Inhalation device, control method, and program

Abstract

[Problem] To provide a system that enables broader application of an inhalation device. [Solution] An inhalation device comprises: a notification unit that notifies a user of information; a retention unit that removably retains an article of a prescribed shape; a load that generates energy for heating an aerosol source contained in the article retained by the retention unit; and a control unit that controls operation of the notification unit and the load. The control unit operates in a first operation mode, in which the generation by the load of the energy for heating the aerosol source is permitted, or in a second operation mode, in which the generation by the load of the energy for heating the aerosol source is prohibited. In the first operation mode, the control unit controls the notification unit so as to issue notification of information corresponding to the state of the inhalation device; and in the second operation mode, the control unit controls the notification unit so as to continue operation in a prescribed manner.

Description

Suction device, control method, and program

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

[0002] Inhalation devices that generate substances to be inhaled by users are widely used. For example, inhalation devices generate aerosols imparted with flavor components using a substrate containing an aerosol source for generating aerosols and a flavor source for imparting flavor components to the generated aerosol. Users can enjoy the flavor by inhaling the aerosols imparted with flavor components generated by the inhalation device. The action of a user inhaling the aerosol is hereinafter also referred to as a puff or puffing action. Examples of devices classified as inhalation devices include electronic cigarettes and heated tobacco products, which are used as alternatives to cigarettes, as well as nebulizers used for medical purposes. Note that an electronic cigarette is an inhalation device that generates an aerosol by atomizing a liquid aerosol source. A heated tobacco product is an inhalation device that generates an aerosol by heating a solid containing an aerosol source.

[0003] It has been considered to implement multiple operating modes in inhalation devices. For example, Patent Document 1 listed below discloses an inhalation device that can operate in a normal mode in which steam can be generated, or in a menu mode in which steam cannot be generated but in which operating parameters can be set.

[0004] Patent No. 6193381

[0005] However, the mode change by the suction device disclosed in the above-mentioned Patent Document 1 is only performed when the user is using the suction device, which means that the use of the mode change is limited.

[0006] Therefore, the present disclosure has been made in consideration of the above problems, and an object of the present disclosure is to provide a mechanism that enables a wider range of uses for suction devices.

[0007] In order to solve the above-mentioned problems, according to one aspect of the present disclosure, an inhalation device is provided, comprising: a notification unit that notifies a user of information; a holding unit that detachably holds an article of a predetermined shape; a load that generates energy to heat an aerosol source contained in the article held by the holding unit; and a control unit that controls the operation of the notification unit and the load, wherein the control unit operates in either a first operating mode that allows the load to generate energy to heat the aerosol source, or a second operating mode that prohibits the load from generating energy to heat the aerosol source, and controls the notification unit to notify information according to the state of the inhalation device in the first operating mode, and controls the notification unit to continue operating in a predetermined manner in the second operating mode.

[0008] The control unit may operate in the second operation mode only when a first condition is satisfied.

[0009] The first condition may include that an external power source is connected to the suction device via a predetermined connection terminal.

[0010] The suction device may be removably equipped with a power supply unit that stores and supplies power for operation of the suction device, and the first condition may include a specific power supply unit being attached to the suction device.

[0011] The first condition may include a predetermined item being held in the holding portion.

[0012] The control unit may control the notification unit to emit light in a predetermined light emission pattern in the second operation mode.

[0013] The suction device may further include a communication unit capable of wireless communication, and the control unit may update the predetermined light emission pattern based on information received by the communication unit.

[0014] The control unit may control the notification unit to emit light in the predetermined light emission pattern according to the item held in the holding unit.

[0015] The suction device may further include a communication unit capable of wireless communication, and the control unit may control the notification unit in the second operating mode based on information received by the communication unit so that the notification unit and the notification units of one or more other suction devices share the responsibility of emitting light in the specified light emission pattern.

[0016] The suction device may further include a power supply unit that stores and supplies power for operation of the suction device, and when an external power source is connected to the suction device, the control unit may control the suction device to supply power from the external power source to the power supply unit in the first operating mode, and to supply power from the external power source to a unit other than the power supply unit in the second operating mode.

[0017] The suction device may further include a communication unit capable of wireless communication, and the control unit may operate the communication unit with weaker transmission power in the second operation mode than in the first operation mode.

[0018] The suction device may be detachably connected to an auxiliary device that generates an aerosol, and the control unit may control the auxiliary device to generate an aerosol in the second operation mode.

[0019] The control unit may control the notification unit to issue a warning if a second condition is not satisfied during a transition from the second operation mode to the first operation mode.

[0020] In addition, in order to solve the above-mentioned problem, according to another aspect of the present disclosure, there is provided a control method executed by a computer that controls a suction device, wherein the suction device comprises a notification unit that notifies a user of information, a holding unit that detachably holds an article of a predetermined shape, and a load that generates energy to heat an aerosol source contained in the article held by the holding unit, and the control method includes operating in either a first operating mode that allows the load to generate energy to heat the aerosol source, or a second operating mode that prohibits the load from generating energy to heat the aerosol source, and controlling the notification unit in the first operating mode to notify information according to the state of the suction device, and controlling the notification unit in the second operating mode to continue operating in a predetermined manner.

[0021] In addition, in order to solve the above problem, according to another aspect of the present disclosure, there is provided a program executed by a computer that controls a suction device, wherein the suction device comprises a notification unit that notifies a user of information, a holding unit that detachably holds an item of a predetermined shape, and a load that generates energy to heat an aerosol source contained in the item held by the holding unit, and the program causes the computer to function as a control unit that controls the operation of the notification unit and the load, and the control unit operates in either a first operating mode that allows the load to generate energy to heat the aerosol source, or a second operating mode that prohibits the load from generating energy to heat the aerosol source, and controls the notification unit to notify information according to the state of the suction device in the first operating mode, and controls the notification unit to continue operating in a predetermined manner in the second operating mode.

