suction device

Abstract

The apparatus comprises a liquid storage unit (123) for storing a liquid that generates an aerosol by being heated, a heating unit (121) for heating the liquid, a power supply unit (111) for accumulating power, and a control unit (116) for controlling the supply of power from the power supply unit (111) to the heating unit (121). The control unit (116) performs a first heating operation to raise the temperature of the liquid to a temperature higher than a first temperature at which the liquid vaporizes when a predetermined first condition is established, and performs a second heating operation to raise the temperature of the liquid to a temperature higher than a second temperature and lower than the first temperature when a predetermined second condition is established before the first condition is established, and makes the amount of power used in the first heating operation when transitioning to the first heating operation during the second heating operation smaller than the amount of power used in the first heating operation when transitioning to the first heating operation without performing the second heating operation.

Description

Technology Field

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a suction device. Background Technology

[0002] Recently, a technology has been proposed that rapidly provides an aerosol when inhaled by a user.

[0003] For example, the device described in Patent Document 1 comprises a heater that generates an aerosol by heating an aerosol source, and a controller capable of changing the amount of power supplied to the heater to heat the aerosol source at a preheating temperature lower than the heating temperature for generating the aerosol. Prior art literature

[0004] Patent Document 1: US2020 / 0329776 Publication The problem to be solved

[0005] In the technology described in Patent Document 1, when no suction action is performed by a user, preheating is carried out by heating the aerosol source at a preheating temperature lower than the heating temperature for generating an aerosol. If the temperature of the heating part becomes excessively high due to this preheating, the amount of aerosol source that is atomized becomes greater than the amount of liquid aerosol source that is guided to the heating part, and ultimately, there is a risk that the heatable aerosol source will be depleted even though the user is inhaling. Furthermore, if the heatable aerosol source is depleted, no aerosol is generated, so the user cannot inhale the aerosol even though they are inhaling.

[0006] The present disclosure aims to provide a suction device capable of preventing the loss of a heatable aerosol source during suction. means of solving the problem

[0007] According to one aspect of the present disclosure, a suction device is provided comprising a liquid storage unit for storing a liquid that generates an aerosol by being heated, a heating unit for heating said liquid, a power supply unit for accumulating power, and a control unit for controlling the supply of power from said power supply unit to said heating unit, wherein the control unit performs a first heating to raise the temperature of said liquid to a first temperature at which said liquid vaporizes when a predetermined first condition is established, and performs a second heating to raise the temperature of said liquid to a second temperature at a second temperature at or higher than said first temperature when a predetermined second condition is established before said first condition is established, and also lower than said first temperature, and the amount of power in said first heating when transitioning to said first heating during said second heating is smaller than the amount of power in said first heating when transitioning to said first heating without performing said second heating.

[0008] delete

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[0012] delete Effects of the invention

[0013] According to the first feature, it is possible to prevent the loss of a heatable aerosol source upon inhalation.

[0014] According to the second feature, the amount of power in the first heating when transitioning to the first heating during the second heating can be made smaller with greater accuracy than the amount of power in the first heating when transitioning to the first heating without performing the second heating.

[0015] According to the third feature, the amount of power in the first heating when transitioning to the first heating during the second heating can be made smaller with greater accuracy than the amount of power in the first heating when transitioning to the first heating without performing the second heating.

[0016] According to the fourth feature, since the heating part is not heated more than necessary, the loss of heatable aerosol sources during inhalation can be accurately suppressed.

[0017] According to the fifth feature, even if the amount of liquid stored in the liquid storage unit is small, the loss of a heatable aerosol source upon suction can be accurately suppressed.

[0018] According to the 6th feature, since preheating is performed based on the operation of the user performing the suction action, the waste of power used for heating can be suppressed with greater accuracy. Brief explanation of the drawing

[0019] FIG. 1 is an example of a perspective view showing the schematic configuration of a suction device. FIG. 2 is an example of a cross-sectional view showing the schematic configuration of a suction device. FIG. 3 is a schematic diagram showing an example of the general configuration of a suction device. FIG. 4 is a flowchart showing an example of the sequence of heat treatment performed by the control unit. Figure 5 is a timing chart to explain the operation of the suction device. FIG. 6 is a diagram showing an example of the relationship between the remaining amount and the first suction heating upper limit time. (b) is a diagram showing an example of the relationship between the remaining amount and the first suction heating power. FIG. 7 is a diagram showing an example of the schematic configuration of a sensor unit and a control unit related to a modified example. FIG. 8 is a schematic diagram showing an example of the general configuration of a suction device related to the second embodiment. FIG. 9 is a schematic diagram showing an example of the general configuration of a suction device related to the third embodiment. FIG. 10 is a schematic drawing showing an example of the configuration of a suction device related to the fourth embodiment. FIG. 11 is a timing chart for explaining the operation of a suction device related to the fourth embodiment. Specific details for implementing the invention

[0020] Hereinafter, embodiments related to the present disclosure will be described in detail with reference to the attached drawings.

[0021] <First Embodiment>

[0022] FIG. 1 is an example of a perspective view showing the schematic configuration of a suction device (1).

[0023] FIG. 2 is an example of a cross-sectional view showing the schematic configuration of a suction device (1).

[0024] FIG. 3 is a schematic diagram showing an example of the general configuration of a suction device (1).

[0025] The suction device (1) related to the first embodiment is a device that generates a substance that is inhaled by a user. Hereinafter, the substance generated by the suction device (1) is described as an aerosol. Alternatively, the substance generated by the suction device (1) may be a gas.

[0026] The suction device (1) generates an aerosol by heating an aerosol source as a liquid. The suction device (1) comprises a power unit (110), a cartridge (120), a case (10) that accommodates the power unit (110) and the cartridge (120), a mouthpiece (124), and an end cap (20) that accommodates a portion of the mouthpiece (124). The power unit (110) and the cartridge (120) are configured to be detachably connected to each other. Suction by a user is performed with the cartridge (120) attached to the power unit (110).

[0027] As shown in FIG. 3, the power unit (110) has a power supply section (111), a sensor section (112), a notification section (113), a memory section (114), a communication section (115), and a control section (116). Additionally, the power unit (110) has a user-operable control section (117) and a DC / DC converter (118). The cartridge (120) has a heating section (121), a liquid induction section (122), and a liquid storage section (123). An air passage (180) is formed in the suction device (1). Below, each component will be described in order.

[0028] (Power unit (110))

[0029] The power supply unit (111) accumulates power. The power supply unit (111) supplies power to each component of the suction device (1). The power supply unit (111) may be composed of a rechargeable battery, for example, a lithium-ion secondary battery. The power supply unit (111) may be charged by connecting to an external power source via a USB (Universal Serial Bus) cable, etc. Additionally, the power supply unit (111) may be charged without being connected to a device on the transmission side by wireless power transmission technology. Furthermore, the power supply unit (111) may be separated from the suction device (1) and may be replaced with a new power supply unit (111).

[0030] The sensor unit (112) detects various information regarding the suction device (1). For example, the sensor unit (112) has a pressure sensor (112p), such as a microphone condenser, a flow sensor (112q) that detects the amount of aerosol source stored in the liquid storage unit (123), and a temperature sensor (112t) that detects the temperature of the heating unit (121). The sensor unit (112) outputs the detected information to the control unit (116). For example, when the pressure sensor (112p) detects a value associated with suction by the user, the sensor unit (112) outputs information indicating that suction by the user has occurred to the control unit (116).

[0031] The notification unit (113) notifies the user of information. As an example, the notification unit (113) is configured by a light-emitting device such as an LED (Light Emitting Diode). In that case, the notification unit (113) emits light with a different light-emitting pattern when the power supply unit (111) requires charging, when the power supply unit (111) is charging, and when an abnormality occurs in the suction device (1). The light-emitting pattern here is a concept that includes color and timing of turning on / off, etc. The notification unit (113) may be configured with, together with or instead of the light-emitting device, a display device that displays an image, a sound output device that outputs sound, and a vibrating device, etc.

[0032] The memory unit (114) stores various information for the operation of the suction device (1). The memory unit (114) is composed of, for example, a non-volatile storage medium such as flash memory. An example of information stored in the memory unit (114) is information regarding the OS (Operating System) of the suction device (1), such as the control contents of various components by the control unit (116). Another example of information stored in the memory unit (114) is information regarding suction by the user, such as the number of suctions, the time of suction, and the cumulative total of suction time.

[0033] The communication unit (115) is a communication interface for transmitting and receiving information between the suction device (1) and another device. The communication unit (115) performs communication based on any wired or wireless communication standard. Examples of such communication standards may include wireless LAN (Local Area Network), wired LAN, Wi-Fi (registered trademark), or Bluetooth (registered trademark). As an example, the communication unit (115) transmits information regarding suction by a user to a smartphone in order to display information regarding suction by a user on the smartphone. As another example, the communication unit (115) receives information about a new OS from a server in order to update information about an OS stored in the memory unit (114).

[0034] The control unit (116) functions as a computational processing unit and a control unit, and controls the overall operation within the suction device (1) according to various programs. The control unit (116) is realized by electronic circuits such as a CPU (Central Processing Unit) and a microprocessor, for example. In addition, the control unit (116) may include a ROM (Read Only Memory) that stores programs and computational parameters used, and a RAM (Random Access Memory) that temporarily stores parameters that change appropriately. The suction device (1) executes various processes based on control by the control unit (116). Supplying power from the power unit (111) to other components, charging the power unit (111), detection of information by the sensor unit (112), notification of information by the notification unit (113), storage and reading output of information by the memory unit (114), and transmission and reception of information by the communication unit (115) are examples of processes controlled by the control unit (116). Other processing performed by the suction device (1), such as inputting information for each component and processing based on information output from each component, is also controlled by the control unit (116).

