Method and instrument detecting and rejecting taggant

Abstract

To provide a method or instrument for manufacturing components for an aerosol generating article improving quality assurance.SOLUTION: A method for manufacturing components of an aerosol generating article 401 including a taggant includes: a step for applying the taggant to a component; a step for detecting an amount of taggants included in the component; a step for determining whether or not the detected amount of the taggant is smaller than a first prescribed amount; and a step for rejecting the component when the detected amount of the taggant is smaller than the first prescribed amount. An instrument for manufacturing components of an aerosol generation article is provided with: a dispenser applying the taggant to the component; a sensor detecting an amount of taggants included in the component; a controller for determining whether or not the detected amount of taggants is smaller than the first prescribed amount; and a rejection system for rejecting components when the detected amount of taggants is smaller than the first prescribed amount.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 4

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a method for manufacturing a component of an aerosol-generating article. More specifically, the present disclosure relates to a method for manufacturing a component of an aerosol-generating article that includes a taggant. The present disclosure also relates to an apparatus for manufacturing a component of an aerosol-generating article that includes a taggant. The present disclosure further relates to a kit of parts including a plurality of manufacturing apparatus suitable for manufacturing a component of an aerosol-generating article.

[0002] Aerosol-generating articles and other consumables are designed for use with specific aerosol-generating products. For example, an externally heated tobacco product includes a holder and a tobacco stick designed to be inserted into the holder. Genuine compatible products are typically rigorously tested to ensure optimal performance and user experience. The use of non-genuine products may diminish overall performance and user experience. Furthermore, the use of non-genuine parts or components may cause problems, such as damage to the holder device.

[0003] It would be desirable to provide a method (or apparatus) for manufacturing components of aerosol-generating articles that improves quality assurance.

[0004] According to the present invention, there is provided a method for producing a component of an aerosol-generating article that includes a taggant. The method includes applying the taggant to the component. The method also includes detecting the amount of taggant contained in the component. The method includes determining whether the detected amount of taggant is less than a first predetermined amount. The method includes rejecting the component if the detected amount of taggant is less than the first predetermined amount. The taggant may be, for example, a gel, a slurry, a powder, or a foam. The taggant may include a uniquely coded material.

[0005] Thus, the taggants are applied to components and act as an internal signature of the components used for product identification. The component taggants can be recognized and used to determine whether the components of the aerosol-generating article, and therefore the aerosol-generating article, are genuine products. This can ensure optimal product performance and user experience. By having a first predetermined amount of taggants that, if not met, causes the component to be rejected, this ensures that all components have the appropriate amount of taggants for component recognition and allows for the identification of genuine products. It is particularly advantageous to have a method that includes rejecting a component if the amount of detected taggants is less than the first predetermined amount, since rejected components are removed from the manufacturing process before the final product is completed. The rejection system also ensures that all generated consumables provided to consumers contain the correct concentration of taggants, thereby allowing the aerosol generating device to recognize the consumable. Providing a detection and rejection system also reduces waste materials used in the product.

[0006] In some embodiments, instead of detecting and quantifying the amount of taggant a component contains, the method comprises detecting whether the component contains a taggant. In some embodiments, the method comprises detecting whether the component contains a taggant. In some embodiments, the method comprises detecting the presence of the taggant. In some embodiments, the method comprises detecting the presence of the taggant in the component. The method may further comprise rejecting the component if the taggant is not detected. This is advantageous because it ensures that all components have the presence of the taggant for component recognition, allowing for genuine product to be identified.

[0007] In some embodiments, determining whether the quantity of detected taggants is less than a first predetermined amount includes determining whether the quantity of detected taggants is less than a non-zero amount. In this way, the method detects not only the presence of taggants, but also whether an insufficient amount of taggants is present, thus identifying defective components. These components may then be rejected. The non-zero amount may be a threshold amount above which the component provides suitable product performance and user experience. In this way, by comparing the amount of taggants present to the threshold amount, it is possible to predict whether the correct component will be in place during production.

[0008] For example, for a particular component, the detected amount of taggant may be 15 milligrams per square meter and the first predetermined amount is 20 milligrams per square meter. Because the detected amount is less than the first predetermined amount, it is determined that a component having less than 20 milligrams of taggant per square meter is defective and therefore may not have suitable product performance, and the component is rejected from the production line.

[0009] In some embodiments, a method for manufacturing a component of an aerosol-generating article that includes a taggant includes determining whether the component contains an amount of taggant greater than a second predetermined amount. In some embodiments, the method includes rejecting the component if the detected amount of taggant contained in the component is greater than the second predetermined amount. Thus, a range of taggant amounts is provided within which components are rejected. This allows the final product to have an amount of taggant that falls within the acceptable range. Thus, outlier products with an amount of taggant outside the acceptable range are removed. This can provide a taggant detection system that has greater accuracy and is better calibrated for genuine product recognition.

[0010] For example, for a particular component, the detected amount of taggant may be 450 milligrams per square meter, and the second predetermined amount may be 400 milligrams per square meter. Because the detected amount is greater than the second predetermined amount, it is determined that a component having an amount of taggant greater than 400 milligrams per square meter is defective and therefore may not have suitable product performance, and the component is rejected from the production line. Detection of an amount of taggant greater than the second predetermined amount indicates, for example, that too much of the particular component is present. In one particular embodiment, the presence of a certain amount of taggant detected in tipping paper adhesive may indicate that too much tipping paper adhesive has been applied. It is envisioned that excess taggant may also be detected when applied to a filter, wrapper, tipping paper, filter plug wrap, susceptor, mouthpiece filter, spacer tube, tobacco element, flavoring element, heat source, aerosol-generating element, or a combination of one or more of these components instead of tipping paper adhesive.

[0011] In some embodiments, a method for manufacturing a component of an aerosol-generating article that includes a taggant includes determining whether the component contains an amount of taggant that is less than a first predetermined amount or greater than a second predetermined amount. In some embodiments, the method includes rejecting the component if the detected amount of taggant contained in the component is less than the first predetermined amount or greater than the second predetermined amount. In this manner, components having an amount of taggant that falls outside the range between the first and second predetermined amounts are rejected. This allows the final product to have an amount of taggant that is within an acceptable range. The first predetermined amount may be a threshold amount above which the component provides suitable product performance and user experience. The second predetermined amount may be a threshold amount below which the component provides suitable product performance and user experience. In this manner, comparing the amount of taggant present with the threshold amount can ensure that the amount of taggant present is within an acceptable range and that the component containing the taggant provides suitable product performance and user experience. By comparing the amount of taggant present to an acceptable range, it is possible to predict whether the correct components will be in place during manufacturing.

[0012] In some specific embodiments, a method for producing a component of an aerosol-generating article that includes a taggant includes determining whether the component contains an amount of taggant that is less than a first predetermined amount or greater than a second predetermined amount, where the first predetermined amount is a non-zero amount. In this manner, the method not only detects the presence of the taggant, but also the amount of taggant in the component, and rejects the component if the amount of taggant is outside an acceptable range.

[0013] For example, the first predetermined amount of taggant may be 30 milligrams per square meter, and the second predetermined amount of taggant may be 300 milligrams per square meter. If the measured amount of taggant on a component is 200 milligrams per square meter, this value is compared to an acceptable range of values ​​from 30 milligrams per square meter to 300 milligrams per square meter, and it is determined that the component will provide suitable product performance. However, if the measured amount of taggant on a component is outside this acceptable range, for example, 15 milligrams per square meter or 380 milligrams per square meter, this value is compared to the acceptable range of values, and it is determined that the component will not provide suitable product performance. The component is rejected from the production line.

