Aerosol-generating system with replaceable filter rod

Abstract

The present invention relates to an aerosol-generating system (13) comprising an aerosol-generating article (11) and a heat-free aerosol-generating device (12) wherein the aerosol-generating article comprises an aerosol-generating rod (8) and a replaceable filter rod (1). A connector (4) is provided on a first end (2) of the replaceable filter rod, and the connector comprises connecting means. And a suction nozzle is arranged at the second end (3) of the replaceable filter tip rod. A filter element (6) is positioned between the connector and the filter cap. The replaceable filter rod further comprises a computer readable medium (16) for the purpose of storing data and retrieving information relating to the use and / or identity of the replaceable filter rod. The connector of the filter rod is configured to be detachably attached to the proximal end of the aerosol-generating rod via the connecting means of the connector for multiple use. Heated non-firing aerosol-generating devices utilize internal data, such as the run-time of the device and / or the replacement of the aerosol-generating rod, as well as data on a computer readable medium, such as a unique filter identification number, to monitor the number of uses. The invention mainly aims at preventing the filter tip rod from being misused and ensuring the due filtering effect of the filter tip rod. A possible measure is to issue an alert to the consumer on the heated non-fired aerosol-generating device and / or to disable the functionality of the heated non-fired aerosol-generating device. The invention also relates to a method for operating the aerosol-generating system.

Description

[0001] The present invention relates to an aerosol generating system comprising an aerosol generating article and a heat-not-burn aerosol generating device, wherein the aerosol generating article comprises an aerosol generating rod and a replaceable filter rod. A connector is provided on a first end of the replaceable filter rod and comprises a connection means and at least one air inlet. A mouthpiece is provided at a second end of the replaceable filter rod and comprises at least one air outlet. A filter element is positioned between the connector and the mouthpiece. The replaceable filter rod further comprises a computer readable medium, the purpose of which is to store data and retrieve information related to the use and / or identity of the replaceable filter rod. According to the present invention, the connector of the filter rod is configured for being detachably attached to the proximal end of the aerosol generating rod via the connection means of the connector for multiple uses. The heat-not-burn aerosol generating device monitors the number of uses with the internal data such as the running time of the device and / or the replacement of the aerosol generating rod and the data on the computer readable medium such as the unique filter identification number. The main purpose of the present invention is to prevent the misuse of the filter rod and to ensure its proper filtering effect. Possible measures are to warn the consumer on the heat-not-burn aerosol generating device and / or to disable the functions of the heat-not-burn aerosol generating device.

[0002] Conventional aerosol generating articles comprise a cylindrical aerosol generating rod, which typically comprises a tobacco material, and a cylindrical filter rod. The aerosol generating rod and the filter rod can be surrounded by a wrapper such that the rods are arranged in the wrapper to form an aerosol generating article in the form of a rod. Typically, the filter rod comprises one or more segments of cellulose acetate tow material. Once the aerosol generating article is consumed, the aerosol generating article is discarded by the user, sometimes in the environment. However, filters comprising cellulose acetate tow material are not readily degradable in the ordinary environment. In order to reduce the negative impact on the environment when discarding the aerosol generating article, it has been proposed to employ biodegradable polymers, such as polylactic acid (PLA) or paper filters, as an alternative material for the filter.

[0003] Another approach can be to reduce the volume of the filter rod to be discarded after the heat-not-burn rod is consumed. Providing a filter that can be used for multiple smoking sessions with different aerosol generating articles can effectively reduce the waste of filter rods, thereby contributing to the production of more environmentally friendly aerosol generating articles. In this case, the filter rod can be a replaceable filter rod configured such that the filter rod is detachably attached to one end of the aerosol generating rod. After the aerosol generating rod is consumed, the replaceable filter can be detached from the end of the aerosol generating rod and can be attached to another aerosol generating rod for a new smoking session.

[0004] To safely implement a reusable filter rod technology, it is important to prevent a user from using a filter rod beyond a maximum number of uses intended for the filter rod. It is therefore desirable to provide an aerosol generating system configured to count the number of uses of a replaceable filter rod. It is also desirable to provide an alert when a predetermined maximum number of uses of a filter rod is exceeded and / or to prevent misuse of a filter rod by a user.

[0005] Aerosol generating articles used by consumers today consist of a filter rod and an aerosol generating rod. Such articles can be used in a heat-not-burn aerosol generating device. The aerosol generating articles and their corresponding refill packs are too bulky to carry for a consumer and are difficult to recycle due to several material combinations in one component.

