heating unit 121A, a liquid induction unit 122, and a liquid storage unit 123. The flavoring cartridge 130 includes a flavor source 131 and a mouthpiece 124. Air passages 180 are formed in the cartridge 120 and the flavoring cartridge 130.

[0024] The power supply unit 111A stores power. Then, based on the control by the control unit 116A, the power supply unit 111A supplies power to each component of the suction device 100A. The power supply unit 111A may be composed of a rechargeable battery, such as a lithium-ion secondary battery.

[0025] The sensor unit 112A acquires various information related to the suction device 100A. For example, the sensor unit 112A is composed of a pressure sensor such as a condenser microphone, a flow sensor, or a temperature sensor, and acquires values ​​associated with suction by the user. As another example, the sensor unit 112A is composed of an input device such as a button or switch that accepts information input from the user.

[0026] The notification unit 113A notifies the user of information. The notification unit 113A is composed of, for example, a light-emitting device that emits light, a display device that displays an image, a sound output device that emits sound, or a vibration device that vibrates.

[0027] The memory unit 114A stores various information for the operation of the suction device 100A. The memory unit 114A is composed of a non-volatile storage medium such as flash memory.

[0028] The communication unit 115A is a communication interface capable of performing communication in accordance with any wired or wireless communication standard. Examples of such communication standards include those using Wi-Fi®, Bluetooth®, BLE (Bluetooth Low Energy®), NFC (Near Field Communication), or LPWA (Low Power Wide Area).

[0029] The control unit 116A functions as both an arithmetic processing unit and a control device, controlling the overall operation of the suction device 100A according to various programs. The control unit 116A is implemented by electronic circuits such as a CPU (Central Processing Unit) or a microprocessor.

[0030] The liquid storage unit 123 stores the aerosol source. An aerosol is generated when the aerosol source is atomized. The aerosol source is, for example, a polyhydric alcohol such as glycerin and propylene glycol, or a liquid such as water. The aerosol source may contain flavoring components derived from tobacco or non-tobacco. If the inhalation device 100A is a medical inhaler such as a nebulizer, the aerosol source may contain a drug.

[0031] The liquid guide unit 122 guides and holds the aerosol source, which is a liquid stored in the liquid storage unit 123, from the liquid storage unit 123. The liquid guide unit 122 is, for example, a wick formed by twisting a fibrous material such as glass fiber or a porous material such as porous ceramic. In this case, the aerosol source stored in the liquid storage unit 123 is guided by the capillary effect of the wick.

[0032] The heating unit 121A generates an aerosol by heating the aerosol source, thereby atomizing the aerosol source. In the example shown in Figure 1, the heating unit 121A is configured as a coil and is wound around the liquid guide unit 122. When the heating unit 121A generates heat, the aerosol source held in the liquid guide unit 122 is heated and atomized, generating an aerosol. The heating unit 121A generates heat when power is supplied from the power supply unit 111A. For example, power may be supplied when the sensor unit 112A detects that the user has started inhaling and / or that predetermined information has been input. Power may then be stopped when the sensor unit 112A detects that the user has finished inhaling and / or that predetermined information has been input.

[0033] Flavoring source 131 is a component for imparting flavor components to the aerosol. Flavoring source 131 may contain flavor components derived from tobacco or non-tobacco.

[0034] The air passage 180 is a passage for air drawn in by the user. The air passage 180 has a tubular structure with an air inlet 181, which is the entrance for air into the air passage 180, and an air outlet 182, which is the exit for air from the air passage 180, at both ends. In the middle of the air passage 180, a liquid guide unit 122 is located on the upstream side (closer to the air inlet 181) and a flavor source 131 is located on the downstream side (closer to the air outlet 182). Air drawn in from the air inlet 181 by the user is mixed with the aerosol generated by the heating unit 121A and transported to the air outlet 182 through the flavor source 131, as shown by arrow 190. When the mixed fluid of aerosol and air passes through the flavor source 131, flavor components contained in the flavor source 131 are imparted to the aerosol.

[0035] The mouthpiece 124 is a component that the user holds in their mouth during suction. The mouthpiece 124 has an air outlet 182. By holding the mouthpiece 124 in their mouth and suctioning, the user can take in a mixed fluid of aerosol and air into their oral cavity.

[0036] The above describes an example configuration of the suction device 100A. Of course, the configuration of the suction device 100A is not limited to the above, and it can take various configurations as exemplified below.

[0037] For example, the suction device 100A does not necessarily have to include a flavoring cartridge 130. In that case, a mouthpiece 124 is provided on the cartridge 120.

[0038] As another example, the suction device 100A may contain multiple types of aerosol sources. Multiple types of aerosols generated from multiple types of aerosol sources may be mixed in the air channel 180 and undergo a chemical reaction to generate even more types of aerosols.

[0039] Furthermore, the means for atomizing the aerosol source is not limited to heating by the heating unit 121A. For example, the means for atomizing the aerosol source may be vibration atomization or induction heating.

[0040] (2) Second example configuration Figure 2 is a schematic diagram illustrating a second configuration example of the suction device. As shown in Figure 2, the suction device 100B according to this configuration example includes a power supply unit 111B, a sensor unit 112B, a notification unit 113B, a storage unit 114B, a communication unit 115B, a control unit 116B, a heating unit 121B, a housing unit 140, and a heat insulation unit 144.

[0041] Each of the power supply unit 111B, sensor unit 112B, notification unit 113B, storage unit 114B, communication unit 115B, and control unit 116B is substantially identical to the corresponding component included in the suction device 100A according to the first configuration example.

[0042] The housing section 140 has an internal space 141 and holds the stick-type substrate 150 while housing a portion of it in the internal space 141. The housing section 140 has an opening 142 that communicates the internal space 141 to the outside and accommodates the stick-type substrate 150 inserted into the internal space 141 from the opening 142. For example, the housing section 140 is a cylindrical body with the opening 142 and bottom 143 as its base, defining a columnar internal space 141. An air passage is connected to the housing section 140 to supply air to the internal space 141. An air inlet, which is the air entrance to the air passage, is located, for example, on the side of the suction device 100B. An air outlet, which is the air exit from the air passage to the internal space 141, is located, for example, on the bottom 143.

[0043] The stick-type base material 150 includes a base material portion 151 and a mouthpiece portion 152. The base material portion 151 includes an aerosol source. The aerosol source includes flavoring components derived from tobacco or non-tobacco. If the inhalation device 100B is a medical inhaler such as a nebulizer, the aerosol source may also include a drug. The aerosol source may be a liquid such as glycerin and polyhydric alcohols such as propylene glycol, and water, which include flavoring components derived from tobacco or non-tobacco, or it may be a solid which includes flavoring components derived from tobacco or non-tobacco. When the stick-type base material 150 is held in the housing 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 inhales, air flows into the internal space 141 via an air passage (not shown) and reaches the user's mouth together with the aerosol generated from the base material portion 151.

[0044] In the example shown in Figure 2, the heating element 121B is configured as a film and is positioned to cover the outer circumference of the housing element 140. When the heating element 121B generates heat, the base material portion 151 of the stick-shaped base material 150 is heated from the outer circumference, and an aerosol is generated.

[0045] The heat insulating section 144 prevents heat transfer from the heating section 121B to other components. For example, the heat insulating section 144 is made of a vacuum insulating material or an aerogel insulating material.

[0046] The above describes an example configuration of the suction device 100B. Of course, the configuration of the suction device 100B is not limited to the above, and it can take various configurations as exemplified below.

[0047] As an example, the heating element 121B may be configured in a blade shape and positioned to protrude from the bottom 143 of the housing 140 into the internal space 141. In this case, the blade-shaped heating element 121B is inserted into the base material portion 151 of the stick-shaped base material 150 and heats the base material portion 151 of the stick-shaped base material 150 from the inside. As another example, the heating element 121B may be positioned to cover the bottom 143 of the housing 140. Furthermore, the heating element 121B may be configured as a combination of two or more of the following: a first heating element covering the outer circumference of the housing 140, a blade-shaped second heating element, and a third heating element covering the bottom 143 of the housing 140.

[0048] As another example, the housing section 140 may include an opening and closing mechanism, such as a hinge, that opens and closes a part of the outer shell forming the internal space 141. The housing section 140 may then house the stick-shaped base material 150 inserted into the internal space 141 while clamping it by opening and closing the outer shell. In this case, the heating section 121B may be provided at the clamping location in the housing section 140 and may heat the stick-shaped base material 150 while pressing it.

[0049] Furthermore, the means for atomizing the aerosol source is not limited to heating by the heating unit 121B. For example, the means for atomizing the aerosol source may be induction heating. In that case, the suction device 100B has at least an electromagnetic induction source, such as a coil that generates a magnetic field, instead of the heating unit 121B. The susceptor that generates heat by induction heating may be provided in the suction device 100B or may be included in the stick-type substrate 150.

[0050] Furthermore, the suction device 100B may further include a heating unit 121A, a liquid induction unit 122, a liquid storage unit 123, and an air passage 180 according to the first configuration example, and the air passage 180 may supply air to the internal space 141. In this case, the mixed fluid of aerosol generated by the heating unit 121A and air flows into the internal space 141, is further mixed with the aerosol generated by the heating unit 121B, and reaches the user's oral cavity.

[0051] <<2. Example of suction device operation>>

[0052] 2. Processes performed by the suction device A suction device 100A, etc. (hereinafter referred to as "suction device 100" without distinction) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure is configured to control the heating operation using a heating profile.

[0053] Hereinafter, with reference to the drawings, an example of the operation of a suction device 100 according to one embodiment of this disclosure will be described. Specifically, an example of processing that can be executed by the control unit 116A, etc. (hereinafter referred to as "control unit 116") of the suction device 100 will be described. Note that the example of processing described below may be a program that causes the suction device 100 to execute. Furthermore, the program can be stored in the storage unit 114A, etc. (hereinafter referred to as "storage unit 114") of the suction device 100.

