Flavor inhalation device or aerosol generating device, its control method and its program

Abstract

The present invention provides a flavor inhalation device, etc., that provides an effective psychological effect to a user. A device (200), which is a flavor inhalation device or an aerosol generating device, comprises a sensory stimulation element (210), a heart rate acquisition unit (220) for acquiring a user's heart rate, and a control unit (240) for operating the sensory stimulation element. The operation of the sensory stimulation element (210) has periodicity, and the control unit (240) is configured to operate the sensory stimulation element (210) such that the period of the operation of the sensory stimulation element (210) is based on the heart rate acquired by the heart rate acquisition unit (220).

Description

Technology Field

[0001] The present application relates to a flavor inhalation device or an aerosol generating device (hereinafter referred to as "flavor inhalation device, etc."). More specifically, the present application relates to a flavor inhalation device, etc. having a sensory stimulation element that operates based on a user's heart rate.

[0002] Furthermore, a flavor inhalation device refers to a device for inhaling flavor, and includes a heated flavor inhalation device (that which generates flavor by heating) and a non-heated flavor inhalation device (e.g., that generates flavor by ultrasonic atomization). The flavor inhalation device specifically includes, for example, electronic cigarettes, heated tobacco products, and conventional cigarettes, but is not limited thereto. Additionally, an "aerosol generating device" refers to a device for inhaling generated aerosol, and includes a heated aerosol generating device (that which generates aerosol by heating) and a non-heated aerosol generating device (e.g., that generates aerosol by ultrasonic atomization). The aerosol generating device specifically includes, for example, electronic cigarettes, heated tobacco products, and medical nebulizers, but is not limited thereto. Furthermore, the flavor inhalation device, etc., includes so-called RRP (Reduced-Risk Products). Background Technology

[0003] It is known that the act of smoking cigarettes (conventional tobacco) brings about psychological effects such as alertness and sedation to the user. Furthermore, recently, flavor inhalation devices equipped with electronic devices, such as heated tobacco products and electronic cigarettes, are being popularized as alternatives to cigarettes. Attempts are being made to measure the user's heart rate and provide the user with specific functions using these flavor inhalation devices (see, for example, Patent Document 1).

[0004] For example, providing various values ​​to the user by measuring the user's heart rate is being considered. As described in Patent Document 1, one such method is to notify the user or a medical institution when the heart rate exceeds a predetermined value. Meanwhile, as one of the various values, there are users who require psychological effects in their smoking behavior. For such users, there is a demand for flavored inhalers that enhance psychological effects. Prior art literature

[0005] Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2021-500002 The problem to be solved

[0006] The present invention has been made in consideration of the above, and the objective is to provide a flavor inhalation device, etc., that provides an effective psychological effect to a user. means of solving the problem

[0007] In order to solve the above problem, according to an embodiment of the present invention, a device is provided that is a flavor inhalation device or an aerosol generating device, comprising a sensory stimulation element, a heart rate acquisition unit for acquiring a user's heart rate, and a control unit for operating the sensory stimulation element, wherein the operation of the sensory stimulation element has periodicity, and the control unit is configured to operate the sensory stimulation element such that the period of the operation of the sensory stimulation element is based on the heart rate acquired by the heart rate acquisition unit.

[0008] In one embodiment, the heart rate acquisition unit may be a heart rate sensor, and the heart rate sensor may be a pulse wave sensor.

[0009] In one embodiment, the heart rate acquisition unit may be a communication unit configured to acquire the heart rate from an external device.

[0010] In one embodiment, the period of operation of the sensory stimulation element may be within the range of 80% to 120% of the period corresponding to the acquired heart rate.

[0011] A device of one embodiment includes an awakening mode and a sedation mode, and the control unit may be further configured to operate the sensory stimulation element such that the period of operation of the sensory stimulation element is shorter than the period corresponding to the acquired heart rate when in the awakening mode and longer than the period corresponding to the acquired heart rate when in the sedation mode.

[0012] In one embodiment, the operating intensity of the sensory stimulation element in the arousal mode may be greater than the operating intensity of the sensory stimulation element in the sedation mode.

[0013] A device of one embodiment may be configured to determine whether the user is awake or sedated, or both, by comparing the heart rate at the start of acquisition and the heart rate at the end of acquisition, and to notify the result of the determination.

[0014] In one embodiment, in one cycle of the operation of the sensory stimulation element, the operation time of the sensory stimulation element may be 0.05 seconds or more and 0.5 seconds or less.

[0015] In one embodiment, the sensory stimulation element may be one or more of a vibrator, a light-emitting element, and an acoustic element.

[0016] In one embodiment, the heart rate acquired by the heart rate acquisition unit may be a moving average of the user's heart rate measured over a predetermined period.

[0017] In order to solve the above problem, according to another embodiment of the present invention, a method of operating a device which is a flavor inhalation device or an aerosol generating device is provided, wherein the device comprises a sensory stimulation element, a heart rate acquisition unit for acquiring a user's heart rate, and a control unit for operating the sensory stimulation element, and the operation of the sensory stimulation element has periodicity, and the method comprises the step of the control unit operating the sensory stimulation element such that the period of the operation of the sensory stimulation element is based on the heart rate acquired by the heart rate acquisition unit.

