Aerosol-generating device for detecting magnetic element of article

Abstract

The invention relates to an aerosol-generating device. The device includes a cavity configured to receive an aerosol-generating article including an aerosol-forming substrate. The device comprises a sensing detector. The inductive detector is configured to detect a magnetic element of an aerosol-generating article by inductive coupling. The aerosol-generating device also includes an aerosol-generating arrangement configured to generate an aerosol from an article. The inductive detector is separate from the aerosol-generating arrangement.

Description

TECHNICAL FIELD

[0001] The present invention relates to an aerosol-generating device, an aerosol-generating article, an aerosol-generating system, and a method for detecting an aerosol-generating article. BACKGROUND

[0002] It is known to provide an aerosol-generating device for generating an inhalable vapour. Such devices can heat an aerosol-forming substrate to a temperature at which one or more components of the aerosol-forming substrate volatilise without combusting the aerosol-forming substrate. The aerosol-forming substrate can be provided as part of an aerosol-generating article. The aerosol-generating article can have a rod shape for insertion of the aerosol-generating article into a cavity of the aerosol-generating device. The cavity of the aerosol-generating device can comprise a heating chamber. A heating element can be arranged in or around the heating chamber so as to heat the aerosol-forming substrate once the aerosol-generating article is inserted into the heating chamber of the aerosol-generating device. The aerosol-generating device is typically designed to work best when used with an original and specifically designed aerosol-generating article. Furthermore, the manufacturer of the aerosol-generating article can provide a product line of various types of aerosol-generating articles having different properties, for example, flavour or nicotine content. SUMMARY

[0003] It is desirable to provide an aerosol-generating device that is able to identify an aerosol-generating article. It is desirable to provide an aerosol-generating device that is able to identify the presence of an authorised aerosol-generating article. It is desirable to provide an aerosol-generating device that is able to identify an aerosol-generating article with enhanced reliability. It is desirable to provide an aerosol-generating device with improved identification capabilities. It is desirable to have an aerosol-generating device that provides an optimised user experience.

[0004] According to a first aspect of the present invention, there is provided an aerosol-generating device comprising a cavity and / or an inductive detector. The cavity can be configured for receiving an aerosol-generating article comprising an aerosol-forming substrate. The inductive detector can be configured for detecting a magnetic element of the aerosol-generating article by inductive coupling.

[0005] According to another aspect, there is provided an aerosol-generating device comprising a cavity configured for receiving an aerosol-generating article comprising an aerosol-forming substrate and an inductive detector, wherein the inductive detector is configured for detecting a magnetic element of the aerosol-generating article by inductive coupling, and wherein the aerosol-generating device further comprises an aerosol-generating arrangement configured to generate an aerosol from the article, wherein the inductive detector is separate from the aerosol-generating arrangement.

[0006] The present invention can provide means and methods of detecting and identifying authorized aerosol generating articles and specific types of aerosol generating articles received in an aerosol generating device. The articles can be provided with a marker, which is preferably a magnetic element. The device can be provided with a complementary article detector, which is preferably an inductive detector, that interacts with the marker of the article. The characteristics of this interaction can be controlled by the characteristics of the marker. This inductive coupling between the magnetic element and the article detector can generate a marker-specific article detector output. The device can be provided with a controller that monitors and processes the signal output of the article detector. By comparing the signal output of the article detector with pre-stored reference data, the controller can perform one or more of the following operations: (i) identify the presence of an authorized article in the device, (ii) identify the type of the inserted article, (iii) adjust the operation of the device according to the characteristics of the inserted article, and (iv) determine the presence and / or absence of an article in the device.

[0007] In this document, the term "magnetic element" or "magnetic material" can refer to an element or material that is ferromagnetic. In this document, the term "magnetic element" or "magnetic material" can refer to an element or material that is magnetized. In this document, the term "magnetic element" or "magnetic material" can refer to an element or material that has a magnetic field in the absence of an external field. In this document, the term "magnetic element" or "magnetic material" can refer to an element or material that has a magnetic field only in the presence of an external field. The "magnetic element" or "magnetic material" can comprise or be a permanent magnet. The permanent magnet can have a magnetic field in the absence of an external magnetic or electric field.

[0008] It will be appreciated that identifying an aerosol generating article for use with an aerosol generating device can serve a variety of different purposes, and the present invention is not limited to any one particular purpose for identifying an aerosol generating article. For example, identifying an aerosol generating article can allow one of a plurality of predetermined heating profiles to be applied that is associated with the identified aerosol generating article; identifying an aerosol generating article can allow a user interface of the aerosol generating device to operate differently in response to identifying an aerosol generating article, for example by displaying a flavor of the aerosol generating article; and / or identifying an aerosol generating article can allow a record of the consumption of each type of aerosol generating article used with the aerosol generating device to be stored at the aerosol generating device to help a user monitor their usage habits.

[0009] An authorized article can be provided with a marker or a series of markers. In response to identifying the presence of an authorized article, a controller can implement one or both of operation of the device and provision of a user experience. For example, power can be provided to a heating assembly of the aerosol-generating device. If the device does not identify the presence of an authorized article, the device can prevent one or both of operation of the device and provision of a user experience. For example, power can be prevented from being provided to a heating assembly.

[0010] The invention can allow for provision of an optimized user experience by adapting aerosol generation to the configuration of the type of article inserted into the device. An article belonging to a certain type of article can be provided with a type-specific marker. By comparing a detector output signal generated by the interaction between the marker and the article detector with pre-stored reference data, the device can identify the type of article inserted into the device. In response, the device can adapt and thereby optimize aerosol generation. For example, a pre-stored type-specific heating profile can be employed. The type-specific heating profile can correspond to a type-specific configuration of the aerosol-forming substrate within the article.

[0011] The inductive coupling between the marker and the article detector can be tuned by changing one or both of the configuration and the arrangement of the marker. A plurality of different markers can be provided. Each marker can trigger a specific signal output of the article detector. One or more different markers can be assigned to a known authorized article. Each marker in a series of different markers can be assigned to a different type of article.

[0012] The markers of the invention in the form of magnetic elements can be tuned by changing one or more of the size (including length, width and thickness), the material and the shape. The magnetic elements can comprise a plurality of portions of magnetic material. The relative positions of the portions can be changed. The portions can be changed in different patterns. The inductive coupling between the magnetic elements and the article detector can be adjusted by changing the distance between the magnetic elements and the article detector. For example, the lateral position of the magnetic elements within or on the aerosol-generating article can be changed. Changes in one of the discussed configurations and arrangements (size, material, shape, number, relative positioning, distance, etc.) can be combined with changes in one or more of such discussed configurations and arrangements to tune the interaction between the magnetic elements and the article detector. Many different magnetic elements can be readily and at low production cost provided.

[0013] An "inductive interaction" and an "inductive coupling" can refer to the induction of an electric current in a coil by a change in the magnetic flux through the volume enclosed by the coil. An "inductive interaction" and an "inductive coupling" can be described with the help of Faraday's law. An inductive coupling between an inductive detector and a magnetic element can induce an electric current in the inductive detector. An "inductive interaction" and an "inductive coupling" can refer to the interaction of an alternating magnetic field with a magnetic element.

[0014] The detection of a magnetic element by an inductive detector can depend on whether the magnetic element comprises a permanent magnet, or when the magnetic element has its own magnetic field, or when the magnetic element is magnetized.

[0015] If the magnetic element comprises a permanent magnet, or when the magnetic element has its own magnetic field, or when the magnetic element is magnetized, the detection can be based on the induction of an electric current in an inductive detector of the device. In particular, during the insertion of an article and the permanent magnetic field of the magnetic element together with it can move relative to the inductive detector of the device. Due to this relative movement, the magnetic flux through the inductive detector can change to induce an electric current in the inductive detector. The induced electric current or a signal based on the induced electric current can be provided to a controller. The induced electric current or the signal based on the induced electric current can be a detector output. Based on the detector output, the controller can identify the article or determine the presence or absence of the article in the cavity of the device. The detection of a magnetic element comprising a permanent magnet can not require the supply of an electric signal to the sensing element. The detection of a magnetic element comprising a permanent magnet can be passive.