[0054] 2-1 Example of the process for initiating a P2P connection Figure 3 is a sequence diagram illustrating an example of the process for multiple suction devices to initiate a P2P connection. The example shown in Figure 3 illustrates the process for two suction devices 100 (suction device A and suction device B), including their interaction with their users (user A and user B). In Figure 3, if it is not necessary to distinguish between suction device A and suction device B in the process, the term "suction device 100" will be used for explanation. Similarly, in Figure 3, if it is not necessary to distinguish between user A and user B in the process, the term "user" will be used for explanation.

[0055] In step 200 (in Figure 3, 'step' is abbreviated as 'S'), the suction device 100 detects a predetermined action performed by the user. The predetermined action is an action performed by the user of the suction device 100 on the suction device 100. Examples of predetermined actions include the user shaking the suction device 100, tracing a predetermined trajectory or characters using the suction device 100, or tapping the suction device 100. However, the predetermined actions are not limited to these examples.

[0056] The suction device 100 includes sensors (such as motion sensors and acceleration sensors) for detecting the movement of the suction device 100, and uses these sensors to detect predetermined actions on the suction device 100. For example, the motion sensor of the suction device 100 detects when the user shakes the suction device 100.

[0057] The predetermined action may be any action performed by the user on the suction device 100. For example, it may be an action such as the user pressing a predetermined button on the suction device 100.

[0058] In step 201, the suction device 100 transitions to P2P mode in response to detecting a predetermined action. The suction device 100 transitions to P2P mode and starts the connection process with other suction devices 100. P2P mode is a mode for performing the process of connecting with other suction devices 100. The suction device 100 transitions from other modes to P2P mode in response to detecting a predetermined action.

[0059] The P2P mode may also be, for example, the sleep mode of the suction device 100. That is, the sleep mode may include the P2P mode. The sleep mode is a mode in which the suction device 100 has disabled some of its functions in order to conserve power. The P2P mode may also be a charging mode, which is a mode in which the power supply unit 111 of the suction device 100 is charged, or an active mode in which many of the functions of the suction device 100 are activated. That is, the charging mode or the active mode may include the P2P mode. The P2P mode is not limited to these modes and may be included in at least one of the modes that the suction device 100 can take.

[0060] In step 202, the suction device 100 notifies the user that it has transitioned to P2P mode. The notification unit 113 of the suction device 100 displays, for example, a UI (User Interface) indicating that it has transitioned to P2P mode. The notification unit 113 of the suction device 100 notifies the user that it has transitioned to P2P mode by, for example, illuminating an LED in a predetermined manner. Alternatively, the notification unit 113 of the suction device 100 notifies the user that it has transitioned to P2P mode by, for example, vibrating a vibration device in a predetermined manner. Furthermore, if the suction device 100 is equipped with a display as the notification unit 113, the notification unit 113 notifies the user that it has transitioned to P2P mode by, for example, displaying information on the display indicating that it has transitioned to P2P mode. Note that the method by which the suction device 100 notifies the user that it has transitioned to P2P mode may be any method.

[0061] In step 203, the suction device 100 begins sending an advertisement packet and scanning for advertisement packets from other suction devices 100. The sending of advertisement packets and the scanning process will be described later.

[0062] In step 204, the suction device 100 starts a timer to terminate the process for initiating the P2P connection if it times out. If the timer times out, the suction device 100 terminates the process for initiating the P2P connection.

[0063] In step 205, the suction device 100 notifies other suction devices 100 that it is in a connection waiting state by broadcasting an advertisement packet. The suction device 100 also notifies other suction devices 100 that it is available for P2P connection by sending an advertisement packet.

[0064] The suction device 100 may store information about itself in the advertisement packet. For example, the suction device 100 may include an identifier that uniquely identifies the suction device 100 in the advertisement packet. The suction device 100 may also include an identifier indicating the manufacturer of the suction device 100 (for example, a company ID (Identification)) in the advertisement packet. The suction device 100 may also include information indicating the attributes of the suction device 100 in the advertisement packet. The information indicating the attributes of the suction device 100 may include, for example, the device type, model number, and version information of the suction device 100.

[0065] In step 206, the suction device 100 scans for advertised packets from other suction devices 100. The suction device 100 receives advertised packets from, for example, each of the multiple other suction devices 100 and determines whether the advertised packets satisfy predetermined conditions. The predetermined conditions will be described later. In step 206, the suction device 100 may, for example, determine whether the advertised packets satisfy each of the multiple predetermined conditions.

[0066] In step 207, the suction device 100 detects another suction device 100 (suction device B) that meets predetermined conditions. The suction device 100 also recognizes that another suction device is nearby if the number of times it has been detected as another suction device 100 (suction device B) is greater than or equal to a predetermined number. The predetermined number is, for example, a natural number of 2 or more.

[0067] In step 208, suction device 100 (suction device A) transmits a connection request signal to other suction devices 100 (suction device B) whose detection count is greater than or equal to a predetermined number. Suction device 100 transmits a connection request signal and requests the establishment of a P2P connection. Suction device 100 (suction device A) requests, for example, the establishment of a BLE connection.

[0068] In step 209, the other suction device 100 (suction device B) receives a connection request signal. When the other suction device 100 (suction device B) receives a connection request signal, it performs a process to establish a communication connection with suction device 100 (suction device A).

[0069] In step 210, if the P2P connection is established between suction device 100 (suction device A) and the other suction device 100 (suction device B), the other suction device 100 (suction device B) sends a connection completion signal to suction device 100 (suction device A). The P2P connection establishment process may include, for example, a pairing process.

[0070] In step 211, the suction device 100 transitions to P2P connection mode. P2P connection mode is a mode in which multiple suction devices 100 are connected to each other via P2P and are able to send and receive data.

[0071] The suction device 100 can send and receive predetermined data with other suction devices 100 in P2P connection mode. The predetermined data is, for example, data relating to the heating of the aerosol source. The data relating to the heating of the aerosol source is, for example, a heating profile. The heating unit 121 of the suction device 100 can control the temperature change of the heating unit 121 using the heating profile. The heating profile may represent the target temperature of the heating unit 121 over time. Alternatively, if the resistance value of the heating unit 121 changes according to the temperature of the heating unit 121, the heating profile may represent the target resistance value of the heating unit 121 over time. Thus, the heating profile represents the target temperature or target resistance value of the heating unit 121 over time.

[0072] The suction device 100 of this disclosure can establish a P2P connection with other suction devices 100 and send and receive data related to the heating of an aerosol source. Specifically, the suction device 100 can send and receive heating profiles to and from other suction devices 100. For example, the suction device 100 can transmit a heating profile stored in itself to another suction device 100. The other suction device 100 can receive the heating profile from the suction device 100 and use the heating profile to control the temperature change of the heating unit 121. In this way, the suction device 100 of this disclosure enables suction devices 100 to establish a P2P connection and send and receive heating profiles.

[0073] The specified data may be any data that the suction device 100 uses or stores, such as user usage data.

[0074] In step 212, the suction device 100 notifies the user that the establishment of the P2P connection is complete (that it has transitioned to P2P connection mode). Note that the completion of the establishment of the P2P connection may also be defined as the transition to P2P connection mode. The notification unit 113 of the suction device 100 displays a UI indicating, for example, that the establishment of the P2P connection is complete (that it has transitioned to P2P connection mode). The notification unit 113 of the suction device 100 notifies the user that the establishment of the P2P connection is complete (that it has transitioned to P2P connection mode) by, for example, illuminating an LED in a predetermined manner. The notification unit 113 of the suction device 100 also notifies the user that the establishment of the P2P connection is complete (that it has transitioned to P2P connection mode) by, for example, vibrating the device in a predetermined manner. Furthermore, if the suction device 100 is equipped with a display as a notification unit 113, the notification unit 113 will, for example, display information on the display indicating that the establishment of a P2P connection has been completed (that the device has transitioned to P2P connection mode) and notify the user that the device has transitioned to P2P mode. Note that the method by which the suction device 100 notifies the user that the establishment of a P2P connection has been completed (that the device has transitioned to P2P connection mode) may be any method.

[0075] Furthermore, the suction device 100 may discontinue the P2P mode or P2P connection mode if it transitions to a predetermined state (predetermined mode), such as when the heating unit 121 is heating or when it is connected to a user terminal (not shown).

[0076] As described above, the suction device 100 of this disclosure transmits a connection request signal when the number of times it has been detected as another suction device 100 exceeds a predetermined number. The certain period of time may be any time, such as 10 seconds, 30 seconds, or 1 minute.

[0077] In one embodiment of this disclosure, each of the suction devices 100 is configured to establish a P2P connection when each user of the suction device 100 performs a predetermined action. For example, if user A and user B want to connect their respective suction devices 100A and 100B, user A may perform a predetermined action on suction device 100A and user B may perform a predetermined action on suction device 100B at a relatively close distance (e.g., about 1 m). Users A and B are likely to remain at a relatively close distance for a certain period of time until the communication connection between suction devices 100A and 100B is completed. In other words, in one embodiment of this disclosure, the suction devices 100 that are to be connected to each other are likely to be at a relatively close distance for a certain period of time.

[0078] If suction device 100 transmits a connection request signal after being detected as another suction device 100 only once, there is a risk that another suction device 100 that happens to be nearby and is in P2P mode will immediately transmit the same connection request signal and establish a communication connection with it.

