Control device and terminal device

Abstract

[Problem] To provide a mechanism capable of achieving proper use of a battery pack. [Solution] This control device comprises a control unit for controlling processing for granting a reward to a user, of an inhalation device which generates an aerosol by using a base material containing an aerosol source, who has returned a battery pack that is to be detachably connected to the inhalation device and that is provided from a charging device for charging the battery pack. The control unit controls processing including: receiving first authentication information for authenticating the return target battery pack; authenticating the return target battery pack on the basis of the received first authentication information; transmitting information indicating the authentication result of the return target battery pack; receiving a reward granting request including information indicating the user of the inhalation device; and granting a reward to the user on the basis of the received reward granting request.

Description

Control device and terminal device

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a control device and a terminal device.

[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 heated tobacco products and electronic cigarettes, which are used as alternatives to cigarettes, as well as nebulizers used for medical purposes. Heat-not-burn tobacco products are inhalation devices that generate aerosols by heating an aerosol source. Electronic cigarettes are inhalation devices that generate aerosols by atomizing a liquid aerosol source.

[0003] In recent years, legal regulations related to the right to repair have been established. Right to repair regulations refer to various legal regulations aimed at creating an environment in which end users can repair industrial products and use them for a longer period of time, from the perspectives of consumer protection and environmental protection. The right to repair allows consumers to repair products that are broken or damaged over time. As a result, consumers can postpone replacement purchases and save money. Furthermore, it reduces waste generation and resource use, thereby mitigating environmental impact. Because the right to repair benefits both consumers and the environment, it is considered an important theme in promoting a circular economy.

[0004] As a technology relating to the right to repair, Patent Document 1 below discloses a suction device with a replaceable battery pack.

[0005] International Publication No. 2014 / 163664

[0006] The technology disclosed in the above-mentioned Patent Document 1 has only recently been developed, and there is still room for improvement in various respects.

[0007] 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 proper use of a battery pack.

[0008] In order to solve the above problem, according to one aspect of the present disclosure, a control device is provided that includes a control unit that controls a process for granting a reward to a user of an inhalation device that returns a battery pack provided from a charging device that charges a battery pack and is detachably connected to an inhalation device that generates an aerosol using a substrate containing an aerosol source, wherein the control unit controls a process including receiving first authentication information for authenticating the battery pack to be returned, authenticating the battery pack to be returned based on the received first authentication information, transmitting information indicating the authentication result of the battery pack to be returned, receiving a reward granting request including information indicating the user of the inhalation device, and granting a reward to the user based on the received reward granting request.

[0009] The reward granting request may include second authentication information indicating that the battery pack to be returned has been returned, and the control unit may grant a reward to the user if authentication based on the second authentication information is successful.

[0010] The control unit may control a process of charging a user of the suction device if a predetermined time has passed without returning the battery pack provided by the charging device.

[0011] The control unit may also control a process of turning off the aerosol generation function of the inhalation device to which a battery pack different from the battery pack provided by the charging device is connected while the battery pack provided by the charging device is not returned.

[0012] The control unit may control a process including receiving third authentication information for authenticating a substrate pack including one or more of the substrates, authenticating the substrate pack based on the received third authentication information, and transmitting information indicating the authentication result of the substrate pack.

[0013] The control unit may control a process of storing an exchange log including at least one of information indicating the time when the battery pack was provided or returned, or information indicating the location where the battery pack was provided or returned.

[0014] The control unit may control a process of recommending a base material pack including a specified number of the base materials based on the replacement log.

[0015] The control unit may control a process of recommending a base material pack including a specified number of the base materials based on the type of the base material.

[0016] The suction device may heat the aerosol source based on a heating profile that defines parameters corresponding to the temperature to which the aerosol source is heated, and the control unit may control a process of recommending a substrate pack containing a specified number of substrates based on the heating profile used by the suction device.

[0017] In addition, in order to solve the above problem, according to another aspect of the present disclosure, a terminal device is provided which includes a control unit that controls a process for granting a reward to a user of the suction device who returns a battery pack provided from a charging device that charges a battery pack and is detachably connected to the suction device that generates an aerosol using a substrate containing an aerosol source, wherein the control unit controls a process including sending first authentication information for authenticating the battery pack to be returned, receiving authentication result information indicating the authentication result of the battery pack to be returned based on the first authentication information, and outputting or sending information for identifying the user of the suction device who returned the battery pack.

[0018] The control unit may control a process of acquiring identification information indicating a user of the suction device and sending a reward granting request requesting that a reward be granted to the user identified by the acquired identification information, or a process of outputting second authentication information indicating that the battery pack has been returned.

[0019] The control unit may control a process of discounting the replacement price of the battery pack when a base material pack including one or more of the base materials is purchased together with the replacement of the battery pack.

[0020] In addition, in order to solve the above problem, according to another aspect of the present disclosure, a terminal device is provided which includes a control unit that controls a process for granting a reward to a user of the suction device who returns a battery pack provided from a charging device that charges a battery pack that is detachably connected to the suction device that generates an aerosol using a substrate containing an aerosol source, and the control unit controls a process including outputting or transmitting information for identifying the user of the suction device who returned the battery pack.

[0021] The control unit may also control a process of acquiring second authentication information indicating that the battery pack has been returned and sending a reward granting request requesting that a reward be granted to the user of the suction device, or a process of displaying identification information indicating the user of the suction device.

[0022] The control unit may output a message urging the user to return the battery pack when a predetermined time has passed without the battery pack provided by the charging device being returned.

[0023] As described above, the present disclosure provides a mechanism that enables proper use of a battery pack.

[0024] FIG. 1 is a diagram for explaining an overview of a system according to the present embodiment. FIG. 2 is a schematic diagram showing a first configuration example of a suction device according to the present embodiment. FIG. 3 is a schematic diagram showing a second configuration example of a suction device according to the present embodiment. FIG. 4 is a block diagram showing a configuration example of a terminal device according to the present embodiment. FIG. 5 is a block diagram showing a configuration example of a charging station according to the present embodiment. FIG. 6 is a block diagram showing a configuration example of a store terminal according to the present embodiment. FIG. 7 is a block diagram showing a configuration example of a management server according to the present embodiment. FIG. 8 is a sequence diagram showing a first example of a processing flow executed in the system according to the present embodiment. FIG. 9 is a sequence diagram showing a second example of a processing flow executed in the system according to the present embodiment.

[0025] 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.

[0026] 1. Overview First, an overview of a system according to an embodiment of the present disclosure will be described with reference to FIG.

[0027] 1 is a diagram illustrating an overview of a system according to the present embodiment. As shown in FIG. 1, the system 1 according to the present embodiment includes a suction device 100, a user terminal 200, a charging station 300, a store terminal 400, and a management server 500.

[0028] The suction device 100 and the user terminal 200 are carried and used by a user U. The suction device 100 and the user terminal 200 used by the same user U may be capable of communicating using, for example, Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE) or the like.

[0029] The inhalation device 100 is a device that generates an aerosol to be inhaled by a user U using a substrate containing an aerosol source. The inhalation device 100 may be a so-called electronic cigarette or a heated tobacco product. A battery pack 170 can be detachably attached (i.e., connected) to the inhalation device 100. The inhalation device 100 operates using power from the attached battery pack 170. Hereinafter, the configuration of the inhalation device 100 from which the battery pack 170 has been removed may be referred to as the main body, or simply as the inhalation device 100.