[0016] Irrespective of whether the magnetic element comprises a permanent magnet (in particular in the case that the magnetic element does not have its own magnetic field), the detection of the magnetic element can be based on a change of a total resistive load triggered by an inductive coupling between the magnetic element and an alternating magnetic field of an inductive detector. The alternating magnetic field can be caused by a supply of an alternating electric signal to the inductive detector. The inductive detector can comprise a sensing coil. The alternating magnetic field can be caused by a supply of an alternating electric signal to the sensing coil. In the absence of the magnetic element, the total resistive load can be the ohmic resistance of the sensing coil of the inductive detector. In the presence of the magnetic element, the total resistive load can be the sum of the ohmic resistance of the sensing coil of the inductive detector and the ohmic resistance of the magnetic element.

[0017] An electrical signal supplied to the inductive detector can be measured. A change in the total resistive load can be inferred from a corresponding change in the current or voltage supplied to the inductive detector. The total resistive load can be determined based on a function of the current and voltage supplied to the inductive detector. Based on the change in the total resistive load or the change in the current or voltage, the controller can identify the article or determine the presence or absence of the article in the cavity of the device. Detection of the magnetic element not including a permanent magnet can require supplying an electrical signal to the sensing element. Detection of the magnetic element not including a permanent magnet can be active detection.

[0018] The inductive detector can be configured for detecting the magnetic element of the aerosol-generating article by inductive coupling. The inductive detector can comprise an electrical conductor. The magnetic element and the inductive detector can inductively interact with each other.

[0019] The present invention can provide article detection and identification with one or more of improved reliability and improved consistency. By reducing the risk of falsely rejecting authorized articles, consumer satisfaction can be improved.

[0020] The present invention can provide article detection and identification that can be easily and cost-effectively implemented with existing articles and devices.

[0021] Article detection and identification with the components and methods of the present invention can be energy efficient, as the generation of the output signal of the inductive detector can not require further input of internal energy of the device and system.

[0022] Identifying the presence of authorized aerosol-generating articles in the device can prevent or at least reduce the risk of counterfeit and unauthorized articles being used with the device. Damage to the device can be avoided. Economic losses for the authorized article manufacturer can be minimized.

[0023] Identifying a specific type of aerosol-generating article in the device can enable the provision of an optimized user experience. For example, article type-specific heating profiles can be provided. Aerosol generation can be optimized and adapted according to the type of article inserted into the device.

[0024] Detecting the aerosol-generating article using inductive coupling between the magnetic element and the inductive detector can be implemented with components requiring minimal space.

[0025] Detecting the aerosol-generating article using inductive coupling between the magnetic element and the inductive detector can provide for the versatile use of different types of heating arrangements.

[0026] Detecting the article by inductive coupling can avoid contact between the article and the inductive detector. As friction between the article and the device can be prevented or at least reduced, the lifetime of the aerosol-generating device can be prolonged. The inductive detector can be configured to be protected from the environment. Corrosion of the inductive detector can be prevented or at least reduced.

[0027] The inductive sensor can comprise a sensing element, which is preferably a sensing coil. The sensing element can be arranged at least partially, preferably completely, around the cavity.

[0028] The sensing element can be configured for detecting the magnetic element of the article by inductive coupling. The sensing element can be configured to inductively interact with the magnetic element. The sensing element can be configured such that a current can be induced in the sensing element by inductive coupling with the magnetic element. The sensing element can be arranged such that a current can be induced in the sensing element when the magnetic element moves relative to the sensing element.

[0029] The sensing element can be arranged around at least a portion of the cavity. The sensing element can be positioned along a perimeter of the cavity. A center of the sensing element can be arranged on a central longitudinal axis of the aerosol-generating device. The sensing element can be configured symmetrically about the central longitudinal axis of the aerosol-generating device. The sensing element can be arranged such that inductive coupling between the sensing element and other components of the device is minimized.

[0030] The longitudinal axis of the component can be an axis along or parallel to a length direction of the component. The longitudinal axis of the device can extend between a distal end and a proximal end of the device. The longitudinal axis of the article can extend between a distal end and a proximal end of the article.

[0031] The sensing element can comprise a sensing coil. The sensing coil can be substantially cylindrical in shape. The sensing coil can have a length of between 4 millimeters and 12 millimeters, preferably between 6 millimeters and 10 millimeters. The sensing coil can be made of an electrical conductor. The sensing coil can be a cheap and simple embodiment of the sensing element. The sensing element can be a spiral coil. The sensing element can be an induction coil.

[0032] The sensing element can comprise a sensing coil having a low gauge and winding thickness. The weight of the aerosol-generating device can be minimized. The space requirements can be minimized. The coil can be easily incorporated into existing aerosol-generating devices.

[0033] The sensing element can be arranged at the proximal end of the cavity.

[0034] The proximal end of the cavity can be a downstream end of the cavity. The sensing element can be arranged at a proximal portion of the cavity. The sensing element can be arranged at least partially around the proximal end or proximal portion of the cavity.

[0035] By arranging the sensing element at the proximal end of the cavity, the magnetic element can pass completely through the sensing element when the article is inserted into the device, such that the inductive coupling between the magnetic element and the sensing element is optimized.

[0036] The device can comprise a heating arrangement. The heating arrangement can comprise an induction coil. The heating arrangement can be an electrically resistive, inductive, dielectric or microwave heating arrangement. The induction detector can be separate from the heating arrangement. The induction detector can be a component that is distinct from the components of the heating arrangement.

[0037] The device can comprise any aerosol generating arrangement, for example a non-thermal aerosol generating arrangement. The device can comprise an ultrasonic aerosol generating arrangement. The induction detector can be separate from the aerosol generating arrangement. The induction detector can be a component that is distinct from the components of the aerosol generating arrangement.

[0038] The induction coil can at least partially, preferably completely, surround the cavity arrangement. The induction coil can be arranged at a distal end of the cavity.

[0039] The sensing element can be arranged closer to a proximal end of the cavity than the induction coil. The sensing element can be arranged proximally of the induction coil. The sensing element can be arranged spaced apart from the induction coil. The sensing element can be arranged separate from the induction coil. The sensing element can be arranged such that inductive coupling between the induction coil and the sensing element is minimised. The reliability and accuracy of detection and identification can be improved by avoiding interference with inductive coupling between the sensing element and the induction coil. The sensing element can have an inner diameter similar to or the same as an inner diameter of the induction coil.

[0040] The device can comprise a controller. The controller can be configured to identify the presence of an authorised aerosol generating article based on an output of the induction detector. The controller can be configured to identify the aerosol generating article based on an output of the induction detector. The controller can be configured to identify a type of the aerosol generating article based on an output of the induction detector. The output of the induction detector can be a current induced in the sensing element. The output of the induction detector can be a function of the induced current. The output of the induction detector can be a current supplied to the sensing element. The output of the induction detector can be a current supplied to the sensing coil. The output of the induction detector can be a current supplied to the sensing element from a power source.

[0041] The controller can comprise a microprocessor, which can be a programmable microprocessor. The controller can be configured to regulate the supply of power to the heating arrangement. The power can be supplied to the heating arrangement continuously after activation of the aerosol generating device, or can be supplied intermittently, such as on a puff-by-puff basis. The power can be supplied to the heating arrangement in the form of current pulses. The controller can be configured to monitor the electrical resistance of the heating arrangement, and preferably configured to control the supply of power to the heating arrangement in dependence on the electrical resistance of the heating arrangement.

[0042] The controller can comprise an inductive detector. Alternatively, the controller and the inductive detector can be separate elements. The controller can be configured to identify the presence of an authorised aerosol generating article. The controller can be configured to identify an aerosol generating article. The controller can be configured to identify a type of aerosol generating article.

[0043] The controller can be configured to monitor the output of the inductive detector. The controller can be configured to monitor the progression of the output of the inductive detector. The controller can be configured to record the output of the inductive detector. The controller can be configured to process the output of the inductive detector. The controller can be configured to analyse the output of the inductive detector. The controller can be configured to identify the presence of an authorised aerosol generating article by processing the output of the inductive detector. The controller can be configured to identify an aerosol generating article by processing the output of the inductive detector. The controller can be configured to identify a type of aerosol generating article by processing the output of the inductive detector. The controller can be connected to the inductive detector. The controller can be configured to communicate with the inductive detector. The controller can be configured to determine the presence and / or absence of an aerosol generating article by processing the output of the inductive detector. The controller can be configured to permit aerosol generation only after determining that an aerosol generating article is present. The controller can be configured to prohibit or stop aerosol generation in response to determining that an aerosol generating article is not present. The controller can comprise a current measurement device. The current measurement device can be configured to measure the current supplied to the sensing element. The controller can comprise a voltage measurement device. The voltage measurement device can be configured to measure the voltage induced in the sensing element.