[0035] The control unit (117) is composed of a button switch or a touch panel, etc. The control unit (117) outputs information operated by the user to the control unit (116). For example, when the power unit (110) is in a power OFF state and a predetermined start operation is performed on the control unit (117), the control unit (117) outputs a start command for the power unit (110) to the control unit (116). When the control unit (116) receives this start command, it starts the power unit (110). A predetermined start operation by the control unit (117) can be exemplified by the control unit (117) being pressed rapidly three times in succession.

[0036] The DC / DC converter (118) is connected between the heating unit (121) and the power unit (111) when the cartridge (120) is mounted in the power unit (110). The control unit (116) is connected between the DC / DC converter (118) and the power unit (111).

[0037] The DC / DC converter (118) is a boost circuit capable of boosting the input voltage and is configured to supply the boosted voltage or the input voltage to the heating unit (121). The power supplied to the heating unit (121) can be adjusted according to the DC / DC converter (118). For example, a switching regulator can be used as the DC / DC converter (118) to convert the input voltage to a desired output voltage by controlling the on / off time of a switching element while monitoring the output voltage. When a switching regulator is used as the DC / DC converter (118), the input voltage can be output as is without boosting it by controlling the switching element.

[0038] The temperature sensor (112t) has a voltage sensor and a current sensor. The voltage sensor measures and outputs a voltage value applied to the heating unit (121). The current sensor measures and outputs a current value flowing through the heating unit (121). The output of the voltage sensor and the output of the current sensor are each input to the control unit (116). The control unit (116) obtains the resistance value of the heating unit (121) based on the output of the voltage sensor and the output of the current sensor, and obtains the temperature of the heating unit (121) according to this resistance value. The temperature of the heating unit (121) can be considered to be almost the same as the temperature of the aerosol source heated by the heating unit (121).

[0039] Additionally, when acquiring the resistance value of the heating unit (121), if the configuration is such that a constant current flows through the heating unit (121), the temperature sensor (112t) does not need to have a current sensor. Likewise, when acquiring the resistance value of the heating unit (121), if the configuration is such that a constant voltage is applied to the heating unit (121), the temperature sensor (112t) does not need to have a voltage sensor.

[0040] Additionally, the temperature sensor (112t) may be, for example, a thermistor placed near the heating unit (121).

[0041] (Cartridge (120))

[0042] The liquid storage unit (123) stores an aerosol source. The aerosol source is atomized by heating, and an aerosol is produced. The aerosol source is, for example, a liquid such as water and polyhydric alcohols such as glycerin and propylene glycol. The aerosol source may further contain tobacco raw materials or extracts derived from tobacco raw materials that release flavor components when heated. The aerosol source may further contain nicotine. If the inhalation device (1) is a medical inhaler such as a nebulizer, the aerosol source may contain a drug for the patient to inhale.

[0043] The liquid induction section (122) induces and maintains 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) related to this embodiment is a wick formed by twisting a fibrous material such as glass fiber or a porous material such as porous ceramic. The liquid induction section (122) is in liquid communication with the liquid storage section (123). Therefore, the aerosol source stored in the liquid storage section (123) spreads widely throughout the liquid induction section (122) by the capillary effect.

[0044] The heating unit (121) generates an aerosol by heating the aerosol source and atomizing it. The heating unit (121) is composed of any material, such as metal or polyimide, in any shape, such as a coil, a film, or a blade. The heating unit (121) is positioned in close proximity to the liquid induction unit (122). In the example shown in FIGS. 2 and 3, the heating unit (121) is composed of a metal coil and is wound around the liquid induction unit (122). Thus, when the heating unit (121) generates heat, the aerosol source maintained in the liquid induction unit (122) is heated and atomized, and an aerosol is generated. The heating unit (121) generates heat when supplied with power from the power supply unit (111).

[0045] (Air Euro (180))

[0046] The air passage (180) is a passage for air inhaled by the user. The air passage (180) has 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. Upon inhalation by the user, air is introduced into the air passage (180) from the air inlet (181), and air is discharged out of the air passage (180) from the air outlet (182). The air inlet (181) may be exemplified as being formed around the control part (117). The air outlet (182) is formed in the mouthpiece (124).

[0047] In the middle of the air passage (180), a liquid guide (122) is arranged. The aerosol generated by the heating unit (121) is mixed with air introduced from the air inlet port (181). Then, upon suction by the user, the mixed fluid of aerosol and air is transported to the air outlet port (182) as indicated by arrow 190.

[0048] (Case 10)

[0049] The case (10) has a cylindrical power unit case (11) that accommodates a power unit (110) and a cylindrical cartridge case (12) that accommodates a cartridge (120).

[0050] In the power unit case (11), a user-operable control unit (117) is formed so as to be exposed from the surface of the power unit case (11). An air inlet (181) for receiving external air is formed inside the power unit case (11). The air inlet (181) may be exemplified as being formed around the control unit (117). A pressure sensor (112p) is installed near the control unit (117). The pressure sensor (112p) is configured to output a value of pressure change within the power unit (110) generated by the user's suction through the mouthpiece (124). The pressure sensor (112p) outputs, for example, a value corresponding to the flow rate of air sucked from the air inlet (181) toward the mouthpiece (124), in other words, the pressure that changes according to the user's suction.

[0051] (End cap (20))

[0052] The end cap (20) has a first cylindrical upper part (21) that is fitted into the inner side of an opening opposite to the power unit case (11) in the cartridge case (12), and a second cylindrical upper part (22) formed on the outer side of the cartridge case (12). The first cylindrical upper part (21) has a flange portion that contacts the cross-section of the cartridge case (12) while a portion of the cartridge case (12) side is fitted into the cartridge case (12). The second cylindrical upper part (22) has an outer circumferential diameter that is smaller than the outer circumferential diameter of the first cylindrical upper part (21), and an inner circumferential diameter that is equal to the inner circumferential diameter of the first cylindrical upper part (21).

[0053] (Mouthpiece (124))

[0054] The mouthpiece (124) is a cylindrical member and has a flange portion that contacts the end cap (20) while a portion of the cartridge case (12) side is fitted into the inside of the end cap (20).

[0055] The mouthpiece (124) is a component that is bitten by the user during inhalation. An air outlet hole (182) of an air passage (180) is formed in the mouthpiece (124). By biting the mouthpiece (124) and inhaling, the user can receive a mixed fluid of aerosol and air, transported by the air passage (180), into the oral cavity.

[0056] (Heating control of the heating unit (121) by the control unit (116))

[0057] The control unit (116) starts when the power of the suction device (1) is turned ON. For example, the power of the suction device (1) is turned ON when the operating unit (117) is pressed quickly three times in succession.

[0058] Then, when a predetermined condition is met, the control unit (116) supplies power to the heating unit (121) to raise the temperature of the liquid aerosol source to a first temperature or higher for atomizing and generating aerosol. An example of a predetermined condition being met is when the output value of the pressure sensor (112p) of the sensor unit (112) exceeds a predetermined threshold. An example of a case where the output value of the pressure sensor (112p) exceeds the threshold is when, for instance, a user bites the mouthpiece (124) and sucks, and the flow rate and pressure of the air sucked from the air inlet (181) toward the mouthpiece (124) change, causing the output value of the pressure sensor (112p) to exceed the threshold. Hereinafter, the act of a user biting the mouthpiece (124) and sucking may be referred to as a "sucking operation." The first temperature may be the boiling point of the aerosol source.

[0059] In this way, the control unit (116), for example, when a suction operation is performed by a user, supplies power to the heating unit (121) to raise the temperature of the aerosol source above its boiling point and heats the heating unit (121). Hereinafter, supplying power to the heating unit (121) to raise the temperature of the aerosol source above its boiling point and heating the heating unit (121) may be referred to as "suction heating." The control unit (116) initiates suction heating when a predetermined condition is established. Furthermore, the aforementioned predetermined condition may be referred to as "suction heating condition." An example of the suction heating condition is that the output value of the pressure sensor (112p) becomes above a threshold.

[0060] When performing suction heating, the control unit (116) controls the power supplied to the heating unit (121), for example, to be a predetermined power value when performing suction heating. The predetermined power value may be an example of a value obtained by conducting an experiment in advance and stored in the memory unit (114) or ROM. Additionally, the predetermined power value may be an example of a value such that the temperature of the heating unit (121) during suction heating is set to the suction heating target temperature described later.

[0061] The control unit (116) may set the target temperature of the heating unit (121) during suction heating to be greater than or equal to the first temperature, and control the power supply so that the temperature of the heating unit (121) during suction heating becomes this target temperature. Hereinafter, the target temperature of the heating unit (121) during suction heating may be referred to as the "suction heating target temperature." The suction heating target temperature may be exemplified as being 180°C.