[0014] In some embodiments, the first predetermined amount of taggant is at a concentration of 5 milligrams of taggant per square meter. In some embodiments, the first predetermined amount of taggant is at a concentration of 10 milligrams of taggant per square meter. In some embodiments, the first predetermined amount of taggant is at a concentration of 20 milligrams of taggant per square meter. In some embodiments, the first predetermined amount of taggant is at a concentration of 50 milligrams of taggant per square meter. In some embodiments, the first predetermined amount of taggant is at a concentration of 100 milligrams of taggant per square meter. In some embodiments, the second predetermined amount of taggant is at a concentration of 500 milligrams of taggant per square meter. In some embodiments, the second predetermined amount of taggant is at a concentration of 450 milligrams of taggant per square meter. In some embodiments, the second predetermined amount of taggant is at a concentration of 400 milligrams of taggant per square meter. In some embodiments, the second predetermined amount of taggant is at a concentration of 300 milligrams of taggant per square meter, hi some embodiments, the second predetermined amount of taggant is at a concentration of 250 milligrams of taggant per square meter.

[0015] In some specific embodiments, a range is provided where the amount of detected taggant for a component is between 5 milligrams of taggant per square meter and 500 milligrams of taggant per square meter and the component is not rejected. In other words, in some specific embodiments, a range is provided where the amount of detected taggant for a component is less than 5 milligrams of taggant per square meter or greater than 500 milligrams of taggant per square meter and the component is rejected.

[0016] In some specific embodiments, a range is provided where the amount of detected taggant for a component is between 10 milligrams of taggant per square meter and 450 milligrams of taggant per square meter and the component is not rejected. In other words, in some specific embodiments, a range is provided where the amount of detected taggant for a component is less than 10 milligrams of taggant per square meter or greater than 450 milligrams of taggant per square meter and the component is rejected.

[0017] In some embodiments, a range is provided where the amount of detected taggant for a component is between 25 milligrams of taggant per square meter and 200 milligrams of taggant per square meter and the component is not rejected. In other words, in some specific embodiments, a range is provided where the amount of detected taggant for a component is less than 25 milligrams of taggant per square meter or greater than 450 milligrams of taggant per square meter and the component is rejected.

[0018] The range between the first and second predetermined amounts can be any desired range. For example, the first predetermined amount can be 20 milligrams of taggant per square meter, and the second predetermined amount can be 100 milligrams of taggant per square meter. Other ranges between the first and second predetermined amounts of taggant are also possible.

[0019] In some embodiments, the method of manufacturing a component includes applying a taggant to a component, wherein the component is a filter. Alternatively or additionally, in some embodiments, the taggant is applied to another component. In some embodiments, the component is a wrapper. In some embodiments, the component is tipping paper. In some embodiments, the component is an adhesive. In some embodiments, the component is a tipping paper adhesive. In some embodiments, the component is a filter plug wrap. In other embodiments, the component is a combination of the mentioned components. The component may be a susceptor, a mouthpiece filter, a spacer tube, a tobacco component, a flavoring component, a heat source, an aerosol-generating component, or any combination thereof. Advantageously, the more components to which taggants are applied, the larger the signature marking for product identification can be.

[0020] In some embodiments, the method includes applying a taggant to the interface between the tobacco rod component and the filter component. By applying the taggant to the interface between the tobacco rod component and the filter component, the taggant is applied away from the edge. Thus, the taggant is applied to the aerosol-generating article at the interface between two individual aerosol-generating articles, for example, at the interface between the tobacco rod component and the filter component, rather than at the end of adjacent aerosol-generating articles. This is advantageous because it makes it possible to distinguish individual aerosol-generating articles from one another and to detect the amount of taggant in each individual aerosol-generating article. This allows the amount of taggant to be more easily matched to the corresponding aerosol-generating article.

[0021] In some embodiments, the method includes applying a taggant to the inner surface of the tipping paper component. In some embodiments, the taggant is applied to the outer surface of the tipping paper component. In some embodiments, the taggant is applied to both the inner surface of the tipping paper component and the outer surface of the tipping paper component.

[0022] In certain embodiments, the method includes applying the taggant substantially around the circumference of the component. In some embodiments, the taggant can be applied around the entire circumference of the component. In other embodiments, the taggant is applied partially around the periphery of the component. Applying the taggant at least substantially around the periphery of the component is particularly beneficial because it allows the taggant to be detected in all orientations of the component. For example, even during a manufacturing process in which a component is carried on rollers, the surface facing the rollers may not be exposed to the taggant's sensor or reader; by applying the taggant substantially around the periphery of the component, the taggant can be detected even though not all surfaces of the component are exposed to the sensor.

[0023] In some embodiments, the method includes repeating the detecting and determining steps. Advantageously, the detecting and determining steps are repeated to provide two or more data readings. In some embodiments, the detecting and determining steps are repeated for the same aerosol-generating article. Optionally, in certain embodiments, the method includes repeating the rejection step. The method may include repeating the detecting, determining, and rejection steps. Repeating the detecting and determining steps is particularly beneficial as it provides improved reliability of the readings. The repeated readings may also be used to determine whether there are any outliers in the data (e.g., abnormal or erroneous data). The detecting and determining steps may be repeated and an average amount of taggant determined.

[0024] In some embodiments, the method includes detecting the amount of taggant contained in a component after a manufacturing step in which the tipping paper component is applied and secured to another component.

[0025] In some embodiments, the method includes detecting the amount of taggants and determining whether the detected amount of taggants is less than a first predetermined amount, and these steps are repeated at different stages of the manufacturing process. In some embodiments, the method includes detecting the amount of taggants and determining whether the detected amount of taggants is greater than a second predetermined amount, and these steps are repeated at different stages of the manufacturing process. In some embodiments, the method includes detecting the amount of taggants and determining whether the detected amount of taggants is less than a first predetermined amount or greater than a second predetermined amount, and these steps are repeated at different stages of the manufacturing process. Repeating the detecting and determining steps is particularly beneficial because the amount of taggants may change as components move along the manufacturing line. Repeating these steps ensures that product performance remains suitable. Furthermore, it can be determined that the correct components are in place at different stages of the manufacturing process.

[0026] In some embodiments, taggants may be present in adhesive, and components with too little or too much taggant, and therefore potentially defective, may be indicated by detecting the amount of taggant and rejecting components with too little or too much taggant if the amount of taggant is not between a first predetermined amount of taggant and a second predetermined amount of taggant. Components with too little adhesive may not be properly held together. Components with too much adhesive may be of different shapes.

[0027] In other embodiments, taggants may be present in wrapping paper, and detecting the amount of taggants can indicate where too little or too much wrapping paper has been used to wrap a component. Too little wrapping paper may result in the component disintegrating prematurely. Too much wrapping paper may produce a thicker, more difficult to handle component.

[0028] The present invention also provides an apparatus for producing a component of an aerosol-generating article, the component comprising a taggant. The apparatus includes a dispenser configured to apply the taggant to the component. The apparatus also includes a sensor configured to detect the amount of taggant contained in the component. The apparatus includes a controller for determining whether the detected amount of taggant is less than a first predetermined amount. The apparatus further includes a rejection system configured to reject the component if the detected amount of taggant is less than the first predetermined amount.

