EP4635344A1

EP4635344A1 - Power supply unit for inhalation device, control method, and control program

Info

Publication number: EP4635344A1
Application number: EP22968565.6A
Authority: EP
Inventors: Takashi Hasegawa; Manabu YAMAD
Original assignee: Japan Tobacco Inc
Current assignee: Japan Tobacco Inc
Priority date: 2022-12-16
Filing date: 2022-12-16
Publication date: 2025-10-22
Also published as: JPWO2024127657A1; CN120322173A; WO2024127657A1; KR20250121383A

Abstract

An inhalation device (100) has an inhalation-impossible state in which electrical power is not supplied to a first heating unit (121) for heating an aerosol source or a second heating unit (132) for heating a flavor source (131), and an inhalation-possible state in which electrical power can be supplied to at least the first heating unit (121), the inhalation-possible state being entered in response to predetermined input during the inhalation-impossible state. A control unit (116) of a power supply unit (110) of the inhalation device (100) causes heating of the aerosol source by the first heating unit (121) when there is inhalation on the inhalation device (100) while the inhalation device (100) is in the inhalation-possible state, and changes a mode of heating by at least either of the first heating unit (121) and the second heating unit (132) in response to a change time being reached after the inhalation device (100) has entered the inhalation-possible state.

Description

TECHNICAL FIELD

The present disclosure relates to a power supply unit for an inhalation device, a control method, and a control program.

BACKGROUND ART

Inhalation devices that generate an aerosol with added flavor components and allow a user to inhale the generated aerosol, for example, are conventionally known. Such inhalation devices typically deliver to the user an aerosol generated by heating a substrate that comprises an aerosol source, using a heating unit (also referred to as a "heating element"), which is an electrical-resistance or inductive-heating heater.
For example, PTL 1 below discloses an aerosol-generating device comprising two heaters: a first heater used to heat a cigarette containing nicotine and a second heater used to heat a cartridge containing a liquid substrate, wherein the first heater and/or the second heater is activated to generate an aerosol when the cigarette is inserted. PTL 1 further indicates that the first heater is heated in accordance with a preset temperature profile. PTL 2 below furthermore discloses technology in which the temperature of the heating element is varied over time by using a temperature profile.

CITATION LIST

PATENT LITERATURE

PTL 1: JP 7128894 B2
PTL 2: JP 6125008 B2

SUMMARY OF INVENTION

TECHNICAL PROBLEM

However, the history of technical developments in inhalation devices is still in its early stages, and there is room for further improvement in functionality. For example, it is feasible for an inhalation-possible state, where electrical power is supplied to a heating unit for heating the aerosol source, to be maintained in an inhalation device until there is predetermined user input. In such a case, the user might be able to terminate the inhalation-possible state at a desired time, but the user may not have a clear idea of when to terminate the inhalation-possible state, and there is still room for improvement.
The present disclosure provides a power supply unit for an inhalation device, a control method, and a control program offering better user convenience.

SOLUTION TO PROBLEM

One aspect of the present disclosure is

a power supply unit for an inhalation device which causes an aerosol generated by heating an aerosol source to pass through a flavor source to thereby add a flavor component of the flavor source to the aerosol, wherein
the power supply unit comprises:
- a power source capable of supplying electrical power to each of a first heating unit for heating the aerosol source by the supply of electrical power, and a second heating unit for heating the flavor source by the supply of electrical power; and
- a control unit capable of controlling the electrical power supply from the power source to the first heating unit and the second heating unit,
- the inhalation device
- has an inhalation-impossible state in which electrical power is not supplied to the first heating unit or the second heating unit, and an inhalation-possible state in which electrical power can be supplied to at least the first heating unit, and
- the inhalation-possible state is entered in response to predetermined input during the inhalation-impossible state, while the inhalation-impossible state is entered in response to predetermined input during the inhalation-possible state, and
- the control unit
- causes heating of the aerosol source by the first heating unit when there is inhalation on the inhalation device while the inhalation device is in the inhalation-possible state, and
- changes the mode of heating by at least either of the first heating unit and the second heating unit in response to a predetermined change time being reached after the inhalation device has entered the inhalation-possible state.

Furthermore, another aspect of the present disclosure is

a control method performed by a computer for controlling a power supply unit for an inhalation device which causes an aerosol generated by heating an aerosol source to pass through a flavor source to thereby add a flavor component of the flavor source to the aerosol, wherein
the power supply unit comprises
a power source capable of supplying electrical power to each of a first heating unit for heating the aerosol source by the supply of electrical power, and a second heating unit for heating the flavor source by the supply of electrical power,
the computer is configured to be capable of controlling the electrical power supply from the power source to the first heating unit and the second heating unit,
the inhalation device
has an inhalation-impossible state in which electrical power is not supplied to the first heating unit or the second heating unit, and an inhalation-possible state in which electrical power can be supplied to at least the first heating unit, and
the inhalation-possible state is entered in response to predetermined input during the inhalation-impossible state, while the inhalation-impossible state is entered in response to predetermined input during the inhalation-possible state, and
the computer implements processing which
causes heating of the aerosol source by the first heating unit when there is inhalation on the inhalation device while the inhalation device is in the inhalation-possible state, and
changes the mode of heating by at least either of the first heating unit and the second heating unit in response to a predetermined change time being reached after the inhalation device has entered the inhalation-possible state.

Furthermore, another aspect of the present disclosure is

a control program, which is a control method for causing implementation of predetermined processing by a computer for controlling a power supply unit for an inhalation device which causes an aerosol generated by heating an aerosol source to pass through a flavor source to thereby add a flavor component of the flavor source to the aerosol, wherein
the power supply unit comprises
a power source capable of supplying electrical power to each of a first heating unit for heating the aerosol source by the supply of electrical power, and a second heating unit for heating the flavor source by the supply of electrical power,
the computer is configured to be capable of controlling the electrical power supply from the power source to the first heating unit and the second heating unit,
the inhalation device
has an inhalation-impossible state in which electrical power is not supplied to the first heating unit or the second heating unit, and an inhalation-possible state in which electrical power can be supplied to at least the first heating unit, and
the inhalation-possible state is entered in response to predetermined input during the inhalation-impossible state, while the inhalation-impossible state is entered in response to predetermined input during the inhalation-possible state, and
the control program causes the computer to implement processing which causes heating of the aerosol source by the first heating unit when there is inhalation on the inhalation device while the inhalation device is in the inhalation-possible state, and
changes the mode of heating by at least either of the first heating unit and the second heating unit in response to a predetermined change time being reached after the inhalation device has entered the inhalation-possible state.

ADVANTAGEOUS EFFECTS OF INVENTION

The present disclosure provides a power supply unit for an inhalation device, a control method, and a control program offering better user convenience.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

Fig. 1 is a schematic diagram schematically showing a configuration example of an inhalation device 100 comprising a power supply unit according to the present disclosure.
Fig. 2 is a diagram showing a first example of operation of the inhalation device 100.
Fig. 3 is a diagram showing an example of changes in an amount of flavor component added to an aerosol before and after a time t5a shown in fig. 2.
Fig. 4 is a diagram showing a second example of operation of the inhalation device 100.
Fig. 5 is a diagram showing a third example of operation of the inhalation device 100.
Fig. 6 is a diagram showing a fourth example of operation of the inhalation device 100.
Fig. 7 is a diagram showing a fifth example of operation of the inhalation device 100.
Fig. 8 is a diagram showing a sixth example of operation of the inhalation device 100.
Fig. 9 is a diagram showing a seventh example of operation of the inhalation device 100.
Fig. 10 is a diagram showing an eighth example of operation of the inhalation device 100.
Fig. 11 is a diagram showing a ninth example of operation of the inhalation device 100.
Fig. 12 is a diagram showing a tenth example of operation of the inhalation device 100.
Fig. 13 is a diagram showing an eleventh example of operation of the inhalation device 100.
Fig. 14 is a diagram showing a twelfth example of operation of the inhalation device 100.
Fig. 15 is a diagram showing a thirteenth example of operation of the inhalation device 100.
Fig. 16 is a flowchart showing an example of processing implemented by a control unit 116.
Fig. 17 is a flowchart showing another example of processing implemented by the control unit 116.

DESCRIPTION OF EMBODIMENTS

Embodiments of the power supply unit for an inhalation device, control method and control program according to the present disclosure will be described in detail below with reference to the drawings. The drawings shall be viewed in the orientation of the reference signs. It should be noted that the following embodiments do not limit the invention described in the claims and not all combinations of features described in the embodiments are essential to the invention. Furthermore, two or more of the plurality of features described in the embodiments may be optionally combined. Furthermore, hereinafter, identical or similar elements may be assigned identical or similar reference signs, and descriptions thereof may be omitted or simplified as appropriate.

