Battery pack providing device, control method, and program

Abstract

[Problem] To provide a mechanism capable of achieving appropriate management of a battery pack. [Solution] A battery pack providing device provides, in a replaceable manner, battery packs to a plurality of inhalation devices each having a heating unit that heats an aerosol source and generates aerosol, the battery packs being detachably connected to each of the inhalation devices. The battery pack providing device includes: connection parts for electrically connecting to the battery packs; and a control unit that determines the states of the battery packs on the basis of information acquired, via the connection parts, from the battery packs connected to the connection parts. When it is determined that a battery pack is deteriorated, the control unit controls processing for reporting, in association with the battery pack, information indicating that the battery pack is deteriorated.

Description

Battery pack providing device, control method and program

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

[0002] Inhalation devices that generate substances to be inhaled by users are widely used. For example, inhalation devices generate aerosols imparted with flavor components using a substrate containing an aerosol source for generating aerosols and a flavor source for imparting flavor components to the generated aerosol. Users can enjoy the flavor by inhaling the aerosols imparted with flavor components generated by the inhalation device. The action of a user inhaling the aerosol is hereinafter also referred to as a puff or puffing action. Examples of devices classified as inhalation devices include 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 can realize appropriate management of battery packs.

[0008] In order to solve the above problem, according to one aspect of the present disclosure, there is provided a battery pack providing device that provides a battery pack that can be detachably connected to an inhalation device having a heating unit that heats an aerosol source to generate an aerosol, in an exchangeable manner to a plurality of the inhalation devices, the battery pack providing device comprising: a connection unit electrically connected to the battery pack; and a control unit that determines the state of the battery pack based on information obtained from the battery pack connected to the connection unit via the connection unit, and when it is determined that the battery pack is degraded, the control unit controls a process of notifying the battery pack by associating information indicating that the battery pack is degraded with the battery pack.

[0009] The battery pack may have a memory unit that stores information indicating the operating history of the battery pack, and the control unit may determine the state of the battery pack based on the information indicating the operating history of the battery pack stored in the memory unit of the battery pack.

[0010] The information indicating the operation history of the battery pack may include at least one of information indicating a discharging history of the battery pack and information indicating a charging history of the battery pack.

[0011] The memory unit of the battery pack may store specification information of the battery pack, and the control unit may determine the state of the battery pack further based on the specification information of the battery pack stored in the memory unit of the battery pack.

[0012] When it is determined that the battery pack is faulty, the control unit may control a process of notifying information indicating that the battery pack is faulty in association with the battery pack.

[0013] The battery pack providing device may further include a charging unit that charges the battery pack connected to the connection unit.

[0014] The control unit may control a process of, when a charging abnormality occurs in the battery pack, notifying information indicating the occurrence of the charging abnormality in association with the battery pack.

[0015] The battery pack may further include an output unit that outputs information indicating the state of the battery pack determined by the control unit.

[0016] The battery pack providing device may include a plurality of the connection portions.

[0017] In addition, in order to solve the above problem, according to another aspect of the present disclosure, there is provided a control method executed by a processor that controls a battery pack providing device that provides a battery pack that is detachably connected to an inhalation device having a heating unit that heats an aerosol source to generate an aerosol, in an exchangeable manner to a plurality of the inhalation devices, the control method including: determining the state of the battery pack based on information obtained from the battery pack connected to a connection unit electrically connected to the battery pack of the battery pack providing device via the connection unit; and, when it is determined that the battery pack is degraded, controlling a process of notifying information indicating that the battery pack is degraded by associating it with the battery pack.

[0018] In addition, in order to solve the above problem, according to another aspect of the present disclosure, a program is provided in which a computer controlling a battery pack providing device that provides a battery pack that is detachably connected to an inhalation device having a heating unit that heats an aerosol source to generate an aerosol, in an exchangeable manner to a plurality of the inhalation devices, functions as a control unit that determines the state of the battery pack based on information obtained from the battery pack connected to a connection unit electrically connected to the battery pack of the battery pack providing device via the connection unit, and when the control unit determines that the battery pack is degraded, controls a process of notifying the battery pack by associating information indicating that the battery pack is degraded with the battery pack.

[0019] As described above, the present disclosure provides a mechanism that can realize appropriate management of battery packs.

[0020] FIG. 1 is a diagram for explaining an overview of a system according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. 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 battery pack 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 management server according to the present embodiment. FIG. 7 is a sequence diagram showing an example of a processing flow executed by a system according to the present embodiment. FIG. 8 is a flowchart showing an example of a processing flow executed by a charging station according to the present embodiment. FIG. 9 is a flowchart showing an example of a processing flow executed by a charging station according to the present embodiment.

[0021] 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.

[0022] 1. Overview First, an overview of a system according to an embodiment of the present disclosure will be described with reference to FIG.

[0023] 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.

[0024] 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.

[0025] 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.

[0026] 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.

[0027] 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. The user terminal 200 can also control the operation of the suction device 100 through communication with the suction device 100.

[0028] 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.

[0029] The charging station 300 is an example of a charging device that charges the battery pack 170 and a battery pack providing device that exchangeably provides the charged battery pack 170 to a plurality of suction devices 100. The charging station 300 is capable of detachably connecting the battery pack 170. The charging station 300 charges the connected battery pack 170. Specifically, the charging station 300 includes a housing case 301 that houses the battery pack 170. The charging station 300 charges the battery pack 170 housed in the housing case 301. The charging station 300 also includes an LED (light emitting diode) 302 and a touch panel 303 that inputs and outputs various information. The LED 302 is arranged in association with the housing case 301 and emits light in a color that corresponds to the status of the corresponding housing case 301 (e.g., whether it is empty, whether it is being charged, and if it is being charged, the progress of charging).

[0030] 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.

[0031] 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.

[0032] The charging station 300 may notify the store clerk S by using the LED 302 or the touch panel 303 that an empty storage case 301 is the destination for returning the battery pack 170. The charging station 300 may also notify the store clerk S by using the LED 302 or the touch panel 303 to remove the battery pack 170 from the storage case 301 that stores the fully charged battery pack 170 and provide it to the user U.

[0033] 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.

[0034] 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.

[0035] 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.

[0036] The battery pack 170 is manufactured and operated so that it has a capacity sufficient to consume at least all of the base materials contained in the base material pack when the battery pack 170 is fully charged. Therefore, it is desirable to replace the battery pack 170 and purchase a new base material pack at the same time. In this case, the battery pack 170 does not need to be replaced until all of the base materials contained in the base material pack are consumed.

