Component for an aerosol supply system

Abstract

A component of an electronic aerosol delivery system, the component comprising: a housing element comprising a nebulizer support region configured to support a nebulizer; wherein the housing element comprises at least one first channel, the at least one first channel being configured to receive therein a portion of a connection lead of the nebulizer; wherein each of the at least one first channel comprises an opening configured to receive a contact element; and wherein each of the at least one first channel is shaped to retain a portion of the connection lead abutting between an inner surface of the first channel and an outer surface of the respective contact element when the connection lead and the contact element are received in the first channel.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present disclosure relates to components for aerosol delivery systems. Background Art

[0002] Aerosol delivery systems such as electronic cigarettes typically include a supply source of aerosol generating material, such as a reservoir of a source liquid, which may contain active substances and / or flavorings, from which an aerosol or vapor is generated for inhalation by a user, for example by thermal evaporation. Therefore, the aerosol supply system will typically include an aerosol generating chamber, which includes an aerosol generator arranged to evaporate or aerosolize a portion of the precursor material to generate a vapor or aerosol in the aerosol generating chamber. When the user inhales on the device and power is supplied to the vaporizer, air is drawn into the device through the inlet aperture and along an inlet air channel connected to the aerosol generating chamber, where the air mixes with the evaporated precursor material to form a condensed aerosol.

[0003] Typically, in an electronic aerosol delivery system, the aerosol generator includes an electrically operated atomizer, which may include, for example, a heating element. The circuit within the electronic aerosol delivery system is configured to connect this electrically operated atomizer to a power supply component (e.g., a power supply such as a battery, and an associated control circuit configured to control the current supply from the power supply to the atomizer). In a two-part electronic aerosol delivery system, a power supply component (e.g., a power supply and a power control circuit) is typically provided in a device part that may be reusable, and an aerosol generator is typically provided in a consumable / smoke cartridge part that may be disposable and removably connected to the device part. In such a two-part system, the electrical path between the power supply component in the device part and the atomizer in the consumable / smoke cartridge part typically includes cooperative electrical contacts provided on a mating part of the device part and on a mating part of the consumable / smoke cartridge part. When the device part and the consumable / smoke cartridge part are connected together for use, these electrical contacts provide an electrical connection between the device part and the consumable / smoke cartridge part.

[0004] Known ways of configuring and assembling connection circuits for providing electrical connections between power control circuitry and electrically operated atomizers in electronic aerosol delivery systems can lack robustness and be complex to manufacture reliably.

[0005] Various approaches are described herein that seek to help solve or alleviate at least some of the problems discussed above. Summary of the invention

[0006] According to an embodiment of the present disclosure, a component of an electronic aerosol delivery system is provided, the component comprising: a shell element comprising an atomizer supporting area configured to support an atomizer; wherein the shell element comprises at least one first channel, the at least one first channel being configured to receive a portion of a connecting lead of the atomizer therein; wherein each of the at least one first channel comprises an opening configured to receive a contact pin; and wherein each of the at least one first channel is shaped to hold a portion of the connecting lead between an inner surface of the first channel and an outer surface of a corresponding contact pin when the connecting lead and the contact pin are received in the first channel.

[0007] According to certain embodiments of the present disclosure, the atomizer supporting area and the respective opening of each of the at least one first channel are disposed on opposite sides of the housing element.

[0008] According to certain embodiments of the present disclosure, the component includes at least one second channel for receiving a portion of a connecting lead disposed between the atomizer supporting area and an opening to a corresponding one of the at least one first channel.

[0009] According to certain embodiments of the present disclosure, each of the at least one second passage comprises an aperture through the housing element.

[0010] According to certain embodiments of the present disclosure, each of the at least one second channel comprises a slot or a groove disposed on a surface of the housing element.

[0011] According to certain embodiments of the present disclosure, at least a portion of each slot or groove is disposed on the same side of the housing element as an opening to a corresponding one of the at least one first passageway.

[0012] According to certain embodiments of the present disclosure, the atomizer supporting region, the at least one first channel, and the at least one second channel of the housing element are integrally formed.

[0013] According to certain embodiments of the present disclosure, an inner surface of at least one first channel comprises an elastic material.

[0014] According to certain embodiments of the present disclosure, the connecting lead of the atomizer includes a wire.

[0015] According to certain embodiments of the present disclosure, the component includes an atomizer and at least one contact pin; wherein, at least one connecting lead of the atomizer passes through the second channel from the atomizer support area and is routed into the opening of the first channel, and the contact pin is located in the first channel to hold a portion of the connecting lead between the inner surface of the first channel and the outer surface of the contact pin.

[0016] According to certain embodiments of the present disclosure, at least one contact pin is made of a more elastic material than the portion(s) of the housing element comprising each of the at least one channel.

[0017] According to certain embodiments of the present disclosure, at least one contact pin comprises a metal material, and the housing element comprises a plastic material.

[0018] According to certain embodiments of the present disclosure, the electronic aerosol delivery system includes an outer housing; and the component includes a side surface around the periphery of the housing element, the side surface being configured to engage with an interior surface of the outer housing when the housing element is received within the outer housing.

[0019] According to certain embodiments of the present disclosure, one or more resilient sealing elements are disposed around the side surface of the component to form a seal with the inner surface of the outer housing when the housing element is received in the outer housing, or to form a seal with a component of the atomizer assembly configured to be received in the outer housing.

[0020] According to certain embodiments of the present disclosure, at least one of the one or more resilient sealing elements comprises an O-ring.

[0021] According to certain embodiments of the present disclosure, a slot or keyway is disposed on an inner surface of at least one first channel, the slot or keyway being configured to retain a portion of a connecting lead received in the first channel.

[0022] According to certain embodiments of the present disclosure, an electronic aerosol delivery system is provided, comprising a reservoir for storing an aerosol generating liquid, a first air flow path arranged between an air inlet and an air outlet, and an atomizer for evaporating a source liquid from the reservoir and delivering the vapor into the air flow path; and wherein the electronic aerosol delivery system also includes components according to embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0023] According to certain embodiments of the present disclosure, an electronic aerosol delivery system includes a cartridge configured to reversibly couple to an electronic aerosol generating device including a power source and a controller.

[0024] According to certain embodiments of the present disclosure, a component is included in an electronic aerosol generating device.

[0025] According to certain embodiments of the present disclosure, the component is included in a cartridge.

[0026] According to certain embodiments of the present disclosure, the electronic aerosol delivery system includes at least one contact pin, wherein the first end of each contact pin is configured to be received in an opening of a corresponding first channel, and the second end of each contact pin includes an electrical contact area disposed on the exterior of the cartridge when the contact pin is received in the opening.

[0027] According to certain embodiments of the present disclosure, the cartridge includes an outer housing, and wherein the component is configured to be inserted into an open end of the outer housing during assembly of the electronic aerosol delivery system.

[0028] According to certain embodiments of the present disclosure, a method for manufacturing a component of an electronic aerosol delivery system is provided, the method comprising: providing a shell element, the shell element comprising an atomizer supporting area configured to support an atomizer, and also providing at least one first channel in the shell element, each first channel being configured to receive a portion of a connecting lead of the atomizer therein, wherein each first channel comprises an opening configured to receive a contact element, and wherein each first channel is shaped to keep the received portion of the connecting lead close to the inner surface of the first channel and the outer surface of the corresponding contact pin when the connecting lead and the contact pin are received in the channel.

[0029] According to certain embodiments of the present disclosure, the method also includes: mounting the atomizer on the atomizer support area; inserting an end portion of the connecting lead into the first channel through the opening of the first channel; and inserting a contact pin into the first channel to maintain the portion of the connecting lead close to the inner surface of the first channel and the outer surface of the contact pin.

[0030] According to certain embodiments of the present disclosure, the method further includes routing a connecting lead of the atomizer from the atomizer supporting area through at least one second channel disposed between the atomizer supporting area and the opening to the opening of the first channel.

[0031] According to certain embodiments of the present disclosure, the second channel includes an orifice.

[0032] According to certain embodiments of the present disclosure, the second passage comprises a slot or groove on an outer surface of the housing element.

[0033] It should be understood that the features and aspects of the present invention described above with respect to the first aspect and other aspects of the present invention are also applicable to the embodiments of the present invention according to other aspects of the present invention, and can be appropriately combined with the embodiments of the present invention according to other aspects of the present invention, rather than just the specific combinations described above. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

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

[0035] Figure 1 is a schematic diagram of an aerosol delivery system into which components according to embodiments of the present disclosure may be assembled.

[0036] Figure 2 is a schematic diagram of a cartridge portion for an aerosol delivery system according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0037] Figures 3 to 8 is a schematic diagram of components for an aerosol delivery device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0038] Fig.9A and Fig. 9B is a schematic cross-sectional view of a portion of a component for an aerosol delivery device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0039] Fig. 10A and Fig. 10B is a schematic cross-sectional view of a first channel of a component for an aerosol delivery device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0040] FIG. 11A to FIG. 11C is a schematic diagram of aspects of an atomization subassembly for an aerosol delivery device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0041] Fig.12 is a schematic cross-sectional view through a portion of an atomizing subassembly according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0042] Aspects and features of certain examples and embodiments are discussed / described herein. Some aspects and features of certain examples and embodiments may be conventionally implemented, and for the sake of brevity, these aspects and features are not discussed / described in detail. Therefore, it should be understood that aspects and features of the apparatus and methods discussed herein that are not described in detail may be implemented according to any conventional techniques for implementing these aspects and features.

[0043] the term

[0044] As used herein, the term "delivery system" is intended to cover systems that deliver at least one substance to a user during use, and includes non-flammable aerosol supply systems that release compounds from an aerosol generating material without burning the aerosol generating material, such as electronic cigarettes, tobacco heating products, and hybrid systems that generate aerosols using a combination of aerosol generating materials.

[0045] According to the present disclosure, a "non-flammable" aerosol supply system is one in which the constituent aerosol generating materials of the aerosol supply system (or components thereof) are not burned or ignited in order to deliver at least one substance to a user.

[0046] In some embodiments, the delivery system is a non-flammable aerosol supply system, such as a powered non-flammable aerosol supply system. In some embodiments, the non-flammable aerosol supply system is an electronic cigarette, also known as a vapor electronic cigarette device or an electronic nicotine delivery system (END), but it should be noted that the presence of nicotine in the aerosol generating material is not required. In some embodiments, the non-flammable aerosol supply system is an aerosol generating material heating system, also known as a heat-but-not-burn system. An example of such a system is a tobacco heating system.