[0022] As described above, the present disclosure provides a mechanism that enables a wider range of uses for the suction device.

[0023] FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram showing a configuration example of a suction device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure; FIG. 2 is a diagram showing an example of the external configuration of a suction device operating in a promotional mode; FIG. 3 is a flowchart showing an example of a processing flow executed by the suction device according to the present embodiment; FIG. 4 is a schematic diagram showing a configuration example of a suction device according to a second modified example; FIG. 5 is a diagram for explaining the operation of a suction device according to a third modified example; and FIG. 6 is a schematic diagram showing a configuration example of a suction device according to a fourth modified example.

[0024] Preferred embodiments of the present disclosure will be described in detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings. In this specification and drawings, components having substantially the same functional configurations are designated by the same reference numerals, and redundant description will be omitted.

[0025] 1. Configuration Example of Inhalation Device The inhalation device is a device that generates a substance to be inhaled by a user. In the following description, the substance generated by the inhalation device is described as an aerosol. Alternatively, the substance generated by the inhalation device may be a gas.

[0026] 1 is a schematic diagram illustrating an example of a configuration of a suction device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. As shown in FIG. 1, a suction device 100 according to this example configuration includes a power supply unit 111, a sensor unit 112, a notification unit 113, a memory unit 114, a communication unit 115, a control unit 116, a heating unit 121, a storage unit 140, and a heat insulating unit 144.

[0027] 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.

[0028] The sensor unit 112 acquires various types of information related to the suction device 100. As one example, the sensor unit 112 is configured with a pressure sensor such as a condenser microphone, a flow rate sensor, a temperature sensor, or the like, and acquires values ​​associated with suction by the user. As another example, the sensor unit 112 is configured with an input device such as a button or a switch that accepts information input from the user.

[0029] 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.

[0030] The storage unit 114 stores various types of information 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, for example.

[0031] The communication unit 115 is a communication interface capable of performing communication conforming to 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).

[0032] The control unit 116 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. The control unit 116 is realized by an electronic circuit such as a CPU (Central Processing Unit) or a microprocessor.

[0033] The storage unit 140 has an internal space 141 and holds the stick-shaped substrate 150 while accommodating a portion of the stick-shaped substrate 150 in the internal space 141. The storage unit 140 has an opening 142 that connects the internal space 141 to the outside and accommodates the stick-shaped substrate 150 inserted into the internal space 141 through the opening 142. For example, the storage unit 140 is a cylindrical body with the opening 142 and a bottom 143 as its bottom surface, and defines a columnar internal space 141. An air flow path that supplies air to the internal space 141 is connected to the storage unit 140. An air inlet, which is an air inlet to the air flow path, is arranged, for example, on a side surface of the suction device 100. An air outlet, which is an air outlet from the air flow path to the internal space 141, is arranged, for example, on the bottom 143.

[0034] The stick-shaped substrate 150 includes a substrate portion 151 and a mouthpiece portion 152. The substrate portion 151 includes an aerosol source. The aerosol source includes a tobacco-derived or non-tobacco-derived flavor component. When the inhalation device 100 is a medical inhaler such as a nebulizer, the aerosol source may include a medicament. The aerosol source may be, for example, a liquid such as a polyhydric alcohol, such as glycerin or propylene glycol, or water, containing a tobacco-derived or non-tobacco-derived flavor component, or a solid containing a tobacco-derived or non-tobacco-derived flavor component. When the stick-shaped substrate 150 is held in the storage portion 140, at least a portion of the substrate portion 151 is housed in the internal space 141, and at least a portion of the mouthpiece portion 152 protrudes from the opening 142. When a user holds the mouthpiece portion 152 protruding from the opening 142 in their mouth and inhales, air flows into the internal space 141 via an air flow path (not shown) and reaches the user's mouth along with the aerosol generated from the substrate portion 151.

[0035] The heating unit 121 generates aerosol by heating the aerosol source and atomizing the aerosol source. In the example shown in FIG. 1 , the heating unit 121 is configured in a film shape and is arranged to cover the outer periphery of the storage unit 140. When the heating unit 121 generates heat, the substrate unit 151 of the stick-shaped substrate 150 is heated from the outer periphery, generating aerosol. The heating unit 121 generates heat when power is supplied from the power supply unit 111. As an example, power may be supplied when the sensor unit 112 detects that the user has started inhaling and / or that predetermined information has been input. Power supply may be stopped when the sensor unit 112 detects that the user has stopped inhaling and / or that predetermined information has been input.

[0036] The heat insulating section 144 prevents heat transfer from the heating section 121 to other components. For example, the heat insulating section 144 is made of a vacuum heat insulating material, an aerogel heat insulating material, or the like.

[0037] 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.

[0038] As one example, the heating unit 121 may be configured in a blade shape and disposed so as to protrude from the bottom 143 of the storage unit 140 into the internal space 141. In this case, the blade-shaped heating unit 121 is inserted into the substrate 151 of the stick-shaped substrate 150 and heats the substrate 151 of the stick-shaped substrate 150 from the inside. As another example, the heating unit 121 may be disposed so as to cover the bottom 143 of the storage unit 140. Furthermore, the heating unit 121 may be configured as a combination of two or more of a first heating unit covering the outer periphery of the storage unit 140, a blade-shaped second heating unit, and a third heating unit covering the bottom 143 of the storage unit 140.

