Aerosol generation device

Abstract

This aerosol generation device includes: a heating unit that heats an aerosol source; a contact sensor that detects an operation on a predetermined portion of a housing surface; a first tactile device; a second tactile device; a function that controls the heating of the aerosol source by the heating unit; and a processor that controls the outputs of the first and second tactile devices, the processor performing control for switching between the output by the first tactile device and the output by the second tactile device according to content to notify a user about.

Description

Aerosol Generator

[0001] The present disclosure relates to an aerosol generating device.

[0002] Some aerosol generating devices, which are portable electronic devices, are equipped with push buttons or slide switches. These controls are displaced by user operation, making it easy to feel the sensation of operation.

[0003] JP 2022-524198 A JP 2020-185005 A

[0004] It is expected that future aerosol generators will incorporate contact sensors. The adoption of contact sensors will enable new ways of using aerosol generators to be proposed to users. However, contact sensors are devices that do not involve mechanical displacement when inputting operations. Therefore, if a contact sensor is adopted in an aerosol generator, it will be difficult for users to know whether their operations have been detected or whether their operations have been accepted correctly.

[0005] In view of the above-mentioned problems, the present disclosure provides a technique that can give a user the feeling of actually inputting an operation even when a contact sensor is used as an input device.

[0006] As one form of the present disclosure, an aerosol generating device is provided that has a heating unit that heats an aerosol source, a contact sensor that detects operations on a predetermined portion of the surface of a housing, a first tactile device, a second tactile device, a function that controls heating of the aerosol source by the heating unit, and a processor that controls output of the first and second tactile devices, and the processor controls switching between output by the first tactile device and output by the second tactile device depending on the content to be notified to the user.

[0007] The processor here may control the first haptic device when notifying that the contact sensor has detected the start of an operation, and may control the second haptic device when notifying that the contact sensor has completed receiving the operation.

[0008] Here, the first haptic device may be located closer to the contact sensor than the second haptic device.

[0009] When the contact sensor has a first contact sensor and a second contact sensor, the processor may control the first tactile device when notifying detection of an operation by the first contact sensor, and may control the second tactile device when notifying detection of an operation by the second contact sensor, when notifying completion of acceptance of an operation by the first contact sensor, or when notifying completion of acceptance of an operation by the second contact sensor.

[0010] The processor here may also use a first haptic device for notification with a first output intensity and a second haptic device for notification with a second output intensity greater than the first output intensity.

[0011] Alternatively, the processor may use a first haptic device for notification using a first output pattern, and a second haptic device for notification using a second output pattern different from the first output pattern.

[0012] The processor may also control the second haptic device when an operation is received while the aerosol source is in a heating mode.

[0013] The processor may also control the second haptic device when notifying the occurrence of an error.

[0014] The tactile device may also be an LRA (Linear Resonant Actuator).

[0015] Furthermore, the output intensity, number of outputs, or output pattern of the LRA may be switched and controlled depending on the notification content.

[0016] Alternatively, the predetermined portion may be at least one surface of the housing.

[0017] The processor may include a first processor that controls heating of the aerosol source by the heating unit, and a second processor that controls output of the tactile device.

[0018] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, even when a contact sensor is used as an input device, the user can be given the feeling of operation input.

[0019] 1 is a diagram of the front side of the aerosol generation device assumed in embodiment 1, observed from diagonally above. FIG. 2 is a diagram illustrating a state in which an opening is exposed by sliding a slide cover. FIG. 3 is a diagram schematically illustrating the internal configuration of a main body. FIG. 4 is a diagram illustrating the positional relationship between a touch sensor and two vibration motors in embodiment 1. FIG. 5 is a diagram illustrating the relationship between the mounting positions of a touch sensor and a vibration motor. FIG. 6 is a diagram illustrating operation modes provided in the aerosol generation device used in embodiment 1 and the conditions for transitions between operation modes. FIG. 7 is a table illustrating example 1 of a combination of input operations and haptic feedback. FIG. 8 is a table illustrating another example of allocation of vibration feedback to two vibration motors. FIG. 9 is a table illustrating example 2 of a combination of input operations and haptic feedback. FIG. 10 is a table illustrating example 3 of a combination of input operations and haptic feedback. FIG. 11 is a table illustrating example 4 of a combination of input operations and haptic feedback. FIG. 12 is a diagram illustrating other feedback. FIG. 13 is a diagram illustrating the positional relationship between nine touch sensors and vibration motors in embodiment 2. FIG. 14 is a diagram illustrating the relationship between the arrangement of touch sensors and input operations in embodiment 2. FIG. 15 is a diagram illustrating areas in which input operations are valid and invalid during sleep mode. FIG. 16 is a diagram illustrating the positional relationship between a touch sensor and a vibration motor in embodiment 3. FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating an example of a downward swipe operation. FIG. 11 is a diagram illustrating an example of an upward swipe operation. FIG. 12 is a diagram illustrating an example of a combination of input operation and haptic feedback in embodiment 3. FIG. 13 is a diagram illustrating another positional relationship between the touch sensor and the vibration motor in embodiment 3. FIG. 14 is a diagram illustrating the aerosol generation device 1 assumed in embodiment 4, observed from diagonally above. FIG. 15 is a diagram illustrating another positional relationship between the touch sensor and two vibration motors in embodiment 4. FIG. 16 is a diagram illustrating the aerosol generation device assumed in embodiment 5, observed from diagonally above. FIG. 17 is a diagram illustrating the relationship between the attachment positions of the touch sensor and the vibration motor in embodiment 6. FIG. 18 is a diagram illustrating differences in input operation of the aerosol generation device depending on the type of aerosol source and the heating temperature.

[0020] Hereinafter, embodiments of the present disclosure will be described with reference to the drawings. In each drawing, the same parts are denoted by the same reference numerals.

[0021] <Terminology> The aerosol generating device according to each embodiment is a form of electronic cigarette. In the following description, the substance generated by the aerosol generating device is called aerosol. Aerosol refers to a mixture of air or other gases and tiny liquid or solid particles suspended in gas. Each embodiment describes an aerosol generating device that generates aerosol without combustion.

[0022] Inhaling the aerosol generated by the aerosol generating device is also called "puffing." In each embodiment, an aerosol generating device to which a solid aerosol source can be attached will be described. The container that stores the solid aerosol source is called either a "capsule" or a "stick-type substrate" depending on the product form. Capsules and stick-type substrates are consumables. For this reason, replacement guidelines are set for capsules and stick-type substrates.

[0023] First Embodiment In the first embodiment, an aerosol generating device will be described that heats a stick-shaped substrate containing a solid aerosol source at a high temperature (for example, 200° C. or higher).

[0024] <External Appearance Example> First, an external appearance example of the aerosol generation device used in the first embodiment will be described. FIG. 1 is a view of the front side of the aerosol generation device 1 assumed in the first embodiment, observed from diagonally above. The aerosol generation device 1 used in the present embodiment has a size that can be held in one hand by a user. The aerosol generation device 1 has a main body 10 and a sliding cover 20. The main body 10 is a substantially hexahedron. Specifically, each face of the main body 10 is connected to the adjacent faces by curved surfaces. An opening 10A (see FIG. 2), not shown, is provided on the top face of the main body 10, through which a cylindrical stick-shaped substrate 30 (see FIG. 3) can be attached and detached.

[0025] The appearance of the main body 10 is determined by the surface of the housing. The housing divides the main body 10 into an internal space and an external space. In this embodiment, the entire surface of the main body 10 is also referred to as the "housing surface." Furthermore, a portion of the surface of the main body 10 is also referred to as the "housing surface." The sliding cover 20 is a component that can slide along the top surface of the main body 10. In the case of FIG. 1, the opening 10A is covered by the sliding cover 20. As shown in FIG. 1, the state in which the opening 10A is covered by the sliding cover 20 is referred to as the "closed state." Furthermore, the sliding position of the sliding cover 20 in this state is referred to as the "closed position."

[0026] FIG. 2 is a diagram illustrating a state in which the opening 10A is exposed by sliding the slide cover 20. In FIG. 2, parts corresponding to those in FIG. 1 are denoted by the same reference numerals. As shown in FIG. 2, the state in which the opening 10A is exposed is referred to as the "open state." The slid position of the slide cover 20 in this state is referred to as the "open position." The opening 10A forms the open end of the roughly cylindrical holding portion 109 (see FIG. 3) that holds the stick-shaped substrate 30. Therefore, the opening 10A is roughly circular. The slide cover 20 shown in FIG. 2 slides along a guide groove (not shown) formed on the top surface or back side of the main body 10. Hereinafter, the surface on which the thumb is positioned when the main body 10 is held in the right hand with the slide cover 20 positioned on top is referred to as the "front." In other words, the surface facing the user when the opening 10A is located on the left side of the main body 10 as viewed from the user is referred to as the "front."

[0027] <Internal Configuration> Fig. 3 is a diagram schematically illustrating the internal configuration of the main body 10. A stick-shaped substrate 30 is attached to the opening 10A of the main body 10 shown in Fig. 3. The internal configuration shown in Fig. 3 is intended to explain the components provided in the main body 10 and their positional relationships. For this reason, the appearance of the components, etc. shown in Fig. 3 does not necessarily match the appearance diagram described above.

[0028] The main body 10 is composed of a power supply unit 101, a sensor unit 102, a notification unit 103, a memory unit 104, a communication unit 105, a control unit 106, a heating unit 107, a heat insulating unit 108, and a holding unit 109. The stick-shaped substrate 30 shown in FIG. 3 is held in the holding unit 109. The user inhales the aerosol with the stick-shaped substrate 30 attached to the holding unit 109.

[0029] The power supply unit 101 is a unit that supplies power to each component. The power supply unit 101 uses a secondary battery to store the power required by the main body unit 10. For example, a lithium-ion secondary battery is used as the secondary battery. The secondary battery can be charged from an external power source. In the first embodiment, the external power source is connected via a USB connector (not shown). The USB connector is provided, for example, on the bottom surface of the main body unit 10.

[0030] The sensor unit 102 is an electronic component that detects various pieces of information related to the main body 10. The sensor unit 102 includes, for example, a magnetic sensor used to detect the slide position of the sliding cover 20 (see FIG. 1). The magnetic sensor is disposed within the movable range of the sliding cover 20 and detects the strength of a magnetic field corresponding to the slide position of the sliding cover 20. The magnetic field to be detected is generated by a magnet attached to the sliding cover 20. The control unit 106 detects whether the slide position of the sliding cover 20 is in the open position or the closed position based on the magnetic field strength information notified by the magnetic sensor.

[0031] The sensor unit 102 includes, for example, a pressure sensor such as a microphone capacitor and a flow sensor. The flow sensor notifies the control unit 106 of information indicating, for example, changes in air pressure and air flow due to suction. The sensor unit 102 includes, for example, a contact sensor that detects user operation input. In this embodiment, a touch sensor 102A (see FIG. 4) is used as the contact sensor. The touch sensor 102A is provided at a predetermined location on the surface of the housing used for operation input. In this embodiment, the touch sensor 102A is a sensor that detects contact by the user's hand, finger, etc. as a change in capacitance and is disposed on the back side of the housing corresponding to the predetermined location. The control unit 106 detects the user operation input based on the information on the change in capacitance notified by the touch sensor 102A. The information on the change in capacitance includes not only the coordinate position where the contact was detected, but also the transition (or movement trajectory), movement speed, contact duration, etc.

