Aerosol-generating article and device for classification and identification

Abstract

An aerosol-generating article 100 comprising a body extending along a longitudinal axis between a downstream end and an upstream end; the body comprises at least a filter (102) and an aerosol-generating substrate (105) in a linear arrangement from a downstream end; an overwrap 110 wrapped at least partially around the filter and the aerosol-generating substrate to form a monolithic aerosol-generating article; wherein the outer package comprises a dimension code (200); wherein the dimension code comprises one or a combination of at least one intaglio portion (140, 145) and at least one relief portion (150, 155). A novel aerosol-generating device 300 includes a profiler 400 provided with a probe (402) that engages and senses a dimension code.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present disclosure relates to an aerosol-generating article for use with an aerosol-generating device, wherein the aerosol-generating article and the aerosol-generating device combine to form an aerosol-generating system. The aerosol-generating article has a dimensional code that identifies the aerosol-generating article. Background Art

[0002] Aerosol generating systems have been proposed in the art, in which an aerosol generating article containing an aerosol generating substrate is inserted into a heater to heat the aerosol generating substrate to produce an aerosol for inhalation by a user. These aerosol generating systems can generate aerosols without burning or scorching the aerosol generating substrate. For example, an article containing an aerosol generating substrate can be inserted into an aerosol generating device with a heater. The aerosol generating article and the aerosol generating device combine to form an aerosol generating system. The heater provides enough heat to aerosolize the aerosol generating substrate, but does not provide too much heat so that the aerosol generating substrate burns or burns. The aerosol is then entrained in the air that is drawn into the user by the aerosol generating system. These aerosol generating systems can be used to provide aerosols to users.

[0003] This system can be used with various aerosol generating products. For example, the aerosol generating substrate can be tobacco or other herbal, chemical or pharmaceutical composition or other substrate capable of providing an aerosol when heated. The aerosol forming substrate may contain an aerosol former, flavoring agent, additive or other material to enhance the formation of the aerosol or improve the user experience. The aerosol generating substrate provided in the aerosol generating product can benefit from a specific heating curve to provide a suitable aerosol to the user. For example, the presence of a flavor can change the preferred heating curve of the aerosol generating product. The aerosol generating device can be used to heat various aerosol generating products. It is desirable to provide a way to identify the aerosol generating product or to classify the aerosol generating product into the aerosol generating device so that the aerosol generating device can adjust the heating curve provided to the specific aerosol generating product and optimize the aerosol generated when the specific aerosol generating product containing the aerosol generating substrate is heated in the aerosol generating device. In addition, it is desirable to provide a way to identify the aerosol generating product to ensure that the product is genuine. That is, it is desirable to provide a way to identify the aerosol generating product. Authentic aerosol generating articles that are specifically manufactured to interact with an aerosol generating device to form an aerosol generating system will be useful in enabling the aerosol generating device to adjust the heating curve to optimize the aerosol generating experience. The use of authentic aerosol generating articles will also prevent damage to the aerosol generating device or system. It is desirable to provide a way to identify and authenticate aerosol generating articles as authentic to prevent damage to the aerosol generating article, device or system. It is also desirable to provide an aerosol generating article that can be classified and identified in a manufacturable and cost-effective manner. It is desirable to provide a system that can classify and identify aerosol generating articles used in an aerosol generating system. Summary of the invention

[0004] In order to provide an aerosol generating product (consumable) that can be used in an aerosol generating device, wherein the aerosol generating product can be classified and identified, and to provide a system that can identify the consumable and adjust the heating curve according to the consumable to optimize the user experience, the present disclosure provides an aerosol generating product with a dimension code. In addition, the present disclosure provides an aerosol generating device that can sense the dimension code of the aerosol generating product. On the one hand, the sensing mechanism of the aerosol generating device is a mechanical mechanism or a profilometer. The present disclosure provides a method for manufacturing an aerosol generating product with a dimension code. The present disclosure also provides a method for using an aerosol generating system that uses a classification and / or identification system when the aerosol generating product is inserted into the aerosol generating device.

[0005] Thus, according to a first aspect of the present disclosure, there is provided an aerosol-generating article comprising a dimensional code. The dimensional code comprises one of or a combination of at least one intaglio portion and at least one embossed portion. Advantageously, the dimensional code may allow an aerosol-generating device to identify the article. Advantageously, the dimensional code of the aerosol-generating article may provide classification information to the aerosol-generating device. Advantageously, the dimensional code of the aerosol-generating article may provide identification information to the aerosol-generating device. This may allow the aerosol-generating device to optimize a heating profile of the article.

[0006] The article may include a body extending along a longitudinal axis between a downstream end and an upstream end. The aerosol-generating article may include a body extending along a longitudinal axis between a downstream end and an upstream end. The body may include at least a filter and an aerosol-generating substrate in a linear arrangement from the downstream end. The outer packaging may be at least partially wrapped around the filter and the aerosol-generating substrate to form an integral aerosol-generating article. The outer packaging may include a dimensional code.

[0007] In a second aspect, the body comprises at least a filter, an optional cooling portion, an aerosol generating substrate and an optional end portion in a linear arrangement from a downstream end. The article comprises an outer packaging, which is at least partially wrapped around the filter and the aerosol generating substrate to form an integral aerosol generating article. The outer packaging comprises a dimensional code, wherein the dimensional code comprises one or a combination of at least one intaglio portion and at least one embossed portion. Advantageously, the dimensional code may allow the aerosol generating device to identify the article. This may allow the aerosol generating device to optimize the heating profile of the article.

[0008] According to a third aspect of the present disclosure, there is provided an aerosol generating device for generating an aerosol from an aerosol generating article comprising a dimensional code, the aerosol generating article being, for example, the aerosol generating article of the first aspect or the second aspect. The device comprises a power source; control electronics; and a sensor configured to sense the presence of the dimensional code of the aerosol generating article and to communicate with the control electronics. The device may comprise a heater, for example a heater configured to heat an aerosol generating substrate of the article when the article is engaged with the device, for example received in a cavity of the device, and the control electronics may be configured to control at least the heater. Advantageously, the aerosol generating device may be able to identify the aerosol generating article. This may allow the aerosol generating device to optimize the heating profile of the article.

[0009] According to a fourth aspect of the present disclosure, there is provided a method of using an aerosol generating device, for example a device according to the third aspect. The method comprises: engaging an aerosol generating article, for example an article comprising a dimension code, for example an aerosol generating article according to the first aspect or the second aspect, with the aerosol generating device, for example, inserting the article at least partially into a cavity of the aerosol generating device; sensing the presence or absence of a dimension code on the aerosol generating article; and transmitting the presence or absence of the dimension code to the control electronics. The method may comprise a step in which the control electronics controls a heater of the device based on the presence or absence of a dimension code of the aerosol generating article, or based on the identification of a specific dimension code of the aerosol generating article. Advantageously, the method may allow identification of the article and optimization of the heating curve of the article.

[0010] According to a fifth aspect of the present disclosure, there is provided a method of manufacturing an aerosol generating article, for example, an article according to the first aspect or the second aspect. The method comprises, for example, stamping, rolling, engraving or depositing, for example, by 3D printing, a dimensional code onto an outer packaging material before assembling the article. Advantageously, the method may allow one to easily and affordably manufacture an aerosol generating article having a dimensional code that is identifiable by an aerosol generating device. This may allow the aerosol generating device to optimize the heating profile of the article.

[0011] Additional or alternative features are described below, for example alternative or additional features to one or more of the first, second, third or fourth aspects.

[0012] The aerosol generating device has a sensor, such as a mechanical sensor, configured to sense the presence of a dimension code. The sensor may be configured to identify the dimension code. The sensor, such as the mechanical sensor, may be a contact sensor that senses contact with the dimension code of the aerosol generating article. When an aerosol generating article having a dimension code is inserted into an aerosol generating device having a mechanical sensor, the mechanical sensor senses the presence of the dimension code. For example, the mechanical sensor may sense the presence of the dimension code to determine that the aerosol generating article is authentic. The mechanical sensor may sense the presence of the dimension code to identify the aerosol generating article. If the aerosol generating article is determined to be authentic, the mechanical sensor may provide a signal to the control electronics in the aerosol generating device to allow the heater to heat and generate an aerosol. If an aerosol generating article without a dimension code is inserted into an aerosol generating device having a mechanical sensor, the mechanical sensor will not sense the presence of the dimension code. If the mechanical sensor does not sense the presence of the dimension code, the mechanical sensor may not send a signal to the control electronics of the aerosol generating device to activate the heater. Alternatively, the mechanical sensor may send a signal to the control electronics to not heat. Alternatively, the mechanical sensor may send a signal to the control electronics to heat or allow heating using a heating curve for an aerosol-generating article without a dimensional code.

[0013] In another example, when an aerosol-generating article having a dimensional code is inserted into an aerosol-generating device having a mechanical sensor, the mechanical sensor senses the presence of the dimensional code. For example, the mechanical sensor may sense the presence of a dimensional code that classifies the aerosol-generating article as an aerosol-generating article containing a defined aerosol-generating substrate. In this case, the aerosol-generating device may provide a signal to control electronics in the aerosol-generating device to control a heater to provide a heating curve associated with the classification of the aerosol-generating article. This may generate an optimized aerosol from the coded aerosol-generating article.

[0014] In another example, when an aerosol-generating article having a dimensional code is inserted into an aerosol-generating device having a mechanical sensor, the mechanical sensor senses the presence of the dimensional code. For example, the mechanical sensor may sense the presence of a dimensional code that identifies and classifies the aerosol-generating article. In this case, the aerosol-generating device may provide a signal to control electronics in the aerosol-generating device to turn on a heater, and optionally also control the heater to provide a heating curve associated with the classification of the aerosol-generating article. This may generate an optimized aerosol from the coded aerosol-generating article.

[0015] In some examples, the sensor includes a contactless sensor. For example, the sensor may include a light sensor. As used herein, the term light may refer to any suitable wavelength on the electromagnetic spectrum, such as optical light or infrared light. The sensor or light source of the device may emit light onto the dimensional code. The sensor may then receive the light reflected from the dimensional code. Based on the received light, the sensor may then determine or estimate one or both of the position and depth of one or more portions of one or more intaglio portions or embossed portions or both intaglio portions and embossed portions of the dimensional code. This may allow the sensor to optionally be combined with other components such as control electronics to identify the dimensional code.

[0016] The sensor can determine or estimate the depth of the dimensional code at multiple points, such as at one or both of multiple points along the longitudinal dimension of the article and multiple points around the circumference of the article. This can allow the sensor to optionally be combined with other components such as control electronics to identify the dimensional code.