[0047] In some embodiments, the non-flammable aerosol supply system is a hybrid system that uses a combination of aerosol generating materials to generate an aerosol, one or more of which can be heated. Each of these aerosol generating materials can be, for example, in the form of a solid, liquid or gel, and may or may not contain nicotine. In some embodiments, the hybrid system includes a liquid or gel aerosol generating material and a solid aerosol generating material. The solid aerosol generating material can include, for example, tobacco or non-tobacco products.

[0048] Typically, a non-flammable aerosol supply system may include a non-flammable aerosol supply device and a consumable for use with the non-flammable aerosol supply device. In some embodiments, the present disclosure relates to consumables that include aerosol generating materials and are configured to be used with a non-flammable aerosol supply device. These consumables are sometimes referred to as products, cartridges, or atomizer cartridges throughout the disclosure, and these terms should be understood to be interchangeable herein.

[0049] In some embodiments, a non-flammable aerosol supply system (such as a non-flammable aerosol supply device thereof) may include a power source and a controller.

[0050] In some embodiments, the non-flammable aerosol supply system may include an area for receiving consumables, an aerosol generator, an aerosol generating area, a housing, a mouthpiece, a filter, and / or an aerosol modifier. In some embodiments, consumables used with the non-flammable aerosol supply device may include an aerosol generating material, an aerosol generating material storage area, an aerosol generating material transmission component, an aerosol generator, an aerosol generating area, a housing, a packaging, a filter, a mouthpiece, and / or an aerosol modifier.

[0051] In some embodiments, the substance to be delivered may be an aerosol generating material, which may include one or more active ingredients, one or more flavorants, one or more aerosol former materials, and / or one or more other functional materials.

[0052] In some embodiments, the material to be delivered includes an active substance. As used herein, the active substance can be a physiologically active material, which is a material intended to achieve or enhance physiological reactions. The active substance can be, for example, selected from health products, nootropics, psychoactive agents. The active substance can be naturally occurring or synthetically obtained. The active substance can include, for example, nicotine, caffeine, taurine, caffeine, vitamins (such as B6 or B12 or C), melatonin or a composition, derivative or combination of these substances. The active substance can include one or more components, derivatives or extracts of tobacco or other plants.

[0053] In some embodiments, the active substance comprises nicotine. In some embodiments, the active substance comprises caffeine, melatonin or vitamin B12.

[0054] As described herein, the active substance may include or be derived from one or more plants or components, derivatives or extracts thereof. As used herein, the term "plant" includes any material derived from a plant, including but not limited to extracts, leaves, bark, fibers, stems, roots, seeds, flowers, fruits, pollen, rinds, husks, etc. Alternatively, the material may include active compounds naturally present in the plant, obtained synthetically. The material may be in the form of a liquid, gas, solid, powder, dust, crushed particles, pellets, pellets, fragments, strips, sheets, etc.

[0055] Exemplary plants are tobacco, eucalyptus, star anise, hemp, cocoa, cumin, lemongrass, peppermint, spearmint, rooibos, chamomile, flax, ginger, ginkgo, hazelnut, hibiscus, bay, licorice (licorice root), matcha, mate, orange peel, papaya, rose, sage, tea (such as green or black tea), thyme, cloves, cinnamon, coffee, anise (fennel), basil, bay leaf, cardamom, coriander, cumin, nutmeg, oregano, chili pepper, rosemary , saffron, lavender, lemon peel, mint, juniper, elderberry, vanilla, holly, basil, turmeric, turmeric root, sandalwood, coriander, bergamot, orange blossom, myrtle, black currant, valerian, pimento, nutmeg, damion, marjoram, olive, lemon balm, lemon basil, chives, parsley, verbena, tarragon, geranium, mulberry, ginseng, theanine, theophylline, maca, ashwagandha, damiana, guarana, chlorophyll, baobab, or any combination thereof. The mint may be selected from the following mint varieties: wild mint, mint cultivar, Nile mint, peppermint, citrus mint cultivar, peppermint cultivar, spicy mint, heart-shaped mint, long-leaf mint, pineapple mint, lip calyx mint, spearmint cultivar, and apple mint.

[0056] In some embodiments, the active substance comprises or is derived from one or more plants or components, derivatives or extracts thereof, and the plant is tobacco. In some embodiments, the active substance comprises or is derived from one or more plants or components, derivatives or extracts thereof, and the plant is selected from eucalyptus, star anise, cocoa. In some embodiments, the active substance comprises or is derived from one or more plants or components, derivatives or extracts thereof, and the plant is selected from rooibos tea and fennel.

[0057] In some embodiments, the substance to be delivered includes flavorings. As used herein, the terms "flavorings" and "spices" refer to materials that can be used to create desired tastes, fragrances, or other body sensations in products for adult consumers, where permitted by local regulations. They can include naturally occurring flavoring materials, plants, plant extracts, synthetically obtained materials, or combinations thereof (e.g., tobacco, licorice (licorice root), hydrangea, eugenol, Japanese magnolia leaves, chamomile, fenugreek, cloves, maple, matcha, menthol, Japanese mint, anise (fennel), cinnamon, turmeric, Indian spices, Asian spices, herbs, wintergreen, cherry, berry, cranberry, cranberry, peach, apple, orange, mango, Clementine, lemon, lime, tropical fruit, papaya, rhubarb , grapes, durian, pitaya, cucumber, blueberry, mulberry, citrus fruits, Scotch liqueur, bourbon, Scotch whisky, whiskey, gin, tequila, rum, spearmint, peppermint, lavender, aloe vera, cardamom, celery, balsam pear, nutmeg, sandalwood, bergamot, geranium, Arabic tea, infused tobacco (naswar), betel nut, hookah, pine, honey essence, rose oil, vanilla, lemon oil, orange oil, orange blossom, cherry blossom, cassia seed, caraway, dried Brandy, jasmine, ylang-ylang, sage, cumin, mustard, allspice, ginger, coriander, coffee, mint oil from any mint plant, eucalyptus, star anise, cocoa, lemongrass, rooibos, flax, ginkgo biloba, hazelnuts, hibiscus, laurel, mate, orange peel, rose, tea (such as green or black), thyme, juniper, elderflower, basil, bay leaf, cumin, oregano, red pepper, rosemary, saffron, lemon peel, mint, basil, turmeric, cilantro, myrtle, black currant, valerian, Pimentel, mace, damien, marjoram, olive, citronella, lemon basil, chives, caraway, verbena, tarragon, limonene, thymol, camphene), flavor enhancers, bitter receptor site blockers, sensory receptor site activators or stimulators, sugars and / or sugar substitutes (e.g., sucralose, acesulfame potassium, aspartame, saccharin, sodium cyclamate, lactose, sucrose, glucose, fructose, sorbitol or mannitol) and other additives such as charcoal, chlorophyll, minerals, plants or breath fresheners. They may be imitation, synthetic or natural ingredients or blends thereof. They may be in any suitable form, for example, liquid (such as oil), solid (such as powder) or gas.

[0058] In some embodiments, flavorings include menthol, spearmint and / or peppermint. In some embodiments, flavorings include flavoring components of cucumber, blueberry, citrus fruit and / or cranberry. In some embodiments, flavorings include eugenol. In some embodiments, flavorings include flavoring components extracted from tobacco.

[0059] In some embodiments, flavoring agents may include sensory agents that are intended to achieve somatosensory sensations that are usually chemically induced and perceived by stimulation of the fifth cranial nerve (trigeminal nerve) in addition to or in place of aroma or taste nerves, and these may include agents that provide heating, cooling, tingling, numbing effects. Suitable thermal effect agents may be, but are not limited to, vanillyl ethyl ether, and suitable cooling agents may be, but are not limited to, eucalyptol, WS-3.

[0060] Aerosol generating materials are materials that are capable of generating aerosols, for example when heated, irradiated, or powered in any other way. Aerosol generating materials can, for example, be in the form of solids, liquids, or gels, which may or may not contain active substances and / or fragrances. In some embodiments, the aerosol generating material may include an "amorphous solid", which may alternatively be referred to as a "monolithic solid" (i.e., non-fibrous). In some embodiments, the amorphous solid may be a dry gel. Amorphous solids are solid materials in which some fluids (such as liquids) may be retained. In some embodiments, the aerosol generating material may, for example, include about 50wt%, 60wt%, or 70wt% amorphous solids to about 90wt%, 95wt%, or 100wt% amorphous solids.

[0061] The aerosol-generating material may comprise one or more active substances and / or flavourants, one or more aerosol-former materials, and optionally one or more other functional materials.

[0062] The aerosol forming agent material may include one or more ingredients capable of forming an aerosol. In some embodiments, the aerosol forming agent material may include one or more of glycerol, propylene glycol, diethylene glycol, triethylene glycol, tetraethylene glycol, 1,3-butylene glycol, erythritol, meso-erythritol, ethyl vanillate, ethyl laurate, diethyl suberate, triethyl citrate, triacetin, diacetin mixture, benzyl benzoate, benzyl phenylacetate, tributyrin, lauryl acetate, lauric acid, myristic acid, and propylene carbonate.

[0063] The one or more other functional materials may include one or more of a pH adjuster, a colorant, a preservative, a binder, a filler, a stabilizer, and / or an antioxidant.

[0064] The material may be present on or in a carrier to form a substrate. The carrier may, for example, be or include paper, card, paperboard, cardboard, a reconstructed material, a plastic material, a ceramic material, a composite material, glass, a metal or a metal alloy. In some embodiments, the carrier includes a susceptor. In some embodiments, the susceptor is embedded in the material. In some alternative embodiments, the susceptor is on one or either side of the material.

[0065] Consumables or cigarette cartridges are products that include or consist of aerosol generating materials, and part or all of the aerosol generating materials are intended to be consumed by the user during use. Consumables may include one or more other components, such as an aerosol generating material storage area, an aerosol generating material transmission component, an aerosol generating area, a housing, a packaging material, a mouthpiece, a filter and / or an aerosol modifier. Consumables may also include an aerosol generator, such as a heater, which emits heat in use to generate an aerosol generating material. The heater may, for example, include a material that can be heated by electrical conduction or may include a susceptor.

[0066] A susceptor is a material that can be heated by penetrating it with a varying magnetic field, such as an alternating magnetic field. The susceptor can be a conductive material, such that penetrating the susceptor with a varying magnetic field causes inductive heating of the heated material. The heated material can be a magnetic material, such that penetrating the magnetic material with a varying magnetic field causes hysteresis heating of the heated material. The susceptor can be conductive and magnetic, such that the susceptor can be heated by both heating mechanisms. A device configured to generate a varying magnetic field is referred to herein as a magnetic field generator.

