WO2024074930A1

WO2024074930A1 - Aerosol-generating article and device for classification and authentication

Info

Publication number: WO2024074930A1
Application number: PCT/IB2023/059468
Authority: WO
Inventors: Jean-Bernard Martin
Original assignee: Philip Morris Products S.A.
Priority date: 2022-10-04
Filing date: 2023-09-25
Publication date: 2024-04-11

Abstract

An aerosol-generating article 100 comprising a body extending between a downstream end and an upstream end along a longitudinal axis; the body comprising, in linear arrangement from the downstream end, at least a filter (102) and an aerosol-generating substrate (105); an outer wrap 110 wrapped, at least partially, around the filter and the aerosol-generating substrate to form a unitary aerosol-generating article; wherein the outer wrap comprises a dimensional code (200); wherein the dimensional code comprises one or a combination of at least one intaglio portion (140, 145) and at least one cameo portion (150, 155). A novel aerosol-generating device 300 comprises a profilometer 400 provided with a probe (402) to engage and sense the dimensional code.

Description

-1- AEROSOL-GENERATING ARTICLE AND DEVICE FOR CLASSIFICATION AND AUTHENTICATION [001] The present disclosure relates to an aerosol-generating article for use with an aerosol- generating device, where the aerosol-generating article and the aerosol-generating device combine to form an aerosol-generating system. The aerosol-generating article has a dimensional code which identifies the aerosol-generating article. [002] Aerosol-generating systems in which an aerosol-generating article containing aerosol- generating substrate is inserted into a heater to heat the aerosol-generating substrate to create an aerosol for inhalation by a user have been proposed in the art. These aerosol- generating systems can create an aerosol without combusting or burning the aerosol- generating substrate. For example, an article containing an aerosol-generating substrate may be inserted into an aerosol-generating device which has a heater. The aerosol-generating article combined with the aerosol-generating device is an aerosol-generating system. The heater provides sufficient heat to aerosolize the aerosol-generating substrate but not so much heat that the aerosol-generating substrate combusts, or burns. Aerosol is then entrained in air drawn through the aerosol-generating system to a user. These aerosol-generating systems are useful to provide an aerosol to a user. [003] Such a system may be used with a variety of aerosol-generating articles. For example, aerosol-generating substrates may be tobacco, cannabis or other herbal, chemical or pharmaceutical compositions or other substrates capable of providing aerosol when heated. The aerosol-forming substrates may contain aerosol formers, flavours, additives or other materials to enhance the formation of aerosol or improve the user’s experience. Aerosol- generating substrates provided in aerosol-generating articles may benefit from specific heating profiles to provide a suitable aerosol to the user. For example, the presence of a flavourant may change the preferred heating profile for an aerosol-generating article. An aerosol-generating device may be used to heat a variety of aerosol-generating articles. It is desirable to provide a way to identify or classify the aerosol-generating article to the aerosol- generating device so that the aerosol-generating device can adjust the heating profile provided for that particular aerosol-generating article and optimize the aerosol generated when a particular aerosol-generating article containing aerosol-generating substrate is heated in an aerosol-generating device. In addition, it is desirable to provide a way to identify the aerosol-generating article to ensure that the article is genuine. That is, it is desirable to provide a way to authenticate an aerosol-generating article. An authentic aerosol-generating article, manufactured specifically to interact with the aerosol-generating device to form an aerosol- -2- generating system, will be useful to enable the aerosol-generating device to adjust a heating profile to optimize the aerosol-generating experience. Use of an authentic aerosol-generating article will also prevent damage to the aerosol-generating device or system. It is desirable to provide a way to identify and authenticate the aerosol-generating article as genuine to prevent damage to the aerosol-generating article, device or system. It is also desirable to provide an aerosol-generating article that can be classified and authenticated in a way that is manufacturable and cost effective. It is desirable to provide a system capable of classifying and authenticating an aerosol-generating article for use in an aerosol-generating system. [004] To provide an aerosol-generating article (a consumable) that can be used in an aerosol- generating device where the aerosol-generating article can be classified and authenticated and to provide a system that can identify the consumable and adjust the heating profile according to the consumable to optimize the user experience, this disclosure provides an aerosol-generating article which has a dimensional code. In addition, this disclosure provides an aerosol-generating device which can sense the dimensional code of the aerosol- generating article. In an aspect, the sensing mechanism of the aerosol-generating device is a mechanical mechanism or a profilometer. This disclosure provides a method of making the aerosol-generating article having a dimensional code. This disclosure also provides a method of using the aerosol-generating system employing the classification and/or authentication system when the aerosol-generating article is inserted into the aerosol-generating device. [005] Thus, according to a first aspect of this disclosure, there is provided an aerosol-generating article comprising a dimensional code. The dimensional code comprises one or a combination of at least one intaglio portion and at least one cameo portion. Advantageously, the dimensional code may allow an aerosol-generating device to identify the article. Advantageously, the dimensional code of the aerosol-generating article may provide classification information to the aerosol-generating device. Advantageously, the dimensional code of the aerosol-generating article may provide authentication information to the aerosol- generating device. This may allow the aerosol-generating device to optimise the heating profile for the article. [006] The article may comprise a body extending between a downstream end and an upstream end along a longitudinal axis. The aerosol-generating article may comprise a body extending between a downstream end and an upstream end along a longitudinal axis. The body may be comprising, in linear arrangement from the downstream end, at least a filter and an aerosol- generating substrate. An outer wrap may be wrapped, at least partially, around the filter and the aerosol-generating substrate to form a unitary aerosol-generating article. The outer wrap may comprise the dimensional code. -3- [007] In a second aspect, the body comprises, in linear arrangement from the downstream end, at least a filter, an optional cooling portion, an aerosol-generating substrate and an optional end portion. The article comprises an outer wrap wrapped, at least partially, around the filter and the aerosol-generating substrate to form a unitary aerosol-generating article. The outer wrap comprises a dimensional code, wherein the dimensional code comprises one or a combination of at least one intaglio portion and at least one cameo portion. Advantageously, the dimensional code may allow an aerosol-generating device to identify the article. This may allow the aerosol-generating device to optimise the heating profile for the article. [008] According to a third aspect of this disclosure, there is provided an aerosol-generating device generating aerosol from an aerosol-generating article comprising a dimensional code, for example an aerosol-generating article of the first or second aspects. The device comprises a power supply; control electronics; and a sensor structured to sense the presence of a dimensional code of the aerosol-generating article and communicate with the control electronics. The device may comprise a heater, for example a heater configured to heat the aerosol-generating substrate of the article when the article is engaged with, for example received in a cavity of, the device, and the control electronics may be configured to control at least the heater. Advantageously, the aerosol-generating device may be able to identify an aerosol-generating article. This may allow the aerosol-generating device to optimise the heating profile for the article. [009] According to a fourth aspect of this disclosure, there is provided a method of using an aerosol-generating device, for example a device according to the third aspect. The method comprises: engaging an aerosol-generating article, for example an article comprising a dimensional code, such as an aerosol-generating article according to the first or second aspect, with the aerosol-generating device, for example inserting the article at least partially into a cavity of the aerosol-generating device; sensing the presence or absence of a dimensional code on the aerosol-generating article; and communicating the presence or absence of the dimensional code to the control electronics. The method may comprise a step of the control electronics controlling a heater of the device based on the presence or absence of a dimensional code of the aerosol-generating article, or based on an identification of a particular dimensional code of the aerosol-generating article. Advantageously, the method may allow identifying the article and optimising the heating profile for the article. [010] According to a fifth aspect of this disclosure, there is provided a method of making an aerosol-generating article, for example an article according to the first or second aspect. The method comprises stamping, rolling, engraving, or depositing, for example by 3D-printing, the dimensional code onto outer wrap material, for example prior to assembling the article. -4- Advantageously, the method may allow one to easily and affordably manufacture an aerosol- generating article with a dimensional code which can be identified by an aerosol-generating device. This may allow the aerosol-generating device to optimise the heating profile for the article. [011] Additional or alternative features, for example alternative or additional features of one or more of the first, second, third, or fourth aspects, are described below. [012] The aerosol-generating device has a sensor, for example a mechanical sensor, structured to sense the presence of a dimensional code. The sensor may be configured to identify the dimensional code. The sensor, for example the mechanical sensor, may be a contact sensor, sensing contact with the dimensional code of the aerosol-generating article. When the aerosol-generating article having a dimensional code is inserted into the aerosol-generating device having a mechanical sensor, the mechanical sensor senses the presence of the dimensional code. For example, the mechanical sensor may sense the presence of a dimensional code to determine that the aerosol-generating article is genuine. The mechanical sensor may sense the presence of a dimensional code to authenticate the aerosol-generating article. If the aerosol-generating article is determined to be genuine, the mechanical sensor may provide a signal to control electronics in the aerosol-generating device to allow the heater to heat, and aerosol to be generated. If an aerosol-generating article which does not have a dimensional code is inserted into the aerosol-generating device having a mechanical sensor, the mechanical sensor does not sense the presence of the dimensional code. If the mechanical sensor does not sense the presence of a dimensional code, the mechanical sensor may not send a signal to the control electronics of the aerosol-generating device to activate the heater. Or, the mechanical sensor may send a signal to the control electronics to not heat. Or, the mechanical sensor may send a signal to the control electronics to heat, or allow heating, using a heating profile for aerosol-generating articles without a dimensional code. [013] In another example, when the aerosol-generating article having a dimensional code is inserted into the aerosol-generating device having a mechanical sensor, the mechanical sensor senses the presence of the dimensional code. For example, the mechanical sensor may sense the presence of a dimensional code that classifies the aerosol-generating article as an aerosol-generating article containing a defined aerosol-generating substrate. In this case, the aerosol-generating device may provide a signal to control electronics in the aerosol- generating device to control the heater to provide a heating profile associated with that classification of aerosol-generating article. This may generate an optimized aerosol from that coded aerosol-generating article. -5- [014] In another example, when the aerosol-generating article having a dimensional code is inserted into the aerosol-generating device having a mechanical sensor, the mechanical sensor senses the presence of the dimensional code. For example, the mechanical sensor may sense the presence of a dimensional code that authenticates and classifies the aerosol- generating article. In this case, the aerosol-generating device may provide a signal to control electronics in the aerosol-generating device to turn on the heater and optionally to also control the heater to provide a heating profile associated with that classification of aerosol-generating article. This may generate