Consumables classification based on plug element hardness

Abstract

The present invention relates to an aerosol generator (30) comprising a cavity (32) for receiving an aerosol generating article (10) containing an aerosol-forming substrate, and hardness detectors (42, 44) configured to detect the hardness of the distal portion of the aerosol generating article. The present invention also relates to an aerosol generating article. The present invention also relates to an aerosol generating system comprising an aerosol generator and an aerosol generating article. The present invention also relates to a method for identifying an aerosol generating article in an aerosol generator of an aerosol generating system according to the present invention, the method comprising detecting the hardness of the distal portion of the aerosol generating article with a hardness detector.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to an aerosol generating device, an aerosol generating article, an aerosol generating system, and a method for identifying an aerosol generating article.

Background Art

[0002] It is known to provide an aerosol generating device for generating inhalable vapor. Such a device may heat an aerosol-forming substrate to a temperature at which one or more components of the aerosol-forming substrate volatilize without burning the aerosol-forming substrate. The aerosol-forming substrate may be provided as part of an aerosol generating article. The aerosol generating article may have a rod shape for insertion of the aerosol generating article into a cavity (such as a heating chamber) of the aerosol generating device. When the aerosol generating article is inserted into the heating chamber of the aerosol generating device, a heating element may be disposed in or around the heating chamber to heat the aerosol-forming substrate. An aerosol generating device is typically designed to operate optimally when used with an original and dedicated aerosol generating article. Further, manufacturers of aerosol generating articles may offer product lines of various types of aerosol generating articles having different characteristics such as flavor or nicotine content.

[0003] It is desirable to provide an aerosol generating device that can identify an aerosol generating article. It is desirable to provide an aerosol generating device that can detect an approved aerosol generating article. It is desirable to provide an aerosol generating device that can detect a reliable aerosol generating article. It is desirable to provide an aerosol generating device having improved detection capabilities. It is desirable to provide an aerosol generating device that provides an optimized user experience. It is desirable to provide an aerosol generating article that enables improved identification by an aerosol generating device.

Summary of the Invention

[0004] According to a first aspect of the present invention, an aerosol generator is provided comprising a cavity and / or a hardness detector. The cavity may be configured to receive an aerosol generating article comprising an aerosol-forming substrate. The hardness detector may be configured to detect the hardness of a portion of the aerosol generating article, optionally a distal portion.

[0005] In another embodiment, an aerosol generating device is provided, comprising a cavity for receiving an aerosol generating article containing an aerosol-forming substrate, and a hardness detector configured to detect the density of a portion of the aerosol generating article.

[0006] The aerosol generating article may comprise multiple elements, including one or more of a mouthpiece, spacer, hollow acetate tube, sensory medium plug, and front plug. All elements may be connected to each other by an outer wrapper. The aerosol generating article may have a cylindrical shape.

[0007] The front plug may be used as the end portion of an aerosol-generating article. The front plug may be used to ensure that a sensory medium is retained within the aerosol-generating article. The front plug may be made from a material that allows air to be drawn out through the front plug. The front plug may be made from a material having an appropriate porosity. The front plug may be made from a filter material. The front plug may be made from cellulose acetate tow. The front plug may be made from one or more materials selected from the group including ceramics, polymers, biopolymers, metals, zeolites, paper, cardboard, inert materials, and inorganic materials.

[0008] The hardness detector may be configured to detect the hardness of any plug element, such as a portion of an aerosol-generating article, for example, the distal portion.

[0009] The hardness detector may be configured to detect the hardness of the front plug of the aerosol-generating article. For simplicity, only the front plug will be primarily mentioned when describing hardness detection below. However, it should be understood that, in order to achieve the objectives of the present invention, the hardness of any element of the inserted aerosol-generating article may be detected.

[0010] The hardness detector may detect the hardness of a portion of the aerosol-generating article, for example, the distal portion, by mechanical, electromechanical, or optical means.

[0011] The hardness detector may be configured to detect the hardness of a portion or section of the front plug of the aerosol-generating article. The hardness detector may be configured to detect the hardness of a portion or section of the front plug of the aerosol-generating article along the longitudinal axis of the aerosol-generating article.

[0012] The hardness detector may be configured to engage with the front surface of the front plug at the distal end of the aerosol generating article when the aerosol generating article is received into the cavity of the aerosol generating device. The hardness detector may be provided at the bottom surface of the cavity of the aerosol generating device. With the correct insertion of the aerosol generating article, the hardness detector may come into contact with the front surface of the front plug of the aerosol generating article. In this way, the hardness of a portion of the front plug of the aerosol generating article along its longitudinal axis may be detected.

[0013] The hardness detector may include one or more biasing pins, such as spring pins. The hardness detector may also include one or more displacement sensors. Each displacement sensor may include a pogo pin. One or more displacement sensors may be located inside the cavity of the aerosol generator. One or more displacement sensors may be located at the bottom of the cavity of the aerosol generator. One or more displacement sensors may be configured to contact a portion of the aerosol generating article, for example, the distal portion, when the aerosol generating article is received inside the cavity of the aerosol generator.

[0014] The orientation of one or more displacement sensors may be parallel or perpendicular to the direction in which the aerosol-generating article is inserted into the cavity. The orientation of one or more displacement sensors may be parallel or perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the cavity. For example, the length dimension of one or more displacement sensors may be parallel or perpendicular to the insertion direction and / or longitudinal axis of the cavity.

[0015] As the aerosol-generating article is inserted, the front plug at the distal end of the aerosol-generating article comes into contact with one or more displacement sensors. The displacement sensors are compressed by the fully inserted aerosol-generating article. The amount of compression of a given displacement sensor depends on the hardness of the front plug. The compression of the displacement sensor may be used as a measure of the hardness of the front plug.

[0016] The displacement sensor may comprise a body, a biasing means, and a plunger. The biasing means may include a spring. The body may include the lower portion of the plunger and the spring. The spring may be positioned to contact the lower portion of the plunger. The spring may be positioned to bias the plunger against the retaining portion of the body. When no external force is applied to the displacement sensor, the spring is fully extended. The plunger is then in its fully extended position and pressed against the retaining portion of the body. When a force is applied to the displacement sensor, the spring is compressed and the plunger moves inside the body.

[0017] When used in the aerosol generator described herein, the plunger of the displacement sensor functions as an indenter that penetrates the front plug of the inserted aerosol generating article. The penetration depth of the plunger depends on the spring load of the displacement sensor and the hardness of the contact surface of the front plug. If the spring load of the displacement sensor is known, the penetration depth may be used as a measure of the hardness of the contact surface of the front plug.

[0018] One or more displacement sensors may have a first portion extending in a first direction and a second portion extending in a second direction, the first direction being perpendicular to the second direction. If present, one or more pogo pins may include right-angle pogo pins or L-shaped root pogo pins.

[0019] The body and plunger of the displacement sensor may be made of copper or brass. The plunger may be a coated plunger. The material for the coating layer may be gold or silver, or any highly conductive material. The spring may be made of a hard material. The spring may be made of stainless steel.

[0020] The length of the displacement sensor may be in the range of 5 to 9 millimeters. Preferably, the length of the displacement sensor may be about 7 millimeters.

