Inhalation device, control method and control system

Abstract

The inhalation device (100B) includes a heating unit (121B) that heats a stick-shaped substrate (150) containing an aerosol source to generate an aerosol; a control unit (116B) that controls the operation of the heating unit based on a first heating profile indicating a target temperature or target resistance value over time when the heating unit (121B) heats the stick-shaped substrate (150); and a notification unit (113B) that notifies the user of the timing at which the inhalation of the aerosol is recommended. The notification unit (113B) issues a notification for each of a plurality of predetermined timings when controlling the operation of the heating unit using a second heating profile used by the user to evaluate the flavor of the aerosol.

Description

Technology Field

[0001] The present disclosure relates to an inhalation device, a control method, and a control system for inhaling aerosols, gases, etc. Background Technology

[0002] Technologies related to inhalation devices that generate substances for users to inhale have been widely developed in recent years. For example, an inhalation device uses a substrate containing an aerosol source, a flavor source, etc., to generate an aerosol. Subsequently, the user can inhale the aerosol to experience the smoking flavor.

[0003] Here, in order to further improve the smoking flavor experienced by the user, it is possible to consider evaluating the smoking flavor of the aerosol generated by the inhalation device. For example, Patent Document 1 (JP 6839181 B2) discloses evaluating the smoking flavor of an aerosol generated by each of a plurality of substrates containing different amounts of acid. Prior art literature

[0004] Patent Document 1: JP 6839181 B2 The problem to be solved

[0005] Here, the factors that alter the smoking flavor of the aerosol experienced by the user are not limited to the amount of acid contained in the material. However, the technology according to Patent Document 1 is limited to evaluating the smoking flavor of the aerosol induced by different amounts of acid, and the smoking flavor of the aerosol depends on the timing of the user's inhalation, which may make it difficult for the user to evaluate.

[0006] Considering the above problem, the objective of the present invention is to provide a technology that can further improve the quality of the user experience for an inhalation device. means of solving the problem

[0007] To solve the above problem, one embodiment of the present disclosure provides an inhalation device, wherein the inhalation device comprises a heating unit that generates an aerosol by heating a substrate containing an aerosol source, a control unit that controls the operation of the heating unit based on a first heating profile that indicates a target temperature or target resistance value over time when the heating unit heats the substrate, and a notification unit that notifies a user of a timing at which the inhalation of the aerosol is recommended, wherein the notification unit issues a notification for each of a plurality of predetermined timings when controlling the operation of the heating unit using a second heating profile used by the user to evaluate the smoking flavor of the aerosol.

[0008] In one embodiment, the configuration may be such that the notification unit does not notify the timing when controlling the operation of the heating unit using the first heating profile.

[0009] In one embodiment, the second heating profile may include a plurality of timings recommended for the user to inhale during a predetermined period.

[0010] In one embodiment, the configuration may include a first heating profile and a second heating profile comprising a first temperature increase period in which the temperature of the heating part increases from the start of heating, a temperature decrease period in which the temperature of the heating part decreases after the first temperature increase period, and a second temperature increase period in which the temperature of the heating part increases again after the temperature decrease period; and the second heating profile may include a plurality of timings recommended for the user to inhale during the second temperature increase period, which is a predetermined period.

[0011] In one embodiment, the second temperature increase period, which is a predetermined period of the second heating profile, may be shorter than the second temperature increase period of the first heating profile, and the temperature increase rate of the second temperature increase period of the second heating profile may be faster than the temperature increase rate of the first heating profile.

[0012] In one embodiment, the configuration may further include a communication unit in which the suction device is communicably connected to a user terminal, and the communication unit receives a request signal from the user terminal requesting a notification of timing from the user; and the notification unit may issue a notification of timing if the request signal is received.

[0013] To solve the above problem, one embodiment of the present disclosure provides a control method performed by an inhalation device, wherein the inhalation device comprises a heating unit that generates an aerosol by heating a substrate containing an aerosol source, a control unit that controls the operation of the heating unit based on a first heating profile that indicates a target temperature or target resistance value over time when the heating unit heats the substrate, and a notification unit that notifies a user of a timing at which the inhalation of the aerosol is recommended, wherein the control method includes the step of issuing a notification for each of a plurality of predetermined timings when controlling the operation of the heating unit using a second heating profile used by a user to evaluate the aerosol smoking flavor.

[0014] In one embodiment, the second heating profile may include a plurality of timings recommended for the user to inhale during a predetermined period.

[0015] In one embodiment, the configuration may include a first heating profile and a second heating profile comprising a first temperature increase period in which the temperature of the heating part increases from the start of heating, a temperature decrease period in which the temperature of the heating part decreases after the first temperature increase period, and a second temperature increase period in which the temperature of the heating part increases again after the temperature decrease period; and the second heating profile may include a plurality of timings recommended for the user to inhale during the second temperature increase period, which is a predetermined period.

[0016] In one embodiment, the second temperature increase period, which is a predetermined period of the second heating profile, may be shorter than the second temperature increase period of the first heating profile, and the temperature increase rate of the second temperature increase period of the second heating profile may be faster than the temperature increase rate of the first heating profile.

[0017] In one embodiment, the configuration further includes a communication unit in which the suction device is communically connected to a user terminal; the control method further includes the step of receiving a request signal from the user terminal requesting a timing notification from the user; and in the step of issuing a timing notification, the timing notification may be issued if the request signal is received.

[0018] To solve the above problem, one embodiment of the present disclosure provides a control system, wherein the control system comprises an inhalation device that generates an aerosol by controlling the operation of a heating unit based on a first heating profile that indicates a target temperature or target resistance value over time when heating a substrate containing an aerosol source, and a user terminal that is communicably connected to the inhalation device, wherein the user terminal transmits a second heating profile used by a user to evaluate the smoking flavor of the aerosol to the inhalation device; and when the inhalation device controls the operation of the heating unit using the second heating profile received from the user terminal, it issues a notification for each of a plurality of timings at which inhalation of the aerosol is recommended.

[0019] In one embodiment, the configuration may be such that a user terminal receives data regarding a heating state, which is a heating unit operating state using a second heating profile, from an inhalation device; and based on the data regarding the heating state, issues a notification for each of a plurality of timings in which inhalation of an aerosol is recommended.

[0020] In one embodiment, the configuration includes a display unit capable of displaying predetermined information on a user terminal, and the display unit may display information regarding each of a plurality of timings at which inhalation of the aerosol is recommended.

[0021] In one embodiment, the configuration may be such that a user terminal transmits a request signal to a suction device requesting a timing notification from the user, and the suction device issues a timing notification if the request signal is received. Effects of the invention

[0022] According to an embodiment of the present disclosure, it is possible to provide a technology that can further improve the quality of the user experience for an inhalation device. Brief explanation of the drawing

[0023] FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram schematically illustrating a first configuration example of an inhalation device. FIG. 2 is a schematic diagram schematically illustrating a second configuration example of an inhalation device. Figure 3 is a schematic diagram showing an example of the configuration of a user terminal. Figure 4 is a graph schematically showing an example of a heating profile. FIG. 5 is a sequence chart showing a processing example for a control system including an inhalation device (100) and a user terminal (200). Figure 6 is a graph schematically showing an example of a dedicated heating profile used for evaluation. Figure 7 is a schematic diagram showing an example of a screen display of a user terminal. FIG. 8 is a schematic diagram showing an example of an evaluation screen on a user terminal. Figure 9 is a graph showing an example of a predetermined heating profile. Figure 10 is a sequence chart showing an example of processing for the preparation step. Figure 11 is a sequence chart showing an example of processing for the smoking step. Figure 12 is a sequence chart showing an example of processing for the evaluation step. Specific details for implementing the invention

[0024] In one embodiment of the present disclosure, an inhalation device controls a substrate heating process using predetermined data referred to as a heating profile to generate an aerosol. Additionally, a user of the inhalation device may evaluate the smoking flavor, smoke volume, temperature, etc., of the aerosol generated from the inhalation device using a user terminal or the like. Additionally, the inhalation device may receive a heating profile provided from an external source based on the evaluation results from the user, and may control the heating process of the substrate (also referred to as an "aerosol source" in this specification) using the heating profile. Accordingly, the inhalation device can perform heating control of the substrate and generate an aerosol based on the heating profile provided based on the evaluation results from the user. Consequently, in one embodiment of the present disclosure, the inhalation device can generate an aerosol having a smoking flavor, smoke volume, temperature, etc., preferred by the user, thereby further improving the quality of the user experience.

[0025] <<1. Components of the Inhalation Device>>

[0026] An example of the configuration of a suction device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure will now be described.

[0027] An inhalation device is a device for generating a substance for a user to inhale. Hereinafter, the substance generated by the inhalation device will be described as an aerosol. Alternatively, the substance generated by the inhalation device may be a gas.

[0028] (1) First composition example

[0029] FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram illustrating a first configuration example of an inhalation device. As shown in FIG. 1, the inhalation device (100A) according to this configuration example includes a power supply unit (110), a cartridge (120), and a flavor 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 induction unit (122), and a liquid storage unit (123). The flavor cartridge (130) includes a flavor source (131) and a mouthpiece (124). An airflow path (180) is formed in the cartridge (120) and the flavor cartridge (130).

[0030] The power supply unit (111A) stores power. Then, the power supply unit (111A) supplies power to each component of the suction device (100A) according to control performed by the control unit (116A). The power supply unit (111A) may be composed of a rechargeable battery, for example, a lithium-ion secondary battery.

[0031] The sensor unit (112A) acquires various types of information regarding the suction device (100A). For example, the sensor unit (112A) is composed of a pressure sensor, such as a condenser microphone, a flow sensor, or a temperature sensor, and acquires a value associated with suction by the user. As another example, the sensor unit (112A) is composed of an input device, such as a button or a switch, for receiving input of information from the user.

[0032] The notification unit (113A) notifies the user of information. The notification unit (113A) is composed of, 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 vibrating device that vibrates.

[0033] The memory unit (114A) stores various types of information for the operation of the suction device (100A). The memory unit (114A) is configured by a non-volatile storage medium, such as flash memory, for example.

[0034] The communication unit (115A) is a communication interface capable of performing communication according to any wired or wireless communication standard. Examples of communication standards that can be used include, for example, standards using Wi-Fi (registered trademark), Bluetooth (registered trademark), BLE (Bluetooth Low Energy) (registered trademark), NFC (Near Field Communication), or LPWA (Low Power Wideband).

[0035] The control unit (116A) functions as an arithmetic processing device and a control device, and controls the overall operation within the suction device (100A) according to various programs. The control unit (116A) is realized, for example, by a CPU (central processing unit) or an electronic circuit, for example, a microprocessor.

[0036] The liquid storage unit (123) stores an aerosol source. The aerosol source is atomized to produce an aerosol. The aerosol source is a liquid, such as water or a polyhydric alcohol, for example, glycerol or propylene glycol. The aerosol source may contain flavorings derived from tobacco or non-tobacco. If the inhalation device (100A) is a medical inhaler such as a nebulizer, the aerosol source may contain a pharmaceutical agent.