[0030] The battery pack 170 includes at least a rechargeable secondary battery. The battery pack 170 may have a storage medium and a communication terminal. Information may be read from and written to the storage medium via the communication terminal by the suction device 100 or the charging station 300 to which the battery pack 170 is connected.

[0031] The user terminal 200 is an example of a terminal device used by the user U. The user terminal 200 may be a smartphone, a tablet terminal, or the like. The user terminal 200 functions as an interface between the user U and the system 1. For example, the user terminal 200 inputs and outputs various information for replacing the battery pack 170.

[0032] The charging station 300 and the store terminal 400 are arranged in a store 8 such as a convenience store, and are used by a store clerk S working at the store 8. The charging station 300 and the store terminal 400 arranged in the same store 8 may be able to communicate with each other using, for example, a local area network (LAN). The store 8 sells substrate packs that include one or more substrates used by the suction device 100. The store 8 may sell multiple types of substrate packs that include different types or numbers of substrates.

[0033] Charging station 300 is an example of a charging device that charges battery pack 170. Battery pack 170 can be detachably connected to charging station 300. Charging station 300 charges connected battery pack 170. Specifically, charging station 300 includes a housing case 301 that houses battery pack 170, and charges battery pack 170 housed in housing case 301. Charging station 300 also includes an LED (light emitting diode) 302 that emits light in a color corresponding to the charging status of battery pack 170, and a touch panel 303 that inputs and outputs various information.

[0034] The user U can exchange the battery pack 170 attached to the suction device 100 at the store 8. Here, exchange refers to returning the used battery pack 170 and receiving a charged battery pack 170 from the charging station 300.

[0035] For example, the user U removes the used battery pack 170 from the suction device 100 and returns it. The store clerk S connects the battery pack 170 returned by the user U to the charging station 300 to start charging, and removes the charged battery pack 170 from the charging station 300 and provides it to the user U. The user U receives the battery pack 170 provided by the store clerk S and attaches it to the suction device 100. With this battery pack 170 exchange service, the user U does not need to charge the battery pack 170 at home, and can exchange the used battery pack 170 for a fully charged battery pack 170 whenever he or she is out and about.

[0036] The service provided by the charging station 300 is not limited to the replacement of the battery pack 170. That is, the charging station 300 may only accept the return of the battery pack 170, or may only provide the battery pack 170. For example, the user U may borrow a spare battery pack 170 in addition to the battery pack 170 that the user U owns, or may return the borrowed spare battery pack 170.

[0037] In this way, the battery pack 170 is provided interchangeably for a plurality of suction devices 100 via the charging station 300. Of course, the user U can also charge the battery pack 170 at home or the like.

[0038] The store terminal 400 is an example of a terminal device used by the store clerk S. The store terminal 400 may be, for example, a cash register terminal that complies with a POS (Point of Sale) system. The store terminal 400 functions as an interface between the store clerk S and the system 1. For example, the store terminal 400 inputs and outputs various information for replacing the battery pack 170. The store terminal 400 also performs payment for the replacement fee for the battery pack 170.

[0039] The management server 500 is an example of a control device that controls the overall operation within the system 1. The management server 500 communicates with each of the user terminals 200, the charging stations 300, and the store terminals 400 via the network 9 and controls their operation.

[0040] As one example, the management server 500 collects and manages various information related to the replacement of the battery pack 170, and controls the displays of the user terminal 200, the charging station 300, and the store terminal 400. As another example, the management server 500 determines the condition of the battery pack 170, collects (i.e., removes) those that have deteriorated or broken down, and repairs and redistributes those that can be repaired. In addition, the management server 500 provides a reward to a user U who returns a battery pack 170 provided by the charging station 300, as will be described later.

[0041] 2. Configuration Example 2.1. Configuration Example of Inhalation Device 100 Inhalation device 100 is a device that generates a substance to be inhaled by a user. In the following description, the substance generated by inhalation device 100 is described as an aerosol. Alternatively, the substance generated by inhalation device 100 may be a gas.

[0042] (1) First Configuration Example Fig. 2 is a schematic diagram illustrating a first configuration example of the inhalation device 100 according to the present embodiment. As shown in Fig. 2, the inhalation device 100A 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 unit 111A, a sensor unit 112A, a notification unit 113A, a memory unit 114A, a communication unit 115A, and a control unit 116A. The cartridge 120 includes a heating unit 121A, a liquid guiding unit 122, and a liquid storage unit 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.

[0043] The power supply unit 111A stores electric power. The power supply unit 111A supplies electric power to each component of the suction device 100A under the control of the control unit 116A. The power supply unit 111A may be configured by, for example, a rechargeable battery such as a lithium ion secondary battery.

[0044] The sensor unit 112A acquires various types of information related to the suction device 100A. As one example, the sensor unit 112A 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 112A is configured with an input device such as a button or a switch that accepts information input from the user.

[0045] The notification unit 113A notifies the user of information. The notification unit 113A 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.

[0046] The storage unit 114A stores various types of information for the operation of the suction device 100 A. The storage unit 114A is configured by a non-volatile storage medium such as a flash memory, for example.

[0047] The communication unit 115A 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).

[0048] The control unit 116A functions as an arithmetic processing unit and a control unit, and controls the overall operation of the suction device 100A in accordance with various programs. The control unit 116A is realized by an electronic circuit such as a CPU (Central Processing Unit) or a microprocessor.

[0049] 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. When the inhalation device 100A is a medical inhaler, such as a nebulizer, the aerosol source may contain a drug.

[0050] 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.

[0051] The heating unit 121A generates aerosol by heating the aerosol source and atomizing the aerosol source. In the example shown in FIG. 2 , the heating unit 121A is configured as a coil and is wound around the liquid guide unit 122. When the heating unit 121A generates heat, the aerosol source held in the liquid guide unit 122 is heated and atomized, generating aerosol. The heating unit 121A generates heat when power is supplied from the power supply unit 111A. As an example, power may be supplied when the sensor unit 112A detects that the user has started inhaling and / or that predetermined information has been input. Then, power supply may be stopped when the sensor unit 112A detects that the user has stopped inhaling and / or that predetermined information has been input.

[0052] 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.

[0053] 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 121A and, as shown by arrow 190, is transported through the flavor source 131 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.

[0054] 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.

[0055] The above describes an example of the configuration of the suction device 100A. Of course, the configuration of the suction device 100A is not limited to the above, and various configurations such as those exemplified below may be used.

[0056] As an example, the inhalation device 100A may not include the flavoring cartridge 130. In that case, the cartridge 120 is provided with the mouthpiece 124.

[0057] As another example, the inhalation device 100A 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.

[0058] Furthermore, the means for atomizing the aerosol source is not limited to heating by the heating unit 121 A. For example, the means for atomizing the aerosol source may be vibration atomization or induction heating.

[0059] (2) Second Configuration Example Fig. 3 is a schematic diagram showing a second configuration example of the suction device 100 according to this embodiment. As shown in Fig. 3, the suction device 100B according to this configuration example includes a power supply unit 111B, a sensor unit 112B, a notification unit 113B, a storage unit 114B, a communication unit 115B, a control unit 116B, a heating unit 121B, a storage unit 140, and a heat insulating unit 144.

[0060] Each of the power supply unit 111B, sensor unit 112B, notification unit 113B, memory unit 114B, communication unit 115B, and control unit 116B is substantially identical to the corresponding components included in the suction device 100A according to the first configuration example.