[0062] When performing suction heating, the control unit (116) may control the power supplied to the heating unit (121) through the DC / DC converter (118) so that, for example, the temperature of the heating unit (121) detected by the temperature sensor (112t) becomes the suction heating target temperature. For example, the control unit (116) may control the power supplied to the heating unit (121) based on the difference between the suction heating target temperature stored in the memory unit (114) and the actual temperature of the heating unit (121) detected by the temperature sensor (112t) (hereinafter referred to as "actual temperature"). This temperature control of the heating unit (121) can be realized, for example, by known feedback control. Additionally, the control unit (116) may control the power supplied to the heating unit (121) based on the difference between the room temperature and a temperature set to a value smaller than the suction heating target temperature (e.g., 175 degrees) (hereinafter referred to as the "suction heating set temperature") so that the room temperature does not exceed the suction heating target temperature.

[0063] The control unit (116) performs suction heating, assuming that the suction heating condition is established while the output value of the pressure sensor (112p) is above the threshold, in other words, while the user continues the suction operation. However, if the period during which the output value of the pressure sensor (112p) is above the threshold reaches a predetermined upper limit time (e.g., 2.4 seconds), the control unit (116) stops supplying power to the heating unit (121) regardless of the output value of the pressure sensor (112p).

[0064] Meanwhile, the control unit (116) supplies power to the heating unit (121) to make the temperature of the aerosol source higher than the second temperature and lower than the first temperature when a predetermined condition (hereinafter referred to as "preliminary heating start condition") that is different from the suction heating condition is established before the suction heating condition is established. The second temperature can be exemplified as 40 degrees.

[0065] In this way, when the preheating start condition is established before suction is performed by the user, the control unit (116) supplies power to the heating unit (121) to heat the heating unit (121) so that the temperature of the aerosol source is at least the second temperature and lower than the first temperature. Hereinafter, the process of supplying power to the heating unit (121) to heat the heating unit (121) so that the temperature of the aerosol source is at least the second temperature and lower than the first temperature may be referred to as "preheating." The control unit (116) initiates preheating when the preheating start condition is established. The preheating start condition may be exemplified as being established when a predetermined operation (e.g., a single press) is performed on the operating unit (117). Additionally, the target for performing the predetermined operation may be a different operation from the control unit (117) that performs the predetermined operation to turn the power unit (110) ON. Also, the predetermined operation is not limited to a single press.

[0066] When performing preheating, the control unit (116) controls the power supplied to the heating unit (121), for example, to be a predetermined power value when performing preheating. The predetermined power value may be an example of a value obtained by conducting an experiment in advance and stored in the memory unit (114) or ROM. Additionally, the predetermined power value may be an example of a value such that the temperature of the heating unit (121) during preheating is set to the preheating target temperature described later.

[0067] The control unit (116) may set the target temperature of the heating unit (121) during preheating to a second temperature or higher and lower than the boiling point of the aerosol source, and control the power supply so that the temperature of the heating unit (121) during preheating becomes this target temperature. Hereinafter, the target temperature of the heating unit (121) during preheating may be referred to as the "preheating target temperature." The preheating target temperature may be exemplified as 50 degrees.

[0068] When performing preheating, the control unit (116) may control the power supplied to the heating unit (121) through the DC / DC converter (118) so that, for example, the temperature of the heating unit (121) detected by the temperature sensor (112t) becomes the preheating target temperature. For example, the control unit (116) may control the power supplied to the heating unit (121) based on the difference between the preheating target temperature stored in the memory unit (114) and the actual temperature (real temperature) of the heating unit (121) detected by the temperature sensor (112t). This temperature control of the heating unit (121) can be realized, for example, by known feedback control. Additionally, the control unit (116) may control the power supplied to the heating unit (121) based on the difference between the room temperature and a temperature set to a value smaller than the preheating target temperature (e.g., 45 degrees) (hereinafter referred to as the "preheating set temperature") so that the room temperature does not exceed the preheating target temperature.

[0069] In addition, since the target temperature for preheating is lower than the target temperature for suction heating, the control unit (116) makes the power value for preheating smaller than the power value for suction heating. For example, the control unit (116) makes the duty ratio for preheating smaller than the duty ratio for suction heating of the PWM signal output to the DC / DC converter (118). For example, the duty ratio for suction heating can be 90% and the duty ratio for preheating can be 30%.

[0070] Additionally, when performing preheating, the control unit (116) may fix the duty ratio at 30% until the room temperature reaches the preheating set temperature, and after the room temperature reaches the preheating set temperature, change the duty ratio based on the difference between the room temperature and the set temperature. Likewise, when performing suction heating, the control unit (116) may fix the duty ratio at 90% until the room temperature reaches the suction heating set temperature, and after the room temperature reaches the suction heating set temperature, change the duty ratio based on the difference between the room temperature and the set temperature.

[0071] The control unit (116) performs suction heating when suction heating conditions are established while preheating is being performed.

[0072] Therefore, in the suction device (1), as described above, the process of transitioning to suction heating by the control unit (116) controlling the power supply to the heating unit (121) may involve transitioning to suction heating after performing preheating, or transitioning to suction heating without performing preheating. In the following description, the suction heating when transitioning to suction heating after performing preheating may be referred to as "first suction heating," and the suction heating when transitioning to suction heating without performing preheating may be referred to as "second suction heating."

[0073] Meanwhile, the control unit (116) stops preheating when a predetermined condition (hereinafter referred to as "preheating termination condition") is established to terminate preheating before suction heating conditions are established while preheating is being performed. This is to suppress unnecessary power consumption associated with preheating. The preheating termination condition may be exemplified by a predetermined time (e.g., 10 seconds) elapsed after preheating has started.

[0074] In the suction device (1) configured as described above, the first suction heating, in which preheating is performed before suction heating, is more likely to reach the suction heating target temperature earlier than the second suction heating, in which preheating is not performed. Therefore, in the case of the first suction heating, the temperature of the aerosol source is more likely to reach the temperature at which it is atomized and aerosol is generated earlier than in the case of the second suction heating. Therefore, in the suction device (1), the amount of aerosol generated at the beginning of suction by the user is greater when the first suction heating is performed than when the second suction heating is performed. This is due to the following reason.

[0075] The liquid induction unit (122) induces and maintains an aerosol source, which is a liquid stored in the liquid storage unit (123), by means of a capillary effect, and the heating unit (121) is positioned in close proximity to the liquid induction unit (122) and generates an aerosol by atomizing the aerosol source through heat generation. Therefore, as the amount of power supplied to the heating unit (121) increases, the amount of aerosol generated increases.

[0076] In the second suction heating, power is supplied to the heating unit (121) after the suction operation is performed by the user, so most of the power supplied at the beginning of the suction is consumed in raising the temperature of the liquid that is the aerosol source, and thus the amount of power consumed to vaporize the liquid is reduced. As a result, the amount of aerosol generated at the beginning of the suction is reduced.

[0077] In this regard, during the first suction heating performed after preheating, power is supplied to the heating unit (121) before the suction operation is performed by the user, and the temperature of the liquid, which is the aerosol source, is raised. Therefore, during the first suction heating, compared to the second suction heating, the amount of power consumed to raise the temperature of the liquid among the power supplied at the beginning of the suction is less, and the amount of power consumed to vaporize the liquid is greater. As a result, the amount of aerosol generated at the beginning of the suction is greater in the first suction heating than in the second suction heating.

[0078] Based on the above, by performing preheating before performing suction heating, the amount of aerosol available for suction at the beginning of suction can be increased.

[0079] However, in a configuration where the heating unit (121) atomizes an aerosol source induced by the liquid induction unit (122) through the capillary effect to generate an aerosol, there is a risk that the phenomenon described below may occur. That is, if the amount of power supplied to the heating unit (121) becomes excessive, the amount of aerosol source atomized becomes greater than the amount of aerosol source induced by the liquid induction unit (122), and consequently, there is a risk that there will be no aerosol source to generate an aerosol in the heating unit (121). Since no aerosol source is present and no aerosol is generated in the heating unit (121), the user will not be able to inhale the aerosol even if they perform an inhalation operation.

[0080] Therefore, the control unit (116) makes the amount of power (electric energy) when performing the first suction heating smaller than the amount of power (electric energy) when performing the second suction heating.

[0081] Thus, the amount of aerosol source being atomized is prevented from becoming greater than the amount of aerosol source induced by the liquid induction unit (122), and finally, the aerosol source for generating aerosol in the heating unit (121) is prevented from not existing.

[0082] In order to make the amount of power used when performing the first suction heating (hereinafter referred to as "first suction heating power amount") less than the amount of power used when performing the second suction heating (hereinafter referred to as "second suction heating power amount"), the control unit (116) controls the power supply to the heating unit (121) as follows.

[0083] The control unit (116) makes the power supplied to the heating unit (121) when performing the first suction heating (hereinafter referred to as "first suction heating power") smaller than the power supplied to the heating unit (121) when performing the second suction heating (hereinafter referred to as "second suction heating power") (first suction heating power < second suction heating power).

[0084] For example, the control unit (116) makes the power value supplied to the heating unit (121) when performing the first suction heating smaller than the power value supplied to the heating unit (121) when performing the second suction heating.

[0085] For example, the control unit (116) makes the duty ratio of the PWM signal output to the DC / DC converter (118) when performing the first suction heating smaller than the duty ratio when performing the second suction heating. The control unit (116) may, for example, set the duty ratio when performing the first suction heating to 70% and the duty ratio when performing the second suction heating to 90%. Additionally, when performing the first suction heating, the control unit (116) may fix the duty ratio at 70% until the room temperature reaches the suction heating set temperature, and after the room temperature reaches the suction heating set temperature, change the duty ratio based on the difference between the room temperature and the set temperature. Additionally, when performing the second suction heating, the control unit (116) may fix the duty ratio at 90% until the room temperature reaches the suction heating set temperature, and after the room temperature reaches the suction heating set temperature, change the duty ratio based on the difference between the room temperature and the set temperature.

