Inhalation Information Processing for Reference Mode Feedback

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing inhalers lack the capability to provide a high-quality experience for users, particularly in terms of enhancing the inhalation process through feedback and comparison with a reference inhalation mode.

Innovation Solution

An information processing device and inhalation system that includes a control unit to acquire inhalation information, compare it with a reference inhalation mode, and present comparison information to the user, utilizing a terminal device with display capabilities to enhance the inhalation experience.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If inhalation devices only deliver aerosol without providing feedback or comparison information, then the device structure remains simple, but user experience quality and inhalation optimization are insufficient

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveinhalation experience qualityVSAvoiddevice structure
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements feedback by comparing actual inhalation parameters (flow rate, volume, duration) with reference inhalation modes and presenting comparison information to the user. This allows users to understand their inhalation quality and make adjustments, directly improving inhalation experience quality while adding feedback functionality to the device

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

Solution Approach 2:

The patent introduces an information processing device as an intermediary between the inhalation device and the user. This intermediary processes inhalation data, generates comparison information with reference modes, and presents results to the user, thereby improving experience quality without requiring direct complexity in the core inhalation device

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

2Ease of operation

If the inhalation device includes feedback and comparison functionality, then user experience quality improves, but the device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveinhalation mode optimizationVSAvoidcontrol system
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The system enables self-service by automatically comparing user inhalation with reference modes and providing actionable feedback without requiring external intervention. Users independently optimize their inhalation technique based on the comparison information, improving ease of operation while managing complexity through automation

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

Solution Approach 2:

The patent replaces complex mechanical feedback mechanisms with electronic sensing and digital information processing. Instead of mechanical indicators or physical adjustments, the system uses sensors to detect inhalation parameters and presents comparison information digitally, simplifying the control system while improving usability

Inventive Principle:
Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

Applied Scientific Principles

This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.

Function Achieved in This Case

Provides a more pleasurable and high-quality inhalation experience by allowing users to understand and adjust their inhalation mode to match a reference for optimal flavor delivery, thereby improving user satisfaction and device usability.

Implementation Method 1

heating unit (also referred to as a 'heating element'), which is an electrically resistive or inductively heated heater

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectJoule heating: Joule Heating

Implementation Method 2

heating unit (also referred to as a 'heating element'), which is an electrically resistive or inductively heated heater

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectInduction heating: Induction Heating

Data Source

PatentEP4613138A1Information processing device, inhalation system, and information presentation method
Publication Date: 2025.09.10 JAPAN TOBACCO INC
  • EP4613138A1 patent drawingFigure 1
  • EP4613138A1 patent drawingFigure 2A
  • EP4613138A1 patent drawingFigure 2B~3

AI summary

A control unit (250) of a terminal device (200) capable of communicating with an inhalation device that delivers an aerosol which can be inhaled by a user performs the processes of: acquiring inhalation information representing an actual inhalation mode used for the inhalation device; generating, on the basis of the acquired inhalation information, comparison information in which the actual inhalation mode and a prescribed reference inhalation mode are compared; and presenting the generated comparison information to the user.