[0021] The length of the plunger may be in the range of 1 to 3 millimeters. Preferably, the length of the plunger may be about 2 millimeters. The diameter of the plunger may be in the range of 0.2 to 2 millimeters. Preferably, the diameter of the plunger may be about 1 millimeter.

[0022] The length of the main body may be in the range of 3 to 6 millimeters. Preferably, the length of the main body may be about 5.3 millimeters. The diameter of the main body may be in the range of 1.5 to 3 millimeters. Preferably, the diameter of the main body may be about 2.5 millimeters.

[0023] The aerosol generator may include a sensing system for detecting the penetration depth of one or more displacement sensors into the forward plug. The sensing system may include a converter for converting the displacement of one or more displacement sensors into an electrical signal corresponding to the penetration depth of each displacement sensor.

[0024] The aerosol generating device may comprise a controller. The sensing system may be connected to the controller. The sensing system may be configured to transmit an electrical signal corresponding to the penetration depth of each displacement sensor to the controller.

[0025] The controller may be configured to analyze the electrical signal provided by the transducer arrangement. The controller may determine the hardness of the front plug based on the analysis of the electrical signal provided by the transducer arrangement. The hardness of the front plug of the aerosol generating article may be an indicator of the type of the inserted aerosol generating article.

[0026] The controller may include a memory. The memory may include pre-stored reference data. The reference data may include the reference signal of the sensing system. Each of such reference signals may correspond to a front plug having a specific hardness or a specific plunger displacement.

[0027] The controller may be configured to compare the electrical signal provided by the sensing system with the pre-stored reference data. The controller may be configured to correlate the electrical signal provided by the sensing system with the pre-stored reference data. The controller may detect and identify the type of the inserted aerosol generating article by correlating the electrical signal provided by the sensing system with the pre-stored reference data. In this way, the controller may be configured to identify the type of the aerosol generating article inserted into the cavity of the aerosol generating device.

[0028] The transducer arrangement for determining the displacement of the displacement sensor may include an inductive, resistive, capacitive, optical, or mechanical sensing mechanism.

[0029] The transducer arrangement for determining the displacement of the displacement sensor may include a detection coil arranged around the displacement sensor and a magnet provided on the plunger of the displacement sensor. The magnet may be provided on the lower part of the plunger. The detection coil may be wound around the body of the displacement sensor. As the plunger moves relative to the detection coil while carrying the magnet, an electrical signal is inductively induced in the detection coil. This electrical signal may be provided to a controller. The controller may use this electrical signal as a measure of the relative movement of the plunger and may analyze this electrical signal accordingly.

[0030] More specifically, the relative movement of the magnet with respect to the detection coil causes an electrical signal to be induced in the detection coil by the physical movement of the magnetic flux inside the coil. The intensity and polarity of the induced electrical signal may then be analyzed by a control unit.

[0031] In addition or alternatively, the transducer arrangement for determining the displacement of the displacement sensor may include an optical sensing mechanism. The optical sensing mechanism may include an optical sensor and optionally a light source. The optical sensor may be arranged to be sensitive to the movement of the plunger. In this way, the electrical signal generated by this sensor may be used as a measure of the movement of the plunger and thus as a measure of the penetration depth of the plunger.

[0032] The transducer arrangement for determining the displacement of the displacement sensor may include a mechanical sensing mechanism. Such a mechanism may include a force sensor connected to the displacement sensor, preferably the plunger of the displacement sensor.

[0033] The hardness detector of the aerosol generator may include two displacement sensors. Both of the two displacement sensors may be provided on the bottom surface of the cavity of the aerosol generator. The two displacement sensors may be provided offset from each other. The two displacement sensors may be provided to contact different parts of the front plug of the aerosol article inserted into the cavity of the aerosol generator.

[0034] The two displacement sensors may have the same structure. In particular, the two displacement sensors may have the same mechanical configuration. Such identical displacement sensors provide the same response when the same external force is applied. A hardness detector based on two identical displacement sensors may preferably be used with an aerosol generating article having a front plug with a contact portion made of a material of different hardness. Such aerosol generating articles will be described in more detail below. When such aerosol generating articles are used, the penetration depths of the two displacement sensors may differ. The controller may identify each aerosol generating article by analyzing the hardness difference of the detected front plugs.

[0035] Alternatively, the two displacement sensors may have different mechanical configurations. Displacement sensors with different mechanical configurations may respond differently when the same external force is applied. In particular, when displacement sensors with different mechanical configurations are used, their respective plungers may penetrate to different depths into the front plug of the aerosol generating article inserted into the cavity of the aerosol generator. In such a configuration, the hardness of the front plug may be determined by the controller by analyzing the difference in penetration depth of the plungers of the two displacement sensors.

[0036] In embodiments comprising two displacement sensors, the transducer arrangement for determining the displacement of the displacement sensors may include a capacitive sensing mechanism. Such a capacitive sensing mechanism may be particularly useful for determining the relative displacement between the plungers of the two displacement sensors.

[0037] The two displacement sensors may function as a capacitance transducer to measure the change in capacitance between them when they move relative to each other. In this embodiment, the two displacement sensors are used as the two electrodes of a parallel capacitor. The capacitance C of such a system is essentially obtained by the overlapping area A of the two displacement sensors separated by a distance D, and is given by the following equation: C = ε₀εrA / D In the equation, εo is the permittivity of vacuum, and εr is the relative permittivity of the dielectric material of the capacitor. Therefore, the capacitance C is inversely proportional to the distance D between the two displacement sensors and proportional to the overlapping area A between the two displacement sensors.

[0038] The relative displacement of the two displacement sensors along their longitudinal axes thus reduces the size of the overlapping area A between the two displacement sensors. As the size of the overlapping area A decreases, the capacitance C between the two displacement sensors decreases. Therefore, the measured change in capacitance C can be used as a measure of the different linear extensions of the two displacement sensors. By the same method as described above, the different linear extensions may be evaluated to determine the hardness of the filter plug, or the difference in hardness between two different contact portions of the filter plug. The electrical signal provided by the capacitance sensing mechanism may indicate a change in the overlapping area along the longitudinal axis of the displacement sensor plungers.

[0039] When the controller applies a given voltage across the two displacement sensors, the initial capacitance C between the two displacement sensors may be determined. As the aerosol-generating article is inserted, the springs of the two displacement sensors may be compressed by the aerosol-generating article. Depending on the spring constants of the springs of the two displacement sensors and / or the hardness of the contact portion of the aerosol-generating article, the compression levels of the springs of the two displacement sensors may differ from each other. The different spring compression levels of the two displacement sensors may reduce the overlap area between the two displacement sensors. As a result, the capacitance C between the two displacement sensors decreases. The change in capacitance may indicate the hardness of the contact portion of the aerosol-generating article, or a difference in the hardness of the contact portion.

[0040] The present invention may provide means and methods for detecting and identifying authorized aerosol-generating articles and specific types of aerosol-generating articles received in an aerosol generator. The device may be provided with a controller for monitoring and processing the signal output of a hardness detector. By comparing the signal output of the hardness detector with pre-stored reference data, the controller may perform one or more of the following: (i) determine the presence of authorized articles in the device; (ii) identify the type of inserted article; (iii) adjust the operation of the device according to the characteristics of the inserted aerosol-generating article; and (iv) determine the presence and / or absence of articles in the device.