[0037] Therefore, for example, when the user U purchases a base material pack, the store terminal 400 may notify the store clerk S of information instructing the store clerk S to prompt the user U to replace the battery pack 170. Alternatively, the battery pack 170 may be replaced only when the base material pack is purchased, or the replacement fee for the battery pack 170 may be free of charge. With this configuration, the replacement of the battery pack 170 and the purchase of the base material pack can be performed at the same time, thereby improving usability.

[0038] 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.

[0039] As one example, the management server 500 collects and analyzes various information related to the replacement of the battery pack 170, and based on the analysis results, updates the heating profile and notifies the user U of the timing to replace the battery pack 170. As another example, the management server 500 controls the displays of the user terminal 200, the charging station 300, and the store terminal 400. As another example, the management server 500 collects deteriorated or broken battery packs 170 (i.e., removes them from distribution), and performs processing to repair and redistribute battery packs that can be repaired.

[0040] 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.

[0041] (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.

[0042] 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.

[0043] 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.

[0044] 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.

[0045] 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.

[0046] 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).

[0047] 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.

[0048] 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.

[0049] 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.

[0050] 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.

[0051] 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.

[0052] 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.

[0053] 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.

[0054] 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.

[0055] 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.

[0056] 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.

[0057] 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.

[0058] (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.

[0059] 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.

[0060] 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.

[0061] 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.

[0062] 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.

[0063] 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.

[0064] 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.

[0065] 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.

[0066] 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.

[0067] 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.

[0068] 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.

[0069] (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.

[0070] 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.

[0071] The battery pack 170 shown in Fig. 1 includes at least the power supply unit 111 shown in Fig. 2 or 3. Next, an example of the configuration of the battery pack 170 will be described with reference to Fig. 4.

[0072] 4 is a block diagram showing an example of the configuration of a battery pack 170 according to this embodiment. As shown in FIG. 4 , the battery pack 170 includes a battery 171, a protection IC (Integration Circuit) 172, an MCU (Micro Controller Unit) 173, a memory 174, a sensor 175, and a terminal 176.

[0073] The battery 171 is a rechargeable secondary battery. The battery 171 corresponds to the power supply unit 111 shown in Fig. 2 or 3. The battery 171 supplies power to an external device (e.g., the main body of the suction device 100) via the protection IC 172 and the terminal 176. The battery 171 is charged by power supplied from the external device (e.g., the charging station 300) via the protection IC 172 and the terminal 176.

[0074] The protection IC 172 is a protection circuit that stops charging when overcharging occurs and stops discharging when overdischarging occurs.

[0075] The MCU 173 is an example of a control unit for controlling the operation of the battery pack 170. The battery pack 170 executes various processes under the control of the MCU 173. Storing and reading information by the memory 174, detecting information by the sensor 175, transmitting and receiving power via the terminal 176, and transmitting and receiving information via the terminal 176 are examples of processes controlled by the MCU 173. Other processes executed by the battery pack 170, such as input of information to each component and processing based on information output from each component, are also controlled by the MCU 173.

[0076] The memory 174 is an example of a storage unit that stores information. The memory 174 is configured by a non-volatile storage medium such as a flash memory.

[0077] The sensor 175 is an example of a detection unit that detects various information related to the battery pack 170. For example, the sensor 175 detects the temperature of the battery 171, and the voltage and current values ​​of the battery 171 when it is being charged and discharged.

[0078] The terminal 176 functions as a power terminal for transmitting and receiving power and a communication terminal for transmitting and receiving information to and from a device connected to the battery pack 170. The terminal 176 may be, for example, a Universal Serial Bus (USB) connector.

[0079] In addition, although Figure 4 describes an example in which the protection IC 172 is included in the battery pack 170, the protection IC 172 may also be included in the device to which the battery pack 170 is connected (for example, the main body of the suction device 100 or the charging station 300).

[0080] (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.

[0081] 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.

[0082] 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.

[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, one or more connection terminals 351, 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 another device. As one example, the communication unit 310 transmits and receives information to and from the battery pack 170 connected to the connection terminal 351 via the connection terminal 351. As another example, the communication unit 310 transmits and receives information to and from the management server 500. The communication unit 310 performs communication in accordance with any wired or wireless communication standard. Examples of such communication standards that may be adopted include USB (Universal Serial Bus), Wi-Fi (registered trademark), Bluetooth (registered trademark), NFC (Near Field Communication), and LAN (Local Area Network).

[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 that is housed in the housing case 301 described with reference to Fig. 1 and electrically connected to the charging station 300. In particular, the charging unit 350 charges the battery pack 170 that is connected to the connection terminal 351.

[0089] The connection terminal 351 is an example of a connector electrically connected to the battery pack 170. The connection terminal 351 functions as a power terminal for transmitting and receiving power and a communication terminal for transmitting and receiving information to and from the battery pack 170 connected to the connection terminal 351. The connection terminal 351 may be, for example, a USB connector. The connection terminal 351 is disposed in the housing case 301 and electrically connected to the terminal 176 of the battery pack 170 housed in the housing case 301. As shown in FIG. 1 , the charging station 300 may include multiple housing cases 301. That is, the charging station 300 may include multiple connection terminals 351 and charge multiple battery packs 170 simultaneously in parallel. Note that the electrical connection between the battery pack 170 and the charging station 300 is not limited to a wired connection and may be a wireless connection (i.e., wireless charging).

[0090] Hereinafter, the entire configuration for charging one battery pack 170, including the accommodating case 301 and the connection terminal 351, will also be referred to as a charging point.

[0091] 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.

[0092] 6 is a block diagram showing an example of the configuration of the management server 500 according to this embodiment. As shown in FIG. 6, the management server 500 includes a communication unit 510, a storage unit 520, and a control unit 530.

[0093] 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.

[0094] 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).

[0095] 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.

[0096] 3. Information Collection via Battery Pack 170 When connected to battery pack 170, the main body of suction device 100 or an external device such as charging station 300 can write various information to memory 174. Specifically, when connected to the external device, MCU 173 writes information received from the external device via terminal 176 to memory 174. As an example, when battery pack 170 is connected to the main body of suction device 100, MCU 173 may receive information related to power supply from battery 171 to the main body of suction device 100 and write the information to memory 174. As another example, when battery pack 170 is connected to charging station 300, MCU 173 may receive information related to charging of battery 171 by charging station 300 and write the information to memory 174.

[0097] Of course, battery pack 170 can write information acquired by battery pack 170 itself to memory 174. As one example, MCU 173 may write information detected by sensor 175 in a state where battery pack 170 is connected to the main body of suction device 100 to memory 174. As another example, MCU 173 may write information detected by sensor 175 in a state where battery pack 170 is connected to charging station 300 to memory 174.

[0098] When the battery pack 170 is connected to an external device such as the main body of the suction device 100 or the charging station 300, the MCU 173 transmits the information stored in the memory 174 to the external device via the terminal 176. As a result, the external device can perform various processes using the information received from the battery pack 170. For example, the charging station 300 transmits the information received by the battery pack 170 to the management server 500.

