Methods and devices for detecting and rejecting tagging

Abstract

1. A method for manufacturing a component of an aerosol-generating article (101, 201, 301, 401) that includes a taggant, the method comprising the steps of: applying the taggant to the component; detecting an amount of the taggant contained in the component; determining whether the detected amount of taggant is less than a first predetermined amount; and rejecting the component if the detected amount of taggant is less than the first predetermined amount. 2. An apparatus for manufacturing a component of an aerosol-generating article (101, 201, 301, 401) that includes a taggant, the apparatus comprising: a dispenser configured to apply the taggant to the component; a sensor configured to detect the amount of taggant contained in the component; a controller for determining whether the detected amount of taggant is less than the first predetermined amount; and a rejection system configured to reject the component if the detected amount of taggant is less than the first predetermined amount. A kit of parts comprising: a plurality of manufacturing tools suitable for manufacturing components of an aerosol-generating article (101, 201, 301, 401); at least one sensor (562, 662, 862) suitable for detecting the amount of taggant contained in the manufactured components; a controller for determining whether the amount of taggant contained in the components is less than a first predetermined amount; and a rejection system configured to reject components having an amount of taggant less than the first predetermined amount.

Description

Technical Field

[0004] ,

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a method for manufacturing components of aerosol-generating articles. More specifically, the present disclosure relates to a method for manufacturing components of aerosol-generating articles that contain a tagant. The present disclosure also relates to an apparatus for manufacturing components of aerosol-generating articles that contain a tagant. The present disclosure further relates to a parts kit comprising a plurality of manufacturing apparatuses suitable for manufacturing components of aerosol-generating articles.

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

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

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

[0005] Therefore, the tagant acts as an internal signature for the component, applied to the component and used for product identification. The tagant of a component can be used by recognition to determine whether the component of an aerosol-generating article, and by extension the aerosol-generating article, is a genuine product. This ensures satisfactory product performance and user experience. By having a first predetermined amount of tagant, if not met, the component is rejected, thereby ensuring that all components have a suitable amount of tagant for component recognition and enabling the identification of genuine products. Since rejected components are removed from the manufacturing process before the completion of the final product, it is particularly advantageous to have a method that includes a step of rejecting a component if the amount of detected tagant is less than the first predetermined amount. The rejection system also ensures that all generated consumables provided to consumers contain the correct concentration of tagant, thereby ensuring that the aerosol generator can recognize the consumables. Providing a detection and rejection system also reduces waste material used in the product.

[0006] In some embodiments, instead of detecting and quantifying the amount of tagant contained in a component, the method includes a step of detecting whether a component contains tagant. In some embodiments, the method includes a step of detecting whether a component contains tagant. In some embodiments, the method includes a step of detecting the presence of tagant. In some embodiments, the method includes a step of detecting the presence of tagant in a component. The method may further include a step of rejecting a component if no tagant is detected. This is advantageous because this step ensures that all components have the presence of tagant for component recognition and enable the identification of genuine products.

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

[0008] For example, in a particular component, the amount of tagant detected may be 15 milligrams per square meter, while the first predetermined amount is 20 milligrams per square meter. Because the detected amount is less than the first predetermined amount, components with less than 20 milligrams of tagant per square meter are determined to be defective and, consequently, may not have satisfactory product performance, and the components are rejected from the production line.

[0009] In some embodiments, a method for manufacturing components of an aerosol-generating article, including tagants, includes a step of determining whether the amount of tagants contained in the component is greater than a second predetermined amount. In some embodiments, the method includes a step of rejecting the component if the detected amount of tagants contained in the component is greater than the second predetermined amount. Thus, a range of tagant amounts for which components are rejected is provided. This ensures that the final product has an amount of tagant within an acceptable range. Outlier products having an amount of tagant outside the acceptable range are removed. This makes it possible to provide a tagant detection system that has higher accuracy and is better calibrated for genuine product recognition.

[0010] For example, in a particular component, the amount of tagant detected may be 450 milligrams per square meter, while a second predetermined amount is 400 milligrams per square meter. Because the detected amount is greater than the second predetermined amount, a component having more than 400 milligrams of tagant per square meter is determined to be defective and, consequently, may not have satisfactory product performance, and the component is rejected from the production line. The detection of a tagant amount greater than the second predetermined amount indicates, for example, that there is too much of a particular component present. In one particular embodiment, the presence of a certain amount of tagant detected in chipping paper adhesive may indicate that too much chipping paper adhesive has been applied. It is also conceivable that excessive tagant may be detected when applied instead of chipping paper adhesive to filters, wrappers, chipping paper, filter plug wrappers, susceptors, mouthpiece filters, spacer tubes, tobacco elements, flavoring elements, heat sources, aerosol generating elements, or a combination of one or more of these components.