[0041] Identifying aerosol-generating articles for use in an aerosol generator can be useful for a variety of different purposes, and it will be understood that the present invention is not limited to any one specific purpose for identifying aerosol-generating articles. For example, identifying an aerosol-generating article may enable the application of one of several predetermined heating profiles associated with the identified aerosol-generating article, identifying an aerosol-generating article may enable the user interface of the aerosol generator to perform different actions in response to the identification of an aerosol-generating article, such as displaying the flavor of the aerosol-generating article, and / or identifying an aerosol-generating article may enable the aerosol generator to store a record of the consumption of each type of aerosol-generating article used in the aerosol generator to help the user monitor their usage habits.

[0042] An authorized article may include parts such as a distal portion having a specific hardness. In response to the detection of an authorized article, the controller may enable one or both of the following: operation of the device and / or provision of the user experience. For example, power may be supplied to the heating assembly of the aerosol generator. If the device does not detect an authorized article, the device may prevent one or both of the following: operation of the device and / or provision of the user experience. For example, power may be prevented from being supplied to the heating assembly.

[0043] The present invention may enable the provision of an optimized user experience by adapting aerosol generation to the type of article inserted into the device. Articles belonging to a certain type may be provided with a type-specific portion having a specific hardness, for example, a distal portion of a particular type. The device may identify the type of article inserted into the device by comparing the output signal generated by a hardness detector with pre-stored reference data. Accordingly, the device may adapt and optimize aerosol generation. For example, a pre-stored type-specific heating profile may be employed. The type-specific heating profile may correspond to a type-specific configuration of the aerosol-forming substrate within the article.

[0044] During use, an article equipped with a front plug having a specific hardness may be inserted into the cavity of the device by the user. During insertion, the article, in particular the front plug, comes into contact with a hardness detector. The output of the hardness detector, typically an electrical signal, may be provided to the controller. The controller may identify the inserted article by correlating the provided detector output with pre-stored reference data. In response, the controller may adjust the operation of the device.

[0045] This invention may provide the detection and identification of articles, accompanied by one or more improvements in reliability and consistency. Consumer satisfaction may be improved by reducing the risk of misidentifying and rejecting authorized articles.

[0046] The present invention may provide article detection and identification that can be implemented in a simple and cost-effective manner using existing articles and devices.

[0047] In particular, it is sufficient to provide the aerosol generating article with a front plug having the desired hardness configuration so that it can be identified by the controller of the aerosol generating device. No additional marking or modification of the article is required.

[0048] Detecting the presence of authorized aerosol-generating articles within the device can prevent or at least reduce the risk of counterfeit and unauthorized articles being used in the device. Damage to the device can be avoided. Economic losses for authorized article manufacturers can be minimized.

[0049] Identifying specific types of aerosol-generating articles within the device can enable the provision of an optimized user experience. For example, a heating profile specific to the article type may be provided. Aerosol generation can be optimized and adapted according to the type of article inserted into the device.

[0050] Identifying aerosol-generating materials using hardness measurement may enable the versatile use of various types of heating elements.

[0051] The longitudinal axis of a component may be along or parallel to the longitudinal direction of the component. The longitudinal axis of a device may extend between the distal and proximal ends of the device. The longitudinal axis of an article may extend between the distal and proximal ends of the article.

[0052] The device may include a heating element, preferably a heating coil.

[0053] One or more displacement sensors may be made of a non-metallic material or another material that is not induction-heatable.

[0054] The heating element may be arranged to at least partially, preferably completely, enclose the cavity. The heating element may be located at the distal end of the housing cavity.

[0055] The apparatus may include a controller. The controller may be configured to identify the type of aerosol-generating article based on the output of the hardness detector. The output of the hardness detector may be an electrical signal.

[0056] The controller may include a microprocessor, which may be a programmable microprocessor. The controller may be configured to regulate the power supply to the heating element. Power may be supplied to the heating element continuously following the startup of the aerosol generator, or intermittently (e.g., with each smoke extraction). Power may be supplied to the heating element in the form of current pulses. The controller may be configured to monitor the electrical resistance of the heating element, and preferably to control the power supply to the heating element in accordance with the electrical resistance of the heating element.

[0057] The controller may be configured to monitor the output of the hardness detector. The controller may be configured to monitor the progress of the output of the hardness detector. The controller may be configured to record the output of the hardness detector. The controller may be configured to process the output of the hardness detector. The controller may be configured to analyze the output of the hardness detector. The controller may be configured to identify aerosol-generating articles by processing the output of the hardness detector. The controller may be connected to the hardness detector. The controller may be configured to communicate with the hardness detector. The controller may be configured to determine the presence and / or absence of aerosol-generating articles by processing the output of the hardness detector. The controller may be configured to allow aerosol generation only after determining that aerosol-generating articles are present. The controller may be configured to prohibit or stop aerosol generation in response to determining that aerosol-generating articles are absent.

[0058] The controller may be configured to adjust the power supply to the heating element based on the identification of the type of aerosol-generating article. Upon identification of the type of aerosol-generating article, the controller may enable power to be supplied to the heating element. Upon identification of the type of aerosol-generating article, the controller may enable the provision of a user experience. Upon identification of the type of aerosol-generating article, the controller may adjust the power supply according to the identified article type. The controller may be configured to supply power to the heating element according to a predetermined heating profile for each identified article.

[0059] The controller may adjust the power supply magnitude according to the identified item type. The controller may adjust the duration of power supply according to the identified item type. The controller may adjust the temperature of the heating element according to the identified item type. The controller may adjust one or more of the amplitude and frequency of the current supplied to the heating element according to the identified item type. The controller may adjust the signal that powers the heating element according to the identified item type.

[0060] The controller's memory may include a database of pre-stored heating profiles for each known type of aerosol-generating article. The controller may be further configured to supply power according to a predetermined heating profile for the identified type of aerosol-generating article. Power supply may be adjusted to suit the configuration of a particular article type. Aerosol generation and user experience can be optimized.

[0061] The heating element may include a heating coil. The heating coil may have a length of 15 mm to 31 mm, preferably 11 mm to 21 mm.

[0062] In a second aspect of the present invention, the present invention relates to an aerosol generating article comprising an aerosol-forming substrate within an aerosol-forming substrate portion and a substrate wrapper that at least partially surrounds the aerosol-forming substrate portion. A portion of the aerosol generating article, such as a distal portion, is formed to have a predetermined hardness.

[0063] The "distal portion" of an aerosol generating article refers to the part of the aerosol generating article that can be inserted into the cavity of the aerosol generating device during use. The part of the aerosol generating article that is not inserted into the cavity of the aerosol generating device is referred to in this specification as the "proximal portion" of the aerosol generating article.

[0064] The aerosol generating article may comprise multiple elements, including one or more of a mouthpiece, a spacer, a hollow acetate tube, a sensory medium plug, and a front plug. All elements may be connected to each other by an outer wrapper. The outer wrapper may preferably be made of paper.

[0065] The aerosol-generating article may have a cylindrical shape.

[0066] The distal portion of the aerosol-generating article may be configured as a front plug. The front plug may be used as the end portion of the aerosol-generating article. The front plug may be used to ensure that the sensory medium is retained within the aerosol-generating article during use. The front plug may be made from a material that allows air to be drawn out through the front plug. The front plug may be made from a material with an appropriate porosity. The front plug may be made from a filter material.

