Aerosol-generating article having photoluminescent taggants - Patents.com

Abstract

An aerosol-generating article (10) is provided that includes an aerosol-forming substrate (12) and a taggant (60). The taggant (60) includes a photoluminescent material that has an emission half-life of about 50 microseconds to about 1000 microseconds after optical excitation of the photoluminescent material. Also provided is an aerosol-generating system (100) that includes the aerosol-generating article (10) and an aerosol-generating device (1). Also provided is an aerosol-generating device (1) that includes a radiation source and a photodetector.

Description

[Technical field]

[0001] The present disclosure relates to an aerosol-generating article comprising an aerosol-forming substrate. In particular, the present disclosure relates to an aerosol-generating article comprising an aerosol-forming substrate, the aerosol-generating article also comprising a taggant comprising a photoluminescent material. The present disclosure also relates to an aerosol-generating system comprising an aerosol-generating article and an aerosol-generating device. The present disclosure also relates to an aerosol-generating device comprising a radiation source and a photodetector. [Background technology]

[0002] Aerosol generating devices that generate an aerosol by heating an aerosol-forming substrate without burning the aerosol-forming substrate are known in the art. The aerosol-forming substrate is typically provided in an aerosol-generating article together with other components, such as one or more filter segments. The aerosol-generating article may have a rod shape for insertion of the aerosol-generating article into a cavity of the aerosol-generating device. The heating element is typically arranged to heat the aerosol-forming substrate when the aerosol-generating article is inserted into the cavity of the aerosol-generating device. The heating element may comprise an internal heating element that extends into the cavity and is received in the aerosol-generating article. The heating element may comprise an external heating element that is arranged to extend around the outside of the aerosol generating device. The combination of the aerosol-generating device and the aerosol-generating article may be referred to as an aerosol-generating system.

[0003] Aerosol-generating articles developed for use in aerosol-generating systems are typically specially designed to generate and release flavors by controlled heating of an aerosol-forming substrate, without the combustion that occurs with end-lit cigarettes and other smoking articles. Thus, the structure of the aerosol-generating article may differ from the structure of an end-lit smoking article. Using an end-lit smoking article with an aerosol-generating device may result in a poor smoking experience for the user, and may even damage the aerosol-generating device, for example, because the smoking article is not compatible with the aerosol-generating device.

[0004] Nonetheless, it is conceivable that a user may inadvertently or otherwise attempt to use an aerosol-generating article in an aerosol-generating device for which the aerosol-generating device was not designed to be used. For example, a user may attempt to use an end-lighting cigarette or a counterfeit aerosol-generating article in an aerosol-generating device. This may result in poor aerosol generation and a reduced user experience, which may adversely affect the aerosol-generating device. Additionally, the use of an aerosol-generating article other than the intended aerosol-generating article may damage the aerosol-generating device. Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0005] In addition, there may be many different aerosol-generating articles, each configured for use with an aerosol generating device, each providing a different smoking experience for the user. Depending on the type or flavor of aerosol-generating article used with the aerosol generating device, it may be desirable for one or more heating elements of the aerosol generating device to reach different temperatures at different times (i.e., have different heating profiles). In such an embodiment, it would be desirable for the aerosol generating device to automatically modify the temperature settings without the user having to manually input any details.

[0006] It would be desirable to provide an aerosol generating article, an aerosol generating device, and an aerosol generating system that facilitates detection of the presence of a particular aerosol generating article. If the aerosol generating device does not recognize a particular aerosol generating article, it would be desirable to prevent activation of the heating element to prevent a poor user experience. Additionally, if the aerosol generating device detects a particular recognized aerosol generating article, it would be desirable for the aerosol generating (device) to operate the heating element according to a particular heating profile that is specifically configured for use with that type of aerosol generating article. [Means for solving the problem]

[0007] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, there is provided an aerosol-generating article. The aerosol-generating article may include an aerosol-forming substrate. The aerosol-generating article may include a taggant. The taggant may include a photoluminescent material. The photoluminescent material may have an emission half-life of about 50 microseconds to about 1000 microseconds after optical excitation of the photoluminescent material.

[0008] According to another embodiment of the present disclosure, there is provided an aerosol-generating article comprising an aerosol-forming substrate and a taggant, the taggant comprising a photoluminescent material having an emission half-life of about 50 microseconds to about 1000 microseconds following optical excitation of the photoluminescent material.

[0009] The term "aerosol-generating article" as used herein refers to an article that includes an aerosol-forming substrate that releases a volatile compound capable of forming an aerosol when heated in an aerosol-generating device, the aerosol-generating article being configured to be separate from and combined with an aerosol-generating device for heating the aerosol-generating article.

[0010] The term "taggant" is used herein to refer to a photoluminescent material provided on at least a portion of an aerosol-generating article, the presence of which may be detected by a suitable detector to enable identification of the aerosol-generating article.

[0011] The term "luminescence half-life" is used herein to refer to the time it takes for the intensity of the radiative emission by a photoluminescent material to decay by half after the photoluminescent material is irradiated by a radiation source and after the radiation source is removed or switched off.

[0012] Advantageously, providing a photoluminescent material with a known luminescence half-life enables the taggant to be used to identify an aerosol-generating article by an aerosol-generating device, which may be configured to operate in different ways depending on the particular aerosol-generating article that is recognised by the aerosol-generating device.

[0013] Advantageously, taggants including photoluminescent materials may be more difficult to replicate during the manufacture of counterfeit aerosol-generating articles compared to known systems including identifiable ink patterns, For example, it may be impossible to manufacture a counterfeit article without determining the particular photoluminescent material and at least one of the one or more emission wavelengths at which the photoluminescent material may be excited and the one or more wavelengths at which the photoluminescent material may emit radiation.

[0014] Advantageously, providing a photoluminescent material with an emission half-life of about 50 microseconds to about 1000 microseconds may facilitate rapid identification of the aerosol-generating article by the aerosol-generating device.

[0015] Advantageously, a luminescence half-life of about 50 microseconds to about 1000 microseconds may be sufficiently long to facilitate consistent and accurate determination of the half-life by an aerosol generating device. In embodiments in which the photoluminescent material exhibits photoluminescence at one or more infrared wavelengths, a luminescence half-life of about 50 microseconds to about 1000 microseconds may be sufficiently long to distinguish the taggants from other materials used in aerosol-generating articles that may emit infrared radiation for several milliseconds after exposure to an infrared source.

[0016] The photoluminescent material may have a half-life of at least about 60 microseconds. The photoluminescent material may have a half-life of at least about 70 microseconds. The photoluminescent material may have a half-life of at least about 80 microseconds. The photoluminescent material may have a half-life of at least about 90 microseconds. The photoluminescent material may have a half-life of at least about 100 microseconds. The photoluminescent material may have a half-life of at least about 110 microseconds. The photoluminescent material may have a half-life of at least about 120 microseconds. The photoluminescent material may have a half-life of at least about 130 microseconds. The photoluminescent material may have a half-life of at least about 140 microseconds. The photoluminescent material may have a half-life of at least about 150 microseconds. The photoluminescent material may have a luminescence half-life of at least about 160 microseconds. The photoluminescent material may have a luminescence half-life of at least about 170 microseconds. The photoluminescent material may have a luminescence half-life of at least about 180 microseconds. The photoluminescent material may have a luminescence half-life of at least about 190 microseconds. The photoluminescent material may have a luminescence half-life of at least about 200 microseconds.

[0017] The photoluminescent material may have a luminescence half-life of less than about 900 microseconds. The photoluminescent material may have a luminescence half-life of less than about 800 microseconds. The photoluminescent material may have a luminescence half-life of less than about 700 microseconds. The photoluminescent material may have a luminescence half-life of less than about 600 microseconds. The photoluminescent material may have a luminescence half-life of less than about 500 microseconds. The photoluminescent material may have a luminescence half-life of less than about 400 microseconds. The photoluminescent material may have a luminescence half-life of less than about 300 microseconds. The photoluminescent material may have a luminescence half-life of less than about 280 microseconds. The photoluminescent material may have a luminescence half-life of less than about 260 microseconds. The photoluminescent material may have a luminescence half-life of less than about 250 microseconds. The photoluminescent material may have a luminescence half-life of less than about 240 microseconds. The photoluminescent material may have a luminescence half-life of less than about 230 microseconds. The photoluminescent material may have a luminescence half-life of less than about 220 microseconds. The photoluminescent material may have a luminescence half-life of less than about 210 microseconds. The photoluminescent material may have a luminescence half-life of less than about 200 microseconds.