[0011] In some embodiments, a method for manufacturing components of an aerosol-generating article, including tagant, includes a step of determining whether the amount of tagant contained in the component is less than a first predetermined amount or greater than a second predetermined amount. In some embodiments, the method includes a step of rejecting a component if the detected amount of tagant contained in the component is less than the first predetermined amount or greater than the second predetermined amount. In this way, components having an amount of tagant outside the range between the first predetermined amount and the second predetermined amount are rejected. This ensures that the final product has an amount of tagant within an acceptable range. The first predetermined amount may be a threshold amount, above which the component provides satisfactory product performance and user experience. The second predetermined amount may be a threshold amount, below which the component provides satisfactory product performance and user experience. In this way, by comparing the amount of tagant present with the threshold amounts, it is possible to ensure that the amount of tagant present is within an acceptable range and that components containing tagant provide satisfactory product performance and user experience. By comparing the amount of existing tags to an acceptable range, it is possible to predict whether the correct components are in place during manufacturing.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

[0020] In some embodiments, the method includes the step of applying the tagant to the joint surface between the tobacco rod component and the filter component. By applying the tagant to the joint surface between the tobacco rod component and the filter component, the tagant is applied away from the edges. Thus, the tagant is applied to the aerosol generating articles at the joint surface between the tobacco rod component and the filter component, rather than at the edges of adjacent aerosol generating articles. This is advantageous because it makes it possible to distinguish the individual aerosol generating articles from one another and to detect the amount of tagant on each aerosol generating article. This makes it easier to match the amount of tagant to these corresponding aerosol generating articles.

[0021] In some embodiments, the method includes the step of applying the tagant to the inner surface of the chipping paper component. In some embodiments, the tagant is applied to the outer surface of the chipping paper component. In some embodiments, the tagant is applied to both the inner and outer surfaces of the chipping paper component.

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

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

[0024] In some embodiments, the method includes a step of detecting the amount of tagant contained in a component after a manufacturing step of applying and fixing a chipping paper component to another component.

[0025] In some embodiments, the method includes the steps of detecting the amount of tagant and determining whether the detected amount of tagant is less than a first predetermined amount, and these steps are repeated at different stages of the manufacturing process. In some embodiments, the method includes the steps of detecting the amount of tagant and determining whether the detected amount of tagant is greater than a second predetermined amount, and these steps are repeated at different stages of the manufacturing process. In some embodiments, the method includes the steps of detecting the amount of tagant and determining whether the detected amount of tagant is less than a first predetermined amount or greater than a second predetermined amount, and these steps are repeated at different stages of the manufacturing process. Since the amount of tagant may change as the components move along the manufacturing line, repeating the detection and determination steps is particularly beneficial. By repeating these steps, it is possible to ensure that product performance remains favorable. Furthermore, it is possible to determine that the correct components are in place at different stages of the manufacturing process.

[0026] In some embodiments, tagant may be present in the adhesive, and the amount of tagant can be detected when the amount of tagant is not between a first predetermined amount of tagant and a second predetermined amount of tagant, and components that have too little or too much tagant can be rejected, thereby indicating components that have too little or too much tagant and are therefore potentially defective. Components with too little adhesive cannot be properly held together. Components with too much adhesive may have different shapes.

[0027] In other embodiments, the tagant can be present within the wrapping paper, and by detecting the amount of the tagant, it can indicate where there is too little or too much wrapping paper used to wrap the component. If there is too little wrapping paper, it may cause the component to break down prematurely. If there is too much wrapping paper, it may result in a thicker and more difficult-to-handle component being produced.

[0028] Also, according to the present invention, there is provided an apparatus for manufacturing a component of an aerosol-generating article that includes a tagant. The apparatus includes a dispenser configured to apply the tagant to the component. The apparatus also includes a sensor configured to detect the amount of the tagant included in the component. The apparatus includes a controller for determining whether the detected amount of the tagant is less than a first predetermined amount. The apparatus further includes a rejection system configured to reject the component if the detected amount of the tagant is less than the first predetermined amount.

[0029] Thus, the apparatus applies the tagant to the component, and the tagant acts as an internal signature of the component, which is used for product identification. The tagant of the component is used, by recognition, to determine whether the component of the aerosol-generating article, and thus the aerosol-generating article, is an authentic product. The sensor of the apparatus detects the amount of the tagant included in the component, and the controller compares the detected amount of the tagant with the first predetermined amount of the tagant, and if not satisfied, the component is rejected by the removal system. This apparatus ensures that all components have an amount of tagant suitable for component recognition and enables the identification of authentic products. It is particularly advantageous to have an apparatus with a rejection system that rejects the component if the detected amount of the tagant is less than the first predetermined amount, since the rejected component is removed from the manufacturing process before the completion of the final product. This reduces the waste materials used in products that will be discarded later in any case.