1. Configuration example of inhalation device

Fig. 1 is a schematic diagram schematically showing a configuration example of an inhalation device 100 comprising a power supply unit according to the present disclosure. The inhalation device 100 shown in fig. 1 is a device that generates a substance to be inhaled by a user and delivers the generated substance to the user in an inhalable manner. Hereinafter, the substance generated by the inhalation device 100 will be described as being an aerosol. Alternatively, the substance generated by the inhalation device 100 may be a gas.
As shown in fig. 1, the inhalation device 100 comprises a power supply unit 110, a cartridge 120, and a flavoring cartridge 130. The power supply unit 110 comprises a power source unit 111, a sensor unit 112, a notification unit 113, a memory unit 114, a communication unit 115, and a control unit 116. The cartridge 120 includes a first heating unit 121, a liquid guiding portion 122, and a liquid storage portion 123. The flavoring cartridge 130 includes a flavor source 131 and a mouthpiece 124. An air flow path 180 is formed in the cartridge 120 and the flavoring cartridge 130.
The power source unit 111 stores electrical power. The power source unit 111 then supplies the electrical power to each component of the inhalation device 100 in accordance with control performed by the control unit 116. The power source unit 111 may be configured, for example, by a rechargeable battery such as a lithium ion secondary battery.
The sensor unit 112 acquires various types of information relating to the inhalation device 100. The sensor unit 112 is configured by, for example, a pressure sensor such as a capacitor microphone, a flow rate sensor or a temperature sensor, etc., and acquires values associated with inhalation by a user.
As an example, the sensor unit 112 may include a pressure sensor (also referred to as a "puff sensor") for detecting a change in pressure (also referred to hereinafter as "internal pressure") in the inhalation device 100 caused by inhalation by the user. As another example, the sensor unit 112 may include a flow rate sensor for detecting a flow rate caused by inhalation by the user (hereinafter simply referred to as "flow rate"). Furthermore, as another example, the sensor unit 112 may include a temperature sensor (also referred to as a "puff thermistor") for detecting the temperature of the first heating unit 121 or around the first heating unit 121.
Furthermore, the sensor unit 112 may also comprise an input device, such as an operation button or a switch, for accepting input of information from the user. In this embodiment, a power button to be described later is provided as an example of an input device.
The notification unit 113 notifies the user of information. The notification unit 113 is configured by a light-emitting device which emits light, a display device which displays images, a sound output device which outputs sound, or a vibration device which vibrates, etc., for example.
The memory unit 114 stores various information (e.g., programs and data) for operation of the inhalation device 100. The memory unit 114 is configured by a non-volatile storage medium such as a flash memory, for example.
The communication unit 115 is a communication interface capable of performing communication in accordance with any wired or wireless communication standard. Examples of communication standards that may be used include standards that employ Wi-Fi (registered trademark), Bluetooth (registered trademark), Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE) (registered trademark), Near-Field Communication (NFC), or Low Power Wide Area (LPWA), for example.
The control unit 116 is a computer which functions as an arithmetic processing device and a control device, and controls overall operation within the inhalation device 100 in accordance with various programs stored in the memory unit 114, etc. The control unit 116 may be realized by an electronic circuit such as a CPU (Central Processing Unit) or a microprocessor.
The liquid storage portion 123 stores an aerosol source. The aerosol source is atomized to generate an aerosol. The aerosol source is a polyhydric alcohol such as glycerol or propylene glycol, or a liquid such as water, for example. The aerosol source may include tobacco-derived or non-tobacco-derived flavor components. If the inhalation device 100 is a medical inhaler such as a nebulizer, the aerosol source may include a drug.
The aerosol source 11 may contain an acid. An aerosol (vapor) containing a predetermined amount of acid is generated when an acid-containing aerosol source is heated. The acid-containing aerosol source is atomized by heating, and an acid vapor, which is a vapor containing an acid, is generated. The acid contained in the aerosol source may be an organic acid or an inorganic acid. For example, the acid contained in the aerosol source may include a carboxylic acid, α-keto acid, 2-oxo acid, or lactic acid.
The liquid guiding portion 122 guides the aerosol source, which is the liquid stored in the liquid storage portion 123, from the liquid storage portion 123, and holds the aerosol source. The liquid guiding portion 122 is, for example, a wick formed by twisting a fibrous material such as glass fibers or a porous material such as a porous ceramic. In such a case, the aerosol source stored in the liquid storage portion 123 is guided by the capillary effect of the wick.
The first heating unit 121 heats the aerosol source to atomize the aerosol source, thereby generating the aerosol. The first heating unit 121 is formed by any material, such as a metal or polyimide, in any shape, such as coiled, film-like or blade-like. In the example shown in fig. 1, the first heating unit 121 is configured as a coil wrapped around the liquid guiding portion 122. When the first heating unit 121 generates heat, the aerosol source held in the liquid guiding portion 122 is then heated and atomized, generating the aerosol. The first heating unit 121 generates heat when supplied with electricity from the power source unit 111. For example, electricity may be supplied to the first heating unit 121 when the sensor unit 112 detects that the user has started inhaling and/or that predetermined information has been input. The supply of electricity to the first heating unit 121 may then be stopped when the sensor unit 112 detects that the user has finished inhaling and/or that predetermined information has been input.
Moreover, the first heating unit 121 may be configured to generate an aerosol by means of vibration or induction heating. When the aerosol is generated by means of vibration, the inhalation device 100 comprises a vibration unit as the first heating unit 121. For example, the vibration unit is configured by a plate-shaped member comprising a piezoelectric ceramic functioning as an ultrasonic vibrator. When the vibration unit vibrates, the aerosol source which has been guided to a surface of the vibration unit by means of the liquid guiding portion 122 is then atomized by means of ultrasound generated as the vibration unit vibrates, thereby generating the aerosol.
Furthermore, when the aerosol is generated by means of induction heating, the inhalation device 100 comprises a susceptor and an electromagnetic induction source as the first heating unit 121. The susceptor generates heat by electromagnetic induction. The susceptor is made of a conductive material, such as a metal. The susceptor is arranged adjacent to the liquid guiding portion 122. For example, the susceptor is formed by a metallic conducting wire and is wound around the liquid guiding portion 122. The electromagnetic induction source causes the susceptor to generate heat by electromagnetic induction. The electromagnetic induction source is formed by a coiled conducting wire, for example. The electromagnetic induction source generates a magnetic field when supplied with an AC current from the power source unit 111. The electromagnetic induction source is arranged at a position where the susceptor lies over the magnetic field generated. When a magnetic field is generated, eddy currents are therefore generated in the susceptor, and Joule heat is generated. The aerosol source held in the liquid guiding portion 122 is then heated by this Joule heat and atomized, generating the aerosol.
The flavor source 131 is a component for imparting a flavor component to the aerosol. The flavor source 131 may include tobacco-derived or non-tobacco-derived flavor components. The flavor source 131 may be, for example, a tobacco-derived substance such as shredded tobacco, or a processed product obtained by molding a tobacco raw material into a granular form, a sheet form, or a powder form. Furthermore, the flavor source 131 may also include non-tobacco-derived materials made from plants other than tobacco (e.g., mint and herbs, etc.). As one example, the flavor source 131 may contain a flavoring component such as menthol. Furthermore, the flavor source 131 may be a stick-type member. When the inhalation device 100 is a medical inhaler, the flavor source 131 may contain a drug to be inhaled by a patient. It should be noted that the aerosol source 131 is not limited to a solid, and may equally be a liquid containing a flavor component, such as a polyhydric alcohol such as glycerol or propylene glycol, or water, for example. The flavor source 131 may furthermore contain a base, for example. The flavor source 131 may contain nicotine as a base, for example. Moreover, the flavor source may be arranged inside a container such as a capsule.
The flavoring cartridge 130 contains the flavor source 131. An air flow path is formed in the flavoring cartridge 130. The flavor source 131 is further disposed part way along the air flow path. When the mixed fluid of aerosol and air passes through the flavor source in the air flow path, the flavor component contained in the flavor source is therefore added to the aerosol.
The air flow path 180 is a flow path for air to be inhaled by the user. The air flow path 180 has a tubular structure with an air inflow hole 181, which is an inlet for air into the air flow path 180, and an air outflow hole 182, which is an outlet for air from the air flow path 180. Along the air flow path 180, the liquid guiding portion 122 is disposed upstream (closer to the air inflow hole 181), and the flavor source 131 is disposed downstream (closer to the air outflow hole 182). Air flowing in through the air inflow hole 181 upon inhalation by the user is mixed with the aerosol generated by the first heating unit 121 and transported through the flavor source 131 to the air outflow hole 182, as shown by the arrow 190. When the mixed fluid of aerosol and air passes through the flavor source 131, the flavor component contained in the flavor source 131 is added to the aerosol.
When the flavor source 131 contains nicotine, a predetermined amount of nicotine (a predetermined number of moles of nicotine) is vaporized as the aerosol (vapor) generated by the first heating unit 121 passes through the flavor source 131, and vaporized nicotine is taken into the aerosol. When the user inhales the vaporized nicotine, this produces stimulation in the user's oral cavity, and the user senses the stimulation in their oral cavity.
When the aerosol source stored in the liquid storage portion 123 contains an acid, the aerosol (vapor) generated by the first heating unit 121 contains a predetermined amount of the acid (a predetermined number of moles of the acid). Here, when the aerosol contains an acid and the flavor source 131 contains a base, the acid contained in the aerosol and the base from the flavor source 131 form a salt by means of a chemical reaction. For example, if an acid is present in the aerosol when the flavor source 131 contains nicotine as a base, this acid reacts with the vaporized nicotine which was vaporized from the flavor source 131, forming a salt. The salt which is formed remains in the particle phase in the aerosol. Even if the user inhales the nicotine remaining in the particle phase, the stimulation produced in the user's oral cavity is reduced, and the stimulation felt by the user in their oral cavity decreases.
Meanwhile, if the amount of vaporized nicotine taken into the aerosol (vapor) is greater than the amount of acid contained in the aerosol (vapor), this produces nicotine which cannot form a salt with the acid. The nicotine which cannot form a salt with the acid remains in the aerosol as vaporized nicotine, producing stimulation in the user's oral cavity.
Furthermore, the inhalation device 100 further includes a second heating unit 132 for heating the flavor source 131. The second heating unit 132 is formed by any material such as a metal or polyimide. The second heating unit 132 is configured in a film shape and disposed so as to cover the outer circumference of the flavor source 131, for example. The second heating unit 132 then generates heat when supplied with power from the power source unit 111, heating the outer circumference of the flavor source 131. Note that the second heating unit 132 may equally be configured to heat the flavor source 131 from the inside. The second heating unit 132 may also be configured in a blade shape, piercing the flavor source 131 to heat the flavor source 131 from the inside, for example. Providing this second heating unit 132 makes it possible to increase the temperature of the flavor source 131 and to increase the amount of flavor component added to the aerosol, as compared to when the second heating unit 132 is not provided.
When the flavor source 131 contains nicotine, the amount of nicotine vaporized increases if the flavor source 131 is heated by means of the second heating unit 132. Furthermore, if the temperature at which the flavor source 131 is heated by the second heating unit 132 is raised, the amount of nicotine vaporized increases as this heating temperature rises.
When the amount of nicotine which is vaporized increases, there is an increase in the amount of vaporized nicotine taken into the aerosol (vapor). As described above, when the increased amount of vaporized nicotine is greater than the amount of acid contained in the aerosol, nicotine which cannot form a salt with the acid is produced, and remains in the aerosol as vaporized nicotine. The vaporized nicotine remaining in the aerosol then produces stimulation in the user's oral cavity, and the user senses the stimulation in their oral cavity.
That is to say, the flavor source 131 is heated by the second heating unit 132, or the heating temperature is raised, in order to increase the amount of nicotine which is vaporized, and by this means it is possible to produce nicotine which cannot form a salt with the acid contained in the aerosol. As a result, vaporized nicotine remains in the aerosol, and this nicotine produces stimulation in the user's oral cavity, and the user senses the stimulation in their oral cavity. Furthermore, when the vaporized nicotine remaining in the aerosol increases, there is more nicotine to produce stimulation in the user's oral cavity, so the user senses greater stimulation in their oral cavity.
It should be noted that the second heating unit 132 is provided in the flavoring cartridge 130 in the example shown in fig. 1, but this is not limiting. For example, when the inhalation device 100 has a configuration in which the flavoring cartridge 130 is accommodated in an accommodating portion (not depicted) provided in the power supply unit 110, the second heating unit 132 may be provided in the power supply unit 110 so as to cover the outer circumference of the accommodating portion. In such a case, the second heating unit 132 generates heat by a supply of power from the power source unit 111, and the flavoring cartridge 130 (i.e., the flavor source 131) accommodated in the accommodating portion is heated from the outer circumference. Furthermore, the second heating unit 132 may equally heat the flavor source 131 from the inside. For example, when the flavor source 131 is a stick-type substrate, a blade-shaped second heating unit 132 may be inserted into a stick-type flavor source 131 by piercing the flavor source 131. When the second heating unit 132 generates heat, the flavor component contained in the flavor source 131 which is a stick-type substrate is heated from the inside and atomized, generating the flavor component.
Moreover, the second heating unit 132 may be configured to generate an aerosol by means of induction heating. The inhalation device 100 comprises a susceptor and an electromagnetic induction source as the second heating unit 132. The susceptor generates heat by electromagnetic induction. The susceptor is made of a conductive material, such as a metal. The susceptor is arranged adjacent to the flavor source 131. For example, the susceptor is formed by a metallic conducting wire and is wound around the flavor source 131 or accommodating portion. The electromagnetic induction source causes the susceptor to generate heat by electromagnetic induction. The electromagnetic induction source is formed by a coiled conducting wire, for example. The electromagnetic induction source generates a magnetic field when supplied with an AC current from the power source unit 111. The electromagnetic induction source is arranged at a position where the susceptor lies over the magnetic field generated. When a magnetic field is generated, eddy currents are therefore generated in the susceptor, and Joule heat is generated. The flavor source 131 is then heated by this Joule heat and atomized, generating the flavor component.
Furthermore, when the flavor source 131 is a liquid, the second heating unit 132 may be formed by any material, such as a metal or polyimide, in any shape, such as coiled, film-like or blade-like. For example, the second heating unit 132 is configured as a coil wrapped around a liquid guiding portion (not depicted) provided on the flavor source 131. When the second heating unit 132 generates heat, the liquid flavor source held in the liquid guiding portion is then heated and atomized, generating the flavor component.
Furthermore, when the flavor source 131 is a liquid, the second heating unit 132 may be configured to generate an aerosol by means of vibration or induction heating. When the aerosol is generated by means of vibration, the inhalation device 100 comprises a vibration unit as the second heating unit 132. For example, the vibration unit is configured by a plate-shaped member comprising a piezoelectric ceramic functioning as an ultrasonic vibrator. When the vibration unit vibrates, the liquid flavor source which has been guided to a surface of the vibration unit by means of a liquid guiding portion (not depicted) provided on the flavor source 131 is then atomized by means of ultrasound generated as the vibration unit vibrates, thereby generating the flavor component.
Furthermore, when the aerosol is generated by means of induction heating, the inhalation device 100 comprises a susceptor and an electromagnetic induction source as the second heating unit 132. The susceptor generates heat by electromagnetic induction. The susceptor is made of a conductive material, such as a metal. The susceptor is disposed adjacent to the liquid guiding portion (not depicted) provided on the flavor source 131. For example, the susceptor is formed by a metallic conducting wire and is wound around the liquid guiding portion. The electromagnetic induction source causes the susceptor to generate heat by electromagnetic induction. The electromagnetic induction source is formed by a coiled conducting wire, for example. The electromagnetic induction source generates a magnetic field when supplied with an AC current from the power source unit 111. The electromagnetic induction source is arranged at a position where the susceptor lies over the magnetic field generated. When a magnetic field is generated, eddy currents are therefore generated in the susceptor, and Joule heat is generated. The liquid flavor source held in the liquid guiding portion is then heated by this Joule heat and atomized, generating the flavor component.
The mouthpiece 124 is a member that is held in the user's mouth during inhalation. The air outflow hole 182 is disposed in the mouthpiece 124. The user holds the mouthpiece 124 in their mouth to make it possible to draw the mixed fluid of aerosol and air into the oral cavity.
A configuration example of the inhalation device 100 has been described above. The inhalation device 100 is, of course, not limited to the configuration described above, and may adopt various configurations, such as those illustrated below by way of example.
As an example, the inhalation device 100 may include a plurality of types of aerosol sources. Other types of aerosol may be generated by a plurality of types of aerosol generated from the plurality of types of aerosol sources being mixed in the air flow path 180 to cause a chemical reaction.
Furthermore, the means for atomizing the aerosol source is not limited to heating provided by the first heating unit 121. For example, the means for atomizing the aerosol source may be vibration atomization or induction heating.

2. Example of operation of inhalation device

An example of operation of the inhalation device 100 will be described next. Hereinafter, inhalation on the inhalation device 100 is also referred to as a "puff" or "puffing", and the number of times puffs are taken is also referred to as the "number of puffs".

