Aerosol-generating device housing

Abstract

A removable housing component (200) for attachment to an aerosol-generating device housing (102) is provided. The component (200) includes: a first end and a second end (204, 206), the component (200) extending between the first end and the second end (204, 206) to define a component axis (Y); a concave inner surface (212) having a concave profile in the direction along the component axis (Y); and an elongated plurality of first protrusions (216) extending from the concave inner surface (212) and spaced apart from each other in the direction along the component axis (Y). An aerosol-generating device (100) comprising a housing (102) is also provided.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present disclosure relates to aerosol generating devices, to aspects of housings for such devices, and more particularly to a housing for a tobacco heating product (THP) device. Background Art

[0002] Smoking articles (such as cigarettes, cigars, etc.) burn tobacco during use to produce tobacco smoke. People have tried to provide alternatives to these articles by producing products that release compounds without burning. An example of such a product is a heating device that releases the compound by heating rather than burning the material. The material can be, for example, tobacco or other non-tobacco products, which may or may not contain nicotine.

[0003] These heating devices may include a housing that is gripped by a user and that holds internal components. Summary of the invention

[0004] The aerosol generating device may be provided with a housing containing some or all of the components for generating an aerosol from a received consumable. When the device is carried or when it is used to generate an aerosol, parts of the device housing are held by a user. Therefore, the particular form of the housing may affect or improve the usability of the device.

[0005] The housing of the device is used to accommodate the components and functions of generating the aerosol, and to keep some components internally to be isolated from the user. Therefore, the shape and size of the housing may also be affected by the basic function of the device. For example, in a heat-not-burn arrangement, a device that generates an aerosol by heating a tobacco product may be provided with a housing that accommodates a power source, an electrical circuit, and a form of a heating zone. In a device such as a THP device, there may be a large number of components to be accommodated and isolated from the user.

[0006] For example, by providing the housing with a shape that generally conforms to being held by a user's hand, the usability of the device may be improved. The housing may be provided with a surface that is flat or given a certain curvature to be easily held or held in the hand.

[0007] The form of the housing (including the shape and size of the housing) may therefore be influenced by both the usability of the device and the accommodation of the aerosol generating functionality. Thus, a particular housing form and shape may be particularly desirable or advantageous for one or more particular types of aerosol generators. In particular, a combination of planar and convex outer surfaces may be particularly easy to hold during use of the device while providing space for accommodating particular components.

[0008] The housing may be provided with features that provide an improved "user feel" to the device by improving tactile feedback to the user. For example, the use of specific materials in various parts of the housing may give the user a touch sensation or tactile feedback that may be associated with a high quality or sturdy device, or tactile feedback that the user finds pleasant or comfortable.

[0009] Specifically, tactile feedback can be affected by the surface texture of the various parts of the housing. For example, a surface with a texture having a relatively high roughness can give the device a feeling of being easy to hold and can provide reassuring tactile feedback. In another example, a relatively smooth (i.e., having a relatively low roughness) surface can give a solid touch feeling, thereby giving the impression of a high-quality or solid device.

[0010] It may be desirable to provide a housing with different touch sensations at different locations to give the user an overall impression and varying tactile feedback. The housing may be provided with multiple surfaces having different textures (e.g., textures having different roughness from each other). In one example, a surface having a relatively high roughness may be provided at a location of the housing that is intended to be gripped or held by a user, and a surface having a relatively low roughness may be used at a location around a user interface device (such as a button).

[0011] It may therefore be advantageous to provide an aerosol generating device, a housing for an aerosol generating device or components of such a housing which are formed for usability, which components have an aerosol generating function and which provide an improved impression to a user.

[0012] More specifically, providing these advantages may be desirable in the context of tobacco heating product (THP) devices, which may have a relatively large number of internal components to be isolated from a user and therefore include some elements of size, shape and external form specific for this type of device.

[0013] In order to provide an improved user impression and to allow the user to customize the device, modular removable housing parts may be provided. The removable housing parts may form side panels of the aerosol generating device that are attached or removed by the user on top of a base housing of the device containing parts. The user may attach, detach and exchange different removable housing parts according to their preferences, for example to customize the texture of various parts of the housing.

[0014] One removable housing component may include a side panel having a generally curved convex shape that conforms to the grip of a user. This portion of the housing may be particularly influential on the overall user impression because the convex outer surface is most often held or gripped by the user during use of the device. Therefore, it may be particularly desirable to provide this portion of the housing with a customizable surface, such as a textured surface.

[0015] It is desirable that the removable housing component and the underlying attachment be securely connected to each other while being easily attachable and detachable. It is also advantageous to be able to set the degree of friction that occurs between the components during attachment and detachment, as the friction produces tactile feedback to the user, which can provide an improved impression of the robustness of the device and the connection.

[0016] It is also desirable to provide a removable housing component and device housing that can be easily mass-produced. It would therefore be advantageous to be able to control the gap that can be formed between the removable component and the underlying housing to take into account manufacturing tolerances.

[0017] According to a first aspect of the present disclosure, there is a removable shell component for attaching to a shell of an aerosol generating device, the component comprising: a first end and a second end, the component extending between the first end and the second end to define a component axis; a concave inner surface having a concave profile in a direction along the component axis; and a plurality of elongated first protrusions extending from the concave inner surface and spaced apart from each other in a direction along the component axis.

[0018] In another embodiment, the removable housing component may further include: a plurality of elongated second protrusions extending from the concave inner surface and spaced apart from each other in a direction along the component axis, the plurality of second protrusions being spaced apart from the plurality of first protrusions in a direction perpendicular to the axis.

[0019] In another embodiment of any of the foregoing embodiments, each of the plurality of first protrusions includes a planar support surface facing a first direction, and each of the plurality of second protrusions includes a planar support surface facing an opposite second direction toward the plurality of first protrusions.

[0020] In a further embodiment of any of the foregoing embodiments, each first protrusion of the plurality of first protrusions includes a planar support surface facing a common direction, and each second protrusion of the plurality of second protrusions includes a planar support surface facing the same direction.

[0021] In another embodiment of any of the foregoing embodiments, each protrusion (eg, each protrusion in the plurality of first protrusions and the plurality of second protrusions) includes a first portion extending from the concave surface and a second portion extending from the first portion at an angle to the first portion.

[0022] In a further embodiment of any of the foregoing embodiments, the removable housing component may further include a convex outer surface opposite the concave inner surface.

[0023] In a further embodiment of any of the foregoing embodiments, the convex outer surface comprises a texture that is different than a texture of the concave inner surface.

