Suction device, control method, and program

Abstract

An inhalation device (100B) that generates an aerosol from a stick-type base material (150) having an aerosol source and delivers the generated aerosol to a user via a mouthpiece (124B), comprises: a main body part that is configured so as to be able to mount the stick-type base material (150) and the mouthpiece (124B); a sensor part (112B) that includes an input part that accepts an input from the user; and a control part (116B) that controls the operation of the inhalation device (100B). The control part (116B) causes the inhalation device (100B) to operate in accordance with the input accepted by means of the input unit when the stick-type base material (150) and the mouthpiece (124B) are mounted to the main body part of the inhalation device (100B).

Description

Technical Field

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

Background Art

[0002] Conventionally, for example, an inhaler that generates an aerosol to which a flavor component is added and allows a user to inhale the generated aerosol is known. Such an inhaler typically delivers the aerosol generated by heating a substrate configured to include an aerosol source with a heating unit (also referred to as a "heating element") that is an electric resistance type or induction heating type heater to the user. In addition, some such inhalers have a so-called "child resistance function" to prevent inconveniences caused by misuse by children (for example, infants and young children).

[0003] For example, Patent Document 1 below discloses that, as a child resistance function, in order to restrict access to the contents of a container, a combination of two or more different actions such as pressing while rotating a cap is required.

[0004] In addition, Patent Document 2 below discloses that a mouthpiece that relatively moves with respect to a main body portion between a first position and a second position is biased to the first position by a spring or the like so as to switch the device between a stopped state and an operating state, and the device is maintained in the stopped state against a predetermined biasing force. And it is disclosed that the predetermined biasing force can be selected to exceed the normal force (expected hand force) of an infant in order to make the switching of the device to the operating state child-resistant.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0005]

Patent Document 1

Patent Document 2

[0006] However, the history of suction device technology development is still relatively short. Therefore, there was room for improvement in the child-resistant function of suction devices from the perspective of enhancing their performance.

[0007] The present invention provides a suction device, control method, and program that can better suppress the occurrence of problems due to misuse by children. [Means for solving the problem]

[0008] The first invention is, A suction device that generates an aerosol from a substrate having an aerosol source and delivers the generated aerosol to a user via a mouthpiece, The main body is configured to allow the substrate and the mouthpiece to be attached individually, An input unit that receives input from the user, A control unit that controls the operation of the suction device, Equipped with, The main body is equipped with a heating unit that heats the substrate attached to the main body to generate the aerosol, and is further configured to allow the attachment of a cap that covers the mouthpiece attached to the main body. The control unit, It is possible to individually detect whether the substrate and the mouthpiece are attached to the main body. The aforementioned The suction device is activated when the cap attached to the main body is removed. After the suction device is activated, When the input unit detects that the substrate and the mouthpiece are attached to the main body, Start heating Received thing in response The generation of the aerosol by the heating unit To have it done, It is a suction device. Furthermore, the second invention is, A suction device that generates an aerosol from a substrate having an aerosol source and delivers the generated aerosol to a user via a mouthpiece, The main body is configured to allow the substrate and the mouthpiece to be attached individually, An input unit that receives input from the user, A control unit that controls the operation of the suction device, A notification unit capable of sending predetermined notifications to the user, Equipped with, The main body includes a heating unit that heats the substrate attached to the main body to generate the aerosol, The control unit, It is possible to individually detect whether the substrate and the mouthpiece are attached to the main body. When the substrate is attached to the main body, the notification unit is given a first notification; when the mouthpiece is attached to the main body, the notification unit is given a second notification; when the input unit receives a heating start instruction, the notification unit is given a third notification, and the heating unit is given the opportunity to generate the aerosol. It is a suction device.

[0009] No. 3 The invention is a control method performed by a computer that controls the operation of a suction device that generates an aerosol from a substrate having an aerosol source and delivers the generated aerosol to a user via a mouthpiece, wherein the suction device is configured to be individually attachable with the substrate and the mouthpiece, an input unit that receives an input from a user, and is provided with The main body is equipped with a heating unit that heats the substrate attached to the main body to generate the aerosol, and is further configured to allow the attachment of a cap that covers the mouthpiece attached to the main body. The computer is capable of individually detecting whether the substrate and the mouthpiece are attached to the main body. when the computer detects that the The suction device is activated when the cap attached to the main body is removed. After the suction device is activated, substrate and the mouthpiece are attached to the main body, causes the input unit to Start heating perform according to thing the The generation of the aerosol by the heating unit received input, which is a control method. Furthermore, the fourth invention is, A control method performed by a computer that controls the operation of a suction device that generates an aerosol from a substrate having an aerosol source and delivers the generated aerosol to a user via a mouthpiece, The aforementioned suction device is The main body is configured to allow the substrate and the mouthpiece to be attached individually, An input unit that receives input from the user, A notification unit capable of sending predetermined notifications to the user, Equipped with, The main body includes a heating unit that heats the substrate attached to the main body to generate the aerosol, The computer is capable of individually detecting whether the substrate and the mouthpiece are attached to the main body. The aforementioned computer, When the substrate is attached to the main body, the notification unit is given a first notification; when the mouthpiece is attached to the main body, the notification unit is given a second notification; when the input unit receives a heating start instruction, the notification unit is given a third notification, and the heating unit is given the opportunity to generate the aerosol. This is a control method.

[0010] The 5 The invention is, A program executed by a computer that controls the operation of a suction device that generates an aerosol from a substrate having an aerosol source and delivers the generated aerosol to a user via a mouthpiece, The aforementioned suction device is The main body is configured to allow the substrate and the mouthpiece to be attached individually, An input unit that receives input from the user, Equipped with, The main body is equipped with a heating unit that heats the substrate attached to the main body to generate the aerosol, and is further configured to allow the attachment of a cap that covers the mouthpiece attached to the main body. The computer is capable of individually detecting whether the substrate and the mouthpiece are attached to the main body. To the aforementioned computer, The aforementioned The suction device is activated when the cap attached to the main body is removed. After the suction device is activated, When it is detected that the substrate and the mouthpiece are attached to the main body, the input unit Start heating Received thing in response The generation of the aerosol by the heating unit To have it done, It is a program. Furthermore, the sixth invention is, A program executed by a computer that controls the operation of a suction device that generates an aerosol from a substrate having an aerosol source and delivers the generated aerosol to a user via a mouthpiece, The aforementioned suction device is The main body is configured to allow the substrate and the mouthpiece to be attached individually, An input unit that receives input from the user, A notification unit capable of sending predetermined notifications to the user, Equipped with, The main body includes a heating unit that heats the substrate attached to the main body to generate the aerosol, The computer is capable of individually detecting whether the substrate and the mouthpiece are attached to the main body. To the aforementioned computer, When the substrate is attached to the main body, the notification unit is given a first notification; when the mouthpiece is attached to the main body, the notification unit is given a second notification; when the input unit receives a heating start instruction, the notification unit is given a third notification, and the heating unit is given the opportunity to generate the aerosol. It is a program. [Effects of the Invention]

[0011] According to the present invention, it is possible to provide a suction device, control method, and program that can more effectively suppress the occurrence of problems due to misuse by children. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0012] [Figure 1A] Figure 1A is a schematic diagram illustrating a first example configuration of a suction device. [Figure 1B] Figure 1B is a schematic diagram illustrating a second example configuration of the suction device. [Figure 2A] Figure 2A is a front view of the suction device 100B with the cap 20 removed. [Figure 2B] Figure 2B is a front view of the suction device 100B with the cap 20 attached. [Figure 3A] Figure 3A is a perspective view of the suction device 100B with the cap 20 removed. [Figure 3B] Figure 3B is a perspective view of the suction device 100B with the mouthpiece 124B and stick-type substrate 150 removed. [Figure 4] Figure 4 shows a first example of the specific operation of the suction device 100B. [Figure 5] Figure 5 shows a second example of the specific operation of the suction device 100B. [Figure 6] Figure 6 shows a third example of the specific operation of the suction device 100B. [Figure 7] Figure 7 shows a fourth example of the specific operation of the suction device 100B. [Figure 8] Figure 8 shows another example of the light-emitting unit 14. [Figure 9] Figure 9 shows a fifth example of the specific operation of the suction device 100B. [Figure 10] Figure 10 shows an example of the display unit 15. [Figure 11] Figure 11 shows a sixth example of the specific operation of the suction device 100B. [Figure 12] Figure 12 is a flowchart showing an example of a process performed by the control unit 116B. [Figure 13] Figure 13 shows a modified example of the suction device 100B shown in Figure 1B. [Figure 14] Figure 14 shows an example of the conditions for generating aerosols using the heating unit 121 and the conditions for communicating with an external device via the communication unit 115. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0013] Hereinafter, a suction device, control method, and program according to one embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings. In the following, identical or similar elements will be denoted by the same or similar reference numerals, and their descriptions may be omitted or simplified as appropriate.