[0039] As another example, the storage unit 140 may include an opening / closing mechanism such as a hinge that opens and closes a portion of the outer shell that forms the internal space 141. The storage unit 140 may then open and close the outer shell to hold and store the stick-shaped substrate 150 inserted into the internal space 141. In this case, the heating unit 121 may be provided at the holding location in the storage unit 140, and may heat the stick-shaped substrate 150 while pressing it.

[0040] Furthermore, the means for atomizing the aerosol source is not limited to heating by the heating unit 121. For example, the means for atomizing the aerosol source may be induction heating. In that case, the suction device 100 has at least an electromagnetic induction source such as a coil that generates a magnetic field, instead of the heating unit 121. A susceptor that generates heat by induction heating may be provided in the suction device 100 or may be included in the stick-shaped substrate 150.

[0041] The storage unit 140 is an example of a holding unit that detachably holds an article of a predetermined shape, such as the stick-shaped substrate 150. The heating unit 121 is an example of a load that generates energy for heating the aerosol source contained in the stick-shaped substrate 150 held by the storage unit 140. As described above, the inhalation device 100 may have an electromagnetic induction source as a load instead of the heating unit 121.

[0042] 2. Technical Features The suction device 100 according to this embodiment (more specifically, the control unit 116) can operate in either a first operation mode or a second operation mode.

[0043] The first operating mode is an operating mode that permits the heating unit 121 to generate energy for heating the aerosol source. More simply, the first operating mode is an operating mode that permits the heating unit 121 to heat the stick-shaped substrate 150. In the first operating mode, the control unit 116 starts heating by the heating unit 121 when a user operation is performed to instruct the start of heating. Note that examples of user operations that instruct the start of heating include pressing a button, inserting the stick-shaped substrate 150 into the storage unit 140, and receiving information instructing the start of heating from another device such as a smartphone.

[0044] In the first operation mode, the notification unit 113 notifies information according to the state of the suction device 100. For example, the notification unit 113 notifies information indicating that heating has started, that heating is in progress, that heating has ended, or that communication is in progress.

[0045] Hereinafter, the first operation mode will also be referred to as the normal mode. After being purchased by a user, the inhalation device 100 operates in the normal mode and generates aerosol in response to a user instruction.

[0046] The second operation mode is an operation mode that prohibits the heating unit 121 from generating energy for heating the aerosol source. More simply, the second operation mode is an operation mode that prohibits the heating unit 121 from heating the stick-shaped substrate 150. In the second operation mode, the control unit 116 does not start heating by the heating unit 121 even if a user operation is performed to instruct the start of heating.

[0047] In the second operation mode, notification unit 113 continues to operate in a predetermined manner. In the second operation mode, notification unit 113 continues to operate in a predetermined manner, thereby attracting the attention of people in the vicinity to suction device 100. This can stimulate people's desire to purchase suction device 100 and promote sales of suction device 100.

[0048] Hereinafter, the second operating mode is also referred to as a sales promotion mode. When the suction device 100 is used in a sales promotion activity for the suction device 100, the suction device 100 operates in the sales promotion mode and performs a sales promotion demonstration.

[0049] Manufacturers of devices such as the suction device 100 actively promote their devices. For example, manufacturers often promote their devices by placing mock-ups of their devices in retail outlets such as convenience stores. However, manufacturing and mass-producing mock-ups for promotional purposes requires cost and labor. In this regard, the suction device 100 according to the present embodiment can operate in a promotional mode in addition to a normal mode. Therefore, suction devices 100 manufactured and mass-produced for sale to users can be used for promotional purposes as they are. As a result, it is possible to reduce the cost and labor required for promotional purposes.

[0050] FIG. 2 is a diagram illustrating an example of the external configuration of the suction device 100 operating in the promotion mode. As shown in FIG. 2, the suction device 100 includes an indicator 113a, which is an example of the notification unit 113. The indicator 113a includes a light-emitting device such as a plurality of LEDs (light-emitting diodes) and can change the color and area of ​​light it emits. The control unit 116 may control the indicator 113a to continuously emit light in a predetermined light pattern as a promotional demonstration in the promotion mode. The light-emitting pattern is information that defines the operating pattern of the light-emitting device, and includes the color, brightness, duration, and interval between multiple light emissions. As an example, the light-emitting pattern in the promotion mode may be a pattern that resembles a flickering flame, with the light color randomly changing between red, yellow, and orange. As another example, the light-emitting pattern in the promotion mode may be a pattern in which the light color changes depending on the time of day, such as white in the morning, orange during the day, and red at night. The control unit 116 may obtain the time information from a clock built into the suction device 100, or may receive the time information wirelessly from a smartphone or the like.

[0051] 2, it is desirable that a charging cable 2 for charging the suction device 100 be connected to the suction device 100 operating in the promotional mode. The charging cable 2 is connected to an external power source such as an outlet and supplies power from the external power source to the suction device 100. By operating the suction device 100 in the promotional mode with the charging cable 2 connected, the suction device 100 can prevent the battery from running out and can continue the promotional demonstration semi-permanently.

[0052] The control unit 116 may update the light emission pattern in the promotion mode based on the information received by the communication unit 115. For example, a store may update the light emission pattern in the promotion mode to an optimal one according to the store's location, weather, characteristics of customers visiting the store, etc. This can further improve the effectiveness of the promotion.

[0053] In the sales promotion mode, various functions may be restricted. More simply, in the sales promotion mode, functions other than those that may be used for sales promotion may be restricted. The heating function of the heating unit 121 is an example of a function that is restricted in such a sales promotion mode.

