Information processing device and information processing method

Abstract

The present invention provides a structure for customization that enables easy realization of the taste desired by the user. An information processing device is provided that includes a control unit for controlling a customization process comprising receiving a setting of a parameter regarding the temperature for heating an aerosol source, or a setting of an evaluation of an aerosol generated based on control information reflecting the set parameter, wherein the control unit generates a display image that displays at least one of a mark indicating the parameter set in the previous customization process and a mark indicating the parameter set in the current customization process, or a mark indicating the evaluation set in the previous customization process and a mark indicating the evaluation set in the current customization process.

Description

Technology Field

[0001] The present invention relates to an information processing device and an information processing method. Background Technology

[0002] Inhalation devices that generate substances inhaled by users, such as electronic cigarettes and nebulizers, are widely available. For example, an inhalation device generates an aerosol with flavor components by utilizing a material that includes an aerosol source for generating an aerosol and a flavor source for imparting flavor components to the generated aerosol. A user can savor the flavor by inhaling the aerosol with flavor components generated by the inhalation device. The action of a user inhaling the aerosol is hereinafter also referred to as a puff or puff action.

[0003] It is known that the temperature at which an aerosol source is heated has a significant effect on the flavor (hereinafter also referred to as "flavor") that a user enjoys when puffing. For this reason, for example, Patent Document 1 below discloses a technology for appropriately controlling the power supply to a heater that heats an aerosol source. Prior art literature

[0004] Japanese Patent Publication No. 6125008 The problem to be solved

[0005] Preferences for taste vary from user to user. Therefore, it is desirable that the temperature at which the aerosol source is heated be customizable by the user.

[0006] Accordingly, the present invention has been made in consideration of the above problem, and the objective of the present invention is to provide a customizable structure that can easily realize the taste as the user intended. means of solving the problem

[0007] In order to solve the above problem, according to one aspect of the present invention, an information processing device is provided that generates a display image in which a mark representing a parameter included in control information defining a parameter regarding the temperature for heating an aerosol source and a mark representing an evaluation of an aerosol generated by a suction device heating an aerosol source based on the control information are generated, controls a display device to display the generated display image, and receives a setting of the parameter or a setting of the evaluation of an aerosol generated based on the control information reflecting the set parameter, wherein the control device generates the display image in which at least one of a mark representing the parameter set in the previous customization process and a mark representing the parameter set in the current customization process, or a mark representing the evaluation set in the previous customization process and a mark representing the evaluation set in the current customization process is generated.

[0008] The control unit may generate a display image that displays the mark representing the parameter set in the previous customization process and the mark representing the parameter set in the current customization process in different forms, or displays the mark representing the evaluation set in the previous customization process and the mark representing the evaluation set in the current customization process in different forms.

[0009] The control unit may display the mark representing the parameter set in the previous customization process or the mark representing the evaluation with a higher transparency than the mark representing the parameter set in the current customization process or the mark representing the evaluation.

[0010] The above control unit may receive the setting of the parameter or the setting of the evaluation at each of the plurality of puff timings.

[0011] The control unit may generate a display image that displays a mark representing the parameter set in the previous customization process and a mark representing the parameter set in the current customization process for the first puff timing, or displays a mark representing the evaluation set in the previous customization process and a mark representing the evaluation set in the current customization process for the second puff timing.

[0012] The control unit may generate the display image that displays the evaluation set in the current customization process for puff timings in which the evaluation is set in the current customization process, and displays the evaluation set in the previous customization process for puff timings in which the evaluation is not set in the current customization process.

[0013] The above display image may be displayed by arranging a mark representing the set evaluation and a first UI element for setting the evaluation for an evaluation item identical to the mark representing the evaluation along a predetermined direction.

[0014] The above display image may display a mark representing the evaluation and a mark representing the parameter, which are set for some of the puff timings among all puff timings.

[0015] The above display image includes a plurality of second UI elements corresponding to a plurality of puff timings and a predetermined area, and the control unit may arrange the plurality of second UI elements corresponding to a plurality of puff timings in a predetermined direction and scroll them in the predetermined direction, and when the scrolled second UI element reaches the predetermined area, receive the setting of the evaluation for the puff timing corresponding to the second UI element that reached the predetermined area.

[0016] The above display image includes a plurality of second UI elements corresponding to a plurality of puff timings and a plurality of evaluation items, and the control unit arranges the plurality of second UI elements corresponding to the plurality of puff timings in a predetermined direction and scrolls them in the predetermined direction, and when the scrolled second UI element reaches the predetermined area, receives the settings of the evaluation for the puff timing and evaluation item corresponding to the second UI element that reached the predetermined area, and the plurality of second UI elements corresponding to different evaluation items of the same puff timing may reach the predetermined area at different timings.

[0017] The above second UI element may include a mark indicating the set evaluation.

[0018] The above display image includes a third UI element, and the control unit sets the parameter according to the position of the mark indicating the parameter displayed in the above display image, and may expand the movable range of the mark indicating the parameter when the third UI element is selected.

[0019] The above control unit may control the output device to output the first information whenever the puff timing arrives.

[0020] The above control unit may control the output device to output second information when all of the set evaluations satisfy a predetermined condition.

[0021] In addition, to solve the above problem, according to another aspect of the present invention, an information processing method is provided that includes the parameter included in control information defining the temperature for heating an aerosol source, the suction device generating a display image that displays an evaluation of an aerosol generated by heating an aerosol source based on the control information, and controlling a display device to display the generated display image, and receiving the setting of the parameter or the setting of the evaluation of an aerosol generated based on the control information reflecting the set parameter, wherein the controlling of the customization process includes generating the display image that displays at least one of a mark representing the parameter set in the previous customization process and a mark representing the parameter set in the current customization process, or a mark representing the evaluation set in the previous customization process and a mark representing the evaluation set in the current customization process. Effects of the invention

[0022] As explained above, according to the present invention, a customized structure is provided that can easily realize the taste as the user intended. Brief explanation of the drawing

[0023] FIG. 1 is a diagram illustrating an example of a system configuration according to one embodiment. FIG. 2 is a schematic diagram schematically illustrating an example of the configuration of a suction device according to the present embodiment. FIG. 3 is a block diagram showing an example of the configuration of a terminal device according to the present embodiment. Figure 4 is a graph schematically showing an example of a heating profile. Figure 5 is a figure showing an example of an evaluation screen displayed during the Nth customization process. Figure 6 is a figure showing an example of a design screen displayed in the Nth customization process. Figure 7 is a figure showing an example of a display when the previous display button is pressed on the temperature setting screen shown in Figure 6. FIG. 8 is a flowchart showing an example of the flow of an evaluation setting process in the Nth customization process executed in a terminal device according to the present embodiment. FIG. 9 is a flowchart showing an example of the flow of a target temperature setting process executed in a terminal device according to the present embodiment. Figure 10 is a figure showing another example of an evaluation screen displayed in the Nth customization process. Figure 11 is a figure showing another example of an evaluation screen displayed in the Nth customization process. Figure 12 is a figure showing another example of an evaluation screen displayed in the Nth customization process. Figure 13 is a figure showing another example of an evaluation screen displayed in the Nth customization process. Figure 14 is a figure showing another example of an evaluation screen displayed in the Nth customization process. Figure 15 is a figure showing another example of an evaluation screen displayed in the Nth customization process. Figure 16 is a figure showing another example of an evaluation screen displayed in the Nth customization process. Specific details for implementing the invention

[0024] Preferred embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail below with reference to the attached drawings. In addition, in this specification and drawings, components having substantially the same functional configuration are given the same reference numerals to avoid redundant descriptions.

[0025] <1. Example of composition>

[0026] (1) Example of system configuration

[0027] FIG. 1 is a diagram illustrating an example of the configuration of a system (1) according to one embodiment. As shown in FIG. 1, the system (1) includes a suction device (100) and a terminal device (200).

[0028] The suction device (100) is a device that generates a substance that is sucked in by a user. Hereinafter, the substance generated by the suction device (100) is described as an aerosol. In addition, the substance generated by the suction device may be a gas. The suction device (100) generates an aerosol using a stick-type substrate (150). The stick-type substrate (150) is an example of a substrate containing an aerosol source. The suction device (100) is an example of an aerosol generating device that generates an aerosol by heating an aerosol source contained in the substrate.

[0029] The terminal device (200) is an information processing device that performs various information processing regarding the suction device (100). The terminal device (200) is used by a user of the suction device (100). The terminal device (200) may be any device such as a smartphone, tablet terminal, wearable device, or PC (Personal Computer). Alternatively, the terminal device (200) may be a charger that charges the suction device (100).

[0030] The terminal device (200) is used to change the settings of the suction device (100). For example, the terminal device (200) receives a user operation to change the settings of the suction device (100) and changes the settings of the suction device (100).

[0031] (2) Example of the configuration of the suction device (100)

[0032] FIG. 2 is a schematic diagram showing an example of the configuration of a suction device (100) according to the present embodiment. As shown in FIG. 2, the suction device (100) includes a power supply unit (111), a sensor unit (112), a notification unit (113), a memory unit (114), a communication unit (115), a control unit (116), a heating unit (121), a holding support unit (140), and an insulation unit (144).

[0033] The power supply unit (111) accumulates power. Then, the power supply unit (111) supplies power to each component of the suction device (100) based on control by the control unit (116). The power supply unit (111) may be composed of a rechargeable battery, such as a lithium-ion secondary battery.

[0034] The sensor unit (112) acquires various information regarding the suction device (100). As an example, the sensor unit (112) is configured with a pressure sensor, such as a condenser microphone, a flow sensor, or a temperature sensor, and acquires values ​​associated with suction by the user. As another example, the sensor unit (112) is configured with an input device that receives input of information from the user, such as a button or a switch.