[0044] The output of the inductive detector can be an electrical signal caused by inductive coupling between the magnetic element and the inductive detector. The output of the inductive detector can be a current caused by inductive coupling between the magnetic element and the inductive detector. The output of the inductive detector can be a function of the induced current. The output of the inductive detector can be the current supplied to the sensing element. The output of the inductive detector can be the voltage induced in the sensing element.

[0045] The controller can comprise a memory. The memory can comprise pre-stored reference data. The reference data can comprise reference outputs of the inductive detector. Each of such reference outputs can correspond to a magnetic element having a known configuration and arrangement. Each of such reference outputs can correspond to a current induced in the sensing element by a magnetic element having a known configuration and arrangement. Each of such reference outputs can correspond to a change in the current supplied to the sensing element in response to the presence of a magnetic element having a known configuration and arrangement.

[0046] The controller can be configured to compare the output of the inductive detector to pre-stored reference data. The controller can be configured to correlate the output of the inductive detector to pre-stored reference data. The controller can be configured to identify the presence of an authorized article by correlating the output of the inductive detector to pre-stored reference data. The controller can be configured to identify the article by correlating the output of the inductive detector to pre-stored reference data. The controller can be configured to identify the article type by correlating the output of the inductive detector to pre-stored reference data.

[0047] The controller can be configured to regulate the supply of power to the heating arrangement based on the identification of the presence of an authorized aerosol-generating article. The controller can be configured to regulate the supply of power to the heating arrangement based on the identification of the aerosol-generating article. The controller can be configured to regulate the supply of power to the heating arrangement based on the identification of the type of aerosol-generating article. The controller can allow the supply of power to the heating arrangement upon identification of a known aerosol-generating article. The controller can allow the provision of a user experience upon identification of a known aerosol-generating article. The controller can prevent the supply of power to the heating arrangement in the absence of identification of a known aerosol-generating article. The controller can prevent the provision of a user experience in the absence of identification of a known aerosol-generating article.

[0048] The controller can be configured to regulate the supply of power to the heating arrangement based on the identification of the type of aerosol-generating article. The controller can allow the supply of power to the heating arrangement upon identification of the type of aerosol-generating article. The controller can allow the provision of a user experience upon identification of the type of aerosol-generating article. The controller can adjust the supply of power according to the identified article type upon identification of the type of aerosol-generating article. The controller can be configured to provide power to the heating arrangement according to a predefined heating profile of the respective identified article.

[0049] The controller can adjust the magnitude of the supply of power according to the identified article type. The controller can adjust the time period of the supply of power according to the identified article type. The controller can adjust the temperature of the heating element or susceptor according to the identified article type. The controller can adjust one or more of the amplitude and frequency of the current supplied to the heating arrangement according to the identified article type. The controller can adjust the signal powering the heating arrangement according to the identified article type.

[0050] The memory of the controller can comprise a database of pre-stored heating profiles for each known type of aerosol-generating article. The controller can be configured to provide power according to the heating profile of the identified type of aerosol-generating article. The supply of power can be tailored according to the configuration of the particular article type. Aerosol generation and user experience can be optimized.

[0051] The heating arrangement can comprise an induction coil. The induction coil can have a length of between 15 and 31 millimetres, preferably between 11 and 21 millimetres.

[0052] The sensing element can comprise a sensing coil. The sensing coil can have a length of between 4 and 12 millimetres, preferably between 6 and 10 millimetres.

[0053] In a second aspect, the present application relates to an aerosol-generating article comprising a magnetic element arranged on or within the aerosol-generating article. The magnetic element can comprise a layer of magnetic ink.

[0054] The magnetic element can comprise one or more magnetic threads or strips. The one or more magnetic threads or strips can be woven into a layer of the aerosol-generating article, for example a layer of the outer wrapper of the aerosol-generating article.

[0055] The magnetic element can be provided at an outer circumference of the aerosol-generating article. The magnetic element can be provided at an outer surface of the aerosol-generating article. The magnetic element can be provided as a coating. The magnetic element can be provided embedded in the outer wrapper of the aerosol-generating article.

[0056] The magnetic element can be arranged proximal to the aerosol-forming substrate. The magnetic element can be arranged on or within the aerosol-generating article such that, when the article is fully inserted into the cavity of the device, the magnetic element is positioned distal to the sensing element. The magnetic element can be arranged on or within the aerosol-generating article such that, when the article is fully inserted into the cavity of the device, the magnetic element is aligned with the sensing element. The magnetic element can be arranged on or within the aerosol-generating article such that, when the article is fully inserted into the cavity of the device, the magnetic element is positioned proximal to the heating arrangement. The magnetic element can be arranged on or within the aerosol-generating article such that, when the article is fully inserted into the cavity of the device, the magnetic element is positioned proximal to the induction coil.

[0057] The magnetic element can have a permanent magnet. The magnetic element can be configured to inductively couple with the inductive detector. The permanent magnet of the magnetic element can be configured to inductively couple with the inductive detector. The magnetic element can be configured to induce an electrical signal in the inductive detector. The magnetic element can be configured to induce a current in the sensing element. The magnetic element can be positioned on or with the article such that, when the article is inserted into the cavity of the device, the magnetic element moves past the sensing element. The magnetic element can be positioned on or with the article such that, when the article is inserted into the cavity of the device, the magnetic element passes through the sensing coil.

[0058] The magnetic element can be symmetrical about a central longitudinal axis of the article. Such a symmetrical magnetic element can be detected independently of the orientation of the consumable.

[0059] Magnetic components may include at least one part containing magnetic material.

[0060] A magnetic element may consist of at least one part containing magnetic material.

[0061] Magnetic materials can include, and are preferably composed of, metallic materials. Magnetic materials can be soft magnetic materials, such as Co and NiFe. Magnetic materials can be hard magnetic materials, such as NdFeB. Magnetic materials can be ferromagnetic materials, such as nickel, iron, or alloys thereof. Such alloys can be carbon steel and ferritic stainless steel. Magnetic materials can be CoCrPt.

[0062] Magnetic materials can be ferromagnetic. Magnetic materials are magnetized materials. Magnetic materials can have permanent magnets.

[0063] The portion containing magnetic material can be a magnetic ink layer.

[0064] The portion containing magnetic material can consist of a layer of magnetic ink.

[0065] Magnetic materials can be magnetic ink printed layers. Magnetic ink printed layers can be deposited on the outer surface of the product. Magnetic materials can also be magnetic ink films. Magnetic ink can be deposited through vacuum evaporation.

[0066] Magnetic inks can contain magnetic materials in the solvent matrix, such as CoCrPt. Magnetic inks can also contain ferromagnetic materials.

[0067] The application of a magnetic ink layer can be one or more of the following: providing versatility, cost-effectiveness, and simplicity for magnetic components.

[0068] The magnetic material can be provided in the form of strips, dots, and lines, or in more than one of these forms.

[0069] The magnetic element can be a single strip of magnetic material. The strip can be arranged on the outer surface of the article. The strip can be configured to completely surround a portion of the outer surface of the article. The strip can be arranged transversely to the central longitudinal axis of the article.

[0070] A magnetic element may comprise two or more portions of a magnetic material. The two or more portions of the magnetic material may be arranged in a pattern.

[0071] Magnetic components can consist of two or more parts made of magnetic material.

[0072] Two or more parts may have the same configuration. Each part may be a strip of magnetic material. Two or more parts may have different configurations. Parts with different configurations may be combined in a certain pattern.

[0073] In this document, a "configuration of a magnetic element" can refer to the inherent properties of the magnetic element, such as the dimensions, materials, shapes, and relative positioning of the constituent parts. In this document, a "configuration of a part of a magnetic material" can refer to the inherent properties of the part, such as the dimensions, materials, and shapes. In this document, an "arrangement of a magnetic element" can refer to the arrangement of the magnetic element as an entity on or within the aerosol-generating article.

[0074] Two or more parts of magnetic material can be arranged in a regular pattern. The pattern can be symmetrical about a central longitudinal axis of the article. An induced signal obtained by using a magnetic element comprising such a symmetrical pattern can be independent of the orientation of the consumable during insertion. The pattern can be arranged along the length of the insertion direction of the article.