[0018] The photoluminescent material may have an emission half-life of about 100 microseconds to about 800 microseconds. The photoluminescent material may have an emission half-life of about 100 microseconds to about 500 microseconds. The photoluminescent material may have an emission half-life of about 100 microseconds to about 300 microseconds. The photoluminescent material may have an emission half-life of about 120 microseconds to about 250 microseconds. The photoluminescent material may have an emission half-life of about 160 microseconds to about 200 microseconds.

[0019] Preferably, the photoluminescent material is excitable by infrared radiation.

[0020] Advantageously, infrared radiation may be more easily transmitted through materials used to form the aerosol-generating article compared to other radiation wavelengths For example, in embodiments in which taggants are provided on the inner surface of a wrapper, infrared radiation may be transmitted through the wrapper to excite the photoluminescent material.

[0021] Advantageously, infrared radiation is relatively safe for users of the aerosol-generating article.

[0022] The photoluminescent material may be excitable by infrared radiation in the wavelength range of about 700 nanometers to about 1050 nanometers.

[0023] The photoluminescent material preferably exhibits photoluminescence in the infrared range. In other words, the photoluminescent material preferably emits infrared radiation. The photoluminescent material may exhibit photoluminescence over a wide range of wavelengths. The photoluminescent material preferably has a peak emission at a wavelength in the infrared range. The photoluminescent material may have a single peak emission. Preferably, the single peak emission occurs at a wavelength in the infrared range.

[0024] The photoluminescent material may exhibit photoluminescence within a wavelength range of about 700 nanometers to about 1100 nanometers. The photoluminescent material may have a peak emission at a wavelength of about 700 nanometers to about 1100 nanometers.

[0025] The photoluminescent material may exhibit photoluminescence in a wavelength range of about 950 nanometers to about 1050 nanometers. The photoluminescent material may have a peak emission at a wavelength of about 950 nanometers to about 1050 nanometers.

[0026] Preferably, the photoluminescent material comprises a phosphorescent material. One skilled in the art can select an appropriate material based on the luminescence half-life, excitation wavelength, and emission wavelength of the material.

[0027] The taggants may be provided on the surface of the aerosol-generating article at any suitable concentration. The taggants may be provided at a density of at least about 200 milligrams per square meter, preferably at least about 300 milligrams per square meter, preferably at least about 400 milligrams per square meter, preferably at least about 500 milligrams per square meter, preferably at least about 600 milligrams per square meter. The taggants may be provided at a density of less than about 1100 milligrams per square meter, preferably less than about 1000 milligrams per square meter, preferably less than about 900 milligrams per square meter, preferably less than about 800 milligrams per square meter, preferably less than about 700 milligrams per square meter. For example, the taggants may be provided at a density of about 200 to about 1100 milligrams per square meter, preferably about 300 to about 1000 milligrams per square meter, preferably about 400 to about 900 milligrams per square meter, preferably about 500 to about 800 milligrams per square meter, preferably about 600 to about 700 milligrams per square meter. The taggants may be provided at a density of about 620 milligrams per square meter.

[0028] The taggants may be provided on an outer surface of the aerosol-generating article. Advantageously, providing the taggants on the outer surface of the aerosol-generating article may facilitate direct exposure of the taggants to a radiation source. Advantageously, providing the taggants on the outer surface of the aerosol-generating article may facilitate direct exposure of the taggants to a photodetector.

[0029] The taggants may be provided on an internal surface of the aerosol-generating article. Advantageously, providing the taggants on an internal surface of the aerosol-generating article may prevent or reduce contamination of or damage to the taggants. The term "internal surface" is used herein to refer to a surface of a component of the aerosol-generating article that does not form the exterior or outer surface of the aerosol-generating article.

[0030] The aerosol-generating article may include a wrapper. The wrapper may be a paper wrapper. The wrapper may be formed from a polymeric film. The wrapper may be formed from a laminate material. The wrapper may be a wrapper that surrounds the aerosol-forming substrate. The wrapper may be a tipping wrapper.

[0031] The taggants may be provided on a surface of the wrapper.The taggants may be provided on an outer surface of the wrapper.The taggants may be provided on an inner surface of the wrapper.

[0032] The wrapper may be a thin wrapper. Advantageously, the thin wrapper may facilitate transmission of radiation through the thin wrapper when the taggants are provided on an inner surface of the thin wrapper. The wrapper may have a thickness of less than about 50 micrometers. The wrapper may have a thickness of less than about 40 micrometers. The wrapper may have a thickness of less than about 30 micrometers. The wrapper may have a thickness of less than about 20 micrometers. The wrapper may have a thickness of less than about 10 micrometers.

[0033] The taggants may be provided as a continuous band that surrounds a portion of the aerosol-generating article. Advantageously, providing the taggants as a continuous band may eliminate the need for a user to insert the aerosol-generating article into an aerosol generating device in any particular rotational orientation.

[0034] In embodiments in which the taggants are provided on the outer surface of the aerosol-generating article, the taggants may be provided as a continuous band that circumscribes a portion of the outer surface.

[0035] The aerosol-forming substrate may be provided as a segment of an aerosol-forming substrate. The aerosol-generating article may further comprise at least one further segment positioned downstream of the segment of the aerosol-forming substrate.

[0036] As used herein, the terms "upstream" and "downstream" refer to the direction of airflow through the aerosol-generating article during use of the aerosol-generating article. During use, air flows from upstream to downstream.

[0037] In embodiments in which the aerosol-generating article comprises a wrapper, the wrapper may surround the at least one further segment. In embodiments in which the at least one further segment comprises a plurality of further segments, the wrapper may surround at least one of the further segments. The wrapper may bond the at least one further segment to a segment of the aerosol-forming substrate. For example, the wrapper may be a tipping wrapper or a bonding wrapper.

[0038] The at least one further segment may comprise at least one hollow tube located downstream of the segment of the aerosol-forming substrate. The hollow tube may be an acetate tube. The hollow tube may be a cardboard tube.

[0039] The at least one further segment may comprise at least one filter segment positioned downstream of the at least one hollow tube. Preferably, the at least one filter segment comprises cellulose acetate fibers. The at least one filter segment may form a mouthpiece. The at least one filter segment may be positioned at the "mouth end" or "downstream end" of the aerosol-generating article.

[0040] The segment of the aerosol-forming substrate may be located at the upstream end of the aerosol-generating article.

[0041] The aerosol-generating article may comprise an upstream segment located upstream of the segment of the aerosol-forming substrate. The upstream segment may be located at an upstream end of the aerosol-generating article. The upstream segment may comprise a hollow tube. The hollow tube may be an acetate tube. The hollow tube may be a cardboard tube.

[0042] Preferably the aerosol-forming substrate comprises tobacco.

[0043] The aerosol-forming substrate may be a solid aerosol-forming substrate. Alternatively, the aerosol-forming substrate may comprise both solid and liquid components. The aerosol-forming substrate may comprise a tobacco-containing material that contains volatile tobacco flavour compounds that are released from the substrate upon heating. Alternatively, the aerosol-forming substrate may comprise a non-tobacco material. The aerosol-forming substrate may further comprise an aerosol former. Examples of suitable aerosol formers are glycerin and propylene glycol.

[0044] When the aerosol-forming substrate is a solid aerosol-forming substrate, the solid aerosol-forming substrate may comprise, for example, one or more of powder, granules, pellets, pieces, spaghetti, strips, or sheets containing one or more of herb leaves, tobacco leaves, tobacco vein fragments, reconstituted tobacco, homogenized tobacco, extruded tobacco, expanded tobacco. The solid aerosol-forming substrate may be in loose form or may be provided in a suitable container or cartridge. Optionally, the solid aerosol-forming substrate may contain additional tobacco or non-tobacco volatile flavor compounds that are released upon heating of the substrate. The solid aerosol-forming substrate may also contain capsules, for example containing additional tobacco or non-tobacco volatile flavor compounds, which may melt during heating of the solid aerosol-forming substrate.

