Method and system for monitoring tobacco material to detect insect infestation - Patents.com

Abstract

The present invention relates to a method for monitoring tobacco material to detect insect intrusion, the method comprising: - providing tobacco material to an enclosed space; - measuring the concentration of a semiochemical in the air present in the enclosed space; - comparing the measured concentration of the semiochemical with a threshold value; and - reducing the temperature of the enclosed space if the concentration of the semiochemical is higher than the threshold value.

Description

[Technical field]

[0001] The present invention relates to a method and system for monitoring tobacco material for insect infestation.The tobacco infestation monitored is preferably a tobacco infestation caused by cigarette beetles. [Background technology]

[0002] Lasioderma serricorne is commonly known as the cigarette beetle, cigar beetle, or tobacco beetle. As its common name suggests, the cigarette beetle is a pest of tobacco, both in refined cigarette packs and stored in hogsheads and bales. The beetle may also be a minor pest of oil cakes, oilseeds, grains, dried fruit, sage, flour, and some livestock products.

[0003] Ephestia elutella also invades tobacco material. Ephestia elutella is the wax moth of the wax moth family.

[0004] These pests damage tobacco material and significantly impair the quality of end products, such as aerosol-generating articles.

[0005] In the tobacco industry, there is an associated financial effort to eradicate these pests from cigarettes. In addition, there is a constant need to monitor tobacco material and control infestations if they occur.

[0006] The quality of tobacco leaves at the stage of entering the production line of the tobacco industry is crucial for the quality of the final product. When tobacco leaves are damaged by infestation, for example, by the cigarette beetle or the tobacco moth, the tobacco leaves are not only affected because they are eaten by such beetles, but also because they are damaged by the by-products of the infestation. In fact, due to infestation by cigarette beetles, the tobacco leaves may also show signs of the presence of bacteria, microorganisms, or fungi that arise in the tobacco material due to the presence of cigarette beetles and their nesting, including eggs and larvae. In case of infestation by cigarette beetles, the overall quality of the tobacco leaves is therefore seriously deteriorated. Moreover, the infested tobacco leaves carry a potential risk of contaminating other tobacco leaves that are still of good quality. Contamination can occur during the storage of tobacco leaves, during the manufacturing steps, and during the final product shipped to retail, which may eventually reach the costumer, i.e. whenever infested and non-infested leaves are in close proximity.

[0007] If an infestation spreads, tobacco stocks will need to be destroyed, production steps will be significantly interrupted, and transport carriers, storage areas, and production lines will need to be cleaned and disinfected.

[0008] Currently, the preferred method of detecting infestations in tobacco material is based on physically capturing the beetles using a network of pheromone traps that must be applied manually and checked daily, with immediate action taken if an infestation is detected. These measures are costly and require manual handling and management of such traps, as well as being subject to human error. Furthermore, when detection is made, it is usually too late as by the time a trap full of beetles is found, the infestation has already spread and relatively large amounts of tobacco material have been contaminated. Widespread infestations necessitate heavy spraying of insecticides, causing business interruptions, high costs, and environmental impacts.

[0009] It is therefore desirable to provide a detection method that is more reliable and capable of identifying the initial point of intrusion.

[0010] It would further be desirable to have a method to detect cigarette beetle infestation as early as possible so that stored tobacco and related end products, on a global scale, are not damaged by either the beetle itself or by parallel microbial and fungal infestations. Summary of the Invention

[0011] According to an aspect, the present invention relates to a method of monitoring tobacco material to detect insect infestation. Preferably, the method comprises providing tobacco material to an enclosed space. Preferably, the method also comprises measuring a concentration of a semiochemical in air present in the enclosed space. Preferably, the method comprises comparing the measured concentration of the semiochemical with a threshold value. Preferably, the method comprises reducing the temperature of the enclosed space if the concentration of the semiochemical is higher than the threshold value.

[0012] The method aims to detect possible infestation by tobacco pests, such as Lasioderma serricorne, as early as possible. For this purpose, the concentration of a particular semiochemical produced by the pest is measured in the air of a closed space in which the tobacco material is located. The semiochemical may be, for example, a pheromone produced by the pest, such as the cigarette beetle. The measured concentration of the semiochemical is then compared with a threshold value. This comparison can be used to identify the presence or absence of a tobacco pest infestation. If such an infestation is suspected (i.e. if the concentration of the semiochemical is higher than the threshold value), the temperature of the closed space in which the tobacco material is located is reduced. Due to the fact that the semiochemical is released by the pest at an early stage, the infestation can be detected at its onset, so that the tobacco material is only partially or only slightly damaged.

[0013] The survival of both larvae and adults of the cigarette beetle in tobacco warehouses has been tested to determine the important temperature conditions for eradication. From these measurements, it is preferred that the closed space, and thus the tobacco material, be exposed to a temperature below 6 degrees Celsius in order to eliminate the larvae and adults of the pest. Preferably, the closed space is brought to a temperature below 6 degrees Celsius. More preferably, the temperature of the closed space is reduced for at least 7 weeks. More preferably, the closed space is maintained at a temperature below 6 degrees Celsius for a time interval equal to at least 7 weeks. More preferably, the closed space is exposed to a temperature below 2 degrees Celsius. Preferably, the closed space is brought to a temperature below 2 degrees Celsius. More preferably, the temperature of the closed space is reduced for at least 8 weeks. More preferably, the closed space is maintained at a temperature below 2 degrees Celsius for a time interval equal to at least 8 weeks.

[0014] The measurement of the concentration of the semiochemical may be performed continuously, i.e. as soon as a measurement is finished, the next measurement is performed. Alternatively, the measurement of the concentration is performed at a given frequency. For example, the measurements can be performed at a given time interval. The frequency with which the measurements are performed can be adjusted, for example, depending on the amount of tobacco material present in the closed space or the size of the closed space. Other factors may affect the frequency with which the measurements are performed, for example, measurements are performed more frequently if there is a concern that there is an intrusion if a concentration higher than the threshold is seen once. Measurements can also be performed at predetermined times, for example once a week, or before a specific operation, such as before the opening of the closed space and the collection of the tobacco material therein.

[0015] Preferably, if the tobacco material is placed in a closed space and this closed space is a tobacco bale, measurements of the concentration of semiochemicals are taken once a day. If the tobacco material is placed in a closed space and this closed space is a warehouse, measurements of the concentration of semiochemicals are taken continuously (as soon as a measurement is finished, the next measurement is taken). Preferably, if the tobacco material is placed in a closed space and this closed space is a container, such as a shipping container, measurements of the concentration of semiochemicals are taken once a day. Preferably, another measurement is taken before the final destination. "Once a day" may mean measurements are taken continuously for 90 minutes.

[0016] To measure the concentration of semiochemicals, the tobacco material is placed in a closed space. For example, the tobacco material in the form of leaves and stems is shipped from the farm to the primary production unit. The closed space in this case can therefore be a transport carrier that transports the tobacco leaves to the primary production unit, such as a truck, van, wagon, container, carriage, etc. During transport, the tobacco leaves can first be boxed to form a tobacco bale. The closed space can be a tobacco bale. When the leaves reach the primary production unit, the closed space can be a production area (e.g., a curing station) in the primary production line, or a part of a production area. The closed space can be a warehouse or storage building, or a part of a warehouse or storage building, where the tobacco is stored. After the primary, the tobacco leaves can be transported again, for example by a transport carrier as defined above, where the tobacco leaves are further processed. The tobacco material finishes its processing and becomes a final product, such as, for example, an aerosol-generating article. The aerosol-generating article can be packaged. In this case, the closed space can be a package containing the aerosol-generating article.

