WO2023046830A1 - Consumable recognition based on friction sound of embossed features - Google Patents

Consumable recognition based on friction sound of embossed features Download PDF

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Publication number
WO2023046830A1
WO2023046830A1 PCT/EP2022/076367 EP2022076367W WO2023046830A1 WO 2023046830 A1 WO2023046830 A1 WO 2023046830A1 EP 2022076367 W EP2022076367 W EP 2022076367W WO 2023046830 A1 WO2023046830 A1 WO 2023046830A1
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WO
WIPO (PCT)
Prior art keywords
consumable article
generation device
aerosol generation
embossed features
opening
Prior art date
Application number
PCT/EP2022/076367
Other languages
French (fr)
Inventor
Matteo BRUNA
Original Assignee
Jt International Sa
Priority date (The priority date is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the date listed.)
Filing date
Publication date
Application filed by Jt International Sa filed Critical Jt International Sa
Publication of WO2023046830A1 publication Critical patent/WO2023046830A1/en

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Classifications

    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A24—TOBACCO; CIGARS; CIGARETTES; SIMULATED SMOKING DEVICES; SMOKERS' REQUISITES
    • A24F—SMOKERS' REQUISITES; MATCH BOXES; SIMULATED SMOKING DEVICES
    • A24F40/00—Electrically operated smoking devices; Component parts thereof; Manufacture thereof; Maintenance or testing thereof; Charging means specially adapted therefor
    • A24F40/50—Control or monitoring
    • A24F40/51—Arrangement of sensors
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A24—TOBACCO; CIGARS; CIGARETTES; SIMULATED SMOKING DEVICES; SMOKERS' REQUISITES
    • A24D—CIGARS; CIGARETTES; TOBACCO SMOKE FILTERS; MOUTHPIECES FOR CIGARS OR CIGARETTES; MANUFACTURE OF TOBACCO SMOKE FILTERS OR MOUTHPIECES
    • A24D1/00—Cigars; Cigarettes
    • A24D1/02—Cigars; Cigarettes with special covers
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A24—TOBACCO; CIGARS; CIGARETTES; SIMULATED SMOKING DEVICES; SMOKERS' REQUISITES
    • A24D—CIGARS; CIGARETTES; TOBACCO SMOKE FILTERS; MOUTHPIECES FOR CIGARS OR CIGARETTES; MANUFACTURE OF TOBACCO SMOKE FILTERS OR MOUTHPIECES
    • A24D1/00—Cigars; Cigarettes
    • A24D1/20—Cigarettes specially adapted for simulated smoking devices
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A24—TOBACCO; CIGARS; CIGARETTES; SIMULATED SMOKING DEVICES; SMOKERS' REQUISITES
    • A24F—SMOKERS' REQUISITES; MATCH BOXES; SIMULATED SMOKING DEVICES
    • A24F40/00—Electrically operated smoking devices; Component parts thereof; Manufacture thereof; Maintenance or testing thereof; Charging means specially adapted therefor
    • A24F40/50—Control or monitoring
    • A24F40/53—Monitoring, e.g. fault detection
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A24—TOBACCO; CIGARS; CIGARETTES; SIMULATED SMOKING DEVICES; SMOKERS' REQUISITES
    • A24F—SMOKERS' REQUISITES; MATCH BOXES; SIMULATED SMOKING DEVICES
    • A24F40/00—Electrically operated smoking devices; Component parts thereof; Manufacture thereof; Maintenance or testing thereof; Charging means specially adapted therefor
    • A24F40/20—Devices using solid inhalable precursors

Definitions

  • the present invention relates to an aerosol generation device , a consumable article for an aerosol device , a system compri sing an aerosol generation device and a consumable article , a computer-implemented method for identi fying a consumable article and a corresponding computer program .
  • a common type o f these devices are heat-not-burn devices in which an aerosol substrate is heated to generate the aerosol .
  • devices of this type generate an aerosol or vapor by heating an aerosol substrate that typically comprises moist leaf tobacco or other suitable aerosol isable material to a temperature typically in the range from 150 ° C to 300 ° C .
  • Heating the aerosol substrate without burning or combusting it releases an aerosol comprising the component sought after by the user without compri sing the by-products of burning or combusting, which typically are toxic and/or carcinogenic .
  • the avoidance of burning/combusting also avoids the bitter or burnt taste oftentimes considered unpleasant by the user.
  • the aerosol substrate heated by the device is typically provided by a consumable article that is removably inserted into the aerosol generation device. After consumption of the article, the article can be removed, and a next article can be inserted for further use of the device.
  • the article and the device are compatible to each other, not least for safety concerns. If for example a wrong consumable article, such as a counterfeit, is inserted into the aerosol generation device and operation is performed, this may damage not only the consumable article and the aerosol generation device but may also pose a health risk to a user.
  • One of the objects of the present disclosure is to overcome at least one of the above-mentioned prior art problems or to improve at least one of the prior art solutions.
  • the object is achieved by the subject-matter of the independent claims. Further preferred embodiments are given by the subject-matter of the dependent claims.
  • an aerosol generation device comprising: an outer body; an opening accessible on the outer body and configured to receive a consumable article, wherein the opening is configured to generate a friction sound when a consumable article including embossed features on its wrapper, the embossed features pre ferably containing information about the consumable article , s lides on the opening into the aerosol generation device ; a sensor conf igured to detect the friction sound; and a control ler configured to analyze the friction sound and identi fy the consumable article based on the friction sound .
  • the aerosol generation device further comprises a sound guide extending from the opening to the sensor to trans fer the friction sound .
  • the aerosol generation device further compri ses a f lexible strip next to the opening to ampli fy the friction sound and direct vibration to the sensor .
  • the senor of the aerosol generation device includes a microphone or a piezoelectric transducer .
  • the controller of the aerosol generation device i s conf igured to inf luence the operation o f the aerosol generation device in accordance with the identi f ied consumable article .
  • a consumable article for an aerosol device wherein the consumable article i s conf igured to be sl id into an opening o f an aerosol generation device , and the consumable article includes embossed features on or with its wrapper and the embossed features pre ferably contain information about the consumable article .
  • the embossed features are such that when the consumable article sl ides on an opening of the aerosol generation device into the aerosol generation device , the opening generates a friction sound due to the embossed features .
  • the embossed features are sequential ly arranged along a direction o f insertion into the aerosol generation device .
  • the embossed features are arranged uni formly over the article in a direction orthogonal to the direction o f insertion .
  • the embossed features vary both in a direction of insertion into the aerosol generation device and a direction orthogonal to the direction o f insertion .
  • the wrapper is a paper wrapper .
  • the information is coded information .
  • the embossed features have a pro fi le o f les s than 30 mi ll imeters and more 10 mi ll imeters .
  • the embossed features are arranged with predef ined heights corresponding to predef ined value of the sound volume generated when inserted the consumable article i s inserted into the aerosol generation device .
  • a system comprising an aerosol generation device according to an embodiment of the present invention and a consumable article according to an embodiment o f the present invention .
