Inhalation device and method

Abstract

Provided is an inhalation device comprising: a heating unit that heats an inhalation article source; a power supply unit that supplies electric power to the heating unit; a notification unit that provides a notification to a user of the inhalation device; and a control unit that performs an inhalation session according to a heating profile which defines a time-series transition of a target temperature of the heating unit over the inhalation session. In the inhalation device, the control unit is configured to: acquire operation information pertaining to a preheating operation performed after the start of heating of the inhalation article source in an inhalation session; and determine, on the basis of the operation information, whether to cause the notification unit to perform a first notification operation.

Description

Suction device and method

[0001] SUMMARY The present disclosure relates to a suction device and a method of operating the same.

[0002] Inhalation devices, such as electronic cigarettes and nebulizers, that generate substances to be inhaled by users are widely used. For example, inhalation devices can generate aerosols imparted with flavor components by heating an inhalation component source (substrate) that includes an aerosol source for generating aerosols and a flavor source for imparting flavor components to the generated aerosol. Users can enjoy the flavor by inhaling the flavor-imparted aerosol generated by the inhalation device.

[0003] The inhalation device generates an aerosol by heating the substrate according to a heating profile during an inhalation session, during which a user can perform multiple consecutive puffs to achieve a desired inhalation experience (hereinafter also referred to as an "inhalation experience").

[0004] External factors, such as the environment during an inhalation session, can affect the user's inhalation experience. For example, environmental factors such as temperature and humidity can affect the amount of moisture contained in the substrate, which in turn can affect the amount of moisture contained in the generated aerosol. In particular, the amount of moisture contained in the aerosol also affects the aerosol's temperature, resulting in a different inhalation experience for the user depending on the environment.

[0005] For example, Patent Documents 1 and 2 disclose that an aerosol generating device estimates the amount of moisture contained inside by using a dedicated sensor to detect capacitance, resistance, etc., and that the amount of electricity used for heating is controlled based on the estimated amount of moisture.

[0006] International Publication No. WO 2023 / 003428 International Publication No. WO 2023 / 084196

[0007] It would be desirable to further improve the quality of the experience using the suction device.

[0008] In view of the above, the present disclosure aims to provide a simple mechanism that can improve the quality of a user's inhalation experience, particularly a mechanism that can maintain and further improve the quality of the inhalation experience regardless of external factors such as the environment in which the inhalation session is performed.

[0009] In order to solve the above problems, according to an aspect of the present disclosure, there is provided a suction device including a heating unit that heats a suction article source, a power supply unit that supplies power to the heating unit, a notification unit that notifies a user of the suction device, and a control unit that executes a suction session in accordance with a heating profile that defines a time series transition of a target temperature of the heating unit over a suction session. In this suction device, the control unit is configured to acquire operation information related to a pre-heating operation that is executed after heating of the suction article source is started in the suction session, and to determine whether to cause the notification unit to execute a first notification operation based on the operation information.

[0010] The temperature rise rate of the heating section in the preheating operation is calculated based on the operation information, and the control section may be configured not to cause the notification section to perform the first notification operation if the temperature rise rate is equal to or greater than a predetermined threshold value.

[0011] The control unit may infer that the suction session is being performed in a specific operating environment when the heating rate is less than a predetermined threshold, and the first notification action may include prompting the user to take a predetermined action according to the specific operating environment.

[0012] The predetermined action may be a preliminary puffing action for expelling the aerosol generated during the preliminary heating action to the outside of the inhalation device.

[0013] The first notification action may be performed between about 10 seconds and about 20 seconds after the initiation of heating of the suction article source.

[0014] After the first notification operation, the control unit may cause the notification unit to perform a second notification operation that prompts the user to perform a series of puffing operations to provide the user with an inhalation experience.

[0015] The first notification operation and the second notification operation may be performed in different modes by the notification unit.

[0016] The device may further include a memory unit that stores a heating profile, and notification information indicating that the first notification operation will be executed may be stored in the memory unit in advance, and the notification information may be updated depending on a decision not to have the notification unit execute the first notification operation.

[0017] To solve the above problem, according to another aspect of the present disclosure, there is provided a method for operating a suction device. The suction device includes a heating unit that heats a suction object source, a power supply unit that supplies power to the heating unit, and a notification unit. The method includes the steps of: performing a suction session according to a heating profile that defines a time series transition of a target temperature of the heating unit over the suction session; acquiring operation information related to a preheating operation that is performed after heating of the suction object source begins; determining whether a predetermined condition is met based on the operation information; and, if the predetermined condition is met, determining not to cause the notification unit to perform a predetermined notification operation.

[0018] The temperature rise rate of the heating unit in the preheating operation is calculated based on the operation information, and in the determining step, it is determined whether the temperature rise rate of the heating unit is equal to or greater than a predetermined threshold, and if the temperature rise rate is less than the predetermined threshold, it is estimated that the suction session is being performed in a specific operating environment, and the predetermined notification operation may include prompting the user to take a predetermined action according to the specific operating environment.

[0019] The temperature rise rate may be calculated from the temperature rise of the heating section measured from the start of heating of the suction article source until a predetermined time has elapsed.

[0020] The temperature rise rate may be calculated from the rising temperature of the heating section measured at predetermined time intervals during the preheating operation.

[0021] The predetermined action may be a preliminary puffing action for expelling the aerosol generated during the preliminary heating action to the outside of the inhalation device.

[0022] The suction device may further include a memory unit for storing the heating profile, and the predetermined threshold may be preset based on data on average humidity and / or average temperature in a particular region where the suction device is expected to be used and stored in the memory unit.

[0023] The predetermined notification action may be performed between about 10 seconds and about 20 seconds after the initiation of heating of the suction article source.

[0024] As described above, the present disclosure provides a mechanism that can further improve the quality of the experience of using a suction device. In particular, it is possible to provide a more flexible suction device that can maintain the quality of the suction experience regardless of external factors without incurring additional costs such as introducing dedicated components such as specific sensors.

[0025] 1 is a schematic diagram showing a first configuration example of a suction device; FIG. 2 is a schematic diagram showing a second configuration example of a suction device; FIG. 3 is a graph showing an example of time series transition of the temperature of a heating unit regarding a suction session; FIG. 4 is a flowchart showing an example of a processing flow in a suction session; FIG. 5 is a graph showing an example of time series transition of the temperature of a heating unit regarding a suction session; FIG. 6 is a functional block diagram of an example implemented in a control unit; FIG. 7 is a flowchart showing an example of an overall processing flow in successive suction sessions; FIG. 8 is a flowchart showing a detailed example of a processing flow associated with the execution of a suction session; FIG. 9 is a functional block diagram of a modified example implemented in a control unit; FIG. 10 is a flowchart showing a modified example of the overall processing flow in successive suction sessions; FIG. 11 is a flowchart showing a detailed modified example of a processing flow associated with the execution of a suction session;

[0026] Hereinafter, preferred embodiments of the present technology will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. In this specification and drawings, components having substantially the same functional configurations are designated by the same reference numerals, and redundant description will be omitted.

[0027] <<1. Configuration Example of Inhalation Device>> The inhalation device is a device that generates a substance to be inhaled by a user. A suction component source (substrate) is detachably housed in the inhalation device. In the following description, the substance generated by the inhalation device by heating the substrate is described as an aerosol generated by heating the aerosol source. In other words, the inhalation device here is an aerosol generating device. Note that the substance generated by the inhalation device may also be a gas.

[0028] (1) First Configuration Example Fig. 1 is a schematic diagram illustrating a first configuration example of an inhalation device. As shown in Fig. 1, an inhalation device 100A according to this configuration example includes a power supply unit 110, a cartridge 120, and a flavor imparting cartridge 130. The power supply unit 110 includes a power supply section 111A, a sensor section 112A, a notification section 113A, a memory section 114A, a communication section 115A, and a control section 116A. The cartridge 120 includes a heating section 121A, a liquid guide section 122, and a liquid storage section 123. The flavor imparting cartridge 130 includes a flavor source 131 and a mouthpiece 124. An air flow path 180 is formed in the cartridge 120 and the flavor imparting cartridge 130.

[0029] The power supply unit 111A stores electric power. Then, the power supply unit 111A supplies electric power to the heating unit 121A and other components of the suction device 100A under the control of the control unit 116A. The power supply unit 111A may be configured by, for example, a rechargeable battery such as a lithium ion secondary battery.

[0030] The sensor unit 112A acquires various types of information related to the suction device 100A. As one example, the sensor unit 112A is configured with a pressure sensor such as a condenser microphone, a flow rate sensor, or a temperature sensor, and acquires values ​​associated with suction by the user. For example, the temperature sensor detects the temperature of the heating unit 121A. As another example, the sensor unit 112A is configured with an input device such as a button or a switch that accepts information input from the user.

[0031] The notification unit 113A notifies the user of information. The notification unit 113A is configured by, for example, a light emitting device that emits light, a display device that displays an image, a sound output device that outputs sound, or a vibration device that vibrates.

[0032] The storage unit 114A stores various information for the operation of the suction device 100A. The storage unit 114A is configured, for example, by a non-volatile storage medium such as a flash memory. In one example, the storage unit 114A may store a heating profile that defines the time series transition of the target temperature of the heating unit 121A over one suction session. The storage unit 114A may also store various flag information (setting information) such as notification information for the notification unit 113A.

[0033] The communication unit 115A is a communication interface capable of performing communication in accordance with any wired or wireless communication standard, such as Wi-Fi (registered trademark), Bluetooth (registered trademark), BLE (Bluetooth Low Energy (registered trademark)), NFC (Near Field Communication), or LPWA (Low Power Wide Area).

[0034] The control unit 116A functions as an arithmetic processing unit and a control device, and controls the overall operation of the suction device 100A in accordance with various programs. The control unit 116A is realized by an electronic circuit such as a CPU (Central Processing Unit) or a microprocessor. In one example, the control unit 116A executes the heating operation of the heating unit 121A over successive suction sessions based on the temperature of the heating unit and a target temperature defined in a heating profile. The control unit 116A may start the heating operation in response to the sensor unit 112A receiving information input from a user using a button, switch, or the like.

[0035] The control unit 116A includes a built-in timer (not shown) that measures the time elapsed from a predetermined timing.

[0036] The liquid reservoir 123 stores an aerosol source. The aerosol source is atomized to generate an aerosol. The aerosol source is a liquid, such as a polyhydric alcohol, such as glycerin or propylene glycol, or water. The aerosol source may contain a tobacco-derived or non-tobacco-derived flavor component. When the inhalation device 100A is a medical inhaler, such as a nebulizer, the aerosol source may contain a drug.

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

[0038] The heating unit 121A generates aerosol by heating the aerosol source and atomizing the aerosol source. In the example shown in FIG. 1 , the heating unit 121A is configured as a coil and is wound around the liquid guide unit 122. When the heating unit 121A generates heat, the aerosol source held in the liquid guide unit 122 is heated and atomized, generating aerosol. The heating unit 121A generates heat when power is supplied from the power supply unit 111A. As an example, power may be supplied when the sensor unit 112A detects that the user has started inhaling and / or that predetermined information has been input. Then, power supply may be stopped when the sensor unit 112A detects that the user has stopped inhaling and / or that predetermined information has been input.

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

[0040] The air flow path 180 is a path for air inhaled by the user. The air flow path 180 has a tubular structure with an air inlet 181, which is an entrance for air into the air flow path 180, and an air outlet 182, which is an exit for air from the air flow path 180, at both ends. A liquid guide section 122 is disposed on the upstream side (closer to the air inlet 181) of the air flow path 180, and a flavor source 131 is disposed on the downstream side (closer to the air outlet 182). Air flowing in through the air inlet 181 as the user inhales is mixed with the aerosol generated by the heating section 121A and, as shown by arrow 190, is transported through the flavor source 131 to the air outlet 182. When the mixed fluid of the aerosol and air passes through the flavor source 131, flavor components contained in the flavor source 131 are imparted to the aerosol.

[0041] Mouthpiece 124 is a member that is held in the mouth by the user when inhaling. Air outlet holes 182 are arranged in mouthpiece 124. By holding mouthpiece 124 in the mouth and inhaling, the user can take in the mixed fluid of the aerosol and air into the oral cavity.

[0042] The above describes an example of the configuration of the suction device 100A. Of course, the configuration of the suction device 100A is not limited to the above, and various configurations such as those exemplified below may be used.

[0043] As an example, the inhalation device 100A may not include the flavoring cartridge 130. In that case, the cartridge 120 is provided with the mouthpiece 124.

[0044] As another example, the inhalation device 100A may include multiple types of aerosol sources. Multiple types of aerosols generated from the multiple types of aerosol sources may be mixed in the air flow path 180 and undergo a chemical reaction to generate additional types of aerosols.