[0035] The notification unit (113) notifies the user of information. The notification unit (113) is composed of, for example, a light-emitting device, a display device that displays an image, a sound output device that outputs sound, or a vibrating device.

[0036] The memory unit (114) stores various information for the operation of the suction device (100). The memory unit (114) is configured by a non-volatile memory medium, such as a flash memory.

[0037] The communication unit (115) is a communication interface capable of performing communication based on any wired or wireless communication standard. Such communication standards may include, for example, Wi-Fi (registered trademark), Bluetooth (registered trademark), NFC (Near Field Communication), or LPWA (Low Power Wide Area).

[0038] The control unit (116) functions as a computational processing unit and a control unit, and controls the overall operation within the suction device (100) according to various programs. The control unit (116) is realized by an electronic circuit such as a CPU (Central Processing Unit) or a microprocessor.

[0039] A holding support member (140) includes an internal space (141) and holds and supports a stick-shaped material (150) while accommodating a portion of the stick-shaped material (150) in the internal space (141). The holding support member (140) includes an opening (142) that communicates the internal space (141) to the outside and holds and supports the stick-shaped material (150) inserted into the internal space (141) through the opening (142). For example, the holding support member (140) is a tubular body with the opening (142) and the bottom part (143) as bottom surfaces, and defines a column-shaped internal space (141). An air passage supplying air to the internal space (141) is connected to the holding support member (140). An air inlet hole, which is the air inlet to the air passage, is positioned, for example, on the side of the suction device (100). An air outlet hole, which is an outlet of air from the air passage to the internal space (141), is positioned, for example, in the bottom part (143).

[0040] A stick-type substrate (150) includes a substrate portion (151) and an intake portion (152). The substrate portion (151) includes an aerosol source. The aerosol source is a liquid, such as water and polyhydric alcohols like glycerin and propylene glycol. The aerosol source may include flavor components derived from tobacco or non-tobacco. If the inhalation device (100) is a medical inhaler such as a nebulizer, the aerosol source may include a pharmaceutical agent. Furthermore, in the present configuration example, the aerosol source is not limited to liquid but may be a solid. When the stick-type substrate (150) is supported by a holding support portion (140), at least a portion of the substrate portion (151) is received in an internal space (141), and at least a portion of the intake portion (152) protrudes from an opening (142). Then, when the user bites and sucks on the suction part (152) protruding from the opening (142), air is introduced into the internal space (141) via an air passage not shown, and reaches the user's mouth together with the aerosol generated from the base part (151).

[0041] The heating unit (121) generates an aerosol by atomizing the aerosol source by heating it. In the example shown in FIG. 2, the heating unit (121) is configured in the shape of a film and is positioned to cover the outer circumference of the holding support unit (140). Then, when the heating unit (121) generates heat, the base portion (151) of the stick-type base (150) is heated from the outer circumference, and an aerosol is generated. The heating unit (121) generates heat when power is supplied from the power supply unit (111). As an example, power may be supplied when the sensor unit (112) detects that the user has started inhaling and / or that certain information has been input. Then, power supply may be stopped when the sensor unit (112) detects that the user has finished inhaling and / or that certain information has been input.

[0042] The insulating part (144) prevents heat transfer from the heating part (121) to other components. For example, the insulating part (144) is made of vacuum insulating material or aerogel insulating material, etc.

[0043] The above describes an example of the configuration of the suction device (100). Of course, the configuration of the suction device (100) is not limited to the above and may take various configurations as exemplified below.

[0044] As an example, the heating part (121) may be configured in a blade shape and positioned to protrude from the bottom part (143) of the holding support part (140) into the internal space (141). In that case, the blade-shaped heating part (121) is inserted into the base part (151) of the stick-shaped base (150) and heats the base part (151) of the stick-shaped base (150) from the inside. As another example, the heating part (121) may be positioned to cover the bottom part (143) of the holding support part (140). Additionally, the heating part (121) may be configured as a combination of two or more of a first heating part covering the outer circumference of the holding support part (140), a second heating part in the shape of a blade, and a third heating part covering the bottom part (143) of the holding support part (140).

[0045] As another example, the holding support member (140) may include an opening and closing mechanism, such as a hinge, that opens and closes a part of the outer shell forming the inner space (141). Additionally, the holding support member (140) may clamp a stick-shaped material (150) inserted into the inner space (141) by opening and closing the outer shell. In that case, a heating member (121) may be provided at the clamping location in the holding support member (140) and may heat the stick-shaped material (150) while pressing it.

[0046] Additionally, the means for atomizing the aerosol source is not limited to heating by the heating unit (121). For example, the means for atomizing the aerosol source may be induction heating. In that case, the suction device (100) includes at least an electromagnetic induction source, such as a coil that generates a magnetic field, instead of the heating unit (121). The susceptor that generates heat by induction heating may be provided in the suction device (100) or may be included in the stick-type material (150).

[0047] Additionally, the suction device (100) generates an aerosol that is inhaled by the user by cooperating with the stick-type material (150). Therefore, the combination of the suction device (100) and the stick-type material (150) may be recognized as an aerosol generating system.

[0048] (3) Example of terminal device configuration

[0049] FIG. 3 is a block diagram showing an example of the configuration of a terminal device (200) according to the present embodiment. As shown in FIG. 3, the terminal device (200) includes an input unit (210), an output unit (220), a detection unit (230), a communication unit (240), a memory unit (250), and a control unit (260).

[0050] The input unit (210) has the function of receiving input of various types of information. The input unit (210) may include an input device that receives input of information from a user. Examples of input devices include buttons, keyboards, touch panels, and microphones. In addition, the input unit (210) may include various sensors such as image sensors.

[0051] The output unit (220) has the function of outputting information. The output unit (220) may include an output device that outputs information to a user. Examples of output devices include a display device that displays information, a light-emitting device that emits light, a vibrating device that vibrates, and a sound output device that outputs sound. An example of a display device is a display. An example of a light-emitting device is an LED (Light Emitting Diode). An example of a vibrating device is an eccentric motor. An example of a sound output device is a speaker. The output unit (220) notifies the user of information by outputting information input from the control unit (260).

[0052] The detection unit (230) has the function of detecting information regarding the terminal device (200). The detection unit (230) may detect location information of the terminal device (200). For example, the detection unit (230) receives a GNSS signal from a GNSS (Global Navigation Satellite System) satellite (e.g., a GPS signal from a GPS (Global Positioning System) satellite) and detects location information including the latitude and longitude of the device. The detection unit (230) may also detect the movement of the terminal device (200). For example, the detection unit (230) includes a gyroscope sensor and an accelerometer sensor and detects angular velocity and acceleration.

[0053] The communication unit (240) is a communication interface for transmitting and receiving information between a terminal device (200) and another device. The communication unit (240) performs communication based on any wired or wireless communication standard. Such communication standards may include, for example, standards using USB (Universal Serial Bus), Wi-Fi (registered trademark), Bluetooth (registered trademark), NFC (Near Field Communication), or LPWA (Low Power Wide Area).

[0054] The memory unit (250) stores various information. The memory unit (250) is composed of a non-volatile memory medium, such as flash memory.

[0055] The control unit (260) functions as an arithmetic processing unit or a control unit and controls the overall operation within the terminal device (200) according to various programs. The control unit (260) is realized by electronic circuits such as a CPU (Central Processing Unit) or a microprocessor. In addition, the control unit (260) may include a ROM (Read Only Memory) that stores programs and calculation parameters to be used, and a RAM (Random Access Memory) that temporarily stores parameters that change appropriately. The terminal device (200) executes various processes based on control by the control unit (260). Processing of information input by the input unit (210), output of information by the output unit (220), detection of information by the detection unit (230), transmission and reception of information by the communication unit (240), and storage and reading of information by the memory unit (250) are examples of processing controlled by the control unit (260). Other processing executed by the terminal device (200), such as inputting information to each component and processing based on information output from each component, is also controlled by the control unit (260).

[0056] Additionally, the function of the control unit (260) may be realized using an application. The application may be pre-installed or downloaded. Additionally, the function of the control unit (260) may be realized by a Progressive Web App (PWA).

[0057] <2. Technical Features>

[0058] (1) Heating profile

[0059] The control unit (116) controls the operation of the heating unit (121) based on the heating profile. The control of the operation of the heating unit (121) is realized by controlling the supply of power from the power supply unit (111) to the heating unit (121). The heating unit (121) heats the stick-type substrate (150) using power supplied from the power supply unit (111).

[0060] A heating profile is control information for controlling the temperature at which an aerosol source is heated. The heating profile defines parameters regarding the temperature at which an aerosol source is heated. An example of the temperature at which an aerosol source is heated is the temperature of the heating unit (121). An example of the parameter regarding the temperature at which an aerosol source is the target value of the temperature of the heating unit (121) (hereinafter also referred to as the target temperature). The temperature of the heating unit (121) may be controlled to change according to the elapsed time from the start of heating. In that case, the heating profile includes information defining the time-series trend of the target temperature. As another example, the heating profile may include a parameter defining the method of supplying power to the heating unit (121) (hereinafter also referred to as the power supply parameter). The power supply parameter includes, for example, the voltage applied to the heating unit (121), the ON / OFF of power supply to the heating unit (121), or the method of feedback control to be adopted. The ON / OFF power supply to the heating unit (121) may be recognized as the ON / OFF of the heating unit (121).