[0018] In order to solve the above problem, according to another embodiment of the present invention, a program is provided to execute the above operation method in a processor of a flavor inhalation device or an aerosol generating device. Effects of the invention

[0019] According to an embodiment of the present invention, an effective psychological effect can be provided to a user of a flavor inhalation device, etc. through sensory stimulation. Brief explanation of the drawing

[0020] FIG. 1a is a schematic diagram schematically illustrating an example of the configuration of a flavor inhalation device, etc., according to an embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 1b is a schematic diagram schematically illustrating an example of the configuration of a flavor inhalation device, etc., according to an embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 2 is a schematic diagram schematically illustrating an example of the configuration of a flavor inhalation device, etc., according to an embodiment of the present invention. Figure 3a is a diagram illustrating the placement location of a heart rate sensor included in a flavor inhalation device, etc. FIG. 3b is a diagram illustrating the placement location of a heart rate sensor included in a flavor inhalation device, etc. Figure 4 is a flowchart of an example processing performed by a control unit including a flavor inhalation device, etc. FIG. 5a is a flowchart of an example processing performed by a control unit including a flavor inhalation device, etc. FIG. 5b is a flowchart of an example processing performed by a control unit including a flavor inhalation device, etc. Specific details for implementing the invention

[0021] 1. Embodiments of the present invention

[0022] An embodiment of the present invention is a flavor inhalation device having a function of providing sensory stimulation to a user, etc.

[0023] 1-1 Example of the first composition

[0024] FIG. 1a is a schematic diagram schematically illustrating a first configuration example of a flavor inhalation device, etc. As shown in FIG. 1a, the flavor inhalation device, etc. (100A) according to the present configuration example includes a power unit (110), a cartridge (120), and a flavor imparting cartridge (130). The power unit (110) includes a power supply section (111A), a sensor section (112A), a notification section (113A), a memory section (114A), a communication section (115A), and a control section (116A). The cartridge (120) includes a heating section (121A), a liquid induction section (122), and a liquid storage section (123). The flavor imparting cartridge (130) includes a flavor source (131) and a mouthpiece (124). An air passage (180) is formed in the cartridge (120) and the flavor imparting cartridge (130).

[0025] The power supply unit (111A) accumulates power. Then, the power supply unit (111A) supplies power to each component of the flavor inhalation device, etc. (100A) based on control by the control unit (116A). The power supply unit (111A) may be composed of a rechargeable battery, such as a lithium-ion secondary battery, for example.

[0026] The sensor unit (112A) acquires various information regarding the flavor inhalation device, etc. (100A). The sensor unit (112A) may include a pressure sensor such as a microphone condenser, a flow sensor, or a temperature sensor, and acquires a value based on inhalation by the user. Additionally, the sensor unit (112A) may include an input device that receives input of information from the user, such as a button or a switch. Additionally, the sensor unit (112A) may include a heart rate sensor for acquiring the heart rate of the user of the flavor inhalation device, etc. (100A). Additionally, multiple heart rate sensors may be provided.

[0027] The notification unit (113A) notifies the user of information. In this embodiment, the notification unit (113A) includes a sensory stimulation element configured to provide sensory stimulation to the user. The sensory stimulation element may be one or more of a light-emitting element that emits light, an acoustic element that outputs sound, and a vibrating element. That is, the sensory stimulation element may be an acoustic element, a light-emitting element, or a vibrator, or a combination of two or more of these. Additionally, the notification unit (113A) may include a display device that displays a message.

[0028] The memory unit (114A) stores various information for the operation of the flavor inhalation device, etc. (100A). The memory unit (114A) is composed of a non-volatile storage medium, such as flash memory. The memory unit (114A) may include a volatile memory that provides a working area for control by the control unit (116A). An example of the information stored by the memory unit (114A) is the user's heart rate, which will be described later.

[0029] The communication unit (115A) may include a communication interface (including an electronic circuit for communication that may include a communication module or an antenna, etc., hereinafter the same) that conforms to a predetermined LPWA wireless communication standard or a wireless communication standard having similar limitations. As such a communication standard, Sigfox or LoRA-WAN may be adopted. The communication unit (115A) may be a communication interface capable of performing communication that conforms to any wired or wireless communication standard. As such a communication standard, Wi-Fi (registered trademark) or Bluetooth (registered trademark) may be adopted. The communication unit (115A) may be configured to communicate with an external device (not shown).

[0030] The control unit (116A) functions as a computational processing unit and a control unit, and controls the overall operation within the flavor inhalation device, etc. (100A) according to various programs. The control unit (116A) is realized by electronic circuits such as a CPU (Central Processing Unit) and a microprocessor, for example. In addition, the control unit (116A) may include a conversion unit (117A) which will be described in detail later.

[0031] The liquid storage unit (123) stores an aerosol source. An aerosol is generated by atomizing the aerosol source. The aerosol source is a liquid, such as water and polyhydric alcohols such as glycerin and propylene glycol, for example. The aerosol source may contain flavor components derived from tobacco or non-tobacco. If the flavor inhalation device, etc. (100A) is a medical inhaler such as a nebulizer, the aerosol source may contain a pharmaceutical agent.

[0032] The liquid induction section (122) induces and retains an aerosol source, which is a liquid stored in the liquid storage section (123), from the liquid storage section (123). The liquid induction section (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 section (123) is induced by the capillary effect of the wick.