[0014] <<1. Example of Suction Device Configuration>> The suction device of this embodiment is a device that generates a substance to be aspirated by the user. In the following description, the substance generated by the suction device will be described as an aerosol. Alternatively, the substance generated by the suction device may be a gas.

[0015] (1) First example configuration Figure 1A is a schematic diagram illustrating a first configuration example of a suction device. As shown in Figure 1A, 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 124A. Air passages 180 are formed in the cartridge 120 and the flavoring cartridge 130.

[0016] 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.

[0017] 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 that functions as an input unit that receives information from the user (for example, various instructions), such as an operation button (for example, the operation button 13 described later) or a switch.

[0018] For example, the sensor unit 112A includes a pressure sensor (also called a "puff sensor") that detects changes in pressure (i.e., internal pressure) inside the suction device 100A caused by the user's suction. The sensor unit 112A may also include a flow sensor that detects the flow rate caused by the user's suction, and a temperature sensor (also called a "puff thermistor") that detects the temperature of the heating unit 121A or the area around the heating unit 121A.

[0019] Furthermore, in this embodiment, a substrate detection sensor for detecting the mounting status of the cartridge 120 and / or the flavoring cartridge 130 may be included in the sensor unit 112A. The substrate detection sensor is configured to include, for example, a sensor that detects capacitance, inductance, or pressure inside the suction device 100A that changes depending on whether or not the cartridge 120 etc. is installed, and detects whether or not the cartridge 120 etc. is installed based on the detection result of the sensor. As another example, the substrate detection sensor may be configured to include an optical sensor such as a reflective photosensor, and optically detect whether or not the cartridge 120 etc. is installed.

[0020] Furthermore, in this embodiment, a mouthpiece detection sensor for detecting the mounting status of the mouthpiece 124A may be included in the sensor unit 112A. The mouthpiece detection sensor is configured to include, for example, a sensor that detects capacitance that changes depending on whether or not the mouthpiece 124A is mounted, or a sensor that detects the pressure inside the suction device 100A, and detects whether or not the mouthpiece 124A is mounted based on the detection result of the sensor. As another example, the mouthpiece detection sensor may detect whether or not the mouthpiece 124A is mounted based on the presence or absence of electrical contact between an electrode provided on the suction device 100A (for example, the main body 10 described later) and an electrode provided on the mouthpiece 124A. As yet another example, the mouthpiece detection sensor may be configured to include an optical sensor such as a reflective photosensor, and optically detect whether or not the mouthpiece 124A is mounted. Alternatively, the sensor unit 112A may detect whether or not the mouthpiece 124A is mounted based on information input from the user, by having the user input information indicating whether or not the mouthpiece 124A is mounted.

[0021] Furthermore, in this embodiment, a cap detection sensor for detecting the mounting state of the cap 20 (described later) may be included in the sensor unit 112A. The cap detection sensor is configured to include, for example, a sensor that detects capacitance which changes depending on whether or not the cap 20 is attached to the suction device 100A (for example, the main body 10 described later), and detects whether or not the cap 20 is attached based on the detection result of the sensor. As another example, the cap detection sensor may detect whether or not the cap 20 is attached based on the presence or absence of electrical contact between an electrode provided on the suction device 100A (for example, the main body 10 described later) and an electrode provided on the cap 20. As yet another example, the cap detection sensor may be configured to include an optical sensor such as a reflective photosensor, and optically detect whether or not the cap 20 is attached. Alternatively, the sensor unit 112A may detect whether or not the cap 20 is attached based on information input from the user, by having the user input information indicating whether or not the cap 20 is attached.

[0022] The notification unit 113A notifies the user of information. The notification unit 113A is composed of, for example, a light-emitting device (e.g., the light-emitting unit 14 described later), a display device that displays an image (e.g., the display unit 15 described later), a sound output device that outputs sound, or a vibration device that vibrates.

[0023] 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.

[0024] 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).

[0025] 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.

[0026] The liquid storage unit 123 stores the aerosol source. That is, a cartridge 120 having a liquid storage unit 123 for storing an aerosol source is an example of a substrate having an 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.

[0027] 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.

[0028] The heating unit 121A generates an aerosol by heating the aerosol source, thereby atomizing it. In the example shown in Figure 1A, 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 to the heating unit 121A when the sensor unit 112A detects that the user has started suctioning and / or that predetermined information has been input. Power may then be stopped when the sensor unit 112A detects that the user has finished suctioning and / or that predetermined information has been input. The user's suctioning operation with respect to the suction device 100A can be detected, for example, based on the pressure (internal pressure) inside the suction device 100A detected by the puff sensor exceeding a predetermined threshold.

[0029] 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.

[0030] 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.

[0031] The mouthpiece 124A is a component that the user holds in their mouth during suction. The mouthpiece 124A has an air outlet 182. By holding the mouthpiece 124A in their mouth and suctioning, the user can take in a mixed fluid of aerosol and air into their oral cavity. In other words, the suction device 100A delivers the generated aerosol to the user via the mouthpiece 124A.

[0032] 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.

[0033] For example, the inhalation device 100A does not necessarily have to include a flavoring cartridge 130. In that case, a mouthpiece 124A is provided on the cartridge 120.

[0034] As another example, the suction device 100A may further include a second heating unit for heating the flavor source 131. In this case, the second heating unit is, for example, configured in the form of a film and arranged to cover the outer circumference of the flavoring cartridge 130. The second heating unit generates heat when power is supplied from the power supply unit 111A, heating the flavoring cartridge 130 from the outside. By providing such a second heating unit, the temperature of the flavor source 131 can be increased compared to when the second heating unit is not provided, making it possible to increase the amount of flavor components imparted to the aerosol. When such a second heating unit is provided, the second heating unit is controlled, for example, to reach a predetermined target temperature, similar to the heating unit 121B described later.

[0035] 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.

[0036] 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.

[0037] (2) Second example configuration Figure 1B is a schematic diagram illustrating a second configuration example of the suction device. As shown in Figure 1B, 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.

[0038] 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.

[0039] In the sensor unit 112B, the substrate detection sensor is configured to include a sensor that detects capacitance, inductance, or pressure inside the suction device 100B, which changes depending on whether or not the stick-type substrate 150 (described later) is attached to the suction device 100B (for example, the main body unit 10 described later). Based on the detection result of the sensor, it detects whether or not the stick-type substrate 150 is attached. As another example, this substrate detection sensor may optically detect whether or not the stick-type substrate 150 is attached.

[0040] Furthermore, in the sensor unit 112B, the mouthpiece detection sensor is configured to include a sensor that detects capacitance that changes depending on whether the mouthpiece 124B (described later) is attached to the suction device 100B (for example, the main body 10 described later), or the pressure inside the suction device 100B, and detects whether the mouthpiece 124B is attached or not based on the detection result of the sensor. As another example, the mouthpiece detection sensor may detect whether the mouthpiece 124B is attached or not based on the presence or absence of electrical contact between an electrode provided on the suction device 100B (for example, the main body 10 described later) and an electrode provided on the mouthpiece 124B. As yet another example, the mouthpiece detection sensor may optically detect whether the mouthpiece 124B is attached or not. Alternatively, the sensor unit 112B may detect whether the mouthpiece 124B is attached or not based on information input by the user.

[0041] Furthermore, in the sensor unit 112B, the cap detection sensor is configured to include a sensor that detects capacitance which changes depending on whether the cap 20 (described later) is attached to the suction device 100B (for example, the main body 10 described later), and detects whether the cap 20 is attached or not based on the detection result of the sensor. As another example, this cap detection sensor may detect whether the cap 20 is attached or not based on the presence or absence of electrical contact between an electrode provided on the suction device 100B (for example, the main body 10 described later) and an electrode provided on the cap 20. As yet another example, this cap detection sensor may optically detect whether the cap 20 is attached or not. Alternatively, the sensor unit 112B may detect whether the cap 20 is attached or not based on information input by the user.

[0042] The housing section 140 has an internal space 141 and holds the stick-type substrate 150 while housing a portion of the stick-type substrate 150 in the internal space 141. The housing section 140 has an opening 142 that communicates the internal space 141 with 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 100. 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. The base material portion 151 includes an aerosol source. That is, the stick-type base material 150 is another example of a base material containing an aerosol source. The aerosol source contains flavor 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 contain a drug. The aerosol source may be a liquid such as water, including glycerin and polyhydric alcohols such as propylene glycol, which contain flavor components derived from tobacco or non-tobacco, or it may be a solid containing flavor components derived from tobacco or non-tobacco.

[0044] With the stick-shaped base material 150 held in the housing section 140, at least a portion of the base material 151 is housed in the internal space 141. The mouthpiece 124B of the suction device 100B is attached so as to cover the stick-shaped base material 150 housed in the housing section 140. When the user puts the mouthpiece 124B in their mouth and inhales, air flows into the internal space 141 via an air channel (not shown) and reaches the user's oral cavity along with the aerosol generated from the base material 151. In other words, the suction device 100B delivers the generated aerosol to the user via the mouthpiece 124B.

