Method and system for monitoring tobacco material to detect insect infestation

Abstract

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

Description

[Technical Field]

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

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

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

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

[0005] In the tobacco industry, there is a significant financial effort involved in eradicating these pests from tobacco. Additionally, there is a constant need to monitor tobacco material and control infestations if they occur.

[0006] The quality of tobacco leaves entering the tobacco industry's production line is crucial to the quality of the final product. When tobacco leaves are infested by, for example, cigarette beetles or tobacco moths, they are affected not only by the beetles' feeding but also by the by-products of the infestation. Indeed, tobacco leaves infested by cigarette beetles may also show signs of the presence of bacteria, microorganisms, or fungi that develop in the tobacco material due to the presence of cigarette beetles and their nesting, including eggs and larvae. In the case of cigarette beetle infestation, the overall quality of the tobacco leaves is therefore seriously deteriorated. Furthermore, infested tobacco leaves pose a potential risk of contaminating other tobacco leaves that are still of good quality. Contamination can occur during tobacco leaf storage, during manufacturing steps, and between the end product shipped to retailers and ultimately reaching the costumer—that is, whenever infested and uninfested tobacco leaves are in close proximity.

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

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

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

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

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

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

[0013] The survival of both larval and adult cigarette beetles in tobacco warehouses has been tested to determine the temperature conditions critical for eradication. From these measurements, it has been found that in order to eliminate larval and adult pests, the enclosed space, and thus the tobacco material, is preferably exposed to a temperature of less than 6 degrees Celsius. Preferably, the enclosed space is brought to a temperature of 6 degrees Celsius or less. More preferably, the temperature of the enclosed space is reduced for at least 7 weeks. More preferably, the enclosed space is maintained at a temperature of 6 degrees Celsius or less for a time interval equal to at least 7 weeks. More preferably, the enclosed space is exposed to a temperature of less than 2 degrees Celsius. Preferably, the enclosed space is brought to a temperature of 2 degrees Celsius or less. More preferably, the temperature of the enclosed space is reduced for at least 8 weeks. More preferably, the enclosed space is maintained at a temperature of 2 degrees Celsius or less for a time interval equal to at least 8 weeks.

[0014] Measurements of semiochemical concentrations may be performed continuously, i.e., as soon as a measurement is completed, a new measurement is performed. Alternatively, concentration measurements may be performed at a given frequency. For example, measurements may be performed at given time intervals. The frequency at which measurements are performed may be adjusted, for example, depending on the amount of tobacco material present in the enclosed space or the size of the enclosed space. Other factors may affect the frequency at which measurements are performed; for example, measurements may be performed more frequently if a single observation of a concentration higher than a threshold is more concerning than an intrusion. Measurements may also be performed at predetermined times, such as once a week, or before a specific action, such as before opening the enclosed space and recovering the tobacco material therein.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

[0035] If the enclosed space is a tobacco bale, it can be placed inside an industrial refrigerator, which can maintain a very precise low temperature.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

[0045] Preferably, the method includes measuring the concentration of at least one volatile substance produced by microbial activity. Preferably, the volatile substance produced by microbial activity is detected. Mold in tobacco material can produce bacteria, fungi, larvae, or other microorganisms. The presence of these microorganisms may be due to infestation by cigarette beetles. These microorganisms can, for example, deteriorate the quality of the tobacco material, impairing the user's sensory experience when using end products containing the tobacco material. When microorganisms are present in the tobacco material, some volatile substances are produced and dispersed within the space surrounding the tobacco material. The volatile substances escape from the tobacco material and are dispersed within the closed space in which the tobacco material is stored. Thus, the same gas sensor may measure the concentrations of semiochemicals and volatile substances, or two different gas sensors may be present, one measuring semiochemicals and the other measuring volatile substances.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

[0055] Preferably, the step of measuring the concentration of volatile substances produced by microbial activity includes measuring the concentration of dimethyl sulfide.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

[0066] Preferably, the system includes a second gas sensor adapted to measure the concentration of a volatile substance in air present in the enclosed space. Preferably, the second gas sensor is an electronic nose. Preferably, the second gas sensor is an electronic nose developed by Smelldect (https: / / smelldect.de / ). This sensor is described in detail in DE 10 2014 002 077 entitled KARLSRUHER INST FEUR TECHNOLOGIE.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