[0033] The heating unit (121A) generates an aerosol by heating the aerosol source and atomizing it. In the example shown in FIG. 1a, the heating unit (121A) is configured as a coil and is wrapped around the liquid induction unit (122). When the heating unit (121A) generates heat, the aerosol source held and supported by the liquid induction unit (122) is heated and atomized, and an aerosol is generated. The heating unit (121A) generates heat when power is supplied from the power supply unit (111A). As an example, power may be supplied when one or both of the user starting suction and predetermined information being input is detected by the sensor unit (112A). And power may be stopped when one or both of the user ending suction and predetermined information being input is detected by the sensor unit (112A).

[0034] The flavor source (131) is a component for imparting flavor components to the aerosol. The flavor source (131) may contain flavor components derived from tobacco or non-tobacco.

[0035] The air passage (180) is a passage for air sucked in by the user. The air passage (180) has a tubular structure with an air inlet (181), which is the inlet of air into the air passage (180), and an air outlet (182), which is the outlet of air from the air passage (180), at both ends. In the middle of the air passage (180), a liquid guide (122) is arranged on the upstream side (the side closer to the air inlet (181)), and a flavor source (131) is arranged on the downstream side (the side closer to the air outlet (182)). Air introduced from the air inlet (181) by suction by the user is mixed with an aerosol generated by the heating unit (121A), and is transported to the air outlet (182) by passing through the flavor source (131), as indicated 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 imparted to the aerosol.

[0036] The mouthpiece (124) is a component that is held by the user during inhalation. An air outlet hole (182) is provided in the mouthpiece (124). By holding the mouthpiece (124) and inhaling, the user can inhale a mixture of aerosol and air into the oral cavity.

[0037] The above describes an example of the configuration of the flavor inhalation device, etc. (100A). Of course, the configuration of the flavor inhalation device, etc. (100A) is not limited to the above and may take various configurations as exemplified below.

[0038] For example, the flavor inhalation device, etc. (100A) may not include a flavor imparting cartridge (130). In this case, a mouthpiece (124) is provided in the cartridge (120).

[0039] As another example, the flavor inhalation device, etc. (100A) may include multiple types of aerosol sources. Multiple types of aerosols generated from multiple types of aerosol sources may be mixed within the air passage (180) and cause a chemical reaction to generate another type of aerosol.

[0040] In addition, 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.

[0041] 1-2 Example of the second composition

[0042] FIG. 1b is a schematic diagram schematically illustrating a second configuration example of a flavor inhalation device, etc. As shown in FIG. 1b, the flavor inhalation device, etc. (100B) according to the present 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 holding support unit (140), and an insulation unit (144).

[0043] Each of the power supply unit (111B), sensor unit (112B), notification unit (113B), memory unit (114B), communication unit (115B) and control unit (116B) is substantially identical to the corresponding component included in the flavor inhalation device, etc. (100A) according to the first configuration example.

[0044] The holding support member (140) has an internal space (141) and holds and supports the stick-type material (150) while accommodating a part of the stick-type material (150) in the internal space (141). Additionally, the stick-type material (150) is also an example of a 'refill'. The holding support member (140) has an opening (142) that communicates the internal space (141) to the outside and holds and supports the stick-type material (150) inserted into the internal space (141) through the opening (142). For example, the holding support member (140) is a tubular body with the opening (142) and the bottom part (143) as the bottom surface, and defines the column-shaped internal space (141). The holding support member (140) also has the function of defining the air flow path supplied to the stick-type material (150). An air inlet, which is the air inlet to such a flow path, is positioned, for example, at the bottom part (143). Meanwhile, an air outlet, which is the air outlet from such a flow path, is an opening (142).

[0045] The stick-type material (150) includes a material portion (151) and a suction portion (152). The material portion (151) includes an aerosol source. In addition, in the present configuration example, the aerosol source is not limited to a liquid and may be a solid. When the stick-type material (150) is supported by the holding support portion (140), at least a portion of the material portion (151) is received in the internal space (141), and at least a portion of the suction portion (152) protrudes from the opening (142). Then, when a user bites the suction portion (152) protruding from the opening (142) and sucks, air is introduced into the internal space (141) from an air inlet hole (not shown) and reaches the user's mouth along with the aerosol generated from the material portion (151).

[0046] The heating unit (121B) has the same configuration as the heating unit (121A) according to the first configuration example. However, in the example shown in FIG. 1b, the heating unit (121B) is configured in a film shape and is arranged to cover the outer circumference of the holding support unit (140). Then, when the heating unit (121B) generates heat, the base portion (151) of the stick-type base (150) is heated from the outer circumference, and an aerosol is generated.

[0047] 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, etc.

[0048] The above describes an example of the configuration of the flavor inhalation device, etc. (100B). Of course, the configuration of the flavor inhalation device, etc. (100B) is not limited to the above and may take various configurations as exemplified below.

[0049] As an example, the heating part (121B) may be configured in a blade shape and positioned to protrude from the bottom part (143) of the holding support part (140) into the internal space (141). In this case, the blade-shaped heating part (121B) is inserted into the base part (151) of the stick-shaped base (150) and heats the base part (151) of the stick-shaped base (150) from the inside. As another example, the heating part (121B) may be positioned to cover the bottom part (143) of the holding support part (140). Additionally, the heating part (121B) may be configured as a combination of two or more of a first heating part covering the outer circumference of the holding support part (140), a second heating part in the shape of a blade, and a third heating part covering the bottom part (143) of the holding support part (140).