[0099] In order to improve the quality of the user experience when using the suction device 100, it is preferable that the management server 500 periodically collects and analyzes information about the suction device 100 and implements measures using the analysis results. Typically, information about the suction device 100 is collected by the management server 500 via a user terminal 200 that can communicate with both the suction device 100 and the management server 500. However, if the suction device 100 does not communicate with the user terminal 200, or if the user terminal 200 does not communicate with the management server 500, it is difficult to periodically collect information via the user terminal 200.

[0100] In this regard, with this configuration, the management server 500 can periodically collect information about the suction device 100 via the charging station 300 to which the battery pack 170 is connected when the battery pack 170 is replaced. As a result, it is possible to implement various measures to improve the quality of the user experience when using the suction device 100, thereby improving the quality of the user experience.

[0101] Furthermore, with this configuration, it becomes possible for external devices to exchange information with each other via the battery pack 170. As a result, it is expected that various services will be created.

[0102] An example of information that can be stored in the battery pack 170 and collected by replacing the battery pack 170 will be described below.

[0103] (1) Battery Pack ID The memory 174 of the battery pack 170 stores a battery pack ID, which is identification information of the battery pack 170. The battery pack ID can be written when the battery pack 170 is manufactured.

[0104] (2) Specification Information The memory 174 of the battery pack 170 stores specification information that indicates the specifications of the battery pack 170 .

[0105] The specification information of the battery pack 170 may include a manufacturer ID, which is identification information of the manufacturer that produced the battery pack 170 .

[0106] The specification information of the battery pack 170 may include information indicating the manufacturing date of the battery pack 170 .

[0107] The specification information of the battery pack 170 may include information indicating the model of the battery pack 170 .

[0108] The specification information of the battery pack 170 may include information indicating the initial capacity of the battery 171 .

[0109] The specification information of the battery pack 170 may include information indicating the maximum charging voltage and charging rate of the battery 171 .

[0110] (3) Replacement Log The memory 174 of the battery pack 170 stores a replacement log, which is a log related to replacement of the battery pack 170. The replacement log may include at least one of the following pieces of information:

[0111] 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.

[0112] 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).

[0113] 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).

[0114] The replacement log may include information about a substrate pack purchased along with a replacement battery pack 170. The substrate pack information includes, for example, the type and number of substrates included in the substrate pack.

[0115] The replacement log may include information indicating the number of times the battery pack 170 has been replaced. The number of times the battery pack 170 has been replaced may be incremented each time the battery pack 170 is connected to a different suction device 100 than the previous time. Alternatively, the number of times the battery pack 170 has been replaced may be incremented each time the battery pack 170 is connected to the charging station 300.

[0116] An example of the replacement log has been described above. The replacement log may be acquired and written by the main body of the suction device 100, the charging station 300, or the battery pack 170, for example, when replacing the battery pack 170. Note that with regard to information on a base material pack purchased together with the replacement of the battery pack 170, the charging station 300 may acquire such information from the store terminal 400 and write it to the memory 174 of the battery pack 170.

[0117] (4) Discharge Information During Heating The memory 174 of the battery pack 170 stores discharge information during heating, which is information indicating the discharge status of the battery 171 when the heating unit 121 performs heating based on the heating profile. The discharge information during heating may include at least one of the following pieces of information:

[0118] The discharge information during heating may include a voltage drop value of the battery 171 when the heating unit 121 performs heating. The voltage drop value of the battery 171 may be the difference in voltage of the battery 171 before and after the heating is performed. Based on this information, it is possible to determine the deterioration state of the battery pack 170 (more specifically, the battery 171) or whether an error has occurred.

[0119] The discharge information during heating may include a decrease in the charge capacity (unit: mAh) of the battery 171 when the heating unit 121 performs heating. The decrease in the charge capacity of the battery 171 may be the difference in charge capacity before and after heating, or the difference in charge capacity from the time of manufacture to the present. Based on this information, it is possible to determine the deterioration state of the battery pack 170 or whether an error has occurred.

[0120] The discharge information during heating may include a temperature rise value of the battery 171 when the heating unit 121 performs heating. The temperature rise value of the battery 171 may be the difference between the minimum temperature and the maximum temperature during the heating session. Based on this information, it is possible to determine the deterioration state of the battery pack 170 or whether an error has occurred.

[0121] The discharge information during heating may include a time series change in the amount of discharge during a heating session. Immediately after a puff is performed, the amount of discharge temporarily increases to restore the temperature of the heating unit 121, which has dropped due to the puff. In this regard, such information makes it possible to determine the number of puffs performed during a heating session.

[0122] The discharge information during heating may include the number of discharges performed for heating, and based on this information, the number of times heating has been performed can be determined.

[0123] The discharge information during heating may include the interval between discharges performed for heating. Based on this information, the interval between heating discharges can be determined.

[0124] The discharge information during heating may include at least one of the discharge amount and the discharge time when heating is performed. From such information, the heating profile used by the suction device 100 can be determined.

[0125] The discharge information during heating may include the number of discharges performed for the auto-run function, which is a function that starts heating when a substrate is set (e.g., inserted or connected) to the suction device 100. Based on this information, the number of times the auto-run function has been performed can be determined.

[0126] The discharge information during heating may include the number of times that a discharge abnormality has occurred and the amount of discharge when a discharge abnormality has occurred. Using this information, errors that have occurred in the battery pack 170 can be recorded.

[0127] An example of the discharge information during heating has been described above. The discharge information during heating may be acquired by the battery pack 170 or the main body of the suction device 100 and written to the memory 174, for example.

[0128] (5) Discharge Information During Non-Heating The memory 174 of the battery pack 170 stores discharge information during non-heating, which is information indicating the discharge status of the battery 171 during a period when heating based on the heating profile is not being performed. The discharge information during non-heating may include at least one of the following examples of information.

[0129] The discharge information during non-heating may include the number of discharges performed to transition from sleep mode to active mode. Based on this information, the number of transitions from sleep mode to active mode can be determined. The sleep mode is an operating mode in which heating is prohibited. In the sleep mode, transition to the active mode is possible in response to a user operation, such as pressing a button. The active mode is an operating mode in which heating is permitted. In the active mode, heating is initiated in response to a user operation, such as pressing a button.

[0130] The discharge information during non-heating may include at least one of the discharge amount or discharge time during which communication is continued by the communication unit 115. Based on such information, the communication amount or communication time of the suction device 100 can be determined.

[0131] An example of the discharge information when no heating is performed has been described above. The discharge information when no heating is performed can be obtained by the battery pack 170 or the main body of the suction device 100 and written to the memory 174, for example.