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

[0031] In some embodiments, the controller is configured to determine whether the amount of the tagant contained in the component is less than a first predetermined amount or greater than a second predetermined amount. In some embodiments, the apparatus comprises a rejection system that rejects the component if the amount of the detected tagant contained in the component is less than a first predetermined amount or greater than a second predetermined amount. In this way, if the component contains an amount of the tagant outside the range between the first predetermined amount and the second predetermined amount, the component is rejected. Thereby, the final product can have an amount of the tagant within an acceptable range.

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

[0033] In some preferred embodiments, the apparatus comprises a number of sensors, each configured to detect a certain amount of tagant. Having a number of sensors, each configured to detect a certain amount of tagant, allows for the detection of the amount of tagant even if, for example, one of the sensors is inoperable. Another reason this setup is advantageous is that the sensors can be installed in different areas and therefore can detect the amount of tagant at different points in time or locations on the component. For example, the sensors can be used to determine the amount of tagant at different points along the manufacturing process. The sensors may also or alternatively be positioned facing different parts of the component.

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

[0035] In some embodiments, the device includes at least one sensor positioned on the production line after the components have been wrapped. The components to be wrapped may be, for example, filter components.

[0036] In certain embodiments, the device comprises at least one sensor located on a production line after the components have been manufactured. The components to be manufactured may be, for example, an aerosol-forming substrate such as a cigarette plug component.

[0037] In some embodiments, the device comprises a number of sensors, each positioned at a different stage of the manufacturing process. In some specific embodiments, the sensors detect the amount of tagant. In some embodiments, the amount of tagant is measured by the sensors at different stages of the manufacturing process, and the controller determines whether the detected amount of tagant is less than a first predetermined amount. In some embodiments, the amount of tagant is measured by the sensors at different stages of the manufacturing process, and the controller determines whether the detected amount of tagant is greater than a second predetermined amount. In some embodiments, the amount of tagant is measured by the sensors at different stages of the manufacturing process, and the controller determines whether the detected amount of tagant is less than a first predetermined amount or greater than a second predetermined amount. Having a number of sensors, each positioned at a different stage of the manufacturing process, ensures that product performance remains satisfactory. If product performance is determined to be unsatisfactory, the rejection system of the device may reject components. Furthermore, it is possible to determine that the correct components are in place at different stages of the manufacturing process.

[0038] In certain embodiments, the sensor comprises an emitter and a reader. In some embodiments, the emitter emits a signal, and the reader reads the return signal from the tagant. Having a sensor with both an emitter and a reader reduces the number of sensors required in the system.

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

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

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

[0042] In some specific embodiments, the dispenser further comprises a mask configured to protect the dispensed tagant from reaching undesirable areas. For example, the mask can protect the dispensed tagant from reaching and, consequently, filling holes in the aerosol-generating article. This is particularly beneficial because it prevents the holes from becoming blocked.

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

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

[0045] As used herein, the term “aerosol-generating article” is used to describe an article that is capable of generating or releasing aerosols.

[0046] As used herein, the term “quantity” is used to describe the content of a material, component, or object. Quantity may also be used to quantitatively describe a number, mass, degree, or size.

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

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

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

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

[0051] As used herein, the term "dispenser" is used to describe an apparatus or means that can dispense or apply a substance to a material, for example, onto the surface of the material or into the material.

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

[0053] Where used herein, the term “defective,” such as “defective component,” is used to describe any component that does not possess the desired properties. Where used herein, the term “joint surface” is used to describe the overlapping portion or boundary between two components. A joint surface may also be used to describe a further component that joins two components together. For example, the chipping paper of an aerosol-generating article may form a joint surface between a filter component and an aerosol-forming substrate.

[0054] As used herein, the term “predetermined” is used to describe a parameter that has been established in advance. For example, a predetermined amount of Tagant is established before the step of detecting the amount of Tagant.

[0055] As used herein, the term “rejection” is used to describe the process of discarding a component. The term “rejection” is also used to describe the process of preventing a component from proceeding downstream in the manufacturing process.

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

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

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

[0059] As used herein, the term “threshold” is used to describe the limit or boundary of the amount of tagant that determines the suitability of a component containing tagant. For example, a component is deemed unsuitable if it falls below the threshold of 20 milligrams of tagant per square meter. A component having less than 20 milligrams of tagant per square meter may be rejected as defective.

[0060] As used herein, the phrase “undesirable area” is used to describe a part or portion of a component that Tagant does not want.

[0061] A non-exclusive list of non-limiting embodiments is provided below. One or more features of these embodiments may be combined with any one or more features of other embodiments, forms, or aspects described herein.

[0062] A non-exclusive list of non-limiting embodiments is provided below. One or more features of these embodiments may be combined with any one or more features of other embodiments, forms, or aspects described herein.

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

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

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

[0066] Example Ex4: A method for manufacturing a component according to any one of the prior examples, further comprising the step of applying Tagant to a component, wherein the component is a filter, a wrapper, chipping paper, adhesive, chipping paper adhesive, filter plug wrap, or any combination of the aforementioned components.