[0017] The aerosol-generating article may have a cylindrical shape. The aerosol-generating article may be about 30 mm to about 120 mm in length, for example about 45 mm in length. The diameter of the aerosol-generating article may be 4 mm to about 15 mm. The diameter of the aerosol-generating article may be, for example, 7.5 mm.

[0018] The aerosol generating article may have a main body extending between a downstream end and an upstream end along a longitudinal axis, the main body comprising at least a filter and an aerosol generating substrate in a linear arrangement from the downstream end (i.e., the mouthpiece end); and also having an outer packaging, the outer packaging at least partially wrapping around the filter and the aerosol generating substrate to form an overall aerosol generating article; wherein the outer packaging comprises a dimensional code, and wherein the dimensional code comprises one of or a combination of at least one intaglio portion and at least one embossed portion.

[0019] The article is advantageous because it is an aerosol-generating article having a dimension code that provides identification information related to the aerosol-generating article. When the aerosol-generating article according to this aspect is inserted into an aerosol-generating device (forming an aerosol-generating system), a sensor of the aerosol-generating device reads the dimension code and uses the information to control the aerosol-generating device. This identification information can be used to authenticate the aerosol-generating article. In the absence of a dimension code, if the aerosol-generating article is determined to be non-authentic, the aerosol-generating device may not turn on the heater of the aerosol-generating device. Alternatively, in the absence of a dimension code, the aerosol-generating device may be heated according to a default heating curve. This identification information can be used to classify aerosol-generating articles. In the presence of a dimension code, an aerosol-generating device that has read the dimension code to identify a specific aerosol-generating article can be heated according to a specific heating curve to optimize aerosol formation from the specific aerosol-generating article.

[0020] Aerosol generation substrate can have tobacco-containing material, and this tobacco-containing material is included in the volatile tobacco flavor compound released from substrate when heating.Alternately, aerosol formation substrate can have non-tobacco material, for example herbal material or medicinal material.Aerosol formation substrate can have aerosol former.The example of suitable aerosol former is glycerol and propylene glycol.Aerosol generation substrate can have solid material.Solid material can comprise one or more of for example following: powder, particle, pellet, fragment, thin strip, strip or sheet material, it contains one or more of following: herbaceous plant leaf, tobacco leaf, cigarette rib fragment, reconstructed tobacco, homogenized tobacco, extruded tobacco and expanded tobacco.Aerosol formation substrate can comprise homogenized tobacco material, for example cast leaf tobacco.The tobacco used in aerosol generation article can be the sheet material of reconstructed tobacco for example curling, gathering, pleating, folding, gathering, winding, compression or contraction.Aerosol formation substrate can comprise additional tobacco or non-tobacco volatile flavor compound, and these compounds can release when heating substrate. The aerosol-generating substrate may comprise nicotine.The length of the aerosol-generating substrate may be between about 3 mm and about 30 mm.

[0021] The filter can have any suitable length. For example, the filter can have a length of about 27mm. For example, the filter can have a length of less than about 40mm. The filter can have a length between about 15mm and about 40mm. The filter can have a length between about 10mm and about 40mm. The filter can have a length of less than about 30mm. The filter can have a length between about 18mm and about 27mm. The filter can have a length of about 21mm. The filter can have a length of less than about 20mm.

[0022] Any suitable filter material may be used in accordance with the present invention. Examples of suitable filter materials include cellulose esters such as cellulose acetate, polylactic acid (PLA), cellulosic materials, polypropylene or any degradable filter media, or a combination or blend of any two or more filter materials. In a preferred embodiment, the filter material comprises a polymer filter material such as polylactic acid, cellulose esters and blends thereof. Preferably, the filter material comprises a cellulose ester. Examples of cellulose esters that can be used to form the filter material include cellulose acetate, cellulose propionate and cellulose butyrate with varying degrees of substitution, and mixed esters thereof. Examples of such mixed esters include cellulose acetate propionate, cellulose acetate butyrate and cellulose acetate propionate butyrate. The filter material may include cellulose acetate.

[0023] The filter may have a plasticizer. The filter may have any suitable amount of plasticizer. As used herein, a "plasticizer" is a solvent that, when applied to polymer fibers, solvent bonds the fibers together. Examples of plasticizers include triacetin (also known as triacetin), diethylene glycol diacetate, triethylene glycol diacetate, tripropionin, acetyl triethyl citrate, triethyl citrate, and mixtures of one or more thereof. One or more plasticizers may be mixed with, for example, polyethylene glycol and contacted with the polymer fibers to solvent bond the fibers together. The fibers may be contacted with an adhesive in any suitable manner. Preferably, a composition comprising the adhesive is sprayed onto the polymer fibers. The plasticizer may include triacetin. The filter material (including the plasticizer) may have any suitable tow weight or density.

[0024] The filter of the present invention is preferably formed using conventional filter manufacturing equipment. For example, the filter material can be formed from a tow band of filaments using conventional equipment. The plasticizer can be incorporated using conventional equipment. The rod pack can be arranged around the filter using conventional equipment.

[0025] Optionally, the aerosol-generating article may have a cooling portion between the filter and the aerosol-generating substrate. In this case, the aerosol-generating article may have a body extending along a longitudinal axis between a downstream end and an upstream end, the body comprising at least a filter, a cooling portion and an aerosol-generating substrate in a linear arrangement from the downstream end; and an outer packaging at least partially wrapped around the filter, the cooling portion and the aerosol-generating substrate, the outer packaging having a dimensional code.

[0026] The optional cooling portion may be a component of the aerosol-generating article located downstream of the aerosol-forming substrate, such that in use, an aerosol formed by volatile compounds released from the aerosol-forming substrate passes through the cooling portion and the aerosol cools as it passes through the cooling portion before being inhaled by the user. The cooling portion may be a hollow portion or a channel or channels. The cooling portion may be positioned between the aerosol-generating substrate and the filter portion of the aerosol-generating article.

[0027] Optionally, the aerosol-generating article may have a front portion. When the front portion is present, the aerosol-generating article may have a body extending along a longitudinal axis between a downstream end and an upstream end, the body comprising at least a filter, an optional cooling portion, an aerosol-generating substrate and a front portion in a linear arrangement from the downstream end; an outer packaging at least partially wrapped around the filter, the optional cooling portion, the aerosol-generating substrate and the front portion to form an integral aerosol-generating article, wherein the outer packaging comprises a dimensional code, and wherein the dimensional code comprises one or both of an intaglio portion and an embossed portion.

[0028] Any one or more or each of the filter, aerosol generating substrate, optional cooling portion and optional front portion may be wrapped by a stick package, for example before being wrapped with an outer package having a dimension code. The filter wrapped by the stick package may be a filter filter segment. The aerosol generating substrate wrapped by the stick package may be an aerosol generating substrate rod. The cooling portion wrapped by the stick package may be a cooling rod. The front portion wrapped by the stick package may be a front rod. Any combination may be used. That is, one or more of the parts (filter, cooling portion, aerosol generating substrate and front portion) may have a stick package before being assembled into an aerosol generating article.

[0029] The aerosol generating product may have a main body extending between a downstream end and an upstream end along a longitudinal axis, wherein the main body includes at least a filter filter segment, an optional cooling rod, an aerosol generating matrix rod, and an optional front rod in a linear arrangement from the downstream end; an outer packaging, which at least partially wraps around the filter filter segment, the optional cooling rod, the aerosol generating matrix rod, and the optional front rod to form an overall aerosol generating product; wherein the outer packaging includes a dimensional code, and wherein the dimensional code includes one or both of an intaglio portion and an embossed portion.

[0030] The dimension code may include one or both of the following: one or more intaglio portions and one or more embossed portions. The dimension code may include one or both of the following: one or more recesses and one or more protrusions from the surface of the article, for example, from the surface of the outer packaging of the article. The one or more intaglio portions of the dimension code may be or include one or more recesses. The one or more embossed portions may be or include one or more protrusions.

[0031] Where one or more recesses are present or where one or more intaglio portions are present, the recesses or intaglio portions do not extend completely through the component or components in which they are formed. That is, recesses and intaglio portions are not orifices. Recesses and intaglio portions have depth. "Depth" is defined herein and may refer to the measurement from the outer surface of a component to the top of an embossed portion or protrusion, or from the outer surface of a component to the bottom of an intaglio portion or recess. An orifice in a component does not have depth.

[0032] Dimension code can be the deformation of producing intaglio part, embossed part or its combination in outer packaging.Can have orifice, incision or slit in outer packaging to allow air to pass through incision or slit in outer packaging.Can not have incision or slit.However, as explained above, orifice, incision or slit in outer packaging are separated and different from dimension code.For example, dimension code has depth." depth " is defined in this article, and can mean the top of the embossed part from the outer surface of outer packaging to dimension code, or the measured value of the bottom of the intaglio part from the outer surface of outer packaging to dimension code.Orifice, incision or slit mean outer packaging and do not have bottom (because there is hole in outer packaging), can not limit depth, and therefore can not limit embossed or intaglio part.

[0033] The dimensional code may be or may include a line. The dimensional code may be or may include at least two lines, for example at least two parallel lines. If there are multiple lines, the lines may have different depths and widths. The dimensional code may be at least one line. The dimensional code may be or may include at least one line extending along the longitudinal axis of the body of the aerosol generating article. The dimensional code may be or may include at least one line perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the body of the aerosol generating article. In the case where the aerosol generating article is a cylinder, the dimensional code may extend around the circumference of the cylindrical aerosol generating article. Alternatively, the dimensional code may include one or more lines extending at least 270 degrees, for example 360 ​​degrees, around the circumference of the article. The dimensional code may be or may include a combination of lines extending along the longitudinal body of the aerosol generating article. The dimensional code may be or may include a combination of lines perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the body of the aerosol generating article.

[0034] Unless otherwise specified, references herein to lines that may be part of a dimensional code may refer to either or both of an intaglio line and a relief line. Similarly, references herein to points that may be part of a dimensional code may refer to either or both of an intaglio point and a relief point, unless otherwise specified.

[0035] The dimensional code may be provided to the outer packaging material by any suitable means, including, for example, injection, engraving, pressing, stamping, laser engraving, rolling, scraping, embossing, 3-D printing, photolithography, or by other means. The dimensional code may be provided to the outer packaging material before the aerosol generating article is assembled. For example, the dimensional code may be rolled into the outer packaging material before the aerosol generating article is assembled. The dimensional code may be pressed into the outer packaging material before the aerosol generating article is assembled. The dimensional code may be stamped into the outer packaging material before the aerosol generating article is assembled. The dimensional code may be provided to the outer packaging material after the aerosol generating article is assembled.