[0045] As used herein, "homogenized tobacco" refers to material formed by agglomerating particulate tobacco. The homogenized tobacco may be in the form of a sheet. The homogenized tobacco material may have an aerosol former content of greater than 5 percent on a dry weight basis. Alternatively, the homogenized tobacco material may have an aerosol former content of 5 to 30 percent by weight on a dry weight basis. The homogenized tobacco material sheet may be formed by agglomerating particulate tobacco obtained by grinding or otherwise comminuted one or both of the tobacco blades and the tobacco stems. Alternatively, or additionally, the homogenized tobacco material sheet may include one or more of tobacco dust, tobacco fines, and other particulate tobacco by-products formed, for example, during tobacco processing, handling, and shipping. The homogenized tobacco material sheet may include one or more inherent binders (i.e., tobacco intrinsic binders), one or more extrinsic binders (i.e., tobacco extrinsic binders), or combinations thereof to aid in the cohesion of the particulate tobacco, although alternatively or additionally, the homogenized tobacco material sheet may include other additives including, but not limited to, tobacco and non-tobacco fibers, aerosol formers, humectants, plasticizers, flavorants, fillers, aqueous and non-aqueous solvents, and combinations thereof.

[0046] In a particularly preferred embodiment, the aerosol-forming substrate comprises an assembly of crimped sheets of homogenized tobacco material. As used herein, the term "crimped sheet" refers to a sheet having a plurality of substantially parallel ridges or corrugations. When the aerosol-generating article is assembled, the substantially parallel ridges or corrugations preferably run along or parallel to the longitudinal axis of the aerosol-generating article. This advantageously facilitates assembling the crimped sheets of homogenized tobacco material to form the aerosol-forming substrate. However, it will be appreciated that a crimped sheet of homogenized tobacco material for inclusion in an aerosol-generating article may alternatively or additionally have a plurality of substantially parallel ridges or corrugations that are disposed at an acute or obtuse angle relative to the longitudinal axis of the aerosol-generating article when the aerosol-generating article is assembled. In certain embodiments, the aerosol-forming substrate may comprise an assembly of sheets of homogenized tobacco material that are substantially evenly textured across substantially its entire surface. For example, the aerosol-forming substrate may comprise an assemblage of a crimped sheet of homogenized tobacco material that includes a plurality of substantially parallel ridges or corrugations that are substantially evenly spaced across the width of the sheet.

[0047] Optionally, the solid aerosol-forming substrate may be provided on or embedded in a thermally stable carrier. The carrier may take the form of a powder, granules, pellets, pieces, spaghetti, strips, or sheets. Alternatively, the carrier may be a tubular carrier having a thin layer of solid substrate deposited on its inner surface, or on its outer surface, or on both its inner and outer surfaces. Such a tubular carrier may be formed, for example, of paper or paper-like material, non-woven carbon fiber mat, low-mass open mesh metal screen, or perforated metal foil, or any other thermally stable polymeric matrix.

[0048] The solid aerosol-forming substrate may be deposited on the surface of the carrier, for example in the form of a sheet, foam, gel, or slurry. The solid aerosol-forming substrate may be deposited on the entire surface of the carrier or, alternatively, in a pattern to provide a non-uniform flavour delivery during use.

[0049] Although reference is made above to solid aerosol-forming substrates, it will be clear to the skilled person that other forms of aerosol-forming substrates may be used in other embodiments. The liquid aerosol-forming substrate may be absorbed into a porous carrier material. The porous carrier material may be made of any suitable absorbent plug or body, such as foamed metal or plastic materials, polypropylene, terylene, nylon fibers, or ceramics. The liquid aerosol-forming substrate may be retained in the porous carrier material before use, or alternatively, the liquid aerosol-forming substrate material may be released into the porous carrier material during or immediately before use. For example, the liquid aerosol-forming substrate may be provided in a capsule. The shell of the capsule preferably melts upon heating and releases the liquid aerosol-forming substrate into the porous carrier material. The capsule may optionally contain a solid in combination with the liquid.

[0050] Alternatively, the carrier may be a nonwoven fiber or fiber bundle having tobacco components incorporated therein. The nonwoven fiber or fiber bundle may comprise, for example, carbon fiber, natural cellulose fiber, or cellulose derivative fiber.

[0051] In embodiments in which the aerosol-generating article comprises at least one further segment positioned downstream of the segment of the aerosol-forming substrate, the taggant may be provided on the at least one further segment, or the taggant may be provided on a portion of the wrapper overlying the at least one further segment.

[0052] The upstream end of the taggant may be at least about 0.5 millimeters from the downstream end of the segment of the aerosol-forming substrate. The upstream end of the taggant may be at least about 1 millimeter from the downstream end of the segment of the aerosol-forming substrate. The upstream end of the taggant may be at least about 1.5 millimeters from the downstream end of the segment of the aerosol-forming substrate. The upstream end of the taggant may be at least about 2 millimeters from the downstream end of the segment of the aerosol-forming substrate.

[0053] The upstream end of the taggant may be located within about 5 millimeters of the downstream end of the aerosol-forming substrate. The upstream end of the taggant may be located within about 4 millimeters of the downstream end of the aerosol-forming substrate. The upstream end of the taggant may be located within about 3 millimeters of the downstream end of the aerosol-forming substrate. The upstream end of the taggant may be located within about 2 millimeters of the downstream end of the aerosol-forming substrate.

[0054] The upstream end of the taggant may be located approximately 2 millimeters from the downstream end of the aerosol-forming substrate.

[0055] In embodiments in which the taggants are provided on a wrapper, the upstream edge of the taggant may be aligned with the upstream edge of the wrapper, which may advantageously simplify manufacture of the aerosol-generating article.

[0056] The upstream end of the taggant may be at least about 10 millimeters from the upstream end of the aerosol-generating article. The upstream end of the taggant may be at least about 15 millimeters from the upstream end of the aerosol-generating article. The upstream end of the taggant may be at least about 19 millimeters from the upstream end of the aerosol-generating article. The upstream end of the taggant may be about 19 millimeters from the upstream end of the aerosol-generating article.

[0057] The upstream end of the taggant may be at least about 14 millimeters from the downstream end of the aerosol-generating article. The upstream end of the taggant may be at least about 20 millimeters from the downstream end of the aerosol-generating article. The upstream end of the taggant may be at least about 26 millimeters from the downstream end of the aerosol-generating article. The upstream end of the taggant may be about 26 millimeters from the downstream end of the aerosol-generating article.

[0058] The downstream end of the taggant may be at least about 10 millimeters from the downstream end of the aerosol-generating article. The downstream end of the taggant may be at least about 15 millimeters from the downstream end of the aerosol-generating article. The downstream end of the taggant may be at least about 19 millimeters from the downstream end of the aerosol-generating article. The downstream end of the taggant may be about 19.5 millimeters from the downstream end of the aerosol-generating article.

[0059] The downstream end of the taggant may be at least about 14 millimeters from the upstream end of the aerosol-generating article. The downstream end of the taggant may be at least about 20 millimeters from the upstream end of the aerosol-generating article. The downstream end of the taggant may be at least about 25 millimeters from the upstream end of the aerosol-generating article. The downstream end of the taggant may be about 25.5 millimeters from the upstream end of the aerosol-generating article.

[0060] The taggants may be printed onto the wrapper. The taggants may be sprayed or painted onto the wrapper.

[0061] The aerosol-generating article may comprise at least one susceptor element in thermal contact with a segment of the aerosol-forming substrate.

[0062] At least one susceptor element may include a plurality of susceptor particles, preferably dispersed within the aerosol-forming substrate.

[0063] The at least one susceptor element may comprise an internal susceptor element positioned within a segment of the aerosol-forming substrate. The internal susceptor element may comprise a rod, pin, or sheet of susceptor material positioned within the aerosol-forming substrate.

[0064] The at least one susceptor element may comprise an outer susceptor element extending around an outer surface of the segment of the aerosol-forming substrate.The outer susceptor element may comprise a sheet of susceptor material wrapped around at least a portion of the segment of the aerosol-forming substrate.

[0065] Preferably, the aerosol-generating article is substantially cylindrical in shape. The aerosol-generating article may be substantially elongated. The segment of the aerosol-forming substrate may be substantially cylindrical in shape. The segment of the aerosol-forming substrate may be substantially elongated.

[0066] The aerosol-generating article may have a total length of between about 30 mm and about 100 mm.The aerosol-generating article may have a total length of about 45 mm.

[0067] The aerosol-generating article may have an outer diameter of about 5 mm to about 12 mm, preferably about 6 mm to about 10 mm, preferably about 7 mm to about 8 mm, preferably about 7.0 mm to about 7.4 mm. The aerosol-generating article may have an outer diameter of about 7.3 mm.