[0037] The liquid guide (122) guides the aerosol source, which is a liquid stored in the liquid storage unit (123), from the liquid storage unit (123) and retains the aerosol source. The liquid guide (122) is a wick formed by twisting a fibrous material, such as glass fiber, or a porous material, such as porous ceramic. In this case, the aerosol source stored in the liquid storage unit (123) is guided by the capillary effect of the wick.

[0038] The heating unit (121A) heats the aerosol source to atomize the aerosol source, thereby generating an aerosol. In the example illustrated in FIG. 1, the heating unit (121A) is configured as a coil wrapped around the liquid induction unit (122). When the heating unit (121A) generates heat, the aerosol source maintained in the liquid induction unit (122) is heated and atomized to generate an aerosol. The heating unit (121A) generates heat when electricity is supplied from the power supply unit (111A). For example, electricity may be supplied when the sensor unit (112A) detects that the user has started / begun inhalation or that predetermined information has been input. Subsequently, the supply of electricity may be stopped when the sensor unit (112A) detects that the user has ended / begun inhalation or that predetermined information has been input.

[0039] The flavor source (131) is a component for imparting flavor components to the aerosol. The flavor source (131) may include flavor components derived from tobacco or non-tobacco.

[0040] The airflow path (180) is a path through which air is inhaled by a user. The airflow path (180) has a tubular structure having an air inlet hole (181), which is an inlet for air into the airflow path (180), and an air outlet hole (182), which is an outlet for air from the airflow path (180), at both ends. Along the airflow path (180), a liquid guide (122) is partially positioned on the upstream side (the side near the air inlet hole (181)), and a flavor source (131) is positioned on the downstream side (the side near the air outlet hole (182)). As the user inhales, the air entering through the air inlet hole (181) is mixed with the aerosol generated by the heating unit (121A) and transported through the flavor source (131) to the air outlet hole (182), as illustrated by the arrow (190). When a mixed fluid of aerosol and air passes through the flavor source (131), the flavor component contained in the flavor source (131) is added to the aerosol.

[0041] The mouthpiece (124) is a component that is placed in the user's mouth during inhalation. An air outlet hole (182) is provided in the mouthpiece (124). The user places the mouthpiece (124) in their mouth and inhales, enabling the inhalation of a fluid mixed with aerosol and air into the oral cavity.

[0042] An example configuration of the suction device (100A) has been described above. Of course, the suction device (100A) is not limited to the configuration described above and may adopt various configurations such as the configuration exemplified below.

[0043] For example, the inhalation device (100A) does not need to include a flavor cartridge (130). In this case, the cartridge (120) is provided with a mouthpiece (124).

[0044] As another example, the inhalation device (100A) may include multiple types of aerosol sources. Multiple types of aerosols generated from multiple types of aerosol sources may be mixed within the airflow path (180) to induce a chemical reaction, thereby generating additional types of aerosols.

[0045] Additionally, the means for atomizing the aerosol source is not limited to heating by the heating unit (121A). For example, the means for atomizing the aerosol source may be vibration atomization or induction heating.

[0046] (2) Second composition example

[0047] FIG. 2 is a schematic diagram illustrating a second configuration example of a suction device. As shown in FIG. 2, the suction device (100B) according to this configuration example includes a power supply unit (111B), a sensor unit (112B), a notification unit (113B), a memory unit (114B), a communication unit (115B), a control unit (116B), a heating unit (121B), a receiving unit (140), and an insulation unit (144).

[0048] The power supply unit (111B), sensor unit (112B), notification unit (113B), memory unit (114B), communication unit (115B) and control unit (116B) are each substantially identical to the corresponding components included in the suction device (100A) according to the first configuration example.

[0049] The receiving portion (140) has an internal space (141) and holds the stick-type material (150) while receiving a portion of the stick-type material (150) in the internal space (141). The receiving portion (140) has an opening (142) that allows the internal space (141) to communicate with the outside and receives the stick-type material (150) inserted into the internal space (141) from the opening (142). For example, the receiving portion (140) is a cylindrical body having an opening (142) and a bottom portion (143) that serves as a bottom surface, and defines a columnar internal space (141). An airflow path for supplying air to the internal space (141) is connected to the receiving portion (140). An air inlet hole, which is an inlet for air to the airflow path, is positioned, for example, on the side of the suction device (100B). An air outlet hole, which is an outlet for air from the airflow path into the internal space (141), is positioned, for example, at the bottom (143).

[0050] A stick-type substrate (150) comprises a substrate portion (151) and a mouthpiece portion (152). The substrate portion (151) contains an aerosol source. The aerosol source contains a flavor component derived from tobacco or non-tobacco. If the inhalation device (100B) is a medical inhaler such as a nebulizer, the aerosol source may contain a pharmaceutical agent. The aerosol source may be a liquid, for example, a polyhydric alcohol containing a flavor component derived from tobacco or non-tobacco, such as glycerol or propylene glycol or water, or a solid containing a flavor component derived from tobacco or non-tobacco. With the stick-type substrate (150) held in the receiving portion (140), at least a portion of the substrate portion (151) is received in the internal space (141), and at least a portion of the mouthpiece portion (152) protrudes from the opening (142). Next, when the user bites the mouthpiece portion (152) protruding from the opening (142) into the user's mouth and inhales, the air flows into the internal space (141) through an airflow passage not shown in the drawing and reaches the inside of the user's mouth along with the aerosol generated from the base portion (151).

[0051] In the example illustrated in FIG. 2, the heating portion (121B) has a film-like shape and is positioned to cover the outer circumference of the receiving portion (140). Subsequently, when the heating portion (121B) generates heat, the base portion (151) of the stick-shaped base (150) is heated from the outer circumference to generate an aerosol.

[0052] The insulating part (144) prevents heat transfer from the heating part (121B) to other components. For example, the insulating part (144) is composed of vacuum insulating material or aerogel insulating material.

[0053] An example configuration of the suction device (100B) has been described above. The suction device (100B) is not limited to the configuration described above, and various configurations such as the configuration exemplified below may be adopted.

[0054] For example, the heating unit (121B) may be configured in a blade-like shape and may be positioned to protrude from the lower portion (143) of the receiving portion (140) into the internal space (141). In this case, the blade-like heating unit (121B) is inserted into the base portion (151) of the stick-type base (150) to heat the base portion (151) of the stick-type base (150) from the inside. As another example, the heating unit (121B) may be positioned to cover the lower portion (143) of the receiving portion (140). Additionally, the heating unit (121B) may be composed of a combination of two or more of a first heating unit covering the outer circumference of the receiving portion (140), a blade-like second heating unit, and a third heating unit covering the lower portion (143) of the receiving portion (140).

[0055] As another example, the receiving portion (140) may include an opening and closing mechanism, such as a hinge, for opening and closing a portion of the outer casing that forms the internal space (141). Subsequently, by opening and closing the outer casing, the receiving portion (140) may receive and hold a stick-shaped substrate (150) inserted into the internal space (141). In this case, a heating portion (121B) may be provided on the gripping portion of the receiving portion (140) and may heat the stick-shaped substrate (150) while pressing it.

[0056] Additionally, the means for spraying the aerosol source is not limited to heating by the heating unit (121B). For example, the means for spraying the aerosol source may be induction heating. In this case, the suction device (100B) includes, instead of the heating unit (121B), an electromagnetic induction source such as a coil for generating a magnetic field. A heating element that generates heat by induction heating may be provided to the suction device (100B) or may be included in the stick-type substrate (150).

[0057] Additionally, the suction device (100B) may further include a heating unit (121A), a liquid induction unit (122), a liquid storage unit (123), and an airflow path (180) according to the first configuration example, and the airflow path (180) may supply air to an internal space (141). In this case, a mixed fluid of 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) to reach the user's oral cavity.

[0058] Note that below, the suction device (100A) and the suction device (100B) described above will also be referred to as "suction device (100)" without distinction. Likewise, the power supply unit (111A) and the power supply unit (111B) may be referred to as "power supply unit (111)", the sensor unit (112A) and the sensor unit (112B) may be referred to as "sensor unit (112)", the notification unit (113A) and the notification unit (113B) may be referred to as "notification unit (113)", the memory unit (114A) and the memory unit (114B) may be referred to as "memory unit (114)", the communication unit (115A) and the communication unit (115B) may be referred to as "communication unit (115)", the control unit (116A) and the control unit (116B) may be referred to as "control unit (116)", and the heating unit (121A) and the heating unit (121B) may be referred to as "heating unit (121)".

[0059] <<2. Configuration of User Terminal>>

[0060] An example of the configuration of a user terminal according to an embodiment of the present disclosure will now be described.

[0061] FIG. 3 is a block diagram showing an example of the configuration of a user terminal (200) according to an embodiment. As shown in FIG. 3, the user terminal (200) includes an input unit (210), an output unit (220), a detection unit (230), a communication unit (240), a memory unit (250), and a control unit (260).

[0062] The input unit (210) has the function of receiving input of various types of information. The input unit (210) may include an input device for receiving input of information from a user. Examples of input devices that may be cited include buttons, keyboards, touch panels, and microphones. Alternatively, the input unit (210) may include various types of sensors, such as image sensors.

[0063] The output unit (220) has the function of outputting information. The output unit (220) may include an output device that outputs information to a user. Examples of output devices that may be cited include a display device for displaying information, a light-emitting device for emitting light, a vibrating device, and an acoustic output device for outputting sound. A display is an example of a display device. A light-emitting diode (LED) is an example of a light-emitting device. An eccentric motor is an example of a vibrating device. A speaker is an example of an acoustic output device. The output unit (220) outputs information input from the control unit (260) to notify the user of the information.

[0064] The detection unit (230) has the function of detecting information regarding the user terminal (200). The detection unit (230) can detect location information of the user terminal (200). For example, the detection unit (230) receives a GNSS signal (e.g., a GPS signal from a GPS satellite) from a GNSS (Global Navigation Satellite System) satellite and detects location information including the longitude and latitude of the device. The detection unit (230) can detect movement of the user terminal (200). For example, the detection unit (230) includes a gyroscope sensor and an accelerometer sensor and detects angular velocity and acceleration.

[0065] The communication unit (240) is a communication interface for transmitting and receiving information between a user terminal (200) and another device. The communication unit (240) performs communication that complies with any wired or wireless communication standard. Examples of communication standards that can be used include standards using USB (Universal Serial Bus), Wi-Fi (registered trademark), Bluetooth (registered trademark), NFC (Near Field Communication), or LPWA (Low Power Long Range Communication Technology).

[0066] The memory unit (250) stores various types of information. The memory unit (250) is composed of a non-volatile storage medium, such as flash memory, for example.

[0067] The control unit (260) functions as an arithmetic processing device or a control device and controls the overall operation within the user terminal (200) according to various programs. The control unit (260) is realized, for example, by a CPU (Central Processing Unit) or an electronic circuit, such as a microprocessor. The control unit (260) may also include a ROM (Read Only Memory) for storing programs and operation parameters used, and a RAM (Random Access Memory) for temporarily storing parameters that are appropriately changed. The user terminal (200) implements various types of processing based on control performed by the control unit (260). Examples of processing controlled by the control unit (260) include processing of information input by the input unit (210), output of information by the output unit (220), detection of information by the detection unit (230), transmission and reception of information by the communication unit (240), and storage / reading of information by the memory unit (250). Other processing implemented by the user terminal (200), such as processing based on the input of information to each component and the output of information from each component, is also controlled by the control unit (260).