an optimized aerosol from that coded aerosol-generating article. [015] In some examples, the sensor comprises a non-contact sensor. For example, the sensor may comprise a light sensor. As used here, the term light may refer to any suitable wavelength on the electromagnetic spectrum such as optical light or infrared light. The sensor or a light source of the device may emit light onto the dimensional code. The sensor may then receive light reflected off the dimensional code. Based on the received light, the sensor may then determine or estimate one or both of a location and a depth of one or more portions of one or more intaglio portions or cameo portions or both intaglio and cameo portions of the dimensional code. This may allow the sensor, optionally in combination with other components such as control electronics, to identify the dimensional code. [016] The sensor may determine or estimate a depth of the dimensional code at a plurality of points, for example at one or both of a plurality of points along a longitudinal dimension of the article and a plurality of points around the circumference of the article. This may allow the sensor, optionally in combination with other components such as control electronics, to identify the dimensional code. [017] The aerosol-generating article may have a cylindrical shape. The aerosol-generating article may be between about 30 mm and about 120 mm in length, for example about 45 mm in length. The aerosol-generating article may be between 4 mm and about 15 mm in diameter. The aerosol generating article may be, for example, 7.5 mm in diameter. [018] The aerosol-generating article may have a body extending between a downstream end and an upstream end along a longitudinal axis, the body comprising, in linear arrangement from the downstream end (which is the mouthpiece end), at least, a filter and an aerosol- generating substrate; and further having an outer wrap wrapped, at least partially, around the filter and the aerosol-generating substrate to form a unitary aerosol-generating article; wherein the outer wrap comprises a dimensional code and wherein the dimensional code comprises one of or a combination of at least one intaglio portion and at least one cameo portion. [019] This article is advantageous in that it is an aerosol-generating article having a dimensional code which provides identifying information related to the aerosol-generating article. When -6- an aerosol-generating article according to this aspect is inserted into an aerosol-generating device (forming an aerosol-generating system), a sensor of the aerosol-generating device reads the dimensional code and uses this information to control the aerosol-generating device. This identifying information may be used to authenticate the aerosol-generating article. In the absence of a dimensional code, if the aerosol-generating article is determined to be inauthentic, the aerosol-generating device may not turn on the heater of the aerosol- generating device. Or, in the absence of a dimensional code the aerosol-generating device may heat according to a default heating profile. This identifying information may be used to classify the aerosol-generating article. In the presence of a dimensional code, the aerosol- generating device, having read the dimensional code to identify a particular aerosol- generating article, may heat according to a specific heating profile to optimize aerosol formation from that particular aerosol-generating article. [020] The aerosol-generating substrate may have a tobacco-containing material containing volatile tobacco flavour compounds which are released from the substrate upon heating. Alternatively, the aerosol-forming substrate may have a non-tobacco material such as cannabis, herbal material or pharmaceutical material. The aerosol-forming substrate may have an aerosol former. Examples of suitable aerosol formers are glycerine and propylene glycol. The aerosol-generating substrate may have solid materials. The solid material may comprise, for example, one or more of: powder, granules, pellets, shreds, spaghettis, strips, or sheets containing one or more of: herb leaf, tobacco leaf, fragments of tobacco ribs, reconstituted tobacco, homogenised tobacco, extruded tobacco and expanded tobacco. The aerosol-forming substrate may comprise homogenised tobacco material, for example cast leaf tobacco. Tobacco used in aerosol-generating articles may be, for example, sheets of reconstituted tobacco that is crimped, gathered, pleated, folded, gathered, convoluted, compressed or constricted. The aerosol-forming substrate may contain additional tobacco or non-tobacco volatile flavour compounds, which may be released upon heating the substrate. The aerosol-generating substrate may comprise nicotine. The aerosol-generating substrate may be between about 3 mm and about 30 mm in length. [021] The filters may have any suitable length. For example, the filter may a length of about 27 mm. For example, the filters may have a length of less than about 40 mm. The filter may have a length between about 15 mm and about 40 mm. The filter may have a length between about 10 mm and about 40 mm. The filter may have a length less than about 30 mm. The filter may have a length between about 18 mm and about 27 mm. The filter may have a length of about 21 mm. The filter may have a length less than about 20 mm. -7- [022] Any suitable filter material may be used in accordance with the present invention. Examples of suitable filter material include cellulose esters such as cellulose acetate, polylactic acid (PLA), cellulosic material, polypropylene, or any degradable filtration media, or a combination or blend of any two or more of filter materials. In preferred embodiments, the filter material includes polymeric filter material such as polylactic acid, cellulose esters, and blends thereof. Preferably, the filter material includes a cellulose ester. Examples of cellulose esters that can be used to form filter material include cellulose acetates, cellulose propionates and cellulose butyrates with varying degrees of substitution, as well as mixed esters thereof. Examples of such mixed esters include cellulose acetate propionate, cellulose acetate butyrate, and cellulose acetate propionate butyrate. The filter material may comprise cellulose acetate. [023] The filter may have a plasticizer. The filter may have any suitable amount of plasticizer. As used herein, a “plasticizer” is a solvent, that when applied to polymeric fibers, solvent- bonds the fibers together. Examples of plasticizers include triacetin (also known as glycerol triacetate), diethylene glycol diacetate, triethylene glycol diacetate, tripropion, acetyl triethyl citrate, triethyl citrate and mixtures of one or more thereof. One or more plasticizers may be mixed with, for example, polyethylene glycol and contacted with the polymeric fibers to solvent-bond the fibers together. The fibers may be contacted with a binding agent in any suitable manner. Preferably, a composition comprising the binding agent is sprayed on the polymeric fibers. The plasticizer may comprise triacetin. The filter material, including the plasticizer, may have any suitable tow weight or density. [024] Filters of the present invention are preferably formed using conventional filter manufacturing equipment. For example, the filter material may be formed from tow bands of filaments using conventional equipment. The plasticizer may be incorporated using conventional equipment. A plug wrap may be disposed about the filter using convention equipment. [025] The aerosol-generating article may optionally have a cooling portion between the filter and the aerosol-generating substrate. In this case, the aerosol-generating article may have a body extending between a downstream end and an upstream end along a longitudinal axis, the body comprising, in linear arrangement from the downstream end, at least, a filter, a cooling portion and aerosol-generating substrate, and an outer wrap wrapped, at least partially, around the filter, the cooling portion, and the aerosol-generating substrate, the outer wrap having a dimensional code. [026] The optional cooling portion may be component of an aerosol-generating article located downstream of the aerosol-forming substrate such that, in use, an aerosol formed by volatile -8- compounds released from the aerosol-forming substrate passes through the cooling portion and cools as the aerosol passes through the cooling portion before being inhaled by a user. The cooling portion may be a hollow portion or a channel or a plurality of channels. The cooling portion may be positioned between the aerosol-generating substrate and the filter portion of the aerosol-generating article. [027] The aerosol-generating article may optionally have a front portion. When a front portion is present, the aerosol-generating article may have a body extending between a downstream end and an upstream end along a longitudinal axis, the body comprising, in linear arrangement form the downstream end, at least, a filter, optionally a cooling portion, an aerosol-generating substrate and a front portion, an outer wrap wrapped, at least partially, around the filter, the optional cooling portion, the aerosol-generating substrate and the front portion to form a unitary aerosol-generating article, wherein the outer wrap comprises a dimensional code and wherein the dimensional code comprises one or both of an intaglio portion and a cameo portion. [028] Any one or more or each of the filter, the aerosol-generating substrate, the optional cooling portion and the optional front portion may be wrapped by a plug wrap, for example prior to wrapping with the outer wrap having a dimensional code. A filter that is wrapped by a plug wrap may be a filter plug. Aerosol-generating substrate that is wrapped by a plug wrap may be an aerosol-generating substrate plug. A cooling portion that is wrapped by a plug wrap may be a cooling plug. A front portion that is wrapped by a plug wrap may be a front plug. Any combination may be used. That is, one or more of the portions (filter, cooling portion, aerosol-generating substrate, and front portion) may have a plug wrap prior to assembly into an aerosol-generating article. [029] The aerosol-generating article may have a body extending between a downstream end and an upstream end along a longitudinal axis, the body comprising, in linear arrangement from the downstream end, at least, a filter plug, an optional cooling plug, an aerosol-generating substrate plug, an optional front plug, an outer wrap wrapped, at least partially, around the filter plug, the optional cooling plug, the aerosol-generating substrate plug and the optional front plug to form a unitary aerosol-generating article; wherein the outer wrap comprises a dimensional code and wherein the dimensional code comprises one or both of an intaglio portion and a cameo portion. [030] A dimensional code may comprise one or both of: or more intaglio portions and one or more cameo portions. A dimensional code may comprise one or both of: one or more recesses and one or more protrusions from a surface of the article, for example from a surface of an outer wrap of the article. The one or more intaglio portions of the dimensional code may be or -9- comprise the one or more recesses. The one or more cameo portions may be or comprise the one or more protrusions. [031] Where one or more recesses are present, or one or more intaglio portions are present, the recesses or intaglio portions do not extend entirely through the component or components in which they are formed. That is, the recesses and intaglio portions are not apertures. The recesses and intaglio portions have a depth. “Depth” is defined herein and may refer to a measurement from an outer surface of a component to a top of a cameo portion or protrusion, or from an outer surface of a component to a bottom of an intaglio portion or recess. An aperture in a component does not have a depth. [032] The dimensional code may be a deformation in the outer wrap to create an intaglio portion, a cameo portion, or a combination. An aperture, cut or slit in the outer wrap may be present to allow air to pass through the cut or slit in the outer wrap. A cut or slit may be absent. However, as explained above, an aperture, cut or slit in the outer wrap is separate from, and different from, a dimensional code. For example, a dimensional code has a depth. “Depth” is defined herein and may mean a measurement from the outer surface of the outer wrap to the top of a cameo portion of the dimensional code, or from the outer surface of the outer wrap to the bottom of an intaglio portion of the dimensional code. As an aperture, cut or slit means that there is no bottom of the outer wrap (because there is a hole in the outer wrap), no depth can be defined, and so no cameo or intaglio portion can be defined. [033] The dimensional code may be or may comprise a line. The dimensional code may be or may comprise at least two lines, for example at least two parallel lines. If multiple lines are present, these lines may have different depths and widths. The dimensional code may be at least one line. The dimensional code may be or may comprise at least one line that extends along the longitudinal axis of the body of the aerosol-generating article. The dimensional code may be or may comprise at least one line that is perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the body of the aerosol-generating article. Where the aerosol-generating article is a cylinder, the dimensional code may extend around the circumference of the cylindrical aerosol-generating article. Or, the dimensional code may comprise one or more lines extending at least 270, for example 360 degrees, around the circumference of the article. The dimensional