[0032] In addition, the sensor unit 102 includes, for example, a temperature sensor that detects the temperature of the heating unit 107. The temperature sensor detects the temperature of the heating unit 107 based on, for example, changes in the electrical resistance of the conductive track of the heating unit 107. The temperature sensor outputs a voltage corresponding to the current electrical resistance value. The control unit 106 calculates the temperature of the heating unit 107 from the output voltage of the temperature sensor. This temperature sensor is used for the purpose of changing the temperature of the heating unit 107 in accordance with a heating profile. Other temperature sensors include a temperature sensor that detects the ambient temperature of the heating unit 107 and a temperature sensor that detects the temperature near the surface of the main body unit 10. These two temperature sensors are used to detect unexpected temperature increases. In other words, the temperature sensors here are provided from a safety perspective.

[0033] The notification unit 103 is an electronic component that notifies the user of various pieces of information related to the main body 10. The notification unit 103 includes, for example, a vibration device that vibrates the main body 10. The vibration device includes, for example, vibration motors 103A1 and 103A2 (see FIG. 4). In this embodiment, an LRA (= Linear Resonant Actuator) is used as the vibration motor 103A1, and an ERM (= Eccentric Rotating Mass) is used as the vibration motor 103A2. The LRA is a linear resonant actuator. The LRA generates vibrations that can be perceived by the user by driving a voice coil at the resonant frequency of a spring.

[0034] The ERM has a structure in which a weight with an uneven shape is attached to the rotating shaft of the motor, and is also called an eccentric motor. In the case of an ERM, the larger the mass of the weight, the greater the vibration that can be generated compared to when the mass of the weight is small. Also, in the case of an ERM, the higher the rotation speed of the rotating shaft, the greater the vibration that can be generated compared to when the rotation speed is low. These vibrations are perceived by the user through the skin. In this respect, both the vibration motors 103A1 and 103A2 are examples of haptic devices. Other notification units 103 include, for example, a sound output device that outputs sound. The sound output device is composed of, for example, a speaker and an amplifier.

[0035] 4 is a diagram illustrating the positional relationship between the touch sensor 102A and the two vibration motors 103A1 and 103A2 in the first embodiment. The touch sensor 102A and the vibration motors 103A1 and 103A2 are all provided in the internal space of the housing of the main body 10. For this reason, the attachment positions of the touch sensor 102A and the vibration motors 103A1 and 103A2 are indicated by dashed lines in FIG. 4. In FIG. 4, the touch sensor 102A is approximately square. The touch sensor 102A shown in FIG. 4 is disposed near the center of the front surface of the main body 10.

[0036] The touch sensor 102A is arranged in a range where tapping and swiping with the thumb is possible when the main body 10 is held in the right hand. For this reason, the touch sensor 102A shown in FIG. 4 is arranged closer to the upper surface than the center in the height direction of the main body 10. However, fingers other than the thumb may be used for input operations. The dimensions of the touch sensor 102A are set according to the thumb movement expected for operation input. For example, the dimensions of the touch sensor 102A required when only tapping operations are expected can be smaller than the dimensions of the touch sensor 102A required when swipe operations are expected.

[0037] Note that, when a swipe operation in the left-right direction (X direction in FIG. 4 ) is assumed as the operation input, the dimension in the X direction may be longer than the dimension in the Z direction, and when a swipe operation in the up-down direction (Z direction in FIG. 4 ) is assumed, the dimension in the Z direction may be longer than the dimension in the X direction. In this embodiment, in addition to tap operations, horizontal and up-down swipe operations are also assumed. For this reason, a roughly square touch sensor 102A is employed. In this embodiment, the vibration motor 103A1 is disposed near the touch sensor 102A. In the example of FIG. 4 , the vibration motor 103A1 is disposed near the center of the touch sensor 102A in the XZ plane. Meanwhile, the vibration motor 103A2 is disposed at the bottom of the main body 10. In other words, the vibration motor 103A2 is disposed at a position that does not overlap with the touch sensor 102A in the XZ plane.

[0038] 4 is merely an example, and both the vibration motor 103A1 and the vibration motor 103A2 may be arranged in a position that overlaps the area of ​​the touch sensor 102A in the XZ plane, or may be arranged in a position that does not overlap the area of ​​the touch sensor 102A. In this embodiment, the vibration motor 103A1, which uses an LRA that has a shorter response time than an ERM, is arranged near the touch sensor 102A to provide tactile feedback during a swipe operation. The LRA is an example of a first haptic device, and the ERM is an example of a second haptic device.

[0039] However, the touch sensor 102A and the vibration motor 103A1 cannot be physically arranged in the same space. Therefore, the vibration motor 103A1 is actually arranged behind the touch sensor 102A when viewed from the front of the main body 10. Figure 5 is a diagram explaining the relationship between the mounting positions of the touch sensor 102A and the vibration motors 103A1 and 103A2. Figure 5 shows the positional relationship when viewing the inside of the main body 10 from the right side.

[0040] In the case of FIG. 5 , the vibration motor 103A1 is located behind the touch sensor 102A. In other words, the vibration motor 103A1 is located on the rear side of the touch sensor 102A. In this embodiment, by shortening the distance between the vibration motor 103A1 and the touch sensor 102A, it becomes easier to convey the difference in vibration intensity to the user. The vibration motor 103A2 is located below the vibration motor 103A1, although it is closer to the front. However, there are no particular restrictions on the placement of the vibration motor 103A2, and it can also be placed near the vibration motor 103A1. For example, like the vibration motor 103A1, the vibration motor 103A2 can also be placed behind the touch sensor 102A.

[0041] The storage unit 104 is an electronic component that stores various information related to the operation of the main body 10. The storage unit 104 is configured, for example, with a non-volatile semiconductor storage medium such as a flash memory. The information stored in the storage unit 104 includes, for example, an OS (Operating System), FW (Firmware), and other programs. The information stored in the storage unit 104 also includes, for example, information related to the control of electronic components and information related to user suction. The control information includes, for example, a heating profile. The information related to user suction includes, for example, the number of suctions, the suction time, and the cumulative suction time. The information related to user suction is also called an operation log.

[0042] The communication unit 105 is a communication interface for realizing communication between the main body 10 and other devices. The communication unit 105 communicates with other devices in accordance with any wired or wireless communication standard. Examples of communication standards include wireless LAN (Local Area Network), USB, Wi-Fi (registered trademark), and Bluetooth (registered trademark). For example, the communication unit 105 transmits information about the user's inhalation to a smartphone. The communication unit 105 also downloads update programs and a heating profile that defines the temperature change of the heating unit 107 in heating mode from a server.

[0043] The control unit 106 functions as an arithmetic processing unit or a control device, and controls the operation of each unit constituting the main body unit 10 according to various programs. Control signals are transmitted via a signal line different from the power line. For example, communication within the main body unit 10 uses a serial communication method such as the I2C (Inter-Integrated Circuit) communication method, the SPI (Serial Peripheral Interface) communication method, or the UART (Universal Asynchronous Receiver Transmitter) communication method.

[0044] The control unit 106 is realized by electronic circuits such as a CPU (Central Processing Unit), MCU (Micro Controller Unit), MPU (Micro Processing Unit), GPU (Graphical Processing Unit), ASIC (Application Specific Integrated Circuit), FPGA (Field Programmable Gate Array), DSP (Digital Signal Processor), etc. The control unit 106 is an example of a processor. The control unit 106 may include a ROM (Read Only Memory) that stores programs, calculation parameters, etc., and a RAM (Random Access Memory) that temporarily stores parameters that change as appropriate.

[0045] The control unit 106 executes various processes and controls through the execution of programs. The processes and controls here include, for example, power supply by the power supply unit 101, charging of the power supply unit 101, detection of information by the sensor unit 102, notification of information using the notification unit 103, writing of information to the storage unit 104 or reading of information from the storage unit 104, and transmission and reception of information using the communication unit 105. In addition, the control unit 106 also controls input of information to electronic components, processing based on information output from electronic components, and the like.

[0046] The holding part 109 is a roughly cylindrical container. In this embodiment, the space inside the holding part 109, defined by the inner wall and the bottom surface, is referred to as the internal space 109A. The internal space 109A is roughly columnar. The open end of the holding part 109 corresponds to the opening 10A that is exposed by sliding the slide cover 20. The stick-shaped substrate 30 is inserted into the internal space 109A from the opening 10A. The stick-shaped substrate 30 can be inserted until its tip hits the bottom 109B. Only a portion of the stick-shaped substrate 30 is accommodated in the internal space 109A. A state in which the stick-shaped substrate 30 is accommodated in the internal space 109A is referred to as the stick-shaped substrate 30 being held in the internal space 109A.

[0047] The inner diameter of the roughly cylindrical holding part 109 is roughly the same as the outer diameter of the stick-shaped substrate 30. However, the inner diameter of the holding part 109 is formed to be smaller than the outer diameter of the stick-shaped substrate 30 in at least a portion of its axial direction. At this position, the outer peripheral surface of the stick-shaped substrate 30 is compressed by the inner wall of the holding part 109. This compression causes the stick-shaped substrate 30 to deform and be held in the internal space 109A. The holding part 109 also functions to define the flow path of air passing through the stick-shaped substrate 30. An air inlet, which is the entrance of air to the flow path, is located, for example, in the bottom part 109B. The opening 10A corresponds to an air outlet, which is the air exit.

[0048] In the present embodiment, only a portion of the stick-shaped substrate 30 is held in the internal space 109A, with the remainder protruding from the housing. Hereinafter, the portion of the stick-shaped substrate 30 held in the internal space 109A will be referred to as the substrate portion 30A, and the portion protruding from the housing will be referred to as the mouthpiece portion 30B. At least the substrate portion 30A contains an aerosol source. The aerosol source is a substance that is atomized by heating to generate an aerosol. Aerosol sources include shredded tobacco, as well as processed products in which tobacco raw materials are formed into granules, sheets, or powder, and other tobacco-derived substances.

[0049] Furthermore, the aerosol source may include non-tobacco-derived substances made from plants other than tobacco, such as mint or herbs. For example, the aerosol source may include a flavoring component such as menthol. If the main body 10 is a medical inhaler, the aerosol source may include a medication for inhalation by the patient. Note that the aerosol source is not limited to solids and may be, for example, a polyhydric alcohol such as glycerin or propylene glycol, or a liquid such as water.

[0050] At least a portion of the suction mouth portion 30B is held in the user's mouth when inhaling. When the user holds the suction mouth portion 30B in their mouth and inhales, air flows into the internal space 109A through the air inlet hole. The inflowing air passes through the internal space 109A and the base portion 30A and reaches the user's mouth. The air that reaches the user's mouth contains aerosol generated in the base portion 30A.

[0051] The heating unit 107 is composed of a heater or other heating element. The heating unit 107 is composed of any material, such as metal or polyimide. The heating unit 107 is, for example, in the form of a film, and is attached to the inner wall surface of the holding unit 109, which defines the internal space 109A. The aerosol source contained in the stick-shaped substrate 30 is heated and atomized by the heat generated by the heating unit 107. The atomized aerosol source is mixed with air or the like to generate an aerosol. In the case of Figure 3, the area near the periphery of the stick-shaped substrate 30 is heated first, and the heated range gradually moves toward the center.

[0052] For this reason, atomization of the aerosol source begins near the periphery of the stick-shaped substrate 30 and gradually moves toward the center. The heating unit 107 generates heat when power is supplied from the power supply unit 101. For example, when a predetermined user operation is detected by the sensor unit 102, power supply to the heating unit 107 is permitted. The predetermined user operation here includes opening and closing the slide cover 20 (see FIG. 1) and operating a contact sensor (for example, the touch sensor 102A).