[0067] Aerosol modifiers are substances that are typically located downstream of the aerosol generation zone and are configured to modify the generated aerosol, for example by changing the taste, aroma, acidity or other characteristics of the aerosol. The aerosol modifier can be provided in an aerosol modifier release component that is operable to selectively release the aerosol modifier. The aerosol modifier can be, for example, an additive or an adsorbent. The aerosol modifier can, for example, include one or more of a fragrance, a colorant, water and a carbon adsorbent. The aerosol modifier can, for example, be a solid, a liquid or a gel. The aerosol modifier can be in the form of a powder, a wire or a granular material. The aerosol modifier can be free of filter material.

[0068] An aerosol generator is a device configured to generate an aerosol from an aerosol generating material. In some embodiments, the aerosol generator is a heater configured to subject the aerosol generating material to thermal energy to release one or more volatiles from the aerosol generating material to form an aerosol. In some embodiments, the aerosol generator is configured to generate an aerosol from the aerosol generating material without heating. For example, the aerosol generator can be configured to subject the aerosol generating material to one or more of vibration, pressurization, or electrostatic energy.

[0069] The present disclosure relates to an aerosol delivery system (which may also be referred to as a vapor delivery system), such as an atomizer or an electronic cigarette. Throughout the following description, the term "electronic cigarette" or "electronic cigarette" may sometimes be used, but it should be understood that the term can be used interchangeably with aerosol delivery system / device and electronic aerosol delivery system / device. In addition, and as is common in the art, the terms "aerosol" and "vapor" and related terms such as "evaporation", "volatization" and "atomization" are often used interchangeably.

[0070] Aerosol delivery systems (electronic cigarettes) typically, but not always, include modular components that include a reusable device portion and a replaceable (disposable / consumable) cartridge portion. Typically, the replaceable cartridge portion will include an aerosol generating material and a vaporizer / atomizer / aerosol generator (which may be collectively referred to as a "atomizing cartridge"), and the reusable device portion will include a power source (e.g., a rechargeable power source) and a control circuit. It should be understood that, depending on functionality, these different parts may include additional elements. For example, the reusable device portion will typically include a user interface for receiving user input and displaying operating status characteristics, and in some cases, the replaceable cartridge device portion includes a temperature sensor for helping to control temperature. The cartridge is electrically and mechanically coupled to (e.g., using a thread, a bayonet, or a magnetic coupling with appropriately arranged electrical contacts) a control unit for use. When the aerosol generating material in the cartridge is exhausted, or when the user wishes to switch to a different cartridge with a different aerosol generating material, the cartridge can be removed from the reusable portion and a replacement cartridge attached in its place. Systems and devices that conform to this type of two-part modular configuration may generally be referred to as two-part systems / devices. The aerosol delivery system may alternatively include a single unit that does not include a cartridge portion and a reusable device portion that are configured to be detachably connected together by a user. Such an aerosol delivery system may be referred to as a "single-part" aerosol delivery system or device. In such a system / device, which may be intended to be discarded after the power supply in the battery and / or the supply of aerosol generating material supplied by the system / device is exhausted without refilling or recharging the device, components including a storage device for aerosol generating material, an aerosol generator, a power source (e.g., a battery), and a control circuit may all be contained within a single housing. Such an aerosol delivery system or device may be referred to as "disposable".

[0071] Electronic cigarettes typically have an overall elongated shape. To provide a specific example, certain embodiments of the present disclosure will be considered to include such a substantially elongated two-part system using a disposable cartridge. However, it should be understood that the basic principles described herein can be equally applicable to different configurations, such as a single-part system or a modular system including more than two parts, a refillable device and single-use disposables, and other overall shapes, such as a so-called box-type high-performance device based on a generally boxy shape. More generally, it should be understood that certain embodiments of the present invention are based on an aerosol delivery system that is operationally configured to provide functionality according to the principles described herein, and the structural aspects of the system configured to provide functionality according to certain embodiments of the present disclosure are not the most important.

[0072] Figure 1 is a cross-sectional view of an exemplary aerosol delivery system 1 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. Figure 1 The aerosol delivery system 1 shown includes two main components, namely, a reusable device portion 50 and a cartridge / consumable portion 40. However, in other embodiments, the aerosol delivery system 1 includes a single-part device, wherein a power source 501, a controller 502, an atomizer 20, and a reservoir 2 for aerosol generating material are disposed within a single housing. It should be understood that aspects of the present disclosure that are not specifically directed to the detachable connection of the reusable device portion 50 and the cartridge portion 40 are applicable to single-part / disposable device embodiments, which are within the scope of the present disclosure. In normal use, the reusable device portion 50 and the cartridge / consumable portion 40 are releasably coupled together at an interface. As in Figure 1 In a non-limiting example, the interface can be provided by a cartridge receiving recess 507 of the reusable device portion 50, into which a portion of the cartridge portion 40 is configured to be received. When the cartridge portion is exhausted or the user simply wishes to switch to a different cartridge portion, the cartridge portion 40 can be removed from the reusable portion 50 and the replacement cartridge portion 40 attached to the reusable portion in its place. The interface provides a structural and electrical connection between the two parts, and optionally provides an airflow connection, and can be established according to conventional techniques, such as based on threaded, magnetic or bayonet fixings, with appropriately arranged electrical contacts and openings for appropriately establishing an electrical connection and an optional airflow path between the reusable portion and the cartridge portion. The specific manner in which the cartridge portion 4 is mechanically mounted to the reusable portion 50 is not important to the principles described herein, but for the sake of specific example, it is assumed here that it includes being configured to be connected together ( Figure 1)). It should also be understood that in some implementations, the interface may not support electrical and / or airflow path connections between the respective portions. For example, in some implementations, the aerosol generator / atomizer 20 may be disposed in the reusable portion 50 rather than in the cartridge portion 40, and the cartridge portion 40 / consumable / article includes a supply of aerosol generating material so that the supply of aerosol generating material is proximate to the aerosol generator when the consumable and reusable device portion 50 are connected for use. In addition, in some implementations, the airflow through the delivery system 1 may not pass through the reusable portion 50, such that an airflow path connection between the reusable portion 50 and the cartridge portion 40 is not required. In some examples, such as in Figure 1 In the embodiment, an air inlet channel for providing air to the cartridge portion 40 can be defined at an interface between portions of the reusable portion 50 and portions of the cartridge portion 40 when these portions are coupled together for use, as further described herein.

[0073] According to certain embodiments of the present disclosure, the cartridge portion 40 may be generally conventional. Figure 1 In the embodiment, the cartridge portion 40 includes an outer shell 6 formed of a plastic material, but in an embodiment, the outer shell may contain metal, glass or any other material known to those skilled in the art for an outer shell of an aerosol delivery system. The outer shell 6 can generally support other components of the cartridge portion and can provide at least a portion of a mechanical interface with the reusable portion 50, because when the reusable portion 50 and the cartridge portion 40 are connected together for use, a portion of the outer surface of the outer shell 6 can engage a portion of the reusable portion 50. The outer shell 6 of the cartridge portion 40 can have any cross-sectional shape, such as: circular, oval, square, diamond or cubic. In this example, the cartridge portion 40 has a length of about 4 cm and a diameter of about 2 cm in the widest dimension. However, it should be understood that the specific geometry and the more general overall shape and material used are not particularly important for the principles described herein.

[0074] exist Figure 1In the example shown, the cartridge part 40 includes a reservoir 2, which is configured to maintain a supply source of aerosol generating material, which includes, for example, a liquid material. In this example, the reservoir 2 has an annular shape, with an outer wall defined by the cartridge outer shell 6 and an inner wall defined by the airflow / aerosol path 41 passing through the cartridge part 40. The reservoir 2 is closed by an end wall at each end, which accommodates the aerosol generating material. The wall at the end of the mouthpiece away from the end including the contact 32 can be formed integrally with the rest of the outer shell 6. The reservoir 2 can be made according to conventional techniques, such as a reservoir can include plastic material and be integrally molded with the outer shell 6 of the cartridge part 40. The structural relationship between the airflow path 41 and the reservoir 2 is exemplary, and can be arranged in other ways so that, for example, the airflow path 41 does not pass through the reservoir, and / or the airflow path 41 can branch into a plurality of sub-paths.

[0075] exist Figure 1 In the example shown, the cartridge portion 40 also includes an aerosol generator / atomizer 20. In some embodiments, the aerosol generator is a heater configured to subject the aerosol generating material from the reservoir 2 to thermal energy to release one or more volatile materials from the aerosol generating material to form a vapor / aerosol. In some embodiments, the aerosol generator 20 is configured so that the aerosol generating material generates an aerosol without heating. For example, the aerosol generator can be configured to subject the aerosol generating material to vibration (e.g., piezoelectric atomization), pressurization, or one or more of electrostatic energy. Although the examples herein use an atomizer 20 including a core and a heating element to provide specific examples, it should be understood that the specific type of aerosol generator / atomizer 20 should not be considered to be limited to other aspects of the embodiments of the present disclosure, and in particular, should not be considered to be limited to the contact pins and connecting lead arrangements described herein.

[0076] It should be understood that in Figure 1In the two-part device shown in the example of , the aerosol generator 20 can be in either the reusable portion 50 or the cartridge portion 40. For example, in some embodiments, the aerosol generator 20 can be included in the reusable portion 50, and when the cartridge is engaged with the reusable portion 50, the aerosol generator is brought into proximity with a portion of the aerosol generating material in the cartridge 40. In such embodiments, the cartridge 40 can include a portion of the aerosol generating material, and when the cartridge 40 is engaged with the reusable device portion 50, the aerosol generator 20 is configured to be at least partially inserted into or at least partially surround the portion of the aerosol generating material. In these embodiments, the aerosol generator 20 in the reusable device portion 50 can include an inductive drive coil configured to electromagnetically couple with a susceptor within the atomizer 20 in the reusable device portion 50 or in the cartridge portion 40.

[0077] To provide a specific example, Figure 1 An aerosol generator 20 is shown, which includes a wick and coil arrangement configured to atomize a liquid aerosol-forming material, whereby an elongated wick / capillary action element is in contact with a resistive heating element, which in this example is coiled around the wick. The aerosol generator 20 extends transversely to an aerosol generating chamber that spans an airflow path 41 through the cigarette cartridge. Respective ends of the wick are in fluid communication with a reservoir 2 of liquid aerosol-generating material. In some examples, an atomizing unit cover 80 / reservoir stopper 80 defines an end of the reservoir proximal to the aerosol generator 20 and includes an opening to allow liquid to flow along the reservoir. Figure 1 The path generally indicated by the dashed arrow in FIG. 1 passes from the reservoir 2 to the end of the core.