[0024] According to another aspect of the present disclosure, there is an aerosol generating device, comprising a shell, the shell comprising: a first end and a second end, the shell extending between the first end and the second end to define a device axis; a convex outer surface, the surface having a convex profile in a direction along the device axis; and a plurality of first channels extending into the shell through the convex surface and spaced apart from each other in the direction along the device axis.

[0025] In another embodiment, the aerosol generator may further include: a plurality of second channels extending into the convex outer surface and spaced apart from each other in a direction along the device axis, the plurality of second channels being spaced apart from the plurality of first channels in a direction perpendicular to the axis.

[0026] In another embodiment of any of the preceding embodiments, each of the plurality of first channels includes a planar support surface facing in a first direction, and each of the plurality of second channels includes a planar support surface facing in an opposite second direction away from the plurality of first channels.

[0027] In a further embodiment of any of the preceding embodiments, each channel of the first plurality of channels and the second plurality of channels includes a lip at one side of the channel extending from the planar support surface facing the first direction and the planar support surface facing the second direction.

[0028] In a further embodiment of any of the preceding embodiments, each first channel of the plurality of first channels comprises a planar support surface facing in a common direction, and each second channel of the plurality of second channels comprises a planar support surface facing in the same direction.

[0029] In another embodiment of any of the foregoing embodiments, each channel of the first plurality of channels and the second plurality of channels includes a first planar support surface and a second planar support surface that are angled with each other and intersect at an edge located within the channel.

[0030] According to another aspect of the present disclosure, an aerosol generating device according to any preceding embodiment may further comprise a removable housing component according to any preceding embodiment, the plurality of first protrusions being received within the plurality of first channels to removably attach the housing component to the housing.

[0031] According to another aspect of the present disclosure, a method of manufacturing an aerosol generating device according to any of the aforementioned embodiments may be provided, the method comprising: forming a shell side wall, the shell side wall comprising a convex outer surface; and processing a channel, which extends partially into the side wall through the convex outer surface.

[0032] In another embodiment, the housing components and device housing may be used in a tobacco heating product (THP) device.

[0033] Although different examples are described, embodiments of the present disclosure are not limited to these specific combinations. Some of the features or components from one of the examples may be used in combination with features or components from another example. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0034] Some embodiments of the present disclosure will now be described, by way of example only, and with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:

[0035] Figure 1 An aerosol generating device is shown.

[0036] Figure 2 Shows Figure 1 A device housing and removable housing components of a device.

[0037] Figure 3 Shows Figure 2 The device housing and removable housing components are in a separated position.

[0038] Figure 4 The device housing is shown along Figure 3 Cross-sectional view of section AA.

[0039] Figure 5 Shown separately Figure 3 Removable housing parts.

[0040] Figure 6 Shows the orientation Figure 3 A view of the interior of the removable housing component.

[0041] Figure 7 Shows the orientation Figure 3 A view of the exterior of the device housing.

[0042] Figure 8a , Figure 8b and Figure 8c Shows Figure 2 and Figure 3 The device housing and removable housing components are in different positions during the step of attaching the components to the device housing.

[0043] Fig. 9 Shows Figure 3 Detail view of a portion of the removable housing component.

[0044] Fig.10 The removable housing components are shown along Fig. 9 Cross-sectional view of section BB.

[0045] Fig.11 Shows Figure 3 Detail of a portion of the device housing.

[0046] Fig.12 The device housing is shown along Fig.11 Cross-sectional view of section CC. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0047] Figure 1 An aerosol generating device 100 and a modular housing component 200 removably attached to the device 100 are shown.

[0048] The exemplary aerosol generating device 100 is a tobacco heating product (THP) device. The device 100 includes an internal component (not shown) that includes a power source and a heating area. The internal component may include an induction heater to heat the heating area. The internal component is received in a device housing 102, and the device housing 102 substantially surrounds or encloses the internal component so as to contain the internal component within the device 102. The device housing 102 substantially surrounds the internal component in three dimensions, thereby enclosing the internal component.

[0049] The device 100 also includes a receiving portion (not shown) for receiving consumables. In the example shown, the receiving portion is substantially formed within the device housing 102. A receiving portion opening 104 is formed in the device housing 102 and connects the receiving portion to the outside of the device 100.

[0050] In use, a user can insert a consumable into a receiving portion in the device 100 through the receiving portion opening 104. In the example shown, the receiving portion is formed so that the inserted consumable is only partially received in the receiving portion, and a portion of the consumable remains outside the device 100, located on the opposite side of the receiving portion opening 104.

[0051] In other examples, an aerosol generating device may include a device configured to generate an aerosol from a liquid precursor material at least partially received within a similar device housing, and an opening is provided in the housing for a user to insert the material and / or inhale the aerosol generated thereby.

[0052] In other examples, an aerosol generating device may include a device configured to generate an aerosol from a liquid precursor material. The liquid precursor material is at least partially received within a similar device housing, and an opening is provided in the housing for a user to insert the material and / or inhale the aerosol generated thereby.

[0053] Figure 2 The device housing 102 is shown having a housing component 200 received thereon. Figure 3The device housing 102 and the removably attachable housing part 200 are shown separated from each other. The housing part 200 can be attached to the base device housing 102 by a user, as will be described further below. The device housing 102 is a base housing that receives the internal components of the aerosol generating device to be isolated from the user and provides a means for receiving the removable housing part 200. In the attached position, the housing part 200 covers a portion of the device housing 102. Therefore, the user can attach and remove the housing part 200 from the device housing 102 without exposing any internal components of the device.

[0054] As in Figure 2 As best seen in FIG. 1 , the device housing 102 defines a device axis X that extends through the center of the device 100 in a longitudinal or lengthwise direction. The device housing 102 includes a first or proximal end 106 and a second or distal end 108 separated in the longitudinal direction along the axis X. The first end 106 corresponds to the end of the device at which a user of the device can inhale an aerosol generated by the device. The receiving portion opening of the device is formed at the end of the device corresponding to the first end 106 of the device housing 102. The second end 108 corresponds to the opposite end of the device, which is generally the end farthest from the user when the user inhales the aerosol generated by the device.

[0055] The device housing 102 includes a side wall 110 forming a hollow shell that extends longitudinally between two open ends. The hollow interior of the device housing 102 defined by the side wall 110 receives the internal components of the device 100 described above. The side wall 110 extends from the first end 106 of the device 100 to the second end 108. The side wall 110 extends completely around the axis X. The housing 102 is hollow, and the side wall 110 of the housing 102 defines an interior space 112 between the first end 106 and the second end 108, into which the internal components of the device 100 can be received.