[0068] It should be noted that the function of the control unit (260) can be realized using an application. The application may be pre-installed or downloaded. Additionally, the function of the control unit (260) can be realized by a PWA (Progressive Web App).

[0069] <<3. Configuration of Heating Profile>>

[0070] The control unit (116) controls the operation of the heating unit (121) based on the heating profile. The operation of the heating unit (121) is controlled by controlling the power supply from the power supply unit (111) to the heating unit (121). The heating unit (121) heats the stick-type substrate (150) using power supplied from the power supply unit (111).

[0071] A heating profile is control information for controlling the temperature at which an aerosol source is heated. The heating profile specifies parameters related to the temperature at which the aerosol source is heated. The temperature of the heating unit (121) is an example of the temperature at which the aerosol source is heated. The target value of the temperature of the heating unit (121) (hereinafter also referred to as "target temperature") is an example of a parameter related to the temperature at which the aerosol source is heated. The temperature of the heating unit (121) may be controlled to change according to the time elapsed since the start of heating. In this case, the heating profile includes information defining the time-series trend of the target temperature. As another example, the heating profile may include a parameter (hereinafter also referred to as a power supply parameter) defining the manner in which power is supplied to the heating unit (121). The power supply parameter includes, for example, a voltage applied to the heating unit (121), the on / off of power supply to the heating unit (121), or a method of feedback control to be used. The on / off of power supply to the heating unit (121) can be considered as the on / off of the heating unit (121).

[0072] The control unit (116) controls the operation of the heating unit (121) so that the temperature of the heating unit (121) (hereinafter also referred to as "actual temperature") changes to be similar to the target temperature specified in the heating profile. The heating profile is generally designed to optimize the flavor tasted by the user when the user inhales the aerosol generated from the stick-type material (150). Thus, by controlling the operation of the heating unit (121) based on the heating profile, the flavor tasted by the user can be optimized.

[0073] Temperature control of the heating unit (121) can be achieved, for example, by known feedback control. Feedback control can be, for example, PID control (Proportional-Integral-Derivative controller). The control unit (116) can supply power from the power supply unit (111) to the heating unit (121) in the form of pulses by pulse width modulation (PWM) or pulse frequency modulation (PFM). In this case, the control unit (116) can perform temperature control of the heating unit (121) by adjusting the frequency or duty cycle of the power pulses during feedback control. Alternatively, the control unit (116) can perform simple on / off control during feedback control. For example, the control unit (116) can perform heating by the heating unit (121) until the actual temperature reaches the target temperature, stop heating by the heating unit (121) when the actual temperature reaches the target temperature, and resume heating by the heating unit (121) when the actual temperature drops below the target temperature.

[0074] The temperature of the heating unit (121) can be quantified, for example, by measuring or estimating the electrical resistance value of the heating unit (121) (more precisely, the heating resistive element constituting the heating unit (121)). This is because the electrical resistance value of the heating resistive element varies with temperature. The electrical resistance value of the heating resistive element can be estimated, for example, by measuring the voltage drop across the heating resistive element. The voltage drop across the heating resistive element can be measured by a voltage sensor that measures the potential difference applied to the heating resistive element. In another example, the temperature of the heating unit (121) can be measured by a temperature sensor installed near the heating unit (121), such as a thermistor.

[0075] The period from the start to the end of the process of generating aerosol using a stick-type substrate (150) is also referred to as a heating session below. That is, a heating session is a period during which the electrical supply to the heating unit (121) is controlled based on a heating profile. The start of the heating session is the timing when heating based on the heating profile begins. The end of the heating session is the timing when a sufficient amount of aerosol is no longer generated. The heating session includes a preheating period in the first half and a puff recommendation period in the second half. The puff recommendation period is the period during which a sufficient amount of aerosol is expected to be generated. The preheating period is the period from when heating begins until when the puff recommendation period begins. Heating performed during the preheating period is also referred to as preheating.

[0076] The notification unit (113) can notify the user of information indicating the timing at which the preheating ends. For example, the notification unit (113) may notify the user of information indicating the end of the preheating period before the preheating period ends, or notify the user of information indicating that the preheating has ended at the timing at which the preheating ends. Notification to the user may be provided, for example, by lighting an LED or by vibrating a vibration device. By referring to such notification, the user may perform a puff immediately after the preheating ends.

[0077] Similarly, the notification unit (113) may notify the user of information indicating when the recommended puff period ends. For example, the notification unit (113) may notify the user of information indicating the end of the recommended puff period before the recommended puff period ends, or notify the user of information indicating that the recommended puff period has ended at the time when the recommended puff period ends. Notification to the user may be provided, for example, by lighting an LED or vibrating a vibration device. By referring to such notification, the user may perform puffing until the end of the recommended puff period.

[0078] An example of a heating profile will be described with reference to FIG. 4. FIG. 4 is a graph schematically illustrating an example of a heating profile. The horizontal axis of the graph represents time. The vertical axis of the graph represents temperature. As illustrated in FIG. 4, a heating session may include a first temperature increase period, a temperature decrease period (illustrated as an "intermediate temperature decrease period"), and a second temperature increase period in succession. The first temperature increase period is a period during which the temperature of the heating unit (121) rises rapidly after the start of heating and is maintained at a high temperature. The temperature decrease period is a period during which the temperature of the heating unit (121) falls after the first temperature increase period. The second temperature increase period is a period during which the temperature of the heating unit (121) rises once again after the temperature decrease period. In the example illustrated in FIG. 4, the target temperature rises rapidly to about 330°C during the first temperature increase period, then falls to about 230°C during the temperature decrease period, and then the temperature gradually rises to about 300°C during the second temperature increase period. During the temperature reduction period, the power supply to the heating unit (121) may be interrupted and the heating may be turned off. In the example illustrated in FIG. 4, the period from the start of heating to the middle of the first temperature increase period is the preheating period, and the period from the middle of the first temperature increase period to the end of the second temperature increase period is the recommended puffing period.

[0079] <<4. Operation Example>>

[0080] In one embodiment of the present disclosure, the inhalation device (100) is configured to generate an aerosol for evaluation by a user. The user terminal (200) is also configured to receive an evaluation from the user. Additionally, the user terminal (200) can transmit a heating profile provided based on the user's evaluation results to the inhalation device (100). Additionally, the inhalation device (100) is configured to perform heating control according to the heating profile provided based on the user's evaluation results.

[0081] An example of processing for a system including an inhalation device (100) and a user terminal (200) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure will then be described with reference to the drawings.

[0082] Additionally, the act of a user inhaling an aerosol generated by the inhalation device (100) will be simply referred to as "inhalation" or "puff" below. Additionally, the act of the user inhaling will also be referred to as "puffing act" below.

[0083] When a user of the inhalation device (100) performs a series of puffing actions, approximately 12 puffing actions are generally performed. The duration of this series of puffing actions is also referred to as an "inhalation session" or "smoking session." In the control unit (116), the heating operation of the heating unit (121) (121A, 121B) for the series of puffing actions by the user is pre-designed as an "inhalation session." That is, the control unit (116) operates the inhalation device (100) according to the pre-defined inhalation session.

[0084] It should be noted that the "inhalation session" or "smoking session" may also be referred to as the "heating session." That is, the period from the start to the end of the process of generating aerosol using the stick-type material (150) corresponds to the heating session. That is, the heating session is the period during which the electrical supply to the heating unit (121) is controlled based on the heating profile. The start of the heating session is the timing at which heating based on the heating profile begins, that is, the timing at which heating of the stick-type material (150) begins. The end of the heating session is the timing at which a sufficient amount of aerosol is no longer generated. The heating session includes a preheating period and a puffing recommendation period after the preheating period.

[0085] 4-1. Overall Processing Example

[0086] FIG. 5 is a sequence chart illustrating a processing example for a control system including an inhalation device (100) and a user terminal (200) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. This control system is an example of a control system of the present disclosure. As illustrated in FIG. 5, steps (S101 to S105) are preparation steps for evaluation. In the preparation steps, the inhalation device (100) downloads a dedicated heating profile to be used in the evaluation from the user terminal (200). Then, steps (S106 to S112) are inhalation steps for evaluation. In the inhalation steps, the inhalation device (100) performs heating control using the dedicated heating profile, and the user terminal (200) displays a user interface (UI) to facilitate the user to puff. Finally, steps (S113 to S118) are evaluation steps. In the evaluation steps, the user terminal (200) displays an evaluation UI for evaluation and facilitates the user to perform the evaluation. Next, the suction device (100) downloads a heating profile provided based on the user's evaluation results from the user terminal (200).

[0087] In step (S101), the suction device (100) accepts a predetermined action from the user and initiates an evaluation. The predetermined action is, for example, the user selecting an icon displayed on the user terminal (200) to start the evaluation. The predetermined action may be, for example, a tap on the screen of the user terminal (200). It should be noted that the predetermined action may be any action to accept the start of the evaluation from the user. For example, the predetermined action may be the user pressing a predetermined button, etc. provided on the user terminal (200).

[0088] In step (S102), after accepting a predetermined action from the user, the user terminal (200) transmits a dedicated heating profile used for evaluation to the suction device (100). The suction device (100) accepts the dedicated heating profile used for evaluation from the user terminal (200).

[0089] The dedicated heating profile used for evaluation is a heating profile designed to induce a change in the smoking flavor of the aerosol. In one embodiment of the present disclosure, a user evaluates the smoking flavor of a puffed aerosol using an inhalation device (100). In order for the user to evaluate the smoking flavor of the aerosol for each puff, it is desirable to change the smoking flavor of the aerosol for each puff. Consequently, the dedicated heating profile used for evaluation is a heating profile that allows the smoking flavor of the aerosol to be changed more easily than the heating profile used for normal heating control shown in FIG. 4.

[0090] A dedicated heating profile is a heating profile that has a higher rate of temperature increase than, for example, a heating profile used for normal heating. Since the inhalation device (100) heats the heater according to the heating profile, the high rate of temperature increase of the heating profile can cause the heating temperature of the aerosol source to rise in a short time. It is known that different heating temperatures of the aerosol source also cause different smoking flavors of the aerosols produced from the aerosol source. That is, because the dedicated heating profile has a higher rate of temperature increase than a heating profile used for normal heating, the heating temperature of the aerosol source can rise in a short time, and consequently, the smoking flavor of the aerosol produced can also change in a short time.

[0091] FIG. 6 is a graph schematically illustrating an example of a dedicated heating profile used for evaluation. The horizontal axis of the graph represents time. The vertical axis of the graph represents temperature. As shown in FIG. 6, the dedicated heating profile used for evaluation has a higher rate of temperature increase during the second temperature increase period than, for example, the heating profile used for normal heating shown in FIG. 4. In the normal heating profile shown in FIG. 4, the temperature rises from approximately 230°C to approximately 300°C during a second temperature increase period of approximately 260 seconds. In contrast, in the dedicated heating profile shown in FIG. 6, the temperature rises from approximately 230°C to approximately 330°C during a second temperature increase period of approximately 80 seconds. That is, the dedicated heating profile shown in FIG. 6 has a higher rate of temperature increase during the second temperature increase period than, for example, the heating profile used for normal heating shown in FIG. 4.