[0086] Alternatively, the control unit (116) may make the first suction heating power and the second suction heating power equal, and make the upper limit time for continuing the first suction heating (hereinafter referred to as the "first suction heating upper limit time") shorter than the upper limit time for continuing the second suction heating (hereinafter referred to as the "second suction heating upper limit time") (first suction heating upper limit time < second suction heating upper limit time). The first suction heating upper limit time may be 1.7 seconds and the second suction heating upper limit time may be 2.4 seconds.

[0087] When the control unit (116) makes the first suction heating power smaller than the second suction heating power, the first suction heating upper limit time and the second suction heating upper limit time may be the same. Alternatively, when the control unit (116) makes the first suction heating power amount smaller than the second suction heating power amount, the first suction heating upper limit time and the second suction heating upper limit time may be different, and the first suction heating upper limit time may be longer or shorter than the second suction heating upper limit time. By making the first suction heating power amount smaller than the second suction heating power and also making the first suction heating upper limit time shorter than the second suction heating upper limit time, the control unit (116) can accurately make the first suction heating power amount smaller than the second suction heating power amount.

[0088] FIG. 4 is a flowchart showing an example of the sequence of heat treatment performed by the control unit (116).

[0089] The control unit (116) repeats this process, for example, at a predetermined control cycle (for example, every millisecond).

[0090] The control unit (116) determines whether the preheating start condition is established (S401). If the preheating start condition is established (YES in S401), the control unit (116) performs preheating (S402). After that, the control unit (116) determines whether the suction heating condition is established (S403). If the suction heating condition is established (YES in S403), the control unit (116) performs the first suction heating (S404). After that, it determines whether the suction operation has ended (S405). If it is determined that the suction operation has not ended (NO in S405), the control unit (116) determines whether the first suction heating upper limit time has been reached (S406). If the first suction heating upper limit time has not been reached (NO in S406), the control unit (116) performs the processing after S405. When the first suction heating upper limit time is reached (YES in S406), or when the suction operation is terminated (YES in S405), the control unit (116) stops the power supply from the power supply unit (111) to the heating unit (121) and stops the heating (S407).

[0091] Meanwhile, in S403, if it is determined that the suction operation was not performed by the user (NO in S403), the control unit (116) determines whether the preheating termination condition is established (S408). If the preheating termination condition is not established (NO in S408), the control unit (116) performs the processing after S402. Meanwhile, if the preheating termination condition is established (YES in S408), the control unit (116) stops the power supply from the power supply unit (111) to the heating unit (121) and stops the heating (S407).

[0092] Meanwhile, if it is determined in S401 that the preheating start condition is not established (NO in S401), the control unit (116) determines whether the suction heating condition is established (S409). If the suction heating condition is not established (NO in S409), the control unit (116) terminates the process. Meanwhile, if the suction heating condition is established (YES in S409), the control unit (116) performs the second suction heating (S410). Afterward, it determines whether the suction operation has ended (S411). If it is determined that the suction operation has not ended (NO in S411), the control unit (116) determines whether the second suction heating upper limit time has been reached (S412). If the second suction heating upper limit time has not been reached (NO in S412), the control unit (116) performs the process after S411. When the second suction heating upper limit time is reached (YES in S412), or when the suction operation is terminated (YES in S411), the control unit (116) stops the power supply from the power supply unit (111) to the heating unit (121) and stops the heating (S407).

[0093] FIG. 5 is a timing chart for explaining the operation of the suction device (1).

[0094] FIG. 5(a) is a timing chart for the case where the first suction heating is performed, and FIG. 5(b) is a timing chart for the case where the second suction heating is performed.

[0095] More specifically, FIG. 5(a) shows the operation in which, at time t1, an operation to turn on the power of the suction device (1) is performed, and at time t2 thereafter, a condition for starting preheating is detected, and at time t3 thereafter, a first suction operation is detected (a case in which a suction heating condition is detected). FIG. 5(a) also shows the operation in which, at time t4, a first suction operation is not performed, and at time t5 thereafter, a condition for starting preheating is detected, and at time t6 thereafter, a second suction operation is detected.

[0096] FIG. 5(b) shows the operation in which, at time t1, an operation to turn on the power of the suction device (1) is performed, and at time t3 thereafter, the first suction operation is detected (the suction heating condition is detected to have been established). FIG. 5(b) also shows the operation in which, at time t4, the first suction operation is not performed, and at time t6 thereafter, the second suction operation is detected to have been performed.

[0097] In addition, the timing chart shown in Fig. 5 illustrates a case where the duty cycle for the first suction heating is 70% and the duty cycle for the second suction heating is 90%.

[0098] FIG. 5(c) is a diagram showing the change in temperature of the heating part (121) when the suction device (1) operates as shown in FIG. 5(a) (hereinafter referred to as "Case 1") and when it operates as shown in FIG. 5(b) (hereinafter referred to as "Case 2"). The temperature change in Case 1 is shown as a solid line, and the temperature change in Case 2 is shown as a dashed line.

[0099] In the case where the duty cycle for the first suction heating is set to 70% and the duty cycle for the second suction heating is set to 90%, the rate of temperature rise of the heating unit (121) after the suction operation begins is greater in Case 2 than in Case 1. However, in the case of Case 1, since preheating is performed before suction heating, it is easier to reach the suction heating target temperature earlier than in the case of Case 2. Therefore, in the case of Case 1, the temperature of the aerosol source is easier to reach the temperature at which it is atomized and aerosol is generated earlier than in the case of Case 2. As a result, in the suction device (1), the amount of aerosol generated at the beginning of suction by the user is greater when the first suction heating is performed than when the second suction heating is performed.

[0100] In addition, to make the first suction heating power smaller than the second suction heating power, the duty ratio when performing the first suction heating is set to 70% and the duty ratio when performing the second suction heating is set to 90%, but these duty ratios are not specifically limited to these. It is desirable to set both duty ratios such that the time from starting the suction heating to reaching the suction heating target temperature when performing the first suction heating after reaching the preheating target temperature is shorter than the time from starting the suction heating to reaching the suction heating target temperature when performing the second suction heating.

[0101] As described above, the suction device (1) comprises a liquid storage unit (123) for storing a liquid that is an aerosol source and generates an aerosol by being heated, a heating unit (121) for heating the liquid, a power supply unit (111) for accumulating power, and a control unit (116) for controlling the supply of power from the power supply unit (111) to the heating unit (121). Furthermore, when a suction heating condition as an example of a predetermined first condition is established, the control unit (116) performs suction heating as an example of first heating, raising the temperature of the liquid that is an aerosol source to a first temperature (e.g., boiling point) or higher at which the liquid vaporizes. Meanwhile, the control unit (116) performs a preheating as an example of a second heating when a preheating start condition as an example of a predetermined second condition is established before the suction heating condition is established, and the temperature of the liquid aerosol source is set to a second temperature (e.g., 40 degrees) or higher and also lower than the first temperature (e.g., boiling point). Then, the control unit (116) makes the amount of power used in the first suction heating that transitioned to suction heating during the preheating smaller than the amount of power used in the second suction heating that transitioned to suction heating without performing preheating.

[0102] That is, the suction device (1) performs preheating when the preheating start condition is established before the suction heating condition is established, and then performs suction heating when the suction heating condition is established. With the suction device (1) configured in this way, by performing suction heating after performing preheating, the amount of aerosol at the beginning of suction is greater than when suction heating is performed without performing preheating.

[0103] Additionally, although the second temperature was exemplified as 40 degrees, it is not specifically limited to 40 degrees. Since the purpose of preheating is to raise the temperature of the liquid aerosol source in advance before performing suction heating, the second temperature can be higher than the temperature of the place where the suction device (1) is used. For example, if the region where the suction device (1) is used is Japan, the second temperature can be higher than the air temperature of Japan. Since the air temperature varies with the seasons, the second temperature may be changed according to the season. Additionally, although the target temperature for preheating was exemplified as 50 degrees, it is not specifically limited to 50 degrees. The target temperature for preheating may be set to the second temperature + 10 degrees, and thus changed in the same way as the change in the second temperature. Likewise, when the power supplied to the heating unit (121) during preheating is set to a predetermined power value, the predetermined power value may be changed in the same way as the change in the second temperature. That is, this predetermined power value or preheating target temperature may be changed according to the region or season in which the suction device (1) is used.

[0104] In addition, according to the suction device (1), the amount of power in the first suction heating is smaller than the amount of power in the second suction heating, so even if preheating is performed, the amount of aerosol source being atomized is suppressed to be greater than the amount of aerosol source induced by the liquid induction unit (122). As a result, according to the suction device (1), even if preheating is performed, the aerosol source that can be heated in the heating unit (121) necessary to generate aerosol during suction is suppressed to not exist.

[0105] For example, the control unit (116) makes the upper limit time for continuing the first suction heating shorter than the upper limit time for continuing the second suction heating (first suction heating upper limit time < second suction heating upper limit time). As a result, the amount of power in the first suction heating becomes more accurately smaller than the amount of power in the second suction heating, so that the absence of an aerosol source that can be heated in the heating unit (121), which is necessary to generate an aerosol during suction, is accurately suppressed.

