Method, system and storage medium for screening tobacco raw material of heated cigarette

Abstract

The present application relates to the technical fields of tobacco processing and novel tobacco products, in particular to a tobacco raw material screening method and system for heated cigarettes and a storage medium, comprising: processing a to-be-screened cut tobacco sample to obtain a test sample; performing thermogravimetric analysis on the test sample to obtain a thermal weight loss rate curve and a weight loss rate curve; obtaining key characteristic parameters based on the thermal weight loss rate curve and the weight loss rate curve, the key characteristic parameters including a key temperature interval cumulative weight loss rate, a smoking stability index and a total smoking potential; determining a total sugar content and a total nitrogen content of the to-be-screened cut tobacco sample, and calculating a sugar-nitrogen ratio; calculating a comprehensive score based on the key characteristic parameters and the sugar-nitrogen ratio; and grading and screening the to-be-screened cut tobacco sample based on the comprehensive score. The present application organically combines dynamic thermogravimetric parameters with static chemical indicators to comprehensively evaluate tobacco raw materials from three dimensions of smoking amount, smoking stability and smoking substance quality, overcoming the limitations of traditional methods which only focus on static chemical indicators.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to the field of tobacco processing and novel tobacco products, specifically to a method, system, and storage medium for screening tobacco raw materials for heated cigarettes. Background Technology

[0002] Heated cigarettes heat tobacco to 200-350°C using an external heat source instead of burning it. This atomizes and releases nicotine, flavor components, and added smoke-generating agents (such as glycerin and propylene glycol), forming an inhalable aerosol. Compared to traditional cigarettes, the requirements for tobacco raw materials have fundamentally changed: traditional combustible cigarettes emphasize the combustibility, ash content, and high-temperature pyrolysis products of tobacco; while heated cigarettes place greater emphasis on the tobacco's smoke-generating ability under low-temperature heating, the efficiency of flavor release, and the stability of the release process.

[0003] Currently, the screening of tobacco raw materials for heated cigarettes mainly relies on empirical sensory evaluation and conventional chemical index analysis (such as total sugar, total nitrogen, nicotine, etc.). However, conventional chemical indexes are static parameters and cannot reflect the actual pyrolysis behavior of tobacco shreds during dynamic heating, resulting in a large deviation between the screening results and the actual application effect. At the same time, sensory evaluation is highly subjective and difficult to quantify, resulting in low efficiency and failing to meet the needs of industrial-scale batch screening. In addition, the lack of unified quantitative evaluation standards leads to large differences in screening results among different formulation engineers, which is not conducive to the stable control of product quality.

[0004] Therefore, establishing a quantifiable method for screening tobacco raw materials that combines static chemical indicators with dynamic pyrolysis behavior is of great practical significance for developing high-quality heated cigarettes. Summary of the Invention

[0005] The purpose of this invention is to provide a method, system, and storage medium for screening tobacco raw materials for heated cigarettes, in order to solve the problems in the prior art that rely on static chemical indicators and subjective sensory evaluation, lack quantitative characterization of the dynamic pyrolysis behavior of raw materials, resulting in large deviations between screening results and actual application effects, low efficiency, poor consistency, and inability to meet the requirements of industrial batch screening and stable product quality control.

[0006] To achieve the above objectives, embodiments of the present invention provide a method for screening tobacco raw materials for heated cigarettes, comprising: The tobacco samples to be screened were processed to obtain test samples; Thermogravimetric analysis was performed on the test samples to obtain the thermogravimetric rate curve and the weight loss rate curve; Key characteristic parameters are obtained based on the thermal weight loss rate curve and the weight loss rate curve. The key characteristic parameters include the cumulative weight loss rate in the key temperature range, the smoke stability index, and the total smoke potential. The total sugar content and total nitrogen content of the tobacco samples to be screened were determined, and the sugar-nitrogen ratio was calculated. A comprehensive score is calculated based on the key characteristic parameters and the sugar-nitrogen ratio. The tobacco samples to be screened are graded, evaluated, and screened based on the comprehensive score.

[0007] Optionally, the method for calculating the cumulative weight loss rate in the key temperature range includes: The cumulative weight loss rate in the critical temperature range is calculated according to formula (1). (1) in, This represents the weight loss rate after heating for 5 minutes. The weight loss rate after heating for 15 minutes.

[0008] Optionally, the method for calculating the smoke stability index includes: The smoke stability index is calculated according to formula (2). (2) in, The smoke emission stability index, This represents the maximum rate of weight loss during the heating period of 5 to 15 minutes. This represents the minimum rate of weight loss during the heating period of 5 to 15 minutes.

[0009] Optionally, the total smoke generation potential is the total weight loss rate after heating for 20 minutes.

[0010] Optionally, the comprehensive score calculated based on the key feature parameters and sugar-nitrogen ratio includes: Calculate the overall score according to formula (3). (3) in, For the overall score, The cumulative weight loss rate within the critical temperature range. For stable smoke generation, The sugar-to-nitrogen ratio, , , These are the weighting coefficients.