[0092] The inhalation device (100) uses a dedicated heating profile shown in FIG. 6 for heating control to change the smoking flavor of the aerosol generated from the aerosol source in a short time. Therefore, when heating control is performed using a dedicated heating profile, the user is more likely to notice a change in the smoking flavor of the inhaled aerosol than when heating control is performed using a normal heating profile.

[0093] As illustrated in FIG. 6, the user performs multiple puffs when heating control is performed using a dedicated heating profile. In the example of FIG. 6, the timing of seven puffs is set during the second temperature increase period of the dedicated heating profile, and it is assumed that the user will perform seven puffs. Here, the inhalation device (100) can also change the smoking flavor of the aerosol generated in a short time by using the dedicated heating profile to perform heating control. Consequently, the user can notice the change in the smoking flavor of the aerosol for each puff and evaluate the smoking flavor of the aerosol for each puff. In the example of FIG. 6, the user can experience the change in the smoking flavor of the inhaled aerosol for each of the seven puffs.

[0094] It should be noted that the user's puff timing can be set at equal intervals, as shown in FIG. 6, or at arbitrarily defined intervals. Additionally, the user's puff timing does not need to be pre-set, and it is also possible to have the user perform the puff at any time. Furthermore, the number of puffs can be 7, as shown in FIG. 6, or any number of puffs.

[0095] Additionally, the dedicated heating profile is not limited to a heating profile such as the one shown in FIG. 6, which has a higher rate of temperature increase than the heating profile used for normal heating. For example, the dedicated heating profile may be a heating profile that raises the temperature in a more stepwise manner for each puff than, for example, the heating profile used for normal heating. It should be noted that the dedicated heating profile used for evaluation is not limited to this example and may be any heating profile that allows the smoking flavor of the aerosol to be easily altered.

[0096] In step (S103), the suction device (100) temporarily stores a dedicated heating profile to be used for evaluation, which is received from the user terminal (200). The suction device (100) temporarily stores the dedicated heating profile in volatile memory, etc. It should be noted that the suction device (100) may temporarily store the dedicated heating profile in non-volatile memory.

[0097] The dedicated heating profile used for evaluation is a heating profile that allows the smoking flavor of the aerosol to be changed more easily than the heating profile used for normal heating control. Consequently, the dedicated heating profile used for evaluation is not intended to be used repeatedly. Therefore, the inhalation device (100) may be configured to temporarily store the dedicated heating profile and use the dedicated heating profile only for heating control for evaluation. Subsequently, the inhalation device (100) may delete the dedicated heating profile when heating control for evaluation is completed. It should be noted that the inhalation device (100) is not required to delete the dedicated heating profile and may be configured to prohibit repeated use while the dedicated heating profile continues to be stored. Additionally, the inhalation device (100) may be configured to allow the dedicated heating profile to be used repeatedly several times (e.g., about 2 or 3 times) if necessary.

[0098] In step (S104), when the suction device (100) has completed preparation for heating control for evaluation, the suction device transmits a preparation completion notification to the user terminal (200). The user terminal (200) receives the preparation completion notification from the suction device (100).

[0099] In step (S105), when a notification of readiness is received from the suction device (100), the user terminal (200) notifies the user that readiness for evaluation is complete. The output unit (220) of the user terminal (200) displays, for example, a UI indicating that readiness for evaluation is complete. For example, if the user terminal (200) includes a display as the output unit (220), the output unit (220) displays, for example, information indicating that readiness for evaluation is complete on the display. It should be noted that any method of notifying the user that readiness for evaluation is complete may be adopted by the user terminal (200).

[0100] In step (S106), the suction device (100) accepts a predetermined action from the user and starts heating. The predetermined action to start heating is, for example, an action performed by the user of the suction device (100) on the suction device (100). The predetermined action to start heating is, for example, an action of the user pressing a predetermined button provided on the suction device (100). The predetermined action to start heating is, for example, an action of the user pressing a predetermined button provided on the suction device (100) a predetermined number of times and / or for a predetermined time length. The predetermined number of times may be one or more. The predetermined time length may be set to any time, for example, 2 seconds.

[0101] The predetermined act of initiating heating may be any act performed by the user on the suction device (100). The predetermined act of initiating heating may be, for example, the act of the user shaking the suction device (100), the act of the user tracking a predetermined path or character using the suction device (100), or the act of the user tapping the suction device (100). It should be noted that the predetermined act of initiating heating is not limited to these and may be any act.

[0102] Additionally, the suction device (100) includes a sensor (e.g., a motion sensor or an acceleration sensor) for detecting movement of the suction device (100), and uses the sensor to detect a third action on the suction device (100). For example, the motion sensor of the suction device (100) detects the action of a user shaking the suction device (100).

[0103] Additionally, a predetermined act of initiating heating may be for the user to insert a stick-type material (150) into the suction device (100). For example, the user inserts the stick-type material (150) into the internal space (141) of the suction device (100). The suction device (100) can detect that the stick-type material (150) has been inserted into the internal space (141). The insertion of the stick-type material (150) into the internal space (141) of the suction device (100) can be detected through a change in the temperature or resistance value of the heating unit (121). Additionally, the stick-type material (150) can also be detected by detecting a change in capacitance resulting from the insertion of the stick-type material (150) or a change in magnetic field or magnetism resulting from the insertion of the stick-type material (150). Additionally, the stick-type material (150) can also be detected by detecting the presence or absence of the stick-type material (150) using, for example, an infrared sensor. Detection of the stick-type material (150) is not limited to these examples and can be performed using any method.

[0104] In step (S107), when the suction device (100) accepts a predetermined action of starting heating, heating control is initiated based on a temporarily stored dedicated heating profile. The control unit (116) of the suction device (100) begins to control the operation of the heating unit (121) based on the temporarily stored dedicated heating profile, for example, in step (S103).

[0105] In step (S108), the suction device (100) notifies the user terminal (200) of the heating state. The heating state includes the progress state of the heating process. The suction device (100) notifies the user terminal (200) of the heating state having, for example, a predetermined cycle. As a heating state, the suction device (100) may, for example, issue a notification indicating that a period has ended at the end of each period of the heating profile. "Each period of the heating profile" refers, for example, each of the first temperature increase period, the temperature decrease period, and the second temperature increase period. Additionally, as a heating state, the suction device (100) may, for example, issue a notification indicating that a period has started at the start of each period of the heating profile.

[0106] The suction device (100) may notify the user terminal (200) of puff timing as a notification of the heating state. As illustrated in FIG. 6, a dedicated heating profile includes, for example, seven puff timings. The suction device (100) may issue a notification of the seven puff timings exemplified in FIG. 6 as a notification of the heating state. Additionally, the suction device (100) may issue a notification of puff timing in addition to the notification of the heating state. In this case, the notification of the heating state and the notification of puff timing are different notifications.

[0107] In step (S109), the user terminal (200) notifies the user of the puff timing. As illustrated in FIG. 6, the dedicated heating profile includes, for example, seven puff timings. The output unit (220) of the user terminal (200) displays, for example, a UI indicating the puff timing. For example, if the user terminal (200) includes a display as the output unit (220), the output unit (220) displays, for example, information indicating the puff timing on the display.

[0108] It should be noted that any method of notifying the user terminal (200) of the puff timing to the user may be adopted. Additionally, the inhalation device (100) may notify the user of the puff timing. In this case, at least one of the user terminal (200) and the inhalation device (100) may notify the user of the puff timing. The notification unit (113) of the inhalation device (100) displays, for example, a UI indicating the puff timing. The notification unit (113) of the inhalation device (100) notifies the user of the puff timing, for example, by causing an LED to emit light in a predetermined manner. Additionally, the notification unit (113) of the inhalation device (100) notifies the user of the puff timing, for example, by causing a vibration device to vibrate in a predetermined manner. Additionally, if a display acting as the notification unit (113) is provided to the inhalation device (100), the notification unit (113) notifies the user of the puff timing, for example, by displaying the puff timing on the display. It should be noted that any method of notifying the user of the puff timing by the suction device (100) may be adopted.

[0109] FIG. 7 is a schematic diagram showing an example of a screen display of a user terminal. The screen display of the user terminal (200) exemplified in FIG. 7 is an example of a screen display when displaying information indicating puff timing on the display.

[0110] As illustrated in FIG. 7, a screen display indicating puff timing includes information (221) indicating the number of puffs. The information indicating the number of puffs includes information indicating the current number of puffs and information indicating the total number of puffs. In the example of FIG. 7, "third" is included as the current number of puffs and "7 puffs" is included as the total number of puffs.

[0111] The screen display indicating puff timing also includes substantially elliptical icons (222) representing each puff. The icons (222) move from right to left on the screen over time. The screen display indicating puff timing also includes a vertical bar (223) indicating the "current time" displayed in the center of the screen. The user can recognize that it is time to puff when the bar (223) crosses one of the icons (222). The screen display indicating puff timing also includes text (224). The text (224) includes, for example, a message such as "inhale when the device vibrates." The word "vibrates" included in the text (224) exemplified in FIG. 7 indicates vibrations caused by the vibration device of the inhalation device (100). It should be noted that the content of the text (224) may be any message that encourages the user to puff.

[0112] As illustrated in FIG. 7, a screen indicating puff timing is displayed on the user terminal (200). Accordingly, the user of the suction device (100) can perform the puff displayed on the user terminal (200) while referring to the screen display indicating puff timing.

[0113] In step (S110), the suction device (100) terminates heating control based on a dedicated heating profile.

[0114] In step (S111), when the suction device (100) terminates the heating control, the suction device transmits a termination notice to the user terminal (200) indicating that the heating control has been terminated. The user terminal (200) receives the termination notice from the suction device (100).

[0115] In step (S112), when a termination notice indicating that heating control has ended is received, the user terminal (200) notifies the user that heating has ended. The output unit (220) of the user terminal (200) displays, for example, a UI indicating that heating control has ended. For example, if the user terminal (200) includes a display as the output unit (220), the output unit (220) displays information indicating that heating control has ended, for example, on the display.

[0116] In step (S113), the user terminal (200) displays an evaluation UI to the user for evaluating the smoking flavor of the inhaled aerosol. For example, if the user terminal (200) includes a display as an output unit (220), the output unit (220) displays an evaluation UI for evaluating the smoking flavor of the inhaled aerosol, for example, on the display. The user terminal (200) displays an evaluation UI that allows any puff among a plurality of puffs performed by the user to be selected based on the smoking flavor of the aerosol. For example, the user may select a puff from among a plurality of puffs that the user feels provides the best aerosol smoking flavor. Additionally, the user may select a puff from among a plurality of puffs that, for example, the user feels provides the best overall smoking flavor. Additionally, the user may select a puff from among a plurality of puffs that, for example, the user feels provides the maximum aerosol smoke volume. Furthermore, the user may select a puff from among a plurality of puffs that, for example, the user feels provides the best aerosol temperature. In this way, the user can select any puff from multiple puffs based on various evaluation indicators.