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

[0068] Example Ex6: A method for manufacturing a component according to any one of the prior examples, further comprising the step of applying Tagant to the joint surface between a tobacco rod component and a filter component.

[0069] Example Ex7: A method for manufacturing a component according to any one of the prior examples, further comprising the step of applying Tagant to the inner surface of the chipping component.

[0070] Example Ex8: A method for manufacturing a component according to any one of the prior embodiments, further comprising the step of applying a tagant substantially around the circumference of the component.

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

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

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

[0074] Example Ex12: The apparatus according to Example Ex11, further comprising a number of sensors, each sensor configured to detect a certain amount of tagant.

[0075] Example Ex13: The apparatus according to Example Ex11 or Ex12, further comprising the application of a chipping paper component to another component and at least one sensor positioned on the production line after fixing.

[0076] Example Ex14: The apparatus according to any one of Examples Ex11 to Ex13, further comprising at least one sensor positioned on the production line after the components have been wrapped.

[0077] Example Ex15: The apparatus according to any one of Examples Ex11 to Ex14, further comprising at least one sensor located on the production line after the tobacco plug components have been manufactured.

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

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

[0080] Example Ex18: The apparatus described in Example Ex17, wherein the adhesive dispenser is equipped with a glue application roller.

[0081] Example Ex19: The apparatus according to Example Ex18, wherein the glue application roller is provided with grooves.

[0082] Example Ex20: The apparatus according to any one of Examples Ex11 to Ex19, wherein the dispenser further comprises a mask configured to protect the dispensed Tagant from reaching an undesirable area.

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

[0084] Hereinafter, drawings illustrating one or more embodiments described in this disclosure are referenced. However, it will be understood that other embodiments not depicted in the drawings also fall within the scope of this disclosure. Similar numbers used in the drawings refer to similar components, processes, and similar elements. However, it will be understood that using a certain number to refer to a component in a given drawing is not intended to limit the component labeled with the same number in another drawing. In addition, the use of different numbers to refer to components in different drawings is not intended to indicate that components with different numbers cannot be the same as or similar to components with other numbers. The drawings are presented for illustrative purposes only and not for limitation. Schematic diagrams presented in the drawings are not necessarily to scale. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0085] [Figure 1] An example of a cross-sectional, approximate side profile of an aerosol-generating article is shown. [Figure 2] The following are examples of the schematic side contour and partial cross-sectional view of a cross-section of an aerosol-generating article. [Figure 3] An example of a cross-sectional, approximate side profile of an aerosol-generating article is shown. [Figure 4] The following are examples of the schematic side contour and partial cross-sectional view of a cross-section of an aerosol-generating article. [Figure 5] A schematic diagram illustrating an exemplary embodiment of an apparatus for manufacturing components of an aerosol-generating article is provided. [Figure 6] A schematic diagram illustrating another exemplary embodiment of an apparatus for manufacturing components of an aerosol-generating article is provided. [Figure 7] A schematic diagram illustrating an exemplary embodiment of an apparatus for manufacturing components of an aerosol-generating article is provided. [Figure 8] A schematic diagram illustrating a further exemplary embodiment of an apparatus for manufacturing components of an aerosol-generating article is provided.

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

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

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

[0089] Referring here to Figure 2, an aerosol generating article 201 is provided. The aerosol generating article 201 is substantially the same as the aerosol generating article 101 in Figure 1. The aerosol generating article 201 comprises chipping paper 210 positioned on a filter 208 at the proximal end 202, on a hollow acetate tube 212, and partially on an aerosol forming substrate 206. Figure 2 illustrates a cross-sectional view of the chipping paper 210 from one end of the proximal end 202 of the aerosol generating article 201 to the opposite end that partially covers the aerosol forming substrate 206. The inner surface of the chipping paper 210 is provided with a coating of adhesive 220. The adhesive 220 is provided to attach the chipping paper 210 to the rod of the aerosol generating article 201. In this embodiment, the adhesive 220 is glue 220. The glue 220 is applied to the inner surface of the chipping paper 210. The glue 220 contains tagant. Tagant has a concentration of 150 milligrams per square meter. Tagant is assumed to have any concentration from 5 milligrams per square meter to 500 milligrams per square meter. In this particular embodiment, glue 220 is sprayed onto the inner surface of chipping paper 210. In this embodiment, Tagant is mixed with glue 220 before applying glue 220 to the inner surface of chipping paper. In some embodiments, glue 220 is applied using a roller, such as a roller with grooves. Glue 220 can alternatively be applied by printing.