[0036] The article may include a tape or sticker. The dimension code may be a tape or sticker added to the outer surface of the outer packaging material, or may be a part of the tape or sticker. The outer packaging may be considered to include a tape or sticker. In this case, the outer packaging may include a first package and a tape or sticker added to the outer surface of the first package. Such a tape or sticker may be formed by any suitable material, such as paper, plastic, metal, resin or other material. The tape or sticker itself may form at least a part of the dimension code. The tape or sticker may be textured to provide the dimension code. For example, the tape or sticker may be processed to provide the dimension code by, for example, injection, engraving, pressing, stamping, laser engraving, rolling, scratching, embossing, 3D printing, photolithography or other means. If the tape or sticker provides the dimension code, the tape or sticker and the optional dimension code may not cover the part of the aerosol generating article containing the aerosol generating substrate or may not overlap with the part. This may prevent the material of the tape or sticker from heating and aerosolization. Alternatively, the tape or sticker may cover the part of the aerosol generating article containing the aerosol generating substrate or may overlap with the part. This may help to thermally insulate the aerosol generating substrate.

[0037] The dimensional code may be or may include one or more dots. The dots may be of any shape. The dots may be circular. The dots may be square. The dots may be rectangular. The dots may be elongated. The dots may be a pattern. One or more dots may be intaglio or relief. One or more dots may be provided in a pattern. The pattern of dots may be along the longitudinal axis of the body of the aerosol generating article. The pattern of dots may be perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the aerosol generating article. The dots may be provided in a random or pseudo-random array. Any pattern, such as any pattern of dots, may be repeated, such as around the circumference of the article or along the longitudinal axis of the article.

[0038] The dimensional code may be a combination of one or more dots and one or more lines. The combination of one or more dots and one or more lines may form a pattern along the longitudinal axis of the body of the aerosol-generating article. The combination of one or more dots and one or more lines may form a pattern perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the aerosol-generating article.

[0039] The aerosol generating device may be a handheld device. The aerosol generating device may be substantially cylindrical in shape. The aerosol generating device may be reusable. The aerosol generating article may be disposable or consumable. The aerosol generating device may have a cylindrical shape. The aerosol generating device may have a polygonal cross-section. The outer diameter of the aerosol generating device may be between about 12.7 mm and about 15 mm. The outer diameter of the aerosol generating device may be between about 12.7 mm and about 14.2 mm. The outer diameter may be between about 12.7 and about 13.65 mm. If the aerosol generating device is polygonal, this outer diameter may be measured from edge to opposite edge (i.e., from the intersection of two faces on one side of the aerosol generating device to the corresponding intersection on the other side).

[0040] The aerosol generating device may be configured to engage with an aerosol generating article. The aerosol generating device may have a cavity for receiving the aerosol generating article. The aerosol generating device may have a power source such as a battery, control electronics, and when the aerosol generating article is engaged with the aerosol generating device, such as inserted into the cavity of the aerosol generating device, the control electronics at least adjust the heater to heat the aerosol generating substrate of the aerosol generating article. The control electronics may also adjust other features, such as feedback features, such as lights, vibration generators, batteries, charging or sensors, including mechanical sensors that sense dimensional codes. The aerosol generating device also has an airflow path, and when the aerosol generating article is inserted into the aerosol generating device, the airflow path allows air to flow through the aerosol generating article.

[0041] The aerosol generating device has a heater. The heater is controlled by control electronics and powered by a battery. The heater heats the aerosol generating substrate of the aerosol generating article to form an aerosol. The heater may be an induction heater or a resistive heater. The heater may be an internal heater, meaning that the heater is inside the aerosol generating substrate of the aerosol generating article when heating occurs. The internal heater may be a pin or sheet as part of the aerosol generating device, which is inserted into the aerosol generating substrate when the aerosol generating article is inserted into the cavity of the aerosol generating device. Alternatively, the internal heater may be an induction heater configured to heat a susceptor contained in the aerosol generating substrate of the aerosol generating article. The susceptor may be heated when an induced magnetic field from a coil located in the aerosol generating device is applied. The heater may be an external heater, meaning that heat is provided to the aerosol generating substrate surrounding the aerosol generating device. For example, a resistive heater may surround the cavity of the aerosol generating device to heat the aerosol generating substrate of the aerosol generating article from these heating elements.

[0042] The heater is controlled by control electronics located in the aerosol generating device. The control electronics may receive input from a number of sensors. For example, the control electronics may receive input from a battery, from external user-operated input (e.g., an on / off button), from a Bluetooth device or data (cell phone information, location data, ambient temperature data, etc.), from a heater, from a mechanical sensor, or from other sensors. The control electronics may provide control signals to a number of outputs. For example, the control electronics may control a heater, a battery, an external output (e.g., providing feedback to a user in the form of light, sound, vibration, or other user output), or other outputs of the aerosol generating device.

[0043] The aerosol generating device has a sensor. At least a portion of the sensor may be attached to or associated with a wall defining a cavity, the cavity being configured to receive an article. At least a portion of the sensor may be located on or adjacent to a wall defining a cavity, the cavity being configured to receive an article. At least a portion of the sensor may extend into the cavity. The sensor may be a mechanical sensor. The mechanical sensor is, for example, a mechanical profilometer. The mechanical sensor may have a probe at one end, the probe contacting the aerosol generating article during use. The device may include a biasing member for biasing the probe into the cavity, for example, toward the center of the cavity. The biasing member may be, for example, a spring or a flexible material. The biasing member may be, for example, a flexible member having a bend that biases the biasing member toward the center of the cavity. The biasing member may be metal. This may ensure that the probe contacts the article when the article is received in the cavity. This may ensure that the probe continuously contacts the article when the article is received in the cavity. This may ensure that the probe contacts the dimension code of the article when the article is received in the cavity.

[0044] The probe can be connected to a stylus. When the probe contacts an aerosol generating article inserted into the cavity of the aerosol generating device, the probe moves along the contour of the aerosol generating article having a dimensional code. When the aerosol generating article is inserted into the cavity of the aerosol generating device, the probe can move along the contour of the aerosol generating article. When the aerosol generating article rotates or twists in the cavity of the aerosol generating device, the probe can move along the contour of the aerosol generating article. When the aerosol generating article is removed or partially removed and reinserted into the cavity of the aerosol generating device, the probe can move along the contour of the aerosol generating article. The movement of the probe can be provided to the transducer via the movement of the stylus, and the movement of the stylus is, for example, translation and / or pivoting around a pivot. Therefore, the mechanical movement of the probe is converted into an electrical signal. The transducer can utilize capacitive sensing. For example, a conductive article connected to the stylus is introduced between two conductors forming two plates of a capacitor. The transducer can utilize induction. For example, the induced current and voltage in the coil can change according to the position of the ferromagnetic core connected to the stylus. This is an example of a linear variable differential transformer or LVDT. The transducer may utilize piezoelectric sensing. For example, the stylus end may be captured in a piezoelectric material. The mechanical sensor generates an electromechanical signal. The mechanical sensor generates an electromechanical output to the control electronics of the aerosol generating device.

[0045] The mechanical sensor may be aligned inside the cavity of the aerosol generating device such that the stylus of the sensor is aligned perpendicular to the dimensional code of the aerosol generating article. For example, if the dimensional code of the aerosol generating article is aligned perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the aerosol generating article, the stylus of the mechanical sensor is aligned along the longitudinal axis of the aerosol generating device. Alternatively, if the dimensional code of the aerosol generating article is aligned parallel to the longitudinal axis of the aerosol generating article, the stylus of the mechanical sensor is aligned perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the aerosol generating device.

[0046] If the dimensional code of the aerosol generating article is aligned perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the aerosol generating article, the dimensional code is aligned around the circumference of the cylindrical aerosol generating article. The stylus of the mechanical sensor of the associated aerosol generating device is aligned parallel to the longitudinal axis of the cavity of the aerosol generating device. When the aerosol generating article is inserted into the aerosol generating device, the probe of the mechanical sensor moves along the contour of the dimensional code. The probe is attached to the stylus. When the probe moves along the contour of the dimensional code, the stylus translates or pivots around a pivot. This movement is transferred to the transducer. The transducer converts the movement of the stylus into an electrical signal. This electrical signal is received by the control electronics. In response to the electrical signal received by the control electronics, the control electronics sends instructions to, for example, a heater.

[0047] If the dimensional code of the aerosol-generating article is aligned around the circumference of the cylindrical aerosol-generating article, the stylus of the associated aerosol-generating device is aligned with the longitudinal axis of the cavity of the aerosol-generating device so that the probe can read the dimensional code when the aerosol-generating article is inserted into the cavity of the aerosol-generating device. The stylus of the mechanical sensor may be aligned with the longitudinal axis of the aerosol-generating device, or may be aligned perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the aerosol-generating device.

[0048] For example, if the dimensional code of the aerosol generating article is aligned with the longitudinal axis of the aerosol generating article, the stylus of the associated aerosol generating device is aligned perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the aerosol generating device. In this embodiment, the user inserts the aerosol generating article into the aerosol generating device and then rotates the aerosol generating article within the cavity of the aerosol generating device. As the aerosol generating article rotates, the probe of the mechanical sensor can traverse and "read" the outline of the dimensional code. The movement of the probe as it traverses the outline of the dimensional code is transferred to the transducer via the movement of the stylus about the pivot. The transducer converts the movement of the stylus into an electrical signal. This electrical signal is received by the control electronics. In response to the electrical signal received by the control electronics, the control electronics sends an instruction to, for example, a heater.

[0049] Alternatively, instead of the probe moving against the aerosol generating article when the aerosol generating article is inserted into the aerosol generating device, the aerosol generating device may have a movable portion or "ring" that can move against the inserted aerosol generating article. In this way, with the probe attached to the movable portion or ring of the cavity of the aerosol generating device, the probe can be moved by moving the probe against the contour of the dimensional code, rather than by movement of the aerosol generating article relative to the cavity of the aerosol generating device. In either case, the probe moves relative to the article. This can allow the probe to read the dimensional code of the article. When the probe traverses the contour of the dimensional code, the movement of the probe attached to the movable portion or ring is transferred to the transducer via the movement of the stylus around the pivot. The transducer converts the movement of the stylus into an electrical signal. This electrical signal is received by the control electronics. In response to the electrical signal received by the control electronics, the control electronics sends instructions to, for example, a heater.

[0050] The dimensional code of the aerosol-generating article may be sufficiently different from the inherent texture of the outer packaging to provide movement of the probe sufficient to trigger the electromechanical signal. For example, the lines or dots of the dimensional code should have sufficient depth and width to move the probe when the aerosol-generating article moves against the probe and provides an electromechanical signal to the control electronics of the aerosol-generating device. The dimensional code should provide one or both of an intaglio portion or an embossed portion, or a combination of an intaglio portion and an embossed portion, that is distinguishable from the overall texture of the outer packaging.