[0075] The pattern can comprise a series of uniformly spaced parallel strips or lines of magnetic material. The strips or lines can be arranged symmetrically about a central longitudinal axis of the article. Each of the strips or lines can be arranged parallel to the central longitudinal axis of the article. Alternatively, each of the strips or lines can be arranged transverse to the central longitudinal axis of the article.

[0076] Increasing the magnitude of the inductive coupling between the magnetic element and the sensing element can improve the reliability of detection and identification. Disturbances due to noise can be minimised. Disturbances due to noise can be due to interactions with other components of the device.

[0077] The magnetic element can be arranged such that an output of an inductive detector that is large enough for a controller to identify the article is generated. The magnetic element can be arranged such that an output of an inductive detector that is large enough for a controller to identify the article is generated during insertion of the article into the device. The magnetic element can be configured such that an output of an inductive detector that is large enough for a controller to identify the article is generated during insertion of the article into the device. The magnetic element can be arranged such that a change in total resistive load is large enough for a controller to identify the article.

[0078] The magnitude of the inductive coupling can be adjusted by adjusting one or more of the sensitivity of the sensing element and the rate of change of the magnetic flux through the sensing element.

[0079] The sensitivity of the sensing coil can be enhanced by increasing the number of turns of the coil. The sensitivity of the detection and identification can be enhanced by increasing the strength of the inductive coupling. The strength of the inductive coupling can be adjusted by adjusting the magnitude of the magnetic field of the magnetic element. The strength of the inductive coupling can be enhanced by providing an increased amount of magnetic material. The amount of magnetic material can be varied by providing magnetic material of different densities. The size of one or more portions of the magnetic element can be increased. The thickness of one or more portions of the magnetic element can be increased. The magnitude of the magnetic field can be enhanced by providing magnetic material having a higher magnetic permeability. The strength of the inductive coupling can be enhanced by arranging the magnetic element closer to or at the outer surface of the article.

[0080] A higher magnitude of the induced current can be preferred. A higher magnitude of the induced current can result in a higher signal-to-noise ratio. A higher net change in the current supplied to the sensing element can be preferred. A higher net change in the current supplied to the sensing element can result in a higher signal-to-noise ratio. The reliability of the detection and identification can be improved at a higher magnitude of the induced current. The reliability of the detection and identification can be improved at a higher net change in the current supplied to the sensing element.

[0081] For a magnetic element comprising two or more portions of magnetic material, a high sensitivity of the inductive detector can be preferred. The inductive detector can be configured to be sensitive enough to distinguish signals caused by each portion of magnetic material of the magnetic element. The reliability of the detection and identification can be enhanced. Such embodiments can be particularly useful when the article is accelerated during insertion into the device. The controller can reliably identify the article based on the overall shape of the monitored output of the inductive detector. For example, the article can be identified by the number of peaks and valleys in the waveform of the monitored signal.

[0082] One or more of the specificity and the strength of interaction of the magnetic element can be varied by tuning the configuration of the magnetic element. A first article can have a first magnetic element having a first configuration. A second article can have a second magnetic element having a second configuration. The first configuration can be different from the second configuration.

[0083] The size of one or more of the magnetic element and the portion containing magnetic material can be varied. The size of a component can be a spatial extension of the component. A first article can have a first magnetic element having a first size. A second article can have a second magnetic element having a second size. The first size can be different from the second size.

[0084] The thickness of one or more of the magnetic elements and portions containing magnetic material can vary. The thickness of one or more of the magnetic elements and portions containing magnetic material can be a dimension of the magnetic element and the portion transverse to the longitudinal axis of the article. The thickness of the magnetic element can be the thickness of the layer of magnetic ink on the outer wrapper. The first article can have a first magnetic element having a first thickness. The second article can have a second magnetic element having a second thickness. The first thickness can be different than the second thickness.

[0085] The magnetic material of one or more of the magnetic elements and portions containing magnetic material can vary. The first article can have a first magnetic element having a first magnetic material. The second article can have a second magnetic element having a second magnetic material. The first magnetic material can be different than the second magnetic material.

[0086] The shape of one or more of the magnetic elements and portions containing magnetic material can vary. The shape of a component can be the external form, contour, or outline of the component. For example, one or more of the magnetic elements and portions containing magnetic material can be a strip. The first article can have a first magnetic element having a first shape. The second article can have a second magnetic element having a second shape. The first shape can be different than the second shape.

[0087] The pattern of the magnetic elements can vary. The configuration of one or more portions of the pattern can vary. The number of portions in the pattern can vary. The size of one or more portions of the pattern can vary. The thickness of one or more portions of the pattern can vary. The magnetic material of one or more portions of the pattern can vary. The shape of one or more portions of the pattern can vary. The relative position of one or more portions of the pattern can vary.

[0088] The first article can have a first magnetic element having a first pattern. The second article can have a second magnetic element having a second pattern. The first pattern can be different than the second pattern. The first pattern can have a first configuration. The second pattern can have a second configuration. The first configuration can be different than the second configuration. The first pattern can have a first number of components. The second pattern can have a second number of components. The first number of components can be different than the second number of components. One or more portions of the first pattern can have one or more of a first size, a first thickness, a first magnetic material, and a first shape. One or more portions of the second pattern can have one or more of a second size, a second thickness, a second magnetic material, and a second shape. One or more of the first size, the first thickness, the first magnetic material, and the first shape can be different than one or more of the second size, the second thickness, the second magnetic material, and the second shape. Portions of the first pattern can have a first relative position. Portions of the second pattern can have a second relative position. The first relative position can be different than the second relative position.

[0089] The article can comprise an outer wrapper. The magnetic element can be arranged on an outer surface of the outer wrapper or on an inner surface of the outer wrapper or within the outer wrapper.

[0090] The outer wrapper can preferably be an outer wrapper paper.

[0091] The outer wrapper can be an outer surface of the article. The outer wrapper can have an outer surface. The outer surface of the outer wrapper can be an outer surface of the article. The outer wrapper can have an inner surface. The magnetic element can be disposed on the outer surface of the outer wrapper. The magnetic element can be disposed on the inner surface of the outer wrapper.

[0092] The magnetic ink can be deposited on a surface of the outer wrapper by vacuum evaporation.

[0093] The magnetic element can be arranged at the outer wrapper. “Arranged at the outer wrapper” can mean that the magnetic element is arranged on an outer surface of the wrapper. “Arranged at the outer wrapper” can mean that the magnetic element is arranged on an inner surface of the outer wrapper. “Arranged at the outer wrapper” can mean that the magnetic element is arranged within the outer wrapper.

[0094] The magnetic element can extend completely around a section of an outer surface of the outer wrapper. The magnetic element can enclose a section of an outer surface of the outer wrapper.

[0095] The magnetic element can be configured to form a circumferential surface of the article.

[0096] The magnetic element can be disposed closer to a proximal end of the aerosol- generating article than to a distal end of the aerosol-generating article.

[0097] The aerosol-generating article can comprise an aerosol-forming substrate. The article can comprise a wrapper for the aerosol-forming substrate arranged at the distal end of the article. The article can comprise a wrapper for the filter arranged at the proximal end of the article. The wrapper for the filter can be referred to as a tipping wrapper or tipping paper (when it is made of paper). The magnetic element can be provided on the wrapper for the filter. Additionally, there can be no magnetic element on any other wrapper of the article. Additionally or alternatively, the magnetic element can not extend from the wrapper for the filter onto any other wrapper of the article. The magnetic element can be provided only on the wrapper for the filter.

[0098] The inductive detector can comprise a low noise amplification filter circuit. The low noise amplification filter circuit can improve the accuracy of detection and identification.

[0099] In a third aspect, the present application relates to an aerosol-generating system comprising an aerosol-generating device as described herein and an aerosol-generating article, preferably an aerosol-generating article as described herein.

[0100] In a fourth aspect, the present application relates to a method for detecting an aerosol-generating article in an aerosol-generating device of an aerosol-generating system, preferably an aerosol-generating system as described herein. The method can comprise detecting a magnetic element of the aerosol-generating article by inductive coupling via an inductive detector.

[0101] The method can comprise inserting the aerosol-generating article into a cavity of the aerosol-generating device to generate an output of the inductive detector and identifying the aerosol-generating article based on the output of the inductive detector via a controller.

[0102] The method can comprise identifying a type of the aerosol-generating article based on the output of the inductive detector via the controller.

[0103] The method can comprise identifying the presence of an authorized aerosol-generating article based on the output of the inductive detector via the controller.