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

[0046] (2) Second Configuration Example Fig. 2 is a schematic diagram showing a second configuration example of a suction device. As shown in Fig. 2, a suction device 100B according to this configuration example includes a power supply unit 111B, a sensor unit 112B, a notification unit 113B, a memory unit 114B, a communication unit 115B, a control unit 116B, a heating unit 121B, a storage unit 140, and a heat insulating unit 144.

[0047] Each of the power supply unit 111B, sensor unit 112B, notification unit 113B, memory unit 114B, communication unit 115B, and control unit 116B is substantially identical to the corresponding components included in the suction device 100A according to the first configuration example.

[0048] The storage unit 140 has an internal space 141 and holds the stick-shaped substrate 150 while accommodating a portion of the stick-shaped substrate 150 in the internal space 141. The storage unit 140 has an opening 142 that connects the internal space 141 to the outside and accommodates the stick-shaped substrate 150 inserted into the internal space 141 through the opening 142. For example, the storage unit 140 is a cylindrical body with the opening 142 and a bottom 143 as its bottom surface, and defines a columnar internal space 141. An air flow path that supplies air to the internal space 141 is connected to the storage unit 140. An air inlet, which is an air inlet to the air flow path, is arranged, for example, on a side surface of the suction device 100B. An air outlet, which is an air outlet from the air flow path to the internal space 141, is arranged, for example, on the bottom 143.

[0049] The stick-shaped substrate 150 includes a substrate portion 151 and a mouthpiece portion 152. The substrate portion 151 includes an aerosol source. The aerosol source includes a tobacco-derived or non-tobacco-derived flavor component. When the inhalation device 100B is a medical inhaler such as a nebulizer, the aerosol source may include a medicament. The aerosol source may be, for example, a liquid such as a polyhydric alcohol, such as glycerin or propylene glycol, or water, containing a tobacco-derived or non-tobacco-derived flavor component, or a solid containing a tobacco-derived or non-tobacco-derived flavor component. When the stick-shaped substrate 150 is held in the housing portion 140, at least a portion of the substrate portion 151 is housed in the internal space 141, and at least a portion of the mouthpiece portion 152 protrudes from the opening 142. When a user holds the mouthpiece portion 152 protruding from the opening 142 in their mouth and inhales, air flows into the internal space 141 via an air flow path (not shown) and reaches the user's mouth along with the aerosol generated from the substrate portion 151.

[0050] 2, the heating unit 121B is configured in a film shape and is arranged to cover the outer periphery of the storage unit 140. When the heating unit 121B generates heat, the substrate unit 151 of the stick-shaped substrate 150 is heated from the outer periphery, and an aerosol is generated.

[0051] The heat insulating section 144 prevents heat transfer from the heating section 121B to other components. For example, the heat insulating section 144 is made of a vacuum heat insulating material, an aerogel heat insulating material, or the like.

[0052] The above is a description of an example of the configuration of the suction device 100B. Of course, the configuration of the suction device 100B is not limited to the above, and various configurations such as those exemplified below may be used.

[0053] As one example, the heating unit 121B may be configured in a blade shape and disposed so as to protrude from the bottom 143 of the storage unit 140 into the internal space 141. In this case, the blade-shaped heating unit 121B is inserted into the substrate 151 of the stick-shaped substrate 150 and heats the substrate 151 of the stick-shaped substrate 150 from the inside. As another example, the heating unit 121B may be disposed so as to cover the bottom 143 of the storage unit 140. Furthermore, the heating unit 121B may be configured as a combination of two or more of a first heating unit covering the outer periphery of the storage unit 140, a blade-shaped second heating unit, and a third heating unit covering the bottom 143 of the storage unit 140.

[0054] As another example, the accommodation unit 140 may include an opening / closing mechanism such as a hinge that opens and closes a portion of the outer shell that forms the internal space 141. The accommodation unit 140 may then open and close the outer shell to accommodate the stick-shaped substrate 150 inserted into the internal space 141 while clamping it. In this case, the heating unit 121B may be provided at the clamping location in the accommodation unit 140 and heat the stick-shaped substrate 150 while pressing it.

[0055] Furthermore, the means for atomizing the aerosol source is not limited to heating by the heating unit 121B. For example, the means for atomizing the aerosol source may be induction heating. In that case, the suction device 100B has at least an electromagnetic induction source such as a coil that generates a magnetic field, instead of the heating unit 121B. A susceptor that generates heat by induction heating may be provided in the suction device 100B, or may be included in the stick-shaped substrate 150.

[0056] Furthermore, the suction device 100B may further include the heating unit 121A, the liquid guide unit 122, the liquid storage unit 123, and the air flow path 180 according to the first configuration example, and the air flow path 180 may supply air to the internal space 141. In this case, the mixed fluid of the aerosol and air generated by the heating unit 121A flows into the internal space 141 and is further mixed with the aerosol generated by the heating unit 121B, and reaches the oral cavity of the user.

[0057] <<2. Technical Features>> (1) Introduction An example of the operation of the suction devices 100A and 100B according to this embodiment will be described below. The process for such control is executed by the control unit 116 (116A, 116B) configured by implementing various functions in an MCU.

[0058] In the following example, an aerosol generating device 100 based on the inhalation device 100B shown in Fig. 2 will be described. In the aerosol generating device 100B, an aerosol is generated by heating a stick-shaped substrate 150. However, it will be understood by those skilled in the art that the control of the operation of the aerosol generating device 100 according to this embodiment is not limited to this, and may be based on the inhalation device 100A shown in Fig. 1.

[0059] In the following, the inhalation of the aerosol generated by the aerosol generation device 100 by the user will also be referred to simply as "inhalation" or "puffing." In addition, the inhalation action of the user will also be referred to hereinafter as a "puffing action."

[0060] When a user of the aerosol generating device 100 performs a series of puffing actions, the user typically performs about 12 puffing actions. To generate a desired amount of aerosol and flavor over the period of such a series of puffing actions, the control unit 116 controls the heating action of the inhalation component source. In the control unit 116, the heating action of the heating unit 121 (121A, 121B) in response to the series of puffing actions by the user is pre-designated as an "inhalation session." In other words, the control unit 116 operates the aerosol generating device 100 according to a pre-defined inhalation session.

[0061] Note that an "inhalation session" may also be referred to as a "heating session." In other words, the period from the start to the end of the process of generating an aerosol using the stick-shaped substrate 150 corresponds to a heating session. In other words, a heating session is a period during which power supply to the heating unit 121 is controlled based on the heating profile described below. The start of a heating session is the timing when heating based on the heating profile begins, that is, when heating of the stick-shaped substrate 150 begins. The end of a heating session is the timing when a sufficient amount of aerosol is no longer generated. A heating session includes a pre-heating period described below and a puffable period following the pre-heating period.

[0062] (2) Control of Heating Operation During Inhalation Session (2-1) Heating Profile The aerosol generating device 100 controls the heating operation of the heating unit 121 based on a heating profile associated with the inhalation session. Control of the operation of the heating unit 121 is achieved by controlling the power supply from the power supply unit 111 to the heating unit 121. The heating unit 121 heats the aerosol source contained in the stick-shaped substrate 150 or the like using the power supplied from the power supply unit 111. Specifically, the control unit 116 of the aerosol generating device 100 controls the temperature of the heating unit 121 by controlling the power supply operation from the power supply unit 111 to the heating unit 121 so as to achieve the time series transition of the target temperature defined in the heating profile. The heating profile is control information for controlling the temperature at which the aerosol source is heated, that is, it may be control information for controlling the temperature of the heating unit 121. Specifically, it is information that defines the time series transition of the target temperature, which is the target value of the temperature of the heating unit 121, throughout the aforementioned inhalation session.

[0063] As an example, the heating profile may include a target value for the temperature of the heating unit 121 (hereinafter also referred to as the target temperature). The target temperature may change depending on the elapsed time from the start of heating. In this case, the heating profile includes information defining the time-series progression of the target temperature. As another example, the heating profile may include parameters (hereinafter also referred to as power supply parameters) defining a method for supplying power to the heating unit 121. The power supply parameters include, for example, the voltage applied to the heating unit 121, ON / OFF of power supply to the heating unit 121, or a feedback control method to be adopted. The ON / OFF of power supply to the heating unit 121 may be considered as ON / OFF of the heating unit 121. The control unit 116 controls the operation of the heating unit 121 so that the actual temperature of the heating unit 121 progresses in the same manner as the target temperature defined in the heating profile. Controlling the operation of the heating unit 121 based on the heating profile may change the flavor experienced by the user. The heating profile information is stored in the storage unit 114. This information is referenced when the heating unit 121 performs a heating operation to heat the stick-shaped substrate 150.

[0064] As a result, the aerosol is generated as planned by the heating profile in response to the operation of the heating unit 121 in accordance with the heating profile. The heating profile is typically designed to optimize the flavor that the user tastes when the user inhales the aerosol generated from the stick-shaped substrate 150. In other words, by controlling the operation of the heating unit 121 based on the heating profile, the flavor that the user tastes can be optimized.

[0065] (2-2) Temperature Control Based on Heating Profile in Heating Unit The control unit 116 controls the heating operation in the heating unit 121 based on the target temperature defined in the heating profile and the actual temperature (hereinafter also referred to as actual temperature) of the heating unit 121. In detail, the control unit 116 controls the power supply operation from the power supply unit 111 to the heating unit 121 based on the difference between the target temperature of the heating unit 121, which corresponds to the elapsed time since control of the heating operation based on the heating profile was started, and the actual temperature of the heating unit 121.

[0066] That is, the control unit 116 controls the temperature of the heating unit 121 so that the time series change in the actual temperature of the heating unit 121 is the same as the time series change in the target temperature of the heating unit 121 defined in the heating profile. The temperature control of the heating unit 121 can be achieved, for example, by known feedback control. Specifically, the control unit 116 supplies power from the power supply unit 111 to the heating unit 121 in the form of pulses obtained by pulse width modulation (PWM) or pulse frequency modulation (PFM). In this case, the control unit 116 can control the temperature of the heating unit 121 by adjusting the duty ratio of the power pulses.

[0067] In feedback control, the control unit 116 controls the power supplied from the power supply unit 111 to the heating unit 121, for example, the duty ratio, based on the difference between the actual temperature and the target temperature. The feedback control may be, for example, a proportional-integral-differential controller (PID) control. Alternatively, the control unit 116 may perform simple ON-OFF control. For example, the control unit 116 may instruct the power supply unit 111 to perform a heating operation until the actual temperature reaches the target temperature, stop the heating operation when the actual temperature reaches the target temperature, and perform the heating operation again when the actual temperature falls below the target temperature.

[0068] The temperature of the heating unit 121 can be measured by the sensor unit 112, particularly by a temperature sensor installed near the heating unit 121. In another example, the temperature of the heating unit 121 can be quantified by measuring or estimating the electrical resistance of a heating resistor that constitutes the heating unit 121. This is because the electrical resistance of a heating resistor changes depending on the temperature. The electrical resistance of the heating resistor can be estimated, for example, by measuring the amount of voltage drop across the heating resistor. The amount of voltage drop across the heating resistor can be measured by a voltage sensor that measures the potential difference applied to the heating resistor. In other words, the temperature of the heating unit 121 is related to the electrical resistance of the heating resistor that constitutes the heating unit 121. Therefore, in this specification, when referring to the temperature of the heating unit 121, this may also be interpreted as the electrical resistance value.

[0069] The heating operation based on the heating profile starts when it is detected that an operation has been performed to instruct the start of heating in an inhalation session. Regarding a request to execute an inhalation session, one example of an operation to instruct the start of heating is pressing a button or switch provided on the aerosol generation device 100. Another example is an operation of inserting the stick-shaped substrate 150 into the substrate part 151; for example, the insertion of the stick-shaped substrate 150 is presumed when the lid of the storage part 140 of the stick-shaped substrate 150 is opened. Another example is a puffing operation. Another example is receiving a signal from another device such as a smartphone.

[0070] As the heating operation of the heating unit 121 progresses, the aerosol source contained in the base material gradually decreases over time. The heating operation is usually stopped when it is assumed that the aerosol source will be depleted. An example of the timing when it is assumed that the aerosol source will be depleted is when a predetermined time has elapsed since control of the operation of the heating unit 121 based on the heating profile began. An example of the timing when it is assumed that the aerosol source will be depleted is when a predetermined number of puffs have been detected. An example of the timing when it is assumed that the aerosol source will be depleted is when a button provided on the aerosol generation device 100 is pressed. For example, the button is pressed when the user is no longer able to detect a sufficient flavor.

[0071] The period during which a sufficient amount of aerosol is expected to be generated is also referred to as the "puffable period." On the other hand, the period from the start of heating to the start of the puffable period is also referred to as the "pre-heating period." The heating operation performed during the pre-heating period is also referred to as the "pre-heating operation" (or simply "pre-heating"). The user may be notified of the start and end timings of the puffable period. In this case, the user is prompted by such notification to perform a series of puffing operations, and performing a series of puffing operations during the puffable period provides an inhalation experience.