  • a method executed by an aerosol generation device of identifying a consumable article inserted into the aerosol generation device comprising the steps of: detecting a friction sound generated when the consumable article including embossed features on its wrapper, the embossed features containing information about the consumable article, is slid on the opening into the aerosol generation device; analyzing the friction sound; and identifying the consumable article based on the friction sound.
  • a computer program comprising instructions which, when the program is executed by a computer, cause the computer to carry out the method according to an embodiment of the present invention.
  • Fig. 1 shows a schematic view of an aerosol generation device according to an embodiment of the present invention
  • Figs. 2A and 2B show schematic views of consumable articles with embossed features on their wrapper according to an embodiment of the present invention
  • Fig . 3 shows a schematic view of a prof ile of the embos sed features according to an embodiment o f the present invention
  • Fig . 4 shows a schematic view of a consumable article partially inserted into an aerosol generation device comprising a sound guide according to an embodiment of the present invention
  • Fig . 5 shows a schematic view of a consumable article partially inserted into an aerosol generation device comprising a f lexible strip according to an embodiment o f the present invention ;
  • Fig . 6 shows a schematic view of a consumable article partially inserted into an aerosol generation device according to an embodiment of the present invention .
  • Fig . 7 shows a schematic graph o f a sound volume generated and detected when a consumable article is inserted into an aerosol generation device according to an embodiment of the present invention .
  • the aerosol generation device may adj us t its operation in accordance with information provided about the inserted consumable article . Accordingly, it is desired that the consumable article and aerosol generation device are provided such that the latter obtains information about the former upon inserting and is able to identify the inserted consumable article to ensure proper and appropriate operation of the aerosol generation device .
  • a further recognition is that the additional elements provided in the aerosol generation device performing the recognition and elements provided on the consumable article should not increase the size and/or weight of the respective part.
  • the size of a sensor for detecting the friction sound is negligible within the context of the overall size and/or weight of the device.
  • Fig. 1 shows schematic views of an aerosol generation device 1 according to an embodiment of the present invention, wherein a consumable article 2 is inserted in the aerosol generation device 1.
  • the aerosol generation device 1 comprises an outer body 10; an opening 11 accessible on the outer body 10 and configured to receive a consumable article 2, wherein the opening 11 is configured to generate a friction sound when a consumable article 2 including embossed features 21 on or with its wrapper 20 slides on the opening 11 into the aerosol generation device 1.
  • the embossed features 21 may contain information about the consumable article 2.
  • the aerosol generation device 1 comprises a sensor 12 configured to detect the friction sound, and a controller 13 configured to analyze the friction sound and identify the consumable article 2 based on the friction sound.
  • the consumable article 2 for an aerosol generation device 1 is configured to be slid into an opening 11 of an aerosol generation device 1, and the consumable article 2 includes embossed features 21 on or with its wrapper 20 and the embossed features 21 may contain information about the consumable article 2.
  • the aerosol generation device 1 and the consumable article 2 are inter-related, in the sense that they can be used in combination; however, they are provided independently, e.g., it is not required to necessarily provide a consumable article 2 with the aerosol generation device 1 and even less to integrate the consumable with the aerosol generation device 1.
  • the aerosol generation device 1 and the consumable article 2 may build a system comprising these two elements, wherein the consumable article 2 may be engaged and/or disengaged with the aerosol generation device 1.
  • the aerosol generation device 1 is preferably a heat-not-burn aerosol generation device 1, for example as above illustrated. Further, the aerosol generation device 1 may have an optionally overall elongate and/or pebble-like shape, with a top end at which an aerosol is provided opposed to the top end, and four sides between the bottom end and the top end in a substantially quadrilateral arrangement of preferably two larger opposing sides and two smaller opposing sides.
  • the aerosol generation device 1 is however not limited to a particular shape, as long as the device and the consumable article 2 have respective shapes that can be engaged .
  • the outer body 10 may be seen as a housing of the aerosol generation device 1, in particular for the internal components of the aerosol generation device 1, for example for at least the sensor 12 and the controller 13.
  • the aerosol generation device 1 may further comprise an electrical power source 16, a heating chamber 17, a heater 18, and control circuitry 19.
  • the control circuitry 19 may coincide with the controller 13 or may be a separate entity.
  • the aerosol generation device 1 may comprise at least one indicator, such as a light, a LED or the like, and at least one input, such as a button, a switch or the like for controlling the aerosol generation device 1.
  • a heating operation may be described as follows: When the consumable article 2 is inserted into the opening 11 of the aerosol generation device 1, an aerosol substrate provided in the consumable article 2 can enter the heating chamber 17. Therein, the aerosol substrate is heated by the heater 18, thereby creating the aerosol; this process may be controlled by the control circuitry 19 and may be powered by the electrical power source 16.
  • the heating operation does not need to be necessarily performed especially in view of the identifications of the consumable, i.e., the identification can be achieved also without any heating taking place.
  • the aerosol generation device 1 may be a heat- not-burn device, which may include for example a thin film heater in tube shape attached to the heating chamber or a pin/blade heater fixed to bottom of heating chamber and penetrating into the consumable.
  • the heater 18 may be at least one susceptor such as a metal element enclosed in the consumable article 2. In this case, induction heating powered by the electric power source of the heater 18 leads to the aerosol generation.
  • a heater 18 may be obtained also by combining any of the mentioned examples.
  • the identification of the consumable is obtained by means of the embossed features 21;
  • the embossed features 21 include protrusions provided on or with the consumable article 2, in particular protrusions that are provided outwardly and/or inwardly in correspondence with the surface of the consumable article 2 (e.g., the wrapper surface, see further below) that come into contact with the aerosol generation device 1 when inserting.
  • the embossed features 21 may represent physical variations of the surface of the consumable article 2, preferably the wrapper 20 of the consumable article 2, configured to generate a friction sound when inserted into the aerosol generation device 1.
  • the surface of the aerosol generation device 1, preferably the surface of the opening 11 of the aerosol generation device 1, that engages with the consumable article 2 may be a smooth or non-smooth surface so that a friction sound in generated when inserting the consumable article 2 (e.g., when engaging the two) .
  • the embossed features 21 may also be named embossed region.
  • sound is understood to also include vibrations, i.e., any mechanical oscillations occurring about an equilibrium point are understood to fall under the term "sound”.
  • sound as herein is not restricted to vibrations propagating as an acoustic wave through a transmission medium such as a gas, liquid or solid. Moreover, sound shall in particular not be understood to be restricted to a certain range of frequencies perceptible by humans.
  • the consumable article 2 preferably has a wrapper 20, the wrapper 20 is provided with embossed features 21 leading to a specific structure on its surface or at least part of its surface.
  • the consumable article 2 is entered into the opening 11 of the aerosol generation device 1, the consumable article 2, more specifically the embossed features 21 provided on its wrapper 20, come into contact with the opening 11 of the aerosol generation device 1.
  • This mechanical interaction i.e., this friction, leads a sound referred to herein also as friction sound due to its origin.
  • the sensor 12 may then detect the sound and provide information allowing an analysis of the sound to the controller 13.