[0050] As another example, the holding support member (140) may include an opening / closing mechanism, such as a hinge, that opens / closes a part of the outer shell forming the inner space (141). Additionally, the holding support member (140) may clamp a stick-shaped material (150) inserted into the inner space (141) by opening / closing the outer shell. In this case, the heating member (121B) may be provided at the clamping location in the holding support member (140) and may heat the stick-shaped material (150) while pressing it.

[0051] In addition, the means for atomizing the aerosol source is not limited to heating by the heating unit (121B). For example, the means for atomizing the aerosol source may be induction heating.

[0052] Additionally, the flavor inhalation device, etc. (100B) may further include a heating section (121A), a liquid induction section (122), a liquid storage section (123), and an air passage (180) according to the first configuration example, and the air outlet (182) of the air passage (180) may also serve as an air inlet to the internal space (141). In this case, the mixed fluid of aerosol and air generated by the heating section (121A) flows into the internal space (141), is further mixed with the aerosol generated by the heating section (121B), and reaches the user's oral cavity.

[0053] 1-3 Simplified Composition Example

[0054] FIG. 2 is a schematic diagram schematically illustrating a simplified configuration example in which only the components particularly related to an embodiment of the present invention are extracted from the flavor inhalation device, etc. (100A or 100B) described above. Accordingly, 200 represents the flavor inhalation device, etc. (100A or 100B).

[0055] 210 represents the aforementioned sensory stimulation element included in the notification unit (113A or 113B). Additionally, the sensory stimulation element (210) may be considered as separate from the notification unit (113A or 113B).

[0056] 220 represents a heart rate acquisition unit for acquiring the heart rate of a user of a flavor inhalation device, etc. (200). The heart rate acquisition unit (220) may be the heart rate sensor described above for acquiring the heart rate of a user of a flavor inhalation device, etc. (200), which is included in the sensor unit (112A or 112B). Alternatively, the heart rate acquisition unit (220) may be a communication unit (115A or 115B) configured to acquire the heart rate of a user of a flavor inhalation device, etc. (200) from an external device (not shown). The external device may be configured to have a heart rate sensor or to communicate with another external device (not shown) equipped with a heart rate sensor, and specifically may be a smartphone, a wearable device (smartwatch, etc.), a heart rate monitor with communication functions, etc., but is not limited to these.

[0057] 240 represents the control unit (116A or 116B).

[0058] 1-4 Regarding the sensory stimulation element (210)

[0059] As described above, the sensory stimulation element (210) may be one or more of a light-emitting element, an acoustic element that outputs sound, and a vibrating vibrator, but it is known that a vibrator is suitable as a sensory stimulation element for the use of this embodiment, which is to awaken or soothe a user, as described later. Specifically, the vibrator may be a vibration motor or a linear vibration actuator, etc. In addition, as described later, the sensory stimulation element (210) is controlled so that its operation has periodicity.

[0060] 1-5 Regarding the heart rate acquisition unit (220)

[0061] 1-5-1 Types of Heart Rate Sensors

[0062] The heart rate sensor, which is the heart rate acquisition unit (220), and the heart rate sensor provided by an external device or another external device communicating with the external device (hereinafter referred to as "external device, etc.") may be a known sensor capable of detecting a heart rate using electrocardiogram, photoplethysmography, sphygmography, phonogram, etc. Additionally, if the heart rate acquisition unit (220) is a heart rate sensor and thus the flavor inhalation device, etc. (200) is equipped with a heart rate sensor, such a heart rate sensor would be suitable as a pulse wave sensor, particularly a reflective pulse wave sensor using photoplethysmography. Hereinafter, the heart rate sensor provided by the flavor inhalation device, etc. (200) as the heart rate acquisition unit (220) is referred to as the "heart rate sensor (220)."

[0063] 1-5-2 Location of the heart rate sensor

[0064] The heart rate sensor (220) can be placed in an appropriate location according to its type and the shape of the flavor inhalation device, etc. (200). For example, if the heart rate sensor (220) is a pulse wave sensor, particularly a reflective pulse wave sensor using photoelectric pulse wave method, it is preferable to place the sensor in a location where the user contacts it with their finger on the flavor inhalation device, etc. (200). This is because, generally, it is difficult to detect the pulse wave from the palm, that is, the heart rate, with a pulse wave sensor.

[0065] FIGS. 3a and 3b are drawings illustrating example positions according to the shape of a flavor inhalation device, etc. (200), in which the pulse wave sensor is placed when the pulse wave sensor is used as a heart rate sensor (220).

[0066] 300A and 300B represent flavor inhalation devices, etc. (200).

[0067] 310A represents a stick-type material (150), and 310B represents a mouthpiece (124).

[0068] 315B represents a button.

[0069] 320A and 320B each represent a range suitable for the placement of a heart rate sensor (220) according to the shape of the flavor inhalation device, etc. (300A and 300B). That is, in the flavor inhalation device, etc. (300A and 300B), it is preferable to place the heart rate sensor (220) at any one location within the range (320A and 320B) respectively. Additionally, the range (320A) includes the side (part in the direction perpendicular to the ground) and the back (part not visible on the ground) of the flavor inhalation device, etc. (300A). Additionally, the range (320B) is intended for the back (part not visible on the ground) of the flavor inhalation device, etc. (300B) where the button (315B) does not exist.

[0070] Additionally, a mark may be assigned to the location where the heart rate sensor (220) is placed in the flavor inhalation device, etc. (200), and thereby the location of the heart rate sensor (220) may be indicated to the user.