[0029] Thus, the device applies a taggant to a component, which acts as an internal signature of the component used for product identification. The taggant of the component is used to recognize the component and, therefore, determine whether the aerosol-generating article is genuine. The device's sensor detects the amount of taggant contained in the component, and the controller compares the detected amount of taggant with a first predetermined amount of taggant. If not, the component is rejected by a rejection system. This device ensures that all components have the appropriate amount of taggant for component recognition, allowing for the identification of genuine products. It is particularly advantageous to have a device with a rejection system that rejects components if the detected amount of taggant is less than the first predetermined amount, since rejected components are removed from the manufacturing process before the final product is completed. This reduces waste material used in products that are subsequently discarded in either case.

[0030] In some specific embodiments, the device includes a controller configured to determine whether the amount of taggants detected is less than a first predetermined amount, the first predetermined amount being a non-zero amount. Thus, the device determines not only whether taggants are present, but also whether an insufficient amount of taggants is present, thus identifying defective components. These components can then be rejected. The non-zero amount can be a threshold amount above which the component provides suitable product performance and user experience. In this manner, by having the controller determine that the amount of taggants detected is less than a first predetermined non-zero amount, the non-zero amount is used as a threshold amount above which the component can be determined to provide suitable product performance and user experience. In this manner, by comparing the amount of taggants present with the threshold amount, it is possible to predict whether the correct component is in place during production. If the amount of taggants present is determined to be below the first predetermined amount of taggants, the component is determined to be defective and rejected from the production line.

[0031] In some embodiments, the controller is configured to determine whether the component contains an amount of taggant that is less than a first predetermined amount or greater than a second predetermined amount. In some embodiments, the device includes a rejection system that rejects a component if the component contains a detected amount of taggant that is less than the first predetermined amount or greater than the second predetermined amount. In this manner, if a component contains an amount of taggant that is outside the range between the first and second predetermined amounts, the component is rejected. This allows the final product to have an amount of taggant that is within an acceptable range.

[0032] In some specific embodiments, the controller is configured to determine whether the component contains an amount of taggant that is less than a first predetermined amount or greater than a second predetermined amount, the first predetermined amount being a non-zero amount. In this way, the device not only detects the presence of taggant, but also the amount of taggant in the component, and rejects the component if the amount of taggant is outside of an acceptable range.

[0033] In some preferred embodiments, the device includes multiple sensors, each configured to detect a certain amount of taggant. By having multiple sensors, each configured to detect a certain amount of taggant, for example, even if one of the sensors is inoperable, the amount of taggant can still be detected. Another reason this setup is advantageous is that the sensors can be installed in different areas and therefore detect the amount of taggant at different times or different locations on the component. For example, sensors can be used to determine the amount of taggant at different points along the manufacturing process. Sensors can also or alternatively be positioned to be directed toward different parts of the component.

[0034] In some embodiments, the apparatus further comprises a sensor positioned in the production line at least after application and affixing of the tipping paper component to another component.

[0035] In some embodiments, the device includes at least one sensor positioned in the manufacturing line after wrapping a component, which may be, for example, a filter component.

[0036] In certain embodiments, the device comprises at least one sensor located in the manufacturing line after a component is manufactured, which may be, for example, an aerosol-forming substrate such as a tobacco plug component.

[0037] In some embodiments, the device includes multiple sensors, each positioned at a different stage of the manufacturing process. In some specific embodiments, the sensors detect the amount of taggant. In some embodiments, the amount of taggant is measured by the sensors at different stages of the manufacturing process, and the controller determines whether the amount of taggant detected is less than a first predetermined amount. In some embodiments, the amount of taggant is measured by the sensors at different stages of the manufacturing process, and the controller determines whether the amount of taggant detected is greater than a second predetermined amount. In some embodiments, the amount of taggant is measured by the sensors at different stages of the manufacturing process, and the controller determines whether the amount of taggant detected is less than the first predetermined amount or greater than a second predetermined amount. Having multiple sensors, each positioned at different stages of the manufacturing process, can ensure that product performance remains suitable. If product performance is determined to be unsuitable, the device's rejection system can reject the component. Furthermore, it can be determined that the correct components are in place at different stages of the manufacturing process.

[0038] In certain embodiments, the sensor comprises an emitter and a reader. In some embodiments, the emitter emits a signal and the reader reads the return signal from the taggant. By having a sensor with both an emitter and a reader, the number of sensors required in the system is reduced.

[0039] In some embodiments, the sensor does not have an emitter but reads the signal directly from the taggant.

[0040] In some embodiments, the signal comprises a spectroscopic signal. Alternatively or additionally, in some embodiments, the signal comprises an optical signal, a phosphorescent signal, an electromagnetic signal, or any combination thereof.

[0041] In some embodiments, the apparatus further comprises an adhesive dispenser for dispensing adhesive. In some embodiments, the adhesive dispenser comprises a glue application roller. In some embodiments, the glue application roller comprises a groove.

[0042] In some particular embodiments, the dispenser further comprises a mask configured to protect the dispensed taggants from reaching undesired areas. For example, the mask can protect the dispensed taggants from reaching and thus filling perforations in the aerosol-generating article. This is particularly beneficial because the perforations will not be blocked.

[0043] Further, according to the present invention, there is provided a kit of parts. The kit of parts of the present invention comprises a plurality of manufacturing tools suitable for manufacturing components of an aerosol-generating article. The kit of parts of the present invention also comprises at least one sensor suitable for detecting the amount of taggant contained in the manufactured components. The kit of parts of the present invention comprises a controller for determining whether the amount of taggant contained in the components is less than a first predetermined amount. The kit of parts of the present invention further comprises a rejection system configured to reject components having an amount of taggant less than the first predetermined amount.

[0044] As used herein, the term "adhesive" is used to describe a substance used to adhere or attach to the surface of a component or material.

[0045] As used herein, the term "aerosol-generating article" is used to describe an article that is capable of generating or emitting an aerosol.

[0046] As used herein, the term "amount" is used to describe the content of a material, component, or object. Amount may be used to quantitatively describe the number, mass, degree, or size.

[0047] As used herein, the term "applying" is used to describe the process of applying or dispensing one material onto or within another material, for example.

[0048] As used herein, the term "component" is used to describe an element of a larger whole. For example, component is used to describe a part of an aerosol-generating article. Component may also refer to two or more parts of an aerosol-generating article.

[0049] As used herein, the term "concentration" is used to describe the amount or volume of a substance per unit area. For example, concentration is used to quantify the amount or density of a substance within a component.

[0050] As used herein, the term "detection" is used to describe the process of identifying the presence of a substance.

[0051] As used herein, the term "dispenser" is used to describe a device or means by which a substance can be dispensed or applied to a material, for example, onto a surface of a material or within a material.

[0052] As used herein, the term "emitter" is used to describe a device that emits a signal.

[0053] As used herein, the term "defective," as in "defective component," is used to describe any component that does not have a desired characteristic. As used herein, the term "interface" is used to describe the overlap or boundary between two components. Interface may also be used to describe an additional component that bonds two components together. For example, the tipping paper of an aerosol-generating article may form the interface between a filter component and an aerosol-forming substrate.

[0054] As used herein, the term "predetermined" is used to describe pre-established parameters, e.g., a predetermined amount of taggant is established prior to the step of detecting the amount of taggant.

[0055] As used herein, the term "reject" is used to describe the process of discarding a component. The term reject is also used to describe the process of preventing a component from progressing downstream in the manufacturing process.

