Method and system for identifying smoking items

Abstract

This invention provides a method for identifying consumables within an aerosol generator. [Solution] A method for identifying a consumable (1) in an aerosol generator (2), comprising the steps of receiving and identifying the consumable (1), wherein the consumable (1) includes identification information of the consumable (1) that can be identified by the identification means of the device (2), wherein the identification information is encoded by variable features representing different arrangements of layers (10) in the aerosol generating consumable article (1), such as glue, seams, joints, or separation layers (10), the variable feature representative being selected from among the geometric properties and physical properties of the layers (10), and relating to an aerosol generating system including an aerosol generator (2) and an aerosol generating consumable article (1) partially inserted into the aerosol generator (2).

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to the field of tobacco, and in particular, to reconstructed tobacco and aerosol-generating articles. The present invention further relates to smoking devices, in particular, electric heating e-liquid systems or electric heating aerosol-generating systems.

Background Art

[0002] In recent years, the popularity of electronic cigarettes based on aerosol-generating consumable articles has been increasing. There are mainly two types, namely, liquid vaporizers and heated tobacco inhalation devices. The heated tobacco inhalation device is called a "heat-not-burn" (HNB) system. The HNB system provides a more authentic tobacco flavor compared to electronic cigarettes and delivers an inhalable aerosol by heating a liquid filling containing an aerosol-forming agent, flavoring, and often nicotine. The operating principle of the HNB system is to heat a tobacco material containing an aerosol-forming substance (such as glycerin and / or propylene glycol), and the aerosol-forming substance evaporates during heating to create a vapor that extracts nicotine and flavor components from the tobacco material. The tobacco substance is heated to 200 to 350 °C, which is lower than the normal combustion temperature of conventional cigarettes. The inhalation device is typically a handheld heater configured to receive a rod-shaped consumable article.

[0003] The illegal trade of aerosol-generating articles, whether e-liquids or HNB articles, is problematic because counterfeit articles, which can be of particularly inferior quality, may not guarantee a controlled delivery of aerosols or may not be suitable for dedicated aerosol-generating systems. To identify whether aerosol-generating consumables are genuine, a code or equivalent marking containing information about the article may be placed on the exterior of the article so that it can be detected during or before use with a particular device. This allows for verification of the authenticity of the consumable and, if authenticity is found to be denied, enables appropriate control, such as turning off the heating system used with the consumable or properly adjusting the heating system.

[0004] Furthermore, it may be necessary to distinguish between consumables and other items in order to adapt the aerosol generation conditions. For example, certain consumables among various items may contain different components (e.g., different tobacco blends, shaping agents, nicotine levels, etc.), requiring different parameter settings for the device to optimize the consumer experience.

[0005] To accurately authenticate codes on consumable items such as HNB items, the recognition probability must be very high so that the correct item is not rejected. However, existing markings are limited to the low-density information that can be contained within the markings, and most known markings rely on classical codes such as one-dimensional or two-dimensional barcodes, which can be easily imitated by simply visualizing the code with the human eye, for example, without the use of special optical equipment.

[0006] Various attempts to provide certifiable aerosol-generating articles have already been proposed in prior art.

[0007] International Publication No. 2019185747 discloses an e-cigarette containing an article that includes markings placed on the surface of the article that indicate coding parameters associated with the article. This e-cigarette also includes a sensor configuration for detecting the markings for identifying or recognizing the article. Applying the markings to the article is an additional step, complicating the production process and creating harsh environments such as proximity to heaters required in aerosol generators. There are also challenges regarding ink stability at the border.

[0008] U.S. Patent Application Publication 20190008206A1 discloses a smoking article that includes markings printed on the outer wrapper paper of the smoking article, which represent the type of smoking article and may be in the form of a pattern or a one-dimensional / two-dimensional barcode. The markings include different gray levels that can be produced by printing smaller dots. Such markings may be readily detectable and reproducible and may contain only low-density information or may be provided at an unacceptably large size. The system described in U.S. Patent Application Publication 20190008206A1 relies on printed markings whose optical properties must match those of an LED used in a sensor module, for example, having a specific infrared absorption band. The fact that the markings must be printed on the article as an additional step complicates the production process and also presents challenges regarding ink stability in harsh environments, such as in aerosol generators, where proximity to heaters is required.

[0009] U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2015128969 describes a mouthpiece embodied as a cartridge for a smoking article in an aerosol generator being wrapped using a double-layer chipping wrap. The outer layer of the double-layer chipping wrap includes markings that identify the characteristics of the mouthpiece and the smoking article. The outer layer may be in the form of an adhesive label. The outer layer of the double-layer chipping wrap includes markings that identify the characteristics of the mouthpiece and the smoking article. The markings provide information such as flavor and the identity of the product source. Applying or printing markings on the layers of the article is an additional step, complicating production and increasing costs. The applied markings may also be easily identifiable and reproducible.

[0010] Therefore, improved technology is needed to enable the authentication of aerosol-generating items such as HNBs, inhaled items, and smoking items. Furthermore, a much simpler identification method is needed than any prior art marking. In addition, an identification solution is needed that is more robust and less susceptible to deterioration or damage from heat, etc. [Overview of the project] [Means for solving the problem]

[0011] The inventors of the present invention have found a solution to the above problem by providing an authentication method and identification system that does not require the use of markings added to or incorporated on or within a consumable product. The present invention relies on the inherent geometric properties and physical properties of layers or structures that can be repeated and systematic in the normal manufacturing process of aerosol generating consumables.