[0054] The communication unit 115 may perform wireless communication even in the promotional mode. The communication for updating the light emission pattern in the promotional mode described above may be performed in the promotional mode. However, the control unit 116 may limit the function of the communication unit 115 in the promotional mode compared to the normal mode. As an example, the control unit 116 may operate the communication unit 115 with weaker transmission power in the promotional mode compared to the normal mode. As another example, the control unit 116 may operate the communication unit 115 in a narrower frequency band in the promotional mode compared to the normal mode. This configuration makes it possible to suppress radio wave interference between the suction device 100 operating in the promotional mode and various devices in the retailer, thereby minimizing disadvantages to the retailer.

[0055] In the promotional mode, the control unit 116 may limit charging of the power supply unit 111. That is, in the normal mode, when an external power supply is connected to the suction device 100, the control unit 116 may control the power supply unit 111 to receive power from the external power supply. More simply, in the normal mode, the control unit 116 may supply power from the external power supply to the power supply unit 111 to charge the power supply unit 111. On the other hand, in the promotional mode, when an external power supply is connected to the suction device 100, the control unit 116 may control the power supply from the external power supply to a device other than the power supply unit 111. For example, in the promotional mode, the control unit 116 may control the power supply from the external power supply to components operating in the promotional mode, such as the notification unit 113, directly without passing through the power supply unit 111. Control of the power supply within the suction device 100 may be achieved by controlling a diode or the like provided on the wiring. Promotional activities typically continue for several hours. Therefore, if the power supply unit 111 is involved in a promotional activity, it may deteriorate. In this regard, with this configuration, the power supply unit 111 can be prevented from being involved in the operation in the promotional mode, thereby preventing deterioration of the power supply unit 111.

[0056] The control unit 116 may operate in the promotion mode only when a first condition (hereinafter also referred to as the promotion mode transition condition) is satisfied. With this configuration, the suction device 100 can be operated in the promotion mode only by retailers who are aware of the promotion mode transition condition. As a result, it is possible to prevent a decrease in usability when using the suction device 100 by general users.

[0057] The promotional mode transition condition may include an external power source being connected to the suction device 100 via a predetermined connection terminal. More simply, the promotional mode transition condition may include an external power source being connected to the suction device 100 via a promotional charging cable 2 having a predetermined connection terminal. The promotional charging cable 2 is a charging cable 2 exclusively for promotional use that is provided to retailers for promotional purposes. The connection terminal of the charging cable 2 may be, for example, a USB connector. The promotional charging cable 2 and the regular charging cable 2 may have different electrical characteristics of multiple pins included in the USB connector. The electrical characteristics here may be a current value, a voltage value, or a potential. In this case, the control unit 116 identifies whether the connected charging cable 2 is a promotional charging cable 2 or a regular charging cable 2 based on the electrical characteristics of the connection terminal of the connected charging cable 2, and determines whether the promotional mode transition condition is satisfied. With this configuration, it is possible to improve usability in that the transition to promotional mode, the continuation of promotional mode, and the supply of power for operation in promotional mode can be achieved simply by connecting the promotional charging cable 2 to the suction device 100.

[0058] The control unit 116 may transition to the normal mode when the promotional mode transition condition is no longer satisfied. For example, the control unit 116 may transition to the normal mode when the promotional charging cable 2 connected to the suction device 100 is removed. With this configuration, the transition from the promotional mode to the normal mode can be achieved simply by removing the promotional charging cable 2 from the suction device 100, thereby improving usability.

[0059] Here, the control unit 116 may control the notification unit 113 to issue a warning if a second condition (hereinafter also referred to as a promotional mode release condition) is not satisfied when transitioning from the promotional mode to the normal mode. On the other hand, the control unit 116 may control the notification unit 113 to issue no notification or to issue information indicating transition to the normal mode if the promotional mode release condition is satisfied when transitioning from the promotional mode to the normal mode. Examples of the promotional mode release condition may include a predetermined user operation, such as pressing and holding a button, opening and closing a shutter that opens and closes the opening 142, or entering a password via a smartphone. The warning may be, for example, a loud sound. This configuration allows the retailer to be notified of an unintentional transition to the normal mode. Furthermore, it is possible to prevent theft of suction devices 100 displayed in stores for promotional purposes.

[0060] An example of the process flow will be described below with reference to Fig. 3. Fig. 3 is a flowchart showing an example of the process flow executed by the suction device 100 according to this embodiment.

[0061] 3, first, the control unit 116 determines whether or not a promotion mode transition condition is satisfied (step S102). For example, the control unit 116 determines whether or not the promotion mode transition condition is satisfied based on whether or not an external power source is connected to the suction device 100 via the promotional charging cable 2.

[0062] If it is determined that the promotion mode transition condition is satisfied (step S102: YES), the control unit 116 sets the operation mode to the promotion mode (step S104).

[0063] Next, the control unit 116 controls the notification unit 113 to continue emitting light in the predetermined light emitting pattern (step S106), after which the processing ends.

[0064] On the other hand, if it is determined that the promotion mode transition condition is not satisfied (step S102: NO), the control unit 116 sets the operation mode to the normal mode (step S108).

[0065] Next, the control unit 116 determines whether a user operation to instruct the start of heating has been detected (step S110). The control unit 116 waits until a user operation to instruct the start of heating has been detected (step S110: NO).

[0066] If a user operation instructing the start of heating is detected (step S110: YES), the control unit 116 starts heating by the heating unit 121 (step S112). Then, the control unit 116 controls the notification unit 113 to notify information according to the progress of heating while the heating unit 121 is heating (step S114). For example, the control unit 116 may reduce the light-emitting area of ​​the indicator 113a as time passes since the start of heating.