code may be or may comprise a combination of lines that extend along the longitudinal body of the aerosol- generating article. The dimensional code may be or may comprise a combination of lines that are perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the body of the aerosol-generating article. [034] References herein to lines which may be part of the dimensional code may refer to one or both of intaglio lines and cameo lines, unless stated otherwise. Similarly, references herein to -10- dots which may be part of the dimensional code may refer to one or both of intaglio dots and cameo dots, unless stated otherwise. [035] The dimensional code may be provided to the outer wrap material by any suitable means, including, for example, injection, engraving, pressing, stamping, laser engraving, rolling, scratching, embossing, 3-D printing, lithography or by other means. The dimensional code may be provided to the outer wrap material prior to assembly of the aerosol-generating article. For example, the dimensional code may be rolled into the outer wrap material prior to assembly of the aerosol-generating article. The dimensional code may be pressed into the outer wrap material prior to assembly of the aerosol-generating article. The dimensional code may be stamped into the outer wrap material prior to assembly of the aerosol-generating article. The dimensional code may be provided to the outer wrap material after assembly of the aerosol-generating article. [036] The article may comprise a band or sticker. The dimensional code may be, or may be part of, a band or sticker added to the external surface of the outer wrap material. The outer wrap may be considered to comprise the band or sticker. In this case, the outer wrap may comprise a first wrap and the band or sticker added to the external surface of the first wrap. Such a band or sticker may be formed form any suitable material such as paper, plastic, metal, resin or other materials. A band or sticker may itself form at least a portion of the dimensional code. A band or sticker may be textured to provide a dimensional code. For example, a band or sticker may be treated to provide a dimensional code by, for example, injection, engraving, pressing, stamping, laser engraving, rolling, scratching, embossing, 3D printing, lithography or other means. If a band or sticker provides the dimensional code, the band or sticker, and optionally the dimensional code, may not cover, or may not overlap with, the portion of the aerosol-generating article containing the aerosol-generating substrate. This may prevent heating and aerosolization of the material of the band or sticker. Alternatively, the band or sticker may cover, or may overlap with, the portion of the aerosol-generating article containing the aerosol-generating substrate. This may help thermally insulate the aerosol-generating substrate. [037] The dimensional code may be or may comprise one or more dots. A dot may be any shape. A dot may be round. A dot may be square. A dot may be rectangular. A dot may be elongate. A dot may be a pattern. The one or more dots may be intaglio or cameo. The one or more dots may be provided in a pattern. The pattern of dots may be along the longitudinal axis of the body of the aerosol-generating article. The pattern of dots may be perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the aerosol-generating article. The dots may be provided in a random or pseudo-random array. Any pattern, for example any pattern of dots, may be -11- repeated, for example repeated around a circumference of the article or along the longitudinal axis of the article. [038] The dimensional code may be a combination of one or more dots and one or more lines. The combination of one or more dots and one or more lines may form a pattern along the longitudinal axis of the body of the aerosol-generating article. The combination of one or more dots and one or more lines may form a pattern perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the aerosol-generating article. [039] The aerosol-generating device may be a handheld device. The aerosol-generating device may be substantially cylindrical in shape. The aerosol-generating device may be reusable. The aerosol-generating articles may be disposable or consumable. The aerosol-generating device may have a cylindrical shape. The aerosol-generating device may have a polygonal cross-section. The external diameter of the aerosol-generating device may be between about 12.7 mm and about 15 mm. The external diameter of the aerosol-generating device may be between about 12.7 mm and about 14.2 mm. The external diameter may be between about 12.7 and about 13.65 mm. If the aerosol-generating device is polygonal, this external diameter may be measured from an edge to an opposing edge (that is, from the intersection of two faces on one side of the aerosol-generating device to a corresponding intersection on the other side). [040] The aerosol-generating device may be configured to engage with the aerosol-generating article. The aerosol-generating device may have a cavity for receiving the aerosol-generating article. The aerosol-generating device may have a power supply such as a battery, control electronics which regulate, at least, a heater to heat the aerosol-generating substrate of the aerosol-generating article when it is engaged with, for example inserted into a cavity of, the aerosol-generating device. Control electronics may also regulate other features such as, for example, feedback features such as lights, vibration generators, battery, charging or sensor, including the mechanical sensor which senses the dimensional code. The aerosol-generating device also has an airflow path that allows air to flow through the aerosol-generating article when the aerosol-generating article is inserted into the aerosol-generating device. [041] The aerosol-generating device has a heater. The heater is controlled by control electronics and powered by a battery. The heater heats the aerosol-generating substrate of the aerosol-generating article to form an aerosol. The heater may be an induction heater or a resistive heater. The heater may be an internal heater, meaning that the heater is inside the aerosol-generating substrate of the aerosol-generating article when heating occurs. An internal heater may be a pin or a blade that is a part of the aerosol-generating device which inserts into the aerosol-generating substrate when the aerosol-generating article is inserted -12- into the cavity of the aerosol-generating device. Or, an internal heater may be an induction heater configured to heat a susceptor contained in the aerosol-generating substrate of the aerosol-generating article. The susceptor may heat upon the application of inductive magnetic fields from coils located in the aerosol-generating device. The heater may be an external heater meaning that heat is provided around the aerosol-generating substrate of the aerosol-generating device. For example, a resistive heater may surround the cavity of the aerosol-generating device, heating the aerosol-generating substrate of the aerosol-generating article from these heating elements. [042] The heater is controlled by control electronics located in the aerosol-generating device. The control electronics may receive input from many sensors. For example, the control electronics may receive inputs from the battery, from external user-operated inputs (for example an on/off button), from Bluetooth devices or data (cell phone information, location data, ambient temperature data, etc.), from the heater, from the mechanical sensor, or from other sensors. The control electronics may provide control signals to many outputs. For example, the control electronics may control the heater, the battery, external outputs (for example feedback to the user in the form of lights, sounds, vibrations or other user output) or other outputs of the aerosol-generating device. [043] The aerosol-generating device has a sensor. At least a portion of the sensor may be attached to or associated with a wall defining the cavity configured to receive the article. At least a portion of the sensor may be located on or adjacent to a wall defining the cavity configured to receive the article. At least a portion of the sensor may extend into the cavity. The sensor may be a mechanical sensor. The mechanical sensor is, for example, a mechanical profilometer. The mechanical sensor may have, at one end, a probe which contacts the aerosol-generating article during use. The device may comprise a biasing member for biasing the probe into the cavity, for example towards a center of the cavity. The biasing member may be, for example, a spring or flexible material. The biasing member may be, for example, a flexible member having a flexure that biases the biasing member toward the center of the cavity. The biasing member may be metal. This may ensure that, when the article is received in the cavity, the probe contacts the article. This may ensure that, when the article is received in the cavity, the probe continuously contacts the article. This may ensure that, when the article is received in the cavity, the probe contacts the dimensional code of the article. [044] The probe may be connected to a stylus. When the probe contacts an aerosol-generating article inserted into the cavity of the aerosol-generating device, the probe moves along the contour of the aerosol-generating article having a dimensional code. The probe may move -13- along the contour of the aerosol-generating article as the aerosol-generating article is inserted into the cavity of the aerosol-generating device. The probe may move along the contour of the aerosol-generating article as the aerosol-generating article is rotated or twisted in the cavity of the aerosol-generating device. The probe may move along the contour of the aerosol-generating article as the aerosol-generating article is removed or partially removed and re-inserted into the cavity of the aerosol-generating device. The movements of the probe may be provided to a transducer via the stylus moving, for example one or both of translating and pivoting about a pivot. The mechanical movement of the probe is thus translated into an electrical signal. The transducer may utilize capacitive sensing. For example, a conductive item connected to the stylus is introduced between two conductors forming two plates of a capacitor. The transducer may utilize induction. For example, induction currents and voltages in coils may change according to the position of a ferromagnetic core connected to the stylus. This is an example of a Linear Variable Differential Transformer or LVDT. The transducer may utilize piezo electricity sensing. For example, the stylus end may be caught into a piezoelectric material. The mechanical sensor generates an electro-mechanical signal. The mechanical sensor generates an electro-mechanical output to the control electronics of the aerosol-generating device. [045] The mechanical sensor may be aligned inside the cavity of the aerosol-generating device so that the stylus of the sensor is aligned perpendicular to the dimensional code of the aerosol- generating article. For example, if the dimensional code of the aerosol-generating article is aligned perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the aerosol-generating article, the stylus of the mechanical sensor is aligned along the longitudinal axis of the aerosol-generating device. Or, if the dimensional code of the aerosol-generating article is aligned parallel to the longitudinal axis of the aerosol-generating article, the stylus of the mechanical sensor is aligned perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the aerosol-generating device. [046] If the dimensional code of the aerosol-generating article is aligned perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the aerosol-generating article, the dimensional code is aligned around the circumference of the cylindrical aerosol-generating article. The stylus of the mechanical sensor of the associated aerosol-generating device is aligned parallel to the longitudinal axis of the cavity of the aerosol-generating device. As the aerosol-generating article is inserted into the aerosol-generating device, the probe of the mechanical sensor moves along the profile of the dimensional code. The probe is attached to a stylus. The stylus translates or pivots about a pivot as the probe moves along the profile of the dimensional code. This movement is translated to a transducer. The transducer translates the movement of the stylus into an electrical signal. This electrical signal is received by the control electronics. In -14- response to the electrical signal received by the control electronics, the control electronics send instructions to, for example, the heater. [047] If the dimensional code of the aerosol-generating article is aligned around the circumference of the cylindrical aerosol-generating article, the stylus of the associated aerosol-generating device is aligned with the longitudinal axis of the cavity of the aerosol- generating device so that the probe can read the dimensional code as the aerosol-generating article is inserted into the cavity of the aerosol-generating device. The stylus of the mechanical sensor can be aligned with the longitudinal axis of the aerosol-generating device or can be aligned perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the aerosol-generating device. [048] For example, if the dimensional code of the aerosol-generating article is aligned with the longitudinal axis of the aerosol-generating article, the stylus of the associated aerosol- generating device is aligned perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the aerosol-generating device. In this embodiment, the user inserts the aerosol-generating