[0012] The proposed solution is based on the detection and / or imaging and identification of the arrangement of layers, structures, or elements and / or their physical and / or dimensional properties. This makes it possible to provide a unique, usable criterion for recognizing consumables at the time of their consumption. Furthermore, this method enables the provision of inexpensive and extremely safe individual identification of aerosol-generating consumables. Preferably, layers such as seams, glue layers, or joints are used to identify the articles.

[0013] In a first embodiment, the present invention relates to a method for identifying consumables in an aerosol generator, - A process for preparing consumables, wherein the consumables include identification information of the consumables that can be identified by the identification means of the device. - A step of identifying consumables using identification means based on identification information, Includes, The identification information is encoded with at least one variable feature that can be identified by the identification means of the device. The feature represents a different arrangement of at least one layer within an aerosol-generating consumable article, where the layer is selected from a glue layer, seam, joint, or separation layer. Variable features are, - The presence and / or shape of the at least one layer, - The thickness, width, cross-section, and length of the at least one layer, - Surface properties of the at least one layer, - The optical and / or electrical properties of the at least one layer, and combinations thereof, Selected from among Regarding methods for identifying consumables.

[0014] The identification information is preferably information arising from the characteristics of the layer obtained during or as a result of the manufacturing process of the consumables. For example, process parameters during the manufacturing of the consumables can be adapted or set to obtain recurring defects or characteristic features within the layer. The advantage of this is that the manufacturing complexity for creating an authentication mark for the article is reduced.

[0015] In one embodiment, the feature is an adhesive seam. The advantage of using an adhesive seam as a feature for authenticating an article is that the adhesive is unique and extremely difficult to replicate because it is inherent to the manufacturing process of the consumable. In practice, articles are typically manufactured in a back-to-back configuration by wrapping a wrapper sheet around a rod formed of first and second internal tubular elements positioned relative to a mouthpiece filter. The adhesive seam does not need to be a continuous seam. The adhesive seam or glue layer or multiple attachments or glue dots may exhibit defects such as changes in their diameter or the shape of any cross-section, or they may exhibit surface and / or volumetric contamination such as wrinkles or the presence of particles. This feature may be a defect or signature of the manufacturing process, exhibiting a unique identifying mark of the machinery and process used to produce the consumable, and thus providing an effective method for identifying the article. Information regarding the feature may be stored in the memory of the device so that the device can perform recognition detection of the article when the article is consumed. The identification information described in the present invention may also be stored in a data chip incorporated within or on the packaging of the article.

[0016] In one embodiment, the variable feature is the identifiable shape of the cut edge of at least one layer. This shape may be, for example, toothed, notched, wavy, or designed at a non-zero angle with respect to the stretching direction of the layer. The cut edge may have variations in curvature and / or inclination with respect to the longitudinal axis of the consumable article. The pattern may vary in amplitude, period, width, and combinations thereof. The shape of the cut edge may be fabricated iteratively during the manufacturing process. The shape of the cut edge may vary depending on the type of article being identified, for example, to distinguish between different tobacco blends. For example, the optical properties of the cut edge may be identified by light from an optical detector such as a photodiode in an aerosol generator.

[0017] In this embodiment, the variable feature is a wrinkle in the at least one layer.

[0018] The variable feature may also be at least a spectral feature of at least a part of the at least one layer.

[0019] In an advantageous embodiment, the variable feature is at least one non-uniformity of the thickness, width, or cross-section of the at least one layer.

[0020] In a variant, features such as the variable thickness, width, length, surface roughness, or cross-sectional shape of the at least one layer can be combined, such as a combination. By combining information on different features, it becomes possible to improve the reliability of identifying consumable articles.

[0021] In one embodiment, the feature is the electrical property of a conductive thread disposed within or on the at least one layer. Using a conductive thread makes it even more complicated to counterfeit the article, thus making it possible to provide a higher level of security. Further, the image correlation process described herein can be combined with additional detection regarding the electrical detection of the presence of the conductive thread.

[0022] In one embodiment, the feature is the optical property of an insert disposed within or on the at least one layer. The insert can be present within the article, for example, within a stiffening layer to be further described.

[0023] In an advantageous embodiment, the feature can be a variation or distribution of the electrical and / or optical properties of the layer along the length and / or width of the at least one layer. In one example, the feature can be a specific difference in conductivity along the length of a glue layer containing conductive particles.

[0024] In one embodiment, the at least one layer is a plurality of glue bands, preferably an array of glue bands. The glue bands can be arranged, for example, in an axially aligned relationship in an aerosol-generating article. The alignment of the glue bands can be used as a variable feature.

[0025] In one alternative configuration, glue bands may be arranged in parallel. Glue bands may belong to different components of an article (e.g., chipping paper, plug wrap, paper tube, etc.) or be arranged at different thickness levels of the same component. For example, pairs of parallel glue bands from different components may be arranged at a repeatable circumferential distance. This distance may vary depending on the type of article being identified and may function to distinguish one type of article from another.

[0026] In one variant, at least one band may include multiple glue dots or glue lines. The specific arrangement of the glue layer, bond, or seam can serve as an identifying mark for the article, etc., without requiring any additional elements, as it occurs during the manufacturing process of consumables, particularly HNB aerosol-generating articles.

[0027] In one embodiment, at least one layer has non-uniform shape dimensions in its length and / or width. Changing the shape dimensions of a layer can be carried out in the manufacturing process with little complexity. Therefore, variable shape dimensions can be used to identify articles, for example, to verify the authenticity of an article or to distinguish an article from others in order to set device parameters. In particular, the non-uniform shape dimensions may be variations in the thickness and / or morphology of the layer.

