Power supply unit for inhalation device, control method, and control program

Abstract

This inhalation device (100) has an inhalation-impossible state in which electric power is not supplied to a first heating part (121) that heats an aerosol source or to a second heating part (132) that heats a flavor source (131), and an inhalation-possible state in which electric power is supplied to at least the first heating part (121), the inhalation device (100) entering the inhalation-possible state in response to a prescribed input occurring while the inhalation device (100) is in the inhalation-impossible state. If inhalation is carried out on the inhalation device (100) while the inhalation device (100) is in the inhalation-possible state, a control part (116) provided to a power supply unit (110) of the inhalation device (100) causes the first heating part (121) to carry out heating of the aerosol source and, in response to the arrival of a change period after the inhalation device (100) has entered the inhalation-possible state, changes a heating status produced by at least one heating part from among the first heating part (121) and the second heating part (132).

Description

Power supply unit, control method, and control program for suction device

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a power supply unit, a control method, and a control program for a suction device.

[0002] Conventionally, inhalation devices have been known that generate aerosols containing, for example, flavor components and allow users to inhale the generated aerosols. Typically, such inhalation devices deliver the generated aerosol to a user by heating a substrate including an aerosol source with a heating section (also referred to as a “heating element”) that is an electric resistance heater or an induction heater.

[0003] For example, Patent Document 1 below discloses an aerosol generating device including two heaters: a first heater used to heat a cigarette containing nicotine and a second heater used to heat a cartridge containing a liquid substrate; when a cigarette is inserted, the first heater and / or the second heater are activated to generate an aerosol. It also discloses that the first heater is heated according to a preset temperature profile. Patent Document 2 below also discloses a technology in which the temperature of a heating element is changed over time using a temperature profile.

[0004] Japanese Patent No. 7128894 Japanese Patent No. 6125008

[0005] However, the history of technological development of inhalation devices is still short, and there is still room for further improvement in terms of functionality. For example, it is conceivable to maintain an inhalation-enabled state in an inhalation device, in which power can be supplied to a heating unit that heats the aerosol source, until a predetermined input is received from the user. In this way, while the user can end the inhalation-enabled state at a desired time, it may be difficult to predict when the inhalation-enabled state will end, and there is room for improvement in this regard.

[0006] The present disclosure provides a power supply unit, a control method, and a control program for a suction device that can improve user convenience.

[0007] One aspect of the present disclosure is a power supply unit of an inhalation device that imparts flavor components of a flavor source to an aerosol generated by heating an aerosol source by passing a flavor source through the aerosol, the power supply unit comprising: a power source capable of supplying power to each of a first heating section that heats the aerosol source when power is supplied thereto and a second heating section that heats the flavor source when power is supplied thereto; and a control section that is capable of controlling the power supply from the power source to the first heating section and the second heating section, the inhalation device having an inhalation-disabled state in which power is not supplied to the first heating section and the second heating section, and an inhalation-enabled state in which power can be supplied to at least the first heating section, the inhalation device entering the inhalation-enabled state in response to a predetermined input when in the inhalation-disabled state, and the inhalation-disabled state in response to a predetermined input when in the inhalation-enabled state, the control section causing the first heating section to heat the aerosol source when inhalation is performed on the inhalation device when the inhalation device is in the inhalation-enabled state, The power supply unit changes the heating mode of at least one of the first heating unit and the second heating unit in response to a predetermined change time after the suction device has entered the suction-enabled state.

[0008] Another aspect of the present disclosure is a control method performed by a computer that controls a power supply unit of an inhalation device that imparts flavor components of a flavor source to an aerosol generated by heating an aerosol source by passing a flavor source through the aerosol, wherein the power supply unit comprises: a power supply capable of supplying power to each of a first heating unit that heats the aerosol source when power is supplied thereto; and a second heating unit that heats the flavor source when power is supplied thereto; the computer is configured to be able to control the power supply to the first heating unit and the second heating unit; the inhalation device has an inhalation-disabled state in which power is not supplied to the first heating unit and the second heating unit, and an inhalation-enabled state in which power can be supplied to at least the first heating unit; the inhalation device enters the inhalation-enabled state in response to a predetermined input when in the inhalation-disabled state, and the inhalation device enters the inhalation-disabled state in response to a predetermined input when in the inhalation-enabled state; and the computer controls the first heating unit to heat the aerosol source when inhalation is performed on the inhalation device when the inhalation device is in the inhalation-enabled state, This is a control method for changing the heating mode of at least one of the first heating unit and the second heating unit in response to a predetermined change time after the suction device has entered the suction-enabled state.

[0009] Another aspect of the present disclosure is a control method for causing a computer that controls a power supply unit of an inhalation device that imparts flavor components of a flavor source to an aerosol generated by heating an aerosol source by passing the aerosol through a flavor source, to perform predetermined processing, wherein the power supply unit comprises: a power supply capable of supplying power to each of a first heating section that heats the aerosol source when power is supplied thereto; and a second heating section that heats the flavor source when power is supplied thereto; the computer is configured to be able to control the power supply to the first heating section and the second heating section; the inhalation device has an inhalation-disabled state in which power is not supplied to the first heating section and the second heating section, and an inhalation-enabled state in which power can be supplied to at least the first heating section; the inhalation device enters the inhalation-enabled state in response to a predetermined input when in the inhalation-disabled state, and enters the inhalation-disabled state in response to a predetermined input when in the inhalation-enabled state; and When suction is performed on the suction device while the suction device is in the suction-enabled state, the control program causes the first heating unit to heat the aerosol source, and changes the heating mode of at least one of the first heating unit and the second heating unit when a predetermined change time has arrived after the suction device has entered the suction-enabled state.

[0010] According to the present disclosure, it is possible to provide a power supply unit, a control method, and a control program for a suction device that can improve user convenience.

[0011] FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram illustrating an example configuration of an inhalation device 100 including a power supply unit according to the present disclosure. FIG. 2 is a diagram illustrating a first example of the operation of the inhalation device 100. FIG. 3 is a diagram illustrating an example of the change in the amount of flavor component imparted to the aerosol around time t5a shown in FIG. 2. FIG. 4 is a diagram illustrating a second example of the operation of the inhalation device 100. FIG. 5 is a diagram illustrating a third example of the operation of the inhalation device 100. FIG. 6 is a diagram illustrating a fourth example of the operation of the inhalation device 100. FIG. 7 is a diagram illustrating a fifth example of the operation of the inhalation device 100. FIG. 8 is a diagram illustrating a sixth example of the operation of the inhalation device 100. FIG. 9 is a diagram illustrating a seventh example of the operation of the inhalation device 100. FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating an eighth example of the operation of the inhalation device 100. FIG. 11 is a diagram illustrating a ninth example of the operation of the inhalation device 100. FIG. 12 is a diagram illustrating a tenth example of the operation of the inhalation device 100. FIG. 13 is a diagram illustrating an eleventh example of the operation of the inhalation device 100. FIG. 14 is a diagram illustrating a twelfth example of the operation of the inhalation device 100. Fig. 15 is a diagram showing a thirteenth example of the operation of the suction device 100. Fig. 16 is a flowchart showing an example of the processing executed by the control unit 116. Fig. 17 is a flowchart showing another example of the processing executed by the control unit 116.

[0012] An embodiment of the power supply unit, control method, and control program for the suction device of the present disclosure will be described in detail below with reference to the drawings. The drawings should be viewed in the direction indicated by the reference symbols. Note that the following embodiments do not limit the invention described in the claims, and not all combinations of features described in the embodiments are necessarily essential to the invention. Furthermore, two or more of the features described in the embodiments may be arbitrarily combined. Hereinafter, identical or similar elements will be designated by identical or similar reference symbols, and their descriptions may be omitted or simplified as appropriate.

[0013] 1. Configuration Example of Suction Device Fig. 1 is a schematic diagram showing a configuration example of a suction device 100 including a power supply unit according to the present disclosure. The suction device 100 shown in Fig. 1 is a device that generates a substance to be inhaled by a user and delivers the generated substance so that the user can inhale it. In the following description, the substance generated by the suction device 100 is described as an aerosol. Alternatively, the substance generated by the suction device 100 may be a gas.

[0014] 1 , the inhalation device 100 includes a power supply unit 110, a cartridge 120, and a flavoring cartridge 130. The power supply unit 110 includes a power supply section 111, a sensor section 112, a notification section 113, a memory section 114, a communication section 115, and a control section 116. The cartridge 120 includes a first heating section 121, a liquid guiding section 122, and a liquid storage section 123. The flavoring cartridge 130 includes a flavor source 131 and a mouthpiece 124. An air flow path 180 is formed in the cartridge 120 and the flavoring cartridge 130.

[0015] The power supply unit 111 stores electric power and supplies electric power to each component of the suction device 100 under the control of the control unit 116. The power supply unit 111 may be configured by, for example, a rechargeable battery such as a lithium ion secondary battery.

[0016] The sensor unit 112 acquires various information related to the suction device 100. The sensor unit 112 is configured with, for example, a pressure sensor such as a condenser microphone, a flow rate sensor, or a temperature sensor, and acquires values ​​associated with the suction by the user.

[0017] As one example, the sensor unit 112 may include a pressure sensor (also referred to as a "puff sensor") that detects a change in the pressure (hereinafter also referred to as an "internal pressure") inside the inhalation device 100 caused by the user's inhalation. As another example, the sensor unit 112 may include a flow rate sensor that detects the flow rate (hereinafter also simply referred to as a "flow rate") caused by the user's inhalation. Furthermore, as another example, the sensor unit 112 may include a temperature sensor (also referred to as a "puff thermistor") that detects the temperature of the first heating unit 121 or the area around the first heating unit 121.

[0018] The sensor unit 112 also includes an input device that accepts information input from a user, such as an operation button or a switch. In this embodiment, a power button (described later) is provided as an example of the input device.

[0019] The notification unit 113 notifies the user of information. The notification unit 113 is configured by, for example, a light emitting device that emits light, a display device that displays an image, a sound output device that outputs sound, or a vibration device that vibrates.

[0020] The storage unit 114 stores various types of information (for example, programs and data) for the operation of the suction device 100. The storage unit 114 is configured by a non-volatile storage medium such as a flash memory.

[0021] The communication unit 115 is a communication interface capable of performing communication in accordance with any wired or wireless communication standard, such as Wi-Fi (registered trademark), Bluetooth (registered trademark), BLE (Bluetooth Low Energy (registered trademark)), NFC (Near Field Communication), or LPWA (Low Power Wide Area).

[0022] The control unit 116 is a computer that functions as an arithmetic processing unit and a control unit, and controls the overall operation of the suction device 100 in accordance with various programs stored in the storage unit 114, etc. The control unit 116 is realized by an electronic circuit such as a CPU (Central Processing Unit) or a microprocessor, for example.

[0023] The liquid reservoir 123 stores an aerosol source. The aerosol source is atomized to generate an aerosol. The aerosol source is a liquid, such as a polyhydric alcohol, such as glycerin or propylene glycol, or water. The aerosol source may contain a tobacco-derived or non-tobacco-derived flavor component. If the inhalation device 100 is a medical inhaler, such as a nebulizer, the aerosol source may contain a drug.

[0024] The aerosol source may also contain an acid. When the aerosol source containing an acid is heated, an aerosol (vapor) containing a predetermined amount of acid is generated. The aerosol source containing an acid is atomized by heating, and acid vapor, which is a vapor containing the acid, is generated. The acid contained in the aerosol source may be an organic acid or an inorganic acid. For example, the acid contained in the aerosol source may include a carboxylic acid, an α-keto acid, a 2-oxo acid, or lactic acid.

[0025] The liquid guide portion 122 guides and holds the aerosol source, which is a liquid stored in the liquid storage portion 123, from the liquid storage portion 123. The liquid guide portion 122 is, for example, a wick formed by twisting a fiber material such as glass fiber or a porous material such as porous ceramic. In this case, the aerosol source stored in the liquid storage portion 123 is guided by the capillary effect of the wick.

[0026] The first heating unit 121 heats the aerosol source to atomize it and generate aerosol. The first heating unit 121 is configured in any shape, such as a coil, film, or blade, and is made of any material, such as metal or polyimide. In the example shown in FIG. 1 , the first heating unit 121 is configured as a coil and wrapped around the liquid guide unit 122. When the first heating unit 121 generates heat, the aerosol source held in the liquid guide unit 122 is heated and atomized, generating aerosol. The first heating unit 121 generates heat when power is supplied from the power supply unit 111. For example, power may be supplied to the first heating unit 121 when the sensor unit 112 detects that the user has started inhaling and / or that predetermined information has been input. Then, power supply to the first heating unit 121 may be stopped when the sensor unit 112 detects that the user has stopped inhaling and / or that predetermined information has been input.