[0104] The method can comprise the step of identifying the aerosol-generating article by comparing the output of the inductive detector to reference data. The method can comprise the step of identifying a type of the aerosol-generating article by comparing the output of the inductive detector to reference data.

[0105] The method can comprise the step of controlling an operation of the aerosol-generating device in dependence on the identification of the inserted aerosol-generating article.

[0106] The method can comprise the step of controlling an operation of the aerosol-generating device in dependence on the identification of the type of the inserted aerosol-generating article.

[0107] The method can include controlling the operation of the aerosol generating device can include deactivating the operation of the aerosol generating device if the authorized aerosol generating article is not identified.

[0108] The method can include that controlling the operation of the aerosol generating device includes selecting a heating profile of the aerosol generating device according to the identified aerosol generating article.

[0109] The method can include that controlling the operation of the aerosol generating device includes selecting a heating profile of the aerosol generating device according to the type of the identified aerosol generating article.

[0110] As used herein, the terms "proximal", "distal", "downstream" and "upstream" are used to describe the relative positions of components or parts of components of the aerosol generating device and the aerosol generating article with respect to the direction in which a user draws on them during use of the aerosol generating device or the aerosol generating article.

[0111] The aerosol generating system can include a mouth end through which, in use, aerosol exits the aerosol generating system and is delivered to a user. The mouth end can also be referred to as the proximal end. In use, a user draws on the proximal or mouth end of the aerosol generating system in order to inhale the aerosol generated by the aerosol generating system. The aerosol generating system includes a distal end opposite the proximal or mouth end. The proximal or mouth end of the aerosol generating system can also be referred to as the downstream end, and the distal end of the aerosol generating system can also be referred to as the upstream end. Components or parts of components of the aerosol generating system can be described as being upstream or downstream of each other based on their relative positions between the proximal, downstream or mouth end and the distal or upstream end of the system.

[0112] The aerosol generating device can include a mouth end through which, in use, aerosol exits the aerosol generating device and is delivered to a user. In use, a user draws on the proximal or mouth end of the aerosol generating device in order to inhale the aerosol generated by the aerosol generating device. Alternatively, a user can draw directly on an aerosol generating article inserted into an opening at the proximal end of the aerosol generating device. The opening at the proximal end can be the opening of a cavity. The aerosol generating device includes a distal end opposite the proximal or mouth end. The proximal or mouth end of the aerosol generating device can also be referred to as the downstream end, and the distal end of the aerosol generating device can also be referred to as the upstream end. Components or parts of components of the aerosol generating device can be described as being upstream or downstream of each other based on their relative positions between the proximal, downstream or mouth end and the distal or upstream end of the aerosol generating device.

[0113] As used herein, an "aerosol-generating device" relates to a device that interacts with an aerosol-forming substrate to generate an aerosol. The aerosol-forming substrate can be part of an aerosol-generating article, for example part of a smoking article. The aerosol-generating device can be a smoking device that interacts with an aerosol-forming substrate of an aerosol-generating article to generate an aerosol that is directly inhalable by a user into the user's lungs through the user's mouth. The aerosol-generating device can be a holder. The device can be an electrically heated smoking device. The aerosol-generating device can comprise a housing, circuitry, a power supply, a heating chamber and a heating arrangement.

[0114] As used herein in relation to the present application, the term "smoking" in relation to a device, article, system, substrate or other does not refer to conventional smoking in which an aerosol-forming substrate is combusted wholly or at least partially. The aerosol-generating device of the present application is arranged to heat an aerosol-forming substrate to a temperature that is below the combustion temperature of the aerosol-forming substrate but at or above the temperature at which one or more volatile compounds of the aerosol-forming substrate are released to form an inhalable aerosol.

[0115] The aerosol-generating device can have a length of between 86 millimetres and 130 millimetres.

[0116] The cavity of the aerosol-generating device can have an open end into which an aerosol-generating article is inserted. The open end can be a proximal end. The cavity can have a closed end opposite the open end. The closed end can be a base of the cavity. The closed end can be closed other than to provide an air hole arranged in the base. The base of the cavity can be flat. The base of the cavity can be circular. The base of the cavity can be arranged upstream of the cavity. The open end can be arranged downstream of the cavity. The cavity can have an elongate extension. The cavity can have a longitudinal central axis. The longitudinal direction can be a direction extending between the open end and the closed end along the longitudinal central axis. The longitudinal central axis of the cavity can be parallel to a longitudinal axis of the aerosol-generating device.

[0117] The cavity can be configured as a heating chamber. The cavity can have a cylindrical shape. The cavity can have a hollow cylindrical shape. The shape of the cavity can correspond to the shape of an aerosol-generating article to be received in the cavity. The cavity can have a circular cross-section. The cavity can have an elliptical or rectangular cross-section. The cavity can have an inner diameter that corresponds to an outer diameter of the aerosol-generating article.

[0118] An airflow passage can pass through the cavity. Ambient air can be drawn into the aerosol-generating device through the airflow passage, into the cavity and towards the user. Downstream of the cavity, a mouthpiece can be arranged, or the user can draw directly on the aerosol-generating article. The airflow passage can extend through the mouthpiece. The cavity can have a length of between 28 millimetres and 67 millimetres.

[0119] The heating arrangement can comprise a heating element. In any aspect of the disclosure, the heating element can comprise an electrically resistive material. The electrically resistive heating element can be a heating coil. Suitable electrically resistive materials include, but are not limited to: semiconductors such as doped ceramics, "conductive" ceramics such as, for example, molybdenum disilicide, carbon, graphite, metals, metal alloys, and composites made from ceramic and metallic materials. Such composites can include doped or undoped ceramics. Examples of suitable doped ceramics include doped silicon carbides. Examples of suitable metals include titanium, zirconium, tantalum, platinum, gold and silver. Examples of suitable metal alloys include stainless steel, nickel-containing alloys, cobalt-containing alloys, chromium-containing alloys, aluminium-containing alloys, titanium-containing alloys, zirconium-containing alloys, hafnium-containing alloys, niobium-containing alloys, molybdenum-containing alloys, tantalum-containing alloys, tungsten-containing alloys, tin-containing alloys, gallium-containing alloys, manganese-containing alloys, gold-containing alloys, iron-containing alloys, and super-alloys based on nickel, iron, cobalt, stainless steel, Timetal® and iron-manganese-aluminium based alloys. In composites, the electrically resistive material can optionally be embedded in, encapsulated by or coated by an insulating material, or vice versa, depending on the kinetics of energy transfer and the required external physico-chemical properties.

[0120] As described, in any of the aspects of the disclosure, the heating element can be part of the aerosol-generating device. The aerosol-generating device can comprise an internal heating element or an external heating element or both an internal heating element and an external heating element, where "internal" and "external" are in relation to the aerosol-forming substrate. The internal heating element can take any suitable form. For example, the internal heating element can take the form of a heating blade. Alternatively, the internal heater can take the form of a sleeve or substrate with different electrically conductive portions, or a resistive metal tube. Alternatively, the internal heating element can be one or more heating pins or rods that extend through the centre of the aerosol-forming substrate. Other alternatives include heating wires or filaments, for example, Ni-Cr, platinum, tungsten or alloy wires, or a heating plate. Optionally, the internal heating element can be deposited in or on a rigid carrier material. In one such embodiment, the resistive heating element can be formed using a metal that has a defined relationship between temperature and resistivity. In such an exemplary device, the metal can be formed as a track on a suitable insulating material, such as a ceramic material, and then sandwiched in another insulating material, such as glass. A heater formed in this way can be used both to heat and to monitor the temperature of the heating element during operation.

[0121] The external heating element can take any suitable form. For example, the external heating element can take the form of one or more flexible heating foils on a dielectric substrate (e.g. polyimide). The flexible heating foils can be shaped to conform to the perimeter of the substrate receiving cavity. Alternatively, the external heating element can take the form of a metal mesh or meshes, a flexible printed circuit board, a moulded interconnect device (MID), a ceramic heater, a flexible carbon fibre heater, or can be formed using a coating technique (e.g. plasma vapour deposition) on a suitably shaped substrate. The external heating element can also be formed using a metal having a defined relationship between temperature and resistivity. In such an exemplary device, the metal can be formed as a track between two layers of suitable insulating material. An external heating element formed in this way can be used both to heat and to monitor the temperature of the external heating element during operation.