[0017] In the closed space, air is present. In case of infestation, insects infesting the tobacco material produce semiochemicals that can disperse into the air. A gas sensor specific to the semiochemicals can then detect such semiochemicals and measure their concentration when in contact with the air present in the closed space. The gas sensor may be located inside the closed space or outside the closed space. If the gas sensor is located outside the closed space, an air circuit (such as an air channel) can be present to supply air from the closed space to the sensor.

[0018] Gas sensors used in the present invention are described in detail, for example, in U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2019 / 0234895.

[0019] The gas sensor is adapted to emit a signal representative of the concentration of the semiochemical present in the air inside the enclosed space. The signal may contain information on the concentration of the semiochemical in the air present in the enclosed space. This signal may be transmitted to a control unit. The control unit may be part of the gas sensor itself or may be separate from the gas sensor. If the control unit is separate from the gas sensor, preferably the signal containing the information of the concentration of the semiochemical is transmitted to the control unit in a suitable manner known in the art. For example, the signal may be transmitted wirelessly. The communication between the gas sensor and the control unit may follow one or more of the following protocols: Bluetooth, BLE, Wi-Fi, 3G, 4G, 5G, LTE, etc. The control unit may be a processor, such as part of a computer. For example, the control unit may be part of a mobile phone, a tablet computer, etc. The control unit is preferably part of equipment already present in the production line.

[0020] After measurement, the measured value of the semiochemical concentration is compared to a pre-set threshold value. The threshold value depends on the type of semiochemical of interest. The threshold value may depend on the type of enclosed space in which the tobacco material is present. For example, for larger enclosed spaces, the threshold value may be higher than for smaller enclosed spaces. The threshold value may also be changed as needed, for example via a user interface.

[0021] The user interface may be integrated into the gas sensor or may be located in the control unit. The user interface may be remote from the gas sensor and the control unit. The user interface is preferably adapted to be connected to the gas sensor or the control unit and to receive signals from the gas sensor or the control unit. The user interface may include a dedicated screen such as a TFT LCD screen, an IPS LCD screen, a capacitive touchscreen LCD, an LED screen, an OLED screen, an AMOLED screen, etc.

[0022] The user interface may also display the measured concentration of the semiochemical. The user interface may display the results of a comparison of the measured concentration to a threshold value.

[0023] The threshold is preferably set equal to a value constituting between 5 parts per million (ppm) and 150 parts per million, more preferably between 5 parts per million and 50 parts per million. Preferably, the response of the gas sensor in the presence of a concentration of the target semiochemical near or above the threshold has a response time of less than 1 second. This response time means substantially real-time detection. In another embodiment, the gas sensor simply measures the presence or absence of semiochemical. The threshold is exceeded as soon as the gas sensor measures the presence of the semiochemical.

[0024] Preferably, the gas sensor may detect more than one semiochemical. The gas sensor may sense multiple semiochemicals simultaneously or may sense only one of the semiochemicals from the list of semiochemicals. In this second case, the semiochemical of interest (also called the semiochemical "target") is selected, for example via a user interface, from the list of semiochemicals that may be detected.

[0025] The gas sensor may include a database in which there is a list of semiochemicals and for each semiochemical there is associated a threshold value, and for each semiochemical in the list of semiochemicals there is a list of threshold values, since the threshold value may be dependent on the enclosed space.

[0026] The comparison of the concentration of the semiochemical measured by the gas sensor with the threshold value may be displayed on a screen, such as a user interface. This may be visualized in a table or graph. The results of the various measurements made in time may be stored in a memory. The memory may be located in the gas sensor. The memory may be part of the control unit. The comparison of the concentration of the semiochemical measured by the gas sensor with the threshold value may be performed in the gas sensor, if the control unit is part of the gas sensor, or may be performed remotely in the control unit, if the control unit is not part of the gas sensor. The results of the comparison may also be broadcast to external devices, such as other computers, management units, smartphones, alarm units, etc. The results of the comparison of the concentration of the semiochemical measured by the gas sensor with the threshold value may be communicated using audible words, such as via a loudspeaker.

[0027] If the concentration of the semiochemical in the air present in the enclosed space is higher than the threshold value, then a signal is preferably sent to a management unit, which may receive the results of all comparisons regardless of outcome, or may only receive positive comparisons, where the concentration of the target semiochemical is higher than the threshold value.

[0028] The management unit is a server adapted to communicate with the gas sensor or the control unit. The management unit is preferably adapted to trigger a procedure as a result of the presence of an intrusion (i.e. as a result of a concentration exceeding a threshold value). A procedure is for example cooling of the enclosed space. The management unit may be included in a processor, an external server, a mobile phone or a user's computer. The management unit may for example be integrated into a process control system.

[0029] An alarm unit is a unit adapted to transmit an alarm in any form.

[0030] If the concentration of the semiochemical is higher than the threshold value, the closed space in which the cigarette is present is cooled. The cooling may be performed automatically, i.e. by the management unit, which starts the cooling procedure upon a positive result of the comparison of the concentration of the semiochemical with the threshold value, i.e. the measured concentration is higher than the threshold value. The cooling may also be performed manually. In this case, the operator may recognize that the concentration of the semiochemical exceeds the threshold value, for example, by an alarm signal emitted by the alarm unit, or a message sent by the gas sensor or the control unit to the management unit, or to a mobile phone, or by e-mail, etc. As soon as the operator recognizes, the cooling of the closed space can be started.

[0031] The manner or means by which the enclosed space is cooled may depend on the type of enclosed space itself that the tobacco material is contained in. In particular, the type of means for reducing the temperature of an enclosed space may depend on the size of such enclosed space.

[0032] For example, where the tobacco material is located inside the container, the container may be a refrigeration container. Typically, these containers include a base in which a refrigeration system is located. The refrigeration system is adapted to reach a desired low temperature when required, for example, by a command from a control unit.

[0033] Alternatively, the tobacco material located inside the container can be rerouted and brought to an environment that can have the desired cool temperature. As an example, if a ship carrying the invaded tobacco material passes through artic weather conditions on its route, it can be stopped in those weather conditions during the invading. Similarly, a truck passing through the Alps may be stopped in cold alpine weather when the invading occurs.

[0034] If the enclosed space is a warehouse, or a manufacturing facility or production line, the heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) system of the warehouse or manufacturing facility or production line can generally reduce the temperature in certain designated areas. Preferably, these designated areas can be sealed. In this way, the designated areas can be more efficiently cooled and sealed during disinfection.

[0035] If the closed space is a tobacco bale, they can be brought into an industrial refrigerator. These refrigerators can maintain very precise low temperatures.