[0045] In the example shown in Figure 1B, the heating element 121B is configured as a film and is positioned to cover the outer circumference of the housing 140. When the heating element 121B generates heat, the base material portion 151 of the stick-type base material 150 is heated from the outer circumference, and an aerosol is generated.

[0046] 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.

[0047] 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.

[0048] 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.

[0049] 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.

[0050] 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.

[0051] 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.

[0052] <<2. Example of the external configuration of a suction device>> Next, an example of the external configuration of the suction device 100 (100A, 100B) of this embodiment will be described. Here, the suction device 100 will be described as the suction device 100B shown in Figure 1B, but it is not limited to this, and the same can be applied when the suction device 100A shown in Figure 1A is used.

[0053] Figure 2A is a front view of the suction device 100B with the cap 20 removed. Figure 2B is a front view of the suction device 100B with the cap 20 attached. Figure 3A is a perspective view of the suction device 100B with the cap 20 removed. Figure 3B is a perspective view of the suction device 100B with the mouthpiece 124B and stick-type base material 150 removed.

[0054] As shown in Figures 2A, 2B, 3A, and 3B, the suction device 100B includes a main body 10 having a rod shape that extends along a predetermined direction (hereinafter also referred to as the "longitudinal direction X"). The main body 10 is constructed by housing various components of the suction device 100B shown in Figure 1B, such as the power supply unit 111B, sensor unit 112B, notification unit 113B, storage unit 114B, communication unit 115B, control unit 116B, and heating unit 121B, inside a cylindrical main body housing 11. Note that the main body 10 is not limited to a rod shape, and may be, for example, rectangular, egg-shaped, or elliptical.

[0055] A mouthpiece 124B is attached to the top portion 11a located at one end of the main body portion 10 in the longitudinal direction X. As shown in Figures 3A and 3B, the mouthpiece 124B includes a base portion 125 that can be fitted into a mouthpiece holder 12 provided on the top portion 11a, and a cylindrical mouthpiece portion 126 that protrudes from the base portion 125.

[0056] The mouthpiece 124B is attached to the main body 10 by fitting its base portion 125 into the mouthpiece holder 12 of the main body 10, with the mouthpiece portion 126 facing away from the main body 10. Furthermore, if the mouthpiece 124B attached to the main body 10 is pulled with a force greater than a certain amount in the direction opposite to the main body 10, the base portion 125 will detach from the mouthpiece holder 12. This makes it possible to remove the mouthpiece 124B from the main body 10. In this way, the main body 10 is configured to allow the mouthpiece 124B to be attached and detached (i.e., mounted).

[0057] Furthermore, an opening 142 is provided in the top portion 11a. The opening 142 is provided so as to overlap with the mouthpiece holder 12 when viewed from the longitudinal direction X. When the mouthpiece 124B is attached to the main body portion 10, the opening 142 is covered by the mouthpiece 124B and becomes difficult for the user to see. On the other hand, by removing the mouthpiece 124B from the main body portion 10, the user can easily insert the stick-type base material 150 into the housing portion 140 inside the main body portion 10 through the opening 142, or easily remove the stick-type base material 150 that has been housed in the housing portion 140.

[0058] Furthermore, as shown in Figure 2B, a cap 20 can be attached to the top portion 11a to cover the mouthpiece 124B attached to the main body portion 10. When the user is not inhaling aerosols using the inhalation device 100B (i.e., smoking), the cap 20 can be attached to the main body portion 10 to prevent the mouthpiece 124B from being exposed to the outside, thereby keeping the mouthpiece 124B hygienic.

[0059] The bottom portion 11b, located on the other end of the main body 10 in the longitudinal direction X, is provided with a charging terminal (not shown) that can be electrically connected to an external power source. A USB terminal (e.g., a USB Type-C terminal) may be used as this charging terminal. The user can charge the power supply unit 111B using the power from the external power source by connecting the suction device 100B to the external power source via this charging terminal. This charging terminal may also be used to connect the suction device 100B to an external device (e.g., another device such as the user's smartphone) via a wired connection.

[0060] An operation button 13 and a light-emitting unit 14 are provided on the side of the main body 10, at a position between the top portion 11a and the bottom portion 11b. The operation button 13 is an example of an operation unit that can be pressed by the user, and may be composed of a push-button type operation button that can be physically pressed by the user. As another example, the operation button 13 may be composed of a capacitive or resistive touch sensor.

[0061] The light-emitting section 14 is an example of a light-emitting section, and is composed of, for example, one or more light-emitting elements. As the light-emitting elements of the light-emitting section 14, for example, LEDs (Light Emitting Diodes) may be used. As an example, the light-emitting section 14 has multiple LEDs with different emission colors and is configured to emit light in multiple emission colors including blue, yellow, and red.

[0062] The light-emitting unit 14 notifies the user of predetermined information by emitting light in a predetermined light-emitting manner according to the control of the control unit 116B. Here, the light-emitting manner can be, for example, the color of the light emitted, but is not limited to this, and may also be, for example, the strength of the illumination intensity (in other words, brightness), or the illumination pattern (for example, blinking at predetermined time intervals). Examples of notifications made by the light-emitting unit 14 include the first notification, the second notification, and the third notification described later.

[0063] <<3. Example of suction device operation>> Next, an example of the operation of the suction device 100 of this embodiment will be described. The control unit 116 (116A, 116B) can operate the suction device 100 based on input from the user. As an example, the control unit 116 will cause the heating unit 121 (121A, 121B) to generate an aerosol in response to a heating start instruction from the user.

[0064] The heating start instruction is, for example, a predetermined operation (hereinafter also referred to as the "heating start operation") that instructs the suction device 100 to start heating. In this embodiment, an operation using the operation button 13 is defined as a predetermined operation (described later) and is called the heating start operation (i.e., the heating start instruction).

[0065] For example, if the inhalation device 100 is the inhalation device 100A shown in Figure 1A, the control unit 116A, upon detecting the start of heating, generates an aerosol for a certain period thereafter (e.g., 5 mins) in response to the inhalation operation on the inhalation device 100A. More specifically, at this time, the control unit 116A supplies a predetermined amount of power to the heating unit 121A to generate an aerosol each time it detects an inhalation operation on the inhalation device 100A based on the detection result of the puff sensor. The power supplied to the heating unit 121A is predetermined by the manufacturer of the inhalation device 100A, for example, so that an appropriate amount of aerosol containing an appropriate amount of flavor components is generated. This provides the user with a high-quality smoking experience.

[0066] Furthermore, if the suction device 100 is the suction device 100B shown in Figure 1B, the control unit 116B detects the start of heating operation and starts temperature control of the heating unit 121B based on a pre-prepared heating profile. Here, the heating profile is information that defines the time-series progression of the target temperature, which is the target temperature of the heating unit 121B, and is stored in advance, for example, in the storage unit 114B.

[0067] To elaborate on the temperature control of the heating unit 121B based on the heating profile (hereinafter also referred to as "heating control based on the heating profile"), the control unit 116B controls the temperature of the heating unit 121B based on the difference between the target temperature corresponding to the elapsed time since the start of the heating control based on the heating profile and the actual temperature of the heating unit 121B (hereinafter also referred to as "actual temperature"). More specifically, at this time, the control unit 116B controls the temperature of the heating unit 121B so that the time series change of the actual temperature of the heating unit 121B is the same as the time series change of the target temperature defined in the heating profile.

[0068] The temperature of the heating unit 121B can be controlled, for example, by known feedback control. For instance, the control unit 116B supplies power from the power supply unit 111B to the heating unit 121B in the form of pulses obtained by pulse width modulation (PWM) or pulse frequency modulation (PFM). In this case, the control unit 116B can control the temperature of the heating unit 121B by adjusting the duty cycle of the power pulses.

[0069] In feedback control, the control unit 116B can control the power supplied to the heating unit 121B, such as the duty cycle, based on the difference between the actual temperature and the target temperature. Alternatively, the feedback control may be, for example, PID control (Proportional-Integral-Differential Controller). Or, the control unit 116B may perform simple ON-OFF control. For example, the control unit 116B may perform heating by the heating unit 121B until the actual temperature reaches the target temperature, stop heating by the heating unit 121B when the actual temperature reaches the target temperature, and restart heating by the heating unit 121B when the actual temperature falls below the target temperature.

[0070] The temperature of the heating section 121B can be obtained (in other words, quantified) by, for example, measuring or estimating the electrical resistance of the heat-generating resistor that constitutes the heating section 121B. This is because the electrical resistance of the heat-generating resistor changes with temperature. The electrical resistance of the heat-generating resistor can be estimated (i.e., obtained) by, for example, measuring the voltage drop across the heat-generating resistor. The voltage drop across the heat-generating resistor can be measured (i.e., obtained) by a voltage sensor that measures the potential difference applied to the heat-generating resistor. As another example, the temperature of the heating section 121B may be measured by a temperature sensor (puff thermistor) installed near the heating section 121B.