2-1. Possible states assumed by inhalation device

The inhalation device 100 may assume an inhalation-impossible state in which electrical power is not supplied to the first heating unit 121 or the second heating unit 132, and an inhalation-possible state in which electrical power can be supplied to at least the first heating unit 121.
The inhalation-impossible state may be, for example, a "power-off state (also referred to as a sleep state)", in which the power supply to electronic components other than electronic components associated with a transition to the inhalation-possible state (e.g., the sensor unit 112 and control unit 116) is stopped. Furthermore, the inhalation-possible state may be, for example, a "power-on state (also referred to as an active state)", in which power supply to the electronic components associated with aerosol generation, including the first heating unit 121 and the second heating unit 132, is permitted. Hereinafter, the inhalation-impossible state will be described as the power-off state, and the inhalation-possible state will be described as the power-on state.
The control unit 116 of the inhalation device 100 sets the inhalation device 100 in the power-on state (i.e., the inhalation-possible state) in response to predetermined input when the inhalation device 100 is in the power-off state (i.e., the inhalation-impossible state). In this embodiment, the input which is the condition for setting the inhalation device 100 in the power-on state will be pressing of an operating button (also referred to below as a "power button") (not depicted) provided on the inhalation device 100 (e.g., on the power supply unit 110). By this means, the user can appropriately set the inhalation device 100 in the power-on state by pressing the power button.
It should be noted that the input which is the condition for setting the power-on state is not limited to pressing of an operating button such as the power button, and may be a puff, for example. Furthermore, the input which is the condition for setting the power-on state is not limited to direct input to (in other words, operation of) the inhalation device 100, namely pressing of the power button or puffing, and this input may equally be reception of predetermined information from another device (e.g., the user's smartphone) capable of communicating with the inhalation device 100.
Furthermore, the control unit 116 sets the inhalation device 100 in the power-off state in response to predetermined input when the inhalation device 100 is in the power-on state. In this embodiment, the input which is the condition for setting the inhalation device 100 in the power-off state is also pressing of the power button. By this means, the user can appropriately set the inhalation device 100 in the power-off state by pressing the power button. The inhalation device 100 can also be set in the power-on state or the power-off state by means of a single operating button, namely the power button, therefore providing the user with a feeling of simple operation of the inhalation device 100.
Moreover, the input which is the condition for setting the power-off state is not limited to pressing of the power button, and this input may equally be pressing of another operating button provided on the inhalation device 100, or reception of predetermined information from another device capable of communicating with the inhalation device 100, for example.
Furthermore, in this embodiment, if a puff is not taken for a predetermined time (e.g., 300 [sec]) while the inhalation device 100 is in the power-on state, the control unit 116 automatically sets the power-off state at that point in time. In other words, the control unit 116 sets the inhalation device 100 in the power-off state when a predetermined time has elapsed since the last puff was taken while the inhalation device 100 was in the power-on state. This means that even if the user forgets to set the power-off state, the inhalation device 100 can be automatically set in the power-off state when it is assumed that no puffs will be taken, making it possible to reduce power consumption by the inhalation device 100.
It should be noted that one period from the inhalation device 100 entering the power-on state (i.e., the inhalation-possible state) until entering the power-off state (i.e., the inhalation-impossible state) will also be referred to below as a "smoking session".

2-2. First example of operation of inhalation device

Fig. 2 is a diagram showing a first example of operation of the inhalation device 100. In (a) shown in fig. 2, the horizontal axis denotes time, and the vertical axis denotes the temperature of the second heating unit 132. Furthermore, in (b) shown in 2, the horizontal axis denotes time, and the vertical axis denotes whether or not power is being supplied to the first heating unit 121 (i.e. ON/OFF).
As shown in fig. 2, if the user presses the power button at a time t0 at which the inhalation device 100 is in the power-off state, the control unit 116 sets the inhalation device 100 in the power-on state. As a result, a smoking session starts from the time t0.
If a puff is taken while the inhalation device 100 is in the power-on state, the control unit 116 then supplies predetermined power from the power source unit 111 to the first heating unit 121. The puff can be detected on the basis of a detection value (i.e., a change in internal pressure) from the puff sensor reaching or exceeding a threshold.
Power is supplied to the first heating unit 121 in response to the puff, whereby the first heating unit 121 generates heat to generate an aerosol. To give one example, in the example shown in fig. 2, the control unit 116 supplies power to the first heating unit 121 because a puff was detected in a period after the time t0, from a time t1 until a time t2.
The power supplied to the first heating unit 121 in response to the puff is predetermined by the manufacturer of the inhalation device 100 such that a suitable amount of aerosol is generated, for example. As an example, it will be assumed here that a predetermined voltage V1 [V] (where V1>0) is applied to the first heating unit 121 in response to the puff, whereby the first heating unit 121 generates heat to generate the aerosol.
Furthermore, if the aerosol source contains an acid, then when this acid-containing aerosol source is heated, an aerosol (vapor) containing a predetermined amount (predetermined weight or predetermined number of moles) of the acid per unit amount of aerosol is generated. For example, the aerosol generated contains a predetermined amount A (weight or number of moles) of acid per unit amount. That is to say, when the first heating unit 121 generates heat as a result of voltage application to the first heating unit 121 in response to the puff, an aerosol containing the predetermined amount A (weight or number of moles) of acid per unit amount is generated in an amount of X1 [mg (or ml)] (where X1>0) per unit time.
Furthermore, the control unit 116 controls heating of the flavor source 131 by the second heating unit 132 while the inhalation device 100 is in the power-on state. The control unit 116 then changes the mode of heating of the flavor source 131 by the second heating unit 132 in response to a predetermined change time being reached after the inhalation device 100 has entered the power-on state.
The change time here is a predetermined time within the smoking session, and may be a time at which a predetermined number of puffs have been taken since the inhalation device 100 entered the power-on state, for example. The number of puffs constituting a condition for the change time is preset in the control unit 116 by the manufacturer of the inhalation device 100, for example. The manufacturer of the inhalation device 100 may set any number included in a range from 5 to 10, for example, as the number of puffs constituting the condition for the change time.
In this example it will be assumed that the number of puffs constituting the condition for the change time is set at 6. It will also be assumed that the flavor source 131 is not heated by the second heating unit 132 in a period from the inhalation device 100 entering the power-on state until the change time is reached.
In this case, the control unit 116 does not supply power to the second heating unit 132 in a period from the time t0 until a time t5a shown in fig. 2. The time t5a here is an example of the change time and is the time at which six puffs have been taken after the time t0. Accordingly, the flavor source 131 is not heated by the second heating unit 132 in the period from the time t0 until the time t5a, and the flavor source 131 is maintained at room temperature ("R.T" in the drawing; e.g., 27 [°C]), for example. It should be noted that even if the flavor source 131 is not heated by the second heating unit 132, the temperature thereof may rise to some extent (e.g., up to around 40 [°C]) when the aerosol generated by the first heating unit 122 passes through the flavor source 131.
Meanwhile, the control unit 116 raises the temperature of the second heating unit 132 by supplying power from the power source unit 111 to the second heating unit 132 from the time t5a, with a target temperature of 60 [°C], for example. As a result, the flavor source 131 is heated by the second heating unit 132 after the time t5a, and the temperature of the flavor source 131 is raised to around 60 [°C] in the same way as for the second heating unit 132, for example.
If the user then presses the power button at a time t10 at which the inhalation device 100 is in the power-on state, the control unit 116 sets the inhalation device 100 in the power-off state. The heating session which started from the time t0 terminates at the time t10 as a result. Since power is no longer supplied to the second heating unit 132 when the inhalation device 100 is in the power-off state, the temperatures of the second heating unit 132 and the flavor source 131 then gradually fall toward room temperature, for example.
The temperature control of the second heating unit 132 can be realized by on/off control, for example. More specifically, the control unit 116 may implement heating by the second heating unit 132 (power supply to the second heating unit 132, in other words) until the real temperature (also referred to below as the "actual temperature") of the second heating unit 132 reaches the target temperature, may then stop heating by the second heating unit 132 when the actual temperature has reached the target temperature, and may resume heating by the second heating unit 132 when the actual temperature falls below the target temperature.
The temperature of the second heating unit 132 can be acquired (quantified, in other words) by measuring or estimating the electrical resistance value of a heating resistive element constituting the second heating unit 132, for example. This is because the electrical resistance value of the heating resistive element varies with temperature. The electrical resistance value of the heating resistive element can be estimated (or namely, acquired) by measuring the amount of voltage drop at the heating resistive element, for example. The amount of voltage drop at the heating resistive element can be measured (or namely, acquired) by a voltage sensor measuring a potential difference applied to the heating resistive element. As another example, the temperature of the second heating unit 132 may be measured by a temperature sensor (puff thermistor) installed in the vicinity of the second heating unit 132.
Furthermore, the temperature control of the heating unit 132 can be realized by known feedback control. For example, the control unit 116 may cause power from the power source unit 111 to be supplied to the second heating unit 132 in the form of pulses by pulse width modulation (PWM) or pulse frequency modulation (PFM). In such a case, the control unit 116 can perform temperature control of the second heating unit 132 by adjusting the duty ratio of the power pulse. In the feedback control, the control unit 116 only needs to control the power supplied to the second heating unit 132, e.g., said duty ratio, on the basis of the difference between the actual temperature and the target temperature, etc. Furthermore, the feedback control may be Proportional-Integral-Differential Controller (PID) control.
Furthermore, when power is supplied to the first heating unit 121 while power is being supplied to the second heating unit 132 (i.e., when a puff has been detected), the control unit 116 may temporarily reduce (e.g., to zero) the power supplied to the second heating unit 132. In this way, it is possible to suppress output of an excessive current from the power source unit 111 caused by the power supply to the first heating unit 121 and the second heating unit 132.
Furthermore, if a puff is not taken for a predetermined time (e.g., 30 [sec]) while power is being supplied to the second heating unit 132, the control unit 116 may stop the supply of power to the second heating unit 132 at that point in time. By this means, the power supplied to the second heating unit 132 can be stopped when it is assumed that no puffs will be taken, making it possible to reduce power consumption by the inhalation device 100.
In the inhalation device 100, if an aerosol in the amount of X1 [mg (or ml)], or an air stream containing said aerosol, passes through the flavor source 131 per unit time when the flavor source 131 is at a first temperature (e.g., room temperature), then a predetermined amount B (weight or number of moles) of the flavor component will be added to this aerosol. For example, if an aerosol in the amount of X1 [mg (or ml)], or an air stream containing said aerosol, passes through the flavor source 131 per unit time when the flavor source 131 contains nicotine, then a predetermined amount B (weight or number of moles) of nicotine will be vaporized and taken in by this aerosol.
Here, if an aerosol containing a predetermined amount A (weight or number of moles) of an acid passes through the flavor source 131 per unit time, then a predetermined amount B (weight or number of moles) of nicotine will be vaporized, and the nicotine will form a salt with this salt. A ratio C (A/B) of the predetermined amount A (weight or number of moles) of the acid contained in the aerosol and the predetermined amount B (weight or number of moles) of nicotine may be designed to be a fixed value or greater. For example, the ratio C (A/B) of the predetermined amount A (weight or number of moles) of the acid contained in the aerosol and the predetermined amount B (weight or number of moles) of nicotine is designed to be a fixed value or greater by adjusting the amount of acid contained in the aerosol source and/or the amount of nicotine contained in the flavor source 131. By designing the ratio C (A/B) to be a fixed value or greater, some or all of the predetermined amount B (weight or number of moles) of nicotine can be made to form a salt with the acid. As a result, the vaporized nicotine remaining in the aerosol can be set at the desired amount, and the degree of stimulation produced by the vaporized nicotine in the user's oral cavity can be adjusted.
Meanwhile, if an aerosol in the amount of X1 [mg (or ml)], or an air stream containing said aerosol, passes through the flavor source 131 per unit time when the flavor source 131 is at a second temperature (e.g., 60 [°C]) higher than the first temperature, then an amount D (weight or number of moles) (where D>B) of the flavor component will be added to this aerosol. For example, if an aerosol in the amount of X1 [mg (or ml)], or an air stream containing said aerosol, passes through the flavor source 131 heated at the second temperature per unit time when the flavor source 131 contains nicotine, then a predetermined amount D (weight or number of moles) of nicotine will be vaporized and taken in by this aerosol. In this case, the predetermined amount A (weight or number of moles) of the acid contained in the aerosol and the predetermined amount D (weight or number of moles) of nicotine have a ratio E (A/D).
Here, D>B, so the value of E is smaller than the value of C. As a result, there is a relative increase in the amount of vaporized nicotine remaining in the aerosol without forming a salt with the acid in the aerosol. When the amount of vaporized nicotine remaining in the aerosol increases, there is more nicotine to produce stimulation in the user's oral cavity, so the user senses greater stimulation in their oral cavity. That is to say, when the flavor source 131 is heated to reach the second temperature which is higher than the first temperature, there is a relative increase in the amount of vaporized nicotine remaining in the aerosol and a relative increase in nicotine producing stimulation in the user's oral cavity, so the user senses greater stimulation in their oral cavity.
A larger amount of flavor component is thus added to the aerosol passing through the flavor source 131 as the temperature of the flavor source 131 increases. The intensity of the taste experienced by the user, or the sense of stimulation in the user's oral cavity from taking a puff then increases when a greater amount of the flavor component is added to the aerosol to be inhaled. Accordingly, by raising the temperature of the flavor source 131 to increase the amount of flavor component added to the aerosol, it is possible to proportionately enhance the taste experienced by the user, or the sense of stimulation in the user's oral cavity from taking a puff. For example, when the flavor source 131 contains nicotine, the amount of vaporized nicotine contained in the aerosol passing through the flavor source 131 increases as the temperature of the flavor source 131 rises, so the sense of stimulation felt by the user from taking a puff can be enhanced.
Fig. 3 is a diagram showing an example of changes in the amount of flavor component added to the aerosol before and after the time t5a shown in fig. 2. In fig. 3, the horizontal axis denotes time, and the vertical axis denotes the amount (weight or molar amount) of flavor component added to the aerosol generated in response to one puff. The vertical axis in fig. 3 shows the amount (weight or molar amount) of nicotine taken into the aerosol generated in response to one puff, when the flavor source 131 contains nicotine, for example.
In this example, as described above, the flavor source 131 is heated by the second heating unit 132 after the time t5a so the flavor source 131 is at a higher temperature than before the time t5a. Accordingly, as shown in fig. 3, more of the flavor component can be added to the aerosol generated in response to one puff after the time t5a than before the time t5a. For example, when the flavor source 131 contains nicotine, there is an increase in the amount (weight or molar amount) of nicotine taken into the aerosol generated in response to one puff. When the amount (weight or molar amount) of nicotine taken into the aerosol increases, vaporized nicotine that remains in the aerosol is present without forming a salt with the acid in the aerosol, and the amount of vaporized aerosol increases. As a result, there is more nicotine producing stimulation in the user's oral cavity, and the user can sense greater stimulation in their oral cavity.
As described above, the control unit 116 changes the mode of heating of the flavor source 131 by the second heating unit 132 in response to the change time being reached, at which point a predetermined number of puffs have been taken since the inhalation device 100 entered the power-on state. This makes it possible to vary the amount of flavor component added to the aerosol, that is, the taste experienced by the user or the sense of stimulation in the user's oral cavity from taking a puff, as the number of puffs taken since the inhalation device 100 entered the power-on state reaches the predetermined number.
Accordingly, the taste can suggest to the user whether or not a predetermined number of puffs have been taken since the inhalation device 100 entered the power-on state (in other words, whether the current timing is before or after the change time). Therefore, even if the user does not separately count the number of puffs since the inhalation device 100 entered the power-on state, the user can still have a clear idea of when to terminate the current power-on state (in other words, the current smoking session) by considering the taste experienced or the sense of stimulation in the oral cavity from taking a puff, which offers better user convenience. For example, the user may have a clear idea of when to terminate the current smoking session, such as thinking "that was a strong taste, I'll just have a few more puffs then end this smoking session", or "that felt strong, I'll just have a few more puffs then end this smoking session".
Furthermore, since the taste suggests to the user whether the current timing is before or after the change timing, there is no need for the inhalation device 100 to be separately provided with a light-emitting device, a display device, a sound output device, or a vibration device, etc. for providing a suggestion to that effect. It is therefore possible to suggest to the user whether the current timing is before or after the change time, while simplifying the configuration of the inhalation device 100.
Furthermore, the control unit 116 does not cause heating of the flavor source 131 by the second heating unit 132 in the period from the inhalation 100 device entering the power-on state until the change time is reached, and causes heating of the flavor source by the second heating unit 132 after the change time. The taste experienced by the user or stimulation in the oral cavity from taking a puff can therefore be enhanced after the change time as compared to before the change time. As a result, the taste experienced by the user or the sense of stimulation in the oral cavity from taking a puff can suggest to the user whether the current timing is before or after the change time.
By enhancing the taste after the change time, the user can also be provided with a sense of satisfaction from the point of view of draw satisfaction, and the sense of stimulation in the user's oral cavity can be enhanced after the change time. By this means, the user can be prompted to terminate the smoking session.