[0061] The control unit (116) controls the operation of the heating unit (121) so that the temperature of the heating unit (121) (hereinafter also referred to as the actual temperature) changes in the same way as the target temperature specified in the heating profile. The heating profile is typically designed so that the flavor tasted by the user is optimized when the user inhales the aerosol generated from the stick-type material (150). Therefore, by controlling the operation of the heating unit (121) based on the heating profile, the flavor tasted by the user can be optimized.

[0062] Temperature control of the heating unit (121) can be realized, for example, by known feedback control. Feedback control may be, for example, a PID (Proportional-Integral-Differential Controller). The control unit (116) may supply power from the power supply unit (111) to the heating unit (121) in the form of pulses by pulse width modulation (PWM) or pulse frequency modulation (PFM). In that case, the control unit (116) may control the temperature of the heating unit (121) by adjusting the duty ratio or frequency of the power pulses in the feedback control. Alternatively, the control unit (116) may perform simple on / off control in the feedback control. For example, the control unit (116) may perform heating by the heating unit (121) until the actual temperature reaches the target temperature, stop heating by the heating unit (121) when the actual temperature reaches the target temperature, and resume heating by the heating unit (121) when the actual temperature drops below the target temperature.

[0063] The temperature of the heating unit (121) can be quantified, for example, by measuring or estimating the electrical resistance value of the heating unit (121) (more precisely, the heating resistor constituting the heating unit (121)). This is because the electrical resistance value of the heating resistor changes with temperature. The electrical resistance value of the heating resistor can be estimated, for example, by measuring the voltage drop in the heating resistor. The voltage drop in the heating resistor can be measured by a voltage sensor that measures the potential difference applied to the heating resistor. In another example, the temperature of the heating unit (121) can be measured by a temperature sensor, such as a thermistor, installed near the heating unit (121).

[0064] The period from the start of the process of generating aerosol using a stick-type substrate (150) until its end is also referred to as the heating session below. In other words, the heating session is the period during which power supply to the heating unit (121) is controlled based on a heating profile. The start of the heating session is the timing when heating based on the heating profile begins. The end of the heating session is the timing when a sufficient amount of aerosol is no longer generated. The heating session includes a preheating period in the first half and a puffing period in the second half. The puffing period is the period during which a sufficient amount of aerosol is assumed to be generated. The preheating period is the period from the start of heating until the start of the puffing period. Heating performed during the preheating period is also referred to as preheating.

[0065] The notification unit (113) may notify the user of information indicating the timing at which the preheating ends. For example, the notification unit (113) may notify information announcing the end of the preheating before the preheating ends, or notify information indicating that the preheating has ended at the timing when the preheating ends. Notification to the user may be made, for example, by the lighting of an LED or vibration. By referring to such notification, the user can perform puffing immediately after the preheating ends.

[0066] Likewise, the notification unit (113) may notify the user of information indicating the timing when the puffable period ends. For example, the notification unit (113) may notify information announcing the end of the puffable period before the puffable period ends, or notify information indicating that the puffable period has ended at the timing when the puffable period ends. Notification to the user may be made, for example, by lighting up an LED or by vibration. By referring to such notification, the user can perform puffing until the puffable period ends.

[0067] An example of a heating profile is described with reference to FIG. 4. FIG. 4 is a graph schematically showing an example of a heating profile. The horizontal axis of the graph (20) is time. The vertical axis of the graph (20) is temperature. The line (21) represents the time series trend of the target temperature. As shown in FIG. 4, the target temperature rises rapidly to around 300°C after heating begins, then drops to around 230°C and is maintained until the end. During the period when the temperature drops, power supply to the heating unit (121) is stopped and heating is turned OFF. On the horizontal axis, the timings for puffing from the 1st to the 16th time (hereinafter also referred to as puff timing) are indicated as #1 to #16. The puff timing may be pre-set. In the example shown in FIG. 4, the time until the 1st puff timing is the preheating period, and 16 puff timings are set during the subsequent puffing period.

[0068] (2) Customization of heating profile

[0069] A terminal device (200) (e.g., a control unit (260)) controls the customization process. The customization process is a process of customizing (i.e., changing) the heating profile used by the suction device (100). The user repeatedly customizes the heating profile and tries the heating profile after customization to check the taste. The terminal device (200) repeatedly performs the customization process until a heating profile is generated that realizes the taste the user envisioned. By repeating the customization process, the heating profile can be gradually brought closer to an ideal heating profile that realizes the taste the user envisioned.

[0070] The customization process includes the terminal device (200) receiving a target temperature setting from the user. In particular, the terminal device (200) receives a target temperature setting for each puff timing. The terminal device (200) generates a heating profile after the change by changing the target temperature of the heating profile before the change based on the setting from the user.

[0071] The customization process includes the terminal device (200) receiving a setting for an evaluation of the taste from the user. In particular, the terminal device (200) receives a setting for an evaluation of an aerosol generated based on a heating profile that reflects the target temperature set by the user. Accordingly, the user can evaluate how their customization has affected the taste.

[0072] In the following, the terminal device (200) receives the setting of a taste evaluation by the user during the heating session, that is, while the suction device (100) is performing heating based on the heating profile. In that case, the user performs a puff whenever the puff timing arrives and sets the taste evaluation to the terminal device (200). The terminal device (200) may output information (equivalent to the first information) indicating that the puff timing has arrived whenever the puff timing arrives while the customization process is being executed. For example, the terminal device (200) may vibrate whenever the puff timing arrives. According to this configuration, the user can perform a puff using the vibration as a trigger and set the taste evaluation to the terminal device (200). Additionally, the terminal device (200) may output information indicating that the puff timing has arrived through the suction device (100).

[0073] The order of receiving the target temperature setting and the evaluation setting in the customization process is arbitrary. As an example, the terminal device (200) first receives the setting for the evaluation of the aerosol generated based on the heating profile generated in the previous customization process, and then receives the setting for the target temperature.

[0074] The customization process includes the terminal device (200) generating a display image for customizing the heating profile and displaying the generated display image. The display image for customizing the heating profile displays a mark indicating a target temperature included in the heating profile and a mark indicating an evaluation of the aerosol generated by the suction device (100) heating the stick-type substrate (150) based on the heating profile. The user sets the target temperature or evaluation by referring to the display image for customizing the heating profile. As display images for customizing the heating profile, an evaluation screen for setting the evaluation of the taste and a design screen for setting the target temperature may be cited. Additionally, the terminal device (200) may display these screens on a touch panel that serves as both an input unit (210) and an output unit (220). In that case, the user can set the desired target temperature or desired evaluation on the terminal device (200) by touching various UI (User Interface) elements included in the displayed screen. Hereinafter, an example of an evaluation screen and a design screen will be explained with reference to FIGS. 5 to 7.

[0075] - Evaluation screen

[0076] FIG. 5 is a figure showing an example of an evaluation screen displayed in the Nth customization process. Also, N is an integer greater than or equal to 2. The terminal device (200) receives the setting for an evaluation of an aerosol generated based on the heating profile generated in the N-1st (i.e., previous) customization process from the evaluation screen (300) displayed in the Nth (i.e., current) customization process.

[0077] As shown in FIG. 5, the evaluation screen (300) includes a design information display section (30), a progress display section (60), and an evaluation setting section (70). The evaluation screen (300) shown in FIG. 5 is displayed at the timing when the 6th puff timing out of a total of 16 times arrives, that is, at the timing for setting the evaluation of the taste at the 6th puff timing. The user can set the evaluation of the taste of the 6th puff on the evaluation screen (300).

[0078] The design information display section (30) is a section that displays information for designing a heating profile. Specifically, the design information display section (30) displays a symbol indicating the evaluation of the flavor and a symbol indicating the target temperature. Numbers #1 to #16, arranged from left to right at the top of the design information display section (30), represent puff timings from the 1st to the 16th. Additionally, on the vertical axis extending from each number of #1 to #16, circular icons (42, 44 and 46), which are symbols indicating the evaluation of the flavor at each puff timing, and diamond-shaped icons (52), which are symbols indicating the target temperature, are displayed. The design information display section (30) includes an evaluation display section (40) and a temperature display section (50).

[0079] The evaluation display section (40) is a section that displays an evaluation of the taste set for each puff timing. The evaluation display section (40) includes an evaluation display section (41) for the sensation of inhalation, an evaluation display section (43) for the amount of smoke, and an evaluation display section (45) for the taste preference. The evaluation display section (41) for the sensation of inhalation includes an icon (42) that indicates an evaluation of the sensation of inhalation. The evaluation display section (43) for the amount of smoke includes an icon (44) that indicates an evaluation of the amount of smoke. The evaluation display section (45) for the taste preference includes an icon (46) that indicates an evaluation of the taste preference. Among these icons (42, 44 and 46), the icon indicating the evaluation of the taste set for each puff timing may be specified by assigning a number indicating the number of puff timings to the end of the symbol. For example, the evaluation of the suction sensation, amount of smoke, and taste preference set for the first puff timing is indicated by icons (42-1, 44-1, and 46-1). The display of the evaluation by icons (42, 44, and 46) in the evaluation display section (40) will be explained in detail later.

[0080] The temperature display section (50) is a section that displays the target temperature at each puff timing. In the temperature display section (50), the target temperature is displayed based on the positional relationship between the baseline (51) and the icon (52), which is a symbol representing the target temperature. Among the icons (52), the icon representing the target temperature at each puff timing may be specified by assigning a number indicating the number of puff timings to the end of the symbol. For example, the target temperature at the first puff timing is displayed by the icon (52-1).