[0027] The first heating unit 121 may be configured to generate the aerosol by vibration or induction heating. When the aerosol is generated by vibration, the suction device 100 includes a vibration unit as the first heating unit 121. For example, the vibration unit is configured by a plate-shaped member including piezoelectric ceramics that functions as an ultrasonic vibrator. When the vibration unit vibrates, the aerosol source guided to the surface of the vibration unit by the liquid guide unit 122 is atomized by ultrasonic waves generated by the vibration of the vibration unit, thereby generating the aerosol.

[0028] Furthermore, when aerosols are generated by induction heating, the suction device 100 includes a susceptor and an electromagnetic induction source as the first heating unit 121. The susceptor generates heat through electromagnetic induction. The susceptor is made of a conductive material such as metal. The susceptor is disposed adjacent to the liquid guide unit 122. For example, the susceptor is made of a metal conductor and is wound around the liquid guide unit 122. The electromagnetic induction source heats the susceptor through electromagnetic induction. The electromagnetic induction source is made of, for example, a coiled conductor. The electromagnetic induction source generates a magnetic field when an alternating current is supplied from the power supply unit 111. The electromagnetic induction source is disposed in a position where the susceptor is superimposed on the generated magnetic field. Therefore, when a magnetic field is generated, eddy currents are generated in the susceptor, generating Joule heat. The aerosol source held in the liquid guide unit 122 is heated and atomized by the Joule heat, generating the aerosol.

[0029] The flavor source 131 is a component for imparting flavor components to the aerosol. The flavor source 131 may contain tobacco-derived or non-tobacco-derived flavor components. The flavor source 131 may be tobacco-derived, such as a processed product obtained by molding shredded tobacco or tobacco raw materials into granules, sheets, or powder. The flavor source 131 may also contain non-tobacco-derived flavor components made from plants other than tobacco (e.g., mint and herbs). For example, the flavor source 131 may contain a flavor component such as menthol. The flavor source 131 may also be a stick-shaped member. When the inhalation device 100 is a medical inhaler, the flavor source 131 may contain a drug to be inhaled by the patient. Note that the flavor source 131 is not limited to a solid, but may be a liquid containing flavor components such as polyhydric alcohols such as glycerin and propylene glycol, and water. The flavor source 131 may also contain, for example, a base. The flavor source 131 may contain, for example, nicotine as a base. The flavor source may be placed inside a container such as a capsule.

[0030] The flavor imparting cartridge 130 includes a flavor source 131. An air flow path is formed in the flavor imparting cartridge 130. The flavor source 131 is further disposed in the air flow path. Therefore, when a mixed fluid of the aerosol and air passes through the flavor source in the air flow path, a flavor component contained in the flavor source is imparted to the aerosol.

[0031] The air flow path 180 is a path for air inhaled by the user. The air flow path 180 has a tubular structure with an air inlet 181, which is an entrance for air into the air flow path 180, and an air outlet 182, which is an exit for air from the air flow path 180, at both ends. A liquid guide section 122 is disposed on the upstream side (closer to the air inlet 181) of the air flow path 180, and a flavor source 131 is disposed on the downstream side (closer to the air outlet 182) of the air flow path 180. Air flowing in through the air inlet 181 as the user inhales is mixed with the aerosol generated by the first heating section 121 and, as shown by arrow 190, passes through the flavor source 131 and is transported to the air outlet 182. When the mixed fluid of the aerosol and air passes through the flavor source 131, flavor components contained in the flavor source 131 are imparted to the aerosol.

[0032] When the flavor source 131 contains nicotine, a predetermined amount of nicotine (a predetermined number of moles of nicotine) evaporates and the vaporized nicotine is taken into the aerosol when the aerosol (vapor) generated by the first heating unit 121 passes through the flavor source 131. When the user inhales the vaporized nicotine, it causes a stimulation in the user's oral cavity, and the user feels the stimulation in the oral cavity.

[0033] When the aerosol source stored in the liquid storage unit 123 contains an acid, the aerosol (vapor) generated by the first heating unit 121 contains a predetermined amount of acid (a predetermined number of moles of acid). Here, when the aerosol contains an acid and the flavor source 131 contains a base, the acid contained in the aerosol and the base from the flavor source 131 chemically react to form a salt. For example, when the flavor source 131 contains nicotine as a base, if an acid is present in the aerosol, the acid reacts with the vaporized nicotine evaporated from the flavor source 131 to form a salt. The formed salt remains in the particle phase in the aerosol. Even if a user inhales nicotine that remains in the particle phase, the irritation caused in the user's oral cavity is reduced, and the irritation felt by the user in the oral cavity is reduced.

[0034] On the other hand, if the amount of nicotine vapor taken into the aerosol (vapor) is greater than the amount of acid contained in the aerosol (vapor), some nicotine will not be able to form a salt with the acid, and will remain in the aerosol as nicotine vapor, causing irritation in the user's mouth.

[0035] The inhalation device 100 further includes a second heating unit 132 that heats the flavor source 131. The second heating unit 132 is made of any material, such as metal or polyimide. The second heating unit 132 is, for example, in the form of a film and is arranged to cover the outer periphery of the flavor source 131. The second heating unit 132 generates heat when power is supplied from the power supply unit 111, thereby heating the flavor source 131 from the outer periphery. The second heating unit 132 may also be configured to heat the flavor source 131 from the inside. The second heating unit 132 may be, for example, in the form of a blade that pierces the flavor source 131 and heats the flavor source 131 from the inside. By providing such a second heating unit 132, the temperature of the flavor source 131 can be increased compared to when the second heating unit 132 is not provided, making it possible to increase the amount of flavor component imparted to the aerosol.

[0036] When the flavor source 131 contains nicotine, the amount of evaporated nicotine increases when the flavor source 131 is heated by the second heating unit 132. Furthermore, when the heating temperature of the flavor source 131 by the second heating unit 132 is increased, the amount of evaporated nicotine increases as the heating temperature increases.

[0037] As the amount of nicotine evaporated increases, the amount of vaporized nicotine absorbed into the aerosol (vapor) also increases. As described above, when the amount of vaporized nicotine increases compared to the amount of acid contained in the aerosol, some nicotine cannot form a salt with the acid, and remains in the aerosol as vaporized nicotine. The vaporized nicotine remaining in the aerosol then causes irritation in the user's oral cavity, resulting in the user experiencing irritation in the oral cavity.

[0038] That is, by heating the flavor source 131 with the second heating unit 132 or by increasing the heating temperature, the amount of evaporated nicotine can be increased, thereby producing nicotine that cannot form a salt with the acid contained in the aerosol. As a result, vaporized nicotine remains in the aerosol, and this nicotine causes irritation in the user's oral cavity, causing the user to feel irritation in the oral cavity. Furthermore, as the amount of vaporized nicotine remaining in the aerosol increases, the amount of nicotine that causes irritation in the user's oral cavity also increases, resulting in a stronger irritation felt in the user's oral cavity.

[0039] 1, the second heating unit 132 is provided in the flavor imparting cartridge 130, but this is not limiting. For example, if the inhalation device 100 has a configuration in which the flavor imparting cartridge 130 is housed in a housing (not shown) provided in the power supply unit 110, the second heating unit 132 may be provided in the power supply unit 110 so as to cover the outer periphery of the housing. In this case, the second heating unit 132 generates heat when power is supplied from the power supply unit 111, and heats the flavor imparting cartridge 130 (i.e., the flavor source 131) housed in the housing from the outer periphery. Alternatively, the second heating unit 132 may heat the flavor source 131 from the inside. For example, if the flavor source 131 is a stick-shaped base material, the blade-shaped second heating unit 132 is inserted into the stick-shaped flavor source 131 so as to pierce it. When the second heating section 132 generates heat, the flavor components contained in the flavor source 131 of the stick-shaped substrate are heated from the inside and atomized, thereby generating the flavor components.

[0040] The second heating unit 132 may be configured to generate aerosol by induction heating. The inhalation device 100 includes a susceptor and an electromagnetic induction source as the second heating unit 132. The susceptor generates heat by electromagnetic induction. The susceptor is made of a conductive material such as metal. The susceptor is disposed in proximity to the flavor source 131. For example, the susceptor is made of a metal conductor and is wound around the flavor source 131 or the housing. The electromagnetic induction source heats the susceptor by electromagnetic induction. The electromagnetic induction source is made of, for example, a coiled conductor. The electromagnetic induction source generates a magnetic field when an alternating current is supplied from the power supply unit 111. The electromagnetic induction source is disposed in a position where the susceptor is superimposed on the generated magnetic field. Therefore, when the magnetic field is generated, an eddy current is generated in the susceptor, generating Joule heat. The flavor source 131 is then heated and atomized by the Joule heat, generating flavor components.

[0041] Furthermore, when the flavor source 131 is a liquid, the second heating unit 132 may be configured in any shape, such as a coil, a film, or a blade, and may be made of any material, such as metal or polyimide. For example, the second heating unit 132 is configured as a coil and wrapped around a liquid guide unit (not shown) provided in the flavor source 131. When the second heating unit 132 generates heat, the liquid flavor source held in the liquid guide unit is heated and atomized, generating flavor components.

[0042] Furthermore, when the flavor source 131 is a liquid, the second heating unit 132 may be configured to generate an aerosol by vibration or induction heating. When the aerosol is generated by vibration, the inhalation device 100 includes a vibration unit as the second heating unit 132. For example, the vibration unit is configured with a plate-shaped member including piezoelectric ceramics that functions as an ultrasonic vibrator. When the vibration unit vibrates, the liquid flavor source guided to the surface of the vibration unit by a liquid guide unit (not shown) provided in the flavor source 131 is atomized by ultrasonic waves generated by the vibration of the vibration unit, and flavor components are generated.

[0043] Furthermore, when aerosols are generated by induction heating, the inhalation device 100 includes a susceptor and an electromagnetic induction source as the second heating unit 132. The susceptor generates heat through electromagnetic induction. The susceptor is made of a conductive material such as metal. The susceptor is disposed adjacent to a liquid guide unit (not shown) provided in the flavor source 131. For example, the susceptor is made of a metal conductor and wound around the liquid guide unit. The electromagnetic induction source heats the susceptor through electromagnetic induction. The electromagnetic induction source is made of, for example, a coiled conductor. The electromagnetic induction source generates a magnetic field when an alternating current is supplied from the power supply unit 111. The electromagnetic induction source is disposed in a position where the susceptor is superimposed on the generated magnetic field. Therefore, when a magnetic field is generated, eddy currents are generated in the susceptor, generating Joule heat. The liquid flavor source held in the liquid guide unit is heated and atomized by this Joule heat, generating flavor components.

[0044] Mouthpiece 124 is a member that is held in the mouth by the user when inhaling. Air outlet holes 182 are arranged in mouthpiece 124. By holding mouthpiece 124 in the mouth and inhaling, the user can take in the mixed fluid of the aerosol and air into the oral cavity.

[0045] The above describes an example of the configuration of the suction device 100. Of course, the configuration of the suction device 100 is not limited to the above, and various configurations such as those exemplified below may be used.

[0046] For example, the inhalation device 100 may include multiple aerosol sources. The multiple aerosols generated from the multiple aerosol sources may be mixed in the air flow path 180 and undergo a chemical reaction to generate additional aerosols.

[0047] Furthermore, the means for atomizing the aerosol source is not limited to heating by the first heating unit 121. For example, the means for atomizing the aerosol source may be vibration atomization or induction heating.

[0048] 2. Operational Example of Suction Device Next, a description will be given of an operational example of the suction device 100. Hereinafter, suction by the suction device 100 will also be referred to as a "puff," and the number of puffs will also be referred to as the "number of puffs."

[0049] (2-1. States that the suction device can take) The suction device 100 can take a non-suction state in which no power is supplied to the first heating section 121 and the second heating section 132, and a suction state in which power can be supplied to at least the first heating section 121.

[0050] The inhalation-disabled state may be, for example, a "power-off state (also referred to as a sleep state)" in which power supply to electronic components other than those involved in the transition to the inhalation-enabled state (e.g., the sensor unit 112 and the control unit 116) is stopped. The inhalation-enabled state may be, for example, a "power-on state (also referred to as an active state)" in which power supply to electronic components involved in the generation of aerosol, including the first heating unit 121 and the second heating unit 132, is permitted. In the following description, the inhalation-disabled state will be referred to as the power-off state, and the inhalation-enabled state will be referred to as the power-on state.

[0051] The control unit 116 of the suction device 100 switches the suction device 100 to a power-on state (i.e., a suction-enabled state) in response to a predetermined input when the suction device 100 is in a power-off state (i.e., a suction-disabled state). In this embodiment, the input that is the condition for switching the suction device 100 to a power-on state is pressing an operation button (not shown) (hereinafter also referred to as a "power button") provided on the suction device 100 (e.g., the power supply unit 110). This allows the user to switch the suction device 100 to a power-on state by pressing the power button as needed.