[0006] From document WO 2019140574 A1 a detachable filter tip is known that comprises a smoking material and a filter tip that are connected to each other by a partition. The filter tip can be used multiple times and is directly replaceable after each use of the smoking material. The filter is described as a simple filter, i.e. it does not comprise a connector or a filter cap. The filter also does not have a function to monitor usage and prevent misuse of the filter element.

[0007] Document CN 103271444 A discloses an electronic filter holder with an alarm function, an electronic counter, a clock device and a filter tip. The electronic filter holder is configured to record the number of cigarettes consumed per day to remind the consumer. There is no intention to replace the filter or filter rod.

[0008] Document US 2014 / 261486 A1 discloses a vapor enhancement device for an electronic vapor smoking article that is operably engaged with filter material and configured to enhance vapor inhaled through the filter material.

[0009] Document US 10 390 562 B2 discloses an electronic smoking article that includes a liquid aerosol formulation, a heater operable to volatilize the liquid aerosol formulation and form an aerosol, and at least one at least partially frangible or crushable flavor bead.

[0010] Document US 2022 / 039478 A1 discloses an aerosol generating device. The aerosol generating device comprises a detection element for detecting a type of mouthpiece and a controller for controlling the use of the device.

[0011] Prior art systems have replaceable aerosol generating rods that contain a firmly fixed filter rod. When the aerosol is exhausted, the entire aerosol generating rod must be replaced. Some documents describe detachable filter elements, but these simple filter elements do not prevent misuse of the filter, such as overuse. In addition, the full usability and safety standards of the heated but not burning aerosol generating device must be ensured for the filter rod and therefore, when the filter rod is fully loaded, measures must be taken to stop the heated but not burning aerosol generating device.

[0012] It is therefore the object of the present invention to improve the usability of aerosol generating articles in the following aspects: to make the refill pack design more compact so that it is more convenient for the consumer to carry the refill pack, to reduce production costs and, most importantly, to make it easier to recycle used aerosol generating articles to help protect the environment. The full functionality of the replaceable filter rod is achieved by monitoring the use of the replaceable filter rod and taking appropriate measures when the maximum use time is reached.

[0013] It has been found that these problems can be overcome by an aerosol generating system according to claim 1 and a method according to claim 8.

[0014] According to the invention, a replaceable filter rod for an aerosol generating article for use with a heated but not burning aerosol generating device of an aerosol generating system comprises a first end and a second end. A connector is provided on the first end and comprises a connection means and at least one air inlet. A mouthpiece is provided at the second end of the replaceable filter rod and comprises at least one air outlet. A filter element is positioned between the connector and the filter cap. The replaceable filter rod further comprises a computer readable medium. The purpose of the computer readable medium is to store data and retrieve information related to the use and / or identity of the replaceable filter rod. According to the invention, the connector of the filter rod is configured for detachable attachment to the proximal end of the aerosol generating rod via the connection means of the connector for multiple uses. This design ensures that the consumer easily attaches and detaches the filter rod and the aerosol generating rod, since the connector of the filter rod is designed to ensure that the filter rod and the aerosol generating rod are stably fixed and disconnected at least for the expected number of uses. Preferably, the heated but not burning aerosol generating device monitors the number of uses with internal data, such as the running time of the device and / or the replacement of the aerosol generating rod, and data on the computer readable medium, such as a unique filter identification number. The main purpose of the invention is to prevent misuse of the filter rod and to ensure its proper filtering effect. Possible measures are to notify the consumer on the heated but not burning aerosol generating device and / or to stop the function of the heated but not burning aerosol generating device.

[0015] According to a preferred embodiment of the aerosol generating system, the replaceable filter rod used in the aerosol generating article is provided with a readable and / or rewritable medium comprising an RFID tag. The RFID tag can be fixed to the filter construction by means of an adhesive medium, can also be fixed under a thin layer, or can be an RFID flexible sticker label configured to adhere to the outer surface. Furthermore, it can also be advantageous to fasten the RFID tag by means of a clamping connection. The RFID tag can be used to transfer relevant data to the heat-not-burn aerosol generating device. This data can be the type of filter, or a single filter ID, to ensure that the use of the filter can be monitored. After a certain number of uses, the heat-not-burn aerosol generating device can have a function to stop the ongoing heating process of the aerosol generating article and / or prevent a new heating process from starting, unless the filter is replaced. When the data reader in the heat-not-burn aerosol generating device receives a new filter ID, it can again unlock the device. In another preferred embodiment in which the RFID tag is not only readable but also rewritable, the number of uses of a specific filter can be stored on the RFID tag of the replaceable filter rod. This can prevent misuse, as a fully loaded filter cannot be used on another heat-not-burn aerosol generating device.