[0081] The reference line (51) corresponds to the default temperature (hereinafter also referred to as the reference temperature). Scales above the reference line (51) indicate a temperature higher than the reference temperature, and scales below the reference line (51) indicate a temperature lower than the reference temperature. For example, a scale one level above the reference line (51) may correspond to the reference temperature +15°C, and a scale two levels above the reference line (51) may correspond to the reference temperature +30°C. Additionally, a scale one level below the reference line (51) may correspond to the reference temperature -15°C, and a scale two levels below the reference line (51) may correspond to the reference temperature -30°C. In the example shown in FIG. 5, the target temperature at the first puff timing indicated by the icon (52-1) is the reference temperature +15°C. Additionally, the target temperature at the seventh puff timing indicated by the icon (52-7) is the reference temperature -15°C. In addition, the reference temperature may be common to all puff timings, or it may vary for each puff timing.

[0082] The progress indicator (60) is a section that displays the progress status of a heating session. The progress indicator (60) includes a bar indicator (61) and a fraction indicator (62). The bar indicator (61) is a section that displays the progress rate of a heating session in the form of a progress bar. The total length of the bar indicator (61) corresponds to the puffable period, and the bar extends from left to right as time passes. The progress of the heating session is indicated by the relationship between the position of the right end of the extending bar in the bar indicator (61) and the vertical axis extending from the numbers #1 to #16 representing each puff timing displayed in the design information indicator (30). In the example shown in FIG. 5, the right end of the bar in the bar indicator (61) reaches the vertical axis extending from #6, indicating that the heating session has progressed to the 6th puff timing. The fraction indicator (62) is a section that displays the progress rate of a heating session in the form of a fraction. In the example shown in FIG. 5, the fraction display column (62) indicates that the 6th puff timing has arrived out of a total of 16 puff timings.

[0083] Additionally, the suction device (100) may transmit information indicating the start of heating to the terminal device (200) when heating is started. The terminal device (200) may determine the progress of the heating session and the arrival of the puff timing based on the elapsed time from the timing of receiving the information indicating the start of heating from the suction device (100). In the heating profile, the arrival time of each of the plurality of puff timings may be defined as the elapsed time from the start of heating.

[0084] The evaluation setting section (70) is a section for receiving the setting of the evaluation of the taste. As shown in FIG. 5, the evaluation setting section (70) includes an evaluation setting section (71) for the sensation of inhalation, an evaluation setting section (73) for the amount of smoke, and an evaluation setting section (75) for the taste preference. Based on user operation on the evaluation setting section (70), the terminal device (200) receives the setting of the evaluation regarding three evaluation items: sensation of inhalation, amount of smoke, and taste preference.

[0085] The suction sensation evaluation setting section (71) includes buttons (71A-71C), which are first UI elements for setting the suction sensation evaluation. The terminal device (200) receives a setting of an evaluation that the suction sensation is strong when button (71A) is selected, a setting of an evaluation that the suction sensation is just right when button (71B) is selected, and a setting of an evaluation that the suction sensation is weak when button (71C) is selected. An icon (72A) indicating a strong suction sensation is assigned to button (71A), an icon (72B) indicating a just right suction sensation is assigned to button (71B), and an icon (72C) indicating a weak suction sensation is assigned to button (71C).

[0086] The smoke amount evaluation setting section (73) includes buttons (73A to 73C), which are first UI elements for setting the evaluation of the smoke amount. The terminal device (200) receives, respectively, an evaluation setting that the amount of smoke is large when button (73A) is selected, an evaluation setting that the amount of smoke is just right when button (73B) is selected, and an evaluation setting that the amount of smoke is small when button (73C) is selected. An icon (74A) indicating that the amount of smoke is large is assigned to button (73A), an icon (74B) indicating that the amount of smoke is just right is assigned to button (73B), and an icon (74C) indicating that the amount of smoke is small is assigned to button (73C).

[0087] The taste preference evaluation setting section (75) includes buttons (75A and 75B), which are first UI elements for setting the taste preference evaluation. The terminal device (200) receives a setting of an evaluation that is a favorite taste when the button (75A) is selected, and a setting of an evaluation that is a disliked taste when the button (75B) is selected. An icon (76A) indicating that it is a favorite taste is assigned to the button (75A), and an icon (76B) indicating that it is a disliked taste is assigned to the button (75B).

[0088] The terminal device (200) receives the setting of the evaluation of the taste at each of the multiple puff timings. For example, whenever a puff timing arrives, the terminal device (200) receives the evaluation of the taste at the arrived puff timing. In the example shown in FIG. 5, buttons (71B, 73B, and 75A) are each selected as the evaluation of the taste at the 6th puff timing. That is, the user sets an evaluation such as the inhalation sensation is just right, the amount of smoke is just right, and it is a favorite taste. As shown in FIG. 5, the buttons (71B, 73B, and 75A) selected by the user may be displayed in a manner different from other buttons, such as being highlighted compared to other buttons.

[0089] The aspects of the icons (72 (72A–72C), 74 (74A–74C), and 76 (76A and 76B)) displayed in the evaluation setting section (70) and the icons (42, 44, and 46) displayed in the evaluation display section (40) correspond to each other. Specifically, for the icons (72) and (42) corresponding to evaluations such as strong suction, just right, and weak suction, a dashed circle, a thick line circle, and a thin line circle are displayed, respectively. Additionally, for the icons (74) and (44) corresponding to evaluations such as large amount of smoke, just right, and small amount of smoke, a dashed circle, a thick line circle, and a thin line circle are displayed, respectively. Additionally, for the icons (76) and (46) corresponding to evaluations such as good taste and bad taste, a thick line circle and a dashed line circle are displayed, respectively. In the example shown in FIG. 5, at the first puff timing (#1), icon (42-1) is a thin line circle identical to icon (72C), icon (44-1) is a thin line circle identical to icon (74C), and icon (46-1) is a thick line circle identical to icon (76A). That is, in the example shown in FIG. 5, at the first puff timing (#1), it is shown that the suction sensation is weak, the amount of smoke is small, and the evaluation of a preferred taste is set.

[0090] Here, the terminal device (200) may display icons (42, 44, and 46) representing evaluations set in the N-1st customization process and icons (42, 44, and 46) representing evaluations set in the Nth customization process. After the evaluation setting is performed first in the N-1st customization process, the target temperature is changed. Then, the evaluation setting in the Nth customization process is performed. In this respect, according to this configuration, the user can easily understand how the evaluation of the taste has changed due to the change in the target temperature in the N-1st customization process.

[0091] In particular, for puff timings where the evaluation of the taste is set in the Nth customization process, the terminal device (200) displays icons (42, 44, and 46) representing the evaluation of the taste set in the Nth customization process. Meanwhile, for puff timings where the evaluation of the taste is not set in the Nth customization process, the terminal device (200) displays icons (42, 44, and 46) representing the evaluation of the taste set in the N-1st customization process. In the example shown in FIG. 5, the setting of the taste is completed for puff timings up to the 6th time in the Nth customization process. Accordingly, in the evaluation display section (40), for puff timings up to the 6th, icons (42, 44 and 46) (e.g., 42-1, 44-1 and 46-1) representing the evaluation set in the Nth customization process are displayed. Meanwhile, in the evaluation display section (40), for puff timings from the 7th onwards, icons (42, 44 and 46) (e.g., 42-7, 44-7 and 46-7) representing the evaluation set in the N-1st customization process are displayed. With this configuration, the user can easily see the evaluation being updated as the heating session progresses.

[0092] Here, the terminal device (200) may display the icons (42, 44, and 46) representing the evaluation set in the N-1st customization process and the icons (42, 44, and 46) representing the evaluation set in the Nth customization process in different forms. In the example shown in FIG. 5, the icons (42, 44, and 46) (e.g., 42-7, 44-7, and 46-7) representing the evaluation of the taste for the 7th to 16th puff timing set in the N-1st customization process are displayed as colorless circles. Meanwhile, the icons (42, 44, and 46) (e.g., 42-1, 44-1, and 46-1) representing the evaluation of the taste for the 1st to 6th puff timing set in the Nth customization process are displayed as colored circles. According to this configuration, the user can easily distinguish between the taste evaluation set in the Nth customization process and the taste evaluation set in the N-1th customization process.

[0093] As another example of displaying different modes, in addition to the presence or absence of color shown in FIG. 5, a higher color, a higher color intensity, a higher transparency, or a higher outline may be adopted. In particular, it is more preferable for the terminal device (200) to display the icons (42, 44, and 46) representing the evaluation set in the N-1st customization process with higher transparency than the icons (42, 44, and 46) representing the evaluation set in the Nth customization process. For example, it is preferable that the icons (42, 44, and 46) representing the evaluation set in the N-1st customization process be displayed semi-transparently, and the icons (42, 44, and 46) representing the evaluation set in the Nth customization process be displayed non-transparently. According to such a configuration, the user can more easily distinguish between the evaluation set in the Nth customization process and the evaluation set in the N-1st customization process.

[0094] The terminal device (200) may output information (equivalent to the second information) indicating that an optimal heating profile has been generated when all evaluations of the set flavors satisfy predetermined conditions. An example of a predetermined condition is that the evaluation is good. For instance, the terminal device (200) may vibrate in a predetermined pattern when, for all puff timings, the suction sensation is just right, the amount of smoke is just right, and the flavor is a favorite. According to this configuration, it is possible to notify the user that the customization of the heating profile has been successfully completed.

[0095] - Design screen

[0096] FIG. 6 is a diagram showing an example of a design screen displayed in the Nth customization process. The terminal device (200) displays the design screen (400) after the setting of the taste evaluation in the evaluation screen (300) is completed. Then, the terminal device (200) receives the setting of the target temperature while displaying the taste evaluation set in the Nth customization process in the design screen (400), and generates a heating profile that reflects the set target temperature.