[0071] Additionally, multiple heart rate sensors (220) may be mounted on the flavor inhalation device, etc. (200). Accordingly, the heart rate described below, measured by the heart rate sensor (220), may be a heart rate measured by one of the multiple heart rate sensors. Alternatively, the heart rate described below, measured by the heart rate sensor, may be the average of the heart rates measured by the multiple heart rate sensors.

[0072] A heart rate sensor equipped in an external device, etc., may be placed in an appropriate location on the external device, etc., depending on its type and the shape of the external device, etc.

[0073] 1-5-3 Heart Rate Acquisition Method

[0074] In this embodiment, heart rate is defined as the number of heartbeats occurring during a predetermined time (typically 1 minute = 60 seconds). The user's heart rate may be obtained by any method, but an example method is described below.

[0075] The user's heart rate can be measured by the following formula using the number of heartbeats of the user detected over a specified period.

[0076] A=a×(60 / T) (1)

[0077] Here, A is the measured heart rate, a is the number of user heartbeats detected over a specified period, and T is the length of the specified period (in seconds).

[0078] The user's heart rate acquired by the heart rate acquisition unit (220) may be the heart rate measured as above.

[0079] Alternatively, the user's heart rate acquired by the heart rate acquisition unit (220) may be a moving average of the heart rates measured multiple times as described above. For example, the heart rate acquired after the nth heart rate measurement may be the average of the heart rate measured at the nth time, the heart rate measured at the (n-1)th time, ..., the heart rate measured at the (ni)th time, where 0 < i < n. In other words, the user's heart rate acquired by the heart rate acquisition unit (220) may be the average of the heart rates measured in the past (i+1) times. Furthermore, the value of i may be different each time the heart rate is acquired. For example, the heart rate acquired at the first time is the average of the heart rates measured in the past 3 times (i=2), the heart rate acquired at the second time is the average of the heart rates measured in the past 4 times (i=3), and ... The heart rate obtained at the j-th measurement may be the average of the past (j+2) measured heart rates (i=j+1). In this case, an upper limit may be set on the number of past measurements used to take the average. For example, the upper limit may be set to 10, and all heart rates obtained after the 8th measurement may be the average of the past 10 measured heart rates.

[0080] In addition, when measuring the heart rate multiple times as described above, the length (T) of the predetermined period in each measurement may be the same or different.

[0081] 1-6 Regarding the control unit (240)

[0082] FIG. 4 is a flowchart of example processing 400 executed by the control unit (240). In addition, according to example processing 400, the sensory stimulation element (210) is operated, but the operation is controlled to have periodicity.

[0083] 410 represents a step for determining whether to initiate sensory stimulation to the user.

[0084] Sensory stimulation for the user can be linked to the suction of the flavor suction device, etc. (200) by the user. Accordingly, in step 410, it can be determined whether suction by the user has started in the flavor suction device, etc. (200), and if it is determined that suction has started, it can be determined that sensory stimulation should be initiated. In addition, although the method of determining whether suction has started is arbitrary, it can be determined, for example, by using the pressure sensor described above, which is configured to detect pressure changes caused by suction and is equipped with the flavor suction device, etc. (200). More specifically, for example, it can be determined that suction has started when the pressure measured by the pressure sensor falls below a predetermined threshold.

[0085] Alternatively, in step 410, it may be determined that sensory stimulation should be initiated when heating of the aforementioned heating unit (121A or 121B) provided by the flavor inhalation device, etc. (200) is initiated. Alternatively, it may be determined that sensory stimulation should be initiated when a predetermined operation is performed on the aforementioned input device, such as a button or switch, provided by the flavor inhalation device, etc. (200).

[0086] If it is determined that sensory stimulation should be initiated, the process proceeds to step 420, and if not, the process returns to step 410.

[0087] 420 represents a step of acquiring the user's heart rate using a heart rate acquisition unit (220). The method for acquiring the user's heart rate is as described above. Step 420 may include a step of acquiring the user's heart rate by a heart rate sensor (220) (a heart rate sensor provided by the flavor inhalation device, etc. (200) as the heart rate acquisition unit (220)). Alternatively, step 420 may include a step of acquiring the user's heart rate from an external device. Furthermore, the measurement of the user's heart rate (described above) for acquiring the user's heart rate may be performed in step 420, but may also be performed repeatedly and asynchronously in parallel with the execution of example processing 400. For example, the measurement of the user's heart rate may be initiated by turning the power of the flavor inhalation device, etc. (200) ON and terminated by turning it OFF. Alternatively, the measurement of the user's heart rate may be initiated when the heating of the heating unit (121A or 121B) described above, which is provided by the flavor inhalation device, etc. (200), is initiated, and terminated when the heating is terminated. Alternatively, the measurement of the user's heart rate may be initiated by performing a predetermined operation on an input device such as a button or switch described above, which is provided by the flavor inhalation device, etc. (200), and terminated by performing a predetermined operation. In addition, the acquired heart rate may be displayed on a display device that displays the message described above.

[0088] 430 represents a step of setting the operation cycle of the sensory stimulation element (210) based on the acquired user's heart rate.

[0089] The operation period of the sensory stimulation element (210) is preferably within the range of 80% to 120% of the period corresponding to the acquired heart rate, and more preferably within the range of 90% to 110%. In addition, as described above, "heart rate" is defined as the number of heartbeats occurring at a predetermined time, and "period corresponding to the heart rate" may be derived by the following formula.