[0016] The RFID tag is designed to be read when the tag is very close to the reader, and this application requires data to be sent over a short distance. Preferably, the readable or rewritable medium comprises or is NFC (Near Field Communication), as NFC is preferred for short distance communication. However, the RFID tag can also be any other type of RFID, such as an RFID glass tag.

[0017] In another preferred embodiment, the complexity of the replaceable filter rod of the aerosol generating system can be reduced by replacing the RFID tag with a readable optical code, such as a two-dimensional QR code and a bar code. The advantage of this embodiment is that the readable optical code can be printed on the filter rod. This is not only advantageous in terms of reducing complexity and costs, but also in terms of simplifying the handling.

[0018] According to another preferred embodiment of the aerosol generating system, the computer readable medium of the replaceable filter rod comprises one or more magnets. The magnetic force can be evaluated by a receiver in the heat-not-burn aerosol generating device in order to distinguish between different replaceable filter rods. This embodiment can also ensure that the time of use can be monitored, and that the heat-not-burn aerosol generating device can have a stop function, unless the filter is replaced.

[0019] In a preferred embodiment of the aerosol generating system, the connector of the replaceable filter rod is designed as a thread cut. This thread cut connector is used for a detachable connection with the aerosol generating rod. In this embodiment, the connector is designed to cut a suitable counter thread in the aerosol generating rod. In another preferred embodiment, the aerosol generating rod already shows a corresponding counter thread. In both embodiments, the aerosol generating rod is fastened or screwed into the connector by screwing the connector into the aerosol generating rod.

[0020] Preferably, the aerosol generating rod of the aerosol generating system is pressed or clamped into the connector. In this case, it is important to ensure that the consumer can easily secure the connector without damaging the components.

[0021] In another preferred embodiment of the aerosol generating system, the connector of the replaceable filter rod is designed as a press fit. The fit between the cooperating parts, i.e. the connector of the replaceable filter rod and the aerosol generating rod, is tighter than a sliding fit. This is used to prevent relative movement of the aforementioned components during use, but still allows the replaceable filter rod to be selected for replacement. It is also conceivable to secure and hold the connector to the aerosol generating rod with magnets. In this case, the connector of the replaceable filter rod contains magnets and the aerosol generating rod comprises a magnetic material. It is also possible that the connector of the replaceable filter rod contains a magnetic material, for example iron, and the aerosol generating rod carries a magnet. In another preferred embodiment, the fit between the connector of the replaceable filter rod and the aerosol generating rod is achieved by an elastic material, such as silicone rubber. In this preferred embodiment, a type of press fit is created, since the elastic material, such as a silicone rubber material, is a deformable mass, which conforms to the aerosol generating rod when the aerosol generating rod is pressed into the connector of the replaceable filter rod.

[0022] Preferably, the material of the filter cap of the replaceable filter rod of the aerosol generating system is PEEK (polyether ether ketone), ceramic or another solid material. Different substances can be used as filter material, but all of these materials must show a good filtering effect over a longer period of use compared to filters for one-time use only. Cotton, cellulose or activated carbon are preferred materials for filtering aerosols. The individual components of the replaceable filter rod, i.e. the connector, the filter element and the filter cap, are preferably held together by a filter construction. Preferably, this filter construction is made of rigid paper, glass, ceramic or PEEK.

[0023] In a preferred embodiment of the aerosol generating system, the RFID tag of the replaceable filter rod is an RFID glass tag. In another preferred embodiment, the RFID tag is a flexible sticker tag adhered to the outer surface of the replaceable filter rod. There are many possible variations of the RFID tag and its location on the replaceable filter rod. All of these have the same purpose, namely to store data or to transmit data to the device.

[0024] Therefore, in another preferred embodiment of the aerosol generating system, the RFID tag of the replaceable filter rod can be an NFC tag (Near Field Communication tag). This embodiment is preferred because the tag and the reader can be arranged side by side in the system.