[0071] The heating profile is typically designed to optimize the flavor the user experiences when inhaling the aerosol generated from the stick-type substrate 150. Therefore, by controlling the temperature of the heating unit 121B based on the heating profile, the flavor the user experiences can be optimized, providing the user with a high-quality smoking experience.

[0072] Incidentally, in suction devices that generate substances to be aspirated by the user, such as suction device 100, a so-called "child-resistant function" (hereinafter also referred to as "CR function") may be implemented to prevent problems arising from misuse by children of a mischievous age (for example, infants and toddlers under 3 years of age; hereinafter also simply referred to as "children"). For example, a CR function in such a suction device could be such that a predetermined operation, such as the generation of a substance to be aspirated, is performed only when a predetermined operation is performed on the control unit (for example, an operation button) provided on the suction device.

[0073] However, the history of suction device technology development is still relatively short, and there is room for improvement in the CR function of suction devices. Ideally, such a CR function in a suction device should be able to suppress problems caused by misuse by children without significantly compromising convenience for legitimate users such as adults (e.g., adults aged 20 and over).

[0074] Therefore, in this embodiment, the control unit 116 causes the inhalation device 100 to perform an operation in response to input received from the user when a substrate having an aerosol source, such as a cartridge 120, a flavoring cartridge 130, or a stick-type substrate 150, and a mouthpiece 124 (124A, 124B) that delivers the generated aerosol to the user are attached to the main body 10 of the inhalation device 100. This prevents the inhalation device 100 from operating in response to input from users such as children who do not understand the correct way to use the inhalation device 100, such as attaching the substrate having an aerosol source and the mouthpiece 124 to the main body 10 (for example, pressing the operation button 13).

[0075] On the other hand, according to this embodiment, the suction device 100 can be operated in response to input from a legitimate user, such as an adult, who understands the correct way to use the suction device 100, including attaching the substrate containing the aerosol source and the mouthpiece 124 to the main unit 10. This prevents a decrease in the convenience of the suction device 100 for users who understand the correct way to use it.

[0076] Based on the above, this embodiment makes it possible to suppress the occurrence of problems due to misuse by children without impairing convenience for adults (i.e., legitimate users) as much as possible. Therefore, the performance of the CR function in the suction device 100 can be improved, thereby improving the marketability of the suction device 100.

[0077] The operation of the suction device 100 will be explained in more detail below. As an example, the heating start operation will be defined as pressing and holding the operation button 13. More specifically, the heating start operation will be defined as pressing the operation button 13 for Tx[s] (e.g., 3[s]) or longer. This will help to prevent unintentional heating start operations by users such as children who do not understand the correct way to use the suction device 100, compared to the case where the heating start operation is simply "pressing the operation button 13 (regardless of duration)".

[0078] Alternatively, instead of requiring a long press of the operation button 13 to initiate heating, the operation button 13 may be pressed multiple times (for example, three times within a certain period). In this way, even if the heating start operation is performed by pressing the operation button 13 multiple times, it is possible to prevent unintentional activation of the heating start operation by users who are not familiar with the correct way to use the suction device 100.

[0079] Furthermore, as an example, the following explanation assumes that the suction device 100 is the suction device 100B shown in Figure 1B, but it is not limited to this, and the same can be applied if the suction device 100A shown in Figure 1A is the suction device 100A. In that case, in the following explanation, "suction device 100B" should be read as "suction device 100A", "stick-type substrate 150" as "cartridge 120 (and / or flavoring cartridge 130)", "mouthpiece 124B" as "mouthpiece 124A", "sensor unit 112B" as "sensor unit 112A", "notification unit 113B" as "notification unit 113A", and "heating unit 121B" as "heating unit 121A".

[0080] (1) First example of the specific operation of the suction device 100B Figure 4 shows a first example of the specific operation of the suction device 100B. The horizontal axis in Figure 4 represents time. Figure 4(a) shows the detection status (detected / not detected) of the cap 20 by the sensor unit 112B at each time period represented by the horizontal axis in Figure 4. Figure 4(b) shows the detection status (detected / not detected) of the mouthpiece 124B by the sensor unit 112B at each time period represented by the horizontal axis in Figure 4. Figure 4(c) shows the detection status (detected / not detected) of the stick-type substrate 150 by the sensor unit 112B at each time period represented by the horizontal axis in Figure 4. Figure 4(d) shows the detection status (detected / not detected) of operation on the operation button 13 (i.e., pressing the operation button 13) at each time period represented by the horizontal axis in Figure 4. Figure 4(e) shows the on / off state of the suction device 100B power supply at each time point represented on the horizontal axis of Figure 4. Figure 4(f) shows the on (heating control enabled) / off (heating control disabled) state of the heating control of the heating unit 121B at each time point represented on the horizontal axis of Figure 4.

[0081] In the example shown in Figure 4, assume that at time t1, when the power to the suction device 100B is off, the user removes the cap 20 from the main body 10. In this case, at time t1, the detection status of the cap 20 by the sensor unit 112B changes from "detected" to "not detected". As a result, the control unit 116B can detect that the cap 20 has been removed from the main body 10 at time t1.

[0082] Then, when the control unit 116B detects that the cap 20 has been removed from the main body 10, it turns on the power to the suction device 100B. In other words, the control unit 116B activates the suction device 100B in response to the removal of the cap 20 from the main body 10. This allows the user to activate the suction device 100B simply by removing the cap 20 attached to the main body 10, without having to operate the operation buttons 13 or anything else, thus improving the convenience of the suction device 100B. In addition, with the suction device 100B, the removal of the cap 20 from the main body 10 in this way makes it possible to attach and detach the mouthpiece 124B to the main body 10.

[0083] Then, in time t2, following time t1, suppose the user removes the mouthpiece 124B from the main body 10. In this case, in time t2, the detection state of the mouthpiece 124B by the sensor unit 112B changes from "detected" to "not detected". As a result, the control unit 116B can detect that the mouthpiece 124B has been removed from the main body 10 in time t2. Furthermore, in the suction device 100B, once the mouthpiece 124B is removed from the main body 10 in this way, the stick-type base material 150 can be inserted into the internal space 141 through the opening 142 and attached to the suction device 100B.

[0084] Then, in time t3, after time t2, suppose the user attaches the stick-type substrate 150 to the suction device 100B. In this case, in time t3, the detection state of the stick-type substrate 150 by the sensor unit 112B changes from "not detected" to "detected". As a result, the control unit 116B can detect that the stick-type substrate 150 has been attached in time t3.

[0085] Then, in time t4, after time t3, suppose the user attaches the mouthpiece 124B to the main unit 10. In this case, in time t4, the detection state of the mouthpiece 124B by the sensor unit 112B changes from "not detected" to "detected". As a result, the control unit 116B can detect that the mouthpiece 124B has been attached to the main unit 10 in time t4.

[0086] Then, suppose that at time t5, after time t4, the user starts pressing the operation button 13. Furthermore, suppose that the user maintains the state of pressing the operation button 13 until time t7, after time t5. Here, time t7 is a time after time t6, which is Tx[s] after time t5. In this case, the detection state of operation on the operation button 13 will be "detected" from time t5 to time t7. As a result, the control unit 116B can detect that the operation button 13 was pressed from time t5 to time t7.

[0087] The control unit 116B determines that a heating start operation has occurred when the operation button 13 is pressed continuously for Tx[s]. In the example shown in Figure 4, the control unit 116B determines that a heating start operation has occurred at time t6.

[0088] As shown in the example in Figure 4, when the detection status of the mouthpiece 124B and the stick-type substrate 150 is "detected" and it is determined that a heating start operation has occurred, the control unit 116B starts heating control of the heating unit 121B in response to this heating start operation. That is, in the example shown in Figure 4, the control unit 116B starts heating control of the heating unit 121B (here, heating control based on the heating profile) from time t6 when it is determined that a heating start operation has occurred. As a result, the suction device 100B can generate an aerosol after time t6 and deliver the generated aerosol to the user.

[0089] As described above, when the stick-type substrate 150 and mouthpiece 124B are attached to the main unit 10, the control unit 116B can cause the heating unit 121B to generate an aerosol in response to receiving a heating start operation (i.e., input of a heating start instruction). This allows aerosols to be generated for users who understand the correct way to use the suction device 100B, such as attaching the stick-type substrate 150 and mouthpiece 124B to the main unit 10 and inputting a heating start instruction.

[0090] (2) A second example of the specific operation of the suction device 100B Figure 5 shows a second example of the specific operation of the suction device 100B. This second example is one in which, even if a heating start operation (i.e., input of a heating start instruction) is made, the control unit 116B does not perform heating control of the heating unit 121B in response to this heating start operation. Here, we will mainly explain the parts that differ from the explanation in Figure 4, and the explanation of parts that are common to the explanation in Figure 4 will be omitted or simplified as appropriate.

[0091] In the example shown in Figure 5, the user presses the operation button 13 from time t5 without following the steps shown in Figure 4, such as removing the mouthpiece 124B at time t2, attaching the stick-type base material 150 at time t3, and attaching the mouthpiece 124B at time t4.