[0056] The device housing 102 may also include a first end wall and a second end wall (not shown) corresponding to the first end 106 and the second end 108, respectively. The first end wall and the second end wall are joined to the side wall 110 to cover or close the interior space of the device housing 102 at the first end 106 and the second end 108 of the device 100. The side wall 110 and the first end wall and the second end wall together form a substantially three-dimensional housing for receiving and enclosing the internal components of the device 100. During assembly of the device, the internal components can be placed to be arranged within the side wall 110 before one or both of the end walls are attached to the side wall 110. This arrangement provides ease of manufacturing and assembly.

[0057] The sidewall 110 is joined or connected to both the first end wall and the second end wall of the housing 102 to form the device housing 102 of the assembled device. The sidewall 110 can be connected to the end walls by being integrally formed with either of the end walls. Alternatively, the sidewall 110 can be connected to one or both of the end walls by a non-removable or permanent attachment means (such as by an adhesive or a mechanical interlock).

[0058] As used herein, the term "non-removably connected" or "non-removable" means that the connected elements cannot be separated without damaging the attachment means, such that the elements cannot be reattached by the same attachment means without repair.

[0059] In the example shown, the side wall 110 of the device housing 102 is integrally formed as a single-piece component. In other examples, the side wall 110 includes multiple pieces that are joined by non-removable attachment means.

[0060] The integrally formed and / or non-removable attachment of the first and second end walls and the side wall 110 of the device housing 102 prevents or limits the user from disassembling the device housing 102 or accessing the internal components. This can help prevent the user from being exposed to heating or electrical components within the device 102, or can help prevent the user from accidentally disassembling or disconnecting the device 102.

[0061] As in Figure 3 , the sidewall 110 includes a plurality of exterior surfaces that are also exterior surfaces of the device housing 102. The plurality of exterior surfaces include surfaces that are exposed to a user when the device is fully assembled. The plurality of surfaces include one or more surfaces that are intended to be exposed during normal use of the device and at least one surface that can be covered by a modular housing component 200 that can be removably attached to the assembled device by a user prior to use of the device. The plurality of exterior surfaces are variously shaped and arranged to facilitate attachment / removal of the modular housing components and / or to provide a suitable form for handling by a user during use.

[0062] The plurality of outer surfaces are surfaces opposite to the inner space 112 defined by the side wall 110. That is, the plurality of outer surfaces are surfaces of the side wall 110 separated from the inner space 112 in the thickness direction of the side wall 110.

[0063] Figure 4 Shown along Figure 3The device housing 102 of section AA of FIG. The plurality of outer surfaces include a first outer surface 114, which in turn includes a first portion 118, a second portion 120, and a third portion 122 that define different portions of the surface. The first outer surface 114 is the surface exposed to the user when in use, and the first portion 118, the second portion 120, and the third portion 122 are shaped to be suitable for the user to hold.

[0064] The first outer surface 114 is generally continuous on the first portion 118, the second portion 120 and the third portion 122; that is, the portions 118, 120, 122 are smoothly joined and are not separated by edges or other surface features. The first portion 118 and the second portion 120 include a flat or planar shape. In this regard, the first portion 118 and the second portion 120 are generally tangential to a circumferential direction around the axis X. The first portion 118 and the second portion 120 are separated from each other and are located on opposite sides of the device housing 102. The first portion 118 and the second portion 120 are separate and arranged to be located on opposite sides of the device housing 102 and separated by the interior space 112.

[0065] The third portion 122 extends between the first portion 118 and the second portion 120, joining the first portion 118 and the second portion 120 to form the first outer surface 114. The third portion 122 forms a curved or arcuate surface. The third portion 122 includes a convex shape, defining a curved portion with an outer bend. The third portion 122 is convex in the direction along the axis X to form a convex longitudinal profile, or a convex shape when viewed in the direction of the axis X. The third portion 122 forms a substantially complete arcuate shape and may include a curvature that is generally constant over the substantially complete arcuate shape.

[0066] The curved shape and convexity of the third portion 122 of the first outer surface 114 can be defined based on the center of curvature. The third portion 122 of the first outer surface 114 faces away from the center of curvature, thereby defining a convex shape. The third portion 122 can extend about 180 degrees around the center of curvature, or between 160 degrees and 200 degrees to form a substantially complete arc.

[0067] The first portion 118, the second portion 120, and the third portion 122 of the first outer surface 114 form a continuous surface. That is, the portions 118, 120, 122 are not separated by discontinuities. The first outer surface 114 thus includes at least two relatively planar portions joined by relatively curved or arcuate portions.

[0068] The plurality of exterior surfaces of the side wall also include a second exterior surface 116. The second exterior surface 116 is an exterior surface that may be covered by a modular housing component in use and is shaped to receive a modular housing component.

[0069] The second outer surface 116 is similar to the third portion 122 of the first outer surface 114 in that the second outer surface forms a curved or arcuate surface. The second outer surface 116 includes a convex shape, thereby defining a curved portion having an outer bend. The second outer surface 116 is convex in a direction along the axis X to form a convex longitudinal profile, or a convex shape when viewed in the direction of the axis X. The second outer surface 116 forms a substantially complete arcuate shape and may include a curvature that is generally constant over the substantially complete arcuate shape.

[0070] The curved shape and convexity of the second outer surface 116 can be defined based on the center of curvature. The second outer surface 116 is away from the center of curvature, thereby defining a convex shape. The second outer surface 116 can extend about 180 degrees around the center of curvature, or between 160 degrees and 200 degrees to form a substantially complete arc.

[0071] The second outer surface 116 is disposed opposite a similarly shaped third portion 122 of the first outer surface 114 , on an opposite side of the device housing 102 , and is separated from the third portion 122 by the interior space 112 .

[0072] The first and second outer surfaces 114, 116 are separated from one another by first and second abutments or bosses 124, 126 formed in the sidewall 110. The first and second bosses 124, 126 partially define a recess 128 for receiving the modular housing component 200 onto the device housing 102.

[0073] The first and second bosses 124, 126 include a discontinuity on the exterior of the sidewall 110 that separates the first exterior surface 114 from the second exterior surface 116 such that the second exterior surface 116 is recessed relative to the first exterior surface 114. The housing component 200 can thus be received onto the second exterior surface 116 to be flush with the first exterior surface 114 at the locations of the bosses 124, 126.