[0132] (6) Device Information The memory 174 of the battery pack 170 stores device information, which is information indicating the mode of use of the suction device 100. The device information may include at least one of the following pieces of information:

[0133] The device information may include information indicating the smoking time. Smoking refers to the entire act of the user U inhaling the aerosol generated during heating based on the heating profile. A single smoking session may include multiple puffs. The information indicating the smoking time may be the date and time of the start of heating or the date and time of the first detected puff during the heating session. Based on this information, the interval between smoking sessions (i.e., the interval between heating sessions), the number of smoking sessions per day (i.e., the number of heating sessions), and the total number of smoking sessions may be determined.

[0134] The device information may include information indicative of smoking duration, which may be the length of the heating session or the time from the first detected puff to the last detected puff during the heating session, and such information may be used to customize a heating profile for the user U.

[0135] The device information may include information indicating total smoking time, which is the cumulative total smoking time since the inhalation device 100 was manufactured. Such information may be used to recommend maintenance for the inhalation device 100. Such information may also be used to determine the smoking time over the entire life cycle of the inhalation device 100.

[0136] The device information may include information indicating the total number of cigarettes smoked, which is the cumulative total number of cigarettes smoked since the inhalation device 100 was manufactured. Such information may be used to recommend maintenance timing for the inhalation device 100. Furthermore, such information may be used to determine the number of cigarettes smoked throughout the life cycle of the inhalation device 100.

[0137] The device information may include information indicating the total usage time, which is the time elapsed since the suction device 100 was first started. Such information may be used to recommend maintenance for the suction device 100. Such information may also be used to determine the usage time of the suction device 100 over its entire life cycle.

[0138] The device information may include information indicating security settings. The inhalation device 100 may be equipped with a security function that can lock the device for child safety, etc. When the security function is enabled, the inhalation device 100 operates in a locked state in which heating is prohibited or an unlocked state in which heating is permitted. The lock can be released by various triggers, such as when a predetermined button is operated or when a communication connection with the user terminal 200 is established. When the security function is disabled, heating is always permitted in the inhalation device 100. The information indicating security settings may include the time when the security function was enabled and the time when the security function was disabled. Furthermore, the information indicating security settings may include information indicating the time when the security function transitioned to the locked state, the time when the security function transitioned to the unlocked state, and the trigger for unlocking, during the period when the security function was enabled. By referring to the information indicating security settings together with the information indicating the smoking time, it is possible to determine which trigger unlocked the smoking start, or whether smoking started with the security setting disabled.

[0139] The device information may include information indicating the number of puffs, which is the number of puffs detected during a heating session. Such information may be used to determine the number of puffs taken by the user U per smoking session. Such information may be used to customize a heating profile for the user U.

[0140] The device information may include information indicating a puff time, which is the time at which a puff is detected during a heating session. Such information may be used to determine when the user U puffs during a heating session. Such information may be used to customize a heating profile for the user U.

[0141] The device information may include location information of the inhalation device 100. More specifically, the device information may include time-series changes in the location information of the inhalation device 100. The location information of the user terminal 200 may be used as the location information of the inhalation device 100. Based on this information, the behavioral pattern of the user U can be determined. The behavioral pattern of the user U can be used when the user terminal 200 suggests a smoking area or store 8 that matches the behavioral pattern of the user U.

[0142] The device information may include information indicating an error that has occurred in the suction device 100. Such information may be used to recommend when maintenance should be performed on the suction device 100.

[0143] An example of the device information has been described above. The device information may be acquired by the battery pack 170 or the main body of the suction device 100 and written to the memory 174, for example.

[0144] (7) Charging Information The memory 174 of the battery pack 170 stores charging information, which is information indicating the charging status of the battery 171. The charging information may include at least one of the following pieces of information:

[0145] The charging information may include information indicating the number of times the battery pack 170 has been charged. The number of times the battery pack 170 has been connected to the charging station 300 or a home charger. Based on this information, the deterioration state of the battery pack 170 can be determined.

[0146] The charging information may include information indicating a charging interval. The charging interval refers to the time elapsed between when the battery pack 170 is disconnected from the charging station 300 or a home charger and when it is connected to the charging station 300 or a home charger. Based on this information, the deterioration state of the battery pack 170 can be determined.

[0147] The charging information may include information indicating the charging time and the amount of charge per charge. The charging time refers to the date and time when the battery pack 170 is connected to the charging station 300 or a home charger. The amount of charge per charge refers to the voltage increase value during charging. Such information can be used to determine the status of each charge and the deterioration state of the battery pack 170.

[0148] The charging information may include information indicating a charging voltage or a charging current. The charging voltage refers to the voltage value applied to the battery 171 during charging. The charging current refers to the current value flowing through the battery 171 during charging. Such information makes it possible to determine the device (charging station 300 or a home charger) that charged the battery pack 170.

[0149] The charging information may include location information at the time of charging, which may allow determination of where the battery pack 170 was charged (e.g., at the store 8 or at home).

[0150] The charging information may include information indicating the number of times a charging abnormality has occurred and the amount of charge when the charging abnormality occurred. Such information allows errors occurring in the battery pack 170 to be recorded.

[0151] The charging information may include information indicating the states of health (SOH) of the battery 171. Based on this information, it is possible to determine the deterioration state of the battery 171.

[0152] An example of the charging information has been described above. The charging information may be acquired by the battery pack 170 or the charging station 300 and written to the memory 174, for example.

[0153] (8) Supplementary Information An example of information that can be stored in the battery pack 170 and collected by replacing the battery pack 170 has been described above.

[0154] The battery pack 170 can store and transmit at least two or more of the battery pack ID, replacement log, discharge information during heating, discharge information during non-heating, device information, and charging information in association with one another. This configuration enables more precise analysis of collected information. For example, by associating the replacement log with the discharge information during heating, it becomes possible to analyze the discharge status during heating of the suction device 100 identified by the device ID included in the replacement log.

[0155] 4. Specific Examples of Information Collection A specific example of information collection via the battery pack 170 will be described below.

[0156] (1) Operational Processing of Battery Pack 170 The battery pack 170 constructs a database (hereinafter also referred to as DB) that stores information indicating the operation history of the battery pack 170, and stores the database in the memory 174. The DB constructed by the battery pack 170 includes at least one of a discharge history information DB that is a DB of information indicating the discharge history of the battery pack 170, and a charge history information DB that is a DB of information indicating the charge history of the battery pack 170. The discharge history information DB may include, for example, the discharge information during heating described above. The charge history information DB may include, for example, the charge information described above.

[0157] An example of the discharge history information DB is shown in Table 1 below.