[0092] In the example shown in Figure 5, the detection status of the stick-type substrate 150 at time t6, when it is determined that a heating start operation has occurred, is "not detected". As in the example shown in Figure 5, even if a heating start operation occurs when the detection status of the stick-type substrate 150 is "not detected", the control unit 116B does not perform heating control of the heating unit 121B in response to this heating start operation. In other words, in the example shown in Figure 5, the state in which the heating control of the heating unit 121B is off is maintained even after time t6.

[0093] Furthermore, in order to reduce the power consumption of the suction device 100B, the control unit 116B may, for example, turn off the power to the suction device 100B if it does not start heating control of the heating unit 121B within a predetermined time from the time the power to the suction device 100B is turned on.

[0094] As described above, the control unit 116B can prevent the heating unit 121B from generating aerosols, even if a heating start operation (i.e., input of a heating start instruction) is made, if at least the stick-type substrate 150 is not attached to the main unit 10. This prevents the generation of aerosols in response to input from users such as children who do not understand the correct way to use the suction device 100B, such as attaching the stick-type substrate 150 and mouthpiece 124B to the main unit 10. Therefore, it is possible to prevent problems caused by such user misuse.

[0095] (3) A third example of the specific operation of the suction device 100B Figure 6 shows a third example of the specific operation of the suction device 100B. This third example is another case where, even if a heating start operation (i.e., a heating start instruction is input), the control unit 116B does not perform heating control of the heating unit 121B in response to this heating start operation. Here, we will mainly explain the parts that differ from the explanation in Figure 4, and the explanation of parts that are common to the explanation in Figure 4 will be omitted or simplified as appropriate.

[0096] In the example shown in Figure 6, the user removed the mouthpiece 124B at time t2 as shown in Figure 4, and attached the stick-type base material 150 at time t3, but pressed the operation button 13 from time t5 without attaching the mouthpiece 124B at time t4.

[0097] In the example shown in Figure 6, the detection status of the mouthpiece 124B at time t6, when it is determined that a heating start operation has occurred, is "not detected". As in the example shown in Figure 6, even if a heating start operation occurs when the detection status of the mouthpiece 124B is "not detected", the control unit 116B does not perform heating control of the heating unit 121B in response to this heating start operation. In other words, in the example shown in Figure 6, the state in which the heating control of the heating unit 121B is turned off is maintained even after time t6.

[0098] As described above, the control unit 116B can prevent the heating unit 121B from generating aerosols, even if a heating start operation (i.e., input of a heating start instruction) is made, if at least the mouthpiece 124B is not attached to the main unit 10. This prevents the generation of aerosols in response to input from users such as children who do not understand the correct way to use the suction device 100B, such as attaching the stick-type substrate 150 and the mouthpiece 124B to the main unit 10. Therefore, it is possible to prevent problems that may occur due to such user misuse.

[0099] As explained above, before a user can inhale an aerosol using the inhalation device 100B, the user must follow a procedure that includes multiple steps, such as (1) attaching the stick-type base material 150, (2) attaching the mouthpiece 124B, and (3) starting the heating operation. In other words, the inhalation device 100B imposes many hurdles on the user before they can start smoking. Therefore, a robust CR function can be achieved that can further suppress misuse by users such as children who do not understand how to use the inhalation device 100B correctly.

[0100] (4) Fourth example of the specific operation of the suction device 100B By the way, if the process of inhaling aerosols requires going through multiple steps, some users may want to know the current progress of these steps in order to get an estimate of how much longer it will take before they can inhale the aerosols.

[0101] Therefore, the control unit 116B may cause the notification unit 113B to send a first notification when the stick-type substrate 150 is attached to the main unit 10, a second notification when the mouthpiece 124B is attached to the main unit 10, and a third notification when the heating start operation (i.e., input of a heating start instruction) is received. This allows notifications to be sent in conjunction with the attachment of the stick-type substrate 150 and the mouthpiece 124B to the main unit 10 and the heating start operation, so that the user can understand the progress of the procedure until aerosol inhalation is possible, and the convenience of the inhalation device 100B is improved.

[0102] Figure 7 shows a fourth example of the specific operation of the suction device 100B. This fourth example is an example in which the first, second, and third notifications described above are made by the light-emitting unit 14 included in the notification unit 113B. Here, we will mainly explain the parts that differ from the explanation in Figure 4, and the explanation of parts that are common to the explanation in Figure 4 will be omitted or simplified as appropriate.

[0103] In the example shown in Figure 7, when the control unit 116B detects that the stick-type substrate 150 has been attached to the main body 10, it makes a first notification by illuminating the light-emitting unit 14 in red (see time t3 to time t4).

[0104] Subsequently, when the control unit 116B detects that the mouthpiece 124B has been attached to the main body 10, it makes a second notification by illuminating the light-emitting unit 14 in yellow (see time t4 to time t5).

[0105] Subsequently, when the heating start operation is performed and the heating control of the heating unit 121B is initiated, the control unit 116B makes the light-emitting unit 14 emit blue light as a third notification (see time t6 to time t7).

[0106] Furthermore, the control unit 116B may issue a fourth notification, different from the first, second, and third notifications, when the power to the suction device 100B is turned on. This makes it possible to inform the user that the power to the suction device 100B has been turned on. As an example, the control unit 116B may emit white light from the light-emitting unit 14 as the fourth notification.

[0107] As described above, the control unit 116B can cause the light-emitting unit 14 to send a first notification when the stick-type substrate 150 is attached to the main unit 10, a second notification when the mouthpiece 124B is attached to the main unit 10, and a third notification when it receives a heating start operation (i.e., input of a heating start instruction). This allows notifications to be sent in conjunction with the attachment of the stick-type substrate 150 and the mouthpiece 124B to the main unit 10 and the heating start instruction, so that the user can understand the progress of the procedure until aerosol inhalation is possible, and the convenience of the inhalation device 100B is improved.

[0108] Furthermore, by making the light-emitting colors of the light-emitting unit 14 different for the first, second, and third notifications, the first, second, and third notifications can be made intuitively easy for the user to understand.

[0109] In this document, the first, second, and third notifications assume that the light-emitting colors of the light-emitting unit 14 are different from each other, but this is not the only example. Below, we will describe examples of cases in the first, second, and third notifications where factors other than the light-emitting color of the light-emitting unit 14 are different from each other.

[0110] (5-1) Another example of the light-emitting part 14 Figure 8 shows another example of the light-emitting unit 14. In the example shown in Figure 8, the light-emitting unit 14 comprises a first light-emitting element 14a, a second light-emitting element 14b, and a third light-emitting element 14c. For example, LEDs can be used as the first light-emitting element 14a, the second light-emitting element 14b, and the third light-emitting element 14c. The light-emitting colors of the first light-emitting element 14a, the second light-emitting element 14b, and the third light-emitting element 14c may be the same or different.

[0111] (5-2) Fifth example of specific operation of the suction device 100 Figure 9 shows a fifth example of the specific operation of the suction device 100B. Here, we will focus on the differences from the explanation in Figure 7, and the explanation of parts that are common to both Figure 7 and Figure 9 will be omitted or simplified as appropriate.

[0112] In the example shown in Figure 9, the first notification, the second notification, and the third notification are characterized by having different numbers of light-emitting elements among the multiple light-emitting elements provided by the light-emitting unit 14.

[0113] More specifically, in the example shown in Figure 9, when the control unit 116B detects that the stick-type substrate 150 has been attached to the main body 10, it makes a first notification by illuminating one of the light-emitting elements of the light-emitting unit 14 (for example, the first light-emitting element 14a) (see time t3 to time t4).

[0114] Subsequently, when the control unit 116B detects that the mouthpiece 124B has been attached to the main body 10, it makes a second notification by illuminating two of the light-emitting elements of the light-emitting unit 14 (for example, the first light-emitting element 14a and the second light-emitting element 14b) (see time t4 to time t5).

[0115] Subsequently, when the heating start operation is performed and the heating control of the heating unit 121B is initiated, the control unit 116B issues a third notification, causing three of the light-emitting elements of the light-emitting unit 14 to emit light (see time t6 to time t7).

[0116] As explained above, even if the number of light-emitting elements among the multiple light-emitting elements provided by the light-emitting unit 14 differs for the first, second, and third notifications, the first, second, and third notifications can be made intuitively easy for the user to understand.

[0117] In this example, the first, second, and third notifications are defined as having different numbers of light-emitting elements among the multiple light-emitting elements provided by the light-emitting unit 14, but this is not limited to this configuration. For example, the first, second, and third notifications may be defined as having different light-emitting elements among the multiple light-emitting elements provided by the light-emitting unit 14.

[0118] More specifically, for example, when the control unit 116B detects that the stick-type substrate 150 has been attached to the main body 10, it may, as a first notification, cause the first light-emitting element 14a of the light-emitting elements provided by the light-emitting unit 14 to emit light.

[0119] Subsequently, when the control unit 116B detects that the mouthpiece 124B has been attached to the main body 10, it may, as a second notification, cause the second light-emitting element 14b of the light-emitting element provided by the light-emitting unit 14 to emit light.