[0036] Preferably, the semiochemical is a pheromone.Preferably, the insect infestation is an infestation caused by Lasioderma serricorne. Preferably, the semiochemical is one of the following: (2S,3R,1'S)-2,3-dihydro-3,5-dimethyl-2-ethyl-6(1-methyl-2-oxobutyl)-4H-pyran-4-one; (2S,3R,1'R)-2,3-dihydro-3,5-dimethyl-2-ethyl-6(1-methyl-2-oxobutyl)-4H-pyran-4-one; (2S,3R)-2,3-dihydro-3,5-dimethyl-2-ethyl-6-(1-methyl-2-oxobutyl)-4H-pyran-4-one; (4S,6S,7S)-4,6-dimethyl-7-hydroxynon-3-one; (2S,3S)-2,6-diethyl-3,5-dimethyl-3,4-dihydro-2H-pyran. Preferably, the semiochemical is a pheromone produced by the cigarette beetle. The gas sensor preferably measures the concentration of alpha-cerlicorin, of the formula (2S,3R,1'S)-2,3-dihydro-3,5-dimethyl-2-ethyl-6(1-methyl-2-oxobutyl)-4H-pyran-4-one. The gas sensor preferably measures the concentration of beta-cerlicorin, of the formula (2S,3R,1'R)-2,3-dihydro-3,5-dimethyl-2-ethyl-6(1-methyl-2-oxobutyl)-4H-pyran-4-one. The gas sensor preferably measures the concentration of 4S6S7S-cerlicorin, of the formula (4S,6S,7S)-7-hydroxy-4,6-dimethylnonan-3-one. The gas sensor preferably measures the concentration of anhydrocerlicorin, of the formula (2S,3S)-2,6-diethyl-3,5-dimethyl-3,4-dihydro-2H-pyran. Preferably, the gas sensor measures the concentration of 2S3R-sericoron, of formula (2S,3R)-2,3-dihydro-3,5-dimethyl-2-ethyl-6-(1-methyl-2-oxobutyl)-4H-pyran-4-one. The concentration of only one of the pheromones may be measured. The concentrations of two of the pheromones may be measured. The concentrations of three of the pheromones may be measured. The concentrations of four of the pheromones may be measured.The concentrations of all of the above pheromones may be measured. Preferably, each of the above pheromones has its specific threshold. Thus, each measured concentration of the pheromone is compared to a different possible threshold depending on the pheromone. By measuring the concentrations of multiple pheromones, it is possible to identify more accurately whether an infestation is present than when measuring a single pheromone. Furthermore, by measuring the concentrations of multiple pheromones, it is possible to identify the presence of an infestation earlier than when measuring a single pheromone. All of the above pheromones are emitted by Lasioderma serricorne.

[0037] Preferably, the method includes sending an alarm signal if the concentration of the semiochemical is higher than a threshold value. If the concentration of the semiochemical measured in the measuring step is higher than a threshold value, a tobacco pest infestation may be underway. In order to minimize the effects of the infestation and damage to the tobacco material, an alarm signal is issued. The alarm signal may be issued by an alarm unit. An alarm may be issued if the concentration of the semiochemical exceeds the threshold value at least N times, where N is an integer>1. Two thresholds may also be considered, a first threshold T1 and a second threshold T2, where the second threshold is higher than the first threshold (T2>T1). If the concentration of the semiochemical is higher than the first threshold but lower than the second threshold, at least N (N>1) measurements with a concentration>T1 must be performed before an alarm signal is issued. On the other hand, if the concentration of the semiochemical is also higher than the first and second thresholds, one measurement is sufficient to issue an alarm signal if the concentration is>T2. The alarm unit may be part of the control unit or the management unit.

[0038] Preferably, transmitting the alarm signal includes emitting an audible signal. Preferably, transmitting the alarm signal includes emitting a visual signal. Preferably, transmitting the alarm signal includes sending a digital text message to an operator or management unit. Preferably, transmitting the alarm signal includes sending data for the measured concentration or for a comparison of the measured concentration to a threshold value to an operator or management unit. Preferably, transmitting the alarm signal includes emitting a visual signal and an audible signal. Preferably, transmitting the alarm signal includes sending a digital text message to an operator or management unit and sending data related to the measured concentration or the comparison of the measured concentration to a threshold value to an operator or management unit. Preferably, transmitting the alarm signal includes emitting an audible signal, emitting a visual signal, sending a digital text message to an operator or management unit and sending data for the measured concentration or the comparison between the measured concentration and a threshold value to an operator or management unit. Sending a digital text message may include sending an email or an SMS or a text message via any known application such as Messenger or WhatsApp. If the measured concentration of the target semiochemical is above a threshold value, an intrusion may exist. In order to minimize the damage caused by an intrusion, measures should be taken as soon as possible, for example cooling the tobacco material as soon as possible, and for this purpose an alarm signal is preferably issued to warn the surroundings that cooling may be taking place in the enclosed space, or to inform technicians that cooling must be taken due to a possible intrusion.

[0039] Preferably, the method includes associating an identifier with the tobacco material present in the enclosed space. Preferably, the method includes creating a data set including the identifier and a value representing the concentration or comparison with the threshold value if the measured concentration of the semiochemical is higher than the threshold value. Preferably, the method includes transmitting the data set to a management unit. The identifier is preferably a unique product identifier. The identifier identifies a given amount of tobacco material. For example, the identifier may be associated with a given bale of tobacco to identify the amount of tobacco placed in the bale. The identifier is unique to a particular amount of tobacco material, for example the identifier is unique to that particular bale of tobacco that is marked. Unique markings on manufactured items can be used for tracking of items. For example, a customer order may be linked to the identification label of a particular shipping case that contains the ordered product. "Product" in this context means an item or other article that contains or consists of tobacco material, from leaves to aerosol-generating articles. This allows the customer, the manufacturer and any intermediaries to track the location of the requested product at all times. This can be achieved by using a scanner for scanning the identifier and communicating to a verification center. Alternatively, the identifier may be read by a person who may then manually communicate to the validation centre. For example, a party may use a scanner to read the identifier on the shipping case (or the identifier may be read by a person as described above). Details of the identifier may be transmitted to the validation centre. The validation centre may then examine or otherwise process the identifier details to determine manufacturing details of the shipping case and transmit those details to the scanner. The identifier may also be used to track items. For example, if a manufacturer needs to recall products from a certain number of shipping cases, those shipping cases may be tracked using their identifier. If the tobacco material associated with the identifier is suspected of being infiltrated, i.e. the concentration of semiochemicals is higher than a threshold value in the air present in the enclosed space in which such tobacco material is located, then an identifier of the infiltrated tobacco material is obtained.To this identifier, another data is added, which represents the fact that an intrusion may be present in the tobacco material, for example a concentration value of the semiochemical, or data for the result of the comparison, for example "HIGH" or equal to a selected value and bit indicating that the measured concentration of the semiochemical exceeds a threshold value. The identifier and the additional data form a data set that is transmitted to the management unit. This data set may be used to start the tracking of the intruded tobacco material along the supply chain. In this way, thanks to the presence of the identifier, anything that has been in contact with the intruded tobacco material can be tracked. Furthermore, a "warning" (additional data) of a possible intrusion makes it possible to mark the identified tobacco material as being intruded. Tracking the intruded tobacco material throughout the supply chain implies that all equipment, areas, buildings, spaces, carriers, etc. can also be identified, as well as other tobacco material that has been in contact with or in close proximity to the intruded tobacco material. Appropriate measures can be taken to minimize the spread of the intrusion.

[0040] Preferably, creating the dataset includes creating a dataset including information of the time the comparison was made. Preferably, creating the dataset includes creating a dataset including information of the geographic location of the enclosed space. The dataset may include additional information before being sent to the management unit. Useful information may for example be the time the intrusion was discovered (e.g. the time the measured concentration first exceeded a threshold value) or the geographic location of where the intruded tobacco material is located. The information may be processed automatically or by an operator when it reaches the management unit.

[0041] Providing the tobacco material in the closed space preferably includes providing the tobacco material in a bale. Providing the tobacco material in the closed space preferably includes providing the tobacco material in a warehouse. Providing the tobacco material in the closed space preferably includes providing the tobacco material in a transport carrier. Providing the tobacco material in the closed space preferably includes providing the tobacco material in a manufacturing area. The transport carrier may be any of a container, truck, van, freight, wagon, passenger car, etc. The tobacco material may first be packed in a bale and then loaded onto the transport carrier. The manufacturing area is any part of a manufacturing plant or factory. It may be a part that is well delimited by walls or other partitions, or an open space identified by the machines or products manufactured therein. A warehouse is any building used to store tobacco material, or transport carriers or bales of tobacco. A gas sensor adapted to measure the concentration of a semiochemical in the air located in a closed space may measure this concentration in more than one closed space. For example, the gas sensor may be located in some of the bales of tobacco. Furthermore, the tobacco sensor may be located in the transport carrier. Thus, the concentration of semiochemicals can be measured in the air present within several bales and in the air present within the transport carrier.