[0025] In another preferred embodiment of the aerosol generating system, the RFID tag is arranged in the replaceable filter rod. This shows the advantage that it is not necessary to attach the tag in a further process step after production, but the insertion can be done during assembly in one of the first few steps. In addition, it is accommodated in a tamper-proof manner.

[0026] According to the present invention, the aerosol generating article of the aerosol generating system is at least composed of a replaceable filter rod and an aerosol generating rod, wherein the replaceable filter rod and the aerosol generating rod are designed to be separable from each other. The replaceable filter rod is detachable from the aerosol generating rod and can be attached to a new aerosol generating rod by means of a connector. In the prior art, the aerosol generating article for the aerosol generating system is arranged to be inseparable. The disadvantage of this embodiment is that the aerosol generating article is larger and bulkier than the aerosol generating rod alone. Therefore, the refill pack is also more bulky. When the refill pack comprises several aerosol generating rods (including aerosol generating substrate), but only one replaceable filter rod that can be used for several aerosol generating rods, the refill pack can be designed to be more lightweight and also more comfortable for the consumer to carry. Another advantage of the component separation design is easier recycling, because the replaceable filter rod and the aerosol generating rod are designed to be easily separable and thus able to be recycled individually.

[0027] According to the present invention, the aerosol generating system is designed to comprise an aerosol generating article and a heated, non-combustible aerosol generating device. The heated, non-combustible aerosol generating device of the system comprises a heating chamber configured to receive at least a portion of the aerosol generating article to be heated. The heater element in the system is configured to heat the aerosol generating article received in the heating chamber. The data reader is configured to detect the computer readable medium when the aerosol generating article is inserted in the heating chamber, and to receive and store a signal indicative of data related to the replaceable filter rod of the aerosol generating article.

[0028] In another preferred embodiment, the heater element is configured to heat an aerosol generating article received in the heating cavity. The data receiver is configured to detect the computer readable medium when the aerosol generating article is inserted in the heating cavity and to receive a signal indicative of data related to the replaceable filter rod of the aerosol generating article. As mentioned above, the data related to the replaceable filter rod can be used to monitor the use of the filter and to stop the function unless the filter is replaced.

[0029] In another preferred embodiment of the aerosol generating system, the data receiver of the heated, non-combustible aerosol generating device is positioned adjacent to a wall of the heating cavity. This design enables the data receiver to communicate with the computer readable medium when the aerosol generating article is inserted in the heating cavity of the heated, non-combustible aerosol generating device. This preferred arrangement of components facilitates communication as the transmission path is optimized.

[0030] The communication and detection do not have to take place all the time, but can also only take place during the process of insertion of the aerosol generating article into the aerosol generating device. In another preferred embodiment, the communication is triggered when the aerosol generating article is inserted into the aerosol generating device and / or removed from the aerosol generating device. Both of these embodiments show the advantage that the communication does not have to take place during the entire usage period. This is advantageous for the power consumption of the aerosol generating device. At the beginning or end of a vaporization session, the rewritable medium, preferably an RFID tag or an NFC tag, can write the previous number of uses. After a certain number of uses, the device prompts that the filter needs to be replaced. Not only the number of uses can be transmitted, but also the duration of the puff or the time the unit is on and they can be used to monitor the filter.

[0031] In addition to the number of uses of the filter, the rewritable medium can also store other information transmitted to the device, such as the type of stick (e.g. flavor) and manufacturing information (e.g. date, traceability information). The device can further process this information by sending the filter ID to a server. For example, data sent back to the device from the server can then be set against the detected flavor change.

[0032] Alternatively, the medium is not writable and the device stores the number of uses of the filter via the unique ID of the filter and does not allow the puff function of the device to be turned on when the number of uses reaches a predetermined number.

[0033] Preferably, the aerosol generating system comprises control circuitry connected to the data receiver, the control circuitry being configured to determine usage information of the replaceable filter rod based on the signal received by the data receiver.

[0034] According to another preferred embodiment, the aerosol generation system is designed such that the control circuitry of the heated, non-combustible aerosol generation device is configured to identify the replaceable filter rod and to determine the number of uses of the replaceable filter rod based on the signal received by the receiver. With this embodiment, the aerosol generation system can process the information and configure the system to optimize the user’s experience.

[0035] According to a preferred embodiment, the aerosol generation system and preferably also the control circuitry of the heated, non-combustible aerosol generation device is configured to deactivate or shut down the heater when the usage information of the replaceable filter rod reaches or exceeds a predetermined value, which prevents the consumer from using a full load of filter with reduced filtering effect. This ensures that the aerosol (consumer’s intake) always has a stable and desired quality.