[0074] The bosses 124, 126 each include a pair of edges, each edge separating the corresponding boss 124, 126 from one of the first outer surface 114 and the second outer surface 116. The edges extend in the longitudinal direction of the device housing 102. The edges are formed at a position where one of the first boss 124 and the second boss 126 intersects with the first outer surface 114 or the second outer surface 116. The first boss 124 separates the second outer surface 116 from the first portion 118 of the first outer surface 114. The second boss 126 separates the second outer surface 116 from the second portion 120 of the first outer surface 114. The bosses 124, 126 are formed inwardly from the first outer surface 114. That is, the bosses 124, 126 extend inwardly toward the interior space 112 of the housing 102.

[0075] The bosses 124, 126 may be formed by varying the thickness of the sidewall 110. In the example shown, the sidewall 110 includes a relatively thin portion separated from a relatively thick portion by the bosses 124, 126, the thin portion having the second outer surface 116 formed thereon, and the thick portion having the first outer surface 114 formed thereon.

[0076] The bosses 124, 126 and the second outer surface 116 define a recess 128 in the housing sidewall 110. The recess 128 includes an arcuate or crescent-shaped area of ​​empty space outside the device housing 102 that is recessed relative to the first outer surface 114. The recess 128 extends across the second outer surface 116 between the first boss 124 and the second boss 126. The bosses 124, 126 thus separate the first outer surface 114 from the second outer surface 116 on the outside.

[0077] return Figure 3 , the configuration of the first outer surface 114 and the second outer surface 116, the first boss 124 and the second boss 126 allows the modular housing component 200 to be received on the device housing 102. The recess 128 of the device housing 102 receives the modular housing component 200. The recess 128 and the housing component 200 are shaped corresponding to each other so that the housing component 200 can be received in the recess 128 in the space between the first boss 124 and the second boss 126 in a close-fitting manner. When the housing component 200 is received in the recess 128, the outer surface 214 of the housing component is aligned or flush with the first outer surface 114 of the device housing 102.

[0078] Figure 5A reverse view of a modular housing component 200 is shown separately. The housing component 200 includes a removable panel or cover that covers a portion of the housing 102 in an attached position. The housing component 200 includes a structure and shape that conforms to the device housing 102 at the portion to be covered. Specifically, the housing component 200 conforms to the shape of the outer surface 116 and the recess 128 to cover a portion of the device housing 102 in the attached position.

[0079] The housing member 200 includes a wall 202 having a first end 204 and a second end 206 and extending between the first end and the second end to define a longitudinal axis Y of the housing member 200. When the housing member 200 is received on the device 102, the longitudinal axis Y of the housing member 200 is aligned parallel to the longitudinal axis X of the device 102. The wall 202 also includes a first edge 208 and a second edge 210, both of which extend longitudinally between the first end 204 and the second end 206. The wall 202 includes an inner surface 212 and an opposite outer surface 214. Each of the inner surface 212 and the outer surface 214 extends longitudinally from the first end 204 to the second end 206, and extends transversely from the first edge 208 to the second edge 210.

[0080] The inner surface 212 of the wall 202 is shaped to correspond to and conform to the second outer surface 116 of the device housing 102 so that the housing component 200 can be easily received on the device housing.

[0081] The curved inner surface 212 of the wall 202 forms a curved or arcuate surface. The inner surface 212 includes a concave shape, defining a curved portion having an inner curvature. The inner surface 212 is concave in the direction along the axis Y of the housing component 200 so as to form a convex longitudinal profile, or a convex shape when viewed in the direction of the axis Y. The inner surface 212 forms a substantially complete arcuate shape and may include a curvature that is generally constant across the substantially complete arcuate shape.

[0082] The curved shape and concavity of the inner surface 212 can be defined according to the center of curvature. The inner surface 212 faces the center of curvature, defining a concave shape. The inner surface 212 can extend about 180 degrees around the center of curvature, or between 160 degrees and 200 degrees, so as to form a substantially complete arc.

[0083] The outer surface 214 of the wall 202 is exposed to the user during normal use of the device and can therefore be shaped to conform to the user's grip. Figure 3, the outer surface 214 includes a generally convex shape that is similar to the shape of the third portion 122 of the first outer surface 114 of the device housing 102. When the housing component 200 is attached to the device housing 102, the first outer surface 114 of the device housing 102 and the outer surface 214 of the housing component 200 provide a device exterior that is easy to grasp or hold.

[0084] The outer surface 214 of the wall 202 forms a curved or arcuate surface. The outer surface 214 includes a convex shape, thereby defining a curved portion having an outer bend. The outer surface 214 is convex in a direction along the axis X to form a convex longitudinal profile, or a convex shape when viewed in the direction of the axis X. The outer surface 214 forms a substantially complete arcuate shape and may include a curvature that is generally constant over the substantially complete arcuate shape.

[0085] The curved shape and convexity of the outer surface 214 can be defined according to the center of curvature. The outer surface 214 is away from the center of curvature, thereby defining a convex shape. The outer surface 214 can extend about 180 degrees around the center of curvature, or between 160 degrees and 200 degrees to form a substantially complete arc.

[0086] In the example shown, the wall 202 of the housing component 200 includes a substantially constant thickness between the inner surface 212 and the outer surface 214. The thickness of the wall 202 is constant between the first edge 208 and the second edge 210. Where the wall 202 includes a constant thickness, the inner surface 212 and the outer surface 214 include similarly shaped aligned curvatures. Forming the housing component 200 to have a substantially constant thickness may provide a more structurally efficient shape that is strong and easily manufactured.

[0087] The device housing 102 and the housing component 200 may each include a substantially consistent profile in the longitudinal direction. That is, the cross-sectional shape of the device housing 102 and the housing component 200 may be the same along substantially the entire length of each component. For example, at a position between 10% and 90% of the length of the device housing 102 between the first end 106 and the second end 108, the device housing 102 may include a substantially consistent longitudinal cross-sectional shape and size. Alternatively or alternatively, at a position between 10% and 90% of the length of the housing component 200 between the first end 204 and the second end 206, the housing component 200 may include a substantially consistent longitudinal cross-sectional shape and size.

[0088] Alternatively, in an embodiment not shown, the housing portion 200 can be formed such that the inner surface 212 is concave to conform to the second outer surface 116 of the device housing 102, while the outer surface 214 is provided with a different shape or different features that can provide conformity to the user's grip or can provide an improved impression to the user.

[0089] The housing component 200 and the device housing 102 include corresponding attachment means for removably attaching the housing component 200 to the device housing 102. Figure 6 and Figure 7 The attachment arrangement of the depicted embodiment can be best seen in FIG. Figure 6 An inner surface 212 of the housing component 200 is shown including a plurality of elongated protrusions 216 , 220 extending from the inner surface 212 . Figure 7 The second exterior surface 116 of the device housing 102 is shown including a plurality of elongated channels 130 , 132 extending from the second exterior surface 116 into the device housing 102 .