[0078] The aerosol generator / atomizer 20 is arranged in the cigarette cartridge airflow path 41 so that the area of ​​the cigarette cartridge airflow path 41 close to the aerosol generator 20 actually defines the evaporation area of ​​the cigarette cartridge portion 40 (which may be alternatively referred to as the aerosol generating chamber in this article). In the case where the aerosol generating material is a liquid and the aerosol generator includes a capillary wick, the liquid from the reservoir 2 penetrates the wick and is drawn along the wick by surface tension / capillary action (i.e., wicking). In the case where the aerosol generator 20 includes a heating element, the heating element may include a resistive wire coiled around the wick. Figure 1 In the example of , the heating element may include a nickel-chromium alloy (Cr20Ni80) wire, and the core may include an elongated cotton or glass fiber bundle or a porous ceramic rod. In other examples, the heating element may include a conductive layer deposited on a porous ceramic or glass core element. However, it should be understood that any aerosol generator / atomizer 20 configuration may be used in embodiments of the present disclosure. Figure 1In the example of , power is supplied to the aerosol generator / atomizer 20 to vaporize a certain amount of aerosol generating material (aerosol generating material) drawn through the core to the vicinity of the heating element. The vaporized aerosol generating material is entrained in the air drawn from the vaporization region / aerosol generating chamber along the cartridge airflow path 41 to be inhaled by the user at the outlet provided at the end of the mouthpiece of the cartridge portion 40.

[0079] exist Figure 1 In the example shown, the atomization subassembly 90 of the cartridge includes a reservoir stopper / atomization unit cover 80, a component 10 as further described herein, and an atomization unit base 70, the atomization unit base including at least one cartridge contact pad 32, each cartridge contact pad configured to engage a corresponding electrical contact 506 of the reusable device portion 50 to provide electrical communication between the cartridge portion and the reusable device portion when the cartridge portion 40 and the reusable device portion 50 are connected to form the aerosol delivery system 1. As further described herein, in embodiments in which these elements are provided, the reservoir stopper / atomization unit cover 80 and the atomization unit base 70 may include separately formed elements configured to be assembled with the component 10, or may include regions of a single integrally formed component 10 that performs the functions of the atomization unit cover 80 and the atomization unit base 70 as described herein. In embodiments where a reservoir stopper / atomizing unit cover 80 and / or atomizing unit base 70 are provided, these may be manufactured using the same materials and manufacturing methods as described herein for manufacturing component 10 .

[0080] The rate at which aerosol generating material from the reservoir 2 is evaporated by the aerosol generator 20 will generally depend on the amount (level) of power supplied to the aerosol generator 20 from the power supply 501 of the aerosol delivery system via the controller 502 of the aerosol delivery system. Figure 1 In the two-part device shown, power is routed from a power source 501 in the reusable portion 50 to an aerosol generator 20 in the cartridge portion 40 to selectively generate an aerosol, and in addition, the aerosol generation rate can be changed by changing the amount of power supplied to the aerosol generator 20 (for example, through pulse width and / or frequency modulation techniques known in the prior art and implemented by a controller 502 disposed on an electrical path between the power source 501 and the aerosol generator 20).

[0081] exist Figure 1In the example of , the reusable part 50 includes an outer housing 505, a power source 501 (e.g., a battery) for providing operating power to the aerosol delivery system 1, and a control circuit 502 for controlling and monitoring the operation of the aerosol delivery system 1. The reusable part 50 may also include optional elements, such as a first user input button 504 and one or more visual display elements 503.

[0082] The outer shell 505 can be made of, for example, a plastic or metal material, and will generally have a cross-sectional shape that is substantially consistent with the cross-sectional shape of the outer shell 6 of the cartridge portion 40 to provide a smooth transition between the cartridge portion and the device portion at the connection interface of the cartridge portion and the device portion. In this example, the reusable portion 50 has a length of approximately 8 cm, so when the cartridge portion 40 and the reusable portion 50 are coupled together, the total length of the aerosol delivery system 1 is approximately 12 cm. However, and as already noted, it should be understood that the specific overall shape and size of the aerosol delivery system 1 of the present disclosure is not important to the principles described herein.

[0083] The power source 501 in this example is rechargeable and can be of a conventional type, such as a lithium ion or similar battery cell or battery commonly used in aerosol delivery systems / electronic cigarettes and / or other applications requiring the provision of relatively high currents in relatively short periods of time. The power source 501 can be recharged according to methods known in the art, such as through a suitable charging connector, such as a USB connector, in the outer housing 505 of the reusable part.

[0084] One or more user input devices 504 may be provided, such as conventional mechanical buttons, e.g. including spring-mounted components, which may be pressed by a user to establish electrical contact, but the particular manner in which the user input devices 504 are implemented is not important. The user input devices 504 may be assigned functions such as turning the aerosol delivery system 1 on and off, and adjusting user settings such as the power level supplied from the power source 501 to the aerosol generator 20. However, the inclusion of the user input devices 504 is optional, and in some embodiments, these user input devices may not be included.

[0085] One or more display elements 503 may be provided to provide a user with visual indications of various characteristics associated with the aerosol delivery system 1, such as current power setting information, the remaining power level available in the power supply 501, and the like. The display element 503 may be implemented in various ways, such as including a pixelated LCD screen, which may be driven by the controller 502 to display the desired information according to conventional techniques. In other implementations, the display element 503 may include one or more discrete indicators, such as LEDs, arranged to display the desired information, such as by a specific color and / or flash sequence. More generally, the manner in which one or more display elements 503 are provided and such elements are used to display information to the user is unimportant to the principles described herein. For example, some embodiments may not include any visual display element 503, and may optionally include other devices for providing information related to the operating characteristics of the aerosol delivery system to the user (e.g., using audio or tactile signaling methods known to those skilled in the art), or may not include any device for providing information related to the operating characteristics of the aerosol delivery system to the user.

[0086] In general, the controller 502 is suitably configured / programmed to control the operation of the aerosol delivery system 1 to provide functionality according to embodiments of the present disclosure as further described herein, as well as for providing conventional operating functions of the aerosol delivery system 1 consistent with established techniques for controlling such devices. The controller (processor circuit) 502 can be considered to logically include various subunits / circuit elements associated with different aspects of the operation of the aerosol delivery system 1. Figure 1 In the example shown, the controller 502 includes a power control circuit for controlling the supply of power from the power source 501 to the aerosol generator 20 in response to user input, a user programming circuit for establishing a configuration setting (e.g., a user-defined power setting) in response to user input (e.g., from one or more user input devices 504), and other functional units / circuits associated with the functions according to the principles described herein and conventional operating aspects of the electronic cigarette, such as display driver circuits and user input detection circuits. It should be understood that the functions of the controller 502 can be provided in a variety of different ways, such as using one or more appropriately programmed programmable computers and / or one or more appropriately configured application-specific integrated circuits / circuitry systems / chips / chip sets configured to provide the desired functions. As a non-limiting example, the control logic of the controller 502 can be implemented as an ASIC (application-specific integrated circuit) or MCU (microcontroller unit) configured according to methods known in the art.

[0087] Optionally, the reusable portion 50 may include an airflow sensing unit 508 electrically connected to the controller 502. Typically, the airflow sensing unit 508 comprises a so-called "puff sensor" because the airflow sensing unit 508 is configured to detect when a user puffs / inhales on the device. Figure 1 Schematically shown in FIG, but can be implemented according to known techniques. In an embodiment of the present disclosure, the airflow sensing unit includes a pressure sensor or microphone positioned to be in fluid communication and / or acoustic communication and / or pressure communication with the airflow path 41 through the aerosol delivery system 1, so that the pressure changes and / or acoustic signals caused by the user sucking / inhaling on the mouthpiece of the system can be detected by the airflow sensing unit. Figure 1 In the example shown, the airflow enters the aerosol delivery system at the interface of the cartridge part 40 and the reusable part 50, passing between the outer shell 6 of the cartridge 40 and the inner surface of the cartridge receiving recess 507 of the reusable device part 50, but this is only one air inlet configuration that can be adopted in the aerosol delivery system 1 according to the present disclosure. In an embodiment, the airflow sensing unit 508 is configured to accommodate a chamber of a microphone, which leads to the cartridge receiving recess 507, wherein the opening is covered by a waterproof membrane. In other embodiments, the controller 502 can be configured to detect a user interacting with the user input device 504, and start supplying current to the atomizer 20 when a user interaction is detected.

[0088] Aspects of the nebulizer / aerosol generator 20 arrangement for use with the aerosol delivery system 1 will now be described, such as Figure 1 It should be understood that although Figure 1The context of a two-part device in which the atomizer 20 includes a heating element is described, but these aspects are exemplary, and in embodiments of the present disclosure, the component 10 for an electronic aerosol delivery system as described herein can be configured for use with other single-part devices (e.g., so-called "disposable" devices in which all device components are included in a single housing). It should also be understood that the component 10 for an electronic aerosol delivery system as described herein can be configured for use in an electronic aerosol delivery system in which the atomizer 20 is located in a reusable device portion 50 that is configured to generate an aerosol (e.g., by heating) for use from a consumable (e.g., a consumable including a solid aerosol generating material) connected to the reusable device portion 50. It should also be understood that the component 10 according to the present disclosure can be configured for use with any electronic aerosol delivery system that includes an atomizer having at least one connecting lead, whether the operating principle is based on heating, piezoelectric vibration, or any other principle for aerosol or vapor generation known to those skilled in the art. Although the present disclosure describes an example where the atomizer includes a heater, this is to provide a specific example of an aerosol generator including a connecting lead.

[0089] Thus, according to aspects of the present disclosure, a component of an electronic aerosol delivery system is described, the component comprising: a housing element including an atomizer support region configured to support an atomizer; wherein the housing element includes at least one first channel configured to receive a portion of a connecting lead of the atomizer therein; wherein each of the at least one first channel includes an opening configured to receive a contact pin; and wherein each of the at least one first channel is shaped to hold a portion of the connecting lead between an inner surface of the first channel and an outer surface of a corresponding contact pin via compression when the connecting lead and the contact pin are received in the channel. The component may be interchangeably referred to as an atomizer support element or an atomizer support.