[0079] In response to this, the suction device 100 of this disclosure transmits a connection request signal if the number of times it has been detected as another suction device 100 (suction device B) exceeds a predetermined number of times, indicating that the other suction device is nearby (at a relatively close distance). Each time the suction device 100 receives an advertised packet, it determines whether the advertised packet satisfies predetermined conditions, and if it satisfies those conditions, it detects the other suction device 100. That is, in order for the number of detections to exceed a predetermined number of times, the suction device 100 needs to receive advertised packets that satisfy predetermined conditions from the other suction device 100 a predetermined number of times. In order for the suction device 100 to receive advertised packets that satisfy predetermined conditions from the other suction device 100 a predetermined number of times, the suction device 100 and the other suction device 100 need to be nearby (at a relatively close distance) for a certain period of time. As described above, in one embodiment of this disclosure, there is a high probability that the suction devices 100 that you want to connect with each other are at a relatively close distance and are present for a certain period of time. Therefore, in one embodiment of this disclosure, if the detection count of another suction device 100 (suction device B) is set to send a connection request signal when the detection count exceeds a predetermined number, a communication connection can be established with another desired suction device 100 that has been present for a certain period of time at a relatively close distance to the suction device 100.

[0080] On the other hand, the suction device 100 of this disclosure does not transmit a connection request signal to other suction devices 100 whose detection count is less than a predetermined number, and does not establish a communication connection with such other suction devices 100. Other suction devices 100 whose detection count is less than a predetermined number are other suction devices 100 that have not been present at a relatively close distance to the suction device 100 for a certain period of time, and are highly likely to be other suction devices 100 that happened to be nearby. In other words, the suction device 100 of this disclosure can prevent establishing a communication connection with other suction devices 100 that happened to be nearby. Thus, when the suction device of this disclosure is connected via P2P, it can provide a technology that allows connection between desired suction devices.

[0081] 2-2 Example of how to handle cases where the P2P connection start request is not accepted Figure 4 is a sequence diagram showing an example of processing when at least one of multiple suction devices does not accept the initiation of a P2P connection. In Figure 4, the explanation will focus on the differences from Figure 3. Also, in Figure 4, 'step' will be abbreviated as 'S'.

[0082] Step 300 in Figure 4 is identical to Step 200 in Figure 3, so the explanation will be simplified.

[0083] In step 300, the suction device 100 detects a predetermined action performed by the user.

[0084] Step 301 shows a processing block for when the start of the P2P connection process is not accepted. In step 302, the suction device 100 checks whether it is in a predetermined state (predetermined mode). In step 303, based on the fact that it is in a predetermined state (predetermined mode), the suction device 100 does not accept the start of the P2P connection process even if it detects a predetermined action by the user.

[0085] A predetermined state (predetermined mode) is, for example, when the heating unit 121 is heating. In steps 301 to 303, the suction device 100 does not accept the start of the P2P connection process even if it detects a predetermined action by the user, based on the fact that the heating unit 121 is heating. The control unit 116 of the suction device 100 disables the transition to the P2P connection mode even if it detects a predetermined action by the user when the heating unit 121 is heating.

[0086] Step 304 shows other processing blocks when the start of the P2P connection process is not accepted. In step 305, the suction device 100 detects that it is connected to a user terminal (not shown). In step 306, based on the fact that it is connected to a user terminal (not shown), the suction device 100 does not accept the start of the P2P connection process even if it detects a predetermined action by the user.

[0087] The suction device 100 can connect to user terminals such as smartphones, tablets, mobile phones, personal computers, and laptops. When the suction device 100 is connected to one of these user terminals, it will not accept the start of the P2P connection process even if it detects a predetermined action by the user. The control unit 116 of the suction device 100 will disable the transition to P2P connection mode even if it detects a predetermined action by the user when it is connected to a user terminal.

[0088] Furthermore, if the suction device 100 is connected to a user terminal, instead of disabling the transition to P2P connection mode, it may be configured to temporarily disconnect from the user terminal and initiate a P2P connection process with another suction device 100. In this case, when the suction device 100 detects a predetermined action by the user, it temporarily disconnects from the user terminal, and therefore suspends or postpones the transmission and reception of data between the suction device 100 and the user terminal. After that, the suction device 100 temporarily disconnects from the user terminal. Then, the suction device 100 accepts the start of a P2P connection process with another suction device 100. The suction device 100 may also be configured to automatically restore the connection with the user terminal once the P2P connection with another suction device 100 is completed. The suction device 100 may also be configured to restore the connection with the user terminal in response to a user request (such as a predetermined input) once the P2P connection with another suction device 100 is completed. Once the connection between the suction device 100 and the user terminal is restored, the transmission and reception of the suspended or postponed data may be resumed.

[0089] Furthermore, the suction device 100 may terminate the P2P mode or P2P connection mode if it transitions to a predetermined state (predetermined mode), such as when the heating unit 121 is heating or when it is connected to a user terminal (not shown).

[0090] 2-3 Example of processing when canceling the P2P connection process Figure 5 is a sequence diagram showing an example of the process when at least one of multiple suction devices discontinues the P2P connection process. Note that Figure 5 will primarily explain the differences from Figure 3. Also, in Figure 5, 'step' will be abbreviated as 'S'.

[0091] Steps 400 to 408 in Figure 5 are identical to steps 200 to 208 in Figure 3, so the explanation will be simplified.

[0092] In step 400, the suction device 100 detects a predetermined action performed by the user.

[0093] In step 401, the suction device 100 transitions to P2P mode in response to detecting a predetermined action. The suction device 100 transitions to P2P mode and starts the connection process with other suction devices 100.

[0094] In step 402, the suction device 100 notifies the user that it has transitioned to P2P mode. The notification unit 113 of the suction device 100 displays, for example, a UI indicating that it has transitioned to P2P mode.

[0095] In step 403, the suction device 100 begins sending an advertisement packet and scanning for advertisement packets from other suction devices 100. The sending of advertisement packets and the scanning process will be described later.

[0096] In step 404, the suction device 100 starts a timer to terminate the process for initiating the P2P connection if it times out. If the timer times out, the suction device 100 terminates the process for initiating the P2P connection.

[0097] In step 405, the suction device 100 notifies other suction devices 100 that it is in a connection waiting state by broadcasting an advertisement packet. The suction device 100 also notifies other suction devices 100 that it is available for P2P connection by sending an advertisement packet.

[0098] In step 406, the suction device 100 scans for advertised packets from other suction devices 100. The suction device 100 receives advertised packets from other suction devices 100 and recognizes that there are other suction devices 100 in its vicinity that can be connected via P2P.

[0099] In step 407, the suction device 100 detects another suction device 100 (suction device B) that meets predetermined conditions. The suction device 100 also recognizes that another suction device is nearby if the number of times it has been detected as another suction device 100 (suction device B) is greater than or equal to a predetermined number. The predetermined number is, for example, a natural number of 2 or more.

[0100] In step 408, suction device 100 (suction device A) transmits a connection request signal to another suction device 100 (suction device B) that meets predetermined conditions. Suction device 100 transmits a connection request signal and requests the establishment of a P2P connection. The other suction device 100 that meets the predetermined conditions will be described later.

[0101] Step 409 shows a processing block for when, in step 408, no other suction device 100 (suction device B) that meets the predetermined conditions is found, and the suction device 100 (suction device A) cancels the P2P connection process.

[0102] In step 410, the suction device 100 (suction device A) recognizes that the timer for stopping the process of starting the P2P connection due to a timeout has timed out. The timeout period is, for example, 120 seconds or 5 minutes. However, the timeout period is not limited to these times and can be set arbitrarily.

[0103] In step 411, the suction device 100 (suction device A) stops transmitting advertisement packets and scanning advertisement packets from other suction devices 100. In other words, the suction device 100 terminates the P2P connection process. However, the transmission of advertisement packets may continue, for example, for the purpose of connecting with a user terminal (not shown).

[0104] In step 412, the suction device 100 notifies the user that the P2P connection process has been terminated. The notification unit 113 of the suction device 100 displays, for example, a UI indicating that the P2P connection process has been terminated. The notification unit 113 of the suction device 100 notifies the user that the P2P connection process has been terminated by, for example, illuminating an LED in a predetermined manner. Alternatively, the notification unit 113 of the suction device 100 notifies the user that the P2P connection process has been terminated by, for example, vibrating a vibration device in a predetermined manner. Furthermore, if the suction device 100 is equipped with a display as the notification unit 113, the notification unit 113 notifies the user that the P2P connection process has been terminated by, for example, displaying information on the display indicating that the P2P connection process has been terminated. Note that the method by which the suction device 100 notifies the user that the P2P connection process has been terminated may be any method.

[0105] Step 413 shows other processing blocks for when the suction device 100 stops the P2P connection process if the user cancels the P2P connection process at any time. In the example in Figure 5, the processing blocks are shown for when user B cancels the P2P connection process and the suction device 100B stops the P2P connection process.

[0106] In step 414, the suction device 100 detects a user's attempt to cancel the P2P connection process. A cancellation of the P2P connection process is an action performed by the user of the suction device 100 on the device itself. Actions for cancellation include, for example, the user opening the slider on the suction device 100, shaking the suction device 100, tracing a predetermined trajectory or characters using the suction device 100, or tapping the suction device 100. However, actions for cancellation are not limited to these examples.

[0107] The action for canceling the operation can be any action performed by the user on the suction device 100. For example, it could be an action such as the user pressing a predetermined button on the suction device 100.

[0108] In step 415, the suction device 100 (suction device A) stops transmitting advertisement packets and scanning advertisement packets from other suction devices 100. In other words, the suction device 100 terminates the P2P connection process. However, the transmission of advertisement packets may continue for the purpose of connecting with a user terminal (not shown).