  • the sensor 12 or a detection circuit coupled to or integrated with the sensor 12
  • the controller 13 then processes the provided information which may be information about the consumable article 2 by analyzing the friction sound and thereby identify the consumable article 2. Accordingly, in an embodiment of the present invention, the aerosol generation device 1 may be able to recognize that an item, for example a consumable article 2, has been inserted. Accordingly, in an embodiment of present invention the information may be coded information, e.g., a sequence of bits corresponding to the friction sound. A consumable article 2 is identified when for example the codeword detected in correspondence of the friction sound corresponds at least partly to at least one predetermined codeword or is at least partly within a predetermined range of codewords.
  • identifying also includes the possibility that no identification of the consumable article 2 is possible, i.e., a "negative identification” is included as well, when e.g., the coded bits detected from the friction sound do not correspond to any predetermined codeword. This may, for example, happen if a wrong consumable article 2 is inserted or if the embossed features 21 of the wrapper 20 are damaged or absent.
  • a wrong consumable article 2 may include a consumable article 2 that does not work with the aerosol generation device 1 or a consumable article 2 that has not been manufactured by the manufacturer of the aerosol generation device 1 or an authorized manufacturer, for example, authorized by the manufacturer of the aerosol generation device 1.
  • the identification of the consumable article 2 may include specifics of the consumable article 2, for example the type, the size or the like.
  • a further embodiment of the present invention relates to a computer-implemented method executed by an aerosol generation device lof identifying a consumable article 2 inserted into the aerosol generation device 1, the method comprising the steps of: detecting a friction sound generated when the consumable article 2 including embossed features 21 on its wrapper 20, the embossed features 21 optionally containing information about the consumable article 2, is slid on the opening 11 into the aerosol generation device 1; analysing the friction sound; and identifying the consumable article 2 based on the friction sound .
  • controller 13 of the aerosol generation device 1 This can be realized, for example, by the controller 13 of the aerosol generation device 1. Accordingly, the controller 13 may be understood as a computer (or part thereof) in the context of the present invention.
  • a further embodiment of the present invention relates to a computer program comprising instructions which, when the program is executed by a computer, cause the computer to carry out the above method.
  • the controller 13 may be configured to influence the operation of the aerosol generation device 1 in accordance with the identified consumable article 2. This may include, for example, restriction of the operation of the aerosol generation device 1 if the consumable article 2 is not identified or modification of the operation of the aerosol generation device 1 in connection with the consumable article 2 and the specifics of the consumable article 2. Such specifics may be modes of operations as well as parameters of the operation, in particular related to the heating. For example, depending on the type of consumable article 2 identified, a certain (e.g., predetermined) heating profile may be performed that is specific to that consumable.
  • the embossed features 21 are involved in the generation of said sound. That is, in an embodiment of the present invention the embossed features 21 of the wrapper 20 of the consumable article 2 are such that when the consumable article 2 slides on an opening 11 of the aerosol generation device 1 into the aerosol generation device 1, the opening 11 generates a friction sound due to the embossed features 21. In other words, the embossed features 21 are specifically configured to generate friction sound when inserted in the corresponding aerosol generation device 1.
  • a consumable article 2 with a wrapper 20 not having the embossed features 21 may not lead to the generation of the friction sound when entered into the opening 11 of the aerosol generation device 1 and in particular may not lead to the generation of the same sound compared to a consumable article 2 with a wrapper 20 having the embossed features 21.
  • the material of the wrapper 20 and the embossed features 21 thereon is not particularly limited and may, for example, be paper or typical plastics such as PET, MDPE, LDPE, PP, and PVC .
  • the senor 12 may include a microphone or a piezoelectric transducer, though it is not limited to any specific type as long as it is capable of sensing the friction sound as herein discussed.
  • a piezoelectric transducer or a piezoelectric sensor in more general terms, such as a piezoelectric strip played at the opening 11 or at the flexible strip 15 may allow for direct detection in the sense that the mechanical deformations are directly converted into an electrical signal, for example allowing for direct detection of the vibrations generated by the friction.
  • Commonly known materials for such a piezoelectric sensor are PZT, ZnPO, PVDF or the like.
  • Figs. 2A and 2B show schematic views of consumable articles 2 with embossed features 21 on their wrapper 20 according to an embodiment of the present invention.
  • the consumable articles 2 shown in these figures each have a filter 22 on one side and embossed features 21 on the other side, however, it is noted that a consumable article 2 according to an embodiment of the present invention may also not include the filter 22.
  • the filter can be seen as an equivalent of a mouthpiece and thus protrudes outside of the aerosol generation device when the consumable article 2 is inserted therein, it is understood that the filter 22 may not contain any embossed features 21. Accordingly, the consumable article 2 is entered into the aerosol generation device 1 such that the part with the embossed features 21 slides past the opening 11, thereby allowing sound generation.
  • the embossed features 21 may be sequentially arranged along a direction of insertion into the aerosol generation device 1.
  • the embossed features 21 may be arranged uniformly over the article in a direction orthogonal to the direction of insertion as is for example shown in Fig. 2A.
  • the embossed features 21 are schematically shown as strips that are arranged parallel to each other and provided over the whole range of the wrapper 20 (in a direction orthogonal to the direction of insertion) .
  • Such a configuration may lead to a simpler process of sound generation, sound detection and consumable article 2 identification as the uniform provision of the embossed features 21 may lead to these processes being independent from the details how the consumable article 2 is entered into the aerosol generation device 1.
  • Such a configuration may be further advantageous if the cross section of the consumable article 2 orthogonal to the direction of insertion is for example circular or close to circular, for example, elliptical.
  • the embossed features 21 on the wrapper 20 of the consumable vary both in a direction of insertion into the aerosol generation device 1 and a direction orthogonal to the direction of insertion.
  • the sequence in which the embossed features 21 are provided on the wrapper 20 can be used to modify the overall structure of the embossed features 21, and thus the generated sound, but also the overall placement.
  • This further degree of freedom in structuring the embossed features 21 increases the possibilities of engineering the sound to be generated upon insertion and thus may serve as a counterfeit measure.
  • Such a configuration may in particular be advantageous in a consumable article 2 with a cross section of the consumable article 2 orthogonal to the direction of insertion being rectangular or substantially rectangular as then the insertion orientation is fixed by the shape of the consumable article 2.
  • Figs. 2A and 2B show an example of a consumable article 2 including a filter; the filter can however be omitted as in fact its presence or absence does not change how the article is identified by means of the embossed features 21.
  • Fig. 3 shows a schematic view of a profile of the embossed features 21 according to an embodiment of the present invention.
  • the profile of the embossed features 21 may take the form of half-circles but is not limited thereto. For example, rectangular profiles, cubic profiles, elliptical profiles, triangular profile or the like are possible as well.
  • the embossed features 21 can have different profiles, that is, the above options can be mixed without particular restriction.
  • the profile may extend inwardly into the surface. In one example, the profile may extend outwardly and inwardly relative to the surface of the consumable article 2.