[0056] As used herein, the term "rod" is used to describe a component, segment, or element having a generally cylindrical cross-section for use in an aerosol-generating article. The aerosol-generating article may comprise several different rods, for example, filter rods. The cylindrical cross-section may be, for example, a circular cross-section or an oval cross-section.

[0057] As used herein, the term "sensor" is used to describe a device used to measure a physical property of an environment. For example, a sensor may be a device used in a manufacturing process to measure the physical properties of components of an aerosol-generating article to identify the components.

[0058] As used herein, the term "taggant" is used to describe a marker used to identify a component.

[0059] As used herein, the term "threshold" is used to describe the limit or boundary of the amount of taggant that determines the suitability of a component that contains the taggant. For example, below a threshold of 20 milligrams of taggant per square meter present in a component, the component is determined to be unsuitable. Components having less than 20 milligrams of taggant per square meter may be rejected as defective.

[0060] As used herein, the phrase "undesired area" is used to describe parts or portions of a component where taggants are not desired.

[0061] The following provides 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 another example, embodiment, or aspect described herein.

[0062] The following provides 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 another example, embodiment, or aspect described herein.

[0063] Example Ex1: A method of manufacturing a component of an aerosol-generating article that includes a taggant, the method comprising applying the taggant to the component. The method comprises detecting an amount of taggant contained in the component. The method also comprises determining whether the detected amount of taggant is less than a first predetermined amount. The method comprises rejecting the component if the detected amount of taggant is less than the first predetermined amount.

[0064] Example Ex2: A method of manufacturing an aerosol-generating article or a component of an aerosol-generating article according to example Ex1, further comprising determining whether the amount of taggant on or in the component is greater than a second predetermined amount, the method further comprising rejecting the component if the amount of taggant detected on or in the component is greater than the second predetermined amount.

[0065] Example Ex3: A method of manufacturing a component according to example Ex1 or Ex2, wherein the first predetermined amount of taggant is a concentration of 5 milligrams of taggant per square meter.

[0066] Example Ex4: The method of producing a component of any one of the preceding examples, further comprising the step of applying a taggant to the component, wherein the component is a filter, a wrapper, a tipping paper, an adhesive, a tipping paper adhesive, a filter plug wrap, or any combination of the foregoing components.

[0067] Example Ex5: The method of manufacturing a component according to example Ex4, wherein the component is a susceptor, a mouthpiece filter, a spacer tube, a tobacco component, a flavoring component, a heat source, an aerosol-generating component, or any combination of the aforementioned components.

[0068] Example Ex6: A method of making a component according to any one of the preceding examples, further comprising applying a taggant to the interface between the tobacco rod component and the filter component.

[0069] Example Ex7: A method of manufacturing a component according to any one of the preceding examples, further comprising applying a taggant to an inner surface of the tipping component.

[0070] Example Ex8: A method of manufacturing a component according to any one of the preceding examples, further comprising applying taggants substantially around the circumference of the component.

[0071] Example Ex9: A method of manufacturing a component according to any one of the preceding examples, further comprising repeating the steps of detecting and determining, and, if applicable, rejecting.

[0072] Example Ex10: A method for producing a component according to any one of the preceding examples, further comprising the step of detecting the amount of taggant contained in the component after the manufacturing step of applying and fixing the tipping paper component to another component.

[0073] Example Ex11: An apparatus for producing a component of an aerosol-generating article comprising a taggant, the apparatus comprising a dispenser configured to apply the taggant to the component. The apparatus also comprises a sensor configured to detect the amount of taggant contained in the component. The apparatus comprises a controller for determining whether the detected amount of taggant is less than a first predetermined amount. The apparatus further comprises a rejection system configured to reject the component if the detected amount of taggant is less than the first predetermined amount.

[0074] Example Ex12: The apparatus of example Ex11, comprising a number of sensors, each sensor configured to detect a quantity of a taggant.

[0075] Example Ex13: The apparatus of example Ex11 or Ex12, further comprising at least one sensor positioned in the production line after application and affixing of the tipping paper component to another component.

[0076] Example Ex14: The apparatus of any one of examples Ex11-Ex13, further comprising at least one sensor positioned in the production line after wrapping the component.

[0077] Example Ex15: The apparatus of any one of Examples Ex11-Ex14, further comprising at least one sensor positioned in the production line after producing the tobacco plug component.

[0078] Example Ex16: The apparatus of any one of examples Ex11 to Ex15, wherein the sensor comprises an emitter and a reader, the emitter emitting a signal and the reader reading a return signal from the taggant.

[0079] Example Ex17: The apparatus of any one of Examples Ex11 to Ex16, further comprising an adhesive dispenser for dispensing adhesive.

[0080] Example Ex18: The device of example Ex17, wherein the adhesive dispenser comprises a glue application roller.

[0081] Example Ex19: The device of example Ex18, wherein the glue application roller comprises grooves.

[0082] Example Ex20: The apparatus of any one of examples Ex11 to Ex19, wherein the dispenser further comprises a mask configured to protect the dispensed taggants from reaching undesired areas.

[0083] Example Ex21: A kit of parts comprising a plurality of manufacturing tools suitable for manufacturing components of an aerosol-generating article. The kit of parts also comprises at least one sensor suitable for detecting the amount of taggant contained in the manufactured components. The kit of parts comprises a controller for determining whether the amount of taggant contained in the components is less than a first predetermined amount. The kit of parts further comprises a rejection system configured to reject components having an amount of taggant less than the first predetermined amount.

[0084] Reference is now made to the drawings, which illustrate one or more embodiments described in the present disclosure. However, it will be understood that other embodiments not depicted in the drawings fall within the scope of the present disclosure. Like numbers used in the figures refer to like components, steps, and the like. However, it will be understood that the use of a number to refer to a component in a given figure is not intended to limit the component labeled with the same number in another figure. Additionally, the use of different numbers to refer to components in different figures is not intended to indicate that the differently numbered components may not be the same or similar to other numbered components. The figures are presented for purposes of illustration and not limitation. Schematic diagrams presented in the figures are not necessarily drawn to scale. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0085] [Figure 1] 1 illustrates a cutaway cross-sectional schematic side profile of an aerosol-generating article. [Figure 2] 1 illustrates a cut-away schematic side profile and partial cross-sectional view of an aerosol-generating article. [Figure 3] 1 illustrates a cutaway cross-sectional schematic side profile of an aerosol-generating article. [Figure 4] 1 illustrates a cut-away schematic side profile and partial cross-sectional view of an aerosol-generating article. [Figure 5] 1 illustrates a schematic diagram of an exemplary embodiment of an apparatus for manufacturing a component of an aerosol-generating article. [Figure 6] 1 illustrates a schematic diagram of another exemplary embodiment of an apparatus for manufacturing a component of an aerosol-generating article. [Figure 7] 1 illustrates a schematic diagram of an exemplary embodiment of an apparatus for manufacturing a component of an aerosol-generating article. [Figure 8] 1 illustrates a schematic diagram of a further exemplary embodiment of an apparatus for manufacturing a component of an aerosol-generating article.

[0086] 1 shows an aerosol-generating article 101. The aerosol-generating article 101 has a proximal end 102 and a distal end 104. The aerosol-generating article 101 has an aerosol-forming substrate 106 located at the distal end 104. The aerosol-generating article 101 has means for heating the aerosol-forming substrate 106 to a sufficient temperature to form an aerosol. To heat the aerosol-forming substrate 106, the aerosol-generating article 101 includes a heating element that at least partially surrounds and is adjacent to or in close proximity to the aerosol-forming substrate 106. The heating element may be inserted into the aerosol-forming substrate 106.