[0036] According to a preferred embodiment, the aerosol generation system comprises control circuitry of the heated, non-combustible aerosol generation device configured to provide a notification to the user when the usage information of the replaceable filter rod reaches or exceeds a predetermined value. This ensures that the consumer is aware of the status of the system and that he can perform a filter change.

[0037] The object of the present invention is also solved by a method for operating an aerosol generation system according to claim 8. The method comprises a structured sequence of steps.

[0038] First, the aerosol generation rod has to be coupled to the connector of the filter rod to form an aerosol generation article. Second, the aerosol generation article has to be inserted into the heating cavity of the heated, non-combustible aerosol generation device to form an aerosol generation system. In the next step, the computer readable or rewritable medium in the replaceable filter rod is detected by the data reader of the heated, non-combustible device. The data is counted and / or evaluated to shut down the heated, non-combustible aerosol generation device and or to provide a notification and / or an alarm to the user when the filter load reaches a predetermined data value.

[0039] In a preferred embodiment, the replaceable filter rod is detected during the insertion of the aerosol generation article into the heated, non-combustible aerosol generation device.

[0040] Preferably, the replaceable filter rod can also be detected during the insertion and removal of the aerosol generation article.

[0041] In another preferred embodiment, the replaceable filter rod is detected during the entire period when the aerosol generation article is placed in the heating cavity.

[0042] Preferably, the control circuitry of the heated, but not combusted, aerosol generating device identifies the replaceable filter rod during or after detection of the computer readable or rewritable medium. Preferably, the control circuitry determines the number of uses of the replaceable filter rod based on the signal received by the data receiver.

[0043] According to a preferred embodiment, the period of time the replaceable filter rod is arranged in the heating cavity is recorded. Alternatively, the total duration of use of the replaceable filter rod is recorded.

[0044] Preferably, the control circuitry of the heated, but not combusted, aerosol generating device provides a notification to the user when the data received from the computer readable or rewritable medium of the replaceable filter rod reaches or exceeds a predetermined value.

[0045] Further advantages, objects, and features of the present application will be described in the following description, with reference to the drawings, only by way of examples. In the drawings, similar components in different embodiments can bear the same reference number.

[0046] In the drawings:

[0047] Figure 1 A schematic representation of an embodiment of a replaceable filter rod and an embodiment of an aerosol generating rod is shown.

[0048] Figure 2 A schematic representation of an embodiment of a filter rod comprising a readable or rewritable medium comprising an RFID tag is shown.

[0049] Figure 3 A schematic representation of an embodiment of a filter rod comprising a QR code is shown.

[0050] Figure 4 A schematic representation of an embodiment of an aerosol generating system comprising an aerosol generating article and a heated, but not combusted, aerosol generating device is shown.

[0051] Figure 5 A schematic representation of an embodiment of a filter cap is shown.

[0052] Figure 6 A schematic representation of an embodiment of a filter cap is shown.

[0053] Figure 7 A schematic representation of an embodiment of a filter cap is shown.

[0054] Figure 8 A schematic representation of a connector of a filter rod and an aerosol generating rod is shown.

[0055] Figure 1A cross-sectional view of an embodiment of a replaceable filter rod 1 and an aerosol generation rod 8 is shown. The combination of these two parts constitutes an aerosol generation article 11. The filter rod 1 houses a filter element 6 within a filter construction 7. A filter cap 5 is arranged on the second end 3 of the filter element 6 and a connector 4 is arranged on the first end 2. The filter cap 5 serves as a mouthpiece through which a user inhales aerosol medium. The connector 4 serves to connect the filter element 6 to the aerosol generation rod 8. The connector 4 can have a wide variety of shapes. In one advantageous embodiment, the connector is designed as a thread cut. Another advantageous embodiment is that the connector has a press fit or has magnetic means. Furthermore, a connector of the type in which an elastic material, such as silicone rubber, is employed is also a feasible design.