[0068] The segment of the aerosol-forming substrate may have a length of about 10 millimeters to about 18 millimeters. Further, the diameter of the segment of the aerosol-forming substrate may be about 5 millimeters to about 12 millimeters.

[0069] At least one filter segment may have a length between about 5 millimeters and about 12 millimeters. At least one filter segment may have a length of about 7 millimeters.

[0070] According to another example of the present disclosure, there is provided an aerosol generation system comprising an aerosol-generating article according to any of the examples or embodiments described herein and an aerosol generating device. The aerosol generating device may comprise a cavity for receiving at least a portion of the aerosol-generating article. The aerosol generating device may comprise a radiation source arranged to irradiate the taggant when the aerosol-generating article is received in the cavity. The aerosol generating device may comprise a photodetector arranged to detect radiation emitted by the photoluminescent material when the aerosol-generating article is received in the cavity.

[0071] According to another example of the present disclosure, there is provided an aerosol generation system comprising an aerosol-generating article according to any of the examples or embodiments described herein and an aerosol generating device. The aerosol generating device comprises a cavity for receiving at least a portion of the aerosol-generating article. The aerosol generating device also comprises a radiation source arranged to irradiate the taggant when the aerosol-generating article is received in the cavity. The aerosol generating device also comprises a photodetector arranged to detect radiation emitted by the photoluminescent material when the aerosol-generating article is received in the cavity.

[0072] The radiation source may comprise a light emitting diode. The light emitting diode is preferably configured to emit radiation having at least one wavelength at which the photoluminescent material can be excited. The light emitting diode may be configured to emit infrared radiation. The light emitting diode may be configured to emit infrared radiation within a wavelength range of about 700 nanometers to about 1100 nanometers.

[0073] The light detector may comprise a photodiode.

[0074] The aerosol generating device may include a power source.

[0075] The aerosol generating device may comprise at least one heating element.

[0076] The aerosol generating device may include a controller configured to provide power from the power source to the light emitting diode for a first period of time to illuminate the taggant with radiation from the light emitting diode when the aerosol generating article is received within the cavity, the first period of time may be from about 200 microseconds to about 1.5 milliseconds.

[0077] The controller may be configured to provide power from the power source to the photodiode for a second time period after the first time period. The controller may be configured to prevent the provision of power from the power source to the light emitting diode during the second time period. The controller may be configured to receive a signal from the photodiode during the second time period. The signal may be indicative of an intensity of photoluminescence by the taggant.

[0078] The second period of time may be from about 200 microseconds to about 1.5 milliseconds.

[0079] The controller may be configured to determine a luminescence half-life of the photoluminescent material of the taggant based on signals received from the photodiode during the second time period, and the controller may be configured to control further operation of the aerosol generating device based on the determined luminescence half-life.

[0080] The controller may be configured to compare the determined luminescence half-life with a look-up table of luminescence half-lives corresponding to taggants of aerosol-generating articles configured for use with the aerosol generating device. The controller may be configured such that controlling further operation of the aerosol generating device based on the determined luminescence half-life includes preventing the supply of power from the power source to the at least one heating element unless the determined luminescence half-life corresponds to an aerosol-generating article configured for use with the aerosol generating device. The controller may be configured to supply power from the power source to the at least one heating element if the determined luminescence half-life corresponds to an aerosol-generating article configured for use with the aerosol generating device.

[0081] The controller may be configured to determine the time it takes for the intensity of the photoluminescence to decrease by a predetermined amount during the second time period, and the controller may be configured to control further operation of the aerosol generating device based on the determined time.

[0082] The controller may be configured to compare the determined time with a look-up table of times corresponding to taggants of aerosol-generating articles configured for use with the aerosol generating device. The controller may be configured such that controlling further operation of the aerosol generating device based on the determined time includes preventing the supply of power from the power source to the at least one heating element unless the determined time corresponds to an aerosol-generating article configured for use with the aerosol generating device. The controller may be configured to supply power from the power source to the at least one heating element if the determined time corresponds to an aerosol-generating article configured for use with the aerosol generating device.

[0083] According to another embodiment of the present disclosure, there is provided an aerosol generating device. The aerosol generating device may comprise a cavity for receiving at least a portion of an aerosol-generating article including a taggant. The aerosol generating device may comprise a radiation source arranged to irradiate the taggant of the aerosol-generating article when the aerosol-generating article is received in the cavity. The aerosol generating device may comprise a photodetector arranged to detect radiation emitted by the taggant of the aerosol-generating article when the aerosol-generating article is received in the cavity.

[0084] According to another embodiment of the present disclosure, there is provided an aerosol generating device comprising a cavity for receiving at least a portion of an aerosol-generating article including a taggant, the aerosol generating device also comprising a radiation source arranged to irradiate the taggant of the aerosol-generating article when the aerosol-generating article is received in the cavity, the aerosol generating device also comprising a photodetector arranged to detect radiation emitted by the taggant of the aerosol-generating article when the aerosol-generating article is received in the cavity.

[0085] The radiation source may comprise a light emitting diode. The light emitting diode is preferably configured to emit radiation having at least one wavelength at which the photoluminescent material can be excited. The light emitting diode may be configured to emit infrared radiation. The light emitting diode may be configured to emit infrared radiation within a wavelength range of about 700 nanometers to about 1100 nanometers.

[0086] The light detector may comprise a photodiode.

[0087] The aerosol generating device may include a power source.

[0088] The aerosol generating device may comprise at least one heating element.

[0089] The aerosol generating device may include a controller configured to provide power from the power source to the light emitting diode for a first period of time to illuminate the taggant with radiation from the light emitting diode when the aerosol generating article is received within the cavity, the first period of time may be from about 200 microseconds to about 1.5 milliseconds.

[0090] The controller may be configured to provide power from the power source to the photodiode for a second time period after the first time period. The controller may be configured to prevent the provision of power from the power source to the light emitting diode during the second time period. The controller may be configured to receive a signal from the photodiode during the second time period. The signal may be indicative of an intensity of photoluminescence by the taggant.

[0091] The second period of time may be from about 200 microseconds to about 1.5 milliseconds.

[0092] The controller may be configured to determine a luminescence half-life of the photoluminescent material of the taggant based on signals received from the photodiode during the second time period, and the controller may be configured to control further operation of the aerosol generating device based on the determined luminescence half-life.

[0093] The controller may be configured to compare the determined luminescence half-life with a look-up table of luminescence half-lives corresponding to taggants of aerosol-generating articles configured for use with the aerosol generating device. The controller may be configured such that controlling further operation of the aerosol generating device based on the determined luminescence half-life includes preventing the supply of power from the power source to the at least one heating element unless the determined luminescence half-life corresponds to an aerosol-generating article configured for use with the aerosol generating device. The controller may be configured to supply power from the power source to the at least one heating element if the determined luminescence half-life corresponds to an aerosol-generating article configured for use with the aerosol generating device.

[0094] The controller may be configured to determine the time it takes for the intensity of the photoluminescence to decrease by a predetermined amount during the second time period, and the controller may be configured to control further operation of the aerosol generating device based on the determined time.

[0095] The controller may be configured to compare the determined time with a look-up table of times corresponding to taggants of aerosol-generating articles configured for use with the aerosol generating device. The controller may be configured such that controlling further operation of the aerosol generating device based on the determined time includes preventing the supply of power from the power source to the at least one heating element unless the determined time corresponds to an aerosol-generating article configured for use with the aerosol generating device. The controller may be configured to supply power from the power source to the at least one heating element if the determined time corresponds to an aerosol-generating article configured for use with the aerosol generating device.

[0096] In any of the examples or embodiments of the present disclosure comprising an aerosol generating device as described herein, the aerosol generating device may comprise any of the following optional or preferred features.

[0097] The power source may be any suitable power source, such as, for example, a DC voltage source. In one embodiment, the power source is a lithium ion battery. Alternatively, the power source may be a nickel metal hydride battery, a nickel cadmium battery, or a lithium-based battery (e.g., a lithium cobalt battery, a lithium iron phosphate battery, or a lithium polymer battery).

[0098] The controller may comprise a microprocessor. The microprocessor may be a programmable microprocessor, a microcontroller, or an application specific integrated chip (ASIC) or other electronic circuit capable of providing control. The controller may comprise further electronic components. For example, in some embodiments, the controller may comprise any of the following: a sensor, a switch, and a display element. Power may be supplied to the heater assembly continuously after activation of the device, or may be supplied intermittently (e.g., after each puff). Power may be supplied to the heater assembly in the form of current pulses, for example by pulse width modulation (PWM).