[0067] The front plug may have a predetermined hardness. In some embodiments, the front plug may be formed to have two different sections. The two different sections may be configured to have different hardnesses.

[0068] The front plug may include a first section and a second section, which are concentrically arranged along the longitudinal axis of the aerosol-generating article. The first section may be configured as the central section of the front plug. The second section may be configured to surround the first section.

[0069] Each section of the front plug may be formed from one or more materials. These materials may be selected from the group including cellulose acetate tow, ceramics, polymers, biopolymers, metals, zeolites, paper, cardboard, inert materials, and inorganic materials.

[0070] Certain types of aerosol-generating articles may be distinguished from one another by manufacturing two sections having different hardnesses. By defining the front plug section so that each has one of three different hardness values, nine different combinations of front plug sections are already possible. Thus, in this case, nine different types of aerosol generation can be distinguished from one another.

[0071] In a simple implementation of such a system, the various forward plug sections may be void, soft, or rigid. A filter section that is void may not result in significant compression of the corresponding displacement sensor. A filter section with high rigidity may result in moderate compression of the corresponding displacement sensor. A filter section with low rigidity may result in moderate compression of the corresponding displacement sensor.

[0072] Of course, more sophisticated combinations of hardness levels for various filter sections may be possible. The number of possible combinations can increase by using additional hardness levels. It may also be possible to provide filter elements with additional sections that interact with additional displacement sensors within the cavity of the aerosol generator.

[0073] As used herein, the term “hardness” refers to the properties of an element of an aerosol-generating article. “Hardness” is defined as resistance to indentation. “Hardness” is determined by measuring the permanent depth of the indentation made by an indenter. That is, when a measuring instrument applies a fixed force and a given indenter is used on the test material, a lower indentation value indicates that the test material is harder. The hardness of a test item may depend on its size, material properties, and material treatment. Material properties include ductility, elastic stiffness, plasticity, strain, strength, toughness, viscoelasticity, and viscosity.

[0074] The terms “part” and “section” relating to an aerosol-generating article or an element of an aerosol-generating article are used synonymously herein. In particular, the terms “part of the front plug” and “section of the front plug” are used synonymously herein and are used to refer to a specific area of ​​the front plug.

[0075] The hardness levels of the front plug or different sections of the front plug may be designed to facilitate the identification of the aerosol-generating articles described herein. Hardness measurements may generally be carried out according to the Shore hardness test procedure. Test conditions may be as defined in EN ISO 868 or ASTM D2240, and the hardness of the front plug may be determined based on the penetration depth of a probe, such as a displacement sensor probe, when a specific force pushes the aerosol-generating article into the cavity of the aerosol generator. Different hardness measurement techniques, such as the Rockwell hardness test, may be equally applicable.

[0076] The hardness of the first section of the front plug may be higher than the hardness of the second section of the front plug. The hardness of the first section of the front plug may be in the range of 50 to 120 Shore. The hardness of the first section of the front plug may be in the range of 70 to 100 Shore. The hardness of the first section of the front plug may be approximately 85 Shore.

[0077] The hardness of the second section of the front plug may be in the range of 30 to 90 Shore. The hardness of the second section of the front plug may be in the range of 40 to 70 Shore. The hardness of the second section of the front plug may be approximately 55 Shore.

[0078] According to a third aspect of the present invention, the present invention relates to an aerosol generating system comprising an aerosol generating device and an aerosol generating article as described herein.

[0079] The aerosol generating article may be configured as described above. In one embodiment, the aerosol generating article comprises a front plug having two sections of different hardness. The aerosol generating device is configured to have a cavity for receiving the aerosol generating article. The aerosol generating device is further configured to have a hardness detector including the two displacement sensors described above. The two displacement sensors are configured such that when the aerosol generating article is received into the cavity of the aerosol generating device, each of the two displacement sensors contacts one of the two sections having different hardness.

[0080] The aerosol generator may be configured to be used with multiple different types of aerosol generating articles.

[0081] In a fourth aspect, the present invention relates to a method for identifying an aerosol generating article in an aerosol generating device of an aerosol generating system described herein. The method includes detecting the hardness of a portion of the aerosol generating article, optionally a distal portion, using a hardness detector.

[0082] The method may be used in an aerosol generating system comprising an aerosol generating article including a front plug having two sections of different hardness. The method may further include the step of identifying an aerosol generating article by determining the hardness of the first and second sections of the front plug of the article.

[0083] The method may include a step of identifying an aerosol-generating article by detecting the hardness of a portion of the article, such as its distal part, and by comparing the output with reference data.

[0084] The process of controlling the operation of the aerosol generator may include stopping the operation of the aerosol generator if an unauthorized aerosol-generating article is detected.

[0085] The process of controlling the operation of the aerosol generator may include selecting a heating profile for the aerosol generator in accordance with the output of the hardness detector.

[0086] As used herein, the terms “proximal,” “distal,” “downstream,” and “upstream” are used to describe the relative position of a component or part of a component of an aerosol generator or aerosol generating article with respect to the direction in which the user inhales the aerosol generator or aerosol generating article during its use.

[0087] The aerosol generating system may have an oral end through which, during use, the aerosol exits the aerosol generating system and is delivered to the user. The oral end may also be called the proximal end. During use, the user inhales the proximal or oral end of the aerosol generating system to inhale the aerosol generated by the aerosol generating system. The aerosol generating system has a distal end opposite to the proximal or oral end. The proximal or oral end of the aerosol generating system may also be called the downstream end, and the distal end of the aerosol generating system may also be called the upstream end. Components or parts of the aerosol generating system may be described as being upstream or downstream of each other based on their relative positions between the proximal end, downstream end, or oral end of the system and the distal or upstream end of the system.

[0088] An aerosol generator may have a mouth end through which, during use, an aerosol exits the aerosol generator and is delivered to the user. During use, the user inhales the proximal or mouth end of the aerosol generator to inhale the aerosol generated by the aerosol generator. Alternatively, the user may inhale directly an aerosol generating article inserted into an opening at the proximal end of the aerosol generator. The opening at the proximal end may be a hollow opening. The aerosol generator has a distal end opposite to the proximal or mouth end. The proximal or mouth end of the aerosol generator may also be called the downstream end, and the distal end of the aerosol generator may also be called the upstream end. Components of the aerosol generator, or parts of components, may be described as being upstream or downstream of each other based on their relative positions between the proximal, downstream, or mouth end of the aerosol generator and the distal or upstream end of the aerosol generator.

[0089] As used herein, “aerosol generator” refers to a device that generates an aerosol by interacting with an aerosol-forming substrate. The aerosol-forming substrate may be part of an aerosol-generating article, for example, part of a smoking article. The aerosol generator may be a smoking device that interacts with the aerosol-forming substrate of an aerosol-generating article to generate an aerosol that can be directly inhaled into the user's lungs through the user's mouth. The aerosol generator may be a holder. The device may be an electrically heated smoking device. The aerosol generator may comprise a housing, an electrical circuit, a power supply, a heating chamber, and a heating element.