[0042] Preferably, the method includes providing an emitter in the enclosed volume. Preferably, the method includes emitting a signal if the measured concentration of the semiochemical is above a threshold. Preferably, the method includes providing a receiver outside the enclosed volume adapted to receive the signal transmitted by the emitter. Preferably, the method includes identifying the veil as having been breached upon receipt of the signal.

[0043] When an intrusion is detected, a signal is emitted. This signal is sent to an operator or to a management unit. The signal may be sent, for example, by a control unit. The signal may contain information on the measured concentration of the semiochemical, or just the fact that the measured concentration of the semiochemical is higher than a threshold value. This signal is received by a receiver, which may be connected, for example, to the management unit. Upon receiving a signal that an intrusion is occurring, the closed space is classified as "intrusion" and cooling is performed. The management unit may further trace the path of the intruded tobacco material along the supply chain so that tobacco material, equipment and places that have come into contact with or are in close proximity to the intruded tobacco material may be cooled, disinfected or separated. An alarm signal may be emitted to alert an operator that an intrusion is in progress.

[0044] Preferably, the method comprises providing the enclosed space with a visual indicator having a first state and a second state. Preferably, the method comprises displaying the first state of the visual indicator. Preferably, the method comprises switching the displayed state from the first state to the second state when the measured concentration of the semiochemical is higher than a threshold value. In this way, it is easy to identify an invaded enclosed space.

[0045] Preferably, the method includes measuring the concentration of at least one volatile substance produced by microbial activity. Preferably, the volatile substance produced by microbial activity is detected. In the mold of the tobacco material, bacteria, fungi, larvae, or other microorganisms may occur. The presence of these microorganisms may be due to infestation by cigarette beetles. These microorganisms may, for example, deteriorate the quality of the tobacco material, impairing the sensory experience of the user when using the final product containing the tobacco material. When microorganisms are present in the tobacco material, some volatile substances are produced and dispersed in the space surrounding the tobacco material. The volatile substances flow out of the tobacco material and are dispersed in the closed space in which the tobacco material is stored. Thus, the same gas sensor may measure the concentration of the semiochemicals and the volatile substances, or there may be two different gas sensors, one measuring the semiochemicals and the other the volatile substances.

[0046] Preferably, the method comprises the step of measuring the concentration of volatile substances produced by several fungi, such as, for example, Aspergillus Amstelodami, Aspergillus flavus, Fusarium culmorum, Penicillium cyclopium.

[0047] Preferably, the step of measuring the concentration of volatile substances produced by microbial activity comprises measuring the concentration of 1-octen-3-ol, which is matsutakeol formed during the oxidative degradation of linoleic acid. Detection of 1-octen-3-ol provides an indication of the quality of the aerosol-generating article.

[0048] Preferably, the step of measuring the concentration of volatile substances produced by microbial activity comprises measuring the detection of the concentration of 1,3-octadiene, the presence of which is associated with fermentation processes. Detection of 1,3-octadiene provides an indication of the quality of the aerosol-generating article.

[0049] Preferably, the step of measuring the concentration of volatile substances produced by microbial activity comprises measuring the concentration of methyl-2-ethylhexanoate.

[0050] Preferably, the step of measuring the concentration of volatile substances produced by microbial activity comprises measuring the concentration of 2-methylfuran.

[0051] Preferably, the step of measuring the concentration of volatile substances produced by microbial activity comprises measuring the concentration of 3-methylfuran.

[0052] Preferably, the step of measuring the concentration of volatile substances produced by microbial activity comprises measuring the concentration of 3-methyl-1-butanol.

[0053] Preferably, the step of measuring the concentration of volatile substances produced by microbial activity comprises measuring the concentration of 2-methyl-1-butanol.

[0054] Preferably, the step of measuring the concentration of volatile substances produced by microbial activity comprises measuring the concentration of 2-heptene.

[0055] Preferably, the step of measuring the concentration of volatile substances produced by microbial activity comprises measuring the concentration of dimethylsulfide.

[0056] Preferably, the step of measuring the concentration of volatile substances produced by microbial activity comprises measuring the concentration of 4-heptanone.

[0057] Preferably, the step of measuring the concentration of volatile substances produced by microbial activity comprises measuring the concentration of (5H)-furanone.

[0058] Preferably, the step of measuring the concentration of volatile substances produced by microbial activity comprises measuring the concentration of 3-heptanol.

[0059] Preferably, the step of measuring the concentration of volatile substances produced by microbial activity comprises measuring the concentration of methoxybenzene.

[0060] Measuring the concentrations of semiochemicals simultaneously with the concentrations of volatiles produced by microbial activity gives a more accurate indication of whether an infestation by cigarette beetles is occurring, as this is usually accompanied by microbial activity.

[0061] Preferably, the method provides for the detection of multiple volatile substances. In this way, it is possible to obtain a better indication of the quality of the tobacco material and whether infestation is present. This may also indicate the level of damage that the tobacco material has already suffered.

[0062] Preferably, if the measured concentration of the semiochemical is higher than the threshold value, the method includes alerting an operator or a management unit. Preferably, if the measured concentration of the semiochemical is higher than the threshold value, the method includes isolating the invaded equipment, transport carrier, storage unit, or tobacco material. Preferably, if the measured concentration of the semiochemical is higher than the threshold value, the method includes marking the enclosed space as invaded by a visual indication. Invaded equipment is equipment or tobacco material that has been in contact with invaded tobacco material (which tobacco material is located in an enclosed space whose air has a measured concentration of the semiochemical higher than the threshold value). For example, invaded equipment, carrier, storage unit, tobacco material, etc. can be identified by tracking the movement of the invaded tobacco material along the supply chain. For example, a visual indicator, or a red or flashing light, is used to easily identify the invaded enclosed space. "Isolating" an equipment, carrier, storage unit, or tobacco material means placing it in a different location, away from other elements, to avoid contact with further tobacco material.

[0063] Preferably, the method includes tracking the tobacco material in the closed space along the supply line. Preferably, the method includes, if the measured concentration of semiochemicals in the air present in the closed environment is higher than the threshold, then identifying locations, equipment, storage units, other tobacco materials, transport carriers along the supply line that are in contact with or in close proximity to the tobacco material above the threshold. Preferably, the method includes, if the measured concentration of semiochemicals in the air present in the closed environment is higher than the threshold, disinfecting, reducing the temperature, or isolating the identified locations, equipment, transport carriers, storage units, or other tobacco materials. As soon as an intrusion is discovered, the movement of the tobacco material is preferably tracked along the supply line. In this way, everything that has come into contact with or is in close proximity to the intruded tobacco material can be disinfected as well. Furthermore, further spread of infection is minimized.

[0064] According to another aspect, the invention relates to a system for detecting the presence of an intrusion of tobacco material, the system comprising an enclosed space adapted to contain tobacco material. Preferably, the system further comprises a gas sensor adapted to measure a concentration of a semiochemical in air present in the enclosed space and adapted to emit a signal representative of the measured concentration. Preferably, the system comprises a cooling unit adapted to reduce a temperature of the enclosed space. Preferably, the system comprises a control unit connected to the gas sensor and the cooling unit, the control unit adapted to receive a signal from the gas sensor, compare the signal with a threshold value and command the cooling unit to cool the enclosed space if the signal is above the threshold value.

[0065] The advantages of this aspect have already been detailed with reference to the method and will not be repeated here.

[0066] Preferably, the system comprises a second gas sensor adapted to measure the concentration of a volatile substance in air present in the closed space. Preferably, the second gas sensor is an electronic nose. Preferably, the second gas sensor is an electronic nose developed by Smelldect (https: / / smelldect.de / ). This sensor is described in detail in DE102014002077 under the name KARLSRUHER INST FEUR TECHNOLOGIE.