[0117] FIG. 8 is a schematic diagram showing an example of an evaluation screen on a user terminal. The screen display of the user terminal (200) exemplified in FIG. 8 shows an example of an evaluation UI in which any puff among a plurality of puffs performed by the user is selected based on the smoking flavor of the aerosol.

[0118] As illustrated in FIG. 8, an evaluation UI for evaluating the smoking flavor of an inhaled aerosol includes an icon (225) corresponding to each inhaled puff. The number of icons (225) corresponds to the number of puffs performed by the user in heating control using a dedicated heating profile. In the example of FIG. 8, the number of icons (225) corresponds to the total number of puffs, which is "7". Each icon (225) can be selected by the user. The user can select one of the multiple icons (225), for example, by tapping the screen of the user terminal (200). It should be noted that any method may be used to accommodate the selection of the icon (225) by the user, provided that the icon (225) can be selected. In the example of FIG. 8, the icon (225) corresponding to the fourth puff is selected by the user. The icon (225) selected by the user may change color. For example, the color of the icon (225) selected by the user may be changed to a color different from other unselected icons. This allows the user to distinguish the selected icon (225) from other icons. Additionally, the configuration may be such that if one icon (225) is selected by the user, other icons cannot be selected. This makes it possible to prevent the user from accidentally selecting multiple icons.

[0119] As illustrated in FIG. 8, an evaluation UI for evaluating the smoking flavor of an inhaled aerosol may include text (226). The text (226) includes, for example, a message such as “Select the puff with the best flavor.” It should be noted that the content of the text (226) may be any message that encourages the user to select an icon (225).

[0120] As illustrated in FIG. 8, the user terminal (200) displays an evaluation UI for evaluating the smoking flavor of the inhaled aerosol. Accordingly, the user of the inhalation device (100) can select any puff from a plurality of puffs performed by the user based on the smoking flavor of the aerosol.

[0121] In step (S114), the user terminal (200) accepts the user's evaluation result. The user terminal (200) accepts the user's evaluation result and identifies the puff selected based on the aerosol smoking flavor among the plurality of puffs performed by the user. In the example of FIG. 8, the user terminal (200) identifies the icon (225) selected by the user among the plurality of icons (225) and identifies the puff corresponding to the identified icon (225). In the example of FIG. 8, since the icon (225) corresponding to the fourth puff was selected by the user, the user terminal (200) identifies the fourth puff.

[0122] In step (S115), the user terminal (200) transmits a predetermined heating profile corresponding to the identified puff to the suction device (100). The suction device (100) receives the predetermined heating profile from the user terminal (200).

[0123] In step (S116), the inhalation device (100) stores a predetermined heating profile received from the user terminal (200). While the inhalation device (100) temporarily stores a dedicated heating profile, the inhalation device continuously stores the predetermined heating profile received from the user terminal (200) unless requested to delete or overwrite the predetermined heating profile. The inhalation device (100) stores, for example, the predetermined heating profile received from the user terminal (200) in non-volatile memory. Consequently, the inhalation device (100) can perform heating control using the predetermined heating profile for a new smoking session.

[0124] In one embodiment of the present disclosure, each of a plurality of puffs is associated with a predetermined heating profile. For example, each of seven puffs is associated with a different predetermined heating profile. For example, a first heating profile is associated with the first puff. A second heating profile is associated with the second puff. A third heating profile is associated with the third puff. A fourth heating profile is associated with the fourth puff. In this way, the Nth heating profile is associated with the Nth puff. The user terminal (200) transmits the predetermined heating profile associated with the puff selected by the user to the suction device (100). In the example of FIG. 8, the fourth heating profile associated with the fourth puff selected by the user is transmitted to the suction device (100).

[0125] In one embodiment of the present disclosure, a predetermined heating profile associated with each of a plurality of puffs is a heating profile capable of reproducing a smoking flavor similar to the aerosol smoking flavor of each of the plurality of puffs of a dedicated heating profile. For example, a first heating profile associated with a first puff is a heating profile capable of reproducing a smoking flavor similar to the aerosol smoking flavor of the first puff of a dedicated heating profile. Similarly, a second heating profile associated with a second puff is a heating profile capable of reproducing a smoking flavor similar to the aerosol smoking flavor of the second puff of a dedicated heating profile. Similarly, an Nth heating profile associated with an Nth puff is a heating profile capable of reproducing a smoking flavor similar to the aerosol smoking flavor of the Nth puff of a dedicated heating profile.

[0126] Here, the user selects one puff from among multiple puffs that the user feels provides an aerosol with a superior taste. Accordingly, the predetermined heating profile is a heating profile capable of reproducing a smoking flavor similar to the aerosol smoking flavor that the user felt was superior. The user terminal (200) transmits the predetermined heating profile corresponding to the puff selected by the user to the inhalation device (100). Consequently, the predetermined heating profile received by the inhalation device (100) is a heating profile capable of reproducing a smoking flavor similar to the aerosol smoking flavor that the user felt was superior.

[0127] It should be noted that different heating profiles do not necessarily have to be associated with each of the multiple puffs. One heating profile may be associated with at least two of the multiple puffs. For example, if heating profile A is associated with the first puff, the same heating profile A may also be associated with the second puff. In this case, heating profile B, which is different from heating profile A, may be associated with the third puff. For example, in the example of FIG. 8, the same heating profile A may be associated with the first puff and the second puff. In this case, heating profile B may be associated with the third puff, heating profile C may be associated with the fourth puff, and heating profile D may be associated with the fifth puff. Additionally, heating profile E may be associated with the sixth puff and the seventh puff. It should be noted that each of the heating profiles (A, B, C, D, and E) is a different heating profile. In the example of FIG. 8, the user terminal (200) transmits a heating profile C associated with a fourth puff selected by the user to the inhalation device (100).

[0128] In this case, the predetermined heating profile associated with multiple puffs may be a heating profile capable of reproducing the average aerosol smoking flavor of each of the multiple puffs of the dedicated heating profile. Additionally, the predetermined heating profile associated with multiple puffs may be a heating profile capable of reproducing a smoking flavor similar to the aerosol smoking flavor of any puff among the multiple puffs of the dedicated heating profile.

[0129] FIG. 9 is a graph showing an example of a predetermined heating profile. The horizontal axis of the graph represents time. The vertical axis of the graph represents temperature. The heating profile exemplified in FIG. 9 is a heating profile that maintains a constant temperature during a second temperature increase period. In the predetermined heating profile, the constant temperature maintained corresponds to the heating temperature of the puff in the dedicated heating profile. In the fourth puff selected by the user as exemplified in FIG. 8, the heating temperature of the dedicated heating profile exemplified in FIG. 6 is, for example, 280°C. In this case, the predetermined heating profile maintains a heating temperature of 280°C, which is the heating temperature of the puff in the dedicated heating profile, during the second temperature increase period. Consequently, the inhalation device (100) can maintain the heating of the aerosol source at a heating temperature of 280°C, which is the heating temperature of the puff selected by the user. That is, the inhalation device (100) can continue to generate the aerosol during the second temperature increase period at a heating temperature of 280°C, which is the heating temperature of the puff selected by the user.

[0130] Here, it is known that the smoking flavor of the generated aerosol changes depending on the temperature at which the aerosol source is heated, and that the possibility of the smoking flavor of the generated aerosol being the same increases when the temperature at which the aerosol source is heated is the same. Therefore, by configuring the inhalation device (100) to maintain the heating of the aerosol source at 280°C, which is the heating temperature of the puff selected by the user, in a new smoking session, it is possible to increase the possibility that the user can enjoy the smoking flavor of the aerosol generated at 280°C for an extended period.

[0131] It should be noted that the predetermined heating profile may be any heating profile capable of reproducing a smoking flavor similar to the smoking flavor of the aerosol of the puff selected by the user. Additionally, the predetermined heating profile may be capable of reproducing a smoking flavor similar to the smoking flavor of the aerosol of the puff selected by the user only for a specific period.

[0132] In step (S117), when the setting is completed based on a predetermined heating profile, the suction device (100) transmits a setting completion notification to the user terminal (200). The user terminal (200) receives the setting completion notification from the suction device (100).

[0133] In step (S118), when a notification of completion of the setting is received from the suction device (100), the user terminal (200) notifies the user that the setting is complete. The output unit (220) of the user terminal (200) displays, for example, a UI indicating that the setting is complete. For example, if the user terminal (200) includes a display as the output unit (220), the output unit (220) displays, for example, information indicating that the setting is complete on the display. It should be noted that any method of notifying the user that the setting is complete may be adopted by the user terminal (200).

[0134] In one embodiment of the present disclosure, the suction device (100) downloads a dedicated heating profile used for evaluation from a user terminal (200). This enables the suction device (100) to perform heating control based on the dedicated heating profile used for evaluation. Additionally, since the suction device (100) temporarily stores the dedicated heating profile, it is possible to prevent the dedicated heating profile from being used repeatedly for heating control.

[0135] In one embodiment of the present disclosure, the inhalation device (100) performs heating control using a dedicated heating profile. The dedicated heating profile changes the smoking flavor of the aerosol generated from the aerosol source in a short amount of time. Thus, since the user is more likely to notice the change in the smoking flavor of the inhaled aerosol, it makes it easier for the user to evaluate the puff later. Additionally, the user terminal (200) notifies the user of the puff timing. Thus, the user of the inhalation device (100) can perform the puff while referring to a screen display indicating the puff timing displayed on the user terminal (200).

[0136] In one embodiment of the present disclosure, a user terminal (200) displays an evaluation UI for evaluating the smoking flavor of an inhaled aerosol. Accordingly, a user of the inhalation device (100) can select any puff from a plurality of puffs performed by the user based on the smoking flavor of the aerosol. Additionally, the user terminal (200) transmits a predetermined heating profile corresponding to the designated puff to the inhalation device (100). Accordingly, the user of the inhalation device (100) can have new heating control performed using the predetermined heating profile associated with the puff selected by the user. Here, the predetermined heating profile is a heating profile capable of reproducing a smoking flavor similar to the smoking flavor of the aerosol of the puff selected by the user. Consequently, the user of the inhalation device (100) can enjoy a smoking flavor similar to the smoking flavor of the aerosol of the selected puff in a new smoking session.

[0137] 4-2. Processing Example of the Preparation Phase

[0138] FIG. 10 is a sequence chart illustrating a processing example for a preparation step in a processing example for a control system including an inhalation device (100) and a user terminal (200) in an embodiment of the present disclosure. The processing example of the sequence chart shown in FIG. 10 corresponds to the processing example shown in steps (S101) to (S105) of FIG. 5.

[0139] In step (S201), the suction device (100) accepts a predetermined action from the user to initiate an evaluation. The predetermined action is, for example, the user selecting an icon displayed on the user terminal (200) to start the evaluation. The predetermined action may be, for example, a tap on the screen of the user terminal (200). It should be noted that the predetermined action may be any action to accept the start of the evaluation from the user. For example, the predetermined action may be the user pressing a predetermined button, etc. provided on the user terminal (200).