[0090] The plurality of protrusions 216, 220 and the plurality of channels 130, 132 interact with each other to removably attach the housing component 200 to the device housing 102. A user can longitudinally move the housing component 200 to different longitudinal positions relative to the device housing 102 to attach or detach the housing component 200 from the device housing 102. Figures 8a to 8c Various stages of attaching the housing component 200 to the device housing 102 are shown.

[0091] Figure 8a The housing component 200 is shown separated from the device housing 102. The housing component 200 is moved to a first longitudinal position on the second outer surface 116 of the device housing in the direction indicated by arrow 1. The protrusion of the housing component 200 is received in the channel of the device housing 102, and the housing component 200 is inserted into the device housing 102.

[0092] Figure 8b The housing component 200 inserted onto the device housing 102 is shown in a first longitudinal position. The housing component is moved longitudinally along the device housing axis X in the direction indicated by arrow 2 to a second longitudinal position. The protrusion of the housing component 200 moves within the channel of the device housing 102 in the same direction.

[0093] Figure 8c The housing component 200 is shown attached and secured to the device housing 102 in a second longitudinal position. The protrusion may be secured within the channel in the second longitudinal position, as will be described in more detail below. To remove the housing component 200, the user may move the housing component 200 back to the first longitudinal position in a direction opposite to that indicated by arrow 2, to a position where the housing component 200 is secured. Figure 8b position and then completely remove the housing component 200.

[0094] By including multiple protrusions and multiple channels in the longitudinal direction, the fixing of the housing component 200 to the device housing 102 can be performed with relatively small longitudinal movement (as shown by arrow 2). The housing component 200 is inserted onto the second outer surface 116 in the facing direction of the surface, and then the small longitudinal movement locks the component 200 into place.

[0095] This can provide a more robust attachment device and method than, for example, a single channel and protrusion extending along the entire length of the device housing and housing components. Smaller longitudinal locking movements mean that manufacturing tolerance requirements for the channel and protrusion can be reduced. Smaller movements make it less likely that the housing components or the device housing will be damaged or deformed. Specific movement of the housing components to the device housing can also lead to an improved user experience, for example by providing an improved impression of robustness.

[0096] return Figure 6 , the housing component 200 includes a plurality of first protrusions 216 extending from the inner surface 212 for attachment to the device housing in the manner described above.

[0097] The plurality of first protrusions 216 are each elongated and spaced apart from each other in the longitudinal direction. The plurality of first protrusions 216 are aligned with each other along a line parallel to the longitudinal axis Y. Each of the protrusions 216 is elongated in the longitudinal direction along the housing component axis Y, such that the longitudinal dimension of the protrusion is greater than other dimensions of the protrusion perpendicular to the longitudinal direction. In the illustrated embodiment, the plurality of first protrusions 216 include three protrusions 216. The protrusions 216 include substantially the same longitudinal length as each other.

[0098] The protrusions 216 are separated in the longitudinal direction by gaps or spaces 218. Spaces 218 are areas defined between two protrusions 216 and the inner surface 212 that are free of any features of the housing component 200. The longitudinal dimension of each space 218 may be greater than the longitudinal dimension of one or both of the adjacent protrusions 216.

[0099] The housing component 200 may be attached to the device housing 102 in the manner described above utilizing only one plurality of longitudinally aligned protrusions 216. However, in the depicted embodiment, the housing component 200 also includes a second plurality of protrusions 220 to further improve the robustness of the attachment to the device housing.

[0100] The plurality of second protrusions 220 are similar in shape and arrangement to the plurality of first protrusions 216 and include similar corresponding spacings 222 in the longitudinal direction. The plurality of second protrusions 220 are laterally spaced apart from the plurality of first protrusions 216 such that they are not aligned with the plurality of first protrusions 216. That is, each of the plurality of first protrusions 216 is separated from each of the plurality of second protrusions 220 in a direction perpendicular to the longitudinal axis Y (indicated by arrow 3).

[0101] The plurality of second protrusions 220 may include the same number of protrusions as the plurality of first protrusions 216. For example, in the illustrated embodiment, the plurality of second protrusions 220 includes three protrusions. Each of the plurality of first protrusions 216 may substantially correspond to a corresponding one of the plurality of second protrusions 220, having the same longitudinal position and longitudinal length as corresponding protrusions of the other plurality of protrusions.

[0102] The plurality of second protrusions 220 that are laterally spaced apart from the plurality of first protrusions 216 provide attachment points between the housing component 200 and the device housing 102 that are more spaced apart across the second outer surface 116 , which may result in a more robust connection.

[0103] return Figure 7 , the device housing 102 includes a plurality of first channels 130 configured to receive the plurality of first protrusions 216 to removably attach the housing component 200 to the device housing 102 .

[0104] A plurality of first channels 130 are formed in the sidewall 110 of the device housing 102 through the second outer surface 116. The channels 130 each extend partially through the sidewall 110 toward the interior space 112 defined by the sidewall 110. In the illustrated embodiment, the channels 130 do not extend completely through the sidewall 110 and are separated from the interior space 112 by a portion of the sidewall 110.

[0105] The channels 130 are elongated in the longitudinal direction along the device housing axis X, so that the longitudinal dimension of the channel is greater than other dimensions of the channel perpendicular to the longitudinal direction. The channels 130 are spaced apart from each other in the longitudinal direction. The channels 130 are aligned with each other along a line parallel to the longitudinal axis X.

[0106] The device housing 102 may also include a plurality of second channels 132 formed in the side wall 110 through the second outer surface 116 for receiving the plurality of second protrusions 220 of the housing component 200. The plurality of second channels 132 are similar in shape and arrangement to the plurality of first channels 130. The plurality of second channels 132 are laterally spaced apart from the plurality of first channels 130 so that they are not aligned. That is, each of the plurality of first channels 130 is separated from each of the plurality of second channels 132 in a direction perpendicular to the longitudinal axis X (indicated by arrow 4).

[0107] The plurality of second channels 132 may include the same number of channels as the plurality of first channels 130. For example, in the illustrated embodiment, the plurality of second channels 132 includes three channels. Each of the plurality of first channels 130 may substantially correspond to a corresponding one of the plurality of second channels 132, having the same longitudinal position and longitudinal length as corresponding channels of the other plurality of channels.