[0122] The heating arrangement can be an inductive heating arrangement. The inductive heating arrangement can comprise an induction coil and a susceptor. Generally, a susceptor is a material that is able to generate heat when penetrated by an alternating magnetic field. When located in an alternating magnetic field, if the susceptor is electrically conductive, eddy currents are typically induced by the alternating magnetic field. If the susceptor is magnetic, another effect that typically contributes to heating is commonly referred to as magnetic hysteresis loss. Magnetic hysteresis loss occurs primarily due to the movement of magnetic domain blocks within the susceptor, as the magnetic orientation of these magnetic domain blocks will align with the alternating magnetic induction field. Another effect that contributes to magnetic hysteresis loss is when magnetic domains will grow or shrink within the susceptor. Generally, all of these changes in the susceptor that occur at the nanometre scale or below are referred to as “magnetic hysteresis loss” as they generate heat in the susceptor. Thus, if the susceptor is both magnetic and electrically conductive, both magnetic hysteresis loss and eddy current generation will contribute to the heating of the susceptor. If the susceptor is magnetic, but not electrically conductive, then magnetic hysteresis loss will be the only means of heating the susceptor when penetrated by an alternating magnetic field. According to the present invention, the susceptor can be electrically conductive or magnetic, or both electrically conductive and magnetic. An alternating magnetic field generated by one or several induction coils heats the susceptor, which then transfers heat to the aerosol-forming substrate, such that an aerosol is formed. Heat transfer can primarily be through thermal conduction. Such heat transfer is optimal if the susceptor is in close thermal contact with the aerosol-forming substrate.

[0123] The power supply device can be a battery within the main body of the aerosol-generating device. In one embodiment, the power supply device is a lithium-ion battery. Alternatively, the power supply device can be a nickel-metal hydride battery, a nickel-cadmium battery, or a lithium-based battery (e.g. lithium-cobalt, lithium-iron-phosphate, lithium-titanate, or lithium-polymer battery). As an alternative, the power supply device can be another form of charge storage device, such as a capacitor. The power supply device can require recharging and can have a capacity that enables sufficient energy to be stored for one or more use experiences; for example, the power supply device can have sufficient capacity to generate aerosol continuously for a period of about six minutes or for a period that is a multiple of six minutes. In another example, the power supply device can have sufficient capacity to provide a predetermined number of puffs or discrete activations of the heating arrangement.

[0124] As used herein, the term "aerosol-forming substrate" relates to a substrate capable of releasing one or more volatile compounds that can form an aerosol. Such volatile compounds can be released by heating the aerosol-forming substrate. The aerosol-forming substrate can conveniently be part of an aerosol-generating article.

[0125] The aerosol-forming substrate can be a solid aerosol-forming substrate. The aerosol-forming substrate can comprise both a solid component and a liquid component. The aerosol-forming substrate can comprise a tobacco-containing material containing volatile tobacco flavour compounds that are released from the substrate upon heating. The aerosol-forming substrate can comprise a non-tobacco material. The aerosol-forming substrate can comprise an aerosol former that facilitates the formation of a dense and stable aerosol. Examples of suitable aerosol formers are glycerol and propylene glycol.

[0126] The aerosol-forming substrate preferably comprises homogenised tobacco material, an aerosol former, and water. Providing homogenised tobacco material can improve aerosol generation, nicotine content, and flavour characteristics of the aerosol generated during heating of the aerosol-generating article. In particular, the process of manufacturing homogenised tobacco involves grinding tobacco leaves, which more effectively enables the release of nicotine and flavour upon heating.

[0127] As used herein, the term "aerosol-generating article" refers to an article comprising an aerosol-forming substrate capable of releasing volatile compounds that can form an aerosol. For example, the aerosol-generating article can be a smoking article that generates an aerosol that is directly inhaled by a user's mouth into the user's lungs. The aerosol-generating article can be disposable.

[0128] The aerosol-generating article can be substantially cylindrical in shape. The aerosol-generating article can be substantially elongate. The aerosol-generating article can have a length and a circumference substantially perpendicular to the length. The aerosol-generating article can be substantially rod-shaped. The aerosol-forming substrate can be substantially cylindrical in shape. The aerosol-forming substrate can be substantially elongate. The aerosol-forming substrate can also have a length and a circumference substantially perpendicular to the length. The aerosol-forming substrate can be substantially rod-shaped.

[0129] The aerosol-generating article can have an overall length of between 55 millimetres and 110 millimetres, preferably between 60 millimetres and 90 millimetres. The aerosol-generating article can have an outer diameter of between 4.5 millimetres and 17 millimetres, preferably between 6 millimetres and 9 millimetres. The aerosol-generating article can comprise a filter plug. The filter plug can be located at a downstream end of the aerosol-generating article. The filter plug can be a cellulose acetate filter plug. In one embodiment, the filter plug has a length of approximately 7 millimetres, but can have a length of between approximately 5 millimetres and approximately 10 millimetres.

[0130] The aerosol-generating article can comprise a partition between the aerosol-forming substrate and the filter plug. The partition can be approximately 18 millimetres, but can be in the range 5 millimetres to 25 millimetres.

[0131] The application is defined in the claims. However, a non-exhaustive list of non-limiting examples is provided below. Any one or more features of these examples can be combined with any one or more features of another example, embodiment or aspect described herein.

[0132] Example 1 : An aerosol-generating device comprising: a cavity configured to receive an aerosol-generating article comprising an aerosol-forming substrate; and an inductive detector, wherein the inductive detector is configured to detect a magnetic element of the aerosol-generating article by inductive coupling.

[0133] Example 1A: The aerosol-generating device according to Example 1, further comprising an aerosol-generating arrangement configured to generate an aerosol from the aerosol-generating article, wherein the inductive detector is separate from the aerosol-generating arrangement.

[0134] Example 1B: The aerosol-generating device according to Example 1, further comprising a heating arrangement configured to generate an aerosol from the aerosol-generating article, wherein the inductive detector is separate from the heating arrangement.

[0135] Example 1C: The aerosol-generating device according to Example 1 or Example 1A, wherein the inductive detector is a component different from the component of the aerosol-generating arrangement.

[0136] Example 1D: An aerosol-generating device according to any one of the preceding examples, wherein the induction detector is a component different from the component of the heating arrangement.

[0137] Example 2: An aerosol-generating device according to any one of the preceding examples, wherein the induction detector comprises a sensing element, which is preferably a sensing coil, and wherein the sensing element is at least partially, preferably completely, arranged around the cavity.

[0138] Example 3: An aerosol-generating device according to any one of the preceding examples, wherein the device comprises a heating arrangement, which preferably comprises an induction coil.

[0139] Example 3A. An aerosol-generating device according to examples 2 and 3, wherein the sensing coil is a component separate from the induction coil.

[0140] Example 4: An aerosol-generating device according to any one of examples 2, 3 and 3A, wherein the sensing element is arranged at a proximal end of the cavity.

[0141] Example 5: An aerosol-generating device according to any one of the preceding examples, wherein the device comprises a controller, wherein the controller is configured to identify an aerosol-generating article based on an output of the induction detector, preferably wherein the output of the induction detector is a current induced in the sensing element.

[0142] Example 6: An aerosol-generating device according to any one of examples 4 and 5, wherein the heating arrangement comprises an induction coil, and wherein the induction coil has a length of between 15 millimetres and 31 millimetres, preferably between 11 millimetres and 21 millimetres.

[0143] Example 7: An aerosol-generating device according to any one of examples 2 to 6, wherein the sensing element comprises a sensing coil, and wherein the sensing coil has a length of between 4 millimetres and 12 millimetres, preferably between 6 millimetres and 10 millimetres.

[0144] Example 8: An aerosol-generating article comprising a magnetic element arranged on or within the aerosol-generating article.

[0145] Example 9: An aerosol-generating article according to example 8, wherein the magnetic element comprises at least one portion comprising a magnetic material.

[0146] Example 10: An aerosol-generating article according to example 9, wherein the portion comprising a magnetic material is a layer of magnetic ink.

[0147] Example 10A. Aerosol-generating article according to Example 9, wherein the magnetic element comprises a layer of magnetic ink.

[0148] Example 11 : Aerosol-generating article according to any one of Examples 9 and 10, wherein the portion of magnetic material is provided in the form of one or more of a stripe, a dot and a line.

[0149] Example 12: Aerosol-generating article according to any one of Examples 9 to 11, wherein the magnetic element comprises two or more portions of magnetic material, and wherein the two or more portions of magnetic material are arranged in a pattern.