[0011] Optionally, the grading and screening of the tobacco samples to be screened based on the comprehensive score includes preliminary screening, which includes: Calculate the total weight loss rate of the test sample after heating for time T; Determine whether the total weight loss rate is greater than a preset threshold; If the total weight loss rate is greater than a preset threshold, it meets the preliminary screening criteria and is then evaluated in a graded manner.

[0012] Optionally, the grading and screening of the tobacco samples to be screened based on the comprehensive score includes: If the overall score is greater than or equal to the first overall score, the tobacco sample to be screened is determined to be a first-grade high-quality raw material. If the overall score is greater than or equal to the second overall score and less than the first overall score, the tobacco sample to be screened is determined to be a secondary auxiliary raw material. If the overall score is less than the second overall score, the tobacco sample to be screened is determined to be a third-level unsuitable raw material.

[0013] Optionally, the first comprehensive score is 20, and the second comprehensive score is 15.

[0014] On the other hand, the present invention also provides a tobacco raw material screening system for heated cigarettes, the system comprising: The sample processing module is used to process the tobacco samples to be screened to obtain test samples; Thermogravimetric analysis module is used to perform thermogravimetric analysis on the test sample and obtain the thermogravimetric loss rate curve and the weight loss rate curve; The feature extraction module is used to obtain key feature parameters based on the thermal weight loss rate curve and the weight loss rate curve. The key feature parameters include the cumulative weight loss rate in the key temperature range, the smoke stability index, and the total smoke potential. The chemical detection module is used to determine the total sugar content and total nitrogen content of the tobacco sample to be screened, and to calculate the sugar-nitrogen ratio; The scoring module is used to calculate a comprehensive score based on the key feature parameters and the sugar-nitrogen ratio; The screening module is used to grade and screen the tobacco samples to be screened based on the comprehensive score.

[0015] In another aspect, the present invention also provides a computer-readable storage medium storing instructions that, when executed by a processor, implement any of the methods described above.

[0016] The beneficial effects of this invention are: This invention organically combines dynamic thermogravimetric parameters (cumulative weight loss rate in key temperature ranges and smoke stability index) with static chemical indicators (sugar-nitrogen ratio), comprehensively evaluating tobacco raw materials from three dimensions: smoke output, smoke stability, and smoke substance quality. This overcomes the limitations of traditional methods that only focus on static chemical indicators. Simultaneously, a clear F-score grading standard is established, making the screening results readily apparent. Formulators can quickly make usage decisions based on raw material grades, significantly improving R&D efficiency. The screening results show high consistency with sensory evaluations, transforming subjective sensory evaluations into objective quantitative indicators, reducing reliance on experienced smoking experts, lowering R&D costs, and enabling high-throughput rapid screening, facilitating standardized promotion and application within the tobacco industry.

[0017] Other features and advantages of the embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail in the following detailed description section. Attached Figure Description

[0018] The accompanying drawings are provided to further illustrate embodiments of the present invention and form part of the specification. They are used together with the following detailed description to explain the embodiments of the present invention, but do not constitute a limitation thereof. In the drawings: Figure 1 A flowchart of a method for screening tobacco raw materials for heated cigarettes according to an embodiment of the present invention; Figure 2 A flowchart illustrating a method for preliminary screening before conducting a grading evaluation according to an embodiment of the present invention. Detailed Implementation

[0019] The specific embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings. It should be understood that the specific embodiments described herein are for illustration and explanation only and are not intended to limit the scope of the present invention.

[0020] It should be noted that the acquisition, transmission, storage, use, and processing of data in the technical solution of this application all comply with relevant laws and regulations. In the embodiments of this application, certain existing industry solutions such as software, components, and models may be mentioned. These should be considered exemplary, intended only to illustrate the feasibility of implementing the technical solution of this application, and do not imply that the applicant has already used or necessarily used such solutions.

[0021] like Figure 1 The diagram shows a flowchart of a method for screening tobacco raw materials for heated cigarettes according to an embodiment of the present invention. Figure 1 In this context, the screening method may include the following steps: In step S10, the tobacco sample to be screened is processed to obtain the test sample; In step S11, thermogravimetric analysis is performed on the test sample to obtain the thermogravimetric loss rate curve and the weight loss rate curve; In step S12, key characteristic parameters are obtained based on the thermal weight loss rate curve and the weight loss rate curve. The key characteristic parameters include the cumulative weight loss rate in the key temperature range, the smoke stability index, and the total smoke potential. In step S13, the total sugar content and total nitrogen content of the tobacco sample to be screened are determined, and the sugar-nitrogen ratio is calculated; In step S14, a comprehensive score is calculated based on key feature parameters and sugar-nitrogen ratio; In step S15, the tobacco samples to be screened are graded, evaluated, and screened based on the comprehensive score.