article into the aerosol- generating device and then rotates the aerosol-generating article within the cavity of the aerosol-generating device. When the aerosol-generating article is rotated, the probe of the mechanical sensor can pass across and “read” the profile of the dimensional code. The movement of the probe as it passes across the profile of the dimensional code is translated, vita the stylus moving about a pivot, to the transducer. The transducer translates the movement of the stylus into an electrical signal. This electrical signal is received by the control electronics. In response to the electrical signal received by the control electronics, the control electronics send instructions to, for example, the heater. [049] Alternatively, instead of the probe moving against the aerosol-generating article when the aerosol-generating article is inserted into the aerosol-generating device, the aerosol- generating may have a moveable portion or “ring” that can move against the inserted aerosol- generating article. In this way, the probe may be moved by moving the probe against the profile of the dimensional code, where the probe is attached to the moveable portion or ring of the cavity of the aerosol-generating device, instead of by movement of the aerosol- generating article with respect to the cavity of the aerosol-generating device. In either case, the probe moves relative to the article. This may allow the prove to read the dimensional code of the article. The movement of the probe, attached to a moveable portion or ring, as it passes across the profile of the dimensional code is translated, vita the stylus moving about a pivot, to the transducer. The transducer translates the movement of the stylus into an electrical signal. This electrical signal is received by the control electronics. In response to the electrical signal received by the control electronics, the control electronics send instructions to, for example, the heater. -15- [050] The dimensional code of the aerosol-generating article may be sufficiently different from the inherent texture of the outer wrap to provide movement of the probe sufficient to trigger an electro-mechanical signal. For example, the lines or dots of the dimensional code should have sufficient depth and width to move the probe, as the aerosol-generating article moves against the probe and provide an electro-mechanical signal to the control electronics of the aerosol-generating device. The dimensional code should provide one or both of intaglio or cameo portions, or combinations of intaglio and cameo portions, which are distinguishable from the overall texture of the outer wrap. [051] The dimensional code may be one or more lines or one or more dots or a combination of one or more lines and one or more dots. When the dimensional code is at least two lines, the at least two lines may be parallel to each other. [052] The dimensional code may include patterns that are not parallel lines. For example, the texture could be made of an array or a pseudo random distribution of dots. In such case the mechanical sensor may detect the actual or average “roughness” of the dimensional code. The “roughness” may be, for example, a ratio between the height and width of the dimensional code. The dimensional code may also contain information such as number of dots having a maximum depth (intaglio) or height (cameo), the sequence of dots or the number of dots. These patterns of dots may define a dimensional code for classification and authentication. The pattern of dots and the encoding may be able to give the same kind of result regardless of the orientation of the aerosol-generating article when inserted. A dimensional code provided by a pattern of dots may be advantageous in that it may be more difficult to replicate by counterfeiters. [053] The dimensional code may provide a “start” code. The start code is the first part of a dimensional code that is sensed by the sensor of the aerosol-generating device. In order to be sure that the information retrieved from the dimensional code is complete, and not partially replicated, part of the dimensional code may be a “stop” code. The stop code is the last part of a dimensional code that is sensed by the sensor of the aerosol-generating device. For example, as an aerosol-generating article is inserted into the cavity of an aerosol-generating device, upstream end first, the portion of the dimensional code that is closest to the upstream end of the aerosol-generating article is sensed by the sensor in the cavity of the aerosol- generating device first. This may be the “start” code. Then, as the aerosol-generating article continues to be inserted into the cavity of the aerosol-generating device, additional features of the dimensional code may be sensed by the sensor. The portion of the dimensional code furthest from the upstream end of the aerosol-generating article will be the last portion of the -16- dimensional code to be sensed by the sensor in the cavity of the aerosol-generating device. This may be the “stop” code. [054] The start code and the stop code may be present alone or in combination. This start and stop code may be present for a range of aerosol-generating articles used with the aerosol- generating device having a mechanical sensor. For example, if a start code is identified by the mechanical sensor, a signal may be sent to the control electronics alerting the device that an aerosol-generating article having a dimensional code is in the aerosol-generating device. This may trigger the control electronics to instruct the heater to heat. If no start code is identified, a signal may be sent to the control electronics alerting the device that an aerosol- generating article without a dimensional code is in the aerosol-generating device. This may trigger the control electronics to instruct the heater not to heat. Or this may trigger the control electronics to instruct the heater to heat according to a default heating profile. If a start code is identified, the mechanical sensor may continue to read the dimensional code following the start code. The information read by the mechanical sensor after a start code may be a code related to the specific aerosol-generating article. The code related to the specific aerosol- generating article may trigger the control electronics to instruct the heater to heat according to a heating profile specific for that specific aerosol-generating article. The code related to the specific aerosol-generating article may be a classification code. A stop code may be present or may be absent. If the mechanical sensor reads a stop code, this might send a signal to the control electronics that the dimensional code is complete. A start code and a stop code may advantageously ensure the authenticity of the dimensional code and may provide alignment information and an accuracy check for the dimensional code and the mechanical sensor system. [055] The depth of the dimensional code should be greater than the depth of variations found in outer wrap material that does not contain a dimensional code. “Depth”, for the purposes of this disclosure, means a measurement from the outer surface of a component in which the dimensional code is formed, for example the outer wrap, to the top of a cameo portion of the dimensional code, or to the bottom of an intaglio portion of the dimensional code. This depth measurement should be taken from the outer surface of the component to the highest point of a cameo dimensional code or to the lowest point of an intaglio dimensional code. The dimensional code, or at least a portion of the dimensional code, may have a depth of at least 0.1, 0.2, 0.25, 0.3, or 0.4 mm. The dimensional code, or at least a portion of the dimensional code, may have a depth of no more than 1, 0.9, 0.8, 0.75, 0.7, 0.6, or 0.5 mm. The dimensional code may be, for example, 0.1 to 1 mm in depth. The dimensional code may be, for example, -17- 0.25 mm in depth. The dimensional code may be, for example, 0.5 mm in depth. The dimensional code may be, for example, between 0.25 and 0.5 mm in depth. [056] The dimensional code, whether a line or a dot, may have a width. “Width”, for the purposes of this disclosure, means a measurement from edge to edge of a line or dot of a cameo or intaglio dimensional code. Measurements should be taken from the widest point of the line or dot. “Width” is a measurement of the dimensional code element, whether it is a line or a dot and is independent of the orientation of the dimensional code. That is, regardless of whether the dimensional code is oriented perpendicular or parallel to the longitudinal axis of the aerosol-generating article, the measurement of width is taken from edge to edge of the dimensional code element. The dimensional code, or at least a portion of the dimensional code, may have a width of at least 0.2, 0.4, 0.5, 0.6, 0.8, or 1 mm. The dimensional code, or at least a portion of the dimensional code, may have a width of no more than 3, 2.5, 2, or 1.5 mm. The dimensional code may have a of 0.2 mm to 3 mm. For example, the dimensional code, either intaglio or cameo, may have a width of 0.2 to 3 mm. The dimensional code, either intaglio or cameo, may have a width of 0.5 mm. The dimensional code, either intaglio or cameo, may have a width of 1mm. The dimensional code, either intaglio or cameo, may have a width of 1.5 mm. The dimensional code, either intaglio or cameo, may have a width of between 0.5 and 1.5 mm. The dimensional code, either intaglio or cameo, may have a width of between 0.5 and 1.5 mm, and may comprise multiple widths. Multiple widths may be in the form of parallel lines arranged next to each other. The spacing between multiple parallel lines or multiple dots maybe, for example, less than 4mm. The multiple parallel lines or multiple dots may be at most 4 mm with a step of 0.5 mm. The spacing between two adjacent cameo portions, or between an intaglio portion and an adjacent cameo portion, or between two adjacent intaglio portions, for example between two adjacent parallel lines, of the dimensional code is less than 8 mm, preferably less than 4mm. [057] These depths and widths may be modified. These depths and widths may depend upon the size and shape of the probe, for example. [058] As can be seen, there are many combinations of lines, or dots, or lines and dots that can be generated to form dimensional codes. Taking for example, two potential depths of dimensional codes, for example 0.5 mm and 0.25mm, and three potential widths for the lines, for example 0.5mm, 1 mm and 1.5 mm there are about 2*3 = 6 combinations per line and 8 combinations for the spacing. If there are 4 lines, for example, there are 6*8*6*8*6*8*6 = 663552 possible combinations to define a dimensional code on the aerosol-generating article. These combinations can be provided along a relatively small length of the aerosol-generating article, for example along an 18 mm length of the aerosol-generating article. This is -18- advantageous in that this variability in combinations of depths and widths and combinations can provide many codes that can be used to authenticate and classify aerosol-generating articles. [059] An additional dimension of the dimensional code is the time the contact sensor is in contact with the dimensional code of the aerosol-generating article. The “insertion speed” of the aerosol-generating article may affect the reading of width of lines or dots. The specific widths of the lines as well as the specific spacing between the lines are evaluated in view of the insertion speed. The “insertion speed” of the aerosol-generating article could be evaluated by having a convention regarding the size of the texture as read by the sensor. This convention may be provided by a look-up table accessible by the control electronics. For example, where the dimensional code is parallel lines arranged perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the aerosol-generating article, the mechanical sensor would sense the start code, optionally additional dimensional code information, and then the stop code as the aerosol-generating article is inserted into the cavity of the aerosol-generating device. The start code may be a start line. The stop code may be a stop line. The start code may be a dot or an array of dots. The stop code may be a dot or an array of dots. The start code may be present or absent. The stop code may be present or absent. Where the dimensional code is a dot or an array of dots, the mechanical sensor would sense the start code as the aerosol- generating article is inserted into the cavity of the aerosol-generating device. The distance between the start code of the dimensional code caught by the contact sensor and a stop code ending the dimensional code (having no other meaning that marking the end of the dimensional code) could be, for example, fixed to 20 mm by convention, and the insertion speed could be estimated as 20 mm divided by the time from the code line to the stop code. [060] Where the dimensional code is aligned parallel to the longitudinal axis of the aerosol- generating article, the spacing between lines or dots may be read by the sensor as the aerosol-generating article is rotated within the cavity of the aerosol-generating device. A start code such as a start line or dot, followed by optional additional dimensional code information and a stop code such as a stop line or dot may be present. The start code may ensure that the aerosol-generating article or the sensor is not turned several times around the aerosol- generating article. If the circumference of the aerosol-generating article is known (for example, it has a diameter of 7.4mm, and so a circumference of 23mm), the (rotation) speed could be estimated as 23mm divided by the time from two readings of a start code. The start