[0106] Alternatively, the control unit (116) makes the power supplied during the first suction heating smaller than the power supplied during the second suction heating (first suction heating power < second suction heating power). As a result, the amount of power in the first suction heating is accurately reduced compared to the amount of power in the second suction heating, so that the absence of an aerosol source that can be heated in the heating unit (121), which is necessary to generate an aerosol during suction, is accurately suppressed.

[0107] Additionally, the control unit (116) makes the upper limit time for continuing the first suction heating shorter than the upper limit time for continuing the second suction heating (first suction heating upper limit time < second suction heating upper limit time), and at the same time makes the power supplied during the first suction heating smaller than the power supplied during the second suction heating (first suction heating power < second suction heating power). By doing so, the absence of an aerosol source that can be heated in the heating unit (121), which is necessary to generate an aerosol during suction, is suppressed with greater accuracy.

[0108] Additionally, the control unit (116) controls the temperature of the heating unit (121) so that it does not exceed the target temperature. As a result, the temperature of the heating unit (121) can be suppressed from rising higher than necessary, so even if preheating is performed, the absence of an aerosol source that can be heated in the heating unit (121), which is necessary to generate an aerosol during inhalation, is suppressed with high accuracy.

[0109] Additionally, the suction device (1) is equipped with a flow sensor (112q) as an example of a detection unit that detects the amount of liquid stored in the liquid storage unit (123) (hereinafter referred to as "remaining amount"), and the control unit (116) changes the amount of power for suction heating according to the amount of liquid (remaining amount) detected by the flow sensor (112q). For example, the control unit (116) changes at least one of the first suction heating upper limit time and the first suction heating power according to the remaining amount.

[0110] FIG. 6(a) is a diagram showing an example of the relationship between the remaining amount and the first suction heating upper limit time.

[0111] As shown in FIG. 6(a), when the remaining amount is greater than a predetermined amount, the control unit (116) sets the first suction heating upper limit time to a predetermined time. The predetermined time may be exemplified as 1.7 seconds. The predetermined amount may be exemplified as 30% of the maximum amount when the remaining amount is equal to the maximum amount that can be stored in the liquid storage unit (123), with the remaining amount being 100%.

[0112] And, as shown in FIG. 6(a), when the remaining amount is less than a predetermined amount, the control unit (116) gradually shortens the first suction heating upper limit time to a predetermined time as the remaining amount decreases.

[0113] Thus, the absence of an aerosol source that can be heated in the heating unit (121), which is necessary to generate an aerosol during inhalation, is suppressed with high accuracy.

[0114] FIG. 6(b) is a diagram showing an example of the relationship between the remaining amount and the first suction heating power.

[0115] As shown in FIG. 6(b), when the remaining amount is greater than or equal to a predetermined amount, the control unit (116) sets the first suction heating power when performing the first suction heating to a predetermined power. The predetermined power can be exemplified as 4W.

[0116] And, as shown in FIG. 6(b), when the remaining amount is less than a predetermined amount, the control unit (116) gradually reduces the first suction heating power when performing the first suction heating as the remaining amount decreases compared to the predetermined power.

[0117] Thus, the absence of an aerosol source that can be heated in the heating unit (121), which is necessary to generate an aerosol during inhalation, is suppressed with high accuracy.

[0118] (Regarding the start of preheating)

[0119] Below, variations of the preheating initiation conditions are described.

[0120] Here, by performing preheating before the suction operation is performed, a high amount of vaporization can be sucked in from the beginning of the suction, but if the suction operation is not performed after the preheating is performed, the power for preheating becomes unnecessary. In addition, if the time from the start of preheating until the preheating target temperature is reached is called the "minimum heating time," if preheating is started before the minimum heating time when the suction operation is performed, the power consumption required to maintain the preheating target temperature after reaching the preheating target temperature can be suppressed. The minimum heating time varies depending on the specifications of the heating unit (121) and the preheating target temperature, but it can be exemplified as being 2 seconds or less. If the minimum heating time is 2 seconds, if preheating is started 2 seconds before the suction operation is performed, the preheating target temperature can be sufficiently reached by the time the suction operation is performed.

[0121] For the above reasons, it is desirable to initiate preheating before the minimum heating time during which the suction operation is performed with high accuracy.

[0122] The following cases are considered as phenomena in which suction heating conditions are expected to be established.

[0123] (1) This is the case where the suction device (1) is moved to the mouth. This is because the user moves the suction device (1) to the mouth before performing the suction operation. In particular, it is thought that the suction device (1) is moved to the mouth during the first suction operation.

[0124] (2) This is the case where the suction device (1) is located near the mouth. This is because the suction device (1) is located near the mouth when the user performs the suction operation. In particular, it is thought that before the second or subsequent suction operation, the suction device (1) may be kept near the mouth continuously from the previous suction operation.

[0125] (3) This is the case where the suction device (1) comes into contact with the lips. This is because the user bites the mouthpiece (124) when performing the suction action.

[0126] Therefore, the above (1) to (3) may be used as preheating start conditions, and the preheating start condition may be detected as established as described below.

[0127] FIG. 7 is a drawing showing an example of the schematic configuration of the sensor unit (112) and the control unit (116) related to the deformation example.

[0128] In the case of (1) above, the control unit (116) can be exemplified as follows to detect that the preheating start condition has been established.

[0129] Before the user performs the suction operation, it is considered that the user may pick up the suction device (1) placed on a desk or table, for example. Thus, the sensor unit (112) may have a gyro sensor (112j), and the control unit (116) may be exemplified as detecting that the preheating start condition is established when the output value of the gyro sensor (112j) indicates that the direction of the suction device (1) has changed from horizontal to vertical. The gyro sensor (112j) may be exemplified as being formed inside the power unit case (11). Furthermore, when the suction device (1) is placed on a desk or table, it becomes a horizontal direction in which the height of the power unit (111) and the mouthpiece (124) are the same. Meanwhile, when the user is performing a suction operation, as shown in FIG. 1, the mouthpiece (124) is positioned above the power unit (110), in other words, in a vertical direction where the height of the mouthpiece (124) is greater than the height of the power unit (111). Therefore, the control unit (116) can exemplify detecting that a preheating start condition has been established when the output value of the gyro sensor (112j) changes from a value indicating a state where the height of the power unit (111) and the mouthpiece (124) are the same to a value indicating a state where the height of the mouthpiece (124) is greater than the height of the power unit (111). In addition, the state in which the height of the power supply unit (111) and the mouthpiece (124) are the same is not limited to cases where the height of the power supply unit (111) and the mouthpiece (124) are completely the same, for example, cases where the height difference between the power supply unit (111) and the mouthpiece (124) is 1 cm or less. This is because when the height difference between the power supply unit (111) and the mouthpiece (124) is 1 cm or less, the suction device (1) can be considered to be in the horizontal direction.

[0130] Additionally, in the case where the user touches the suction device (1) with their hand before performing the suction operation, the sensor unit (112) has a tactile sensor (112s), and the control unit (116) may detect that a preheating start condition has been established when the output value of the tactile sensor (112s) indicates that the hand is touching the suction device (1). Additionally, the tactile sensor (112s) may be exemplified as being mounted on the power unit case (11) in a state exposed from the surface of the power unit case (11) that accommodates the power unit (110).

[0131] Additionally, it is considered that the user moves the suction device (1) from the waist area to the mouth area, for example, before performing the suction operation. Thus, the sensor unit (112) has an acceleration sensor (112a), and the control unit (116) may detect that the preheating start condition is established when the output value of the acceleration sensor (112a) exceeds a predetermined threshold. Furthermore, when the suction device (1) is moved from bottom to top, a downward inertial force acts, and the acceleration sensor (112a) indicates positive acceleration, and when the suction device (1) is moved from top to bottom, an upward inertial force acts, and the acceleration sensor (112a) indicates negative acceleration. Therefore, when the output value of the acceleration sensor (112a) exceeds a predetermined threshold, it can be considered that the user has moved the suction device (1) from the waist area to the mouth area to perform the suction operation. An acceleration sensor (112a) may be exemplified as being formed within the power unit case (11).

[0132] Additionally, when the suction device (1) is moved from the waist area to the mouth area, it is thought that the height of the suction device (1) changes by the height between the waist area and the mouth area. Therefore, the sensor unit (112) has an altitude sensor (112h), and the control unit (116) may detect that the preheating start condition is established when the amount of change in the output value of the altitude sensor (112h) exceeds a predetermined threshold. The altitude sensor (112h) may be exemplified as being formed inside the power unit case (11). Furthermore, instead of using the output value of the altitude sensor (112h), the control unit (116) may estimate that the suction device (1) has moved from the waist area to the mouth area when the amount of change in the output value of the pressure sensor (112p) exceeds a predetermined threshold, and detect that the preheating start condition is established.