[0028] In a second aspect, the present invention also relates to an aerosol generating system comprising an aerosol generator and an aerosol generating consumable article inserted at least partially into the aerosol generator. The consumable article is - Aerosol generating substrate and - Wrapper and / or rigidifying components, - Identification information encoded for identifying consumables in the aerosol generator, wherein the identification information is encoded with at least one variable feature identifiable by the identification means of the aerosol generator, Includes.

[0029] The feature represents a different arrangement of at least one layer within the aerosol-generating consumable article.

[0030] At least one layer is selected from a glue layer, seam, bond, or separation layer, and the variable features are: - The presence and / or shape of the at least one layer, - The thickness, width, cross-section, and length of the at least one layer, - Surface properties of the at least one layer, - The optical and / or electrical properties of the at least one layer, and combinations thereof, It will be selected from among the following.

[0031] In one embodiment, at least one layer may be at least partially a conductive layer.

[0032] In one embodiment, the at least one layer is an adhesive or bonding layer at least partially made of an intrinsically conductive polymer known as ICP. The advantage of such an ICP layer is that it is conductive without containing metal particles or metal compounds.

[0033] In one embodiment, the consumable article comprises an aerosol-generating substrate and a wrapper and / or rigidifying component, characterized by an adhesive seam of the paper wrapper and / or rigidifying component.

[0034] In a preferred embodiment, the rigid component is an internal tubular member covered by a wrapper. The internal tubular member may be a paper or polymer tube thicker than the wrapper. The tubular member may be positioned between the aerosol generating portion and the filter portion of the consumable. The tubular member may have the function of lowering the temperature of the vapor circulating through it. The tubular member may be hollow or may be filled with a porous filling material such as a lightweight mesh nonwoven fabric, honeycomb, or open-cell material. The insertion of a filling material can increase the contact surface within the tubular member and enhance the cooling effect. The aerosol generating material may be a tobacco-based material such as reconstituted tobacco in any suitable form, such as gathered sheets, strands, strips, powder, sponge, or foam.

[0035] In one embodiment, the feature is, for example, the cut edge of the layer described above. The cut edge may vary in its form. For example, the cut edge may have a change in curvature and / or inclination with respect to the longitudinal axis of the consumable article. The cut edge may have a change in a wavy, uneven, or toothed pattern. The pattern may vary in amplitude, period, width, and combinations thereof.

[0036] The rigidifying component is preferably a tubular component made of, for example, paper or cardboard. The wrapper may be made of paper. Layers of glue, seams, or joints, or separation layers, on, within, or between the wrapper or rigidifying component, may be repeatedly created during the manufacturing process of the aerosol-generating article. Thus, the characteristics of the created layers may be used for the identification of the aerosol-generating article by the detection device of the aerosol generator. Variations in characteristics may be intentionally created, or may be inherent in the manufacturing process, or may be amplified or reduced to adjust the detectability of the characteristics.

[0037] In one variant, the distinguishing feature is a reduction or increase in the thickness of the wrapper or rigidizing component. This change in feature may allow different types of articles to be distinguished from others.

[0038] In one modified form, at least one layer may include conductive threads arranged within or on the at least one layer.

[0039] In one modified form, the at least one layer includes an insert having detectable optical and / or electrical features. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0040] [Figure 1] A schematic diagram of one embodiment of the aerosol generator of the present invention is shown, which includes an optical system for detecting and processing images of seams or glue layers of consumable articles. [Figure 2] This shows a cross-sectional view of a glue layer or an aerosol-generating article containing a glue layer according to the present invention. [Figure 3] Different embodiments of the seam or glue layer of a consumable article according to the present invention are shown. [Figure 4] Different embodiments of the seam or glue layer of a consumable article according to the present invention are shown. [Figure 5] Different embodiments of the seam or glue layer of a consumable article according to the present invention are shown. [Figure 6] Different embodiments of the seam or glue layer of a consumable article according to the present invention are shown. [Figure 7] Different embodiments of the seam or glue layer of a consumable article according to the present invention are shown. [Figure 8] Different embodiments of the seam or glue layer of a consumable article according to the present invention are shown. [Figure 9] Different embodiments of the seam or glue layer of a consumable article according to the present invention are shown. [Figure 10] Different embodiments of the seam or glue layer of a consumable article according to the present invention are shown. [Figure 11] Different embodiments of the seam or glue layer of a consumable article according to the present invention are shown. [Figure 12] Figures 12a, 12b, and 12c show light reflection and transmission configurations configured to detect the presence and / or detailed characteristics of seams or glue layers in consumable articles according to the present invention. [Figure 13] The present invention illustrates an apparatus including a light source for illuminating an article, seam, or glue layer. The apparatus includes an imaging system configured to detect the presence and / or detailed characteristics of a seam or glue layer in a consumable article according to the present invention. [Figure 14] A modified version of the apparatus in Figure 12 is shown, configured to detect at least two seams or glue layers. [Figure 15] This describes the detection of an article containing seams and / or glue layers, which are composed of multiple seam and / or glue layer portions. A single detection system detects the presence or shape of at least two seam or glue layer portions. [Figure 16] The present invention illustrates a detection configuration that includes several detection units, enabling the detection of seams or glue layers of an article, regardless of their angular orientation within an aerosol generator. [Figure 17] The present invention illustrates a detection configuration that includes several detection units, enabling the detection of seams or glue layers of an article, regardless of their angular orientation within an aerosol generator. [Figure 18] The detection unit configuration, including a microlens array and a detection unit array, is shown. [Figure 19] This shows a detection unit configuration in which the detection unit or detection unit system is configured to rotate around the aerosol-generating article. [Figure 20] This shows an article having a seam or glue layer that includes an optical incoupling region and an optical outcoupling region. [Figure 21] This shows an article having a seam or glue layer that includes an optical incoupling region and an optical outcoupling region. [Figure 22] This shows an example cross-section of a seam or glue layer having optical properties such as light focusing characteristics and light divergence characteristics. [Figure 23] This shows the shape of the detection glue layer present in the manufactured aerosol-generating article. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0041] The present invention will be described with reference to specific embodiments, but the invention is not limited thereto. The drawings are schematic and non-limiting. In the drawings, the sizes of some elements may be exaggerated for illustrative purposes and may not be drawn to scale. Dimensions and relative dimensions do not correspond to actual reductions for the implementation of the invention.