[0090] Therefore, the inner surface of the chipping paper 210 is provided with an adhesive 220 containing tagant. In some embodiments, the inner surface of the chipping paper 210 may also be provided with tagant applied directly by using a spray nozzle, printing, or using a roller. The chipping paper 210 is provided with a glue line 214 where the chipping paper 210 overlaps with the aerosol-forming substrate 206. The chipping paper 210 is also provided with a reinforced glue line 216 where the chipping paper 210 overlaps with the aerosol-forming substrate 206. The glue line 214 and the reinforced glue line 216 are provided to assist in attaching the chipping paper 210 to the aerosol-forming substrate 206. In some embodiments, the glue line 214 is provided. In other embodiments, the reinforced glue line 216 is provided. In yet another embodiment, both the glue line 214 and the reinforced glue line 216 are provided, thereby attaching the chipping paper 210 to the aerosol-forming substrate 206. In the embodiment illustrated in Figure 2, the chipping paper 210 includes a glue-free zone 218. The glue-free zone 218 is an area 218 where glue 220 is absent. This is, for example, to prevent glue 220 from blocking the perforations of the aerosol-generating article 201. In some embodiments, the glue-free zone 218 has substantially less glue 220 compared to that on the inner surface of the chipping paper 210.

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

[0092] The proximal end 302 of the aerosol-generating article 301 is equipped with a filter 308. The aerosol-forming substrate 306 is heated by a conductive heat-generating element 324. This transfers thermal energy to the aerosol-forming substrate 306, generating an aerosol. When negative pressure is applied to the proximal end 302 of the aerosol-generating article 301, the aerosol is drawn out through the filter 308 located at the proximal end 302.

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

[0094] In other embodiments, other components of the aerosol generator 301 may, or may not, comprise tagant. For example, tagant may be applied to components of the aerosol generator 301 by spraying, printing, or rolling. Tagant may be applied to any or a combination of wrappers, adhesive 320, chipping paper adhesive, filter plug wraps, or aerosol-forming substrate plug wraps. It is further assumed that tagant may be applied to any or a combination of susceptors, mouthpiece filters, spacer tubes, tobacco elements, flavoring elements, heat sources 324, or aerosol-generating elements. Tagant may, or may not, be incorporated into, for example, raw materials used to manufacture any or a combination of wrappers, adhesive 320, chipping paper adhesive, filter plug wraps, aerosol-forming substrate plug wraps, susceptors, mouthpiece filters, spacer tubes, tobacco elements, flavoring elements, heat sources 324, or aerosol-generating elements. Raw materials may constitute components of the aerosol-generating article 301. Tagant is a uniquely encoded material or chemical that is virtually impossible to replicate. Tags can be used to identify the origin of products, such as aerosol-generating article 301.

[0095] For illustrative purposes, the area represented by 322 indicates a tagant detection zone 322 located at the confluence between the aerosol-forming substrate 306 and the hollow acetate tube 312. The tagant detection zone 322 may be located in any part of the aerosol-generating article 301 containing a tagant. For example, the tagant detection zone 322 may be located in a place containing any or a combination of components having a tagant, such as adhesive 320, chipping paper adhesive, filter plug wrap, aerosol-forming substrate plug wrap, susceptor, mouthpiece filter, spacer tube, tobacco element, flavoring element, heat source 324, or aerosol-generating element. It is conceivable that two or more tagant detection zones 322 may be provided on the aerosol-generating article 301.

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

[0097] Figure 4 shows an aerosol generating article 401. The aerosol generating article 401 is substantially the same as the aerosol generating article 201 in Figure 2 and comprises a proximal end 402 and a distal end 404. The aerosol generating article 401 comprises a chipping paper 410 positioned on a filter 408 at the proximal end 402, on a hollow acetate tube 412, and partially on an aerosol forming substrate 406. The inner surface of the chipping paper 410 is coated with an adhesive 420. The adhesive 420 is provided to attach the chipping paper 410 to the rod of the aerosol generating article 401. In this embodiment, the adhesive 420 is glue 420. The glue 420 is applied to the inner surface of the chipping paper 410. The glue 420 contains tagant, which has a concentration of 150 milligrams per square meter. Tagant is assumed to have any concentration from 5 milligrams per square meter to 500 milligrams per square meter. In this particular embodiment, the glue 420 is sprayed onto the inner surface of the chipping paper 410.

[0098] The inner surface of the chipping paper 410 is provided with an adhesive 420 containing Tagant. The chipping paper 410 is provided with glue lines 414 where the chipping paper 410 overlaps with the aerosol-forming substrate 406. The chipping paper 410 is provided with reinforced glue lines 416 where the chipping paper 410 overlaps with the aerosol-forming substrate 406. The glue lines 414 and the reinforced glue lines 416 are provided to attach the chipping paper 410 to the aerosol-forming substrate 406. The chipping paper 410 is provided with glue-free zones 418. The glue-free zones 418 are areas 418 where glue 420 is absent. This is, for example, to prevent glue 420 from sealing the perforations of the aerosol-generating article 401. In some embodiments, the glue-free zones 418 have substantially less glue 420 than that on the inner surface of the chipping paper 410.