[0061] 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 100B. 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.

[0062] 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 100B 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.

[0063] 3, the heating unit 121B is configured in a film shape and is arranged to cover the outer periphery of the storage unit 140. When the heating unit 121B generates heat, the substrate unit 151 of the stick-shaped substrate 150 is heated from the outer periphery, and an aerosol is generated.

[0064] The heat insulating section 144 prevents heat transfer from the heating section 121B to other components. For example, the heat insulating section 144 is made of a vacuum heat insulating material, an aerogel heat insulating material, or the like.

[0065] The above is a description of an example of the configuration of the suction device 100B. Of course, the configuration of the suction device 100B is not limited to the above, and various configurations such as those exemplified below may be used.

[0066] As one example, the heating unit 121B 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 121B 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 121B may be disposed so as to cover the bottom 143 of the storage unit 140. Furthermore, the heating unit 121B 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.

[0067] As another example, the accommodation 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 accommodation unit 140 may then open and close the outer shell to accommodate the stick-shaped substrate 150 inserted into the internal space 141 while clamping it. In this case, the heating unit 121B may be provided at the clamping location in the accommodation unit 140 and heat the stick-shaped substrate 150 while pressing it.

[0068] Furthermore, the means for atomizing the aerosol source is not limited to heating by the heating unit 121B. For example, the means for atomizing the aerosol source may be induction heating. In that case, the suction device 100B has at least an electromagnetic induction source such as a coil that generates a magnetic field, instead of the heating unit 121B. A susceptor that generates heat by induction heating may be provided in the suction device 100B, or may be included in the stick-shaped substrate 150.

[0069] Furthermore, the suction device 100B may further include the heating unit 121A, the liquid guide unit 122, the liquid storage unit 123, and the air flow path 180 according to the first configuration example, and the air flow path 180 may supply air to the internal space 141. In this case, the mixed fluid of the aerosol and air generated by the heating unit 121A flows into the internal space 141 and is further mixed with the aerosol generated by the heating unit 121B, and reaches the oral cavity of the user.

[0070] (3) Supplementary Information In the following, when there is no particular need to distinguish between the suction device 100A and the suction device 100B described above, the alphabet at the end of the reference numeral will be omitted and they will be collectively referred to as suction device 100, and will be described without distinction. Similarly, when there is no particular need to distinguish between components included in common in the suction device 100A and the suction device 100B, the alphabet at the end of the reference numeral will be omitted and they will be described without distinction.

[0071] The inhalation device 100 is an example of an aerosol generation system that generates an aerosol to be inhaled by a user using a substrate containing either an aerosol source or a flavor source. The flavor source is a component for imparting flavor components to the aerosol. In the first configuration example, the cartridge 120 and the flavor imparting cartridge 130 are an example of a substrate used by the aerosol generation system. In the second configuration example, the stick-shaped substrate 150 is an example of a substrate used by the aerosol generation system. With regard to the second configuration example, the combination of the inhalation device 100 and the stick-shaped substrate 150 may be considered as an aerosol generation system.

[0072] The battery pack 170 shown in FIG. 1 includes at least the power supply unit 111 shown in FIG. 2 or 3 .

[0073] (4) Heating Profile The control unit 116 controls the operation of the heating unit 121 based on a heating profile. The heating profile is control information for controlling the temperature to which the aerosol source is heated. The heating profile specifies target values ​​of parameters corresponding to the temperature to which the aerosol source is heated. An example of the temperature to which the aerosol source is heated is the temperature of the heating unit 121. An example of the parameter corresponding to the temperature to which the aerosol source is heated is the resistance of the heating unit 121. That is, the heating profile may specify a target value of the resistance of the heating unit 121 (hereinafter also referred to as target resistance). The resistance of the heating unit 121 changes depending on the temperature of the heating unit 121 (more precisely, the heating resistor that constitutes the heating unit 121). In the following, as an example, it is assumed that the resistance of the heating unit 121 increases as the temperature of the heating unit 121 increases.

[0074] The temperature control of the heating unit 121 can be achieved by, for example, known feedback control. The feedback control may be, for example, a proportional-integral-differential controller (PID) control. The control unit 116 can supply power from the power supply unit 111 to the heating unit 121 in the form of pulses modulated by pulse width modulation (PWM) or pulse frequency modulation (PFM). In this case, the control unit 116 can control the temperature of the heating unit 121 by adjusting the duty ratio of the power pulses in the feedback control.

[0075] Hereinafter, the period during which power supply to the heating unit 121 is controlled based on the heating profile, in other words, the period during which heating is performed by the heating unit 121 based on the heating profile, will also be referred to as a heating session. Also, below, heating based on the heating profile may also be simply referred to as heating.

[0076] 4 is a block diagram showing an example of the configuration of the user terminal 200 according to this embodiment. As shown in Fig. 4, the user terminal 200 includes a communication unit 210, a storage unit 220, an input unit 230, an output unit 240, and a control unit 250.

[0077] The communication unit 210 is a communication interface for transmitting and receiving information between the user terminal 200 and other devices. The communication unit 210 performs communication in accordance with any wired or wireless communication standard. Such a communication standard may be, for example, Universal Serial Bus (USB), Wi-Fi (registered trademark), Bluetooth (registered trademark), or Near Field Communication (NFC).

[0078] The storage unit 220 stores various types of information and is configured by a non-volatile storage medium such as a flash memory.

[0079] The input unit 230 has a function of accepting input of various types of information. The input unit 230 may include input devices that accept input of information from the user U, such as buttons, a keyboard, a touch panel, and a microphone. In addition, the input unit 230 may include sensors that detect various types of information. Examples of sensors include a GNSS (Global Navigation Satellite System) receiver that acquires position information of the user terminal 200, a gyro sensor and an acceleration sensor that detect the movement of the user terminal 200, and a camera that can read two-dimensional codes.

[0080] The output unit 240 has a function of outputting information. The output unit 240 may include an output device that outputs information to the user U. Examples of the output device include a display device that displays information, a light-emitting device that emits light, a vibration device that vibrates, and a sound output device that outputs sound. An example of a display device is a display. An example of a light-emitting device is an LED (Light Emitting Diode). An example of a vibration device is an eccentric motor. An example of a sound output device is a speaker.

[0081] The control unit 250 functions as a processing unit or control device and controls the overall operation of the user terminal 200 in accordance with various programs. The control unit 250 is realized by an electronic circuit such as a CPU (Central Processing Unit) or a microprocessor. The control unit 250 may also include a ROM (Read Only Memory) for storing programs to be used and calculation parameters, as well as a RAM (Random Access Memory) for temporarily storing parameters that change as needed. The user terminal 200 executes various processes under the control of the control unit 250. Examples of processes controlled by the control unit 250 include the transmission and reception of information by the communication unit 210, the storage and reading of information by the memory unit 220, the processing of information input by the input unit 230, and the output of information by the output unit 240. Other processes executed by the user terminal 200, such as the input of information to each component and processing based on information output from each component, are also controlled by the control unit 250.

[0082] The functions of the control unit 250 may be realized using an application. The application may be pre-installed or may be downloaded. The functions of the control unit 250 may also be realized by PWA (Progressive Web Apps).

[0083] 5 is a block diagram showing an example of the configuration of the charging station 300 according to this embodiment. As shown in Fig. 5, the charging station 300 includes a communication unit 310, a storage unit 320, an input unit 330, an output unit 340, a charging unit 350, and a control unit 360.