[0140] In step (S202), the user terminal (200) requests the suction device (100) for the number of the downloaded heating profile. The downloaded heating profile is, for example, a heating profile previously transmitted to the suction device (100) by the user terminal (200). The user terminal (200) requests the suction device (100) for the number of the previously transmitted heating profile. The number of the heating profile is an identifier that can specifically identify the heating profile.

[0141] In step (S203), when a request is made for the number of a downloaded heating profile, the suction device (100) checks for the existence or absence of a previously downloaded heating profile. If a previously downloaded heating profile exists, the suction device (100) transmits an identifier (i.e., a number) that can specifically identify the downloaded heating profile to the user terminal (200). Meanwhile, if a previously downloaded heating profile does not exist, the suction device (100) notifies the user terminal (200) that there is no downloaded heating profile.

[0142] In step (S204), the user terminal (200) requests the inhalation device (100) for the number of a heating profile to be set as a heating profile to be used for heating control. The heating profile to be used for heating control is a heating profile used for heating control to heat an aerosol source when a predetermined action to start heating is accepted by the user. By setting the heating profile to be used for heating control, the inhalation device (100) can perform heating control using the set heating profile even if multiple heating profiles are stored.

[0143] In step (S205), when a request is made for the number of the set heating profile, the suction device (100) transmits the identifier (i.e., number) of the heating profile to be set as the heating profile to be used for heating control to the user terminal (200).

[0144] In step (S206), when the identifier of the set heating profile is received from the suction device (100), the user terminal (200) notifies the user of information regarding the set heating profile to be used for heating control. For example, the output unit (220) of the user terminal (200) displays a UI indicating information regarding the set heating profile to be used for heating control. For example, if the user terminal (200) includes a display as the output unit (220), the output unit (220) displays information regarding the set heating profile to be used for heating control, for example, on the display. It should be noted that any method may be adopted for the user terminal (200) to notify the user of information regarding the set heating profile to be used for heating control.

[0145] In step (S207), the user terminal (200) accepts a predetermined action from the user to actually start the processing related to the evaluation. The predetermined action is, for example, the action of the user selecting an icon displayed on the user terminal (200) to actually start the evaluation processing. The predetermined action may be, for example, a tap on the screen of the user terminal (200). It should be noted that the predetermined action may be any action to accept the actual start of the evaluation processing from the user. For example, the predetermined action may be the action of the user pressing a predetermined button, etc. provided on the user terminal (200).

[0146] In step (S208), the user terminal (200) requests correction value data from the suction device (100). The correction value data is data regarding the characteristics of the heating unit (121) of the suction device (100). Each heating unit (121) of the suction device (100) has different characteristics. Therefore, even if the same heating profile is used to perform heating control, the heating temperature will differ for each heating unit (121) depending on the characteristics of the heating unit (121). Therefore, the heating profile used in the suction device (100) must be adjusted to achieve a suitable heating temperature based on data regarding the characteristics of the heating unit (121) of the suction device (100) being used. Accordingly, the user terminal (200) requests correction value data regarding the heating profile from the suction device (100) and adjusts the heating profile to be transmitted to the suction device (100) based on data regarding the characteristics of the heating unit (121) of the suction device (100).

[0147] In step (S209), when a request is made for correction value data, the suction device (100) transmits the correction value data to the user terminal (200). The user terminal (200) adjusts a dedicated heating profile to be transmitted to the suction device (100) based on the correction value data received from the suction device (100).

[0148] In step (S210), the user terminal (200) transmits a dedicated heating profile to be used for evaluation to the inhalation device (100). The dedicated heating profile may be transmitted and received in a single transmission or transmitted and received in multiple divided transmissions. The user terminal (200) may, for example, divide the dedicated heating profile into multiple data sets and transmit the multiple data sets in multiple transmissions. The dedicated heating profile used for evaluation is a heating profile designed to induce a change in the smoking flavor of an aerosol, as exemplified in FIG. 6. The dedicated heating profile used for evaluation is a heating profile that allows the smoking flavor of an aerosol to be changed more easily than the heating profile used for normal heating control illustrated in FIG. 4.

[0149] In step (S211), the suction device (100) temporarily stores a dedicated heating profile to be used for evaluation, which is received from the user terminal (200). The suction device (100) temporarily stores the dedicated heating profile in volatile memory, etc. It should be noted that the suction device (100) may temporarily store the dedicated heating profile in non-volatile memory. As a result, the suction device (100) may be configured to temporarily store the dedicated heating profile and use the dedicated heating profile only for heating control for evaluation.

[0150] In step (S212), the user terminal (200) requests that the suction device (100) change the heating profile set as the heating profile to be used for heating control to a dedicated heating profile. The suction device (100) changes the heating profile to be used for heating control to a dedicated heating profile. This causes the suction device (100) to perform heating control using the dedicated heating profile.

[0151] In step (S213), the suction device (100) notifies the user terminal (200) that it has completed changing the heating profile set as the heating profile to be used for heating control to a dedicated heating profile.

[0152] In step (S214), the suction device (100) sets an evaluation flag. The evaluation flag is a flag indicating that processing for evaluating the heating profile has been performed by the suction device (100).

[0153] In step (S215), when the suction device (100) has completed preparation for heating control for evaluation, the suction device transmits a preparation completion notification to the user terminal (200). The user terminal (200) receives the preparation completion notification from the suction device (100).

[0154] In step (S216), when a notification of readiness is received from the suction device (100), the user terminal (200) notifies the user that readiness for evaluation is complete. The output unit (220) of the user terminal (200) displays, for example, a UI indicating that readiness for evaluation is complete. For example, if the user terminal (200) includes a display as the output unit (220), the output unit (220) displays, for example, information indicating that readiness for evaluation is complete on the display. It should be noted that any method of notifying the user that readiness for evaluation is complete may be adopted by the user terminal (200).

[0155] In step (S217), the suction device (100) notifies the user that preparation for evaluation is complete. The notification unit (113) of the suction device (100) displays, for example, a UI indicating that preparation for evaluation is complete. The notification unit (113) of the suction device (100) notifies the user that preparation for evaluation is complete, for example, by causing an LED to emit light in a predetermined manner. Additionally, the notification unit (113) of the suction device (100) notifies the user that preparation for evaluation is complete, for example, by causing a vibration device to vibrate in a predetermined manner. Additionally, if a display acting as the notification unit (113) is provided to the suction device (100), the notification unit (113) notifies the user that preparation for evaluation is complete, for example, by displaying information indicating that preparation for evaluation is complete on the display. It should be noted that any method of the suction device (100) notifying the user that preparation for evaluation is complete may be adopted.

[0156] In one embodiment of the present disclosure, the suction device (100) downloads a dedicated heating profile used for evaluation from a user terminal (200). This enables the suction device (100) to perform heating control based on the dedicated heating profile used for evaluation. Additionally, since the suction device (100) temporarily stores the dedicated heating profile, it is possible to prevent the dedicated heating profile from being used repeatedly for heating control.

[0157] 4-3. Treatment example of the smoking stage

[0158] FIG. 11 is a sequence chart illustrating a processing example for a suction step in a processing example for a control system including a suction device (100) and a user terminal (200) in an embodiment of the present disclosure. The processing example of the sequence chart shown in FIG. 11 corresponds to the processing example shown in steps (S106 to S112) of FIG. 5.

[0159] In step (S301), the suction device (100) accepts a predetermined action from the user to start heating. The predetermined action to start heating is, for example, an action performed by the user of the suction device (100) on the suction device (100). Additionally, the predetermined action to start heating may be the user inserting a stick-type substrate (150) into the suction device (100).

[0160] In step (S302), when the suction device (100) accepts a predetermined action of starting heating, heating control is initiated based on a temporarily stored dedicated heating profile. The control unit (116) of the suction device (100) starts controlling the operation of the heating unit (121) based, for example, on the temporarily stored dedicated heating profile.

[0161] In step (S303), the suction device (100) notifies the user terminal (200) that the heating state is a preheating state. The preheating period is the period from when heating starts until the start of the recommended puff period. Heating performed during the preheating period is also referred to as preheating.

[0162] In step (S304), if a notification is received from the suction device (100) that the state is in a preheating state, the user terminal (200) notifies the user that the state is in a preheating state. The output unit (220) of the user terminal (200) displays, for example, a UI indicating that the state is in a preheating state. For example, if the user terminal (200) includes a display as the output unit (220), the output unit (220) displays information indicating that the state is in a preheating state, for example, on the display. It should be noted that any method of notifying the user that the state is in a preheating state may be adopted by the user terminal (200).

[0163] In step (S305), the suction device (100) terminates the heating control for preheating. The suction device (100) terminates the heating control for preheating and transitions to the recommended puff period.

[0164] In step (S306), the suction device (100) notifies the user terminal (200) of the heating state after preheating. The heating state includes the progress state of the heating control. The suction device (100) notifies the user terminal (200) of the heating state after preheating for, for example, a predetermined cycle. As a heating state, the suction device (100) may, for example, issue a notification indicating that a period has ended at the end of each period of the heating profile. "Each period of the heating profile" refers, for example, to each of the first temperature increase period, the temperature decrease period, and the second temperature increase period. Additionally, as a heating state, the suction device (100) may, for example, issue a notification indicating that a period has started at the start of each period of the heating profile.

[0165] In step (S307), when a heating status notification is received from the suction device (100), the user terminal (200) notifies the user of information that encourages the user to start puffing. The output unit (220) of the user terminal (200) displays, for example, a puff start UI that encourages the user to start puffing. For example, if the user terminal (200) includes a display as the output unit (220), the output unit (220) displays, for example, a puff start UI that encourages the user to start puffing on the display. It should be noted that any method may be adopted in which the user terminal (200) notifies the user of the puff start UI that encourages the user to start puffing.

[0166] In step (S308), the user terminal (200) requests the inhalation device (100) for notification of puff timing.

[0167] In steps (S309), (S311), and (S313), the suction device (100) notifies the user that puff timing has been reached based on a dedicated heating profile. As illustrated in FIG. 6, the dedicated heating profile includes, for example, seven puff timings. Whenever puff timing is reached, the suction device (100) notifies the user that puff timing has been reached. Whenever puff timing is reached, the notification unit (113) of the suction device (100) displays a UI indicating, for example, that puff timing has been reached. The notification unit (113) of the suction device (100) notifies the user that puff timing has been reached, for example, by causing an LED to emit light in a predetermined manner. Additionally, the notification unit (113) of the suction device (100) notifies the user that puff timing has been reached, for example, by causing a vibration device to vibrate in a predetermined manner. Additionally, if a display serving as a notification unit (113) is provided to the suction device (100), the notification unit (113) notifies the user that puff timing has been reached by displaying information on the display indicating that puff timing has been reached, for example. It should be noted that any method of notifying the user that puff timing has been reached by the suction device (100) may be adopted.

[0168] In steps (S310, S312 and S314), the user terminal (200) notifies the user of the puff timing. As illustrated in FIG. 6, the dedicated heating profile includes, for example, seven puff timings. Whenever a puff timing is reached, the user terminal (200) notifies the user that the puff timing has been reached. The output unit (220) of the user terminal (200) displays a UI indicating the puff timing, for example, as illustrated in FIG. 7. For example, if the user terminal (200) includes a display as the output unit (220), the output unit (220) displays information indicating the puff timing on the display, for example, as illustrated in FIG. 7.