[0072] (2-3) Basic Aspects of Temperature Transition During an Inhalation Session The heating profile includes multiple consecutive time intervals along a time axis. A target temperature at the end of the time interval is associated with each of the multiple time intervals. A target time length is also associated with each of the multiple time intervals and set for the target temperature. The control unit 116 controls the operation of the heating unit 121 based on the discrepancy between the target temperature set for a time interval corresponding to the elapsed time since control of the operation of the heating unit 121 based on the heating profile began and the actual temperature of the heating unit 121. Specifically, the control unit 116 controls the operation of the heating unit 121 so that the set target temperature is reached by the end of each of the multiple time intervals included in the heating profile.

[0073] The heating profile associated with the suction session may include an initial heating section, an intermediate cooling section, and a reheating section.

[0074] The initial heating section is a time section included at the beginning of the heating profile. The target temperature set in the initial heating section is higher than the initial value. The initial value is the temperature assumed as the temperature of the heating unit 121 before heating begins. One example of the initial value is an arbitrary temperature such as 0°C. Another example of the initial value is a temperature corresponding to the air temperature. Note that a fixed time length may be included as part of the initial heating section and / or between the initial heating section and the next intermediate heating section as a section in which the temperature is maintained near the target temperature.

[0075] The intermediate temperature decreasing section is a time section included in the middle of the heating profile. The target temperature set in the intermediate temperature decreasing section is lower than the target temperature set in the time section immediately before the intermediate temperature decreasing section.

[0076] The reheating section is a time section included at the end of the heating profile. The target temperature set in the reheating section is higher than the target temperature set in the time section immediately before the reheating section.

[0077] The control unit 116 may determine at least a part of switching between multiple time intervals in the heating profile based on the actual temperature of the heating unit 121. For example, the control unit 116 may determine switching from the initial heating interval to the intermediate heating interval and the end of the reheating interval based on whether the deviation between the target temperature set for each time interval and the actual temperature of the heating unit 121 falls within a predetermined threshold.

[0078] An example of such a heating profile is shown in the following Table 1. The heating profile example shown in Table 1 is made up of an initial temperature-raising section, an intermediate temperature-lowering section, and a re-heating section, which are included in this order.

[0079]

[0080] The initial heating section is a section for the preheating operation, and specifies the preheating operation to be performed after the start of the heating operation. The initial heating section is a section from the start of the heating profile until the heating unit 121 rises to the target temperature of 295°C. Here, the target time length is 35 seconds, and it is specified so that the temperature of the heating unit 121 rises to the target temperature of 295°C within 35 seconds. Note that the target time length of 35 seconds is merely a guideline, and in an actual preheating operation, the actual time required to reach the target temperature will vary depending on the surrounding environment and the degree of puffing by the user.

[0081] When the initial heating section ends, the preheating operation is completed. Around this time, the notification unit 113 may notify the user that the preheating operation has been completed. In response to this notification, the user can begin a series of puffing operations, thereby achieving a high-quality puffing experience.

[0082] The target temperature of 230°C set in the intermediate temperature drop section is lower than the target temperature of 295°C set in the initial temperature rise section, which is the previous time section. In other words, the intermediate temperature drop section is the section from the end of the initial temperature rise section until the temperature of the heating unit 121 drops to the target temperature of 230°C. In this case, the target time length is 10 seconds, and it is specified that the temperature of the heating unit 121 will drop to the target temperature of 230°C within 10 seconds.

[0083] The target temperature of 260°C set in the reheating section is higher than the target temperature of 230°C set in the intermediate temperature decreasing section, which is the previous time section. In other words, the reheating section is the section from the end of the intermediate temperature decreasing section until the heating unit 121 rises to the target temperature of 260°C. In this example, the target time length is 310 seconds. In other words, it is specified that the temperature of the heating unit 121 will rise to the target temperature of 260°C within 310 seconds.

[0084] By including these multiple time intervals in the heating profile, it is possible to provide a sufficient quality puffing experience to the user throughout the inhalation session, as will be explained below, i.e., it is possible to improve the quality of the user's puffing experience.

[0085] The time series change in the actual temperature of the heating unit 121 when the control unit 116 controls the operation of the heating unit 121 in accordance with the heating profile shown in Table 1 will be described with reference to Fig. 3. Fig. 3 is a graph showing an example of the time series change in the temperature of the heating unit 121 operating based on the heating profile shown in Table 1. The horizontal axis of this graph is time (seconds). The vertical axis of this graph is the temperature of the heating unit 121. Line 21 in this graph shows the time series change in the actual temperature of the heating unit 121.

[0086] First, the actual temperature of the heating section 121 rises in the initial heating section and reaches the target temperature of 295°C at the end of the initial heating section. When the actual temperature of the heating section 121 reaches the target temperature set in the initial heating section, it is expected that the temperature of the stick-shaped substrate 150 will reach a temperature at which a sufficient amount of aerosol is generated. The initial heating section is set at the beginning of the heating profile. Therefore, in the initial heating section, the heating section 121 is heated in one go from the initial temperature to 295°C, the target temperature set in the initial heating section. Note that the initial temperature is the actual temperature of the heating section 121 at the start of heating based on the heating profile. This configuration makes it possible to finish preheating early.

[0087] The control unit 116 controls the temperature of the heating unit 121 in the initial heating section so that the actual temperature reaches the target temperature set for the initial heating section. That is, the control unit 116 controls the temperature of the heating unit 121 from the initial temperature toward 295° C. A fixed time length (e.g., a fixed time of 10 seconds) for maintaining 295° C. may be included as a final portion of the initial heating section.

[0088] Following the initial temperature rise section, the actual temperature of the heating unit 121 drops in an intermediate temperature drop section and reaches the target temperature of 230°C at the end of the intermediate temperature drop section. The intermediate temperature drop section is set after the initial temperature rise section. Therefore, in the intermediate temperature drop section, the heating unit 121 temporarily drops in temperature from the set temperature of the initial temperature rise section to the set temperature of the intermediate temperature drop section. If the heating unit 121 is maintained at a high temperature, such as the target temperature of the initial temperature rise section, the aerosol source contained in the stick-shaped substrate 150 will be rapidly consumed, resulting in inconveniences such as the user tasting an overly strong flavor. In this regard, by providing an intermediate temperature drop section, such inconveniences can be avoided and the quality of the user's puff experience can be improved.

[0089] The control unit 116 may execute control so as not to supply power to the heating unit 121 during the intermediate temperature-reducing section. In other words, the control unit 116 controls the heating unit 121 to stop supplying power during the intermediate temperature-reducing section, so that the heating operation is not performed. This configuration makes it possible to reduce the actual temperature of the heating unit 121 most quickly. Furthermore, it is also possible to reduce the power consumption of the aerosol generation device 100 compared to when power is supplied to the heating unit 121 during the intermediate temperature-reducing section.

[0090] Following the intermediate temperature-lowering section, the actual temperature of the heating section 121 rises in the reheating section and reaches the target temperature of 260°C at the end of the reheating section. The reheating section follows the intermediate temperature-lowering section and is set at the end of the heating profile. Therefore, in the reheating section, the heating section 121 is heated again from the set temperature of the intermediate temperature-lowering section to the set temperature of the reheating section, and then heating is stopped. If the temperature of the heating section 121 continues to be lowered after the initial temperature-highering section, the stick-shaped substrate 150 also drops in temperature, which reduces the amount of aerosol generated and may deteriorate the flavor experienced by the user. In this regard, by providing a reheating section after the intermediate temperature-lowering section, it is possible to prevent deterioration of the flavor experienced by the user even in the latter half of the heating profile.

[0091] The control unit 116 controls the temperature of the heating unit 121 in the reheating section so that the actual temperature reaches the target temperature set for the reheating section. That is, the control unit 116 controls the temperature of the heating unit 121 toward 260° C. If the actual temperature reaches 260° C. before 310 seconds have elapsed since the start of the reheating section, the control unit 116 may control the temperature of the heating unit 121 to maintain 260° C.

[0092] In this way, one inhalation session is set through a series of temperature controls of the heating section 121 over the initial heating section, the intermediate heating section, and the re-heating section, as specified in the example heating profile of Table 1, and is performed together with a series of puffing actions by the user.

[0093] After the reheating section ends, a cool-down section (not shown) of fixed time length (e.g., a fixed time of 10 seconds) may be set. During such a cool-down section, power supply from the power supply unit 111 to the heating unit 121 is stopped. That is, one inhalation session is set through a series of temperature controls of the heating unit 121 over the initial heating section, intermediate heating section, reheating section, and cool-down section, and is performed together with a series of puffing actions by the user. By setting the cool-down section, the actual temperature of the heating unit 121 can be lowered to a certain extent at the end of the inhalation session, allowing preparation for the next inhalation session to be performed.

[0094] In addition to the example heating profile in Table 1, a single suction session may be forcibly terminated when the total time spanning the intermediate temperature drop section, reheating section, and cool-down section after the end of the initial temperature rise section reaches a fixed time length (e.g., a fixed time of 400 seconds).

[0095] In the example of Table 1, switching between multiple time periods in the heating profile may be determined based on the actual temperature of the heating unit 121. Alternatively, the control unit 116 may determine at least some of the switching between multiple time periods in the heating profile based on elapsed time. For example, the control unit 116 may determine the end of the intermediate temperature-dropping section based on the elapsed time from the start of the intermediate temperature-dropping section. For example, if the intermediate temperature-dropping section in the heating profile is set to 10 seconds, the control unit 116 may determine to switch to the re-heating section and resume the heating operation of the heating unit 121 when 10 seconds have elapsed since the start of the intermediate temperature-dropping section.

[0096] Those skilled in the art will understand that the heating profile associated with an inhalation session is not limited to the example in Table 1. The target temperature values ​​and target durations shown in the example in Table 1 may be set appropriately based on the quality of the inhalation experience or the level of satisfaction provided to the user. These values ​​may also be adjusted to suit a specific region (e.g., East Asia) or environment (e.g., a hot and humid environment). That is, the target temperature values ​​and target durations are not limited to those described above, and other values ​​may be set depending on the region or environment. Each of the initial heating section, the intermediate heating section, and the reheating section may be divided into multiple stages. For example, the initial heating section may have two stages, a first stage and a second stage, in which the degree of heating is determined. In addition to or instead of these, other sections may be included.

[0097] (2-4) Processing Flow in Inhalation Session FIG. 4 is a flowchart showing an example of the processing flow executed by the aerosol generation device 100.

[0098] 4 , first, in step S102, the aerosol generation device 100 heats the heating unit 121 from an initial temperature to a target temperature set for the initial heating section in an initial heating section. Next, in step S104, the aerosol generation device 100 stops power supply to the heating unit 121 in an intermediate heating section, and cools the heating unit 121 to the target temperature set for the intermediate heating section. Next, in step S106, the aerosol generation device 100 heats the heating unit 121 in a reheating section to the target temperature set for the reheating section. Then, in step S108, the aerosol generation device 100 stops power supply to the heating unit 121 as the reheating section ends.

[0099] By including these time periods in the heating profile, it is possible to provide the user with a puffing experience of sufficient quality from the beginning to the end of the heating profile. In other words, it is possible to effectively increase the temperature of the stick-shaped substrate 150 to the inside, and to sufficiently decrease the temperature of the stick-shaped substrate 150 to the inside, thereby improving the quality of the user's puffing experience.

[0100] (3) Inhalation Session in a Specific Environment (3-1) Dealing with Hot and Humid Environments Users use the aerosol generating device 100 in a variety of environments. In particular, in environments that are hot and humid (for example, environments in areas such as Taiwan and the Philippines; hereinafter referred to as "hot and humid environments"), it is expected that the amount of moisture contained in the inhalation component source (substrate) will be higher than in other environments (for example, environments in areas such as Tokyo; hereinafter referred to as "normal environments" for convenience). The inhalation component source (substrate) is, for example, a stick-shaped substrate 150. In the following example, a case where the inhalation component source (substrate) is a stick-shaped substrate 150 will be described as an example.

[0101] In a normal environment, some or all of the moisture contained in the stick-shaped substrate 150 is absorbed by elements such as a filter when the user puffs. In contrast, in a high-temperature, high-humidity environment, a large amount of the moisture contained in the stick-shaped substrate 150 may not be absorbed by elements such as a filter when the user puffs. In this case, the unabsorbed moisture is inhaled by the user along with the aerosol, particularly during the first puff. In other words, in a high-temperature, high-humidity environment, the moisture content of the aerosol increases during the first puff.