[0133] Additionally, if the user moves the suction device (1) to the mouth before performing the suction operation, the distance between the suction device (1) and the mouth decreases. Therefore, the suction device (1) has a LiDAR (Light Detection and Ranging) (112l) that measures the distance between the suction device (1) and the mouth, and the control unit (116) may detect that the preheating start condition is established when the output value of the LiDAR (112l) indicates that the distance between the suction device (1) and the mouth has become less than or equal to a predetermined threshold. When the user moves the suction device (1) to the mouth to perform the suction operation, it is typically moved upward from a position below the mouth to the mouth, so the LiDAR (112l) measures the distance to the lower lip, and the control unit (116) may detect that the preheating start condition is established when the distance measured by the LiDAR (112l) becomes less than or equal to a predetermined threshold. Alternatively, the LiDAR (112l) measures the distance to the nose, and the control unit (116) may estimate the distance between the area where the upper and lower lips come into contact and the suction device (1) by using the distance measured by the LiDAR (112l) and the distance between the area where the upper and lower lips come into contact and the nose, which is stored in the memory unit (114) or ROM in advance, and detect that the preheating start condition is established when the estimated distance becomes less than or equal to a predetermined threshold. In addition, the LiDAR (112l) may be exemplified as being mounted on, for example, the end cap (20). Alternatively, the LiDAR (112l) may be mounted on the mouthpiece (124).

[0134] Additionally, when the suction device (1) is moved to the user's mouth, the infrared sensor (112i) can measure the user's body temperature. By utilizing this, the suction device (1) may have an infrared sensor (112i), and the control unit (116) may detect that a preheating start condition has been established when the output value of the infrared sensor (112i) exceeds a predetermined threshold. Additionally, the infrared sensor (112i) may be exemplified as being mounted on, for example, the end cap (20). Alternatively, the infrared sensor (112i) may be mounted on the mouthpiece (124).

[0135] Additionally, the suction device (1) has a camera (112c), and the control unit (116) may detect that a preheating start condition has been established when the camera (112c) captures the suction device (1) approaching the user's mouth. The image captured by the camera (112c) may be a still image or a moving image. In the case of a still image, the camera (112c) may capture, for example, every millisecond. Additionally, the camera (112c) may be exemplified as being mounted on, for example, the end cap (20). Alternatively, the camera (112c) may be mounted on the mouthpiece (124).

[0136] In addition, in the case of (2) above, the control unit (116) can be exemplified as follows in detecting that the preheating start condition has been established.

[0137] When the suction device (1) is located near the user's mouth, the odor sensor (112n) can measure volatile sulfur compounds generated in the user's mouth. By utilizing this, the suction device (1) may have an odor sensor (112n), and the control unit (116) may detect that a preheating start condition has been established when the output value of the odor sensor (112n) is above a predetermined threshold. Alternatively, as the odor sensor (112n), a sensor capable of measuring flavor components contained in an aerosol that can be sucked from the suction device (1) may be used, and the control unit (116) may detect that a preheating start condition has been established when the output value of the odor sensor (112n) is above a predetermined threshold.

[0138] In addition, since the user's exhaled air has very high humidity, if the humidity sensor (112k) is located near the user's mouth, the output value of the humidity sensor (112k) is above a predetermined threshold. Therefore, the sensor unit (112) has a humidity sensor (112k), and the control unit (116) may detect that a preheating start condition has been established when the output value of the humidity sensor (112k) is above a predetermined threshold.

[0139] In addition, since the CO2 concentration in the user's exhaled air is higher than that of the outside air, the output value of the CO2 sensor (112o) is above a predetermined threshold when the CO2 sensor (112o) is located near the user's mouth. Therefore, the sensor unit (112) has a CO2 sensor (112o), and the control unit (116) may detect that a preheating start condition has been established when the output value of the CO2 sensor (112o) exceeds a predetermined threshold.

[0140] Additionally, the odor sensor (112n), humidity sensor (112k), and CO2 sensor (112o) may be exemplified as being mounted, for example, on the end cap (20). Alternatively, the odor sensor (112n), humidity sensor (112k), and CO2 sensor (112o) may be mounted on the mouthpiece (124).

[0141] In addition, in the case of (2) above, just as in the case of (1) above, the control unit (116) may detect that the preheating start condition is established when the output value of the infrared sensor (112i) is above a predetermined threshold, and the suction device (1) is near the mouth. In addition, the control unit (116) may detect that the preheating start condition is established when the output value of the LiDAR (112l) indicates that the distance between the suction device (1) and the mouth is below a predetermined threshold. In addition, the control unit (116) may detect that the preheating start condition is established when the camera (112c) captures that the suction device (1) is near the user's mouth.

[0142] In addition, in the case of (3) above, a tactile sensor (112m) is mounted while exposed from the surface of the mouthpiece (124), and the control unit (116) can be exemplified by detecting that a preheating start condition has been established when the output value of the tactile sensor (112m) indicates that the mouth is in contact with the mouthpiece (124).

[0143] Additionally, the suction device (1) has at least two of the above-described gyro sensor (112j), tactile sensor (112s), accelerometer (112a), altitude sensor (112h), LiDAR (112l), infrared sensor (112i), camera (112c), odor sensor (112n), tactile sensor (112m), humidity sensor (112k) and CO2 sensor (112o), and the control unit (116) may detect that a preheating start condition is established based on output values ​​from two or more sensors. For example, the control unit (116) may detect that a preheating start condition is established when, during the first suction operation, the output value of the gyro sensor (112j) indicates that the direction of the suction device (1) is vertical, and the output value of the accelerometer (112a) indicates that the suction device (1) has moved from bottom to top. Additionally, the control unit (116) may detect that a preheating start condition has been established when, during the second or subsequent suction operation, the output value of the gyro sensor (112j) indicates that the direction of the suction device (1) is vertical, and the output value of the infrared sensor (112i) is greater than or equal to a predetermined threshold. This makes it possible to detect that a preheating start condition has been established with greater precision.

[0144] Additionally, the suction device (1) has at least three of the above-described gyro sensor (112j), tactile sensor (112s), accelerometer (112a), altitude sensor (112h), LiDAR (112l), infrared sensor (112i), camera (112c), odor sensor (112n), tactile sensor (112m), humidity sensor (112k) and CO2 sensor (112o), and the control unit (116) may detect that a preheating start condition has been established based on the output values ​​from three or more sensors. For example, the control unit (116) may detect that a preheating start condition is established when, during the first suction operation, the output value of the gyroscope sensor (112j) indicates that the direction of the suction device (1) is vertical, the output value of the accelerometer sensor (112a) indicates that the suction device (1) has moved from bottom to top, and the output value of the infrared sensor (112i) is greater than or equal to a predetermined threshold. Additionally, the control unit (116) may detect that a preheating start condition is established when, during the second or subsequent suction operation, the output value of the gyroscope sensor (112j) indicates that the direction of the suction device (1) is vertical, the output value of the infrared sensor (112i) is greater than or equal to a predetermined threshold, and the output value of the odor sensor (112n) is greater than or equal to a predetermined threshold. By doing so, it becomes possible to detect that a preheating start condition is established with greater precision.

[0145] Additionally, the suction device (1) learns the time interval between consecutive suction operations, and the control unit (116) may determine that the preheating start condition is established when the minimum heating time before the time when the (n+1)th suction operation is expected to start after the nth suction operation has elapsed. For example, the control unit (116) calculates the average value of the time interval between consecutive suction operations and stores this average value in the memory unit (114) as the average time interval. Then, the control unit (116) may determine that the preheating start condition is established when (average time interval - minimum heating time) has elapsed after the nth suction operation. For example, if the average time interval is 15 seconds and the minimum heating time is 2 seconds, the control unit (116) may detect that the preheating start condition is established when 13 seconds have elapsed after the nth suction operation.

[0146] (Regarding the end of preheating)

[0147] As described above, in the suction device (1), the control unit (116) stops the preheating when the preheating termination condition is met after performing preheating. For example, the control unit (116) stops the preheating when a predetermined time (e.g., 10 seconds) has elapsed after starting the preheating. Therefore, compared to a configuration in which preheating continues until the suction operation is performed after starting preheating, the period for performing preheating can be shortened, and thus power consumption for preheating can be suppressed.

[0148] In addition, the preheating termination condition may be any of the following conditions, in addition to the fact that a predetermined time (e.g., 10 seconds) has elapsed after the preheating described above has started.

[0149] The control unit (116) may exemplify that the output value of the gyro sensor (112j) indicates that the direction of the suction device (1) has changed from vertical to horizontal, thereby serving as a preheating termination condition. In other words, the control unit (116) may exemplify that the output value of the gyro sensor (112j) changes from a value indicating that the height of the mouthpiece (124) is greater than the height of the power supply unit (111) to a value indicating that the heights of the power supply unit (111) and the mouthpiece (124) are the same, thereby serving as a preheating termination condition. This is because, when the suction device (1) is placed, for example, on a desk or table, it is considered unlikely that a suction operation will be performed within the minimum heating time.

[0150] Additionally, the control unit (116) may set the preheating termination condition as the output value of the tactile sensor (112s) no longer indicating that the hand is touching the suction device (1). This is because it is considered unlikely that the suction operation will be performed within the minimum heating time when the user removes their hand from the suction device (1).

[0151] Additionally, the control unit (116) may set the output value of the acceleration sensor (112a), which becomes negative acceleration when the suction device (1) is moved from top to bottom, as a preheating termination condition when it becomes below a predetermined negative threshold. This is because it is considered that the likelihood of a suction operation being performed within the minimum heating time is low when the user moves the suction device (1), for example, from the mouth area to the waist area.