[0052] The input that serves as a condition for turning on the power is not limited to pressing an operation button such as the power button, but may be, for example, a puff. Furthermore, the input that serves as a condition for turning on the power is not limited to a direct input (in other words, an operation) to the suction device 100, such as pressing the power button or puffing, but may be, for example, receipt of predetermined information from another device that can communicate with the suction device 100 (for example, a user's smartphone).

[0053] Furthermore, the control unit 116 switches the suction device 100 to a power-off state in response to a predetermined input when the suction device 100 is in a power-on state. In this embodiment, the input that is the condition for switching the suction device 100 to a power-off state is also the pressing of the power button. This allows the user to switch the suction device 100 to a power-off state by pressing the power button as appropriate. Furthermore, the suction device 100 can be switched to a power-on state or a power-off state using a single operation button, which provides the user with a simple operational feel.

[0054] In addition, the input that is the condition for turning off the power is not limited to pressing the power button, but may also be, for example, pressing another operation button provided on the suction device 100, or receiving specified information from another device that can communicate with the suction device 100.

[0055] Furthermore, in this embodiment, if no puffing occurs for a predetermined time (e.g., 300 seconds) while suction device 100 is in a power-on state, control unit 116 automatically switches suction device 100 to a power-off state. In other words, if a predetermined time has elapsed since the last puffing while suction device 100 is in a power-on state, control unit 116 switches suction device 100 to a power-off state. This allows suction device 100 to be automatically switched to a power-off state when it is expected that no puffing will occur, even if the user forgets to switch suction device 100 to a power-off state, thereby reducing the power consumption of suction device 100.

[0056] In the following description, the period from when the inhalation device 100 is turned on (i.e., inhalation enabled state) until when it is turned off (i.e., inhalation disabled state) is also referred to as a "smoking session."

[0057] (2-2. First Example of Operation of Suction Device) Figure 2 is a diagram showing a first example of operation of the suction device 100. In (a) shown in Figure 2, the horizontal axis represents time, and the vertical axis represents the temperature of the second heating unit 132. In (b) shown in Figure 2, the horizontal axis represents time, and the vertical axis represents whether or not power is supplied to the first heating unit 121 (i.e., ON / OFF).

[0058] 2, when the user presses the power button at time t0 when inhalation device 100 is in a power-off state, control unit 116 turns on inhalation device 100. This starts a smoking session from time t0.

[0059] When a puff is performed while the inhalation device 100 is in a power-on state, the control unit 116 supplies a predetermined amount of power from the power supply unit 111 to the first heating unit 121. A puff can be detected, for example, based on the detection value (i.e., change in internal pressure) by the puff sensor being equal to or greater than a threshold value.

[0060] When power is supplied to the first heating unit 121 in response to the puff, the first heating unit 121 generates heat and generates an aerosol. For example, in the example shown in FIG. 2 , a puff is detected in the period from time t1 to time t2 after time t0, and therefore the control unit 116 supplies power to the first heating unit 121.

[0061] The power supplied to first heating unit 121 in response to a puff is predetermined by the manufacturer of inhalation device 100, for example, so that an appropriate amount of aerosol is generated. As an example, assume here that a predetermined voltage V1 [V] (where V1 > 0) is applied to first heating unit 121 in response to a puff, causing first heating unit 121 to generate heat and generate aerosol.

[0062] Furthermore, when the aerosol source contains an acid, heating the aerosol source containing the acid generates a predetermined amount (a predetermined weight or a predetermined number of moles) of aerosol (vapor) containing the acid per unit amount of aerosol. For example, a predetermined amount A (weight or number of moles) of aerosol is generated per unit amount. That is, when the first heating unit 121 generates heat by being applied to the first heating unit 121 in response to a puff, X1 [mg (or ml)] (where X1 > 0) of aerosol containing the predetermined amount A (weight or number of moles) of acid per unit amount is generated per unit time.

[0063] Furthermore, when the inhalation device 100 is in a power-on state, the control unit 116 controls the heating of the flavor source 131 by the second heating unit 132. Then, the control unit 116 changes the heating mode of the flavor source 131 by the second heating unit 132 in response to a predetermined change time after the inhalation device 100 is turned on.

[0064] Here, the change time is a predetermined time within a smoking session, and may be, for example, the time when a predetermined number of puffs have been made since inhalation device 100 was turned on. The number of puffs that is the condition for the change time is, for example, set in advance in control unit 116 by the manufacturer of inhalation device 100. The manufacturer of inhalation device 100 may set the number of puffs that is the condition for the change time to any number in the range of, for example, 5 to 10.

[0065] In this example, the number of puffs that is the condition for the change time is set to 6. Furthermore, it is set so that the second heating unit 132 does not heat the flavor source 131 during the period from when the inhalation device 100 is turned on until when the change time is reached.

[0066] In this case, the control unit 116 does not supply power to the second heating unit 132 during the period from time t0 to time t5a shown in FIG. 2 . Here, time t5a is an example of the change time, and is the time when six puffs are performed after time t0. Therefore, during the period from time t0 to time t5a, the flavor source 131 is not heated by the second heating unit 132, and the flavor source 131 is maintained at room temperature (denoted as "R.T.", e.g., 27°C). Note that even if the flavor source 131 is not heated by the second heating unit 132, the temperature of the aerosol generated by the first heating unit 121 may be increased to a certain extent (e.g., to approximately 40°C) when the aerosol passes through the flavor source 131.

[0067] On the other hand, from time t5a, the control unit 116 sets a target temperature of, for example, 60°C, and supplies power from the power supply unit 111 to the second heating unit 132 to raise the temperature of the second heating unit 132. As a result, after time t5a, the flavor source 131 is heated by the second heating unit 132 and is raised in temperature to, for example, about 60°C, similar to the second heating unit 132.

[0068] Then, when the user presses the power button at time t10 while the inhalation device 100 is in the power-on state, the control unit 116 switches the inhalation device 100 to the power-off state. As a result, the smoking session that started at time t0 ends at time t10. When the inhalation device 100 switches to the power-off state, power supply to the second heating unit 132 is stopped, and the temperatures of the second heating unit 132 and the flavor source 131 gradually decrease toward, for example, room temperature.

[0069] The temperature control of the second heating unit 132 can be achieved, for example, by ON-OFF control. More specifically, the control unit 116 performs heating by the second heating unit 132 (in other words, supplies power to the second heating unit 132) until the actual temperature of the second heating unit 132 (hereinafter also referred to as the "actual temperature") reaches the target temperature, stops heating by the second heating unit 132 when the actual temperature reaches the target temperature, and performs heating by the second heating unit 132 again when the actual temperature becomes lower than the target temperature.

[0070] The temperature of the second heating unit 132 can be obtained (in other words, quantified) by, for example, measuring or estimating the electrical resistance value of the heating resistor that constitutes the second heating unit 132. This is because the electrical resistance value of the heating resistor changes depending on the temperature. The electrical resistance value of the heating resistor can be estimated (i.e., obtained) by, for example, measuring the amount of voltage drop across the heating resistor. The amount of voltage drop across the heating resistor can be measured (i.e., obtained) by a voltage sensor that measures the potential difference applied to the heating resistor. As another example, the temperature of the second heating unit 132 may be measured by a temperature sensor (puff thermistor) installed near the second heating unit 132.

[0071] The temperature control of the second heating unit 132 may also be achieved by known feedback control. For example, the control unit 116 supplies power from the power supply unit 111 to the second heating unit 132 in the form of pulses generated by pulse width modulation (PWM) or pulse frequency modulation (PFM). In this case, the control unit 116 can control the temperature of the second heating unit 132 by adjusting the duty ratio of the power pulses. In feedback control, the control unit 116 controls the power supplied to the second heating unit 132, for example, the duty ratio, based on the difference between the actual temperature and the target temperature, etc. The feedback control may also be a proportional-integral-differential controller (PID) control.

[0072] Furthermore, when supplying power to the first heating unit 121 while supplying power to the second heating unit 132 (i.e., when a puff is detected), the control unit 116 may temporarily reduce (for example, reduce to zero) the power supplied to the second heating unit 132. In this way, it is possible to prevent excessive current from being output from the power supply unit 111 due to the power supply to the first heating unit 121 and the second heating unit 132.

[0073] Furthermore, if no puffing occurs for a predetermined time (e.g., 30 seconds) while power is being supplied to second heating unit 132, control unit 116 may stop the supply of power to second heating unit 132. This makes it possible to stop the supply of power to second heating unit 132 when it is expected that no puffing will occur, thereby reducing the power consumption of inhalation device 100.

[0074] In the inhalation device 100, when the flavor source 131 is at a first temperature (e.g., room temperature), if X1 [mg (or ml)] of aerosol or an airflow containing the aerosol passes through the flavor source 131 per unit time, a predetermined amount B (weight or number of moles) of flavor component is imparted to the aerosol. For example, if the flavor source 131 contains nicotine, when X1 [mg (or ml)] of aerosol or an airflow containing the aerosol passes through the flavor source 131 per unit time, a predetermined amount B (weight or number of moles) of nicotine evaporates and is taken into the aerosol.

[0075] Here, when an aerosol containing a predetermined amount A (weight or number of moles) of acid per unit amount passes through the flavor source 131, a predetermined amount B (weight or number of moles) of nicotine evaporates, and the salt forms a salt with the nicotine. The predetermined amount A (weight or number of moles) of acid contained in the aerosol and the predetermined amount B (weight or number of moles) of nicotine may be designed so that their ratio C (A / B) is equal to or greater than a certain value. For example, by adjusting the amount of acid contained in the aerosol source and / or the amount of nicotine contained in the flavor source 131, the ratio C (A / B) of the predetermined amount A (weight or number of moles) of acid contained in the aerosol to the predetermined amount B (weight or number of moles) of nicotine is designed to be equal to or greater than a certain value. By designing the ratio C (A / B) to be equal to or greater than a certain value, all or a portion of the predetermined amount B (weight or number of moles) of nicotine can form a salt with the acid. As a result, it is possible to adjust the amount of nicotine vapor remaining in the aerosol to a desired amount, and to adjust the degree of stimulation caused by the nicotine vapor in the user's oral cavity.

[0076] On the other hand, when the flavor source 131 is at a second temperature (e.g., 60°C) higher than the first temperature, and X1 [mg (or ml)] of aerosol or an airflow containing the aerosol passes through the flavor source 131 per unit time, D (weight or number of moles) (where D > B) of flavor component is imparted to the aerosol. For example, if the flavor source 131 contains nicotine, when X1 [mg (or ml)] of aerosol or an airflow containing the aerosol passes through the flavor source 131 heated to the second temperature per unit time, a predetermined amount D (weight or number of moles) of nicotine evaporates and is incorporated into the aerosol. In this case, the ratio between the predetermined amount A (weight or number of moles) of acid contained in the aerosol and the predetermined amount D (weight or number of moles) of nicotine is E (A / D).

[0077] Here, since D>B, the value of E is smaller than the value of C. As a result, the amount of nicotine vapor remaining in the aerosol without forming a salt with the acid in the aerosol increases relatively. As the amount of nicotine vapor remaining in the aerosol increases, the amount of nicotine that causes irritation in the user's oral cavity increases, thereby increasing the stimulation felt by the user in the oral cavity. In other words, when the flavor source 131 is heated to a second temperature higher than the first temperature, the amount of nicotine vapor remaining in the aerosol increases relatively, and the amount of nicotine that causes irritation in the user's oral cavity increases relatively, thereby increasing the stimulation felt by the user in the oral cavity.

[0078] Thus, the higher the temperature of the flavor source 131, the more flavor components are imparted to the aerosol passing through the flavor source 131. Furthermore, the strength of the smoking taste experienced by the user when puffing or the stimulation felt in the user's oral cavity increases as the amount of flavor components imparted to the inhaled aerosol increases. Therefore, by increasing the temperature of the flavor source 131 and increasing the amount of flavor components imparted to the aerosol, it is possible to correspondingly strengthen the smoking taste experienced by the user when puffing or the stimulation felt in the user's oral cavity. For example, if the flavor source 131 contains nicotine, the higher the temperature of the flavor source 131, the greater the amount of nicotine vapor contained in the aerosol passing through the flavor source 131, thereby strengthening the stimulation felt by the user when puffing.

[0079] Fig. 3 is a diagram showing an example of a change in the amount of flavor component imparted to the aerosol around time t5a shown in Fig. 2. In Fig. 3, the horizontal axis represents time, and the vertical axis represents the amount (weight or molar amount) of flavor component imparted to the aerosol generated in response to one puff. For example, if the flavor source 131 contains nicotine, the vertical axis of Fig. 3 represents the amount (weight or molar amount) of nicotine taken up in the aerosol generated in response to one puff.