[0090] As used herein in relation to the present invention, the term “smoking” in relation to apparatus, articles, systems, substrates, or otherwise does not refer to conventional smoking in which the aerosol-forming substrate is completely or at least partially burned. The aerosol-generating apparatus of the present invention is configured to heat the aerosol-forming substrate to a temperature below the combustion temperature of the aerosol-forming substrate, but above the temperature at which one or more volatile compounds of the aerosol-forming substrate are released, in order to form an inhalable aerosol.

[0091] The aerosol generator may have a length of 86 mm to 130 mm.

[0092] The cavity of the aerosol generator may have an open end into which an aerosol generating article is inserted. The open end may be the proximal end. The cavity may have a closed end opposite the open end. The closed end may be the base of the cavity. The closed end may be closed except for providing an air opening located within the base. The base of the cavity may be flat. The base of the cavity may be circular. The base of the cavity may be located upstream of the cavity. The open end may be located downstream of the cavity. The cavity may have an elongated extension. The cavity may have a longitudinal axis. The longitudinal axis may be a direction extending between the open end and the closed end along the longitudinal axis. The longitudinal axis of the cavity may be parallel to the longitudinal axis of the aerosol generator.

[0093] The cavity may be configured as a heating chamber. The cavity may have a cylindrical shape. The cavity may have a hollow cylindrical shape. The cavity may have a shape corresponding to the shape of the aerosol-generating article received inside the cavity. The cavity may have a circular cross-section. The cavity may have an elliptical or rectangular cross-section. The cavity may have an inner diameter corresponding to the outer diameter of the aerosol-generating article.

[0094] The airflow channel may extend through the cavity. Ambient air may be drawn through the airflow channel into the aerosol generator, into the cavity, and toward the user. Downstream of the cavity, a mouthpiece may be provided, or the user may inhale the aerosol generating article directly. The airflow channel may extend through the mouthpiece. The cavity may have a length of 28 mm to 67 mm. The cavity may have a diameter of 8 mm to 12 mm.

[0095] In any aspect of this disclosure, the heating element may include an electrically resistive material. Suitable electrically resistive materials include, but are not limited to, semiconductors such as doped ceramics, "conductive" ceramics (e.g., molybdenum disilide), carbon, graphite, metals, alloys, and composite materials made of ceramic and metallic materials. Such composite materials may include doped ceramics or undoped ceramics. An example of a suitable doped ceramic is doped silicon carbide. Examples of suitable metals include titanium, zirconium, tantalum platinum, gold, and silver. Examples of suitable metallic alloys include stainless steel, nickel-containing, cobalt-containing, chromium-containing, aluminum-containing, titanium-containing, zirconium-containing, hafnium-containing, niobium-containing, molybdenum-containing, tantalum-containing, tungsten-containing, tin-containing, gallium-containing, manganese-containing, gold-containing, and iron-containing alloys, as well as nickel, iron, cobalt, stainless steel-based superalloys, Timetal®, and iron-manganese-aluminum alloys. In composite materials, the electrical resistive material may be embedded in, sealed in, or coated with an insulating material, depending on the required energy transfer dynamics and external physicochemical properties, or vice versa.

[0096] As described, in any aspect of the present disclosure, a heating element may be part of an aerosol generator. The aerosol generator may comprise an internal heating element, an external heating element, or both an internal and an external heating element, where “internal” and “external” refer to the aerosol-forming substrate. The internal heating element may take any preferred form. For example, the internal heating element may take the form of a heating blade. Alternatively, the internal heater may take the form of a casing or substrate having different conductive parts or electrically resistive metal tubes. Alternatively, the internal heating element may be one or more heating needles or rods passing through the center of the aerosol-forming substrate. Other alternatives include heating wires or filaments, such as Ni-Cr (nickel-chromium), platinum, tungsten, or alloy wires or heating plates. Optionally, the internal heating element may be placed in or on a rigid carrier material. In one such embodiment, the electrically resistive heating element may be formed using a metal having a clear relationship between temperature and resistivity. In such an exemplary device, the metal may be formed as a track on a suitable insulating material such as ceramic, and then sandwiched between other insulating materials such as glass. The heater thus formed can be used during operation to both heat a heating element and to monitor its temperature.

[0097] The external heating element may take any suitable form. For example, the external heating element may take the form of one or more flexible heating foils on a dielectric substrate such as polyimide. The flexible heating foils may be shaped to fit around a substrate receiving cavity. Alternatively, the external heating element may take the form of a metal grid, a flexible printed circuit board, a molded interconnect (MID), a ceramic heater, a flexible carbon fiber heater, or may be formed on a substrate of a suitable shape using a coating technique such as plasma deposition. The external heating element may also be formed using a metal having a clear relationship between temperature and resistivity. In such an exemplary device, the metal may be formed as a track between two layers of a suitable insulating material. The external heating element thus formed may be used both for heating the external heating element and for monitoring its temperature during operation.

[0098] As an alternative to electrically resistive heating elements, heating elements can be configured as inductive heating elements. Inductive heating elements may comprise an induction coil and a susceptor. Generally, a susceptor is a material that has the ability to generate heat when penetrated by an alternating magnetic field. When located within an alternating magnetic field, if the susceptor is conductive, typically, eddy currents are induced by the alternating magnetic field. If the susceptor is magnetic, typically, another effect contributing to heating is generally called hysteresis loss. Hysteresis loss arises primarily from the movement of magnetic domain blocks within the susceptor. This is because the magnetic orientations of these domains align with the alternating inductive magnetic fields. Another effect contributing to hysteresis loss is when magnetic domains expand or contract within the susceptor. Generally, all these changes occurring at or below the nanoscale within the susceptor are called "hysteresis loss" because they generate heat within the susceptor. Therefore, if the susceptor is both magnetic and conductive, both hysteresis loss and eddy current generation will contribute to the heating of the susceptor. If the susceptor is magnetic but not conductive, hysteresis loss will be the only means by which the susceptor will be heated when penetrated by an alternating magnetic field. The susceptor may be conductive or magnetic, or both conductive and magnetic. An alternating magnetic field generated by one or more induction coils heats the susceptor, which then transfers heat to the aerosol-forming substrate, thereby forming an aerosol. Heat transfer may also be mainly by conduction. Such heat transfer is best when the susceptor is in close thermal contact with the aerosol-forming substrate.

[0099] The aerosol generator may have a power source (typically a battery) within the main body of the aerosol generator. In one embodiment, the power source is a lithium-ion battery. Alternatively, the power source may be a nickel-metal hydride battery, a nickel-cadmium battery, or a lithium-based battery (e.g., a lithium-cobalt battery, lithium iron phosphate, lithium titanate, or lithium polymer battery). Alternatively, the power source may be another form of charge storage device, such as a capacitor. The power source may require recharging and may have a capacity that allows for the storage of sufficient energy for one or more use experiences. For example, the power source may have a capacity sufficient to continuously generate aerosols for a period of about six minutes, or for a period of multiples of six minutes. In another embodiment, the power source may have a capacity sufficient to provide a predetermined number of fume extractions or discontinuous activation of the heating element.

[0100] As used herein, the term “aerosol-forming substrate” refers to a substrate having the ability to release one or more volatile compounds that can form aerosols. Such volatile compounds may be released by heating the aerosol-forming substrate. Conveniently, the aerosol-forming substrate may be part of an aerosol-generating article.