[0090] P=T0 / A (2)

[0091] Here, P is a period corresponding to a heart rate (in seconds), T0 is a length of a predetermined time (in seconds, typically 60 seconds), and A is the heart rate.

[0092] The flavor inhalation device, etc. (200) may include an awakening mode and a sedation mode, and the user may set the mode by performing a predetermined operation on an input device, such as the aforementioned button or switch, provided by the flavor inhalation device, etc. (200), using any method. When the flavor inhalation device, etc. (200) is in the awakening mode, the operation cycle of the set sensory stimulation element (210) is preferably shorter than the cycle corresponding to the acquired heart rate, and specifically, it is preferably 80% to 99% of the cycle corresponding to the acquired heart rate, and more preferably 90% to 95%. Additionally, when the flavor inhalation device, etc. (200) is in a calming mode, the operation cycle of the set sensory stimulation element (210) is preferably longer than the cycle corresponding to the acquired heart rate, and specifically, it is preferably 101% to 120% of the cycle corresponding to the acquired heart rate, and more preferably 105% to 110%.

[0093] 440 represents the step of operating the sensory stimulation element (210) at a set cycle.

[0094] In one cycle of operation of the sensory stimulation element (210), the time during which the sensory stimulation element (210) is actually operating is preferably close to the time required for one beat of the user's heart (not the time between heartbeats, but the time during which the heart actually moves). Accordingly, in one cycle of operation of the sensory stimulation element (210), the time during which the sensory stimulation element (210) is actually operating is, specifically, preferably 0.05 seconds to 0.5 seconds, and more preferably 0.2 seconds to 0.3 seconds.

[0095] In addition, when the flavor inhalation device, etc. (200) is in awakening mode, the operating intensity of the sensory stimulation element (210) may be increased compared to when it is in sedation mode.

[0096] Additionally, the sensory stimulation element (210) may also be used to provide a user with a notification (notification of the start of heating of the aerosol source, notification of the preheating of the aerosol source, notification of the end of heating of the aerosol source, etc.), but it is preferable that the operation related to such notification and the operation in step 440 be configured to be distinguishable. For example, when a vibrator is used as the sensory stimulation element (210), it is preferable to make the mode (vibration frequency, vibration intensity, vibration pattern, etc.) different from the vibration related to the former operation and the vibration related to the latter operation.

[0097] 450 represents a step for determining whether to terminate sensory stimulation for the user.

[0098] As described above, sensory stimulation to the user can be linked to the suction of the flavor suction device, etc. (200) by the user. Accordingly, in step 450, the flavor suction device, etc. (200) can determine whether the suction by the user has ended, and if it is determined that the suction has ended, it can be determined that the sensory stimulation must be terminated. In addition, the method of determining whether the suction has ended is arbitrary, but, for example, it can be determined using the pressure sensor described above, which is configured to detect pressure changes caused by suction and is equipped with the flavor suction device, etc. (200). More specifically, for example, if the pressure measured by the pressure sensor exceeds a predetermined threshold, it can be determined that the suction has ended.

[0099] Alternatively, in step 450, it may be determined that the sensory stimulation must be terminated when the heating of the heating unit (121A or 121B) described above, which is equipped with the flavor inhalation device, etc. (200), is terminated. Alternatively, it may be determined that the sensory stimulation must be terminated when there is a predetermined operation on the input device, such as the button or switch described above, which is equipped with the flavor inhalation device, etc. (200).

[0100] If it is determined that the sensory stimulus must be terminated, the processing is terminated; otherwise, the processing returns to step 420.

[0101] Additionally, according to steps 420 to 440, the control unit (240) can understand that the sensory stimulation element (210) is operated such that the operation cycle of the sensory stimulation element (210) is based on the heart rate acquired by the heart rate acquisition unit (220).

[0102] The control unit (240) can execute a process to determine whether the user has awakened as a result of sensory stimulation. FIG. 5a is a flowchart of example process 500A executed by the control unit (240) to determine whether the user has awakened. Example process 500A may be executed in parallel with example process 400.

[0103] 510A represents a step for determining whether to initiate a determination of whether the user has awakened. The criteria for determining whether to initiate a determination of whether the user has awakened are arbitrary. For example, it may be determined that a determination of whether the user has awakened should be initiated when the flavor inhalation device, etc. (200) is set to awakening mode. Alternatively, for example, when the flavor inhalation device, etc. (200) is set to awakening mode, it may be determined that a determination of whether the user has awakened should be initiated when inhalation by the user has started, when heating of the flavor inhalation device, etc. (200) has started, or when a predetermined operation has been performed on an input device such as a button or switch. If it is determined that a determination of whether the user has awakened should be initiated, the processing proceeds to step 520A, and if not, the processing returns to step 510A.

[0104] 520A represents a step of acquiring the user's heart rate using a heart rate acquisition unit (220). The heart rate acquired in this step is hereinafter referred to as r0. This step may be the same as step 420. Alternatively, the heart rate acquired in the most recently executed step 420 may be used as the heart rate acquired in this step.

[0105] 530A represents a step of waiting for the execution of the process for a predetermined time. The length of the predetermined time is arbitrary. For example, the length of the predetermined time may be set based on the length of time required for a typical or user-specific single smoking session, such that step 520A is executed at the beginning of a single smoking session and step 540A described later is executed at the end of a single smoking session.