[0080] As described above, in this example, after time t5a, the second heating unit 132 heats the flavor source 131, causing the flavor source 131 to reach a higher temperature than before time t5a. Therefore, as shown in FIG. 3 , after time t5a, it is possible to impart a larger amount of flavor component to the aerosol generated in response to one puff than before time t5a. For example, if the flavor source 131 contains nicotine, the amount (weight or molar amount) of nicotine incorporated into the aerosol generated in response to one puff increases. As the amount (weight or molar amount) of nicotine incorporated into the aerosol increases, more nicotine vapor remains in the aerosol without forming a salt with the acid in the aerosol, resulting in an increase in the amount of the vaporized aerosol. As a result, the amount of nicotine that causes irritation in the user's oral cavity increases, thereby enhancing the irritation felt by the user in the oral cavity.

[0081] As described above, the control unit 116 changes the heating mode of the flavor source 131 by the second heating unit 132 in response to the arrival of a change time when a predetermined number of puffs have been made since the inhalation device 100 was turned on. This makes it possible to change the amount of flavor component imparted to the aerosol, i.e., the smoking taste experienced by the user when puffing, or the stimulation felt in the oral cavity by the user, as a result of the predetermined number of puffs made since the inhalation device 100 was turned on.

[0082] Therefore, it is possible to suggest to the user, based on the smoking taste, whether a predetermined number of puffs have been made since the inhalation device 100 was turned on (in other words, whether it is before or after the change time). Therefore, the user can determine when to end the current power-on state (in other words, the current smoking session) by referring to the smoking taste and the stimulation felt in the oral cavity when puffing, without having to count the number of puffs made since the inhalation device 100 was turned on, thereby improving user convenience. For example, the user can determine when to end the current smoking session, such as "The smoking taste has become stronger, so I will end this smoking session after a few more puffs" or "The stimulation has become stronger, so I will end this smoking session after a few more puffs."

[0083] Furthermore, by suggesting to the user whether it is before or after the change time based on the smoking taste, there is no need to provide a separate light-emitting device, display device, sound output device, vibration device, or the like for suggesting this to the inhalation device 100. Therefore, it is possible to suggest to the user whether it is before or after the change time while simplifying the configuration of the inhalation device 100.

[0084] Furthermore, the control unit 116 does not cause the second heating unit 132 to heat the flavor source 131 during the period from when the inhalation device 100 is turned on until the change time, but causes the second heating unit 132 to heat the flavor source after the change time. This makes it possible to intensify the smoking taste or oral stimulation experienced by the user when puffing after the change time compared to before the change time. This makes it possible to indicate to the user whether it is before or after the change time based on the smoking taste or oral stimulation experienced by the user when puffing.

[0085] Furthermore, by strengthening the smoking taste after the change, it is possible to give the user a sense of satisfaction in terms of the smoking sensation and to strengthen the stimulation in the oral cavity that the user feels after the change, which makes it possible to encourage the user to end the smoking session.

[0086] (2-3. Second Example of Inhalation Device Operation) In the first example shown in FIG. 2 etc., the change time is the time when the inhalation device 100 has been powered on and a predetermined number of puffs have been performed, but this is not limited to this.

[0087] 4 is a diagram showing a second example of the operation of the suction device 100. This second example is an example in which the change timing is set to the time when a predetermined time has elapsed since the suction device 100 was turned on. Note that the following description will focus on the parts that are different from the description of FIG. 2, and the description of the parts that are common to the description of FIG. 2 will be omitted or simplified as appropriate.

[0088] 4, the control unit 116 does not supply power to the second heating unit 132. Here, the time t5b is another example of the change time, and is the time when a predetermined time Tm1 has elapsed since the time t0.

[0089] The predetermined time Tm1 may be set to any time within a range of, for example, 120 seconds to 180 seconds, and may be set to 150 seconds as a specific example. Note that the predetermined time Tm1 is set in advance in the control unit 116 by, for example, the manufacturer of the suction device 100.

[0090] In this example, from time t5b onward, the control unit 116 sets a target temperature of, for example, 60°C, and supplies power from the power supply unit 111 to the second heating unit 132 to raise the temperature of the second heating unit 132. As a result, after time t5b, the flavor source 131 is heated by the second heating unit 132 and is raised in temperature to, for example, about 60°C, similarly to the second heating unit 132.

[0091] As described above, the control unit 116 may change the heating mode of the flavor source 131 by the second heating unit 132 in response to the arrival of a change time, which is the elapse of a predetermined time since the inhalation device 100 was turned on. This makes it possible to change the amount of flavor component (e.g., the amount of nicotine) imparted to the aerosol, i.e., the smoking taste or stimulation in the oral cavity experienced by the user when puffing, as the predetermined time has elapsed since the inhalation device 100 was turned on.

[0092] Therefore, it is possible to indicate to the user, based on the smoking taste, whether a predetermined time has passed since the inhalation device 100 was turned on (in other words, whether it is before or after the change time). Therefore, the user can determine when to end the current power-on state (in other words, the current smoking session) by referring to the smoking taste or oral stimulation experienced when puffing, without having to measure the elapsed time since the inhalation device 100 was turned on, thereby improving user convenience.

[0093] (2-4. Third Example of Operation of Inhalation Device) In the first example shown in FIG. 2 and the second example shown in FIG. 4, the second heating unit 132 does not heat the flavor source 131 during the period from when the inhalation device 100 is turned on until the time to change the power supply, but this is not limited to this.

[0094] 5 is a diagram showing a third example of the operation of the inhalation device 100. This third example is an example in which the second heating unit 132 heats the flavor source 131 at a relatively low temperature during the period from when the inhalation device 100 is turned on until the change time, and the second heating unit 132 heats the flavor source 131 at a relatively high temperature after the change time. Note that the following description will focus on differences from the description of FIG. 2, and descriptions of parts common to the description of FIG. 2 will be omitted or simplified as appropriate.

[0095] 5 , the control unit 116 sets a target temperature of, for example, 50° C. by supplying power from the power supply unit 111 to the second heating unit 132, thereby raising the temperature of the second heating unit 132. In this case, during the period from time t0 to time t5a, the flavor source 131 is heated by the second heating unit 132 and is raised in temperature to, for example, about 50° C., similar to the second heating unit 132.

[0096] In this example, from time t5a onward, the control unit 116 sets the target temperature to 60°C, which is higher than the target temperature of 50°C before time t5a, and supplies power from the power supply unit 111 to the second heating unit 132, thereby further raising the temperature of the second heating unit 132. In this manner, after time t5a, the flavor source 131 is further heated, and is heated to, for example, about 60°C, similar to the second heating unit 132.

[0097] Furthermore, similar to the example described here, the control unit 116 may heat the flavor source 131 by raising the temperature of the second heating unit 132 to a target temperature of 50°C during the period from time t0 to time t5b shown in Figure 4, and from time t5b onwards, heat the flavor source 131 by raising the temperature of the second heating unit 132 to an even higher target temperature of 60°C.

[0098] As described above, the control unit 116 may cause the second heating unit 132 to heat the flavor source 131 at a relatively low temperature during the period from when the inhalation device 100 is turned on until the change time, and may cause the second heating unit 132 to heat the flavor source 131 at a relatively high temperature after the change time. This makes it possible to increase the amount of flavor component (e.g., the amount of nicotine) imparted to the aerosol after the change time compared to before the change time, thereby strengthening the smoking taste or the stimulation in the oral cavity experienced by the user when puffing. Therefore, it is possible to indicate to the user whether the change time is before or after the change time based on the smoking taste or the stimulation in the oral cavity experienced by the user when puffing.

[0099] (2-5. Fourth example of operation of suction device) In the first example shown in FIG. 2 and the second example shown in FIG. 4, when the time for change has come, the second heating section 132 is heated in one go to a relatively high target temperature, such as 60°C, but this is not limited to this.

[0100] 6 is a diagram showing a fourth example of the operation of the suction device 100. This fourth example is an example in which the temperature of the second heating unit 132 is gradually increased over a predetermined time from the change time after the suction device 100 is turned on. Note that the following description will focus on parts that are different from the description of FIG. 2, and descriptions of parts that are common to the description of FIG. 2 will be omitted or simplified as appropriate.

[0101] 6, the control unit 116 gradually increases the temperature of the second heating unit 132 from time t5a to the target temperature of 60°C over a predetermined time Tm11. The predetermined time Tm11 may be set to a relatively long time, for example, within a range of 60 to 120 seconds, and may be set to 90 seconds as a specific example. The predetermined time Tm11 is set in the control unit 116 in advance by, for example, the manufacturer of the suction device 100.

[0102] Furthermore, similar to the example described here, the control unit 116 may gradually increase the temperature of the second heating unit 132 over a predetermined time Tm11 from the time t5b shown in FIG.

[0103] As described above, the control unit 116 may gradually increase the temperature of the second heating unit 132 over a predetermined time from the time of change. This makes it possible to prevent the user from experiencing excessive discomfort or annoyance due to a sudden change in the taste experienced by the user or the stimulation in the oral cavity when puffing from the time of change.

[0104] (2-6. Fifth Example of Operation of Suction Device) In the fourth example shown in FIG. 6, the second heating section 132 is gradually (in other words, linearly) heated from the change time, but the present invention is not limited to this.

[0105] 7 is a diagram showing a fifth example of the operation of the suction device 100. This fifth example is an example in which the temperature of the second heating unit 132 is increased gradually (in other words, in steps) over time after the change timing. Note that the following description will focus on differences from the description of FIG. 2, and descriptions of parts common to the description of FIG. 2 will be omitted or simplified as appropriate.

[0106] In this example, during the period from time t5a to time t6a shown in FIG. 7 , the control unit 116 supplies power to the second heating unit 132 to raise the temperature of the second heating unit 132 to a target temperature of, for example, 50°C. Here, time t6a is the time when a predetermined time Tm21 has elapsed after time t5a. The predetermined time Tm21 can be a relatively long time, for example, within a range of 30 to 90 seconds, and a specific example is 60 seconds. The predetermined time Tm21 is set in the control unit 116 in advance, for example, by the manufacturer of the suction device 100.

[0107] In this case, during the period from time t5a to time t6a, the flavor source 131 is heated by the second heating section 132 and is heated to, for example, about 50°C, similar to the second heating section 132.

[0108] In this example, from time t6a onward, the control unit 116 sets the target temperature to 60°C, which is higher than the target temperature of 50°C before time t6a, and supplies power from the power supply unit 111 to the second heating unit 132, thereby further raising the temperature of the second heating unit 132. In this way, after time t6a, the flavor source 131 is further heated, and is heated to, for example, about 60°C, similar to the second heating unit 132.

[0109] Furthermore, similar to the example described here, the control unit 116 may increase the temperature of the second heating unit 132 stepwise over time, for example, after the time t5b shown in FIG.

[0110] As described above, the control unit 116 may gradually increase the temperature of the second heating unit 132 over time after the change time, thereby preventing the user from experiencing excessive discomfort or annoyance due to a sudden change in the taste or oral stimulation experienced by the user when puffing from the change time.

[0111] (2-7. Sixth Example of Operation of Suction Device) In the fifth example shown in FIG. 7, the temperature of the second heating section 132 is gradually increased over time after the change timing, but this is not limited to this.

[0112] 8 is a diagram illustrating a sixth example of the operation of the inhalation device 100. This sixth example is an example in which the temperature of the second heating unit 132 is gradually increased as puffing is performed after the change timing. Note that the following description will focus on differences from the description of FIG. 2, and descriptions of parts common to the description of FIG. 2 will be omitted or simplified as appropriate.

[0113] 8, the control unit 116 sets a target temperature of, for example, 50° C. and supplies power from the power supply unit 111 to the second heating unit 132 to raise the temperature of the second heating unit 132. Here, the time t6b is the time when puffing has been performed a predetermined number of times after the time t5a, and can be the time when puffing has been performed four times after the time t5a.

[0114] In this case, during the period from time t5a to time t6b, the flavor source 131 is heated by the second heating section 132 and is heated to, for example, about 50°C, similar to the second heating section 132.

[0115] In this example, from time t6b onward, the control unit 116 sets the target temperature to 60°C, which is higher than the target temperature of 50°C before time t6b, by supplying power from the power supply unit 111 to the second heating unit 132, thereby further raising the temperature of the second heating unit 132. In this case, after time t6b, the flavor source 131 is further heated, and is heated to, for example, about 60°C, similar to the second heating unit 132.