[0102] As a result, in a high-temperature, high-humidity environment, the temperature of the aerosol inhaled by the user during puffing is higher than in a normal environment. In a normal environment, the temperature of the aerosol cools down to a level that the user does not perceive as high temperature between the time the aerosol is generated and the time it is delivered to the user's oral cavity, as described above. On the other hand, in a high-temperature, high-humidity environment, the aerosol has a high moisture content during the first puffing operation, and this moisture (water vapor) tends to be difficult to cool. In other words, due to the influence of moisture, the aerosol is delivered to the user's oral cavity without being sufficiently cooled. Forcing the user to inhale a high-temperature aerosol that has not been sufficiently cooled can affect the user's inhalation experience. In some cases, this can cause discomfort to the user who performed the puffing operation.

[0103] To effectively address the above issue, it is preferable to prompt the user to expel aerosol expected to contain a large amount of water vapor to the outside of the stick-type substrate 150 in advance. Specifically, it is preferable to notify the user to perform a preliminary puffing action when a predetermined time has elapsed since the start of heating based on the heating profile (i.e., before the actual temperature of the heating unit 121 becomes high). By having the user perform such a preliminary puffing action before the user performs the first puffing action during the puffing period, it is possible to effectively expel aerosol containing a large amount of water vapor to the outside of the stick-type substrate 150. In other words, it is possible to prevent the user from inhaling high-temperature aerosol. In the following description, the preliminary puffing action that the user is prompted to perform during preheating in order to expel unwanted aerosol, such as that containing a large amount of water vapor, to the outside of the stick-type substrate 150 in advance during the preheating period is referred to as a "preliminary puffing action."

[0104] (3-2) Determination of a High-Temperature, High-Humidity Environment It is generally considered preferable to uniformly notify the user to perform a pre-puffing operation, particularly for aerosol generation devices 100 sold in areas with high-temperature, high-humidity environments. On the other hand, it is not necessarily preferable to uniformly require users to perform a pre-puffing operation. This is because forcing the user to inhale aerosol at a temperature containing a lot of water vapor through a pre-puffing operation may itself degrade the user's inhalation experience.

[0105] Rather than uniformly requesting the user to perform a pre-puffing operation, it is preferable to dynamically determine whether the pre-puffing operation is necessary for each inhalation session. To this end, it is preferable to determine in advance for each inhalation session whether the aerosol generation device 100 is being used in a high-temperature, high-humidity environment. If it is determined that the aerosol generation device 100 is not being used in a high-temperature, high-humidity environment, there is no need to request the user to perform a pre-puffing operation. In other words, since there is no need to discharge the aerosol outside the stick-type substrate 150, there is no need to issue a notification prompting the user to perform a pre-puffing operation. The aerosol generation device 100 simply accepts a series of puffing operations by the user as usual during the puffing-enabled period after the pre-heating period. In other words, by not requesting the user to perform unnecessary pre-puffing operations, the quality of the inhalation experience can be more flexibly maintained while reducing the user's effort.

[0106] According to this embodiment, whether the inhalation session is to be performed in a high-temperature, high-humidity environment is determined during the pre-heating period prior to the puffing period, and a notification is issued prompting the user to perform a pre-puffing operation accordingly. Specifically, the aerosol generating device 100 acquires operation information regarding the pre-heating operation performed after the start of heating of the suction article source during the inhalation session, and determines whether the environment is high-temperature, high-humidity based on the operation information. The temperature rise rate of the heating unit 121 during the pre-heating operation is calculated from the operation information regarding the pre-heating operation.

[0107] The determination of whether the aerosol generating device 100 is operating in a high-temperature, high-humidity environment or in a normal environment other than a high-temperature, high-humidity environment is based on, for example, the following. First, it is known that moisture (water vapor) has the property of being difficult to cool down and difficult to heat up. That is, in a high-temperature, high-humidity environment, the moisture content of the aerosol is high, and the aerosol is difficult to heat up. Therefore, if it can be determined that such aerosol that is difficult to heat up is being generated during an inhalation session, it can be determined that the aerosol generating device 100 is operating in a high-temperature, high-humidity environment. As an example, in an inhalation session, a case in which the temperature of the heating unit 121 rises at a slower pace than expected in the preheating operation performed in the initial heating section shown in Table 1 corresponds to the generation of aerosol that is difficult to heat up.

[0108] If the heating operation by the preheating operation is performed rapidly in a high-temperature, high-humidity environment where the moisture content of the aerosol is high, the heat of the heating unit 121 will be absorbed by the moisture, and the temperature rise rate will be slower than in a normal environment. In such a case, it may be determined that the aerosol generating device 100 is operating in a high-temperature, high-humidity environment. On the other hand, if it is not determined that the aerosol generating device 100 is operating in a high-temperature, high-humidity environment, it may be determined that the aerosol generating device 100 is operating in a normal environment. In other words, it is possible to determine whether the aerosol generating device 100 is being used in a high-temperature, high-humidity environment based on the operation information regarding the preheating operation, without introducing an additional sensor for measuring the moisture content.

[0109] (3-3) Basic Aspects of Control Operation Figure 5 is a graph showing an example of the time series transition of the temperature of the heating unit 121 when a suction session is performed based on the heating profile shown in Table 1 according to this embodiment. The horizontal axis of this graph represents time (seconds). The vertical axis of this graph represents the temperature of the heating unit 121.

[0110] Line 22 in this graph shows the time series change in the actual temperature of the heating unit 121 over the suction session. As shown by line 22, the suction session includes the initial heating section, intermediate heating section, and reheating section shown in Table 1, and also includes a cool-down section. As described above with reference to Table 1, the suction session does not necessarily include a cool-down section. As a result of the initial heating section, the temperature of the heating unit 121 rises to approximately 295°C. As a result of the intermediate heating section, the temperature of the heating unit 121 drops to approximately 230°C. As a result of the reheating section, the temperature of the heating unit 121 rises again to approximately 260°C. Furthermore, as a result of the cool-down section, the temperature of the heating unit 121 drops to approximately 150°C.

[0111] 5, the slope of the straight line of the graph for the preheating period of line 22 is shown to be smaller than the slope of dotted line 23 (dotted arrow). Dotted line 23 corresponds to the basic mode of heating operation in heating unit 121 based on the target time length and target temperature of the initial heating section shown in Table 1. In particular, dotted line 23 indicates the normal heating rate of the preheating operation in a normal environment.

[0112] Specifically, if the slope of the straight line of the portion of line 22 relating to the actual preheating operation (i.e., the actual temperature rise rate) is smaller than the slope of dotted line 23 (the temperature rise rate in a normal environment), the heating situation is one in which the temperature of the heating unit 121 rises at a slower pace than the initial target. In such a case, it may be estimated that the aerosol generation device 100 is operating in a high-temperature, high-humidity environment. If it is estimated that the aerosol generation device 100 is operating in a high-temperature, high-humidity environment, it is preferable to prompt the user to take a predetermined action accordingly. Specifically, it is preferable to prompt the user to perform a prepuffing operation to expel unnecessary aerosol outside the stick-shaped substrate 150. To this end, in the preheating stage, the control unit 116-1 preferably causes the notification unit 113 to execute such a notification ("prepuffing operation prompt notification" in FIG. 5).

[0113] Conversely, if the slope of the straight line of the portion of line 22 relating to the actual pre-heating operation is equal to or greater than the slope of dotted line 23, it may be assumed that the aerosol generation device 100 is operating in a normal environment that is not a high-temperature, high-humidity environment. If it is determined that the aerosol generation device 100 is operating in a normal environment, there is no need to prompt the user to perform the pre-puffing operation described above, and therefore the control unit 116-1 does not need to cause the notification unit 113 to execute such a notification.

[0114] As described above, in this embodiment, the control unit 116-1 determines whether to cause the notification unit 113 to perform a notification operation to prompt the user to perform a pre-puffing operation, in accordance with the determination based on the operation information related to the pre-heating operation.

[0115] Specifically, if the temperature rise rate in the preheating operation is less than a predetermined threshold, it is determined that the aerosol generation device 100 is operating in a high-temperature, high-humidity environment, and the notification unit 113 is caused to issue a notification to that effect (a pre-puffing operation prompt notification) to prompt the user to perform a pre-puffing operation. On the other hand, if the temperature rise rate in the preheating operation is equal to or greater than the predetermined threshold, it is determined that the aerosol generation device 100 is operating in a normal environment that is not a high-temperature, high-humidity environment, and it is decided not to cause the notification unit 113 to issue a notification to prompt the user to perform a pre-puffing operation.

[0116] In addition, in the case of a product of the aerosol generation device 100 sold in areas with high temperature and humidity, the initial setting may be set to uniformly execute a notification operation prompting the user to perform a pre-puff operation, and it is sufficient to determine only that the aerosol generation device 100 is operating in a normal environment. In other words, notification information indicating that the notification unit 113 will execute such a notification operation is stored in advance in the storage unit 114. Then, when the aerosol generation device 100 determines that it is operating in a normal environment that is not a high temperature and humidity environment and determines not to execute such a notification operation, it simply updates the notification information so that the notification operation is not executed. The control unit 116-1 can control whether or not to execute the notification operation by referring to the notification information each time.

[0117] 5 also shows that after the pre-puffing prompt notification, a notification operation ("pre-heating completion notification" in FIG. 5) is executed around the time when the initial heating section expires and pre-heating ends. The pre-heating completion notification is executed by the control unit 116-1 instructing the notification unit 113 to prompt the user to perform a series of puffing operations to provide the user with an inhalation experience. In this way, by executing two notifications, the pre-puffing prompt notification and the pre-heating completion notification, in the notification session, the user can perform puffing operations more intuitively.

[0118] According to this embodiment, when the aerosol generation device 100 is operated in a high-temperature and high-humidity environment, it is particularly advantageous because it can effectively prompt the user to perform a pre-puffing action to expel unwanted aerosol to the outside of the stick-shaped substrate 150. In other words, it is possible to adapt the operation of the aerosol generation device 100 to the user's inhalation environment.

[0119] (3-4) Functional Configuration Fig. 6 is a functional block diagram showing the functional configuration of an example of the control unit 116-1 for executing the process according to this embodiment. １ , session execution unit 116 ２ , operation information acquisition unit 116 ３ , determination unit 116 ４ , and the notification instruction unit 116 ５ Includes.

[0120] Reception unit 116 １ The sensor unit 112 receives a command to execute an inhalation session. Specifically, the sensor unit 112 detects a user operation using a button or a switch, or a user operation of inserting the stick-shaped substrate 150 into the substrate unit 151, and receives a request to execute an inhalation session. The sensor unit 112 also receives a pre-puff operation or a normal puff operation by the user.

[0121] Session execution unit 116 ２ executes a suction session according to the heating profile. ２identifies the start and end timings of the heating operation in the suction session, and performs the heating operation in the heating unit 121 based on the heating profile associated with the suction session and the temperature of the heating unit 121.

[0122] Operation information acquisition unit 116 ３ acquires operation information related to the heating operation in the suction session. Specifically, the operation information acquisition unit 116 ３ acquires operation information related to a preheating operation to be performed after the start of heating of the suction object source, and calculates the temperature rise rate of the heating unit 121 in the preheating operation from the acquired operation information.

[0123] Determination unit 116 ４ The operation information acquisition unit 116 ３ In particular, if the temperature rise rate of the heating unit 121 in the preheating operation is equal to or greater than a predetermined threshold, it is estimated that the aerosol generation device 100 is operating in a high-temperature and high-humidity environment. ４ determines the values ​​of various information (flags).

[0124] Notification instruction section 116 ５ The notification instruction unit 116 determines whether to execute a predetermined notification operation and instructs the notification unit 113 to execute the notification operation after a predetermined time has elapsed. ５ determines whether to execute (or not execute) a predetermined notification operation to prompt the user to perform a pre-puffing operation according to the operation information, and causes the notification operation to be executed (or not executed) by the notification unit 113. Also, around the time when the pre-heating operation is completed, the notification unit 113 notifies the user that the pre-heating operation has been completed and that a series of puffing operations can be accepted.

[0125] The notification by the notification unit 113 is preferably based on vibration (e.g., vibration for a predetermined period) by a vibration device. Alternatively, the notification by the notification unit 113 may be based on light emission (e.g., flashing red) by a light-emitting device, a display on a display of a user terminal (e.g., a smartphone) in communication with the aerosol generation device 100, or any combination thereof.

[0126] (3-5) Overall Processing Flow Figure 7 is a flowchart showing an example of the overall processing flow. The processing steps shown in this specification are merely examples, and are not limited to these, and any other processing steps may be included, or some processing steps may be omitted. Furthermore, the order of the processing steps shown in this specification is also merely an example, and is not limited to these, and may be performed in any order, or may be performed in parallel.

[0127] The process shown in FIG. 7 is executed by each functional unit of the control unit 116-1 of the aerosol generation device 100 shown in FIG. 6 based on the control operation of the suction session shown in FIG.