[0109] In step 416, the suction device 100 notifies the user that the P2P connection process has been terminated. The notification unit 113 of the suction device 100 displays, for example, a UI indicating that the P2P connection process has been terminated. The notification unit 113 of the suction device 100 notifies the user that the P2P connection process has been terminated by, for example, illuminating an LED in a predetermined manner. Alternatively, the notification unit 113 of the suction device 100 notifies the user that the P2P connection process has been terminated by, for example, vibrating a vibration device in a predetermined manner. Furthermore, if the suction device 100 is equipped with a display as the notification unit 113, the notification unit 113 notifies the user that the P2P connection process has been terminated by, for example, displaying information on the display indicating that the P2P connection process has been terminated. Note that the method by which the suction device 100 notifies the user that the P2P connection process has been terminated may be any method.

[0110] Furthermore, the suction device 100 of this disclosure may terminate the P2P mode or P2P connection mode if it transitions to a predetermined state (predetermined mode), such as when the heating unit 121 is heating or when it is connected to a user terminal (not shown).

[0111] 2-4 Example of processing when the suction device 100 performs P2P connection processing Figure 6 is a flowchart showing an example of the process when at least one of multiple suction devices performs P2P connection processing.

[0112] In step 500, the suction device 100 checks whether it has detected a predetermined action by the user. The suction device 100 detects the predetermined action by the user, for example, using the control unit 116 and / or the sensor unit 112. The predetermined action is, for example, the user shaking the suction device 100, but is not limited to this. If the suction device 100 detects the predetermined action (YES in step 500), it proceeds to step 601. On the other hand, if the suction device 100 does not detect the predetermined action (NO in step 500), it repeats the check in step 500, for example, at predetermined intervals. The suction device 100 may be configured to execute a process to detect the predetermined action by the user only when it has detected the predetermined action by the user.

[0113] In step 501, the control unit 116 of the suction device 100 checks whether a predetermined state is in place. The predetermined state is, for example, when the heating unit 121 is heating. If the suction device 100 is in the predetermined state (YES in step 501), it proceeds to step 502. On the other hand, if the suction device 100 is not in the predetermined state (NO in step 501), it proceeds to step 503.

[0114] In step 502, the control unit 116 of the suction device 100 cancels the P2P connection process. For example, the suction device 100 does not accept the start of the P2P connection process.

[0115] In step 503, the control unit 116 of the suction device 100 starts the P2P connection process. The control unit 116 of the suction device 100 transitions to P2P mode, for example, when it detects a predetermined action. The suction device 100 may also notify the user that it has transitioned to P2P mode. The notification unit 113 of the suction device 100 displays a UI indicating that it has transitioned to P2P mode, for example.

[0116] In step 504, the control unit 116 of the suction device 100 checks whether the first signal received from another suction device 100 satisfies predetermined conditions. Based on the first signal satisfying the predetermined conditions (YES in step 504), the control unit 116 of the suction device 100 proceeds to step 505. On the other hand, based on the first signal not satisfying the predetermined conditions (NO in step 504), the control unit 116 of the suction device 100 returns to step 504. The first signal is, for example, an advertisement packet. The control unit 116 of the suction device 100 may also check whether each of the multiple first signals received from each of the multiple other suction devices satisfies predetermined conditions. Furthermore, the control unit 116 of the suction device 100 may also check whether each of the multiple predetermined conditions satisfies each of the multiple predetermined conditions. The cycle in which the suction device 100 executes step 504 can be arbitrarily set.

[0117] The predetermined conditions may include, if the first signal includes an identifier that can identify the manufacturer of another suction device, the identifier included in the first signal being a predetermined identifier indicating a predetermined manufacturer. Alternatively, if the first signal includes a first address indicating the destination of another suction device, the predetermined condition may be that the first address is smaller than the value of the second address indicating the destination of the device itself. If the value of the second address indicating the destination of the suction device 100 is greater than the value of the first address indicating the destination of the other suction device 100, the suction device 100 may be set as the central and the other suction device 100 as the peripheral in the communication connection. Furthermore, the predetermined condition may be that the received signal strength of the first signal is greater than a predetermined threshold. The predetermined threshold may be set based on the received signal strength of the first signal when the suction device 100 and the other suction device 100 are at a predetermined distance from each other. Note that the predetermined conditions may be some or all of a group of conditions. Also, the predetermined conditions may be a combination of multiple conditions.

[0118] The control unit 116 of the suction device 100 continues to detect other suction devices 100 that have transmitted a first signal satisfying the predetermined conditions until one of the other suction devices 100 has been detected two or more times. When one of the other suction devices 100 has been detected two or more times, the control unit 116 of the suction device 100 terminates the detection of that other suction device.

[0119] In step 505, the control unit 116 of the suction device 100 detects another suction device 100 and stores predetermined information about the other suction device 100 in the storage unit 114 of the suction device 100. The predetermined information about the other suction device 100 includes, for example, an identifier that can uniquely identify the other suction device 100, and information indicating the device attributes of the other suction device 100. For example, the identifier that can uniquely identify the other suction device 100 is, for example, the address of the other suction device 100. The suction device 100 can uniquely identify the other suction device 100 based on its address. The suction device 100 can also identify the device attributes, type, version, etc. of the other suction device 100 based on information indicating the device attributes.

[0120] In step 506, the control unit 116 of the suction device 100 counts the number of times it has detected each other suction device 100 for which predetermined information was stored in step 505 (detection count).

[0121] In step 507, the control unit 116 of the suction device 100 checks whether the number of detections counted in step 506 has reached a predetermined number. The predetermined number is, for example, 2 or more, and is 3. Note that the predetermined number is not limited to 3 and can be set arbitrarily. In step 507, the control unit 116 of the suction device 100 may also check whether the number of detections counted in step 506 is greater than the predetermined number.

[0122] The control unit 116 of the suction device 100 proceeds to step 508 if the detection count of any of the other suction devices 100 reaches a predetermined number (YES in step 507). On the other hand, if the detection count of any of the other suction devices 100 has not reached a predetermined number (NO in step 507), the suction device 100 returns to step 504.

[0123] In step 508, the control unit 116 of the suction device 100 determines another suction device 100 whose detection count has reached a predetermined number of times as the suction device 100 to be connected. For example, the control unit 116 of the suction device 100 determines another suction device 100 whose detection count has reached 3 times as the suction device 100 to be connected.

[0124] In step 509, the control unit 116 of the suction device 100 transmits a second signal. The second signal is, for example, a connection request signal. The control unit 116 of the suction device 100 transmits a connection request signal as the second signal, requesting the establishment of a P2P connection. When the establishment of a P2P connection between the suction device 100 and the other suction device 100 is complete, the other suction device 100 transmits a connection completion signal to the suction device 100. The P2P connection establishment process may include a pairing process.

[0125] In step 510, the control unit 116 of the suction device 100 checks whether the P2P connection was successful. The control unit 116 of the suction device 100 checks whether it has received a connection completion signal from the other suction device 100. If the control unit 116 of the suction device 100 has received a connection completion signal from the other suction device 100, it confirms that the P2P connection was successful.

[0126] If the control unit 116 of the suction device 100 confirms that the P2P connection is successful (YES in step 510), it proceeds to step 511. On the other hand, if the suction device 100 fails to confirm that the P2P connection is successful, for example, within a predetermined time (NO in step 510), it proceeds to step 502 and cancels the P2P connection process.

[0127] In step 511, the control unit 116 of the suction device 100 transitions to P2P connection mode. P2P connection mode is a state in which predetermined data can be sent and received between, for example, the suction device 100 and other suction devices 100. The predetermined data is, for example, data related to the heating of the aerosol source, including a heating profile. The predetermined data can be any data that the suction device 100 uses or stores, such as user usage data. The suction device 100 may also notify the user that it has transitioned to P2P connection mode. The notification unit 113 of the suction device 100 displays, for example, a UI indicating that it has transitioned to P2P connection mode.

[0128] Furthermore, the suction device 100 of this disclosure may terminate the P2P mode or P2P connection mode if it transitions to a predetermined state (predetermined mode), such as when the heating unit 121 is heating or when it is connected to a user terminal (not shown).

[0129] As described above, the suction device 100 of this disclosure recognizes the presence of another suction device 100 (suction device B) in the vicinity when the number of times it has been detected as another suction device 100 (suction device B) exceeds a predetermined number of times, and transmits a connection request signal. By configuring the suction device 100 to recognize the presence of another suction device in the vicinity when the number of times it has been detected as another suction device 100 (suction device B) exceeds a predetermined number of times, it becomes possible to transmit a connection request signal to another suction device 100 that has been continuously present in the vicinity of the suction device 100 for a certain period of time. Therefore, the suction device 100 of this disclosure can establish a communication connection with any other suction device 100 that is desired. In other words, when the suction device of this disclosure is connected via P2P, it can provide a technology that enables connection between desired suction devices.

[0130] Furthermore, as described above, the suction device 100 of this disclosure may detect another suction device (suction device B) based on whether the first signal received from that suction device (suction device B) satisfies each of a plurality of predetermined conditions. The predetermined conditions include the conditions of the other suction device 100 that the suction device 100 wishes to connect to. By checking whether the plurality of predetermined conditions are met, the suction device 100 can confirm from multiple perspectives whether the other suction device 100 is a desired suction device to connect to. Then, if each of the plurality of predetermined conditions is met, the suction device 100 can send a connection request signal to the other suction device 100. In other words, when the suction device of this disclosure is connected via P2P, it can provide a technology that enables connection between desired suction devices.

[0131] 2-5 Other processing examples when the suction device 100 performs P2P connection processing (Part 1) Figures 7A and 7B are flowcharts illustrating another processing example (part 1) when at least one of multiple suction devices performs P2P connection processing.