[0169] In step (S315), the suction device (100) terminates heating control based on a dedicated heating profile.

[0170] In step (S316), when the suction device (100) terminates the heating control, the suction device transmits a termination notice to the user terminal (200) indicating that the heating control has been terminated. The user terminal (200) receives the termination notice from the suction device (100).

[0171] In one embodiment of the present disclosure, the inhalation device (100) performs heating control using a dedicated heating profile. The dedicated heating profile changes the smoking flavor of the aerosol generated from the aerosol source in a short amount of time. Thus, the user is more likely to notice the change in the smoking flavor of the inhaled aerosol, making it easier for the user to evaluate the puff later. Additionally, the inhalation device (100) and the user terminal (200) notify the user of the puff timing. Thus, the user of the inhalation device (100) can perform the puff while checking the puff timing notification on the inhalation device (100) and referring to the screen display indicating the puff timing displayed on the user terminal (200).

[0172] 4-4. Processing Example of the Evaluation Phase

[0173] FIG. 12 is a sequence chart illustrating a processing example for an evaluation step in a processing example for a control system including an inhalation device (100) and a user terminal (200) in an embodiment of the present disclosure. The processing example of the sequence chart shown in FIG. 12 corresponds to the processing example shown in steps (S113 to S118) of FIG. 5.

[0174] In step (S401), the user terminal (200) displays an evaluation UI to the user for evaluating the smoking flavor of the inhaled aerosol. For example, if the user terminal (200) includes a display as an output unit (220), the output unit (220) displays, for example, an evaluation UI for evaluating the smoking flavor of the inhaled aerosol on the display. The user terminal (200) displays an evaluation UI (i.e., a selection screen) that allows any puff among a plurality of puffs performed by the user to be selected, as illustrated in FIG. 8. For example, the user may select a puff from among a plurality of puffs that the user feels provides the best taste of the aerosol smoking flavor.

[0175] In step (S402), the user terminal (200) accepts the user's evaluation result. The user terminal (200) accepts the user's evaluation result and identifies a puff selected based on the aerosol smoking flavor among a plurality of puffs performed by the user. The user evaluation involves, for example, selecting a preferred puff among a plurality of puffs performed by the user. The user's evaluation result is, for example, the selected preferred puff. In the example of FIG. 8, the user terminal (200) identifies the icon (225) selected by the user among a plurality of icons (225) and identifies the puff corresponding to the identified icon (225). In the example of FIG. 8, since the icon (225) corresponding to the fourth puff was selected by the user, the user terminal (200) identifies the fourth puff.

[0176] In step (S403), the user terminal (200) accepts a predetermined action from the user and begins downloading a predetermined heating profile. The predetermined action of beginning to download the predetermined heating profile is, for example, an action in which the user selects an icon displayed on the user terminal (200) to begin downloading the predetermined heating profile. The predetermined action may be, for example, a tab on the screen of the user terminal (200). It should be noted that the predetermined action may be any action of beginning to download the predetermined heating profile. For example, the predetermined action may be an action in which the user presses a predetermined button, etc., provided on the user terminal (200).

[0177] In step (S404), the user terminal (200) notifies the server (300) of information regarding the selected puff. For example, if the user selects a fourth puff, the user terminal (200) notifies the server (300) of information regarding the puff that identifies the puff as the fourth puff. It should be noted that the notification of information regarding the selected puff may include a request for a predetermined heating profile.

[0178] In step (S405), the server (300) identifies a predetermined heating profile corresponding to information regarding a selected puff. The server (300) is an external device that stores the predetermined heating profiles associated with each of the plurality of puffs. When receiving information regarding a selected puff from the user terminal (200), the server (300) can identify the predetermined heating profile associated with the selected puff. For example, the server (300) can receive information regarding a puff from the user terminal (200) that causes the puff to be identified as a fourth puff, and can identify a fourth heating profile associated with the fourth puff. It should be noted that each of the plurality of puffs may have different predetermined heating profiles associated with it, or at least two puffs may have one predetermined heating profile associated with them.

[0179] In step (S406), the server (300) transmits a predetermined heating profile identified based on information regarding the puff selected by the user to the user terminal (200). The predetermined heating profile may be transmitted and received in a single transmission or transmitted and received in multiple divided transmissions. The server (300) may, for example, divide the predetermined heating profile into multiple data sets and transmit the multiple data sets in multiple transmissions.

[0180] The server (300) transmits, for example, a predetermined heating profile identified in step (S403) to the user terminal (200). The predetermined heating profile transmitted by the server (300) to the user terminal (200) is a heating profile associated with the puff selected by the user. The predetermined heating profile is, for example, a heating profile capable of reproducing a smoking flavor similar to the smoking flavor of the aerosol of the puff selected by the user. Thus, the server (300) can transmit to the user terminal (200) a heating profile capable of reproducing a smoking flavor similar to the smoking flavor of the aerosol of the puff selected by the user.

[0181] In step (S407), the user terminal (200) requests correction value data from the suction device (100). The correction value data is data regarding the characteristics of the heating unit (121) of the suction device (100). Each heating unit (121) of the suction device (100) has different characteristics. Therefore, even if the same heating profile is used to perform heating control, the heating temperature will differ for each heating unit (121) depending on the characteristics of the heating unit (121). Therefore, the heating profile used in the suction device (100) must be adjusted to achieve a suitable heating temperature based on data regarding the characteristics of the heating unit (121) of the suction device (100) being used. Accordingly, the user terminal (200) requests correction value data regarding the heating profile from the suction device (100) and adjusts the heating profile to be transmitted to the suction device (100) based on data regarding the characteristics of the heating unit (121) of the suction device (100).

[0182] In step (S408), when a request is made for correction value data, the suction device (100) transmits the correction value data to the user terminal (200).

[0183] In step (S409), the user terminal (200) adjusts a predetermined heating profile to be transmitted to the suction device (100) based on correction value data received from the suction device (100).

[0184] In step (S410), the user terminal (200) transmits a predetermined heating profile to the suction device (100). The predetermined heating profile may be transmitted and received in a single transmission or transmitted and received in multiple divided transmissions. The user terminal (200) may, for example, divide the predetermined heating profile into multiple data sets and transmit the multiple data sets in multiple transmissions.

[0185] In step (S411), the inhalation device (100) stores a predetermined heating profile received from the user terminal (200). While the inhalation device (100) temporarily stores a dedicated heating profile, the inhalation device continuously stores the predetermined heating profile received from the user terminal (200) unless requested to delete or overwrite the predetermined heating profile. The inhalation device (100) stores, for example, the predetermined heating profile received from the user terminal (200) in non-volatile memory. Consequently, the inhalation device (100) can perform heating control in a new smoking session using the predetermined heating profile.

[0186] In step (S412), when the reception of a predetermined heating profile is completed, the suction device (100) transmits a completion notification to the user terminal (200) indicating that the predetermined heating profile has been received. The user terminal (200) receives the completion notification from the suction device (100) indicating that the predetermined heating profile has been received.

[0187] In step (S413), the user terminal (200) requests that the suction device (100) change the heating profile set as the heating profile to be used for heating control to a predetermined heating profile. The suction device (100) changes the heating profile to be used for heating control to the predetermined heating profile. This causes the suction device (100) to perform heating control using the predetermined heating profile.

[0188] In step (S414), the suction device (100) transmits a completion notification to the user terminal (200) indicating that the heating profile setting has been changed. The suction device (100) notifies the user terminal (200) that it has completed changing the heating profile set as the heating profile to be used for heating control, for example, to a predetermined heating profile.

[0189] In step (S415), the suction device (100) removes the evaluation flag. The evaluation flag is a flag indicating that processing for evaluating the heating profile is performed by the suction device (100).

[0190] In step (S416), the suction device (100) notifies the user that the processing regarding the evaluation is completed if the evaluation flag is removed. The notification unit (113) of the suction device (100) displays a UI indicating that the processing regarding the evaluation is completed, for example. The notification unit (113) of the suction device (100) notifies the user that the processing regarding the evaluation is completed, for example, by causing an LED to emit light in a predetermined manner. Additionally, the notification unit (113) of the suction device (100) notifies the user that the processing regarding the evaluation is completed, for example, by causing a vibration device to vibrate in a predetermined manner. Additionally, if a display acting as the notification unit (113) is provided to the suction device (100), the notification unit (113) notifies the user that the processing regarding the evaluation is completed, for example, by displaying information indicating that the processing regarding the evaluation is completed on the display. It should be noted that any method may be adopted in which the suction device (100) notifies the user that the processing regarding the evaluation is completed.

[0191] In step (S417), upon receiving a completion notification indicating that the heating profile setting has been changed, the user terminal (200) notifies the user that the processing regarding the evaluation is completed. The output unit (220) of the user terminal (200) displays, for example, a UI indicating that the processing regarding the evaluation is completed. For example, if the user terminal (200) includes a display as the output unit (220), the output unit (220) displays, for example, information indicating that the processing regarding the evaluation is completed on the display. It should be noted that any method of notifying the user that the processing regarding the evaluation is completed by the user terminal (200) may be adopted.

[0192] In one embodiment of the present disclosure, a user terminal (200) displays an evaluation UI for evaluating the smoking flavor of an inhaled aerosol. Thus, the user of the inhalation device (100) can select any puff from a plurality of puffs performed by the user based on the smoking flavor of the aerosol. Additionally, the user terminal (200) receives a predetermined heating profile corresponding to the designated puff from the server (300) and subsequently transmits the predetermined heating profile to the inhalation device (100). Thus, the user of the inhalation device (100) can have a new heating control performed using the predetermined heating profile associated with the puff selected by the user. Here, the predetermined heating profile is a heating profile capable of reproducing a smoking flavor similar to the smoking flavor of the aerosol of the puff selected by the user. Consequently, the user of the inhalation device (100) can enjoy a smoking flavor similar to the smoking flavor of the aerosol of the selected puff in a new smoking session.

[0193] Although embodiments of an inhalation device, a control method, and a control system according to the present disclosure have been described above with reference to the drawings, it is obvious that the present disclosure is not limited to these embodiments. Those skilled in the art may conceive of a plurality of variations or modifications within the scope disclosed in the claims, and it is clear that such variations or modifications are naturally understood to be included within the technical scope of the present disclosure.

[0194] For example, the specific numerical values ​​described in the embodiments discussed above in this specification are merely examples and are not limiting.

[0195] Additionally, the control method described in the above embodiment can be realized by executing a pre-prepared program on a computer (processor). The program is stored in a computer-readable storage medium and executed by being read from the storage medium. The program may also be provided in a form stored in a non-transient storage medium such as flash memory, or provided through a network such as the Internet. Additionally, the computer executing the program may be included, for example, in the inhalation device (100) (for example, the CPU of the inhalation device (100)), but is not limited thereto, and the computer may also be included in another device (for example, a smartphone or a server) capable of communicating with the inhalation device (100).

[0196] The present specification, etc. presents at least the following features. Components corresponding to the embodiments described above are shown in parentheses as examples, but are not limited to these components.