[0053] When the temperature of the stick-shaped substrate 30 heated by the heating unit 107 reaches a predetermined temperature, the user can inhale the substrate. The change in the target temperature over time from the start of heating to the end of heating is stored in the storage unit 104 as a heating profile. The heating profile is an example of a control sequence. The inhalation of the aerosol by the user is detected by a flow rate sensor or the like of the sensor unit 102 and stored in the storage unit 104. When a predetermined time has passed since the start of heating, or when a predetermined operation by the user is detected, power supply to the heating unit 107 is stopped. The predetermined operation is, for example, removing the stick-shaped substrate 30.

[0054] In the example of FIG. 3 , the heating unit 107 is disposed on the outer periphery of the stick-shaped substrate 30, but the heating unit 107 may be a blade-shaped metal piece inserted into the stick-shaped substrate 30. Alternatively, an induction heating method, for example, may be used to atomize the aerosol source. In this type of heating method, the heating unit 107 has at least an electromagnetic induction source, such as a coil that generates a magnetic field. In this case, a susceptor is disposed at a position overlapping with the magnetic field generated by the electromagnetic induction source. The susceptor generates heat in response to the generation of the magnetic field and heats the aerosol source. The susceptor may be a metal piece embedded in the stick-shaped substrate 30. When a metal piece acting as the heating unit 107 is embedded in the stick-shaped substrate 30, a coil that induction heats the metal piece is disposed around the holder 109. Alternatively, a susceptor may be disposed on the outer periphery of the stick-shaped substrate 30 within the main body 10, and a coil serving as an electromagnetic induction source may be wound around the outer periphery.

[0055] The heat insulating section 108 is a member that reduces the propagation of heat generated in the heating section 107 to the surrounding area. For this reason, the heat insulating section 108 is arranged so as to cover at least the outer peripheral surface of the heating section 107. The heat insulating section 108 is made of, for example, a vacuum insulation material, an aerogel insulation material, or the like. A vacuum insulation material is an insulation material in which, for example, glass wool and silica (silicon powder) are wrapped in a resin film to create a high vacuum state, thereby reducing the thermal conduction of gases to as close to zero as possible.

[0056] <Operation Modes> Fig. 6 is a diagram illustrating the operation modes prepared in the aerosol generation device 1 (see Fig. 1) used in embodiment 1 and the transitions between the operation modes. The aerosol generation device 1 used in embodiment 1 has nine operation modes: charging mode M1, sleep mode M2, error modes M3 and M4, pairing mode M5, active mode M6, initialization mode M7, heating mode M8, and heating end mode M9.

[0057] Each operation mode will be explained in turn below. Charging mode M1 Charging mode M1 is a mode in which the secondary battery is charged using a USB cable. In charging mode M1, deep discharge and over-discharge of the secondary battery are also detected.

[0058] Sleep Mode M2 ​​Sleep mode M2 ​​is a mode in which most functions are stopped. In other words, sleep mode M2 ​​consumes less power than other modes. However, it is possible to detect whether the slide cover 20 (see FIG. 1) is closed, monitor the state of the secondary battery, and detect transition to other operating modes. Incidentally, a dedicated processor (hereinafter referred to as the "fuel gauge IC") is used to monitor the state of the secondary battery. The fuel gauge IC is a separate processor from the MCU.

[0059] The transition from charging mode M1 to sleep mode M2 ​​is executed, for example, when the USB cable is removed during charging. However, if a function is provided to warn the user by vibration, sound, or the like when the USB cable is removed during charging, it is possible to operate the device without immediately switching to sleep mode M2. The transition from active mode M6 to sleep mode M2 ​​is executed, for example, when the slide cover 20 is moved from the open position to the closed position, when a predetermined operation is detected via the touch sensor 102A (see FIG. 4), or when no operation continues for a predetermined period of time. The transition from sleep mode M2 ​​to active mode M6 is executed, for example, when the slide cover 20 is moved from the closed position to the open position or when a startup operation is detected via the touch sensor 102A. The transition from sleep mode M2 ​​to charging mode M1 is executed, for example, when a USB cable is connected.

[0060] Error Mode M3 Error mode M3 is a mode that temporarily appears when a recoverable error, such as a temperature abnormality, occurs. When the device enters error mode M3, an error notification is output, and the device returns to sleep mode M2 ​​after a certain period of time has passed or after a predetermined condition for clearing the error is met. The error notification is, for example, a vibration of a certain intensity. The vibration intensity here is an example of the second output intensity. The second output intensity is greater than the first output intensity, which will be described later. The device may also enter error mode M3 from charging mode M1, active mode M6, initialization mode M7, and heating mode M8.

[0061] Error Mode M4 Error mode M4 is a mode that appears when an unrecoverable error occurs, such as deep discharge, end of secondary battery life, or short circuit. Transition from error mode M4 to other modes is prohibited. Pairing Mode M5 Pairing mode M5 is a mode in which pairing with an external device is performed, for example. Bluetooth is used for pairing. The transition from sleep mode M2 ​​to pairing mode M5 is performed, for example, when a pairing operation is detected via touch sensor 102A.

[0062] Active Mode M6 Active mode M6 is a mode in which most functions except for heating are available. For example, it is possible to send a heating profile to an external device, receive a heating profile from an external device, change the heating profile used to heat the stick-shaped substrate 30 (change the heating temperature), change the brand of the stick-shaped substrate 30 to be heated, and check various information. The transition from sleep mode M2 ​​to active mode M6 is performed, for example, when the slide cover 20 moves from the closed position to the open position or when a startup operation is detected via the touch sensor 102A.

[0063] The transition from active mode M6 to sleep mode M2 ​​is executed when the sliding cover 20 is moved from the open position to the closed position, when a predetermined operation is detected via the touch sensor 102A (see FIG. 4), or when no operation is performed for a predetermined period of time in active mode M6. The transition from active mode M6 to initialization mode M7 is executed when an operation to start heating is detected via the touch sensor 102A while the sliding cover 20 is in the open position. In addition, the transition from active mode M6 to charging mode M1 or pairing mode M5 is also possible.

[0064] Initialization Mode M7 Initialization mode M7 is a mode executed before starting heating of the stick-shaped substrate 30. In initialization mode M7, initial settings, preheating, etc. are performed. In the initial settings, for example, the heating profile used to heat the stick-shaped substrate 30 is loaded. Preheating refers to preheating the stick-shaped substrate 30 in order to generate a certain amount of aerosol immediately after starting heating mode M8. If an error occurs during initialization, the system transitions from initialization mode M7 to error mode M3. Errors during initialization include, for example, failure to read the heating profile or removal of the stick-shaped substrate 30.

[0065] Heating Mode M8 Heating Mode M8 is a mode in which the stick-shaped substrate 30 is heated to generate an aerosol. The stick-shaped substrate 30 is heated based on a heating profile. The heating profile defines the relationship between the elapsed time from the start of heating and the target temperature at each time point. The control unit 106 controls the heating unit 107 on and off so that the measured temperature at each elapsed time matches the target temperature. When the heating unit 107 is turned on (power is applied to the heater), heat is generated, and when the heating unit 107 is turned off (power is stopped to the heater), heat generation stops. The transition from Initialization Mode M7 to Heating Mode M8 is performed upon completion of initial settings. Note that if an error occurs during heating, the mode transitions from Heating Mode M8 to Error Mode M3. Errors during heating include, for example, the detection of an abnormal temperature exceeding the target temperature or the removal of the stick-shaped substrate 30.

[0066] Heating End Mode M9 Heating end mode M9 is a mode in which heating end processing is executed. Heating end processing includes, for example, updating of management data. Management data includes, for example, the current number of suctions, the cumulative number of suctions, and the cumulative number of stick-shaped substrates 30. The transition from heating mode M8 to heating end mode M9 is executed, for example, when a predetermined time defined in the heating profile has elapsed, or when a heating end operation is performed via the touch sensor 102A. The transition from heating end mode M9 to active mode M6 is executed when the end processing is completed.

[0067] <Combination of Input Operation and Haptic Feedback> The following describes examples of combinations of input operations on the touch sensor 102A (see FIG. 4 ) and haptic feedback from the vibration motors 103A1 and 103A2. Four combination examples are described below, divided by type of input operation. Needless to say, each combination example is merely an example and is not intended to exclude other combination examples. However, in one operation mode, only one instruction can be assigned to one input operation. Therefore, when multiple instruction contents are exemplified for one input operation in one operation mode, this is merely a reference example, and only one of the multiple instruction contents will be adopted when implemented in an actual device.

[0068] <Combination Example 1: Tapping and Swiping> FIG. 7 is a diagram illustrating a combination example 1 of input operations and haptic feedback. In FIG. 7, input operations for which the vibration motor 103A1 (see FIG. 4) is responsible for haptic feedback are indicated by solid lines, and input operations for which the vibration motor 103A2 (see FIG. 4) is responsible for haptic feedback are indicated by dashed lines. In combination example 1, tapping and swiping are assumed as input operations. Note that in combination example 1, linear movements are assumed as swipe operations. For example, finger movements in the up, down, left, and right directions are assumed. However, it is also possible to combine diagonally upward and diagonally downward movements.

[0069] When a swipe operation involves finger movements up, down, left, and right, only four types of instructions can be assigned to one operation mode. However, by combining diagonally upward and diagonally downward movements, eight types of instructions can be assigned to one operation mode. Different vibration patterns are used for haptic feedback. Vibration patterns in a broad sense include differences in the number of vibrations resulting from a single vibration intensity (including differences in the timing at which vibrations are output) and differences in vibration intensity resulting from a single vibration frequency. The differences in vibration patterns allow the user to perceive the acceptance of their operation. Furthermore, the vibration patterns fed back allow the user to predict the content of control to be performed by the control unit 106 (see FIG. 3 ). Furthermore, the vibration intensity fed back allows the user to confirm the content of control to be performed by the control unit 106 (see FIG. 3 ) and the content of the response from the control unit 106.

[0070] <Upward swipe operation> The first line L1 from the top of the chart illustrates two instruction contents and vibration patterns associated with an "upward swipe operation." Example 1 (L1-A) For example, if an "upward swipe operation" occurs during sleep mode M2, the control unit 106 (see FIG. 3) changes from the sleep state to the active state. That is, the operation mode is transitioned from sleep mode M2 ​​to active mode M6.

[0071] In this case, the strength of the vibration fed back increases as the finger moves further upward. The movement distance here is an example of the notification content. The vibration here is generated by vibration motor 103A1. The response speed of the LRA used as vibration motor 103A1 is fast, approximately 20 ms to 30 ms. Therefore, by gradually increasing the vibration strength in proportion to the finger movement distance, the user can easily feel that their operation is being accepted.

[0072] Example 2 (L1-B) For example, if an "upward swipe operation" is performed during active mode M6, a "heating profile transmission" is executed. This operation is possible only if the aerosol generation device 1 (see FIG. 1) supports the function of transmitting a heating profile to an external device. In this case, too, the strength of the vibration fed back increases as the distance the finger moves upward increases. The distance moved here is also an example of the notification content.