[0097] As shown in FIG. 6, the design screen (400) includes a design information display section (30) and a temperature setting section (80). The design information display section (30) is as described above with reference to FIG. 5. However, the evaluation display section (40) displays the evaluation of the flavor set in the Nth customization process, that is, the evaluation of the flavor set in the heating session immediately preceding the completion. The temperature setting section (80) is a section for receiving the setting of the target temperature. The temperature setting section (80) includes the evaluation display section (40) and the temperature display section (50). The content displayed in these sections is as described above with reference to FIG. 5.

[0098] The terminal device (200) displays icons (42, 44, and 46) indicating a taste evaluation and an icon (52) indicating a target temperature, which are set for some of the puff timings among all puff timings, in the temperature setting section (80). In particular, the terminal device (200) displays an enlarged portion of the design information display section (30) that is included in the focus window (81) in the temperature setting section (80). In the example shown in FIG. 6, the focus window (81) includes the 12th to 16th puff timings of the design information display section (30). Accordingly, the temperature setting section (80) displays icons (42, 44, and 46) indicating a taste evaluation (e.g., 42-12, 44-12, and 46-12), and an icon (52) indicating a target temperature (e.g., 52-12), which are set for the 12th to 16th puff timings. The user can enlarge and display information of any puff timing in the temperature setting section (80) by moving the focus window (81) left and right.

[0099] The terminal device (200) receives the setting of a target temperature based on user operation regarding the temperature setting section (80). In particular, the terminal device (200) sets the target temperature according to the position of the icon (52) representing the target temperature displayed in the temperature setting section (80). That is, the terminal device (200) receives an operation to move the icon (52) displayed in the temperature setting section (80) up and down. Then, the terminal device (200) sets the target temperature according to the scale where the icon (52) is located after moving. In the Nth customization process, the terminal device (200) can start displaying the design screen (400) by placing the icon (52) at a position corresponding to the target temperature set in the N-1st customization process. Therefore, the operation to move the icon (52) displayed in the temperature setting section (80) up and down corresponds to the operation to change the target temperature set in the N-1st customization process. After receiving an operation to move the icon (52) up and down, the temperature display section (50) displays the target temperature set in the Nth customization process. Additionally, when a user operation to change the position of the icon (52) in the temperature setting section (80) is performed, the terminal device (200) changes the position of the icon (52) in the design information display section (30) as well as in the temperature setting section (80).

[0100] The terminal device (200) receives the setting of the target temperature for each of the multiple puff timings. The terminal device (200) receives a user operation to move up and down the icon (52) indicating the target temperature for each puff timing displayed in the temperature setting column (80) as the setting of the target temperature for each puff timing. According to this configuration, it becomes possible to change the heating temperature at the puff timing, which can have a significant impact on the taste, according to the user's intention. When comparing the temperature display column (50) before customization shown in FIG. 5 and the temperature display column (50) after customization shown in FIG. 6, it can be seen that the target temperature at the 15th and 16th puff timings has been changed in the Nth customization process. Specifically, the target temperature at the 15th puff timing has been changed from the reference temperature before change + 15°C to the reference temperature. In addition, the target temperature at the 16th puff timing has been changed from the reference temperature + 15℃ before the change to the reference temperature.

[0101] The terminal device (200) may display the icon (52) representing the target temperature set in the Nth customization process and the icon (52) representing the target temperature set in the N-1st customization process in different forms. That is, the terminal device (200) may display the icon (52) representing the target temperature changed in the Nth customization process and the icon (52) representing the target temperature that has not been changed from the N-1st customization process in different forms. In the example shown in FIG. 5, the icon (52-12) representing the target temperature at the 12th puff timing that has not been changed from the N-1st customization process is displayed as a colorless diamond shape. Meanwhile, the icons (52-15 and 52-16) representing the target temperature at the 15th and 16th puff timing that were changed in the Nth customization process are displayed as colored diamond shapes. According to this configuration, the user can easily distinguish between the target temperature that has been changed and the target temperature that has not been changed in the Nth customization process. In addition, as another example of displaying different modes, in addition to the presence or absence of color shown in FIG. 6, a color intensity, a color density, a transparency, or an outline may be adopted.

[0102] The temperature setting section (80) includes an add button (82), which is a UI element (equivalent to a third UI element) for adding a scale to the temperature display section (50). When the add button (82) is selected, the terminal device (200) expands the range in which the icon (52) representing the target temperature can move. For example, when the add button (82) is selected, the terminal device (200) adds a scale to the upper side of the temperature display section (50) to raise the maximum temperature that can be set. For example, in the example shown in FIG. 6, there are two scales each above and below the reference line (51), and the maximum / minimum temperature that can be set is the reference temperature ±30℃. In this state, when the add button (82) is selected, the terminal device (200) may add a third scale corresponding to the reference temperature +45℃ to the upper side of the reference line (51). As a result, the icon (52) can be moved to the third scale mark above the reference line (51), allowing the temperature to be set up to the reference temperature +45℃. Of course, when the additional button (82) is selected, the terminal device (200) may add a scale mark to the lower side of the temperature display section (50) to lower the minimum temperature that can be set.

[0103] The design screen (400) includes a previous display button (83), which is a UI element for displaying the target temperature set in the previous customization process. When the previous display button (83) is selected, the terminal device (200) displays the target temperature before the change in puff timing, where the target temperature was changed in the Nth customization process, in the temperature setting field (80). An example of display when the previous display button (83) is selected in the example shown in FIG. 6 will be explained with reference to FIG. 7.

[0104] FIG. 7 is a diagram showing an example of a display when the previous display button (83) is pressed in the design screen (400) shown in FIG. 6. As shown in FIG. 7, for the 15th puff timing and the 16th puff timing in which the target temperature is changed in the Nth customization process, the terminal device (200) displays not only an icon (52 (52-15 and 52-16)) indicating the temperature after the change but also an icon (52a (52a-15 and 52a-16)) indicating the temperature before the change.

[0105] In this way, the terminal device (200) may display an icon (52a) representing the target temperature set in the N-1st customization process and an icon (52) representing the target temperature set in the Nth customization process. According to this configuration, the user can easily identify the changes in the target temperature in the Nth customization process.

[0106] In particular, as shown in FIG. 7, the terminal device (200) may display an icon (52a) representing the target temperature set in the N-1st customization process and an icon (52) representing the target temperature set in the Nth customization process for a specific puff timing (first puff timing) while the Nth customization process is being executed. The specific puff timing may be a puff timing in which the target temperature was changed in the Nth customization process, as shown in the example in FIG. 7, or it may be any puff timing. According to this configuration, it becomes possible to easily identify the change in the target temperature in the Nth customization process for a specific puff timing.

[0107] Here, the terminal device (200) may display the icon (52) representing the target temperature set in the N-1st customization process and the icon (52a) representing the target temperature set in the Nth customization process in different forms. In the example shown in FIG. 7, the icon (52a) representing the target temperature set in the N-1st customization process is displayed as a dashed diamond shape. Meanwhile, the icon (52) representing the target temperature set in the Nth customization process is displayed as a solid diamond shape. According to this configuration, the user can easily distinguish between the target temperature set in the Nth customization process and the target temperature set in the N-1st customization process.

[0108] As another example of a different mode of display, in addition to the solid and dashed lines of the outline shown in FIG. 7 and the presence or absence of color, the color, the color intensity, the transparency, or the outline may be adopted. In particular, it is more preferable for the terminal device (200) to display the icon (52a) representing the target temperature set in the N-1st customization process with a higher transparency than the icon (52) representing the target temperature set in the Nth customization process. For example, it is preferable that the icon (52a) representing the target temperature set in the N-1st customization process be displayed semi-transparently, and the icon (52) representing the target temperature set in the Nth customization process be displayed non-transparently. According to such a configuration, the user can more easily distinguish between the target temperature set in the Nth customization process and the target temperature set in the N-1st customization process.

[0109] The design screen (400) includes a save button (84), which is a UI element for saving a heating profile that reflects a set target temperature. When the save button (84) is selected, the terminal device (200) saves a heating profile that reflects a set target temperature in the design screen (400). The terminal device (200) may save the heating profile by associating it with a name designated by the user.

[0110] The above describes an example of an evaluation screen (300) and a design screen (400). Additionally, in the case of the first customization process (i.e., N=1), default information is displayed as information regarding the N-1st customization process.

[0111] (3) Flow of processing

[0112] Hereinafter, with reference to FIGS. 8 and FIGS. 9, the flow of processing executed in the terminal device (200) according to the present embodiment will be described.

[0113] - Processing evaluation settings

[0114] FIG. 8 is a flowchart showing an example of the flow of an evaluation setting process in the Nth customization process executed in a terminal device (200) according to the present embodiment. In the customization process, first, an evaluation setting process is executed.

[0115] As shown in FIG. 8, first, the control unit (260) generates an evaluation screen (300) and displays the evaluation screen (300) on a touch panel that serves as both an input unit (210) and an output unit (220) (step S102). At that time, the control unit (260) displays on the evaluation screen (300) icons (42, 44 and 46) representing the evaluation of the taste set in the N-1st customization process, and an icon (52) representing the target temperature set in the N-1st customization process.

[0116] Next, the control unit (260) detects the start of heating based on the heating profile by the suction device (100) (step S104). As an example, the control unit (260) detects the start of heating based on the heating profile based on information indicating the start of heating from the suction device (100) received by the communication unit (240).

[0117] Next, the control unit (260) updates the display of the evaluation screen (300) over time (step S106). For example, the control unit (260) extends the progress bar of the bar display column (61) to the right over time to increase the number of puff timings that have arrived in the fraction display column (62).