[0197] [Feature 1]

[0198] As an inhalation device (inhalation device (100, 100A, 100B)), a heating unit (heating unit (121, 121A, 121B)) that generates an aerosol by heating a substrate (cartridge (120), stick-type substrate (150)) containing an aerosol source,

[0199] A control unit (control unit (116, 116A, 116B)) that controls the operation of a heating unit based on a first heating profile representing a target temperature or target resistance value over time when the heating unit heats a substrate, and

[0200] A notification unit (notification unit (113, 113A, 113B)) that notifies the user of the timing at which inhalation of the aerosol is recommended

[0201] Includes,

[0202] An inhalation device in which the notification unit issues a notification at each of a plurality of predetermined timings when controlling the operation of the heating unit using a second heating profile used by the user to evaluate the smoking flavor of the aerosol.

[0203] [Feature 2]

[0204] A suction device according to feature 1, wherein the notification unit does not notify the timing when controlling the operation of the heating unit using the first heating profile.

[0205] [Feature 3]

[0206] An inhalation device according to feature 1, wherein the second heating profile includes a plurality of timings recommended for the user to inhale during a predetermined period.

[0207] [Feature 4]

[0208] In feature 3, the first heating profile and the second heating profile include a first temperature increase period in which the temperature of the heating part increases from the start of heating, a temperature decrease period in which the temperature of the heating part decreases after the first temperature increase period, and a second temperature increase period in which the temperature of the heating part increases again after the temperature decrease period;

[0209] An inhalation device, wherein the second heating profile includes a plurality of timings recommended for the user to inhale during a second temperature increase period, which is a predetermined period.

[0210] [Feature 5]

[0211] In feature 3, the second temperature increase period, which is a predetermined period of the second heating profile, is shorter than the second temperature increase period of the first heating profile, and the temperature increase rate of the second temperature increase period of the second heating profile is faster than the temperature increase rate of the first heating profile, in a suction device.

[0212] [Feature 6]

[0213] In any one of features 1 to 5, it further includes a communication unit (communication unit (115, 115A, 115B)) that is communically connected to a user terminal (user terminal (200)), and

[0214] The communication unit receives a request signal from the user terminal requesting a timing notification from the user;

[0215] An inhalation device that issues a timing notification when a request signal is received.

[0216] [Feature 7]

[0217] A control method executed by an inhalation device, wherein the inhalation device comprises a heating unit (heating unit (121, 121A, 121B)) that generates an aerosol by heating a substrate (cartridge (120), stick-type substrate (150)) containing an aerosol source, a control unit (control unit (116, 116A, 116B)) that controls the operation of the heating unit based on a first heating profile indicating a target temperature or target resistance value over time when the heating unit heats the substrate, and a notification unit (notification unit (113, 113A, 113B)) that notifies the user of a timing at which inhalation of the aerosol is recommended, and the control method

[0218] A control method comprising the step of issuing a notification for each of a plurality of predetermined timings when controlling the operation of a heating unit using a second heating profile used by a user to evaluate an aerosol smoking flavor (step (S309), step (S311), step (S313)).

[0219] [Feature 8]

[0220] A control method according to feature 7, wherein the second heating profile includes a plurality of timings recommended for the user to inhale during a predetermined period.

[0221] [Feature 9]

[0222] In feature 8, the first heating profile and the second heating profile include a first temperature increase period in which the temperature of the heating part increases from the start of heating, a temperature decrease period in which the temperature of the heating part decreases after the first temperature increase period, and a second temperature increase period in which the temperature of the heating part increases again after the temperature decrease period;

[0223] A control method comprising a second heating profile including a plurality of timings recommended for the user to inhale during a second temperature increase period, which is a predetermined period.

[0224] [Feature 10]

[0225] A control method according to feature 9, wherein the second temperature increase period, which is a predetermined period of the second heating profile, is shorter than the second temperature increase period of the first heating profile, and the temperature increase rate of the second temperature increase period of the second heating profile is faster than the temperature increase rate of the first heating profile.

[0226] [Feature 11]

[0227] In any one of features 7 to 10, the suction device further comprises a communication unit (communication unit (115, 115A, 115B)) that is communically connected to a user terminal (user terminal (200));

[0228] The control method further includes the step of receiving a request signal from a user terminal requesting notification of timing from the user (step (S308));

[0229] A control method in which, in the step of issuing a timing notification, the timing notification is issued when a request signal is received.

[0230] [Feature 12]

[0231] As a control system, an inhalation device (inhalation device (100, 100A, 100B)) that generates an aerosol by controlling the operation of a heating unit (heating unit (121, 121A, 121B)) based on a first heating profile indicating a target temperature or target resistance value over time when heating a substrate (cartridge (120), stick-type substrate (150)) containing an aerosol source, and

[0232] A user terminal (user terminal (200)) that is connected to the suction device for communication

[0233] Includes,

[0234] The user terminal transmits a second heating profile used by the user to an inhalation device to evaluate the smoking flavor of the aerosol;

[0235] A control system that issues a notification for each of a plurality of timings at which aerosol inhalation is recommended when the inhalation device controls the operation of the heating unit using a second heating profile received from a user terminal.

[0236] [Feature 13]

[0237] In feature 12, the user terminal

[0238] Receive data regarding a heating state, which is an operating state of a heating unit using a second heating profile, from a suction device;

[0239] A control system that issues separate notifications for multiple timings at which aerosol inhalation is recommended, based on data regarding the heating state.

[0240] [Feature 14]

[0241] In feature 13, the user terminal includes a display unit (output unit (220)) capable of displaying predetermined information, and

[0242] A control system in which the display unit displays information regarding each of multiple timings at which aerosol inhalation is recommended.

[0243] [Feature 15]

[0244] In any one of features 12 to 14, the user terminal transmits a request signal requesting the user to notify of the timing to the suction device, and

[0245] A control system in which the suction device issues a timing notification when a request signal is received. Explanation of the symbols

[0246] 100: Suction device 110: Power supply unit, 111: Power supply unit, 112: Sensor unit 113: Notification Section, 114: Memory Section, 115: Communication Section 116: Control unit (computer) 120: Cartridge (material), 121: Heating section, 122: Liquid induction section, 123: Liquid storage section 124: Mouthpiece 130: Flavor cartridge, 131: Flavor source 140: Reception area, 141: Interior space, 142: Opening, 143: Lower part 150: Stick-type material (material), 151: Material section, 152: Mouthpiece section 180: Airflow path 200: User terminal 210: Input section 220: Output section, 221: Information indicating the number of puffs, 222: Icon, 223: Bar, 224: Text, 225: Icon 230: Detector 240: Communications Department 250: Memory 260: Control unit 300: Server

Claims

Claim 1 An inhalation device comprising: a heating unit that generates an aerosol by heating a substrate containing an aerosol source; a control unit that controls the operation of the heating unit based on a first heating profile that indicates a target temperature or target resistance value over time when the heating unit heats the substrate; and a notification unit that notifies a user of a timing at which the inhalation of the aerosol is recommended, wherein the notification unit issues a notification for each of a plurality of predetermined timings when controlling the operation of the heating unit using a second heating profile used by the user to evaluate the smoking flavor of the aerosol. Claim 2 A suction device according to claim 1, wherein the notification unit does not notify the timing when controlling the operation of the heating unit using the first heating profile. Claim 3 An inhalation device according to claim 1, wherein the second heating profile includes a plurality of timings recommended for the user to inhale during a predetermined period. Claim 4 In paragraph 3, the first heating profile and the second heating profile include a first temperature increase period in which the temperature of the heating part increases from the start of heating, a temperature decrease period in which the temperature of the heating part decreases after the first temperature increase period, and a second temperature increase period in which the temperature of the heating part increases again after the temperature decrease period; and the second heating profile includes a plurality of timings recommended for the user to inhale during the second temperature increase period, which is a predetermined period, an inhalation device. Claim 5 A suction device according to claim 4, wherein the second temperature increase period, which is the predetermined period of the second heating profile, is shorter than the second temperature increase period of the first heating profile, and the temperature increase rate of the second temperature increase period of the second heating profile is faster than the temperature increase rate of the first heating profile. Claim 6 An inhalation device according to any one of claims 1 to 5, further comprising a communication unit that is communically connected to the user terminal, wherein the communication unit receives a request signal from the user terminal requesting the user to notify the timing; and the notification unit issues the notification of the timing if the request signal is received. Claim 7 A control method performed by an inhalation device, wherein the inhalation device comprises a heating unit that generates an aerosol by heating a substrate containing an aerosol source, a control unit that controls the operation of the heating unit based on a first heating profile that indicates a target temperature or target resistance value over time when the heating unit heats the substrate, and a notification unit that notifies a user of a timing at which the inhalation of the aerosol is recommended, wherein the control method includes the step of issuing a notification for each of a plurality of predetermined timings when controlling the operation of the heating unit using a second heating profile used by a user to evaluate the aerosol smoking flavor. Claim 8 A control method according to claim 7, wherein the second heating profile includes a plurality of timings recommended for the user to inhale during a predetermined period. Claim 9 A control method according to claim 8, wherein the first heating profile and the second heating profile include a first temperature increase period in which the temperature of the heating part increases from the start of heating, a temperature decrease period in which the temperature of the heating part decreases after the first temperature increase period, and a second temperature increase period in which the temperature of the heating part increases again after the temperature decrease period; and wherein the second heating profile includes a plurality of timings recommended for the user to inhale during the second temperature increase period, which is a predetermined period. Claim 10 A control method according to claim 9, wherein the second temperature increase period, which is the predetermined period of the second heating profile, is shorter than the second temperature increase period of the first heating profile, and the temperature increase rate of the second temperature increase period of the second heating profile is faster than the temperature increase rate of the first heating profile. Claim 11 In any one of claims 7 to 10, the suction device further comprises a communication unit that is communically connected to a user terminal; the control method further comprises the step of receiving a request signal from the user terminal requesting a notification of the timing from the user; and the control method, wherein the notification of the timing is issued if the request signal is received, in the step of issuing the notification of the timing. Claim 12 A control system comprising: an inhalation device that generates an aerosol by controlling the operation of a heating unit based on a first heating profile that indicates a target temperature or target resistance value over time when heating a substrate containing an aerosol source; and a user terminal that is communicably connected to the inhalation device, wherein the user terminal transmits a second heating profile used by a user to evaluate the smoking flavor of the aerosol to the inhalation device; and wherein the inhalation device issues a notification for each of a plurality of timings in which the inhalation of the aerosol is recommended when controlling the operation of the heating unit using the second heating profile received from the user terminal. Claim 13 A control system according to claim 12, wherein the user terminal receives data from the inhalation device regarding a heating state, which is a heating unit operating state using the second heating profile; and, based on the data regarding the heating state, issues a notification for each of the plurality of timings in which the inhalation of the aerosol is recommended. Claim 14 In paragraph 13, the user terminal includes a display unit capable of displaying predetermined information, and the display unit displays information regarding each of the plurality of timings in which the inhalation of the aerosol is recommended, in a control system. Claim 15 A control system according to any one of claims 12 to 14, wherein the user terminal transmits a request signal requesting the user to the suction device for notification of the timing, and the suction device issues the notification of the timing if the request signal is received.

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