[0099] The at least one heating element may be a single heating element. The at least one heating element may comprise multiple heating elements.

[0100] The at least one element may comprise at least one inductor coil. The at least one inductor coil may be wound around at least a portion of the cavity. The at least one inductor coil may be arranged to inductively heat the one or more susceptor elements during use of the aerosol generating device. The one or more susceptor elements may form part of an aerosol generating article. The one or more susceptor elements may form part of an aerosol generating device.

[0101] The aerosol generating device may comprise a tubular susceptor element defining at least a portion of a cavity. During use, at least a portion of an aerosol-generating article inserted into the cavity may be received within the tubular susceptor element. The at least one inductor coil preferably extends around an outer surface of the tubular susceptor element.

[0102] The aerosol generating device may include one or more susceptor elements extending into the cavity and arranged to be received within a portion of the aerosol generating article when the aerosol generating article is inserted into the cavity.

[0103] At least one of the elements may be an electrically resistive heating element.

[0104] Electrically resistive heating elements may include electrically resistive materials. Suitable electrically resistive materials include, but are not limited to, semiconductors such as doped ceramics, "conductive" ceramics (e.g., molybdenum disilicide, etc.), carbon, graphite, metals, metal alloys, and composites made of ceramic and metallic materials. Such composites may include doped or undoped ceramics. Examples of suitable doped ceramics include doped silicon carbide. Examples of suitable metals include titanium, zirconium, tantalum, and platinum group metals. Examples of suitable metal alloys include stainless steel, nickel-containing, cobalt-containing, chromium-containing, aluminum-containing, titanium-containing, zirconium-containing, hafnium-containing, niobium-containing, molybdenum-containing, tantalum-containing, tungsten-containing, tin-containing, gallium-containing, manganese-containing, gold-containing, and iron-containing alloys, as well as nickel, iron, cobalt, stainless steel-based superalloys, Timetal™, Kanthal™, and other iron-chromium-aluminum alloys, iron-manganese-aluminum-based alloys. In composite materials, the electrically resistive material may be optionally embedded in, encapsulated in, or coated with an insulating material, or vice versa, depending on the required energy transfer kinetics and external physicochemical properties.

[0105] Electrically resistive heating elements may be formed using metals or metal alloys that have a well-defined relationship between temperature and resistivity. Elements formed in this manner may be used both to heat the element and to monitor the temperature of the element during operation.

[0106] The electrically resistive heating element may be disposed in or on a rigid carrier material or substrate. The electrically resistive heating element may be disposed in or on a flexible carrier material or substrate. The electrically resistive heating element may be formed as a track on a suitable insulating material such as ceramic or glass or polyimide film. The electrically resistive heating element may be sandwiched between two insulating materials.

[0107] The electrically resistive heating element may comprise a heat resistant flexible polyimide film having an electrically resistive heating track formed on the film. The electrically resistive heating track may be formed in a serpentine pattern on the film. The electrically resistive heating track may comprise any of the suitable electrically resistive materials described herein.

[0108] Features described with respect to one of the above embodiments may equally be applied to other embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0109] 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.

[0110] Example 1: An aerosol-forming substrate and and a taggant comprising a photoluminescent material, the photoluminescent material having a luminescence half-life of 50 microseconds to 1000 microseconds after optical excitation of the photoluminescent material. Example 2: An aerosol-generating article as described in Example 1, wherein the photoluminescent material has a luminescence half-life of 100 microseconds to 800 microseconds. Example 3: An aerosol-generating article as described in Example 1 or Example 2, wherein the photoluminescent material has a luminescence half-life of 100 microseconds to 500 microseconds. Example 4: An aerosol-generating article as described in Example 1, Example 2, or Example 3, wherein the photoluminescent material has a luminescence half-life of 100 microseconds to 300 microseconds. Example 5: An aerosol-generating article as described in any of Examples 1 to 4, wherein the photoluminescent material has a luminescence half-life of 120 microseconds to 250 microseconds. Example 6: An aerosol-generating article as described in any of Examples 1 to 5, wherein the photoluminescent material has a luminescence half-life of 160 microseconds to 200 microseconds. Example 7: An aerosol-generating article as described in any of Examples 1-6, wherein the photoluminescent material is excitable by infrared radiation in the wavelength range of 700 nanometers to 1050 nanometers. Example 8: An aerosol-generating article as described in any of Examples 1 to 7, wherein the photoluminescent material exhibits photoluminescence in the wavelength range of 700 nanometers to 1100 nanometers. Example 9: An aerosol-generating article as described in any one of Examples 1 to 8, wherein the photoluminescent material exhibits photoluminescence in the wavelength range of 950 nanometers to 1050 nanometers. Example 10: An aerosol-generating article as described in any of Examples 1 to 9, wherein the taggant is provided on the outer surface of the aerosol-generating article. Example 11: An aerosol-generating article as described in Example 10, wherein the taggant is provided as a continuous band surrounding a portion of the exterior surface. Example 12: An aerosol-generating article according to any of Examples 1 to 11, further comprising a wrapper, wherein a taggant is provided on a surface of the wrapper. Example 13: An aerosol-generating article as described in Example 12, wherein a taggant is provided on the inner surface of the wrapper. Example 14: An aerosol-generating article according to any of Examples 1 to 13, wherein the aerosol-forming substrate is provided as a segment of an aerosol-forming substrate and the aerosol-generating article further comprises at least one further segment positioned downstream of the segment of the aerosol-forming substrate. Example 15: At least one further segment is at least one hollow tube positioned downstream of the segment of the aerosol-forming substrate; and at least one filter segment positioned downstream of the at least one hollow tube. Example 16: An aerosol-generating article as described in any one of Examples 1 to 15, wherein the aerosol-forming substrate comprises tobacco. Example 17: An aerosol-generating article according to any of Examples 1 to 16, wherein the aerosol-generating article comprises at least one susceptor element in thermal contact with a segment of the aerosol-forming substrate. Example 18: An aerosol-generating article according to any one of Examples 1 to 17, An aerosol generating device, comprising: a cavity for receiving at least a portion of an aerosol-generating article; a radiation source disposed to irradiate the taggant when the aerosol-generating article is received within the cavity; An aerosol generating system comprising: an aerosol generating device; and a photodetector arranged to detect radiation emitted by the photoluminescent material when the aerosol-generating article is received within the cavity. Example 19: An aerosol generating system as described in Example 18, wherein the radiation source comprises a light emitting diode. Example 20: An aerosol generation system as described in Example 19, wherein the light emitting diode is configured to emit infrared radiation within a wavelength range of 700 nanometers to 1100 nanometers. Example 21: The aerosol generation system of example 18, example 19, or example 20, wherein the light detector comprises a photodiode. Example 22: An aerosol generating device comprising: Power supply, An aerosol generating system as described in Example 19 or Example 20, further comprising a controller configured to supply power from the power source to the light-emitting diode for a first period of time to irradiate the taggant with radiation from the light-emitting diode when the aerosol-generating article is received in the cavity. Example 23: The aerosol generating system of Example 22, wherein the first period of time is between 200 microseconds and 1.5 milliseconds. Example 24: A controller after the first time period, supplying power from the power source to the photodiode for a second time period; preventing the supply of power from the power source to the light emitting diode during a second period of time; receiving a signal from the photodiode during a second time period; determining a luminescence half-life of the photoluminescent material of the taggant based on a signal received from the photodiode during a second period of time; The aerosol generating system of Example 21 in combination with Example 22 or Example 23, further configured to control further operation of the aerosol generating device based on the determined luminescence half-life. Example 25: The aerosol generating system described in Example 24, wherein the second period is from 200 microseconds to 1.5 milliseconds. Example 26: A controller after the first time period, supplying power from the power source to the photodiode for a second time period; preventing the supply of power from the power source to the light emitting diode during a second period of time; receiving a signal from the photodiode during a second time period, the signal indicative of an intensity of photoluminescence by the taggant; determining the time it takes for the intensity of the photoluminescence to decrease by a predetermined amount during a second period of time; The aerosol generating system of Example 21 in combination with Example 22 or Example 23, further configured to control further operation of the aerosol generating device based on the determined time. Example 27: An aerosol generating system according to any one of Examples 18 to 25, wherein the aerosol generating device further comprises at least one heating element. Example 28: A method for controlling further operation of the aerosol generating device, the method comprising: a controller configured to compare the determined luminescence half-life with a look-up table of luminescence half-lives corresponding to taggants of an aerosol generating article configured for use with the aerosol generating device, the controller being configured to compare the determined luminescence half-life with a look-up table of luminescence half-lives corresponding to taggants of an aerosol generating article configured for use with the aerosol generating device, the method comprising: preventing the supply of power from the power source to the at least one heating element unless the determined luminescence half-life corresponds to an aerosol-generating article configured for use with the aerosol generating device; An aerosol generating system as described in Example 27 in combination with Example 24 or Example 25, comprising: when the determined luminescence half-life corresponds to an aerosol generating article configured for use with an aerosol generating device, supplying power to at least one heating element from a power source. Example 29: A method for controlling further operation of the aerosol generating device, the method comprising: a controller configured to compare the determined time with a look-up table of times corresponding to taggants of an aerosol generating article configured for use with the aerosol generating device, and controlling further operation of the aerosol generating device based on the determined time; preventing the supply of power from the power source to the at least one heating element unless the determined time corresponds to an aerosol generating article configured for use with the aerosol generating device; An aerosol generating system as described in Example 26 in combination with Example 27, comprising: when the determined time corresponds to an aerosol generating article configured for use with an aerosol generating device, supplying power from a power source to at least one heating element. Example 30: An aerosol generation system as described in Example 27, Example 28, or Example 29, wherein at least one heating element comprises an inductor coil. Example 31: a cavity for receiving at least a portion of an aerosol-generating article including a taggant; a radiation source disposed to irradiate the taggants of the aerosol-generating article when the aerosol-generating article is received within the cavity; and a photodetector disposed to detect radiation emitted by a taggant on the aerosol-generating article when the aerosol-generating article is received within the cavity. Example 32: An aerosol generating device as described in Example 31, wherein the radiation source comprises a light emitting diode. Example 33: An aerosol generating device as described in Example 32, wherein the light emitting diode is configured to emit infrared radiation within a wavelength range of 700 nanometers to 1100 nanometers. Example 34: An aerosol generating device as described in Example 31, Example 32, or Example 33, wherein the light detector comprises a photodiode. Example 35: Power supply, An aerosol generating device as described in Example 32 or Example 33, further comprising a controller configured to supply power from the power source to the light-emitting diode for a first period of time to irradiate the taggant with radiation from the light-emitting diode when the aerosol-generating article is received within the cavity. Example 36: The aerosol generating device according to Example 35, wherein the first period is from 200 microseconds to 1.5 milliseconds. Example 37: A controller after the first time period, supplying power from the power source to the photodiode for a second time period; preventing the supply of power from the power source to the light emitting diode during a second period of time; receiving a signal from the photodiode during a second time period; determining a luminescence half-life of the photoluminescent material of the taggant based on a signal received from the photodiode during a second period of time; The aerosol generating device described in Example 34 in combination with Example 35 or Example 36, further configured to control further operation of the aerosol generating device based on the determined luminescence half-life. Example 38: The aerosol generating device described in Example 37, wherein the second period is 200 microseconds to 1.5 milliseconds. Example 39: A controller after the first time period, supplying power from the power source to the photodiode for a second time period; preventing the supply of power from the power source to the light emitting diode during a second period of time; receiving a signal from the photodiode during a second time period, the signal indicative of an intensity of photoluminescence by the taggant; determining the time it takes for the intensity of the photoluminescence to decrease by a predetermined amount during a second period of time; The aerosol generating device of Example 34 in combination with Example 35 or Example 36, further configured to control further operation of the aerosol generating device based on the determined time. Example 40: An aerosol generating device according to any one of Examples 31 to 38, further comprising at least one heating element. Example 41: A method for controlling further operation of the aerosol generating device, the method comprising: a controller configured to compare the determined luminescence half-life with a look-up table of luminescence half-lives corresponding to taggants of an aerosol generating article configured for use with the aerosol generating device, the controller being configured to compare the determined luminescence half-life with a look-up table of luminescence half-lives corresponding to taggants of an aerosol generating article configured for use with the aerosol generating device, the method comprising: preventing the supply of power from the power source to the at least one heating element unless the determined luminescence half-life corresponds to an aerosol-generating article configured for use with the aerosol generating device; An aerosol generating device as described in Example 40 in combination with Example 37 or Example 38, comprising: supplying power from a power source to at least one heating element when the determined luminescence half-life corresponds to an aerosol generating article configured for use with the aerosol generating device. Example 42: A method for controlling further operation of the aerosol generating device, the method comprising: a controller configured to compare the determined time with a look-up table of times corresponding to taggants of an aerosol generating article configured for use with the aerosol generating device, and controlling further operation of the aerosol generating device based on the determined time; preventing the supply of power from the power source to the at least one heating element unless the determined time corresponds to an aerosol generating article configured for use with the aerosol generating device; An aerosol generating device as described in Example 39 in combination with Example 40, comprising: when the determined time corresponds to an aerosol generating article configured for use with the aerosol generating device, supplying power from a power source to at least one heating element. Example 43: An aerosol generating device as described in Example 40, Example 41, or Example 42, wherein at least one heating element comprises an inductor coil.