[0120] Subsequently, when the heating start operation is performed and the heating control of the heating unit 121B is started, the control unit 116B may, as a third notification, cause the third light-emitting element 14c of the light-emitting element provided by the light-emitting unit 14 to emit light.

[0121] Thus, even if the first, second, and third notifications are made up of different light-emitting elements from among the multiple light-emitting elements provided by the light-emitting unit 14, the first, second, and third notifications can be made intuitively easy for the user to understand.

[0122] (6-1) An example of the display unit 15 If the notification unit 113B includes a display unit for displaying images, the first notification, the second notification, and the third notification may have different display modes for the display unit. The following describes an example where the first notification, the second notification, and the third notification have different display modes for the display unit.

[0123] Figure 10 shows an example of the display unit 15. The display unit 15 is an example of a display unit that displays an image and is installed in the suction device 100 in a position visible to the user (for example, always visible). For example, a liquid crystal display or an organic EL (Electro-Luminescence) display may be used as the display unit 15. The display unit 15 displays an image of indicator I that can display in three stages, such as 1-stage display, 2-stage display, and 3-stage display.

[0124] (6-2) Sixth example of the specific operation of the suction device 100B Figure 11 shows a sixth example of the specific operation of the suction device 100B. Here, we will focus on the differences from the explanation in Figure 7, and the explanation of parts that are common to the explanation in Figure 7 will be omitted or simplified as appropriate.

[0125] In the example shown in Figure 11, when the control unit 116B detects that the stick-type substrate 150 has been attached to the main body 10, it sets the indicator I to display at one level as a first notification (see time t3 to time t4).

[0126] Subsequently, when the control unit 116B detects that the mouthpiece 124B has been attached to the main unit 10, it issues a second notification by displaying indicator I in two stages (see period t4 to period t5).

[0127] Subsequently, when the heating start operation is performed and the heating control of the heating unit 121B is initiated, the control unit 116B will display indicator I in three stages as a third notification (see period t6 to period t7).

[0128] As explained above, even if the display modes of the display unit 15 for the first, second, and third notices are different from each other, the first, second, and third notices can be made intuitively easy for the user to understand.

[0129] Furthermore, if the notification unit 113B includes a vibrating device (a so-called vibrator), the first notification, second notification, and third notification may have different vibration patterns for the vibrating device. In that case, the control unit 116B may change the number of vibrations or vibration pattern of the vibrating device in conjunction with, for example, the attachment of the stick-type substrate 150 or mouthpiece 124B to the main body 10 and the heating start operation.

[0130] Furthermore, if the notification unit 113B includes a sound output device (e.g., a speaker) that outputs sound, the first notification, the second notification, and the third notification may have different sounds output from the sound output device. In that case, the control unit 116B may change the sound output from the sound output device in conjunction with, for example, the attachment of the stick-type substrate 150 or mouthpiece 124B to the main body 10, and the heating start operation.

[0131] <<4. An example of processing executed by the control unit>> Next, an example of a process performed by the control unit 116B will be described. Figure 12 is a flowchart showing an example of a process performed by the control unit 116B.

[0132] As shown in Figure 12, the control unit 116B determines whether or not it has detected the removal of the cap 20 from the main body 10 (step S1). If the removal of the cap 20 is not detected (step S1: No), the control unit 116B repeats the process of step S1 until the removal of the cap 20 is detected. Then, when the control unit 116B detects that the cap 20 has been removed from the main body 10 (step S1: Yes), it turns on the power of the suction device 100B (step S2).

[0133] Next, the control unit 116B determines whether or not it has detected the attachment of the stick-type substrate 150 to the main body 10 (step S3). If the attachment of the stick-type substrate 150 to the main body 10 has not been detected (step S3: No), the control unit 116B determines whether or not a predetermined time (e.g., 1 [min]) has elapsed since the start of the process in step S3 and a timeout has occurred (step S4). If a timeout has not occurred (step S4: No), the control unit 116B repeats the process in step S3 until a timeout occurs.

[0134] Then, when a timeout occurs (Step S4: Yes), the control unit 116B terminates the series of processes shown in Figure 12. This prevents the heating control of the heating unit 121B from being performed if, for example, the stick-type substrate 150 is not attached within a predetermined time after the removal of the cap 20 is detected. Thus, it is possible to suppress problems caused by misuse by users such as children who do not understand how to use the suction device 100B correctly.

[0135] Furthermore, when the control unit 116B detects that the stick-type substrate 150 has been attached to the main body 10 (step S3: Yes), it issues a first notification via the notification unit 113B (e.g., the light-emitting unit 14) (step S5).

[0136] Next, the control unit 116B determines whether or not it has detected the attachment of the mouthpiece 124B to the main body 10 (step S6). If the attachment of the mouthpiece 124B to the main body 10 has not been detected (step S6: No), the control unit 116B determines whether or not a predetermined time (e.g., 1 [min]) has elapsed since the start of the process in step S6 and a timeout has occurred (step S7). If a timeout has not occurred (step S7: No), the control unit 116B repeats the process in step S6 until a timeout occurs.

[0137] Then, when the timeout occurs (step S7: Yes), the control unit 116B terminates the series of processes shown in Figure 12. This prevents the heating control of the heating unit 121B from being performed if, for example, the mouthpiece 124B is not attached within a predetermined time after the attachment of the stick-type substrate 150 is detected. Thus, it is possible to suppress problems caused by misuse by users such as children who do not understand how to use the suction device 100B correctly.

[0138] Furthermore, when the control unit 116B detects that the mouthpiece 124B has been attached to the main body 10 (step S6: Yes), it issues a second notification via the notification unit 113B (e.g., the light-emitting unit 14) (step S8).

[0139] Next, the control unit 116B determines whether or not the heating start operation has been performed (step S9). If the heating start operation has not been performed (step S9: No), the control unit 116B determines whether or not a predetermined time (e.g., 1 [min]) has elapsed since the start of the process in step S9 and a timeout has occurred (step S10). If a timeout has not occurred (step S10: No), the control unit 116B repeats the process in step S9 until a timeout occurs.

[0140] Then, when the timeout occurs (step S10: Yes), the control unit 116B terminates the series of processes shown in Figure 12. This makes it possible to prevent the heating control of the heating unit 121B from being performed if, for example, the heating start operation is not performed within a predetermined time after the installation of the mouthpiece 124B is detected. Thus, it is possible to suppress inconveniences caused by misuse by users such as children who do not understand how to use the suction device 100B correctly.

[0141] Furthermore, when the control unit 116B determines that the heating start operation has been performed (step S9: Yes), it issues a third notification via the notification unit 113B (e.g., the light-emitting unit 14) (step S11), starts heating control of the heating unit 121B (step S12), and ends the series of processes shown in Figure 12.

[0142] As described above, according to this embodiment, it is possible to prevent the suction device 100 from operating in response to input from users such as children who do not understand the correct way to use the suction device 100, such as attaching a base material having an aerosol source, such as the cartridge 120, the flavoring cartridge 130, or the stick-type base material 150, and the mouthpiece 124 to the main body 10. This prevents inconveniences caused by such user misuse, improves the performance of the CR function in the suction device 100, and enhances the marketability of the suction device 100.

[0143] In the embodiment described above, the power to the suction device 100 is turned on (i.e., the suction device 100 is activated) when the cap 20 is removed from the main body 10, but the embodiment is not limited to this.

[0144] For example, the control unit 116 may activate the suction device 100 when it receives a startup command from the user, provided that a substrate having an aerosol source, such as a cartridge 120, a flavoring cartridge 130, or a stick-type substrate 150, and the mouthpiece 124 are attached to the main unit 10. After the suction device 100 is activated, the control unit 116 may also cause the heating unit 121 to generate an aerosol when it receives a heating start command (e.g., a heating start operation).

[0145] Here, the startup command can be a predetermined operation (hereinafter also referred to as the "startup operation") that instructs the suction device 100 to start up. The startup operation can be an operation using the operation button 13, similar to the heating start operation, and can be, for example, a long press of the operation button 13 when the suction device 100 is powered off. Alternatively, the startup operation may be a multiple press of the operation button 13 when the suction device 100 is powered off. This makes it possible to prevent unintentional startup by users such as children who do not understand the correct way to use the suction device 100, compared to when the startup operation is simply a "press of the operation button 13".

[0146] Furthermore, in the suction device 100B shown in Figure 1B, a portion of the stick-shaped substrate 150 is housed in the housing section 140 to hold the stick-shaped substrate 150, but the device is not limited to this configuration.

[0147] Figure 13 shows a modified example of the suction device 100B shown in Figure 1B. In the suction device 100B, the aerosol is delivered to the user via the mouthpiece 124B, so the stick-type substrate 150 does not have a mouthpiece for the user to put in their mouth. For this reason, as shown in Figure 13, a part of the stick-type substrate 150 does not need to protrude outside the housing section 140, and the entire stick-type substrate 150 may be housed within the housing section 140. In other words, the main body 10 of the suction device 100B may include a housing section 140 that houses the entire attached stick-type substrate 150. This makes it possible to simplify and miniaturize the stick-type substrate 150 while suppressing a decrease in the convenience of the suction device 100B, and to reduce the number of parts and materials required to make up the stick-type substrate 150.