[0106] 540A represents a step of acquiring the user's heart rate using a heart rate acquisition unit (220). The heart rate acquired in this step is hereinafter referred to as r1. This step may be the same as step 520A.

[0107] 550A represents a step of determining whether the heart rate has increased by comparing the heart rate r0 obtained in step 520A with the heart rate r1 obtained in step 540A.

[0108] Specifically, at this stage, a comparison based on the following formula can be performed.

[0109] r1-r0-R>T a (3)

[0110] Here, R is a correction term greater than 0. That is, while heart rate generally increases due to smoking, the correction term is provided to offset this increase and determine whether there was an increase in heart rate attributable solely to sensory stimulation. The correction term may be determined experimentally and may also be a function of time. Furthermore, the correction term may be omitted if strict rigor is not required. Also, T a Is It is a predetermined threshold. This threshold may be determined experimentally and may also be zero.

[0111] If equation (3) is true, the process proceeds to step 570A, and if not, the process proceeds to step 580A.

[0112] 570A represents a step in which it is determined that the user has awakened. This step may include a step of performing any processing, such as making a predetermined notification from the flavor inhalation device, etc. (200).

[0113] 580A represents a step for determining whether the determination of whether the user has awakened should be terminated. The criteria for determining whether the determination of whether the user has awakened should be terminated are arbitrary. For example, it may be determined that the determination of whether the user has awakened should be terminated when it is determined that the inhalation by the user has ended, when the heating of the flavor inhalation device (200) has ended, or when there has been a predetermined operation on an input device such as a button or switch. Alternatively, for example, it may be determined that the determination of whether the user has awakened should be terminated when it is determined that the determination of whether the user has awakened should begin and then the determination of a predetermined number of inhalations has ended. Alternatively, for example, it may be determined that the determination of whether the user has awakened should be terminated when a predetermined time has elapsed after it is determined that the determination of whether the user has awakened should begin. If it is determined that the determination of whether the user has awakened should be terminated, the processing is terminated, and if not, the processing returns to step 530A.

[0114] The control unit (240) may execute a process to determine whether the user has calmed down as a result of the sensory stimulation. FIG. 5b is a flowchart of example process 500B executed by the control unit (240) to determine whether the user has calmed down. Example process 500B may be executed in parallel with example process 400.

[0115] 510B represents a step for determining whether to initiate a determination of whether the user has calmed down. The criteria for determining whether to initiate a determination of whether the user has calmed down are arbitrary. For example, it may be determined that a determination of whether the user has calmed down should be initiated when the flavor inhalation device, etc. (200) is set to a calming mode. Alternatively, for example, when the flavor inhalation device, etc. (200) is set to a calming mode, it may be determined that a determination of whether the user has calmed down should be initiated when it is determined that inhalation by the user has started, when heating of the flavor inhalation device, etc. (200) has started, or when a predetermined operation has been performed on an input device such as a button or switch. If it is determined that a determination of whether the user has calmed down should be initiated, the processing proceeds to step 520B, and if not, the processing returns to step 510B.

[0116] Steps 520B to 540B may each be the same as steps 510A to 540A. However, the predetermined time in step 530B may be the same as or different from the predetermined time in step 530A.

[0117] 550B represents a step of determining whether the heart rate has decreased by comparing the heart rate r0 obtained in step 520B with the heart rate r1 obtained in step 540B.

[0118] Specifically, at this stage, a comparison based on the following formula can be performed.

[0119] r1-r0-R〈T S (4)

[0120] Here, the correction term R may be omitted if strictness is not required. Also, T S Is It is a predetermined threshold. This threshold may be determined experimentally and may also be zero.

[0121] If equation (4) is true, the processing proceeds to step 570B, and if not, the processing proceeds to step 580B.

[0122] 570B indicates a step of determining that the user has calmed down. This step may include a step of performing any treatment, such as making a predetermined notification from the flavor inhalation device, etc. (200).

[0123] 580B represents a step for determining whether the determination of whether the user has calmed down should be terminated. The criteria for determining whether the determination of whether the user has calmed down should be terminated are arbitrary. For example, it may be determined that the determination of whether the user has calmed down should be terminated when it is determined that the inhalation by the user has ended, when the heating of the flavor inhalation device, etc. (200) has ended, or when there has been a predetermined operation on an input device such as a button or switch. Or, for example, it may be determined that the determination of whether the user has calmed down should be terminated when it is determined that the determination of whether the user has calmed down should be initiated and then determined that a predetermined number of inhalations has ended. Or, for example, it may be determined that the determination of whether the user has calmed down should be terminated when a predetermined time has elapsed after it is determined that the determination of whether the user has calmed down should be initiated. If it is determined that the determination of whether the user has calmed down should be terminated, the processing is terminated, and if not, the processing returns to step 530B.

[0124] In addition, as is obvious to those skilled in the art, it is also possible to determine whether the user is awake or calm based on fluctuations in heart rate or heart rate intervals.

[0125] Accordingly, the control unit (240) may measure the user's heart rate multiple times using the heart rate sensor (220), obtain measurement data in the frequency domain by performing a Fourier transform on the multiple measured heart rates (measurement data in the time domain), and perform a process to determine whether the user is awake or sedated based on the frequency components included in the measurement data in the frequency domain.