[0067] Thereafter, the control unit 116 stops the heating by the heating unit 121 and ends the process (step S116).

[0068] 3. Supplementary Information Although preferred embodiments of the present disclosure have been described above in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings, the present disclosure is not limited to such examples. It is clear that a person skilled in the art to which the present disclosure pertains can conceive of various modified or altered examples within the scope of the technical ideas described in the claims, and it is understood that these also naturally fall within the technical scope of the present disclosure.

[0069] (1) First Modification In the above embodiment, an example of a condition for transitioning to the promotional mode is that an external power source is connected to the suction device 100 via a promotional charging cable 2, but the present disclosure is not limited to such an example.

[0070] The power supply unit 111 may be configured as a battery pack that is detachably attached to the suction device 100. The promotional mode transition condition may include that a promotional battery pack (an example of the specified power supply unit 111) is attached to the suction device 100. The promotional battery pack is a battery pack exclusively for promotional purposes that is provided to retailers for promotional purposes. The promotional battery pack may be provided with a specified magnetic member. In this case, the suction device 100 determines whether the promotional mode transition condition is satisfied based on whether the magnetic sensor detects the specified magnetic member. With this configuration, transition to the promotional mode, continuation of the promotional mode, and power supply for operation in the promotional mode can be achieved simply by attaching the promotional battery pack to the suction device 100, thereby improving usability.

[0071] The promotional mode transition condition may include the storage unit 140 containing (i.e., holding) a promotional item (an example of a predetermined item). The promotional item is a promotional item provided to retailers for promotional purposes. The promotional item does not need to contain an aerosol source, but may simply be an item having a predetermined shape similar to the stick-shaped substrate 150. This configuration improves usability in that the transition to and continuation of the promotional mode can be achieved simply by inserting the promotional item into the storage unit 140.

[0072] Alternatively, the promotion mode transition condition may include receipt of predetermined information from another device such as a smartphone, etc. Furthermore, the promotion mode transition condition may include input of predetermined information such as a password via an input device such as a button or touch panel mounted on the suction device 100.

[0073] (2) Second Modification Fig. 4 is a schematic diagram illustrating a configuration example of a suction device 100 according to a second modification. As shown in Fig. 4, the suction device 100 according to this modification accommodates a promotional device 160 in the accommodation unit 140 instead of the stick-shaped substrate 150. The promotional device 160 includes a heating unit 161, a liquid guide unit 162, a liquid storage unit 163, an air flow path 164, and a light-emitting unit 165. The promotional device 160 is an example of an auxiliary device for generating an aerosol.

[0074] The liquid storage unit 163 stores an aerosol source. The aerosol is generated by atomizing the aerosol source. The aerosol source stored in the liquid storage unit 163 is a liquid such as a polyhydric alcohol, such as glycerin or propylene glycol, or water. Furthermore, the liquid storage unit 163 may contain a flavor source, which is a component for imparting a flavor component to the aerosol. The aerosol source may contain a tobacco-derived or non-tobacco-derived flavor component.

[0075] The liquid guide portion 162 guides and holds the aerosol source, which is a liquid stored in the liquid storage portion 163, from the liquid storage portion 163. The liquid guide portion 162 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 163 is guided by the capillary effect of the wick.

[0076] The heating unit 161 generates an aerosol by heating the aerosol source and atomizing the aerosol source. In the example shown in Fig. 4, the heating unit 161 is configured as a coil and is wound around the liquid guiding unit 162. When the heating unit 161 generates heat, the aerosol source held in the liquid guiding unit 162 is heated and atomized, thereby generating an aerosol.

[0077] Air flow path 164 is a flow path for air containing the aerosol generated by heating unit 161. Opening 164a of air flow path 164 is provided at the end of promotional device 160 that protrudes from opening 142 when promotional device 160 is housed in housing unit 140. The aerosol generated by heating unit 161 passes through air flow path 164 and is released to the outside.

[0078] Light-emitting unit 165 is configured with a light-emitting device such as an LED. Light-emitting unit 165 is arranged in a position of promotional device 160 that protrudes from opening 142 when promotional device 160 is housed in housing unit 140. In other words, when promotional device 160 is housed in housing unit 140, the light emitted by light-emitting unit 165 is visible from the outside.

[0079] Promotional device 160 may include a communication unit and a control unit (not shown). The communication unit of promotional device 160 is configured similarly to communication unit 115 described above, and is capable of wireless communication with communication unit 115 of suction device 100 that houses promotional device 160. The control unit of promotional device 160 is configured similarly to control unit 116 described above, and controls the overall operation of promotional device 160 in accordance with various programs.

[0080] In the promotion mode, control unit 116 of inhalation device 100 may control promotional device 160 to continue operating in a predetermined manner. As one example, control unit 116 may control promotional device 160 to continue heating by heating unit 161 and continue generating aerosol. As another example, control unit 116 may control promotional device 160 to continue emitting light in a predetermined light emission pattern by light-emitting unit 165. Control unit 116 controls promotional device 160 via wireless communication by communication unit 115. This configuration can further improve the promotional effect compared to when inhalation device 100 alone emits light.

[0081] Note that promotional device 160 is an example of the promotional item described in the first modified example. That is, when promotional device 160 is stored in storage unit 140, control unit 116 may determine that the promotion mode transition condition is satisfied and operate in the promotion mode.