[0148] Furthermore, the suction device 100 has other functions besides generating aerosols using the heating unit 121 mentioned above, such as communication with external devices via the communication unit 115 (115A, 115B). It is also conceivable that some of the various functions of the suction device 100 are prone to causing problems due to misuse by children, while others are relatively less likely to cause problems.

[0149] Therefore, the control unit 116 may vary the difficulty of activating the various functions of the suction device 100. This makes it possible to provide a more convenient suction device 100.

[0150] Specifically, the control unit 116 may be configured to cause the suction device 100 to perform an operation other than aerosol generation by the heating unit 121 when at least one of the substrates having an aerosol source, such as the cartridge 120, the flavoring cartridge 130, or the stick-type substrate 150, and the mouthpiece 124 is not attached to the main body 10. Here, the other operation could be, for example, communication with an external device via the communication unit 115. Examples of external devices include the user's smartphone or a server managed by the manufacturer of the suction device 100.

[0151] Figure 14 shows an example of the conditions for generating aerosols using the heating unit 121 and the conditions for communicating with an external device via the communication unit 115. For example, as shown in table TL of Figure 14, the control unit 116 requires that the heating unit 121 to generate aerosols by attaching the substrate containing the aerosol source, attaching the mouthpiece 124, and performing operations using the operation button 13 (for example, the aforementioned heating start operation). This makes it possible to more reliably prevent aerosol generation by the heating unit 121 from occurring for users such as children who do not understand how to use the suction device 100 correctly.

[0152] In contrast, the control unit 116 may, while requiring operation using the operation button 13 to perform communication with an external device via the communication unit 115, not require the attachment of the substrate containing the aerosol source or the mouthpiece 124. That is, even if at least one of the substrate containing the aerosol source and the mouthpiece 124 is not attached to the suction device 100, the control unit 116 may perform communication with the external device via the communication unit 115 when a predetermined operation is performed on the operation button 13 by the user. In this case, the user can enable communication between the suction device 100 and the external device without having to go to the trouble of attaching the substrate containing the aerosol source or the mouthpiece 124 to the suction device 100.

[0153] Furthermore, communication between the suction device 100 and an external device enables, for example, updating the control program of the suction device 100 (e.g., heating profile, LED lighting control program of the light-emitting unit 14, charge / discharge control program of the power supply unit 111, etc.), various authentications, and the transmission and reception of various data related to smoking using the suction device 100. This makes it possible to provide a more convenient suction device 100.

[0154] For example, the control unit 116 may, when the power of the suction device 100 is turned on, such as when the cap 20 is removed from the main body 10, and the operation button 13 is pressed and held, cause the heating unit 121 to generate an aerosol if the substrate and mouthpiece 124 are attached, and if at least one of the substrate and mouthpiece 124 is not attached, communicate with an external device.

[0155] Although embodiments of the present invention have been described above with reference to the drawings, it goes without saying that the present invention is not limited to these embodiments. It is clear to those skilled in the art that various modifications or alterations can be conceived within the scope of the claims, and these are also understood to naturally fall within the technical scope of the present invention. Furthermore, the components of the embodiments described above may be combined in any way without departing from the spirit of the invention.

[0156] Furthermore, the control method for the suction device 100 described in the above-mentioned embodiment can be realized by executing a pre-prepared program on a computer (processor). This program is stored in a computer-readable storage medium and executed when read from the storage medium. This program may also be provided in the form of a non-transient storage medium such as flash memory, or it may be provided via a network such as the Internet. The computer that executes this program may be, for example, one included in the suction device 100 (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).

[0157] 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.

[0158] (1) A suction device (suction device 100, 100A, 100B) that generates an aerosol from a substrate having an aerosol source (cartridge 120, flavoring cartridge 130, stick-type substrate 150) and delivers the generated aerosol to the user via a mouthpiece (mouthpiece 124, 124A, 124B), The main body (main body 10) is configured to be able to attach the substrate and the mouthpiece, An input section that receives input from the user (operation button 13, sensor section 112, 112A, 112B), The control unit (control units 116, 116A, 116B) controls the operation of the suction device, Equipped with, The control unit, when the substrate and the mouthpiece are attached to the main body, causes the suction device to perform an operation corresponding to the input received by the input unit. Suction device.

[0159] According to (1), it is possible to prevent the suction device from operating in response to input from users such as children who do not understand the correct way to use the suction device, such as attaching the substrate containing the aerosol source and the mouthpiece to the main unit. This makes it possible to prevent problems that may occur due to misuse by users who do not understand the correct way to use the suction device.

[0160] (2) The suction device described in (1), The main body further comprises heating units (heating units 121, 121A, 121B) that heat the substrate attached to the main body to generate the aerosol, When the substrate and the mouthpiece are attached to the main body, the control unit causes the heating unit to generate the aerosol in response to receiving a heating start instruction from the input unit. Suction device.

[0161] According to (2), for users who understand the correct way to use the suction device, such as attaching the substrate and mouthpiece to the main unit and inputting the heating start command, aerosols can be generated, and the decrease in the convenience of the suction device can be suppressed.

[0162] (3) The suction device described in (2), The main body is configured to allow for the attachment of a cap (cap 20) that covers the mouthpiece mounted on the main body. Suction device.

[0163] According to (3), by attaching the cap to the main body, the mouthpiece attached to the main body is covered with the cap, making it possible to keep the mouthpiece hygienic.

[0164] (4) The suction device described in (3), The control unit, The suction device is activated when the cap attached to the main body is removed. After the suction device is started, if the substrate and the mouthpiece are attached to the main body, the heating unit is made to generate the aerosol in response to the heating start instruction. Suction device.

[0165] According to (4), the user can activate the suction device simply by removing the cap attached to the main unit, improving the convenience of the suction device.

[0166] (5) The suction device described in (2), The control unit, When the substrate and the mouthpiece are attached to the main body, the suction device is activated in response to the input unit receiving a startup command. After the suction device is activated, the heating unit is made to generate the aerosol in response to the heating start instruction being received. Suction device.

[0167] According to (5), for users who understand the correct way to use the suction device, such as attaching the substrate and mouthpiece to the main unit and inputting a start command, and then inputting a heating start command, aerosols can be generated, and the decrease in the convenience of the suction device can be suppressed.

[0168] (6) The suction device described in (5), The input unit includes an operation unit (operation button 13) that can be pressed by the user. The aforementioned startup instruction and the aforementioned heating start instruction are given by pressing and holding the operation unit or pressing it multiple times. Suction device.

[0169] According to (6), since the startup command and the heating start command are given by pressing and holding or pressing the control unit multiple times, it is possible to prevent users who are not familiar with the correct way to use the suction device from unintentionally giving the startup command and the heating start command.

[0170] (7) A suction device according to any one of (2) to (6), The suction device further includes a notification unit (notification units 113, 113A, 113B) capable of providing predetermined notifications to the user. The control unit causes the notification unit to issue a first notification when the substrate is attached to the main body, a second notification when the mouthpiece is attached to the main body, and a third notification when it receives the heating start instruction. Suction device.

[0171] According to (7), since notifications can be sent in conjunction with the attachment of the base material and mouthpiece to the main body and the instruction to start heating, the user can understand the progress of the procedure until aerosol inhalation is possible, thereby improving the convenience of the inhalation device.

[0172] (8) The suction device described in (7), The notification unit includes a light-emitting unit (light-emitting unit 14), The first, second, and third notices state that the light emission modes of the light-emitting part are different from each other. Suction device.

[0173] According to (8), the first, second, and third notices can be made intuitively easy for the user to understand.

[0174] (9) The suction device described in (8), The light-emitting unit is configured to emit light in multiple colors, The first notification, the second notification, and the third notification indicate that the light-emitting parts have different light-emitting colors. Suction device.

[0175] According to (9), the first, second, and third notices can be made intuitively easy for the user to understand.

[0176] (10) The suction device described in (8), The light-emitting unit comprises a plurality of light-emitting elements (first light-emitting element 14a, second light-emitting element 14b, third light-emitting element 14c), The first notification, the second notification, and the third notification indicate that among the plurality of light-emitting elements, the light-emitting element or the number of light-emitting elements differs from each other. Suction device.

[0177] According to (10), the first, second, and third notices can be made intuitively easy for the user to understand.

[0178] (11) The suction device described in (7), The notification unit includes a display unit (display unit 15) that displays an image. The first notice, the second notice, and the third notice have different display modes in the display unit. Suction device.

[0179] According to (11), the first, second, and third notices can be made intuitively easy for the user to understand.

[0180] (12) A suction device according to any of (2) to (11), The control unit, The suction device is configured to perform an operation other than the generation of the aerosol by the heating unit when at least one of the substrate and the mouthpiece is not attached to the main body. Suction device.