[0087] At the proximal end 102, the aerosol-generating article 101 includes a filter 108. The aerosol-forming substrate 106 is heated to form an aerosol. When negative pressure is applied to the proximal end 102 of the aerosol-generating article 101, the aerosol is drawn through the filter 108 at the proximal end 102.

[0088] The aerosol-generating article 101 has a hollow acetate tube 112 positioned between the filter 108 and the aerosol-forming substrate 106. The hollow acetate tube 112 is coaxially aligned with the filter 108 and the aerosol-forming substrate 106. The filter 108, hollow acetate tube 112, and aerosol-forming substrate 106 are assembled within tipping paper 110. In this embodiment, the tipping paper 110 is disposed over the filter 108 at the proximal end 102 of the aerosol-generating article 101. The tipping paper 110 covers the entire hollow acetate tube 112. The tipping paper 110 partially covers the aerosol-forming substrate 106 at the opposite distal end 104 of the aerosol-generating article 101. In some embodiments, the filter 108 is wrapped within a filter plug wrapper. In some embodiments, the hollow acetate tube 112 is wrapped within a hollow acetate tube plug wrapper. Additionally or alternatively, the aerosol-forming substrate 106 may be wrapped within an aerosol-forming substrate plug wrapper. Additionally or alternatively, in some embodiments, the aerosol-generating article 101 comprises one or more of a susceptor, a mouthpiece filter, a spacer tube, a tobacco element, a flavoring element, a heat source, and an aerosol-generating element. The aerosol-generating article 101 may comprise any combination thereof.

[0089] Referring now to FIG. 2, an aerosol-generating article 201 is provided. The aerosol-generating article 201 is substantially the same as the aerosol-generating article 101 of FIG. 1. The aerosol-generating article 201 comprises tipping paper 210 disposed over a filter 208 at the proximal end 202, over a hollow acetate tube 212, and partially over the aerosol-forming substrate 206. FIG. 2 illustrates a cross-sectional view of the tipping paper 210 from one end of the proximal end 202 of the aerosol-generating article 201 to the opposite end partially covering the aerosol-forming substrate 206. The inner surface of the tipping paper 210 comprises a coating of adhesive 220. The adhesive 220 is provided to attach the tipping paper 210 to the rod of the aerosol-generating article 201. The adhesive 220, in this embodiment, is glue 220. The glue 220 is applied onto the inner surface of the tipping paper 210. The glue 220 contains a taggant. The taggants have a concentration of 150 milligrams per square meter. It is contemplated that the taggants may have any concentration from 5 milligrams per square meter to 500 milligrams per square meter. In this particular example, glue 220 is sprayed onto the inner surface of tipping paper 210. In this example, the taggants are mixed with glue 220 before applying glue 220 to the inner surface of the tipping paper. In some examples, glue 220 is applied using a roller, such as a grooved roller. Glue 220 may alternatively be applied by printing.

[0090] Thus, the inner surface of the tipping paper 210 is provided with adhesive 220 containing a taggant. In some embodiments, it is also contemplated that the inner surface of the tipping 210 is provided with a taggant applied directly using a spray nozzle, by printing, or by using a roller. The tipping paper 210 is provided with a glue line 214 where the tipping paper 210 overlaps the aerosol-forming substrate 206. The tipping paper 210 also is provided with a reinforced glue line 216 where the tipping paper 210 overlaps the aerosol-forming substrate 206. The glue line 214 and the reinforced glue line 216 are provided to assist in attaching the tipping paper 210 to the aerosol-forming substrate 206. In some embodiments, the glue line 214 is provided. In other embodiments, the reinforced glue line 216 is provided. In still other embodiments, both the glue line 214 and the reinforced glue line 216 are provided, thereby attaching the tipping paper 210 to the aerosol-forming substrate 206. 2, the tipping paper 210 includes a glue-free zone 218. The glue-free zone 218 is an area 218 that is free of glue 220, for example, to prevent glue 220 from sealing the perforations in the aerosol-generating article 201. In some embodiments, the glue-free zone 218 has substantially less glue 220 than that on the inner surface of the tipping paper 210.

[0091] 3 shows an aerosol-generating article 301. The aerosol-generating article 301 has a proximal end 302 and a distal end 304. The aerosol-generating article 301 has an aerosol-forming substrate 306 located at the distal end 304. The aerosol-generating article 301 includes a heating source 324 configured to heat the aerosol-forming substrate 306 to a temperature to form an aerosol. The aerosol-generating article 301 also includes a thermally conductive element 326 disposed around and in direct contact with the heating element 324 and a portion of the aerosol-forming substrate 306 located near the distal end 304 of the aerosol-generating article 301. In this example, the thermally conductive element 326 is a stainless steel tube 326, although it is contemplated that the thermally conductive element 326 may be any suitable thermally conductive material.

[0092] The proximal end 302 of the aerosol-generating article 301 includes a filter 308. The aerosol-forming substrate 306 is heated by a heating element 324 by conduction, which transfers thermal energy to the aerosol-forming substrate 306 to generate an aerosol. When negative pressure is applied to the proximal end 302 of the aerosol-generating article 301, the aerosol is drawn through the filter 308 at the proximal end 302.

[0093] The aerosol-generating article 301 comprises a hollow acetate tube 312 positioned between a filter 308 and an aerosol-forming substrate 306. The hollow acetate tube 312 is coaxially aligned with the filter 308 and the aerosol-forming substrate 306. The filter 308, hollow acetate tube 312, and aerosol-forming substrate 306 are assembled within tipping paper 310. The tipping paper 310 is positioned to cover the filter 308, cover the hollow acetate tube 312, and partially cover the aerosol-forming substrate 306. The inner surface of the tipping paper 310 comprises a coating of glue 320 for attachment to the rod of the aerosol-generating article 301. As can be seen in FIG. 3 , the glue 320 is applied to two distinct areas on the circumference of the aerosol-generating article 301, separated from each other along the length of the aerosol-generating article 301. The areas where glue 320 is applied are separated by glue-free zones 318. Glue 320 is absent in glue-free zones 318. This is to prevent glue 320 from sealing perforations in aerosol-generating article 301, for example. In some embodiments, glue-free zones 318 have substantially less glue 320 than the areas where glue 320 is applied. Glue 320 contains taggants. More specifically, the inner surface of tipping paper 310 is provided with glue 320 containing taggants.

[0094] In other embodiments, other components of the aerosol-generating device 301 may instead or additionally comprise taggants. For example, taggants may be applied to components of the aerosol-generating device 301 by spraying, printing, or rolling. Taggants may be applied to any one or combination of the wrapper, adhesive 320, tipping paper adhesive, filter plug wrap, or aerosol-forming substrate plug wrap. It is further contemplated that taggants may be applied to any one or combination of the susceptor, mouthpiece filter, spacer tube, tobacco element, flavoring element, heat source 324, or aerosol-generating element. Taggants may alternatively or additionally be incorporated into raw materials used to manufacture, for example, any one or combination of the wrapper, adhesive 320, tipping paper adhesive, filter plug wrap, aerosol-forming substrate plug wrap, susceptor, mouthpiece filter, spacer tube, tobacco element, flavoring element, heat source 324, or aerosol-generating element. The raw materials may constitute components of the aerosol-generating article 301. Taggants are uniquely coded materials or chemicals that are virtually impossible to replicate. Taggants can be used, for example, to identify the origin of a product such as aerosol-generating article 301 .