[0158]

[0159] The data ID is identification information uniquely assigned to one row of data (hereinafter also referred to as a record) included in the DB. The start time is the start time of heating based on the heating profile. The end time is the end time of heating based on the heating profile. The device type is information indicating the type of suction device 100 to which the battery pack 170 is connected, and may be a device ID. The FWID (Firmware ID) is identification information for the firmware of the suction device 100 to which the battery pack 170 is connected. The brand ID is identification information indicating the brand of the heated substrate. The brand ID can be acquired, for example, by image recognition of a two-dimensional code attached to the surface of the substrate or based on user input to the user terminal 200. The heating profile ID is identification information for the heating profile used for heating. The voltage / current / internal resistance are the voltage, current, and internal resistance of the battery 171 during heating. The temperature is the temperature of the battery 171 during heating. The remaining battery capacity is the remaining capacity of the battery 171 at the end of heating. The error code is identification information for an error that occurred during discharging.

[0160] An example of the discharge history information DB has been described above.

[0161] The battery pack 170 adds the information obtained when heating is performed as a new record to the discharge history information DB. The battery pack 170 may update the discharge history information DB every time heating is performed, or may update the discharge history information DB every time heating is performed multiple times.

[0162] When over-discharge, abnormal heat generation, or the like occurs, the battery pack 170 can store an error code indicating the error. By referring to the error code when the battery pack 170 is connected, the inhalation device 100 or the charging station 300 can easily determine whether the battery pack 170 is usable.

[0163] It is assumed that the battery pack 170 is connected to an inhalation device 100 manufactured by the same manufacturer as the battery pack 170, but it may also be connected to an inhalation device 100 manufactured by another manufacturer. It is assumed that the battery pack 170 is used in the inhalation device 100, but it may also be used in other electronic devices such as smartphones. In these cases, it is assumed that data for some fields (i.e., items) in the discharge history information DB cannot be obtained. Fields that cannot be obtained may be left blank. It is possible to determine whether the battery pack 170 is connected to an inhalation device 100 manufactured by another manufacturer and whether it is used in other electronic devices based on the presence or absence of a device type, the presence or absence of a start time, the presence or absence of an end time, etc.

[0164] Next, an example of the charging history information DB is shown in Table 2 below.

[0165]

[0166] The charging time is the date and time when charging was performed. The pre-charging capacity is the remaining capacity of the battery 171 before charging begins. The post-charging capacity is the remaining capacity of the battery 171 when charging is completed. The temperature is the temperature of the battery 171 during charging. The charging station ID is identification information of the charging station 300 that charged the battery pack 170.

[0167] An example of the charging history information DB has been described above.

[0168] The battery pack 170 adds the information obtained during charging to the charging history information DB as a new record.

[0169] When the battery pack 170 is connected to an external device such as the suction device 100 or the charging station 300, the battery pack 170 transmits the information stored in these DBs to the external device. In addition, the battery pack 170 can transmit the various types of information described above stored in the memory 174 to the external device.

[0170] (2) Operational Processing of Charging Station 300 When the battery pack 170 is connected to the charging station 300, the charging station 300 charges the battery pack 170. The charging station 300 also creates a charging station operation history DB that stores information indicating the operation history of the charging station 300.

[0171] An example of the charging station operation history DB is shown in Table 3 below.

[0172]

[0173] The charging start time is the time when charging of the battery pack 170 started. The charging end time is the time when charging of the battery pack 170 ended. The installation store information is identification information of the store 8 where the charging station 300 is installed. The charging point information is identification information of the charging point where the battery pack 170 was charged, and for example, the position of the charging point in the charging station 300 is used. The charging capacity is the remaining capacity of the battery 171 that has increased due to charging. The charging temperature is the temperature of the charging station 300 at the time of charging. The error code is identification information of an error that occurred during charging.

[0174] An example of the charging station operation history DB has been described above.

[0175] The charging station 300 adds the information obtained each time charging is performed to the charging station operation history DB as a new record.

[0176] Then, charging station 300 transmits the information stored in the charging station operation history DB to management server 500. Furthermore, charging station 300 transmits to management server 500 information received from battery pack 170 when charging station 300 is connected to battery pack 170.

[0177] (3) Operational Processing of Management Server 500 The management server 500 constructs a DB that stores information indicating the status of each device included in the system 1. The DB constructed by the management server 500 includes at least one of a battery pack management DB that stores information indicating the status of the battery pack 170 and a charging station management DB that stores information indicating the status of the charging station 300.

[0178] An example of the battery pack management DB is shown in Table 4 below.

[0179]

[0180] The specification information is information indicating the specifications of the battery pack 170. The latest charging time is the time when the battery pack 170 was last charged. The number of charges is the number of times the battery pack 170 has been charged. The deterioration determination is information indicating whether it has been determined that the battery pack 170 has deteriorated. The failure determination is information indicating whether it has been determined that the battery pack 170 has failed. The usage status is information indicating the usage status of the battery pack 170, and indicates four usage statuses, for example, "in use," "charging," "available," and "discontinued from use." "In use" means that the battery pack 170 is provided to the suction device 100. "Charging" means that the battery pack 170 has been returned and is being charged by the charging station 300. "Available" means that the battery pack 170 is stored in the charging station 300 in a fully charged state. "Discontinued from use" means that the provision of the battery pack 170 is prohibited.

[0181] An example of the battery pack management DB has been described above.

[0182] Every time the management server 500 acquires information about a battery pack 170 , it updates the record corresponding to that battery pack 170 .

[0183] The management server 500 can grasp the status of currently distributed battery packs 170 using the battery pack management DB. As a result, the management server 500 can collect battery packs 170 that have developed a malfunction, or preferentially distribute battery packs 170 of manufacturers or models with a low malfunction rate.

[0184] Next, an example of the charging station management DB is shown in Table 5 below.

[0185]

[0186] The specification information is information indicating the specifications of the charging station 300. The number of uses is the number of times charging has been performed using each charging point. The usage status is information indicating the usage status of each charging point in the charging station 300, and indicates three usage statuses, for example, "in use," "unused," and "not in use." "In use" means that the charging point is in use, that is, a state in which a battery pack 170 is stored in the charging point. "Unused" means that the charging point is not in use. "Not in use" means that use of the charging point is prohibited.

[0187] An example of the charging station management DB has been described above.

[0188] Every time management server 500 acquires information about a charging station 300 , it updates the record corresponding to that charging station 300 .

[0189] The management server 500 can grasp the status of the charging station 300 using the charging station management DB. As a result, the management server 500 can control the charging station 300 so that a charging point that has been used less frequently is used preferentially, or arrange for repairs to be made to a charging point that is no longer in use.

[0190] The management server 500 may create a database and manage information stored in the memory 174 of the battery pack 170 and collected via the charging station 300, other than the information exemplified in the battery pack management DB and the charging station management DB. This makes it possible to grasp, for example, how the battery pack 170 is used by the user.