[0111] The invention will now be further described, by way of example only, with reference to the accompanying drawings in which: [Brief description of the drawings]

[0112] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 shows a schematic cross-sectional side view of an aerosol-generating article according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. [Diagram 2] FIG. 2 shows a schematic cross-sectional side view of an aerosol generating system including the aerosol generating article of FIG. 1 and an aerosol generating device. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0113] 1 comprises a segment of an aerosol-forming substrate 12 and a downstream section at a location downstream of the aerosol-forming substrate 12. The aerosol-generating article 10 extends from an upstream or distal end 16 to a downstream or oral end 18. The downstream section comprises a hollow tubular element 20 and a mouthpiece element 50.

[0114] The aerosol-generating article 10 has an overall length of about 45 millimeters and an outer diameter of about 7.2 millimeters.

[0115] The aerosol-forming substrate 12 comprises a cut tobacco material. The aerosol-forming substrate 12 comprises 150 milligrams of cut tobacco material containing 13 percent to 16 percent by weight glycerin. The density of the aerosol-forming substrate is about 300 milligrams per cubic centimeter. The RTD of the aerosol-forming substrate 12 is about 6 millimeters water column to about 8 millimeters water column. The aerosol-forming substrate 12 is individually wrapped with plug wrap (not shown).

[0116] The hollow tubular element 20 is located immediately downstream of the aerosol-forming substrate 12, and the hollow tubular element 20 is longitudinally aligned with the aerosol-forming substrate 12. The upstream end of the hollow tubular element 20 abuts the downstream end of the aerosol-forming substrate 12.

[0117] The hollow tubular element 20 defines a hollow section of the aerosol-generating article 10. The hollow tubular element does not contribute substantially to the overall RTD of the aerosol-generating article. More specifically, the RTD of the hollow tubular element 20 is about 0 millimeters of water.

[0118] The hollow tubular element 20 is provided in the form of a hollow cylindrical tube made of cardboard. The hollow tubular element 20 defines an interior cavity 22 that extends from the upstream end of the hollow tubular element 20 all the way to the downstream end of the hollow tubular element 20. The interior cavity 22 is substantially empty, thereby allowing substantially unrestricted airflow therealong. The hollow tubular element 20 does not substantially contribute to the overall RTD of the aerosol-generating article 10.

[0119] The hollow tubular element 20 has a length of about 21 millimeters, an outer diameter of about 7.2 millimeters, and an inner diameter of about 6.7 millimeters. The peripheral wall thickness of the hollow tubular element 20 is about 0.25 millimeters.

[0120] The aerosol-generating article 10 comprises a ventilation zone 30 provided at a location along the hollow tubular element 20. More specifically, the ventilation zone 30 is provided approximately 16 millimeters from the downstream end 18 of the article 10. The ventilation zone 30 is provided approximately 12 mm downstream from the downstream end of the aerosol-forming substrate 12. The ventilation zone 30 is provided approximately 9 millimeters upstream from the upstream end of the mouthpiece element 50. The ventilation zone 30 comprises a circumferential array of openings or perforations surrounding the hollow tubular element 20. The perforations of the ventilation zone 30 extend through the wall of the hollow tubular element 20 to permit ingress of fluid from the exterior of the article 10 into the interior cavity 22. The ventilation level of the aerosol-generating article 10 is approximately 16 percent.