[0084] The communication unit 310 is a communication interface for transmitting and receiving information between the charging station 300 and other devices. The communication unit 310 performs communication in accordance with any wired or wireless communication standard. Such a communication standard may be, for example, Universal Serial Bus (USB), Wi-Fi (registered trademark), Bluetooth (registered trademark), Near Field Communication (NFC), or Local Area Network (LAN).

[0085] The storage unit 320 stores various types of information and is configured by a non-volatile storage medium such as a flash memory.

[0086] The input unit 330 has a function of accepting input of various information. The input unit 330 may include an input device that accepts input of information from the store clerk S, such as a button, a keyboard, a touch panel, and a microphone. The input unit 330 may also include a sensor that detects various information. An example of a sensor is a camera that can read two-dimensional codes. The touch panel 303 described with reference to FIG. 1 is an example of the input unit 330.

[0087] The output unit 340 has a function of outputting information. The output unit 340 may include an output device that outputs information to the store clerk S, such as a display device that displays information, a light-emitting device that emits light, a vibration device that vibrates, and a sound output device that outputs sound. An example of a display device is a display. An example of a light-emitting device is an LED (Light Emitting Diode). An example of a vibration device is an eccentric motor. An example of a sound output device is a speaker. The LED 302 and touch panel 303 described with reference to FIG. 1 are examples of the output unit 340.

[0088] The charging unit 350 has a function of charging the battery pack 170. The charging unit 350 charges the battery pack 170, which is housed in the housing case 301 described with reference to FIG. 1 and is electrically connected to the charging station 300.

[0089] The control unit 360 functions as an arithmetic processing unit or control device and controls the overall operation of the charging station 300 in accordance with various programs. The control unit 360 is realized by an electronic circuit such as a CPU (Central Processing Unit) or a microprocessor. The control unit 360 may also include a ROM (Read Only Memory) that stores programs to be used, calculation parameters, etc., and a RAM (Random Access Memory) that temporarily stores parameters that change as needed. The charging station 300 performs various processes under the control of the control unit 360. Examples of processes controlled by the control unit 360 include the transmission and reception of information by the communication unit 310, the storage and reading of information by the memory unit 320, the processing of information input by the input unit 330, the output of information by the output unit 340, and the start / stop of charging by the charging unit 350. Other processes performed by the charging station 300, such as the input of information to each component and processing based on information output from each component, are also controlled by the control unit 360.

[0090] 6 is a block diagram showing an example of the configuration of the store terminal 400 according to this embodiment. As shown in FIG. 6, the store terminal 400 includes a communication unit 410, a storage unit 420, an input unit 430, an output unit 440, and a control unit 450.

[0091] The communication unit 410 is a communication interface for transmitting and receiving information between the store terminal 400 and other devices. The communication unit 410 performs communication in accordance with any wired or wireless communication standard. Such communication standards may include, for example, Universal Serial Bus (USB), Wi-Fi (registered trademark), Bluetooth (registered trademark), Near Field Communication (NFC), or Local Area Network (LAN).

[0092] The storage unit 420 stores various types of information and is configured by a non-volatile storage medium such as a flash memory.

[0093] The input unit 430 has a function of accepting input of various information. The input unit 430 may include an input device that accepts input of information from the store clerk S, such as a button, a keyboard, a touch panel, and a microphone. The input unit 430 may also include a sensor that detects various information. An example of a sensor is a camera that can read two-dimensional codes.

[0094] The output unit 440 has a function of outputting information. The output unit 440 may include an output device that outputs information to the store clerk S, such as a display device that displays information, a light-emitting device that emits light, a vibration device that vibrates, and a sound output device that outputs sound. An example of a display device is a display. An example of a light-emitting device is an LED (Light Emitting Diode). An example of a vibration device is an eccentric motor. An example of a sound output device is a speaker.

[0095] The control unit 450 functions as a processing unit or control device and controls the overall operation of the store terminal 400 in accordance with various programs. The control unit 450 is realized by an electronic circuit such as a CPU (Central Processing Unit) or a microprocessor. The control unit 450 may also include a ROM (Read Only Memory) for storing programs and calculation parameters to be used, as well as a RAM (Random Access Memory) for temporarily storing parameters that change as needed. The store terminal 400 executes various processes under the control of the control unit 450. Examples of processes controlled by the control unit 450 include the transmission and reception of information by the communication unit 410, the storage and retrieval of information by the memory unit 420, the processing of information input by the input unit 430, and the output of information by the output unit 440. Other processes executed by the store terminal 400, such as the input of information to each component and processing based on information output from each component, are also controlled by the control unit 450.

[0096] 7 is a block diagram showing an example of the configuration of the management server 500 according to this embodiment. As shown in FIG. 7, the management server 500 includes a communication unit 510, a storage unit 520, and a control unit 530.

[0097] The communication unit 510 is a communication interface for transmitting and receiving information between the management server 500 and other devices. The communication unit 510 performs communication in accordance with any wired or wireless communication standard.

[0098] The storage unit 520 stores various types of information for the operation of the management server 500. The storage unit 520 is configured by a non-volatile storage medium such as a hard disk drive (HDD) or a solid state drive (SSD).

[0099] The control unit 530 functions as an arithmetic processing unit and control device, and controls the overall operation of the management server 500 in accordance with various programs. The control unit 530 is realized by electronic circuits such as a CPU (Central Processing Unit) and a microprocessor. The control unit 530 may also include a ROM (Read Only Memory) that stores the programs to be used, calculation parameters, etc., and a RAM (Random Access Memory) that temporarily stores parameters that change as appropriate. The management server 500 executes various processes under the control of the control unit 530. The transmission and reception of information by the communication unit 510 and the storage and reading of information by the memory unit 520 are examples of processes controlled by the control unit 530. Other processes executed by the management server 500, such as input of information to each component and processing based on information output from each component, are also controlled by the control unit 530.

[0100] 3. Awarding of Points In this embodiment, the battery pack 170 of the suction device 100 is configured to be replaceable. Therefore, the user U can use the suction device 100 for a long time without being affected by deterioration or failure of the battery pack 170.

[0101] Furthermore, in this embodiment, the user terminal 200, the charging station 300, the store terminal 400, and the management server 500 cooperate to control processing for awarding points to a user U of the suction device 100 who returns the battery pack 170 provided from the charging station 300. Points are an example of a reward awarded to the user U. The points awarded to the user U may be used, for example, as the replacement fee for the battery pack 170 or the purchase fee for the base material pack. With this configuration, the user U can be encouraged to use the battery pack 170 replacement service.

[0102] In the battery pack 170 exchange service, the store clerk S can remove deteriorated or broken battery packs 170 from the returned battery packs 170, or repair and redistribute repairable battery packs 170. In this case, it is possible to reduce the environmental burden.

[0103] In this way, by using the battery pack 170 replacement service, the user U can naturally realize proper use of the battery pack 170. As a result, it becomes possible to realize consumer protection and environmental protection, which are the objectives of the right to repair.

[0104] The following describes the configuration for awarding points when the battery pack 170 is replaced.