[0051] The dimensional code may be one or more lines or one or more dots or a combination of one or more lines and one or more dots. When the dimensional code is at least two lines, the at least two lines may be parallel to each other.

[0052] The dimensional code may include a pattern that is not parallel lines. For example, the texture may consist of an array or pseudo-random distribution of dots. In this case, a mechanical sensor may detect the actual or average "roughness" of the dimensional code. "Roughness" may be, for example, the ratio between the height and width of the dimensional code. The dimensional code may also contain information such as the number of dots with the greatest depth (engraving) or height (embossing), the sequence of dots, or the number of dots. These patterns of dots may define dimensional codes for classification and identification. The pattern and encoding of dots may be able to give the same type of result regardless of the orientation of the aerosol generating article when inserted. The dimensional code provided by a pattern of dots may be advantageous because it may be more difficult for a counterfeiter to copy.

[0053] The dimension code may provide a "start" code. The start code is the first part of the dimension code sensed by the sensor of the aerosol generating device. In order to ensure that the information retrieved from the dimension code is complete and not partially copied, a portion of the dimension code may be a "stop" code. The stop code is the last part of the dimension code sensed by the sensor of the aerosol generating device. For example, when the aerosol generating article is inserted into the cavity of the aerosol generating device, the upstream end is inserted first, and the part of the dimension code closest to the upstream end of the aerosol generating article is first sensed by the sensor in the cavity of the aerosol generating device. This may be the "start" code. Then, as the aerosol generating article continues to be inserted into the cavity of the aerosol generating device, the sensor may sense additional features of the dimension code. The part of the dimension code farthest from the upstream end of the aerosol generating article will be the last part of the dimension code sensed by the sensor in the cavity of the aerosol generating device. This may be a "stop" code.

[0054] The start code and the stop code may exist alone or in combination. For a series of aerosol generating articles used with an aerosol generating device having a mechanical sensor, this start code and stop code may exist. For example, if the start code is recognized by the mechanical sensor, a signal may be sent to the control electronics to remind the device that an aerosol generating article with a dimension code is in the aerosol generating device. This may trigger the control electronics to instruct the heater to heat. If the start code is not recognized, a signal may be sent to the control electronics to remind the device that an aerosol generating article without a dimension code is in the aerosol generating device. This may trigger the control electronics to instruct the heater not to heat. Or this may trigger the control electronics to instruct the heater to heat according to a default heating curve. If the start code is recognized, the mechanical sensor may continue to read the dimension code after the start code. The information read by the mechanical sensor after the start code may be a code associated with a specific aerosol generating article. The code associated with a specific aerosol generating article may trigger the control electronics to instruct the heater to heat according to a heating curve specific to the specific aerosol generating article. The code associated with a specific aerosol generating article may be a classification code. The stop code may or may not be present. If the mechanical sensor reads a stop code, this may signal the control electronics that the dimension code is complete. The start and stop codes may advantageously ensure the authenticity of the dimension code and may provide alignment information and accuracy checks for the dimension code and mechanical sensor system.

[0055] The depth of dimension code should be greater than the variation depth found in the outer packaging material that does not contain dimension code.For the purpose of this disclosure, "depth" means the top of the embossed part of dimension code from the outer surface of the parts (such as outer packaging) that form dimension code, or the measured value at the bottom of the intaglio part of dimension code.This depth measurement should be carried out from the outer surface of parts to the highest point of embossed dimension code or to the lowest point of intaglio dimension code.Dimension code or at least a portion of dimension code can have the depth of at least 0.1,0.2,0.25,0.3 or 0.4mm.Dimension code or at least a portion of dimension code can have the depth of no more than 1,0.9,0.8,0.75,0.7,0.6 or 0.5mm.The depth of dimension code can be, for example, 0.1 to 1mm.The depth of dimension code can be, for example, 0.25mm.The depth of dimension code can be, for example, 0.5mm.The depth of dimension code can be, for example, between 0.25 and 0.5mm.

[0056] Whether it is a line or a point, the dimensional code can have a width. For the purpose of this disclosure, "width" means the edge-to-edge measurement of the line or point of the embossed or intaglio dimensional code. The measurement should be taken from the widest point of the line or point. Whether the dimensional code element is a line or a point, "width" is the measurement of the dimensional code element and is independent of the orientation of the dimensional code. That is, regardless of whether the dimensional code is oriented perpendicular to or parallel to the longitudinal axis of the aerosol generating article, the measurement of the width is carried out from the edge to the edge of the dimensional code element. The dimensional code or at least a portion of the dimensional code may have a width of at least 0.2, 0.4, 0.5, 0.6, 0.8 or 1mm. The dimensional code or at least a portion of the dimensional code may have a width of no more than 3, 2.5, 2 or 1.5mm. The dimensional code may have a width of 0.2mm to 3mm. For example, whether it is intaglio or embossment, the dimensional code may have a width of 0.2 to 3mm. Whether it is intaglio or embossment, the dimensional code may have a width of 0.5mm. Whether it is intaglio or relief, the dimension code can have a width of 1mm. Whether it is intaglio or relief, the dimension code can have a width of 1.5mm. Whether it is intaglio or relief, the dimension code can have a width between 0.5 and 1.5mm. Whether it is intaglio or relief, the dimension code can have a width between 0.5 and 1.5mm, and can include multiple widths. Multiple widths can be in the form of parallel lines arranged adjacent to each other. The spacing between multiple parallel lines or multiple points can be, for example, less than 4mm. Multiple parallel lines or multiple points can be at most 4mm, with a step of 0.5mm. The spacing between two adjacent relief parts of the dimension code, or between the intaglio part and the adjacent relief part, or between two adjacent intaglio parts (for example, between two adjacent parallel lines) is less than 8mm, preferably less than 4mm.

[0057] These depths and widths can be modified. For example, these depths and widths can depend on the size and shape of the probe.

[0058] As can be seen, there are many combinations of lines or dots or lines and dots that can be generated to form a dimensional code. Taking two potential depths of the dimensional code as, for example, 0.5 mm and 0.25 mm, and three potential widths of the lines as, for example, 0.5 mm, 1 mm and 1.5 mm, there are about 2*3=6 combinations of each line and 8 combinations of spacing. For example, if there are 4 lines, there are 6*8*6*8*6*8*6*6=663552 possible combinations to define a dimensional code on an aerosol-generating article. These combinations can be provided along a relatively small length of the aerosol-generating article, for example, along an 18 mm length of the aerosol-generating article. This is advantageous because such variability and combinations of combinations of depth and width can provide many codes that can be used to identify and classify aerosol-generating articles.

[0059] An additional dimension of the dimensional code is the time that the contact sensor contacts the dimensional code of the aerosol generating article. The "insertion speed" of the aerosol generating article can affect the reading of the width of the line or dot. The specific width of the line and the specific spacing between the lines are evaluated in view of the insertion speed. The "insertion speed" of the aerosol generating article can be evaluated by having a convention about the size of the texture read by the sensor. This convention can be provided by a lookup table accessible to the control electronics. For example, in the case where the dimensional code is a parallel line arranged perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the aerosol generating article, when the aerosol generating article is inserted into the cavity of the aerosol generating device, the mechanical sensor will sense the start code, optionally sense the additional dimensional code information, and then sense the stop code. The start code can be a start line. The stop code can be a stop line. The start code can be a dot or an array of dots. The stop code can be a dot or an array of dots. The start code may be present or absent. The stop code may be present or absent. In the case where the dimensional code is a dot or an array of dots, when the aerosol generating article is inserted into the cavity of the aerosol generating device, the mechanical sensor will sense the start code. The distance between the start code of the dimension code captured by the contact sensor and the stop code that ends the dimension code (which has no other meaning than marking the end of the dimension code) can be fixed to 20mm by convention, for example, and the insertion speed can be estimated as 20mm divided by the time from the code line to the stop code.

[0060] With the dimensional code aligned parallel to the longitudinal axis of the aerosol generating article, the sensor can read the spacing between the lines or dots as the aerosol generating article rotates within the cavity of the aerosol generating device. There may be a start code, such as a start line or dot, followed by optional additional dimensional code information and a stop code, such as a stop line or dot. The start code can ensure that the aerosol generating article or the sensor does not rotate several times around the aerosol generating article. If the circumference of the aerosol generating article is known (e.g., it has a diameter of 7.4 mm and therefore a circumference of 23 mm), the (rotational) speed can be estimated as 23 mm divided by the time to read the start code twice. The start code can be, for example, a unique dimensional code. For example, the start code can be a line with 2 consecutive different depths of 0.25 mm and 0.5 mm.

[0061] The classification coding may be direct, to associate a consumable with one of the combinations of texture portions.

[0062] The information of the dimension code can be used to classify the aerosol generating article. The sensor of the aerosol generating device can record the classification and send this data to the control electronics of the aerosol generating device. The control electronics can adjust its settings, such as its heating curve, to optimize the smoking experience for the type of aerosol generating article identified by the classification. The control electronics can send instructions to the heater to execute the identified heating curve. Or, for example, in the case where the aerosol generating device is connected to a network or a smartphone, the control electronics can send feedback to the manufacturer.

[0063] The information of the dimension code may be used to authenticate the aerosol-generating article. For example, if the sensor does not recognize the dimension code, the aerosol-generating device may not be activated. The heater may not be turned on. In this case, for the aerosol-generating device, a valid dimension code may be required for the aerosol-generating article to be considered authentic. Unless the dimension code is detected, the device may be locked. Unless a valid dimension code is detected, the device may be locked.

[0064] Each time an aerosol-generating article is inserted into the RRD, the dimension code may be recorded by the aerosol-generating device and sent to the manufacturer, allowing the manufacturer to assess the quantity of a particular aerosol-generating article with the dimension code that has been consumed. The manufacturer may change the dimension codes acceptable to the aerosol-generating device as stocks run out, as new aerosol-generating articles are introduced, and in response to the presence of counterfeit aerosol-generating articles. The manufacturer may also track the presence of a particular aerosol-generating article in a particular jurisdiction.

[0065] The measurements or data from the sensor can be compared with a database of stored measurements or data corresponding to one or more stored dimension codes. The device may include a database. This can allow the device to compare the sensed dimension code with one or more stored dimension codes. This can allow the device to determine that the sensed dimension code corresponds to one of the one or more stored dimension codes. The device or the control electronics of the device can control the device, such as the heater of the device, based on determining that the sensed dimension code corresponds to one of the one or more stored dimension codes. This control may depend on which dimension code of the one or more stored dimension codes corresponds to the sensed dimension code. For example, each of the one or more stored dimension codes can be associated with a heating curve. The device or the control electronics of the device can control the heater based on the heating curve of the stored dimension code corresponding to the sensed dimension code.