[0082] (3) Third Modification FIG. 5 is a diagram illustrating the operation of a suction device 100 according to a third modification. As shown in FIG. 5, multiple suction devices 100 (100A to 100C) cooperate to conduct a promotional demonstration under the control of a terminal device 200. The terminal device 200 is a device such as a smartphone operated by a retailer. For example, the terminal device 200 transmits information instructing each of the multiple suction devices 100 operating in the promotional mode to emit light in a predetermined light-emitting pattern. Then, the control unit 116 of each of the multiple suction devices 100 operating in the promotional mode controls the notification unit 113 based on the information received by the communication unit 115 so that the notification unit 113 and the notification unit 113 of one or more other suction devices 100 share the responsibility of emitting light in the predetermined light-emitting pattern. As a result, for example, the indicator 113a of the suction device 100A, the indicator 113a of the suction device 100B, and the indicator 113a of the suction device 100C emit light in sequence at one-second intervals. This configuration can improve the sales promotion effect compared to when a single suction device 100 is used for a sales promotion demonstration.

[0083] 5 illustrates an example in which multiple suction devices 100 cooperate with each other under the control of terminal device 200, but the present disclosure is not limited to such an example. Multiple suction devices 100 located within a wireless communication range may pair with each other to establish wireless communication and cooperate to conduct a promotional demonstration.

[0084] (4) Fourth Modification While the above describes an example in which the inhalation device 100 configured as a heated tobacco product conducts a promotional demo, the present disclosure is not limited to such an example. The inhalation device 100 configured as an electronic cigarette or a nebulizer may also conduct a promotional demo.

[0085] Fig. 6 is a schematic diagram illustrating a configuration example of an inhalation device 100 according to a fourth modified example. As shown in Fig. 6, the inhalation device 100 according to this configuration example includes a power supply unit 110, a cartridge 120, and a flavor imparting 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 heating section 121, a liquid guiding section 122, and a liquid storage section 123. The flavor imparting cartridge 130 includes a flavor source 131 and a mouthpiece 124. An air flow path 180 is formed in the cartridge 120 and the flavor imparting cartridge 130.

[0086] Each of the power supply unit 111, the sensor unit 112, the notification unit 113, the memory unit 114, the communication unit 115, and the control unit 116 is substantially identical to the corresponding component included in the suction device 100 according to the above embodiment shown in FIG. 1.

[0087] 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.

[0088] 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.

[0089] The heating unit 121 generates aerosol by heating the aerosol source and atomizing the aerosol source. In the example shown in FIG. 6 , the heating unit 121 is configured as a coil and is wound around the liquid guiding unit 122. When the heating unit 121 generates heat, the aerosol source held in the liquid guiding unit 122 is heated and atomized, generating aerosol. The heating unit 121 generates heat when power is supplied from the power supply unit 111. As an example, power may be supplied when the sensor unit 112 detects that the user has started inhaling and / or that predetermined information has been input. Then, power supply may be stopped when the sensor unit 112 detects that the user has stopped inhaling and / or that predetermined information has been input.

[0090] The flavor source 131 is a component for imparting flavor components to the aerosol. The flavor source 131 may include tobacco-derived or non-tobacco-derived flavor components.

[0091] 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). Air flowing in through the air inlet 181 as the user inhales is mixed with the aerosol generated by the 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.

[0092] 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.

[0093] 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.

[0094] As an example, the inhalation device 100 may not include the flavoring cartridge 130. In that case, the cartridge 120 is provided with the mouthpiece 124.

[0095] As another example, the inhalation device 100 may include multiple types of aerosol sources. Multiple types of aerosols generated from the multiple types of aerosol sources may be mixed in the air flow path 180 and undergo a chemical reaction to generate additional types of aerosols.

[0096] Furthermore, the means for atomizing the aerosol source is not limited to heating by the heating unit 121. For example, the means for atomizing the aerosol source may be vibration atomization or induction heating.

[0097] The power supply unit 110 and the cartridge 120 are detachably connected. As an example, the power supply unit 110 and the cartridge 120 may be screwed together. Wiring for power supply and control between the components of the power supply unit 110 and the components of the cartridge 120 is connected at this screwed portion. The screwed portion of the power supply unit 110 is an example of a holding portion that detachably holds the cartridge 120, which is an article of a predetermined shape. The cartridge 120 and the flavor imparting cartridge 130 may also be detachably connected. As an example, the cartridge 120 may have a recess that can accommodate at least a portion of the flavor imparting cartridge 130, and the cartridge 120 and the flavor imparting cartridge 130 may be connected by inserting the flavor imparting cartridge 130 into this recess.

[0098] The suction device 100 according to this modification can operate in the same manner as the suction device 100 described in the above embodiment or modification.

[0099] For example, the notification unit 113 may notify information according to the state of the suction device 100 in the normal mode, and may continue to operate in a predetermined manner in the promotional mode. The notification unit 113 may operate in the same manner as described in the above embodiment or the above modified example.

[0100] As another example, the control unit 116 may operate in the promotion mode only when a promotion mode transition condition is satisfied. The promotion mode transition condition in this modification may be the same as the promotion mode transition condition described in the above embodiment or modification.

[0101] In particular, the promotional mode transition condition may include the connection (i.e., holding) of a promotional cartridge, which is a promotional item, to the power supply unit 110. The promotional cartridge may have a mechanism capable of authenticating that it is a promotional item, and the control unit 116 may detect that the promotional cartridge is connected to the power supply unit 110 based on such an authentication mechanism. Examples of the authentication mechanism include a magnetic member or an integrated circuit (IC) chip. Furthermore, the promotional cartridge may be provided with a light-emitting unit configured with a light-emitting device such as an LED, and the control unit 116 may control the light-emitting unit provided on the promotional cartridge to emit light in a predetermined light-emitting pattern in the promotional mode. Multiple types of promotional cartridges may be present. The control unit 116 may then control the notification unit 113 or the light-emitting unit provided on the promotional cartridge to emit light in a predetermined light-emitting pattern corresponding to the type of promotional cartridge connected to the power supply unit 110.