[0099] The chipping paper 410 includes an additional glue line 419 containing tagant. The glue line 419 is sprayed onto the chipping paper 410 to increase the concentration of tagant. The content of tagant can be increased. Increasing the concentration or content of tagant improves the ease of detecting tagant. In this embodiment, the additional glue line 419 is sprayed by an adhesive nozzle. The additional glue line 419 has a width of 4 mm apart. Alternatively or further, tagant may be incorporated into raw materials manufactured to form any or a combination of a wrapper, adhesive 420, chipping paper adhesive, filter plug wrap, aerosol-forming substrate plug wrap, susceptor, mouthpiece filter, spacer tube, tobacco element, flavoring element, heat source 424, or aerosol-generating element.

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

[0101] The apparatus 500 includes a guide roller 566 that receives the chipping paper 110 from a transport drum 554. The guide roller 566 directs the chipping paper 110 toward a downstream combiner 560 toward an assembly station (not shown) toward an assembly station toward an aerosol generating article toward an assembly station When a tagant is exposed to the emitted signal 564, the tagant absorbs a portion of the emitted signal 564, altering its spectroscopic signal. The signal is reflected and picked up by the sensor 562. The return signal is used to identify the tagant and its quantity on the chipping paper 110. It is assumed that the signal 564 may be an optical signal, a phosphorescent signal, an electromagnetic signal, or any other suitable signal capable of identifying the tagant. In one embodiment, the sensor 562 emits an optical signal 564, thereby causing the tagant to absorb a specific wavelength, e.g., 1000 nanometers, or a wavelength range, e.g., 930 nanometers to 1020 nanometers. The wavelength of the optical return signal received by the sensor 562 determines the wavelength of the absorbed light, and the tagant is identified by reading the wavelength that is not present. The emitter of the sensor 562 may be a light-emitting diode. The receiver of the sensor 562 may be a photodiode. Other wavelengths are assumed. In such cases, the emitter and receiver of sensor 562 are tuned to Tagant's absorptive and radiative properties.To improve sensitivity, additional optical devices such as lenses or filters can be provided to or in front of the sensor 562.

[0102] The apparatus 500 can reject a component if it contains an amount of tagant smaller than a predetermined amount. The apparatus 500 includes a control (not shown) that determines whether the amount of tagant detected by the sensor 562 is less than a first predetermined amount. In some embodiments, the control determines whether the amount of tagant detected by the sensor 562 is greater than a second predetermined amount. In this embodiment, the apparatus 500 includes a rejection system (not shown). The rejection system is designed to reject a component if it contains an amount of tagant smaller than a first predetermined amount. The rejection system is also designed to reject a component if it contains an amount of tagant greater than a second predetermined amount. In this particular embodiment, the chipping paper 110 is rejected if it contains tagant with a concentration of less than 5 milligrams per square meter. The chipping paper 110 is rejected if it contains tagant with a concentration of more than 500 milligrams per square meter. In some embodiments, the rejection system is designed to reject a component if it has a concentration or amount less than a first predetermined amount, for example, less than 20 milligrams per square meter. A component is rejected not only if it does not contain Tagant, but also if it does not contain a suitable amount of Tagant. That is, if a component has an amount of Tagant below the threshold amount of 20 milligrams per square meter, the component is determined to be defective and will not provide suitable product performance. This is because, for example, some components are absent. In a similar manner, in other embodiments, the rejection system is designed to reject a component if it has a concentration or amount greater than a second predetermined amount, for example, more than 550 milligrams per square meter. If the amount exceeds the threshold, the component is determined to be defective and will not be able to provide suitable product performance. An excessive amount of Tagant may indicate that there is too much of a particular component. For example, if a component in which Tagant is present in the glue has a high concentration of Tagant, it may be determined that too much glue has been applied to the component.

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

[0104] In some embodiments, the instrument 500 is also intended to be used to detect the presence of tagants in the glue. That is, the sensor 562 detects whether the chipping paper 110 contains tagants. The sensor 562 emits a signal 564 in the form of a spectroscopic signal toward the chipping paper 110. Tagants have an identifiable spectroscopic signature. If tagants are present, they are exposed to the signal 564 emitted from the sensor 562. The tagants absorb a portion of the emitted signal 564 so that the spectroscopic signal is corrected. When the signal 564 is reflected and picked up by the sensor 562, the sensor 562 determines that the chipping paper 110 contains tagants (i.e., tagants are present). Depending on whether the presence of tagants is detected, the instrument is designed to either reject the component or retain the component. In this particular embodiment, if no tagants are detected by the sensor 562, the chipping paper 110 is rejected. In some embodiments, if no tagant is detected by sensor 562, the entire component containing the chipping paper 110 is rejected. By rejecting the chipping paper 110 or the entire component, the part is prevented from being processed further within the apparatus 500. In one embodiment, the apparatus 500 is used to detect the presence of tagant in glue applied to chipping paper 110 (not shown). In other embodiments, tagant may be applied to and detected from any or a combination of adhesives, chipping paper adhesives, filter plug wraps, aerosol-forming substrate plug wraps, susceptors, mouthpiece filters, spacer tubes, tobacco elements, flavoring elements, heat sources, or aerosol-generating elements.