[0101] The aerosol-forming substrate may be a solid aerosol-forming substrate. The aerosol-forming substrate may contain both solid and liquid components. The aerosol-forming substrate may contain a tobacco-containing material that contains volatile tobacco-flavored compounds released from the substrate upon heating. The aerosol-forming substrate may contain non-tobacco materials. The aerosol-forming substrate may contain an aerosol-forming agent that facilitates the formation of a high-density and stable aerosol. Examples of suitable aerosol-forming agents include glycerin and propylene glycol.

[0102] The aerosol generating substrate preferably comprises homogenized tobacco material, an aerosol forming body, and water. Providing homogenized tobacco material may improve aerosol generation and the nicotine content and flavor profile of the aerosol generated during heating of the aerosol generating article. Specifically, the process of producing homogenized tobacco involves a process of crushing tobacco leaves, which allows for more effective release of nicotine and flavor during heating.

[0103] As used herein, the term “aerosol-generating article” refers to an article comprising an aerosol-forming substrate having the ability to release volatile compounds capable of forming aerosols. For example, an aerosol-generating article may be a smoking article that generates an aerosol that can be directly inhaled into the user's lungs through the user’s mouth. An aerosol-generating article may be disposable.

[0104] The aerosol-generating article may be substantially cylindrical in shape. The aerosol-generating article may be substantially elongated. The aerosol-generating article may have a length and a circumference substantially perpendicular to that length. The aerosol-generating article may be substantially rod-shaped. The aerosol-forming substrate may be substantially cylindrical in shape. The aerosol-forming substrate may be substantially elongated. The aerosol-forming substrate may also have a length and a circumference substantially perpendicular to that length. The aerosol-forming substrate may be substantially rod-shaped.

[0105] The aerosol generating article may have an overall length of 55 mm to 110 mm, preferably 60 mm to 90 mm. The aerosol generating article may have an outer diameter of 4.5 mm to 17 mm, preferably 6 mm to 9 mm. The aerosol generating article may be equipped with a filter plug. The filter plug may be located at the downstream end of the aerosol generating article. The filter plug may be a cellulose acetate filter plug. In one embodiment, the filter plug is approximately 7 mm long, but may have a length of approximately 5 mm to approximately 10 mm.

[0106] The aerosol generating article may have a separation section between the aerosol forming substrate and the filter plug. The separation section may be approximately 18 mm in diameter, but may be in the range of approximately 5 mm to approximately 25 mm. [Examples]

[0107] A non-exclusive list of non-limiting embodiments is provided below. One or more features of these embodiments may be combined with one or more features of other embodiments, forms, or aspects described herein.

[0108] Features described in relation to one embodiment may be equally applicable to other embodiments of the present invention.

[0109] Example 1. An aerosol generating device comprising a cavity for receiving an aerosol generating article containing an aerosol-forming substrate, and a hardness detector configured to detect the density of a portion of the aerosol generating article, preferably the distal portion. Example 2. The aerosol generator according to Example 1, wherein the distal portion of the aerosol generating article includes a front plug, and a hardness detector is configured to detect the hardness of the front plug of the aerosol generating article. Example 3. The aerosol generator according to either Example 1 or 2, wherein the hardness detector comprises one or more displacement sensors. Example 4. An aerosol generator according to any one of Examples 1 to 3, wherein the density detector comprises two displacement sensors. Example 5. An aerosol generator according to any one of Examples 1 to 4, wherein one or more displacement sensors are located at the bottom of the cavity of the aerosol generator. Example 6. An aerosol generator according to any one of Examples 1 to 5, wherein one or more displacement sensors are configured to contact a portion of the aerosol generating article, such as the distal portion of the aerosol generating article, when the aerosol generating article is received in the cavity of the aerosol generator. Example 7. An aerosol generator according to any one of Examples 1 to 6, wherein each of one or more displacement sensors comprises a body, a biasing means (e.g., a spring), and a plunger. Example 8. An aerosol generator according to any one of Examples 1 to 7, wherein each plunger of one or more displacement sensors is configured as an indenter for penetrating the front plug of the inserted aerosol generating article. Example 9. The aerosol generator according to any one of Examples 1 to 8, further comprising a controller and a sensing system for detecting the penetration depth of one or more displacement sensors into each of the forward plugs. Example 10. An aerosol generator according to any one of Examples 1 to 9, wherein the sensing system includes a converter for converting the displacement of one or more displacement sensors into an electrical signal corresponding to the penetration depth of each displacement sensor. Example 11. An aerosol generator according to any one of Examples 1 to 10, wherein the controller is configured to analyze electrical signals provided by the converter arrangement and thereby identify an aerosol-generating article. Example 12. An aerosol generator according to any of Examples 1 to 11, wherein the identification of an aerosol-generating article is performed by comparing the measured data with pre-stored reference data. Example 13. An aerosol generator according to any one of Examples 1 to 12, wherein the transducer arrangement for determining the displacement of the displacement sensor includes a detection coil arranged around the displacement sensor and a magnet provided on the plunger of the displacement sensor. Example 14. An aerosol generator according to any one of Examples 1 to 13, wherein the displacement of the displacement sensor is determined via an electrical signal induced in the detection coil as the converter is moved relative to the detection coil of a magnet provided on the plunger. Example 15. An aerosol generator according to any one of Examples 1 to 14, wherein the transducer for determining the displacement of the displacement sensor includes an optical sensing mechanism or a force sensing mechanism. Example 16. An aerosol generator according to any one of Examples 1 to 15, wherein the transducer arrangement for determining the displacement of the displacement sensor includes a capacitive sensing mechanism, and the measurement signal is caused by a change in the overlapping area in the longitudinal axis direction of the plunger of the displacement sensor. Example 17. An aerosol generating article comprising an aerosol-forming substrate within an aerosol-forming substrate portion and a substrate wrapper that at least partially surrounds the aerosol-forming substrate portion, wherein a portion of the aerosol generating article, preferably a distal portion, is formed to have a predetermined hardness. Example 18. The aerosol generating article according to Example 17, wherein the distal portion of the aerosol generating article is formed from a front plug having two sections of different hardness. Example 19. The aerosol-generating article according to Example 18, wherein two parts of different hardnesses are provided in a concentric arrangement. Example 20. The aerosol-generating article according to Example 19, wherein two parts of different densities are made from one or more of the following: cellulose acetate tow, ceramic, polymer, biopolymer, metal, zeolite, paper, cardboard, inert material, and inorganic material. Example 21. The aerosol generating article according to Example 20, wherein the first portion of the front plug has a hardness of 50 to 120 Shore, preferably 70 to 100 Shore, preferably about 85 Shore. Example 22. The aerosol generating article according to Example 21, wherein the second portion of the front plug has a hardness of 30 to 90 Shore, preferably 40 to 70 Shore, preferably about 55 Shore. Example 23. The aerosol-generating article described in Example 22, wherein hardness measurement is performed according to the Shore hardness test procedure under test conditions specified in EN ISO 868 or ASTM D2240. Example 24. An aerosol generating system comprising an aerosol generating device described in any one of Examples 1 to 16, and an aerosol generating article, preferably an aerosol generating article described in any one of Examples 17 to 23. Example 25. The aerosol generating system according to Example 24, wherein the aerosol generating article comprises two parts of different hardness, and the two parts of different hardness are configured to contact two displacement sensors of the aerosol generating device when the aerosol generating article is received in the cavity of the aerosol generating device. Example 26. Optionally, a method for identifying an aerosol generating article in an aerosol generating device of an aerosol generating system described in any of Examples 1 to 25, comprising detecting the density of a portion of the aerosol generating article, optionally a distal portion, using a density detector. Example 27. The method according to Example 26, further comprising the step of identifying an aerosol-generating article by determining the density difference between a first and second portion of the front plug of the article, and by comparing the density difference with reference data. Example 28. The method according to either Example 26 or 27, further comprising the step of controlling the operation of an aerosol generator in accordance with the output of a density detector. Example 29. The method according to any one of Examples 26 to 28, wherein the operation of the aerosol generator includes stopping the operation of the aerosol generator when an unauthorized aerosol-generating article is detected. Example 30. The method according to any one of Examples 26 to 29, wherein controlling the operation of the aerosol generator includes selecting a heating profile for the aerosol generator in accordance with the output of a density detector. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0110] The present invention will be further explained with reference to the following attached drawings, which are for illustrative purposes only.