[0066] This dimension code system may be combined with additional sensors and feedback mechanisms. For example, the aerosol generating device may have a separate sensor to determine that an aerosol generating article has been inserted into the cavity of the aerosol generating device. If an authentic aerosol generating article is sensed, a signal may be provided to the consumer in the form of light, sound, vibration, a message on an associated device such as a cell phone, other feedback, or a combination of these. If an aerosol generating article is inserted into the aerosol generating device and the article is determined to be non-authentic, a signal may be provided to the consumer in the form of light, sound, vibration, a message on an associated device such as a cell phone, other feedback, or a combination of these.

[0067] For purposes of this disclosure and subject to the further description contained herein, "aerosol-generating article" means an article having an aerosol-generating substrate that is capable of releasing volatile compounds that can form an aerosol. Aerosol-generating articles are consumable or disposable.

[0068] For the purposes of this disclosure and subject to the further description contained herein, "aerosol-generating substrate" means a substrate that is capable of releasing volatile compounds that can form an aerosol.

[0069] For purposes of the present disclosure and subject to the further description contained herein, an "aerosol-generating device" means a device that interacts with an aerosol-forming article to generate an aerosol.

[0070] For purposes of this disclosure and subject to the further description contained herein, "intaglio" means a groove, cavity, notch, depression, pit, groove, cut, indentation, recess or gouge extending from an outer surface of a component of an aerosol-generating article (e.g., an outer packaging) on ​​which the dimensional code is formed toward the interior of the aerosol-generating article. An "intaglio" dimensional code is not a cut or slit extending all the way through a component (e.g., an outer packaging). The dimensional code may be at least partially intaglio.

[0071] For purposes of this disclosure and subject to the further description contained herein, "embossment" means a protrusion, bump, protuberance, projection, ridge or convexity extending upwardly away from the interior of the aerosol-generating article from an outer surface of a component of the aerosol-generating article (e.g., an outer packaging) that forms a dimensional code. The dimensional code may be at least partially embossed.

[0072] For the purposes of this disclosure and subject to the further description contained herein, as used herein, the singular forms "a", "an", and "the" also encompass embodiments having plural referents, unless the content clearly dictates otherwise.

[0073] For purposes of this disclosure and subject to the further description contained herein, "or" is generally used in its sense including "and / or" unless the content clearly dictates otherwise. The term "and / or" means one or all of the listed elements or a combination of any two or more of the listed elements.

[0074] For purposes of this disclosure and subject to the further description contained herein, the words "have," "having," "include," "including," "comprise," "comprising," or similar terms are used in their open-ended sense and generally mean "including but not limited to." It should be understood that "consisting essentially of," "consisting of," and the like are subsumed under "comprising," and the like.

[0075] For purposes of this disclosure and subject to the further description contained herein, the words "preferred" and "preferably" refer to embodiments of the invention that may provide certain benefits under certain circumstances. However, other embodiments may also be preferred under the same or other circumstances. Furthermore, the recitation of one or more preferred embodiments does not imply that other embodiments are not useful, and is not intended to exclude other embodiments from the scope of the present disclosure, including the claims.

[0076] As used herein, "providing" in the context of providing a device or system means manufacturing the device or system, purchasing the device or system, or otherwise acquiring the device or system.

[0077] Any directions mentioned herein, such as "top", "bottom", "left", "right", "up", "down" and other directions or orientations are described for the sake of clarity and conciseness, but are not intended to limit the actual device or system. The devices and systems described herein can be used in multiple directions and orientations.

[0078] For purposes of the present disclosure and subject to the further description contained herein, "downstream" means the end of the aerosol-generating article that is intended to be contacted by the mouth of a user.

[0079] For purposes of this disclosure and subject to the further description contained herein, "depth" means the measurement from the outer surface of the component (e.g., outer packaging) in which the dimensional code is formed to the top of the embossed portion of the dimensional code, or from the outer surface of the component (e.g., outer packaging) in which the dimensional code is formed to the bottom of the intaglio portion of the dimensional code. The depth measurement should be made from the outer surface of the component (e.g., outer packaging material) in which the dimensional code is formed to the highest point of the embossed portion of the dimensional code or the lowest point of the intaglio portion of the dimensional code. An orifice, slit, or cutout in a component or outer packaging does not have depth because there is no bottom of the intaglio dimensional code. The depth is independent of the orientation of the dimensional code. That is, whether the dimensional code is parallel or perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the aerosol generating article, the "depth" is measured in the manner described.

[0080] For purposes of this disclosure and subject to the further description contained herein, "width" means the edge-to-edge measurement of a line or dot of an embossed or intaglio dimensional code. The measurement should be taken from the widest point of the line or dot. For example, where the width of a line or dot varies along its depth, reference to the width of a line or dot refers to the maximum width of the line or dot along its depth. "Width" is a measurement of a dimensional code element, regardless of whether the dimensional code element is a line or a dot. "Width" is independent of the orientation of the dimensional code. That is, regardless of whether the dimensional code is oriented perpendicular to or parallel to the longitudinal axis of the aerosol-generating article, the width is measured from edge to edge of the dimensional code element. Therefore, for a line extending around the circumference of the article, the width of the line is measured in the longitudinal direction. And for a line extending longitudinally along the article, the width of the line is measured in the circumferential direction.

[0081] For purposes of this disclosure and subject to the further description contained herein, "upstream" means the end of the aerosol-generating article that is inserted into the aerosol-generating device and the end opposite the downstream end of the aerosol-generating article.

[0082] For purposes of this disclosure and subject to the further description contained herein, "unitary" means a single article made from assembled parts.

[0083] For purposes of this disclosure and subject to the further description contained herein, "dot" means a feature of the dimensional code described herein that is not a line. That is, a "dot" can be circular, square, rectangular, triangular, polygonal, pyramidal, circular, triangular, prism, cuboid, or any shape, and can have regular or irregular sidewalls. The dot can be any shape. The dot can be concave or intaglio. The dot can protrude from the surface or be in relief.

[0084] The present invention is defined in the claims. However, a non-exhaustive list of non-limiting examples is provided below. Any one or more features of one example, embodiment or aspect described herein may be combined with any one or more features of another example, embodiment or aspect described herein.

[0085] For example, any one or more features described with respect to an article can be combined with any one or more features described with respect to an apparatus, system, or method. Similarly, any one or more features described with respect to an apparatus can be combined with any one or more features described with respect to a system or method. And any one or more features described with respect to a system can be combined with any one or more features described with respect to a method.

[0086] Example Ex (1): An aerosol generating article, comprising a main body extending along a longitudinal axis between a downstream end and an upstream end; the main body comprises at least an optional filter, an optional cooling portion, an aerosol generating substrate and an optional end portion in a linear arrangement from the downstream end; an outer packaging, when the filter is present, the outer packaging at least partially wraps around the filter and the aerosol generating substrate to form an integral aerosol generating article; wherein the outer packaging comprises a dimensional code; wherein the dimensional code comprises one or a combination of at least one intaglio portion and at least one embossed portion.

[0087] Example Ex(2): An aerosol-generating article according to example Ex1, wherein one or more or all of the filter, the optional cooling portion, the aerosol-generating substrate and the optional end portion comprise a stick pack.

[0088] Example Ex (3): An aerosol-generating article according to example Ex 1 or 2, wherein the dimensional code comprises at least one line, preferably one or both of an intaglio line and a relief line.

[0089] Example Ex (4): An aerosol-generating article according to any of the preceding examples, wherein the dimensional code comprises at least two parallel lines, preferably one or more of the following: two parallel intaglio lines; two parallel relief lines; and parallel intaglio and relief lines.

[0090] Example Ex (5): An aerosol-generating article according to any of the preceding examples, wherein the dimensional code comprises at least one dot, preferably one or both of an intaglio dot and an embossed dot.

[0091] Example Ex (6): An aerosol-generating article according to any one of Examples Ex1-5, wherein the dimensional code comprises a plurality of dots, preferably one or more of the following: a plurality of intaglio dots; a plurality of embossed dots; and at least one intaglio dot and at least one embossed dot.

[0092] Example Ex(7): An aerosol-generating article according to example Ex6, wherein the plurality of dots form a pattern.

[0093] Example Ex (8): An aerosol-generating article according to any of the preceding examples, wherein the dimensional code comprises a combination of at least one line and a plurality of dots, preferably a combination of at least one intaglio line and / or relief line and a plurality of intaglio dots and / or relief dots.

[0094] Example Ex (9): An aerosol-generating article according to any of the preceding examples, wherein the dimensional code is perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the body of the article.

[0095] Example Ex(10): An aerosol-generating article according to any one of Examples Ex1-8, wherein the dimensional code is aligned with the longitudinal axis of the body.

[0096] Example Ex (11): An aerosol-generating article according to any of the preceding examples, wherein the outer packaging comprises a tape or a sticker, optionally wherein the tape or sticker comprises at least a portion of the dimensional code.

[0097] Example Ex (12): An aerosol-generating article according to any of the preceding examples, wherein the depth of one or both of the intaglio and relief portions of the dimensional code is between 0.1 mm and 1 mm, preferably between 0.25 mm and 0.5 mm.

[0098] Example Ex (13): An aerosol-generating article according to any of the preceding examples, wherein the spacing between two adjacent embossed portions of the dimensional code, or between an intaglio portion and an adjacent embossed portion, or between two adjacent intaglio portions, for example between two adjacent parallel lines, is less than 8 mm, preferably less than 4 mm.

[0099] Example Ex (14): An aerosol-generating article according to any of the preceding examples, wherein one or both of the intaglio and relief portions of the dimensional code has a width between 0.2 and 3 mm, preferably a width between 0.5 and 1.5 mm.

[0100] Example Ex (15): An aerosol generating device for generating an aerosol from an aerosol generating article, wherein the aerosol generating article is, for example, an aerosol generating article according to any of the preceding examples, the device comprising a power source; control electronics; and a sensor configured to sense the presence of a dimensional code of the aerosol generating article and communicate with the control electronics.

[0101] Example Ex (15A): An aerosol-generating device according to Example 15, comprising a cavity for receiving at least a portion of the aerosol-generating article.

[0102] Example Ex (15B): An aerosol generating device according to Example 15 or 15A, wherein the dimensional code comprises one or more recesses and / or one or more protrusions relative to the surface of the article.

[0103] Example Ex (15C): An aerosol generating device according to Example 15 or 15A or 15B, wherein the dimensional code comprises one or a combination of at least one intaglio portion and at least one embossed portion.

[0104] Example Ex (16): An aerosol generating device according to Example Ex15 or 15A or 15B or 15C, wherein the device includes a heater, for example a heater configured to heat the aerosol generating substrate of the article when the article is received in the device, and optionally wherein the control electronic device is configured to control at least the heater.