[0090] Figure 2 An assembly view of the cartridge portion 40 of an exemplary aerosol delivery system 1 is shown, into which the component 10 according to the present disclosure may be assembled, but it should be understood that the component 10 may be provided as an independent part, or as a subassembly including an atomizer 20 and / or an atomization unit cover 80 and / or an atomizer base portion 70 and / or a contact pin 30. Figure 2 The cartridge 40 shown details Figure 1 More specific aspects of the cartridge 40 are schematically shown in FIG. The cartridge portion 40 comprises an outer shell 6 made of metal or plastic material (e.g., by injection molding) and comprising a mouthpiece at an upper end, in which an aerosol outlet is provided for a user to inhale an aerosol from the aerosol delivery system 1 in use. Figure 2In the example of , the atomizer subassembly is configured to be inserted into an opening of the outer shell 6 of the cartridge portion 40, the opening being disposed at an end of the outer shell 6 of the cartridge away from the end of the mouthpiece. The atomizer subassembly includes a component 10 configured to support the atomizer 20. Figure 2 In the example of , the atomizing subassembly 90 further includes: an atomizing unit cover 80 configured to engage with the upper side of the atomizer 20 supported on the component 10; an atomizing unit base 70 configured to engage with the side of the component 10 opposite to the side supporting the atomizer 20; and two contact pins 30. The component 10 is configured with at least one first channel (described further herein), each of which is configured to receive the contact pin 30. Figure 2 During the assembly of the atomizer subassembly shown, two contact pins 30 are inserted into the two first channels of the component 10. The portions of the two contact pins 30 extending out of the first channels pass through the atomizer unit base 70, and the terminal portions of the contact pins 30 include the cartridge contact pads 32. Figure 2 When the cartridge 40 is assembled for use, the cartridge contact pad is exposed on the base surface of the atomizer unit base, as further described herein. The base surface of the atomizer unit base 70 includes the base outer surface of the cartridge 40, and the cartridge is provided with a Figure 1 The cartridge portion 40 is received in the receiving recess 507 of the reusable device portion 50 of the aerosol delivery system 1 in the manner schematically shown in FIG. Therefore, the cartridge contact pad 32 is arranged to contact the corresponding electrical contact 506 of the reusable device portion 50 when the cartridge portion 40 is received in the receiving recess 507, thereby forming an electrical circuit between the controller and the atomizer 20.

[0091] As further described herein, the component 10 is configured to support the atomizer 20 and provide a simple and robust electrical connection between at least one electrical connection lead 21 of the atomizer 20 and a corresponding contact pin 30. Figure 2 The illustrated contact pin 30 includes a cartridge contact pad 32 for removably electrically connecting to the electrical contacts 506 of the reusable device portion 50, but it should be understood that in other embodiments (e.g., where the atomizer 20 is included in the reusable device portion 50, or the aerosol delivery system 1 is a single-part device), the contact pin can be connected to the circuit of the aerosol delivery system 1 (e.g., the power supply 501 and / or the controller 502) in other ways. For example, the circuit of the power supply 501 and / or the circuit of the controller 501 can be connected to the contact pin 30 via an irreversible manner such as soldering, welding, or crimping. In the case where the component 10 and the atomizer 20 are configured to be disposed in the reusable device portion 50, the contact pin 30 can be mechanically connected to a printed circuit board (PCB) included in the controller 502.

[0092] Figure 3A detailed view of a component 10 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is shown, which will be Figure 2 identifiable in. Component 10 includes a housing element 100, which includes a three-dimensional structure, which in some embodiments includes an electrical insulator, such as a plastic or ceramic material, and can be made by injection molding, machining, or other forming processes known to those skilled in the art. In the case of using a plastic material, this can include an engineering polymer, such as polyetherketone (PEEK), polycarbonate or polyimide or ABS. In an embodiment, component 10 can include a combination of materials, such as, for example, the housing of component 10 can be substantially formed of a first material, and the atomizer support area 110 as further described herein can be formed of a second material. In some embodiments, the first material includes an elastic material that can be easily molded, such as PEEK or silicone rubber, and the second material includes a temperature-resistant material, such as polyimide, to provide improved heat resistance relative to the first material in the area near the heating element of the atomizer in the assembled aerosol delivery system 1. In the case of (one or more) metal parts included in component 10, these metal parts can be co-molded with (one or more) plastic / polymer parts.

[0093] The atomizer support area 110 is arranged on a first side of the housing element 100. Figure 3 In the example of , the atomizer support area 110 is the uppermost side, and the atomizer support area is configured to provide mechanical support to the atomizer 20. In a specific implementation of the component 10, the shape of the atomizer support area 110 will depend on the characteristics (e.g., shape and size) of the atomizer 20 to be supported. Figure 3 In the example of FIG. 1 , the atomizer support region 110 is configured to support a coil atomizer 20 of a slender core and a generally cylindrical cross-section, and the atomizer support region 110 therefore includes two curved support portions configured to support longitudinally spaced apart portions of the cylindrical core 202, such as Figures 4 to 6 An optional resilient sealing element 200 including an O-ring is shown disposed around the side surface of the housing element 100, the resilient sealing element being configured to form a seal with other components of the aerosol delivery system (e.g., in an embodiment where the component 10 is configured to be received in the outer housing 6 of the cartridge portion 40, the resilient sealing element is used to seal against the inner surface of the outer housing 6 of the cartridge portion 40, or when the component 10 is configured to be assembled to a housing such as Figure 2 and Fig. 11B When the atomizing subassembly is shown, the elastic sealing element is used to seal against the inner surface of the atomizing unit base 70).

[0094] Figure 4 Will be from Figure 31 and shows the component 10 with the atomizer 20 mounted to the atomizer support area 110. In this example, the atomizer 20 includes an elongated core 202 having a cylindrical cross-section and a resistive wire heating element 201 coiled around a central portion. In this example, the atomizer support area 110 is configured to support longitudinally spaced apart portions of the elongated core 202, supporting the elongated core in a bridging manner above the air inlet, which is at Figure 7 and Figure 8 , and in this example, the air inlet is configured to direct the airflow caused by the user's inhalation onto the central aerosol generating area of ​​the atomizer 20. The two curved bracket portions of the atomizer support area 110 can be configured to match a portion of the cross-sectional shape of the core, so that in this example, when the cross-section of the core 202 is generally circular, the bracket portion of the atomizer support area 110 includes a semicircular profile configured to closely conform to the outer surface of the core 202. Figure 6 As shown, the radius of the support portion can be configured to be smaller than the radius of the core 202, so that when the core 201 is mounted to the atomizer support area 110, the core 202 is compressed by the support portion. As further described herein, this can help prevent liquid from leaking from the liquid receiving recess of the component 10 into the aerosol generating chamber. However, the manner in which the atomizer support area 110 is configured in a given embodiment will depend on the type and size of the atomizer 20 to be supported. In embodiments where the atomizer 20 is not in direct contact with the liquid, features such as a resilient sealing member and a liquid receiving recess may not be included.

[0095] Figure 5 and Figure 6 They are shown respectively as Figure 3 and Figure 4 Component 10 is shown in side and top view. Figure 6 Compression of the core 202 by the support portion of the atomizer support area 110 is shown. As further discussed herein, a component 10 configured for use in an aerosol delivery system 1 configured to aerosolize a liquid aerosol generating material can be provided with a liquid receiving recess 115 that is in fluid communication with a reservoir 2 of a cartridge, and an end of the core 202 is configured to extend into the liquid receiving recess. Optionally, axial compression of the core by the atomizer support area 110 at one or more locations disposed between each liquid receiving recess 115 and the atomization chamber area 150 provides a barrier to prevent liquid from leaking from the liquid receiving recess 115 into an airflow path through the component 10. Where the component 10 is assembled into an atomization subassembly including an atomization unit cover, the atomization unit cover can include a similarly configured atomizer support area that is configured to provide similar compression to an upper portion of the core 202 when the atomization unit cover and the component 10 are assembled together, such as Fig.12 shown.

[0096] Figure 7 Will be from Figure 6 , and a top view of the component 10 is shown without the atomizer 20 mounted to the atomizer support area 110. In an embodiment of the present disclosure, as Figure 7 As shown, some portions of the nebulizer support area 110 (including the bracket portion in this example) are positioned on either side of the atomization chamber area 150, which is configured to form a portion of the airflow path 41 through the assembled aerosol delivery system 1. The component air inlet 60 is disposed in the base of the component 10 and is configured to provide an inlet for air to enter the atomization chamber area 150. In this example, the air inlet 60 is offset relative to the center of the component 10 in a direction perpendicular to the longitudinal axis, but in other embodiments, the air inlet 60 can be centrally positioned, and / or multiple air inlets 60 can be provided. However, in other embodiments where the component 10 is not configured to allow airflow through the housing 100, the air inlet 60 and the atomization chamber area 150 may not be provided. The orifice 1301 provides a second channel 130 (further described herein) connecting the portion of the component 10 on which the nebulizer support area 110 is disposed (e.g., the upper surface) and the other side of the component 10 (e.g., the base surface). Although in Figure 7 Two orifices 1301 are shown in the example of , but in other embodiments, a single orifice 1301 may be provided, or one or more air inlets 60 may provide the function of (one or more) orifices 1301 through the housing element of the component 10. Each of the at least one second channel 130 is configured to receive a portion of a connecting lead of an atomizer 20 supported on the atomizer supporting area 110 of the component 10, so that each of the one or more connecting leads of the atomizer 20 is received by the one or more second channels 130 (note that more than one lead may be received by a single second channel 130). In an embodiment of the present disclosure, each second channel 130 is provided between the atomizer supporting area 110 and a surface of the housing 100 provided with at least one opening 121, and each opening is associated with a first channel 120 configured to receive the connecting leads of the atomizer 20 and the contact pin 30, as further described herein. As set forth above, in some embodiments, one or more air inlets 60 may perform the function of a second channel 130. Although Figure 71 shows two apertures 1301 comprising a portion of the second channel 130, the second channel being formed in the base surface of the atomization chamber region 150, but this is not required, and the second channel 130 may be formed in any portion of the housing 100 of the component 10 near the atomizer support region 110, as long as one or more connecting leads of the atomizer 20 can be routed through the (one or more) second channels 130. In some embodiments, the one or more second channels 130 do not include apertures 1301 passing through the material of the component 10, but rather include slots or grooves disposed on the outer peripheral surface of the housing 100 of the component 10 to provide a path for routing the corresponding connecting leads from the side of the housing 100 including the atomizer mounting region 110 to the side including the first channel 120 (as further described herein).