[0121] In addition to the aerosol-forming substrate 12 and the downstream section at a location downstream of the aerosol-forming substrate 12, the aerosol-generating article 10 comprises an upstream section at a location upstream of the aerosol-forming substrate 12. Thus, the aerosol-generating article 10 extends from a distal end 16 that is substantially coincident with the upstream end of the upstream section, to an oral or downstream end 18 that is substantially coincident with the downstream end of the downstream section.

[0122] The upstream section comprises an upstream element 42 located immediately upstream of the aerosol-forming substrate 12, the upstream element 42 being longitudinally aligned therewith. The downstream end of the upstream element 42 abuts the upstream end of the aerosol-forming substrate 12. The upstream element 42 is provided in the form of a hollow cylindrical plug of cellulose acetate tow having a wall thickness of about 1 millimeter and defining an internal cavity 23. The upstream element 42 has a length of about 5 millimeters. The outer diameter of the upstream element 42 is about 7.1 millimeters. The inner diameter of the upstream element 42 is about 5.1 millimeters.

[0123] The mouthpiece element 50 extends from the downstream end of the hollow tubular element 20 to the downstream or mouth end of the aerosol-generating article 10. The mouthpiece element 50 has a length of about 7 millimeters. The outer diameter of the mouthpiece element 50 is about 7.2 millimeters. The mouthpiece element 50 comprises a low density cellulose acetate filter segment. The RTD of the mouthpiece element 50 is about 8 millimeters water column. The mouthpiece element 50 may be individually wrapped with plug wrap (not shown).

[0124] 1, the article 10 comprises an upstream wrapper 44 that surrounds the upstream element 42, the aerosol-forming substrate 12, and the hollow tubular element 20. The ventilation zone 30 may also comprise a circumferential row of perforations provided on the upstream wrapper 44. The perforations in the upstream wrapper 44 overlap with the perforations provided on the hollow tubular element 20. As a result, the upstream wrapper 44 overlies the perforations of the ventilation zone 30 provided on the hollow tubular element 20.

[0125] The article 10 also includes a tipping wrapper 52 that surrounds the hollow tubular element 20 and the mouthpiece element 50. The tipping wrapper 52 overlies the portion of the upstream wrapper 44 that overlies the hollow tubular element 20. Thus, the tipping wrapper 52 secures the mouthpiece element 50 to the remaining components of the article 10. The tipper wrapper 52 has a width of about 26 millimeters. Additionally, the ventilation zone 30 may include a circumferential row of perforations provided on the tipping wrapper 52. The perforations of the tipping wrapper 52 overlap the perforations provided on the hollow tubular element 20 and on the upstream wrapper 44. As a result, the tipping wrapper 52 overlies the perforations of the ventilation zone 30 that are provided on the hollow tubular element 20 and on the upstream wrapper 44.

[0126] The taggants 60 are provided as a continuous band surrounding a portion of the downstream section of the aerosol-generating article 10. The taggants 60 are printed on the inner surface of the tipping wrapper 52. The upstream end of the taggants 60 is located 2 millimeters downstream of the downstream end of the aerosol-forming substrate 12. The taggants 60 have a length of 6.5 millimeters. The upstream end of the taggants 60 is aligned with the upstream end of the tipping wrapper 52. The downstream end of the taggants 60 is 3.5 millimeters upstream from the ventilation zone 30. As a result, the entire length of the taggants 60 overlaps a portion of the hollow tubular element 20. The taggants 60 are provided at a concentration of about 200 milligrams per square meter.

[0127] The taggant 60 includes a photoluminescent material having an emission half-life of about 50 microseconds to about 1000 microseconds. The photoluminescent material is excitable by infrared radiation in the wavelength range of about 700 nanometers to about 1050 nanometers. The photoluminescent material exhibits photoluminescence in the wavelength range of about 700 nanometers to about 1100 nanometers.

[0128] FIG. 2 illustrates an aerosol generating system 100 comprising an aerosol generating device 1 and the aerosol-generating article 10 of FIG. 1. FIG. 2 illustrates a downstream oral end portion of the aerosol generating device 1 comprising a cavity for receiving the aerosol-generating article 10. The aerosol generating device 1 comprises a housing (or body) 4 extending between an oral end 2 and a distal end (not shown). The housing 4 comprises a peripheral wall 6. The peripheral wall 6 defines a cavity for receiving the aerosol-generating article 10. The device cavity is defined by a closed distal end and an open oral end. The oral end of the device cavity is located at the oral end of the aerosol generating device 1. The aerosol-generating article 10 is configured to be received through the oral end of the device cavity and configured to abut the closed end of the device cavity.

[0129] An airflow channel 5 of the device is defined in a peripheral wall 6. The airflow channel 5 extends between an inlet 7 located at the mouth end of the aerosol generation device 1 and a closed end of the device cavity. Air may enter the aerosol-forming substrate 12 via an opening (not shown) provided in the closed end of the device cavity, ensuring fluid communication between the airflow channel 5 and the aerosol-forming substrate 12.

[0130] The aerosol generating device 1 further comprises a heating element (not shown) and a power supply (not shown) for supplying electrical power to the heating element. A controller (not shown) is also provided for controlling the supply of electrical power to the heating element. The heating element is configured to controllably heat the aerosol-generating article 10 during use when the aerosol-generating article 10 is received within the device 1. The heating element is preferably arranged to externally heat the aerosol-forming substrate 12 for optimal aerosol generation. The ventilation zone 30 is arranged to be exposed to the aerosol-generating article 10 when it is received within the aerosol generating device 1.

[0131] In the embodiment shown in Fig. 2, the device cavity defined by the peripheral wall 6 has a length of 28 millimeters. When the article 10 is received in the cavity, the upstream section, the aerosol-forming substrate 12, and the upstream portion of the hollow tubular element 20 are received in the device cavity. This upstream portion of the hollow tubular element 20 has a length of 11 millimeters. As a result, about 28 millimeters of the article 10 are received in the device 1, and about 17 millimeters of the article 10 are located outside the device 1. In other words, about 17 millimeters of the article 10 protrudes from the device 1 when the article 10 is received therein. This length 55 of the article 10 protruding from the device 1 is shown in Fig. 2.

[0132] As a result, ventilation zone 30 is advantageously located outside of device 1 when article 10 is inserted therein. If the device cavity is 28 millimeters long, ventilation zone 30 will be located 1 millimeter downstream of mouth end 2 of device 1 when article 10 is received therein.

[0133] The aerosol generating device 1 further comprises a taggant detector 8 located near the device cavity. The taggant detector 8 is located approximately 2 millimeters from the downstream or mouth end of the device cavity. The taggant detector 8 may be configured to detect the presence, absence, and type of taggant 60 located on the aerosol-generating article 10. The taggant detector 8 comprises a light emitting diode configured for infrared radiation in a wavelength range of 700 nanometers to 1100 nanometers. The light emitting diode is arranged to illuminate the taggant 60 when the aerosol-generating article 10 is received within the cavity. The taggant detector 8 also comprises a photodetector arranged to detect infrared radiation emitted by the photoluminescent material of the taggant 60 when the aerosol-generating article 10 is received within the cavity. The controller is configured to provide power from the power source to the light emitting diode. The controller is configured to receive a signal from the photodetector.

[0134] In use, the aerosol-generating article 10 is inserted into the device cavity of the aerosol generating device 1. When the aerosol-generating article 10 is fully inserted into the device cavity, the taggant 60 of the aerosol-generating article 10 is aligned with the taggant detector 8 of the aerosol generating device 1. A light emitting diode in the taggant detector 8 illuminates the taggant 60 with infrared radiation. A photodetector in the taggant detector 8 then detects the infrared radiation emitted by the taggant 60 and provides a signal to a controller indicative of the intensity of the emitted infrared radiation. Based on the signal from the photodetector, the controller then determines the luminescence half-life of the taggant 60, or the time it takes for the intensity of the emitted infrared radiation to decrease by a predetermined amount.

[0135] Based on the determined luminescence half-life, or the time it takes for the intensity of the emitted infrared radiation to decrease by a predetermined amount, the controller determines whether the aerosol-generating article 10 is an article designed for use with the aerosol generating device 1 by comparing with a look-up table.

[0136] If the aerosol-generating article 10 is an article designed for use with the aerosol generating device 1, the controller provides power from the power source to the heating element according to a predetermined heating profile to generate an aerosol from the aerosol-forming substrate 12. The taggant 60 remains away from the area being heated, thereby preventing damage to the taggant 60. Similarly, the taggant detector 8 also remains away from the area being heated, thereby preventing accumulation of heating by-products and slurry on the taggant detector 8.