[0022] In such Figure 1 In the tobacco raw material screening method for heated cigarettes shown, step S10 is used to process the tobacco sample to be screened to obtain a test sample. In this embodiment, the tobacco sample to be screened is dried, glycerol is added to the dried sample, and the mixture is mixed evenly and then equilibrated in a sealed environment. Specifically, in this example, the drying conditions are: drying at 150°C in an oven for 6 minutes. The amount of glycerol added is 15% by mass, and after addition, the mixture is mixed evenly and equilibrated in a sealed environment for at least 72 hours.

[0023] Step S11 is used to perform thermogravimetric analysis on the test sample to obtain the thermogravimetric rate curve and the weight loss curve. Specifically, in this example, the thermogravimetric analysis conditions are: heating rate 20℃ / min, and test temperature range from room temperature to 425℃.

[0024] Step S12 is used to obtain key characteristic parameters based on the thermal weight loss rate curve and weight loss rate curve. These key characteristic parameters include the cumulative weight loss rate within the key temperature range, the smoke generation stability index, and the total smoke generation potential. To determine the optimal time range for characterizing the smoke generation performance of heated cigarettes, representative samples (covering flue-cured tobacco, burley tobacco, and aromatic tobacco) were selected. The cumulative weight loss rate was calculated for different time ranges (0-5 min, 5-10 min, 5-15 min, 10-15 min, and 10-20 min), and a correlation analysis was performed between this rate and the sensory smoke generation score under heated cigarette conditions (detailed experimental data are shown in Example 5.1). The results show that the cumulative weight loss rate within the 5-15 min time range (corresponding to 125-325℃) has the highest correlation with the sensory smoke generation (r=0.89), preliminarily identifying this range as the optimal range, i.e., the key temperature range.

[0025] Furthermore, in this example, the cumulative weight loss rate in the critical temperature range can be calculated using formula (1): (1) in, This represents the weight loss rate after heating for 5 minutes. This represents the weight loss rate after heating for 15 minutes. Heating times of 5 to 15 minutes correspond to temperatures of approximately 125℃-325℃, covering the core working temperature zone of heated cigarettes from 200℃ to 325℃.

[0026] Furthermore, in this example, the smoke stability index can be calculated using formula (2): (2) in, The smoke emission stability index, This represents the maximum rate of weight loss during the heating period of 5 to 15 minutes. This represents the minimum rate of weight loss during the heating period of 5 to 15 minutes.

[0027] Furthermore, in this example, the total smoke potential is the total weight loss rate after heating for 20 minutes.

[0028] Step S13 is used to determine the total sugar content and total nitrogen content of the tobacco sample to be screened, and to calculate the sugar-nitrogen ratio. Specifically, the calculation formula is SNR = total sugar content / total nitrogen content.

[0029] Step S14 is used to calculate the comprehensive score based on key feature parameters and the sugar-nitrogen ratio. Specifically, in this example, the comprehensive score calculation formula is designed as follows: (3) in, For the overall score, The cumulative weight loss rate within the critical temperature range. For stable smoke generation, The sugar-to-nitrogen ratio, , , These are the weighting coefficients.

[0030] In formula (3), , , The three parameters evaluate tobacco raw materials from three dimensions: smoke production, smoke production stability, and smoke quality. They are complementary and indispensable. It is a positive indicator, meaning the greater the amount of smoke produced, the better; It is a negative indicator, meaning the smaller the fluctuation, the better; It is a positive indicator, that is, the purer the aroma, the better. Formula (3) adopts a structure of adding points - deducting points + adding points, which corresponds to the comprehensive evaluation logic of adding points for large smoke output, deducting points for large fluctuations, and adding points for good aroma. The defects of any parameter will be constrained by other parameters, avoiding the one-sidedness of a single indicator.

[0031] Experimental data show (see Examples 5.1-5.3 for details), The correlation coefficient between the amount of smoke emitted and the sensory emission was r = 0.89 (p < 0.01). The correlation coefficient with the flue gas release uniformity score was r = -0.92 (p < 0.01). The correlation coefficient with aroma purity score was r=0.94 (p<0.01). The three parameters are independent and non-substitutable, and together determine the suitability of the raw materials for heated cigarettes from different dimensions.

[0032] Furthermore, weighting coefficients , , This can be determined through multiple linear regression analysis. Using the comprehensive sensory scores of 50 representative smoke samples as the dependent variable, ... , , Regression analysis was performed on the independent variables, and the standardized regression coefficients were 0.52, -0.31, and 0.19, respectively. After normalization, α=0.51, β=0.30, and γ=0.19. The preferred values ​​were α=0.5, β=0.3, and γ=0.2.

[0033] Step S15 is used to grade and screen the tobacco samples based on the comprehensive score. Before grading, a preliminary screening is required. In this embodiment, the specific method for this preliminary screening step can be of various forms known to those skilled in the art. In one example of the present invention, this step may include, for example... Figure 2 The steps shown are described in this. Figure 2 In this process, the initial screening may include: In step S20, the total weight loss rate of the test sample during heating time T is calculated; In step S21, it is determined whether the total weight loss rate is greater than a preset threshold. In step S22, if the total weight loss rate is greater than a preset threshold, the preliminary screening conditions are met and a graded evaluation is performed.