[0067] Preferably, the second gas sensor comprises a sensor having tin dioxide based nanofibers, an aroma profile and a control unit.

[0068] Preferably, the system includes an air conduit for directing air present in the enclosed space towards the gas sensor. The gas sensor may be inside or outside the enclosed space. In either case, the channel preferably directs air from the enclosed space to the sensor.

[0069] Preferably, the system includes an alarm adapted to emit an alarm signal if the signal exceeds a threshold value. The alarm signal may be an acoustic signal, a visual signal or an electronic signal emitted via the communication means. For example, the alarm signal is transmitted as an electronic text message.

[0070] Preferably, the system includes a wireless emitter adapted to transmit data representative of the concentrations or comparison to a management unit.

[0071] "Hormones" as used herein refer to regulatory substances produced in an organism by glands of a multicellular organism. Hormones are produced by many animals. Hormones are transported to distant organ targets by the circulatory system. Hormones can have diverse chemical structures, belonging to three main classes: eicosanoids, steroids, and amino acid / protein derivatives. Hormone secretion can occur in different tissues, and the secreted hormones can be transported through the body in many different ways.

[0072] A "pheromone" is a compound that is secreted or excreted by an organism and that elicits a social response. A pheromone is a compound that can act like a hormone outside the body of the secreting organism to affect the behavior of a recipient organism, which may be of the same species as the secreting organism.

[0073] The term "tobacco material" refers to any part of the tobacco plant or a mixture of different plants, including, but not limited to, tobacco waste, unprocessed tobacco waste, tobacco stems, tobacco dust generated during tobacco processing, tobacco prime lamina strips, and combinations thereof. The tobacco material may have the form of processed tobacco parts or pieces, dried and aged tobacco in essentially natural lamina or stem form, tobacco extract, or a mixture of the above, such as a mixture of extracted tobacco pulp combined with granulated dried and aged natural tobacco lamina. The tobacco material may be in solid, liquid, semi-solid, or the like. The term "tobacco material" preferably includes any part and any associated by-products, such as the leaves or stems of any member of the genus Nicotiana. Tobacco material for use in the present invention is preferably derived from the species Nicotiana tabacum. Any type, style, or variety of tobacco may be processed. Examples of tobacco that may be used may include, but are not limited to, Virginia, Burley, Orient tobacco, and any blends of these types. Preferably the tobacco material comprises Kasturi tobacco. The tobacco material to be treated may comprise or consist of tobacco after curing.

[0074] The tobacco material may be loose or already contained in a final product, such as, for example, an aerosol-generating article.

[0075] A "bale" of tobacco material is a package of bound tobacco material that is usually, but not necessarily, wrapped or closed in a box.

[0076] Hereinafter, the terms "upstream" or "downstream" refer to the direction of movement or transport of tobacco material or a bale containing tobacco material.

[0077] As used herein, the terms "horizontal" and "vertical" have their standard meanings.

[0078] "Semiochemicals" are chemicals or mixtures released by organisms that affect the behavior of other individuals. Semiochemical communication is divided into two broad classes: communication between individuals of the same species (intraspecific) or between different species (interspecific). They include pheromones, allomones, kairomones, attractants, and repellents. Many insects, including parasites, use semiochemicals. Pheromones are interspecific signals that help in finding mates, food and habitat resources, warn enemies, and avoid competition. Interspecific signals known as allomones and kairomones have similar functions.

[0079] As used herein, a "unique product identifier" means an identifier that uniquely identifies a product. Each product is given a different unique product identifier. A unique product identifier is typically a numeric or alphanumeric sequence or value. EXAMPLES

[0080] The present invention is defined in the claims. However, below is provided a non-exhaustive list of non-limiting examples. Any one or more of the features of these examples may be combined with any one or more features of any other example, embodiment, or aspect described herein.