[0073] If an upward swipe operation is performed on an aerosol generation device 1 that does not support the heating profile transmission function, the swipe operation is treated as invalid, the operating mode is switched to error mode M3, an error vibration (e.g., high-intensity continuous vibration, special vibration pattern) is fed back, or an error sound is fed back. The intensity of the error vibration is an example of the second output intensity. Incidentally, the second output intensity is greater than the first output intensity.

[0074] <Downward Swipe Operation> The second line L2 from the top of the chart illustrates two instruction contents and vibration patterns associated with a "downward swipe operation." Example 1 (L2-A) For example, when a "downward swipe operation" is performed during active mode M6, the control unit 106 transitions from the active state to the sleep state. That is, the operation mode transitions from active mode M6 to sleep mode M2. In this case, the strength of the vibration fed back decreases as the distance the finger moves downward increases. The distance moved here is also an example of the notification content. This vibration is also generated by the vibration motor 103A1. The vibration strength gradually decreases in proportion to the distance the finger moves, making it easier for the user to realize that their operation is being accepted.

[0075] Example 2 (L2-B) For example, if a "downward swipe operation" is performed during active mode M6, "receive heating profile" is executed. This operation is possible only if the aerosol generation device 1 supports changing or adding heating profiles. In this case, too, the strength of the vibration fed back decreases as the distance the finger moves downward increases. The distance moved here is also an example of the notification content.

[0076] If a downward swipe operation is performed on an aerosol generation device 1 that does not support the heating profile reception function, the swipe operation is treated as invalid, the operation mode is switched to error mode M3, an error vibration is fed back, or an error sound is fed back. The intensity of the error vibration here is an example of the second output intensity. The second output intensity is greater than the first output intensity.

[0077] <Swiping in both directions> The third line L3 from the top of the chart illustrates two instruction contents and vibration patterns associated with "swiping in both directions." Example 1 (L3-A) For example, if a "swipe to the right" or a "swipe to the left" occurs during active mode M6, a "change in heating temperature" is executed. In the case of FIG. 7, a swipe to the right is accepted as increasing the heating temperature, and a swipe to the left is accepted as decreasing the heating temperature. The heating temperature is increased or decreased at predetermined intervals each time a swipe is detected.

[0078] In this embodiment, changing the heating temperature means changing the maximum temperature specified in the heating profile. Incidentally, the higher the maximum temperature, the greater the maximum amount of aerosol generated. In the example shown in FIG. 7, the changed temperature is associated with the vibration intensity. Therefore, the higher the changed temperature, the greater the vibration intensity that is fed back, and the lower the changed temperature, the smaller the vibration intensity that is fed back. The changed temperature here is an example of the notification content. The number of vibrations is one.

[0079] The vibration here is generated by the vibration motor 103A2. The response speed of the ERM used in the vibration motor 103A2 is approximately 40 ms to 80 ms, which is slower than the response speed of the LRA. However, the notification of the changed temperature is executed after the swipe operation. In other words, there is ample time before the information is fed back. Therefore, even if the vibration motor 103A2, which has a relatively slow response speed, is used, the user does not feel uncomfortable.

[0080] Note that, although the example in FIG. 7 describes an example in which only the maximum temperature of the heating profile is changed, left and right swiping operations may be associated with switching the heating profile. For example, if the control unit 106 supports five types of heating profiles and each heating profile is assigned a reference number from "1" to "5," the reference number may be updated depending on the direction of the swipe operation. For example, a single rightward swipe operation may increase the reference number by one. For example, if the reference number before the swipe operation was "3," a single rightward swipe operation changes the reference number to "4." Furthermore, a single leftward swipe operation may decrease the reference number by one. For example, if the reference number before the swipe operation was "3," a single leftward swipe operation changes the reference number to "2."

[0081] Incidentally, when a rightward swipe operation is performed when the control number is at its maximum value, the control number may be changed to its minimum value, or the current control number may be maintained. Similarly, when a leftward swipe operation is performed when the control number is at its minimum value, the control number may be changed to its maximum value, or the current control number may be maintained. Note that when a leftward or rightward swipe operation is performed on an aerosol generation device 1 that does not support the temperature change function, the swipe operation is treated as invalid, the operating mode is switched to error mode M3, an error vibration is fed back, or an error sound is fed back. The intensity of the error vibration here is an example of the second output intensity. The second output intensity is greater than the first output intensity.

[0082] Example 2 (L3-B) For example, when a "rightward or leftward swipe operation" is performed during active mode M6, a "brand selection" of the stick-shaped substrate 30 is executed. In the case of FIG. 7 , the brands of the stick-shaped substrate 30 that the control unit 106 supports are three types: "brand A," "brand B," and "brand C." For example, a rightward swipe operation may be associated with a "change from brand A to brand B" or a "change from brand B to brand C," and a leftward swipe operation may be associated with a "change from brand C to brand B" or a "change from brand B to brand A."

[0083] This brand change function may be limited to cases where a heating profile corresponding to the brand of the stick-shaped substrate 30 is prepared. In FIG. 7 , if the changed brand is "Brand A," vibration of a specific intensity is fed back once; if the changed brand is "Brand B," vibration of a specific intensity is fed back twice; and if the changed brand is "Brand C," vibration of a specific intensity is fed back three times. The vibration here is also generated by the vibration motor 103A2. Notification of the changed brand is also performed after a swipe operation. Therefore, even if the vibration motor 103A2 with a relatively slow response speed is used, the user does not feel uncomfortable. Note that the specific intensity here is an example of the second output intensity. The second output intensity is greater than the first output intensity. The changed brand here is an example of the notification content.

[0084] Since the number of vibrations fed back varies depending on the brand, the user can not only confirm that the brand change has been accepted, but also confirm the new brand. If a left or right swipe operation is performed on an aerosol generation device 1 that does not support the brand change function, the swipe operation is treated as invalid, the operating mode is switched to error mode M3, an error vibration is fed back, or an error sound is fed back. The intensity of the error vibration here is an example of the second output intensity. The second output intensity is greater than the first output intensity.

[0085] <Tap Operation (Long Press)> In the fourth line L4 from the top of the chart, two instruction contents and vibration patterns associated with a "tap operation (long press)" are illustrated. In this embodiment, a case where the detection time of the tap exceeds a threshold is considered a "long press operation," and a case where the detection time of the tap does not exceed the threshold is considered a "short press operation." Note that a "tap operation" refers to an operation in which the position of the finger detected by the touch sensor 102A is stationary or barely changes, and a "swipe operation" refers to an operation in which the position of the finger detected by the touch sensor 102A moves or changes. Incidentally, a double tap operation or the like may be used instead of a tap operation (long press).

[0086] Example 1 (L4-A) For example, if a "tap operation (long press)" is performed during active mode M6, the control unit 106 accepts this as a "start heating" operation. In this case, the control unit 106 transitions from active mode M6 to initialization mode M7. The control unit 106 continues vibration at a certain intensity for a certain period of time. The vibration intensity here is an example of the second output intensity. The second output intensity is greater than the first output intensity. Here, the completion of acceptance of the operation is notified by feedback. Therefore, the completion of acceptance of the operation is an example of the notification content. The feedback vibration continues for a certain period of time, but the vibration output begins after at least a threshold time has elapsed since the completion of acceptance of the tap operation, or after the tap operation has ended. Therefore, even if a vibration motor 103A2 with a relatively slow response speed is used, the user does not feel uncomfortable.

[0087] Example 2 (L4-B) For example, if a "tap operation (long press)" is performed during heating mode M8, the control unit 106 accepts this as an operation to "stop heating." In this case, the control unit 106 transitions from heating mode M8 to heating end mode M9. In this case, the control unit 106 continues vibration of a certain intensity for a certain period of time. The vibration intensity here is an example of the second output intensity. Note that the second output intensity is greater than the first output intensity. Here, feedback notifies the user that the operation has been accepted. Therefore, the completion of the operation acceptance is an example of the content of the notification.

[0088] <Tap Operation (Short Press)> The fifth line L5 from the top of the chart shows examples of instruction contents and vibration patterns associated with "tap operation (short press)." Example 1 (L5-A) For example, if there is a "tap operation (short press)" during active mode M6, the control unit 106 accepts it as an operation to "check the remaining battery level." In this case, the control unit 106 feeds back a vibration pattern according to the remaining battery level obtained from the fuel gauge IC. The vibration pattern here has a constant vibration intensity, but differs only in the number of vibrations. The vibration intensity here is an example of a second vibration intensity. Here, the remaining battery level is an example of the notification content.

[0089] For example, if the remaining battery level is 10% or less, vibration feedback is not performed. For example, if the remaining battery level is more than 10% and less than or equal to 60%, one vibration is fed back. For example, if the remaining battery level is more than 60% and less than or equal to 90%, two vibrations are fed back. For example, if the remaining battery level is more than 90%, three vibrations are fed back. The vibration output here starts after the tap operation is completed. Therefore, even if the vibration motor 103A2 with a relatively slow response speed is used, the user does not feel uncomfortable. Note that the remaining battery level may be fed back using different vibration intensities instead of the number of vibrations. For example, if the remaining battery level is 10% or less, vibration feedback is not performed. For example, if the remaining battery level is more than 10% and less than or equal to 60%, vibration at a first output intensity may be fed back; if the remaining battery level is more than 60% and less than or equal to 90%, vibration at a second output intensity (> first output intensity) may be fed back; and if the remaining battery level is more than 90%, vibration at a third output intensity (> second output intensity) may be fed back.

[0090] <Other Examples> Fig. 8 is a diagram illustrating another example of allocation of vibration feedback to the two vibration motors 103A1 and 103A2. In the example shown in Fig. 8, only tactile feedback for a "tap operation (long press)" shown in the fourth row L4 from the top of the diagram is allocated to the vibration motor 103A2. Specifically, the vibration motor 103A2 is allocated only for feedback using continuous vibration for a certain period of time. As shown in Fig. 8, the allocation of input operations to the vibration motor 103A1 does not have to be limited to input operations requiring a high response speed.

[0091] <Combination Example 2: Rotational Swipe Operation> FIG. 9 is a diagram illustrating a combination example 2 of an input operation and haptic feedback. In FIG. 9 , input operations for which the vibration motor 103A1 provides haptic feedback are surrounded by solid lines, and input operations for which the vibration motor 103A2 provides haptic feedback are surrounded by dashed lines. Unlike combination example 1, combination example 2 assumes only swipe operations as input operations. However, the swipe operation in combination example 2 is not a linear movement but an approximately circular movement. For example, it is assumed that a finger is moved in a circular motion clockwise or counterclockwise from the initial tap position (starting point). In the case of FIG. 9 , if an arc-shaped movement of approximately half a circle (180°) or more and a rotation direction are detected, it is considered a rotational swipe operation. Although not illustrated in FIG. 9 , a tap operation may also be included in the input operation.

[0092] <Clockwise Swipe Operation> The first line L1 from the top of the chart illustrates two instruction contents and vibration patterns associated with a "clockwise swipe operation." Example 1 (L1-A) For example, when a "clockwise swipe operation" is performed during sleep mode M2, the control unit 106 (see FIG. 3) transitions from a sleep state to an active state. That is, the operating mode transitions from sleep mode M2 ​​to active mode M6. In this case, the longer the clockwise movement distance of the finger, the greater the strength of the vibration fed back. The movement distance here is an example of the notification content. The vibration here is generated by the vibration motor 103A1. The response speed of the LRA used as the vibration motor 103A1 is fast. Therefore, the vibration strength gradually increases in proportion to the movement distance of the finger, making it easier for the user to realize that their operation is being accepted.