[0105] Example Ex(16A): An aerosol generating device according to example Ex16, wherein the heater is or comprises an inductor for heating a susceptor heating element, such as a susceptor heating element in the aerosol generating article.

[0106] Example Ex(16A): An aerosol generating device according to example Ex16, wherein the heater is or includes a resistive heating element.

[0107] Example Ex(17): An aerosol generating device according to any one of Examples Ex15-16, wherein the sensor comprises a mechanical sensor.

[0108] Example Ex(18): An aerosol generating device according to any one of Examples Ex15-17, wherein the sensor is a contact sensor configured to contact the dimensional code.

[0109] Example Ex(19): An aerosol generating device according to any one of Examples Ex15-18, wherein the sensor comprises a profilometer.

[0110] Example Ex(20): An aerosol generating device according to example Ex19, wherein the profilometer comprises a probe configured to engage with the dimensional code and cause the arm to translate and / or pivot about a pivot point, optionally providing a signal to a transducer.

[0111] Example Ex (21): An aerosol generating device according to any one of Examples Ex16-20, wherein when the sensor senses the dimension code, the sensor sends a signal to the control electronics to provide or allow power to be provided to the heater.

[0112] Example Ex (21A): An aerosol generating device according to any of Examples Ex16-21, wherein the sensor is configured to identify the dimensional code, for example to classify the dimensional code into a specific dimensional code category among a plurality of dimensional code categories.

[0113] Example Ex (21B): An aerosol generating device according to any of Examples Ex21A, wherein the sensor is configured to send a signal identifying the dimension code to the control electronics, for example to send a signal indicating a specific dimension code category among a plurality of dimension code categories to the control electronics.

[0114] Example Ex (21C): An aerosol generating device according to any one of Examples Ex21B, wherein the control electronics are configured to provide or allow power to be provided to the heater based on identification of the dimension code, for example, wherein the control electronics are configured to provide or allow power to be provided to the heater based on a particular dimension code category among a plurality of dimension code categories.

[0115] Example Ex (22): An aerosol generating device according to any one of Examples Ex15-21, further comprising a counter, wherein the sensor communicates with the counter.

[0116] Example Ex (23): An aerosol generating device according to any one of Examples Ex15-22, further comprising a feedback element, wherein the sensor communicates with the feedback element to provide feedback to the user.

[0117] Example Ex (24): An aerosol generating system, comprising an aerosol generating device according to any one of Examples Ex15-23 and an aerosol generating article comprising a dimensional code, such as an aerosol generating article according to any one of Examples Ex1-14.

[0118] Example Ex (25): A method for using an aerosol generating device according to any one of Examples Ex15-23, comprising: inserting an aerosol generating article, such as an aerosol generating article including a dimension code, such as an aerosol generating article according to any one of Examples Ex1 to 14, at least partially into the cavity of the aerosol generating device; sensing the presence or absence of the dimension code on the aerosol generating article; and transmitting the presence or absence of the dimension code to the control electronic device; optionally, wherein the control electronic device controls the heater of the device based on the presence or absence of the dimension code or based on the recognition of the dimension code of the aerosol generating article.

[0119] Example Ex(26): A method according to Example Ex25, wherein the method comprises engaging the article with a sensor of the device, for example during or after inserting the article into a cavity of the device, optionally wherein engaging the article with the sensor comprises contacting the article with the sensor.

[0120] Example Ex (27): The method according to example Ex25, wherein the heater is turned on when the dimension code is present, or wherein the heater is not turned on when the dimension code is not present.

[0121] Example Ex (28): The method according to example Ex 25 or 26 or 27, wherein the dimension code is present and the heater is controlled to provide a heating curve associated with the dimension code.

[0122] Example Ex (29): The method according to any one of Examples Ex25 to 28, further comprising activating a feedback element in response to the presence of the dimension code.

[0123] Example Ex (30): The method according to any one of Examples Ex25-29 further includes sending a signal to a counter in response to the presence of the dimension code.

[0124] Example Ex (31): The method according to any one of Examples Ex25-30, further comprising a step of rotating the aerosol-generating article relative to the sensor after the inserting step.

[0125] Example Ex (32): The method according to example Ex 31, wherein the dimensional code is aligned with the longitudinal axis of the body of the aerosol-generating article.

[0126] Example Ex (33): A method of manufacturing an aerosol-generating article according to any one of Examples Ex1-14, comprising stamping, rolling, engraving or depositing the dimensional code onto an outer packaging material, for example by 3D printing.

[0127] Example Ex (33): The method according to example Ex 33 comprises stamping, rolling, engraving or depositing the dimensional code onto the outer packaging material, for example by 3D printing, before assembling the aerosol-generating article.

[0128] Example Ex (34): An aerosol-generating article according to any one of Examples 1 to 14, wherein the dimensional code has a depth. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0129] Several examples will now be further described with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:

[0130] Figure 1 Elements of an embodiment of an aerosol-generating article are shown.

[0131] Figure 2 An assembled aerosol-generating article is shown.

[0132] Figure 3 An aerosol-generating article having intaglio dimensional code lines and dots arranged perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the aerosol-generating article is shown.

[0133] Figure 4 An aerosol-generating article having embossed dimensional code lines and dots arranged perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the aerosol-generating article is shown.

[0134] Figure 5 Aerosol-generating articles having embossed dimensional code lines and intaglio dimensional code lines arranged in a pattern perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the aerosol-generating article and a combination of a plurality of intaglio dots and embossed dots are shown.

[0135] Figure 6 An aerosol-generating article having intaglio dimensional code lines arranged parallel to the longitudinal axis of the aerosol-generating article is shown.

[0136] Figure 7 Shows Figure 6 Magnified view showing detail of the intaglio dimensional code.

[0137] Figure 8 An aerosol-generating article of an embodiment having a tape or sticker attached to an outer surface of an outer packaging is shown.

[0138] Fig. 9 is an illustration of an aerosol-generating article inserted into a cavity of an aerosol-generating device and a sensor positioned in the cavity of the aerosol-generating device, wherein the aerosol-generating article has a dimensional code perpendicular to a longitudinal axis of the aerosol-generating article.

[0139] Fig.10 is an enlarged illustration of an aerosol-generating article inserted into a cavity of an aerosol-generating device and a sensor located in the cavity of the aerosol-generating device, wherein the aerosol-generating article has a dimensional code perpendicular to a longitudinal axis of the aerosol-generating article.

[0140] Fig.11 An embodiment of a sensor mechanism is shown.

[0141] Fig.12 is an illustration of a sensor of an aerosol-generating device interacting with a dimensional code of an aerosol-generating article, wherein the dimensional code is parallel to the long axis of the aerosol-generating article.

[0142] Fig.13is an illustration of an aerosol-generating article inserted into a cavity of an aerosol-generating device and a sensor positioned in the cavity of the aerosol-generating device, wherein the aerosol-generating article has a dimensional code parallel to a longitudinal axis of the aerosol-generating article.

[0143] Fig.14 A method of manufacturing an outer packaging having a dimensional code by rolling a pattern into the outer packaging is shown.

[0144] Fig.15 An enlarged outline of the outer packaging with a dimension code is shown.

[0145] Fig.16 A method of manufacturing an outer packaging having a dimensional code by punching a pattern into the outer packaging is shown. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0146] Figure 1 Components of an aerosol-generating article 100 as disclosed herein are shown. Figure 1 As shown in , the aerosol-generating article 100 has a downstream end 101 and an upstream end 107 . Figure 1 1 shows a disassembled portion of the aerosol generating article 100. Figure 1 As shown in FIG, the aerosol-generating article has a filter 102, an optional cooling portion 106, and an aerosol-generating substrate 105. "Optional" means that the cooling portion 106 may or may not be present. Figure 1 As shown in , the outer packaging 110 is at least partially wrapped around the filter 102, the optional cooling element 106 and the aerosol generating substrate 105. Figure 1 As shown by the arrows in , the outer packaging 110 wraps these individual components to form the overall aerosol-generating article 100.

[0147] like Figure 1 As shown in , before being wrapped by the outer wrapper 110, the filter 102 can be wrapped in a filter wrapper 103 to form a filter filter segment 112. In the case of a filter, this filter wrapper 103 can be, for example, a plugging paper. This plugging paper can be a specific paper used to wrap the filter 102. During use, the filter 102 at the downstream end 101 of the aerosol generating article 100 contacts the mouth or lips of the user. The filter wrapper 103, which can be a plugging paper, is formulated to maintain contact with the humidity associated with contacting the lips of the user. The filter 102 wrapped in the filter wrapper 103 is the filter filter segment 112.

[0148] Figure 1100. The aerosol-generating substrate 105 is also shown. Although not shown, the aerosol-generating substrate can be wrapped with a stick wrap 117. If the aerosol-generating substrate is wrapped with a stick wrap 117 before being assembled into an overall aerosol-generating article, the aerosol-generating substrate is an aerosol-generating substrate stick 115. The aerosol-generating substrate 105 (which can be an aerosol-generating substrate stick 115), the optional cooling portion 106 (which can be a cooling portion stick 116 when wrapped with a cooling segment stick wrap 118), and the filter 102 (which can be a filter filter segment 112) are wrapped by an outer wrap 110. The outer wrap 110 is at least partially wrapped around the filter 102, the optional cooling portion 106, and the aerosol-generating substrate 107 to form the overall aerosol-generating article 100.

[0149] like Figure 1 As shown in FIG, an outer wrapper 110 is wrapped around an aerosol-generating substrate 105, an optional cooling element 106, and a filter 102. The filter 102 or filter filter segment 112 may extend so that it is not completely covered by the outer wrapper 110 when the overall aerosol-generating article is assembled. This allows the filter wrapper 103, which may be a tipping paper, to contact the lips of a user during use. In this way, the outer wrapper 110 is at least partially wrapped around the aerosol-generating substrate, the optional cooling element 106, and the filter filter segment 112.

[0150] like Figure 1 and Figure 2 As shown in the figure, an aerosol generating article 100 is shown having an aerosol generating article body 120, which extends along a longitudinal axis 113 between a downstream end 101 and an upstream end 107, and the body 120 includes a filter 102, an optional cooling portion 106 and an aerosol generating substrate 105 in a linear arrangement from the downstream end 101. Figure 2 Optional end portion 109 is shown in . The optional end portion 109 , like the filter 102 , the optional cooling portion 106 and the aerosol-generating substrate 105 , is at least partially enclosed by the outer packaging 110 in the assembled aerosol-generating article 100 .