[0108] The plurality of first channels 130 may include a number of channels corresponding to the number of protrusions in the plurality of first protrusions 216. The plurality of second channels 132 may include a number of channels 132 corresponding to the number of protrusions in the plurality of second protrusions 220. For example, in the illustrated embodiment, the plurality of first channels 130 and the plurality of second channels 132 each include three channels. The channels 130, 132 receive each of the three corresponding protrusions of the plurality of first protrusions 216 and the plurality of second protrusions 220.

[0109] Channels 130, 132 and protrusions 216, 220 may each include additional features, as described below, to improve the robustness of the attachment between housing component 200 and device housing 102 and to improve the impression imparted to a user.

[0110] Fig. 9 Features of the protrusions 216 , 220 and a detailed view of the housing component 200 are shown. Fig.10 Shown along Fig. 9 The following features may be described with respect to only one protrusion 216, but may be included in each of the protrusions 216 and 220 in each plurality of protrusions. The features of the protrusion 220 of the second plurality of protrusions are similar to the features of the protrusions of the first plurality of protrusions 216, except that the features are mirrored or opposite on opposite lateral sides of the inner surface 212 of the housing component 200.

[0111] Each of the protrusions 216 is formed into a shape including a first portion 224 and a second portion 226 , and includes a first bearing surface 228 and a second bearing surface 230 for contacting a portion of the channel 130 to define the fit between the housing component 200 and the device housing 102 .

[0112] The first portion 224 extends outwardly from the inner surface 212 to be coupled to the second portion 226. The second portion 226 extends from the joint portion coupled to the first portion 224 to be separated from the inner surface 212 by the first portion 224. The first portion 224 and the second portion 226 together form a hook-like shape. The first portion 224 and the second portion 226 both include an elongated shape in the longitudinal direction. The first portion 224 extends laterally outwardly from the inner surface 212, and the second portion 226 extends laterally away from the first portion at an angle. In the illustrated embodiment, the first portion 224 forms an approximately right angle with the second portion 226 in a plane defined by the longitudinal axis Y.

[0113] The protrusions 216, 220 may be integrally formed with the housing component 200 at the inner surface 212. Alternatively, the protrusions 216, 220 may be formed separately or as components and then non-removably bonded to the housing component 200 on the inner surface 212.

[0114] The protrusion 216 includes a first bearing surface 228a and a second bearing surface 230a formed at an angle to each other. The first bearing surface 228a and the second bearing surface 230a are configured to contact corresponding bearing surfaces defining the channel 130 when the housing component 200 is attached to the device housing 102. The bearing surfaces 228a, 230a can be formed as part of the second portion 226. The second bearing surface 230a forms an end of the second portion 228 away from the junction with the first portion 224. The first bearing surface 228 forms a side of the second portion 226, extending from the junction with the first portion 224 to the end of the second portion 226 away from the junction.

[0115] Each of the bearing surfaces 228a, 230a is generally flat in the longitudinal direction. The bearing surfaces are arranged at an angle to each other. In the illustrated embodiment, the first bearing surface 228a forms an approximately right angle with the second bearing surface 230a in a plane defined by the longitudinal axis Y. The protrusion may include one or more chamfered corners 232, wherein one chamfered corner separates the first bearing surface 228 from the second bearing surface 230 to improve the robustness of the protrusion 216 and the fit with the channels 130, 132. The chamfered corners 232 separate the protrusion from the sharp edges formed between the bearing surfaces of the channel 130.

[0116] As described above, the protrusion 220 of the second plurality of protrusions may include similar features and may include first and second portions similar to the first and second portions 224, 226 of the first plurality of protrusions 216, except having opposite or mirrored shapes. The protrusion 220 of the second plurality of protrusions may include first and second bearing surfaces 22b, 230b, which are similar to the first and second bearing surfaces 228a, 230a of the protrusion 216.

[0117] The first protrusion 216 and the second protrusion 220 can be arranged to face each other. The first bearing surfaces 228a, 228b facing each other include corresponding planar surfaces defining planes that intersect each other at an acute angle. Alternatively, as in the depicted embodiment, the first bearing surfaces 228a, 228b can be arranged to directly face each other. The first bearing surfaces 228a, 228b directly facing each other include corresponding planar surfaces defining non-intersecting planes.

[0118] By including the first bearing surfaces 228a, 228b facing each other, the two pluralities of protrusions 216, 220 may form a gripping shape for retaining the protrusions 216, 220 into the channels 130, 132, as further described below.

[0119] The respective second bearing surfaces 230a, 230b of the first protrusion 216 and the second protrusion 220 may be arranged to face in a common direction. In the depicted embodiment, the second bearing surfaces 230a, 230b may be coplanar, including respective planar surfaces defining a common plane.

[0120] By including second bearing surfaces 230a, 230b facing in a common direction, the two pluralities of protrusions 216, 220 can abut against channels 130, 132 in a common direction to hold housing component 200 a predetermined distance away from device housing 102, as further described below.

[0121] The first plurality of channels 130 and the second plurality of channels 132 include features for interacting with the first and second bearing surfaces 228 a , 228 b , 230 a , 230 b of the protrusions 216 , 220 .

[0122] Fig.11 Features of the channels 130, 132 and a detailed view of the device housing 102 are shown. Fig.12 Shown along Fig.11 The following features may be described with respect to only one channel 130, but may be included in each of the channels 130, 132 in each plurality of channels. The features of the channels 132 of the second plurality of channels are similar to the features of the channels of the first plurality of channels 130, except that the features are mirrored or opposite on opposite lateral sides of the second exterior surface 116 of the device housing 102.

[0123] The channels 130 are partially defined by first and second bearing surfaces 134, 136. Each of the first and second bearing surfaces 134, 136 of the plurality of channels 130 is a planar surface formed by a cut through the outer surface 116 into the sidewall 110. The bearing surfaces 134, 136 are generally flat in the longitudinal direction.

[0124] The first support surface 134a defines a longitudinally extending first side 138 of the channel 130, the first side including the edge where the support surface 134 intersects the convex second outer surface 116. Similarly, the second support surface 136a defines a longitudinally extending second side 140 of the channel 130, the second side including the edge where the support surface 136a intersects the convex second outer surface 116. The first support surface 134a intersects the second support surface 136a to define an edge 142 recessed into the sidewall 110 within the channel 130. The first support surface 134 and the second support surface 136 are arranged at an angle to each other at the edge 142. In the illustrated embodiment, the planes defined by the first support surface 134a and the second support surface 136a form a right angle to each other.

[0125] The plurality of second channels 132 may each include a first support surface 134b and a second support surface 136b similar to those of the plurality of first channels 130 , except having opposite or mirrored shapes.