  • the embossed features 21 may have a profile with a height H of less than 30 millimeters and more 10 millimeters, in particular in case that the material of the wrapper 20 and the embossed features 21 is paper. Such a range may be advantageous as this may allow reliable sound generation without hindering the insertion of the consumable article 2.
  • the height H may be less than 0.5 millimeters and more than 0.1 millimeters.
  • Fig. 4 shows a schematic view of a consumable article 2 partially inserted into an aerosol generation device 1 comprising an optional sound guide according to an embodiment of the present invention.
  • Fig. 4 shows a part of the aerosol generation device 1 including the opening 11 into which the consumable article 2 is inserted, a sound guide and a sensor 12.
  • the sound guide is provided such that it transfers (guides) the sound generated upon insertion by the opening 11 to the sensor 12. This has the advantage that the configuration of the aerosol generation device 1 is more flexible as the sensor 12 is not required to be in proximity to the opening 11. Further, the sound guide may also reduce losses, i.e., the sound arriving at the sensor 12 is closer to sound generated at the opening 11 compared to a configuration without the sound guide.
  • the aerosol generation device 1 comprises a sound guide extending from the opening 11 to the sensor 12 to transfer the friction sound .
  • Fig. 5 shows a schematic view of a consumable article 2 partially inserted into an aerosol generation device 1 comprising an optional flexible strip according to an embodiment of the present invention.
  • Fig. 5 shows a part of the aerosol generation device 1 including the opening 11 into which the consumable article 2 is inserted, a flexible strip and a sensor 12.
  • the flexible strip is provided at the opening 11 of the aerosol generation device 1 such that in comes into contact with the consumable article 2 upon insertion of the same into the aerosol generation device 1. Accordingly, the flexible strip is moved when the consumable article 2 is inserted around its equilibrium position, thereby generating the friction sound.
  • the aerosol generation device 1 comprises a flexible strip next to the opening 11 to amplify the friction sound and direct vibration to the sensor 12.
  • Figs. 4 and 5 show, for mere sake of illustration, the sensor 12 with the shape of a microphone.
  • this is not limiting the sensor 12, as in fact the present disclosure foresees any type of sensor and/or transducer capable of sending a friction sounds in the sense further above explained.
  • Fig. 6 shows a schematic view of a consumable article 2 partially inserted into an aerosol generation device 1 according to an embodiment of the present invention.
  • the embossed features 21 may have different sizes and/or heights which may have an impact on the friction with the opening 11 and in turn may also have an impact on the sound generated thereby.
  • the height of the embossed features 21 may serve another degree of freedom for the information represented by the embossed features 21 and obtained by the controller 13.
  • the embossed features 21 of the consumable article 2 are arranged with predefined heights corresponding to predefined value of the sound volume generated when inserted the consumable article 2 is inserted into the aerosol generation device 1.
  • FIG. 7 shows a schematic graph of a sound volume generated and detected when a consumable article 2 is inserted into an aerosol generation device 1 according to an embodiment of the present invention.
  • This graph shows a sound signal in terms of its sound volume as a function of time. It illustrates that the sound generated by the friction can be interpreted either as an analog signal in which signal as such is detected and processed and the identification of the consumable article 2 is based thereon or as a digital signal. In the latter case, instead of the details of each of the "bumps" in the signal the general structure of the bump is considered.
  • 'quiet' sounds such as the second and the fifth sounds (e.g. portions 720 and 750, respectively, of the waveform depicted in Fig. 7) and 'loud' sound such as the remaining sounds, i.e., the first (710) , third (730) , fourth (740) , sixth (750) and seventh (770) sound.
  • the identification may be achieved by comparting the analog waveform with a predetermined, e.g., stored, waveform.
  • these sounds may be digitized: For example, 'quiet' sounds are attributed the value '0' and 'loud' sounds are attributed the value '1' . Processing by the controller 13 may then be based on a recognition of the sound in terms of these categories and the subsequent identification may be done based on the attributed values, e.g., the sequence of attributed values.
  • the present disclosure is however not limited to the examples provided; for example, to each section of the waveform of Fig. 7 a codeword may be associated, which codeword may depend on the time length over which the signal is above a certain threshold and/or on an intensity of the signal being above one threshold amongst a plurality of thresholds.
  • the signal portion 700 may be associated to the codeword "11", signal portion 710 to the codeword "00", signal portion 720 to the codeword "01”, etc.
  • portions of the waveform/ signal representing the friction sound may be associated to a specific codeword (in the sense of a sequence of one or more bits) depending on the length and/or intensity of the signal in that waveform portion.
  • the waveform may correspond to information encoded based on specific rules; the encoded information may include an error detection code (like e.g., CRC) and/or information (e.g., redundancy information) for applying error correction. In this way, a confirmation of the correctness of identification can be achieved and/or identification can be accurately achieved also in presence of noise.
  • CRC error detection code
  • redundancy information redundancy information
  • the categorization into categories based on sound volume is based on a range instead of single fixed value as the signal includes some noise compared to an exact rectangular signal. Accordingly, such a detection and digitization may be based on a determination that a sound is within a certain sound volume range for a certain range of time. In this way artificial peaks, for example due to noise, can be filtered out .
  • the aerosol generation device 1 may compri se a sound guide and a flexible strip . Simi larly, aspects related to the aerosol generation device 1 and aspects related to the consumable article 2 can be combined as wel l .

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Abstract

Provided is an aerosol generation device (1), comprising an outer body (10); an opening (11) accessible on the outer body (10) and configured to receive a consumable article (2), wherein the opening (11) is configured to generate a friction sound when a consumable article (2) including embossed features (21) on its wrapper (20), the embossed features (21) preferably containing information about the consumable article (2), slides on the opening into the aerosol generation device; a sensor (12) configured to detect the friction sound; and a controller (13) configured to analyze the friction sound and identify the consumable article (2) based on the friction sound. Provided is further a consumable article (2) for an aerosol device (1), wherein the consumable article (2) is configured to be slid into an opening (11) of an aerosol generation device (1), and the consumable article (2) preferably includes embossed features (21) on its wrapper (20) and the embossed features (21) contain information about the consumable article (2). Provided is furthermore a method (preferably a computer-implemented method) executed by an aerosol generation device of identifying a consumable article inserted into the aerosol generation device, the method comprising the steps of: detecting a friction sound generated when the consumable article including embossed features on its wrapper, the embossed features preferably containing information about the consumable article, is slid on the opening into the aerosol generation device; analyzing the friction sound; and identifying the consumable article based on the friction sound, as well as a corresponding computer program.

Description

Consumable recognition based on friction sound of embossed features
Technical Field
The present invention relates to an aerosol generation device , a consumable article for an aerosol device , a system compri sing an aerosol generation device and a consumable article , a computer-implemented method for identi fying a consumable article and a corresponding computer program .
Technical Background
In the past years , devices providing an alternative to traditional tobacco products have gained tremendous interest .
A common type o f these devices are heat-not-burn devices in which an aerosol substrate is heated to generate the aerosol . In detail , devices of this type generate an aerosol or vapor by heating an aerosol substrate that typically comprises moist leaf tobacco or other suitable aerosol isable material to a temperature typically in the range from 150 ° C to 300 ° C .