[0081] Example 1: 1. A method for monitoring tobacco material to detect insect infestation, comprising: providing tobacco material in an enclosed space; and - measuring the concentration of semiochemicals in the air present in a closed space; comparing the measured concentration of the pheromone to a threshold value; - reducing the temperature of the enclosed space if the concentration of the pheromone is greater than a threshold. Example 2: The method of example 1, wherein the threshold value is equal to 5 parts per million to 150 parts per million. Example 3: 3. The method of claim 1 or 2, wherein the step of reducing the temperature includes reducing the temperature of the enclosed space to below 6 degrees Celsius. Example 4: 4. The method of example 3, wherein the step of reducing the temperature includes reducing the temperature of the enclosed space to less than 2 degrees Celsius. Example 5: 5. The method of example 3 or 4, wherein the step of reducing the temperature comprises reducing the temperature of the enclosed space for at least 7 weeks. Example 6: Semiochemicals are -(2S,3R,1'S)-2,3-dihydro-3,5-dimethyl-2-ethyl-6(1-methyl-2-oxobutyl)-4H-pyran-4-one, -(2S,3R,1'R)-2,3-dihydro-3,5-dimethyl-2-ethyl-6(1-methyl-2-oxobutyl)-4H-pyran-4-one, -(2S,3R)-2,3-dihydro-3,5-dimethyl-2-ethyl-6-(1-methyl-2-oxobutyl)-4H-pyran-4-one, -(4S,6S,7S)-4,6-dimethyl-7-hydroxynon-3-one, -(2S,3S)-2,6-diethyl-3,5-dimethyl-3,4-dihydro-2H-pyran. Example 7: The method according to one or more of embodiments 1 to 6, comprising transmitting an alarm signal if the measured concentration of the semiochemical is higher than a threshold value. Example 8: Transmitting an alarm signal -emitting an audible signal; and -emitting a visual signal; - sending a digital text message to an operator or a management unit; - transmitting data on the measured concentration of the semiochemical or data on a comparison of the measured concentration with a threshold value to an operator or a remote server or management unit. Example 9: -associating an identifier with tobacco material present in the enclosed space; and - creating a data set comprising an identifier and a value representing the measured concentration or a comparison of the measured concentration to a threshold value if the measured concentration of the semiochemical is higher than the threshold value; - transmitting the data set to a control unit. Example 10: Creating a dataset is - The method of example 9, comprising generating a dataset comprising information about the time at which the comparison was made. Example 11: Creating a dataset is The method of any one of claims 9 to 10, further comprising creating a dataset comprising information on the geographic location of the enclosed space. Example 12: Providing tobacco material in an enclosed space, - providing tobacco material into a bale; - Providing tobacco materials for storage; providing tobacco material to a transport carrier; - providing tobacco material to a production area. Example 13: providing an emitter in an enclosed space; -emitting a signal if the measured concentration of the semiochemical is higher than a threshold value; providing a receiver outside the enclosed volume adapted to receive the signal transmitted by the emitter; - identifying the enclosed space as having been intruded upon if a signal is received. Example 14: - providing tobacco material into a bale; providing an emitter for the veil; -emitting a signal if the measured concentration of the semiochemical is higher than a threshold value; providing a receiver outside the veil adapted to receive the signal transmitted by the emitter; - identifying the veil as having been breached if a signal is received. Example 15: providing tobacco material to a transport carrier; providing an emitter on a transport carrier; -emitting a signal if the measured concentration of the semiochemical is higher than a threshold value; providing a receiver external to the transport carrier adapted to receive the signal transmitted by the emitter; - identifying the transport carrier as having been intruded if a signal is received. Example 16: - Providing tobacco materials for storage; -Providing emitters for warehouses; -emitting a signal if the measured concentration of the semiochemical is higher than a threshold value; providing a receiver outside the warehouse adapted to receive the signal transmitted by the emitter; - identifying the warehouse as having been broken into if a signal is received. Example 17: - providing tobacco material to a production area; providing an emitter in a production area; -emitting a signal if the measured concentration of the semiochemical is higher than a threshold value; providing a receiver outside the production area adapted to receive the signal transmitted by the emitter; - identifying the production area as having been intruded into if a signal is received. Example 18: - providing a visual indicator in the enclosed space having a first state and a second state; - indicating the first condition on a visual indicator; and - switching the displayed state from a first state to a second state if the measured concentration of the semiochemical is higher than a threshold value. Example 19: - providing tobacco material into a bale; providing a visual indicator on the veil having a first state and a second state; - indicating the first condition on a visual indicator; and - switching the displayed state from a first state to a second state if the measured concentration of the semiochemical is higher than a threshold value. Example 20: providing tobacco material to a transport carrier; providing a transport carrier with a visual indicator having a first state and a second state; - indicating the first condition on a visual indicator; and - switching the displayed state from a first state to a second state if the measured concentration of the semiochemical is higher than a threshold value. Example 21: - Providing tobacco materials for storage; providing a visual indicator in the warehouse having a first state and a second state; - indicating the first condition on a visual indicator; and - switching the displayed state from a first state to a second state if the measured concentration of the semiochemical is higher than a threshold value. Example 22: - providing tobacco material to a production area; - providing a visual indicator in a production area having a first state and a second state; - indicating the first condition on a visual indicator; and - switching the displayed state from a first state to a second state if the measured concentration of the semiochemical is higher than a threshold value. Example 23: The method according to one or more of Examples 1 to 22, comprising measuring the concentration of volatile substances produced by microbial activity in the air present in the enclosed space. Example 24: The volatile substances are 24. The method according to Example 23, wherein the compound is -1-octen-3-ol. Example 25: The volatile substances are 25. The method according to any one of Examples 23 to 24, wherein the compound is -1,3-octadiene. Example 26: The volatile substances are The method according to one or more of examples 23-25, wherein the compound is -methyl-2-ethylhexanoate. Example 27: The volatile substances are The method according to one or more of Examples 23 to 26, wherein the furan is -2-methylfuran. Example 28: The volatile substances are The method according to one or more of Examples 23 to 27, wherein the furan is -3-methylfuran. Example 29: The volatile substances are The method according to one or more of Examples 23 to 28, wherein the 1-methyl-3-butanol is -3-methyl-1-butanol. Example 30: The volatile substances are The method according to one or more of Examples 23 to 29, wherein the 1-methyl-2-butanol is -2-methyl-1-butanol. Example 31: The volatile substances are The method according to any one or more of Examples 21 to 30, wherein the compound is -2-heptene. Example 32: The volatile substances are The method according to one or more of Examples 21 to 31, wherein the compound is -dimethyl sulfide. Example 33: The volatile substances are The method according to one or more of Examples 21 to 32, wherein the compound is -4-heptanone. Example 34: The volatile substances are The method according to one or more of Examples 21-33, wherein the -(5H)-furanone. Example 35: The volatile substances are The method according to one or more of Examples 21 to 34, wherein the 3-heptanol is -3-heptanol. Example 36: The volatile substances are The method according to one or more of Examples 21-35, wherein -methoxybenzene. Example 37: If the measured concentration of the semiochemical is above the threshold value, - alerting a management unit or an operator; - isolating the intruded equipment, transport carriers, or tobacco materials; and - marking the confined space as breached by a visual indication. Example 38: - tracking tobacco material present in the enclosed space along a supply line; - if the measured concentration of the semiochemical in the air present in the enclosed space is higher than the threshold value; Identifying equipment, storage areas, other tobacco materials, and transport carriers that are in contact with or in close proximity to tobacco materials along the supply line that have semiochemical concentrations above the threshold; and The method of one or more of Examples 1-37, comprising o sterilizing, reducing the temperature, or isolating identified equipment, storage areas, other tobacco materials, or transport carriers. Example 39: 1. A system for detecting the presence of an intrusion in a tobacco material, comprising: - an enclosed space adapted to contain tobacco material; a gas sensor adapted to measure the concentration of a semiochemical substance in the air present in the enclosed space and adapted to emit a signal representative of the measured concentration; a cooling unit adapted to reduce the temperature inside the enclosed space; - a control unit connected to the gas sensor and the cooling unit, the control unit adapted to receive a signal from the gas sensor, compare the signal with a threshold, and command the cooling unit to cool the enclosed space if the signal exceeds the threshold. Example 40: The system of example 39 further comprising a second gas sensor adapted to measure a concentration of a volatile substance in air present in the enclosed space. Example 41: 41. The system of example 40, wherein the second gas sensor is an electronic nose. Example 42: The system of any one or more of Examples 39-41, further comprising an air conduit for directing air present in the closed space toward the gas sensor. Example 43: The system according to one or more of Examples 37 to 42, comprising an alarm unit adapted to issue an alarm signal if the signal exceeds a threshold value. Example 44: A system described in one or more of Examples 37-43, comprising a wireless emitter adapted to transmit data representing the measured concentration or comparison to a management unit.

[0082] The embodiments will now be further described with reference to the figures. [Brief description of the drawings]

[0083] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram of a gas sensor for use in a system according to the present invention, in accordance with the method of the present invention. [Diagram 2] FIG. 2 is a schematic diagram of a supply chain in which the systems and methods of the present invention are implemented according to one embodiment. [Diagram 3] FIG. 3 is a schematic diagram of a further embodiment of a system according to the invention. [Figure 4] FIG. 4 is a schematic diagram of a further embodiment of a system according to the invention. [Diagram 5] FIG. 5 is a schematic diagram of a manufacturing area in which the systems and methods of the present invention are implemented according to one embodiment. [Figure 6] FIG. 6 is a schematic diagram of a portion of a warehouse area 400 , a warehouse 640 , including a gas sensor 100 mounted on a storage shelf 410 . [Figure 7] FIG. 7 is a flow diagram of some steps of the method of the present invention. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0084] In FIG. 1, a gas sensor 100 for use in the method and system of the present invention is disclosed. The sensor 100 is a gas sensor adapted to detect the presence of insect larvae and adults in a stored product, for example by sensing volatile pheromones and semiochemicals. An example of such a gas sensor is that developed and sold by Sensor Development Corporation under the trade name ContraMoth® and described in US Patent Application Publication No. 2019 / 0234895. The gas sensor 100 is preferably adapted to detect and measure the concentration of pheromones produced by cigarette beetles.

[0085] The gas sensor 100 includes a sensing element 110 that includes a sensor array 111 , an airflow system 150 , a database 120 , a control unit 130 , an alarm system 140 , and optionally an energy source 160 .

[0086] The detection element 110 is in fluid communication with an airflow system 150. The airflow system 150 has the purpose of sucking ambient air towards the sensor array 111. For example, the sensor array 111 may be stored in a chamber (not visible) into which the ambient air is sucked. In this way, the detection area of ​​the sensor array 111 is increased. The airflow system 150 includes, for example, an electric fan as shown diagrammatically in FIG. 1. The sensor array 111 comprises a series of different sensors that are heated to a specific temperature, affecting the resistance of the sensor, each set up to detect a specific volatile organic compound or semiochemical. Furthermore, each sensor of the array is adapted to provide a signal that is used for comparison, as described below. The signal represents the concentration of the semiochemical detected by the sensor. In the present invention, the substance sensed by the gas sensor 100 is a pheromone, more preferably a pheromone emitted by the cigarette beetle.

[0087] The sensor array 111 is described in detail in U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2019 / 0234895.

[0088] Preferably, the gas sensor 100 may detect a number of different semiochemicals. Among all these possible semiochemicals, a desired (target) semiochemical to be detected is selected. For example, a pheromone emitted by the cigarette beetle is selected. For example, the semiochemical when selected from the database 120.