[0152] Additionally, the control unit (116) may consider that the change in the output value of the altitude sensor (112h) becomes a negative value when the suction device (1) is moved from top to bottom, and thus the change in the output value of the altitude sensor (112h) becomes less than or equal to a predetermined negative threshold, as a preheating termination condition. This is because it is considered that if the user moves the suction device (1) from the mouth area to the waist area, for example, the likelihood of the suction operation being performed within the minimum heating time is low. Furthermore, instead of using the output value of the altitude sensor (112h), the control unit (116) may presume that the suction device (1) has moved from the mouth area to the waist area when the change in the output value of the pressure sensor (112p) becomes less than or equal to a predetermined negative threshold, and thus the preheating termination condition may be established.

[0153] In addition, when the distance between the suction device (1) and the mouth is large, the likelihood of the suction operation being performed within the minimum heating time is low, so the control unit (116) may set the following conditions as preheating termination conditions. In other words, the preheating termination condition may be established when the distance between the user's mouth and the device exceeds a predetermined threshold. For example, the control unit (116) may set the output value of the LiDAR (112l) indicating that the distance between the suction device (1) and the mouth exceeds a predetermined threshold as the preheating termination condition. In addition, the control unit (116) may set the output value of the infrared sensor (112i) becoming less than a predetermined threshold as the preheating termination condition. In addition, the control unit (116) may set the camera (112c) capturing that the suction device (1) is not near the user's mouth as the preheating termination condition. Additionally, the control unit (116) may set the output value of the odor sensor (112n) to be less than a predetermined threshold as a preheating termination condition. Additionally, the control unit (116) may set the output value of the humidity sensor (112k) to be less than a predetermined threshold as a preheating termination condition. Additionally, the control unit (116) may set the output value of the CO2 sensor (112o) to be less than a predetermined threshold as a preheating termination condition.

[0154] Additionally, the suction device (1) has at least two of the above-described gyro sensor (112j), tactile sensor (112s), accelerometer (112a), altitude sensor (112h), LiDAR (112l), infrared sensor (112i), camera (112c), odor sensor (112n), tactile sensor (112m), humidity sensor (112k) and CO2 sensor (112o), and the control unit (116) may determine whether the preheating termination condition is established based on the output values ​​from the two or more sensors.

[0155] For example, the control unit (116) may determine that the preheating termination condition is established when the output value of the acceleration sensor (112a) indicates that the suction device (1) has moved from top to bottom, and the output value of the gyro sensor (112j) indicates that the direction of the suction device (1) is horizontal. Additionally, the control unit (116) may determine that the preheating termination condition is established when the output value of the acceleration sensor (112a) indicates that the suction device (1) has moved from top to bottom, and the output value of the infrared sensor (112i) is below a predetermined threshold. By doing so, it becomes possible to determine with greater precision that the suction operation is not performed within the minimum heating time.

[0156] By setting the preheating termination condition to the above-described condition, the control unit (116) can accurately determine that there is a low probability that the suction operation will be performed within the minimum heating time and stop the preheating, thereby suppressing unnecessary power consumption associated with preheating.

[0157] In addition, if the control unit (116) stops preheating when a preheating termination condition is established after performing preheating, the timing for starting preheating is not limited to when a phenomenon is detected in which a suction heating condition is expected to be established. For example, the control unit (116) may start preheating when the power of the suction device (1) is turned ON and started, and then stop preheating when a preheating termination condition is established. In addition, the control unit (116) may switch from suction heating to preheating at the timing when the nth suction operation is completed, and then stop preheating when a preheating termination condition is established.

[0158] <Second Embodiment>

[0159] FIG. 8 is a schematic diagram showing an example of the general configuration of a suction device (2) related to the second embodiment.

[0160] The suction device (2) related to the second embodiment differs from the suction device (1) related to the first embodiment in that it is equipped with a flavor-imparting cartridge (130). Additionally, the suction device (2) differs from the suction device (1) in that it has a case (210) instead of a case (10). Below, differences from the first embodiment will be described. In the first and second embodiments, the same reference numerals are used for identical items, and detailed descriptions thereof are omitted.

[0161] The flavor imparting cartridge (130) has a flavor source (131).

[0162] The flavor source (131) is a component for imparting flavor components to the aerosol. The flavor source (131) may be of tobacco origin, such as a processed product formed by molding tobacco or tobacco raw materials into a granular, sheet, or powder form. Additionally, the flavor source (131) may include non-tobacco origins, such as those made from plants other than tobacco (e.g., mint and herbs). As an example, the flavor source (131) may include flavor components such as menthol. Additionally, the flavor source (131) may be placed inside a container such as a capsule.

[0163] In the middle of the air passage (185), in addition to the liquid guide (122), a flavor source (131) is placed on the downstream side of the liquid guide (122) (the side closer to the air outlet (182)). The aerosol generated by the heating section (121) is mixed with air introduced from the air inlet (181). Subsequently, upon suction by the user, the mixed fluid of aerosol and air passes through the flavor source (131) and is transported to the air outlet (182) as indicated by arrow 192. Then, as the 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.

[0164] The case (210) has a cylindrical flavor-giving cartridge case (13) that accommodates a flavor-giving cartridge (130) in addition to the power unit case (11) and the cartridge case (12). The flavor-giving cartridge (130) and the cartridge (120) are configured to be detachably connected to each other. An end cap (20) is mounted on the opening of the flavor-giving cartridge case (13) on the side opposite to the cartridge case (12). Inhalation by the user is performed with the cartridge (120), the flavor-giving cartridge (130), and the power unit (110) attached to each other, the end cap (20) mounted on the flavor-giving cartridge case (13), and the mouthpiece (124) mounted on the end cap (20).

[0165] In the suction device (2) related to the second embodiment configured as described above, the control unit (116) performs suction heating in the same manner as described in the first embodiment, thereby preventing the absence of an aerosol source that can be heated in the heating unit (121), which is necessary to generate an aerosol during suction, even if preheating is performed in advance.

[0166] <Third Embodiment>

[0167] FIG. 9 is a schematic diagram showing an example of the general configuration of a suction device (3) related to the third embodiment.

[0168] The suction device (3) related to the third embodiment differs from the suction device (1) related to the first embodiment in that it is equipped with a susceptor (161) and an electromagnetic induction source (162) instead of a heating element (121). Below, differences from the first embodiment will be described. In the first and third embodiments, the same reference numerals are used for identical elements, and detailed descriptions thereof are omitted.

[0169] The susceptor (161) generates heat through electromagnetic induction. The susceptor (161) is made of a conductive material such as metal. The susceptor (161) is positioned in close proximity to the liquid induction section (122). In the example shown in FIG. 9, the susceptor (161) is made of a metal wire and is wound around the liquid induction section (122).

[0170] The electromagnetic induction source (162) generates heat in the susceptor (161) by electromagnetic induction. The electromagnetic induction source (162) is configured, for example, by a wire in the form of a coil. When an alternating current is supplied from the power supply unit (111), the electromagnetic induction source (162) generates a magnetic field. The electromagnetic induction source (162) is positioned so that the susceptor (161) overlaps with the generated magnetic field. Thus, when a magnetic field is generated, eddy currents are generated in the susceptor (161), and Joule heat is generated. Then, due to this Joule heat, the aerosol source maintained in the liquid induction unit (122) is heated and atomized, and an aerosol is generated.

[0171] In the suction device (3) related to the third embodiment configured as described above, the control unit (116) performs power supply control to the electromagnetic induction source (162) in the same manner as it performs power supply control to the heating unit (121) related to the first embodiment, and performs heating treatment of the susceptor (161). Then, in the heating treatment of the susceptor (161), the control unit (116) performs suction heating in the same manner as described in the first embodiment, thereby preventing the absence of an aerosol source that can be heated in the heating unit (121), which is necessary to generate an aerosol during suction, even if preheating has been performed in advance.

[0172] <Fourth Embodiment>

[0173] FIG. 10 is a schematic drawing showing an example of the configuration of a suction device (4) related to the fourth embodiment.

[0174] The suction device (4) related to the fourth embodiment differs from the suction device (1) related to the first embodiment in that it generates an aerosol by heating an aerosol source as a liquid and heating a substrate containing the aerosol source. Additionally, the suction device (4) differs from the suction device (1) in that it has a case (410) instead of a case (10). The differences from the first embodiment will be explained below. In the first and fourth embodiments, the same reference numerals are used for identical items, and detailed descriptions thereof are omitted.

[0175] The suction device (4) related to the fourth embodiment comprises a power unit (110), a heating unit (121), a liquid induction unit (122), and a liquid storage unit (123), in addition to a substrate heating unit (171), a holding unit (140), and an insulation unit (144). In the suction device (4), suction by a user is performed while the stick-type substrate (150) is held in the holding unit (140).

[0176] A retaining part (140) has an internal space (141) and retains a stick-shaped material (150) while accommodating a portion of the stick-shaped material (150) in the internal space (141). The retaining part (140) has an opening (142) that communicates the internal space (141) to the outside and retains the stick-shaped material (150) inserted into the internal space (141) from the opening (142). For example, the retaining part (140) is a conventional body having the opening (142) and the bottom part (143) as the bottom surface and defines a columnar internal space (141). The retaining part (140) is configured such that, in at least a portion of the height direction of the conventional body, the inner diameter becomes smaller than the outer diameter of the stick-shaped material (150), and the stick-shaped material (150) inserted into the internal space (141) is compressed from the outer circumference to retain the stick-shaped material (150). The retaining portion (140) also has the function of defining the air passage through the stick-shaped material (150). An air inlet, which is an air inlet into this passage, is placed, for example, in the bottom portion (143). Meanwhile, an air outlet, which is an air outlet from this passage, is an opening (142).