[0095] For illustrative purposes, the area designated 322 represents a taggant detection zone 322 located at the junction between the aerosol-forming substrate 306 and the hollow acetate tube 312. The taggant detection zone 322 may be located in any portion of the aerosol-generating article 301 that contains a taggant. For example, the taggant detection zone 322 may be located in a location that contains any or a combination of taggant-bearing components, such as adhesive 320, tipping paper adhesive, filter plug wrap, aerosol-forming substrate plug wrap, susceptor, mouthpiece filter, spacer tube, tobacco element, flavor element, heat source 324, or aerosol-generating elements. It is envisioned that more than one taggant detection zone 322 may be provided on the aerosol-generating article 301.

[0096] A corresponding detection system is provided on the device. The device will be described in more detail with reference to Figures 5-8. The device includes a sensor that detects the amount of taggant contained in a component. In this particular embodiment, the sensor of the device detects the amount of taggant contained in taggant detection zone 322. While taggant detection zone 322 is located at the junction between aerosol-forming substrate 306 and hollow acetate tube 312 in this embodiment, it is envisioned that taggant detection zone 322 may be located elsewhere on taggant-containing aerosol-generating article 301.

[0097] FIG. 4 shows an aerosol-generating article 401. The aerosol-generating article 401 is substantially the same as the aerosol-generating article 201 of FIG. 2 and comprises a proximal end 402 and a distal end 404. The aerosol-generating article 401 comprises tipping paper 410 disposed over a filter 408 at the proximal end 402, over a hollow acetate tube 412, and partially over an aerosol-forming substrate 406. The inner surface of the tipping paper 410 comprises a coating of adhesive 420. The adhesive 420 is provided to attach the tipping paper 410 to the rod of the aerosol-generating article 401. In this example, the adhesive 420 is glue 420. The glue 420 is applied onto the inner surface of the tipping paper 410. The glue 420 contains a taggant. The taggant has a concentration of 150 milligrams per square meter. It is contemplated that the taggants may have any concentration from 5 milligrams per square meter to 500 milligrams per square meter. In this particular example, glue 420 is sprayed onto the inner surface of tipping paper 410.

[0098] The inner surface of the tipping paper 410 is provided with a taggant-containing adhesive 420. The tipping paper 410 is provided with a glue line 414 where the tipping paper 410 overlaps the aerosol-forming substrate 406. The tipping paper 410 is provided with a reinforced glue line 416 where the tipping paper 410 overlaps the aerosol-forming substrate 406. The glue line 414 and the reinforced glue line 416 are provided to attach the tipping paper 410 to the aerosol-forming substrate 406. The tipping paper 410 is provided with a glue-free zone 418. The glue-free zone 418 is an area 418 where no glue 420 is present. This is to prevent, for example, the glue 420 from sealing the perforations in the aerosol-generating article 401. In some embodiments, the glue-free zone 418 has substantially less glue 420 than that on the inner surface of the tipping paper 410.

[0099] The tipping paper 410 includes additional glue lines 419 containing taggants. The glue lines 419 are sprayed onto the tipping paper 410 to increase the concentration of the taggants. The taggant content can be increased. Increasing the concentration or content of the taggants improves the ease of detection of the taggants. In this example, the additional glue lines 419 are sprayed by an adhesive nozzle. The additional glue lines 419 have widths spaced 4 millimeters apart. Alternatively, or in addition, the taggants can be incorporated into raw materials manufactured to form any one or combination of the wrapper, adhesive 420, tipping paper adhesive, filter plug wrap, aerosol-forming substrate plug wrap, susceptor, mouthpiece filter, spacer tube, tobacco element, flavor element, heat source 424, or aerosol-generating element.

[0100] 5 illustrates an embodiment of an apparatus 500. The apparatus 500 is used to detect the presence and content of taggants in glue. In this embodiment, the apparatus 500 is used to detect the presence and content of taggants in glue applied to tipping paper 110 (not shown). The apparatus 500 includes a series of transport drums 550, 552, 554, 556 configured to transport components of an aerosol-generating article along the transport drums. In this embodiment, the transport drums 550, 552, 554, 556 are arranged to transport the tipping paper 110 toward another portion of the manufacturing process where the tipping paper 110 is assembled with other components (not shown) to produce the aerosol-generating article.

[0101] The apparatus 500 includes a guide roller 566 that receives the tipping paper 110 from the transport drum 554. The guide roller 566 directs the tipping paper 110 downstream to a combiner 560 toward an assembly station (not shown) where the tipping paper 110 is assembled with other components to form an aerosol-generating article. A sensor 562 is positioned between the guide roller 556 and the combiner 560 and directed toward the tipping paper 110. The sensor 562 emits a detection signal 564 that is used to determine whether the tipping paper 110 contains a taggant and the amount of taggant present. In some embodiments, the sensor 562 detects the concentration of taggant contained in the tipping paper 110. More specifically, the sensor 562 emits the signal 564 toward the tipping paper 110. In this particular embodiment, the signal 564 is a spectroscopic signal. The taggant, in this embodiment, has a distinguishable spectroscopic signature. When the taggant is exposed to the emitted signal 564, it absorbs a portion of the emitted signal 564, changing its spectroscopic signal. The signal is reflected and picked up by the sensor 562. The return signal is used to identify the taggant and its quantity on the tipping paper 110. It is contemplated that the signal 564 may be an optical signal, a phosphorescent signal, an electromagnetic signal, or any suitable signal capable of identifying the taggant. In one embodiment, the sensor 562 emits an optical signal 564, which causes the taggant to absorb a particular wavelength, e.g., 1000 nanometers, or a range of wavelengths, e.g., 930 nanometers to 1020 nanometers. The wavelength of the optical return signal received by the sensor 562 determines the wavelength of light absorbed, and the taggant is identified by reading the wavelengths that are absent. The emitter of the sensor 562 may be a light-emitting diode. The receiver of the sensor 562 may be a photodiode. Other wavelengths are contemplated. In such a case, the emitter and receiver of the sensor 562 are tuned to the absorption and emission properties of the taggant.To improve sensitivity, additional optical devices such as, for example, lenses or filters may be provided at the sensor or before the sensor 562 .

[0102] The device 500 can reject a component if it contains an amount of taggant less than a predetermined amount. The device 500 includes a control (not shown) that determines whether the amount of taggant detected by the sensor 562 is below a first predetermined amount. In some embodiments, the control determines whether the amount of taggant detected by the sensor 562 is greater than a second predetermined amount. The device 500, in this embodiment, includes a rejection system (not shown). The rejection system is designed to reject a component if it contains an amount of taggant less than the first predetermined amount. The rejection system is also designed to reject a component if it contains an amount of taggant greater than a second predetermined amount. In this particular embodiment, the tipping paper 110 is rejected if it contains taggant having a concentration less than 5 milligrams per square meter. The tipping paper 110 is rejected if it contains taggant having a concentration greater than 500 milligrams per square meter. In some embodiments, the rejection system is designed to reject a component if it has a concentration or amount less than a first predetermined amount, e.g., 20 milligrams per square meter. Not only are components rejected if they do not contain taggants, but they are also rejected if they do not contain a suitable amount of taggants. That is, if a component has an amount of taggants below a threshold amount of 20 milligrams per square meter, the component is determined to be defective and not provide suitable product performance. This is because, for example, some components are not present. In a similar manner, in other embodiments, the rejection system is designed to reject a component if it has a concentration or amount greater than a second predetermined amount, e.g., 550 milligrams per square meter. Above the threshold amount, the component is determined to be defective and not provide suitable product performance. An excessive amount of taggants may indicate that too much of a particular component is present. For example, if a component has a high concentration of taggants in glue, it may be determined that too much glue was applied to the component.