Heating the aerosol substrate without burning or combusting it releases an aerosol compris ing the component sought after by the user without compri sing the by-products of burning or combusting, which typically are toxic and/or carcinogenic . The avoidance of burning/combusting also avoids the bitter or burnt taste oftentimes considered unpleasant by the user.
The aerosol substrate heated by the device is typically provided by a consumable article that is removably inserted into the aerosol generation device. After consumption of the article, the article can be removed, and a next article can be inserted for further use of the device.
In this context, it is important that the article and the device are compatible to each other, not least for safety concerns. If for example a wrong consumable article, such as a counterfeit, is inserted into the aerosol generation device and operation is performed, this may damage not only the consumable article and the aerosol generation device but may also pose a health risk to a user.
However, prior art solutions are not effective or efficient e.g., in ensuring compatibility of aerosol generation devices with a consumable article.
Summary
One of the objects of the present disclosure is to overcome at least one of the above-mentioned prior art problems or to improve at least one of the prior art solutions. The object is achieved by the subject-matter of the independent claims. Further preferred embodiments are given by the subject-matter of the dependent claims.
According to an embodiment of the present invention, there is provided an aerosol generation device, comprising: an outer body; an opening accessible on the outer body and configured to receive a consumable article, wherein the opening is configured to generate a friction sound when a consumable article including embossed features on its wrapper, the embossed features pre ferably containing information about the consumable article , s lides on the opening into the aerosol generation device ; a sensor conf igured to detect the friction sound; and a control ler configured to analyze the friction sound and identi fy the consumable article based on the friction sound .
In a preferred embodiment of the present invention, the aerosol generation device further comprises a sound guide extending from the opening to the sensor to trans fer the friction sound .
In a preferred embodiment of the present invention, the aerosol generation device further compri ses a f lexible strip next to the opening to ampli fy the friction sound and direct vibration to the sensor .
In a preferred embodiment of the present invention, the sensor of the aerosol generation device includes a microphone or a piezoelectric transducer .
In a preferred embodiment of the present invention, the controller of the aerosol generation device i s conf igured to inf luence the operation o f the aerosol generation device in accordance with the identi f ied consumable article .
According to a further embodiment of the present invention, there is provided a consumable article for an aerosol device , wherein the consumable article i s conf igured to be sl id into an opening o f an aerosol generation device , and the consumable article includes embossed features on or with its wrapper and the embossed features pre ferably contain information about the consumable article .
In a preferred embodiment of the present invention, the embossed features are such that when the consumable article sl ides on an opening of the aerosol generation device into the aerosol generation device , the opening generates a friction sound due to the embossed features .
In a preferred embodiment of the present invention, the embossed features are sequential ly arranged along a direction o f insertion into the aerosol generation device .
In a preferred embodiment of the present invention, the embossed features are arranged uni formly over the article in a direction orthogonal to the direction o f insertion .
In a preferred embodiment of the present invention, the embossed features vary both in a direction of insertion into the aerosol generation device and a direction orthogonal to the direction o f insertion .
In a preferred embodiment of the present invention, the wrapper is a paper wrapper .
In a preferred embodiment of the present invention, the information is coded information .
In a preferred embodiment of the present invention, the embossed features have a pro fi le o f les s than 30 mi ll imeters and more 10 mi ll imeters .
In a preferred embodiment of the present invention, the embossed features are arranged with predef ined heights corresponding to predef ined value of the sound volume generated when inserted the consumable article i s inserted into the aerosol generation device .
According to a further embodiment of the present invention, there i s provided a system compris ing an aerosol generation device according to an embodiment of the present invention and a consumable article according to an embodiment o f the present invention . According to a further embodiment of the present invention, there is provided a method executed by an aerosol generation device of identifying a consumable article inserted into the aerosol generation device, the method comprising the steps of: detecting a friction sound generated when the consumable article including embossed features on its wrapper, the embossed features containing information about the consumable article, is slid on the opening into the aerosol generation device; analyzing the friction sound; and identifying the consumable article based on the friction sound.
According to a further embodiment of the present invention, there is provided a computer program comprising instructions which, when the program is executed by a computer, cause the computer to carry out the method according to an embodiment of the present invention.
Brief description of the drawings
Embodiments of the present invention, which are presented for better understanding the inventive concepts, but which are not to be seen as limiting the invention, will now be described with reference to the figures in which:
Fig. 1 shows a schematic view of an aerosol generation device according to an embodiment of the present invention;
Figs. 2A and 2B show schematic views of consumable articles with embossed features on their wrapper according to an embodiment of the present invention; Fig . 3 shows a schematic view of a prof ile of the embos sed features according to an embodiment o f the present invention ;
Fig . 4 shows a schematic view of a consumable article partially inserted into an aerosol generation device comprising a sound guide according to an embodiment of the present invention;
Fig . 5 shows a schematic view of a consumable article partially inserted into an aerosol generation device comprising a f lexible strip according to an embodiment o f the present invention ;
Fig . 6 shows a schematic view of a consumable article partially inserted into an aerosol generation device according to an embodiment of the present invention ; and
Fig . 7 shows a schematic graph o f a sound volume generated and detected when a consumable article is inserted into an aerosol generation device according to an embodiment of the present invention .
Detailed Description
Against the mentioned background, one recognition o f the inventors is that the aerosol generation device may adj us t its operation in accordance with information provided about the inserted consumable article . Accordingly, it is desired that the consumable article and aerosol generation device are provided such that the latter obtains information about the former upon inserting and is able to identify the inserted consumable article to ensure proper and appropriate operation of the aerosol generation device .
Moreover, it is desired that such a recognition is performed without affecting the user negatively. Thus, there should be no additional effort for the user and possibly the user may not even be aware of the recognition process happening.
A further recognition is that the additional elements provided in the aerosol generation device performing the recognition and elements provided on the consumable article should not increase the size and/or weight of the respective part. In this context, it is also to be recognized that the size of a sensor for detecting the friction sound is negligible within the context of the overall size and/or weight of the device.
Fig. 1 shows schematic views of an aerosol generation device 1 according to an embodiment of the present invention, wherein a consumable article 2 is inserted in the aerosol generation device 1.
The aerosol generation device 1 comprises an outer body 10; an opening 11 accessible on the outer body 10 and configured to receive a consumable article 2, wherein the opening 11 is configured to generate a friction sound when a consumable article 2 including embossed features 21 on or with its wrapper 20 slides on the opening 11 into the aerosol generation device 1. The embossed features 21 may contain information about the consumable article 2. Further, the aerosol generation device 1 comprises a sensor 12 configured to detect the friction sound, and a controller 13 configured to analyze the friction sound and identify the consumable article 2 based on the friction sound.
Accordingly, the consumable article 2 for an aerosol generation device 1 is configured to be slid into an opening 11 of an aerosol generation device 1, and the consumable article 2 includes embossed features 21 on or with its wrapper 20 and the embossed features 21 may contain information about the consumable article 2.