[0151] Figure 2The flow of air or airflow 130 through the aerosol generating article 100 during use is shown. During use, a user draws on the downstream end 101 of the aerosol generating article 100, causing air to enter the aerosol generating article 100 from its upstream end 107 and flow through the aerosol generating substrate 105. The aerosol generating substrate 105 is heated, causing an aerosol to be formed from the heated aerosol generating substrate 105. The aerosol is entrained in the airflow 130 through the aerosol generating article 100 to the downstream end 101 and inhaled by the user. When present, the optional cooling portion 106 can be a hollow portion that provides a cooling chamber or pressure change for the aerosol entrained in the airflow 103 leaving the aerosol generating substrate 105. When air is transferred from the heated aerosol generating substrate 105 into this optional cooling portion, an aerosol is formed in the cooling chamber.

[0152] Figure 3 An aerosol-generating article 100 is shown having a dimensional code 200. Figure 3 As shown in FIG. 1 , the dimensional code 200 has an intaglio dimensional code line 140 and intaglio dots 145 in the outer package 110 of the aerosol generating article 100. Figure 3 As shown in FIG. 1 , the intaglio line 140 is arranged perpendicular to the longitudinal axis 113 of the aerosol-generating article 100. The intaglio dimensional code line 140 is recessed into the surface of the outer packaging 110. Figure 3 The dimensional code 200 shown may be two parallel dimensional code lines 140. The dimensional code lines may be as follows: Figure 3 The intaglio dimensional code line 140 shown in FIG. Figure 4 The embossed dimension code line 150 shown in FIG. 1 , or as Figure 5 The combination of the intaglio dimensional code line 140 and the embossed dimensional code line 150 shown in FIG. Figure 3 The dimension code 200 may also include a plurality of dots 145 (which may be Figure 3 The intaglio point 145 shown in FIG. Figure 4 The relief point 155 shown in FIG. 1 , or as shown in FIG. Figure 5 145 and embossed dots 155 as shown in FIG. 14A ). As discussed above, the dots may be of any shape and any size. Alternatively, the dimensional code 200 may be a single intaglio line 140. Alternatively, the dimensional code 200 may be a single intaglio line combined with a plurality of dots, which may be, for example, Figure 3 The intaglio point 145 shown in FIG. 1 , or as Figure 4 The relief point 155 shown in FIG. 1 , or as shown in FIG. Figure 5 The dimensional code 200 may be a combination of an intaglio dot 145 and an embossed dot 155 as shown in FIG. The dimensional code 200 may be a single embossed line 150. The dimensional code 200 may be a combination of a single intaglio line 140 and a plurality of dots 140. The dimensional code 200 may be two parallel intaglio lines 140. The dimensional code 200 may be a plurality of intaglio lines 140. Figure 3 As shown in , the dots 145 may be arranged in an array. Alternatively, the dots 145 may be arranged in a pseudo array. A pseudo array is an irregular array. Figure 3 It is shown that the dimension code 200 of the outer packaging 110 may include at least one line 140 . Figure 3 It is also shown that the dimensional code 200 may include at least two parallel lines 140 . Figure 3 It is also shown that the dimensional code 200 of the outer packaging 110 may include a plurality of dots 145 . Figure 3 It is also shown that the dimensional code 200 of the outer packaging 110 may include a combination of one or more lines 140 and a plurality of dots 140. In short, the dimensional code 200 may be any combination of embossed or raised features and intaglio or recessed features that may be read by the sensor 400 of the aerosol generating device 300.

[0153] When the aerosol-generating article 100 has a dimensional code 200 arranged perpendicular to the longitudinal axis 113, such as Figure 3 , Figure 4 and Figure 5 As shown in FIG. , when the aerosol-generating article 100 is inserted into the aerosol-generating device 300 (see, for example, Fig. 9 and Fig.12 ), the lines or features constituting the dimensional code 200 closest to the upstream end 107 of the aerosol-generating article 100 enter the aerosol-generating device 300 first. That is, the upstream end 107 of the aerosol-generating article 100 is inserted into the aerosol-generating device 300 first. When the aerosol-generating article 100 is inserted into the aerosol-generating device 300, the dimensional code 200 closest to the upstream end 107 of the aerosol-generating article 100 is first sensed by the sensor 400 inside the cavity 301 of the aerosol-generating device 200. This dimensional code 200 closest to the upstream end 107 of the aerosol-generating article 100 may be described as the starting code 160. Similarly, the dimensional code 200 farthest from the upstream end 107 of the aerosol-generating article 100 is the last dimensional code 200 sensed by the sensor 400 inside the cavity 301 of the aerosol-generating device 300. The dimension code 200 farthest from the upstream end 107 of the aerosol generating article 100 may be described as a stop code 161. Figure 3 As shown in , the dimensional code closest to the upstream end 107 of the aerosol generating article 100 is the intaglio start line 141. Figure 3 , the dimensional code farthest from the upstream end 107 of the aerosol-generating article 100 is the intaglio end line 142. The dimensional code 200 farthest from the upstream end 107 of the aerosol-generating article 100 may be described as a stop code 161 or an embossed end code 152.

[0154] Figure 4An aerosol-generating article 100 is shown showing an embossed dimensional code 200. These embossed lines 150 and embossed dots 155 protrude from the surface of the outer packaging 110. The embossed lines 150 and embossed dots 155 are arranged perpendicular to the longitudinal axis 113 of the aerosol-generating article 100. The embossed line closest to the upstream end 107 of the aerosol-generating article 100 is the start code 160 or the embossed start code 151.

[0155] Figure 5 An aerosol-generating article 100 is shown having a dimensional code 200 in the form of a combination of embossed lines 150 and intaglio lines 140 and a combination of embossed dots 155 and intaglio dots 145. Figure 5 To illustrate that any combination of intaglio or relief lines and dots may be present in the dimensional code 200 of the aerosol-generating article 100. Figure 5 In the embodiment shown in FIG. 1 , the relief lines 150 and relief dots 155 are arranged perpendicular to the longitudinal axis 113 of the aerosol-generating article 100 .

[0156] As can be seen, there are many combinations of lines or dots or lines and dots that can be generated to form a dimensional code. Taking two potential depths of the dimensional code as, for example, 0.5 mm and 0.25 mm, and three potential widths of the lines as, for example, 0.5 mm, 1 mm and 1.5 mm, there are about 2*3=6 combinations of each line and 8 combinations of spacing. For example, if there are 4 lines, there are 6*8*6*8*6*8*6*6=663552 possible combinations to define a dimensional code on an aerosol-generating article. These combinations can be provided along a relatively small length of the aerosol-generating article, for example, along an 18 mm length of the aerosol-generating article. This is advantageous because such variability and combinations of combinations of depth and width can provide many codes that can be used to identify and classify aerosol-generating articles.

[0157] Figure 6 An aerosol-generating article 100 is shown having an intaglio dimensional code line 140 arranged parallel to the longitudinal axis 113 of the aerosol-generating article. As discussed above, Figure 6 The lines shown as the intaglio dimensional code lines 140 in the figure represent elements that may constitute the dimensional code 200. For example, the dimensional code 200 may include a single line or multiple lines, which may be intaglio lines or relief lines, or a combination of intaglio lines and relief lines. The dimensional code 200 may include a single point or multiple points, which may be relief points 155, intaglio points 145, or a combination of intaglio points and relief points. In addition, the multiple lines may be parallel or non-parallel. And, the multiple points may be in a regular array or may not be in a regular array. In short, any combination of intaglio or relief features may form the dimensional code 200. And, any combination of intaglio or relief features may form a dimensional code oriented parallel to the longitudinal axis 113 of the aerosol generating article 100. Figure 7 Shows Figure 6 , showing details of the dimension code 200. Figure 7 As shown in , the outline of the intaglio dimensional code line 140 can be square or triangular or circular. The outline of the intaglio dimensional code line 140 or the relief dimensional code line 150 can have any shape. In addition, whether it is intaglio or relief, the shape or outline of the point can be any shape, including square, pyramid, circle, triangle, prism, cuboid or any shape.

[0158] Figure 8 An aerosol-generating article 100 is shown having a tape or sticker 175 attached to an outer surface of an outer packaging 110 to form a dimensional code 200. The tape or sticker 175 may provide the dimensional code 200 as an embossed dimensional code 200. The tape or sticker 175 may provide the dimensional code 200 as an intaglio dimensional code 200. The sticker 175 may be parallel to the longitudinal axis 113 of the aerosol-generating article 100. Alternatively, the sticker 175 may be perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the aerosol-generating article 100.

[0159] Fig. 9 An aerosol generating device 300 having a housing 302 and a cavity 301 is shown. Fig. 9 An aerosol-generating article 100 inserted into a cavity 301 of an aerosol-generating device 300 is shown, and a sensor 400 located in the cavity 301 of the aerosol-generating device 300, wherein the aerosol-generating article 100 has a dimensional code 200 perpendicular to the longitudinal axis 113 of the aerosol-generating article 100. The upstream end 107 of the aerosol-generating article 100 is first inserted into the cavity 301 of the aerosol-generating device 300. When the aerosol-generating article 100 is inserted into the cavity 301 of the aerosol-generating device 300, the sensor 400 of the aerosol-generating device 300 contacts the dimensional code 200.

[0160] The sensor 400 of the aerosol generating device 300 is biased into the cavity 301 by a biasing member 406. The biasing member may be of any shape and any material suitable for ensuring that the sensor 400 contacts the aerosol generating article 100, thereby allowing the sensor 400 to track the dimensional code 200 of the aerosol generating article 100.

[0161] When the aerosol-generating article 100 is inserted into the cavity 301 of the aerosol-generating device 300, the sensor 400 contacts the dimensional code 200. Since the aerosol-generating article 100 has a dimensional code 200 with different heights (embossed, intaglio, or a combination thereof), the sensor 400 moves in response to changes in the contour of the aerosol-generating article in the area of ​​the dimensional code 200. This movement 401 of the sensor is caused by Fig. 9The sensor 401 moves in response to the presence of the width and depth of the dimensional code 200 which is then communicated to the control electronics of the aerosol generating device 300 for classification and identification purposes.

[0162] When the aerosol-generating article 100 is inserted into the aerosol-generating device 300, the dimension code 200 closest to the upstream end 107 of the aerosol-generating article 100 is first sensed by the sensor 400 inside the cavity 301 of the aerosol-generating device 200. This dimension code 200 closest to the upstream end 107 of the aerosol-generating article 100 may be described as the start code 160. Similarly, the dimension code 200 farthest from the upstream end 107 of the aerosol-generating article 100 is the last dimension code 200 sensed by the sensor 400 inside the cavity 301 of the aerosol-generating device 300. This dimension code 200 farthest from the upstream end 107 of the aerosol-generating article 100 may be described as the stop code 161. This start and stop information is also transmitted to the control electronics of the aerosol-generating device 300 for classification and identification purposes.