[0116] Furthermore, similar to the example described here, the control unit 116 may be configured to gradually increase the temperature of the second heating unit 132 as puffs are performed a predetermined number of times, for example, after the time t5b shown in FIG. 4 .

[0117] As described above, the control unit 116 may gradually increase the temperature of the second heating unit 132 as the user puffs after the change time, thereby preventing the user from experiencing excessive discomfort or annoyance due to a sudden change in the taste or oral stimulation experienced by the user when puffing from the change time.

[0118] (2-8. Seventh example of operation of suction device) In the sixth example shown in FIG. 8, the second heating section 132 is gradually heated as puffs are performed multiple times (for example, four times) after the change time, but this is not limited to this.

[0119] 9 is a diagram illustrating a seventh example of the operation of the inhalation device 100. This seventh example is an example in which the temperature of the second heating unit 132 is gradually increased each time a puff is performed after the change timing. Note that the following description will focus on the parts that are different from the description of FIG. 2, and the description of the parts that are common to the description of FIG. 2 will be omitted or simplified as appropriate.

[0120] 9 , the control unit 116 sets a target temperature of, for example, 40° C. by supplying power from the power supply unit 111 to the second heating unit 132, thereby raising the temperature of the second heating unit 132. Here, time t6c is the time when one puff is performed after time t5a. In this case, during the time period from time t5a to time t6c, the flavor source 131 is heated by the second heating unit 132 and is raised in temperature to, for example, about 40° C., similar to the second heating unit 132.

[0121] 9 , the control unit 116 sets the target temperature to 45° C., which is higher than the target temperature of 40° C. before t7c, by supplying power from the power supply unit 111 to the second heating unit 132, thereby raising the temperature of the second heating unit 132. Here, time t7c is the time when one puff is performed after time t6c, or in other words, the time when two puffs are performed after time t5a. In this case, during the time period from time t6c to time t7c, the flavor source 131 is heated by the second heating unit 132 and is raised in temperature to, for example, approximately 45° C., similar to the second heating unit 132.

[0122] 9 , the control unit 116 sets the target temperature to 50° C., which is higher than the target temperature of 45° C. before time t8c, by supplying power from the power supply unit 111 to the second heating unit 132, thereby raising the temperature of the second heating unit 132. Here, time t8c is the time when one puff is performed after time t7c, or in other words, the time when three puffs are performed after time t5a. In this case, during the time period from time t7c to time t8c, the flavor source 131 is heated by the second heating unit 132 and is raised in temperature to, for example, approximately 50° C., similar to the second heating unit 132.

[0123] 9 , the control unit 116 sets the target temperature to 55° C., which is higher than the target temperature of 50° C. before t9c, by supplying power from the power supply unit 111 to the second heating unit 132, thereby raising the temperature of the second heating unit 132. Here, time t9c is the time when one puff is performed after time t8c, or in other words, the time when four puffs are performed after time t5a. In this case, during the time period from time t8c to time t9c, the flavor source 131 is heated by the second heating unit 132 and is raised in temperature to, for example, approximately 55° C., similar to the second heating unit 132.

[0124] In this example, from time t9c onward, the control unit 116 sets the target temperature to 60°C, which is higher than the target temperature of 55°C before time t9c, by supplying power from the power supply unit 111 to the second heating unit 132, thereby further raising the temperature of the second heating unit 132. In this way, after time t9c, the flavor source 131 is further heated, and is heated to, for example, about 60°C, similar to the second heating unit 132.

[0125] Here, since the upper limit of heating by the second heating unit 132 is set to 60°C, the increase in temperature of the second heating unit 132 is stopped at approximately 60°C, but this is not limited to this. For example, if the heat resistance temperature of the flavor imparting cartridge 130 or the flavor source 131 is sufficiently higher than 60°C, the control unit 116 may increase the temperature of the second heating unit 132 by 5°C each time a puff is made, even after time t9c, as in the case before time t9c.

[0126] Furthermore, similar to the example described here, the control unit 116 may be configured to gradually increase the temperature of the second heating unit 132 each time a puff is performed, for example, after the time t5b shown in FIG. 4 .

[0127] As described above, the control unit 116 may gradually increase the temperature of the second heating unit 132 each time a puff is made after the change time. This makes it possible to prevent the user from experiencing excessive discomfort or annoyance due to a sudden change in the taste or oral stimulation experienced by the user when puffing from the change time. Furthermore, it is possible to suggest to the user the number of puffs to make after the change time based on the taste or oral stimulation experienced by the user when puffing.

[0128] (2-9. Eighth Example of Operation of Inhalation Device) In each of the operation examples described above, the second heating unit 132 heats the flavor source 131 at a relatively high temperature after the change time, but this is not limited to this.

[0129] 10 is a diagram showing an eighth example of the operation of the inhalation device 100. This eighth example is an example in which the second heating unit 132 heats the flavor source 131 at a relatively high temperature before the change time. Note that the following description will focus on differences from the description of FIG. 2, and descriptions of parts common to the description of FIG. 2 will be omitted or simplified as appropriate.

[0130] In this example, the control unit 116 sets a target temperature of, for example, 60° C. from time t0 when the inhalation device 100 is turned on, and supplies power from the power supply unit 111 to the second heating unit 132 to raise the temperature of the second heating unit 132. In this way, from time t0, the flavor source 131 is heated by the second heating unit 132, and is raised in temperature to, for example, about 60° C., similar to the second heating unit 132.

[0131] In this example, at time t5a, the control unit 116 stops the power supply to the second heating unit 132. In this case, after time t5a, the temperatures of the second heating unit 132 and the flavor source 131 gradually decrease toward room temperature, for example.

[0132] Furthermore, similar to the example described here, the control unit 116 may heat the flavor source 131 by raising the temperature of the second heating unit 132 to a target temperature of 60°C during the period from time t0 to time t5b shown in Figure 4, and may stop the supply of power to the second heating unit 132 when time t5b arrives.

[0133] As described above, the control unit 116 may cause the second heating unit 132 to heat the flavor source 131 during the period from when the inhalation device 100 is turned on until the change time, and may terminate heating of the flavor source 131 by the second heating unit 132 when the change time arrives. This reduces the amount of flavor component imparted to the aerosol after the change time compared to before the change time, thereby weakening the smoking taste or oral stimulation experienced by the user when puffing. Therefore, it is possible to indicate to the user whether the change time is before or after the change time based on the smoking taste or oral stimulation experienced by the user when puffing.

[0134] (2-10. Ninth example of operation of suction device) In the eighth example shown in FIG. 10, the heating of the flavor source 131 by the second heating unit 132 is terminated when the time for change is reached, but this is not limited to this.

[0135] 11 is a diagram showing a ninth example of the operation of the inhalation device 100. This ninth example is an example in which the second heating unit 132 heats the flavor source 131 at a relatively high temperature during the period from when the inhalation device 100 is turned on until the change time, and the second heating unit heats the flavor source 131 at a relatively low temperature after the change time. Note that the following description will focus on differences from the description of FIG. 2, and descriptions of parts common to the description of FIG. 2 will be omitted or simplified as appropriate.

[0136] In this example, at time t5a, the control unit 116 sets the target temperature to 50°C, which is lower than the target temperature of 60°C before time t5a, and supplies power from the power supply unit 111 to the second heating unit 132, thereby lowering the temperature of the second heating unit 132 from before time t5a. In this way, after time t5a, the temperature of the flavor source 131 is lowered to, for example, about 60°C, similar to the second heating unit 132.

[0137] Furthermore, similar to the example described here, the control unit 116 may heat the flavor source 131 by raising the temperature of the second heating unit 132 to a target temperature of 60°C during the period from time t0 to time t5b shown in Figure 4, and may heat the flavor source 131 after time t5b at a lower temperature than before time t5a.

[0138] As described above, the control unit 116 may cause the second heating unit 132 to heat the flavor source 131 at a relatively high temperature during the period from when the inhalation device 100 is turned on until the change time, and may cause the second heating unit 132 to heat the flavor source 131 at a relatively low temperature after the change time. This reduces the amount of flavor component (e.g., the amount of nicotine) imparted to the aerosol after the change time compared to before the change time, thereby weakening the smoking taste or the stimulation in the oral cavity experienced by the user when puffing. Therefore, it is possible to indicate to the user whether the change time is before or after the change time based on the smoking taste or the stimulation in the oral cavity experienced by the user when puffing.

[0139] (2-11. Tenth example of operation of suction device) In each of the operation examples described above, the heating mode of the flavor source 131 by the second heating unit 132 is changed depending on when the time for change has come, but this is not limited to this.

[0140] Figure 12 is a diagram showing a tenth example of the operation of inhalation device 100. This tenth example is an example in which the heating mode of the aerosol source by first heating unit 121 is changed in response to the timing of the change. In Figure 12, the horizontal axis represents time, and the vertical axis represents the voltage [V] applied to first heating unit 121. Also, the following description will focus on differences from the description of Figure 2, and descriptions of parts common to the description of Figure 2 will be omitted or simplified as appropriate.

[0141] In this example, when a puff is detected during the period from time t0 to time t5a, the control unit 116 applies V1 [V] to the first heating unit 121 to generate aerosol, as shown in Fig. 12. As a result, during the period from time t0 to time t5a, X1 [mg] of aerosol is generated per unit time in accordance with the puff.

[0142] Then, when a puff is detected after time t5a, the control unit 116 applies V2 [V], which is higher than V1 [V], to the first heating unit 121, as shown in FIG. 12 , thereby generating aerosol. When such V2 [V] is applied to the first heating unit 121, X2 [mg] (where X2 > X1) of aerosol is generated per unit time. This makes it possible to increase the amount of aerosol generated per puff after time t5a compared to before time t5a. Furthermore, since the amount of aerosol passing through the flavor source 131 per unit time can be increased, the amount of flavor imparted to the aerosol can also be increased.

[0143] Furthermore, similar to the example described here, the control unit 116 may apply V1 [V] to the first heating unit 121 if a puff is detected during the period from time t0 to time t5b shown in Figure 4, and may apply V2 [V] to the first heating unit 121 if a puff is detected after time t5b.

[0144] Although not shown in the drawings or described in detail, in this example, as in any of the operation examples described above, the control unit 116 may cause the second heating unit 132 to heat the flavor source 131 when the inhalation device 100 is in a power-on state. Alternatively, in this example, the control unit 116 may not cause the second heating unit 132 to heat the flavor source 131.

[0145] As described above, the control unit 116 may change the heating mode of the aerosol source by the first heating unit 121 in response to the arrival of the change time. For example, the control unit 116 may apply V1 [V] to the first heating unit 121 if a puff is performed during the period from when the inhalation device 100 is turned on until the change time, and may apply V2 [V], which is higher than V1 [V], to the first heating unit 121 if a puff is performed after the change time. This makes it possible to increase the amount of aerosol generated per puff and the amount of flavor component (e.g., nicotine amount) imparted to the aerosol after the change time compared to before the change time. Therefore, it is possible to indicate to the user whether the change time is before or after the change time based on the draw quality or oral stimulation upon puffing. Therefore, the user can determine when to end the current power-on state (i.e., the current smoking session) by referring to the draw quality or oral stimulation upon puffing, thereby improving user convenience.

[0146] (2-12. 11th example of operation of suction device) In the 10th example shown in Figure 12, after the change time, V2 [V] higher than V1 [V] before the change time can be applied to the first heating section 121, but this is not limited to this.

[0147] 13 is a diagram showing an eleventh example of the operation of the suction device 100. This eleventh example is an example in which, after the change time, V3 [V], which is lower than V1 [V] before the change time, is applied to the first heating unit 121. Note that the following description will focus on parts that are different from the description of FIGS. 2 and 13, and descriptions of parts that are common to the description of FIGS. 2 and 13 will be omitted or simplified as appropriate.

[0148] In this example, when a puff is detected after time t5a, the control unit 116 applies a voltage V3 [V] lower than V1 [V] to the first heating unit 121, as shown in FIG. 13, thereby generating aerosol. When such a voltage V3 [V] is applied to the first heating unit 121, X3 [mg] of aerosol (where X3 < X1) is generated per unit time. This allows the amount of aerosol generated per puff to be reduced after time t5a compared to before time t5a. Furthermore, since the amount of aerosol passing through the flavor source 131 per unit time can be reduced, the amount of flavor imparted to the aerosol can also be reduced.

[0149] Furthermore, similar to the example described here, the control unit 116 may apply V1 [V] to the first heating unit 121 if a puff is detected during the period from time t0 to time t5b shown in Figure 4, and may apply V3 [V] to the first heating unit 121 if a puff is detected after time t5b.