[0056] Figure 2 A cross-sectional view of an embodiment of a replaceable filter rod 1 is shown, in which an RFID tag 9 is included in the filter construction 7. This RFID tag 9 is designed to carry data that can be read by a data reader 17 in a heat-not-burn aerosol generation device 12. In another embodiment, the RFID tag 9 is not only implemented as a read-only device, but also as a read-write device in order to store new or different data before, during or after use of the replaceable filter rod 1 in the heat-not-burn aerosol generation device 12. The RFID tag 9 can be attached to the inner or outer surface of the replaceable filter rod 1 or hang in the volume of the replaceable filter rod 1. Furthermore, the RFID tag 9 can be an NFC tag.

[0057] Figure 3 A cross-sectional view of a replaceable filter rod 1 is shown, in which a QR code 10 is attached to the filter construction 7. This QR code is a two-dimensional code containing data. In this design, it contains data about the filter rod. This data can be read by a data reader 17, which in this embodiment is a QR code scanner, so that the heat-not-burn aerosol generation device 12 receives the data stored in the QR code 10 of the filter rod 1.

[0058] Figure 4A schematic view of an aerosol generating system 13 is shown. The assembly comprises an aerosol generating article 11 and a heat-not-burn aerosol generating device 12 comprising a heating cavity 19 configured to receive at least a portion of the aerosol generating article 11 to be heated and a heater element 20 configured to heat the aerosol generating article 11 received in the heating cavity 19. The aerosol generating article 11 is composed of two units, namely a replaceable filter rod 1 and an aerosol generating rod 8 comprising an aerosol generating substrate. An aerosol is generated by heating in the aerosol generating rod 8 and the aerosol flows through the aerosol generating rod 8 in a flow direction 15. A computer readable and / or rewritable medium 16 is attached to the replaceable filter rod 1. A data transmitter 18 for data of the readable and / or rewritable medium 16 is arranged in the heat-not-burn aerosol generating device 12. The data transmitter 18 in the device is positioned such that when the tobacco rod is fully inserted into the heating cavity, the computer readable medium 16 in the replaceable filter rod 1 is within the range of the data transmitter 18 which can detect the computer readable medium 16.

[0059] Figures 5 to 7 Different embodiments of the filter cap 5 are shown. The filter cap 5 is part of the replaceable filter rod 1 and is the last element of the replaceable filter rod 1 in the flow direction. Thus, the filter cap is the mouthpiece of the replaceable filter rod 1. The filter cap 5 can have different types. Both the material and the shape can vary. For example, the material can be made of ceramic or plastic, such as PEEK. The outer shape of the filter cap 5 is generally cylindrical. In order to influence the flow, the holes 14 through which the consumer inhales the aerosol can have different shapes. Both the number and the diameter of the holes 14 can influence the flow resistance. The holes 14 are optimized such that the consumer has a pleasant feeling when inhaling the aerosol and does not have to suck the replaceable filter rod 1 too hard. Thus, Figure 5 A design with a total of 7 holes 14 is shown, through which the aerosol can flow from the aerosol generating rod 8, through the connector 4, the filter element 6 and the holes, and then be inhaled by the consumer. Figure 6 A design with 7 holes 14 is shown, but the respective diameter of the holes is larger compared to the embodiment of Figure 5 As described, this results in a smaller flow resistance. Figure 7 A design with a total of 9 holes 14 is shown, through which the aerosol can flow. Although the holes 14 are smaller than the design described in Figure 5 and Figure 6 The total area of the openings can be increased by the number of holes 14, thereby optimizing the flow resistance. Different combinations of the number of holes 14 and their diameters are possible. It is also conceivable to have different hole diameters in one element.

[0060] Figure 8 A schematic view of the connector 4 of the replaceable filter rod 1 and the aerosol generating rod 8 is shown. In this embodiment, the connector 4 is designed as a thread cut. The connector 4 has an inner thread or a cut thread of one type. The aerosol generating rod 8 is fastened or screwed into the connector 4 by screwing the connector 4 into the aerosol generating rod 8, which preferably requires half a turn. This only describes one way of inserting the connector 4. Any other method is possible, such as a press fit, a clamping, a fastening with magnets or a silicon molding.