[0105] Figure 6 shows a device 600 having a plurality of transport rollers 650, 652, 654, and 656, which are used to transport an aerosol-generating article (not shown) along these transport rollers. The device 600 detects the presence and content of tagant applied to the aerosol-generating article. More specifically, in this embodiment, the device 600 is used to detect the presence and content of tagant in the filter of the aerosol-generating article. In other embodiments, the tagant is assumed to be contained in any or a combination of a wrapper, adhesive, chipping paper adhesive, filter plug wrap or aerosol-forming substrate plug wrap, susceptor, spacer tube, tobacco element, flavoring element, heat source, or aerosol-generating element. The transport rollers 650, 652, 654, and 656 have grooved surfaces designed to receive the aerosol-generating article. The device 600 includes a first sensor 662 directed toward the roller 650. The device 600 includes a second sensor 672 located downstream of the first sensor 662. The second sensor 672 is directed toward the roller 652.

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

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

[0108] Figure 7 shows a portion of the apparatus 700 having a drum 752. The drum 752 has a central axis 753, and the drum 752 rotates about that central axis. The drum 752 has a plurality of grooves arranged around its circumference, which receive an aerosol generating article 101 inside. The aerosol generating article 101 comprises a hollow acetate tube (not shown). The hollow acetate tube is formed from raw materials mixed with tagant. Thus, the hollow acetate tube of the aerosol generating article 101 contains tagant. As the drum 752 rotates about its central axis 753, the aerosol generating article 101 is transported along a path along the circumference of the drum 752. A first sensor 762 is positioned to radiate a first signal 764 toward the aerosol generating article 101 when the aerosol generating article 101 is transported on the drum 752. The second sensor 772 is located downstream of the first sensor 762. The second sensor 772 is positioned downstream of the first signal 764 and is configured to emit multiple second signals 774 toward the aerosol-generating article 101. When the aerosol-generating article 101 is transported on the drum 752, the aerosol-generating article 101 passes through the first sensor 764 which is detected, and then passes through the second sensor 772 which is detected.

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

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

[0111] Figure 8 shows a portion of the apparatus 800, which has a first drum 850 and a second drum 852. The first drum 850 has a first central axis 851, and the first drum 850 rotates about this central axis. The second drum 852 has a second central axis 853, and the second drum 852 rotates about this central axis. The second drum 852 has a number of projections 882 that rise from the surface of the second drum 852. The projections 882 are spaced apart about the circumference of the second drum 852. The projections 882 are designed to engage with the aerosol generating article 101 and thereby transport the aerosol generating article 101 along a path along the circumference of the second drum 852. As the aerosol generating article 101 passes through the first drum 850 and the second drum 852, and then between these drums, the first drum 850 engages with the aerosol generating article 101. This causes the aerosol generating article 101 to rotate about its own axis in the direction indicated by the arrow 103.

[0112] Sensor 862 is provided in a location from which it can be directed toward an aerosol-generating article 101 positioned between a first drum 850 and a second drum 852. If the aerosol-generating article 101 rotates about its axis, sensor 862 emits a signal 864 toward the article 101 as the article rotates. This allows the aerosol-generating article 101 to be exposed to sensor 862 at two or more locations. A field of view is provided around the circumference of the aerosol-generating article 101. Sensor 862 determines whether the aerosol-generating article contains tagant and the concentration of tagant present. When tagant in article 101 absorbs the emitted signal 864, the spectroscopic signal changes. The signal is reflected back by sensor 862 and picked up by sensor 862. The reflected signal is used to determine the tagant in the aerosol-generating article 101 and the concentration of tagant present. The signal is then compared to a predetermined concentration of Tagant in substantially the same manner as described with reference to Figure 6.

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

[0114] As used herein and in the appended claims, the singular forms "a," "an," and "the" include embodiments having plural subjects, unless otherwise clearly defined by their content.

[0115] As used herein and in the appended claims, the term “or” generally means “by another means” or “in addition,” unless otherwise clearly defined by the context.

[0116] As used herein, “have,” “having,” “include,” “including,” “comprise,” “comprising,” and similar terms are used in an unrestricted sense and generally mean “include, but not limited to.” Naturally, “consisting essentially of,” “consisting of,” and similar terms are subsumed under “comprising” and similar terms.