[0150] Although not shown in the drawings or described in detail, in this example, as in the above-described operation examples, the control unit 116 may cause the second heating unit 132 to heat the flavor source 131 when the inhalation device 100 is in a power-on state. Alternatively, in this example, the control unit 116 may not cause the second heating unit 132 to heat the flavor source 131 when the inhalation device 100 is in a power-on state.

[0151] As described above, the control unit 116 may apply V1 [V] to the first heating unit 121 if a puff is performed during the period from when the inhalation device 100 is turned on until the change time, and may apply V3 [V], which is lower than V1 [V], to the first heating unit 121 if a puff is performed after the change time. This makes it possible to reduce the amount of aerosol generated per puff and the amount of flavor component (e.g., nicotine amount) imparted to the aerosol after the change time compared to before the change time. Therefore, it is possible to indicate to the user whether the change time is before or after the change time based on the draw quality or oral stimulation when a puff is performed. Therefore, the user can determine when to end the current power-on state (in other words, the current smoking session) by referring to the draw quality or oral stimulation when a puff is performed, thereby improving user convenience.

[0152] (2-13. Twelfth Example of Operation of Suction Device) In each of the operation examples described above, the change time is predetermined by the manufacturer of the suction device 100, but this is not limited to this. For example, the user may be allowed to set a desired time as the change time.

[0153] The change timing may also be automatically set based on the user's smoking history. An example of a case in which the change timing is set based on the user's smoking history will be described below. The following description will focus on differences from the above-described operational examples, and descriptions of common parts will be omitted or simplified as appropriate.

[0154] 14 is a diagram showing a twelfth example of the operation of inhalation device 100. In this example, storage unit 114 of inhalation device 100 stores, for example, smoking history information 1000 shown in (a) of FIG. 14. Smoking history information 1000 is information indicating the user's smoking history, and may be, for example, information associating each past smoking session of inhalation device 100 with the number of puffs performed in that smoking session.

[0155] As an example, the smoking history information 1000 shown in (a) of Figure 14 includes information indicating that the user's smoking history includes the number of puffs in the previous (i.e., most recent) smoking session being 13, the number of puffs in the smoking session two sessions ago being 11, the number of puffs in the smoking session three sessions ago being 12, the number of puffs in the smoking session four sessions ago being 13, and the number of puffs in the smoking session five sessions ago being 11.

[0156] In this example, for example, when the inhalation device 100 is turned on (i.e., at the start of a smoking session), the control unit 116 refers to the smoking history information 1000 stored in the memory unit 114 and sets the change time to a time based on the user's smoking history.

[0157] Specifically, the control unit 116 first calculates the average number of puffs (hereinafter also referred to as the "average number of puffs") in the most recent five smoking sessions, as shown in (b) of Fig. 14. In the example shown in Fig. 14, the average number of puffs is calculated to be 12. In this way, by setting the change time based on the average number of puffs calculated from the number of puffs in a predetermined number of most recent smoking sessions (five in the example shown in Fig. 14), it is possible to set the change time to an appropriate time that is in line with the user's recent smoking habits.

[0158] Next, the control unit 116 calculates the number of puffs that will be a condition for determining the timing of the change based on the calculated average number of puffs, as shown in (c) of Fig. 14. As an example, the control unit 116 calculates the number of puffs that will be a condition for determining the timing of the change by multiplying the calculated average number of puffs by a coefficient (where 0 < coefficient < 1) that is predetermined by the manufacturer of the inhalation device 100.

[0159] 14 , the number of puffs that qualifies as the change timing is calculated as 6 based on the predetermined coefficient of 1 / 2 and the average number of puffs of 12. In this way, when the number of puffs that qualifies as the change timing is calculated as 6, the control unit 116 changes the heating mode of at least one of the first heating unit 121 and the second heating unit 132 in response to the fact that 6 puffs have been performed in the current smoking session.

[0160] In the example described here, when calculating the number of puffs that is a condition for the change time, the coefficient by which the average number of puffs is multiplied is set to 1 / 2, but this is not limited to this. This coefficient may be greater than 1 / 2, for example, 2 / 3. By setting this coefficient greater than 1 / 2, it is possible to set the change time later than when it is set to 1 / 2. Furthermore, this coefficient may be smaller than 1 / 2, for example, 1 / 3. By setting this coefficient smaller than 1 / 2, it is possible to set the change time earlier than when it is set to 1 / 2.

[0161] Furthermore, the smoking sessions that are the subject of calculation of the average number of puffs are not limited to the most recent five smoking sessions. For example, the smoking sessions that are the subject of calculation of the average number of puffs may be a predetermined number of smoking sessions that are less than the most recent five (e.g., the most recent three smoking sessions), or a predetermined number of smoking sessions that are five or more (e.g., the most recent ten smoking sessions). Furthermore, the smoking sessions that are the subject of calculation of the average number of puffs may be all past smoking sessions of inhalation device 100.

[0162] Furthermore, the control unit 116 may not calculate the average number of puffs, but may instead calculate the number of puffs in the most recent (i.e., previous) smoking session multiplied by a predetermined coefficient as the number of puffs that will be the condition for the change time.

[0163] Furthermore, if the value obtained by multiplying the average number of puffs or the number of puffs in the most recent smoking session by a predetermined coefficient includes a decimal point, the control unit 116 may, for example, round off the decimal point to the nearest whole number and use that as the number of puffs that constitutes the condition for the change timing.

[0164] Furthermore, the control unit 116 may calculate the number of puffs that qualifies for the change timing by subtracting a predetermined value from the average number of puffs or the number of puffs in the most recent smoking session. Here, the predetermined value may be a natural number greater than 1 and less than the average number of puffs, such as 5. Furthermore, if the value obtained by subtracting the predetermined value from the average number of puffs or the number of puffs in the most recent smoking session includes a decimal point, the control unit 116 may, for example, round the decimal point to the nearest whole number and use the result as the number of puffs that qualifies for the change timing.

[0165] The smoking history information 1000 may further include, for example, information indicating the start date and time of each smoking session. In this case, the control unit 116 may calculate the average number of puffs from the number of puffs in the smoking sessions over a recent predetermined period of time (e.g., 24 hours).

[0166] As described above, the change timing may be set based on the user's smoking history, which makes it possible to change the puffing sensation (e.g., taste) or oral stimulation around an appropriate change timing that is in line with the user's past smoking habits.

[0167] More specifically, for example, the number of puffs that constitutes the condition for the change time may be set based on the number of puffs in a previous smoking session, in other words, the number of puffs performed during the period from when inhalation device 100 was turned on to when it was turned off. This makes it possible to suggest to the user whether the change time is before or after the change time set in consideration of the number of puffs performed in the previous smoking session, based on the feeling of draw or the stimulation in the oral cavity when puffing. This allows the user to determine when to end the current smoking session by referring to the feeling of draw or the stimulation in the oral cavity when puffing, thereby improving user convenience.

[0168] The number of puffs that triggers the change may be set based on the average number of puffs, which is the average number of puffs in each of the most recent predetermined number of smoking sessions. This allows the satisfying draw or stimulation in the oral cavity when puffing to be changed around an appropriate change time that is in line with the user's recent smoking habits.

[0169] Furthermore, the number of puffs that is a condition for determining when to change the number of puffs may be set based on a value calculated by multiplying the average number of puffs by a predetermined count that is greater than 0 and less than 1. This makes it possible to change the satisfying draw or stimulation in the oral cavity when puffing before the number of puffs that is expected to be taken per smoking session based on the user's recent smoking habits is taken from the start of the current smoking session.

[0170] (2-14. Thirteenth Example of Operation of Inhalation Device) In the twelfth example shown in FIG. 14, the change time is set based on the number of puffs in the past smoking session, but the present invention is not limited to this.

[0171] 15 is a diagram illustrating a thirteenth example of the operation of the inhalation device 100. This thirteenth example is an example in which the change timing is set based on the length of the previous smoking session. Note that the following description will focus on differences from the description in FIG. 14, and descriptions of parts common to the description in FIG. 14 will be omitted or simplified as appropriate.

[0172] In this example, the storage unit 114 stores, for example, smoking history information 1000 shown in Fig. 15(a). The smoking history information 1000 in this example may be information that associates each past smoking session of the inhalation device 100 with the duration of that smoking session (depicted as "duration").

[0173] As an example, the smoking history information 1000 shown in (a) of Figure 15 includes information indicating that the length of the user's previous (i.e., most recent) smoking session was 300 [sec], the length of the smoking session two sessions ago was 290 [sec], the length of the smoking session three sessions ago was 310 [sec], the length of the smoking session four sessions ago was 290 [sec], and the length of the smoking session five sessions ago was 310 [sec], as part of the user's smoking history.

[0174] In this example, when setting the change time, the control unit 116 first calculates the average length of the most recent five smoking sessions (hereinafter also referred to as the "average time"), as shown in (b) of FIG. 15. In the example shown in FIG. 15, the average time is calculated to be 300 seconds. In this way, by setting the change time based on the average time calculated from the lengths of a predetermined number of most recent smoking sessions (five sessions in the example shown in FIG. 15), it is possible to set the change time to an appropriate time that is in line with the user's recent smoking habits.

[0175] Next, the control unit 116 calculates the elapsed time that is a condition for the change timing based on the calculated average time, as shown in (c) of Fig. 15. As an example, the control unit 116 calculates the elapsed time that is a condition for the change timing by multiplying the calculated average time by a coefficient (where 0 < coefficient < 1) that is predetermined by the manufacturer of the suction device 100.

[0176] 15, the elapsed time that is the condition for the change timing is calculated as 150 seconds using the predetermined coefficient 1 / 2 and the average time 300 seconds. In this way, when the elapsed time that is the condition for the change timing is calculated as 150 seconds, the control unit 116 changes the heating mode of at least one of the first heating unit 121 and the second heating unit 132 in response to the fact that 150 seconds have passed since the start of the current smoking session.

[0177] In the example described here, the coefficient by which the average time is multiplied when calculating the elapsed time that is the condition for the change time is set to 1 / 2, but this is not limited to this. This coefficient may be greater than 1 / 2, for example, 2 / 3. By setting this coefficient greater than 1 / 2, it is possible to set the change time later than when 1 / 2 is set. Furthermore, this coefficient may be smaller than 1 / 2, for example, 1 / 3. By setting this coefficient smaller than 1 / 2, it is possible to set the change time earlier than when 1 / 2 is set.

[0178] Furthermore, the smoking sessions that are the subject of calculation of the average time are not limited to the most recent five smoking sessions. For example, the smoking sessions that are the subject of calculation of the average time may be a predetermined number of smoking sessions that are less than the most recent five (e.g., the most recent three smoking sessions), or a predetermined number of smoking sessions that are more than the most recent five (e.g., the most recent ten smoking sessions). Furthermore, the smoking sessions that are the subject of calculation of the average time may be all past smoking sessions of inhalation device 100.

[0179] Furthermore, the control unit 116 may not calculate the average time, but may instead calculate the elapsed time that serves as a condition for determining the timing of the change by multiplying the length of the most recent (i.e., previous) smoking session by a predetermined coefficient.

[0180] Alternatively, the control unit 116 may calculate the elapsed time that is the condition for determining the change timing by subtracting a predetermined value from the average time or the length of the most recent smoking session. Here, the predetermined value may be a value greater than 1 and less than the average time, such as 150 seconds.

[0181] In addition, if the smoking history information 1000 further includes information indicating the start date and time of each smoking session, the control unit 116 may calculate the average time, for example, from the length of the smoking session over the most recent specified period of time (e.g., 24 hours).

[0182] As described above, in this embodiment, if no puffs are made for a predetermined time (e.g., 300 seconds) while inhalation device 100 is in a power-on state, inhalation device 100 is automatically powered off at that point. When a smoking session ends because inhalation device 100 is automatically powered off, memory unit 114 preferably stores, as the length of the smoking session, a value obtained by subtracting the predetermined time (e.g., 300 seconds) from the last puff until inhalation device 100 is powered off.

[0183] As described above, the elapsed time condition for the change timing may be set based on the length of the previous smoking session, in other words, the length of time from when the inhalation device 100 was turned on to when it was turned off. This makes it possible to suggest to the user whether the change timing is before or after the change timing set in consideration of the length of the previous smoking session, based on the feeling of draw when puffing. This allows the user to determine when to end the current smoking session by referring to the feeling of draw or stimulation in the oral cavity when puffing, thereby improving user convenience.

[0184] The elapsed time that triggers the change may be set based on the average time, which is the average of the lengths of a predetermined number of recent smoking sessions. This allows the user to change the puffing sensation or oral stimulation around the appropriate change time that is in line with the user's recent smoking habits.

[0185] Furthermore, the elapsed time condition for the change time may be set based on a value calculated by multiplying the average time by a predetermined coefficient greater than 0 and less than 1. This makes it possible to change the satisfying draw or the stimulation in the oral cavity when puffing before the time estimated as the length of one smoking session based on the user's recent smoking habits has elapsed since the start of the current smoking session.