The aerosol generation device 1 and the consumable article 2 are inter-related, in the sense that they can be used in combination; however, they are provided independently, e.g., it is not required to necessarily provide a consumable article 2 with the aerosol generation device 1 and even less to integrate the consumable with the aerosol generation device 1.
The aerosol generation device 1 and the consumable article 2 may build a system comprising these two elements, wherein the consumable article 2 may be engaged and/or disengaged with the aerosol generation device 1.
In more detail, the aerosol generation device 1 is preferably a heat-not-burn aerosol generation device 1, for example as above illustrated. Further, the aerosol generation device 1 may have an optionally overall elongate and/or pebble-like shape, with a top end at which an aerosol is provided opposed to the top end, and four sides between the bottom end and the top end in a substantially quadrilateral arrangement of preferably two larger opposing sides and two smaller opposing sides. The aerosol generation device 1 is however not limited to a particular shape, as long as the device and the consumable article 2 have respective shapes that can be engaged . The outer body 10 may be seen as a housing of the aerosol generation device 1, in particular for the internal components of the aerosol generation device 1, for example for at least the sensor 12 and the controller 13. Further, the aerosol generation device 1 may further comprise an electrical power source 16, a heating chamber 17, a heater 18, and control circuitry 19. The control circuitry 19 may coincide with the controller 13 or may be a separate entity. Further, the aerosol generation device 1 may comprise at least one indicator, such as a light, a LED or the like, and at least one input, such as a button, a switch or the like for controlling the aerosol generation device 1.
A heating operation may be described as follows: When the consumable article 2 is inserted into the opening 11 of the aerosol generation device 1, an aerosol substrate provided in the consumable article 2 can enter the heating chamber 17. Therein, the aerosol substrate is heated by the heater 18, thereby creating the aerosol; this process may be controlled by the control circuitry 19 and may be powered by the electrical power source 16. We note however that the heating operation does not need to be necessarily performed especially in view of the identifications of the consumable, i.e., the identification can be achieved also without any heating taking place.
Optionally, the aerosol generation device 1 may be a heat- not-burn device, which may include for example a thin film heater in tube shape attached to the heating chamber or a pin/blade heater fixed to bottom of heating chamber and penetrating into the consumable. In another example, the heater 18 may be at least one susceptor such as a metal element enclosed in the consumable article 2. In this case, induction heating powered by the electric power source of the heater 18 leads to the aerosol generation. A heater 18 may be obtained also by combining any of the mentioned examples. As anticipated, the identification of the consumable is obtained by means of the embossed features 21; the embossed features 21 include protrusions provided on or with the consumable article 2, in particular protrusions that are provided outwardly and/or inwardly in correspondence with the surface of the consumable article 2 (e.g., the wrapper surface, see further below) that come into contact with the aerosol generation device 1 when inserting. Hence, the embossed features 21 may represent physical variations of the surface of the consumable article 2, preferably the wrapper 20 of the consumable article 2, configured to generate a friction sound when inserted into the aerosol generation device 1. Correspondingly, the surface of the aerosol generation device 1, preferably the surface of the opening 11 of the aerosol generation device 1, that engages with the consumable article 2 may be a smooth or non-smooth surface so that a friction sound in generated when inserting the consumable article 2 (e.g., when engaging the two) . The embossed features 21 may also be named embossed region. In the following, further details related to the friction sound are provided. It is noted that in this document the term "sound" is understood to also include vibrations, i.e., any mechanical oscillations occurring about an equilibrium point are understood to fall under the term "sound". That is to say, "sound" as herein is not restricted to vibrations propagating as an acoustic wave through a transmission medium such as a gas, liquid or solid. Moreover, sound shall in particular not be understood to be restricted to a certain range of frequencies perceptible by humans.
The consumable article 2 preferably has a wrapper 20, the wrapper 20 is provided with embossed features 21 leading to a specific structure on its surface or at least part of its surface. When the consumable article 2 is entered into the opening 11 of the aerosol generation device 1, the consumable article 2, more specifically the embossed features 21 provided on its wrapper 20, come into contact with the opening 11 of the aerosol generation device 1. This mechanical interaction, i.e., this friction, leads a sound referred to herein also as friction sound due to its origin. The sensor 12 may then detect the sound and provide information allowing an analysis of the sound to the controller 13. For example, the sensor 12 (or a detection circuit coupled to or integrated with the sensor 12) may provide a digital or an analog signal to the controller 13. The controller 13 then processes the provided information which may be information about the consumable article 2 by analyzing the friction sound and thereby identify the consumable article 2. Accordingly, in an embodiment of the present invention, the aerosol generation device 1 may be able to recognize that an item, for example a consumable article 2, has been inserted. Accordingly, in an embodiment of present invention the information may be coded information, e.g., a sequence of bits corresponding to the friction sound. A consumable article 2 is identified when for example the codeword detected in correspondence of the friction sound corresponds at least partly to at least one predetermined codeword or is at least partly within a predetermined range of codewords. In this context, "identifying" also includes the possibility that no identification of the consumable article 2 is possible, i.e., a "negative identification" is included as well, when e.g., the coded bits detected from the friction sound do not correspond to any predetermined codeword. This may, for example, happen if a wrong consumable article 2 is inserted or if the embossed features 21 of the wrapper 20 are damaged or absent. A wrong consumable article 2 may include a consumable article 2 that does not work with the aerosol generation device 1 or a consumable article 2 that has not been manufactured by the manufacturer of the aerosol generation device 1 or an authorized manufacturer, for example, authorized by the manufacturer of the aerosol generation device 1. Alternatively, the identification of the consumable article 2 may include specifics of the consumable article 2, for example the type, the size or the like.
In line with the above, a further embodiment of the present invention relates to a computer-implemented method executed by an aerosol generation device lof identifying a consumable article 2 inserted into the aerosol generation device 1, the method comprising the steps of: detecting a friction sound generated when the consumable article 2 including embossed features 21 on its wrapper 20, the embossed features 21 optionally containing information about the consumable article 2, is slid on the opening 11 into the aerosol generation device 1; analysing the friction sound; and identifying the consumable article 2 based on the friction sound .
This can be realized, for example, by the controller 13 of the aerosol generation device 1. Accordingly, the controller 13 may be understood as a computer (or part thereof) in the context of the present invention.
Correspondingly, a further embodiment of the present invention relates to a computer program comprising instructions which, when the program is executed by a computer, cause the computer to carry out the above method.
Accordingly, the controller 13 may be configured to influence the operation of the aerosol generation device 1 in accordance with the identified consumable article 2. This may include, for example, restriction of the operation of the aerosol generation device 1 if the consumable article 2 is not identified or modification of the operation of the aerosol generation device 1 in connection with the consumable article 2 and the specifics of the consumable article 2. Such specifics may be modes of operations as well as parameters of the operation, in particular related to the heating. For example, depending on the type of consumable article 2 identified, a certain (e.g., predetermined) heating profile may be performed that is specific to that consumable.