[0128] First, in step S10, the reception unit 116 １ and the session execution unit 116 ２ accepts a request from the user, automatically detects that the stick-shaped substrate 150 has been inserted into the aerosol generation device 100, and accordingly starts heating the stick-shaped substrate 150. Then, the suction session is performed based on the target temperature associated with the suction session and the temperature of the heating unit 121.

[0129] During the suction session, in step S20, the operation information acquisition unit 116 ３ and the determination unit 116 ４ The aerosol generating device 100 determines whether the operation in the inhalation session satisfies a predetermined condition. Specifically, the aerosol generating device 100 determines whether the temperature rise rate is equal to or greater than a predetermined threshold. This determines whether the aerosol generating device 100 is operating in a high-temperature and high-humidity environment.

[0130] If it is determined that the operation in the inhalation session satisfies the predetermined condition (S20: YES), it is estimated that the aerosol generation device 100 is not operating in a high-temperature and high-humidity environment (i.e., operating in a normal environment). Then, the process proceeds to step S30, where the notification instruction unit 116 ５ determines not to execute a notification operation to prompt the user to perform a preliminary puff operation, and proceeds to step S60, which will be described later.

[0131] On the other hand, if the operation in the inhalation session does not satisfy the predetermined condition (S20: NO), it is estimated that the aerosol generation device 100 is operating in a high-temperature and high-humidity environment. In this case, the process proceeds to step S40, and the notification instruction unit 116 ５ instructs the notification unit 113 to perform a first notification operation that prompts the user to perform a pre-puff operation, as initially set. The notification unit 113 performs the first notification operation in a predetermined notification mode.

[0132] It should be noted that the first notification operation is preferably performed at a relatively early stage of the pre-heating period, specifically, between about 10 and 20 seconds after the start of heating of the stick-shaped substrate 150. However, it will be understood by those skilled in the art that the timing of the notification operation is not limited to this number of seconds.

[0133] In response to the first notification operation of the notification unit 113, the user performs a preliminary puff operation with the aerosol generation device 100. Specifically, in step S50, the reception unit 116 １ accepts a preliminary puff action from the user.

[0134] Thereafter, around the time when the preheating operation is completed, in step S60, the notification instruction unit 116 ５ instructs the notification unit 113 to perform a second notification operation indicating that the preheating operation has been completed and / or that a series of puffing operations is possible. The notification unit 113 executes the second notification operation in a predetermined notification manner, thereby prompting the user to perform a series of puffing operations to provide the user with an inhalation experience.

[0135] It will be understood by those skilled in the art that the second notification action should be performed after the first notification action. Furthermore, although the first and second notification actions both prompt the user to puff, they have different meanings. That is, it is preferable that the first and second notification actions have different notification modes. This allows the user to more clearly and intuitively distinguish between the first and second notification actions, thereby preventing misinterpretation by the user.

[0136] Thereafter, the process ends upon completion of the suction session.

[0137] (3-6) Individual Processing Flows The overall processing flow for the consecutive suction sessions shown in Fig. 7 will now be described in detail with reference to the flowchart in Fig. 8. The execution of the suction session shown in step S10 of Fig. 7, the determination of the condition shown in step S20, the decision not to execute the first notification operation shown in step S30, and the execution of the first notification operation shown in step S40 are shown in the exemplary flowchart in Fig. 8.

[0138] First, in step S110, the reception unit 116 １ The receiving unit 116 receives a request to execute an inhalation session upon receiving an operation by a user or automatically detecting that the stick-shaped substrate 150 has been inserted into the aerosol generation device 100. Specifically, the receiving unit 116 detects a user operation using a button or switch provided on the aerosol generation device 100 or a user operation of inserting the stick-shaped substrate 150 into the substrate part 151, １ accepts a request to perform a suction session.

[0139] In response to this, in step S120, the session executing unit 116 ２ starts the execution of the suction session. Specifically, the timing of starting the heating operation in the suction session is specified. At this time, the session execution unit 116 ２ The session executing unit 116 initially sets the notification information (notification flag) indicating that the first notification operation is to be executed to "1" (ON). ２ executes a suction session according to the heating profile. ２ When the heating operation is started, a preheating operation is performed in the initial temperature rise section defined in the heating profile.

[0140] Note that steps S110 and S120 are included in the process of executing the suction session shown in step S10 of FIG.

[0141] Next, in step S210, the operation information acquisition unit 116 ３acquires operation information regarding the preheating operation in the initial heating section. The acquired operation information includes the temperature rise of the heating unit 121 that has actually risen through the preheating operation and time information. If the initial heating section includes a maintenance section for maintaining a temperature close to the target temperature of the heating unit 121, the operation information acquisition unit 116 ３ Alternatively, the required time may be acquired excluding the maintenance section.

[0142] Subsequently, in step S220, the operation information acquisition unit 116 ３ calculates the temperature rise rate of the heating unit 121 during the preheating operation from the acquired operation information. The temperature rise rate of the heating unit 121 may be calculated using the temperature rise of the heating unit 121 measured from the start of the heating operation until a predetermined time has elapsed (e.g., 10 seconds). Alternatively, the temperature rise rate of the heating unit 121 may be calculated using the temperature rise of the heating unit 121 measured at predetermined time intervals (e.g., every 1 second, every 200 milliseconds, or every 50 milliseconds) during the preheating period. It will be understood by those skilled in the art that the method for calculating the temperature rise rate of the heating unit 121 is not limited to these.

[0143] Next, in step S230, the determination unit 116 ４ The temperature rise rate of the heating unit 121 calculated in step S220 is used to determine whether the temperature rise rate is equal to or greater than a predetermined threshold value. The threshold value is stored in advance in the storage unit 114.

[0144] The threshold value may be set in advance based on a typical rate of temperature rise for each region where the aerosol generating device 100 is expected to be used (e.g., for each sales region). For example, a typical rate of temperature rise may be calculated appropriately using data on the average humidity and / or average temperature of such a region (especially a hot and humid region). The threshold value may then be set in advance to a value obtained by adding, for example, 25% to the typical rate of temperature rise. It should be understood by those skilled in the art that the above-mentioned figure of 25% is merely an example and is not limiting.

[0145] Note that steps S210 to S230 are included in the process of determining the conditions shown in step S20 of FIG.

[0146] If the temperature rise rate of the heating unit 121 calculated in step S220 is equal to or greater than the predetermined threshold value (S230: Yes), the notification instruction unit 116 ５ In step S310, the notification instruction unit 116 estimates that the suction session is not being performed in a high-temperature and high-humidity environment. ５ further updates the notification information (notification flag) to "0" (off), thereby disabling the notification unit 113 from performing a notification operation to prompt the user to perform a preliminary puff operation.

[0147] Note that steps S310 and S320 are included in the process of determining not to execute the first notification operation shown in step S30 of FIG.

[0148] On the other hand, if the temperature rise rate is less than the predetermined threshold (S230: No), the notification instruction unit 116 ５ In step S410, the controller 100 estimates that the inhalation session is being performed in a high-temperature, high-humidity environment. Then, in the next step S420, the controller 100 issues a notification to the user to prompt the user to perform a pre-puffing operation appropriate for the high-temperature, high-humidity environment. That is, the first notification operation described above is executed.

[0149] Note that steps S410 and S420 are included in the execution of the first notification operation shown in step S40 of FIG.

[0150] The subsequent steps S50 and S60 are as described in FIG.

[0151] As described above, this embodiment is particularly advantageous when the aerosol generation device 100 is operated in a high-temperature, high-humidity environment because it effectively prompts the user to perform a pre-puff operation to expel unwanted aerosol to the outside of the stick-shaped substrate 150. In other words, the operation of the aerosol generation device 100 can be adapted to the user's inhalation environment.

[0152] (4) Modifications Modifications that can be applied to this embodiment will be described below.

[0153] According to the present embodiment described above, a high temperature and humidity environment is determined during the pre-heating period before the puffing period, and a notification urging the user to perform a pre-puffing operation is issued accordingly. In contrast, as in this modified example, the amount of moisture contained in the stick-shaped substrate 150 may be determined, and based on the determined amount of moisture, it may be determined whether to issue a notification urging the user to perform a pre-puffing operation. The amount of moisture in the stick-shaped substrate 150 is not necessarily limited to water alone, but may also be the amount of liquid containing water.

[0154] (4-1) How to deal with cases where the stick-shaped substrate 150 contains a large amount of moisture A user uses the aerosol generating device 100 in various environments. For example, it is expected that the aerosol generating device 100 will be used in an environment where the stick-shaped substrate 150 contains a large amount of moisture.

[0155] When the stick-type substrate 150 does not contain a large amount of moisture, the moisture contained in the stick-type substrate 150 is absorbed by elements such as a filter when the user puffs. On the other hand, when the stick-type substrate 150 contains a large amount of moisture, not all of the moisture contained in the stick-type substrate 150 may be absorbed by elements such as a filter when the user puffs. In this case, the moisture that is not absorbed will be inhaled by the user along with the aerosol, especially during the first puff. That is, during the first puff, the moisture content of the aerosol increases.

[0156] As a result, when the stick-type substrate 150 contains a high amount of moisture, the temperature of the aerosol inhaled by the user during puffing is higher than when the stick-type substrate 150 does not contain a high amount of moisture. If the stick-type substrate 150 does not contain a high amount of moisture, the temperature of the aerosol cools to a level that the user does not perceive as high a temperature between the time the aerosol is generated and the time it is delivered to the user's oral cavity. On the other hand, if the stick-type substrate 150 contains a high amount of moisture, as described above, the aerosol has a high moisture content at the time of the first puffing operation, and this moisture (water vapor) has the characteristic of not cooling down easily. In other words, due to the influence of moisture, the aerosol is delivered to the user's oral cavity without being sufficiently cooled. Furthermore, having the user inhale a high-temperature aerosol that has not been sufficiently cooled can affect the user's inhalation experience. In some cases, this can cause discomfort to the user who performed the puffing operation.

[0157] In order to effectively address the above, it is preferable to prompt the user to expel aerosol that is expected to contain a lot of water vapor to the outside of the stick-type substrate 150 in advance. Specifically, it is preferable to notify the user to perform a preliminary puffing action when a predetermined time has elapsed since the start of heating based on the heating profile (i.e., before the actual temperature of the heating unit 121 becomes high). By having the user perform such a preliminary puffing action before performing the first puffing action during the puffing period, it is possible to effectively expel aerosol that contains a lot of water vapor to the outside of the stick-type substrate 150. In other words, it is possible to prevent the user from inhaling high-temperature aerosol in advance.

[0158] (4-2) Determination of the Amount of Moisture Contained in the Stick-Shaped Substrate 150 It is generally considered preferable to uniformly notify the user to perform a pre-puff, particularly for aerosol generation devices 100 sold in regions with high temperatures and humidity. As described above, this is because it is expected that the stick-shaped substrate 150 contains a large amount of moisture in regions with high temperatures and humidity. On the other hand, it is not necessarily preferable to uniformly require users to perform a pre-puff. This is because forcing the user to inhale an aerosol with a high water vapor content through a pre-puff may itself degrade the user's inhalation experience.

[0159] Rather than uniformly requesting the user to perform a pre-puffing operation, it is preferable to dynamically determine whether the pre-puffing operation is necessary depending on the amount of moisture contained in the stick-type substrate 150. To this end, it is preferable to determine the amount of moisture contained in the stick-type substrate 150 in advance. If it is determined that the amount of moisture contained in the stick-type substrate 150 is not high, there is no need to request the user to perform a pre-puffing operation. Specifically, if it is determined that the amount of moisture contained in the stick-type substrate 150 is less than a predetermined amount, there is no need to request the user to perform a pre-puffing operation. In other words, since there is no need to discharge the aerosol outside the stick-type substrate 150, there is no need to issue a notification prompting the user to perform a pre-puffing operation. The aerosol generating device 100 simply accepts a series of puffing operations by the user as usual during the puffing-enabled period after the pre-heating period. In other words, by not requesting the user to perform unnecessary pre-puffing operations, the quality of the inhalation experience can be more flexibly maintained while reducing the user's effort.

[0160] According to a modified example of this embodiment, the amount of moisture contained in the stick-shaped substrate 150 is determined, and a notification urging the user to perform a pre-puffing operation is issued accordingly. In more detail, the aerosol generation device 100 determines the amount of moisture contained in the stick-shaped substrate 150, and determines whether to issue a notification urging the user to perform a pre-puffing operation accordingly. The amount of moisture contained in the stick-shaped substrate 150 is determined based on the capacitance, resistance, etc. of the stick-shaped substrate 150. The amount of moisture contained in the stick-shaped substrate 150 may also be estimated from operational information related to the pre-heating operation.