[0042] The present invention will be described in the following examples relating to tobacco-based consumable articles, but the scope of the present invention is not to be construed as being limited to tobacco-based consumable articles, but rather to include any aerosol-generating consumable article, such as smoking articles, non-combustible heated articles, e-liquid cartridges, and cartomizers, which include an aerosol-generating substrate capable of generating an inhalable aerosol when heated. The aerosol-generating article 1 or article 1 of the present invention is also defined herein as a consumable or consumable article.

[0043] As used herein, the term “aerosol-generating material” refers to a material that, upon heating, can release volatile compounds capable of forming aerosols. The aerosols generated from the aerosol-generating material of the aerosol-generating articles described herein may be visible or invisible and may include vapors (e.g., fine particles of a substance that is normally liquid or solid at room temperature in a gaseous state) as well as droplets of gas and condensed vapor. The aerosol-generating material may be tobacco-based material such as reconstituted tobacco in any suitable form, such as gathered sheets, shredded sponge, or foam.

[0044] The term “wrapper” is broadly defined as any structure or layer that protects and contains aerosol-generating material loads and allows them to be handled. The wrapper has an inner surface that can come into contact with the aerosol-generating material and an outer surface that is separated from the aerosol-generating material. The wrapper 3 may preferably include paper and / or cellulose-based materials such as cellulose acetate. The wrapper 3 may also be made of a biodegradable polymer, or of glass or ceramic. The wrapper 3 may be a porous material, may have a smooth or rough outer surface 5, and may be a flexible or rigid material.

[0045] As used herein, the term “component” refers to the detailed composition of an aerosol-generating substance, e.g., tobacco, aerosol-forming agent, binder, flavoring agent, nicotine, and combinations thereof. The aerosol-forming substrate may be provided within a stable support. Such a support may be in the form of a powder, granules, flakes, sheet, or foam.

[0046] The manufactured aerosol-generating consumable article 1 may have a cross-section of any regular or irregular shape, for example, an elliptical or circular cross-section defined in a plane perpendicular to the longitudinal axis. The article defines a transverse XY plane perpendicular to the virtual insertion axis Z (Figure 1).

[0047] As used herein, the terms “advanced image” or “processed image” mean an image modified by simple or complex image processing techniques, which may be any well-known image processing technique for extracting, enhancing, or correlating features in 2D and / or 3D images. It is not limited to any specific image processing or correlation technique. The image processing techniques of the present invention may be simple contrast enhancement techniques or highly advanced image processing methods, such as those used in any high-security detection system, such as those used in banking or fingerprint recognition. As used herein, “template” means a processed reference image or reference system used for comparison or correlation with another processed image.

[0048] As used herein, the term “glue layer” is defined as an adhesive layer for bonding two surfaces, layers, or elements within Article 1. The term “seam” refers to an area where overlapping layers are joined together by glue or any other means of attachment. The term “joint” refers to an area where overlapping layers are attached to one another. Bonding may be achieved by purely mechanical or static friction effects. For example, a “Velcro-like” layer, including a microscopic Velcro® type structure, may be defined as a joint layer. Glue layers and seam layers may also be arranged as joint layers. The present invention also includes a separation layer, which is a layer used as a spacer for separating layers or elements.

[0049] Layer 10 as described herein is also defined as a reference layer because it is used as a reference for its manufacturing characteristics. An article may have more than one reference layer used in the identification process. The layers as described herein may be outer or inner wrapping layers of article 1. A sheet may be rolled to form a tubular element or wrapper that forms several overlapping layers. Two layers may be formed by the overlapping of rolled elements.

[0050] Figure 2 shows a typical cross-section of an aerosol-generating article 1, which typically includes a layer 10, which is a glue layer 10. Article 1 further includes preferred elements 1a to 1f, i.e., - Consumables section 1', - Consumable paper wrap 1a, for example, cigarette paper wrap 1a, - Rigid element, preferably paper tube 1b, - The central hole segment 1c', which is also defined as the hollow filter segment 1c and the cavity 1c', - Combination additional wrap 1e, placed on the aforementioned wraps 1d', 1d'', - Filter segment 1h, - Plug wraps 1d', 1d'' covering filter segments 1c, 1c' and filter segment 1h, - Chipping layer 1f surrounding the central cavity 1g, typically a paper chipping layer 1f Includes.

[0051] Here, the layer 10 of the present invention is generally understood to be a layer that is typically formed during the manufacturing process of article 1.

[0052] The layer 10 of the present invention may typically be located between or within the above-described components or elements with respect to the example of the article shown in Figure 2, but other configurations of the elements and layers of the article are also possible. For example, it is understood that the layer 10 described herein may be annular and may extend around the perimeter or along the length of the article. The layer 10 does not necessarily have a center of symmetry.

[0053] The manufacturing layer 10 disclosed herein may be involved in at least one of the following functions. - Joining or bonding, - Ensuring spacing between layers or elements, - Protection from mechanical or humidity, packaging, rigidification, and / or separation, - Airflow or cooling, - Reduces or increases friction on the user's skin. - Optical and / or aesthetic function.