[0061] List of reference signs

[0062] 1 replaceable filter rod

[0063] 2 first end

[0064] 3 second end

[0065] 4 connector

[0066] 5 filter cap

[0067] 6 filter element

[0068] 7 filter configuration

[0069] 8 aerosol generating rod

[0070] 9 RFID tag

[0071] 10 QR code

[0072] 11 aerosol generating article

[0073] 12 heat-not-burn aerosol generating device

[0074] 13 aerosol generating system

[0075] 14 bore

[0076] 15 flow direction

[0077] 16 computer readable and / or rewritable medium

[0078] 17 data reader

[0079] 18 data transmitter

[0080] 19 heating chamber

[0081] 20 heater element. CLAIM (AMENDED IN ACCORDANCE WITH ARTICLE 19 OF THE TREATY) 1. An aerosol generating system (13) comprising an aerosol generating article (11) and a heat-not-burn aerosol generating device (12), wherein the aerosol generating article (11) comprises an aerosol generating rod (8) and a replaceable filter rod (1), wherein the replaceable filter rod (1) comprises a first end (2), a second end (3), a connector (4) provided at the first end (2), the connector comprising a connection means and at least one air inlet, a filter cap (5) provided at the second end (3), the filter cap comprising at least one air outlet, a filter element (6) located between the connector (4) and the filter cap (5), wherein the connector (4) is detachably connected to a proximal end of the aerosol generating rod (8) via the connection means of the connector (4), and wherein the replaceable filter rod (1) comprises a computer readable and / or rewritable medium (16) for storing data for retrieving information related to the use and / or identity of the replaceable filter rod, wherein the replaceable filter rod (1) is detachable from the aerosol generating rod (8) and attachable to a new aerosol generating rod (8) by means of the connector (4), characterized in that the heated, non-combustible aerosol generating device (12) comprises a heating chamber configured to receive at least a portion of the aerosol generating article (11) to be heated, and a heater element configured to heat the aerosol generating article (11) received in the heating chamber, and a data reader (17) configured to detect the computer readable medium (16) when the aerosol generating article (11) is inserted in the heating chamber, and to receive and store a signal indicative of data related to the replaceable filter rod (1) of the aerosol generating article (11). 2. The aerosol generating system (13) according to claim 1, characterized in that the data receiver of the heated, non-combustible aerosol generating device (12) is arranged adjacent to a wall of the heating chamber, such that the data receiver is able to communicate with the computer readable medium when the aerosol generating article (11) is inserted in the heating chamber of the heated, non-combustible aerosol generating device (12). 3. The aerosol generating system (13) according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that the computer readable and / or rewritable medium (16) of the replaceable filter rod comprises an RFID tag (9). 4. The aerosol generating system (13) according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that The computer readable medium (16) of the replaceable filter rod comprises one or more machine readable optical codes, such as QR codes (10) and barcodes. 5. Aerosol generation system (13) according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that The computer readable medium (16) of the replaceable filter rod comprises one or more magnets. 6. Aerosol generation system (13) according to claims 1 to 5, characterized in that The connector (4) of the replaceable filter rod comprises a thread cut, a press fit, magnetic means and / or an elastic material, such as silicone rubber. 7. Aerosol generation system (13) according to claim 3, characterized in that The RFID tag (9) of the replaceable filter rod is an NFC tag (Near Field Communication tag). 8. Method for operating an aerosol generation system (13) according to one of the preceding claims, comprising the following steps: a) coupling the aerosol generation rod (8) to the connector (4) of the filter rod (1) to form the aerosol generation article (11), b) inserting the aerosol generation article (11) into a heating cavity of the heated, but not burning, aerosol generation device (12) to form the aerosol generation system (13), c) detecting the computer readable or rewritable medium (16) in the replaceable filter rod (1) by a data reader (17) of the heated, but not burning, device (12), d) counting and / or evaluating the data, e) switching off the heated, but not burning, aerosol generation device (12) and or providing a notification and / or an alarm to the user when the filter load reaches a predetermined data value. 9. Method according to claim 8, characterized in that The replaceable filter rod (1) is detected during the insertion of the aerosol generation article (11) into the heated, but not burning, aerosol generation device (12). 10. Method according to claim 8, characterized in that The replaceable filter rod (1) is detected during the insertion of the aerosol generation article (11) into the heated, but not burning, aerosol generation device (12) and the removal from the heated, but not burning, aerosol generation device. 11. Method according to claim 8, characterized in that detecting the replaceable filter rod (1) during the entire period in which the aerosol generating article (11) is placed in the heating chamber. 12. The method according to any one of the preceding claims 8 to 11, characterized in that During or after detecting the computer readable or rewritable medium, the control circuitry of the heated, non-combustible aerosol generating device (12) identifies the replaceable filter rod (1) and determines the number of uses of the replaceable filter rod (1) based on the signal received by the data receiver (17). 13. The method according to any one of the preceding claims 8 to 12, characterized in that recording the period of time in which the reusable filter rod (1) is arranged in the heating chamber and / or the total duration of use of the reusable filter rod.