[0097] Figure 8 Shows Figures 3 to 7 The base view of the component 10 is shown, wherein the atomizer 20 is mounted to the atomizer support area 110 (which is located between the housing 100 and the Figure 8 The portion of the atomizer 20 including the heating element 201 and the core 202 is visible through the slot-shaped air inlet 60. In this example, the atomizer 20 includes two connecting leads 21, which correspond to the positive terminal and the negative terminal of the heating element 201. In an embodiment, each connecting lead includes opposite ends of a wire forming the heating element 201 of the atomizer 20, such as Figure 8 As shown. Figure 8 When two connecting leads are provided as shown, the first connecting lead 21a extends from the first aperture 1301a, and the second connecting lead 21b extends from the second aperture 1301b, and each connecting lead is introduced from the opposite side of the housing 100 (to which the atomizer 20 is mounted) through a corresponding one of the plurality of apertures 1301. In an embodiment, the second portion of the at least one second channel 130 is formed by a slot or groove 1302, each of which is arranged on a path between the atomizer support area 110 and an opening 121 leading to a corresponding one of the at least one first channel 120. Figure 8, it can be seen that the first connecting lead 21a extends / emerges from the first aperture 1301a and has been routed from the atomizer 20. The first connecting lead 21a is then bent 90 degrees to run along the first slot / recess 1302a in the direction of the first opening 121a of the first channel 120a. The first connecting lead 21a is bent 90 degrees again to be received in the first channel 120a through the first opening 121a. Therefore, in this example, the second channel 130a including the first aperture 1301a provided through the material of the component 10 and the first slot / recess portion provided on the outer surface of the component 10 provides a path for routing the first connecting lead 21a from the atomizer supporting area 110 to the first channel 120a, and the end of the connecting lead 21a is received in the first channel. Figure 8 In the example of , the second connecting lead 21b is similarly routed through the second channel 130b to another first channel 120b, which includes a second aperture 1301b provided through the material of the component 10 and a second slot / recess portion 1302b provided on the outer surface of the component 10, and the end of the connecting lead 21b is received in the other first channel. It should be understood that throughout this application, the "first channel" may alternatively be referred to as a contact pin receiving hole.

[0098] The cross-sectional dimensions of the orifice 1301 of the second channel 130 (in which at least one orifice is provided) and the cross-sectional dimensions of the slot / recess 1302 of the second channel 130 (in which at least one slot / recess is provided) can be selected in one of the following ways. In an embodiment, the cross-sectional shape and dimensions of each orifice 1301 can match the cross-sectional shape and dimensions of the corresponding connecting lead 21 to provide a sliding fit between the connecting lead 21 and its corresponding orifice 1301. In an embodiment where the component 10 includes a material that is more elastic than the connecting lead 21, the cross-sectional dimension of each orifice 1301 can be slightly smaller than the cross-sectional dimension of the corresponding connecting lead 21, so that an interference fit is provided when each connecting lead 21 is received in its corresponding orifice 1301. In an embodiment, the cross-sectional dimension of each orifice 1301 can be larger than the cross-sectional dimension of its corresponding connecting lead 21, such as Figure 8As shown, thereby providing a gap between each connecting lead 21 and the corresponding orifice 1301. In an embodiment, the width of each slot / recess (i.e., in a direction parallel to the surface forming the slot / recess and perpendicular to the long axis of the slot / recess) can match the width of each corresponding connecting lead 21 to provide a sliding fit between each connecting lead 21 and its corresponding slot / recess 1302. In an embodiment where the component 10 includes a material that is more elastic than the connecting lead 21, the width of each slot / recess can be slightly smaller than the width of the corresponding connecting lead 21, so that an interference fit is provided when the connecting lead 21 is received in its corresponding slot / recess 1302. In an embodiment, the width of each slot / recess 1302 can be greater than the width of the corresponding connecting lead 21, such as Figure 8 As shown, a gap is provided between each connecting lead 21 and the corresponding slot / recess 1302. In an embodiment, the depth of each slot / recess 1302 is configured to be equal to or greater than the depth of each corresponding connecting lead 21, so that when received in its corresponding slot / recess, each connecting lead 21 is completely recessed below the outer surface of the housing 100 of the component 10. However, in other embodiments, one or more of the second channels 130 may not include a slot / recess 1302, or the slot / recess may be configured to have a depth that is shallower than the depth of its corresponding connecting lead 21, so that all or a portion of the thickness of the connecting lead 21 is exposed above the outer surface of the housing 100 of the component 10 on the path between the corresponding aperture 1301 and the opening 121 of the first channel 120, and the end of the connecting lead is configured to be received in the first channel. In these embodiments, the exposed portion of the connecting lead 21 may form an electrical contact for making electrical contact with an electrical contact pin, pad or area of ​​another component of the aerosol delivery system 1 that the component 10 is configured to contact in use. It will be appreciated that Figures 3 to 8 The first channels 120 shown in the example of are blind holes, each having a single opening 121 on the side of the component 10 opposite to the side including the atomizer support area 110. However, in embodiments, one or more (e.g., all) first channels 120 may pass through the material of the component, each having two openings on opposite surfaces. In these latter embodiments, each connecting lead 21 may be routed into a corresponding first channel 120, rather than first being routed through the second channel 130. For example, the connecting lead 21 may be routed into a corresponding first channel 120 via an opening on the same side of the component 10 as the atomizer support area. It should also be understood that although Figures 3 to 8The opening 121 of each channel in the example shown is located on the surface of the component 10 opposite to the surface on which the atomizer support area is arranged, but one or more openings 121 can be arranged on other surfaces of the component 10, for example, on a peripheral wall perpendicular to the surface on which the atomizer support area is arranged.

[0099] Fig.9A A schematic detail view of a section through a portion of a component 10 according to the present disclosure is shown, showing the position of the orifice 1301 and slot / recess 1302 of the second channel and the first channel 120 associated with the second channel, through which the connecting lead 21 is routed from the atomizer to the first channel. The section is aligned with the centerline of the first channel 120 and its associated orifice 1301. The connecting lead 21 extending from the atomizer (not shown) supported on the atomizer support area (not shown) of the component 10 is routed through the orifice 1301, which in this example is larger than the diameter of the connecting lead 21. When leaving the orifice 1301, the connecting lead 21 bends 90 degrees in the direction of the opening 121 of the first channel 120, thereby passing through the slot / recess 1302, the depth of which is also greater than the diameter of the connecting lead 21. When reaching the edge of the opening 121 of the first channel 120 , the connection lead 21 is bent 90 degrees to enter the opening 121 a and along the inner wall of the first channel 120 .

[0100] Fig. 9B Will be from Fig.9A is identified and shown Fig.9AThe arrangement is in a configuration in which the contact pin 30 has been inserted into the first channel via the opening, thereby mechanically holding the connecting lead 21 in the first channel. In an embodiment of the present disclosure, the contact pin 30 includes a conductive material, such as a metal material. Examples of suitable metal materials for the contact pins in the embodiments of the present disclosure include brass, steel, stainless steel, and copper. The contact pin may include a combination of materials, for example, a core of a first material and an outer layer of a second material. The first material may include a polymer material or a ceramic material, and the second material may include a metal. In an embodiment of the present disclosure, the cross-sectional shape of the contact pin 30 may be circular, oval, square, cubic, or any other shape. The contact pin 30 may be solid or hollow. In the case where the contact pin 30 has a flat insertion end, the edge of the end face may be chamfered or rounded on its edge to facilitate the insertion of the contact pin 30. Alternatively, to facilitate insertion, the insertion end of the contact pin 30 may be pointed. In an embodiment, the inner surface of the first channel 120 may be covered with a material different from one or more materials constituting the other parts of the housing 100 of the component 10. For example, the inner surface of each first channel 120 can be covered with a material that is more resilient than the rest of the housing of component 10, such that in the case where component 10 includes a metal, ceramic, or glass material, each first channel 120 can be covered with a plastic material to facilitate an interference fit with contact pin 30. When the shaft portion of contact pin 30 is received in the first channel, contact 32 remains exposed, thereby providing a surface for making electrical contact with additional circuitry of aerosol delivery system 1. As further described herein, in some embodiments, contact area 32 includes a cartridge contact pad that is configured to be exposed on an outer surface of an assembled cartridge portion 40 including component 10, such as Figure 1 In other cases, the electrical connector may be welded, screwed or clamped to the contact area 32 of the contact pin 30, and the contact area may be configured with a shape suitable for any other electrical connector known to those skilled in the art.

[0101] In an embodiment, the cross-sectional shape and size of the contact pin 30 are configured relative to the cross-sectional shape and size of the first channel 120 and the cross-sectional shape and size of the connecting lead 21 so that when the contact pin 30 is received in the first channel, the portion of the connecting lead 21 received in the first channel 120 is mechanically retained within the first channel. When the connecting lead is disposed between the outer peripheral surface of the contact pin 30 and the inner wall surface of the channel 120, such mechanical retention is achieved by providing an interference fit between the outer peripheral surface of the contact pin and the inner wall surface of the channel. This is in Fig. 10A and Fig. 10B As schematically shown in Fig. 10A and Fig. 10B A cross section of an exemplary embodiment of the component 10 is shown, taken perpendicularly to the longitudinal axis of the first channel 120. Fig. 10A In the embodiment, the diameter of the contact pin 30 (D p ) relative to the diameter (D c ) and the diameter of the connecting lead 21 (D L ) is designed so that the diameter of the first channel 120 is smaller than the combined diameter of the connecting lead 21 and the contact pin 30 (ie, D c <D L +D p ). c With D L +D p A suitable difference between the two can be experimentally determined based on the elasticity of the portion of the housing 100 that forms the first channel 120 and the elasticity of the contact pin 30 and the connecting lead 21, so that when the connecting lead 21 and the contact pin 30 are received in the first channel 120, deformation of the connecting lead 21 and / or the contact pin 30 and / or the wall of the first channel 120 causes the connecting lead 21 to be statically compressed between the outer peripheral surface of the contact pin 30 and the inner wall surface of the first channel 120 to maintain the connecting lead 21 in the first channel when the contact pin 30 is inserted.

[0102] exist Fig. 10B In the embodiment, a slot or keyway is provided along the inner wall surface of the first channel 120, the width of the slot or keyway being sized to receive the connecting lead 21 and the depth (defined perpendicularly to the inner surface of the first channel 120) being shallower than the diameter of the connecting lead 21, so that a portion of the thickness of the connecting lead 21 received in the slot or keyway extends into the first channel 120. The diameter (D p ) relative to the first channel 110 (D c ) and slot or keyway (D s ) and the diameter of the connecting lead 21 (D L ) is sized so that the combined diameter of the first channel 120 and the slot or keyway is smaller than the combined diameter of the connecting lead 21 and the contact pin 30 (ie, D c +D s <D L +D p ), and with Fig. 10A The difference can be determined based on the respective elasticities of the materials forming the contact pin 30 and the wall of the first channel. Providing a slot or keyway can help position a portion of the connecting lead 21 to be received in the first channel 120 before inserting the contact pin 30. It should be understood that the slot or keyway for receiving a portion of the connecting lead 21 can alternatively be formed along the outer surface of the shaft portion of the contact pin 30.