[0150] Example 13: Aerosol-generating article according to any one of Examples 8 to 12, wherein the article comprises an outer wrapper, and wherein the magnetic element is arranged on an outer surface of the outer wrapper or on an inner surface of the outer wrapper or within the outer wrapper.

[0151] Example 14: Aerosol-generating article according to any one of Examples 8 to 13, wherein the magnetic element is configured to form a circumferential surface of the article.

[0152] Example 15: Aerosol-generating article according to any one of Examples 8 to 14, wherein the magnetic element is disposed closer to a proximal end of the aerosol-generating article than to a distal end of the aerosol-generating article.

[0153] Example 16: Aerosol-generating article according to any one of Examples 8 to 15, wherein the aerosol-generating article comprises an aerosol-forming substrate, wherein the aerosol-generating article comprises a wrapper for the aerosol-forming substrate towards the distal end and a further wrapper for a filter towards the proximal end, wherein the wrapper for the filter is preferably made of paper, wherein the magnetic element is disposed on the wrapper for the filter.

[0154] Example 17: Aerosol-generating article according to Example 16, wherein the magnetic element is disposed only on the wrapper for the filter.

[0155] Example 18: Aerosol-generating article according to any one of Examples 16 and 17, wherein the magnetic element does not extend from the wrapper for the filter onto any other wrapper of the article.

[0156] Example 19: An aerosol-generating system comprising an aerosol-generating device according to any one of Examples 1 to 7, and an aerosol-generating article, preferably according to any one of Examples 8 to 18.

[0157] Example 20: A method for detecting an aerosol-generating article in an aerosol-generating device of an aerosol-generating system, preferably the aerosol-generating system according to example 19, wherein the method comprises detecting a magnetic element of the aerosol-generating article by inductive coupling via an inductive detector.

[0158] Example 21 : The method according to example 20, preferably wherein the device of any of examples 5 to 7 is provided, and wherein the method comprises inserting the aerosol-generating article into a cavity of the aerosol-generating device to generate an output of the inductive detector, and identifying the aerosol-generating article based on the output of the inductive detector via a controller.

[0159] Features described in relation to one embodiment can equally apply to other embodiments of the application. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

[0160] The application will be further described, by way of example only, with reference to the accompanying drawings in which:

[0161] Figure 1 An embodiment of the aerosol-generating system of the application is shown;

[0162] Figure 2 Three different aerosol-generating articles of the application are shown, each comprising a different magnetic element.

[0163] Figure 3 An embodiment of the aerosol-generating system of the application is shown at a first time instant during the action of inserting the article into the device.

[0164] Figure 4 An embodiment of the aerosol-generating system of the application is shown at a subsequent second time instant during the action of inserting the article into the device. Figure 3

[0165] Figure 5 A schematic circuit for use with an embodiment of a magnetic element having a permanent magnet is shown.

[0166] Figure 6 A schematic circuit for use with an embodiment of a magnetic element that does not necessarily have a permanent magnet is shown. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0167] Figure 1 ​An aerosol-generating system 100 comprising an aerosol-generating article 102 and an aerosol-generating device 104 is shown. The aerosol-generating device 104 comprises a cavity 106. The cavity 106 is configured as a heating chamber. The device comprises a heating arrangement in the form of an induction coil 108. Alternatively, the coil 118 can be a resistive heating coil. The induction coil 108 is disposed in or around a side wall of the cavity 106. The induction coil 108 completely surrounds a portion of the cavity 106. The device 104 comprises a housing 110.

[0168] The device 104 comprises a sensing element in the form of a sensing coil 112. The sensing coil 112 is disposed at a proximal end 114 of the device 104. The sensing coil 112 is disposed in a side wall of the cavity 106. The sensing coil 112 completely surrounds a portion of the cavity 106. The sensing coil 112 is disposed offset from the induction coil 108 (in this case, relative to a central longitudinal axis 116 of the device 104). In another example, the sensing coil can be offset in another direction (e.g. a radial direction), for example so that the sensing coil 112 surrounds the induction coil 108 (or vice versa). The sensing coil 112 is arranged closer to the proximal end 114 of the device 104 than the induction coil 108. The sensing coil 112 is disposed proximally of the induction coil 108. The induction coil 108 surrounds a different portion of the cavity 106 than the sensing coil 112. The sensing coil 112 and the induction coil 108 are arranged around the central longitudinal axis 116 of the device 104.

[0169] The device comprises a controller 118. The controller 118 is configured to communicate with the induction coil 108 and the sensing coil 112. The controller 118 is electrically connected to the sensing coil 112 and the induction coil 108. The controller 118 is configured to provide electrical power from a battery 120 of the device to the induction coil 108.

[0170] The aerosol-generating article 102 can be inserted into the cavity 106 of the device 104. The aerosol-generating article 102 comprises an aerosol-forming substrate (not shown). The aerosol-generating article 102 comprises a magnetic element 122. The magnetic element 122 comprises a single portion of magnetic material. The aerosol-generating article 102 comprises an outer wrapper 124. The magnetic element 122 is disposed as a magnetic ink strip on an outer surface of the outer wrapper 124. The magnetic ink strip completely surrounds a portion of the outer wrapper 124. The magnetic ink strip is disposed on a portion of the outer surface of the outer wrapper 124. The magnetic ink strip forms a circumferential surface of the article 102.

[0171] In this example, the magnetic element 122 is disposed closer to the proximal end of the aerosol generating article 102 than to the distal end of the aerosol generating article 102. The aerosol generating article 102 can comprise a wrapper for an aerosol-forming substrate (not shown) towards the distal end and another wrapper for a filter (not shown) towards the proximal end. The wrapper for the filter can be referred to as a tipping wrapper or tipping paper (when it is made of paper). The magnetic element 122 can be disposed on the wrapper for the filter. Additionally, there can be no magnetic element on any other wrapper of the article 102 and / or the magnetic element 122 can not extend from the wrapper for the filter onto any other wrapper of the article.

[0172] In use, the aerosol generating article 102 is inserted into the cavity 106 of the aerosol generating device 104 by a user via the proximal end 114 of the cavity 106. During insertion, the magnetic ink strip passes through the sensing coil 112. As the magnetic element 122 passes through the sensing coil 112, an electric current is induced in the sensing coil 112. The induced current or a detector output based on the induced current is monitored by the controller 118 over time.

[0173] Alternatively, in use, an alternating current is supplied to the sensing coil 112. In response to the presence of an article with a magnetic element 112, the current supplied to the sensing coil 112 changes. The controller 118 monitors the change in current over time.

[0174] The controller 118 compares the monitored signal to reference data stored in a memory of the controller 118. The reference data comprises a set of reference signals for known magnetic elements 122. Each of the known magnetic elements 122 can be linked to a type of article 102. The controller 118 can identify the reference data that most closely matches the monitored signal. Using this comparison, the controller 118 is able to distinguish between original articles and unauthorized articles and identify the specific article type of the inserted article 102. If the controller 118 identifies an original article, the controller 118 enables the device 104 to operate normally to provide a user experience. The identified article 102 can be assigned a specific heating profile of this type of article 102. In identifying the article type, the controller 118 can provide the corresponding heating profile.

[0175] Figure 2 Three aerosol generating articles 102 are shown. Each of the articles 102 is a rod and comprises an outer wrapper 124. Each of the articles 102 is provided with a magnetic element 122 on the outer wrapper 124. However, the configuration of the magnetic elements 122 of the articles 102 are each different.

[0176] Figure 2The article 102 on the left side shows an article 102 having a magnetic element 122 comprising a single magnetic ink strip. The magnetic ink strip forms a closed loop on the outer surface of the outer packaging 124. The center of this closed loop is positioned on the central longitudinal axis 126 of the article 102.

[0177] Figure 2 The article 102 shown in the middle is provided with a magnetic element 122, which includes a first portion 128 and a second portion 130. The two portions 128 and 130 are arranged in the form of two magnetic ink strips. These strips are arranged parallel to each other on the outer surface of the outer packaging 124. These strips are arranged transversely to the longitudinal axis 126 of the article 102. Each magnetic ink strip forms a closed loop around the outer packaging 124. The center of each such closed loop is located on the central longitudinal axis 126 of the article 102. The two magnetic material strips are separated from each other by an annular segment of the outer packaging.