code may be, for example, a unique dimensional code. For example, the start code may be a line having 2 consecutive different depths of 0.25 then 0.5 mm. -19- [061] The classification coding could be straightforward, associating a kind of consumable with one of the combinations of the texture part. [062] The information of the dimensional code may be used to classify the aerosol-generating article. The sensor of the aerosol-generating device may register a classification and send this data to the control electronics of the aerosol-generating device. The control electronics may adjust its settings, for example its heating profile, to optimize the smoking experience for the kind of aerosol-generating article identified by the classification. The control electronics may send instructions to the heater to execute the identified heating profile. Or, for example, the control electronics may send feedback to the manufacturer in case the aerosol-generating device is connected to a network or to a smartphone. [063] The information of the dimensional code may be used to authenticate the aerosol- generating article. For example, if no dimensional code is identified by the sensor, the aerosol-generating device may not activate. The heater may not turn on. In this case a valid dimensional code may be mandatory for an aerosol-generating device to consider an aerosol- generating article as genuine. The device may be locked unless a dimensional code is detected. The device may be locked unless a valid dimensional code is detected. [064] The dimensional code may be recorded by the aerosol-generating and sent to the manufacturer each time an aerosol-generating article is inserted in the RRD, allowing the manufacturer to evaluate of the quantity of specific aerosol-generating articles having the dimensional code have been consumed. The manufacturer may change the dimensional codes acceptable by the aerosol-generating device as stocks are depleted, as new types of aerosol-generating articles are introduced, and in response to the presence of counterfeit aerosol-generating articles. The manufacturer may also track the presence of particular aerosol-generating articles in particular jurisdictions. [065] Measurements or data from the sensor may be compared with a database of stored measurements or data corresponding to one or more stored dimensional codes. The device may comprise the database. This may allow the device to compare the sensed dimensional code to the one or more stored dimensional codes. This may allow the device to determine that the sensed dimensional code corresponds to one of the one or more stored dimensional codes. The device, or the control electronics of the device, may control the device, for example a heater of the device, based on the determination that the sensed dimensional code corresponds to one of the one or more stored dimensional codes. This control may depend on which of the one or more stored dimensional codes corresponds to the sensed dimensional code. For example, each of the one or more stored dimensional codes may be associated with a heating profile. The device, or the control electronics of the device, may control the -20- heater based on the heating profile of the stored dimensional code to which the sensed dimensional code corresponds. [066] This dimensional code system may be combined with additional sensors and feedback mechanisms. For example, the aerosol-generating device may have a separate sensor to determine that an aerosol-generating article has been inserted into the cavity of the aerosol- generating device. If an authentic aerosol-generating article is sensed, a signal may be provided to the consumer in the form of light, sound, vibration, a message on an associated device such as a cell phone, other feedback, or a combination of these. If an aerosol- generating article is inserted into the aerosol-generating device and the article is determined to be inauthentic, a signal to the consumer in the form of light, sound, vibration, a message on an associated device such as a cell phone, other feedback, or a combination of these may be provided. [067] For the purposes of this disclosure and subject to further description contained herein, “aerosol-generating article” means an article having an aerosol-generating substrate that is capable of releasing volatile compounds that can form an aerosol. The aerosol-generating article is consumable or disposable. [068] For the purposes of this disclosure and subject to further description contained herein, “aerosol-generating substrate” means a substrate capable of releasing volatile compounds that can form an aerosol. [069] For the purposes of this disclosure and subject to further description contained herein, “aerosol-generating device” means a device that interacts with an aerosol-forming article to generate an aerosol. [070] For the purposes of this disclosure and subject to further description contained herein, “intaglio” means a groove, a cavity, an indentation, a depression, pit, trough, cut, impression, concavity or gouge that extends from the outer surface of a component in which the dimensional code is formed, for example an outer wrap, of the aerosol-generating article, toward the inside of the aerosol-generating article. An “intaglio” dimensional code is not a cut or slit that extends all the way through a component, for example the outer wrap. The dimensional code may be, at least in part, intaglio. [071] For the purposes of this disclosure and subject to further description contained herein, “cameo” means a protuberance, bump, bulge, projection, ridge or convexity that extends up from the outer surface of a component in which the dimensional code is formed, for example the outer wrap, of the aerosol-generating article, away from the inside of the aerosol- generating article. The dimensional code may be, at least in part, cameo. -21- [072] For the purposes of this disclosure and subject to further description contained here, as used herein, the singular forms “a”, “an”, and “the” also encompass embodiments having plural referents, unless the content clearly dictates otherwise. [073] For the purposes of this disclosure and subject to further description contained here, “or” is generally employed in its sense including “and/or” unless the content clearly dictates otherwise. The term “and/or” means one or all of the listed elements or a combination of any two or more of the listed elements. [074] For the purposes of this disclosure and subject to further description contained here, “have”, “having”, “include”, “including”, “comprise”, “comprising” or the like are used in their open-ended sense, and generally mean “including, but not limited to”. It will be understood that “consisting essentially of”, “consisting of”, and the like are subsumed in “comprising,” and the like. [075] For the purposes of this disclosure and subject to further description contained here, the words “preferred” and “preferably” refer to embodiments of the invention that may afford certain benefits, under certain circumstances. However, other embodiments may also be preferred, under the same or other circumstances. Furthermore, the recitation of one or more preferred embodiments does not imply that other embodiments are not useful and is not intended to exclude other embodiments from the scope of the disclosure, including the claims. [076] As used herein, “providing”, in the context of providing an apparatus or system, means manufacturing the apparatus or system, purchasing the apparatus or system, or otherwise obtaining the apparatus or system. [077] Any direction referred to herein such as “top”, “bottom”, “left”, “right”, upper”, “lower”, and other directions or orientations are described herein for clarity and brevity but are not intended to be limiting of an actual device or system. Devices and systems described herein may be used in a number of directions and orientations. [078] For the purposes of this disclosure and subject to further description contained here, “downstream” mean the end of the aerosol-generating article intended to be contacted by the mouth of the user. [079] “Depth”, for the purposes of this disclosure, and subject to further description contained herein, means a measurement from the outer surface of a component in which the dimensional code is formed, for example the outer wrap, to the top of a cameo portion of a dimensional code, or from the outer surface of a component in which the dimensional code is formed, for example the outer wrap, to the bottom of an intaglio portion of a dimensional code. This depth measurement should be taken from the outer surface of the component in which the dimensional code is formed, for example the outer wrap material, to the highest point of a -22- cameo portion of the dimensional code or to the lowest point of an intaglio portion of the dimensional code. An aperture, slit or cut in the component or outer wrap does not have a depth, because there is no bottom of the intaglio dimensional code. Depth is independent of the orientation of the dimensional code. That is, “depth” is measured as described regardless of whether the dimensional code is parallel or perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the aerosol-generating article. [080] “Width”, for the purposes of this disclosure and subject to further description contained herein, means a measurement from edge to edge of a line or dot of a cameo or intaglio dimensional code. Measurements should be taken from the widest point of the line or dot. For example, where a width of a line or dot varies along its depth, references to the width of the line or dot refer to the greatest width of the line or dot along its depth. “Width” is a measurement of the dimensional code element, whether it is a line or a dot. “Width” is independent of the orientation of the dimensional code. That is, regardless of whether the dimensional code is oriented perpendicular or parallel to the longitudinal axis of the aerosol- generating article, the measurement of width is taken from edge to edge of the dimensional code element. Thus, for a line extending around the circumference of the article, the width of the line is measured in the longitudinal direction. And for a line extending longitudinally along the article, the width of the line is measured in the circumferential direction. [081] For the purposes of this disclosure and subject to further description contained here, “upstream” means the end of the aerosol-generating article inserted into the aerosol- generating device, and the end opposite to the downstream end of the aerosol-generating article. [082] For the purposes of this disclosure and subject to further description contained herein, “unitary” means a single article made from assembled parts. [083] For the purposes of this disclosure and subject to further description contained herein, “dot” means a feature of the dimensional code described herein that is not a line. That is, a “dot” can be round, square, rectangular, triangular, polygonal, pyramidal, rounded, triangular, prism, cuboid, or any shape and may have regular or irregular sidewalls. A dot may be any shape. A dot may be recessed or intaglio. A dot may protrude from a surface or be cameo. [084] The invention is defined in the claims. However, below there is provided a non-exhaustive list of non-limiting examples. Any one or more of the features of an example, embodiment or aspect described herein may be combined with any one or more features of another example, embodiment, or aspect described herein. [085] For example, any one or more features described in relation to an article may be combined with any one or more features described in relation to a device, system, or method. Similarly, -23- any one or more features described in relation to a device may be combined with any one or more features described in relation to a system, or method. And any one or more features described in relation to a system may be combined with any one or more features described in relation to a method. [086] Example Ex (1): An aerosol-generating article comprising a body extending between a downstream end and an upstream end along a longitudinal axis; the body comprising, in linear arrangement from the downstream end, at least: an optional filter, an optional cooling portion, an aerosol-generating substrate and an optional end portion; an outer wrap wrapped, at least partially, around the filter when present and the aerosol-generating substrate to form a unitary aerosol-generating article; wherein the outer wrap comprises a dimensional code; wherein the dimensional code comprises one or a combination of at least one intaglio portion and at least one cameo portion. [087] Example Ex (2): The aerosol-generating article of Example Ex 1 wherein one or more or all of the filter, the optional cooling portion, the aerosol-generating substrate and the optional end portion comprise a plug wrap. [088] Example Ex (3): The aerosol-generating article of Example Ex 1 or 2 wherein the dimensional code comprises at least one line, preferably one or both of an intaglio line and a cameo line. [089] Example Ex (4): The aerosol-generating article of any one of the previous Examples wherein the dimensional code comprises at least two parallel lines, preferably one or more of: two parallel intaglio lines; two parallel cameo lines; and a parallel intaglio line and cameo line. [090] Example Ex (5): The aerosol-generating article of any one of the previous Examples wherein the dimensional code comprises at least one dot, preferably one or both of an intaglio dot and a cameo dot. [091] Example Ex (6): The aerosol-generating article of any one of Examples Ex 1 – 5 wherein the dimensional code comprises a plurality of dots, preferably one or more of: a plurality of