[0103] After the sensor 562 detects the amount of taggant, the controller compares the detected amount of taggant to a predetermined amount of taggant. In this particular embodiment, the controller determines whether the amount of taggant detected by the sensor 562 is within the range of 5 milligrams per square meter to 500 milligrams per square meter. If the detected amount of taggant is within the range of 5 milligrams per square meter to 500 milligrams per square meter, a positive signal is provided. In this particular embodiment, the range is 5 milligrams per square meter to 500 milligrams per square meter, but it is contemplated that other ranges may be applicable. For example, the range may be, for example, 10 milligrams per square meter to 500 milligrams per square meter, or 5 milligrams per square meter to 200 milligrams per square meter, or 20 milligrams per square meter to 100 milligrams per square meter. A positive signal is interpreted to mean that the tipping paper 110 contains the appropriate amount of taggant. However, if the amount of taggant detected is outside the range of 5 milligrams per square meter to 500 milligrams per square meter, a negative signal is provided by sensor 562. This negative signal indicates that the tipping paper 110 is to be rejected. The piece of tipping paper 110 corresponding to the negative signal is discarded and prevented from further processing in the apparatus 500. The tipping paper 110 is removed from the apparatus. The portion of tipping paper 110 corresponding to the negative signal may be rejected. In some embodiments, the entire batch of tipping paper 110 is rejected. In some embodiments, when a negative signal is detected, the machine stops and the operator takes corrective action. Corrective action may be, for example, changing the source of the component, changing the glue tank, or verifying that the machine is applying glue to the component or that the machine is applying glue evenly to the component.In this example, the taggants are applied to and detected from tipping paper 110, but it is envisioned that taggants may be applied to and detected from any or a combination of, for example, adhesive, tipping paper adhesive, filter plug wrap, aerosol-forming substrate plug wrap, susceptor, mouthpiece filter, spacer tube, tobacco element, flavor element, heat source, or aerosol-generating element.

[0104] In some embodiments, the instrument 500 is also contemplated for use in detecting the presence of taggants in the glue. That is, the sensor 562 detects whether the tipping paper 110 contains a taggant. The sensor 562 emits a signal 564 in the form of a spectroscopic signal toward the tipping paper 110. The taggant has an identifiable spectroscopic signature. If a taggant is present, the taggant is exposed to the signal 564 emitted from the sensor 562. The taggant absorbs a portion of the emitted signal 564 such that the spectroscopic signal is modified. When the signal 564 is reflected and picked up by the sensor 562, the sensor 562 determines that the tipping paper 110 contains a taggant (i.e., a taggant is present). Depending on whether the presence of a taggant is detected, the instrument is designed to either reject or retain the component. In this particular embodiment, if no taggant is detected by the sensor 562, the tipping paper 110 is rejected. In some embodiments, if no taggants are detected by sensor 562, the entire component containing tipping paper 110 is rejected. Rejecting tipping paper 110 or the entire component prevents the part from being further processed in device 500. In one embodiment, device 500 is used to detect the presence of taggants in glue applied to tipping paper 110 (not shown). In other embodiments, taggants may be applied to and detected from any or a combination of adhesives, tipping paper adhesives, filter plug wraps, aerosol-forming substrate plug wraps, susceptors, mouthpiece filters, spacer tubes, tobacco elements, flavoring elements, heat sources, or aerosol-generating elements.

[0105] FIG. 6 shows an apparatus 600 having multiple transport rollers 650, 652, 654, and 656 used to transport aerosol-generating articles (not shown) along the transport rollers. The apparatus 600 detects the presence and content of taggants applied to the aerosol-generating article. More specifically, in this embodiment, the apparatus 600 is used to detect the presence and content of taggants in the filter of the aerosol-generating article. In other embodiments, it is contemplated that the taggants may be contained in any one or combination of the following: a wrapper, adhesive, tipping paper adhesive, filter plug wrap or aerosol-forming substrate plug wrap, susceptor, spacer tube, tobacco element, flavor element, heat source, or aerosol-generating element. The transport rollers 650, 652, 654, and 656 have grooved surfaces designed to receive the aerosol-generating article. The apparatus 600 includes a first sensor 662 directed toward the roller 650. The instrument 600 includes a second sensor 672 downstream from the first sensor 662. The second sensor 672 is directed toward the roller 652.

[0106] A first sensor 662 emits a first detection signal 664 toward the filter element on the drum 650 and uses it to determine whether the filter element contains a taggant and the amount of taggant present. When the taggant in the filter is exposed to the emitted signal 664, the taggant absorbs a portion of the emitted signal 664, changing the spectroscopic signal. The signal is reflected and picked up by the first sensor 662. The returned signal is used to identify the taggant and its amount in the filter. A second sensor 672 emits a second detection signal 674 toward the filter element on the drum 652 and uses it to determine whether the filter element contains a taggant and the amount of taggant present. When the taggant in the filter is exposed to the emitted signal 674, the taggant absorbs a portion of the emitted signal 674, changing the spectroscopic signal. The signal is reflected and picked up by the second sensor 672. In some embodiments, sensors 662, 672 are angularly offset from one another. Some embodiments include different numbers of sensors 662, 672, directed toward any of transport rollers 650, 652, 654, 656 provided within instrument 600. Sensors may be desired after most or all manufacturing steps where taggants are present, and it is desirable to determine whether taggants are present in a desired amount or concentration. Defective components may therefore be rejected. It is particularly beneficial to have additional sensors for critical or expensive manufacturing steps where defective components would result in longer downtime or have significant associated costs.

[0107] Instrument 600 includes a control (not shown) that determines whether the amount of taggant detected by either or both of sensors 662, 672 is below a first predetermined amount. In some embodiments, the control determines whether the amount of taggant detected by either or both of sensors 662, 672 is greater than a second predetermined amount. In other embodiments, the control determines the average amount of taggant detected between sensors 662 and 672 and compares the average amount to a predetermined amount. Instrument 600, in this embodiment, includes a rejection system (not shown). The rejection system is designed to reject an aerosol-generating article if the filter contains an amount of taggant less than the first predetermined amount. The rejection system is also designed to reject an aerosol-generating article if the filter contains an amount of taggant greater than a second predetermined amount. Sensors 662, 672 each detect the amount of taggant in the same manner as sensor 562 in the previous embodiment. However, by providing two sensors 662, 672, each sensor 662, 672 can be individually operated to detect an amount of taggant at different locations on the same aerosol-generating article simultaneously. In some embodiments, each sensor 662, 672 can be operated to detect an amount of taggant on different aerosol-generating articles simultaneously. In some embodiments, additional sensors can be positioned at different stages along the manufacturing process to ensure that the amount of taggant present in a component remains within an acceptable range as the component moves along the manufacturing line, thereby ensuring that product performance remains suitable.