[0161] As described above, in a modification of this embodiment, the control unit 116-2 determines whether or not to cause the notification unit 113 to execute a notification operation urging the user to perform a pre-puffing operation, depending on the amount of moisture contained in the stick-shaped substrate 150. Specifically, if the amount of moisture contained in the stick-shaped substrate 150 is equal to or greater than a predetermined amount, the control unit 116-2 causes the notification unit 113 to execute a notification to that effect (a pre-puffing operation urging notification) to prompt the user to perform a pre-puffing operation. On the other hand, if the amount of moisture contained in the stick-shaped substrate 150 is less than the predetermined amount, it may be determined not to cause the notification unit 113 to execute a notification urging the user to perform a pre-puffing operation.

[0162] The predetermined amount is a threshold value related to the amount of moisture contained in the stick-type substrate 150, and can be set to any amount depending on whether or not it is necessary to prompt the user to perform a pre-puffing operation. For example, if the amount of moisture contained in the stick-type substrate 150 is equal to or greater than the predetermined amount, the aerosol delivered to the user's oral cavity will be heated to a high temperature, and it is therefore determined that it is necessary to prompt the user to perform a pre-puffing operation. On the other hand, if the amount of moisture contained in the stick-type substrate 150 is less than the predetermined amount, the aerosol delivered to the user's oral cavity will be cooled to a level that the user does not perceive as being hot, and it is therefore determined that it is not necessary to prompt the user to perform a pre-puffing operation. Furthermore, the predetermined amount may be determined based on, for example, the temperature of the aerosol delivered to the user's oral cavity when the stick-type substrate 150 is heated. Note that the predetermined amount is not limited to these examples and can be set arbitrarily based on various perspectives, such as the place of sale or use of the aerosol generating device 100.

[0163] (4-3) Basic Aspects of Control Operation In a modification of this embodiment, the sensor unit 112 may include a sensor capable of detecting various parameters related to the stick-shaped substrate 150. The sensor unit 112 is capable of detecting various parameters of all and / or part of the stick-shaped substrate 150, for example. The sensor unit 112 may include a sensor capable of detecting various parameters of a portion in contact with the stick-shaped substrate 150, for example. The sensor unit 112 may have at least two portions in contact with the stick-shaped substrate 150 and include a sensor capable of detecting various parameters of the stick-shaped substrate 150 between the two portions. Note that the sensor unit 112 may include a sensor capable of detecting the amount of moisture itself contained in part or all of the stick-shaped substrate 150.

[0164] The control unit 116-2 is capable of determining the moisture content of the stick-shaped substrate 150 based on various parameters of the stick-shaped substrate 150 detected by the sensor unit 112. Specifically, the control unit 116-2 is capable of determining that the moisture content of the stick-shaped substrate 150 is equal to or greater than a predetermined amount based on various parameters of the stick-shaped substrate 150 detected by the sensor unit 112. Furthermore, the control unit 116-2 is capable of determining that the moisture content of the stick-shaped substrate 150 is less than a predetermined amount based on various parameters of the stick-shaped substrate 150 detected by the sensor unit 112. Note that the control unit 116-2 may also detect the moisture content itself of the stick-shaped substrate 150 based on various parameters of the stick-shaped substrate 150 detected by the sensor unit 112.

[0165] The control unit 116-2 can determine whether or not to cause the notification unit 113 to execute a notification operation urging the user to perform a pre-puffing operation, based on the determined moisture content of the stick-type substrate 150. Specifically, the control unit 116-2 determines that the moisture content of the stick-type substrate 150 is equal to or greater than a predetermined amount, based on various parameters contained in the stick-type substrate 150 detected by the sensor unit 112, and causes the notification unit 113 to execute a notification to that effect (a pre-puffing operation prompt notification). On the other hand, the control unit 116-2 determines that the moisture content of the stick-type substrate 150 is less than a predetermined amount, based on various parameters contained in the stick-type substrate 150 detected by the sensor unit 112, and decides not to cause the notification unit 113 to execute a notification urging the user to perform a pre-puffing operation.

[0166] The sensor unit 112 may include, for example, a sensor capable of detecting the electrical characteristics of the stick-shaped substrate 150. Examples of the electrical characteristics of the stick-shaped substrate 150 include capacitance, resistance, conductance, and impedance. The sensor unit 112 may include, for example, a capacitance sensor capable of detecting capacitance. The sensor unit 112 may also include, for example, a resistance sensor capable of detecting the electrical resistance of the stick-shaped substrate 150.

[0167] When the sensor unit 112 includes a capacitance sensor, the capacitance sensor can detect the capacitance of the stick-shaped substrate 150 inserted into the suction device 100. The capacitance sensor has, for example, two electrodes that come into contact with the stick-shaped substrate 150 inserted into the suction device 100, and can detect the capacitance of the stick-shaped substrate 150 using the two electrodes.

[0168] The capacitance of the stick-shaped substrate 150 changes depending on the moisture content of the stick-shaped substrate 150. Therefore, the capacitance sensor can detect a capacitance corresponding to the moisture content of the stick-shaped substrate 150. For example, when the moisture content of the stick-shaped substrate 150 becomes relatively large, the capacitance becomes relatively large. On the other hand, when the moisture content of the stick-shaped substrate 150 becomes relatively small, the capacitance becomes relatively small. Therefore, the control unit 116-2 can determine the moisture content of the stick-shaped substrate 150 based on the capacitance detected by the capacitance sensor and compare the moisture content of the stick-shaped substrate 150 with a predetermined amount. Note that the control unit 116-2 may determine whether the moisture content of the stick-shaped substrate 150 is less than a predetermined amount by comparing the capacitance detected by the capacitance sensor with a capacitance threshold value corresponding to the predetermined amount.

[0169] When the sensor unit 112 includes a resistance sensor capable of detecting electrical resistance, the resistance sensor can detect the resistance value of the stick-shaped substrate 150 inserted into the suction device 100. The sensor has, for example, two electrodes that come into contact with the stick-shaped substrate 150 inserted into the suction device 100, and can detect the resistance value of the stick-shaped substrate 150 using the two electrodes.

[0170] The resistance value of the stick-shaped substrate 150 changes depending on the moisture content of the stick-shaped substrate 150. Therefore, the resistance sensor can detect a resistance value corresponding to the moisture content of the stick-shaped substrate 150. For example, when the moisture content of the stick-shaped substrate 150 becomes relatively large, the resistance value becomes relatively small. On the other hand, when the moisture content of the stick-shaped substrate 150 becomes relatively small, the resistance value becomes relatively large. Therefore, the control unit 116-2 can determine the moisture content of the stick-shaped substrate 150 based on the resistance value detected by the resistance sensor. Note that the control unit 116-2 may determine whether the moisture content of the stick-shaped substrate 150 is less than a predetermined amount by comparing the resistance value detected by the resistance sensor with a resistance threshold value corresponding to a predetermined amount.

[0171] Furthermore, the sensor unit 112 is not limited to the examples of a capacitance sensor or a resistance sensor, and may be any sensor that detects various parameters that can determine the moisture content of the stick-shaped substrate 150. For example, the conductance and impedance of the stick-shaped substrate 150 change depending on the moisture content of the stick-shaped substrate 150. Therefore, the sensor unit 112 can detect the conductance and impedance that correspond to the moisture content of the stick-shaped substrate 150. Furthermore, the sensor unit 112 is not limited to these examples, and may be any sensor that can determine the moisture content of the stick-shaped substrate 150, such as a weight sensor that can detect the weight of the stick-shaped substrate 150.

[0172] In a modification of this embodiment, the control unit 116-2 may determine the amount of moisture contained in the stick-shaped substrate 150 based on operation information related to the pre-heating operation. Specifically, if the rate of temperature rise in the pre-heating operation is less than a predetermined threshold, the control unit 116-2 determines that the amount of moisture in the stick-shaped substrate 150 is equal to or greater than a predetermined amount, and causes the notification unit 113 to issue a notification to that effect (a pre-puffing operation prompt notification) to prompt the user to perform a pre-puffing operation. On the other hand, if the rate of temperature rise in the pre-heating operation is equal to or greater than a predetermined threshold, the control unit 116-2 determines that the amount of moisture in the stick-shaped substrate 150 is less than the predetermined amount, and determines not to cause the notification unit 113 to issue a notification to prompt the user to perform a pre-puffing operation.

[0173] Note that the control unit 116-2 determining that the aerosol generating device 100 is operating in a high-temperature, high-humidity environment as in the present embodiment based on the temperature rise rate in the preheating operation being less than a predetermined threshold may be the same as determining that the moisture content of the stick-shaped substrate 150 is equal to or greater than a predetermined amount as in this modified example. Also, the control unit 116-2 determining that the aerosol generating device 100 is operating in a normal environment that is not a high-temperature, high-humidity environment as in the present embodiment based on the temperature rise rate in the preheating operation being greater than a predetermined threshold may be the same as determining that the moisture content of the stick-shaped substrate 150 is less than a predetermined amount as in this modified example.

[0174] In the case of aerosol generation devices 100 sold in regions with high temperatures and humidity, the stick-shaped substrate 150 is expected to contain a large amount of moisture, and therefore the initial setting may be such that a notification operation urging the user to perform a pre-puff operation is uniformly performed, and it is sufficient to determine only that the amount of moisture contained in the stick-shaped substrate 150 is equal to or greater than a predetermined amount. In other words, notification information indicating that the notification unit 113 will perform such a notification operation is stored in advance in the storage unit 114. Then, when the aerosol generation device 100 determines that the amount of moisture contained in the stick-shaped substrate 150 is less than a predetermined amount and determines not to perform such a notification operation, it simply updates the notification information so that the notification operation is not performed. The control unit 116-2 can control whether or not to perform the notification operation by referring to the notification information each time.

[0175] In the modification of this embodiment, as shown in the graph of Fig. 5, after the pre-puffing prompt notification, the pre-heating completion notification may be executed around the time when the initial heating period expires and pre-heating ends. The control unit 116-2 causes the notification unit 113 to execute the pre-heating completion notification in order to prompt the user to perform a series of puffing operations to provide the user with an inhalation experience. In this way, by executing two notifications, the pre-puffing prompt notification and the pre-heating completion notification, in the notification session, the user can perform puffing operations more intuitively.

[0176] According to the modified example of this embodiment, when operating the aerosol generation device 100 with a stick-type substrate 150 containing a large amount of moisture inserted therein, the modification is particularly advantageous because it effectively prompts the user to perform a pre-puffing action to expel unwanted aerosol to the outside of the stick-type substrate 150. In other words, the operation of the aerosol generation device 100 can be optimized based on the amount of moisture contained in the stick-type substrate 150.

[0177] (4-4) Functional Configuration Fig. 9 is a functional block diagram showing the functional configuration of an example of the control unit 116-2 for executing processing according to a modified example of this embodiment. １ａ , session execution unit 116 ２ａ, sensor information acquisition unit 116 ６ａ , determination unit 116 ４ａ , and the notification instruction unit 116 ５ａ The reception unit 116 in FIG. １ａ , session execution unit 116 ２ａ , determination unit 116 ４ａ , and the notification instruction unit 116 ５ａ is the reception unit 116 in FIG. １ , session execution unit 116 ２ , determination unit 116 ４ , and the notification instruction unit 116 ５ It has the same configuration as above.

[0178] Reception unit 116 １ａ The sensor unit 112 receives a command to execute an inhalation session. Specifically, the sensor unit 112 detects a user operation using a button or a switch, or a user operation of inserting the stick-shaped substrate 150 into the substrate unit 151, and receives a request to execute an inhalation session. The sensor unit 112 also receives a pre-puff operation or a normal puff operation by the user.

[0179] Session execution unit 116 ２ａ executes a suction session according to the heating profile. ２ａ identifies the start and end timings of the heating operation in the suction session, and performs the heating operation in the heating unit 121 based on the heating profile associated with the suction session and the temperature of the heating unit 121.

[0180] Sensor information acquisition unit 116 ６ａ acquires various parameters of the stick-shaped substrate 150 detected by the sensor unit 112 and the moisture content of the stick-shaped substrate 150 itself. ６ａ The sensor information acquisition unit 116 acquires capacitance, resistance, conductance, impedance, and the like as electrical characteristics detected by the sensor unit 112. ６ａ is the operation information acquisition unit 116 shown in FIG. ３The heating unit 121 may have a similar configuration to that described above, and may include a configuration for acquiring operation information related to a preheating operation performed after the start of heating of the suction object source. In this case, the temperature rise rate of the heating unit 121 in the preheating operation may be calculated from the acquired operation information.

[0181] The temperature rise rate of the heating unit 121 may be calculated using the temperature rise of the heating unit 121 measured from the start of the heating operation until a predetermined time has elapsed (e.g., 10 seconds). Alternatively, the temperature rise rate of the heating unit 121 may be calculated using the temperature rise of the heating unit 121 measured at predetermined time intervals (e.g., every 1 second, every 200 milliseconds, or every 50 milliseconds) during the pre-heating period. It will be understood by those skilled in the art that the method for calculating the temperature rise rate of the heating unit 121 is not limited to these.