2-3. Second example of operation of inhalation device

In the first example shown in fig. 2, etc., the change time was the time at which a predetermined number of puffs have been taken since the inhalation device 100 entered the power-on state, but this is not limiting.
Fig. 4 is a diagram showing a second example of operation of the inhalation device 100. The second example is an exemplary case in which the change time is the time at which a predetermined time has elapsed since the inhalation device 100 entered the power-on state. Note that, in this section, the focus is on the areas that differ from those described in fig. 2, and the areas that are common to those described in fig. 2 will be omitted or simplified as appropriate.
In this example, the control unit 116 does not supply power to the second heating unit 132 in a period from the time t0 until a time t5b shown in fig. 4. The time t5b here is another example of the change time and is the time at which a predetermined time Tm1 has elapsed from the time t0.
The predetermined time Tm1 may be set at any time included in a range from 120 [sec] to 180 [sec], for example, and may be set at 150 [sec] as a specific example. Moreover, the predetermined time Tm1 is preset in the control unit 116 by the manufacturer of the inhalation device 100, for example.
In this example, the control unit 116 raises the temperature of the second heating unit 132 by supplying power from the power source unit 111 to the second heating unit 132 from the time t5b, with a target temperature of 60 [°C], for example. As a result, the flavor source 131 is heated by the second heating unit 132 after the time t5b, and the temperature of the flavor source 131 is raised to around 60 [°C] in the same way as for the second heating unit 132, for example.
As described above, the control unit 116 may change the mode of heating of the flavor source 131 by the second heating unit 132 in response to the change time being reached, at which point a predetermined time has elapsed since the inhalation device 100 entered the power-on state. This makes it possible to vary the amount of flavor component (e.g., amount of nicotine) added to the aerosol, that is, the taste experienced by the user or stimulation in the oral cavity from taking a puff, as the time elapsed since the inhalation device 100 entered the power-on state reaches the predetermined time.
Accordingly, the taste can suggest to the user whether or not a predetermined time has elapsed since the inhalation device 100 entered the power-on state (in other words, whether the current timing is before or after the change time). Therefore, even if the user does not separately count the time elapsed since the inhalation device 100 entered the power-on state, the user can still have a clear idea of when to terminate the current power-on state (in other words, the current smoking session) by considering the taste experienced or stimulation in the oral cavity from taking a puff, which offers better user convenience.

2-4. Third example of operation of inhalation device

In the first example shown in fig. 2 and the second example shown in fig. 4, the flavor source 131 was not heated by the second heating unit 132 in the period from the inhalation device 100 entering the power-on state until the change time is reached, but this is not limiting.
Fig. 5 is a diagram showing a third example of operation of the inhalation device 100. The third example is an exemplary case in which the flavor source 131 is heated by the second heating unit 132 at a relatively low temperature in a period from the inhalation device 100 entering the power-on state until the change time is reached, and the flavor source 131 is heated by the second heating unit 132 at a relatively high temperature after the change time. Note that, in this section, the focus is on the areas that differ from those described in fig. 2, and the areas that are common to those described in fig. 2 will be omitted or simplified as appropriate.
In this example, the control unit 116 raises the temperature of the second heating unit 132 by supplying power from the power source unit 111 to the second heating unit 132 in the period from the time t0 until the time t5a shown in fig. 5, with a target temperature of 50 [°C], for example. In such a case, the flavor source 131 is heated by the second heating unit 132 in the period from the time t0 until the time t5a, and the temperature of the flavor source 131 is raised to around 50 [°C] in the same way as for the second heating unit 132, for example.
In this example, the control unit 116 then further raises the temperature of the second heating unit 132 by supplying power from the power source unit 111 to the second heating unit 132 from the time t5a, with a target temperature of 60 [°C] which is even higher than the target temperature of 50 [°C] from before the time t5a. In such a case, the flavor source 131 is further heated after the time t5a, and the temperature of the flavor source 131 is raised to around 60 [°C] in the same way as for the second heating unit 132, for example.
Furthermore, in the same way as in the example described here, the control unit 116 may cause heating of the flavor source 131 by raising the temperature of the second heating unit 132 with a target temperature of 50 [°C] in the period from the time t0 until the time t5b shown in fig. 4, and may then cause heating of the flavor source 131 by raising the temperature of the second heating unit 132 with an even higher target temperature of 60 [°C] from the period t5b, for example.
As described above, the control unit 116 may cause heating of the flavor source 131 by the second heating unit 132 at a relatively low temperature in the period from the inhalation 100 device entering the power-on state until the change time is reached, and may cause heating of the flavor source 131 by the second heating unit 132 at a relatively high temperature after the change time. The taste experienced by the user or stimulation in the oral cavity from taking a puff can therefore be enhanced by increasing the amount of flavor component (e.g., amount of nicotine) added to the aerosol after the change time as compared to before the change time. Accordingly, the taste experienced by the user or stimulation in the oral cavity from taking a puff can suggest to the user whether the current timing is before or after the change time.

2-5. Fourth example of operation of inhalation device

In the first example shown in fig. 2 and the second example shown in fig. 4, the temperature of the second heating unit 132 was raised straight to the relatively high target temperature of 60 [°C], for example, in response to the change time being reached, but this is not limiting.
Fig. 6 is a diagram showing a fourth example of operation of the inhalation device 100. The fourth example is an exemplary case in which the temperature of the second heating unit 132 is gradually raised over a predetermined time from the change time after the inhalation device 100 has entered the power-on state. Note that, in this section, the focus is on the areas that differ from those described in fig. 2, and the areas that are common to those described in fig. 2 will be omitted or simplified as appropriate.
In the case of this example, as shown in fig. 6, the control unit 116 gradually raises the temperature of the second heating unit 132 toward the target temperature of 60 [°C] over a predetermined time Tm11 from the time t5a. Here, the predetermined time Tm11 may be set at a fairly long time such as to be included in a range from 60 [sec] to 120 [sec], for example, and may be set at 90 [sec] as a specific example. Moreover, the predetermined time Tm11 is preset in the control unit 116 by the manufacturer of the inhalation device 100, for example.
Furthermore, the control unit 116 may gradually raise the temperature of the second heating unit 132 over the predetermined time Tm11 from the time t5b shown in fig. 4, for example, in the same way as in the example described here.
As described above, the control unit 116 may gradually raise the temperature of the second heating unit 132 over a predetermined time from the change time. It is therefore possible to suppress an excessive sense of incongruity or discomfort which would be provided to the user because of the taste experienced by the user or stimulation in the oral cavity from taking a puff changing abruptly from the change time.

2-6. Fifth example of operation of inhalation device

In the fourth example shown in fig. 6, the temperature of the second heating unit 132 was gradually (in other words, linearly) raised from the change time, but this is not limiting.
Fig. 7 is a diagram showing a fifth example of operation of the inhalation device 100. The fifth example is an exemplary case in which the temperature of the second heating unit 132 is raised stepwise (in other words, in stages) as time passes after the change time. Note that, in this section, the focus is on the areas that differ from those described in fig. 2, and the areas that are common to those described in fig. 2 will be omitted or simplified as appropriate.
In this example, the control unit 116 raises the temperature of the second heating unit 132 by supplying power to the second heating unit 132 in the period from the time t5a until a time t6a shown in fig. 7, with a target temperature of 50 [°C], for example. The time t6a here is a time at which a predetermined time Tm21 has passed after the time t5a. Here, the predetermined time Tm21 may be set at a fairly long time such as to be included in a range from 30 [sec] to 90 [sec], for example, and may be set at 60 [sec] as a specific example. Moreover, the predetermined time Tm21 is preset in the control unit 116 by the manufacturer of the inhalation device 100, for example.
In such a case, the flavor source 131 is heated by the second heating unit 132 in the period from the time t5a until the time t6a, and the temperature of the flavor source 131 is raised to around 50 [°C] in the same way as for the second heating unit 132, for example.
In this example, the control unit 116 then further raises the temperature of the second heating unit 132 by supplying power from the power source unit 111 to the second heating unit 132 from the time t6a, with a target temperature of 60 [°C] which is even higher than the target temperature of 50 [°C] from before the time t6a. In such a case, the flavor source 131 is further heated after the time t6a, and the temperature of the flavor source 131 is raised to around 60 [°C] in the same way as for the second heating unit 132, for example.
Furthermore, the control unit 116 may raise the temperature of the second heating unit 132 stepwise as time passes after the time t5b shown in fig. 4, for example, in the same way as in the example described here.
As described above, the control unit 116 may raise the temperature of the second heating unit 132 stepwise as time passes after the change time. It is therefore possible to suppress an excessive sense of incongruity or discomfort which would be provided to the user because of the taste experienced by the user or stimulation in the oral cavity from taking a puff changing abruptly from the change time.

2-7. Sixth example of operation of inhalation device

In the fifth example shown in fig. 7, the temperature of the second heating unit 132 was raised stepwise as time passes after the change time, but this is not limiting.
Fig. 8 is a diagram showing a sixth example of operation of the inhalation device 100. The sixth example is an exemplary case in which the temperature of the second heating unit 132 is raised stepwise as puffs are taken after the change time. Note that, in this section, the focus is on the areas that differ from those described in fig. 2, and the areas that are common to those described in fig. 2 will be omitted or simplified as appropriate.
In this example, the control unit 116 raises the temperature of the second heating unit 132 by supplying power from the power source unit 111 to the second heating unit 132 in the period from the time t5a until a time t6b shown in fig. 8, with a target temperature of 50 [°C], for example. The time t6b here is the time at which a predetermined number of puffs have been taken after the time t5a, and may be a time at which four puffs have been taken after the time t5a, for example.
In such a case, the flavor source 131 is heated by the second heating unit 132 in the period from the time t5a until the time t6b, and the temperature of the flavor source 131 is raised to around 50 [°C] in the same way as for the second heating unit 132, for example.
In this example, the control unit 116 then further raises the temperature of the second heating unit 132 by supplying power from the power source unit 111 to the second heating unit 132 from the time t6b, with a target temperature of 60 [°C] which is even higher than the target temperature of 50 [°C] from before the time t6b. In such a case, the flavor source 131 is further heated after the time t6b, and the temperature of the flavor source 131 is raised to around 60 [°C] in the same way as for the second heating unit 132, for example.
Furthermore, the control unit 116 may raise the temperature of the second heating unit 132 stepwise as a predetermined number of puffs are taken after the time t5b shown in fig. 4, for example, in the same way as in the example described here.
As described above, the control unit 116 may raise the temperature of the second heating unit 132 stepwise as puffs are taken after the change time. It is therefore possible to suppress an excessive sense of incongruity or discomfort which would be provided to the user because of the taste experienced by the user or stimulation in the oral cavity from taking a puff changing abruptly from the change time.