[0118] Next, the control unit (260) determines whether the puff timing has arrived (step S108). For example, the control unit (260) determines whether the puff timing has arrived based on the elapsed time since the start of heating. If it is determined that the puff timing has not arrived (step S108: NO), the process proceeds to step S114.

[0119] When it is determined that puff timing has arrived (step S108: YES), the control unit (260) receives the setting for the evaluation of the taste (step S110). For example, the control unit (260) receives the setting for the evaluation regarding the sensation of inhalation, the amount of smoke, and the taste preference based on the touch operation to the evaluation setting column (70) displayed on the evaluation screen (300).

[0120] Next, the control unit (260) switches the display of the evaluation of the taste on the evaluation screen (300) (step S112). For example, the control unit (260) switches the display of the icons (42, 44 and 46) representing the evaluation of the taste from the display corresponding to the evaluation set in the N-1st customization process to the display corresponding to the evaluation set in step S108.

[0121] Next, the control unit (260) determines whether the heating session has ended (step S114). For example, the control unit (260) determines whether the heating session has ended based on the elapsed time since the start of heating or the number of puffs. If it is determined that the heating session has not ended (step S114: NO), the process returns to step S106.

[0122] When it is determined that the heating session has ended (step S114), the control unit (260) ends the display of the evaluation screen (300) (step S116).

[0123] - Target temperature setting processing

[0124] FIG. 9 is a flowchart showing an example of the flow of a target temperature setting process executed in a terminal device (200) according to the present embodiment. In the customization process, the target temperature setting process is executed following the evaluation setting process.

[0125] As shown in FIG. 9, first, the control unit (260) creates a design screen (400) and displays the design screen (400) on a touch panel that serves as both an input unit (210) and an output unit (220) (step S202). At this time, the control unit (260) displays the design screen (400) by placing an icon (52) at a position corresponding to the target temperature set in the N-1st customization process.

[0126] Next, the control unit (260) receives a user operation to set a target temperature (step S204). For example, the control unit (260) changes the information displayed in the temperature setting section (80) according to the movement of the focus window (81). Then, when the icon (52) displayed in the temperature setting section (80) is moved up or down, the control unit (260) receives the setting of the target temperature according to the position of the icon (52) after the movement.

[0127] Next, the control unit (260) switches the display of the target temperature (step S206). For example, the control unit (260) moves the display position of the icon (52) in the design information display section (30) and the temperature setting section (80) according to user operation, and switches the display mode of the moved icon (52) from colorless to colored.

[0128] Next, the control unit (260) determines whether the setting of the target temperature has been completed (step S208). For example, the control unit (260) determines that the setting of the target temperature has been completed when the save button (84) is selected. If it is determined that the setting of the target temperature has not been completed (step S208: NO), the process returns to step S204.

[0129] When it is determined that the setting of the target temperature has been completed (step S208: YES), the control unit (260) stores the heating profile after the change in the memory unit (250) (step S210). For example, the control unit (260) stores the heating profile reflecting the target temperature set in step S206 in the memory unit (250).

[0130] Next, the control unit (260) controls the communication unit (240) to transmit the heating profile after modification to the suction device (100) (step S212). The suction device (100) stores the received heating profile and uses it for the next heating. Accordingly, in the N+1th customization process, heating based on the heating profile generated in the Nth customization process is performed by the suction device (100).

[0131] <3. Variation Example>

[0132] (1) First variant

[0133] FIG. 10 is a figure showing another example of an evaluation screen displayed during the Nth customization process. The evaluation screen (300) shown in FIG. 10 includes a design information display section (30), a progress display section (60), and an evaluation setting section (70), similar to the example shown in FIG. 5. Below, the upper point from the example shown in FIG. 5 will be mainly described.

[0134] As shown in FIG. 10, the evaluation display section (40) includes icons (42, 44, and 46) representing the evaluation of the taste set in the Nth customization process, in addition to icons (42a, 44a, and 46a) representing the evaluation of the taste set in the N-1st customization process. Additionally, among the icons (42a, 44a, and 46a), the icon representing the evaluation of the taste set for each puff timing may be specified by assigning a number indicating the number of puff timings to the end of the symbol. For example, in the N-1st customization process, the evaluation of the inhalation sensation, amount of smoke, and taste preference set for the 1st puff timing is represented by icons (42a-1, 44a-1, and 46a-1).

[0135] In particular, for puff timings where the evaluation of the taste is set in the Nth customization process, the terminal device (200) may display icons (42, 44 and 46) representing the evaluation of the taste set in the Nth customization process and icons (42a, 44a and 46a) representing the evaluation of the taste set in the N-1st customization process. Meanwhile, for puff timings where the evaluation of the taste is not set in the Nth customization process, the terminal device (200) may display icons (42a, 44a and 46a) representing the evaluation of the taste set in the N-1st customization process. In the example shown in FIG. 10, the setting of the taste is completed for puff timings up to the 6th time in the Nth customization process. For this reason, in the evaluation display section (40), for the puff timing up to the 6th time, icons (42, 44 and 46) (e.g., 42-1, 44-1 and 46-1) representing the evaluation set in the Nth customization process and icons (42a, 44a and 46a) (e.g., 42a-1, 44a-1 and 46a-1) representing the evaluation set in the N-1st customization process are displayed. Meanwhile, in the evaluation display section (40), for the puff timing from the 7th time onwards, icons (42a, 44a and 46a) (e.g., 42a-7, 44a-7 and 46a-7) representing the evaluation set in the N-1st customization process are displayed. According to this configuration, the user can easily see the evaluation being updated in accordance with the progress of the setting of the taste.

[0136] In this way, the terminal device (200) may display an icon (42a) representing the taste evaluation set in the N-1st customization process and an icon (42) representing the taste evaluation set in the Nth customization process for a specific puff timing (second puff timing) while the Nth customization process is being executed. The specific puff timing is a puff timing for which the setting of the taste evaluation is completed, as shown in the example in FIG. 10. According to this configuration, it becomes possible to easily identify changes in the evaluation in the Nth customization process for a specific puff timing.

[0137] As shown in FIG. 10, for puff timings where the target temperature is changed in the N-1st customization process, the temperature setting section (80) may display not only an icon (52) (e.g., 52-1) indicating the temperature after the change, but also an icon (52a) (e.g., 52a-1) indicating the temperature before the change. Here, the icon (52) indicates the target temperature set in the N-1st customization process. Additionally, the icon (52a) indicates the target temperature set in the N-2nd customization process.

[0138] The terminal device (200) may display the icon (52) representing the target temperature set in the N-1st customization process and the icon (52a) representing the target temperature set in the N-2nd customization process in different forms. In the example shown in FIG. 10, the icon (52a) representing the target temperature set in the N-2nd customization process is displayed as a dashed diamond shape. Meanwhile, the icon (52) representing the target temperature set in the N-1st customization process is displayed as a solid diamond shape. According to this configuration, the user can easily distinguish between the target temperature set in the N-1st customization process and the target temperature set in the N-2nd customization process.

[0139] As another example of a different mode of display, in addition to the solid and dashed lines of the outline shown in FIG. 10 and the presence or absence of color, the color, the color intensity, the transparency, or the outline may be adopted. In particular, it is more preferable for the terminal device (200) to display the icon (52a) representing the target temperature set in the N-2nd customization process with higher transparency than the icon (52) representing the target temperature set in the N-1st customization process. For example, it is preferable that the icon (52a) representing the target temperature set in the N-2nd customization process be displayed semi-transparently, and the icon (52) representing the target temperature set in the N-1st customization process be displayed non-transparently. According to such a configuration, the user can more easily distinguish between the target temperature set in the N-1st customization process and the target temperature set in the N-2nd customization process.

[0140] (2) Second variant

[0141] FIGS. 11 to 13 illustrate another example of an evaluation screen displayed during the Nth customization process. The evaluation screen (300) (300a, 300b, and 300c) shown in FIGS. 11 to 13 illustrates the transition of the evaluation screen (300) over time. Specifically, as shown in the fractional display column (62), the evaluation screen (300a) is displayed at the 6th puff timing, the evaluation screen (300b) is displayed between the 6th puff timing and the 7th puff timing, and the evaluation screen (300c) is displayed at the 7th puff timing. As shown in FIGS. 11 to 13, the evaluation screen (300) includes a design information display column (30), a fractional display column (62), and an evaluation setting column (70), similar to the example shown in FIG. 5.

[0142] The terminal device (200) displays the progress of the heating session by scrolling the information displayed in the design information display section (30). The terminal device (200) displays information on some of the puff timings out of a total of 16 puff timings in the design information display section (30). Then, as time passes, the terminal device (200) scrolls the information displayed in the design information display section (30) in a horizontal direction (an example of a predetermined direction), more specifically from right to left. The terminal device (200) deletes the information on puff timings that have already arrived from the left end of the design information display section (30) and newly introduces information on puff timings that will arrive in the future from the right end of the design information display section (30).

[0143] Specifically, the design information display section (30) includes icons (42, 44, and 46) representing the evaluation of the taste as multiple second UI elements corresponding to multiple puff timings and multiple evaluation items. Additionally, the design information display section (30) includes icons (52) representing the target temperature corresponding to multiple puff timings. The terminal device (200) arranges the icons (42, 44, 46, and 52) corresponding to the same puff timing in a vertical line and scrolls them from right to left at the same speed.

[0144] Additionally, the design information display section (30) includes a frame (63) as a predetermined area indicating the setting timing of the evaluation of the taste. The frame (63) has a size through which scrolled icons (42, 44, 46 and 52) can pass. And, the frame (63) is fixedly positioned at the location through which the scrolled icons (42, 44, 46 and 52) pass.