[0178] Figure 2 The article 102 on the right side includes a magnetic element 122 having multiple sections (i.e., a series of parallel magnetic ink lines). The longitudinal axis of each line is parallel to the central longitudinal axis 126 of the article 102. Each line is separated from adjacent lines by a segment of the outer packaging. These lines are evenly spaced around the outer surface of the outer packaging 124. These lines are arranged in a symmetrical pattern about the central longitudinal axis 126 of the article 102.

[0179] Figure 2 Each of the different magnetic elements 122 shown has different electromagnetic properties. Therefore, the inductive coupling between each magnetic element 122 of the article 102 and the sensing coil 112 of the device 104 produces different outputs from the inductive detector. The controller 118 monitors and analyzes these detector outputs. Based on this analysis, the controller 118 is able to distinguish these articles 102.

[0180] Figure 3 and 4 It shows that Figure 2 The article 102 shown on the upper left is inserted into the aerosol generating device 104. Figure 3 and Figure 4 Snapshots are shown at consecutive time points during the insertion of article 102 into device 104. Article 102 moves from proximal end 114 of cavity 106 toward distal end of cavity 106.

[0181] exist Figure 3 In this arrangement, the article 102 is partially inserted into the cavity 106 of the device 104. The magnetic element 122 is positioned near the sensing coil 112. At the moment shown during the insertion action, the magnetic element 122 has not yet passed through the sensing coil 112.

[0182] Figure 4 A later moment in time of the insertion action is shown compared to the moment in time shown in Figure 3 The magnetic element is positioned distal to the sense coil 112. Between the moments in time shown in Figure 3 and Figure 4 The magnetic element 122 has passed through the sense coil 112. Due to the movement of the article 102 and in particular the magnetic element 122 relative to the sense coil 112, an electric current is induced in the sense coil 112 if the magnetic element comprises a permanent magnet. The induced electric current or a detector output based on the induced electric current is monitored and analyzed by the controller 118 of the device 104. The article 102 can be identified by the controller 118 based on the induced electric current signal or the detector output based on the induced electric current.

[0183] Figure 5 A schematic circuit for use with embodiments of magnetic elements with permanent magnets is shown. The circuit comprises a sense coil 112. An article 102 comprising a magnetic element with a permanent magnet can be moved relative to the sense coil 112 to induce an electric current in the sense coil 112. The sense coil 112 is electrically connected with a resistor 132 having a known ohmic resistance. The circuit comprises a voltage measurement device 134. The voltage measurement device measures the voltage drop across the resistor 132. A controller 136 monitors the measured voltage drop across the resistor 132. The voltage measurement device can be part of the controller 136. The controller 136 analyzes the measured voltage drop across the resistor 132. The controller 136 can calculate the induced electric current in the sense element 112 from the measured voltage drop across the resistor 132. Based on the monitored voltage or current, the controller 136 can identify the inserted article 102. Based on the monitored voltage or current, the controller 136 can determine the presence or absence of an authorized article 102.

[0184] Figure 6 A schematic circuit for use with embodiments of magnetic elements that do not necessarily have a permanent magnet is shown. The circuit 138 comprises a DC / AC inverter connected to a DC power supply 140. The DC / AC inverter comprises a class E power amplifier which in turn comprises the following components: a transistor switch 142 comprising a field effect transistor T (FET), for example a metal oxide semiconductor field effect transistor (MOSFET); a transistor switch supply circuit, indicated by arrow 144, for supplying a switching signal (gate-source voltage) to the transistor switch 142; and an LC load network 146 comprising a parallel connection of a capacitor Cl and a series connection of a capacitor C2 and an inductor L2. The inductor L2 corresponds to the sense coil 112 for generating an alternating magnetic field within the cavity 106. In addition, a choke Ll is provided for supplying a DC supply voltage +V DC from the DC power supply 140. Figure 6The circuit 138 further shows an ohmic resistance R representing the total equivalent resistance or total resistive load 148, which is the sum of the ohmic resistance of the inductor coil 112, labeled L2, and the ohmic resistance of the magnetic element 122, when the system is in use, i.e. when the article 102 is present in the cavity 106 of the device 104. Otherwise, in the absence of the article 102 in the cavity 106, the equivalent resistance or resistive load 148 corresponds only to the ohmic resistance of the sensing coil 112.

[0185] This variation of the total resistive load 148 due to the presence of the magnetic element can be detected via the DC current l DC provided from the DC power supply 140 to the circuit 138, i.e. to the LC load network 146. To this end, the aerosol-generating device comprises a current measuring device 150 arranged in a series connection arrangement between the DC power supply 140 and the LC load network 146. Thus, when the aerosol-generating article 102 is inserted into the cavity 106 of the aerosol-generating device 104, the presence of the magnetic element 122 increases the total resistive load 148. This in turn causes a decrease of the DC current fed to the circuit 138. The decrease of the DC current l DC is detected by the current measuring device 150.

[0186] The microprocessor 152 is electrically connected with the current measuring device 150. The microprocessor can be part of the controller 136. The current measuring device 150 can be part of the controller. The controller can monitor and analyze the current measured by the current measuring device 150. Based on the measured current, the controller can identify the article 104 or determine the presence or absence of an authorized article 104.

[0187] The circuit 138 comprises a switch 152. The switch 152 is arranged and configured to control the supply of power from the DC power supply 140 to the circuit 138.

Claims

1. An aerosol generating device, comprising: A cavity, the cavity being configured to receive an aerosol-generating article comprising an aerosol-forming matrix; and Sensor detector, The inductive detector is configured to detect the magnetic element of the aerosol-generating article via inductive coupling; and The aerosol generating apparatus further includes an aerosol generating arrangement configured to generate aerosols from the article, wherein the sensing detector is separate from the aerosol generating arrangement.

2. The aerosol generating apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the sensing detector comprises a sensing element, the sensing element preferably being a sensing coil, and wherein the sensing element is arranged at least partially, preferably completely, around the cavity.

3. The aerosol generating apparatus according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the aerosol generating arrangement includes a heating arrangement, and the heating arrangement preferably includes an induction coil.

4. The aerosol generating apparatus according to any one of claims 2 and 3, wherein the sensing coil is a component separate from the sensing coil, wherein preferably, the sensing element is arranged at the proximal end of the cavity.

5. The aerosol generating apparatus according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the apparatus includes a controller, wherein the controller is configured to identify an aerosol generating article based on the output of the sensing detector, preferably wherein the output of the sensing detector is a current induced in the sensing element.

6. An aerosol generating article, the aerosol generating article comprising a magnetic element disposed on or within the aerosol generating article, wherein the magnetic element comprises a magnetic ink layer, wherein preferably the magnetic element comprises at least one portion comprising a magnetic material.

7. The aerosol-generating article of claim 6, wherein the portion of the magnetic material is provided in the form of one or more strips, dots, and lines.

8. The aerosol generating article according to any one of claims 6 or 7, wherein the magnetic element comprises two or more portions of magnetic material, and wherein the two or more portions of magnetic material are arranged in a pattern.

9. The aerosol generating article according to any one of claims 6 to 8, wherein the article includes an outer packaging, and wherein the magnetic element is disposed on the outer surface of the outer packaging, or on the inner surface of the outer packaging, or within the outer packaging.

10. The aerosol-generating article according to any one of claims 6 to 9, wherein the magnetic element is configured to form the circumferential surface of the article.

11. The aerosol generating article according to any one of Examples 6 to 10, wherein the aerosol generating article comprises an aerosol forming matrix, wherein the aerosol generating article comprises a package for the aerosol forming matrix facing distally and another package for a filter facing proximally, wherein the package for the filter is preferably made of paper, wherein the magnetic element is disposed on the package for the filter, and wherein preferably the magnetic element is disposed only on the package for the filter.

12. The aerosol-generating article of claim 11, wherein the magnetic element does not extend from the packaging for the filter to any other packaging for the article.

13. An aerosol generation system, the aerosol generation system comprising an aerosol generation apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 5, and an aerosol generation article, preferably an aerosol generation article according to any one of claims 6 to 12.

14. A method for detecting an aerosol-generated article in an aerosol-generating apparatus of an aerosol-generating system according to claim 13, wherein the method comprises detecting a magnetic element of the aerosol-generated article via inductive coupling using an inductive detector.

15. The method of claim 14, wherein the method comprises inserting the aerosol generating article into a cavity of the aerosol generating apparatus to generate the output of the sensing detector, and identifying the aerosol generating article via a controller based on the output of the sensing detector.

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