[0054] In a first embodiment, the present invention is achieved by a method for identifying a consumable 1 in an aerosol generator 2. This method is - A step of receiving a consumable 1 containing identification information embedded on or within the device 2, wherein the identification information is identifiable by the identification means of the device 2, - A step of identifying consumable item 1 using identification means based on identification information, Includes.

[0055] The identification information is encoded with at least one variable feature that can be identified by the identification means of the device.

[0056] In an embodiment, the identification means includes an optical reader including an image sensor including an image detection unit configured to create an image of at least a portion of the layer 10. The identification means preferably includes a control unit which reads the information provided by the layer 10. This information is configured to be compared with a set of approval information stored in the memory unit. In an advantageous embodiment, the memory unit may be configured to provide a compensation signal to allow for a slight discrepancy between the read information of layer 10 and the approval information of layer 10. Allowing for a slight discrepancy may help avoid false rejections.

[0057] In a modified form, the identification means may use a detection array instead of an image optical system. In this case, the identification process is achieved by interpreting the intensity, color, or polarization effect provided by the layers. Identification means that rely on a detection array without an image optical system are more compact than image identification means, but have lower resolution. On the other hand, optical readers that rely on a detection array can provide a higher identification speed than image systems that require a focusing optical system and more complex electronic equipment for image acquisition and processing. The choice between identification means based on a simple detection unit or detection array and identification means that rely on an image system is a trade-off depending on the type of layer 10, its characteristics used to identify consumables, and other evaluation criteria such as the desired resolution, speed, or cost of the optical reader.

[0058] In other modified forms, the identification means may include a wireless communication system for reading stored information stored in an external data storage unit of the aerosol generator.

[0059] In an advantageous embodiment, the dentification means includes an image processing electronic device and data processing means such as an image processing algorithm as further described herein.

[0060] Variable features may simply be the presence or orientation of one or more layers selected from among glue layers or seams, joints, or separation layers for separating two layers of consumables. Variable features may also be detailed geometric and / or physical and / or chemical features of one or more such layers 10, selected from the following: - The presence and / or shape of layer 10, - The thickness, width, cross-section, and length of the at least one layer 10, - Surface or bulk properties of at least one layer, such as roughness or gloss, or textured features on layer 10. - The optical and / or electrical properties of the at least one layer 10, and combinations thereof.

[0061] In the embodiment, non-uniform thickness, non-uniform width, or non-uniform cross-section is detected. In one embodiment, a feature is the presence, shape, or orientation of the adhesive seam 10.

[0062] The adhesive layer is a typical layer with various properties directly related to a particular manufacturing process. Parameters influencing the physical and geometric shape, size, volume, surface properties, location, and distribution of the adhesive layer include, but are not limited to, process parameters such as the layer's viscosity, heating sequence, heating range, presence of sizing agents, and humidity. For example, the precise distance between the adhesive layer boundary and the upper edge of the plugwrap paper is a variable feature that can be used as an indicator of the manufacturing process and its equipment.

[0063] In one embodiment, the adhesive or bonding layer may be an intrinsically conductive polymer known as ICP, which is a conductive polymer without containing metal particles or metal compounds.

[0064] In one embodiment, the feature is a cut edge or a detectable systematic defect of the at least one layer 10. The glue layer or seam 10 may have a systematic cut edge that can be used, for example, as an identifying part of article 1. The feature may be a specific shape of such an edge. Typical edges of the glue layer or seam or joint 10 are shown in modified forms 102-108 of Figure 22. Furthermore, the edges may have optical functions, as will be further described herein.

[0065] In one embodiment, a key feature is the mechanical and / or electrical and / or magnetic properties of the conductive threads arranged within or on the at least one layer 10.

[0066] In embodiments, layer 10 can be made at least partially conductive by adding or incorporating conductive particles. The conductivity along the length of layer 10 may be used as a variable feature. For example, an adhesive or glue layer may have higher conductivity in a first length of the layer than in a second length of the same layer. For example, an adhesive or glue layer may be conductive in less than 30% of its total length, and non-conductive in the rest of this limited length. The length of this conductive portion may be used as a variable feature for identifying consumable 1.

[0067] In one modified form, layer 10 may be conductive over a first length L1 and have less optical reflectivity over a second length L2. A combination of information regarding the electrical properties of the first length L1 and the optical properties of the second length L2 can be used as a more complex variable feature to identify whether consumable 1 is a genuine product.

[0068] In one embodiment, a feature is the optical properties of an insert disposed within or on the at least one layer 10. The insert may be disposed within the base material of the article, or near or on the wrapper 3, 1f of the article 1. The insert may have a mechanical function to give the article 1, for example, greater rigidity, or to give the article 1 a specific shape or cross-section. The insert may be at least partially conductive, or may be made of an electrically insulating material.

[0069] In one embodiment, the consumable 1 comprises an aerosol-generating substrate and a wrapper and / or a rigidifying component, characterized by either an adhesive seam of the paper wrapper or an adhesive seam of the rigidifying component. In a preferred embodiment, the rigidifying component is an internal tubular member covered by the wrapper. The internal tubular member may be a paper or polymer tube with a thickness greater than the thickness of the wrapper. The tubular member may be positioned between the aerosol-generating portion and the filter portion of the consumable. The tubular member may have the function of separating the aerosol-generating substrate and the filter in the longitudinal direction and lowering the temperature of the vapor circulating through it. The tubular member may be hollow or may be filled with a porous filling material such as a lightweight mesh nonwoven fabric, honeycomb, or open-cell material. The insertion of a filling material can increase the contact surface within the tubular member and enhance the cooling effect.