[0105] (Authentication of Battery Pack 170) The management server 500 authenticates the battery pack 170 to be returned. For example, the management server 500 receives first authentication information of the battery pack 170 to be returned and authenticates whether the battery pack 170 to be returned is a genuine product based on the received first authentication information. The first authentication information may include the model number, serial number, password, or the like of the battery pack 170. The management server 500 can determine whether the battery pack 170 to be returned is a genuine product by comparing the first authentication information acquired from the battery pack 170 to be returned with first authentication information stored in advance.

[0106] There are various possible methods for acquiring the first authentication information.

[0107] As an example, the first authentication information may be read by capturing an image of a two-dimensional code attached to the surface of the battery pack 170 and performing image recognition, and transmitted to the management server 500. Such reading and transmission may be performed by at least one of the user terminal 200, the charging station 300, and the store terminal 400.

[0108] As another example, the first authentication information may be stored in a storage medium mounted on the battery pack 170. Then, when the battery pack 170 is connected, the suction device 100 may communicate with the battery pack 170 to acquire the first authentication information and transmit the information to the management server 500. Alternatively, when the battery pack 170 is connected, the charging station 300 may communicate with the battery pack 170 to acquire the first authentication information and transmit the information to the management server 500.

[0109] (Determining Whether Replacement is Possible Based on Authentication Result) The management server 500 transmits information indicating the authentication result of the battery pack 170 to be returned, which was performed based on the first authentication information. The transmission destination is at least one of the user terminal 200, the charging station 300, and the store terminal 400. For example, the management server 500 may transmit the information indicating the authentication result to the sender of the first authentication information. The user terminal 200, the charging station 300, or the store terminal 400 may display the received information indicating the authentication result and notify the user U or the store clerk S of the authentication result.

[0110] The battery pack 170 may be replaced only if the authentication of the battery pack 170 to be returned is successful. As an example, the charging station 300 may accept the return of the battery pack 170 and provide a fully charged battery pack 170 only if the authentication is successful.

[0111] The charging station 300 provides a battery pack 170 that is compatible with the inhalation device 100. For example, the charging station 300 may provide a battery pack 170 of the same type as the returned battery pack 170, which is identified based on the first authentication information.

[0112] (Assignment of Points) The management server 500 assigns points to the user U who returns the battery pack 170 .

[0113] Specifically, the management server 500 receives a reward granting request, which is information requesting that points be granted to the user U of the suction device 100 who has returned the battery pack 170 provided by the charging station 300. Then, the management server 500 grants points to the user U based on the received reward granting request. For example, the management server 500 adds arbitrary points to the points held by the user U that are stored in the management server 500. The amount of points to be granted may be a predetermined amount, may be arbitrarily set by the store terminal 400 or the like, or may be set according to the frequency of replacement of the battery pack 170, etc.

[0114] The reward granting request includes at least information for identifying the user U. In addition, the reward granting request may include various other information, such as information indicating the amount of points to be granted, information indicating the location where the battery pack 170 was returned (e.g., information for identifying the store 8), and information indicating the time of return.

[0115] The reward granting request may include second authentication information, which is information indicating that the battery pack 170 to be returned has been returned. The second authentication information may be, for example, a one-time password. The second authentication information may be issued by the charging station 300 or the store terminal 400. The management server 500 may grant points to the user U if authentication based on the second authentication information is successful. On the other hand, the management server 500 may not grant points to the user U if authentication based on the second authentication information is unsuccessful. This configuration makes it possible to avoid granting points to a third party who has not returned the battery pack 170.

[0116] There are various ways to obtain a reward grant request.

[0117] As an example, the user terminal 200 may acquire information indicating that the battery pack 170 to be returned has been returned, and transmit a reward granting request requesting that points be awarded to the user U. For example, the charging station 300 or the store terminal 400 may generate and display a two-dimensional code storing the second authentication information when the return of the battery pack 170 is complete. The user terminal 200 may then read the second authentication information by capturing an image of the two-dimensional code and performing image recognition, and transmit the second authentication information together with the identification information of the user U stored in the user terminal 200 to the management server 500 as a reward granting request.

[0118] As another example, the charging station 300 or the store terminal 400 may acquire identification information indicating the user U of the suction device 100 and transmit a reward request requesting that points be awarded to the user U identified by the acquired identification information. For example, the user terminal 200 may generate and display a two-dimensional code including the identification information of the user U. When the return of the battery pack 170 is complete, the charging station 300 or the store terminal 400 may read the identification information of the user U by capturing an image of the two-dimensional code and performing image recognition, and transmit the identification information of the user U together with the second authentication information to the management server 500 as a reward request.

[0119] The second authentication information and the identification information of the user U, which are output or transmitted by the user terminal 200, the charging station 300, or the store terminal 400, as described above, are examples of information for identifying the user U of the suction device 100 who returned the battery pack 170. This information included in the reward granting request enables the management server 500 to identify the user U who returned the battery pack 170 and grant points to the identified user U.

[0120] (Payment of Replacement Fee) The store terminal 400 may execute a process of settling the replacement fee for the battery pack 170. The replacement fee for the battery pack 170 may be paid by cash or credit card. Alternatively, a deposit system may be adopted. For example, if a predetermined amount is deposited, the battery pack 170 may be replaced free of charge.

[0121] The charging station 300 may only provide the battery pack 170. The battery pack 170 may be provided free of charge a few times.

[0122] The charging station 300 may only accept the return of the battery pack 170. The return of the battery pack 170 may be accepted free of charge. Alternatively, when the battery pack 170 is returned, a predetermined amount may be returned to the user U.

[0123] The user U may purchase a base material pack together with the replacement of the battery pack 170. When the base material pack is purchased together with the replacement of the battery pack 170, the store terminal 400 may execute a process of discounting the replacement price of the battery pack 170. For example, when the base material pack is purchased together with the replacement of the battery pack 170, the store terminal 400 may make the replacement price of the battery pack 170 free of charge or may offer points as a reward. This configuration makes it easier to purchase the base material pack and replace the battery pack 170 at the same time, thereby improving convenience for the user U.

[0124] The management server 500 may authenticate the base material pack. For example, the management server 500 may receive third authentication information for the base material pack that the user U is attempting to purchase and authenticate whether the base material pack is genuine based on the received third authentication information. The management server 500 may then transmit the authentication result of the base material pack to the store terminal 400. The store terminal 400 may execute a process to discount the replacement price of the battery pack 170 only if the authentication of the base material pack is successful. This configuration makes it possible to prevent fraudulent discounts on the replacement price of the battery pack 170.

[0125] The third authentication information may include the model number, serial number, or password of the base material pack, etc. The management server 500 can determine whether the base material pack is genuine by comparing the third authentication information acquired from the base material pack with third authentication information stored in advance.

[0126] There are various possible methods for obtaining the third authentication information. For example, the third authentication information may be read by capturing an image of a two-dimensional code attached to the surface of the base material pack and performing image recognition, and then transmitted to the management server 500. Such reading and transmission may be performed by at least one of the user terminal 200, the charging station 300, and the store terminal 400.

[0127] (Storage of Replacement Log) The management server 500 may store a replacement log, which is a log related to the replacement of the battery pack 170. With this configuration, it becomes possible to easily grasp the replacement status of the battery pack 170, such as which battery pack 170 was provided to which user U, when and where it was provided, and when and where it was returned.

[0128] The replacement log includes a battery pack ID, which is identification information of the battery pack 170. The battery pack ID is assigned to the battery pack 170 when it is manufactured.