[0132] In step 600, the suction device 100 checks whether it has detected a predetermined action by the user. The suction device 100 detects the predetermined action by the user, for example, using the control unit 116 and / or the sensor unit 112. The predetermined action is, for example, the user shaking the suction device 100, but is not limited to this. If the suction device 100 detects the predetermined action (YES in step 600), it proceeds to step 601. On the other hand, if the suction device 100 does not detect the predetermined action (NO in step 600), it repeats the check in step 600, for example, at predetermined intervals. The suction device 100 may be configured to execute a process to detect the predetermined action by the user only when it has detected the predetermined action by the user.

[0133] In step 601, the control unit 116 of the suction device 100 checks whether it is in a predetermined state. The predetermined state is, for example, when the heating unit 121 is heating or when it is connected to a user terminal. If the suction device 100 is in a predetermined state (YES in step 601), it proceeds to step 602. On the other hand, if the suction device 100 is not in a predetermined state (NO in step 601), it proceeds to step 603.

[0134] In step 602, the control unit 116 of the suction device 100 cancels the P2P connection process. For example, the suction device 100 does not accept the start of the P2P connection process.

[0135] In step 603, the control unit 116 of the suction device 100 starts the P2P connection process. The suction device 100 may also notify the user that it has transitioned to P2P mode. The notification unit 113 of the suction device 100 displays, for example, a UI indicating that it has transitioned to P2P mode.

[0136] In step 604, the control unit 116 of the suction device 100 starts a timer to abort the process of starting the P2P connection due to a timeout.

[0137] In step 605, the control unit 116 of the suction device 100 checks whether it has received an advertisement packet from another suction device 100. If the control unit 116 of the suction device 100 has received an advertisement packet from another suction device 100 (YES in step 605), it proceeds to step 606. If the control unit 116 of the suction device 100 has not received an advertisement packet from another suction device 100 (NO in step 605), it returns to step 605.

[0138] In step 606, the control unit 116 of the suction device 100 checks whether the advertisement packet received from another suction device 100 contains a predetermined identifier. The predetermined identifier may be an identifier indicating the manufacturer of the suction device 100 (for example, a company ID). The control unit 116 of the suction device 100 checks whether the advertisement packet received from another suction device 100 contains a predetermined company ID.

[0139] A suction device 100 manufactured by a predetermined manufacturer may be configured to transmit an advertisement packet containing a company ID that identifies the predetermined manufacturer. In this case, all suction devices 100 manufactured by the same manufacturer will include the same company ID in the advertisement packets they transmit. Suction devices 100 manufactured by the same manufacturer can, for example, establish a P2P connection with each other and send and receive predetermined data. The control unit 116 of the suction device 100 can recognize that another suction device 100 is capable of P2P connection with its own device based on the fact that the advertisement packet received from that suction device 100 contains a predetermined company ID. Note that the identifier identifying the predetermined manufacturer is not limited to a company ID, but may be any identifier that can identify the predetermined manufacturer.

[0140] Furthermore, the predetermined identifier may be, for example, an identifier indicating the attributes of the suction device 100. The information indicating the attributes of the suction device 100 may include, for example, the device type, model number, and version information of the suction device 100. If the device type, model number, and version information of the suction device 100 can be recognized, it can be recognized whether or not a P2P connection is possible with the device itself. In other words, the control unit 116 of the suction device 100 can recognize whether or not a P2P connection is possible with the device itself based on the identifier indicating the attributes of the other suction device 100 contained in the advertisement packet received from the other suction device 100.

[0141] Furthermore, the predetermined identifier may be, for example, an identifier that can uniquely identify the suction device 100. If the device of the suction device 100 can be uniquely identified, the type, model number, version information, etc. of the suction device can be identified. An identifier that can uniquely identify the suction device 100 is, for example, the address of the suction device 100, but is not limited to this. As a result, the suction device 100 can recognize whether or not other suction devices 100 can establish a P2P connection with it. That is, the control unit 116 of the suction device 100 can recognize whether or not other suction devices 100 can establish a P2P connection with it based on an identifier that can uniquely identify the other suction device 100 contained in an advertisement packet received from the other suction device 100.

[0142] In step 606, the control unit 116 of the suction device 100 proceeds to step 607 if the advertisement packet received from the other suction device 100 contains a predetermined identifier (YES in step 606). On the other hand, if the advertisement packet received from the other suction device 100 does not contain a predetermined identifier (NO in step 606), the control unit 116 of the suction device 100 returns to step 605.

[0143] In step 607, the control unit 116 of the suction device 100 checks whether the address number (value) of the other suction device 100 included in the advertisement packet received from the other suction device 100 is smaller than the address number (value) of its own device. If the address number (value) of the other suction device 100 is smaller than the address number (value) of its own device (YES in step 607), the control unit 116 of the suction device 100 proceeds to step 608. On the other hand, if the address number (value) of the other suction device 100 is not smaller than (larger than) the address number (value) of its own device (NO in step 607), the control unit 116 of the suction device 100 returns to step 605.

[0144] In a P2P connection, one of the two suction devices 100, 100, is configured as the central (master), and the other as the peripheral (slave). The suction device 100 configured as the central (master) sends a connection request signal to the other suction device 100 configured as the peripheral (slave). In a P2P connection, it is necessary to determine which suction device 100 sends the connection request signal, that is, to determine which suction device 100 is the central (master). In this embodiment, the suction device 100 with a larger address number (value) is configured to be the central (master) suction device 100. Therefore, in step 607, the suction device 100 checks whether the address number (value) of the other suction device 100 included in the advertisement packet received from the other suction device 100 is smaller than the address number (value) of its own device. Furthermore, if the address number (value) of another suction device 100 is smaller than the address number (value) of this device (i.e., if the address number (value) of this device is larger than the address number (value) of another suction device 100), this device becomes the central (master) device.

[0145] In step 608, the control unit 116 of the suction device 100 checks whether the received strength of the advertised packet received from another suction device 100 is greater than a predetermined value. If the received strength is greater than the predetermined value (YES in step 608), the control unit 116 of the suction device 100 proceeds to step 609. On the other hand, if the received strength is less than the predetermined value (NO in step 608), the suction device 100 returns to step 605.

[0146] The control unit 116 of the suction device 100 can recognize the distance between itself and the other suction device 100 based on the received strength of the advertisement packets received from the other suction device 100. When the received strength is high, the distance between the suction device 100 and the other suction device 100 is close. On the other hand, when the received strength is low, the distance between the suction device 100 and the other suction device 100 is far. The closer the distance between the suction device 100 and the other suction device 100, the higher the received strength of the advertisement packets received by the suction device 100 from the other suction device 100.

[0147] In step 608, the predetermined value that the control unit 116 of the suction device 100 compares with the received strength of the advertisement packet received from the other suction device 100 can be set to any value. For example, the predetermined value may be the received strength value when the distance between the suction device 100 and the other suction device 100 is a predetermined distance. The predetermined distance can be set to any distance, such as 50 [cm] or 1 [m]. For example, if the received strength when the distance between the suction device 100 and the other suction device 100 is 1 [m] is set as the predetermined value, the control unit 116 of the suction device 100 will be able to recognize in step 608 whether the distance between the suction device 100 and the other suction device 100 is within 1 [m].

[0148] In step 609, the control unit 116 of the suction device 100 detects another suction device 100 and stores predetermined information about the other suction device 100 in the storage unit 114 of the suction device 100. The predetermined information about the other suction device 100 is, for example, information about the other suction device 100 included in the advertisement packet, which is the first signal. The predetermined information about the other suction device 100 may be, for example, an identifier that can uniquely identify the other suction device 100, or information indicating the device attributes of the other suction device 100. The control unit 116 of the suction device 100 may temporarily store the predetermined information about the other suction device 100 in the storage unit 114 of the suction device 100. The predetermined information temporarily stored in the storage unit 114 may be erased, for example, when transitioning to P2P connection mode in step 615, which will be described later, or when canceling the P2P connection process in step 602. The timing for erasing the predetermined information temporarily stored in the storage unit 114 is not limited to these examples. For example, any case is acceptable, such as when the destination suction device 100 is determined in step 612, which will be described later.

[0149] In step 610, the control unit 116 of the suction device 100 counts the number of times it has been detected (detection count) for each other suction device 100 that stored predetermined information in step 609. Specifically, the control unit 116 of the suction device 100 increments the detection count stored for each other suction device 100 that stored predetermined information in step 609. For example, the control unit 116 of the suction device 100 increments the detection count from "0" to "1" for each other suction device 100 that stored predetermined information for the first time in step 609. Also, if the control unit 116 of the suction device 100 had already stored the predetermined information once in step 610, for example, it increments the detection count from "1" to "2".

[0150] In step 611, the control unit 116 of the suction device 100 checks whether the number of detections counted in step 610 has reached a predetermined number. The predetermined number is, for example, 3 times. However, the predetermined number is not limited to 3 times and can be set arbitrarily. In step 611, the control unit 116 of the suction device 100 may also check whether the number of detections counted in step 610 is greater than the predetermined number.

[0151] The control unit 116 of the suction device 100 proceeds to step 612 if the detection count of any of the other suction devices 100 reaches a predetermined number (YES in step 611). On the other hand, if the detection count of any of the other suction devices 100 has not reached a predetermined number (NO in step 611), the suction device 100 returns to step 605.

[0152] In step 612, the control unit 116 of the suction device 100 determines another suction device 100 whose detection count has reached a predetermined number of times as the suction device 100 to be connected. For example, the control unit 116 of the suction device 100 determines another suction device 100 whose detection count has reached 3 times as the suction device 100 to be connected.

[0153] In step 613, the control unit 116 of the suction device 100 transmits a connection request signal. The control unit 116 of the suction device 100 transmits a connection request signal and requests the establishment of a P2P connection. When the establishment of a P2P connection between the suction device 100 and the other suction device 100 is complete, the other suction device 100 transmits a connection completion signal to the suction device 100. The P2P connection establishment process may include a pairing process.