intaglio dots; a plurality of cameo dots; and at least one intaglio dot and at least one cameo dot. [092] Example Ex (7): The aerosol-generating article of Example Ex 6 wherein the plurality of dots form a pattern. [093] Example Ex (8): The aerosol-generating article of any one of the preceding as Examples wherein the dimensional code comprises a combination of at least one line and a plurality of dots, preferably a combination of at least one intaglio and/or cameo line and a plurality of intaglio and/or cameo dots. -24- [094] Example Ex (9): The aerosol-generating article of any one of the previous Examples wherein the dimensional code is perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the body of the article. [095] Example Ex (10): The aerosol-generating article of any one of Example Ex 1-8 wherein the dimensional code is aligned with the longitudinal axis of the body. [096] Example Ex (11): The aerosol-generating article of any one of the previous Examples wherein the outer wrap comprises a band or sticker, optionally wherein the band or sticker comprises at least a portion of the dimensional code. [097] Example Ex (12): The aerosol-generating article of any one of the previous Examples wherein one or both of an intaglio portion and a cameo portion of the dimensional code is between 0.1 mm and 1 mm in depth, preferably between 0.25 mm and 0.5mm in depth. [098] Example Ex (13): The aerosol-generating article of any one of the preceding Examples wherein the spacing between two adjacent cameo portions, or between an intaglio portion and an adjacent cameo portion, or between two adjacent intaglio portions, for example between two adjacent parallel lines, of the dimensional code is less than 8 mm, preferably less than 4mm. [099] Example Ex (14): The aerosol-generating article of any of the preceding Examples wherein one or both of an intaglio portion and a cameo portion of the dimensional code is between 0.2 and 3 mm wide, preferably between 0.5 and 1.5 mm wide. [100] Example Ex (15): An aerosol-generating device for generating aerosol from an aerosol- generating article, such as an aerosol-generating article according to any one of the preceding Examples, the device comprising a power supply; control electronics; and a sensor structured to sense the presence of a dimensional code of the aerosol-generating article and communicate with the control electronics. [101] Example Ex (15A): An aerosol-generating device according to Example 15 comprising a cavity for receiving at least a portion of the aerosol-generating article. [102] Example Ex (15B): An aerosol-generating device according to Example 15 or 15A wherein the dimensional code comprises one or more recesses and/or one or more protrusions with respect to a surface of the article. [103] Example Ex (15C): An aerosol-generating device according to Example 15 or 15A or 15B wherein the dimensional code comprises one or a combination of at least one intaglio portion and at least one cameo portion. [104] Example Ex (16): An aerosol-generating device according to Example Ex 15 or 15A or 15B or 15C, wherein the device comprises a heater, for example a heater configured to heat -25- the aerosol-generating substrate of the article when the article is received in the device, and optionally wherein the control electronics are configured to control at least the heater. [105] Example Ex (16A): An aerosol-generating device according to Example Ex 16, wherein the heater is or comprises an inductor for heating a susceptor heating element, for example a susceptor heating element in the aerosol-generating article. [106] Example Ex (16A): An aerosol-generating device according to Example Ex 16, wherein the heater is or comprises a resistive heating element. [107] Example Ex (17): An aerosol-generating device according to any of Examples Ex 15 - 16 wherein the sensor comprises a mechanical sensor. [108] Example Ex (18): An aerosol-generating device according to any one of Examples Ex 15 – 17, wherein the sensor is a contact sensor configured to contact the dimensional code. [109] Example Ex (19): An aerosol-generating device of any one of Examples Ex 15 – 18 wherein the sensor comprises a profilometer. [110] Example Ex (20): An aerosol-generating device of Example Ex 19 wherein the profilometer comprises a probe configured to engage with the dimensional code and cause an arm to one or both of translate and pivot about a pivot point, optionally providing a signal to a transducer. [111] Example Ex (21): An aerosol-generating device of any one of Examples Ex 16 – 20 wherein, when the sensor senses a dimensional code, the sensor sends a signal to the control electronics to provide, or allow provision of, power to the heater. [112] Example Ex (21A): An aerosol-generating device of any one of Examples Ex 16 – 21 wherein the sensor is configured to identify the dimensional code, for example to classify the dimensional code into a particular classification of dimensional codes from a plurality of classifications of dimensional code. [113] Example Ex (21B): An aerosol-generating device of any one of Examples Ex 21A wherein the sensor is configured to send a signal to the control electronics identifying the dimensional code, for example to send a signal to the control electronics indicating a particular classification of the dimensional code from a plurality of classifications of dimensional code. [114] Example Ex (21C): An aerosol-generating device of any one of Examples Ex 21B wherein the control electronics is configured to provide, or allow provision of, power to the heater based on the identification of the dimensional code, for example wherein the control electronics is configured to provide, or allow provision of, power to the heater based on a particular classification of the dimensional code from a plurality of classifications of dimensional code. [115] Example Ex (22): An aerosol-generating device of any one of Examples Ex 15 – 21 further comprising a counter, wherein the sensor communicates with the counter. -26- [116] Example Ex (23): An aerosol-generating device of any one of Examples Ex 15 – 22 further comprising a feedback element, wherein the sensor communicates with the feedback element to provide feedback to a user. [117] Example Ex (24): An aerosol-generating system comprising the aerosol-generating device according to any one of Examples Ex 15 - 23 and an aerosol-generating article comprising a dimensional code such as an aerosol-generating article according to any one of Examples Ex 1-14. [118] Example Ex (25): A method of using an aerosol-generating device according to any one of Examples Ex 15 – 23 comprising: inserting an aerosol-generating article, for example an aerosol-generating article comprising a dimensional code, such as an aerosol-generating article according to any one of Examples Ex 1 to 14, at least partially into the cavity of the aerosol-generating device; sensing the presence or absence of a dimensional code on the aerosol-generating article; and communicating the presence or absence of the dimensional code to the control electronics; optionally wherein the control electronics control a heater of the device based on the presence or absence of a dimensional code, or based on an identification of a dimensional code, of the aerosol-generating article. [119] Example Ex (26): A method of according to Example Ex 25 wherein the method comprises engaging the article with the sensor of the device, for example during or after insertion of the article into the cavity of the device, optionally wherein engaging the article with the sensor comprises contacting the article with the sensor. [120] Example Ex (27): A method of according to Example Ex 25 wherein the heater is turned on when a dimensional code is present, or wherein the heater is not turned on when the dimensional code is not present. [121] Example Ex (28): A method of according to Examples Ex 25 or 26 or 27 wherein the dimensional code is present and the heater is controlled to provide a heating profile associated with the dimensional code. [122] Example Ex (29): A method of according to any one of Examples Ex 25 to 28 further comprising activating a feedback element in response to the presence of the dimensional code. [123] Example Ex (30): A method of according to any one of Examples Ex 25-29 further comprising sending a signal to a counter in response to the presence of the dimensional code. [124] Example Ex (31): A method of according to any one of Examples Ex 25-30 further comprising a step of rotating the aerosol-generating article relative to the sensor after the inserting step. -27- [125] Example Ex (32): A method of according to Example Ex 31 wherein the dimensional code is aligned with the longitudinal axis of the body of the aerosol-generating article. [126] Example Ex (33): A method of making an aerosol-generating article according to any one of Examples Ex 1-14 comprising stamping, rolling, engraving, or depositing, for example 3D- printing the dimensional code onto outer wrap material. [127] Example Ex (33): A method according to Example Ex 33 comprising stamping, rolling, engraving or depositing, for example 3D-printing the dimensional code onto the outer wrap material prior to assembling the aerosol-generating article. [128] Example Ex (34): An aerosol-generating article of any of Examples 1 to 14 wherein the dimensional code has a depth. [129] Examples will now be further described with reference to the figures in which: [130] Figure 1 shows the elements of an embodiment of an aerosol-generating article. [131] Figure 2 shows an assembled aerosol-generating article. [132] Figure 3 shows an aerosol-generating article having intaglio dimensional code lines and dots arranged perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the aerosol-generating article. [133] Figure 4 shows an aerosol-generating article having cameo dimensional code lines and dots arranged perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the aerosol-generating article. [134] Figure 5 shows an aerosol-generating article having a combination of a cameo dimensional code line and an intaglio dimensional code line, and a plurality of intaglio and cameo dots arranged in a pattern perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the aerosol- generating article. [135] Figure 6 shows an aerosol-generating article having intaglio dimensional code lines arranged parallel to the longitudinal axis of the aerosol-generating article. [136] Figure 7 shows an enlarged view of Figure 6 showing detail of the intaglio dimensional code. [137] Figure 8 shows an aerosol-generating article having embodiments of a band or sticker affixed to the outer surface of the outer wrap. [138] Figure 9 is an illustration of an aerosol-generating article inserted into the cavity of an aerosol-generating device, and a sensor located in the cavity of the aerosol-generating device, where the aerosol-generating article has dimensional code perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the aerosol-generating article. [139] Figure 10 is an enlarged illustration of an aerosol-generating article inserted into the cavity of an aerosol-generating device, and a sensor located in the cavity of the aerosol-generating device, where the aerosol-generating article has dimensional code perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the aerosol-generating article. -28- [140] Figure 11 illustrates an embodiment of the mechanism of the sensor. [141] Figure 12 is an illustration of the sensor of the aerosol-generating device interacting with the dimensional code of the aerosol-generating article where the dimensional code is parallel with the long axis of the aerosol-generating article. [142] Figure 13 is an illustration of an aerosol-generating article inserted into the cavity of an aerosol-generating device, and a sensor located in the cavity of the aerosol-generating device, where the aerosol-generating article has dimensional code parallel to the longitudinal axis of the aerosol-generating article. [143] Figure 14 shows a method of making outer wrapper having dimensional codes by rolling a pattern into the outer wrapper. [144] Figure 15 shows an enlarged profile of the outer wrapper having dimensional codes. [145] Figure 16 shows a method of making outer wrapper having dimensional codes by stamping a pattern into the outer wrapper. [146] Figure 1 shows the elements of an aerosol-generating article 100 as disclosed herein. As shown in Figure 1, the aerosol-generating article 100 having a downstream end 101 and an upstream end 107. Figure 1 shows the disassembled parts of the aerosol-generating article 100. As shown in Figure 1, the aerosol-generating article has a filter 102, an optional cooling portion 106 and an aerosol-generating substrate 105. By “optional”, it is intended that the cooling portion 106 may be present or absent. As shown in Figure 1, the outer wrap 110 is wrapped, at least partially, around the filter 102, the optional cooling element 106 and the aerosol-generating substrate 105. As shown by the arrow in Figure 1, the outer wrap 110 wraps these individual elements to form a unitary aerosol-generating article 100. [147] As shown in Figure 1, prior to being wrapped by the outer wrap 110, the filter 102 may be wrapped in a filter wrap 103 to form a filter plug 112. In the case of a filter, this filter wrap 103 can be, for example, tipping paper. This tipping paper may be a specific paper used to wrap a filter 102. The filter 102, at the downstream end 101 of the aerosol-generating article 100, contacts the mouth or lips of a user during use. The filter wrap 103, which may be tipping paper, is formulated to be able to sustain contact with the humidity associated with contact with the lips of a user. The filter 102 wrapped in a filter