[0129] The replacement log may include a device ID, which is identification information of the suction device 100 to which the battery pack 170 provided by the charging station 300 is connected. Furthermore, the replacement log may include a user ID, which is identification information of the user U of the suction device 100 to which the battery pack 170 provided by the charging station 300 is connected.

[0130] The replacement log may include information indicating the replacement time of the battery pack 170. Specifically, the replacement log may include information indicating the provision time of the battery pack 170 (e.g., the date and time when the battery pack 170 was removed from the charging station 300 or the date and time when the battery pack 170 was connected to the suction device 100). The replacement log may also include information indicating the return time of the battery pack 170 (e.g., the date and time when the battery pack 170 was removed from the suction device 100 or the date and time when the battery pack 170 was connected to the charging station 300).

[0131] The replacement log may include information indicating the location where the battery pack 170 is replaced. Specifically, the replacement log may include information indicating the location where the battery pack 170 is provided (for example, location information or identification information of the store 8). The replacement log may also include information indicating the location where the battery pack 170 is returned (for example, location information or identification information of the store 8).

[0132] The management server 500 may manage the replacement log for each battery 171, for each user U, or for each suction device 100. That is, the management server 500 may collectively store replacement logs that include the same battery pack ID, replacement logs that include the same user ID, or replacement logs that include the same device ID. The management server 500 may accumulate information obtained when a battery pack 170 is returned or provided as a replacement log.

[0133] User terminal 200 may acquire and display the replacement log. For example, user terminal 200 may receive an replacement log created for user U from management server 500 and display it. Alternatively, charging station 300 may write the replacement log to a storage medium mounted in battery pack 170. In this case, user terminal 200 may acquire the replacement log stored in battery pack 170 via suction device 100 and display it.

[0134] The user terminal 200 may output a message urging the user U to return the battery pack 170 when a predetermined time has passed without the battery pack 170 provided from the charging station 300 being returned. The elapsed time since the battery pack 170 was provided may be calculated by the management server 500 based on the replacement log. Alternatively, the suction device 100 may store the time when the battery pack 170 was replaced, and the user terminal 200 may calculate the elapsed time since the battery pack 170 was provided based on the stored time. The user terminal 200 may display map information mapping the surrounding stores 8 where the charging stations 300 are located, along with the message urging the user U to return the battery pack 170. This configuration enables the user U to return the battery pack 170 at an appropriate time.

[0135] The management server 500 may execute a process of charging the user U of the suction device 100 if a predetermined time has passed without the battery pack 170 provided from the charging station 300 being returned. For example, if the battery pack 170 has not been returned for one week or more, the management server 500 may settle a predetermined amount with a pre-registered credit card or collect a deposited amount. With this configuration, it is possible to prompt the user U to return the battery pack 170.

[0136] (Device Lock) The management server 500 may execute a process to turn off the aerosol generation function of the inhalation device 100 to which a battery pack 170 different from the battery pack 170 provided by the charging station 300 is connected, while the battery pack 170 provided by the charging station 300 is not returned. That is, the management server 500 may turn off the aerosol generation function of the inhalation device 100 whose battery pack 170 has been replaced without going through the charging station 300.

[0137] For example, the management server 500 acquires, via the user terminal 200, identification information of the battery pack 170 newly connected to the suction device 100 and compares the information with the replacement log to determine whether the battery pack 170 has been replaced via the charging station 300. If the management server 500 determines that the battery pack 170 has not been replaced via the charging station 300, it disables heating by the heating unit 121.

[0138] This configuration can prevent overheating caused by using a battery pack 170 that has not passed the deterioration / failure test and is in circulation, thereby preventing various inconveniences that may occur when using a battery pack 170 that may have deteriorated or failed.

[0139] (Recommending a Base Material Pack) The management server 500 may control a process of recommending a base material pack to be purchased to the user U, along with the return or provision of the battery pack 170. According to this configuration, the management server 500 can improve convenience for the user U by identifying an appropriate base material pack from among multiple types of base material packs and recommending it to the user U.

[0140] The management server 500 may recommend a base material pack including a specified type and number of base materials based on the base material pack purchase history of the user U. This configuration makes it possible to improve convenience for the user U.

[0141] The management server 500 may recommend a base material pack including a specified number of base materials based on the replacement log. As an example, the management server 500 may recommend a base material pack including a small number of base materials to a user U who frequently replaces the battery pack 170. As another example, the management server 500 may recommend a base material pack including a large number of base materials to a user U who infrequently replaces the battery pack 170. With this configuration, it is expected that the battery pack 170 will be replaced when the purchased base material runs out. In other words, it is possible to match the timing of the battery pack 170 replacement with the timing of the purchase of a base material pack. As a result, the user U can avoid the cost of replacing the battery pack 170 and minimize the number of visits to the store 8.

[0142] The management server 500 may recommend a base material pack containing a specified number of base materials based on the type of base material. As an example, when recommending a base material pack containing a menthol-containing base material, the management server 500 may recommend a base material pack containing a large number of base materials. This is because menthol-containing base materials are suitable for heating at relatively low temperatures, so the power consumption per base material is low and a fully charged battery pack 170 can heat a large number of base materials. As another example, when recommending a base material pack containing a non-menthol-containing base material, the management server 500 may recommend a base material pack containing a small number of base materials. This configuration makes it possible to match the timing of replacing the battery pack 170 with the timing of purchasing a base material pack.

[0143] The management server 500 may recommend a substrate pack containing a specified number of substrates based on the heating profile used by the suction device 100. As an example, when the suction device 100 uses a heating profile that specifies heating at a relatively high temperature, the management server 500 may recommend a substrate pack containing a small number of substrates. This is because heating at a high temperature consumes a lot of power per substrate, reducing the number of substrates that can be heated by a fully charged battery pack 170. As another example, when the suction device 100 uses a heating profile that specifies heating at a relatively low temperature, the management server 500 may recommend a substrate pack containing a large number of substrates. This configuration makes it possible to match the timing of replacing the battery pack 170 with the timing of purchasing a substrate pack.

[0144] (First Example of Processing Flow) Hereinafter, a first example of the processing flow relating to point allocation will be described with reference to FIG.

[0145] 8 is a sequence diagram showing a first example of the flow of processing executed in the system 1 according to this embodiment. As shown in FIG. 8 , this sequence involves the user terminal 200, the charging station 300, the store terminal 400, and the management server 500.

[0146] First, the store terminal 400 acquires the first authentication information (step S102). For example, the store terminal 400 acquires the first authentication information stored in the two-dimensional code by capturing an image of the two-dimensional code attached to the surface of the battery pack 170 removed from the suction device 100 and performing image recognition.

[0147] Next, the store terminal 400 transmits the acquired first authentication information to the management server 500 (step S104).

[0148] Next, the management server 500 authenticates whether the battery pack 170 to be returned is a genuine product based on the received first authentication information (step S106).

[0149] Next, the management server 500 transmits information indicating the authentication result to the store terminal 400 (step S108).

[0150] Next, the store terminal 400 displays the received information indicating the authentication result (step S110). Here, it is assumed that the authentication was successful.

[0151] Next, the charging station 300 replaces the battery pack 170 (step S112). For example, based on an operation by the store clerk S who has confirmed successful authentication of the battery pack 170 to be returned, the charging station 300 receives the battery pack 170 to be returned and starts charging it, and also provides the fully charged battery pack 170 to the user U in a removable state.