[0084] 1 discloses a gas sensor 100 for use in the methods and systems of the present invention. Sensor 100 is a gas sensor adapted to detect the presence of insect larvae and adults in stored products, for example, by sensing volatile pheromones and semiochemicals. An example of such a gas sensor is one developed and sold by Sensor Development Corporation under the trade name ContraMoth® and described in U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2019 / 0234895. Gas sensor 100 is preferably adapted to detect and measure the concentration of pheromones produced by cigarette beetles.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

[0105] FIG. 5 illustrates a bale opening machine 510 located in a manufacturing area 500 of a primary production 660 (shown in FIG. 2), as disclosed in EP 1715765, for example. The gas sensor 100 is positioned in proximity to a tobacco bale 630. In this example, the bale 630 is invaded by a cigarette beetle 531. Within the invaded tobacco bale 630, pheromones 310 are present due to the cigarette beetle's nesting activity. When the cutter of the bale opening machine 510 opens the invaded tobacco bale 630, the gas sensor 100 draws air with its airflow system 150 toward the detection element 110, and the sensor array 111 detects the presence of the pheromones 310. Because the bale has been invaded, the concentration of the pheromone detected by the gas sensor 100 is higher than the threshold value. Therefore, the gas sensor 100 sends an alarm signal to the production control unit 550 using the incident dataset 147, marking the tobacco bale 630 as invaded. The tobacco bale 630 is then cooled. The adjacent tobacco bale 520 is also preferably inspected and cooled, adjacent to the penetrated tobacco bale 630. Other tobacco bales may also be inspected. Additionally, the bale opening machine 510, which may be considered a closed space, may also be cooled.

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

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

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

[0109] FIG. 2 shows a simplified diagram of a supply chain 600 for the primary production of tobacco products. The supply chain begins with the packaging of dried tobacco leaves from a supplier into tobacco bales 630. The bales are then transported in standard shipping carriers 610. The bales 630 are stored in warehouses 640 and delivered to primary production 660 sites. Such a supply chain is typically managed by a supply chain management unit 620, which tracks and coordinates the delivery of goods from suppliers. All steps in the supply chain are connected, for example, via wide area network (WAN) communications 650, which communicates information to the supply chain management unit 620, particularly incident datasets 147. To enable proper quality control, the supply chain management unit 620 stores data on shipments, suppliers, and quality incidents. Infestations by cigarette beetles can only be detected if a certain amount of time has passed since the infestation, during which time the eggs laid there develop into larvae or adult beetles. The supply chain management unit 620 can trace the path of invaded tobacco bales 630 back to the supplier, identify potentially invaded equipment or tobacco bales, and immediately mark them as potentially invaded for eradication measures and control. The point of intrusion is calculated so that supplier management or supply chain management can take corrective action.

[0110] FIG. 7 shows a flowchart of the method of the present invention. The gas sensor 100 monitors the presence and concentration of a specific semiochemical in a closed space containing tobacco material, such as the air, bales, carriers, or warehouses (Step 1). The concentration value measured by the gas sensor 100 is compared with a threshold value for that specific semiochemical stored in the database 120 (Step 2). If the measured concentration of the semiochemical exceeds the threshold value, the closed space is cooled (Step 3). Further actions may be triggered. For example, a notification or warning may be issued to an operator or a management unit (Step 4). The suspected intruded tobacco material is tracked along the supply chain (Step 5). All storage units or areas, equipment, other tobacco material, carriers, and other items that have come into contact with or come into close proximity to the intruded tobacco material are preferably inspected. Further measures may be taken (Step 6), such as marking the area, equipment, or goods as potentially intruded, automatically sealing the warehouse to prevent intrusion, or initiating an extermination process. The intruded transport with the intruded tobacco material may be rerouted and the intruded transport carrier may be sent towards a station where it is cooled.