[0137] If the aerosol generating article 10 is not recognized as an article designed for use with the aerosol generating device 1, the controller prevents the supply of power from the power source to the heating element.

[0138] 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 that the number A modifies. 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 properties 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. an aerosol-forming substrate; and a taggant comprising a photoluminescent material, the photoluminescent material having an luminescence half-life of 50 microseconds to 1000 microseconds after photoexcitation of the photoluminescent material.

2. 10. The aerosol-generating article of claim 1, wherein the photoluminescent material has an emission half-life of 100 microseconds to 800 microseconds.

3. 10. The aerosol-generating article of claim 1, wherein the photoluminescent material has an emission half-life of 100 microseconds to 500 microseconds.

4. 10. The aerosol-generating article of claim 1, wherein the photoluminescent material has an emission half-life of 100 microseconds to 300 microseconds.

5. 10. The aerosol-generating article of claim 1, wherein the photoluminescent material has an emission half-life of 120 microseconds to 250 microseconds.

6. 10. The aerosol-generating article of claim 1, wherein the photoluminescent material has an emission half-life of 160 microseconds to 200 microseconds.

7. 10. The aerosol-generating article of claim 1, wherein the photoluminescent material is excitable by infrared radiation in the wavelength range of 700 nanometers to 1050 nanometers.

8. 10. The aerosol-generating article of claim 1, wherein the photoluminescent material exhibits photoluminescence in the wavelength range of 700 nanometers to 1100 nanometers.

9. 10. The aerosol-generating article of claim 1, wherein the photoluminescent material exhibits photoluminescence in the wavelength range of 950 nanometers to 1050 nanometers.

10. 2. The aerosol-generating article of claim 1, wherein the taggant is provided on an outer surface of the aerosol-generating article.

11. 11. The aerosol-generating article of claim 10, wherein the taggant is provided as a continuous band surrounding a portion of the outer surface.

12. 10. The aerosol-generating article of claim 1, further comprising a wrapper, the taggant being provided on a surface of the wrapper.

13. 13. The aerosol-generating article of claim 12, wherein the taggant is provided on the inner surface of the wrapper.

14. 2. The aerosol-generating article according to claim 1, wherein the aerosol-forming substrate is provided as a segment of an aerosol-forming substrate, and the aerosol-generating article further comprises at least one further segment positioned downstream of the segment of an aerosol-forming substrate.

15. The at least one further segment at least one hollow tube positioned downstream of said segment of the aerosol-forming substrate; and at least one filter segment positioned downstream of the at least one hollow tube.

16. 10. The aerosol-generating article of claim 1, wherein the aerosol-forming substrate comprises tobacco.

17. 10. The aerosol-generating article of claim 1, wherein the aerosol-generating article comprises at least one susceptor element in thermal contact with the segment of the aerosol-forming substrate.

18. The aerosol-generating article of claim 1; An aerosol generating device, comprising: a cavity for receiving at least a portion of the aerosol-generating article; a radiation source arranged to irradiate the taggant when the aerosol-generating article is received within the cavity; an aerosol generating device; and a photodetector arranged to detect radiation emitted by the photoluminescent material when the aerosol-generating article is received within the cavity.

19. 19. The aerosol generating system of claim 18, wherein the radiation source comprises a light emitting diode.

20. 20. The aerosol generating system of claim 19, wherein the light emitting diode is configured to emit infrared radiation in the wavelength range of 700 nanometers to 1100 nanometers.

21. 20. The aerosol generating system of claim 18, wherein the light detector comprises a photodiode.

22. The aerosol generating device comprises: Power supply and 20. The aerosol generating system of claim 19, further comprising: a controller configured to supply power from the power source to the light-emitting diode for a first period of time to illuminate the taggant with radiation from the light-emitting diode when the aerosol-generating article is received within the cavity.

23. 23. The aerosol generating system of claim 22, wherein the first period is between 200 microseconds and 1.5 milliseconds.

24. The controller: supplying power from the power source to the photodiode for a second time period after the first time period; preventing the supply of power from the power source to the light emitting diode during the second period; receiving a signal from the photodiode during the second period; determining a luminescence half-life of the photoluminescent material of the taggant based on the signal received from the photodiode during the second period of time; 22. The aerosol generating system of claim 21 in combination with claim 22, further configured to: control further operation of the aerosol generating device based on the determined luminescence half-life.

25. 25. The aerosol generating system of claim 24, wherein the second period is between 200 microseconds and 1.5 milliseconds.

26. The controller: supplying power from the power source to the photodiode for a second time period after the first time period; preventing the supply of power from the power source to the light emitting diode during the second period; receiving a signal from the photodiode during the second period, the signal indicative of an intensity of photoluminescence by the taggant; determining the time it takes for the intensity of the photoluminescence to decrease by a predetermined amount during said second period of time; 22. The aerosol generating system of claim 21 in combination with claim 22, further configured to: control further operation of the aerosol generating device based on the determined time.

27. 19. The aerosol generating system of claim 18, wherein the aerosol generating device further comprises at least one heating element.

28. the controller is configured to compare the determined luminescence half-life with a look-up table of luminescence half-lives corresponding to taggants of aerosol-generating articles configured for use with the aerosol-generating device, and controlling further operation of the aerosol-generating device based on the determined luminescence half-life; preventing the supply of power from the power source to the at least one heating element unless the determined luminescence half-life corresponds to an aerosol-generating article configured for use with the aerosol generating device; and 28. The aerosol generating system of claim 27 in combination with claim 24, comprising: if the determined luminescence half-life corresponds to an aerosol generating article configured for use with the aerosol generating device, supplying power to the at least one heating element from the power source.

29. the controller is configured to compare the determined time with a look-up table of times corresponding to taggants of aerosol-generating articles configured for use with the aerosol-generating device, and to control further operation of the aerosol-generating device based on the determined time; preventing the supply of power from the power source to the at least one heating element unless the determined time corresponds to an aerosol-generating article configured for use with the aerosol generating device; An aerosol generating system as described in claim 26 in combination with claim 27, comprising: if the determined time corresponds to an aerosol generating article configured for use with the aerosol generating device, supplying power from the power source to the at least one heating element.

30. 28. The aerosol generating system of claim 27, wherein the at least one heating element comprises an inductor coil.

31. a cavity for receiving at least a portion of an aerosol-generating article containing a taggant; a radiation source arranged to irradiate a taggant on the aerosol-generating article when the aerosol-generating article is received within the cavity, the radiation source comprising a light emitting diode; and a photodetector arranged to detect radiation emitted by a taggant of the aerosol-generating article when the aerosol-generating article is received within the cavity, the photodetector comprising a photodiode; Power supply and a controller configured to supply power from the power source to the light emitting diode for a first period of time to illuminate a taggant with radiation from the light emitting diode when an aerosol-generating article is received within the cavity, the controller comprising: supplying power from the power source to the photodiode for a second time period after the first time period; preventing the supply of power from the power source to the light emitting diode during the second period; receiving a signal from the photodiode during the second period; determining a luminescence half-life of a photoluminescent material of a taggant based on the signal received from the photodiode during the second period of time; and controlling further operation of the aerosol generating device based on the determined luminescence half-life.

32. 32. The aerosol generating device of claim 31 , wherein the light emitting diode is configured to emit infrared radiation in the wavelength range of 700 nanometers to 1100 nanometers.

33. 32. The aerosol generating device of claim 31, wherein the first period is between 200 microseconds and 1.5 milliseconds.

34. 32. The aerosol generating device of claim 31, wherein the second period is between 200 microseconds and 1.5 milliseconds.

35. 32. The aerosol generating device of claim 31, further comprising at least one heating element.

36. the controller is configured to compare the determined luminescence half-life with a look-up table of luminescence half-lives corresponding to taggants of aerosol-generating articles configured for use with the aerosol-generating device, and controlling further operation of the aerosol-generating device based on the determined luminescence half-life; preventing the supply of power from the power source to the at least one heating element unless the determined luminescence half-life corresponds to an aerosol-generating article configured for use with the aerosol generating device; and 36. The aerosol generating device of claim 35, further comprising: if the determined luminescence half-life corresponds to an aerosol generating article configured for use with the aerosol generating device, supplying power from the power source to the at least one heating element.

37. 36. The aerosol generating device of claim 35, wherein the at least one heating element comprises an inductor coil.

Images