[0191] 7 is a sequence diagram showing an example of the flow of processing executed by the system 1 according to this embodiment. The battery pack 170, the charging station 300, and the management server 500 are involved in this sequence.

[0192] As shown in FIG. 7, first, when the battery pack 170 and the charging station 300 are connected (step S102), the charging station 300 charges the battery pack 170 (step S104).

[0193] Next, the battery pack 170 updates the DB (step S106). For example, the battery pack 170 adds a record related to the charging performed in step S104 to the charging history information DB.

[0194] Next, the battery pack 170 reports the information to the charging station 300 (step S108). For example, the battery pack 170 transmits information of each record in the discharge history information DB and the charge history information DB, or transmits other information stored in the memory 174 described above.

[0195] Next, the charging station 300 updates the DB (step S110). For example, the charging station 300 adds a record to the charging station operation history DB based on the information related to the charging executed in step S104 and the information received in step S108.

[0196] Next, charging station 300 reports the information to management server 500 (step S112). For example, charging station 300 transmits information of each record in the charging station operation history DB, or transmits information received from battery pack 170.

[0197] Then, the management server 500 updates the DBs (step S114). For example, the management server 500 updates the battery pack management DB and the charging station management DB based on the information received in step S112.

[0198] 5. Determining the State of Battery Pack 170 The charging station 300 may determine the state of the battery pack 170 connected to the charging station 300. Specifically, the charging station 300 may determine the state of the battery pack 170 based on information acquired from the battery pack 170 connected to the connection terminal 351 via the connection terminal 351. With this configuration, it becomes possible to grasp the state of the battery pack 170 every time the battery pack 170 is replaced. As a result, it becomes possible to collect inappropriate battery packs 170 early and to keep appropriate battery packs 170 in circulation at all times. In this way, appropriate management of the battery packs 170 is realized.

[0199] Charging station 300 may determine whether battery pack 170 is degraded as the state of battery pack 170. For example, charging station 300 may determine that battery pack 170 is degraded when the SOH of battery 171 is less than a predetermined threshold (e.g., 50%), and may determine that battery pack 170 is not degraded when the SOH is not less than a predetermined threshold.

[0200] When it is determined that the battery pack 170 has deteriorated, the charging station 300 controls a process of notifying the battery pack 170 of information indicating that the battery pack 170 has deteriorated, in association with the battery pack 170 .

[0201] As an example, the charging station 300 may illuminate in a predetermined manner the LED 302 associated with the storage case 301 that stores the battery pack 170 determined to be degraded. With this configuration, it becomes possible to prevent the store clerk S from providing the degraded battery pack 170 and encourage it to be collected.

[0202] As another example, charging station 300 may transmit information indicating that battery pack 170 has deteriorated to management server 500. According to this configuration, management server 500 can update the deterioration determination field in the battery pack management DB to determine whether battery pack 170 has deteriorated.

[0203] The charging station 300 may determine the state of the battery pack 170 based on information indicating the operation history of the battery pack 170 stored in the memory 174 of the battery pack 170. As an example, the charging station 300 may estimate the SOH of the battery 171 based on information in the discharge history information DB or the charge history information DB, and determine deterioration of the battery pack 170 based on the estimated SOH. As another example, the charging station 300 may determine deterioration of the battery pack 170 based on usage patterns such as the number of heating cycles (i.e., the number of records) and the heating interval (i.e., the average value of the interval from the end time to the start time) determined from the discharge history information DB. As another example, the charging station 300 may determine deterioration of the battery pack 170 based on discharge information during other heating cycles stored in the memory 174.

[0204] The charging station 300 may determine the state of the battery pack 170 based on the specification information of the battery pack 170 stored in the memory 174 of the battery pack 170. As an example, the charging station 300 may determine the deterioration of the battery pack 170 based on the difference between the initial capacity of the battery 171 in the specification information and the post-charge capacity in the charge history information DB.

[0205] Alternatively, charging station 300 may refer to information stored in management server 500 to determine the state of battery pack 170 .

[0206] The charging station 300 may determine whether the battery pack 170 has a malfunction as the state of the battery pack 170. For example, the charging station 300 may determine whether the battery pack 170 has a malfunction based on the presence or absence of an error code in the discharge history information DB.

[0207] When it is determined that the battery pack 170 is malfunctioning, the charging station 300 controls a process of notifying the battery pack 170 of information indicating that the battery pack 170 is malfunctioning, in association with the battery pack 170 .

[0208] As an example, charging station 300 may cause LED 302 associated with storage case 301 that stores battery pack 170 determined to be faulty to emit light in a predetermined manner. This configuration makes it possible to prevent store clerk S from providing faulty battery pack 170 and encourage collection of the battery pack.

[0209] As another example, charging station 300 may transmit information indicating that battery pack 170 has failed to management server 500. According to this configuration, management server 500 can update the failure determination field in the battery pack management DB to determine whether battery pack 170 has failed.

[0210] Charging station 300 may determine a charging abnormality of battery pack 170 as the state of battery pack 170. There are three types of charging abnormalities: an abnormality of charging station 300 (for example, abnormal heat generation), an abnormality of battery pack 170 (for example, a short circuit or abnormal heat generation), and other abnormalities (for example, a disconnected connection). When a charging abnormality occurs, charging station 300 stores an error code indicating the type of charging abnormality that has occurred in the charging station operation history DB.

[0211] When it is determined that a charging abnormality has occurred, charging station 300 controls a process of notifying information indicating the occurrence of the charging abnormality in association with battery pack 170 in which the charging abnormality has occurred.

[0212] As an example, the charging station 300 may illuminate the LED 302 associated with the storage case 301 that houses the battery pack 170 for which it has been determined that a charging abnormality has occurred in a manner that corresponds to the type of charging abnormality that has occurred. This configuration makes it possible to urge the store clerk S to avoid offering the battery pack 170 for which a charging abnormality has occurred. It is also possible to urge the store clerk S to resolve the charging abnormality by removing the battery pack 170 for which the charging abnormality has occurred, reconnecting the battery pack 170 that has fallen off the connection terminal 351, repairing the charging point for which the abnormality has occurred, or the like. The store clerk S may also replace the charging station 300 for which the charging abnormality has occurred with a new charging station 300.

[0213] It is desirable to maintain the notification of the charging abnormality until the charging abnormality is resolved. This makes it possible to encourage the user to resolve the charging abnormality. Furthermore, regarding the abnormality in the charging station 300, it is possible to encourage the user not to use the charging point where the charging abnormality has occurred.

[0214] The notification of the charging abnormality may be stopped when the abnormality is resolved, or may be stopped based on an operation by the store clerk S. This can encourage reuse of the charging point where the abnormality has been resolved.