[0154] In step 614, the control unit 116 of the suction device 100 checks whether the P2P connection was successful. The control unit 116 of the suction device 100 checks whether it has received a connection completion signal from the other suction device 100. If the control unit 116 of the suction device 100 has received a connection completion signal from the other suction device 100, it confirms that the P2P connection was successful.

[0155] If the control unit 116 of the suction device 100 confirms that the P2P connection is successful (YES in step 614), it proceeds to step 615. On the other hand, if the suction device 100 fails to confirm that the P2P connection is successful within the time of the timer started in step 604, for example (NO in step 614), it proceeds to step 602 and cancels the P2P connection process.

[0156] In step 615, the control unit 116 of the suction device 100 transitions to P2P connection mode. P2P connection mode is a state in which predetermined data can be sent and received between, for example, the suction device 100 and other suction devices 100. The predetermined data is, for example, data related to the heating of the aerosol source, including a heating profile. The predetermined data can be any data that the suction device 100 uses or stores, such as user usage data. The suction device 100 may also notify the user that it has transitioned to P2P connection mode. The notification unit 113 of the suction device 100 displays, for example, a UI indicating that it has transitioned to P2P connection mode.

[0157] Furthermore, the suction device 100 of this disclosure may terminate the P2P mode or P2P connection mode if it transitions to a predetermined state (predetermined mode), such as when the heating unit 121 is heating or when it is connected to a user terminal (not shown).

[0158] As described above, the suction device 100 of this disclosure recognizes the presence of another suction device 100 (suction device B) in the vicinity when the number of detections as another suction device 100 (suction device B) exceeds a predetermined number, as shown in steps 610 to 613, and transmits a connection request signal. By configuring the suction device 100 to recognize the presence of another suction device in the vicinity when the number of detections as another suction device 100 (suction device B) exceeds a predetermined number, it becomes possible to transmit a connection request signal to another suction device 100 that has been continuously present in the vicinity of the suction device 100 for a certain period of time. Therefore, the suction device 100 of this disclosure can establish a communication connection with any other suction device 100. In other words, when the suction device of this disclosure is connected via P2P, it can provide a technology that enables connection between desired suction devices.

[0159] Furthermore, as shown in steps 606 to 608, the suction device 100 of this disclosure may detect another suction device (suction device B) based on whether the first signal received from the other suction device (suction device B) satisfies each of a plurality of predetermined conditions. The predetermined conditions include the conditions of the other suction device 100 that the suction device 100 wishes to connect to. By checking whether the plurality of predetermined conditions are met, the suction device 100 can confirm from multiple perspectives whether the other suction device 100 is a desired suction device to connect to. Then, if each of the plurality of predetermined conditions is met, the suction device 100 can send a connection request signal to the other suction device 100. In other words, when the suction device of this disclosure is connected via P2P, it can provide a technology that enables connection between desired suction devices.

[0160] 2-6 Other processing examples when the suction device 100 performs P2P connection processing (Part 2) Figures 8A and 8B are flowcharts showing another example of processing (part 2) when at least one of multiple suction devices performs P2P connection processing.

[0161] In step 700, the suction device 100 checks whether it has detected a predetermined action by the user. The suction device 100 detects the predetermined action by the user, for example, using the control unit 116 and / or the sensor unit 112. The predetermined action is, for example, the user shaking the suction device 100, but is not limited to this. If the suction device 100 detects the predetermined action (YES in step 700), it proceeds to step 701. On the other hand, if the suction device 100 does not detect the predetermined action (NO in step 700), it repeats the check in step 700, for example, at predetermined intervals. The suction device 100 may be configured to execute a process to detect the predetermined action by the user only when it has detected the predetermined action by the user.

[0162] In step 701, the control unit 116 of the suction device 100 checks whether it is in a predetermined state. The predetermined state is, for example, when the heating unit 121 is heating or when it is connected to a user terminal. If the suction device 100 is in a predetermined state (YES in step 701), it proceeds to step 702. On the other hand, if the suction device 100 is not in a predetermined state (NO in step 701), it proceeds to step 703.

[0163] In step 702, the control unit 116 of the suction device 100 cancels the P2P connection process. For example, the suction device 100 does not accept the start of the P2P connection process.

[0164] In step 703, the control unit 116 of the suction device 100 starts the P2P connection process. The suction device 100 may also notify the user that it has transitioned to P2P mode. The notification unit 113 of the suction device 100 displays, for example, a UI indicating that it has transitioned to P2P mode.

[0165] In step 704, the control unit 116 of the suction device 100 starts a timer to abort the process of starting the P2P connection due to a timeout.

[0166] In step 705, the control unit 116 of the suction device 100 checks whether the device holds predetermined data. The predetermined data is, for example, data related to the heating of the aerosol source, including a heating profile. The predetermined data may be any data that the suction device 100 uses or stores, such as user usage data. If the suction device 100 holds the predetermined data (YES in step 705), it proceeds to step 706. On the other hand, if the suction device 100 does not hold the predetermined data (NO in step 705), it proceeds to step 707.

[0167] In step 706, the control unit 116 of the suction device 100 includes information indicating that it holds predetermined data in an advertisement packet to be sent to another suction device 100, and sends the advertisement packet to the other suction device 100. For example, the control unit 116 of the suction device 100 stores information indicating that it holds predetermined data in a predetermined area of ​​the advertisement packet to be sent to the other suction device 100. The predetermined area is an area that stores a flag (predetermined information) indicating whether or not it holds predetermined data. If the information "1" is stored in the predetermined area, it indicates that the device holds the predetermined data. On the other hand, if information other than "1" (for example, "0") is stored in the predetermined area, it indicates that the device does not hold the predetermined data. In step 706, the control unit 116 of the suction device 100 stores the information "1" in a predetermined area of ​​the advertisement packet to be sent to the other suction device 100. The suction device 100 includes information in the advertisement packet indicating that it holds predetermined data, so it can notify other suction devices 100 that it holds predetermined data. For example, if another suction device 100 finds that the information "1" is stored in a predetermined area of ​​the received advertisement packet, it can determine that the suction device 100 that sent the advertisement packet holds predetermined data.

[0168] In step 707, the control unit 116 of the suction device 100 transmits an advertisement packet to another suction device 100 without including information indicating that it holds predetermined data. For example, the control unit 116 of the suction device 100 does not store information indicating that it holds predetermined data in a predetermined area of ​​the advertisement packet transmitted to the other suction device 100. For example, the control unit 116 of the suction device 100 does not store the information "1" in a predetermined area of ​​the advertisement packet transmitted to the other suction device 100. In this way, the control unit 116 of the suction device 100 can notify the other suction device 100 that it does not hold predetermined data by not including information indicating that it holds predetermined data (for example, the information "1") in a predetermined area of ​​the advertisement packet transmitted to the other suction device 100. In this case, the predetermined area of ​​the advertisement packet may contain no information, or information other than information indicating that it holds predetermined data (for example, the information "1"). For example, if the predetermined area of ​​the received advertisement packet does not contain the information "1", another suction device 100 can determine that the suction device 100 that sent the advertisement packet does not hold the predetermined data.

[0169] In step 707, the control unit 116 of the suction device 100 may include information in the advertisement packet it sends to other suction devices 100 indicating that it does not hold the predetermined data. For example, the control unit 116 of the suction device 100 stores the information "0" in a predetermined area of ​​the advertisement packet it sends to other suction devices 100 as information indicating that it does not hold the predetermined data. Since the suction device 100 includes information in the advertisement packet indicating that it does not hold the predetermined data, it can notify other suction devices 100 that it does not hold the predetermined data. For example, if another suction device 100 finds the information "0" stored in a predetermined area of ​​the received advertisement packet, it can determine that the suction device 100 that sent the advertisement packet does not hold the predetermined data.

[0170] In step 708, the control unit 116 of the suction device 100 checks whether it has received an advertisement packet from another suction device 100. If the control unit 116 of the suction device 100 has received an advertisement packet from another suction device 100 (YES in step 708), it proceeds to step 709. If the control unit 116 of the suction device 100 has not received an advertisement packet from another suction device 100 (NO in step 708), it returns to step 708.

[0171] In step 709, the control unit 116 of the suction device 100 checks whether the advertisement packet received from another suction device 100 contains a predetermined identifier. The predetermined identifier may be an identifier indicating the manufacturer of the suction device 100 (for example, a company ID). The control unit 116 of the suction device 100 checks whether the advertisement packet received from another suction device 100 contains a predetermined company ID.

[0172] In step 710, the control unit 116 of the suction device 100 checks whether the device holds predetermined data. For example, the control unit 116 of the suction device 100 checks whether predetermined data is stored in the device's memory or the like. If the device holds the predetermined data (YES in step 710), the control unit 116 of the suction device 100 proceeds to step 712. If the device does not hold the predetermined data (NO in step 710), the control unit 116 of the suction device 100 proceeds to step 711.