[0070] In one embodiment, the at least one layer 10 is an array of glue bands as shown in the embodiments of Figures 3, 4, 5, 6, 8, 14, and 15.

[0071] In one embodiment, at least one layer 10 has non-uniform shape dimensions in its length and / or width. Figures 1, 10, and 11 show an example of layer 10 having portions 10a, 10b that are wider and / or thicker than the rest of layer 10. In a modified form, layer 10 may have at least a portion that is conical in the horizontal XZ, YZ plane.

[0072] The layer 10 described herein may have several optical functions, such as the following: - Light transmission. As shown in Figure 12a, the incident light beam 220 to layer 10 passes through the layer, providing a transmitted light beam 230 which may be a displaced transmitted light beam 230. In the example in Figure 12, layer 10 has the shape of parallel plates, and the refraction effect of the parallel plates displaces the light beam by a separation distance d. - Deflection and reflection of the incident light beam 220. For example, as shown in Figure 12b, layer 10 can deviate and reflect the incident light beam 220. - As shown in Figure 12c, a layer wider than the layer shown in Figure 12b can enhance the effect of deflecting the transmitted light beam 230 and provide a reflected light beam 240 that exits layer 10 at a greater distance from the incident light beam 220.

[0073] Figure 15 shows an embodiment in which the light source 200 provides a light beam 200 that illuminates at least two portions of the layer 20 in order to provide at least two identification signals. In an embodiment, a detection unit configuration is provided in which the detection unit or detection unit system rotates around the aerosol generating article, as shown in Figure 19.

[0074] In an advantageous embodiment, layer 10 may be used to identify article 1 or may have light-diffusing and / or diffracting properties.

[0075] The glue, seam, or bonding layer may have a non-uniform structure so that, at repeating positions, light can be deflected from layer 10 and directed towards the optical detection system 300. The light may be provided by a light source 200. The light source 200 directs the light beam 220 to layer 10, which includes multiple or consecutive incoupling surfaces, so that a portion of the light beam 220 is incoupled into layer 10. At least a portion of the incident light beam 220 is reflected up to twice on each side within layer 10 and further outcoupled within layer 10. Figure 20 schematically illustrates the transmission of the directional light beam 220 to the detection system 300 by 1 to 4 internal reflections of the light beam 221 within layer 10, close to the light source 200, 220. Limiting the number of reflections to a maximum of 4 makes it possible to provide a detection unit close to the light source. The detection system 300 may be configured to detect outcoupled light provided by more than one outcoupling region. At a first position on article 1, light is incoupled into layer 10 by a first incoupling region A, the light beam 230 is outcoupled after one or two reflections, and detected by a detection system 300, providing a first detection signal IA (Figure 21). Internal reflection of the light beam within layer 10 may be amplified by reflective layers that may be positioned relative to the layer, such as a metal coating layer (not shown). The detection systems may be positioned at different locations along the glue layer 10, and in a modified form, more than one detection system 300 may be positioned in front of the outcoupling region of the light guide layer 10. In the embodiment shown in Figure 21, the light is transmitted through up to four internal reflections within layer 10. The incoupling and outcoupling regions (A-D) may be configured to form a recognizable, unique pattern. For example, as shown in Figure 21, the detection system 300 may detect four outcoupled light beams and provide a signal including four intensity levels. By providing different in-coupling and out-coupling regions, it is possible to reduce the dependence on the insertion accuracy of items within the device.

[0076] Embodiments such as those shown in Figures 20 and 21 can be easily realized by adapting variations in the width and / or thickness and / or wrinkles of a portion of the glue layer 10. For example, the glue layer 10 can be realized to include a regular pattern of simple ridges that can provide the functions of incoupling and outcoupling regions (A-D) during manufacturing. Such incoupling and outcoupling regions A, B, C, and D located within the layer 10 of article 1 can also be realized by having a slightly prismatic shape that can be easily replicated during the manufacturing process of article 1. In a modified form, the incoupling surface may also function as an outcoupling surface. This is the case in the example of Figure 21. In a modified form, the incoupling and outcoupling regions may be different regions, shapes, or structures located on the layer 10.

[0077] In this specification, the light beam 220 used in the present invention is understood to be ambient light or light provided by a light emission system 200 as shown in Figure 13. The light emission system 200 includes a light source 210 which may be an ultraviolet, visible, or infrared light source. A light source with a shorter wavelength may also be used. Because the available space inside the aerosol generator is very limited, the light source 210 is preferably a semiconductor light source such as an LED or SLED.

[0078] The light source 210 of the present invention may be an infrared light source that can be a heater for the aerosol generator 2.

[0079] The light source and optical detection unit may be an array of light sources (not shown) and an array of optical detection units 310 as shown in the embodiment of Figure 18.

[0080] The light source and the detection unit may be located in different places within the apparatus 2. For example, Figure 13 shows a configuration in which at least one light-emitting system 200 is located on the opposite side of the detection unit system 300. In such a configuration, the layer 10 of the article is illuminated by light that crosses the diameter of the article 1. The crossing of light can be achieved by forward transmission or diffusion of light, which is a function of the optical properties of the material or layer in the optical path of the light beam crossing the light.

[0081] In the embodiment shown in Figure 14, more than one seam or glue layer 10 can be detected by a detection system 300 which preferably includes an image system that provides an image within the image plane 400. The detection system may include a CCD camera.

[0082] Figure 16 shows a detection system comprising a plurality of detection units 302, 302', 302'', 302'''' that can detect the presence and characteristics of layer 10 independently of the angular direction of the article, the direction being defined in the transverse XY plane. The detection units may be distributed circumferentially around the article, for example, along a specific angular path (e.g., 90 degrees).