[0177] The stick-shaped material (150) is a stick-shaped component. The stick-shaped material (150) has a material portion (151) and a mouth portion (152).

[0178] The base portion (151) includes an aerosol source. The aerosol source is atomized by heating, and an aerosol is produced. The aerosol source may be of tobacco origin, such as, for example, a processed product formed from tobacco or tobacco raw materials into a granular, sheet, or powder form. Additionally, the aerosol source may include a non-tobacco origin made from plants other than tobacco (e.g., mint and herbs). As an example, the aerosol source may include flavoring components such as menthol. If the inhalation device (4) is a medical inhaler, the aerosol source may include a drug for the patient to inhale. Additionally, the aerosol source is not limited to a solid, and may be, for example, a polyhydric alcohol such as glycerin and propylene glycol, and a liquid such as water. At least a portion of the base portion (151) is contained in the internal space (141) of the retaining portion (140) while the stick-type base (150) is retained in the retaining portion (140).

[0179] The mouthpiece (152) is a part that is bitten by the user during inhalation. At least a portion of the mouthpiece (152) protrudes from the opening (142) while the stick-shaped material (150) is held in the holding part (140). Then, when the user bites the mouthpiece (152) protruding from the opening (142) and inhales, air is introduced into the interior of the holding part (140) from the air inlet hole (187). The introduced air passes through the interior space (141) of the holding part (140), that is, through the material part (151), and reaches the user's mouth together with the aerosol generated from the material part (151).

[0180] The substrate heating unit (171) generates an aerosol by atomizing an aerosol source by heating the substrate unit (151). The substrate heating unit (171) is composed of any material such as metal or polyimide. For example, the substrate heating unit (171) is formed in the form of a film and is arranged to cover the outer circumference of the retaining unit (140). Then, when the substrate heating unit (171) generates heat, the aerosol source contained in the stick-type substrate (150) is heated and atomized from the outer circumference of the stick-type substrate (150), and an aerosol is generated. The substrate heating unit (171) generates heat when supplied with power from the power supply unit (111).

[0181] Here, an air outlet hole (188) of an air passage (186) is provided in the bottom portion (143) of the retaining portion (140). Through the air outlet hole (188), the internal space (141) of the retaining portion (140) and the air passage (186) are connected.

[0182] The air passage (186) is a passage for air to be sucked in by the user. The air passage (186) has a tubular structure with an air inlet (187), which is the inlet of air into the air passage (186), and an air outlet (188), which is the outlet of air from the air passage (186), at both ends. Upon suction by the user, air is introduced into the air passage (186) from the air inlet (187), and air is discharged into the internal space (141) of the retaining part (140) from the air outlet (188). As an example, the air inlet (187) is placed at any location of the suction device (4). Meanwhile, the air outlet (188) is placed at the bottom part (143) of the retaining part (140). A liquid guide (122) is placed in the middle of the air passage (186). The aerosol generated by the heating unit (121) is mixed with air introduced from the air inlet port (187). Subsequently, upon suction by the user, the mixed fluid of aerosol and air is transported to the internal space (141) of the retaining unit (140) via the air outlet port (188), as indicated by arrow 194. Then, the mixed fluid of aerosol and air transported to the internal space (141) of the retaining unit (140) reaches the user's mouth together with the aerosol generated by the substrate heating unit (171).

[0183] The case (410) has a power unit case (11) and a conventional heating unit case (412) that accommodates a heating unit (121), a liquid induction unit (122), a liquid storage unit (123), a holding unit (140), a substrate heating unit (171), and an insulation unit (144). The power unit case (11) and the heating unit case (412) may be exemplified as separate entities configured to be detachably connected to each other. However, the power unit case (11) and the heating unit case (412) may be integral.

[0184] FIG. 11 is a timing chart for explaining the operation of the suction device (4).

[0185] In the suction device (4) related to the fourth embodiment configured as described above, the control unit (116) starts supplying power to the substrate heating unit (171) and starts heating the substrate heating unit (171) when, after the power of the suction device (4) is turned ON and started, an operation to start heating the substrate heating unit (171) is performed on the operating unit (117) at time t10 (hereinafter referred to as "substrate heating unit heating operation"). The substrate heating unit heating operation can be exemplified by, for instance, pressing the operating unit (117) for 2 seconds or longer. Then, the control unit (116) controls the power supplied to the substrate heating unit (171) through the DC / DC converter (118) to realize a time series trend of the target temperature specified in the heating profile stored in the memory unit (114) in advance. For example, the control unit (116) controls the power supplied to the substrate heating unit (171) based on the discrepancy between the target temperature specified in the heating profile and the actual temperature of the substrate heating unit (171) (hereinafter referred to as "actual temperature"). This temperature control of the substrate heating unit (171) can be realized, for example, by known feedback control.

[0186] The period from when the heating of the substrate heating unit (171) begins until the period during which a suction operation by a user is possible begins is called the "preheating period," and the period during which the stick-type substrate (150) can generate a sufficient amount of aerosol after the preheating period ends is called the "suctionable period." The preheating period ends after the temperature of the substrate heating unit (171) reaches a predetermined maximum temperature (e.g., 295 degrees). For example, the preheating period may be exemplified as ending when a predetermined time (e.g., 10 seconds) has elapsed after the temperature of the substrate heating unit (171) reaches a predetermined maximum temperature (e.g., 295 degrees). Additionally, the preheating period may be exemplified as ending when a predetermined time (e.g., 30 seconds) has elapsed after the heating of the substrate heating unit (171) begins. The control unit (116) notifies the user through the notification unit (113) that the suction period has been reached when the preheating period ends and the suction period is reached. During the suction period, the temperature of the heating unit (171) is maintained within a predetermined temperature range (e.g., 230°C to 295°C).

[0187] In the suction device (4) related to the fourth embodiment configured as described above, when the suction period is possible, the control unit (116) performs suction heating of the heating unit (121) in the same manner as described in the first embodiment, thereby preventing the absence of an aerosol source that can be heated in the heating unit (121) necessary to generate an aerosol during suction, even if preheating has been performed in advance.

[0188] And, the control unit (116) of the suction device (4) may consider the condition for starting preheating to be established when the preheating period ends and the suction period becomes available. That is, the control unit (116) may start preheating of the heating unit (121) when the preheating period ends and the suction period becomes available. By doing so, unnecessary power consumption associated with preheating can be suppressed with high accuracy.

[0189] Additionally, the suction device (4) has at least one sensor among a gyroscope sensor (112j), a tactile sensor (112s), an accelerometer (112a), an altitude sensor (112h), a LiDAR (112l), an infrared sensor (112i), a camera (112c), an odor sensor (112n), a tactile sensor (112m), a humidity sensor (112k) and a CO2 sensor (112o), just like the suction device (1). The control unit (116) may detect that a preheating start condition has been established or determine that a preheating end condition has been established based on the output value from one of the sensors. The LiDAR (112l), the infrared sensor (112i), the camera (112c), the odor sensor (112n), the humidity sensor (112k) and the CO2 sensor (112o) may be exemplified as being mounted on a heating unit case (412). By being mounted in the heating unit case (412), the distance between the suction device (4) and the mouth can be determined with greater precision than when mounted in the power unit case (11). Explanation of the symbols

[0190] 1, 2, 3, 4: Suction device 10: Case 11: Power unit case 12: Cartridge Case 20: End cap 110: Power unit 111: Power supply 112: Sensor section 112p: Pressure sensor 112q: Flow sensor 112t: Temperature sensor 116: Control unit 117: Control Unit 118: DC / DC Converter 120: Cartridge 121: Heating part 122: Liquid induction section 123: Liquid reservoir

Claims

Claim 1 A suction device comprising a liquid storage unit for storing a liquid that generates an aerosol by being heated, a heating unit for heating the liquid, a power supply unit for accumulating power, and a control unit for controlling the supply of power from the power supply unit to the heating unit, wherein the control unit performs a first heating to raise the temperature of the liquid to a first temperature at which the liquid vaporizes when a predetermined first condition is established, and performs a second heating to raise the temperature of the liquid to a second temperature at a second temperature and also lower than the first temperature when a predetermined second condition is established before the first condition is established, and the amount of power in the first heating when transitioning to the first heating during the second heating is smaller than the amount of power in the first heating when transitioning to the first heating without performing the second heating. Claim 2 A suction device according to claim 1, wherein the control unit makes the upper limit time for continuing the first heating when transitioning to the first heating during the second heating shorter than the upper limit time for continuing the first heating when transitioning to the first heating without performing the second heating. Claim 3 In claim 1, the control unit is a suction device that makes the power supplied during the first heating when transitioning to the first heating during the second heating smaller than the power supplied during the first heating when transitioning to the first heating without performing the second heating. Claim 4 In claim 1, the control unit is a suction device that controls the temperature of the heating unit so that it does not exceed a target temperature. Claim 5 In claim 1, the control unit is a suction device that changes the amount of power in the first heating according to the amount of liquid stored in the liquid storage unit. Claim 6 A suction device according to claim 1, comprising an operating part operable by a user, wherein the second condition is established when a predetermined operation is performed on the operating part.

Images