wrap 103 is a filter plug 112. [148] An aerosol-generating substrate 105 is also shown in Figure 1. Although not shown, the aerosol-generating substrate may be wrapped with a plug wrap 117. If the aerosol-generating substrate is wrapped with a plug wrap 117 prior to assembly into a unitary aerosol-generating article, it is an aerosol-generating substrate plug 115. The aerosol-generating substrate 105 (which may be an aerosol-generating substrate plug 115), the optional cooling portion 106 (which may be a cooling portion plug 116 when wrapped with a cooling section plug wrap 118) -29- and the filter 102 (which may be a filter plug 112) are wrapped by an outer wrap 110. The outer wrap 110 is wrapped, at least partially, around the filter 102, the optional cooling portion 106 and the aerosol-generating substrate 107 to form a unitary aerosol-generating article 100. [149] As shown in Figure 1, the outer wrap 110 is wrapped around the aerosol-generating substrate 105, the optional cooling portion 106 and the filter 102. The filter 102 or filter plug 112 may extend so that it is not entirely covered by the outer wrap 110 when the unitary aerosol-generating article is assembled. This allows the filter wrap 103, which may be tipping paper, to contact the lips of the user during use. In this way, the outer wrap 110 is wrapped at least partially around the aerosol-generating substrate, optional cooling element 106 and the filter plug 112. [150] As shown in Figure 1 and Figure 2, an aerosol-generating article 100 is shown, having an aerosol-generating article body 120, extending between a downstream end 101 and an upstream end 107 along a longitudinal axis 113, the body 120 comprising, in linear arrangement from the downstream end 101, a filter 102, an optional cooling portion 106, and an aerosol-generating substrate 105. An optional end portion 109 is shown in Figure 2. An optional end portion 109, like the filter 102, optional cooling portion 106, and aerosol- generating substrate 105, is wrapped at least partially by an outer wrap 110 in the assembled aerosol-generating article 100. [151] Figure 2 illustrates the flow of air or airflow 130 through the aerosol-generating article 100 during use. During use, a user draws on the downstream end 101 of the aerosol-generating article 100, causing air to enter the aerosol-generating article 100 from its upstream end 107, and flow through the aerosol-generating substrate 105. The aerosol-generating substrate 105 is heated, causing the formation of aerosol from the heated aerosol-generating substrate 105. Aerosol is entrained in the airflow 130 through aerosol-generating article 100 to the downstream end 101 and is inhaled by the user. When present, the optional cooling portion 106 may be a hollow portion which provides a cooling chamber or a change in pressure for aerosol entrained in the airflow 103 exiting the aerosol-generating substrate 105. As air passes from the heated aerosol-generating substrate 105 into this optional cooling portion, aerosol is formed in the cooling chamber. [152] Figure 3 shows an aerosol-generating article 100 having a dimensional code 200. As shown in Figure 3, dimensional code 200 has intaglio dimensional code lines 140 and intaglio dots 145 in the outer wrap 110 of the aerosol-generating article 100. As shown in Figure 3, the intaglio lines 140 are arranged perpendicular to the longitudinal axis 113 of the aerosol- generating article 100. The intaglio dimensional code lines 140 are indented into the surface of the outer wrap 110. Figure 3 shows that the dimensional code 200 may be two parallel -30- dimensional code lines 140. Dimensional code lines may be intaglio dimensional code lines 140 as shown in Figure 3 or cameo dimensional code lines 150 as shown in Figure 4, or a combination of intaglio dimensional code lines 140 and cameo dimensional code lines 150 as shown in Figure 5. Figure 3 shows that the dimensional code 200 may also comprise and a plurality of dots 145 (which may be intaglio dots 145 as shown in Figure 3 or cameo dots 155 as shown in Figure 4, or a combination of intaglio dots 145 and cameo dots 155 as shown in Figure 5). As discussed above, dots may be any shape and any size. Alternatively, the dimensional code 200 may be a single intaglio line 140. Alternatively the dimensional code 200 may be a single intaglio line combined with a plurality of dots, which may be intaglio dots 145 as shown in Figure 3 or cameo dots 155 as shown in Figure 4 or a combination of intaglio dots 145 and cameo dots 155 as shown in Figure 5. The dimensional code 200 may be a single cameo line 150. The dimensional code 200 may be a combination of a single intaglio line 140 and a plurality of dots 140. The dimensional code 200 may be two parallel intaglio lines 140. The dimensional code 200 may be a plurality of intaglio lines 140. As shown in Figure 3, the dots 145 may be arranged in an array. Alternatively, the dots 145 may be arranged in a pseudo-array. A pseudo array is an irregular array. Figure 3 illustrates that the dimensional code 200 of the outer wrap 110 may comprise at least one line 140. Figure 3 also illustrates that the dimension code 200 may comprise at least two parallel lines 140. Figure 3 also illustrates that the dimensional code 200 of the outer wrap 110 may comprise a plurality of dots 145. Figure 3 also illustrates that the dimensional code 200 of the outer wrap 110 may comprise a combination of one or more lines 140 and a plurality of dots 140. In short, the dimensional code 200 may be any combination of cameo or raised features and intaglio or recessed features that may be read by the sensor 400 of the aerosol-generating device 300. [153] When the aerosol-generating article 100 has dimensional code 200 that is arranged perpendicular to the longitudinal axis 113 as shown in Figure 3, Figure 4 and Figure 5, as the aerosol-generating article 100 is inserted into an aerosol-generating device 300 (see, for example, Figure 9 and Figure 12), the line or feature making up the dimensional code 200 that is closest to the upstream end 107 of the aerosol-generating article 100 enters the aerosol-generating device 300 first. That is, the upstream end 107 of the aerosol-generating article 100 is inserted into an aerosol-generating device 300 first. As the aerosol-generating article 100 is inserted into the aerosol-generating device 300, the dimensional code 200 closest to the upstream end 107 of the aerosol-generating article 100 is sensed by the sensor 400 inside the cavity 301 of the aerosol-generating device 200 first. This dimensional code 200 closest to the upstream end 107 of the aerosol-generating article 100 can be described -31- as a start code 160. Similarly, the dimensional code 200 farthest from the upstream end 107 of the aerosol-generating article 100 is the last dimensional code 200 to be sensed by the sensor 400 inside the cavity 301 of the aerosol-generating device 300. The dimensional code 200 farthest from the upstream end 107 of the aerosol-generating article 100 can be described as a stop code 161. As shown in Figure 3, the dimensional code closes to the upstream end 107 of the aerosol-generating article 100 is an intaglio start line 141. As shown in Figure 3, the dimensional code farthest from the upstream end 107 of the aerosol-generating article 100 is an intaglio end line 142. The dimensional code 200 farthest from the upstream end 107 of the aerosol-generating article 100 can be described as a stop code 161 or a cameo end code 152. [154] Figure 4 shows an aerosol-generating article 100 illustrating cameo dimensional code 200. These cameo lines 150 and cameo dots 155 protrude from the surface of the outer wrap 110. The cameo lines 150 and cameo dots 155 are arranged perpendicular to the longitudinal axis 113 of the aerosol-generating article 100. The cameo line closest to the upstream end 107 of the aerosol-generating article 100 is a start code 160 or a cameo start code 151. [155] Figure 5 shows an aerosol-generating article 100 having dimensional code 200 in the form of a combination of cameo lines 150 and intaglio lines 140 and a combination of cameo dots 155 and intaglio dots 145. Figure 5 is provided to illustrate that any combination of intaglio or cameo lines and dots may be present in a dimensional code 200 of an aerosol- generating article 100. In Figure 5, these cameo lines 150 and cameo dots 155 are arranged perpendicular to the longitudinal axis 113 of the aerosol-generating article 100. [156] As can be seen, there are many combinations of lines, or dots, or lines and dots that can be generated to form dimensional codes. Taking for example, two potential depths of dimensional codes, for example 0.5 mm and 0.25mm, and three potential widths for the lines, for example 0.5mm, 1 mm and 1.5 mm there are about 2*3 = 6 combinations per line and 8 combinations for the spacing. If there are 4 lines, for example, there are 6*8*6*8*6*8*6 = 663552 possible combinations to define a dimensional code on the aerosol-generating article. These combinations can be provided along a relatively small length of the aerosol-generating article, for example along an 18 mm length of the aerosol-generating article. This is advantageous in that this variability in combinations of depths and widths and combinations can provide many codes that can be used to authenticate and classify aerosol-generating articles. [157] Figure 6 shows an aerosol-generating article 100 having intaglio dimensional code lines 140 arranged parallel to the longitudinal axis 113 of the aerosol-generating article. As discussed above, the lines that are shown as intaglio dimensional code lines 140 in Figure 6 -32- are representative of the elements that may make up the dimensional code 200. For example, dimensional code 200 may comprise a single line or a plurality of lines, which lines may be intaglio or cameo or a combination of intaglio and cameo lines. Dimensional code 200 may comprise a single dot or a plurality of dots, which dots may be cameo dots 155, intaglio dots 145, or a combination of intaglio and cameo dots. Further, multiple lines may be parallel or not. And, multiple dots may be in a regular array or not. In short, any combination of intaglio or cameo features may form a dimensional code 200. And, any combination of intaglio or cameo features may form a dimensional code that is oriented parallel to the longitudinal axis 113 of the aerosol-generating article 100. Figure 7 shows an enlarged view of Figure 6 showing detail of the dimensional code 200. As seen in Figure 7, the profile of the intaglio dimensional code line 140, may be square or triangular or rounded. The profile of the intaglio dimensional code line 140, or a cameo dimensional code line 150 may have any shape. In addition, the shape or profile of a dot, whether intaglio or cameo, may be any shape including square, pyramidal, rounded, triangular, prism, cuboid, or any shape. [158] Figure 8 shows an aerosol-generating article 100 having a band or sticker 175 affixed to the outer surface of the outer wrap 110 to form a dimensional code 200. The band or sticker 175 may provide a dimensional code 200 that is a cameo dimensional code 200. The band or sticker 175 may provide a dimensional code 200 that is an intaglio dimensional code 200. The sticker 175 can be parallel to the longitudinal axis 113 of the aerosol-generating article 100. Or, the sticker 175 can be perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the aerosol-generating articled 100. [159] Figure 9 illustrates an aerosol-generating device 300 having a housing 302 and a cavity 301. Figure 9 illustrates an aerosol-generating article 100 inserted into the cavity 301 of an aerosol-generating device 300, and a sensor 400 located in the cavity 301 of the aerosol- generating device 300, where the aerosol-generating article 100 has dimensional code 200 perpendicular to the longitudinal axis 113 of the aerosol-generating article 100. The upstream end 107 of the aerosol-generating article 100 is inserted into the cavity 301 of the aerosol- generating device 300 first. As the aerosol-generating article 100 is inserted into the cavity 301 of the aerosol-generating device 300, the sensor 400 of the aerosol-generating device 300 contacts the dimensional code 200. [160] The sensor 400 of the aerosol-generating device 300 is biased into the cavity 301 by a biasing member 406. The biasing member may any shape and any material suitable for ensuring that the sensor 400 contacts the aerosol-generating article 100, allowing the sensor 400 to track the dimensional code 200 of the aerosol-generating article 100. -33- [161] The sensor 400 contacts the dimensional code 200 as the aerosol-generating article 100 is inserted into the cavity 301 of the aerosol-generating device 300. As the aerosol-generating article 100 having a dimensional code 200 with different elevations (cameo, intaglio or a combination), the sensor 400 moves in response to the changes in the profile of the aerosol- generating article in the area of the dimensional code 200. This movement 401 of the sensor is indicated by the small black arrow 401 shown in Figure 9. The movement of the sensor 401 in response to the presence of, the width and depth of the dimensional code 200 is then communicated to the control electronics of the aerosol-generating device 300 for classification and authentication purposes. [162] As the aerosol-generating article 100 is inserted into the aerosol-generating device 300, the dimensional code 200 closest to the upstream end 107 of the aerosol-generating article 100 is sensed by the sensor 400 inside the cavity 301 of the aerosol-generating device 200 first. This dimensional code 200 closest to the upstream end 107 of the aerosol-generating article 100 can be described as a