[0111] For purposes of this specification and the appended claims, unless otherwise indicated, all numbers expressing amounts, quantities, percentages, and the like are to be understood in all instances as modified by the term "about." Also, all ranges include the disclosed maximum and minimum points, and include any intermediate ranges therein, which may or may not be specifically recited herein. Thus, in this context, the number A is to be understood as A ± 10 percent. Within this context, the number A may be considered to include a numerical value that is within the common standard error for measurement of the property represented by the number A. In some cases, as used in the appended claims, the number A may deviate by the percentages recited above, provided that the amount by which A deviates does not materially affect the basic and novel property(ies) of the claimed invention. Also, all ranges include the disclosed maximum and minimum points, and include any intermediate ranges therein, which may or may not be specifically recited herein. Preferred embodiments of the present invention are as follows. [1] A method for monitoring tobacco material to detect insect infestation, comprising: providing tobacco material in an enclosed space; - measuring the concentration of semiochemicals in the air present in said enclosed space; - comparing the measured concentration of the semiochemical with a threshold value; - reducing the temperature of the enclosed space when the concentration of the semiochemical is higher than the threshold value; - associating an identifier with the tobacco material present in the enclosed space; - if the measured concentration of the semiochemical is higher than the threshold, creating a data set comprising the identifier and a value representing the measured concentration or the comparison of the measured concentration with the threshold; - transmitting said data set to a management unit; - tracking the tobacco material present in the enclosed space along a supply line; A method comprising: [2] The semiochemical substance is -(2S,3R,1'S)-2,3-dihydro-3,5-dimethyl-2-ethyl-6(1-methyl-2-oxobutyl)-4H-pyran-4-one, -(2S,3R,1'R)-2,3-dihydro-3,5-dimethyl-2-ethyl-6(1-methyl-2-oxobutyl)-4H-pyran-4-one, -(2S,3R)-2,3-dihydro-3,5-dimethyl-2-ethyl-6-(1-methyl-2-oxobutyl)-4H-pyran-4-one, -(4S,6S,7S)-4,6-dimethyl-7-hydroxynon-3-one, -(2S,3S)-2,6-diethyl-3,5-dimethyl-3,4-dihydro-2H-pyran, The method according to [1] above, wherein the method is one or more of the following: [3] - transmitting an alarm signal if the measured concentration of the semiochemical is higher than the threshold value. The method according to [1] or [2], comprising: [4] Sending an alarm signal -emitting an audible signal; -emitting a visual signal; sending a digital text message to an operator or management unit; - transmitting data on the measured concentration or on the comparison of the measured concentration with the threshold value to an operator or management unit; The method according to [3], comprising one of the following steps: [5] Creating a dataset is - creating a data set including information about the time at which the comparison was made; creating a dataset containing information about the geographic location of said enclosed space; The method according to [1], comprising one or more of the following: [6] Providing tobacco material in a closed space, - providing said tobacco material in a bale; - providing said tobacco material to a warehouse; - providing said tobacco material on a transport carrier; - providing said tobacco material to a production area; The method according to any one or more of the above [1] to [5], comprising one or more of the following: [7] - providing an emitter in the enclosed space; - emitting a signal if the measured concentration of the semiochemical is higher than the threshold value; - providing a receiver outside said enclosed volume adapted to receive the signal transmitted by said emitter; - identifying the enclosed space as having been intruded upon receipt of said signal; The method according to any one or more of [1] to [6] above, comprising: [8] - providing a visual indicator in the enclosed space having a first state and a second state; - indicating said first condition on said visual indicator; - switching the displayed state from the first state to the second state when the concentration of the semiochemical is higher than the threshold; The method according to any one or more of [1] to [7] above, comprising: [9] - Measuring the concentration of volatile substances produced by microbial activity in the air present in the closed space. The method according to any one or more of [1] to [8] above, comprising:

[10] The suspended matter is -1-octen-3-ol, -1,3-octadiene, -methyl-2-ethylhexanoate, -2-methylfuran, -3-methylfuran, -3-methyl-1-butanol, -2-methyl-1-butanol, -2-heptene, -dimethyl sulfide, -4-heptanone, -(5H)-furanone, -3-heptanol, -Methoxybenzene, The method according to [9] above, wherein the method is one or more of the following:

[11] - When the measured concentration of the semiochemical in the air present in the closed environment is higher than the threshold value, o identifying equipment, storage areas, other tobacco materials, and transport carriers along the supply line that have semiochemical concentrations above the threshold and that are in contact with or in proximity to the tobacco material; and o sanitizing, reducing the temperature, or isolating the identified equipment, storage areas, other tobacco materials, or transport carriers; and The method according to any one or more of [1] to

[10] above, comprising:

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

[13] The system described in

[12] , further comprising an air conduit for directing air present in the closed environment toward the gas sensor.

[14] The system described in

[12] or

[13] , further comprising an alarm unit adapted to issue an alarm signal when the signal exceeds the threshold.

Claims

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

10. The suspended matter is -1-octen-3-ol, -1,3-octadiene, -methyl-2-ethylhexanoate, -2-methylfuran, -3-methylfuran, 3-methyl-1-butanol, 2-methyl-1-butanol, -2-heptene, -dimethyl sulfide, -4-heptanone, -(5H)-furanone, -3-heptanol, -methoxybenzene, 10. The method of claim 9, wherein the method is one or more of:

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

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

13. The system of claim 12 , further comprising an air conduit for directing air present in the enclosed space toward the gas sensor.

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

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