[0152] Next, the user terminal 200 acquires the second authentication information from the store terminal 400 (step S114). For example, the store terminal 400 displays a two-dimensional code storing the second authentication information. The user terminal 200 then acquires the second authentication information stored in the two-dimensional code by capturing an image of the two-dimensional code displayed on the store terminal 400 and performing image recognition.

[0153] Next, the user terminal 200 sends a reward granting request to the management server 500, which includes the second authentication information obtained from the store terminal 400 and the identification information of user U stored in the user terminal 200 (step S116).

[0154] Next, the management server 500 authenticates that the battery pack 170 has been returned based on the second authentication information included in the received reward granting request. If the authentication is successful, the management server 500 awards points to the user U identified by the identification information included in the received reward granting request (step S118).

[0155] On the other hand, the store terminal 400 settles the replacement fee for the battery pack 170 based on the operation of the store clerk S (step S120).

[0156] (Second Example of Processing Flow) Hereinafter, a second example of the processing flow relating to point allocation will be described with reference to FIG.

[0157] 9 is a sequence diagram showing a second example of the flow of processing executed in the system 1 according to this embodiment. As shown in FIG. 9 , this sequence involves the user terminal 200, the charging station 300, the store terminal 400, and the management server 500.

[0158] The processing in steps S202 to S212 is the same as the processing in steps S102 to S112 shown in FIG.

[0159] Following step S212, the store terminal 400 acquires the identification information of the user U from the user terminal 200 (step S214). For example, the user terminal 200 displays a two-dimensional code that stores the identification information of the user U. Then, the store terminal 400 acquires the identification information of the user U stored in the two-dimensional code by capturing an image of the two-dimensional code displayed on the user terminal 200 and performing image recognition.

[0160] Next, the store terminal 400 sends a reward granting request to the management server 500, which includes the identification information of user U obtained from the user terminal 200 and the second authentication information issued by the store terminal 400 (step S216).

[0161] The process in step S218 is the same as the process in step S118 shown in FIG.

[0162] Next, the store terminal 400 acquires the third authentication information (step S220). For example, the store terminal 400 acquires the third authentication information by capturing an image of a two-dimensional code attached to the surface of the base material pack that the user U is about to purchase and performing image recognition.

[0163] Next, the store terminal 400 transmits the acquired third authentication information to the management server 500 (step S222).

[0164] Next, the management server 500 authenticates whether the base material pack that the user U is trying to purchase is a genuine product based on the received third authentication information (step S224).

[0165] Next, the management server 500 transmits information indicating the authentication result to the store terminal 400 (step S226).

[0166] Next, the store terminal 400 displays information indicating the received authentication result. Here, it is assumed that the authentication was successful. Then, the store terminal 400 settles the replacement cost of the battery pack 170 and the purchase price of the base material pack based on the operation of the store clerk S who confirmed that the authentication of the base material pack was successful (step S228). However, if the replacement of the battery pack 170 at the same time as the purchase of the base material pack is free of charge, the store terminal 400 settles only the purchase price of the base material pack.

[0167] <4. Supplementary Information> Although preferred embodiments of the present disclosure have been described in detail above 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.

[0168] In the above embodiment, an example in which the charging station 300 is operated by a store clerk S has been described, but the present disclosure is not limited to such an example. The charging station 300 may also be operated by a user U through self-service.

[0169] In the above embodiment, an example has been described in which the store terminal 400 is included in the system 1, but the present disclosure is not limited to such an example. As an example, the function of the store terminal 400 may be included in the user terminal 200. In that case, the replacement fee for the battery pack 170 may be paid by electronic payment using the user terminal 200. As another example, the function of the store terminal 400 may be included in the charging station 300.

[0170] In the above embodiment, an example has been described in which the store terminal 400 settles the replacement fee for the battery pack 170, but the present disclosure is not limited to such an example. The management server 500 may settle the replacement fee for the battery pack 170 using pre-registered credit card information or pre-deposited money.

[0171] Information indicating a favorite base material pack of the user U may be registered in the user terminal 200. The store terminal 400 may acquire such information and display information indicating the shelf where the favorite base material pack of the user U is located. This configuration can reduce the workload of the store clerk S.

[0172] In the above embodiment, a replacement service for the battery pack 170 that functions as the power supply unit 111 of the suction device 100 has been described, but the target of the replacement service is not limited to this example. The power supply unit 111 of the suction device 100 may be charged by a portable charger with a built-in battery that is configured to be detachable from the suction device 100. An replacement service for the portable charger may be provided, and the technology according to the present disclosure may be applied by regarding the portable charger as a battery pack in the present disclosure. For example, points may be awarded to a user U who returns the portable charger.

[0173] In the above embodiment, an example has been described in which points are awarded as compensation for returning the battery pack 170, but the present disclosure is not limited to such an example. Points may be awarded as compensation for providing the battery pack 170. Alternatively, points may be awarded to the user U only when an exchange consisting of returning and providing the battery pack 170 has been performed.

[0174] The battery pack 170 replacement service may be provided as a subscription service. In this case, the battery pack 170 replacement service may be available only to a user U who has registered in advance. That is, the battery pack 170 may be replaced only when the management server 500 authenticates that the user U is a registered user. Information indicating that the user U is a registered user may be included in, for example, at least one of the first authentication information or the second authentication information.

[0175] The subscription fee model includes a pay-as-you-go model, which requires payment of a fee per replacement, and a flat-rate model, which does not require payment. When the fee model is a pay-as-you-go model, points may be awarded to the user U, and / or the fee per replacement may be discounted depending on the frequency of replacement of the battery pack 170. When the fee model is a flat-rate model, the points awarded to the user U may be used to purchase a new battery pack 170 or a new suction device 100, for example.

[0176] The output of information from the user terminal 200 to the charging station 300 or the store terminal 400 is not limited to displaying and reading a two-dimensional code. For example, the user terminal 200 and the charging station 300 or the store terminal 400 may transmit and receive information via wireless communication. The same applies to the output of information from the charging station 300 or the store terminal 400 to the user terminal 200.

[0177] The processes described in the above embodiment may be executed by any device. For example, in the above embodiment, the management server 500 determines the state of the battery pack 170, but the process of determining the state of the battery pack 170 may be executed by the charging station 300.

[0178] 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 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.

[0179] 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.