[0102] (5) Other Supplementary Information Although the above describes an example in which the notification unit 113 continues to emit light in a predetermined light-emitting pattern in the promotional mode, the present disclosure is not limited to such an example. As an example, the notification unit 113 may continue to vibrate in a predetermined vibration pattern in the promotional mode. The vibration pattern is information that defines the operating pattern of a vibration device such as an eccentric motor, and includes the frequency, intensity, and duration of vibration, as well as the interval between multiple vibrations. As another example, the display serving as the notification unit 113 may continue to display predetermined text in the promotional mode.

[0103] In the sales promotion mode, the suction device 100 may wirelessly communicate with a device such as a smartphone owned by a customer visiting a store. The suction device 100 may then transmit, for example, a coupon that can be used when purchasing the suction device 100 to the customer's device. This configuration can further improve the effectiveness of sales promotions.

[0104] In the above embodiment, at least a portion of the functional configuration of the suction device 100 may be included in another device. An example of such another device is a charging device that charges the suction device 100. The charging device has a mechanism that allows the suction device 100 to be attached and detached, and can charge the suction device 100 or transmit and receive information to and from the suction device 100 while the suction device 100 is connected. As an example, the charging device may have a wireless communication function and may relay the transmission and reception of information between the suction device 100 and a device such as a smartphone. As another example, the charging device may have a memory function and may store information received from the suction device 100 or to be transmitted to the suction device 100. The combination of the suction device 100 and the charging device may be considered an aerosol generation system.

[0105] The series of processes performed by each device described herein may be implemented using software, hardware, or a combination of software and hardware. The software programs may be stored in advance, for example, on a recording medium (more specifically, a non-transitory computer-readable storage medium) internal or external to each device. Each program is then loaded into a random access memory (RAM) and executed by a processing circuit such as a central processing unit (CPU). The recording medium may be, for example, a magnetic disk, an optical disk, a magneto-optical disk, or a flash memory. The computer program may also be distributed, for example, via a network, without using a recording medium. The computer may be, for example, an application-specific integrated circuit (ASIC), a general-purpose processor that executes functions by loading a software program, or a computer on a server used in cloud computing. The series of processes performed by each device described herein may be centrally processed by a single computer or distributed across multiple computers. Furthermore, in each of the above embodiments, two or more communication means present in a single device may be physically implemented on a single medium.

[0106] Furthermore, the processes described herein using flowcharts or sequence diagrams do not necessarily have to be performed in the order shown. Some process steps may be performed in parallel. Furthermore, additional process steps may be employed, and some process steps may be omitted.

[0107] Note that the following configurations also fall within the technical scope of the present disclosure. (1) An inhalation device comprising: a notification unit that notifies a user of information; a holding unit that detachably holds an article of a predetermined shape; a load that generates energy for heating an aerosol source contained in the article held by the holding unit; and a control unit that controls operation of the notification unit and the load, wherein the control unit operates in either a first operating mode that permits the load to generate energy for heating the aerosol source or a second operating mode that prohibits the load from generating energy for heating the aerosol source, and controls the notification unit to notify information according to a state of the inhalation device in the first operating mode and to continue operating in a predetermined manner in the second operating mode. (2) The inhalation device described in (1), wherein the control unit operates in the second operating mode only when a first condition is satisfied. (3) The inhalation device described in (2), wherein the first condition includes an external power source being connected to the inhalation device via a predetermined connection terminal. (4) The suction device according to (2) or (3), wherein a power supply unit that stores and supplies power for operation of the suction device is detachably attached to the suction device, and the first condition includes a predetermined power supply unit being attached to the suction device. (5) The suction device according to any one of (2) to (4), wherein the first condition includes a predetermined article being held in the holding unit. (6) The suction device according to any one of (1) to (5), wherein the control unit controls the notification unit to emit light in a predetermined emission pattern in the second operation mode. (7) The suction device according to (6), further including a communication unit capable of wireless communication, and wherein the control unit updates the predetermined emission pattern based on information received by the communication unit. (8) The suction device according to (6) or (7), wherein the control unit controls the notification unit to emit light in the predetermined emission pattern corresponding to the article held in the holding unit.(9) The suction device according to any one of (6) to (8), wherein the suction device further includes a communication unit capable of wireless communication, and the control unit controls the notification unit so that, in the second operation mode, the notification unit and the notification units of one or more other suction devices share the responsibility of emitting light in the predetermined light emission pattern based on information received by the communication unit. (10) The suction device according to any one of (1) to (9), wherein the suction device further includes a power supply unit that accumulates and supplies power for operation of the suction device, and when an external power supply is connected to the suction device, the control unit controls the power supply unit to receive power from the external power supply in the first operation mode and to supply power from the external power supply to a unit other than the power supply unit in the second operation mode. (11) The suction device according to any one of (1) to (10), wherein the suction device further includes a communication unit capable of wireless communication, and the control unit operates the communication unit with weaker transmission power in the second operation mode than in the first operation mode. (12) The suction device according to any one of (1) to (11), wherein the suction device is detachable with an auxiliary device that generates an aerosol, and the control unit controls the auxiliary device to generate the aerosol in the second operation mode. (13) The suction device according to any one of (1) to (12), wherein the control unit controls the notification unit to issue a warning if a second condition is not satisfied when transitioning from the second operation mode to the first operation mode.(14) A control method executed by a computer that controls a suction device, wherein the suction device comprises: a notification unit that notifies a user of information; a holding unit that detachably holds an article of a predetermined shape; and a load that generates energy to heat an aerosol source contained in the article held by the holding unit, the control method including: operating in either a first operating mode that allows the load to generate energy to heat the aerosol source, or a second operating mode that prohibits the load from generating energy to heat the aerosol source; and controlling the notification unit in the first operating mode to notify information according to a state of the suction device, and controlling the notification unit in the second operating mode to continue operating in a predetermined manner. (15) A program executed by a computer that controls a suction device, the suction device comprising: a notification unit that notifies a user of information; a holding unit that detachably holds an article of a predetermined shape; and a load that generates energy to heat an aerosol source contained in the article held by the holding unit; the program causes the computer to function as a control unit that controls the operation of the notification unit and the load; the control unit operates in either a first operating mode that allows the load to generate energy to heat the aerosol source, or a second operating mode that prohibits the load from generating energy to heat the aerosol source; and controls the notification unit to notify information according to the state of the suction device in the first operating mode, and controls the notification unit to continue operating in a predetermined manner in the second operating mode.

