Overview
ISO 20193:2019/Amd 1:2021 is an important international standard published by the International Organization for Standardization (ISO) that amends ISO 20193:2019. It focuses on the determination of the width of strands of cut tobacco, a key quality parameter in tobacco and tobacco products. This amendment introduces a modernized measurement method based on digital image processing, enhancing precision and repeatability compared to traditional manual techniques.
The document was developed by ISO technical committee ISO/TC 126, subcommittee SC 1, which specializes in physical and dimensional tests for tobacco products. The amendment aligns with ISO/IEC editorial rules and reflects evolving technology for improved laboratory analysis.
Key Topics
- Digital Image Processing Method: Addition of Annex C describing a novel measurement approach using a camera system and software to determine strand width.
- Sampling and Preparation: Guidelines specify taking at least 30 strands of cut tobacco, each a minimum of 10 mm long, ensuring representative and uniform samples.
- Apparatus Specifications:
- Color camera with CCD or CMOS sensor and minimum 5-megapixel resolution.
- Uniform LED lighting to prevent shadowing or distortion.
- Sample holder sized to accommodate at least 30 strands without overlap.
- Imaging precision of at least 0.05 mm for high-resolution measurements.
- Measurement Procedure: Steps to calibrate the instrument, place strands without stretching or damage, and capture images for analysis.
- Calculation of Width: Calculation based on orthogonal distances between nearly parallel edges of strands; averages the width of multiple points per strand and across all strands.
- Expression of Results: Results expressed as arithmetic mean and standard deviation to two and three decimal places respectively, ensuring consistent quality reporting.
Applications
This standard amendment is critical for:
- Tobacco Product Manufacturers: Ensuring consistent strand width which impacts cutting quality, burn rate, and overall product performance.
- Quality Control Laboratories: Implementing precise, automated methods reduces human error and improves reproducibility of dimensional measurements.
- Regulatory Compliance: Meeting international standards supports product certification, facilitates trade, and enables regulatory approvals.
- Research and Development: Facilitates product innovation by providing reliable measurement data for new tobacco blends and cutting methods.
- Digital Transformation: Encourages adoption of image processing technology in tobacco testing, aligning with broader trends in industry 4.0 and smart manufacturing.
Related Standards
- ISO 4387 - Tobacco and tobacco products - Determination of volatile matter content - Essential for understanding cutting and drying impacts.
- ISO 3402 - Tobacco and tobacco products - Atmosphere for conditioning and testing - Provides controlled environment parameters for accurate measurements.
- ISO 3308 - Routine analytical cigarette-smoking machine - Standardizes smoking parameters, related to cut tobacco strand quality.
- ISO 3160 - Tobacco and tobacco products - Sampling - Key for representative sample selection in physical tests.
By integrating advanced image processing techniques for strand width determination, ISO 20193:2019/Amd 1:2021 enhances the reliability and efficiency of tobacco quality assessments. Its adoption supports manufacturers and laboratories in maintaining product consistency and regulatory adherence while embracing technological innovation.