[0126] The first support surfaces 134a, 134b of the first channel 130 and the second channel 132 can be arranged to face away from each other. The first support surfaces 134a, 134b facing away from each other include corresponding planar surfaces defining planes that intersect each other at an acute angle. Alternatively, as in the depicted embodiment, the first support surfaces 134a, 134b can be arranged to face directly toward each other. The first support surfaces 134a, 134b facing directly toward each other include corresponding planar surfaces defining non-intersecting planes.

[0127] The respective second bearing surfaces 136a, 136b of the first and second channels 130, 132 may be arranged to face in a common direction. In the depicted embodiment, the second bearing surfaces 136a, 136b may be coplanar, including respective planar surfaces defining a common plane.

[0128] The housing component 200 is attached to the device housing 102 by inserting the protrusions 216, 220 into the corresponding channels 130, 132. This insertion brings the first bearing surfaces 228a, 228b of the protrusions 216, 220 into contact with the first bearing surfaces 134a, 134b of the channels 130, 132. The dimensions of the protrusions 216, 220 include a form that fits within the channels 130, 132, whereby the first bearing surface 228 of the protrusions generates a bearing force against the first bearing surface 134 of the channels 130, 132.

[0129] The form fit is provided by arranging the respective first bearing surfaces 228a, 228b of the protrusions 216, 220 at a first separation distance, and arranging the first bearing surfaces 134a, 134b of the channels 130, 132 at a second separation distance slightly greater than the first distance. The effect of this arrangement is that the protrusions 216, 218 must be deformed very slightly to be inserted into the channels 130, 132, thereby generating a force. The first bearing surfaces 228a, 228b of the protrusions 216, 220 face inwardly toward each other, and therefore the force generated by the form fit pushes these surfaces against the outwardly facing first bearing surfaces 134a, 134b of the plurality of channels 130, 132.

[0130] The force between the corresponding bearing surfaces 228, 134 creates a friction force that acts to resist the movement of the protrusions 216, 220 within the channels 130, 132 without completely preventing movement. Friction occurs when a user inserts the housing component 200 onto the device housing 102 and moves the housing component 200 longitudinally to the attached position.

[0131] Providing two sets of multiple protrusions 216, 220 with first bearing surfaces 228a, 228b facing each other allows the desired degree of friction fit of the housing component 200 to the device housing 102 to be set. The separation distance between the first bearing surfaces 228 of the plurality of first protrusions 216 and the plurality of second protrusions 218 can be reduced to increase friction resistance, or the relative separation distance can be increased to reduce friction resistance. The angled shape of the first portion 224 and the second portion 226 of the protrusions 216, 220 allows the desired separation of the first bearing surfaces 228a, 228b to be set independently of other factors by selecting the length of the first portion 224 of the protrusions 216, 220.

[0132] When the protrusions 216, 220 are fully inserted into the channels 130, 132, the second bearing surfaces 230a, 230b of the protrusions 216, 220 contact the second bearing surfaces 136a, 136b of the channels 130, 132. The second bearing surfaces 230a, 230b of the protrusions 216, 220 face in a common direction that is generally away from the housing component 200 and toward the device housing 102. The second bearing surfaces 136a, 136b of the channels 130, 132 face in a common direction that is toward the second bearing surfaces 230 of the protrusions 216, 220.

[0133] The contact between the second bearing surfaces 230a, 230b of the protrusions 216, 220 and the second bearing surfaces 136a, 136b of the channels 130, 132 maintains the separation of the housing component 200 from the device housing 102. In the inserted position and the attached position, the housing component 200 is separated from the device housing 102 by a gap between the inner surface 212 of the housing component 200 and the second outer surface 116 of the device housing 102.

[0134] By including the second bearing surface 230 facing the same direction, the protrusions 216, 220 can be configured to set a desired gap between the inner surface 212 and the second outer surface 116, for example, to provide tolerance for manufacturing irregularities that may otherwise impair the fit of the housing component 200 with the device housing 102. The angled shape of the first portion 224 and the second portion 226 of the protrusions 216, 220 allows the desired gap size to be set independently of other factors by selecting the length of the second portion 226 of the protrusions 216, 220. For example, a longer second portion 226 increases the gap between the housing component 200 and the device housing 102.

[0135] The two portions 226 , 228 of the protrusions 216 , 220 may be sized separately from one another to independently set a desired friction fit and component separation clearance.

[0136] Continue to refer Fig.11 and Fig.12 , and refer to Figures 8a to 8c , the channels 130, 132 may also include discontinuities or features formed on the otherwise planar first and second bearing surfaces 134a, 134b, 136a, 136b, which may be used to allow the housing component 200 to be more freely inserted or removed in the first longitudinal position of the component 200 (e.g., Figure 8b ), and is used to more completely secure the component 200 to the device housing 102 in the second longitudinal position (as shown in Figure 8c as shown).

[0137] Features are described below with respect to one channel 130, but may apply to each channel 130, 132 of both the first plurality of channels and the second plurality of channels. The channel 130 may include a first protrusion or lip 144 formed on the first bearing surface 134a. The first lip 144 extends away from the first bearing surface 134a at a side 138 of the channel 130 where the first bearing surface 134a intersects the second outer surface 116. The first lip 144 includes a convex outer surface that is continuous with the second outer surface 116, thereby forming a partial arcuate profile.

[0138] The first lip 144 is formed by an area of ​​the sidewall 110 that is not cut away to form the channel 130 and thereby creates a discontinuity in the planar first bearing surface 134a of the channel 130. The discontinuity in the first bearing surface 134a allows the protrusion 216 to be fixed or released from the channel 130 depending on the position of the protrusion 216.

[0139] The first lip 144 extends only a portion of the longitudinal length of the first support surface 134 such that the first support surface 134 a includes a portion of the planar surface adjacent the first lip 144 that extends entirely from the side 138 to the edge 142 having the second support surface 136 .

[0140] During insertion of housing component 200 onto device housing 102 , protrusion 216 may be received into channel 130 at a planar portion adjacent first lip 144 by sliding laterally over first bearing surface 134a and approaching or contacting second bearing surface 136a .

[0141] The first lip 144 also extends only a portion of the way on the first support surface 134 from the side 138 toward the edge 142 between the support surfaces 134 , 136 , such that the first support surface 134 includes a portion of the planar surface between the first lip 144 and the edge 142 and the second support surface 136 .

[0142] During the subsequent step of longitudinally moving the housing component 200 to the second position, the protrusion 216 is longitudinally moved along the axis X into the portion of the planar surface 134a so that the protrusion is received in the channel 130 between the first lip 144 and the second bearing surface 136a. The protrusion 216 is retained between the first lip 144, the second bearing surface 136a and the end of the channel 130. The protrusion 216 and the attached component 200 are thereby prevented from moving in any direction except longitudinally returning to the first position. The housing component 200 can subsequently be removed by moving the component 200 to the first longitudinal position, where the protrusions 216, 220 are unsecured.