[0034] In such Figure 2 In the method shown, step S20 is used to calculate the total weight loss rate of the test sample after heating for time T. In this example, T is 20 minutes. Step S21 is used to determine whether the total weight loss rate is greater than a preset threshold. In this example, to determine a reasonable initial screening threshold, samples already used for heated cigarette studies are... The sensory smoke emission was analyzed (detailed experimental data are shown in Example 5.6). Statistical results show that... <30% of the samples had sensory smoke production scores generally below 5 points (out of 10), failing to meet the basic requirements for heated cigarettes; while >30% of the samples had sensory smoke emission scores higher than 5 points. This threshold was validated retrospectively with 30 commercially available samples, achieving an accuracy rate of over 90%. Therefore, the determination... >30% is used as the initial screening threshold.

[0035] The specific method for grading and screening the tobacco samples to be screened based on the comprehensive score in step S15 may include: if the comprehensive score is greater than or equal to the first comprehensive score, the tobacco sample to be screened is determined to be a first-grade high-quality raw material, and is preferentially recommended for use as the main skeleton raw material of heated cigarettes; if the comprehensive score is greater than or equal to the second comprehensive score but less than the first comprehensive score, the tobacco sample to be screened is determined to be a second-grade auxiliary raw material, which can be used as an auxiliary material in the formula, or its grade can be improved after appropriate processing, but it is not recommended to use it alone as a main raw material; if the comprehensive score is less than the second comprehensive score, the tobacco sample to be screened is determined to be a third-grade unsuitable raw material, which is not suitable for use in heated cigarettes, and it is recommended to abandon it or to undergo in-depth process improvement before re-evaluation. In this example, the first comprehensive score is 20, and the second comprehensive score is 15.

[0036] The technical solution of this invention will be described in detail below with reference to specific experimental data. The selected data are all from actual test results, and the samples cover tobacco raw materials of different types and origins, and are widely representative.

[0037] Step 1: Sample Selection and Data Testing Six representative samples were selected, covering different types of tobacco including flue-cured tobacco, aromatic tobacco, and burley tobacco, with complete thermogravimetric and chemical composition data. For ease of description, the selected samples are numbered sequentially from Sample A to Sample F. Detailed test data for each sample are shown in Tables 1 to 3.

[0038] Table 1. Weight loss rate of each sample at different heating times unit:%

[0039] Table 2. Weight loss rate (DTG) of each sample at different heating times. Unit: % / min

[0040] Table 3. Chemical composition analysis results of each sample unit:%

[0041] The total sugar content of each sample was determined according to YC / T159-2019 "Determination of water-soluble sugars in tobacco and tobacco products - continuous flow method", and the total nitrogen content was determined according to YC / T161-2002 "Determination of total nitrogen in tobacco and tobacco products - continuous flow method".

[0042] Step 2: Extraction of thermogravimetric characteristic parameters Based on the thermogravimetric analysis data in Tables 1 and 2, the thermogravimetric characteristic parameters of each sample were extracted, and the results are shown in Table 4.

[0043] Table 4 Thermogravimetric parameters of samples unit:%

[0044] Step 3: Chemical Composition Analysis Based on the chemical composition analysis results in Table 3, the key chemical components of each sample were extracted, and the sugar-to-nitrogen ratio (SNR) was calculated. The results are shown in Table 5.

[0045] Table 5 Chemical composition parameters of samples unit:%

[0046] Step 4: Calculation of Comprehensive Score and Graded Evaluation In this embodiment, α=0.5, β=0.3, and γ=0.2 are used as weighting coefficients (the determination of these coefficients is detailed in Embodiment 5). The comprehensive score F of each sample is calculated and evaluated according to the grading standard. The results are shown in Table 6.

[0047] Table 6 Sample Overall Score F and Grading Evaluation Results

[0048] Example 1: Application of Grade A High-Quality Raw Materials (F≥20) Samples A, B, and C all scored greater than 20, and were rated as first-class high-quality raw materials, which can be directly used as the main skeleton material for heated cigarettes.

[0049] Sample C (F=23.02) has the highest (44.79%) and the highest (17.82), indicating that it produces sufficient smoke in the core working temperature range, and that the smoke-producing substances mainly originate from the co-decomposition of sugars and glycerol, resulting in good aroma quality. Although Slightly higher (9.81), but still ranked first in overall score, making it suitable as the main smoke-generating raw material in the formula.

[0050] Sample A (F=22.44) (43.48%) and (15.02) all performed excellently. (7.68) Good control indicates that it has sufficient smoke output, good aroma quality and stable release process, making it one of the raw materials with the best comprehensive performance.

[0051] Sample B (F=20.76) (41.55%) and (12.11) Good. (8.13) Slightly higher than sample A but still within an acceptable range, it can be used as a specialty ingredient in the formula to enhance the flavor profile of the product by utilizing its unique aroma style.