[0111] [Figure 1] Figure 1 shows a cross-sectional view of an aerosol-generating object. [Figure 2] Figure 2 shows the insertion of an aerosol generating article into the cavity of the aerosol generating device. [Figure 3] Figure 3 shows a hardness detector based on a displacement sensor. [Figure 4] Figure 4 schematically shows a displacement sensor with an induction transducer. [Figure 5] Figure 5 shows a hardness detector equipped with two displacement sensors. [Figure 6] Figure 6 illustrates an alternative transducer configuration based on capacitance measurement. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0112] Figure 1 shows a cross-sectional view of the aerosol generating article 10. The aerosol generating article 10 includes an end-mouth filter 12 located at the proximal end of the article 10. The article 10 further includes a PLA (polylactic acid) plug 14, a hollow acetate tube 16, and an aerosol-forming substrate portion 18, which includes an aerosol-forming substrate, for example, an assembly of homogenized tobacco sheets. A front plug 20 is provided at the distal end of the article 10. The article is enclosed by an outer wrapper 22. A central axis 24 extends centrally along the long axis of the aerosol generating article 10.

[0113] As shown in the series of diagrams in Figure 2, the aerosol generating article 10 is inserted into a cavity 32 of the aerosol generating device 30 to generate an aerosol. The cavity 32 defines a heating chamber. The heating chamber comprises a heating element 34. In this case, the heating element 34 is an external resistance heater contained within the side wall of the heating chamber. The controller 36 is configured to supply power from a power source (not shown) to heat the heating element 34. In another embodiment, the heating element 34 is an induction coil that heats a susceptor embedded in the aerosol forming substrate portion 18.

[0114] A hardness detector is provided at the bottom of the cavity 32 of the aerosol generator 30. The hardness detector comprises two displacement sensors 42 and 44. As the aerosol generating article 10 is inserted into the cavity 32 of the aerosol generator 30, the front plug 20 at the distal end of the aerosol generating article 10 comes into contact with the displacement sensors 42 and 44. This is illustrated in the center diagram of Figure 2. When the user applies pressure to fully insert the aerosol generating article 10 into the cavity 32, hardness detection is performed on a portion of the front plug 20 along its longitudinal axis. This is illustrated in the right diagram of Figure 2. The output signal of the hardness detector is transmitted to the controller 36. The controller 36 evaluates the output signal of the hardness detector. Such evaluation includes verifying whether the inserted article 10 is a genuine article. Furthermore, the evaluation may include identifying the type of the inserted aerosol generating article 10. The controller 36 may be further configured to supply power to the heating element 34 according to a predetermined heating protocol for the identified type of aerosol generating article 10.

[0115] The operating principle of the hardness detector will be explained in more detail in the context of Figures 3 and 4. Figure 3 shows an enlarged view of the displacement sensor 42 which forms part of the hardness detector at the bottom 38 of the cavity 32 of the aerosol generator 30.

[0116] The displacement sensor 42 comprises a plunger 50, a body 52, and a spring 54. The body 52 of the displacement sensor 42 is formed in a cylindrical shape. The body 52 is hollow and defines an upper opening 56 through which the upper portion 58 of the plunger 50 can extend. The body 52 further includes and is configured to hold the lower portion 60 of the plunger 50 and the spring 54 inside. The spring 54 is positioned to contact the lower portion 60 of the plunger 52. The spring 54 is further positioned to apply an elastic force to the plunger 50. In the configuration shown in Figure 3, the displacement sensor 42 is in a fully extended position, where the spring 54 biases the plunger 50 to its highest position. In this position, the lower portion 60 of the plunger 50 engages with a retaining element provided at the upper end of the body 52. ​​In the illustrated embodiment, the retaining means is an inwardly projecting surface portion 53, to which the lower portion 60 of the plunger 50 is biased by the spring 54.

[0117] When an external force is applied to the displacement sensor 42, the upper part 58 of the plunger 50 moves into the housing. This compresses the spring 54. The displacement of the plunger 50 is a measure of the force applied to the displacement sensor 42.

[0118] The displacement sensor 42 further includes a transducer arrangement for determining the displacement of the plunger 50. The transducer arrangement and its function are illustrated in Figure 4. The transducer arrangement comprises an inductive sensing mechanism. The transducer arrangement includes a magnet 62 provided on the lower portion 60 of the plunger 50 and a detection coil 64. The detection coil 64 is located at the upper end of the body 52 of the displacement sensor 42 and is arranged to surround the body 52. ​​As shown in the left diagram of Figure 4, in the fully extended position of the displacement sensor 42, the magnet 62 on the lower portion 60 of the plunger 50 is at the same horizontal level as the detection coil 64. When external pressure is applied, the plunger 50 and the magnet 62 mounted on it move downward. As the plunger 50 moves relative to the detection coil 64, carrying the magnet 62, an electrical signal is inductively induced within the detection coil 64. The induced electrical signal is a measure of the displacement of the plunger 50. This electrical signal is provided to the controller 36 of the aerosol generator 30. The controller 36 is configured to analyze this electrical signal and control the aerosol generator 30 according to the detected electrical signal.

[0119] The plungers 50 of the displacement sensor 42 are configured to function as indenters, penetrating the front plugs 20 of the aerosol generating article 10, which is inserted into the cavity 32 of the aerosol generator 30. A front plug 22 with high hardness compresses the displacement sensor 42 significantly, resulting in a large displacement of each plunger 50. A front plug 22 with low hardness reduces the compression of the displacement sensor 42, resulting in a smaller displacement of each plunger 50.

[0120] In the embodiments shown in Figures 2 and 3, the hardness detector comprises two displacement sensors 42, 44 arranged parallel to and offset from each other at the bottom 38 of the cavity 32 of the aerosol generator 30. Such a hardness detector can be advantageously used in an aerosol generating article 10 having a front plug 20 having two different sections 26, 28. A cross-section of the front plug having two different sections 26, 28 is shown in Figure 5. The front plug 20 comprises a first section 26 and a second section 28 arranged concentrically along the longitudinal axis of the aerosol generating article 10. The first section 26 is configured as the central section of the front plug 20. The first section 26 is configured to have a hardness of 85 Shore. The second section 28 is configured to surround the first section 26. The second section 28 is configured to have a lower hardness of 55 Shore.