2-8. Seventh example of operation of inhalation device

In the sixth example shown in fig. 8, the temperature of the second heating unit 132 was raised stepwise as a plurality of puffs (e.g., four puffs) are taken after the change time, but this is not limiting.
Fig. 9 is a diagram showing a seventh example of operation of the inhalation device 100. The seventh example is an exemplary case in which the temperature of the second heating unit 132 is raised stepwise with each puff taken after the change time. Note that, in this section, the focus is on the areas that differ from those described in fig. 2, and the areas that are common to those described in fig. 2 will be omitted or simplified as appropriate.
In this example, the control unit 116 raises the temperature of the second heating unit 132 by supplying power from the power source unit 111 to the second heating unit 132 in the period from the time t5a until a time t6c shown in fig. 9, with a target temperature of 40 [°C], for example. The time t6c here is the time at which one puff has been taken after the time t5a. In such a case, the flavor source 131 is heated by the second heating unit 132 in the period from the time t5a until the time t6c, and the temperature of the flavor source 131 is raised to around 40 [°C] in the same way as for the second heating unit 132, for example.
Furthermore, in this example, the control unit 116 raises the temperature of the second heating unit 132 by supplying power from the power source unit 111 to the second heating unit 132 in the period from the time t6c until a time t7c shown in fig. 9, with a target temperature of 45 [°C] which is even higher than the target temperature of 40 [°C] from before the time t7c. The time t7c here is the time at which one puff has been taken after the time t6c, in other words, the time at which two puffs have been taken after the time t5a. In such a case, the flavor source 131 is heated by the second heating unit 132 in the period from the time t6c until the time t7c, and the temperature of the flavor source 131 is raised to around 45 [°C] in the same way as for the second heating unit 132, for example.
Furthermore, in this example, the control unit 116 raises the temperature of the second heating unit 132 by supplying power from the power source unit 111 to the second heating unit 132 in the period from the time t7c until a time t8c shown in fig. 9, with a target temperature of 50 [°C] which is even higher than the target temperature of 45 [°C] from before the time t8c. The time t8c here is the time at which one puff has been taken after the time t7c, in other words, the time at which three puffs have been taken after the time t5a. In such a case, the flavor source 131 is heated by the second heating unit 132 in the period from the time t7c until the time t8c, and the temperature of the flavor source 131 is raised to around 50 [°C] in the same way as for the second heating unit 132, for example.
Furthermore, in this example, the control unit 116 raises the temperature of the second heating unit 132 by supplying power from the power source unit 111 to the second heating unit 132 in the period from the time t8c until a time t9c shown in fig. 9, with a target temperature of 55 [°C] which is even higher than the target temperature of 50 [°C] from before the time t9c. The time t9c here is the time at which one puff has been taken after the time t8c, in other words, the time at which four puffs have been taken after the time t5a. In such a case, the flavor source 131 is heated by the second heating unit 132 in the period from the time t8c until the time t9c, and the temperature of the flavor source 131 is raised to around 55 [°C] in the same way as for the second heating unit 132, for example.
In this example, the control unit 116 then further raises the temperature of the second heating unit 132 by supplying power from the power source unit 111 to the second heating unit 132 from the time t9c, with a target temperature of 60 [°C] which is even higher than the target temperature of 55 [°C] from before the time t9c. In such a case, the flavor source 131 is further heated after the time t9c, and the temperature of the flavor source 131 is raised to around 60 [°C] in the same way as for the second heating unit 132, for example.
It should be noted here that the upper limit for heating by the second heating unit 132 was 60 [°C], so the temperature increases of the second heating unit 132 were stopped with 60 [°C] as the target, but this is not limiting. For example, if the heat resistance temperatures of the flavoring cartridge 130 and the flavor source 131 are sufficiently higher than 60 [°C], then the control unit 116 may also raise the temperature of the second heating unit 132 in increments of 5 [°C] with each puff taken after the time t9c, in the same way as before the time t9c.
Furthermore, the control unit 116 may raise the temperature of the second heating unit 132 stepwise with each puff taken after the time t5b shown in fig. 4, for example, in the same way as in the example described here.
As described above, the control unit 116 may raise the temperature of the second heating unit 132 stepwise with each puff taken after the change time. It is therefore possible to suppress an excessive sense of incongruity or discomfort which would be provided to the user because of the taste experienced by the user or stimulation in the oral cavity from taking a puff changing abruptly from the change time. Accordingly, the taste experienced by the user or stimulation in the oral cavity from taking a puff can suggest to the user the number of puffs after the change time.

2-9. Eighth example of operation of inhalation device

In the examples of operation described above, the flavor source 131 was heated by the second heating unit 132 at a relatively high temperature after the change time, but this is not limiting.
Fig. 10 is a diagram showing an eighth example of operation of the inhalation device 100. The eighth example is an exemplary case in which the flavor source 131 is heated by the second heating unit 132 at a relatively high temperature before the change time. Note that, in this section, the focus is on the areas that differ from those described in fig. 2, and the areas that are common to those described in fig. 2 will be omitted or simplified as appropriate.
In this example, the control unit 116 raises the temperature of the second heating unit 132 by supplying power from the power source unit 111 to the second heating unit 132 from the time t0 at which the inhalation device 100 entered the power-on state, with a target temperature of 60 [°C], for example. In such a case, the flavor source 131 is heated by the second heating unit 132 from the time t0, and the temperature of the flavor source 131 is raised to around 60 [°C] in the same way as for the second heating unit 132, for example.
In this example, the control unit 116 then stops the supply of power to the second heating unit 132 when the time t5a is reached. In such a case, the temperatures of the second heating unit 132 and the flavor source 131 gradually fall toward room temperature after the time t5a, for example.
Furthermore, in the same way as in the example described here, the control unit 116 may cause heating of the flavor source 131 by raising the temperature of the second heating unit 132 with a target temperature of 60 [°C] in the period from the time t0 until the time t5b shown in fig. 4, and may then stop the supply of power to the second heating unit 132 when the time t5b is reached.
As described above, the control unit 116 may cause heating of the flavor source 131 by the second heating unit 132 in the period from the inhalation device 100 entering the power-on state until the change time is reached, and may terminate heating of the flavor source 131 by the second heating unit 132 in response to the change time being reached. The taste experienced by the user or stimulation in the oral cavity from taking a puff can therefore be weakened by reducing the amount of flavor component added to the aerosol after the change time as compared to before the change time. Accordingly, the taste experienced by the user or stimulation in the oral cavity from taking a puff can suggest to the user whether the current timing is before or after the change time.

2-10. Ninth example of operation of inhalation device

In the eighth example of operation shown in fig. 10, heating of the flavor source 131 by the second heating unit 132 was terminated in response to the change time being reached, but this is not limiting.
Fig. 11 is a diagram showing a ninth example of operation of the inhalation device 100. The ninth example is an exemplary case in which the flavor source 131 is heated by the second heating unit 132 at a relatively high temperature in a period from the inhalation device 100 entering the power-on state until the change time is reached, and the flavor source 131 is heated by the second heating unit 132 at a relatively low temperature after the change time. Note that, in this section, the focus is on the areas that differ from those described in fig. 2, and the areas that are common to those described in fig. 2 will be omitted or simplified as appropriate.
In this example, when the time t5a is reached, the control unit 116 lowers the temperature of the second heating unit 132 to below what the temperature was before the time t5a by supplying power from the power source unit 111 to the second heating unit 132 with a target temperature of 50 [°C] which is lower than the target temperature of 60 [°C] from before the time t5a. In such a case, after the time t5a, the temperature of the flavor source 131 is lowered to around 60 [°C] in the same way as for the second heating unit 132, for example.
Furthermore, in the same way as in the example described here, the control unit 116 may cause heating of the flavor source 131 by raising the temperature of the second heating unit 132 with a target temperature of 60 [°C] in the period from the time t0 until the time t5b shown in fig. 4, and may then, after the time t5b, cause heating of the flavor source 131 with the temperature lowered from what the temperature was before the time t5a.
As described above, the control unit 116 may cause heating of the flavor source 131 by the second heating unit 132 at a relatively high temperature in the period from the inhalation 100 device entering the power-on state until the change time is reached, and may cause heating of the flavor source 131 by the second heating unit 132 at a relatively low temperature after the change time. The taste experienced by the user or stimulation in the oral cavity from taking a puff can therefore be weakened by reducing the amount of flavor component (e.g., amount of nicotine) added to the aerosol after the change time as compared to before the change time. Accordingly, the taste experienced by the user or stimulation in the oral cavity from taking a puff can suggest to the user whether the current timing is before or after the change time.

2-11. Tenth example of operation of inhalation device

In the examples of operation described above, the mode of heating of the flavor source 131 by the second heating unit 132 was changed in response to the change time being reached, but this is not limiting.
Fig. 12 is a diagram showing a tenth example of operation of the inhalation device 100. The tenth example is an exemplary case in which the mode of heating of the aerosol source by the first heating unit 121 is changed in response to the change time being reached. It should be noted that, in fig. 12, the horizontal axis denotes time, and the vertical axis denotes a voltage [V] applied to the first heating unit 121. Furthermore, in this section, the focus is on the areas that differ from those described in fig. 2, and the areas that are common to those described in fig. 2 will be omitted or simplified as appropriate.
In this example, when a puff is detected in the period from the time t0 until the time t5a, the control unit 116 causes aerosol generation by applying V1 [V] to the first heating unit 121, as shown in fig. 12. By this means, X1 [mg] of aerosol is generated per unit time in response to a puff in the period from the time t0 until the time t5a.
Then, when a puff is detected after the time t5a, the control unit 116 causes aerosol generation by applying V2 [V], which is higher than V1 [V], to the first heating unit 121, as shown in fig. 12. When such a V2 [V] has been applied to the first heating unit 121, X2 [mg] (where X2>X1) of aerosol is generated per unit time. This makes it possible to increase the amount of aerosol generated in response to one puff after the time t5a, as compared to before the time t5a. Also, since the amount of aerosol passing through the flavor source 131 per unit time can be increased, the amount of flavor imparted to the aerosol can also be increased.
Furthermore, in the same way as in the example described here, the control unit 116 may apply V1 [V] to the first heating unit 121 when a puff has been detected in the period from the time t0 until the time t5b shown in fig. 4, and may apply V2 [V] to the first heating unit 121 when a puff has been detected after the time t5b.
It should be noted that although not depicted or described in detail here, in this example also, the control unit 116 may cause heating of the flavor source 131 by the second heating unit 132 when the inhalation device 100 is in the power-on state, in the same way as in any of the examples of operation described above. Alternatively, in this example, the control unit 116 need not cause heating of the flavor source 131 by the second heating unit 132.
As described above, the control unit 116 may change the mode of heating of the aerosol source by the first heating unit 121 in response to the change time being reached. As an example, the control unit 116 may apply V1 [V] to the first heating unit 121 when a puff is taken in the period from the inhalation device 100 entering the power-on state until the change time is reached, and may apply V2 [V], which is higher than V1 [V], to the first heating unit 121 when a puff is taken after the change time. This makes it possible to increase the amount of aerosol generated in response to one puff and to increase the amount of flavor component (e.g., amount of nicotine) added to the aerosol after the change time as compared to before the change time. Accordingly, the draw satisfaction or stimulation in the oral cavity from taking a puff can suggest to the user whether the current timing is before or after the change time. Therefore, the user can have a clear idea of when to terminate the current power-on state (in other words, the current smoking session) by considering the draw satisfaction or stimulation in the oral cavity from taking a puff, which offers better user convenience.