[0052] Example of formulation application: Based on sample C (50%), it provides sufficient smoke output; using sample A as the backbone (30%), it ensures a stable release process; and using sample B as an accent (20%), it adds a unique aroma profile. This formulation combination achieves a balance between aroma richness and release stability while ensuring sufficient smoke output.

[0053] Example 2: Application of secondary auxiliary materials (15≤F<20) Samples F (F=17.90), D (F=16.41), and E (F=16.20) all had F scores between 15 and 20, and were rated as secondary auxiliary raw materials. It is not recommended to use them alone as the main raw material, but they can be added in small amounts to the formula according to their characteristics.

[0054] Sample F (39.93%) is close to 40%. (7.07) performed well, but the SNR was extremely low (0.23), indicating that the amount of smoke produced was acceptable and the release process was stable. However, the proportion of nitrogen compounds in the smoke-producing substances was too high, and direct use may result in unpleasant off-gassing.

[0055] Sample E (5.73) is the lowest among the six samples, indicating the most stable smoke generation process, but (35.55%) is relatively low. (0.71) Extremely low, resulting in insufficient smoke production and aroma quality. However, its excellent smoke stability is of unique value.

[0056] Sample D (36.77%) slightly higher than sample E, (7.06) Slightly high. (0.69) Extremely low.

[0057] Formula application example: If samples F and D are to utilize the unique flavor of their burley tobacco, they can first undergo nitrogen reduction and aroma enhancement treatments (such as sugar fermentation, steam treatment, Maillard reaction aroma enhancement, etc.) to improve their flavor. Then add it to the formulation at a ratio not exceeding 20%; although sample E has insufficient smoke output, it has excellent smoke stability ( =5.73) can be used as a stability modifier, added at a very low ratio of 5-10% to primary feedstock with high F score to improve the stability of the overall release curve.

[0058] Example 3: Determination and verification of Class III unsuitable raw materials (F<15) In this embodiment, none of the six samples selected showed an F value less than 15, indicating a level 3 unsuitable raw material. To verify the effectiveness of the method of this invention, another representative sample (sample G) was selected for calculation, and the results were compared with the sensory evaluation results: The thermogravimetric analysis data of sample G are: TG(5) = 3.586%, TG(15) = 41.962%, therefore... =38.38%; the rate of weight loss in the 5-15 min range is -0.90 to -6.82% / min, therefore =5.92% / min. Chemical composition analysis data are: total sugar 26.8%, total nitrogen 2.6%, therefore... =10.31. The calculated F score is 0.5 × 38.38 - 0.3 × 5.92 + 0.2 × 10.31 = 19.19 - 1.78 + 2.06 = 19.47. This sample has an F score of 19.47, falling into the category of secondary auxiliary raw materials. Sensory evaluation results also indicate that while the smoke production of this sample (combined sun-drying and roasting type) is acceptable, its aroma is mixed and unsuitable for use alone, consistent with the evaluation results of this invention.

[0059] Examples of finding tertiary raw materials: screening for extremely low sugar and low-carbohydrate raw materials from other test samples. Samples, such as some untreated Burley tobacco. Take sample H as an example: =25%, =8.0, =0.5, then F=0.5×25-0.3×8.0+0.2×0.5=12.5-2.4+0.1=10.2 (less than 15). Sensory verification shows that such samples produce significantly insufficient smoke under heating conditions and have a distinct protein odor, making them completely unsuitable for direct use, which is highly consistent with the determination result of F<15 in this invention.

[0060] Example 4: Method Validation Experiment To verify the effectiveness of the screening method of the present invention, 10 samples with different F score ranges (3 primary raw materials, 4 secondary raw materials, and 3 tertiary raw materials) were selected, and their F scores were calculated according to the method of the present invention. At the same time, a professional evaluation and absorption team was organized to conduct sensory evaluation (blind evaluation) and compare the consistency of the two evaluation results.

[0061] The F-scores and sensory evaluation results of the selected samples are shown in Table 7: Table 7 Comparison of Sample F Score and Sensory Evaluation Results

[0062] Experimental design: The samples were prepared as heated cigarette cartridges and sensory evaluations were conducted under the same conditions. The evaluation panel consisted of 7 professional smokers who used a 10-point scale to comprehensively score the amount of smoke produced, irritation, aroma richness, and harmony, and the average score was taken as the average sensory evaluation score.

[0063] Experimental results: The correlation coefficient between the F score and the average sensory evaluation score was r=0.87 (p<0.01), showing a significant positive correlation; the average sensory evaluation score of primary raw materials (F≥20) was 8.4-8.7, all rated as "high quality"; the average sensory evaluation score of secondary raw materials (15≤F<20) was 6.4-7.2, rated as "usable but requires blending"; the average sensory evaluation score of tertiary raw materials (F<15) was 3.8-4.8, rated as "unsuitable".