start code 160. Similarly, the dimensional code 200 farthest from the upstream end 107 of the aerosol-generating article 100 is the last dimensional code 200 to be sensed by the sensor 400 inside the cavity 301 of the aerosol-generating device 300. This the dimensional code 200 farthest from the upstream end 107 of the aerosol- generating article 100 can be described as a stop code 161. This start and stop information is also communicated to the control electronics of the aerosol-generating device 300 for classification and authentication purposes. [163] Figure 10 is an enlarged illustration of an aerosol-generating article 100 inserted (as shown by the arrow) into the cavity 301 of an aerosol-generating device 300, and a sensor 400 located in the cavity 301 of the aerosol-generating device 300. The sensor 400 has a probe 402 structured to contact the dimensional code 200. The probe 402 may be any shape for contact with the dimensional code 200. For example, the probe may be rounded, triangular, square, or angled. The movements of the probe 402 are provided to a transducer 405 via the stylus 403 (or arm) moving against a pivot 404. The movements of the probe 402 are provided to a transducer 405 via the stylus 403 pivoting about a pivot 404 as the probe 402 moves against the profile of the dimensional code 200 as the aerosol-generating article 100 is inserted into the cavity 301 of the aerosol-generating device. According to the embodiment shown in Figure 10, the aerosol-generating article 100 has a dimensional code 200 perpendicular to the longitudinal axis 113 of the aerosol-generating article 100. In this embodiment, the sensor is aligned with the longitudinal axis 113 of the aerosol-generating article 100 and the cavity 301. The dimensional code 200 shown in Figure 10 consists of intaglio lines 140 and a cameo line 150, all parallel to each other. In this embodiment, the -34- dimensional code 200 is approximately 20 mm in total length, with each intaglio and cameo line contained within that dimension. [164] Figure 11 illustrates an embodiment of the mechanism of the sensor 400. The movements of the probe 402 are provided to a transducer 405 via the stylus 403 moving against a pivot 404. The movements of the probe 402 are provided to a transducer 405 via the stylus 403 pivoting about a pivot 404 as the probe 402 moves against the profile of the dimensional code 200 as the aerosol-generating article 100 is inserted into the cavity 301 of the aerosol-generating device. The mechanical movement of the probe 402 is translated into an electrical signal. The mechanical movement of the probe 402 may be translated into an electrical signal via any mechanism. For example, the transducer 405 may utilize capacitive sensing. For example, a conductive item connected to the stylus may be introduced between two conductors forming two plates of a capacitor. The transducer 405 may utilize induction. For example, induction currents and voltages in coils may change according to the position of a ferromagnetic core connected to the stylus. This is an example of a Linear Variable Differential Transformer or LVDT. The transducer 405 may utilize piezo electricity sensing. For example, the stylus end may be caught into a piezoelectric material. The mechanical sensor generates an electro-mechanical signal. The mechanical sensor generates an electro- mechanical output to the control electronics of the aerosol-generating device. [165] As shown in Figures 9 and 10, the mechanical sensor 400 is aligned inside the cavity 301 of the aerosol-generating device 300 so that the probe 402 of the sensor 400 is aligned perpendicular to the dimensional code 200 of the aerosol-generating article 100. [166] Figure 12 is an illustration of the sensor 400 of the aerosol-generating device 300 interacting with the dimensional code 200 of the aerosol-generating article 100 where the dimensional code 200 is parallel with the longitudinal axis 113 of the aerosol-generating article 100. In this embodiment, the sensor 400 is aligned so that the probe 402 moves in response to the probe 402 contacting the profile of the dimensional code. In this embodiment, because the dimensional code is parallel to the longitudinal axis of the aerosol-generating article 100, the probe is aligned perpendicular to the longitudinal axis 113 of the aerosol-generating article 100. The probe 402 is able to move in response to the profile of the dimensional code 200 when the aerosol-generating article is turned or rotated inside the cavity 301. This turning movement is shown by the arrow 305 in Figure 12. As shown in Figure 12, the dimensional code 200 is a single line, which may be an intaglio line 140 or a cameo line 150. [167] Figure 13 is an illustration of an aerosol-generating article 100 inserted into the cavity 301 of an aerosol-generating device 300, and a sensor 400 located in the cavity 301 of the aerosol- generating device 300, where the aerosol-generating article 100 has a dimensional code 200 -35- parallel to the longitudinal axis 113 of the aerosol-generating article 100, as shown from a top- down perspective. A number intaglio lines 140 or intaglio dots 145 forming the dimensional code 200 are shown in cross-section in this top-down perspective. As the aerosol-generating article is rotated in the cavity 301 of the aerosol-generating device 300 (as illustrated in Figure 12), the sensor senses the dimensional code 200, providing a signal to the control electronics (not shown) of the aerosol-generating device 300. [168] Alternatively, instead of the probe 402 moving against the aerosol-generating article 100 when the aerosol-generating article 100 is inserted into the aerosol-generating device 300 and twisted inside the cavity 301 as illustrated in Figure 12, the aerosol-generating device 300 may have a moveable ring 410 which comprises the sensor 400, that can move against the inserted aerosol-generating article 100. In this way, the probe 402 may be moved by moving the probe 402, attached to the moveable ring 410 of the cavity 301 of the aerosol- generating device 300 instead of by movement of the aerosol-generating article 100 with respect to the cavity 301 of the aerosol-generating device 300. [169] In other embodiments, the sensor 400 could comprise a stylus which translates, rather than pivots, so as to provide information to the transducer and produce the electrical signal. In yet other embodiments, the sensor 400 could be a light sensor such as an infrared sensor which determines the location and depth of the intaglio and cameo portions of the dimensional code along the article. This determination could be done as the article is inserted into the cavity, similarly to the mechanical sensor described above, or after the article has been inserted into the cavity. [170] Figure 14 shows a method of making outer wrapper 110 having dimensional codes by rolling a dimensional code 200 pattern into the outer wrapper 110 using a roller 500 pressing a pattern into the outer wrap 110. The dimensional code 200 rolled into the outer wrapper may be a line or a plurality of lines, may be intaglio lines 140 or cameo lines 150 or may be a plurality of dots (in any shape) which may be intaglio or cameo, depending on the pattern of the roller. For example, if the pattern is rolled into the outside surface of the outer wrap 110, the pattern may be intaglio. If the same pattern is rolled into the inside surface of the outer wrap 110, the pattern may be cameo. The outer wrap 110 may be treated with a roller prior to assembling the aerosol-generating article (according to Figure 1, for example) so that the dimensional code 200 is in the outer wrap when the aerosol-generating article 100 is assembled. According to embodiments where the texture is on the outer wrap 110 and the dimensional code 200 is made of parallel lines and these lines are aligned to the longitudinal axis of the aerosol-generating article 100, the lines could be created on the paper before the wrapping stage by rolling, on the outer wrap 110 (paper, for example), a dedicated wheel/roller -36- having the reverse reliefs of the dimensional code 200. Such embodiments allow the dimensional code to be provided on the outer wrap 110 while keeping a very high manufacturing speed. The roller 500 may press the material of the outer wrap 110 against a support 501 made from a hard elastic material to help to engrave the dimensional code 200 under pressure applied by the roller 500. Figure 15 shows an enlarged profile of the outer wrapper 110 having a dimensional code 200 applied by the method shown in Figure 14. If the method shown in Figure 15 is used to provide outer wrap 110 having a dimensional code 200, this outer wrap 110 can be used to assemble an aerosol-generating article 100 having dimensional code 200 that is parallel to the longitudinal axis 113 of the aerosol-generating article 100 as shown in Figure 6 or an aerosol-generating article 100 having dimensional code 200 that is perpendicular to the longitudinal axis 113 of the aerosol-generating article 100 as shown in Figure 3-5, for example, depending on the orientation of the outer wrap 110 as it is used to assemble the elements of the aerosol-generating article. [171] Figure 16 shows an alternate method for making outer wrap 110 having dimensional codes 200 by stamping a pattern into the outer wrap 110. In this embodiment, instead of a roller 500, a stamping tool 503 may be utilized to stamp a dimensional code 200 into the material of the outer wrap 110. The stamping tool 503 may press the outer wrap 110 against a support 501 to improve the imprint made by the stamping tool 503, in an embodiment. [172] For the purpose of the present description and of the appended claims, except where otherwise indicated, all numbers expressing amounts, quantities, percentages, and so forth, are to be understood as being modified in all instances by the term "about". Also, all ranges include the maximum and minimum points disclosed and include any intermediate ranges therein, which may or may not be specifically enumerated herein. In this context, therefore, a number A is understood as A ± 10% of A. Within this context, a number A may be considered to include numerical values that are within general standard error for the measurement of the property that the number A modifies. The number A, in some instances as used in the appended claims, may deviate by the percentages enumerated above provided that the amount by which A deviates does not materially affect the basic and novel characteristic(s) of the claimed invention. Also, all ranges include the maximum and minimum points disclosed and include any intermediate ranges therein, which may or may not be specifically enumerated herein.

Claims

-37- CLAIMS 1. An aerosol-generating article comprising: a body extending between a downstream end and an upstream end along a longitudinal axis; the body comprising, in linear arrangement from the downstream end, at least a filter and an aerosol-generating substrate; an outer wrap wrapped, at least partially, around the filter and the aerosol-generating substrate to form a unitary aerosol-generating article; wherein the outer wrap comprises a dimensional code; wherein the dimensional code comprises one or a combination of at least one intaglio portion and at least one cameo portion. 2. The aerosol-generating article of claim 1 wherein the dimensional code comprises at least one line. 3. The aerosol-generating article of any one of the previous claims wherein the dimensional code comprises at least two parallel lines. 4. The aerosol-generating article of any one of the preceding claims wherein the dimensional code comprises a plurality of dots. 5. The aerosol-generating article of claim 4 wherein the plurality of dots form a pattern. 6. The aerosol-generating article of any one of the preceding claims wherein the dimensional code is perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the body of the article. 7. The aerosol-generating article of any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein the dimensional code is aligned with the longitudinal axis of the body. 8. The aerosol-generating article of any one of the previous claims, wherein the outer wrap comprises a band or sticker and the band or sticker comprises at least a portion of the dimensional code. -38- 9. An aerosol-generating device for generating aerosol from an aerosol-generating article, the device comprising a power supply; control electronics; and a sensor structured to sense the presence of a dimensional code of the aerosol-generating article and communicate with the control electronics. 10. The aerosol-generating device of claim 9 wherein the sensor comprises a mechanical sensor. 11. The aerosol-generating device of claim 9 or 10 wherein the sensor comprises a profilometer. 12. The aerosol-generating device of claim 11 wherein the profilometer comprises a probe configured to engage with the dimensional code and cause an arm to one or both of translate and pivot about a pivot point. 13. An aerosol-generating system comprising the electronic device according to any one of claims 9-12 and an aerosol-generating article comprising a dimensional code. 14. A method of using an aerosol-generating device according to any one of claims 9 to 12 comprising: engaging an aerosol-generating article with the aerosol-generating device; sensing, with the sensor, the presence or absence of a dimensional code on the aerosol-generating article, and; communicating the presence or absence of the dimensional code to the control electronics. 15. A method of making an aerosol-generating article according to any one of claims 1-7 comprising stamping, rolling, engraving, or depositing, for example by 3D-printing, the dimensional code into outer wrap material.