[0108] FIG. 7 shows a portion of an apparatus 700 having a drum 752. The drum 752 has a central axis 753 about which the drum 752 rotates. The drum 752 has a plurality of grooves arranged around its circumference, within which the aerosol-generating article 101 is received. The aerosol-generating article 101 comprises a hollow acetate tube (not shown). The hollow acetate tube is formed from a raw material mixed with a taggant. Thus, the hollow acetate tube of the aerosol-generating article 101 contains the taggant. As the drum 752 rotates about its central axis 753, the aerosol-generating article 101 is transported on a path along the circumference of the drum 752. A first sensor 762 is positioned to emit a first signal 764 toward the aerosol-generating article 101 as the aerosol-generating article 101 is transported on the drum 752. The second sensor 772 is positioned downstream of the first sensor 762. The second sensor 772 is positioned to emit a plurality of second signals 774 toward the aerosol-generating article 101 at a location downstream of the first signals 764. As the aerosol-generating article 101 is transported on the drum 752, it passes the first sensor 764 where it is detected, and then passes the second sensor 772 where it is detected.

[0109] A first sensor 762 emits a first signal 764 toward the aerosol-generating article 101 on the drum 752. The first sensor 762 determines whether the aerosol-generating article 101 contains a taggant, and if so, the amount of taggant present. When the taggant in the hollow acetate tube of the aerosol-generating article 101 is exposed to the emitted first signal 764, the taggant absorbs a portion of the signal 764, changing its spectroscopic signal. The signal is reflected and picked up by the first sensor 762. The returned signal is used to identify the taggant and its amount in the aerosol-generating article 101. A second sensor 772 emits multiple second signals 774 toward the aerosol-generating article 101 on the drum 752 to determine whether the aerosol-generating article 101 contains a taggant and, if so, the amount of taggant present. When the taggant in the hollow acetate tube of the aerosol-generating article 101 is exposed to the emitted second signal 774, the taggant absorbs a portion of the emitted signal 774, altering its spectroscopic signal. The signal is reflected and picked up by the second sensor 772. In this particular embodiment, the second sensor 772 is designed to emit three signals 774. By providing multiple signals 774 emitted by a single sensor 772, the aerosol-generating article 101 can be detected at high speed. For example, the second sensor 772 can detect the amount of taggant contained in the aerosol-generating article 101 at a maximum rate of 10,000 articles per minute, or approximately 6 milliseconds per article. In some embodiments, an average signal between each of the multiple signals 774 of the second sensor 772 is provided.

[0110] After the sensors 762, 772 detect the amount of taggant contained in the aerosol-generating article 101, the controller compares the detected amount of taggant to a predetermined amount of taggant in substantially the same manner as described with reference to Figure 6. However, in this embodiment, the controller determines whether the average amount detected by the sensors 762, 772 is within a range of taggant amounts that correspond to a positive signal.

[0111] 8 shows a portion of an apparatus 800 having a first drum 850 and a second drum 852. The first drum 850 has a first central axis 851 about which the first drum 850 rotates. The second drum 852 has a second central axis 853 about which the second drum 852 rotates. The second drum 852 has a plurality of protrusions 882 elevated from a surface of the second drum 852. The protrusions 882 are spaced apart about the circumference of the second drum 852. The protrusions 882 are designed to engage an aerosol-generating article 101, thereby transporting the aerosol-generating article 101 on a path along the circumference of the second drum 852. As the aerosol-generating article 101 passes through and between the first drum 850 and the second drum 852, the first drum 850 engages the aerosol-generating article 101, causing the aerosol-generating article 101 to rotate about its own axis in the direction represented by arrow 103.

[0112] The sensor 862 is provided in a location where it can be directed toward the aerosol-generating article 101 positioned between the first drum 850 and the second drum 852. When the aerosol-generating article 101 rotates about its axis, the sensor 862 emits a signal 864 toward the aerosol-generating article 101 as the article 101 rotates. This allows the aerosol-generating article 101 to be exposed to the sensor 862 at two or more positions. A field of view is provided around the circumference of the aerosol-generating article 101. The sensor 862 determines whether the aerosol-generating article contains a taggant and the concentration of taggant present. When the taggant in the article 101 absorbs the emitted signal 864, the spectroscopic signal changes. The signal reflects off the sensor 862 and is picked up by the sensor 862. The returned signal is used to determine the taggant in the aerosol-generating article 101 and the concentration of taggant present. The signal is then compared to a predetermined concentration of taggant in substantially the same manner as described with reference to FIG.

[0113] All scientific and technical terms used herein have meanings commonly used in the art unless otherwise specified. The definitions provided herein are provided to facilitate understanding of certain terms used frequently herein.

[0114] As used in this specification and the appended claims, the singular forms "a," "an," and "the" include embodiments having plural referents unless the content clearly dictates otherwise.

[0115] As used in this specification and the appended claims, the term "or" is generally used in its sense to include "alternatively" or "additionally," unless the context clearly dictates otherwise.

[0116] As used herein, the words "have," "having," "include," "including," "comprise," "comprising," and the like are used in an open-ended sense and generally mean "including, but not limited to." It should be understood that "consisting essentially of," "consisting of," and the like are encompassed by "comprising" and the like.

[0117] The words "preferred" and "preferably" refer to embodiments of the invention that may offer certain advantages, under particular circumstances. However, other embodiments may also be preferred, under the same or other circumstances. Furthermore, the recitation of one or more preferred embodiments does not imply that other embodiments are not useful, and is not intended to exclude other embodiments from the scope of the present disclosure, including the claims.

[0118] Any directions referred to herein, such as "top," "bottom," "left," "right," "upper," "lower," and other directions or orientations, are described herein for clarity and brevity and are not intended to limit the actual device or system. The devices and systems described herein may be used in numerous directions and orientations.

[0119] The above illustrated embodiments are not limiting, and other embodiments consistent with those described above will be apparent to those skilled in the art.

Claims

1. The proximal end and the distal end, The aerosol-forming substrate located at the distal end, The filter located at the proximal end, A hollow acetate tube is disposed between the filter and the aerosol-forming substrate, The filter, the hollow acetate tube, and the chipping paper wrapped around a portion of the aerosol-forming substrate at the end opposite to the distal end, an aerosol generating article comprising, The chipping paper is an aerosol-generating article that includes a tagant applied to the inner surface of the chipping paper.

2. The aerosol generating article according to claim 1, wherein the tagant on the inner surface of the chipping paper is a printed tagant.

3. The aerosol generating article according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the tagant on the inner surface of the chipping paper is a tagant applied by spraying.

4. The aerosol generating article according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the tagant on the inner surface of the chipping paper is a tagant applied by a roller.

5. The aerosol-generating article according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the tagant is substantially applied around the inner periphery of the chipping paper.

6. The aerosol-generating article according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the tagant is applied around the entire inner perimeter of the chipping paper.

7. The aerosol generating article according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the tagant is applied to a portion of the inner periphery of the chipping paper.

8. The aerosol generating article according to any one of claims 1 to 7, wherein the amount of tagant on the inner surface of the chipping paper is at least 5 milligrams per square meter.

9. The aerosol generating article according to any one of claims 1 to 8, wherein the amount of tagant on the inner surface of the chipping paper is 500 milligrams or less per square meter.

10. The aerosol generating article according to any one of claims 1 to 9, wherein the tagant is incorporated into a chipping paper adhesive.

11. The aerosol-generating article according to any one of claims 1 to 10, wherein the tagant is applied only to a predetermined portion of the inner surface of the chipping paper and not to other portions.

12. The aerosol generating article according to any one of claims 1 to 11, wherein the tagant is configured to absorb a portion of the emitted spectroscopic detection signal and to change the spectroscopic detection signal.

13. The aerosol generating article according to any one of claims 1 to 12, wherein the tagant on the inner surface of the chipping paper is provided at a position in which the chipping paper overlaps with the aerosol forming substrate.

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