[0103] Each contact pin 30 inserted into the corresponding first channel 120 of the component 10 is configured to hold a portion of the corresponding connecting lead 21 of the atomizer 20, and is configured to provide a location for electrical contact for connecting to another circuit of the aerosol delivery system 1 into which the component 80 is configured to be assembled. In an embodiment of the present disclosure, each contact pin 30 includes a contact pad portion 32 that is configured to be exposed on the outer surface of the cartridge portion 40 of the aerosol delivery system 1. FIG. 11A to FIG. 11C An example of such a configuration is shown in .

[0104] Fig.11A A perspective view of the base of a component 10 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is shown. Figures 3 to 8 The contact pin 30 is received in the first channel opening 121 of each first channel. Figure 8 In each of the two first channels 120 shown, to retain the end of a corresponding connecting lead 21 received in each first channel, as further described herein. In an embodiment of the present disclosure, the portion of each contact pin 30 away from the end configured for insertion into the first channel 120 of the component 10 is configured as a cartridge contact pad 32 for establishing an electrical connection between the cartridge contact pad 32 and a corresponding electrical contact 506 of a reusable device portion 50 configured for use with the reusable device portion. In examples where the base of the component 10 forms the exterior of the cartridge portion 40 of the aerosol delivery system, the contact pad 32 of each contact pin 30 can be configured to be flush with the base surface of the component 10. Fig.11A In the example of , the cross-sectional area of ​​the contact pad 32 of each contact pin 30 is larger than the cross-sectional area of ​​the shaft section of the contact pin configured for insertion into the first channel 120 of the component 10, but this is optional, and in other examples, the contact pad 32 may have the same cross-sectional area as the shaft section or a smaller cross-sectional area than the shaft section. Fig.11A In the example shown, the contact pad 32 is spaced apart from the base from which each contact pin 30 of the component 10 extends to allow clearance for the atomizer base portion 70 which, in this example, forms the base of the cartridge portion 40, but in other embodiments, the length of the contact pin 30 can be configured relative to the depth of its associated first channel 120 so that the surface of the contact pad 32 is flush with the surface of the component 10, or is recessed within the first channel 120.

[0105] Fig. 11B The nebulizer base portion 70 is shown assembled with the nebulizer base portion 70. Fig.11A Component 10. Figure 2 As shown in the assembly diagram of , when the atomizer base portion is assembled into the opening of the mouthpiece end of the cartridge outer shell 6 away from the cartridge portion 40, the base surface 730 of the atomizer base portion 70 forms the exterior of the cartridge portion 40. Fig. 11B In the example of, the base of the component 10 and the atomizer 20 mounted to the atomizer support area 10 and the connecting lead 21 routed into the first channel 120 are received in a recess on the opposite side of the base surface 730 of the atomizer base portion 70. The size of the recess is designed to receive the component 10 with an interference fit, optionally assisted by the presence of a sealing element (e.g., an O-ring) arranged around the periphery of the component 10. The channel through the base surface of the atomizer base portion 70 is positioned to align with the position of the opening 121 of the first channel 120 of the component 10, and the size of the channel through the base surface of the atomizer base portion is designed to allow the associated contact pin 30 to be received therethrough. After the component 10 and the atomizer base portion 70 have been assembled together, the contact pin 30 is inserted through the base surface 730 of the atomizer base portion, and each contact pin is received in the first channel 120 via an interference fit to hold the connecting lead 21 of the atomizer 20, as further described herein. The air inlet 720 of the atomizer base portion 70 is in fluid communication with the air inlet 60 of the component 10 , thereby providing a path for air to flow from the exterior of the assembled cartridge portion 40 into the component 10 .

[0106] Fig. 11C The assembled component 10 and the atomizer base portion 70 are shown to be further connected to the atomizer unit cover 80 to form the atomizer subassembly 90. In an embodiment, the component 10 and the atomizer 20 are retained in an interior space defined within the peripheral walls of the atomizer base portion 70 and the atomizer unit cover 80, as shown in FIG. Figure 2 In an embodiment of the present disclosure, the atomizer base portion 70 may be provided with a mechanical connector (such as Fig.12 The recess 750 shown in the figure) is configured to engage a cooperating mechanical connector (such as a lug 850) of the atomizer unit cover 80. In an embodiment, the component 10, the atomizer unit cover 80 and the atomizer base portion 70 can be connected together by mechanical fasteners (such as screws or rivets), or can be bonded together with an adhesive, or welded together. In other embodiments of the atomizer subassembly 90 according to embodiments of the present disclosure, the component 10, the atomizer unit cover 80 and the atomizer base portion 70 can be formed integrally, as described herein, and the respective functions of the component 10, the atomizer unit cover 80 and the atomizer base portion 70 are provided by the atomizer subassembly 90 including an area of ​​the component 10, an area of ​​the atomizer unit cover 80 and an area of ​​the atomizer base portion 70.

[0107] exist Fig. 11CIn the example of FIG. 1 , optional sealing elements 740 and 810 comprising a ring of elastic material (such as silicone rubber) are respectively arranged around the periphery of the atomizer base portion 70 and the atomizing unit cover 80 and are located in a positioning groove around the periphery of each component. The atomizer base portion 70 may be provided with a mechanical connector (such as Fig. 11C The lug 710 shown is configured to engage a cooperating mechanical connector (such as a recess) of the cartridge outer shell 6 to retain the atomizer subassembly 90 including the atomizer base portion 70, component 10, atomizer 20 and atomizer unit cover 80 within the cartridge outer shell 6 when the atomizer subassembly is received in the cartridge outer shell 6.

[0108] Fig.12 A schematic cross-section of a portion of an atomization subassembly 90 is shown, illustrating aspects of liquid and aerosol management, the atomization subassembly comprising a component 10, an atomizer 20, and an atomization unit cover 80 disposed on the atomizer 20 mounted to the component 10. As further described herein, the atomizer 20 is disposed on the atomizer support area of ​​the component 10, with the end of the core 202 of the atomizer extending into the liquid receiving recess of the component 10, which is aligned with the liquid supply port 840 of the atomization unit cover 80, so that liquid from the cartridge reservoir 2 can flow along the path generally indicated by the dashed line to be absorbed by the core 202 of the atomizer and drawn to the heating element 201 by capillary action. The aerosol outflow port 830 of the atomization unit cover 80 is configured to connect to the aerosol outlet channel of the cartridge housing 6 when the atomization unit cover 80 is engaged with the cartridge housing 6. The aerosol outflow port 830 is fluidly connected to the atomization chamber region 150 of the component 10, which accommodates the heating element 201 of the atomizer 20, so that the air flowing into the inlet 60 of the component 10 enters the atomization chamber region 150, entrains the vapor / aerosol generated by the atomizer 20, and flows out of the aerosol outflow port 830 in the direction generally indicated by the solid arrow. Fig.12 Also schematically shown are the wiring of the connecting leads of the heating element 201 of the atomizer 20 held in the first channel by the contact pins 30, as further described herein. In embodiments where the atomizer is configured to draw free liquid from a reservoir, the atomizer support region (including, for example, a curved bracket portion) of the component 10 and the atomizer unit cover 80 are typically configured to be coupled together to form a continuous seal around a portion of the core 202 disposed between the component 10 and the atomizer unit cover 80, and to provide compression of the core 202 at a location between the liquid receiving recess and the aerosol generating chamber to limit or prevent leakage of free liquid from the liquid receiving recess into the aerosol generating chamber.

[0109] Thus, a component of an electronic aerosol delivery system has been described, the component comprising: a housing element comprising an atomizer support area configured to support an atomizer; wherein the housing element comprises at least one first channel configured to receive a portion of a connecting lead of the atomizer therein; wherein each of the at least one first channel comprises an opening configured to receive a contact pin; and wherein each of the at least one first channel is shaped to retain a portion of the connecting lead in close proximity between an inner surface of the first channel and an outer surface of a corresponding contact pin when the connecting lead and the contact pin are received in the channel.

[0110] The various embodiments described herein are only used to help understand and teach the claimed features. These embodiments are provided only as representative samples of embodiments and are not exhaustive and / or exclusive. It should be understood that the advantages, embodiments, examples, functions, features, structures and / or other aspects described herein should not be considered as limitations on the scope of the invention defined by the claims or limitations on the equivalents of the claims, and other embodiments can be used and can be modified without departing from the scope of the claimed invention. In addition to those specifically described herein, the various embodiments of the present invention may appropriately include appropriate combinations of disclosed elements, components, features, parts, steps, devices, etc., consisting of these appropriate combinations or consisting essentially of these appropriate combinations. In addition, the present disclosure may include other inventions that are not currently claimed but may be claimed in the future. The delivery system described herein can be implemented as a flammable aerosol supply system, a non-flammable aerosol supply system or an aerosol-free delivery system.

[0111] The corresponding features of the present disclosure are defined by the following numbered paragraphs:

[0112] Paragraph 1. A component (10) of an electronic aerosol delivery system (1), the component comprising:

[0113] A housing element (100) comprising an atomizer support region (110) configured to support an atomizer;

[0114] wherein the housing element comprises at least one first channel (120) configured to receive a portion of a connecting lead (21) of the atomizer therein;

[0115] wherein each of the at least one first channel comprises an opening (121) configured to receive a contact element (30); and

[0116] Each of the at least one first channel is shaped to hold a portion of the connecting lead closely between an inner surface (122) of the first channel and an outer surface (31) of the corresponding contact element when the connecting lead and the contact element are received in the first channel.

[0117] Paragraph 2. The component of Paragraph 1, wherein an inner surface of at least one first channel comprises an elastic material.

[0118] Paragraph 3. The component of any of Paragraphs 1 to 2, wherein the atomizer support area and the respective opening of each of the at least one first channel are disposed on opposite sides of the housing element.

[0119] Paragraph 4. A component according to any one of paragraphs 1 to 3, comprising at least one second channel (130), the at least one second channel being used to receive a portion of a connecting lead disposed between the atomizer support area and an opening to a corresponding one of the at least one first channel.

[0120] Paragraph 5. The component of Paragraph 4, wherein each of the at least one second passage comprises an aperture (1301) through the housing element.

[0121] Paragraph 6. The component of any of Paragraphs 4 to 5, wherein each of the at least one second channel comprises a slot or groove (1302) disposed on a surface of the housing element.

[0122] Paragraph 7. The component of Paragraph 6, wherein at least a portion of each slot or groove is disposed on the same side of the housing element as an opening to a respective one of the at least one first passageway.