[0093] Example 2 (L1-B) For example, if a "clockwise swipe operation" is performed during active mode M6, the control unit 106 accepts this as a "start heating" operation. In this case, the control unit 106 transitions from active mode M6 to initialization mode M7. In this case, too, the strength of the vibration fed back increases as the distance the finger moves clockwise increases. The movement distance here is an example of the notification content.

[0094] <Counterclockwise swipe operation> The second line L2 from the top of the chart illustrates two instruction contents and vibration patterns associated with a "counterclockwise swipe operation." Example 1 (L2-A) For example, when a "counterclockwise swipe operation" is performed during active mode M6, the control unit 106 transitions from the active state to the sleep state. That is, the operation mode transitions from active mode M6 to sleep mode M2. In this case, the longer the counterclockwise finger movement distance, the smaller the strength of the vibration fed back. The movement distance here is an example of the notification content. The vibration here is also generated by the vibration motor 103A1. Therefore, the vibration strength gradually decreases in proportion to the finger movement distance, making it easier for the user to realize that their operation is being accepted.

[0095] Example 2 (L2-B) For example, if a "counterclockwise swipe operation" is performed during heating mode M8, the control unit 106 accepts this as a "stop heating" operation. In this case, the control unit 106 transitions from heating mode M8 to heating end mode M9. In this case, the intensity of the vibration fed back decreases as the distance the finger moves counterclockwise increases. The movement distance here is an example of the notification content. Note that the vibration intensity at the start of feedback is an example of the second output intensity.

[0096] <Clockwise or Counterclockwise Swipe Operation> The third line L3 from the top of the chart illustrates examples of instruction contents and vibration patterns associated with a "clockwise swipe operation" and a "counterclockwise swipe operation." This swipe operation corresponds to the "both left and right swipe operation" in FIG. 7. Example 1 (L3-A) For example, if a "rightward swipe operation" or a "leftward swipe operation" is performed during active mode M6, a "change in heating temperature" is executed. In the case of FIG. 8, the control unit 106 accepts a clockwise swipe operation as an increase in heating temperature and a counterclockwise swipe operation as a decrease in heating temperature. However, swipe operations in both rotational directions alone cannot be distinguished from the "rightward swipe operation" or "leftward swipe operation" described above. Therefore, if swipe operations in both rotational directions are used, the activation and sleep modes described above cannot be used.

[0097] In this case, too, the higher the changed temperature, the greater the strength of the vibration that is fed back, and the lower the changed temperature, the smaller the strength of the vibration that is fed back. The changed temperature here is an example of the notification content. The vibration here is generated by vibration motor 103A2. The response speed of the ERM used in vibration motor 103A2 is slower than the response speed of the LRA. However, there is a sufficient time before the information is fed back. Therefore, even if vibration motor 103A2, which has a relatively slow response speed, is used, the user does not feel uncomfortable.

[0098] <Combination Example 3: Arc Swipe Operation> FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating combination example 3 of input operations and haptic feedback. In FIG. 10 , input operations for which the vibration motor 103A1 provides haptic feedback are surrounded by solid lines, and input operations for which the vibration motor 103A2 provides haptic feedback are surrounded by dashed lines. Combination example 3 also assumes only swipe operations as input operations. However, the swipe operation in combination example 3 is not a linear or approximately circular movement, but rather an approximately arc movement. For example, it is assumed that the finger is moved clockwise or counterclockwise approximately half a circle or approximately one-quarter of a circle from the initial tap position (starting point). In the case of FIG. 10 , if an arc movement and rotation direction of less than approximately half a circle (180°) is detected, it is considered to be an arc swipe operation. Although not illustrated in FIG. 10 , a tap operation may also be included in the input operation.

[0099] <Lower semicircular swipe operation> The first line L1 from the top of the chart shows two examples of instruction contents and vibration patterns associated with a "lower semicircular swipe operation." A lower semicircular swipe operation refers to a movement that draws a roughly semicircle counterclockwise from the initial tap position (starting point). In this case, the position where the swipe operation ends (ending point) will be roughly the same height as the starting point.

[0100] Example 1 (L1-A) For example, if a "lower semicircular swipe operation" is performed during sleep mode M2, the control unit 106 (see FIG. 3) transitions from a sleep state to an active state. That is, the operation mode transitions from sleep mode M2 ​​to active mode M6. In this case, the strength of the vibration fed back increases as the counterclockwise movement distance of the finger increases. The movement distance here is also an example of the notification content. The vibration here is generated by the vibration motor 103A1. By gradually increasing the vibration strength in proportion to the movement distance of the finger, the user can easily realize that their operation is being accepted.

[0101] Example 2 (L1-B) For example, if a "lower semicircular swipe operation" is performed during active mode M6, the control unit 106 accepts this as a "start heating" operation. In this case, the control unit 106 transitions from active mode M6 to initialization mode M7. In this case, the longer the counterclockwise movement distance of the finger, the greater the strength of the vibration fed back. The movement distance here is also an example of the notification content. Note that in both example 1 and example 2, the case where a counterclockwise lower semicircle is drawn is described, but a clockwise lower semicircle may also be drawn.

[0102] <Upper Semicircular Swipe Operation> The second line from the top of the chart, L2, illustrates two instruction contents and vibration patterns associated with an "upper semicircular swipe operation." An upper semicircular swipe operation refers to a movement that draws a roughly semicircular pattern clockwise from the initial tap position (starting point). In this case, the position where the swipe operation ends (ending point) is roughly the same height as the starting point. Example 1 (L2-A) For example, if an "upper semicircular swipe operation" is performed during active mode M6, the control unit 106 transitions from the active state to the sleep state. That is, the operating mode transitions from active mode M6 to sleep mode M2. In this case, the longer the finger moves clockwise, the smaller the strength of the vibration feedback. The movement distance here is an example of the notification content. The vibration here is generated by the vibration motor 103A1. The vibration strength gradually decreases in proportion to the finger movement distance, making it easier for the user to realize that their operation is being accepted.

[0103] Example 2 (L2-B) For example, if an "upper semicircular swipe operation" is performed during heating mode M8, the control unit 106 accepts this as a "stop heating" operation. In this case, the control unit 106 transitions from heating mode M8 to heating end mode M9. In this case, the intensity of the vibration fed back decreases as the clockwise movement distance of the finger increases. The movement distance here is also an example of notification content. The vibration intensity at the start of feedback is an example of the second output intensity. In both examples 1 and 2, the case where an upper semicircle is drawn clockwise is described, but the upper semicircle may also be drawn counterclockwise.

[0104] <Clockwise or counterclockwise quarter-circle swipe operation> The third line L3 from the top of the chart illustrates examples of instructions and vibration patterns associated with a "clockwise quarter-circle swipe operation" and a "counterclockwise quarter-circle swipe operation." This swipe operation also corresponds to the "both left and right swipe operation" in FIG. 7.

[0105] Example 1 (L3-A) For example, if a "counterclockwise quarter-circle swipe" or a "clockwise quarter-circle swipe" occurs during active mode M6, a "heating temperature change" is executed. In the example shown in FIG. 9 , a counterclockwise quarter-circle swipe is accepted as increasing the heating temperature, and a clockwise quarter-circle swipe is accepted as decreasing the heating temperature. In this case, the higher the changed temperature, the greater the strength of the vibration feedback, and the lower the changed temperature, the smaller the strength of the vibration feedback. The changed temperature here is an example of notification content. The vibration here is generated by vibration motor 103A2. The response speed of the ERM used in vibration motor 103A2 is slower than the response speed of the LRA. However, notification of the changed temperature is executed after the swipe. Therefore, even if vibration motor 103A2, which has a relatively slow response speed, is used, the user does not feel uncomfortable.

[0106] <Combination Example 4: Other Swipe Operations> Figure 11 is a diagram illustrating combination example 4 of input operations and haptic feedback. In Figure 11, input operations for which the vibration motor 103A1 is responsible for haptic feedback are indicated by solid lines, and input operations for which the vibration motor 103A2 is responsible for haptic feedback are indicated by dashed lines. Combination example 4 also assumes only swipe operations as input operations. However, the swipe operations in combination example 4 are assumed to be linear movements and the drawing of characters, figures, and other patterns in a single stroke. Note that, although not illustrated in Figure 11, tap operations may also be included in the input operations.

[0107] <Z-shaped swipe operation> The first line L1 from the top of the chart shows two examples of instruction contents and vibration patterns associated with a "Z-shaped swipe operation." A Z-shaped swipe operation is effective in ensuring a finger movement distance within a limited dimension. Other possible characters include "C," "J," "L," "M," "N," "S," "U," "V," "W," "2," "3," "6," "7," "8," and "9."

[0108] Example 1 (L1-A) For example, if a "Z-shaped swipe operation" is performed during sleep mode M2, the control unit 106 (see FIG. 3) changes from a sleep state to an active state. That is, the operation mode is transitioned from sleep mode M2 ​​to active mode M6. In this case, the strength of the vibration fed back increases as the movement distance of the finger drawing the Z shape increases. The movement distance here is an example of the notification content. The vibration here is generated by the vibration motor 103A1. By gradually increasing the vibration strength in proportion to the movement distance of the finger, the user can easily feel that their operation is being accepted.

[0109] Example 2 (L1-B) For example, if a "Z-shaped swipe operation" is performed during active mode M6, the control unit 106 accepts this as a "start heating" operation. In this case, the control unit 106 transitions from active mode M6 to initialization mode M7. In this case, the strength of the vibration fed back increases as the distance traveled by the finger drawing the Z-shape increases. The distance traveled here is an example of the notification content.

[0110] <Downward swipe operation> The second line L2 from the top of the chart illustrates two instruction contents and vibration patterns associated with a "downward swipe operation." Example 1 (L2-A) For example, if a "downward swipe operation" occurs during active mode M6, the control unit 106 transitions from the active state to the sleep state. That is, the operation mode transitions from active mode M6 to sleep mode M2.

[0111] In this case, the strength of the vibration fed back decreases as the distance the finger moves downward increases. The movement distance here is an example of the notification content. The vibration here is generated by vibration motor 103A1. By gradually decreasing the vibration strength in proportion to the distance the finger moves, the user can easily realize that their operation is being accepted.

[0112] Example 2 (L2-B) For example, if a "downward swipe operation" is performed during heating mode M8, the control unit 106 accepts this as a "stop heating" operation. In this case, the control unit 106 transitions from heating mode M8 to heating end mode M9. In this case, the longer the distance the downward finger moves, the smaller the intensity of the vibration fed back becomes. The movement distance here is an example of the notification content. Note that the vibration intensity at the start of feedback is an example of the second output intensity.

[0113] <Diagonal Swipe Operation> The third line L3 from the top of the chart illustrates two instruction contents and vibration patterns associated with a "diagonal upper right swipe operation" and a "diagonal lower left swipe operation." Example 1 (L3-A) For example, if a "diagonal upper right swipe operation" or a "diagonal lower left swipe operation" is performed during active mode M6, a "change in heating temperature" is executed. In the case of FIG. 10, a diagonal upper right swipe operation is accepted as increasing the heating temperature, and a diagonal lower left swipe operation is accepted as decreasing the heating temperature.

[0114] In the case of FIG. 11 , the changed temperature is also associated with the vibration intensity. Therefore, the higher the changed temperature, the greater the strength of the vibration fed back, and the lower the changed temperature, the smaller the strength of the vibration fed back. The changed temperature here is an example of notification content. The vibration here is generated by the vibration motor 103A2. The response speed of the ERM used in the vibration motor 103A2 is slower than the response speed of the LRA. However, notification of the changed temperature is performed after a swipe operation. Therefore, even if the vibration motor 103A2, which has a relatively slow response speed, is used, the user does not feel uncomfortable.