[0083] Here, we will briefly explain how the aforementioned features can be detected or imaged and used in the identification method of consumable 1.

[0084] Identification of identification information encoded by at least one variable feature described herein can be detected by identification means of the aerosol generator 2. The identification means is preferably, though not essential, an optical detection means. In fact, in embodiments, the optical detection means may suggest a simple detection unit, or it may require an image system 300 for providing and processing an image 400 of the feature of the at least one layer 10.

[0085] During the manufacturing process, articles 1 may also be detected while or after they are packaged. The characteristics of the layer 10 can be well known from the manufacturing process and may not change over time, or may change according to a well-determined production cycle.

[0086] Therefore, there are at least two methods (I, II) for generating the characteristic criteria of at least one layer 10. - I) The characteristics are well known and always present in the consumables. For example, the well known width, shape, or thickness of layer 10 is and never changes. Information regarding this is preferably stored in a storage means within the apparatus 2, or - II) The characteristics change according to the production run cycle and / or over time, and information regarding the characteristics is updated within the device. For example, if the production machine needs maintenance or modification, the production parameters may lead to new characteristic changes in the properties of layer 10, e.g., new values ​​for the width or thickness of the reference layer 10. Therefore, updates may be provided to the device. These updates may be provided by data transfer from the package to the device, or in a modified form, by wireless transfer of information. This allows the device to update at least two of the layers This enables the recognition of typical features and identification of an article as authentic. For example, if a layer 10 of an authentic product 1 has a central lump 10a (as shown in Figure 1), and this central lump 10 is displaced during a new production cycle, the device can recognize that both lump positions are valid and can recognize the article as authentic even if it has been supplied from different production cycles.

[0087] In the embodiments, the method of the present invention may include the following imaging steps. - A step of preparing an imager 300 including an image processing means and an image correlation means, - A step of imaging a layer 10 within at least one consumable section of an aerosol-generating article and forming a 2D and / or 3D image of the layer 10 inside thereof using the imager 300. - A step of processing the 2D and / or 3D image using the image processing means to form a digital 2D and / or 3D image representing the features of layer 10, wherein the image includes characteristic optical information of layer 10, - A step of correlating the current digital image with a reference image of the layer 10 in the consuming section registered during its production, wherein the reference image also includes characteristic optical information of the layer, - A step of determining whether the aerosol-generating article 1 is a genuine product based on previous correlation results and predetermined correlation criteria.

[0088] Typical features extracted from an image of layer 10 or a portion of layer 10 are typically lines, edges, ridges, and points of local interest such as corners, directions, curvatures, cross-sections, intersecting lines, lumps, or points. Defects or systematic changes in properties of layer 10 within the article are typically sub-millimeter in size, preferably less than 200 μm, and typically 30 μm to 50 μm.

[0089] Typical feature extraction techniques include, but are not limited to, maneuver extraction, ridge and valley detection, and direction extraction.

[0090] Image processing techniques, including feature extraction, are well-known in the fields of 2D and 3D image processing and will not be discussed further in this specification. Therefore, please refer to the following publications, which are incorporated herein in their entirety. - R.Szeliski,Computer vision:Algorithms and Applications,Springer Verlag,2010,ISBN 978-1848829343, - JRParker,Algorithms for image processing and Computer Vision(2 nd ed.), Wiley, 2011, ISBN 978-0470643853, - N.Mark,A.Aguado,Feature Extraction and Image Processing for Computer Vision (4the ed.), Academic Press, 2019, ISBN 978-0128149768.

[0091] After preprocessing and feature extraction, at some point during processing, a decision must be made as to which image points or regions of the layer 10 image are relevant to further processing. Such a decision is made based on known characteristics of the typical statistical properties of layer 10, such as those provided during the manufacture of the consumable item 1.

[0092] Matching sample images with production images can be done based on data references stored in the device. Such data may be updated periodically, for example, by providing wireless information to the device. The matching is typically and preferably based on maneuvers, lines or ridges, or white and black. The correlation is based on at least one of the following: area, 3D features (e.g., pixel depth), or number of branches. Matching 2D and 3D images is a well-known technique and will not be described in further detail herein.

[0093] The methods of the present invention are preferably related to optical, capacitive, ultrasonic, thermal imaging detection techniques, or combinations thereof.

[0094] The capacitive detection method is based on measuring any layer 10 having at least conductivity or dielectric properties and recognizing capacitive coupling.

[0095] Ultrasonic imaging technology can also be used, as it becomes possible to recognize the presence and shape of at least a portion of layer 10 by sending sound waves of a specific frequency and tuning that frequency to the reflection of these sound waves.

[0096] Thermal imaging can also be performed, which is similar to optical methods, the difference being that thermal effects are detected. A heater in an aerosol generator may be used to generate a heat source and provide infrared images.

[0097] In a second aspect, the present invention also provides an aerosol generating system comprising an aerosol generator 2 and an aerosol generating consumable article 1, also defined as a consumable, which is at least partially inserted into the aerosol generator 2. The consumable article 1 comprises at least one layer 10 as described herein.

[0098] In another embodiment, the present invention is also achieved by a consumable 1 for use in the aerosol generator 2. The consumable 1 is - Aerosol generating substrate placed inside the rigid tube 3, and - Wrapper and / or rigidifying components, and - Identification information encoded for identifying consumables in an aerosol generator, wherein the identification information is encoded with at least one variable feature identifiable by the identification means of the device, Includes.

[0099] At least one variable feature represents a different configuration of at least one layer in the aerosol-generating consumable article 1, selected from seams, joints, cuts, perforations, variable thickness, optical and / or electrical properties of the at least one layer, and combinations thereof.