[0215] As another example, charging station 300 may transmit information indicating that a charging abnormality has occurred in battery pack 170 to management server 500. With this configuration, management server 500 can update the failure determination field in the battery pack management DB to determine whether or not there is a failure in battery pack 170. Furthermore, management server 500 can change the usage status of the charging station management DB to suspended, thereby determining that the charging point where the charging abnormality has occurred cannot be used.

[0216] An example of the flow of processing related to determining the state of the battery pack 170 will be described below with reference to FIGS. 8 and 9. FIG.

[0217] FIG. 8 is a flowchart showing an example of the flow of processing executed by the charging station 300 according to this embodiment.

[0218] As shown in FIG. 8, first, the charging station 300 determines whether the battery pack 170 is connected (step S202).

[0219] If it is determined that the battery pack 170 is not connected (step S202: NO), the charging station 300 waits until the battery pack 170 is connected.

[0220] If it is determined that the battery pack 170 is connected (step S202: YES), the charging station 300 acquires information stored in the battery pack 170 (step S204). Specifically, the charging station 300 receives the information stored in the memory 174 of the battery pack 170 via the connection terminal 351.

[0221] Next, charging station 300 determines whether battery pack 170 has deteriorated (step S206).

[0222] If it is determined that the battery pack 170 has not deteriorated (step S206: NO), the charging station 300 determines whether or not the battery pack 170 has failed (step S208).

[0223] If it is determined that the battery pack 170 is not malfunctioning (step S208: NO), the charging station 300 starts charging the battery pack 170 (step S210).

[0224] The charging station 300 continues charging until the battery pack 170 is fully charged (step S212: NO).

[0225] When the battery pack 170 is fully charged (step S212: YES), the charging station 300 ends the charging (step S214).

[0226] Next, the charging station 300 updates the charging station operation history DB (step S216).

[0227] Then, charging station 300 notifies the user that charging is complete (step S218).

[0228] On the other hand, if it is determined that the battery pack 170 has deteriorated or broken down (step S206: YES or step S208: YES), the charging station 300 notifies the user of the abnormality of the battery pack 170 (step S220).

[0229] The charging station 300 continues to notify the user of the abnormality in the battery pack 170 until the abnormal battery pack 170 is removed (step S222: NO).

[0230] When the abnormal battery pack 170 is removed (step S222: YES), the charging station 300 stops notifying the abnormality of the battery pack 170 (step S224).

[0231] This completes the process.

[0232] Next, with reference to FIG. 9, an example of the processing flow when an abnormality occurs during charging in steps S210 to S214 described above will be described.

[0233] FIG. 9 is a flowchart showing an example of the flow of processing executed by the charging station 300 according to this embodiment.

[0234] As shown in FIG. 9, if an abnormality occurs during charging, first, the charging station 300 stops charging (step S302).

[0235] Next, charging station 300 determines whether the abnormality that has occurred is an abnormality in charging station 300 (step S304).

[0236] If it is determined that the abnormality that has occurred is not an abnormality in charging station 300 (step S304: NO), charging station 300 notifies the user of the charging abnormality (step S306).

[0237] The charging station 300 continues to notify the user of the charging abnormality until the charging abnormality is resolved (step S308: NO). Note that charging abnormalities other than those in the charging station 300 can be resolved by removing or reconnecting the battery pack 170, for example.

[0238] On the other hand, if the charging abnormality is resolved (step S308: YES), the charging station 300 stops notifying the user of the charging abnormality (step S310).

[0239] Thereafter, the charging station 300 updates the battery station operation history DB (step S312). For example, the charging station 300 adds a record including an error code corresponding to the charging abnormality that has occurred to the battery station operation history DB.

[0240] On the other hand, if it is determined that the abnormality is an abnormality in charging station 300 (step S304: YES), charging station 300 notifies the user of the charging abnormality (step S314). Then, the process proceeds to step S312.

[0241] This completes the process.

[0242] <6. Supplementary Information> Although preferred embodiments of the present disclosure have been described above in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings, the present disclosure is not limited to such examples. It is clear that a person skilled in the art to which the present disclosure pertains can conceive of various modified or altered examples within the scope of the technical ideas described in the claims, and it is understood that these also naturally fall within the technical scope of the present disclosure.

[0243] The LED 302 described in the above embodiment is an example of the output unit 340 that outputs information indicating the state of the battery pack 170 determined by the charging station 300. Alternatively, the state of the battery pack 170 may be displayed on the touch panel 303 or output as audio. Alternatively, the state of the battery pack 170 may be notified to the store clerk S by locking the storage case 301 that stores the deteriorated or broken battery pack 170 to prevent the battery pack 170 from being removed.

[0244] In the above embodiment, an example has been described in which the charging station 300 relays communication between the battery pack 170 and the management server 500, but the present disclosure is not limited to such an example. As an example, the charging station 300 may relay communication between the user terminal 200 and the management server 500. In this case, the user terminal 200 may transmit information stored in the user terminal 200 to the management server 500 via the charging station 300. Alternatively, the user terminal 200 may transmit information received from the battery pack 170 via the suction device 100 to the management server 500 via the charging station 300.

[0245] The management server 500 may manage the firmware of the suction device 100 based on information collected via the battery pack 170. For example, when the suction device 100 is connected, the battery pack 170 acquires the FWID and device ID of the suction device 100. Then, when the battery pack 170 is connected to the charging station 300, the battery pack 170 transmits the acquired FWID and device ID of the suction device 100 to the charging station 300. On the other hand, the management server 500 collects the FWID and device ID of the suction device 100 via the charging station 300. Then, if the collected FWID does not match the latest FWID, the management server 500 transmits a notification to the user terminal 200 of the user U identified based on the device ID, prompting the user to update the firmware.

[0246] The suction device 100 may receive specification information of the battery pack 170 from the battery pack 170 and update the operating parameters of the suction device 100. As an example, the suction device 100 may update the display settings of information indicating the charging status based on the maximum charging voltage and charging rate of the battery 171 included in the specification information of the battery pack 170. Such updating of the operating parameters based on the specification information of the battery pack 170 may be performed when the suction device 100 and the battery pack 170 are connected, or may be performed when the firmware of the suction device 100 is updated. With this configuration, it is possible to ensure compatibility of the battery packs 170 between multiple types of suction devices 100, or to ensure compatibility of the suction device 100 with new battery packs 170.

[0247] 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 be operated by a user U through self-service. In other words, the store clerk S may not be involved in replacing the battery pack 170.

[0248] 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.

[0249] 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, when a portable charger is connected, the charging station 300 may determine the status of the portable charger and notify information indicating the determined status.