[0108] 100 Inhalation device 110 Power supply unit 111 Power supply section 112 Sensor section 113 Notification section (113a: indicator) 114 Memory section 115 Communication section 116 Control section 120 Cartridge 121 Heating section 122 Liquid guide section 123 Liquid storage section 124 Mouthpiece 130 Flavoring cartridge 131 Flavor source 140 Storage section 141 Internal space 142 Opening 143 Bottom section 144 Heat insulation section 150 Stick-shaped substrate 151 Substrate section 152 Mouthpiece section 160 Sales promotion device 161 Heating section 162 Liquid guide section 163 Liquid storage section 164 Air flow path (164a: opening) 165 Light-emitting section 180 Air flow path (181: air inlet hole, 182: air outlet hole) 2 Charging cable 200 Terminal device

Claims

1. 1. A suction device comprising: a notification unit that notifies a user of information; a holding portion that detachably holds an article of a predetermined shape; a load that generates energy to heat the aerosol source contained in the article held by the holding portion; a control unit that controls the notification unit and the operation of the load; Equipped with The control unit operating in either a first mode of operation that permits the load to generate energy to heat the aerosol source or a second mode of operation that prohibits the load from generating energy to heat the aerosol source; controlling the notification unit to notify information according to a state of the suction device in the first operation mode, and controlling the notification unit to continue operation in a predetermined manner in the second operation mode; Suction device.

2. The control unit operates in the second operation mode only when a first condition is satisfied. The suction device of claim 1 .

3. the first condition includes that an external power source is connected to the suction device via a predetermined connection terminal; 3. The suction device according to claim 2.

4. a power supply unit that stores and supplies power for operation of the suction device is detachably attached to the suction device; the first condition includes that a predetermined power supply unit is attached to the suction device.

3. The suction device according to claim 2.

5. the first condition includes that a predetermined item is held in the holding portion; 3. The suction device according to claim 2.

6. the control unit controls the notification unit to emit light in a predetermined light emission pattern in the second operation mode. The suction device according to any one of claims 1 to 5.

7. The suction device further includes a communication unit capable of wireless communication, the control unit updates the predetermined light emission pattern based on the information received by the communication unit.

7. The suction device according to claim 6.

8. the control unit controls the notification unit to emit light in the predetermined light emission pattern corresponding to the item held in the holding unit.

7. The suction device according to claim 6.

9. The suction device further includes a communication unit capable of wireless communication, and the control unit controls, in the second operation mode, the notification unit and notification units of one or more other suction devices to share the responsibility of emitting light in the predetermined light emission pattern based on information received by the communication unit.

7. The suction device according to claim 6.

10. The suction device further includes a power supply unit that stores and supplies power for operation of the suction device, When an external power source is connected to the suction device, the control unit controls the supply of power from the external power source to the power supply unit in the first operation mode, and controls the supply of power from the external power source to a unit other than the power supply unit in the second operation mode. The suction device according to any one of claims 1 to 5.

11. The suction device further includes a communication unit capable of wireless communication, the control unit operates the communication unit with weaker transmission power in the second operation mode compared to the first operation mode. The suction device according to any one of claims 1 to 5.

12. The inhalation device is detachable from an auxiliary device for generating an aerosol; the control unit controls the auxiliary device to generate an aerosol in the second operating mode. The suction device according to any one of claims 1 to 5.

13. the control unit controls the notification unit to issue a warning when a second condition is not satisfied during a transition from the second operation mode to the first operation mode. The suction device according to any one of claims 1 to 5.

14. 1. A control method executed by a computer for controlling a suction device, comprising: The suction device is a notification unit that notifies a user of information; a holding portion that detachably holds an article of a predetermined shape; a load that generates energy to heat the aerosol source contained in the article held by the holding portion; Equipped with The control method includes: operating in either a first mode of operation that allows the load to generate energy to heat the aerosol source or a second mode of operation that prohibits the load from generating energy to heat the aerosol source; controlling the notification unit to notify information according to a state of the suction device in the first operation mode, and controlling the notification unit to continue operation in a predetermined manner in the second operation mode; A control method comprising:

15. A program executed by a computer that controls a suction device, The suction device is a notification unit that notifies a user of information; a holding portion that detachably holds an article of a predetermined shape; a load that generates energy to heat the aerosol source contained in the article held by the holding portion; Equipped with The program causes the computer to: a control unit that controls the operation of the notification unit and the load; The control unit operating in either a first mode of operation that permits the load to generate energy to heat the aerosol source or a second mode of operation that prohibits the load from generating energy to heat the aerosol source; controlling the notification unit to notify information according to a state of the suction device in the first operation mode, and controlling the notification unit to continue operation in a predetermined manner in the second operation mode; program.