[0115] <Other Feedback> The above-described operation examples assume feedback during input operations and feedback for operation results, but here we will explain feedback for other purposes. FIG. 12 is a diagram explaining other feedback. FIG. 12 shows two types of notification as examples. The first notification is a notification of "detection of start of operation." The first notification is effective when there is a time lag between the timing of operation input and the output of the corresponding vibration feedback, such as "changing the heating temperature," "selecting a brand," or "checking the remaining battery level."

[0116] If the position of the touch sensor 102A is unclear, the user may feel unsure whether their operation has been detected. However, if vibration feedback is provided at the time when the start of an operation is detected, such as when a finger touches a predetermined position, the user can continue inputting operations with peace of mind. In this application, the faster the feedback, the better. Therefore, as shown in FIG. 12 , the vibration motor 103A1 is used for the first notification. Furthermore, because the vibration motor 103A1 is located on the back surface of the touch sensor 102A, the user can feel the vibration from the vicinity of the finger's touch. This allows the user to immediately know that the touch of the fingertip on the main body 10 has been detected as the start of an operation.

[0117] The vibration intensity used for the notification of "detection of start of operation" is ST1. This vibration intensity ST1 is only intended to notify detection, so it may be smaller than the vibration intensity used for other feedback. However, since the vibration motor 103A1, which is the vibration source, is close to the fingertip, vibration feedback can be transmitted to the user even with a small vibration intensity. The vibration intensity ST1 here is an example of a first output intensity. Furthermore, the output pattern corresponding to this vibration intensity ST1 is an example of a first output pattern. Incidentally, the first notification may be combined with the other operation inputs described above.

[0118] The second notification is a notification that "operation acceptance has been completed." The above description is based on the assumption that the user's finger movement and operation time are correctly recognized as the input operation exemplified above. However, in reality, the user's finger movement and operation time may not be recognized as the input operation described above. For example, when the finger movement distance is extremely short, when the tap time is extremely short, or when the finger movement cannot be distinguished from other operation inputs. In these cases, the user's recognition may not match the actual action. For example, heating may not start, heating may not stop, or the heating temperature may not change.

[0119] Therefore, a function is provided to provide feedback of "operation acceptance completion" via vibration as a second notification. The vibration intensity used for this notification is ST2. As shown in FIG. 12 , this vibration intensity ST2 is greater than the vibration intensity ST1, making it possible to distinguish it from the vibration intensity ST1. Note that this vibration intensity ST2 is an example of a second output intensity. Also, the output pattern corresponding to this output intensity ST2 is an example of a second output pattern. Note that this feedback does not require immediacy like the operation acceptance. Therefore, as shown in FIG. 12 , vibration motor 103A2 is used for the second notification. Although vibration motor 103A2 is located at the bottom of main body 10, vibration intensity ST2 is greater than vibration intensity ST1, so there is no interference with the user's perception of the vibration.

[0120] The feedback based on vibration intensity ST2 is output when the acceptance of the operation is completed. Therefore, a user who perceives vibration intensity ST2 can know that their operation has been accepted as a specific input operation even if they have not finished the operation. As a result, the user can stop the input operation without hesitation. Without this notification, the user would have to continue the input operation without being sure.

[0121] <Effects> By using the aerosol generation device 1 according to this embodiment (see FIG. 1), the output mode (e.g., presence or absence of vibration, vibration intensity, and number of vibrations) of the vibration motors 103A1 and 103A2 can be switched in response to an input operation. In other words, the aerosol generation device 1 can switch the output mode of the vibration motors 103A1 and 102A2 in response to the content of the notification to the user. This switching of the output mode allows the user to feel the receipt of an input operation and the corresponding information, even without mechanical displacement during the input operation.

[0122] Furthermore, the aerosol generation device 1 according to this embodiment controls switching between the vibration motor 103A1 and the vibration motor 103A2 to be operated depending on the content of the input operation. When switching, the operating characteristics and placement positions of the vibration motor 103A1 and the vibration motor 103A2 are taken into consideration. This allows the user to feel the reception of the input operation and the corresponding information without any sense of discomfort. Furthermore, the aerosol generation device 1 according to this embodiment is provided with a function for feeding back detection of the start of an operation with vibrations of a first output intensity, so that the user can perceive that contact with the main body 10 has been detected as the start of an operation.

[0123] Incidentally, even if the user touches a location where the touch sensor 102A is not provided, no vibration feedback is provided. Therefore, the vibration feedback allows the user to recognize that their touch has been detected as the start of an operation. Furthermore, if the user unintentionally touches the main body 10, the vibration feedback allows the user to realize that their unintentional action has been detected as an input operation.

[0124] The first output intensity is smaller than the second output intensity of the vibration feedback used during the operation. Therefore, the user may not notice the vibration feedback of the first output intensity. However, in that case, the vibration feedback linked to the operation allows the user to recognize that the movement of his or her finger is being detected as an operation input.

[0125] Furthermore, the aerosol generating device 1 according to this embodiment is provided with a function of providing feedback on the completion of operation acceptance by vibration of the second output intensity (>first output intensity). This allows the user to notice the completion of their input operation. As a result, the user does not need to continue unnecessary operations without noticing the completion of the input operation. Note that the intensity of the vibration used to notify the completion of operation acceptance (second vibration intensity) is greater than the intensity of the vibration used to notify the detection of the start of an operation (first vibration intensity), so the user can notice the difference between the two vibrations.

[0126] Incidentally, when performing switching operations (e.g., changing the heating temperature or brand) or confirmation operations (e.g., checking the remaining battery level), the result of the switching or the remaining battery level is fed back via vibration after a certain period of time (e.g., 2 seconds) has passed since the notification that the operation has been accepted. This prevents the user from confusing the two notifications.

[0127] Second Embodiment In the present embodiment, another example of a contact sensor will be described. Therefore, except for the parts related to the contact sensor, the external appearance and other configurations and functions are the same as those in the first embodiment. In the present embodiment, the contact sensor is composed of nine touch sensors 102A.

[0128] 13 is a diagram illustrating the positional relationship between nine touch sensors 102A and vibration motors 103A1 and 103A2 in embodiment 2. In FIG. 13, parts corresponding to those in FIG. 4 are denoted by the same reference numerals. This embodiment differs from embodiment 1 in that nine roughly circular touch sensors 102A are arranged in three rows and three columns. Incidentally, the arrangement of vibration motors 103A1 and 103A2 is roughly the same as in embodiment 1.

[0129] The nine touch sensors 102A are arranged on the back side of the front housing, and the vibration motors 103A1 and 103A2 are arranged further back than the nine touch sensors 102A. In this embodiment, each of the nine touch sensors 102A detects finger contact. Therefore, even if a finger touches a gap between the nine touch sensors 102A, the finger contact is not detected. Therefore, in this embodiment, a tap operation is executed by detecting contact with any one of the nine touch sensors 102A. Furthermore, a pattern input operation is detected as a pattern formed by sequentially connecting the coordinate positions of the touch sensors 102A that detected finger contact.

[0130] 14 is a diagram illustrating the relationship between the arrangement of touch sensors 102A and input operations in embodiment 2. In Fig. 14, the positions of touch sensors 102A located in the first row from the top are represented by P1n (n = 1, 2, 3), the positions of touch sensors 102A located in the second row from the top are represented by P2n (n = 1, 2, 3), and the positions of touch sensors 102A located in the third row from the top are represented by P3n (n = 1, 2, 3). Note that n = 1 means the left end, n = 2 means the middle, and n = 3 means the right end.

[0131] For example, when finger contact is detected in the order of P31 → P21 → P11, an upward swipe operation is detected. The same applies when finger contact is detected in the order of P32 → P22 → P12 or when finger contact is detected in the order of P33 → P23 → P13. On the other hand, when finger contact is detected in the order of P11 → P21 → P31, a downward swipe operation is detected. Note that the same applies when finger contact is detected in the order of P12 → P22 → P32 or when finger contact is detected in the order of P13 → P23 → P33. In other words, when three touch sensors 102A located on the same column detect finger contact in the arranged order, it is determined to be an upward swipe operation or a downward swipe operation.

[0132] Similarly, when three touch sensors 102A located on the same row detect finger contact in the arranged order, it is determined to be a rightward swipe operation or a leftward swipe operation. Incidentally, when finger contact is detected in the order of P31 → P22 → P13 or when finger contact is detected in the order of P33 → P22 → P11, it is detected as a diagonally upward swipe operation. Furthermore, when finger contact is detected in the order of P11 → P22 → P33 or when finger contact is detected in the order of P13 → P22 → P31, it is detected as a diagonally downward swipe operation.

[0133] <Other Example 1> In the above description, all nine touch sensors 102A are always in operation, but during sleep mode M2, only the three touch sensors 102A located in the second row may be in operation. That is, only the second row may be enabled as an input area, and the first and third rows may be disabled areas. In this case, only three touch sensors 102A are in operation, thereby achieving power saving. Figure 15 is a diagram illustrating areas where input operations are enabled and areas where input operations are disabled during sleep mode M2. In Figure 15, parts corresponding to those in Figure 13 are assigned the same reference numerals.

[0134] 15, the touch sensors 102A in the first and third rows that correspond to the disabled areas are shaded. Incidentally, since only the three touch sensors 102A located in the second row are valid, for example, a tap operation, a right swipe operation, or a left swipe operation is assigned as an input operation for activation.

[0135] <Other Example 2> In the above description, an input operation is considered to have occurred when finger contact is detected in sequence on three linearly arranged touch sensors 102A, but an input operation may also be considered to have occurred when finger contact is detected in sequence on two linearly arranged touch sensors 102A. For example, an upward swipe operation may be considered to have occurred when finger contact is detected in the order P31 → P21 or when finger contact is detected in the order P21 → P11. The same applies to other input operations.

[0136] <Other Example 3> In the above description, an input operation is considered to have occurred when finger contact is detected in sequence on three touch sensors 102A arranged in a line. However, an input operation may also be considered to have occurred when finger contact is detected in sequence on three touch sensors 102A spanning three rows. For example, even if finger contact is detected in the order of P31 → P21 → P12, it may also be considered to have occurred as an upward swipe operation. The same applies to other input operations.

[0137] <Other Example 4> In the above explanation, nine touch sensors 102A are arranged in three rows and three columns, but the arrangement of the touch sensors 102A may be changed in number and arrangement, such as two rows and two columns, four rows and four columns, two rows and three columns, or three rows and four columns, etc.

[0138] Third Embodiment In this embodiment, another example of contact sensor placement will be described. Therefore, except for the parts related to the placement of the contact sensor, the appearance and other configurations and functions are the same as those of the first embodiment. In this embodiment, the contact sensor is provided in an area spanning from the top surface to the side surface of the main body 10 (see FIG. 1). FIG. 16 is a diagram illustrating the positional relationship between the touch sensor 102A and the vibration motors 103A1 and 103A2 in the third embodiment. In FIG. 16, parts corresponding to those in FIG. 1 are denoted by the same reference numerals.