[0173] In step 711, the control unit 116 of the suction device 100 checks whether the other suction device 100 holds predetermined data. If the other suction device 100 holds predetermined data (YES in step 711), the control unit 116 of the suction device 100 proceeds to step 712. For example, if the advertisement packet received from the other suction device 100 contains information indicating that it holds predetermined data, the control unit 116 of the suction device 100 determines that the other suction device 100 holds predetermined data. For example, if the advertisement packet received from the other suction device 100 contains the information "1" in a predetermined area, the control unit 116 of the suction device 100 determines that the other suction device 100 holds predetermined data. On the other hand, if the other suction device 100 does not hold predetermined data (NO in step 711), the control unit 116 of the suction device 100 returns to step 708. For example, the control unit 116 of the suction device 100 determines that the other suction device 100 does not hold the predetermined data if the advertisement packet received from the other suction device 100 contains information indicating that it does not hold the predetermined data. For example, the control unit 116 of the suction device 100 determines that the other suction device 100 does not hold the predetermined data if a predetermined area of ​​the advertisement packet received from the other suction device 100 contains the information "0". The control unit 116 of the suction device 100 may also determine that the other suction device 100 does not hold the predetermined data if a predetermined area of ​​the advertisement packet to be sent to the other suction device 100 does not contain information indicating that it holds the predetermined data (for example, the information "1"). In this case, the predetermined area of ​​the advertisement packet may contain no information, or information other than information indicating that it holds the predetermined data (for example, the information "1").

[0174] In step 710 or step 711, the control unit 116 of the suction device 100 proceeds to the next step (step 712) in the connection process with the other suction device 100 if at least one of its own device or the other suction device 100 holds predetermined data. On the other hand, in step 710 or step 711, if neither its own device nor the other suction device 100 holds the predetermined data, the control unit 116 of the suction device 100 returns to step 708 and does not proceed to the next step (step 712). Therefore, the suction device 100 can permit a P2P connection with the other suction device 100 if either its own device or the other suction device 100 holds the predetermined data. In other words, the suction device 100 does not permit a P2P connection with the other suction device 100 if neither its own device nor the other suction device 100 holds the predetermined data, thereby preventing the establishment of unnecessary P2P connections.

[0175] Note that in Figures 8A and 8B, the order of steps 710 and 711 may be reversed. That is, the control unit 116 of the suction device 100 may check whether another suction device 100 holds the predetermined data, and if that other suction device 100 does not hold the predetermined data, it may check whether its own device holds the predetermined data.

[0176] In step 712, the control unit 116 of the suction device 100 checks whether the address number (value) of the other suction device 100 included in the advertisement packet received from the other suction device 100 is smaller than the address number (value) of its own device. If the address number (value) of the other suction device 100 is smaller than the address number (value) of its own device (YES in step 712), the control unit 116 of the suction device 100 proceeds to step 713. On the other hand, if the address number (value) of the other suction device 100 is not smaller than (larger than) the address number (value) of its own device (NO in step 712), the control unit 116 of the suction device 100 returns to step 708.

[0177] In a P2P connection, one of the two suction devices 100, 100, is configured as the central (master), and the other as the peripheral (slave). The suction device 100 configured as the central (master) sends a connection request signal to the other suction device 100 configured as the peripheral (slave). In a P2P connection, it is necessary to determine which suction device 100 will send the connection request signal, that is, to determine which suction device 100 is the central (master). In this embodiment, the suction device 100 with a larger address number (value) is configured to be the central (master) suction device 100. Therefore, in step 712, the suction device 100 checks whether the address number (value) of the other suction device 100 included in the advertisement packet received from the other suction device 100 is smaller than the address number (value) of its own device. Furthermore, if the address number (value) of another suction device 100 is smaller than the address number (value) of this device (i.e., if the address number (value) of this device is larger than the address number (value) of another suction device 100), this device becomes the central (master) device.

[0178] In step 713, the control unit 116 of the suction device 100 checks whether the received strength of the advertised packet received from another suction device 100 is greater than a predetermined value. If the received strength is greater than the predetermined value (YES in step 713), the control unit 116 of the suction device 100 proceeds to step 714. On the other hand, if the received strength is less than the predetermined value (NO in step 713), the suction device 100 returns to step 708.

[0179] The control unit 116 of the suction device 100 can recognize the distance between itself and the other suction device 100 based on the received strength of the advertisement packets received from the other suction device 100. When the received strength is high, the distance between the suction device 100 and the other suction device 100 is close. On the other hand, when the received strength is low, the distance between the suction device 100 and the other suction device 100 is far. The closer the distance between the suction device 100 and the other suction device 100, the higher the received strength of the advertisement packets received by the suction device 100 from the other suction device 100.

[0180] In step 713, the predetermined value that the control unit 116 of the suction device 100 compares with the received strength of the advertisement packet received from the other suction device 100 can be set to any value. For example, the predetermined value may be the received strength value when the distance between the suction device 100 and the other suction device 100 is a predetermined distance. The predetermined distance can be set to any distance, such as 50 [cm] or 1 [m]. For example, if the received strength when the distance between the suction device 100 and the other suction device 100 is 1 [m] is set as the predetermined value, the control unit 116 of the suction device 100 will be able to recognize in step 713 whether the distance between the suction device 100 and the other suction device 100 is within 1 [m].

[0181] In step 714, the control unit 116 of the suction device 100 detects another suction device 100 and stores predetermined information about the other suction device 100 in the storage unit 114 of the suction device 100. The predetermined information about the other suction device 100 is, for example, information about the other suction device 100 included in the advertisement packet, which is the first signal. The predetermined information about the other suction device 100 may be, for example, an identifier that can uniquely identify the other suction device 100, or information indicating the device attributes of the other suction device 100. The control unit 116 of the suction device 100 may temporarily store the predetermined information about the other suction device 100 in the storage unit 114 of the suction device 100. The predetermined information temporarily stored in the storage unit 114 may be erased, for example, when transitioning to P2P connection mode in step 720, which will be described later, or when canceling the P2P connection process in step 702. The timing for erasing the predetermined information temporarily stored in the storage unit 114 is not limited to these examples. For example, any case is acceptable, such as when the destination suction device 100 is determined in step 717, which will be described later.

[0182] In step 715, the control unit 116 of the suction device 100 counts the number of times it has been detected (detection count) for each other suction device 100 that stored predetermined information in step 714. Specifically, the control unit 116 of the suction device 100 increments the detection count stored for each other suction device 100 that stored predetermined information in step 714. For example, the control unit 116 of the suction device 100 increments the detection count from "0" to "1" for each other suction device 100 that stored predetermined information for the first time in step 714. Also, if the control unit 116 of the suction device 100 had already stored the predetermined information once in step 714, for example, it increments the detection count from "1" to "2".

[0183] In step 716, the control unit 116 of the suction device 100 checks whether the number of detections counted in step 715 has reached a predetermined number. The predetermined number is, for example, 3 times. However, the predetermined number is not limited to 3 times and can be set arbitrarily. In step 716, the control unit 116 of the suction device 100 may also check whether the number of detections counted in step 715 is greater than the predetermined number.

[0184] The control unit 116 of the suction device 100 proceeds to step 717 if the detection count of any of the other suction devices 100 reaches a predetermined number (YES in step 716). On the other hand, if the detection count of any of the other suction devices 100 has not reached a predetermined number (NO in step 716), the suction device 100 returns to step 708.

[0185] In step 717, the control unit 116 of the suction device 100 determines another suction device 100 whose detection count has reached a predetermined number of times as the suction device 100 to be connected. For example, the control unit 116 of the suction device 100 determines another suction device 100 whose detection count has reached 3 times as the suction device 100 to be connected.

[0186] In step 718, the control unit 116 of the suction device 100 transmits a connection request signal. The control unit 116 of the suction device 100 transmits a connection request signal and requests the establishment of a P2P connection. When the establishment of a P2P connection between the suction device 100 and the other suction device 100 is complete, the other suction device 100 transmits a connection completion signal to the suction device 100. The P2P connection establishment process may include a pairing process.

[0187] In step 719, the control unit 116 of the suction device 100 checks whether the P2P connection was successful. The control unit 116 of the suction device 100 checks whether it has received a connection completion signal from the other suction device 100. If the control unit 116 of the suction device 100 has received a connection completion signal from the other suction device 100, it confirms that the P2P connection was successful.

[0188] If the control unit 116 of the suction device 100 confirms that the P2P connection is successful (YES in step 719), it proceeds to step 720. On the other hand, if the suction device 100 fails to confirm that the P2P connection is successful within the time of the timer started in step 704, for example (NO in step 719), it proceeds to step 702 and cancels the P2P connection process.

[0189] In step 720, the control unit 116 of the suction device 100 transitions to P2P connection mode. P2P connection mode is a state in which predetermined data can be sent and received between, for example, the suction device 100 and other suction devices 100. The predetermined data is, for example, data related to the heating of the aerosol source, including a heating profile. The predetermined data can be any data that the suction device 100 uses or stores, such as user usage data. The suction device 100 may also notify the user that it has transitioned to P2P connection mode. The notification unit 113 of the suction device 100 displays, for example, a UI indicating that it has transitioned to P2P connection mode.

[0190] Furthermore, the suction device 100 of this disclosure may terminate the P2P mode or P2P connection mode if it transitions to a predetermined state (predetermined mode), such as when the heating unit 121 is heating or when it is connected to a user terminal (not shown).

[0191] As described above, the suction device 100 of this disclosure proceeds to the next step in the connection process with the other suction device 100 if at least one of its own device or the other suction device 100 holds predetermined data, as in step 710 or 711. On the other hand, if in step 710 or 711 neither its own device nor the other suction device 100 holds predetermined data, the suction device 100 does not proceed to the next step in the connection process with the other suction device 100. Therefore, the suction device 100 can permit a P2P connection with the other suction device 100 if either its own device or the other suction device 100 holds predetermined data. In other words, the suction device 100 does not permit a P2P connection with the other suction device 100 if neither its own device nor the other suction device 100 holds predetermined data, thereby preventing the establishment of unnecessary P2P connections.

[0192] Although one embodiment of the power supply unit, control method, and control program of the suction device of this disclosure has been described above with reference to the drawings, it goes without saying that the present invention is not limited to this embodiment. 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 will naturally also fall within the technical scope of the present invention.

[0193] For example, the specific numerical values ​​described in the aforementioned embodiments are merely examples and are not limiting.