[0064] Verification conclusion: The F score proposed in this invention is highly consistent with the sensory evaluation results, and can effectively distinguish different grades of tobacco raw materials. It can be used to replace or assist sensory evaluation for rapid screening.

[0065] Example 5: 5.1 Ten representative samples (covering flue-cured tobacco, burley tobacco, and aromatic tobacco) were selected and subjected to thermogravimetric analysis at a heating rate of 20℃ / min. The cumulative weight loss rate was calculated for different time intervals (0-5min, 5-10min, 5-15min, 10-15min, and 10-20min). Simultaneously, each sample was prepared into heated cigarette cartridges, and a professional evaluation panel conducted sensory evaluation of the smoke production (out of 10 points). The correlation coefficients between the cumulative weight loss rate and the sensory smoke production scores for different time intervals were calculated, and the results are as follows:

[0066] The results showed that the cumulative weight loss rate had the highest correlation with the sensory smoke output during the 5-15 min time interval (corresponding to 125-325℃) (r=0.89). This interval completely covers the core working temperature range of heated cigarettes, 200-325℃, proving that this interval is the optimal range for characterizing the smoke output performance of heated cigarettes. Therefore, this interval was selected as the key temperature range in this invention.

[0067] To further verify the robustness and universality of this range selection, 30 other tobacco raw materials were used for verification. The verification results are shown in Table 8.

[0068] Table 8. Validation results of 30 samples in the 5-15 min time interval.

[0069] The verification results show that the 5-15 min time interval also performed optimally among the 30 samples (r=0.88), highly consistent with the preliminary verification results (r=0.89), with a deviation of only 1.1%, and 93.3% of the samples showed the highest correlation in this interval. This interval completely covers the core operating temperature range of heated cigarettes, 200-325℃, proving that this interval is the optimal range for characterizing the smoke-generating performance of heated cigarettes. Therefore, this invention selects this interval as the key temperature range. This selection has undergone dual verification through preliminary experimental screening and backtesting with commercial samples, and is supported by sufficient experimental data, rather than being an arbitrary selection.

[0070] 5.2 Select 6 For samples with significantly different values, calculate their The sensory evaluation team was organized to assess the uniformity of smoke release (out of 10 points, with higher scores indicating greater uniformity). The results are as follows:

[0071] The correlation coefficient between the evenness score and the score was -0.92 (p<0.01), indicating a significant negative correlation. The smaller the value, the more evenly the smoke is released. (Proof) It can effectively characterize the stability of the smoke generation process.

[0072] 5.3 Select 6 For samples with significant differences, calculate their The sensory evaluation team simultaneously assessed the purity of the aroma (on a 10-point scale, with higher scores indicating greater purity). The results are as follows:

[0073] The correlation coefficient between aroma purity score and aroma purity score was r=0.94 (p<0.01), indicating a significant positive correlation. The higher the altitude, the purer the aroma. (Proof) It can effectively characterize the quality features of fuming substances.

[0074] 5.4 Select 50 representative tobacco samples (covering different types such as flue-cured tobacco, burley tobacco, aromatic tobacco, and sun-cured tobacco), and measure their properties respectively. , , A professional sensory evaluation team was organized to conduct a comprehensive evaluation of the samples (using a 10-point scale, comprehensively considering smoke production, irritation, aroma richness, and harmony). The overall sensory score was used as the dependent variable Y. (X1) (X2) (X3) was used as the independent variable for multiple linear regression analysis. The standardized regression coefficients are as follows:

[0075] The standardized regression coefficients were normalized (by taking the absolute value and then calculating the proportions), resulting in weight coefficients α=0.51, β=0.30, and γ=0.19. For ease of calculation and general application, these values ​​were rounded down to α=0.5, β=0.3, and γ=0.2.

[0076] 5.5. Collect 30 tobacco raw materials that have been used in heated tobacco production, calculate their F-scores according to the method of this invention, and simultaneously analyze their market application performance and sensory evaluation results. The results are as follows:

[0077] To further verify the rationality of the above threshold, six representative samples (samples AF) from this embodiment were used as verification samples. The F scores, grades, and key parameters of these six samples are shown in Table 9: Table 9 Key parameters and grading results of the validation samples

[0078] The verification results show that the three samples (samples A, B, and C) with F≥20 all have high [specific characteristics]. (>41%) and higher (>12), the overall evaluation is first-grade high-quality raw material; the three samples with F between 15-20 (samples D, E, F) although and The performance was acceptable, but Extremely low (<1), overall evaluation is secondary auxiliary material. This grading result is completely consistent with the sensory evaluation results of the 6 samples when actually applied to heated cigarettes, verifying the effectiveness of the grading threshold.

[0079] Based on the above data, the grading thresholds are determined as follows: F≥20 is Grade 1 high-quality raw material, 15≤F<20 is Grade 2 auxiliary raw material, and F<15 is Grade 3 unsuitable raw material.