[0117] The terms “preferred” and “preferred” refer to embodiments of the present invention that may provide certain advantages under specific circumstances. However, other embodiments may also be preferred under the same or other circumstances. Furthermore, the enumeration of one or more preferred embodiments does not imply that other embodiments are unhelpful, nor is it intended to exclude other embodiments from the scope of this disclosure, including the claims.

[0118] Any directions or orientations mentioned herein, such as “top,” “bottom,” “left,” “right,” “upper,” “lower,” and other directions or orientations, are described herein for clarity and brevity and are not intended to limit the actual devices or systems. The devices and systems described herein may be used in a number of directions and orientations.

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

Claims

1. A method for manufacturing components of an aerosol-generating article, including a tagant, wherein the method is performed on a production line, - The process of applying the tagant to the constituent elements, - A step of detecting the amount of tagant contained in the component by absorption spectroscopy, wherein the detection step is performed by a plurality of sensors, at least one sensor is positioned on the production line after the application and fixing of the chipping paper component to another component, and at least one sensor is positioned on the production line after the component has been wrapped, - A step of determining whether the detected amount of the tagant is less than a first predetermined amount, - A step of rejecting the component if the amount of the detected tagant is smaller than the first predetermined amount, Methods that include...

2. - A step of determining whether the detected amount of tagant is greater than a second predetermined amount, The method according to claim 1, further comprising the step of rejecting a component if the amount of the detected tagant is greater than the second predetermined amount.

3. The method according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the first predetermined amount of Tagant is a concentration of 5 milligrams of Tagant per square meter, or a concentration of 10 milligrams of Tagant per square meter, or a concentration of 20 milligrams of Tagant per square meter, or a concentration of 50 milligrams of Tagant per square meter, or a concentration of 100 milligrams of Tagant per square meter.

4. The method according to claim 2, wherein the second predetermined amount of Tagant is a concentration of Tagant of 250 milligrams per square meter, or a concentration of Tagant of 300 milligrams per square meter, or a concentration of Tagant of 400 milligrams per square meter, or a concentration of Tagant of 450 milligrams per square meter, or a concentration of Tagant of 500 milligrams per square meter.

5. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 4, further comprising the step of applying Tagant to a component, wherein the component is a filter, a wrapper, chipping paper, adhesive, chipping paper adhesive, filter plug wrap, or any combination of the aforementioned components.

6. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 5, further comprising the step of applying the tagant to the joint surface between the tobacco rod component and the filter component.

7. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 6, further comprising the step of applying the tagant to the inner surface of the chipping paper component.

8. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 7, further comprising the step of applying the tagant substantially around the circumference of the component.

9. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 8, further comprising the steps of detecting, determining, and repeating the rejection step if the amount of the detected tagant is less than a first predetermined amount.

10. The method according to claim 5 or 7, further comprising the step of detecting the amount of tagant contained in the component, after the manufacturing step of applying and fixing the chipping paper component to another component.

11. Apparatus in a production line for manufacturing components of an aerosol-generating article, including a tagant, wherein the apparatus is - A dispenser configured to apply Tagant to its components, - A plurality of sensors configured to detect the amount of the tagant contained in the component by absorption spectroscopy, wherein at least one sensor is positioned in the production line after the application and fixing of the chipping paper component to another component, and at least one sensor is positioned in the production line after the component has been wrapped, - A controller configured to determine whether the detected amount of the tagant is less than a first predetermined amount, - A rejection system configured to reject a component if the detected amount of the tagant is less than the first predetermined amount, Equipment.

12. - The controller is configured to determine whether the detected amount of tagant is greater than a second predetermined amount. - The device according to claim 11, wherein the rejection system is configured to reject a component if the amount of the detected tagant is greater than a second predetermined amount.

13. The apparatus according to claim 11 or 12, wherein the component is an adhesive, the apparatus further comprises an adhesive dispenser for dispensing the adhesive, the adhesive dispenser comprises a glue application roller, and the glue application roller further comprises grooves.

14. The apparatus according to any one of claims 11 to 13, further comprising a mask configured to protect the dispensed Tagant from reaching an undesirable area.

15. It is a parts kit, - Multiple manufacturing equipment forming a manufacturing line suitable for manufacturing components of aerosol-generating articles, - A plurality of sensors configured to detect the amount of Tagant contained in a manufactured component by absorption spectroscopy, wherein at least one sensor is positioned on the production line after the application and fixing of the chipping paper component to another component, and at least one sensor is positioned on the production line after the component has been wrapped, - A controller for determining whether the amount of the tagant contained in the manufactured component is less than a first predetermined amount, - A rejection system configured to reject manufactured components having a tagant amount smaller than the first predetermined amount, Parts kit.

16. - The controller is for determining whether the amount of the tagant contained in the manufactured component is greater than a second predetermined amount. - The rejection system is configured to reject manufactured components having a tagant amount greater than the second predetermined amount, according to claim 15.

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