[0143] The first lip 144 thereby provides a locking means for securing the housing component 200 to the device housing 102 depending on the longitudinal position of the housing component 200 .

[0144] The channels 130, 132 may also include second and third lips 146, each formed at the side 140 of the channel 130 where the second bearing surface 136 intersects the second outer surface 116. The second and third lips 146 are formed by areas of the sidewall 110 undercut by the channels 130, 132 below the second outer surface 116. The lips 146 each extend partially from the side 140 over the channel 130. The lips 146 are separated in the longitudinal direction. The lips 146 form a covering portion of the channel 130 in which the protrusion is received at the first longitudinal position and the second longitudinal position.

[0145] refer to Fig. 9 , the housing component 200 may also include a protrusion 234 formed by a raised area of ​​the inner surface 212, which may serve as a "stop" feature for the movement of the housing component 200. The protrusion 234 may have a generally elliptical or racetrack perimeter shape. Fig. 9 , the device housing 102 includes a corresponding recess 148 formed into the side wall 110 through the second outer surface 116 and having a corresponding oval or racetrack perimeter shape.

[0146] When housing component 200 is in an attached position on device housing 102, protrusion 234 is aligned with recess 148 such that protrusion 234 fits within recess 148. When housing component 200 is unattached (e.g., being moved into position by a user), protrusion 234 may abut outer surface 116.

[0147] When the housing component 200 is moved into the attached position (as described above), the protrusion 234 moves from abutting against the outer surface 116 into the recess 148 to create a click feeling and noise in the housing component 200 that can be felt by the user, thereby providing tactile feedback and an impression of firmness to the user. When the protrusion 234 is located in the recess 148, a small resistance to the movement of the housing component 200 is created to give the user the impression of a rest position through tactile feedback.

[0148] As described above, the device housing 102 can be manufactured in one piece or by attaching separate parts. The housing 102 can be formed in one piece or in part by injection molding, and then further processed to form the channels 130, 132. The channels 130, 132 can be formed by cutting or routing through the side wall 110 of the device housing 102. The shapes of the above-mentioned channels 130, 132 are easily formed by cutting or routing, which makes the manufacture of the device housing 102 relatively easy and reliable. Specifically, the planar support surfaces 134, 136 and the protruding ridges 144 and the lip 146 as part of the side wall 110 are easily formed by cutting or routing into the side wall 110.

[0149] The cutting or routing may be performed by computer numerical control (CNC) machining, which may completely form the channels by cutting or routing in an automated process that may be easily and reliably repeated to produce a large number of device housings having identical features.

[0150] As described above, the housing component 200 may also be manufactured integrally or by attaching separate parts. Injection molding may be used to integrally form the housing component 200 and the protrusions 216, 220. Machining may then be used to form the features of the housing component 200, including the shape of the protrusions 216, 220.

[0151] Although exemplary embodiments have been described, a worker of ordinary skill in the art would recognize that certain modifications would come within the scope of this disclosure.For that reason, the following claims should be studied to determine the scope and content of this disclosure.

Claims

1. A removable housing component for attachment to an aerosol generating device housing, the component include: a first end and a second end, the member extending between the first end and the second end to define a member axis; a concave inner surface, the surface having a concave profile in a direction along the axis of the component; as well as A plurality of elongated first protrusions extend from the concave inner surface and are spaced apart from each other in a direction along the component axis.

2. The removable housing component according to claim 1, further comprising: include: A plurality of elongated second protrusions extend from the concave inner surface and are spaced apart from each other in a direction along the component axis, and the plurality of second protrusions are spaced apart from the plurality of first protrusions in a direction perpendicular to the axis.

3. The removable housing part according to claim 2, in, Each first protrusion of the plurality of first protrusions includes a planar support surface facing in a first direction, and each second protrusion of the plurality of second protrusions includes a planar support surface facing in an opposite second direction toward the plurality of first protrusions.

4. A removable housing part according to claim 2 or 3, in, Each first protrusion of the plurality of first protrusions includes a planar support surface facing in a common direction, and each second protrusion of the plurality of second protrusions includes a planar support surface facing in the same direction.

5. A removable housing part according to any one of claims 1 to 4, in, Each protrusion includes a first portion extending from the concave surface and a second portion extending from the first portion at an angle to the first portion.

6. A removable housing component according to any one of claims 1 to 5, further comprising a convex outer surface opposite the concave inner surface.

7. The removable housing part according to claim 6, in, The convex outer surface includes a texture that is different from a texture of the concave inner surface.

8. An aerosol generating device, comprising a housing, wherein the housing include: a first end and a second end, the housing extending between the first end and the second end to define a device axis; a convex outer surface, the surface having a convex profile in a direction along the axis of the device; as well as A plurality of first passages extend through the convex surface into the housing and are spaced apart from one another in a direction along the device axis.

9. The aerosol generating device according to claim 8, further comprising: include: A plurality of second channels extend into the convex outer surface and are spaced apart from each other in a direction along the device axis, the plurality of second channels being spaced apart from the plurality of first channels in a direction perpendicular to the axis.

10. The aerosol generating device according to claim 9, in, Each first channel of the first plurality of channels includes a planar support surface facing in a first direction, and each second channel of the second plurality of channels includes a planar support surface facing in an opposite second direction away from the first plurality of channels.

11. The aerosol generating device according to claim 10, in, Each channel of the first plurality of channels and the second plurality of channels includes a lip at one side of the channel extending from a planar support surface facing the first direction and a planar support surface facing the second direction.

12. The aerosol generating device according to claim 9, 10 or 11, in, Each first channel of the plurality of first channels includes a planar support surface facing in a common direction, and each second channel of the plurality of second channels includes a planar support surface facing in the same direction.

13. An aerosol generating device according to any one of claims 9 to 12, in, Each of the plurality of first channels and the plurality of second channels includes a first planar support surface and a second planar support surface that are angled with respect to each other and intersect at an edge within the channel.

14. An aerosol generating device according to any one of claims 8 to 13, further comprising a removable housing component according to any one of claims 1 to 7, the plurality of first protrusions being received within the plurality of first channels to removably attach the housing component to the housing.

15. A method of manufacturing an aerosol generating device according to any one of claims 8 to 14, the method include: forming a housing sidewall, the housing sidewall comprising a convex outer surface; as well as A channel is machined that extends partially through the convex outer surface into the sidewall.

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