[0080] 5.6. Regarding the 50 samples already used in heated cigarette research... A retrospective analysis with sensory smoke emission revealed that <30% of the samples had sensory smoke production scores generally below 5 points (out of 10), failing to meet the basic requirements for heated cigarettes. Therefore, it was determined that... >30% was used as the initial screening threshold. This threshold was validated through backtesting of 30 commercially available samples, with an accuracy rate exceeding 90%.

[0081] On the other hand, the present invention also provides a tobacco raw material screening system for heated cigarettes, the system comprising: a sample processing module, a thermogravimetric analysis module, a feature extraction module, a chemical detection module, a scoring module, and a screening module. The sample processing module is used to process the tobacco samples to be screened to obtain test samples. The thermogravimetric analysis module is used to perform thermogravimetric analysis on the test samples to obtain thermogravimetric loss rate curves and weight loss rate curves. The feature extraction module is used to obtain key characteristic parameters based on the thermogravimetric loss rate curves and weight loss rate curves, including the cumulative weight loss rate in a key temperature range, the smoking stability index, and the total smoking potential. The chemical detection module is used to determine the total sugar content and total nitrogen content of the tobacco samples to be screened and calculate the sugar-nitrogen ratio. The scoring module is used to calculate a comprehensive score based on the key characteristic parameters and the sugar-nitrogen ratio. The screening module is used to grade and screen the tobacco samples to be screened based on the comprehensive score.

[0082] In another aspect, the present invention also provides a computer-readable storage medium storing instructions that, when executed by a processor, implement any of the methods described in the tobacco raw material screening method for heated cigarettes.

[0083] The beneficial effects of this invention are: The embodiments of the present invention will use dynamic thermogravimetric parameters ( , ) and static chemical indicators ( This method organically combines three dimensions—smoke production, smoke production stability, and smoke production substance quality—to comprehensively evaluate tobacco raw materials, overcoming the limitations of traditional methods that only focus on static chemical indicators.

[0084] This invention establishes a clear F-score grading standard, making the screening results readily apparent. Formulators can quickly make usage decisions based on raw material grades, significantly improving R&D efficiency. Furthermore, the weighting coefficients can be flexibly adjusted according to different product needs and can be optimized for specific product lines through regression analysis, demonstrating good adaptability.

[0085] The screening results of the embodiments of the present invention are highly consistent with the sensory evaluation, transforming subjective sensory evaluation into objective quantitative indicators, reducing reliance on senior smoking evaluation experts, lowering R&D costs, and enabling high-throughput rapid screening, which facilitates standardized promotion and application in the tobacco industry.

[0086] Those skilled in the art will understand that embodiments of this application can be provided as methods, systems, or computer program products. Therefore, this application can take the form of a completely hardware embodiment, a completely software embodiment, or an embodiment combining software and hardware aspects. Furthermore, this application can take the form of a computer program product embodied on one or more computer-usable storage media (including but not limited to disk storage, CD-ROM, optical storage, etc.) containing computer-usable program code.

[0087] This application is described with reference to flowchart illustrations and / or block diagrams of methods, apparatus (systems), and computer program products according to embodiments of this application. It will be understood that each block of the flowchart illustrations and / or block diagrams, and combinations of blocks in the flowchart illustrations and / or block diagrams, can be implemented by computer program instructions. These computer program instructions can be provided to a processor of a general-purpose computer, special-purpose computer, embedded processor, or other programmable data processing apparatus to produce a machine, such that the instructions, which execute via the processor of the computer or other programmable data processing apparatus, generate instructions for implementing the flowchart... Figure 1 One or more processes and / or boxes Figure 1 A device that provides the functions specified in one or more boxes.

[0088] These computer program instructions may also be stored in a computer-readable storage medium that can direct a computer or other programmable data processing device to function in a particular manner, such that the instructions stored in the computer-readable storage medium produce an article of manufacture including instruction means, which are implemented in a process Figure 1 One or more processes and / or boxes Figure 1 The function specified in one or more boxes.

[0089] These computer program instructions may also be loaded onto a computer or other programmable data processing equipment to cause a series of operational steps to be performed on the computer or other programmable equipment to produce a computer-implemented process, thereby providing instructions that execute on the computer or other programmable equipment for implementing the process. Figure 1 One or more processes and / or boxes Figure 1 The steps of the function specified in one or more boxes.

[0090] In a typical configuration, a computing device includes one or more processors (CPU), input / output interfaces, network interfaces, and memory.

[0091] Memory may include non-persistent memory in computer-readable media, such as random access memory (RAM) and / or non-volatile memory, such as read-only memory (ROM) or flash RAM. Memory is an example of computer-readable media.

[0092] Computer-readable media includes both permanent and non-permanent, removable and non-removable media that can store information using any method or technology. Information can be computer-readable instructions, data structures, modules of programs, or other data. Examples of computer storage media include, but are not limited to, phase-change memory (PRAM), static random access memory (SRAM), dynamic random access memory (DRAM), other types of random access memory (RAM), read-only memory (ROM), electrically erasable programmable read-only memory (EEPROM), flash memory or other memory technologies, CD-ROM, digital versatile optical disc (DVD) or other optical storage, magnetic tape, magnetic disk storage or other magnetic storage devices, or any other non-transferable medium that can be used to store information accessible by a computing device. As defined herein, computer-readable media does not include transient computer-readable media, such as modulated data signals and carrier waves.