[0123] Paragraph 8. The component according to any of Paragraphs 3 to 7, wherein the atomizer supporting region of the housing element, the at least one first channel and the at least one second channel are made integrally.

[0124] Paragraph 9. A component according to any one of paragraphs 3 to 8, which also includes an atomizer and at least one contact element; wherein at least one connecting lead of the atomizer is routed from the atomizer support area, through the second channel, and into the opening of the first channel, and the contact element is located in the first channel to maintain a portion of the connecting lead between the inner surface of the first channel and the outer surface of the contact element.

[0125] Paragraph 10. The component of Paragraph 9, wherein at least one contact element is made of a more resilient material than the portion(s) of the housing element that includes each of the at least one channel.

[0126] Paragraph 11. The component of Paragraph 10, wherein at least one contact element comprises a metallic material and the housing element comprises a plastic material.

[0127] Paragraph 12. The component of any of Paragraphs 9 to 11, wherein each of the at least one connecting lead of the atomizer comprises a wire.

[0128] Paragraph 13. A component according to any of paragraphs 1 to 12, wherein the electronic aerosol delivery system comprises an outer housing (6); and

[0129] Therein, the component includes a side surface (140) around the periphery of the housing element, the side surface being configured to engage with an interior surface (22) of the outer housing when the housing element is received within the outer housing.

[0130] Paragraph 14. The component of Paragraph 13, comprising one or more resilient sealing elements (200) disposed about the side surface to form a seal with an interior surface of the outer housing when the housing element is received within the outer housing.

[0131] Paragraph 15. The component of Paragraph 14, wherein at least one of the one or more resilient sealing elements comprises an O-ring (2001).

[0132] Paragraph 16. The component of any of Paragraphs 1 to 15, wherein a slot or keyway is disposed on an inner surface of at least one first channel, the slot or keyway configured to retain a portion of a connecting lead received in the first channel.

[0133] Paragraph 17. The component of any preceding paragraph, wherein each contact element includes an elongated shaft region configured to be received in the first channel.

[0134] Paragraph 18. The component of Paragraph 17, wherein each contact element includes a planar electrical contact surface oriented substantially perpendicular to the axis of elongation of the elongated shaft region.

[0135] Paragraph 19. The component of Paragraph 18, wherein the surface area of ​​the planar electrical contact surface is greater than the cross-sectional area of ​​the elongated shaft region.

[0136] Paragraph 20. An electronic aerosol delivery system (1), comprising a reservoir (2) for storing an aerosol generating liquid, a first air flow path (41) arranged between an air inlet and an air outlet, and an atomizer (20) for evaporating a source liquid from the reservoir and delivering the vapor into the air flow path; and wherein the electronic aerosol delivery system also includes a component according to any one of paragraphs 1 to 18.

[0137] Paragraph 21. An electronic aerosol delivery system according to paragraph 20, wherein the electronic aerosol delivery system comprises a cartridge (40) configured to reversibly couple to an electronic aerosol generating device (50) comprising a power source and a controller.

[0138] Paragraph 22. An electronic aerosol delivery system according to paragraph 21, wherein the component is included in a cartridge.

[0139] Paragraph 23. An electronic aerosol delivery system according to paragraph 21, wherein the component is included in an electronic aerosol generating device.

[0140] Paragraph 24. An electronic aerosol delivery system according to paragraph 22, wherein the cartridge comprises an outer housing (6), and wherein the component is configured to be inserted into an open end of the outer housing during assembly of the electronic aerosol delivery system.

[0141] Paragraph 25. A method of manufacturing a component (10) of an electronic aerosol delivery system (1), the method comprising:

[0142] A housing element (100) is provided, the housing element comprising an atomizer supporting area (110) configured to support an atomizer (20), and at least one first channel (120) is further provided in the housing element, each first channel being configured to receive a portion of a connecting lead (21) of the atomizer therein, wherein each first channel comprises an opening (121) configured to receive a contact element (30), and wherein each first channel is shaped to hold the received portion of the connecting lead in close proximity between an inner surface of the first channel and an outer surface of a corresponding contact element when the connecting lead and the contact element are received in the channel.

[0143] Paragraph 26. The method according to paragraph 25, further comprising:

[0144] Mount the atomizer on the atomizer support area;

[0145] inserting an end portion of the connecting lead into the first passage through the opening of the first passage; and

[0146] The contact element is inserted into the first passage to hold a portion of the connecting lead between an inner surface of the first passage and an outer surface of the contact element.

[0147] Paragraph 27. The method according to paragraph 26, further comprising:

[0148] Connecting leads of the atomizer are routed from the atomizer support area, through at least one second channel (130) disposed between the atomizer support area and the opening of the first channel, to the opening of the first channel.

[0149] Paragraph 28. The method of paragraph 27, wherein the second passage comprises an orifice.

[0150] Paragraph 29. The method of any of Paragraphs 27 and 28, wherein the second passage comprises a slot or groove on an outer surface of the housing element.

[0151] Paragraph 30. A component device (10) of an electronic aerosol delivery system (1), the component device comprising:

[0152] A housing element device (100) comprising an atomizer support region device (110) configured to support an atomizer device;

[0153] wherein the housing element device comprises at least one first channel device (120) configured to receive a portion of a connecting lead device (21) of the atomizer device therein;

[0154] wherein each of the at least one first channel device comprises an opening device (121) configured to receive a contact element device (30); and

[0155] Each of the at least one first channel device is shaped to keep a portion of the connecting lead device close to an inner surface device (122) of the first channel device and an outer surface device (31) of the corresponding contact element device when the connecting lead device and the contact element device are received in the first channel device.

Claims

1. A component (10) of an electronic aerosol delivery system (1), the component comprising: A housing element (100) comprising an atomizer support region (110) configured to support an atomizer; wherein the housing element comprises at least one first channel (120), the at least one first channel being configured to receive a portion of a connecting lead (21) of the atomizer in the at least one first channel; wherein each of the at least one first channel comprises an opening (121) configured to receive a contact element (30); and Each of the at least one first channel is shaped to hold a portion of the connecting lead in close proximity between an inner surface (122) of the first channel and an outer surface (31) of the corresponding contact element when the connecting lead and the contact element are received in the first channel.

2. The component according to claim 1, wherein An inner surface of the at least one first channel comprises an elastic material.

3. The component according to any one of claims 1 to 2, wherein: The atomizer supporting area and the respective opening of each of the at least one first channel are arranged on opposite sides of the housing element.

4. A component according to any one of claims 1 to 3, comprising at least one second channel (130) for receiving a portion of the connecting lead arranged between the atomizer support area and an opening to a corresponding one of the at least one first channel.

5. The component according to claim 4, wherein Each of the at least one second passage comprises an aperture (1301) through the housing element.

6. A component according to any one of claims 4 to 5, wherein Each of the at least one second channel comprises a slot or groove (1302) disposed on a surface of the housing element.

7. The component according to claim 6, wherein At least a portion of each of the slots or grooves is disposed on the same side of the housing element as an opening to the respective one of the at least one first passage.

8. A component according to any one of claims 3 to 7, wherein The atomizer supporting region of the housing element, the at least one first channel and the at least one second channel are integrally formed.

9. A component according to any one of claims 3 to 8, further comprising the atomizer and the at least one contact element; wherein At least one connecting lead of the atomizer passes from the atomizer support area through a second channel and is routed into the opening of the first channel, and a contact element is located in the first channel to retain a portion of the connecting lead between an inner surface of the first channel and an outer surface of the contact element.

10. The component according to claim 9, wherein The at least one contact element is made of a more resilient material than a portion of the housing element comprising each of the at least one channel.

11. The component according to claim 10, wherein The at least one contact element comprises a metallic material and the housing element comprises a plastic material.

12. A component according to any one of claims 1 to 11, wherein The electronic aerosol delivery system comprises an outer housing (6); and The component includes a side surface (140) around the periphery of the housing element, the side surface being configured to engage with an interior surface (22) of the outer housing when the housing element is received within the outer housing.

13. The component of claim 12, comprising one or more resilient sealing elements (200) disposed about the side surface to form a seal with an interior surface of the outer housing when the housing element is received within the outer housing.

14. The component according to claim 13, wherein At least one of the one or more elastic sealing elements comprises an O-ring (2001).

15. A component according to any one of claims 1 to 14, wherein A slot or keyway is disposed on an inner surface of the at least one first channel, the slot or keyway being configured to retain a portion of a connecting lead received in the first channel.

16. A component according to any preceding claim, wherein Each of the contact elements includes an elongated shaft region configured to be received in the first channel.

17. The component according to claim 16, wherein Each of the contact elements includes a planar electrical contact surface oriented substantially perpendicular to the axis of elongation of the elongated shaft region.

18. The component according to claim 17, wherein The planar electrical contact surface has a surface area that is greater than a cross-sectional area of ​​the elongated shaft region.

19. An electronic aerosol delivery system (1), comprising a reservoir (2) for storing an aerosol generating liquid, a first airflow path (41) disposed between an air inlet and an air outlet, and an atomizer (20) for evaporating a source liquid from the reservoir and delivering the vapor into the airflow path; and wherein, The electronic aerosol delivery system further comprises a component according to any one of claims 1 to 18.

20. The electronic aerosol delivery system of claim 19, wherein: The electronic aerosol delivery system includes a cartridge (40) configured to reversibly couple to an electronic aerosol generating device (50) including a power source and a controller.

21. The electronic aerosol delivery system of claim 20, wherein: The components are included in the cartridge.

22. The electronic aerosol delivery system of claim 20, wherein: The component is comprised in the electronic aerosol generating device.

23. A method of manufacturing a component (10) of an electronic aerosol delivery system (1), the method comprising: A housing element (100) is provided, the housing element comprising an atomizer supporting area (110) configured to support an atomizer (20), and at least one first channel (120) is further provided in the housing element, each of the first channels being configured to receive a portion of a connecting lead (21) of the atomizer in the first channel, wherein each of the first channels comprises an opening (121) configured to receive a contact element (30), and wherein each of the first channels is shaped to hold the received portion of the connecting lead in close proximity between an inner surface of the first channel and an outer surface of a corresponding contact element when the connecting lead and the contact element are received in the channel.

24. The method according to claim 23, further comprising: Mounting an atomizer on the atomizer supporting area; inserting an end portion of the connecting lead into the first passage through an opening of the first passage; as well as A contact element is inserted into the first passage to hold a portion of the connecting lead in close proximity between an inner surface of the first passage and an outer surface of the contact element.

25. The method according to claim 24, further comprising: The connecting lead of the atomizer is routed from the atomizer support area to the opening of the first channel through at least one second channel (130) disposed between the atomizer support area and the opening.

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