2-12. Eleventh example of operation of inhalation device

In the tenth example shown in fig. 12, V2 [V] which is higher than V1 [V] from before the change time could be applied after the change time, but this is not limiting.
Fig. 13 is a diagram showing an eleventh example of operation of the inhalation device 100. The eleventh example is an exemplary case in which V3 [V] which is lower than V1 [V] can be applied to the first heating unit 121 after the change time. Note that, in this section, the focus is on the areas that differ from those described in fig. 2 and 13, and the areas that are common to those described in fig. 2 and 13 will be omitted or simplified as appropriate.
In this example, when a puff is detected after the time t5a, the control unit 116 causes aerosol generation by applying V3 [V], which is lower than V1 [V], to the first heating unit 121, as shown in fig. 13. When such a V3 [V] has been applied to the first heating unit 121, X3 [mg] (where X3<X1) of aerosol is generated per unit time. This makes it possible to reduce the amount of aerosol generated in response to one puff after the time t5a, as compared to before the time t5a. Also, since the amount of aerosol passing through the flavor source 131 per unit time can be reduced, the amount of flavor imparted to the aerosol can also be reduced.
Furthermore, in the same way as in the example described here, the control unit 116 may apply V1 [V] to the first heating unit 121 when a puff has been detected in the period from the time t0 until the time t5b shown in fig. 4, and may apply V3 [V] to the first heating unit 121 when a puff has been detected after the time t5b.
It should be noted that although not depicted or described in detail here, in this example also, the control unit 116 may cause heating of the flavor source 131 by the second heating unit 132 when the inhalation device 100 is in the power-on state, as in the examples of operation described above. Alternatively, in this example, the control unit 116 need not cause heating of the flavor source 131 by the second heating unit 132 when the inhalation device 100 is in the power-on state.
As described above, the control unit 116 may apply V1 [V] to the first heating unit 121 when a puff is taken in the period from the inhalation device 100 entering the power-on state until the change time is reached, and may apply V3 [V], which is lower than V1 [V], to the first heating unit 121 when a puff is taken after the change time. This makes it possible to reduce the amount of aerosol generated in response to one puff and to reduce the amount of flavor component (e.g., amount of nicotine) added to the aerosol after the change time as compared to before the change time. Accordingly, the draw satisfaction or stimulation in the oral cavity from taking a puff can suggest to the user whether the current timing is before or after the change time. Therefore, the user can have a clear idea of when to terminate the current power-on state (in other words, the current smoking session) by considering the draw satisfaction or stimulation in the oral cavity from taking a puff, which offers better user convenience.

2-13. Twelfth example of operation of inhalation device

In the examples of operation described above, the change time was preset by the manufacturer of the inhalation device 100, but this is not limiting. For example, the user may set a desired time as the change time.
Furthermore, the change time may be automatically set on the basis of a user smoking history. An exemplary case in which the change time is set on the basis of the user smoking history will be described below. Note that, in the following, the focus is on the areas that differ from those of the examples of operation described above, and the common areas will be omitted or simplified as appropriate.
Fig. 14 is a diagram showing a twelfth example of operation of the inhalation device 100. In this example, the memory unit 114 of the inhalation device 100 stores smoking history information 1000 shown in (a) of fig. 14, for example. The smoking history information 1000 is information showing the user's smoking history, and may be, for example, information associating respective past smoking sessions using the inhalation device 100 with the number of puffs taken in those smoking sessions.
As an example, the smoking history information 1000 shown in (a) of fig. 14 includes, as the user smoking history, information showing that there were 13 puffs in the previous (i.e., most recent) smoking session, there were 11 puffs in the smoking session two before, there were 12 puffs in the smoking session three before, there were 13 puffs in the smoking session four before, and there were 11 puffs in the smoking session five before.
In this example, the control unit 116 then sets a time based on the user smoking history as the change time when the inhalation device 100 is set in the power-on state (i.e., when the next smoking session starts), by referring to the smoking history information 1000 stored in the memory unit 114, for example.
To describe this more specifically, the control unit 116 first of all calculates the average value of the number of puffs in the five most recent smoking sessions, for example, as shown in (b) of fig. 14 (this value will also be referred to as the "average number of puffs"). In the example shown in fig. 14, the average number of puffs is calculated as 12. A suitable time conforming to the user's most recent smoking tendencies can thus be set as the change time by setting the change time on the basis of the average number of puffs which is calculated from the number of puffs in a predetermined number of most recent smoking sessions (the five most recent in the example shown in fig. 14).
The control unit 116 then calculates the number of puffs serving as the condition for the change time, based on the calculated average number of puffs, as shown in (c) of fig. 14. As an example, the control unit 116 calculates the number of puffs serving as the condition for the change time by multiplying the calculated average number of puffs by a factor (where 0<factor<1) preset by the manufacturer of the inhalation device 100.
In the example shown in fig. 14, the number of puffs serving as the condition for the change time is calculated as 6 puffs using the preset factor of 1/2 and the average number of puffs of 12. When the number of puffs serving as the condition for the change time is calculated as 6 puffs in this way, the control unit 116 changes the mode of heating by at least either of the first heating unit 121 and the second heating unit 132 in response to 6 puffs having been taken in the current smoking session.
It should be noted that the factor by which the average number of puffs is multiplied to calculate the number of puffs serving as the condition for the change time is 1/2 in the example described here, but this is not limiting. This factor may be greater than 1/2, and may be 2/3, for example. By making this factor greater than 1/2, it is possible to set the change time at a later time than when the factor is 1/2. Furthermore, this factor may be less than 1/2, and may be 1/3, for example. By making this factor less than 1/2, it is possible to set the change time at an earlier time than when the factor is 1/2.
Furthermore, the smoking sessions relevant to calculating the average number of puffs are also not limited to the five most recent smoking sessions. For example, the smoking sessions relevant to calculating the average number of puffs may be a predetermined number of most recent smoking sessions which is fewer than five (e.g., the three most recent smoking sessions), or a predetermined number of most recent smoking sessions which is more than five (e.g., the 10 most recent smoking sessions). Furthermore, the smoking sessions relevant to calculating the average number of puffs may also be all past smoking sessions using the inhalation device 100.
In addition, rather than calculating the average number of puffs, the control unit 116 may equally calculate a value obtained by multiplying the number of puffs in the most recent (i.e., the previous) smoking session by a predetermined factor, as the number of puffs serving as the condition for the change time.
Furthermore, when the value obtained by multiplying the average number of puffs or the number of puffs in the most recent smoking session by the predetermined factor includes a decimal value, the control unit 116 may use the rounded value of this decimal value as the number of puffs serving as the condition for the change time.
In addition, the control unit 116 may equally calculate a value obtained by subtracting a predetermined value from the average number of puffs or the number of puffs in the most recent smoking session, as the number of puffs serving as the condition for the change time. The predetermined value here may be a natural number of greater than 1 and smaller than the average number of puffs, and may be 5, for example. Furthermore, when the value obtained by subtracting a predetermined value from the average number of puffs or the number of puffs in the most recent smoking session includes a decimal value, the control unit 116 may use the rounded value of this decimal value as the number of puffs serving as the condition for the change time.
Furthermore, the smoking history information 1000 may further include information showing a start date/time of each smoking session, for example. In such a case, the control unit 116 may then calculate the average number of puffs from the number of puffs in the most recent predetermined time (e.g., 24 hours), for example.
As described above, the change time may be a time which is set on the basis of the user smoking history. By this means, the draw satisfaction (e.g., the smoking taste) or stimulation in the oral cavity from taking a puff can be varied before and after a suitable change time conforming to the user's past smoking tendencies.
More specifically, for example, the number of puffs serving as the condition for the change time may be set on the basis of the number of puffs in past smoking sessions, in other words, the number of puffs taken in the past during periods from the inhalation device 100 entering the power-on state until entering the power-off state. By this means, the draw satisfaction or stimulation in the oral cavity from taking a puff can suggest to the user whether the current timing is before or after the change time which was set while taking account of the number of puffs taken in past smoking sessions. By this means, the user can have a clear idea of when to terminate the current smoking session by considering the draw satisfaction or stimulation in the oral cavity from taking a puff, which offers better user convenience.
Furthermore, the number of puffs serving as the condition for the change time may be set on the basis of the average number of puffs, which is the average value of the number of puffs in each of a predetermined number of most recent smoking sessions. By this means, the draw satisfaction or stimulation in the oral cavity from taking a puff can be varied before and after a suitable change time conforming to the user's most recent smoking tendencies.
Furthermore, the number of puffs serving as the condition for the change time may be set on the basis of a value calculated by multiplying the average number of puffs by a predetermined factor which is greater than 0 and smaller than 1. By this means, the draw satisfaction or stimulation in the oral cavity from taking a puff can be varied before a number of puffs which could conceivably be taken in one smoking session, based on the user's most recent smoking tendencies, have been taken from the start of the current smoking session.

2-14. Thirteenth example of operation of inhalation device

In the twelfth example shown in fig. 14, the change time was set on the basis of the number of puffs in past smoking sessions.
Fig. 15 is a diagram showing a thirteenth example of operation of the inhalation device 100. The thirteenth example is an exemplary case in which the change time is set on the basis of of lengths of past smoking sessions. Note that, in this section, the focus is on the areas that differ from those described in fig. 14, and the areas that are common to those described in fig. 14 will be omitted or simplified as appropriate.
In this example, the memory unit 114 stores the smoking history information 1000 shown in (a) of fig. 15, for example. The smoking history information 1000 in this example may be, for example, information associating respective past smoking sessions using the inhalation device 100 with temporal lengths ("Duration" in the drawing) of those smoking sessions.
As an example, the smoking history information 1000 shown in (a) of fig. 15 includes, as the user smoking history, information showing that the length of the previous (i.e., most recent) smoking session was 300 [sec], the length of the smoking session two before was 290 [sec], the length of the smoking session three before was 310 [sec], the length of the smoking session four before was 290 [sec], and the length of the smoking session five before was 310 [sec].
To set the change time in this example, the control unit 116 first of all calculates an average value of the lengths of the five most recent smoking sessions (also referred to below as the "average time"), as shown in (b) of fig. 15, for example. In the example shown in fig. 15, the average time is calculated as 300 [sec]. A suitable time conforming to the user's most recent smoking tendencies can thus be set as the change time by setting the change time on the basis of the average time which is calculated from the lengths of a predetermined number of most recent smoking sessions (the five most recent in the example shown in fig. 15).
The control unit 116 then calculates the elapsed time serving as the condition for the change time, based on the calculated average time, as shown in (c) of fig. 15. As an example, the control unit 116 calculates the elapsed time serving as the condition for the change time by multiplying the calculated average time by a factor (where 0<factor<1) preset by the manufacturer of the inhalation device 100.
In the example shown in fig. 15, the elapsed time serving as the condition for the change time is calculated as 150 [sec] using the preset factor of 1/2 and the elapsed time of 300 [sec]. When the elapsed time serving as the condition for the change time is calculated as 150 [sec] in this way, the control unit 116 changes the mode of heating by at least either of the first heating unit 121 and the second heating unit 132 in response to 150 [sec] having elapsed from the start of the current smoking session.
It should be noted that the factor by which the average time is multiplied to calculate the elapsed time serving as the condition for the change time is 1/2 in the example described here, but this is not limiting. This factor may be greater than 1/2, and may be 2/3, for example. By making this factor greater than 1/2, it is possible to set the change time at a later time than when the factor is 1/2. Furthermore, this factor may be less than 1/2, and may be 1/3, for example. By making this factor less than 1/2, it is possible to set the change time at an earlier time than when the factor is 1/2.
Furthermore, the smoking sessions relevant to calculating the average time are also not limited to the five most recent smoking sessions. For example, the smoking sessions relevant to calculating the average time may be a predetermined number of most recent smoking sessions which is fewer than five (e.g., the three most recent smoking sessions), or a predetermined number of most recent smoking sessions which is more than five (e.g., the 10 most recent smoking sessions). Furthermore, the smoking sessions relevant to calculating the average time may also be all past smoking sessions using the inhalation device 100.
In addition, rather than calculating the average time, the control unit 116 may equally calculate a value obtained by multiplying the length of the most recent (i.e., the previous) smoking session by a predetermined factor, as the elapsed time serving as the condition for the change time.
In addition, the control unit 116 may equally calculate a value obtained by subtracting a predetermined value from the average time or the length of the most recent smoking session, as the elapsed time serving as the condition for the change time. The predetermined value here may be a value which is greater than 1 and smaller than the average time, and may be 150 [sec], for example.
Furthermore, when the smoking history information 1000 further includes information indicating the start date/time of each smoking session, the control unit 116 may calculate the average time from the lengths of smoking sessions in the most recent predetermined time (e.g., 24 hours), for example.
As described above, in this embodiment, if a puff is not taken for a predetermined time (e.g., 300 [sec]) while the inhalation device 100 is in the power-on state, the power-off state is automatically entered at that point in time. If a smoking session terminates in this way as a result of the inhalation device 100 being automatically set in the power-off state, then the memory unit 114 preferably stores a value obtained by subtracting the predetermined time (e.g., 300 [sec]) from the last puff until the inhalation device 100 entered the power-off state, as the length of that smoking session.
As described above, the elapsed time serving as the condition for the change time may be set on the basis of the lengths of past smoking sessions, in other words, the lengths of past periods from the inhalation device 100 entering the power-on state until entering the power-off state. By this means, the draw satisfaction from taking a puff can suggest to the user whether the current timing is before or after the change time which was set while taking account of the lengths of past smoking sessions. By this means, the user can have a clear idea of when to terminate the current smoking session by considering the draw satisfaction or stimulation in the oral cavity from taking a puff, which offers better user convenience.
Furthermore, the elapsed time serving as the condition for the change time may be set on the basis of the average time, which is the average value of lengths of each of a predetermined number of most recent smoking sessions. By this means, the draw satisfaction or stimulation in the oral cavity from taking a puff can be varied before and after a suitable change time conforming to the user's most recent smoking tendencies.
Furthermore, the elapsed time serving as the condition for the change time may be set on the basis of a value calculated by multiplying the average time by a predetermined factor which is greater than 0 and smaller than 1. By this means, the draw satisfaction or stimulation in the oral cavity from taking a puff can be varied before a time which is feasible as the length of one smoking session, based on the user's most recent smoking tendencies, has elapsed from the start of the current smoking session.