[0194] Furthermore, the control method 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 (for example, 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 (for example, a smartphone or server).

[0195] 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.

[0196] [Feature 1] A control method for the power supply unit of a suction device capable of generating aerosols by heating an aerosol source, A detection step in which a first signal received from another suction device satisfies predetermined conditions, If the number of times the other suction device has been detected reaches two or more predetermined times, a transmission step is made to transmit a second signal to the other suction device requesting the establishment of a communication connection. A determination step in which, based on the receipt of a response signal to the second signal from the other suction device, it is determined that the communication connection with the other suction device has been successful, Based on the determination that the communication connection has been successful, a transition step is taken to transition to a state in which predetermined data relating to the heating of the aerosol source can be sent and received. A control method including

[0197] [Feature 2] In the detection step, it is determined whether a predetermined condition is met for each of the multiple first signals received from each of the multiple other suction devices, and the other suction device that transmitted the first signal that meets the predetermined condition is detected. The control method described in Feature 1.

[0198] [Feature 3] In the detection step, the detection of other suction devices is continued until one of the plurality of other suction devices has been detected a predetermined number of times. The control method described in Feature 2.

[0199] [Feature 4] In the detection step, if any of the other suction devices has been detected a predetermined number of times, the detection of that other suction device is terminated. The control method described in Feature 2 or 3.

[0200] [Feature 5] If the detection step detects another suction device, the system further includes a storage step that stores the number of times the other suction device has been detected. In the storage step, the number of detections is stored for each of the multiple other suction devices. A control method described in any of features 1 to 4.

[0201] [Feature 6] In the storage step, information included in the first signal, relating to the detected other suction device, is stored. In the transmission step, based on the stored information regarding the other suction device, the second signal is transmitted to the other suction device. A control method described in any of Feature 5.

[0202] [Feature 7] The process further includes a determination step of determining the other suction device as the suction device to be connected to, based on the fact that the number of times the other suction device has been detected has reached two or more predetermined times. The control method described in Features 1 to 6.

[0203] [Feature 8] The process further includes a receiving step of starting a scanning process for a first signal from the other suction device based on the detection of a predetermined action by the user, Even if a predetermined action by the user is detected in the receiving step, the scanning process is not started while the aerosol source is being heated. A control method described in any of features 1 to 7.

[0204] [Feature 9] The process further includes a receiving step of starting a scanning process for a first signal from the other suction device based on the detection of a predetermined action by the user, In the receiving step, even if a predetermined action by the user is detected, if the user terminal of the suction device and the suction device are in communication connection, the scanning process will not be started. The control method described in Features 1 to 8.

[0205] [Feature 10] The first signal is an advertisement packet, The second signal is a connection request signal, Based on the fact that the advertisement packet received from the other suction device satisfies predetermined conditions, the other suction device is detected. In the transmission step, the connection request signal is transmitted to the other suction devices among the plurality of other suction devices whose detection count has reached the predetermined number. A control method described in any of features 1 to 9.

[0206] [Feature 11] The method further includes a verification step of confirming whether the device itself and at least one of the other suction devices hold the predetermined data, In the detection step, if at least one of the self-device and the other suction device holds the predetermined data, the other suction device is detected based on the fact that the first signal received from the other suction device satisfies the predetermined conditions. A control method described in any of features 1 to 10.

[0207] [Feature 12] A power supply unit for a suction device capable of generating aerosols by heating an aerosol source, A communication unit that receives a first signal from another suction device, Includes a control unit that detects the other suction device based on the fact that the received first signal satisfies predetermined conditions, The aforementioned communications unit is When the number of times the other suction device has been detected reaches two or more predetermined times, a second signal is transmitted to the other suction device requesting the establishment of a communication connection. The control unit, Based on the receipt of a response signal to the second signal from the other suction device, it is determined that the communication connection with the other suction device has been successful. Based on the determination that the aforementioned communication connection was successful, the system transitions to a state where predetermined data can be sent and received. Power supply unit.

[0208] [Feature 13] A program that causes a computer controlling the power supply unit of a suction device capable of generating aerosols by heating an aerosol source to perform predetermined processing, To the aforementioned computer, A detection step in which a first signal received from another suction device satisfies predetermined conditions, If the number of times the other suction device has been detected reaches two or more predetermined times, a transmission step is made to transmit a second signal to the other suction device requesting the establishment of a communication connection. A determination step in which, based on the receipt of a response signal to the second signal from the other suction device, it is determined that the communication connection with the other suction device has been successful, A transition step in which, based on the determination that the aforementioned communication connection has been successful, the system transitions to a state in which predetermined data can be sent and received, A program that executes the command. [Explanation of Symbols]

[0209] 100 Suction device 110 Power supply unit, 111 Power supply section (power supply), 112 Sensor section 113 Notification Unit, 114 Memory Unit, 115 Communication Unit 116 Control Unit (Computer) 120 Cartridge, 121 Heating section, 122 Liquid induction section, 123 Liquid storage section 124 Mouthpiece 130 Flavoring cartridges, 131 Flavoring source 140 Storage compartment, 141 Internal space, 142 Opening, 143 Bottom 150 Stick-type base material, 151 Base material part, 152 Suction nozzle part 180 Airflow channel

Claims

1. A control method for the power supply unit of a suction device capable of generating aerosols by heating an aerosol source, A detection step in which a first signal received from another suction device satisfies predetermined conditions, If the number of times the other suction device has been detected reaches two or more predetermined times, a transmission step is made to transmit a second signal to the other suction device requesting the establishment of a communication connection. A determination step in which, based on the receipt of a response signal to the second signal from the other suction device, it is determined that the communication connection with the other suction device has been successful, Based on the determination that the communication connection has been successful, a transition step is taken to transition to a state in which predetermined data relating to the heating of the aerosol source can be sent and received. A receiving step in which, based on the detection of a predetermined action by the user, a scanning process for the first signal from the other suction device is initiated, Includes, A control method in which, even if a predetermined action by the user is detected in the receiving step, the scanning process is not started while the aerosol source is being heated.

2. In the detection step, it is determined whether each of the multiple first signals received from each of the multiple other suction devices satisfies a predetermined condition, and the other suction device that transmitted the first signal satisfying the predetermined condition is detected among the multiple other suction devices. The control method according to claim 1.

3. In the detection step, the detection of other suction devices is continued until one of the plurality of other suction devices has been detected a predetermined number of times. The control method according to claim 2.

4. In the detection step, if any of the other suction devices has been detected a predetermined number of times, the detection of that other suction device is terminated. The control method according to claim 2.

5. If the detection step detects another suction device, the system further includes a storage step that stores the number of times the other suction device has been detected. In the storage step, the number of detections is stored for each of the multiple other suction devices. The control method according to claim 1.

6. In the storage step, information included in the first signal, relating to the detected other suction device, is stored. In the transmission step, based on the stored information regarding the other suction device, the second signal is transmitted to the other suction device. The control method according to claim 5.

7. The process further includes a determination step in which, based on the number of times the other suction device has been detected reaching two or more predetermined times, the other suction device is determined to be the suction device to be connected to. The control method according to claim 1.

8. The first signal is an advertisement packet, The second signal is a connection request signal, Based on the fact that the advertisement packet received from the other suction device satisfies predetermined conditions, the other suction device is detected. In the transmission step, the connection request signal is transmitted to the other suction devices among the plurality of other suction devices whose detection count has reached the predetermined number. The control method according to claim 1.

9. The process further includes a receiving step of starting a scanning process for a first signal from the other suction device based on the detection of a predetermined action by the user, In the receiving step, even if a predetermined action by the user is detected, if the user terminal of the suction device and the suction device are in communication connection, the scanning process will not be started. The control method according to any one of claims 1 to 8.

10. The method further includes a verification step of confirming whether the device itself and at least one of the other suction devices hold the predetermined data, In the detection step, if at least one of the self-device and the other suction device holds the predetermined data, the other suction device is detected based on the fact that the first signal received from the other suction device satisfies the predetermined conditions. The control method according to any one of claims 1 to 8.

11. A power supply unit for a suction device capable of generating aerosols by heating an aerosol source, A communication unit that receives a first signal from another suction device, Includes a control unit that detects the other suction device based on the fact that the received first signal satisfies predetermined conditions, The aforementioned communications unit is When the number of times the other suction device has been detected reaches two or more predetermined times, a second signal requesting the establishment of a communication connection is transmitted to the other suction device. The control unit, Based on the receipt of a response signal to the second signal from the other suction device, it is determined that the communication connection with the other suction device has been successful. Based on the determination that the communication connection has been successful, the system transitions to a state where predetermined data related to the heating of the aerosol source can be sent and received. Based on the detection of a predetermined user action, the scanning process for the first signal from the other suction device is initiated; however, while the aerosol source is being heated, the scanning process is not initiated even if the predetermined user action is detected. Power supply unit.

12. A program that causes a computer controlling the power supply unit of a suction device capable of generating aerosols by heating an aerosol source to perform predetermined processing, To the aforementioned computer, A detection step in which a first signal received from another suction device satisfies predetermined conditions, If the number of times the other suction device has been detected reaches two or more predetermined times, a transmission step is made to transmit a second signal to the other suction device requesting the establishment of a communication connection. A determination step in which, based on the receipt of a response signal to the second signal from the other suction device, it is determined that the communication connection with the other suction device has been successful, Based on the determination that the communication connection has been successful, a transition step is taken to transition to a state in which predetermined data relating to the heating of the aerosol source can be sent and received. A receiving step in which, based on the detection of a predetermined action by the user, a scanning process for the first signal from the other suction device is initiated, Make it run, A program that, even if it detects a predetermined action by the user in the receiving step, does not start the scanning process while the aerosol source is being heated.

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