[0186] 3. Example of Processing Executed by the Control Unit Next, an example of processing executed by the control unit 116 will be described. Fig. 16 is a flowchart showing an example of processing executed by the control unit 116. Here, an example of processing executed by the control unit 116 will be described in a case where the number of puffs that constitutes a condition for the change timing is set based on the number of puffs in a past smoking session, and the heating mode of at least one of the first heating unit 121 and the second heating unit 132 is changed in response to this number of puffs.

[0187] 16 , first, the control unit 116 determines whether the power button has been pressed (step S1). If the control unit 116 determines that the power button has not been pressed (step S1: No), the control unit 116 repeats the process of step S1 until the power button is pressed. If the control unit 116 determines that the power button has been pressed (step S1: Yes), the control unit 116 turns on the power of the inhalation device 100 (step S2). This starts the current smoking session.

[0188] Next, the control unit 116 executes a change time setting process to set the change time (step S3). In the change time setting process, the control unit 116 calculates the average number of puffs from the number of puffs in a predetermined number of most recent smoking sessions, and sets the number of puffs that serves as a condition for the change time (i.e., the change time) based on this average number of puffs.

[0189] Next, the control unit 116 determines whether or not a puff has been detected (step S4). If it is determined that a puff has not been detected (step S4: No), the control unit 116 proceeds to the process of step S9. If it is determined that a puff has been detected (step S4: Yes), the control unit 116 supplies a predetermined amount of power to the first heating unit 121 (step S5), and adds 1 to the count value i of a puff counter that counts the number of puffs in the current smoking session (step S6), and then proceeds to the process of step S7.

[0190] Next, the control unit 116 determines whether or not it is time to change the setting (step S7). In the process of step S7, the control unit 116 determines that it is not time to change the setting if the count value i of the puff counter is less than the number of puffs that satisfies the condition for the change time, and determines that it is time to change the setting if the count value i has reached the number of puffs that satisfies the condition for the change time.

[0191] If it is determined that the time to change has not come (step S7: No), the control unit 116 proceeds directly to the process of step S9. If it is determined that the time to change has come (step S7: Yes), the control unit 116 changes the heating mode of at least one of the first heating unit 121 and the second heating unit 132 (step S8), and proceeds to the process of step S9. By the process of step S8, the control unit 116 starts supplying power to the second heating unit 132 to raise the temperature of the second heating unit 132, for example.

[0192] Next, the control unit 116 determines whether a predetermined time (e.g., 300 seconds) has elapsed since the last puff (step S9). If it is determined that the predetermined time has elapsed since the last puff (step S9: Yes), the control unit 116 proceeds to step S11.

[0193] If it is determined that a predetermined time has not elapsed since the last puff (step S9: No), the control unit 116 determines whether the power button has been pressed (step S10).If it is determined that the power button has not been pressed (step S10: No), the control unit 116 proceeds to the process of step S4 and repeats the above process.

[0194] If it is determined that the power button has been pressed (step S10: Yes), the control unit 116 stores information indicating that the current count value i of the puff counter is the number of puffs in the current smoking session in the storage unit 114 (step S11). Then, the control unit 116 resets the count value i of the puff counter to 0 (step S12), turns off the power of the inhalation device 100 (step S13), and ends the series of processes shown in Fig. 16. This ends the current smoking session.

[0195] Note that if the number of puffs that is a condition for the change time is predetermined by the manufacturer of inhalation device 100, this number of puffs may be set in the change time setting process. Also, if the number of puffs that is a condition for the change time is predetermined by the manufacturer of inhalation device 100, the process of step S11 and the like may not be performed.

[0196] 17 is a flowchart illustrating another example of processing executed by the control unit 116. Here, an example of processing executed by the control unit 116 is described in which an elapsed time of a condition for the change timing is set based on the length of a past smoking session, and the heating mode of at least one of the first heating unit 121 and the second heating unit 132 is changed in response to the passage of this elapsed time.

[0197] 17 , first, the control unit 116 determines whether the power button has been pressed (step S21). If the control unit 116 determines that the power button has not been pressed (step S21: No), the control unit 116 repeats the process of step S21 until the power button is pressed. If the control unit 116 determines that the power button has been pressed (step S21: Yes), the control unit 116 turns on the power of the inhalation device 100 (step S22). This starts the current smoking session.

[0198] Next, the control unit 116 executes a change time setting process to set the change time (step S23). In the change time setting process, the control unit 116 calculates an average time from the lengths of a predetermined number of recent smoking sessions, and sets an elapsed time (i.e., change time) that is a condition for the change time based on this average time.

[0199] Next, the control unit 116 starts measuring the elapsed time from the start of the current smoking session (step S24). Then, the control unit 116 determines whether or not a puff has been detected (step S25). If the control unit 116 determines that a puff has not been detected (step S25: No), the control unit 116 proceeds to the process of step S27. If the control unit 116 determines that a puff has been detected (step S25: Yes), the control unit 116 supplies a predetermined amount of power to the first heating unit 121 (step S26), and proceeds to the process of step S27.

[0200] Next, the control unit 116 determines whether or not it is time to change the smoking status (step S27). In the process of step S27, the control unit 116 determines that it is not time to change the smoking status if the elapsed time since the start of the current smoking session is less than the elapsed time that satisfies the condition for the change time, and determines that it is time to change the smoking status if the elapsed time since the start of the current smoking session has reached the elapsed time that satisfies the condition for the change time.

[0201] If it is determined that the time to change has not come (step S27: No), the control unit 116 proceeds directly to the process of step S29. If it is determined that the time to change has come (step S27: Yes), the control unit 116 changes the heating mode of at least one of the first heating unit 121 and the second heating unit 132 (step S28), and proceeds to the process of step S29. By the process of step S28, the control unit 116 starts supplying power to the second heating unit 132 to raise the temperature of the second heating unit 132, for example.

[0202] Next, the control unit 116 determines whether a predetermined time (e.g., 300 seconds) has elapsed since the last puff (step S29). If it determines that the predetermined time has elapsed since the last puff (step S29: Yes), the control unit 116 stores information in the storage unit 114 that indicates the length of the current smoking session, which is the value obtained by subtracting the predetermined time (e.g., 300 seconds) from the elapsed time since the start of the current smoking session (step S30), and proceeds to the processing of step S33.

[0203] If it is determined that a predetermined time has not elapsed since the last puff (step S29: No), the control unit 116 determines whether the power button has been pressed (step S31).If it is determined that the power button has not been pressed (step S31: No), the control unit 116 proceeds to the process of step S25 and repeats the above process.

[0204] If it is determined that the power button has been pressed (step S31: Yes), the control unit 116 stores information in the storage unit 114 that indicates the length of the current smoking session as the elapsed time since the start of the current smoking session (step S32), and proceeds to the processing of step S33. Next, the control unit 116 turns off the power of the inhalation device 100 (step S33), and ends the series of processing shown in FIG. 17. This ends the current smoking session.

[0205] Note that if the elapsed time that is a condition for the change timing is predetermined by the manufacturer of the suction device 100, this elapsed time may be set in the change timing setting process. Also, if the elapsed time that is a condition for the change timing is predetermined by the manufacturer of the suction device 100, the processes of steps S30 and S32 may not be performed.

[0206] As described above, according to this embodiment, the control unit 116 changes the heating mode of at least one of the first heating unit 121 and the second heating unit 132 in response to a predetermined change time after the inhalation device 100 is turned on. This allows the impact or stimulation in the oral cavity upon puffing to be changed before or after the change time, thereby enabling the user to know whether the change time is before or after the change time based on the impact or stimulation in the oral cavity. Therefore, the user can determine when to end the current power-on state by referring to the impact or stimulation in the oral cavity upon puffing, without having to measure the elapsed time since the start of the current power-on state (in other words, the current smoking session) or the number of puffs, thereby improving user convenience. Furthermore, if the change time is set based on the user's smoking history, the impact or stimulation in the oral cavity upon puffing can be changed before or after an appropriate change time that is in line with the user's past smoking habits, further improving user convenience.

[0207] While one embodiment of the power supply unit, control method, and control program for the suction device of the present disclosure has been described above with reference to the drawings, it goes without saying that the present invention is not limited to such an embodiment. It is clear that a person skilled in the art can conceive of various modifications or alterations within the scope of the claims, and it is understood that such modifications also fall within the technical scope of the present invention.

[0208] For example, the specific values ​​of the target temperatures and the like described in the above-described embodiments are merely examples, and the present invention is not limited to these.

[0209] The control method described in the above-described embodiment can be realized by executing a pre-prepared program on a computer (processor). The program is stored in a computer-readable storage medium and executed by being read from the storage medium. The program may be provided in a form stored in a non-transitory storage medium such as a flash memory, or may be provided via a network such as the Internet. The computer that executes the program may be, for example, a computer included in the suction device 100 (e.g., a CPU included in the suction device 100), but is not limited thereto and may also be a computer included in another device that can communicate with the suction device 100 (e.g., a smartphone or a server).

[0210] This specification etc. describes at least the following items. In parentheses, components etc. corresponding to the above-mentioned embodiment are shown as examples, but the present invention is not limited to these.

[0211] (1) A power supply unit (power supply unit 110) of an inhalation device (inhalation device 100) that imparts flavor components of a flavor source (flavor source 131) to an aerosol generated by heating an aerosol source by passing the flavor source through the aerosol, the power supply unit comprising: a power source (power supply unit 111) capable of supplying power to each of a first heating unit (first heating unit 121) that heats the aerosol source when power is supplied thereto and a second heating unit (second heating unit 132) that heats the flavor source when power is supplied thereto; and a control unit (control unit 116) capable of controlling the power supply from the power source to the first heating unit and the second heating unit; the inhalation device has an inhalation-disabled state in which power is not supplied to the first heating unit and the second heating unit, and an inhalation-enabled state in which power can be supplied to at least the first heating unit; and the inhalation-enabled state is entered in response to a predetermined input when in the inhalation-disabled state, and the inhalation-disabled state is entered in response to a predetermined input when in the inhalation-enabled state; The control unit causes the first heating unit to heat the aerosol source when suction is performed on the suction device while the suction device is in the suction-enabled state, and changes the heating mode of at least one of the first heating unit and the second heating unit when a predetermined change time has arrived after the suction device has entered the suction-enabled state.

[0212] According to (1), the suction feeling or oral stimulation when suctioning the suction device can be changed before or after a predetermined change time after the suction device is in a suction-enabled state. This makes it possible to suggest to the user whether it is before or after the change time based on the suction feeling or oral stimulation when suctioning the suction device. Therefore, the user can determine when to end the current suction-enabled state by referring to the suction feeling or oral stimulation when suctioning the suction device, without having to measure the elapsed time since the current suction-enabled state began or the number of suctions performed on the suction device, thereby improving user convenience.

[0213] (2) The power supply unit according to (1), wherein the change time is a time when the suction has been performed a predetermined number of times since the suction device was placed in the suction-enabled state, or a time when a predetermined time has elapsed since the suction device was placed in the suction-enabled state.

[0214] According to (2), it is possible to change the suction feeling or stimulation in the oral cavity when suction is performed on the suction device after a predetermined number of times since the suction device became capable of suction, or after a predetermined time has passed since the suction device became capable of suction.

[0215] (3) The power supply unit according to (1) or (2), wherein the control unit changes the heating mode of the flavor source by the second heating unit in response to the timing of the change.

[0216] According to (3), the smoking taste experienced by the user when inhaling the inhalation device can be changed before and after the change time. This makes it possible to suggest to the user whether it is before or after the change time based on the smoking taste or oral stimulation experienced by the user when inhaling the inhalation device. Therefore, the user can determine when to end the current inhalable state by referring to the smoking taste or oral stimulation experienced when inhaling the inhalation device.

[0217] (4) The power supply unit according to (3), wherein the control unit does not cause the second heating unit to heat the flavor source during the period from when the suction device is in the suction-enabled state until the change time, and causes the second heating unit to heat the flavor source after the change time.

[0218] According to (4), after the change time, the user's smoking taste or oral stimulation when inhaling into the inhalation device can be strengthened compared to before the change time, thereby making it possible to indicate to the user whether it is before or after the change time based on the smoking taste or oral stimulation when inhaling into the inhalation device.

[0219] (5) The power supply unit according to (3), wherein the control unit causes the second heating unit to heat the flavor source at a relatively low temperature during the period from when the suction device is in the suction-enabled state until the change time, and causes the second heating unit to heat the flavor source at a relatively high temperature after the change time.