Regarding the generation of the sound, it is noted that in an embodiment of the present invention particularly the embossed features 21 are involved in the generation of said sound. That is, in an embodiment of the present invention the embossed features 21 of the wrapper 20 of the consumable article 2 are such that when the consumable article 2 slides on an opening 11 of the aerosol generation device 1 into the aerosol generation device 1, the opening 11 generates a friction sound due to the embossed features 21. In other words, the embossed features 21 are specifically configured to generate friction sound when inserted in the corresponding aerosol generation device 1. That may mean that a consumable article 2 with a wrapper 20 not having the embossed features 21 may not lead to the generation of the friction sound when entered into the opening 11 of the aerosol generation device 1 and in particular may not lead to the generation of the same sound compared to a consumable article 2 with a wrapper 20 having the embossed features 21.
Furthermore, it is noted that the material of the wrapper 20 and the embossed features 21 thereon is not particularly limited and may, for example, be paper or typical plastics such as PET, MDPE, LDPE, PP, and PVC .
In addition, it is noted that the sensor 12 may include a microphone or a piezoelectric transducer, though it is not limited to any specific type as long as it is capable of sensing the friction sound as herein discussed.
The use of a piezoelectric transducer or a piezoelectric sensor in more general terms, such as a piezoelectric strip played at the opening 11 or at the flexible strip 15 may allow for direct detection in the sense that the mechanical deformations are directly converted into an electrical signal, for example allowing for direct detection of the vibrations generated by the friction. Commonly known materials for such a piezoelectric sensor are PZT, ZnPO, PVDF or the like.
Figs. 2A and 2B show schematic views of consumable articles 2 with embossed features 21 on their wrapper 20 according to an embodiment of the present invention.
The consumable articles 2 shown in these figures each have a filter 22 on one side and embossed features 21 on the other side, however, it is noted that a consumable article 2 according to an embodiment of the present invention may also not include the filter 22. Moreover, as the filter can be seen as an equivalent of a mouthpiece and thus protrudes outside of the aerosol generation device when the consumable article 2 is inserted therein, it is understood that the filter 22 may not contain any embossed features 21. Accordingly, the consumable article 2 is entered into the aerosol generation device 1 such that the part with the embossed features 21 slides past the opening 11, thereby allowing sound generation.
As can be seen, in particular when comparing the consumable article 2 of Figs. 2A and 2B, the embossed features 21 may be sequentially arranged along a direction of insertion into the aerosol generation device 1.
Moreover, the embossed features 21 may be arranged uniformly over the article in a direction orthogonal to the direction of insertion as is for example shown in Fig. 2A. Therein, the embossed features 21 are schematically shown as strips that are arranged parallel to each other and provided over the whole range of the wrapper 20 (in a direction orthogonal to the direction of insertion) . Such a configuration may lead to a simpler process of sound generation, sound detection and consumable article 2 identification as the uniform provision of the embossed features 21 may lead to these processes being independent from the details how the consumable article 2 is entered into the aerosol generation device 1. Such a configuration may be further advantageous if the cross section of the consumable article 2 orthogonal to the direction of insertion is for example circular or close to circular, for example, elliptical.
In a further embodiment, as shown in Fig. 2B, the embossed features 21 on the wrapper 20 of the consumable vary both in a direction of insertion into the aerosol generation device 1 and a direction orthogonal to the direction of insertion. In this way, not only the sequence in which the embossed features 21 are provided on the wrapper 20 can be used to modify the overall structure of the embossed features 21, and thus the generated sound, but also the overall placement. This further degree of freedom in structuring the embossed features 21 increases the possibilities of engineering the sound to be generated upon insertion and thus may serve as a counterfeit measure. Such a configuration may in particular be advantageous in a consumable article 2 with a cross section of the consumable article 2 orthogonal to the direction of insertion being rectangular or substantially rectangular as then the insertion orientation is fixed by the shape of the consumable article 2. Figs. 2A and 2B show an example of a consumable article 2 including a filter; the filter can however be omitted as in fact its presence or absence does not change how the article is identified by means of the embossed features 21.
Fig. 3 shows a schematic view of a profile of the embossed features 21 according to an embodiment of the present invention. As illustrated, the profile of the embossed features 21 may take the form of half-circles but is not limited thereto. For example, rectangular profiles, cubic profiles, elliptical profiles, triangular profile or the like are possible as well. Furthermore, the embossed features 21 can have different profiles, that is, the above options can be mixed without particular restriction. Also, the profile may extend inwardly into the surface. In one example, the profile may extend outwardly and inwardly relative to the surface of the consumable article 2.
Further, the embossed features 21 may have a profile with a height H of less than 30 millimeters and more 10 millimeters, in particular in case that the material of the wrapper 20 and the embossed features 21 is paper. Such a range may be advantageous as this may allow reliable sound generation without hindering the insertion of the consumable article 2. On the other hand, in case that the material of the wrapper 20 and the embossed features is a plastic, the height H may be less than 0.5 millimeters and more than 0.1 millimeters.
Fig. 4 shows a schematic view of a consumable article 2 partially inserted into an aerosol generation device 1 comprising an optional sound guide according to an embodiment of the present invention.
Specifically, Fig. 4 shows a part of the aerosol generation device 1 including the opening 11 into which the consumable article 2 is inserted, a sound guide and a sensor 12. The sound guide is provided such that it transfers (guides) the sound generated upon insertion by the opening 11 to the sensor 12. This has the advantage that the configuration of the aerosol generation device 1 is more flexible as the sensor 12 is not required to be in proximity to the opening 11. Further, the sound guide may also reduce losses, i.e., the sound arriving at the sensor 12 is closer to sound generated at the opening 11 compared to a configuration without the sound guide.
In other words, in an embodiment of the present invention the aerosol generation device 1 comprises a sound guide extending from the opening 11 to the sensor 12 to transfer the friction sound .
Fig. 5 shows a schematic view of a consumable article 2 partially inserted into an aerosol generation device 1 comprising an optional flexible strip according to an embodiment of the present invention.
Specifically, Fig. 5 shows a part of the aerosol generation device 1 including the opening 11 into which the consumable article 2 is inserted, a flexible strip and a sensor 12. The flexible strip is provided at the opening 11 of the aerosol generation device 1 such that in comes into contact with the consumable article 2 upon insertion of the same into the aerosol generation device 1. Accordingly, the flexible strip is moved when the consumable article 2 is inserted around its equilibrium position, thereby generating the friction sound.
In other words, in an embodiment of the present invention, the aerosol generation device 1 comprises a flexible strip next to the opening 11 to amplify the friction sound and direct vibration to the sensor 12.
It is noted that Figs. 4 and 5 show, for mere sake of illustration, the sensor 12 with the shape of a microphone. For what has been said above, this is not limiting the sensor 12, as in fact the present disclosure foresees any type of sensor and/or transducer capable of sending a friction sounds in the sense further above explained.
Fig. 6 shows a schematic view of a consumable article 2 partially inserted into an aerosol generation device 1 according to an embodiment of the present invention.