[0145] The terminal device (200) arranges a plurality of icons (42, 44, 46, and 52) corresponding to a plurality of puff timings in a horizontal direction and scrolls them in a horizontal direction (more specifically, from right to left). In particular, when the timing for setting the evaluation of the taste (e.g., puff timing) arrives, the terminal device (200) scrolls the icons (42, 44, 46, and 52) corresponding to the puff timing for setting the evaluation of the taste to be positioned inside the frame (63) over time from right to left. Then, when the scrolled icons (42, 44, 46, and 52) reach the frame (63), the terminal device (200) receives the setting of the evaluation for the puff timing corresponding to the icons (42, 44, 46, and 52) that reached the frame (63).

[0146] In the example shown in FIG. 11, the icons (42-6, 44-6, 46-6, and 52-6) are located inside the frame (63). Therefore, the terminal device (200) receives an evaluation of the taste for the 6th puff timing. In the example shown in FIG. 12, none of the icons (42, 44, 46, and 52) are located inside the frame (63). Therefore, the terminal device (200) does not receive an evaluation of the taste. On the other hand, in the example shown in FIG. 13, the icons (42-7, 44-7, 46-7, and 52-7) are located inside the frame (63). Therefore, the terminal device (200) receives an evaluation of the taste for the 7th puff timing.

[0147] According to the configuration described above, it is possible to improve visibility by reducing the amount of information displayed in the design information display section (30). Furthermore, the user can set the evaluation of the suction sensation, the evaluation of the amount of smoke, and the evaluation of the taste preference at a fast pace, in time with the timing when the icons (42, 44, 46 and 52) reach the frame (63). Accordingly, it is possible to add entertainment value to the taste evaluation settings and make the user happy.

[0148] Additionally, FIGS. 11 to 13 illustrate an example in which the second UI element is an icon (42, 44, and 46) representing an evaluation of the taste, but the present invention is not limited to such an example. The second UI element may be any mark other than the icon (42, 44, and 46) representing an evaluation of the taste.

[0149] (3) Third variant

[0150] FIGS. 14 to 16 are drawings showing another example of an evaluation screen displayed during the Nth customization process. The evaluation screens (300) (300d, 300e, and 300f) shown in FIGS. 14 to 16 represent the transition of the evaluation screen (300) over time. These evaluation screens (300d, 300d, and 300f) are displayed in sequence during the 6th puff timing. The evaluation screen (300) for this variant, like the second variant, displays the progress of the heating session by scrolling the information displayed in the design information display section (30).

[0151] The design information display section (30) includes icons (42, 44, and 46) representing the evaluation of the taste as multiple second UI elements corresponding to multiple puff timings and multiple evaluation items. Additionally, the design information display section (30) includes icons (52) representing the target temperature corresponding to multiple puff timings. However, the terminal device (200) arranges the icons (42) and (52) corresponding to the same puff timing in a vertical line, while arranging the icons (42, 44, and 46) corresponding to the same puff timing diagonally. Then, the terminal device (200) scrolls the icons (42, 44, and 46) and the icon (52) from right to left at the same speed. Accordingly, the icons (42, 44, and 46) representing the evaluation of the taste for each evaluation item reach the frame (63) in sequence with a time difference.

[0152] Additionally, the design information display section (30) includes a frame (63) as a predetermined area indicating the setting timing of the evaluation of the taste. The frame (63) has a size through which scrolled icons (42, 44, 46 and 52) can pass. And, the frame (63) is fixedly positioned at the location through which scrolled icons (42, 44, 46 and 52) pass.

[0153] The terminal device (200) arranges multiple icons (42, 44, 46, and 52) corresponding to multiple puff timings in a horizontal direction and scrolls them in a horizontal direction (more specifically, from right to left). In particular, when the timing for setting the evaluation of the taste (e.g., puff timing) arrives, the terminal device (200) scrolls the icons (42, 44, 46, and 52) corresponding to the puff timing for setting the evaluation of the taste to be positioned inside the frame (63) over time from right to left. Then, when the scrolled icons (42, 44, 46, and 52) reach the frame (63), the terminal device (200) receives the setting of the evaluation for the puff timing corresponding to the icons (42, 44, 46, and 52) that reached the frame (63).

[0154] Here, icons (42, 44 and 46) representing evaluations of taste corresponding to different evaluation items of the same puff timing reach frame (63) at different timings. This is because the icons (42, 44 and 46) are scrolled while arranged diagonally offset. When the scrolled icons (42, 44 or 46) reach frame (63), the terminal device (200) receives the settings for the evaluation of taste for the puff timing and evaluation items corresponding to the icons (42, 44 or 46) that reached frame (63).

[0155] In the example shown in FIG. 14, an icon (42-6) indicating an evaluation of the suction sensation at the 6th puff timing is located inside the frame (63). Therefore, the terminal device (200) receives the setting for the evaluation of the suction sensation at the 6th puff timing. In the example shown in FIG. 15, an icon (44-6) indicating an evaluation of the amount of smoke at the 6th puff timing is located inside the frame (63). Therefore, the terminal device (200) receives the setting for the evaluation of the amount of smoke at the 6th puff timing. In the example shown in FIG. 16, an icon (46-6) indicating an evaluation of the taste preference at the 6th puff timing is located inside the frame (63). Therefore, the terminal device (200) receives the setting for the evaluation of the taste preference at the 6th puff timing.

[0156] According to the configuration described above, the user can set the evaluation of suction sensation, the evaluation of the amount of smoke, and the evaluation of taste preference in a time-sequential and fast-paced manner. Accordingly, it is possible to add further entertainment value to the setting of the taste evaluation, thereby making the user happy.

[0157] As shown in FIGS. 14 to 16, the design screen (400) displays icons (42, 44, or 46) representing the evaluation of the set taste and buttons (71A to 71C, 73A to 73C, or 75A and 75B) for setting the evaluation for the same evaluation item as the icons (42, 44, or 46) representing the evaluation of the taste, arranged along the horizontal direction (an example of a predetermined direction). Specifically, the design screen (400) displays an evaluation display column (41) for the sensation of suction and an evaluation setting column (71) for the sensation of suction arranged along the horizontal direction. The design screen (400) displays an evaluation display column (43) for the amount of smoke and an evaluation setting column (73) for the amount of smoke arranged along the horizontal direction. The design screen (400) displays an evaluation display section (45) for taste preferences and an evaluation setting section (75) for taste preferences arranged horizontally. According to this configuration, UI elements for each evaluation item are arranged horizontally and displayed, making it possible to improve visibility.

[0158] <4. Supplement>

[0159] Although suitable embodiments of the present invention have been described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings, the present invention is not limited to such examples. It is clear to those skilled in the art to which the present invention pertains that various modifications or alterations can be made within the scope of the technical concept described in the claims, and these are also naturally understood to fall within the technical scope of the present invention.

[0160] For example, in the above embodiment, an example was described in which the setting of the flavor evaluation is performed in parallel with the progress of heating based on the heating profile, but the present invention is not limited to such an example. The setting of the flavor evaluation may be performed collectively after the end of heating based on the heating profile.

[0161] For example, in the above embodiment, a circular icon was exemplified as an example of a mark indicating the evaluation of the taste, but the present invention is not limited to such examples. Any shape, character, figure, or symbol may be used as a mark indicating the evaluation of the taste. The same applies to a mark indicating the target temperature, for which a diamond-shaped icon was exemplified in the above embodiment.

[0162] Furthermore, the series of processes performed by each device described herein may be realized using software, hardware, or a combination of software and hardware. A program constituting the software is stored in advance, for example, on a recording medium provided inside or outside each device (specifically, a non-transient storage medium readable by a computer). Then, each program is loaded into RAM, for example, upon execution by a computer controlling each device described herein, and is executed by a processing circuit such as a CPU. The recording medium is, for example, a magnetic disk, an optical disk, a magneto-optical disk, a flash memory, etc. Additionally, the computer program may be distributed, for example, via a network, without using a recording medium. Furthermore, the computer may be a specific-purpose integrated circuit such as an ASIC, a general-purpose processor that executes functions by loading a software program, or a computer on a server used for cloud computing. Additionally, the series of processes performed by each device described herein may be distributed and processed by a plurality of computers.

[0163] Furthermore, the processing described in this specification using flowcharts and sequence diagrams does not necessarily have to be executed in the order depicted. Some processing steps may be executed in parallel. Additionally, additional processing steps may be employed, and some processing steps may be omitted.

[0164] In addition, the following configurations also fall within the technical scope of the present invention.

[0165] (1)

[0166] Generating a display image that displays a mark indicating a parameter included in control information defining a parameter regarding the temperature for heating an aerosol source, and a mark indicating an evaluation of an aerosol generated by heating an aerosol source based on the control information, and controlling a display device to display the generated display image;

[0167] Receiving the setting of the above parameters or the setting of the above evaluation for the aerosol generated based on the above control information reflecting the set above parameters

[0168] A control unit that controls customization processing including

[0169] Equipped with,

[0170] The control unit generates a display image that displays at least one of a mark representing the parameter set in the previous customization process and a mark representing the parameter set in the current customization process, or a mark representing the evaluation set in the previous customization process and a mark representing the evaluation set in the current customization process.

[0171] Information processing device.

[0172] (2)

[0173] The control unit generates a display image that displays a mark representing the parameter set in the previous customization process and a mark representing the parameter set in the current customization process in different forms, or displays a mark representing the evaluation set in the previous customization process and a mark representing the evaluation set in the current customization process in different forms.

[0174] The information processing device described in (1) above.