[0121] As shown in Figure 5, one displacement sensor 42 is positioned to engage with the first section 26 of the front plug 20, and the other displacement sensor 44 is configured to engage with the second section 28 of the front plug 20.

[0122] Because the two sections 26 and 28 of the front plug 20 have different hardnesses, when the aerosol generating article 10 is fully inserted into the cavity 32 of the aerosol generator 30, the displacements of the respective plungers 50 of the displacement sensors 42 and 44 are correspondingly different. Each transducer arrangement of the displacement sensors 42 and 44 generates an electrical signal corresponding to the displacement of the respective plunger 50 of the displacement sensors 42 and 44. These electrical signals are transmitted to the controller 36 of the aerosol generator 30.

[0123] The controller 36 is configured to determine the measured hardness levels of the first section 26 and the second section 28 of the front plug 20. In the next step, the controller 36 determines the hardness difference between the first section 26 and the second section 28 of the front plug 20. In the next step, the controller 36 compares the determined hardness difference with reference data stored in the controller 36's memory. If the determined hardness difference matches the reference data, the controller 36 may determine that the aerosol generating article 10 in question is a genuine article, and the device may be allowed to operate normally. However, if the determined hardness difference does not match the reference data, the controller 36 may determine that the aerosol generating article 10 in question is not a genuine article, and further operation of the aerosol generator 30 may be stopped.

[0124] In addition to verifying whether the inserted aerosol-generating article 10 is a genuine article, the controller 36 may be configured to identify specific types of aerosol-generating articles 10. For this purpose, specific types of aerosol-generating articles 10 may be manufactured to have a front plug 20 having a specific hardness, or a front plug having two sections with a specific hardness difference. The controller 36 is configured to determine the type of inserted aerosol-generating article 10 by comparing the measured hardness value with a set of datasets stored in the controller 36's memory. The controller 36 further includes a database of pre-stored heating profiles for each type of aerosol-generating article.

[0125] When the user initiates aerosol generation, the controller 36 is configured to supply power to the heating element 34 according to a specific heating profile for the inserted type of aerosol generating article 10. In this way, the power supply to the heating element 34 can be adjusted to match the configuration of the specific type of aerosol generating article 10. Thus, aerosol generation and the user experience can be optimized.

[0126] Figure 6 illustrates an alternative transducer configuration based on capacitance measurement. This transducer configuration is particularly applicable to embodiments having two displacement sensors 42 and 44.

[0127] In this transducer configuration, the two displacement sensors 42 and 44 act as capacitance transducers to measure the change in capacitance between the two displacement sensors 42 and 44. The operating principle of capacitance measurement is based on the capacitance of two parallel conductors 74 and 76. The capacitance C of two parallel conductors 74 and 76 having an overlapping area A and separated by a distance D is defined by the equation C = ε₀εrA / D.

[0128] As shown in Figure 6, the overlap area A between conductors 74 and 76 is largest when they are arranged in parallel, as illustrated in the left diagram of Figure 6. As the relative displacement of the two conductors 74 and 76 increases, the overlap area A decreases, which in turn reduces the capacitance C of the system.

[0129] In this regard, when the sensing circuit of the controller 36 applies a given voltage across the two displacement sensors 42, 44, the initial capacitance C between the two fully extended displacement sensors 42, 44 is maximized and measured by the sensing circuit of the controller 36. When the aerosol generating article 10, which has a front plug 20 with two sections 26, 28 of different hardness, is inserted, the plungers 50 of the two displacement sensors 42, 44 may be displaced to different degrees. Thus, the overlapping area A of the two displacement sensors 42, 44 decreases. As a result, the capacitance C between the two displacement sensors 42, 44 decreases equally. Therefore, the change in the measured capacitance C can be used as a measure of the hardness difference between the two sections 26, 28 of the front plug 20 of the aerosol generating article 10. As described above, the controller 36 can analyze the hardness difference and control the operation of the aerosol generator 30 accordingly.

Claims

1. Aerosol generator, A cavity for receiving an aerosol generating article containing an aerosol-forming substrate, An aerosol generating device comprising a hardness detector configured to detect the hardness of a portion of the aerosol generating article.

2. The aerosol generating apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the portion of the aerosol generating article includes a front plug, and the hardness detector is configured to detect the hardness of a portion of the front plug of the aerosol generating article, preferably the hardness of a portion of the front plug along the longitudinal axis of the front plug of the aerosol generating article.

3. The aerosol generator according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the hardness detector includes one or more displacement sensors, preferably the hardness detector includes two displacement sensors.

4. The aerosol generating apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein one or more displacement sensors are configured to contact a portion of the front plug of the aerosol generating article when the aerosol generating article is received in the cavity of the aerosol generating apparatus.

5. The aerosol generator according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the hardness detector is configured to engage with the front surface of the front plug at the distal end of the aerosol generating article when the aerosol generating article is received in the cavity of the aerosol generator.

6. The aerosol generating apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein each of the one or more displacement sensors comprises a body, a spring, and a plunger, and optionally, the plunger of each of the one or more displacement sensors is configured as an indenter for penetrating the front plug of the inserted aerosol generating article.

7. The aerosol generator according to any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein the sensing system includes a converter arrangement for converting the displacement of each of the one or more displacement sensors into an electrical signal corresponding to the penetration depth of each displacement sensor, preferably the converter arrangement for determining the displacement of the displacement sensor includes a detection coil arranged around the displacement sensor and a magnet provided on the plunger of the displacement sensor.

8. Aerosol-generating article, Aerosol-forming substrate within the aerosol-forming substrate portion, The aerosol-forming substrate portion comprises a substrate wrapper that at least partially surrounds the aerosol-forming substrate portion, An aerosol generating article in which a portion of the aerosol generating article is formed to have a predetermined hardness.

9. The aerosol generating article according to claim 8, wherein the aerosol generating article comprises a front plug, and the front plug has two parts of different hardness.

10. The aerosol generating article according to claim 9, wherein the two portions of the front plug are arranged concentrically along the longitudinal axis of the aerosol generating article.

11. An aerosol generating system comprising an aerosol generating device according to any one of claims 1 to 7, and an aerosol generating article, preferably an aerosol generating article according to any one of claims 8 to 10.

12. The aerosol generating system according to claim 11, wherein the aerosol generating article comprises a front plug having two parts of different hardness, and the two parts of different hardness are configured to contact two displacement sensors of the aerosol generating device when the aerosol generating article is received in the cavity of the aerosol generating device.

13. A method for identifying an aerosol generating article in an aerosol generating device, A method comprising detecting the hardness of a portion of the aerosol-generating article using a hardness detector.

14. The method according to claim 13, further comprising the step of identifying the aerosol-generating article by determining the difference between the hardness of a first portion and the hardness of a second portion of the front plug of the article, and by comparing the hardness difference with reference data.

15. The method further includes a step of controlling the operation of the aerosol generator, Controlling the operation of the aerosol generator includes selecting a heating profile for the aerosol generator in accordance with the output of the hardness detector, and Controlling the operation of the aerosol generator includes one or more of the following: stopping the operation of the aerosol generator when an unauthorized aerosol generating article is detected, and The method according to claim 13 or claim 14, wherein controlling the operation of the aerosol generator includes selecting a heating profile for the aerosol generator in accordance with the output of a density detector.

Images