[0089] The database 120 contains a set of semiochemicals, each with a corresponding threshold value, that may be detected by the gas sensor 100. Preferably, the database 120 contains a profile of the cigarette beetle sex pheromone, i.e., (4S,6S,7S)-4,6-dimethyl-7-hydroxynon-3-one, as the target semiochemical.

[0090] In some embodiments, the database 120 may also contain other sets of volatiles, for example volatiles caused by the presence of microorganisms such as mold, bacteria, or others that are indicative of the quality of the tobacco material. The gas sensor 100 may also be adapted to measure these volatiles and transmit as an output a signal representative of their concentration. Thus, the gas sensor 100 may be adapted to detect semiochemicals and other volatiles that are indicative of microbial activity.

[0091] Volatiles that can be indicators of microbial activity, such as fungal and bacterial, include, for example: 1-Octen-3-ol 1,3-Octadiene Methyl 2-ethylhexanoate 2-Heptene Dimethyl sulfide 4-Heptanone It is.

[0092] The concentration of the selected semiochemical, and, if desired, the concentrations of other volatile substances, for example one or more of the volatile substances mentioned above, are therefore signalled to the control unit 130 .

[0093] The gas sensor 100 may detect the concentration of the desired pheromone continuously or at a predetermined frequency so that different actions can be taken at predetermined time intervals.

[0094] The control unit 130, in this case e.g. a processor, is preferably adapted to execute a comparison algorithm to compare the measured data of the sensor array 111 (the concentration of the target semiochemical) with the contents of the database. In other words, the control unit 130 compares the concentration of the target semiochemical detected by the sensor array 111 with the threshold value of that semiochemical present in the database 120.

[0095] If the comparison is positive, i.e. if the concentration is higher than the threshold, an incident data set 147 is preferably created. The incident data set 147 may be created by the control unit 130. The incident data set 147 may include one or more of the following information: "Timestamp" (e.g., the time at which the threshold was exceeded at the measured concentration) "Incident type" (e.g., pheromone above threshold or one of the other volatile substances) "Shipment ID" (e.g., an identification ID for the tobacco material or bale, or an identification ID for the shipment itself) "Checksum" (e.g., a checksum is a small-sized datum derived from a block of digital data to detect errors that may have been introduced during its transmission or storage) "Location information" (e.g., where the tobacco material being "infiltrated" is located).

[0096] As described in more detail below, the incident data set 147, which is used as input to a defined alert protocol, is passed as an alert to the production management unit 550 or the supply chain management unit 620.

[0097] The alarm system 140 is adapted to send an alarm signal to another machine (e.g., a management unit) or to an operator if the concentration measured by the gas sensor 100 exceeds a threshold value. For example, the alarm system 140 may include visual feedback means 141 used to inform the operator. The alarm system 140 may also include a communication unit 145 for interacting with the management units 550, 620. The communication unit 145 may include, for example, wireless communication means based on Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, or technologies such as 3G, 4G, 5G, LTE, etc.

[0098] The gas sensor 100 may also be equipped with a location system, such as a Global Positioning System, IP geolocation, or other suitable means.

[0099] The gas sensor 100 may also include an energy source 160, based on a primary or secondary battery, as a lithium-ion based battery with a capacity of 9300 mAh / 100 Wh for an embodiment of the gas sensor 100 for portable application in a tobacco bale.

[0100] The gas sensor 100 is positioned to allow detection of a target semiochemical in the air of a closed space. The closed space is a space in which tobacco material is contained. The gas sensor 100 may be placed in close proximity to or in contact with the tobacco material in the closed space. The gas sensor 100 is used to detect the concentration of a selected semiochemical in the air of the closed space.

[0101] Examples of closed spaces are shown in Figures 3 to 6.

[0102] The tobacco material 631 may be located within the tobacco bale 630. The gas sensor 100 may also be located within the tobacco bale 630. The tobacco bale 630 is therefore a closed space (see FIG. 3). The bale 630 containing the tobacco material 631 may be transported within a carrier, such as being loaded onto a truck. FIG. 3 shows a tobacco bale 630 with a gas sensor located at 100 in close proximity to the tobacco material 631. In this limited area, a measurement of the air within the bale allows for a concise measurement result. Preferably, the bale 630 is provided with a visual feedback indicator 141 (schematically shown as a circle in FIG. 3). When the tobacco bale 630 is invaded, i.e. when the concentration of the pheromone measured by the gas sensor 100 exceeds a threshold present in the database 120, the visual feedback indicator 141 may flash to indicate that the bale has been invaded.

[0103] A number of bales 630 with or without gas sensor 100 may be shipped in a standard transport carrier 610 as usual in a logistics branch, as shown in FIG. 4. Such a transport carrier 610 is preferably equipped with gas sensor 100 and WAN communication 650. The gas sensor centrally mounted in the transport carrier and the number of gas sensors 100 located in the tobacco bale 630 may transmit information about the concentration of pheromones in the air inside the bale 630 and in the air inside the carrier 610 using the WAN communication 650. The carrier 610 is also considered a closed space. The information may be transmitted to a management unit (not shown in FIG. 4). In some embodiments, the transport carrier 610 is sealed by customs. The gas sensor 100 present in the transport carrier 610 is adapted to sense the presence of pheromones and transmit a signal via the WAN communication 650 if the concentration is above a threshold present in the database 120.

[0104] If the measured concentration is above a threshold, then the carrier 610 as a whole or a single bale 630 is cooled.

[0105] FIG. 5 shows a bale opening machine 510 located in a manufacturing area 500 of a primary production 660 (shown in FIG. 2), for example as disclosed in EP 1 715 765. The gas sensor 100 is positioned in close proximity to a tobacco bale 630. In this example, the bale 630 is invaded by a cigarette beetle 531. Within the invaded tobacco bale 630, pheromones 310 are present due to the nesting activity of the cigarette beetle. When the cutter of the bale opening machine 510 opens the invaded tobacco bale 630, the gas sensor 100 draws air with its airflow system 150 towards the detection element 110, and the sensor array 111 detects the presence of the pheromones 310. Since the bale has been invaded, the concentration of the pheromone detected by the gas sensor 100 is higher than the threshold value. Thus, the gas sensor 100 sends an alarm signal to the production control unit 550 with the incident data set 147 to mark the tobacco bale 630 as invaded. The tobacco bale 630 is then cooled. An adjacent tobacco bale 520 is also preferably inspected and cooled adjacent to the penetrated tobacco bale 630. Other tobacco bales may also be inspected. Additionally, the bale opening machine 510, which may be considered a closed space, may also be cooled.

[0106] The tobacco bale 630 or 520 may be cooled by placing it in an industrial refrigerator (not shown in the drawings), the temperature of which is, for example, 6 degrees Celsius (internally). The tobacco bale may be stored in the refrigerator for 6 to 8 weeks.

[0107] FIG. 6 shows a schematic diagram of a warehouse area 400, part of a warehouse 640 (shown in FIG. 2), including a gas sensor 100 mounted on a storage shelf 410. An invaded tobacco bale 630 is emitting pheromones 310 due to the nesting activity of cigarette beetles 531. The gas sensor 100 continuously draws air over the sensor array 111 by the airflow system 150. The pheromones detected by the sensor 100 have a concentration above a threshold value, and the tobacco bale 630 has been invaded, so the gas sensor 100 sends a signal to activate the alarm system 140. The fact that an invaded bale is present may be visually indicated by a flashing LED 141. The warehouse area 400, the invaded bale 630 and the adjacent bale 420, being closed spaces, are cooled.

[0108] In an alternative embodiment, the gas sensor 100 may also detect smoke.