[0175] (3)

[0176] The control unit displays the mark representing the parameter set in the previous customization process or the mark representing the evaluation with a higher transparency than the mark representing the parameter set in the current customization process or the mark representing the evaluation.

[0177] The information processing device described in (2) above.

[0178] (4)

[0179] The above control unit receives the setting of the parameter or the setting of the evaluation at each of the plurality of puff timings,

[0180] An information processing device described in any one of (1) to (3) above.

[0181] (5)

[0182] The control unit generates a display image that displays a mark representing the parameter set in the previous customization process and a mark representing the parameter set in the current customization process for the first puff timing, or displays a mark representing the evaluation set in the previous customization process and a mark representing the evaluation set in the current customization process for the second puff timing.

[0183] The information processing device described in (4) above.

[0184] (6)

[0185] The control unit generates a display image that displays the evaluation set in the current customization process for puff timings in which the evaluation is set in the current customization process, and displays the evaluation set in the previous customization process for puff timings in which the evaluation is not set in the current customization process.

[0186] Information processing device described in (4) or (5) above.

[0187] (7)

[0188] The above display image displays a mark representing the set evaluation and a first UI element for setting the evaluation for an evaluation item identical to the mark representing the evaluation, arranged along a predetermined direction.

[0189] An information processing device described in any one of claims (4) to (6) above.

[0190] (8)

[0191] The above display image displays a mark representing the evaluation and a mark representing the parameter, which are set for some of the puff timings among all puff timings.

[0192] An information processing device described in any one of claims (1) to (7) above.

[0193] (9)

[0194] The above display image includes a plurality of second UI elements and a predetermined area corresponding to a plurality of puff timings, and

[0195] The control unit above arranges a plurality of second UI elements corresponding to a plurality of puff timings in a predetermined direction and scrolls them in the predetermined direction, and when the scrolled second UI element reaches the predetermined area, receives a setting of the evaluation for the puff timing corresponding to the second UI element that reached the predetermined area.

[0196] An information processing device described in any one of claims (1) to (8) above.

[0197] (10)

[0198] The above display image includes a plurality of second UI elements corresponding to a plurality of puff timings and a plurality of evaluation items, and

[0199] The control unit arranges a plurality of second UI elements corresponding to a plurality of puff timings in a predetermined direction and scrolls them in the predetermined direction, and when the scrolled second UI element reaches the predetermined area, receives the puff timing corresponding to the second UI element that reached the predetermined area and the setting of the evaluation for the evaluation item.

[0200] Multiple second UI elements corresponding to different evaluation items of the same puff timing reach the predetermined area at different timings,

[0201] An information processing device described in any one of claims (1) to (8) above.

[0202] (11)

[0203] The above second UI element includes a mark representing the set evaluation,

[0204] Information processing device described in (9) or (10) above.

[0205] (12)

[0206] The above display image includes a third UI element, and

[0207] The control unit sets the parameter according to the position of the mark representing the parameter displayed on the display image, and expands the movable range of the mark representing the parameter when the third UI element is selected.

[0208] An information processing device described in any one of (1) to (11) above.

[0209] (13)

[0210] The above control unit controls an output device to output first information whenever puff timing arrives,

[0211] An information processing device described in any one of (1) to (12) above.

[0212] (14)

[0213] The above control unit controls the output device to output second information when all of the set evaluations satisfy a predetermined condition.

[0214] An information processing device described in any one of (1) to (13) above.

[0215] (15)

[0216] The above parameters included in control information that defines parameters regarding the temperature for heating an aerosol source, and the suction device generating a display image that displays an evaluation of the aerosol generated by heating the aerosol source based on the above control information, and controlling a display device to display the generated display image, and

[0217] Receiving the setting of the above parameters, or the setting of the above evaluation for the aerosol generated based on the above control information reflecting the set above parameters.

[0218] It includes controlling customization processing including,

[0219] Controlling the customization process includes generating a display image that displays at least one of a mark representing the parameter set in the previous customization process and a mark representing the parameter set in the current customization process, or a mark representing the evaluation set in the previous customization process and a mark representing the evaluation set in the current customization process.

[0220] Information processing method. Explanation of the symbols

[0221] 1: System 100: Suction device 111: Power supply 112: Sensor section 113: Notification Department 114: Memory Department 115: Communications Department 116: Control unit 121: Heating part 140: Holding support 141: Interior space 142: Frog 143: Bottom part 144: Insulation section 150: Stick-type material 151: Ministry of Economy and Finance 152: Intake part 200: Terminal device 210: Input section 220: Output section 230: Detector 240: Communications Department 250: Memory 260: Control unit

Claims

Claim 1 A control unit for controlling a customization process comprising: generating a display image that displays a mark representing a parameter included in control information defining a parameter regarding the temperature for heating an aerosol source, and a mark representing an evaluation of an aerosol generated by a suction device heating an aerosol source based on the control information; controlling a display device to display the generated display image; receiving a setting of the parameter; and receiving a setting of the evaluation of an aerosol generated based on the control information reflecting the set parameter; wherein the control unit generates the display image that displays a mark representing the evaluation set in the previous customization process and a mark representing the evaluation set in the current customization process; wherein the display image includes a plurality of second UI elements corresponding to a plurality of puff timings and a predetermined area; wherein the control unit arranges a plurality of second UI elements corresponding to a plurality of puff timings in a predetermined direction, scrolls a plurality of second UI elements in the predetermined direction over time, causes a second UI element corresponding to a puff timing that has already arrived to disappear at the end of the predetermined direction, and a second An information processing device that newly introduces UI elements from the opposite end of the aforementioned predetermined direction, and receives the setting of the evaluation for the puff timing corresponding to the second UI element that has reached the aforementioned predetermined area when each of the scrolled second UI elements reaches the aforementioned predetermined area. Claim 2 In claim 1, the control unit generates an information processing device that displays the mark representing the evaluation set in the previous customization process and the mark representing the evaluation set in the current customization process in different forms. Claim 3 In paragraph 2, the control unit is an information processing device that displays a mark representing the evaluation set in the previous customization process with higher transparency than a mark representing the evaluation set in the current customization process. Claim 4 In any one of claims 1 to 3, the control unit is an information processing device that receives the setting of the parameter and the setting of the evaluation at each of the plurality of puff timings. Claim 5 In paragraph 4, the control unit generates an information processing device that displays a mark indicating the evaluation set in the previous customization process and a mark indicating the evaluation set in the current customization process for the second puff timing. Claim 6 In paragraph 4, the control unit generates an information processing device that displays the evaluation set in the current customization process for puff timings in which the evaluation is set in the current customization process, and displays the evaluation set in the previous customization process for puff timings in which the evaluation is not set in the current customization process. Claim 7 In paragraph 4, the information processing device displays the display image by arranging a mark representing the set evaluation and a first UI element for setting the evaluation for the same evaluation item as the mark representing the evaluation along a predetermined direction. Claim 8 An information processing device according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the display image displays a mark indicating the evaluation and a mark indicating the parameter, which are set for some of the puff timings of all puff timings. Claim 9 delete Claim 10 An information processing device according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the display image includes a plurality of second UI elements corresponding to a plurality of puff timings and a plurality of evaluation items and a predetermined area, and the control unit arranges the plurality of second UI elements corresponding to the plurality of puff timings in the predetermined direction and scrolls them in the predetermined direction, and when each of the scrolled second UI elements reaches the predetermined area, receives the setting of the evaluation for the puff timing and evaluation item corresponding to the second UI element that reached the predetermined area, and the plurality of second UI elements corresponding to different evaluation items of the same puff timing reach the predetermined area at different timings. Claim 11 In claim 1, the information processing device, wherein the second UI element includes a mark representing the set evaluation. Claim 12 An information processing device according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the display image includes a third UI element, and the control unit sets the parameter according to the position of a mark indicating the parameter displayed in the display image, and expands the movable range of the mark indicating the parameter when the third UI element is selected. Claim 13 An information processing device according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the control unit displays a mark indicating the parameter set in the previous customization process and a mark indicating the parameter set in the current customization process, and generates a display image displaying a mark indicating the evaluation set in the previous customization process and a mark indicating the evaluation set in the current customization process. Claim 14 An information processing device according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the control unit generates a display image that displays a mark indicating the parameter set in the previous customization process and a mark indicating the parameter set in the current customization process for the first puff timing, and displays a mark indicating the evaluation set in the previous customization process and a mark indicating the evaluation set in the current customization process for the second puff timing. Claim 15 The method includes controlling a customization process comprising: a parameter included in control information defining a parameter regarding the temperature for heating an aerosol source; generating a display image that displays an evaluation of an aerosol generated by heating an aerosol source based on the control information, and controlling a display device to display the generated display image; receiving a setting of the parameter; and receiving a setting of the evaluation of an aerosol generated based on the control information reflecting the set parameter. The method of controlling the customization process includes generating a display image that displays a mark representing the evaluation set in the previous customization process and a mark representing the evaluation set in the current customization process. The display image includes a plurality of second UI elements corresponding to a plurality of puff timings and a predetermined area. The method of controlling the customization process includes arranging a plurality of second UI elements corresponding to a plurality of puff timings in a predetermined direction, scrolling a plurality of second UI elements in the predetermined direction over time, causing a second UI element corresponding to a puff timing that has already arrived to disappear at the end of the predetermined direction, and a puff timing that will arrive in the future An information processing method comprising newly introducing a second UI element corresponding to the puff timing from the opposite end of the said predetermined direction, and receiving a setting of the evaluation for the puff timing corresponding to the second UI element that reached the said predetermined area when each of the scrolled second UI elements reaches the said predetermined area.

Images