[0181] According to (12), even if at least one of the substrate and the mouthpiece is not attached to the main body, the suction device can be made to perform operations other than aerosol generation, thereby improving the convenience of the suction device.

[0182] (13) A suction device according to any one of (1) to (12), The aforementioned substrate does not have a mouthpiece for the user to put in their mouth. Suction device.

[0183] According to (13), since the base material does not have a suction port, the base material can be simplified and miniaturized, and the number of parts and materials required to make up the base material can be reduced.

[0184] (14) A control method performed by a computer (control unit 116, 116A, 116B) that controls the operation of an inhalation device (inhalation device 100, 100A, 100B) that generates an aerosol from a substrate having an aerosol source (cartridge 120, flavoring cartridge 130, stick-type substrate 150) and delivers the generated aerosol to a user via a mouthpiece (mouthpiece 124, 124A, 124B), The aforementioned suction device is The main body (main body 10) is configured to be able to attach the substrate and the mouthpiece, An input section that receives input from the user (operation button 13, sensor section 112, 112A, 112B), Equipped with, The aforementioned computer, When the substrate and the mouthpiece are attached to the main body, the suction device is made to perform an operation corresponding to the input received by the input unit. Control method.

[0185] According to (14), the operation of the suction device can be suppressed in response to input from users such as children who do not understand how to properly use the suction device, such as attaching the substrate containing the aerosol source and the mouthpiece to the main unit. This makes it possible to suppress inconveniences that may occur due to misuse by users who do not understand how to properly use the suction device.

[0186] (15) A program executed by a computer (control unit 116, 116A, 116B) that controls the operation of an inhalation device (inhalation device 100, 100A, 100B) that generates an aerosol from a substrate having an aerosol source (cartridge 120, flavoring cartridge 130, stick-type substrate 150) and delivers the generated aerosol to the user via a mouthpiece (mouthpiece 124, 124A, 124B), The aforementioned suction device is The main body (main body 10) is configured to be able to attach the substrate and the mouthpiece, An input section that receives input from the user (operation button 13, sensor section 112, 112A, 112B), Equipped with, To the aforementioned computer, When the substrate and the mouthpiece are attached to the main body, the suction device is made to perform an operation corresponding to the input received by the input unit. program.

[0187] According to (15), the operation of the suction device can be suppressed in response to input from users such as children who do not understand the correct way to use the suction device, such as attaching the substrate containing the aerosol source and the mouthpiece to the main unit. This makes it possible to suppress inconveniences that may occur due to misuse by users who do not understand the correct way to use the suction device. [Explanation of symbols]

[0188] 100, 100A, 100B suction device 120 cartridges (base material) 130 Flavoring cartridge (base material) 150 Stick-type base material (base material) 112, 112A, 112B Sensor section (input section) 113, 113A, 113B Notification section 116, 116A, 116B Control Unit 121, 121A, 121B heating section 124, 124A, 124B mouthpiece 13. Operation buttons (input section, operation section) 14 Light-emitting part 14a First light-emitting element (light-emitting element) 14b Second light-emitting element (light-emitting element) 14c Third light-emitting element (light-emitting element) 15 Display

Claims

1. A suction device that generates an aerosol from a substrate having an aerosol source and delivers the generated aerosol to a user via a mouthpiece, The main body is configured to allow the substrate and the mouthpiece to be attached individually, An input unit that receives input from the user, A control unit that controls the operation of the suction device, Equipped with, The main body is equipped with a heating unit that heats the substrate attached to the main body to generate the aerosol, and is further configured to allow the attachment of a cap that covers the mouthpiece attached to the main body. The control unit, It is possible to individually detect whether the substrate and the mouthpiece are attached to the main body. The suction device is activated when the cap attached to the main body is removed. After the suction device is activated, if it is detected that the substrate and the mouthpiece are attached to the main body, the heating unit is made to generate the aerosol in response to the input unit receiving a heating start instruction. Suction device.

2. A suction device that generates an aerosol from a substrate having an aerosol source and delivers the generated aerosol to a user via a mouthpiece, The main body is configured to allow the substrate and the mouthpiece to be attached individually, An input unit that receives input from the user, A control unit that controls the operation of the suction device, A notification unit capable of sending predetermined notifications to the user, Equipped with, The main body includes a heating unit that heats the substrate attached to the main body to generate the aerosol, The control unit, It is possible to individually detect whether the substrate and the mouthpiece are attached to the main body. When the substrate is attached to the main body, the notification unit is given a first notification; when the mouthpiece is attached to the main body, the notification unit is given a second notification; when the input unit receives a heating start instruction, the notification unit is given a third notification, and the heating unit is given the opportunity to generate the aerosol. Suction device.

3. A suction device according to claim 2, The notification unit includes a light-emitting unit that emits light, The first, second, and third notices state that the light emission modes of the light-emitting part are different from each other. Suction device.

4. A suction device according to claim 3, The light-emitting unit is configured to emit light in multiple colors, The first, second, and third notices state that the light-emitting parts have different light-emitting colors. Suction device.

5. A suction device according to claim 3, The light-emitting unit comprises a plurality of light-emitting elements, The first notification, the second notification, and the third notification refer to the plurality of light-emitting elements, in which the number of light-emitting elements or the number of light-emitting elements differ from each other. Suction device.

6. A suction device according to claim 2, The notification unit includes a display unit that displays an image, The first notice, the second notice, and the third notice have different display modes in the display unit. Suction device.

7. A suction device according to any one of claims 1 to 6, The control unit, The suction device is configured to perform an operation other than the generation of the aerosol by the heating unit when at least one of the substrate and the mouthpiece is not attached to the main body. Suction device.

8. A suction device according to any one of claims 1 to 6, The aforementioned substrate does not have a mouthpiece for the user to put in their mouth. Suction device.

9. A control method performed by a computer that controls the operation of a suction device that generates an aerosol from a substrate having an aerosol source and delivers the generated aerosol to a user via a mouthpiece, The aforementioned suction device is The main body is configured to allow the substrate and the mouthpiece to be attached individually, An input unit that receives input from the user, Equipped with, The main body is equipped with a heating unit that heats the substrate attached to the main body to generate the aerosol, and is further configured to allow the attachment of a cap that covers the mouthpiece attached to the main body. The computer is capable of individually detecting whether the substrate and the mouthpiece are attached to the main body. The aforementioned computer, The suction device is activated when the cap attached to the main body is removed. After the suction device is activated, if it is detected that the substrate and the mouthpiece are attached to the main body, the heating unit is made to generate the aerosol in response to the input unit receiving a heating start instruction. Control method.

10. A control method performed by a computer that controls the operation of a suction device that generates an aerosol from a substrate having an aerosol source and delivers the generated aerosol to a user via a mouthpiece, The aforementioned suction device is The main body is configured to allow the substrate and the mouthpiece to be attached individually, An input unit that receives input from the user, A notification unit capable of sending predetermined notifications to the user, Equipped with, The main body includes a heating unit that heats the substrate attached to the main body to generate the aerosol, The computer is capable of individually detecting whether the substrate and the mouthpiece are attached to the main body. The aforementioned computer, When the substrate is attached to the main body, the notification unit is given a first notification; when the mouthpiece is attached to the main body, the notification unit is given a second notification; when the input unit receives a heating start instruction, the notification unit is given a third notification, and the heating unit is given the opportunity to generate the aerosol. Control method.

11. A program executed by a computer that controls the operation of a suction device that generates an aerosol from a substrate having an aerosol source and delivers the generated aerosol to a user via a mouthpiece, The aforementioned suction device is The main body is configured to allow the substrate and the mouthpiece to be attached individually, An input unit that receives input from the user, Equipped with, The main body is equipped with a heating unit that heats the substrate attached to the main body to generate the aerosol, and is further configured to allow the attachment of a cap that covers the mouthpiece attached to the main body. The computer is capable of individually detecting whether the substrate and the mouthpiece are attached to the main body. To the aforementioned computer, The suction device is activated when the cap attached to the main body is removed. After the suction device is activated, if it is detected that the substrate and the mouthpiece are attached to the main body, the heating unit is made to generate the aerosol in response to the input unit receiving a heating start instruction. program.

12. A program executed by a computer that controls the operation of a suction device that generates an aerosol from a substrate having an aerosol source and delivers the generated aerosol to a user via a mouthpiece, The aforementioned suction device is The main body is configured to allow the substrate and the mouthpiece to be attached individually, An input unit that receives input from the user, A notification unit capable of sending predetermined notifications to the user, Equipped with, The main body includes a heating unit that heats the substrate attached to the main body to generate the aerosol, The computer is capable of individually detecting whether the substrate and the mouthpiece are attached to the main body. To the aforementioned computer, When the substrate is attached to the main body, the notification unit is given a first notification; when the mouthpiece is attached to the main body, the notification unit is given a second notification; when the input unit receives a heating start instruction, the notification unit is given a third notification, and the heating unit is given the opportunity to generate the aerosol. program.

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