Claims

1. An aerosol generating system (13) comprising an aerosol generating article (11) and a heating non-burning aerosol generating device (12). in, The aerosol generating product (11) includes an aerosol generating rod (8) and a replaceable filter rod (1). The replaceable filter rod (1) includes: a first end (2); a second end (3); a connector (4) disposed at the first end (2), the connector including a connecting device and at least one air inlet; a filter cap (5) disposed at the second end (3), the filter cap including at least one air outlet; and a filter element (6) located between the connector (4) and the filter cap (5). The connector (4) is detachably connected to the proximal end of the aerosol generating rod (8) via a connecting device of the connector (4), and The replaceable filter rod (1) includes a computer-readable and / or rewritable medium (16) for storing data for retrieving information related to the use and / or identity of the replaceable filter rod. The replaceable filter rod (1) can be detached from the aerosol generating rod (8) and can be attached to a new aerosol generating rod (8) by means of the connector (4). Its features are, The heated non-burning aerosol generating device (12) includes: a heating chamber configured to receive at least a portion of the aerosol generating article (11) to be heated; a heater element configured to heat the aerosol generating article (11) received in the heating chamber; and a data reader (17) configured to detect the computer-readable medium (16) and receive and store signals indicating data related to the replaceable filter rod (1) of the aerosol generating article (11) when the aerosol generating article (11) is inserted into the heating chamber.

2. The aerosol generation system (13) according to claim 1. Its features are, The data receiver of the heating non-burning aerosol generating device (12) is arranged adjacent to the wall of the heating chamber, such that when the aerosol generating article (11) is inserted into the heating chamber of the heating non-burning aerosol generating device (12), the data receiver is able to communicate with the computer-readable medium.

3. The aerosol generation system (13) according to claim 1 or 2. Its features are, The computer-readable and / or rewritable medium (16) of the replaceable filter rod includes an RFID tag (9).

4. The aerosol generation system (13) according to claim 1 or 2. Its features are, The computer-readable medium (16) of the replaceable filter rod includes one or more machine-readable optical codes, such as QR codes (10) and barcodes.

5. The aerosol generation system (13) according to claim 1 or 2. Its features are, The computer-readable medium (16) of the replaceable filter rod includes one or more magnets.

6. The aerosol generation system (13) according to claims 1 to 5. Its features are, The connector (4) of the replaceable filter rod includes a threaded cut, a press fit, a magnetic component and / or an elastic material, such as silicone rubber.

7. The aerosol generation system (13) according to claim 3. Its features are, The RFID tag (9) of the replaceable filter rod is an NFC tag (Near Field Communication tag).

8. A method for operating the aerosol generation system (13) according to any one of the preceding claims, Includes the following steps: a) Connect the aerosol generating rod (8) to the connector (4) of the filter rod (1) to form the aerosol generating article (11). b) Insert the aerosol generating article (11) into the heating chamber of the heated non-burning aerosol generating device (12) to form an aerosol generating system (13). c) The computer-readable or rewritable medium (16) in the replaceable filter rod (1) is detected by the data reader (17) of the heating non-burning device (12). d) Count and / or evaluate the data. e) When the filter load reaches a predetermined data value, shut down the heating non-burning aerosol generating device (12) and / or provide a notification and / or alarm to the user.

9. The method according to claim 8, Its features are, The replaceable filter rod (1) is tested during the insertion of the aerosol generating article (11) into the heated non-burning aerosol generating device (12).

10. The method according to claim 8, Its features are, The replaceable filter rod (1) is inspected during the insertion of the aerosol generating article (11) into and from the heated non-burning aerosol generating device (12).

11. The method according to claim 8, Its features are, The replaceable filter rod (1) is tested throughout the entire period during which the aerosol generating article (11) is placed in the heating chamber.

12. The method according to any one of claims 8 to 11, Its features are, During or after the detection of the computer-readable or rewritable medium, the control circuit system of the heating-non-burning aerosol generating device (12) identifies the replaceable filter rod (1) and determines the number of times the replaceable filter rod (1) is used based on the signal received by the data receiver (17).

13. The method according to any one of claims 8 to 12, Its features are, Record the time period during which the reusable filter rod (1) is placed in the heating chamber and / or the total usage duration of the reusable filter rod.

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