[0182] Determination unit 116 ４ａ The determining unit 116 determines whether the moisture content of the stick-shaped substrate 150 satisfies a predetermined amount based on various parameters of the stick-shaped substrate 150 detected by the sensor unit 112 and / or the moisture content of the stick-shaped substrate 150 itself. ４ａ The determining unit 116 can determine whether the moisture content of the stick-shaped substrate 150 is equal to or greater than a predetermined amount based on various parameters of the stick-shaped substrate 150 detected by the sensor unit 112. ４ａ The determining unit 116 can determine that the moisture content of the stick-shaped substrate 150 is less than a predetermined amount based on various parameters of the stick-shaped substrate 150 detected by the sensor unit 112. ４ａ The determination unit 116 may detect the moisture content of the stick-shaped substrate 150 itself based on various parameters of the stick-shaped substrate 150 detected by the sensor unit 112. ４ａ The operation information acquisition unit 116 ３ It may be determined whether the moisture content of the stick-shaped substrate 150 satisfies a predetermined amount based on the operation information acquired by the determining unit 116. For example, the moisture content of the stick-shaped substrate 150 may be estimated based on the temperature rise rate of the heating unit 121 in the preheating operation. In particular, if the temperature rise rate of the heating unit 121 in the preheating operation is less than a predetermined threshold, it may be determined that the moisture content of the stick-shaped substrate 150 is equal to or greater than a predetermined amount. In addition to this, the determining unit 116４ａ determines the values ​​of various information (flags).

[0183] Notification instruction section 116 ５ａ The notification instruction unit 116 determines whether to execute a predetermined notification operation and instructs the notification unit 113 to execute the notification operation after a predetermined time has elapsed. ５ａ is the determination unit 116 ４ａ Depending on the determination, it is determined whether to execute (or not execute) a predetermined notification operation for prompting the user to perform a pre-puffing operation, and causes the notification unit 113 to execute (or not execute) the notification operation. Also, around the time when the pre-heating operation is completed, the notification unit 113 issues a notification that the pre-heating operation has been completed and a series of puffing operations can be accepted.

[0184] The notification by the notification unit 113 is preferably based on vibration (e.g., vibration for a predetermined period) by a vibration device. Alternatively, the notification by the notification unit 113 may be based on light emission (e.g., flashing red) by a light-emitting device, a display on a display of a user terminal (e.g., a smartphone) in communication with the aerosol generation device 100, or any combination thereof.

[0185] (4-5) Overall Processing Flow Figure 10 is a flowchart showing an example of the overall processing flow. The processing steps shown in this specification are merely examples, and are not limited to these, and any other processing steps may be included, or some processing steps may be omitted. Furthermore, the order of the processing steps shown in this specification is also merely an example, and is not limited to these, and may be performed in any order, or may be performed in parallel.

[0186] The process shown in Fig. 10 is executed by each functional unit of the control unit 116-2 of the aerosol generating device 100 shown in Fig. 9 based on the control operation of the suction session shown in Fig. 5. Among the processes shown in Fig. 10, S10a, S30a, S40a, S50a, and S60a are the same as S10, S30, S40, S50, and S60 in Fig. 7.

[0187] First, in step S10a, the reception unit 116 １ａ and the session execution unit 116２ａ accepts a request from a user or automatically detects that the stick-shaped substrate 150 has been inserted into the aerosol generation device 100, and in response starts heating the stick-shaped substrate 150. Then, the suction session is performed based on the target temperature associated with the suction session and the temperature of the heating unit 121.

[0188] In step S70a, the sensor information acquisition unit 116 ６ａ The determination unit 116 acquires various parameters of the stick-shaped substrate 150 detected by the sensor unit 112 and / or the moisture content of the stick-shaped substrate 150 itself. ４ａ determines whether the moisture content of the stick-shaped substrate 150 is less than a predetermined amount based on various parameters of the stick-shaped substrate 150 detected by the sensor unit 112, the moisture content of the stick-shaped substrate 150 itself, and / or the temperature rise rate of the heating unit 121 during the preheating operation.

[0189] If it is determined that the moisture content of the stick-shaped substrate 150 is less than the predetermined amount (S70a: YES), the process proceeds to step S30a, and the notification instruction unit 116 ５ａ determines not to execute a notification operation to prompt the user to perform a preliminary puff operation, and proceeds to step S60a, which will be described later.

[0190] On the other hand, if it is determined that the moisture content of the stick-shaped substrate 150 is equal to or greater than the predetermined amount (S70a: NO), the process proceeds to step S40a, and the notification instruction unit 116 ５ａ instructs the notification unit 113 to perform a first notification operation that prompts the user to perform a pre-puff operation, as initially set. The notification unit 113 performs the first notification operation in a predetermined notification mode.

[0191] It should be noted that the first notification operation is preferably performed at a relatively early stage of the pre-heating period, specifically, between about 10 and 20 seconds after the start of heating of the stick-shaped substrate 150. However, it will be understood by those skilled in the art that the timing of the notification operation is not limited to this number of seconds.

[0192] In response to the first notification operation of the notification unit 113, the user performs a preliminary puff operation with the aerosol generation device 100. Specifically, in step S50a, the reception unit 116１ａ accepts a preliminary puff action from the user.

[0193] After that, around the time when the preheating operation is completed, in step S60a, the notification instruction unit 116 ５ａ instructs the notification unit 113 to perform a second notification operation indicating that the preheating operation has been completed and / or that a series of puffing operations is possible. The notification unit 113 executes the second notification operation in a predetermined notification manner, thereby prompting the user to perform a series of puffing operations to provide the user with an inhalation experience.

[0194] It will be understood by those skilled in the art that the second notification action should be performed after the first notification action. Furthermore, although the first and second notification actions both prompt the user to puff, they have different meanings. That is, it is preferable that the first and second notification actions have different notification modes. This allows the user to more clearly and intuitively distinguish between the first and second notification actions, thereby preventing misinterpretation by the user.

[0195] Thereafter, the process ends upon completion of the suction session.

[0196] (4-6) Individual Process Flows Now, the details of the overall process flow in the consecutive suction sessions shown in Fig. 10 will be individually described using the flowchart in Fig. 11. The execution of the suction session shown in step S10a in Fig. 10, the determination of the condition shown in step S70a, the decision not to execute the first notification operation shown in step S30a, and the execution of the first notification operation shown in step S40a are shown in the exemplary flowchart in Fig. 11.

[0197] First, in step S110a, the reception unit 116 １ａ The receiving unit 116 receives a request to execute an inhalation session upon receiving an operation by a user or automatically detecting that the stick-shaped substrate 150 has been inserted into the aerosol generation device 100. Specifically, the receiving unit 116 detects a user operation using a button or switch provided on the aerosol generation device 100 or a user operation of inserting the stick-shaped substrate 150 into the substrate part 151,１ａ accepts a request to perform a suction session.

[0198] In response to this, in step S120a, the session executing unit 116 ２ａ starts the execution of the suction session. Specifically, the timing of starting the heating operation in the suction session is specified. At this time, the session execution unit 116 ２ａ The session executing unit 116 initially sets the notification information (notification flag) indicating that the first notification operation is to be executed to "1" (ON). ２ａ executes a suction session according to the heating profile. ２ａ When the heating operation is started, a preheating operation is performed in the initial temperature rise section defined in the heating profile.

[0199] Note that steps S110a and S120a are included in the process of executing the suction session shown in step S10a of FIG.

[0200] 11, the processes of S70a are executed after step 120a is started, but this is not limiting. That is, the processes of S70a, i.e., S710a and S720a described below, may be executed before step 120a is started.

[0201] In step S710a, the sensor information acquisition unit 116 ６ａ acquires various parameters of the stick-shaped substrate 150 detected by the sensor unit 112 and / or the moisture content of the stick-shaped substrate 150 itself. The various parameters of the stick-shaped substrate 150 that are acquired are, for example, electrical characteristics, specifically, capacitance, resistance, conductance, impedance, etc. Note that the sensor information acquisition unit 116 ６ａ may acquire operation information regarding the pre-heating operation in the initial temperature rise section.

[0202] In step S720a, the determination unit 116 ４ａThe moisture content of the stick-shaped substrate 150 is estimated based on various parameters of the stick-shaped substrate 150 detected by the sensor unit 112, and / or the moisture content itself of the stick-shaped substrate 150, and the temperature rise rate of the heating unit 121 in the preheating operation, and a determination is made as to whether the moisture content is less than a predetermined amount. The predetermined amount is pre-stored in the storage unit 114. Furthermore, threshold values ​​for the various parameters of the stick-shaped substrate 150 and / or the temperature rise rate used to determine whether the moisture content is less than a predetermined amount may be pre-stored in the storage unit 114.

[0203] Note that steps S710a and S720a are included in the process of determining the condition shown in step S70a of FIG.

[0204] If the moisture content of the stick-shaped substrate 150 is less than the predetermined amount in step S720a (S720a: Yes), the notification instruction unit 116 ５ａ determines not to execute a notification operation to prompt the user to perform a preliminary puff operation. ５ａ In step S310a, the notification instruction unit 116 estimates that the suction session is not being performed in a high-temperature and high-humidity environment. ５ further updates the notification information (notification flag) to "0" (off), thereby disabling the notification unit 113 from performing a notification operation to prompt the user to perform a preliminary puff operation.

[0205] Note that steps S310a and S320a are included in the process of determining not to execute the first notification operation shown in step S30 of FIG.

[0206] On the other hand, if the moisture content of the stick-shaped substrate 150 is equal to or greater than the predetermined amount (S720a: No), the notification instruction unit 116 ５ determines to execute a notification operation to prompt the user to perform a preliminary puff operation. ５ａIn step S410a, the controller 100 estimates that the inhalation session is being performed in a high-temperature, high-humidity environment. Then, in the next step S420a, the controller 100 notifies the user to perform a pre-puffing operation appropriate for the high-temperature, high-humidity environment. That is, the first notification operation described above is performed.

[0207] Note that steps S410a and S420a are included in the execution of the first notification operation shown in step S40a of FIG.

[0208] The subsequent steps S50a and S60a are as described in FIG.

[0209] As described above, the modified example of this embodiment is particularly advantageous when operating the aerosol generation device 100 into which a stick-type substrate 150 with a high moisture content is inserted, because it effectively prompts the user to perform a pre-puff operation to expel unwanted aerosol to the outside of the stick-type substrate 150. In other words, the operation of the aerosol generation device 100 can be adapted to the user's inhalation environment. In other words, the operation of the aerosol generation device 100 can be optimized based on the moisture content of the stick-type substrate 150.

[0210] (5) Application Examples Application examples that can be applied to this embodiment will be described below.

[0211] In the above embodiment, the aerosol generating device 100 controls the notification operation regarding the execution of a pre-puff operation when an inhalation session is performed.

[0212] Furthermore, regarding such a notification operation, it is preferable to store history information of the notification operation and / or history information regarding whether or not the user actually performed a pre-puff operation in the aerosol generation device 100. Furthermore, when the aerosol generation device 100 is connected to a user terminal (e.g., a smartphone or a tablet terminal) via a network such as Bluetooth (registered trademark) by its communication unit 115, it is preferable to provide this history information to the user terminal.

[0213] In addition, it is preferable that this history information be provided to a server device to which the user terminal is further connected via the Internet, etc., via an application installed on the user terminal. At this time, it is preferable that additional information including location information of the aerosol generation device 100 and the user terminal, time information when the notification operation was performed, and time information when the user performed the pre-puff operation, be obtained together and provided to the server device.

[0214] The server device can acquire statistical information based on the history information and additional information, enabling accurate analysis of the user's usage history. That is, for example, for each region where the aerosol generation device 100 is sold, it is possible to analyze big data including performance data on whether a notification operation regarding the execution of a pre-puff operation was performed (or not performed) and / or performance data on whether a user performed a pre-puff operation.

[0215] That is, it is possible to improve the operating quality of the aerosol generating device 100. In addition, it is possible to further adapt the use of the aerosol generating device 100 to the inhalation environment of the user, thereby further improving the quality of the inhalation experience.

[0216] <<3. Supplementary Notes>> (1-1) Supplementary Notes on the Embodiments of the Present Disclosure The contents of the embodiments of the present disclosure are listed and supplemented below. The suction device and the method of operating the suction device according to the embodiments of the present disclosure have the following configurations, which also fall within the technical scope of the present invention.