[0163] Fig.10 is an enlarged illustration of an aerosol generating article 100 inserted into (as indicated by the arrow) the cavity 301 of the aerosol generating device 300 and a sensor 400 located in the cavity 301 of the aerosol generating device 300. The sensor 400 has a probe 402 configured to contact the dimensional code 200. The probe 402 can be any shape for contacting the dimensional code 200. For example, the probe can be circular, triangular, square, or angled. Movement of the probe 402 is provided to the transducer 405 via a stylus 403 (or arm) moving against a pivot 404. When the aerosol generating article 100 is inserted into the cavity 301 of the aerosol generating device, the movement of the probe 402 is provided to the transducer 405 via the stylus 403 pivoting about the pivot 404 as the probe 402 moves against the contour of the dimensional code 200. According to Fig.10 In the embodiment shown in , the aerosol-generating article 100 has a dimensional code 200 that is perpendicular to the longitudinal axis 113 of the aerosol-generating article 100. In this embodiment, the sensor is aligned with the longitudinal axis 113 of the aerosol-generating article 100 and the cavity 301. Fig.10 The dimensional code 200 shown in FIG. 1 is composed of intaglio lines 140 and relief lines 150 that are all parallel to each other. In this embodiment, the total length of the dimensional code 200 is about 20 mm, wherein each intaglio line and relief line is contained within this dimension.

[0164] Fig.11An embodiment of a mechanism of a sensor 400 is shown. The movement of the probe 402 is provided to the transducer 405 via the movement of the stylus 403 against the pivot 404. When the aerosol generating article 100 is inserted into the cavity 301 of the aerosol generating device, as the probe 402 moves against the contour of the dimensional code 200, the movement of the probe 402 is provided to the transducer 405 via the stylus 403 pivoting around the pivot 404. The mechanical movement of the probe 402 is converted into an electrical signal. The mechanical movement of the probe 402 can be converted into an electrical signal via any mechanism. For example, the transducer 405 can utilize capacitive sensing. For example, a conductive item connected to the stylus can be introduced between two conductors forming two plates of a capacitor. The transducer 405 can utilize induction. For example, the induced current and voltage in the coil can change according to the position of the ferromagnetic core connected to the stylus. This is an example of a linear variable differential transformer or LVDT. The transducer 405 can utilize piezoelectric sensing. For example, the stylus end can be captured in a piezoelectric material. The mechanical sensor generates an electromechanical signal. The mechanical sensor generates an electromechanical output to the control electronics of the aerosol generating device.

[0165] like Fig. 9 and Fig.10 As shown in , the mechanical sensor 400 is aligned inside the cavity 301 of the aerosol-generating device 300 such that the probe 402 of the sensor 400 is aligned perpendicular to the dimensional code 200 of the aerosol-generating article 100 .

[0166] Fig.12 301 is an illustration of a sensor 400 of an aerosol generating device 300 interacting with a dimensional code 200 of an aerosol generating article 100, wherein the dimensional code 200 is parallel to the longitudinal axis 113 of the aerosol generating article 100. In this embodiment, the sensor 400 is aligned so that the probe 402 moves in response to the probe 402 contacting the contour of the dimensional code. In this embodiment, since the dimensional code is parallel to the longitudinal axis of the aerosol generating article 100, the probe is aligned perpendicular to the longitudinal axis 113 of the aerosol generating article 100. When the aerosol generating article is rotated or rotated inside the cavity 301, the probe 402 is able to move in response to the contour of the dimensional code 200. This rotational movement is caused by Fig.12 As shown by arrow 305 in FIG. Fig.12 As shown in FIG. 1 , the dimensional code 200 is a single line, which may be an intaglio line 140 or an embossed line 150 .

[0167] Fig.131 is an illustration of an aerosol generating article 100 inserted into a cavity 301 of an aerosol generating device 300 and a sensor 400 located in the cavity 301 of the aerosol generating device 300, wherein the aerosol generating article 100 has a dimensional code 200 parallel to the longitudinal axis 113 of the aerosol generating article 100 as shown from a top-down perspective. Several intaglio lines 140 or intaglio dots 145 forming the dimensional code 200 are shown in cross-section in this top-down perspective. When the aerosol generating article is rotated in the cavity 301 of the aerosol generating device 300 (as shown in FIG. 1 ), the aerosol generating article 100 is rotated in the cavity 301 of the aerosol generating device 300. Fig.12 ), the sensor senses the dimensional code 200, thereby providing a signal to the control electronics (not shown) of the aerosol generating device 300.

[0168] Alternatively, if Fig.12 As shown in , instead of the probe 402 moving against the aerosol generating article 100 when the aerosol generating article 100 is inserted into the aerosol generating device 300 and twisted inside the cavity 301, the aerosol generating device 300 may have a movable ring 410 including the sensor 400, which can move against the inserted aerosol generating article 100. In this way, the probe 402 can be moved by moving the movable ring 410 attached to the cavity 301 of the aerosol generating device 300, rather than by moving the aerosol generating article 100 relative to the cavity 301 of the aerosol generating device 300.

[0169] In other embodiments, the sensor 400 may include a stylus that translates rather than pivots to provide information to the transducer and generate an electrical signal. In other embodiments, the sensor 400 may be an optical sensor, such as an infrared sensor, that determines the position and depth of the intaglio and relief portions of the dimensional code along the article. This determination may be made while the article is inserted into the cavity, similar to the mechanical sensors described above, or after the article has been inserted into the cavity.

[0170] Fig.14 A method of making an outer package 110 having a dimensional code is shown by rolling a dimensional code 200 pattern into the outer package 110 using a roller 500 to press the pattern into the outer package 110. The dimensional code 200 rolled into the outer package can be a line or multiple lines, can be an intaglio line 140 or an embossed line 150, or can be a plurality of points (in any shape) that can be intaglio or embossed, depending on the pattern of the roller. For example, if a pattern is rolled into the outer surface of the outer package 110, the pattern can be intaglio. If the same pattern is rolled into the inner surface of the outer package 110, the pattern can be embossed. The outer package 110 can be treated with a roller (e.g., according to the method of the invention) before assembling the aerosol generating article. Figure 1), so that when the aerosol-generating article 100 is assembled, the dimensional code 200 is in the outer packaging. According to an embodiment in which the texture is on the outer packaging 110 and the dimensional code 200 consists of parallel lines and these lines are aligned with the longitudinal axis of the aerosol-generating article 100, the lines can be produced on the paper before the wrapping stage by rolling a dedicated wheel / roller with a reverse relief of the dimensional code 200 on the outer packaging 110 (e.g. paper). Such an embodiment allows providing the dimensional code on the outer packaging 110 while maintaining a very high manufacturing speed. The roller 500 can press the material of the outer packaging 110 against a support 501 made of a hard elastic material to facilitate the engraving of the dimensional code 200 under the pressure applied by the roller 500. Fig.15 Shown by Fig.14 The method shown in FIG. 1 is an enlarged outline of the outer packaging 110 with the dimension code 200 applied. If Fig.15 The method shown in FIG. 1 is used to provide an outer package 110 having a dimension code 200. For example, depending on the orientation of the outer package 110 when it is used to assemble elements of an aerosol-generating article, the outer package 110 can be used to assemble an outer package 110 such as a Figure 6 The aerosol-generating article 100 shown in FIG. 1 has a dimensional code 200 that is parallel to the longitudinal axis 113 of the aerosol-generating article 100 or as shown in FIG. Figure 3-5 The aerosol-generating article 100 shown in has a dimensional code 200 that is perpendicular to the longitudinal axis 113 of the aerosol-generating article 100 .

[0171] Fig.16 An alternative method of manufacturing an outer package 110 having a dimensional code 200 by punching a pattern into the outer package 110 is shown. In this embodiment, instead of a roller 500, a punching tool 503 can be used to punch the dimensional code 200 into the material of the outer package 110. In an embodiment, the punching tool 503 can press the outer package 110 against the support 501 to improve the impression produced by the punching tool 503.

[0172] For the purpose of this specification and the appended claims, unless otherwise stated, all numbers representing amounts, quantities, percentages, etc. should be understood to be modified by the term "about" in all cases. Moreover, all ranges include disclosed maximum and minimum points, and include any intermediate ranges therein that may be specifically listed or may not be listed herein. Therefore, in this article, the number A is understood to be ± 10% of A. In this article, the number A may be considered to be included in the numerical value within the general standard error of the measurement of the property modified by the number A. In some cases used in the appended claims, the number A may deviate from the percentage listed above, provided that the amount of A deviation will not substantially affect the basic features and novel features of the invention claimed for protection. Moreover, all ranges include disclosed maximum and minimum points, and include any intermediate ranges therein that may be specifically listed or may not be listed herein.

Claims

1. An aerosol generating article comprising: a body extending along the longitudinal axis between a downstream end and an upstream end; The body includes at least a filter and an aerosol generating substrate in a linear arrangement from the downstream end; an outer packaging at least partially wrapped around the filter and the aerosol-generating substrate to form an integral aerosol-generating article; wherein the outer packaging includes a dimension code; The dimensional code includes one of at least one intaglio portion and at least one embossed portion or a combination thereof.

2. An aerosol-generating article according to claim 1, wherein the dimensional code comprises at least one line.

3. An aerosol-generating article according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the dimensional code comprises at least two parallel lines.

4. An aerosol-generating article according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the dimensional code comprises a plurality of dots.

5. An aerosol-generating article according to claim 4, wherein the plurality of dots forms a pattern.

6. An aerosol-generating article according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the dimensional code is perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the body of the article.

7. An aerosol-generating article according to any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein the dimensional code is aligned with the longitudinal axis of the body.

8. An aerosol-generating article according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the outer packaging comprises a tape or sticker, and the tape or sticker comprises at least a portion of the dimensional code.

9. An aerosol generating device for generating an aerosol from an aerosol generating article, the device comprising a power source; control electronics; and a sensor configured to sense the presence of a dimensional code of the aerosol generating article and to communicate with the control electronics.

10. An aerosol generating device according to claim 9, wherein the sensor comprises a mechanical sensor.

11. An aerosol generating device according to claim 9 or 10, wherein the sensor comprises a profilometer.

12. An aerosol generating device according to claim 11, wherein the profilometer comprises a probe configured to engage with the dimensional code and cause the arm to translate and / or pivot about a pivot point.

13. An aerosol generating system comprising an electronic device according to any one of claims 9 to 12 and an aerosol generating article comprising a dimensional code.

14. A method of using an aerosol generating device according to any one of claims 9 to 12, comprising: engaging an aerosol-generating article with the aerosol-generating device; sensing the presence or absence of a dimensional code on the aerosol-generating article with the sensor, and; The presence or absence of the dimension code is communicated to the control electronics.

15. A method of manufacturing an aerosol-generating article according to any one of claims 1 to 7, comprising stamping, rolling, engraving or depositing, for example by 3D printing, the dimensional code into an outer packaging material.

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