[0250] The processes described in the above embodiment may be executed by any device. For example, in the above embodiment, the charging station 300 determines the state of the battery pack 170. However, the process of determining the state of the battery pack 170 may be executed by the management server 500.

[0251] 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.

[0252] 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.

[0253] The following configurations also fall within the technical scope of the present disclosure. (1) A battery pack providing device that replaceably provides a battery pack to a plurality of suction devices, the battery pack being detachably connectable to a suction device having a heating unit that heats an aerosol source to generate an aerosol, the battery pack providing device comprising: a connection unit electrically connected to the battery pack; and a control unit that determines a state of the battery pack based on information acquired from the battery pack connected to the connection unit via the connection unit, wherein the control unit controls, when determining that the battery pack is degraded, a process of associating information indicating that the battery pack is degraded with the battery pack and notifying the battery pack. (2) The battery pack providing device according to (1), wherein the battery pack has a memory unit that stores information indicating an operation history of the battery pack, and the control unit determines the state of the battery pack based on the information indicating the operation history of the battery pack stored in the memory unit of the battery pack. (3) The battery pack providing device according to (2), wherein the information indicating the operation history of the battery pack includes at least one of information indicating a discharge history of the battery pack or information indicating a charge history of the battery pack. (4) The battery pack providing device according to any one of (1) to (3), wherein a storage unit of the battery pack stores specification information of the battery pack, and the control unit determines a state of the battery pack further based on the specification information of the battery pack stored in the storage unit of the battery pack. (5) The battery pack providing device according to any one of (1) to (4), wherein, when it is determined that the battery pack is faulty, the control unit controls a process of associating information indicating that the battery pack is faulty with the battery pack and notifying the information. (6) The battery pack providing device according to any one of (1) to (5), further comprising a charging unit that charges the battery pack connected to the connection unit.(7) The battery pack providing device according to (6), wherein, when a charging abnormality occurs in the battery pack, the control unit controls a process of notifying information indicating that a charging abnormality has occurred in the battery pack, in association with the battery pack. (8) The battery pack providing device according to any one of (1) to (7), further including an output unit that outputs information indicating a state of the battery pack determined by the control unit. (9) The battery pack providing device according to any one of (1) to (8), including a plurality of the connection units. (10) A control method executed by a processor that controls a battery pack providing device that exchangeably provides, to a plurality of suction devices, battery packs that are detachably connectable to suction devices having a heating unit that heats an aerosol source to generate an aerosol, the control method including: determining a state of the battery pack based on information acquired, via the connection unit, from the battery pack connected to the connection unit that is included in the battery pack providing device and that is electrically connected to the battery pack; and, when it is determined that the battery pack is degraded, controlling a process of notifying information indicating that the battery pack is degraded, in association with the battery pack. (11) A program that causes a computer to control a battery pack providing device that provides a battery pack that can be detachably connected to a suction device having a heating unit that heats an aerosol source to generate an aerosol, in an exchangeable manner to a plurality of the suction devices, as a control unit that determines the state of the battery pack based on information obtained from the battery pack connected to a connection unit electrically connected to the battery pack of the battery pack providing device via the connection unit, and when it is determined that the battery pack is deteriorated, the control unit controls a process of notifying the battery pack by associating information indicating that the battery pack is deteriorated with the battery pack.

[0254] 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 guide 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 insulation section 150 Stick-shaped substrate 151 Substrate section 152 Mouthpiece section 170 Battery pack 171 Battery 172 Protection IC 173 MCU 174 Memory 175 Sensor 176 Terminal 180 Air flow path 181 Air inlet hole 182 Air outlet hole 200 User terminal 300 Charging station 301 Storage case 302 LED 310 Communication unit 320 Memory unit 330 Input unit 340 Output unit 350 Charging unit 351 Connection terminal 360 Control unit 400 Store terminal 500 Management server 510 Communication unit 520 Memory unit 530 Control unit 8 Store 9 Network

Claims

1. A battery pack providing device that provides a battery pack detachably connected to a suction device having a heating unit that heats an aerosol source to generate an aerosol, and that can be interchanged with a plurality of such suction devices, A connection part that is electrically connected to the aforementioned battery pack, A control unit that determines the state of the battery pack based on information obtained from the battery pack connected to the connection unit via the connection unit, Equipped with, The control unit controls the process of notifying information indicating that the battery pack is degraded, in association with the battery pack, when it determines that the battery pack is degraded. Battery pack supply device.

2. The battery pack has a storage unit that stores information indicating the operation history of the battery pack, The control unit determines the state of the battery pack based on information indicating the operation history of the battery pack stored in the storage unit of the battery pack. The battery pack supply device according to claim 1.

3. The information indicating the operation history of the battery pack includes at least one of the following: information indicating the discharge history of the battery pack, or information indicating the charging history of the battery pack. The battery pack supply device according to claim 2.

4. The storage unit of the battery pack stores the specification information of the battery pack. The control unit determines the state of the battery pack based on the specification information of the battery pack stored in the storage unit of the battery pack. The battery pack supply device according to claim 1.

5. The control unit, when it determines that the battery pack is malfunctioning, controls the process of notifying information indicating that the battery pack is malfunctioning, associating it with the battery pack. The battery pack supply device according to claim 1.

6. The system further includes a charging unit for charging the battery pack connected to the aforementioned connection part. A battery pack providing device according to any one of claims 1 to 5.

7. The control unit controls the process of notifying the battery pack of information indicating that a charging abnormality has occurred, in association with the battery pack, when a charging abnormality occurs in the battery pack. The battery pack supply device according to claim 6.

8. The system further includes an output unit that outputs information indicating the state of the battery pack determined by the control unit. A battery pack providing device according to any one of claims 1 to 5.

9. The facility comprises multiple of the aforementioned connection parts, A battery pack providing device according to any one of claims 1 to 5.

10. A control method performed by a processor that controls a battery pack supplying device that provides a battery pack detachably connected to a suction device having a heating unit that heats an aerosol source to generate an aerosol, and which is interchangeable for a plurality of such suction devices, The battery pack supply device determines the state of the battery pack based on information obtained from the battery pack via the connection part, which is connected to the connection part that is electrically connected to the battery pack. When it is determined that the battery pack is degraded, the process of notifying information indicating that the battery pack is degraded, associated with the battery pack, is controlled. A control method including

11. A computer controls a battery pack supply device that provides a battery pack detachably connected to a suction device having a heating unit that heats an aerosol source to generate an aerosol, and which is interchangeable for multiple suction devices. A control unit that determines the state of the battery pack based on information obtained from the battery pack via a connection part that is electrically connected to the battery pack of the battery pack supply device, To make it function as, The control unit controls the process of notifying information indicating that the battery pack is degraded, in association with the battery pack, when it determines that the battery pack is degraded. program.