[0100] In one embodiment, the consumable 1 comprises an aerosol-generating substrate 3 and a wrapper and / or a rigidifying component, characterized by an adhesive seam 10 of the wrapper or rigidifying component.

[0101] In one embodiment, the features of article 1 are the adhesive or bonding portion or glue or seam layer 10 of the wrapper or rigid component.

[0102] In one embodiment, the features of the article may be one or more perforations or defects within the layer 10 that is arranged in a wrapper or other layer or rigidifying component present within the article.

[0103] The wrapper may be a paper wrapper, such as chipping paper or plug wrap, for wrapping different parts of an article, such as a tobacco rod, a tubular member, and / or a filter segment. The rigid member may be a paper tubular member, which may be placed between the tobacco and the filter, or may be part of the filter.

[0104] In one embodiment, the feature of the article is a change in the thickness of any layer 10 described herein, either decreasing or increasing. The thickness is preferably defined perpendicular to the virtual insertion axis Z, or it may be a thickness determined along the Z axis.

[0105] In one embodiment, the at least one layer 10 includes a conductive thread disposed within or on the at least one layer 10. The conductive thread does not necessarily have to be in the shape of a wire, but may have a flat structure. In a modified form, the at least one layer includes an insert having characteristic optical and / or electrical properties.

Claims

1. A method for identifying aerosol generating consumables (1) in an aerosol generating device (2), - A step of preparing a consumable item (1), wherein the consumable item (1) includes identification information of the consumable item (1) that can be identified by the identification means of the device (2), - A step of identifying the consumable item (1) using the identification means based on the identification information, Includes, The identification information is encoded by at least one variable feature identifiable by the identification means of the apparatus, the feature representing a different arrangement of at least one layer (10) in the aerosol generating consumable article (1), The at least one layer (10) is selected from a glue layer, seam, joint, or separation layer, which is placed between the two layers of the consumable article (1). The aforementioned variable features are, - The presence and / or shape of the at least one layer (10), - The thickness, width, cross-section, and length of at least one of the layers, - Surface properties of the at least one layer (10), - The optical and / or electrical properties of at least one layer (10), and combinations thereof, Selected from among A method for identifying aerosol-generating consumable articles (1).

2. A method for identifying a consumable article (1) according to claim 1, wherein the variable feature is the shape of the cut edge of the at least one layer (10).

3. A method for identifying a consumable article (1) according to claim 1, wherein the variable feature is a wrinkle in the at least one layer (10).

4. A method for identifying a consumable article (1) according to claim 1, wherein the variable feature is a spectral feature of at least a portion of the at least one layer (10).

5. A method for identifying a consumable article (1) according to claim 1, wherein the variable feature is at least one non-uniformity among the thickness, width, and cross-section of the at least one layer.

6. A method for identifying a consumable article (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein the variable features include the electrical properties of a conductive thread disposed in or on the at least one layer (10).

7. A method for identifying a consumable article (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein the variable feature is the optical properties of an insert disposed in or on the at least one layer (10).

8. A method for identifying a consumable article (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 7, wherein the at least one layer (10) is a plurality of glue bands.

9. A method for identifying a consumable article (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 8, wherein the at least one layer (10) has variable shape dimensions in length and / or width and / or thickness.

10. A method for identifying a consumable article (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 9, wherein at least one layer (10) is made of at least partially intrinsically conductive polymer (ICP).

11. An aerosol generating system comprising an aerosol generating device (2) and an aerosol generating consumable article (1) inserted into the aerosol generating device (2), The aforementioned consumable item (1) is - Aerosol generating substrate (3), - Paper wrapper and / or rigidifying component, - Identification information encoded for identifying the consumables within the aerosol generator (2), wherein the identification information is encoded with at least one variable feature identifiable by the identification means of the aerosol generator (2), Includes, The variable feature represents a different arrangement of at least one layer (10) within the aerosol generating consumable article (1), The aforementioned layer (10) is selected from among a glue layer, a seam, a bonding layer, or a separation layer. The aforementioned variable features are, - The presence and / or shape of the at least one layer (10), - The thickness, width, cross-section, and length of the at least one layer (10) - Surface properties of the at least one layer (10), - The optical and / or electrical properties of at least one layer (10), and combinations thereof, Selected from among Aerosol generation system.

12. The aerosol generating system according to claim 11, wherein the consumable article (1) comprises an aerosol generating substrate (3) and a wrapper and / or a rigidifying component, and the variable feature is the geometric properties of the seam or glue layer of the wrapper and / or the rigidifying component.

13. The aerosol generating system according to claim 11, wherein the consumable article (1) comprises an aerosol generating substrate (3) and a wrapper and / or a rigidifying component, and the variable feature is the presence and / or shape of the cut edge of the wrapper and / or the rigidifying component.

14. The aerosol generating system according to claim 11, wherein the consumable article (1) comprises an aerosol generating substrate (3) and a wrapper and / or a rigidifying component, and the variable feature is the non-uniformity of the shape and dimensions of the wrapper and / or the rigidifying component.

15. The aerosol generating system according to claim 14, wherein the non-uniformity is non-uniformity in the thickness of the wrapper and / or the rigidifying component.

16. The aerosol generating system according to any one of claims 11 to 15, wherein the at least one layer (10) includes a conductive thread or layer disposed within or on the at least one layer (10).

17. The aerosol generating system according to any one of claims 11 to 16, wherein the at least one layer (10) includes an insert having detectable optical and / or electrical properties.

18. The aerosol generating system according to claim 17, wherein the insert is a rigidifying element of the consumable article (1).

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