[0109] FIG. 2 shows a diagram of a simplified supply chain 600 for the primary production of tobacco products. The supply chain starts with the packaging of dried tobacco leaves from a supplier into tobacco bales 630. The bales are then transported in standard transport carriers 610. The bales 630 are stored in warehouses 640 and delivered to primary production 660 sites. Such a supply chain is typically managed by a supply chain management unit 620 that tracks and coordinates the delivery of goods from the suppliers. All steps of the supply chain are connected, for example, via WAN (Wide Area Network) communications 650, which passes information to the supply chain management unit 620, such as, among other things, the incident data set 147. To enable proper quality control, the supply chain management unit 620 stores data on shipments, suppliers, and quality incidents. In the case of an infestation by cigarette beetles, it is only detectable if a certain amount of time has passed since the infestation until the eggs laid turn into larvae or adults. The supply chain management unit 620 can trace the path of the invaded tobacco bales 630 back to the supplier, identify potentially invaded equipment or tobacco bales, and immediately mark them as potentially invaded for eradication measures and control. The point of intrusion is calculated so that supplier management or supply chain management can take corrective action.

[0110] FIG. 7 shows a flow diagram of the method of the present invention. The gas sensor 100 monitors the presence and concentration of a particular semiochemical, either air, bales, carriers, warehouses, etc., present in the closed space where the tobacco material is present (step 1). The concentration value measured by the gas sensor 100 is compared to a threshold value for that particular semiochemical present in the database 120 (step 2). If the measured concentration of the semiochemical exceeds the threshold value, the closed space is cooled (step 3). Furthermore, other actions may be triggered. As an example, a notification or warning of an operator or a management unit may be performed (step 4). The invaded tobacco material, which is believed to have been invaded, is tracked along the supply chain (step 5). All storage units or areas, equipment, other tobacco materials, carriers, and others that have come into contact with or are in close proximity to the invaded tobacco material are preferably inspected. Further measures may be taken (step 6), such as, for example, marking the area or equipment or goods as potentially invaded, automatically sealing the warehouse to suppress the intrusion, initiating a cleaning process, etc. The intruded transport with the intruded tobacco material may be rerouted and the intruded transport carrier may be sent towards a station where it is cooled.

[0111] For purposes of this specification and the appended claims, unless otherwise indicated, all numbers expressing amounts, quantities, percentages, and the like, should be understood in all instances as modified by the term "about." Also, all ranges include the maximum and minimum points disclosed, and include any intermediate ranges therein, which may or may not be specifically recited herein. Thus, in this context, the number A is understood as A±10 percent. Within this context, the number A may be considered to include a numerical value that is within the general standard error for the measurement of the property represented by the number A. The number A may deviate by the percentages recited above, in some cases as used in the appended claims, provided that the amount by which A deviates does not materially affect the basic and novel property(ies) of the claimed invention. Also, all ranges include the maximum and minimum points disclosed, and include any intermediate ranges therein, which may or may not be specifically recited herein.

Claims

1. 1. A method for monitoring tobacco material to detect insect infestation, comprising: - providing tobacco material in an enclosed space; - measuring the concentration of semiochemicals in the air present in said enclosed space; - comparing the measured concentration of the semiochemical with a threshold value; - reducing the temperature of the enclosed space when the concentration of the semiochemical is higher than the threshold value; - associating an identifier with the tobacco material present in the enclosed space; - if the measured concentration of the semiochemical is higher than the threshold value, creating a data set comprising said identifier and a value representative of said measured concentration or said comparison of said measured concentration with said threshold value; - transmitting said data set to a management unit; - tracking the tobacco material present in the enclosed space along a supply line; A method comprising:

2. The semiochemical is -(2S,3R,1'S)-2,3-dihydro-3,5-dimethyl-2-ethyl-6(1-methyl-2-oxobutyl)-4H-pyran-4-one, -(2S,3R,1'R)-2,3-dihydro-3,5-dimethyl-2-ethyl-6(1-methyl-2-oxobutyl)-4H-pyran-4-one, -(2S,3R)-2,3-dihydro-3,5-dimethyl-2-ethyl-6-(1-methyl-2-oxobutyl)-4H-pyran-4-one, -(4S,6S,7S)-4,6-dimethyl-7-hydroxynon-3-one, -(2S,3S)-2,6-diethyl-3,5-dimethyl-3,4-dihydro-2H-pyran, The method of claim 1 , wherein the step of

3. - sending an alarm signal if the measured concentration of the semiochemical is higher than the threshold value; The method of claim 1 or 2, comprising:

4. Transmitting an alarm signal - emitting an audible signal; - emitting a visual signal; - sending a digital text message to an operator or management unit; - transmitting data on said measured concentration or said comparison of said measured concentration with said threshold value to an operator or management unit; The method of claim 3, comprising one of:

5. Creating a dataset is - creating a data set containing information about the time at which said comparison was performed; - creating a data set containing information on the geographical location of said enclosed space, The method of claim 1 , comprising one or more of:

6. Providing tobacco material in an enclosed space, - providing said tobacco material in a bale; - providing said tobacco material to a warehouse; - providing said tobacco material on a transport carrier; - providing said tobacco material to a production area; The method according to any one of claims 1 to 5, comprising one or more of the following:

7. - providing an emitter in said closed volume; - the emitter emits a signal if the measured concentration of the semiochemical is higher than the threshold value; - providing a receiver outside said closed volume adapted to receive the signal transmitted by said emitter; - identifying said enclosed space as having been invaded when said signal is received; The method according to any one of claims 1 to 6, comprising:

8. - providing a visual indicator in said enclosed space having a first state and a second state; - indicating said first condition on said visual indicator; - switching the displayed state from the first state to the second state if the concentration of the semiochemical is higher than the threshold; The method according to any one of claims 1 to 7, comprising:

9. - measuring the concentration of volatile substances produced by microbial activity in the air present in said enclosed space; The method according to any one of claims 1 to 8, comprising:

10. The suspended matter is -1-octen-3-ol, -1,3-octadiene, -methyl-2-ethylhexanoate, 2-methylfuran, 3-methylfuran, -3-methyl-1-butanol, 2-methyl-1-butanol, -2-heptene, -Dimethyl sulfide, -4-heptanone, -(5H)-furanone, -3-heptanol, -Methoxybenzene, The method of claim 9 , wherein the step of

11. if the measured concentration of the semiochemical in the air present in the enclosed environment is higher than the threshold value, o identifying equipment, storage areas, other tobacco materials, and transport carriers along the supply line that are in contact with or in close proximity to the tobacco material where the semiochemical concentration exceeds the threshold; o sanitizing, reducing the temperature, or isolating the identified equipment, storage areas, other tobacco materials, or transport carriers; and The method according to any one of claims 1 to 10, comprising:

12. 1. A system for detecting the presence of an intrusion in a tobacco material, comprising: - a closed space adapted to contain said tobacco material; a gas sensor adapted to measure the concentration of a semiochemical in the air present in said enclosed space and adapted to emit a signal representative of said measured concentration; a cooling unit adapted to reduce the temperature of said enclosed space; a control unit connected to said gas sensor and to said cooling unit, said control unit being adapted to receive said signal from said gas sensor, to compare said signal with a threshold value, and to command said cooling unit to cool said enclosed space if said signal exceeds said threshold value; a dataset comprising an identifier associated with the tobacco material present in the enclosed space and a value representative of the measured concentration or a comparison of the measured concentration with the threshold value; - a management unit arranged to receive data from said dataset and to track said imported tobacco material along the supply chain; A system comprising:

13. The system of claim 12 including an air conduit that directs air present in the enclosed environment towards the gas sensor.

14. 14. A system according to claim 12 or 13, comprising an alarm unit adapted to emit an alarm signal if said signal exceeds said threshold value.

Images