[0093] It should also be noted that the terms "comprising," "including," or any other variations thereof are intended to cover non-exclusive inclusion, such that a process, method, article, or apparatus that comprises a list of elements includes not only those elements but also other elements not expressly listed, or elements inherent to such process, method, article, or apparatus. Unless otherwise specified, an element defined by the phrase "comprising one..." does not exclude the presence of other identical elements in the process, method, article, or apparatus that includes that element.

[0094] The above are merely embodiments of this application and are not intended to limit the scope of this application. Various modifications and variations can be made to this application by those skilled in the art. Any modifications, equivalent substitutions, improvements, etc., made within the spirit and principles of this application should be included within the scope of the claims of this application.

Claims

1. A method for screening tobacco raw materials for heated cigarettes, characterized in that, The method includes: The tobacco samples to be screened were processed to obtain test samples; Thermogravimetric analysis was performed on the test samples to obtain the thermogravimetric rate curve and the weight loss rate curve; Key characteristic parameters are obtained based on the thermal weight loss rate curve and the weight loss rate curve. The key characteristic parameters include the cumulative weight loss rate in the key temperature range, the smoke stability index, and the total smoke potential. The total sugar content and total nitrogen content of the tobacco samples to be screened were determined, and the sugar-nitrogen ratio was calculated. A comprehensive score is calculated based on the key characteristic parameters and the sugar-nitrogen ratio. The tobacco samples to be screened are graded, evaluated, and screened based on the comprehensive score.

2. The method according to claim 1, characterized in that, The calculation method for the cumulative weight loss rate in the key temperature range includes: The cumulative weight loss rate in the critical temperature range is calculated according to formula (1). ，（1） in, This represents the weight loss rate after heating for 5 minutes. The weight loss rate after heating for 15 minutes.

3. The method according to claim 1, characterized in that, The calculation method for the smoke stability index includes: The smoke stability index is calculated according to formula (2). ，（2） in, The smoke emission stability index, This represents the maximum rate of weight loss during the heating period of 5 to 15 minutes. This represents the minimum rate of weight loss during the heating period of 5 to 15 minutes.

4. The method according to claim 1, characterized in that, The total smoke potential is the total weight loss rate after heating for 20 minutes.

5. The method according to claim 1, characterized in that, The comprehensive score is calculated based on the key characteristic parameters and sugar-nitrogen ratio, including: Calculate the overall score according to formula (3). ，（3） in, For the overall score, The cumulative weight loss rate within the critical temperature range. For stable smoke generation, The sugar-to-nitrogen ratio, , , These are the weighting coefficients.

6. The method according to claim 1, characterized in that, Based on the comprehensive score, the tobacco samples to be screened are graded, evaluated, and screened, including preliminary screening, which includes: Calculate the total weight loss rate of the test sample after heating for time T; Determine whether the total weight loss rate is greater than a preset threshold; If the total weight loss rate is greater than a preset threshold, it meets the preliminary screening criteria and is then evaluated in a graded manner.

7. The method according to claim 6, characterized in that, Based on the comprehensive score, the tobacco samples to be screened are graded, evaluated, and screened, including: If the overall score is greater than or equal to the first overall score, the tobacco sample to be screened is determined to be a first-grade high-quality raw material. If the overall score is greater than or equal to the second overall score and less than the first overall score, the tobacco sample to be screened is determined to be a secondary auxiliary raw material. If the overall score is less than the second overall score, the tobacco sample to be screened is determined to be a third-level unsuitable raw material.

8. The method according to claim 7, characterized in that, The first overall score is 20, and the second overall score is 15.

9. A tobacco raw material screening system for heated cigarettes, characterized in that, The system includes: The sample processing module is used to process the tobacco samples to be screened to obtain test samples; Thermogravimetric analysis module is used to perform thermogravimetric analysis on the test sample and obtain the thermogravimetric loss rate curve and the weight loss rate curve; The feature extraction module is used to obtain key feature parameters based on the thermal weight loss rate curve and the weight loss rate curve. The key feature parameters include the cumulative weight loss rate in the key temperature range, the smoke stability index, and the total smoke potential. The chemical detection module is used to determine the total sugar content and total nitrogen content of the tobacco sample to be screened, and to calculate the sugar-nitrogen ratio; The scoring module is used to calculate a comprehensive score based on the key feature parameters and the sugar-nitrogen ratio; The screening module is used to grade and screen the tobacco samples to be screened based on the comprehensive score.

10. A computer-readable storage medium, characterized in that, The computer-readable storage medium stores instructions that, when executed by a processor, implement the method as described in any one of claims 1 to 8.

Images