[0180] The following configurations also fall within the technical scope of the present disclosure: (1) A control device comprising: a control unit that controls a process for granting a reward to a user of a suction device who returns a battery pack provided from a charging device that charges a battery pack connected to a suction device that generates an aerosol using a base material containing an aerosol source, the control unit controlling a process including: receiving first authentication information for authenticating the battery pack to be returned, authenticating the battery pack to be returned based on the received first authentication information, transmitting information indicating an authentication result of the battery pack to be returned, receiving a reward granting request including information indicating a user of the suction device, and granting a reward to the user based on the received reward granting request. (2) The control device according to (1), wherein the reward granting request includes second authentication information indicating that the battery pack to be returned has been returned, and the control unit grants a reward to the user if authentication based on the second authentication information is successful. (3) The control device according to (1) or (2), wherein the control unit controls a process of charging a user of the suction device when a predetermined time has passed without the battery pack provided from the charging device being returned. (4) The control device according to any one of (1) to (3), wherein the control unit controls a process of turning off an aerosol generation function of the suction device to which a battery pack different from the battery pack provided from the charging device is connected while the battery pack provided from the charging device is not returned. (5) The control device according to any one of (1) to (4), wherein the control unit controls a process including: receiving third authentication information for authenticating a substrate pack including one or more of the substrates; authenticating the substrate pack based on the received third authentication information; and transmitting information indicating an authentication result of the substrate pack.(6) The control device according to any one of (1) to (5), wherein the control unit controls a process of storing an exchange log including at least one of information indicating a time when the battery pack was provided or returned, or information indicating a location where the battery pack was provided or returned. (7) The control device according to any one of (6), wherein the control unit controls a process of recommending a substrate pack including a specified number of the substrates based on the exchange log. (8) The control device according to any one of (1) to (7), wherein the control unit controls a process of recommending a substrate pack including a specified number of the substrates based on the type of the substrate. (9) The control device according to any one of (1) to (8), wherein the suction device heats the aerosol source based on a heating profile that defines parameters corresponding to a temperature to which the aerosol source is heated, and the control unit controls a process of recommending a substrate pack including a specified number of the substrates based on the heating profile used by the suction device. (10) A terminal device including a control unit that controls a process for granting a reward to a user of the suction device who returns a battery pack provided from a charging device that charges the battery pack and is connected to a suction device that generates an aerosol using a substrate containing an aerosol source, wherein the control unit controls processes including: transmitting first authentication information for authenticating the battery pack to be returned; receiving authentication result information indicating an authentication result of the battery pack to be returned based on the first authentication information; and outputting or transmitting information for identifying the user of the suction device who returned the battery pack. (11) The terminal device described in (10), wherein the control unit acquires identification information indicating a user of the suction device and controls a process for sending a reward granting request requesting that a reward be granted to the user identified by the acquired identification information, or a process for outputting second authentication information indicating that the battery pack has been returned. (12) The terminal device described in (10) or (11), wherein the control unit controls a process for discounting the replacement price of the battery pack when a substrate pack including one or more of the substrates is purchased together with the replacement of the battery pack.(13) A terminal device comprising: a control unit that controls a process for granting a reward to a user of the suction device who returns a battery pack provided from a charging device that charges the battery pack and is connected to an suction device that generates an aerosol using a base material containing an aerosol source, wherein the control unit controls a process including: outputting or transmitting information for identifying the user of the suction device who returned the battery pack. (14) The terminal device described in (13), wherein the control unit acquires second authentication information indicating that the battery pack has been returned, and controls a process for sending a reward granting request requesting that a reward be granted to the user of the suction device, or a process for displaying identification information indicating the user of the suction device. (15) The terminal device described in (13) or (14), wherein the control unit outputs a message urging the user to return the battery pack when a predetermined time has passed without the battery pack provided from the charging device being returned.

[0181] 1 System 100 Inhalation device 110 Power supply unit 111 Power supply section 112 Sensor section 113 Notification section 114 Memory section 115 Communication section 116 Control section 120 Cartridge 121 Heating section 122 Liquid guiding section 123 Liquid storage section 124 Mouthpiece 130 Flavoring cartridge 131 Flavor source 140 Storage section 141 Internal space 142 Opening 143 Bottom 144 Heat insulating section 150 Stick-shaped substrate 151 Substrate section 152 Mouthpiece section 170 Battery pack 180 Air flow path 181 Air inlet hole 182 Air outlet hole 200 User terminal 210 Communication section 220 Memory section 230 Input section 240 Output section 250 Control section 300 Charging station 301 Storage case 302 LED 310 Communication unit 320 Storage unit 330 Input unit 340 Output unit 350 Charging unit 360 Control unit 400 Store terminal 410 Communication unit 420 Storage unit 430 Input unit 440 Output unit 450 Control unit 500 Management server 510 Communication unit 520 Storage unit 530 Control unit 8 Store 9 Network

Claims

1. A control unit is provided for processing a reward to the user of the suction device who has returned the battery pack, which is provided by a charging device that charges a battery pack and is detachably connected to a suction device that generates an aerosol using a substrate containing an aerosol source. The control unit, To receive first authentication information for authenticating the battery pack to be returned, Authenticate the battery pack to be returned based on the received first authentication information. To transmit information indicating the authentication result of the battery pack to be returned, Receiving a reward request that includes information indicating the user of the suction device, To grant a reward to the user based on the received reward grant request, A control device that controls processes including those mentioned above.

2. The aforementioned reward grant request includes a second set of authentication information indicating that the battery pack subject to return has been returned. The control unit grants a reward to the user if authentication based on the second authentication information is successful. The control device according to claim 1.

3. The control unit controls the process of charging the user of the suction device if a predetermined time has elapsed without the battery pack provided by the charging device being returned. The control device according to claim 1.

4. The control unit controls the process of turning off the aerosol generation function of the suction device when the battery pack provided by the charging device is not returned, and a battery pack different from the battery pack provided by the charging device is connected. The control device according to claim 1.

5. The control unit, To receive third authentication information for authenticating a substrate pack containing one or more of the aforementioned substrates, Authenticate the substrate pack based on the received third authentication information. To transmit information indicating the authentication result of the aforementioned substrate pack, Controlling processes that include The control device according to claim 1.

6. The control unit controls the process of storing an exchange log that includes at least one of the following: information indicating the time the battery pack was provided or returned, or information indicating the location where the battery pack was provided or returned. The control device according to any one of claims 1 to 5.

7. The control unit controls the process of recommending a substrate pack containing the number of substrates identified based on the exchange log. The control device according to claim 6.

8. The control unit controls the process of recommending a base material pack containing a number of base materials specified based on the type of base material. The control device according to any one of claims 1 to 5.

9. The suction device heats the aerosol source based on a heating profile that defines parameters corresponding to the temperature at which the aerosol source is heated. The control unit controls the process of recommending a substrate pack containing a number of substrates identified based on the heating profile used by the suction device. The control device according to any one of claims 1 to 5.

10. A control unit is provided for processing a reward to the user of the suction device who has returned the battery pack, which is provided by a charging device that charges a battery pack and is detachably connected to a suction device that generates an aerosol using a substrate containing an aerosol source. The control unit, To transmit first authentication information for authenticating the battery pack to be returned, To receive authentication result information indicating the authentication result of the battery pack to be returned based on the first authentication information, Output or transmit information to identify the user of the suction device who returned the battery pack. A terminal device that controls processes including those mentioned above.

11. The control unit controls the process of obtaining identification information indicating the user of the suction device and sending a reward grant request requesting that a reward be granted to the user identified by the obtained identification information, or the process of outputting a second authentication information indicating that the battery pack has been returned. The terminal device according to claim 10.

12. The control unit controls a process to discount the battery pack replacement cost when a base material pack containing one or more base materials is purchased along with the replacement of the battery pack. The terminal device according to claim 10 or 11.

13. A control unit is provided for processing a reward to the user of the suction device who has returned the battery pack, which is provided by a charging device that charges a battery pack and is detachably connected to a suction device that generates an aerosol using a substrate containing an aerosol source. The control unit, Output or transmit information to identify the user of the suction device who returned the battery pack. A terminal device that controls processes including those mentioned above.

14. The control unit controls the process of obtaining a second authentication information indicating that the battery pack has been returned and sending a reward request requesting that a reward be given to the user of the suction device, or the process of displaying identification information indicating the user of the suction device. The terminal device according to claim 13.

15. The control unit outputs a message prompting the user to return the battery pack if a predetermined time has elapsed without the battery pack provided by the charging device being returned. The terminal device according to claim 13 or 14.