3. Example of processing implemented by control unit

An example of processing implemented by the control unit 116 will be described next. Fig. 16 is a flowchart showing an example of processing implemented by the control unit 116. A description will be given here of an example of the processing implemented by the control unit 116 when the number of puffs serving as the condition for the change time is set on the basis of the number of puffs in past smoking sessions, and the mode of heating by at least either of the first heating unit 121 and the second heating unit 132 is changed in response to that number of puffs being taken.
As shown in fig. 16, the control unit 116 first of all determines whether or not the power button has been pressed (step S1). If it is determined that the power button has not been pressed (step S1: No), the control unit 116 repeats the processing of step S1 until the power button is pressed. If it is determined that the power button has been pressed (step S1: Yes), the control unit 116 sets the inhalation device 100 in the power-on state (step S2). The current smoking session is started as a result.
The control unit 116 then implements change-time setting processing to set the change time (step S3). By means of the change-time setting processing, the control unit 116 calculates the average number of puffs from the number of puffs in a predetermined number of most recent of smoking sessions, and sets the number of puffs (that is, the change time) serving as the condition for the change time on the basis of this average number of puffs, for example.
The control unit 116 then determines whether or not a puff has been detected (step S4). If it is determined that a puff has not been detected (step S4: No), the control unit 116 advances to the processing of step S9 without any other processing. If it is determined that a puff has been detected (step S4: Yes), the control unit 116 supplies predetermined power to the first heating unit 121 (step S5), adds 1 to a count value i of a puff counter for counting the number of puffs in the current smoking session, and advances to the processing of step S7.
The control unit 116 then determines whether or not the change time has been reached (step S7). In the processing of step S7, the control unit 116 determines that the change time has not been reached if the count value i of the puff counter is less than the number of puffs serving as the condition for the change time, and determines that the change time has been reached if the count value i has reached the number of puffs serving as the condition for the change time, for example.
If it is determined that the change time has not been reached (step S7: No), the control unit 116 advances to the processing of step S9 without any other processing. If it is determined that the change time has been reached (step S7: Yes), the control unit 116 changes the mode of heating by at least either of the first heating unit 121 and the second heating unit 132 (step S8), and advances to the processing of step S9. By means of the processing of step S8, the control unit 116 starts the supply of power to the second heating unit 132 in order to raise the temperature of the second heating unit 132, for example.
The control unit 116 then determines whether or not a predetermined time (e.g., 300 [sec]) has elapsed since the last puff was taken (step S9). If it is determined that the predetermined time has elapsed since the last puff was taken (step S9: Yes), the control unit 116 advances to the processing of step S11 without any other processing.
If it is determined that the predetermined time has not elapsed since the last puff was taken (step S9: No), the control unit 116 determines whether or not the power button has been pressed (step S10). If it is determined that the power button has not been pressed (step S10: No), the control unit 116 advances to the processing of step S4 and repeats the processing described above.
If it is determined that the power button has been pressed (step S10: Yes), the control unit 116 causes the memory unit 114 to store information that the count value i of the puff counter at this time constitutes the number of puffs in the current smoking session (step S11). The control unit 116 then resets the count value i of the puff counter to 0 (step S12) and also sets the inhalation device 100 to the power-off state (step S13) to end the processing series shown in fig. 16. The current smoking session terminates as a result.
It should be noted that when the number of puffs serving as the condition for the change time is preset by the manufacturer of the inhalation device 100, that number of puffs should be set in the change-time setting processing. Furthermore, when the number of puffs serving as the condition for the change time is preset by the manufacturer of the inhalation device 100, the processing of step S11, etc. need not be implemented.
Fig. 17 is a flowchart showing another example of processing implemented by the control unit 116. A description will be given here of an example of the processing implemented by the control unit 116 when the elapsed time serving as the condition for the change time is set on the basis of lengths of past smoking sessions, and the mode of heating by at least either of the first heating unit 121 and the second heating unit 132 is changed in response to that elapsed time passing.
As shown in fig. 17, the control unit 116 first of all determines whether or not the power button has been pressed (step S21). If it is determined that the power button has not been pressed (step S21: No), the control unit 116 repeats the processing of step S21 until the power button is pressed. If it is determined that the power button has been pressed (step S21: Yes), the control unit 116 sets the inhalation device 100 in the power-on state (step S22). The current smoking session is started as a result.
The control unit 116 then implements change-time setting processing to set the change time (step S23). By means of the change-time setting processing, the control unit 116 calculates the average time from the lengths of a predetermined number of most recent of smoking sessions, and sets the elapsed time (that is, the change time) serving as the condition for the change time on the basis of this average time, for example.
The control unit 116 then starts counting the elapsed time from the start of the current smoking session (step S24). The control unit 116 then determines whether or not a puff has been detected (step S25). If it is determined that a puff has not been detected (step S25: No), the control unit 116 advances to the processing of step S27 without any other processing. If it is determined that a puff has been detected (step S25: Yes), the control unit 116 supplies predetermined power to the first heating unit 121 (step S26), and advances to the processing of step S27.
The control unit 116 then determines whether or not the change time has been reached (step S27). In the processing of step S27, the control unit 116 determines that the change time has not been reached if the elapsed time from the start of the current smoking session is less than the elapsed time serving as the condition for the change time, and determines that the change time has been reached if the elapsed time from the start of the current smoking session has reached the elapsed time serving as the condition for the change time, for example.
If it is determined that the change time has not been reached (step S27: No), the control unit 116 advances to the processing of step S29 without any other processing. If it is determined that the change time has been reached (step S27: Yes), the control unit 116 changes the mode of heating by at least either of the first heating unit 121 and the second heating unit 132 (step S28), and advances to the processing of step S29. By means of the processing of step S28, the control unit 116 starts the supply of power to the second heating unit 132 in order to raise the temperature of the second heating unit 132, for example.
The control unit 116 then determines whether or not a predetermined time (e.g., 300 [sec]) has elapsed since the last puff was taken (step S29). If it is determined that the predetermined time has elapsed since the last puff was taken (step S29: Yes), the control unit 116 causes the memory unit 114 to store information that a value obtained by subtracting the predetermined time (e.g., 300 [sec]) from the elapsed time from the start of the current smoking session is the length of the current smoking session (step S30), and advances to the processing of step S33.
If it is determined that the predetermined time has not elapsed since the last puff was taken (step S29: No), the control unit 116 determines whether or not the power button has been pressed (step S31). If it is determined that the power button has not been pressed (step S31: No), the control unit 116 advances to the processing of step S25 and repeats the processing described above.
If it is determined that the power button has been pressed (step S31: Yes), the control unit 116 causes the memory unit 114 to store information that the elapsed time from the start of the current smoking session is the length of the current smoking session (step S32), and advances to the processing of step S33. The control unit 116 then sets the inhalation device 100 to the power-off state (step S33) to end the processing series shown in fig. 17. The current smoking session terminates as a result.
It should be noted that when the elapsed time serving as the condition for the change time is preset by the manufacturer of the inhalation device 100, that elapsed time should be set in the change-time setting processing. Furthermore, when the elapsed time serving as the condition for the change time is preset by the manufacturer of the inhalation device 100, the processing of steps S30 and S32, etc. need not be implemented.
As described above, according to this embodiment, the control unit 116 changes the mode of heating by at least either of the first heating unit 121 and the second heating unit 132 in response to a predetermined change time being reached after the inhalation device 100 entered the power-on state. By this means, the draw satisfaction or stimulation in the oral cavity from taking a puff can be varied before and after the change time, and the draw satisfaction or stimulation in the oral cavity can suggest to the user whether the current timing is before or after the change time. Therefore, even if the user does not separately count the elapsed time or number of puffs, etc. from when the current power-on state (in other words, the current smoking session) started, the user can still have a clear idea of when to terminate the current power-on state by considering the draw satisfaction or stimulation in the oral cavity from taking a puff, which offers better user convenience. In addition, when the change time is a time which is set on the basis of the user smoking history, the draw satisfaction or stimulation in the oral cavity from taking a puff can be varied before and after a suitable change time conforming to the user's past smoking tendencies, which offers even better user convenience.
Embodiments of the power supply unit for an inhalation device, control method and control program according to the present disclosure were described above with reference to the drawings, but it goes without saying that the present invention is not limited to such embodiments. It is obvious that a person skilled in the art will be able to conceive of a number of variant examples or modified examples within the scope disclosed in the claims, and any such variant examples or modified examples are naturally understood to fall within the technical scope of the present disclosure.
For example, specific numerical values such as the target temperatures described in the embodiments above are merely examples and are not limited to those given.
Furthermore, the control method described in the embodiments above can be realized by executing a pre-prepared program on a computer (processor). The program is stored on a computer-readable storage medium, and is executed by being read out from the storage medium. The program may also be provided in a form stored in a non-transitory storage medium such as a flash memory, or may be provided over a network such as the Internet. Furthermore, the computer executing the program may be, for example, included in the inhalation device 100 (e.g., the CPU of the inhalation device 100), but this is not limiting, and the computer may also be included in another device (e.g., a smartphone or server) capable of communicating with the inhalation device 100.
The present specification, etc. sets forth at least the following features. Corresponding components, etc. in the embodiments described above are shown by way of example in parentheses, but there is no limitation to such components.