[0217] (1a) A suction device is provided that includes a heating unit that heats a suction article source, a power supply unit that supplies power to the heating unit, a notification unit that notifies a user of the suction device, and a control unit that executes a suction session in accordance with a heating profile that defines a time series transition of a target temperature of the heating unit over a suction session. In this suction device, the control unit is configured to acquire operation information related to a pre-heating operation that is executed after heating of the suction article source is started in the suction session, and to determine whether to cause the notification unit to execute a first notification operation based on the operation information.

[0218] (2a) In the suction device of (1a) above, the temperature rise rate of the heating unit in the preheating operation is calculated based on the operation information, and the control unit is configured not to cause the notification unit to perform the first notification operation when the temperature rise rate is equal to or greater than a predetermined threshold.

[0219] (3a) In the suction device of (1a) or (2a) above, the control unit estimates that the suction session is being performed in a specific operating environment when the temperature rise rate is less than a predetermined threshold, and the first notification action includes prompting the user to take a predetermined action according to the specific operating environment.

[0220] (4a) In the inhalation device according to any one of (1a) to (3a) above, the predetermined action is a preliminary puffing action for discharging the aerosol generated during the preliminary heating action to the outside of the inhalation device.

[0221] (5a) In the suction device according to any one of (1a) to (4a), the first notification operation is performed between about 10 seconds and about 20 seconds after the suction article source starts to be heated.

[0222] (6a) In the inhalation device according to any one of (1a) to (5a), after the first notification operation, the control unit causes the notification unit to execute a second notification operation that prompts the user to perform a series of puffing operations to provide the user with an inhalation experience.

[0223] (7a) In the suction device according to any one of (1a) to (6a) above, the first notification operation and the second notification operation are performed in different modes by the notification unit.

[0224] (8a) In the suction device of (1a) to (7a) above, a memory unit for storing a heating profile is further provided, notification information indicating that the first notification operation is to be performed is stored in advance in the memory unit, and the notification information is updated in response to a decision not to cause the notification unit to perform the first notification operation.

[0225] (9a) A method for operating a suction device is provided. The suction device includes a heating unit that heats a suction article source, a power supply unit that supplies power to the heating unit, and a notification unit. The method includes the steps of: performing a suction session in accordance with a heating profile that defines a time series transition of a target temperature of the heating unit over the suction session; acquiring operation information related to a pre-heating operation that is performed after heating of the suction article source is started; determining whether a predetermined condition is satisfied based on the operation information; and, if the predetermined condition is satisfied, determining not to cause the notification unit to perform a predetermined notification operation.

[0226] (10a) In the method of (9a) above, the temperature rise rate of the heating unit in the preheating operation is calculated based on the operation information; in the determining step, it is determined whether the temperature rise rate of the heating unit is equal to or greater than a predetermined threshold, and if the temperature rise rate is less than the predetermined threshold, it is estimated that the suction session is being performed in a specific operating environment; and the predetermined notification operation includes prompting the user to take a predetermined action according to the specific operating environment.

[0227] (11a) In the method of (9a) or (10a) above, the temperature rise rate is calculated from the temperature rise of the heating section measured from the start of heating of the suction article source until a predetermined time has elapsed.

[0228] (12a) In the method of any one of (9a) to (11a) above, the temperature rise rate is calculated from the rising temperature of the heating section measured at predetermined time intervals during the preheating operation.

[0229] (13a) In the method according to any one of (9a) to (12a) above, the predetermined action is a preliminary puffing action for expelling the aerosol generated during the preliminary heating action to the outside of the inhalation device.

[0230] (14a) In the methods (9a) to (13a) above, the suction device further includes a memory unit that stores a heating profile, and the predetermined threshold value is preset based on data on the average humidity and / or average temperature of a specific area where the suction device is expected to be used and stored in the memory unit.

[0231] (15a) In the method of any one of (9a) to (14a) above, the predetermined notification action is performed between about 10 seconds and about 20 seconds after the start of heating of the suction article source.

[0232] (1-2) Supplementary Notes on Modified Examples of the Embodiments of the Present Disclosure The following is a summary of the contents of modified examples of the embodiments of the present disclosure. The suction device and the method of operating the suction device according to modified examples of the embodiments of the present disclosure have the following configurations, which also fall within the technical scope of the present invention.

[0233] (1b) A suction device is provided that includes a heating unit that heats a suction object source, a power supply unit that supplies power to the heating unit, a notification unit that notifies a user of the suction device, and a control unit that executes a suction session in accordance with a heating profile that defines a time series transition of a target temperature of the heating unit over a suction session, wherein the control unit is configured to determine, based on the amount of moisture contained in the suction object source, whether to cause the notification unit to execute a first notification operation that prompts the user to take a predetermined action.

[0234] (2b) In the suction device of (1b) above, the control unit is configured not to cause the notification unit to perform the first notification operation when the amount of moisture is less than a predetermined amount.

[0235] (3b) The suction device of (1b) or (2b) above further includes a sensor unit that detects a predetermined parameter of the suction article source, and the control unit determines whether the amount of moisture contained in the suction article source is less than a predetermined amount based on the predetermined parameter detected by the sensor unit.

[0236] (4b) In the suction device of (1b) to (3b) above, the predetermined action is a preliminary puffing operation for expelling aerosol generated during a preliminary heating operation performed after the start of heating of the suction article source to the outside of the suction device.

[0237] (5b) In the suction device of (1b) to (4b) above, the control unit is configured to acquire operation information regarding a preheating operation performed after the start of heating of the suction article source in a suction session, calculate a temperature rise rate of the heating unit in the preheating operation based on the operation information, and estimate the amount of moisture contained in the suction article source based on the temperature rise rate.

[0238] (6b) In the suction device according to any one of (1b) to (5b), the first notification operation is performed between about 10 seconds and about 20 seconds after the suction article source starts to be heated.

[0239] (7b) In the inhalation device according to any one of (1b) to (6b), after the first notification operation, the control unit causes the notification unit to execute a second notification operation that prompts the user to perform a series of puffing operations to provide the user with an inhalation experience.

[0240] (8b) In the suction device of (1b) to (7b) above, notification information indicating that the first notification operation will be performed is stored in advance in the storage unit, and the notification information is updated in response to a decision not to have the notification unit perform the first notification operation.

[0241] (9b) A method for operating a suction device is performed. The suction device includes a heating unit that heats a suction object source, a power supply unit that supplies power to the heating unit, and a notification unit. The method includes the steps of: performing a suction session according to a heating profile that defines a time series transition of a target temperature of the heating unit; determining whether an amount of moisture contained in the suction object source is less than a predetermined amount; and, if the amount of moisture is less than the predetermined amount, determining not to cause the notification unit to perform a first notification operation.

[0242] (10b) In the method of (9b) above, the suction device further includes a sensor unit that detects a predetermined parameter of the suction article source, and in the determining step, it is determined whether the amount of moisture contained in the suction article source is less than a predetermined amount based on the predetermined parameter detected by the sensor unit.

[0243] (11b) The method of (9b) or (10b) above, further comprising: a step of acquiring operation information regarding a preheating operation performed after the start of heating of the suction article source in a suction session; and a step of calculating a temperature rise rate of the heating section in the preheating operation based on the operation information, and the amount of moisture contained in the suction article source is estimated based on the temperature rise rate.

[0244] (12b) In the methods (9b) to (11b) above, the first notification operation is a preliminary puff operation for expelling aerosol generated during a pre-heating operation performed after the start of heating of the suction article source in an inhalation session to the outside of the inhalation device.

[0245] (13b) In the method of any one of (9b) to (12b) above, the first notification operation is performed between about 10 seconds and about 20 seconds after the start of heating of the suction article source.

[0246] (14b) The method according to any one of (9b) to (13b) above, further comprising the step of causing the notification unit to execute a second notification operation after the first notification operation, which prompts the user to perform a series of puffing operations to provide the user with an inhalation experience.

[0247] (15b) In the methods (9b) to (14b) above, the suction device stores notification information indicating that the first notification operation will be performed, and the notification information is updated in response to a decision not to cause the notification unit to perform the first notification operation.

[0248] (1-3) Others In the above description, a suction device and a method according to some embodiments have been described with reference to the drawings. It is understood that the present disclosure may also be embodied as a program that, when executed by a processor, causes the processor to perform a method for operating a suction device, or a computer-readable storage medium having the program stored thereon.

[0249] While the embodiments of the present disclosure have been described above along with their modifications and applications, it should be understood that these are merely examples and do not limit the scope of the present disclosure. It should be understood that modifications, additions, improvements, etc. to the embodiments can be made as appropriate without departing from the spirit and scope of the present disclosure. The scope of the present disclosure should not be limited by any of the above-described embodiments, but should be defined only by the claims and their equivalents.

[0250] 100 (100A, 100B)...suction device (aerosol generating device) 111 (111A, 111B)...power supply unit, 112 (112A, 112B)...sensor unit, 113 (113A, 113B)...notification unit, 114 (114A, 114B)...storage unit 116 (116A, 116B, 116-1, 116-2)...control unit, 116 １ , 116 １ａ ...Reception department, 116 ２ , 116 ２ａ ...Session execution unit, 116 ３ ...Operation information acquisition unit, 116 ４ , 116 ４ａ ...Judgment Department, 116 ５ , 116 ５ａ ...Notification instruction section, 116 ６ａ ...sensor information acquisition unit 121 (121A, 121B)...heating unit 150...stick-shaped substrate, 151...substrate unit

Claims

1. A suction device comprising: a heating unit that heats a suction article source; a power supply unit that supplies power to the heating unit; a notification unit that issues notifications to a user of the suction device; and a control unit that executes the suction session in accordance with a heating profile that defines the time series progression of a target temperature of the heating unit over a suction session, wherein the control unit is configured to acquire operation information regarding a pre-heating operation that is executed after heating of the suction article source begins during the suction session, and to determine whether to cause the notification unit to execute a first notification operation based on the operation information.

2. A suction device as described in claim 1, wherein the temperature rise rate of the heating section during the preheating operation is calculated based on the operation information, and the control section is configured to prevent the notification section from performing the first notification operation when the temperature rise rate is equal to or greater than a predetermined threshold.

3. A suction device according to claim 2, wherein the control unit infers that the suction session is being performed in a specific operating environment when the temperature rise rate is less than the predetermined threshold, and the first notification action includes prompting the user to take a predetermined action according to the specific operating environment.

4. An inhalation device according to claim 3, wherein the predetermined action is a preliminary puffing action for expelling the aerosol generated during the preliminary heating action to the outside of the inhalation device.

5. The suction device according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the first notification operation is performed between about 10 seconds and about 20 seconds after the start of heating of the suction article source.

6. An inhalation device according to claim 5, wherein the control unit, after the first notification operation, causes the notification unit to execute a second notification operation that prompts the user to perform a series of puffing operations to provide the user with an inhalation experience.

7. The suction device according to claim 6, wherein the first notification operation and the second notification operation are performed in different ways by the notification unit.

8. A suction device as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 7, further comprising a memory unit for storing the heating profile, wherein notification information indicating that the first notification operation will be performed is stored in advance in the memory unit, and wherein the notification information is updated in response to a decision not to have the notification unit perform the first notification operation.

9. A method for operating a suction device, wherein the suction device comprises a heating unit that heats a suction article source, a power supply unit that supplies power to the heating unit, and a notification unit, the method comprising: a step of performing a suction session in accordance with a heating profile that defines the time series progression of the target temperature of the heating unit over the suction session; a step of acquiring operation information regarding a pre-heating operation that is performed after heating of the suction article source begins; a step of determining whether a predetermined condition is met based on the operation information; and a step of deciding not to cause the notification unit to perform a predetermined notification operation if the predetermined condition is met.

10. A method according to claim 9, wherein the temperature rise rate of the heating unit in the preheating operation is calculated based on the operation information, and in the determining step, it is determined whether the temperature rise rate of the heating unit is equal to or greater than a predetermined threshold, and if the temperature rise rate is less than the predetermined threshold, it is estimated that the suction session is being performed in a specific operating environment, and the predetermined notification operation includes prompting the user to take a predetermined action according to the specific operating environment.

11. The method according to claim 10, wherein the temperature rise rate is calculated based on the temperature rise of the heating section measured from the start of heating of the suction article source until a predetermined time has elapsed.

12. The method according to claim 10, wherein the temperature rise rate is calculated based on the rising temperature of the heating section measured at predetermined time intervals during the preheating operation.

13. A method according to any one of claims 10 to 12, wherein the predetermined action is a preliminary puffing action for expelling the aerosol generated during the preliminary heating action to the outside of the inhalation device.

14. A method according to any one of claims 10 to 13, wherein the suction device further comprises a memory unit for storing the heating profile, and the predetermined threshold is preset based on data on average humidity and / or average temperature in a specific region where the suction device is expected to be used and stored in the memory unit.

15. The method according to any one of claims 9 to 14, wherein the predetermined notification action is performed between about 10 seconds and about 20 seconds after the start of heating of the suction article source.

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