[0139] In the case of FIG. 16 , the touch sensor 102A is arranged to straddle the right side of the top surface as viewed from the front of the main body 10. This arrangement assumes that the surface opposite the front of the main body 10 (i.e., the back surface) is grasped with the right hand and operated with the right thumb. However, the two surfaces straddled by the touch sensor 102A are not limited to the top and right surfaces, and may be any surface, such as the top and left surfaces, the top and front surfaces, or the top and back surfaces. In this embodiment, two types of swipe operations and one type of tap operation on the touch sensor 102A are assumed. FIG. 17 is a diagram illustrating an example of a downward swipe operation. In FIG. 17 , the parts corresponding to those in FIG. 16 are denoted by the same reference numerals. The arrow in the figure indicates a downward swipe operation. In the case of FIG. 17 , the downward swipe operation is assumed to be a swipe operation spanning from the top surface to the right surface.

[0140] FIG. 18 is a diagram illustrating an example of an upward swipe operation. In FIG. 18, parts corresponding to those in FIG. 16 are denoted by the same reference numerals. The arrow in the diagram represents an upward swipe operation. In the case of FIG. 18, the upward swipe operation is assumed to be a swipe operation spanning from the right side to the top side. FIG. 19 is a diagram illustrating an example of a combination of input operations and haptic feedback in embodiment 3. In FIG. 19, too, input operations for which the vibration motor 103A1 is responsible for providing haptic feedback are indicated by being surrounded by a solid line, and input operations for which the vibration motor 103A2 is responsible for providing haptic feedback are indicated by being surrounded by a dashed line. As described above, in this embodiment, the input operations assumed are a downward swipe operation, an upward swipe operation, and a tap operation.

[0141] <Downward Swipe Operation> The first line L1 from the top of the chart illustrates two instruction contents and vibration patterns associated with a "downward swipe operation." Example 1 (L1-A) For example, when a "downward swipe operation" is performed during sleep mode M2, the control unit 106 (see FIG. 3) transitions from a sleep state to an active state. That is, the operating mode transitions from sleep mode M2 ​​to active mode M6. In this case, the strength of the vibration fed back increases as the distance the finger moves downward increases. The movement distance here is an example of the notification content. The vibration here is generated by the vibration motor 103A1. The LRA used as the vibration motor 103A1 has a fast response speed. Therefore, the vibration strength gradually increases in proportion to the distance the finger moves, making it easier for the user to realize that their operation is being accepted.

[0142] Example 2 (L1-B) For example, if a "downward swipe operation" is performed during active mode M6, the control unit 106 accepts this as a "start heating" operation. In this case, the control unit 106 transitions from active mode M6 to initialization mode M7. In this case, too, the strength of the vibration fed back increases as the distance the finger moves downward increases. The distance moved here is an example of the notification content.

[0143] <Upward Swipe Operation> The second line L2 from the top of the chart illustrates two instruction contents and vibration patterns associated with an "upward swipe operation." Example 1 (L2-A) For example, when an "upward swipe operation" is performed during active mode M6, the control unit 106 transitions from the active state to the sleep state. That is, the operation mode transitions from active mode M6 to sleep mode M2. In this case, the strength of the vibration fed back decreases as the distance the finger moves upward increases. The movement distance here is an example of the notification content. The vibration here is also generated by the vibration motor 103A1. Therefore, the vibration strength gradually decreases in proportion to the distance the finger moves, making it easier for the user to realize that their operation is being accepted.

[0144] Example 2 (L2-B) For example, if an "upward swipe operation" is performed during heating mode M8, the control unit 106 accepts this as a "stop heating" operation. In this case, the control unit 106 transitions from heating mode M8 to heating end mode M9. In this case, the intensity of the vibration fed back decreases as the distance the finger moves upward increases. The movement distance here is an example of the notification content. Note that the vibration intensity at the start of feedback is an example of the second output intensity.

[0145] <Tap Operation> The third line L3 from the top of the chart shows examples of instructions and vibration patterns associated with a "tap operation (short press)." Example 1 (L3-A) For example, if a "tap operation (short press)" is performed during active mode M6, the control unit 106 accepts it as an operation to "check the remaining battery level." In this case, the control unit 106 feeds back a vibration pattern according to the remaining battery level obtained from the fuel gauge IC. The remaining battery level here is an example of the notification content. The vibration output here begins after the tap operation is completed. Therefore, even if a vibration motor 103A2 with a relatively slow response speed is used, the user does not feel uncomfortable.

[0146] <Other Configurations> FIG. 20 is a diagram illustrating another positional relationship between the touch sensor 102A and the vibration motors 103A1 and 103A2 in embodiment 3. In FIG. 20, parts corresponding to those in FIG. 15 are denoted by corresponding reference numerals. In the aerosol generation device 1 shown in FIG. 20, the touch sensor 102A is provided at the top of the right side as viewed from the front. In this arrangement, operation with the thumb of the right hand holding the main body 10 is also assumed. Furthermore, in the aerosol generation device 1 shown in FIG. 20, up-down swipe operations and tap operations are also assumed. Note that in FIG. 20, the vibration motor 103A1 is located on the back side of the touch sensor 102A provided on the right side of the main body 10. This improves responsiveness in accepting the start of an operation on the touch sensor 102A and in vibration feedback during a swipe operation. Note that the arrangement of the vibration motor 103A2 is the same as in FIG. 15.

[0147] Fourth Embodiment In this embodiment, another example of the appearance of the aerosol generation device 1 will be described. However, except for the arrangement of the contact sensors and tactile devices, which are related to the difference in appearance, the other configurations and functions are the same as those of the first embodiment. Fig. 21 is a view of the aerosol generation device 1 assumed in the fourth embodiment, observed from diagonally above. In Fig. 21, parts corresponding to those in Fig. 1 are indicated by the same reference numerals. The appearance of the aerosol generation device 1 assumed in this embodiment is roughly cylindrical, and an opening 10A into which a stick-shaped substrate 30 (see Fig. 3) is inserted is disposed on the upper surface. In the case of Fig. 21, a slide cover 20 (see Fig. 1) for opening and closing the opening 10A is not provided.

[0148] 21 , the touch sensor 102A is arranged around the entire periphery on the rear side of the housing on the upper side of the main body 10. In the present embodiment, the user can hold the main body 10 without worrying about the orientation and perform input operations with their thumb. Incidentally, a heating unit 107 (see FIG. 3 ) and a heat insulating unit 108 (see FIG. 3 ), not shown, are arranged on the outer periphery of the internal space 109A, and the touch sensor 102A is located outside them.

[0149] In the case of FIG. 21 , the vibration motor 103A1 is disposed near the center of the main body 10. This is because there are limitations on the space available for disposing the vibration motor 103A1 on the upper side of the main body 10. The location of the vibration motor 103A1 is arbitrary as long as the user can perceive the difference in vibration intensity. On the other hand, the vibration motor 103A2 in FIG. 21 is disposed near the bottom end of the main body 10. The vibration motor 103A2 basically generates vibrations of the second output intensity (> the first output intensity), so its installation position is relatively flexible. In the case of the aerosol generation device 1 shown in FIG. 21 , input operations can be performed by swiping up, down, left, and right, or by tapping, as in the first embodiment. Note that swiping diagonally upward or diagonally downward may also be used as an input operation.

[0150] <Other Configurations> Fig. 22 is a diagram illustrating another positional relationship between the touch sensor 102A and the two vibration motors 103A1 and 103A2 in the fourth embodiment. In Fig. 22, the same reference numerals are used to denote parts corresponding to those in Fig. 21 . In the aerosol generation device 1 shown in Fig. 22, the touch sensor 102A is provided so as to straddle the top surface and the side surface of the main body 10. Note that the touch sensor 102A is limited to a partial arc section rather than the entire circumference of the main body 10. This arrangement also assumes operation by the thumb of the right hand holding the main body 10. Furthermore, in the case of the aerosol generation device 1 shown in Fig. 22, up and down swipe operations and tap operations are also assumed.

[0151] <Fifth Embodiment> Fig. 23 is a view of the aerosol generation device 1 assumed in the fifth embodiment, observed from diagonally above. In Fig. 23, parts corresponding to those in Fig. 1 and Fig. 16 are assigned reference numerals corresponding to those in Fig. 23. As shown in Fig. 23, two touch sensors 102A1 and 102A2 are arranged in the aerosol generation device 1 assumed in the fifth embodiment. In the case of Fig. 23, the touch sensor 102A1 is provided on the front surface of the main body 10, and the touch sensor 102A2 is provided across from the top surface to the right side surface of the main body 10. This arrangement corresponds to a combination of the first embodiment and the third embodiment.

[0152] When two touch sensors 102A1 and 102A2 are provided in this manner, one instruction may be assigned to both of the two touch sensors 102A, or one instruction may be assigned to only one of the touch sensors 102A. For example, activation and sleep may be assigned to the touch sensor 102A2, which is arranged across the top and right side surfaces of the main body 10, and transmission and reception of a heating profile may be assigned to the touch sensor 102A1, which is arranged on the front surface of the main body 10. In this embodiment, the vibration motor 103A1 is arranged near the touch sensor 102A1, and the vibration motor 103A2 is arranged near the touch sensor 102A2. This makes it easier to transmit vibration feedback to the user during an input operation, regardless of whether the touch sensor 102A1 or the touch sensor 102A2 is used for the input operation.

[0153] When two touch sensors 102A1 and 102A2 are provided, it becomes possible to assign multiple input operations to one operation mode. For example, in the active mode M6, an upward swipe operation on the touch sensor 102A1 may be assigned to start heating, and an upward swipe operation on the touch sensor 102A2 may be assigned to transmit a heating profile.

[0154] Incidentally, in the case of this embodiment as well, feedback is provided to detect the start of operation acceptance and the completion of operation acceptance. Vibration motor 103A1, which has a fast response speed, is used to provide feedback on the start of acceptance of input operations for touch sensors 102A1 and 102A2, and vibration motor 103A2 is used to provide feedback on the completion of operation acceptance. However, vibration motor 103A2, which is closer to touch sensor 102A2, may also be used to provide feedback on the start of acceptance of input operations for touch sensor 102A2.

[0155] Sixth Embodiment FIG. 24 is a diagram illustrating the relationship between the mounting positions of the touch sensors 102A1 and 102A2 and the vibration motors 103A1 and 103A2 in the sixth embodiment. In FIG. 24, parts corresponding to those in FIG. 5 are denoted by the same reference numerals. Like FIG. 5, FIG. 24 also transparently illustrates the interior of the main body 10 from the right side. That is, FIG. 24 transparently illustrates the positional relationship between the touch sensors 102A1 and 102A2 and the vibration motors 103A1 and 103A2 arranged inside the main body 10. As shown in FIG. 24, the aerosol generation device 1 assumed in the sixth embodiment has two touch sensors 102A1 and 102A2 arranged therein. One touch sensor 102A1 is provided on the front side of the main body 10, and the other touch sensor 102A2 is provided on the back side of the main body 10.

[0156] In this embodiment, the touch sensors 102A1 and 102A2 are both approximately square. When the touch sensors 102A1 and 102A2 are arranged on both sides of the main body 10, the control unit 106 disables input from the side with the larger contact area with the fingers or palm, and controls the opposite side (i.e., the side that comes into contact with the thumb) to be the input side. In this case, the user can start an input operation each time without changing the way they hold the device, whether the back side is in contact with the thumb of the right hand or the thumb of the left hand.