(1) A power supply unit (power supply unit 110) for an inhalation device (inhalation device 100) which causes an aerosol generated by heating an aerosol source to pass through a flavor source (flavor source 131) to thereby add a flavor component of the flavor source to the aerosol, wherein
the power supply unit comprises:
- a power source (power source unit 111) capable of supplying electrical power to each of a first heating unit (first heating unit 121) for heating the aerosol source by the supply of electrical power, and a second heating unit (second heating unit 132) for heating the flavor source by the supply of electrical power; and
- a control unit (control unit 116) capable of controlling the electrical power supply from the power source to the first heating unit and the second heating unit,
- the inhalation device
- has an inhalation-impossible state in which electrical power is not supplied to the first heating unit or the second heating unit, and an inhalation-possible state in which electrical power can be supplied to at least the first heating unit, and
- the inhalation-possible state is entered in response to predetermined input during the inhalation-impossible state, while the inhalation-impossible state is entered in response to predetermined input during the inhalation-possible state, and
- the control unit
- causes heating of the aerosol source by the first heating unit when there is inhalation on the inhalation device while the inhalation device is in the inhalation-possible state, and
- changes the mode of heating by at least either of the first heating unit and the second heating unit in response to a predetermined change time being reached after the inhalation device has entered the inhalation-possible state.
According to (1), the draw satisfaction or stimulation in the oral cavity from inhalation on the inhalation device can be varied before and after a predetermined change time after the inhalation device has entered the inhalation-possible state. By this means, the draw satisfaction or stimulation in the oral cavity from inhalation on the inhalation device can suggest to the user whether the current timing is before or after the change time. Therefore, even if the user does not separately count the elapsed time or number of inhalations taken on the inhalation device, etc. from when the current inhalation-possible state started, the user can still have a clear idea of when to terminate the current inhalation-possible state by considering the draw satisfaction or stimulation in the oral cavity from inhalation on the inhalation device, which offers better user convenience.
(2) The power supply unit as disclosed in (1), wherein
the change time is a time at which a predetermined number of inhalations have been taken since the inhalation device entered the inhalation-possible state, or is a time at which a predetermined time has elapsed since the inhalation device entered the inhalation-possible state.
According to (2), the draw satisfaction or stimulation in the oral cavity from inhalation on the inhalation device can be varied along with a predetermined number of inhalations on the inhalation device having been taken since the inhalation device entered the inhalation-possible state, or along with a predetermined time having elapsed since the inhalation device entered the inhalation-possible state.
(3) The power supply unit as disclosed in (1) or (2), wherein
the control unit changes the mode of heating of the flavor source by the second heating unit in response to the change time being reached.
According to (3), the taste experienced by the user from inhalation on the inhalation device can be varied before and after the change time. By this means, the taste experienced by the user or stimulation in the oral cavity from inhalation on the inhalation device can suggest to the user whether the current timing is before or after the change time. Therefore, the user can have a clear idea of when to terminate the current inhalation-possible state by considering the taste experienced or stimulation in the oral cavity from inhalation on the inhalation device.
(4) The power supply unit as disclosed in (3), wherein
the control unit does not cause heating of the flavor source by the second heating unit in a period from the inhalation device entering the inhalation-possible state until the change time is reached, and causes heating of the flavor source by the second heating unit after the change time.
According to (4), the taste experienced by the user or stimulation in the oral cavity from inhalation on the inhalation device can be enhanced after the change time as compared to before the change time. By this means, the taste experienced by the user or stimulation in the oral cavity from inhalation on the inhalation device can suggest to the user whether the current timing is before or after the change time.
(5) The power supply unit as disclosed in (3), wherein
the control unit causes heating of the flavor source by the second heating unit at a relatively low temperature in a period from the inhalation device entering the inhalation-possible state until the change time is reached, and causes heating of the flavor source by the second heating unit at a relatively high temperature after the change time.
According to (5), the taste experienced by the user or stimulation in the oral cavity from inhalation on the inhalation device can be enhanced after the change time as compared to before the change time. By this means, the taste experienced by the user or stimulation in the oral cavity from inhalation on the inhalation device can suggest to the user whether the current timing is before or after the change time. In addition, the taste or stimulation in the oral cavity before the change time can be enhanced as compared with when the flavor source is not heated.
(6) The power supply unit as disclosed in (4) or (5), wherein
the control unit raises the temperature of the second heating unit stepwise as time passes after the change time.
According to (6), it is possible to suppress an excessive sense of incongruity or discomfort which would be provided to the user because of the taste experienced by the user or stimulation in the oral cavity from inhalation on the inhalation device changing abruptly from the change time.
(7) The power supply unit as disclosed in (4) or (5), wherein
the control unit raises the temperature of the second heating unit stepwise as inhalations are taken after the change time.
According to (7), it is possible to suppress an excessive sense of incongruity or discomfort which would be provided to the user because of the taste experienced by the user or stimulation in the oral cavity from inhalation on the inhalation device changing abruptly from the change time.
(8) The power supply unit as disclosed in (4) or (5), wherein
the control unit gradually raises the temperature of the second heating unit over a predetermined time from the change time.
According to (8), it is possible to suppress an excessive sense of incongruity or discomfort which would be provided to the user because of the taste experienced by the user or stimulation in the oral cavity from inhalation on the inhalation device changing abruptly from the change time.
(9) The power supply unit as disclosed in (3), wherein
the control unit causes heating of the flavor source by the second heating unit in a period from the inhalation device entering the inhalation-possible state until the change time is reached, and terminates heating of the flavor source by the second heating unit in response to the change time being reached.
According to (9), the taste experienced by the user or stimulation in the oral cavity from inhalation on the inhalation device can be weakened after the change time as compared to before the change time. By this means, the taste experienced by the user or stimulation in the oral cavity from inhalation on the inhalation device can suggest to the user whether the current timing is before or after the change time.
(10) The power supply unit as disclosed in (3), wherein
the control unit causes heating of the flavor source by the second heating unit at a relatively high temperature in a period from the inhalation device entering the inhalation-possible state until the change time is reached, and causes heating of the flavor source by the second heating unit at a relatively low temperature after the change time.
According to (10), the taste experienced by the user or stimulation in the oral cavity from inhalation on the inhalation device can be weakened after the change time as compared to before the change time. In addition, it is possible to suppress excessive weakening of the taste experienced by the user or stimulation in the oral cavity from inhalation on the inhalation device as compared to when the flavor source is not heated after the change time.
(11) The power supply unit as disclosed in (1) or (2), wherein
the control unit changes the mode of heating of the aerosol source by the first heating unit in response to the change time being reached.
According to (11), the amount of aerosol generated at the time of inhalation on the inhalation device can be varied before and after the change time. By this means, the draw satisfaction or stimulation in the oral cavity from inhalation on the inhalation device can suggest to the user whether the current timing is before or after the change time. Therefore, the user can have a clear idea of when to terminate the current inhalation-possible state by considering the draw satisfaction or stimulation in the oral cavity from inhalation on the inhalation device.
(12) The power supply unit as disclosed in (11), wherein
the control unit applies a first voltage to the first heating unit when an inhalation is taken in a period from the inhalation device entering the inhalation-possible state until the change time is reached, and applies a second voltage, different from the first voltage, to the first heating unit when an inhalation is taken after the change time.
According to (12), the amount of aerosol generated at the time of inhalation on the inhalation device can be varied before and after the change time.
(13) A control method performed by a computer (control unit 116) for controlling a power supply unit (power supply unit 110) for an inhalation device (inhalation device 100) which causes an aerosol generated by heating an aerosol source to pass through a flavor source (flavor source 131) to thereby add a flavor component of the flavor source to the aerosol, wherein
- the power supply unit comprises
- a power source (power source unit 111) capable of supplying electrical power to each of a first heating unit (first heating unit 121) for heating the aerosol source by the supply of electrical power, and a second heating unit (second heating unit 132) for heating the flavor source by the supply of electrical power,
- the computer is configured to be capable of controlling the electrical power supply from the power source to the first heating unit and the second heating unit,
- the inhalation device
- has an inhalation-impossible state in which electrical power is not supplied to the first heating unit or the second heating unit, and an inhalation-possible state in which electrical power can be supplied to at least the first heating unit, and
- the inhalation-possible state is entered in response to predetermined input during the inhalation-impossible state, while the inhalation-impossible state is entered in response to predetermined input during the inhalation-possible state, and
- the computer implements processing which
- causes heating of the aerosol source by the first heating unit when there is inhalation on the inhalation device while the inhalation device is in the inhalation-possible state (step S5, step S26), and
- changes the mode of heating by at least either of the first heating unit and the second heating unit in response to a predetermined change time being reached after the inhalation device has entered the inhalation-possible state (step S8, step S28).
According to (13), the draw satisfaction or stimulation in the oral cavity from inhalation on the inhalation device can be varied before and after a predetermined change time after the inhalation device has entered the inhalation-possible state. By this means, the draw satisfaction or stimulation in the oral cavity from inhalation on the inhalation device can suggest to the user whether the current timing is before or after the change time. Therefore, even if the user does not separately count the elapsed time or number of inhalations taken on the inhalation device, etc. from when the current inhalation-possible state started, the user can still have a clear idea of when to terminate the current inhalation-possible state by considering the draw satisfaction or stimulation in the oral cavity from inhalation on the inhalation device, which offers better user convenience.
(14) A control program for causing implementation of predetermined processing by a computer (control unit 116) for controlling a power supply unit (power supply unit 110) for an inhalation device (inhalation device 100) which causes an aerosol generated by heating an aerosol source to pass through a flavor source (flavor source 131) to thereby add a flavor component of the flavor source to the aerosol, wherein
- the power supply unit comprises
- a power source (power source unit 111) capable of supplying electrical power to each of a first heating unit (first heating unit 121) for heating the aerosol source by the supply of electrical power, and a second heating unit (second heating unit 132) for heating the flavor source by the supply of electrical power,
- the computer is configured to be capable of controlling the electrical power supply from the power source to the first heating unit and the second heating unit,
- the inhalation device
- has an inhalation-impossible state in which electrical power is not supplied to the first heating unit or the second heating unit, and an inhalation-possible state in which electrical power can be supplied to at least the first heating unit, and
- the inhalation-possible state is entered in response to predetermined input during the inhalation-impossible state, while the inhalation-impossible state is entered in response to predetermined input during the inhalation-possible state, and
- the control program causes the computer to implement processing which causes heating of the aerosol source by the first heating unit when there is inhalation on the inhalation device while the inhalation device is in the inhalation-possible state (step S5, step S26), and
- changes the mode of heating by at least either of the first heating unit and the second heating unit in response to a predetermined change time being reached after the inhalation device has entered the inhalation-possible state (step S8, step S28).
According to (14), the draw satisfaction or stimulation in the oral cavity from inhalation on the inhalation device can be varied before and after a predetermined change time after the inhalation device has entered the inhalation-possible state. By this means, the draw satisfaction or stimulation in the oral cavity from inhalation on the inhalation device can suggest to the user whether the current timing is before or after the change time. Therefore, even if the user does not separately count the elapsed time or number of inhalations taken on the inhalation device, etc. from when the current inhalation-possible state started, the user can still have a clear idea of when to terminate the current inhalation-possible state by considering the draw satisfaction or stimulation in the oral cavity from inhalation on the inhalation device, which offers better user convenience.
(15) A computer-readable storage medium which stores the control program disclosed in (14).

According to (15), it is possible to cause a computer to implement the control program disclosed in (14).

REFERENCE SIGNS LIST

100 Inhalation device
110 Power supply unit
111 Power source unit (power source)
116 Control unit (computer)
121 First heating unit
131 Flavor source
132 Second heating unit

Claims

A power supply unit for an inhalation device which causes a flavor source to pass through an aerosol generated by heating an aerosol source to thereby add a flavor component of the flavor source to the aerosol, wherein
the power supply unit comprises:
a power source capable of supplying electrical power to each of a first heating unit for heating the aerosol source by the supply of electrical power, and a second heating unit for heating the flavor source by the supply of electrical power; and

a control unit capable of controlling the electrical power supply from the power source to the first heating unit and the second heating unit,

the inhalation device

has an inhalation-impossible state in which electrical power is not supplied to the first heating unit or the second heating unit, and an inhalation-possible state in which electrical power can be supplied to at least the first heating unit, and

the inhalation-possible state is entered in response to predetermined input during the inhalation-impossible state, while the inhalation-impossible state is entered in response to predetermined input during the inhalation-possible state, and

the control unit

causes heating of the aerosol source by the first heating unit when there is inhalation on the inhalation device while the inhalation device is in the inhalation-possible state, and

changes the mode of heating by at least either of the first heating unit and the second heating unit in response to a predetermined change time being reached after the inhalation device has entered the inhalation-possible state.
The power supply unit as claimed in claim 1, wherein
the change time is a time at which a predetermined number of inhalations have been taken since the inhalation device entered the inhalation-possible state, or is a time at which a predetermined time has elapsed since the inhalation device entered the inhalation-possible state.
The power supply unit as claimed in claim 1 or 2, wherein
the control unit changes the mode of heating of the flavor source by the second heating unit in response to the change time being reached.
The power supply unit as claimed in claim 3, wherein
the control unit does not cause heating of the flavor source by the second heating unit in a period from the inhalation device entering the inhalation-possible state until the change time is reached, and causes heating of the flavor source by the second heating unit after the change time.
The power supply unit as claimed in claim 3, wherein
the control unit causes heating of the flavor source by the second heating unit at a relatively low temperature in a period from the inhalation device entering the inhalation-possible state until the change time is reached, and causes heating of the flavor source by the second heating unit at a relatively high temperature after the change time.
The power supply unit as claimed in claim 4 or 5, wherein
the control unit raises the temperature of the second heating unit stepwise as time passes after the change time.
The power supply unit as claimed in claim 4 or 5, wherein
the control unit raises the temperature of the second heating unit stepwise as inhalations are taken after the change time.
The power supply unit as claimed in claim 4 or 5, wherein
the control unit gradually raises the temperature of the second heating unit over a predetermined time from the change time.
The power supply unit as claimed in claim 3, wherein
the control unit causes heating of the flavor source by the second heating unit in a period from the inhalation device entering the inhalation-possible state until the change time is reached, and terminates heating of the flavor source by the second heating unit in response to the change time being reached.
The power supply unit as claimed in claim 3, wherein
the control unit causes heating of the flavor source by the second heating unit at a relatively high temperature in a period from the inhalation device entering the inhalation-possible state until the change time is reached, and causes heating of the flavor source by the second heating unit at a relatively low temperature after the change time.
The power supply unit as claimed in claim 1 or 2, wherein
the control unit changes the mode of heating of the aerosol source by the first heating unit in response to the change time being reached.
The power supply unit as claimed in claim 11, wherein
the control unit applies a first voltage to the first heating unit when an inhalation is taken in a period from the inhalation device entering the inhalation-possible state until the change time is reached, and applies a second voltage, different from the first voltage, to the first heating unit when an inhalation is taken after the change time.
A control method performed by a computer for controlling a power supply unit for an inhalation device which causes an aerosol generated by heating an aerosol source to pass through a flavor source to thereby add a flavor component of the flavor source to the aerosol, wherein
the power supply unit comprises

a power source capable of supplying electrical power to each of a first heating unit for heating the aerosol source by the supply of electrical power, and a second heating unit for heating the flavor source by the supply of electrical power,

the computer is configured to be capable of controlling the electrical power supply from the power source to the first heating unit and the second heating unit,

the inhalation device

has an inhalation-impossible state in which electrical power is not supplied to the first heating unit or the second heating unit, and an inhalation-possible state in which electrical power can be supplied to at least the first heating unit, and

the inhalation-possible state is entered in response to predetermined input during the inhalation-impossible state, while the inhalation-impossible state is entered in response to predetermined input during the inhalation-possible state, and

the computer implements processing which causes heating of the aerosol source by the first heating unit when there is inhalation on the inhalation device while the inhalation device is in the inhalation-possible state, and

changes the mode of heating by at least either of the first heating unit and the second heating unit in response to a predetermined change time being reached after the inhalation device has entered the inhalation-possible state.
A control program for causing implementation of predetermined processing by a computer for controlling a power supply unit for an inhalation device which causes an aerosol generated by heating an aerosol source to pass through a flavor source to thereby add a flavor component of the flavor source to the aerosol, wherein
the power supply unit comprises

a power source capable of supplying electrical power to each of a first heating unit for heating the aerosol source by the supply of electrical power, and a second heating unit for heating the flavor source by the supply of electrical power,

the computer is configured to be capable of controlling the electrical power supply from the power source to the first heating unit and the second heating unit,

the inhalation device

has an inhalation-impossible state in which electrical power is not supplied to the first heating unit or the second heating unit, and an inhalation-possible state in which electrical power can be supplied to at least the first heating unit, and

the inhalation-possible state is entered in response to predetermined input during the inhalation-impossible state, while the inhalation-impossible state is entered in response to predetermined input during the inhalation-possible state, and

the control program causes the computer to implement processing which causes heating of the aerosol source by the first heating unit when there is inhalation on the inhalation device while the inhalation device is in the inhalation-possible state, and

changes the mode of heating by at least either of the first heating unit and the second heating unit in response to a predetermined change time being reached after the inhalation device has entered the inhalation-possible state.