[0220] According to (5), after the change time, the smoking taste or oral stimulation experienced by the user when inhaling the inhalation device can be strengthened compared to before the change time. This makes it possible to indicate to the user whether it is before or after the change time based on the smoking taste or oral stimulation experienced by the user when inhaling the inhalation device. Furthermore, the smoking taste or oral stimulation experienced before the change time can be strengthened compared to when the flavor source is not heated.

[0221] (6) The power supply unit according to (4) or (5), in which the control unit increases the temperature of the second heating unit in a stepwise manner with the passage of time after the change time.

[0222] According to (6), it is possible to prevent the taste or oral stimulation experienced by the user when inhaling using the inhalation device from suddenly changing from the time of change, which would cause the user to feel excessive discomfort or annoyance.

[0223] (7) The power supply unit according to (4) or (5), wherein the control unit gradually increases the temperature of the second heating unit as the suction is performed after the change time.

[0224] According to (7), it is possible to prevent the taste or oral stimulation experienced by the user when inhaling using the inhalation device from suddenly changing from the time of change, which would cause the user to feel excessive discomfort or annoyance.

[0225] (8) The power supply unit according to (4) or (5), wherein the control unit gradually increases the temperature of the second heating unit over a predetermined time period from the change time.

[0226] According to (8), it is possible to prevent the taste or oral stimulation experienced by the user when inhaling using the inhalation device from suddenly changing from the time of change, which would cause the user to feel excessive discomfort or annoyance.

[0227] (9) The power supply unit according to (3), wherein the control unit causes the second heating unit to heat the flavor source during the period from when the suction device is in the suction-enabled state until the change time arrives, and terminates the heating of the flavor source by the second heating unit when the change time arrives.

[0228] According to (9), after the change time, the smoking taste or the stimulation in the oral cavity experienced by the user when inhaling into the inhalation device can be weakened compared to before the change time, thereby making it possible to suggest to the user whether it is before or after the change time based on the smoking taste or the stimulation in the oral cavity experienced by the user when inhaling into the inhalation device.

[0229] (10) The power supply unit according to (3), wherein the control unit causes the second heating unit to heat the flavor source at a relatively high temperature during the period from when the suction device is in the suction-enabled state until the change time, and causes the second heating unit to heat the flavor source at a relatively low temperature after the change time.

[0230] According to (10), after the changeover time, it is possible to weaken the smoking taste or the stimulation in the oral cavity experienced by the user when inhaling into the inhalation device compared to before the changeover time. Furthermore, it is possible to prevent the smoking taste or the stimulation in the oral cavity experienced by the user when inhaling into the inhalation device from becoming too weak compared to when the flavor source is not heated after the changeover time.

[0231] (11) The power supply unit according to (1) or (2), wherein the control unit changes the heating mode of the aerosol source by the first heating unit in response to the timing of the change.

[0232] According to (11), the amount of aerosol generated when inhaling the inhalation device can be changed before and after the change time. This makes it possible to indicate to the user whether it is before or after the change time based on the feeling of inhalation or the stimulation in the oral cavity when inhaling the inhalation device. Therefore, the user can determine when to end the current inhalation state by referring to the feeling of inhalation or the stimulation in the oral cavity when inhaling the inhalation device.

[0233] (12) The power supply unit according to (11), wherein the control unit applies a first voltage to the first heating unit when the suction is performed during a period from when the suction device is in the suction-enabled state until the change time, and applies a second voltage different from the first voltage to the first heating unit when the suction is performed after the change time.

[0234] According to (12), the amount of aerosol generated when suction is performed on the suction device can be changed before and after the change time.

[0235] (13) A control method performed by a computer (control unit 116) that controls a power supply unit (power supply unit 110) of an inhalation device (inhalation device 100) that imparts a flavor component of a flavor source (flavor source 131) to an aerosol generated by heating an aerosol source by passing the flavor source through the aerosol, wherein the power supply unit includes: a power supply (power supply unit 111) that can supply power to each of a first heating unit (first heating unit 121) that heats the aerosol source when power is supplied, and a second heating unit (second heating unit 132) that heats the flavor source when power is supplied; the computer is configured to be able to control the power supply to the first heating unit and the second heating unit; and the inhalation device has an inhalation-disabled state in which power is not supplied to the first heating unit and the second heating unit, and an inhalation-enabled state in which power can be supplied to at least the first heating unit. A control method in which the suction device enters the suction-enabled state in response to a predetermined input when in the suction-disabled state, and enters the suction-disabled state in response to a predetermined input when in the suction-enabled state, and the computer performs the following processing: when suction is performed on the suction device while the suction device is in the suction-enabled state, causes the first heating unit to heat the aerosol source (steps S5, S26); and when a predetermined change time has arrived after the suction device entered the suction-enabled state, changes the heating mode by at least one of the first heating unit and the second heating unit (steps S8, S28).

[0236] According to (13), the suction feeling or the stimulation in the oral cavity when suctioning the suction device can be changed around a predetermined change time after the suction device is in a suction-enabled state. This makes it possible to suggest to the user whether it is before or after the change time based on the suction feeling or the stimulation in the oral cavity when suctioning the suction device. Therefore, the user can determine when to end the current suction-enabled state by referring to the suction feeling or the stimulation in the oral cavity when suctioning the suction device, without having to measure the elapsed time since the current suction-enabled state was started or the number of suctions performed on the suction device, thereby improving user convenience.

[0237] (14) A control program for causing a computer (control unit 116) to perform a predetermined process, the control program controlling a power supply unit (power supply unit 110) of an inhalation device (inhalation device 100) that imparts a flavor component of a flavor source (flavor source 131) to an aerosol generated by heating an aerosol source by passing the flavor source through the flavor source, wherein the power supply unit includes: a power supply (power supply unit 111) capable of supplying power to each of a first heating unit (first heating unit 121) that heats the aerosol source when power is supplied thereto; and a second heating unit (second heating unit 132) that heats the flavor source when power is supplied thereto; the computer is configured to be able to control the power supply to the first heating unit and the second heating unit; and the inhalation device has a non-inhalable state in which power is not supplied to the first heating unit and the second heating unit, and a inhalable state in which power can be supplied at least to the first heating unit. A control program that switches to the suction-enabled state in response to a predetermined input when the suction device is in the suction-disabled state, and switches to the suction-disabled state in response to a predetermined input when the suction device is in the suction-enabled state, and causes the computer to heat the aerosol source using the first heating unit when suction is performed on the suction device while the suction device is in the suction-enabled state (steps S5, S26), and changes the heating mode used by at least one of the first heating unit and the second heating unit in response to a predetermined change time after the suction device has switched to the suction-enabled state (steps S8, S28).

[0238] According to (14), the suction feeling or the stimulation in the oral cavity when suctioning the suction device can be changed around a predetermined change time after the suction device is in a suction-enabled state. This makes it possible to suggest to the user whether it is before or after the change time based on the suction feeling or the stimulation in the oral cavity when suctioning the suction device. Therefore, the user can determine when to end the current suction-enabled state by referring to the suction feeling or the stimulation in the oral cavity when suctioning the suction device, without having to measure the elapsed time since the current suction-enabled state was started or the number of suctions performed on the suction device, thereby improving user convenience.

[0239] (15) A computer-readable storage medium storing the control program according to (14).

[0240] According to (15), the control program according to (14) can be executed by a computer.

[0241] REFERENCE SIGNS LIST 100 Suction device 110 Power supply unit 111 Power supply section (power supply) 116 Control section (computer) 121 First heating section 131 Flavor source 132 Second heating section

Claims

1. A power supply unit for an inhalation device that applies a flavor component of a flavor source to an aerosol generated by heating an aerosol source by passing a flavor source through the aerosol, The power supply unit includes: a power source capable of supplying power to a first heating unit that heats the aerosol source by being supplied with power, and a second heating unit that heats the flavor source by being supplied with power; a control unit capable of controlling power supply from the power source to the first heating unit and the second heating unit; Equipped with The suction device is a non-suction state in which power is not supplied to the first heating unit and the second heating unit, and a suction state in which power can be supplied to at least the first heating unit, When the suction-disabled state is entered into the suction-enabled state in response to a predetermined input, and when the suction-enabled state is entered into the suction-disabled state in response to a predetermined input, The control unit When the suction device is in the suction-enabled state and suction is performed on the suction device, the aerosol source is heated by the first heating unit; changing a heating mode by at least one of the first heating unit and the second heating unit in response to a predetermined change time after the suction device has entered the suction-enabled state; Power supply unit.

2. 2. The power supply unit according to claim 1, The change time is a time when the suction has been performed a predetermined number of times since the suction device was placed in the suction-enabled state, or a time when a predetermined time has elapsed since the suction device was placed in the suction-enabled state. Power supply unit.

3. 2. The power supply unit according to claim 1, the control unit changes the heating mode of the flavor source by the second heating unit in response to the change time. Power supply unit.

4. 4. The power supply unit according to claim 3, the control unit does not allow the second heating unit to heat the flavor source during a period from when the inhalation device is in the inhalation enabled state until the change time, and allows the second heating unit to heat the flavor source after the change time. Power supply unit.

5. 4. The power supply unit according to claim 3, the control unit causes the second heating unit to heat the flavor source at a relatively low temperature during a period from when the inhalation device is in the inhalation enabled state until when the change time is reached, and causes the second heating unit to heat the flavor source at a relatively high temperature after when the change time is reached. Power supply unit.

6. 6. The power supply unit according to claim 4 or 5, the control unit increases the temperature of the second heating unit in a stepwise manner over time after the change time. Power supply unit.

7. 6. The power supply unit according to claim 4 or 5, the control unit gradually increases the temperature of the second heating unit as the suction is performed after the change time. Power supply unit.

8. 6. The power supply unit according to claim 4 or 5, the control unit gradually increases the temperature of the second heating unit over a predetermined time period from the change time. Power supply unit.

9. 4. The power supply unit according to claim 3, the control unit controls the second heating unit to heat the flavor source during a period from when the inhalation device is in the inhalable state until when the change time is reached, and stops the second heating unit from heating the flavor source when the change time is reached. Power supply unit.

10. 4. The power supply unit according to claim 3, the control unit controls the second heating unit to heat the flavor source at a relatively high temperature during a period from when the inhalation device is in the inhalation enabled state until when the change time is reached, and controls the second heating unit to heat the flavor source at a relatively low temperature after when the change time is reached. Power supply unit.

11. 3. The power supply unit according to claim 1 or 2, the control unit changes the heating mode of the aerosol source by the first heating unit in response to the change time. Power supply unit.

12. 12. The power supply unit of claim 11, the control unit applies a first voltage to the first heating unit when the suction is performed during a period from when the suction device is in the suction-enabled state until the change time, and applies a second voltage different from the first voltage to the first heating unit when the suction is performed after the change time. Power supply unit.

13. A control method performed by a computer to control a power supply unit of an inhalation device that applies a flavor component of a flavor source to an aerosol generated by heating an aerosol source by passing the flavor source through the aerosol, comprising: The power supply unit includes: a power source capable of supplying power to a first heating unit that heats the aerosol source by being supplied with power, and a second heating unit that heats the flavor source by being supplied with power; Equipped with the computer is configured to be able to control power supply from the power source to the first heating unit and the second heating unit, The suction device is a non-suction state in which power is not supplied to the first heating unit and the second heating unit, and a suction state in which power can be supplied to at least the first heating unit, When the suction-disabled state is entered into the suction-enabled state in response to a predetermined input, and when the suction-enabled state is entered into the suction-disabled state in response to a predetermined input, The computer When the suction device is in the suction-enabled state and suction is performed on the suction device, the aerosol source is heated by the first heating unit; changing a heating mode by at least one of the first heating unit and the second heating unit in response to a predetermined change time after the suction device has entered the suction-enabled state; A method of control, which performs processing.

14. A control program for causing a computer to perform predetermined processing to control a power supply unit of an inhalation device that applies a flavor component of a flavor source to an aerosol generated by heating an aerosol source by passing the flavor source through the aerosol, the control program comprising: The power supply unit includes: a power source capable of supplying power to a first heating unit that heats the aerosol source by being supplied with power, and a second heating unit that heats the flavor source by being supplied with power; Equipped with the computer is configured to be able to control power supply from the power source to the first heating unit and the second heating unit, The suction device is a non-suction state in which power is not supplied to the first heating unit and the second heating unit, and a suction state in which power can be supplied to at least the first heating unit, When the suction-disabled state is entered into the suction-enabled state in response to a predetermined input, and when the suction-enabled state is entered into the suction-disabled state in response to a predetermined input, The computer, When the suction device is in the suction-enabled state and suction is performed on the suction device, the aerosol source is heated by the first heating unit; changing a heating mode by at least one of the first heating unit and the second heating unit in response to a predetermined change time after the suction device has entered the suction-enabled state; A control program that performs processing.