Here, it is illustrated that the embossed features 21 may have different sizes and/or heights which may have an impact on the friction with the opening 11 and in turn may also have an impact on the sound generated thereby. In other words, the height of the embossed features 21 may serve another degree of freedom for the information represented by the embossed features 21 and obtained by the controller 13.
That is, in an embodiment of the present invention, the embossed features 21 of the consumable article 2 are arranged with predefined heights corresponding to predefined value of the sound volume generated when inserted the consumable article 2 is inserted into the aerosol generation device 1.
This is further illustrated in Fig. 7 showing a schematic graph of a sound volume generated and detected when a consumable article 2 is inserted into an aerosol generation device 1 according to an embodiment of the present invention.
This graph shows a sound signal in terms of its sound volume as a function of time. It illustrates that the sound generated by the friction can be interpreted either as an analog signal in which signal as such is detected and processed and the identification of the consumable article 2 is based thereon or as a digital signal. In the latter case, instead of the details of each of the "bumps" in the signal the general structure of the bump is considered.
In the specific example of Fig. 7, there are two types of sounds generated by the friction (that have been called "bumps" above) : 'quiet' sounds such as the second and the fifth sounds (e.g. portions 720 and 750, respectively, of the waveform depicted in Fig. 7) and 'loud' sound such as the remaining sounds, i.e., the first (710) , third (730) , fourth (740) , sixth (750) and seventh (770) sound. The identification may be achieved by comparting the analog waveform with a predetermined, e.g., stored, waveform. In another example, these sounds may be digitized: For example, 'quiet' sounds are attributed the value '0' and 'loud' sounds are attributed the value '1' . Processing by the controller 13 may then be based on a recognition of the sound in terms of these categories and the subsequent identification may be done based on the attributed values, e.g., the sequence of attributed values. The present disclosure is however not limited to the examples provided; for example, to each section of the waveform of Fig. 7 a codeword may be associated, which codeword may depend on the time length over which the signal is above a certain threshold and/or on an intensity of the signal being above one threshold amongst a plurality of thresholds. For example, the signal portion 700 may be associated to the codeword "11", signal portion 710 to the codeword "00", signal portion 720 to the codeword "01", etc. In other words, portions of the waveform/ signal representing the friction sound may be associated to a specific codeword (in the sense of a sequence of one or more bits) depending on the length and/or intensity of the signal in that waveform portion. In other words, the waveform may correspond to information encoded based on specific rules; the encoded information may include an error detection code (like e.g., CRC) and/or information (e.g., redundancy information) for applying error correction. In this way, a confirmation of the correctness of identification can be achieved and/or identification can be accurately achieved also in presence of noise.
It is to be noted that, as evident from Fig. 7, the categorization into categories based on sound volume is based on a range instead of single fixed value as the signal includes some noise compared to an exact rectangular signal. Accordingly, such a detection and digitization may be based on a determination that a sound is within a certain sound volume range for a certain range of time. In this way artificial peaks, for example due to noise, can be filtered out .
Although detailed embodiments have been described, these only serve to provide a better understanding of the invention def ined by the independent claims and are not to be seen as limiting .
It i s furthermore noted that the above description of various aspects and embodiment can be combined . For example , in an embodiment according to the present invention, the aerosol generation device 1 may compri se a sound guide and a flexible strip . Simi larly, aspects related to the aerosol generation device 1 and aspects related to the consumable article 2 can be combined as wel l .

Claims

Claims
1. An aerosol generation device, comprising: an outer body; an opening accessible on the outer body and configured to receive a consumable article, wherein the opening is configured to generate a friction sound when a consumable article including embossed features on its wrapper, the embossed features preferably containing information about the consumable article, slides on the opening into the aerosol generation device; a sensor configured to detect the friction sound; and a controller configured to analyze the friction sound and identify the consumable article based on the friction sound.
2. The aerosol generation device of claim 1, further comprising a sound guide extending from the opening to the sensor to transfer the friction sound.
3. The aerosol generation device of claim 1 or 2, further comprising a flexible strip next to the opening to amplify the friction sound and direct vibration to the sensor .
4. The aerosol generation device of any of claims 1-3, wherein the sensor includes a microphone or a piezoelectric transducer.
5. The aerosol generation device of any of claims 1-4, wherein the controller is configured to influence the operation of the aerosol generation device in accordance with the identified consumable article. A consumable article for an aerosol device, wherein the consumable article is configured to be slid into an opening of an aerosol generation device, and the consumable article includes embossed features on its wrapper and the embossed features preferably contain information about the consumable article. The consumable article according to claim 6, wherein the embossed features are such that when the consumable article slides on an opening of the aerosol generation device into the aerosol generation device, the opening generates a friction sound due to the embossed features. The consumable article of claim 6 or 7, wherein the embossed features are sequentially arranged along a direction of insertion into the aerosol generation device . The consumable article according to claim 8, wherein the embossed features are arranged uniformly over the article in a direction orthogonal to the direction of insertion . The consumable article according to claim 6 or 7, wherein the embossed features vary both in a direction of insertion into the aerosol generation device and a direction orthogonal to the direction of insertion. The consumable article according to any of claims 6 to 10, wherein the wrapper is a paper wrapper. The consumable article according to any of claims 6 to
11, wherein the information is coded information. The consumable article according to any of claims 6 to
12, wherein the embossed features have a profile of less than 30 millimeters and more 10 millimeters. The consumable article according to any of claims 6 to
13, wherein the are arranged with predefined heights corresponding to predefined value of the sound volume generated when inserted the consumable article is inserted into the aerosol generation device. A system comprising an aerosol generation device according to any of claims 1 to 5 and a consumable article according to any of claims 6 to 14. A method executed by an aerosol generation device of identifying a consumable article inserted into the aerosol generation device, the method comprising the steps of: detecting a friction sound generated when the consumable article including embossed features on its wrapper, the embossed features preferably containing information about the consumable article, is slid on the opening into the aerosol generation device; analyzing the friction sound; and identifying the consumable article based on the friction sound. A computer program comprising instructions which, when the program is executed by a computer, cause the computer to carry out the method of claim 16.
PCT/EP2022/076367 2021-09-24 2022-09-22 Consumable recognition based on friction sound of embossed features WO2023046830A1 (en)

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WO2021060768A1 (en) * 2019-09-26 2021-04-01 Kt&G Corporation System and device for generating aerosol with plurality of aerosol generating substrates
WO2021122524A1 (en) * 2019-12-20 2021-06-24 Jt International S.A. An electrically operated smoking device including a system for identifying smoking articles comprising an indicium
WO2021122475A1 (en) * 2019-12-20 2021-06-24 Jt International S.A. Aerosol generation article with optical code and system comprising the article
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* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
EP1475003A1 (en) * 2002-02-04 2004-11-10 Japan Tobacco Inc. Cigarette
WO2021060768A1 (en) * 2019-09-26 2021-04-01 Kt&G Corporation System and device for generating aerosol with plurality of aerosol generating substrates
WO2021122524A1 (en) * 2019-12-20 2021-06-24 Jt International S.A. An electrically operated smoking device including a system for identifying smoking articles comprising an indicium
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