[0126] Additionally, the control unit (240) may perform a Fourier transform on a plurality of measured heart rates (time domain measurement data) obtained from an external device to acquire frequency domain measurement data, and execute a process to determine whether the user is awake or sedated based on the frequency components included in the frequency domain measurement data. Additionally, the frequency domain measurement data may be generated by an external device, and the control unit (240) may acquire frequency domain measurement data from an external device.

[0127] 2 Other embodiments of the present invention

[0128] Another embodiment of the present invention is a method of operation of a flavor inhalation device, etc. (200). This method of operation may include the example processing described above, such as example processing 400.

[0129] Another embodiment of the present invention is a program that executes the above operation method in a processor of a flavor inhalation device, etc. (200).

[0130] 3. Concluding

[0131] Although embodiments of the present invention have been described up to this point, it goes without saying that the present invention is not limited to the embodiments described above and may be implemented in various different forms within the scope of the technical concept.

[0132] Furthermore, the scope of the present invention is not limited to the exemplary embodiments shown and described, but includes all embodiments that produce an equivalent effect to that intended by the present invention. Additionally, the scope of the present invention is not limited to the combination of features of the invention defined by each claim, but may be defined by any desired combination of specific features among each disclosed feature. Explanation of the symbols

[0133] 100A, 100B, 200, 300A, 300B: Flavor inhalation devices, etc. 110: Power unit 111A, 111B: Power supply 112A, 112B: Sensor section 113A, 113B: Notification Section 114A, 114B: Memory section 115A, 115B: Communications unit 116A, 116B, 240: Control unit 120: Cartridge 121A, 121B: Heating section 122: Liquid induction section 123: Liquid reservoir 124, 310B: Mouthpiece 130: Flavoring Cartridge 131: Hyangmiwon 140: Retaining Support Unit 141: Interior space 142: Frog 143: Bottom part 144: Insulation section 150, 310A: Stick-type material 151: Ministry of Economy and Finance 152: Intake part 180: Air flow 181: Air inlet 182: Air outlet 210: Sensory stimulator 220: Heart rate acquisition unit 315B: Button 320A, 320B: Range for placing the heart rate sensor

Claims

Claim 1 A device comprising a flavor inhalation device or an aerosol generating device, the device comprises a sensory stimulator, a heart rate acquisition unit for acquiring a user's heart rate, and a control unit for operating the sensory stimulator, wherein the operation of the sensory stimulator has periodicity, and the control unit is configured to operate the sensory stimulator such that the period of the operation of the sensory stimulator is based on the heart rate acquired by the heart rate acquisition unit, and an awakening mode and a sedation mode are provided, and the control unit is configured to operate the sensory stimulator such that the period of the operation of the sensory stimulator is shorter than the period corresponding to the acquired heart rate when in the awakening mode, and longer than the period corresponding to the acquired heart rate when in the sedation mode. Claim 2 In claim 1, the heart rate acquisition unit is a heart rate sensor, a device. Claim 3 In paragraph 2, the heart rate sensor is a pulse wave sensor, a device. Claim 4 In claim 1, the heart rate acquisition unit is a device that is a communication unit configured to acquire the heart rate from an external device. Claim 5 A device according to claim 1, wherein the period of operation of the sensory stimulation element is within the range of 80% to 120% of the period corresponding to the acquired heart rate. Claim 6 delete Claim 7 A device according to claim 1, wherein the operating intensity of the sensory stimulation element in the arousal mode is greater than the operating intensity of the sensory stimulation element in the sedation mode. Claim 8 A device configured to determine whether the user is awake or sedated, or both, by comparing the heart rate at the start of acquisition and the heart rate at the end of acquisition, and to notify the result of the determination. Claim 9 A device according to claim 1, wherein in one cycle of the operation of the sensory stimulation element, the operation time of the sensory stimulation element is 0.05 seconds or more and 0.5 seconds or less. Claim 10 In claim 1, the sensory stimulation element is one or more of a vibrator, a light-emitting element, and an acoustic element, forming a device. Claim 11 In claim 1, the heart rate acquired by the heart rate acquisition unit is a moving average of the user's heart rate measured over a predetermined period, the device. Claim 12 A device that is a flavor inhalation device or an aerosol generating device, comprising a sensory stimulation element, a heart rate acquisition unit for acquiring a user's heart rate, and a control unit for operating the sensory stimulation element, wherein the operation of the sensory stimulation element has periodicity, and the control unit is configured to operate the sensory stimulation element such that the period of the operation of the sensory stimulation element is based on the heart rate acquired by the heart rate acquisition unit, and the sensory stimulation element is a vibrator. Claim 13 A method of operation of a device which is a flavor inhalation device or an aerosol generating device, wherein the device comprises a sensory stimulation element, a heart rate acquisition unit for acquiring a user's heart rate, and a control unit for operating the sensory stimulation element, wherein the operation of the sensory stimulation element has periodicity, and the method comprises the step of the control unit operating the sensory stimulation element such that the period of the operation of the sensory stimulation element is based on the heart rate acquired by the heart rate acquisition unit, wherein an awakening mode and a sedation mode are provided, and the control unit is configured to operate the sensory stimulation element such that the period of the operation of the sensory stimulation element is shorter than the period corresponding to the acquired heart rate when in the awakening mode, and longer than the period corresponding to the acquired heart rate when in the sedation mode. Claim 14 A program stored on a recording medium that executes the method described in paragraph 13 on a processor of a flavor inhalation device or an aerosol generating device.

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