[0157] 24, the vibration motor 103A1 is disposed midway between the touch sensors 102A1 and 102A2. Therefore, whether the input operation is performed on the front or rear surface of the main body 10, the response of the detection of the start of operation acceptance and the feedback during the swipe operation can be improved. Meanwhile, the vibration motor 103A2 is disposed below the main body 10, as in the first embodiment. In this case, the vibration strength of the feedback can be made approximately the same. Incidentally, when detecting the start of operation acceptance and providing feedback on the completion of operation acceptance, the vibration motor 103A1, which has a fast response speed and is close to both the touch sensors 102A1 and 102A2, is used for feedback on the start of input operation acceptance for the touch sensors 102A1 and 102A2, and the vibration motor 103A2 is used for feedback on the completion of operation acceptance.

[0158] <Other Embodiments> (1) Although the embodiments of the present disclosure have been described above, the technical scope of the present disclosure is not limited to the scope described in the above-described embodiments. It is clear from the claims that various modifications or improvements to the above-described embodiments are also included in the technical scope of the present disclosure.

[0159] (2) In the above embodiment, an example was described in which an LRA was used as the vibration motor 103A1 and an ERM was used as the vibration motor 103A2, but an LRA may be used in both the vibration motors 103A1 and 103A2. It is also possible to use an ERM in both the vibration motors 103A1 and 103A2.

[0160] (3) In the above-described embodiment, a vibration motor was used as an example of a haptic device. However, piezoelectric elements may be used for some or all of the vibration motors 103A1 and 103A2. Piezoelectric elements can freely control vibrations at frequencies between 50 and 500 Hz, at which haptic changes are perceived. Furthermore, the response speed of piezoelectric elements is approximately 1 ms, which is shorter than the response speed of ERMs, which are approximately 40 ms to 80 ms, and LRAs, which are approximately 20 ms to 30 ms.

[0161] (4) In the above-described embodiment, vibration was used as an example of haptic feedback. However, electrostatic haptics using electrostatic force may be used for some or all of the vibration motors 103A1 and 103A2. Electrostatic haptics include, for example, electrical stimulation and electrostatic attraction. Electrical stimulation can be provided by a haptic device composed of an electrode to which a high voltage is applied and an electrode connected to GND. Electrostatic attraction can be provided by a haptic device composed of an electrode charged by the application of a voltage, an electrode connected to GND, and an insulator disposed between these two electrodes.

[0162] (5) In the above embodiment, two vibration motors 103A1 and 103A2 are used as tactile devices. However, the number of tactile devices mounted on the aerosol generation device 1 may be three or more.

[0163] (6) In the above-described embodiment, the single control unit 106 controls two functions: heating of the stick-shaped substrate 30 (see FIG. 3) by the heating unit 107 and haptic feedback. However, it is also possible to provide a dedicated processor for controlling the heating of the stick-shaped substrate 30 (see FIG. 3) by the heating unit 107 and a dedicated processor for controlling the output of the haptic device. The dedicated processor for controlling heating here is an example of a first processor, and the dedicated processor for controlling the output of the haptic device is an example of a second processor.

[0164] (7) In the above-described embodiment, tapping and swiping operations are given as examples of input operations. However, some of these operations may be replaced with flicking operations, or these operations may be combined with flicking operations.

[0165] (8) In the above embodiment, the aerosol source is described as being solid. However, the aerosol source may be liquid. When the aerosol source is liquid, a method is adopted in which the aerosol source is guided to a thin tube called a wick using capillary action, and the aerosol source is evaporated by heating a coil wrapped around the wick. When the aerosol source is liquid, the aerosol source is heated in conjunction with inhalation by the user. A container that stores a liquid aerosol source is also called a cartridge.

[0166] (9) In the above embodiment, the aerosol generator generates an aerosol by heating a solid aerosol source. However, the aerosol generator may generate an aerosol by separately heating a solid aerosol source and a liquid aerosol source. This type of aerosol generator is also called a hybrid aerosol generator.

[0167] (10) There are input operations specific to the aerosol generator 1 that heats a solid aerosol source at a high temperature (e.g., 200°C or higher), input operations specific to the aerosol generator 1 that heats a solid aerosol source at a low temperature (e.g., less than 200°C) or the aerosol generator 1 that heats a liquid aerosol source, and input operations common to both types. Figure 25 is a diagram illustrating the differences in input operations of the aerosol generator 1 depending on the type of aerosol source and the heating temperature.

[0168] In Figure 25, input operations are classified into combinations of four types of input operations, two types of aerosol sources, and three types of heating methods. The four types of input operations are "basic operation system," "switching system," "communication system," and "confirmation system." The two types of aerosol sources are solid aerosol sources and liquid aerosol sources. Note that solid aerosol sources can be classified into aerosol sources for high-temperature heating and aerosol sources for low-temperature heating.

[0169] The three heating methods are a method of heating a solid aerosol source at a high temperature, a method of heating a solid aerosol source at a low temperature, and a method of heating a liquid aerosol source. The input operations shown in FIG. 25 are associated with the aforementioned tapping and swiping operations, and different vibration patterns are associated with each input operation. For example, in the case of switching or confirmation input operations, vibration patterns (e.g., vibration frequency, vibration intensity, and vibration timing) representing information to be notified (e.g., brand, heating profile, heating temperature, suction detection sensitivity, display mode, and charging status), quantity (e.g., remaining battery life (lifetime), remaining suction time, remaining liquid amount, and remaining capsule amount), or number (e.g., number of suctions, remaining number of suctions, remaining number of suctions, and cumulative number of suctions) are assigned. This allows for the realization of an aerosol generation device 1 that employs a contact device and haptic feedback as a user interface.

[0170] Summary The present disclosure includes the following configurations: (1) An aerosol generating device including a heating unit that heats an aerosol source, a contact sensor that detects an operation on a predetermined portion of a surface of a housing, a first tactile device, a second tactile device, a function for controlling heating of the aerosol source by the heating unit, and a processor that controls output of the first and second tactile devices, wherein the processor controls switching between output by the first tactile device and output by the second tactile device depending on the content of notification to the user. This aerosol generating device can give the user a sense of operation input even when the contact sensor is used as an input device. (2) The aerosol generating device described in (1), in which the processor controls the first tactile device when notifying the user that the contact sensor has detected the start of an operation, and controls the second tactile device when notifying the user that the contact sensor has completed accepting the operation. This aerosol generating device can give the user a sense of the start of acceptance of the operation. (3) The aerosol generating device described in (2), in which the first tactile device is located closer to the contact sensor than the second tactile device. This aerosol generating device makes it easier for the user to perceive the start of operation acceptance. (4) The aerosol generating device described in any one of (1) to (3), wherein the contact sensor has a first contact sensor and a second contact sensor, and the processor controls the first tactile device when notifying the detection of an operation by the first contact sensor, and controls the second tactile device when notifying the detection of an operation by the second contact sensor, when notifying the completion of operation acceptance by the first contact sensor, or when notifying the completion of operation acceptance by the second contact sensor. This aerosol generating device allows the user to feel the reality of an operation input regardless of the contact sensor that detects the input operation. (5) The aerosol generating device described in any one of (1) to (4), wherein the processor uses the first tactile device for notification using a first output intensity and the second tactile device for notification using a second output intensity greater than the first output intensity. This aerosol generating device allows switching of tactile devices based on differences in output intensity in tactile feedback.(6) The aerosol generating device according to any one of (1) to (5), wherein the processor uses a first tactile device for notification using a first output pattern and a second tactile device for notification using a second output pattern different from the first output pattern. This aerosol generating device allows switching between tactile devices based on differences in the output patterns of the tactile feedback. (7) The aerosol generating device according to any one of (1) to (6), wherein the processor controls the second tactile device when an operation is received during a heating mode of the aerosol source. This aerosol generating device allows tactile feedback during the heating mode to be achieved by a specific tactile device. (8) The aerosol generating device according to any one of (1) to (7), wherein the processor controls the second tactile device when notifying of the occurrence of an error. This aerosol generating device allows tactile feedback of the error to be achieved by a specific tactile device. (9) The aerosol generating device according to any one of (1) to (8), wherein at least one of the first and second tactile devices is an LRA (= Linear Resonant Actuator). This aerosol generating device can realize feedback with a fast response speed. (10) The aerosol generating device according to any one of (1) to (9), wherein the processor controls switching of the output intensity, number of outputs, or output pattern of the LRA depending on the content of the notification. This aerosol generating device can realize a variety of feedback. (11) The aerosol generating device according to any one of (1) to (10), wherein the predetermined portion is at least one surface of the housing. This aerosol generating device allows the surface of the housing to be used as an input unit. (12) The aerosol generating device according to any one of (1) to (15), wherein the processor includes a first processor that controls heating of the aerosol source by the heating unit, and a second processor that controls output of the tactile device. This aerosol generating device eliminates the need to newly develop a processor capable of controlling both the heating unit and the tactile device.

[0171] 1... aerosol generating device, 10... main body, 10A... opening, 20... slide cover, 30... stick-shaped substrate, 30A... substrate, 30B... suction port, 101... power supply unit, 102... sensor unit, 102A... touch sensor, 103... notification unit, 103A... vibration motor, 104... memory unit, 105... communication unit, 106... control unit, 107... heating unit, 108... heat insulation unit, 109... holding unit, 109A... internal space, 109B... bottom

Claims

1. A heating unit that heats an aerosol source, a contact sensor that detects an operation on a predetermined part of the housing surface, a first tactile device, a second tactile device, a function that controls the heating of the aerosol source by the heating unit, and a processor that controls the outputs of the first and second tactile devices, wherein the processor switches and controls the output by the first tactile device and the output by the second tactile device according to the content to be notified to the user, an aerosol generating device.

2. When the processor notifies the detection of the start of the operation by the contact sensor, the processor controls the first tactile device, and when the processor notifies the completion of the reception of the operation by the contact sensor, the processor controls the second tactile device, the aerosol generating device according to claim 1.

3. The first tactile device is located closer to the contact sensor than the second tactile device, the aerosol generating device according to claim 2.

4. The contact sensor has a first contact sensor and a second contact sensor, and when the processor notifies the detection of the operation by the first contact sensor, the processor controls the first tactile device, and when the processor notifies the detection of the operation by the second contact sensor, the completion of the reception of the operation by the first contact sensor, or the completion of the reception of the operation by the second contact sensor, the processor controls the second tactile device, the aerosol generating device according to any one of claims 1 to 3.

5. The processor uses the first tactile device for notification by a first output intensity and uses the second tactile device for notification by a second output intensity greater than the first output intensity, the aerosol generating device according to any one of claims 1 to 4.

6. The processor uses the first tactile device for notification by a first output pattern and uses the second tactile device for notification by a second output pattern different from the first output pattern, the aerosol generating device according to any one of claims 1 to 5.

7. The aerosol generating device according to any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein when the processor receives an operation during the heating mode of the aerosol source, the processor controls the second tactile device.

8. The aerosol generating device according to any one of claims 1 to 7, wherein when the processor notifies the occurrence of an error, the processor controls the second tactile device.

9. The aerosol generating device according to any one of claims 1 to 8, wherein at least one of the first and second tactile devices is an LRA (= Linear Resonant Actuator).

10. The aerosol generating device according to claim 9, wherein the processor switches and controls the output intensity, the number of output times, or the output pattern of the LRA according to the notification content.

11. The aerosol generating device according to any one of claims 1 to 10, wherein the predetermined part is at least one housing surface on the housing surface.

12. The aerosol generating device according to any one of claims 1 to 11, wherein the processor includes a first processor that controls heating of the aerosol source by the heating unit and a second processor that controls output of the tactile device.

Images