Aerosol-generating device with modular housing concept

Abstract

There is provided an aerosol-generating device (1) comprising a first housing part (2) and a second housing part (3). The first housing part (1) comprises a power consuming unit (4) configured to consume power to generate an aerosol during operation of the aerosol-generating device (1). The second housing part (3) comprises a power supply unit (7) configured to supply power to the power consuming unit (4) in the attached state of the housing parts (2, 3). The first and second housing parts (2, 3) are reversibly interconnected and configured to be selectively arranged in any one of at least two different states, the at least two different states including an attached state in which the housing parts (2, 3) are attached to each other and a detached state in which the housing parts (2, 3) are detached from each other.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to an aerosol generating device, which comprises: a power consumption unit configured to consume power to generate aerosol during the operation of the aerosol generating device; and a power supply unit configured to supply power to the power consumption unit. Background Art

[0002] One type of aerosol generating system is an electrically operated smoking system. Known hand-held electrically operated smoking systems typically include an aerosol generating device, which includes a rechargeable battery, control electronics, and an electric heater for heating an aerosol generating article specifically designed for use with the aerosol generating device. In some instances, the aerosol generating article includes an aerosol forming substrate, such as a tobacco strip or tobacco rod, and when the aerosol generating article is inserted into the aerosol generating device, the heater contained within the aerosol generating device is inserted into or positioned around the aerosol forming substrate. In alternative electrically operated smoking systems, the aerosol generating article may include a capsule containing an aerosol forming substrate, such as loose tobacco.

[0003] In known electrically operated smoking systems, the battery is inseparably integrated into or connected to the housing of the aerosol generating device, or is mounted in such a way that it requires a relatively large amount of force to remove it from the housing. Thus, once the battery has reached the end of its useful life, even if the device is still functioning, the user will be inclined to discard the entire aerosol generating device including the battery, which on the one hand results in unnecessary waste and on the other hand makes it difficult to recycle the materials used in the battery, such as mercury or cadmium.

[0004] There is a desire to provide an aerosol generating device that minimizes waste associated with the aging of the battery used to operate the aerosol generating device, and thus contributes to protecting, maintaining, and improving the quality of the environment. Summary of the Invention

[0005] According to a first aspect of the present invention, there is provided an aerosol generating device comprising: a first housing part and a second housing part, the first housing part and the second housing part being reversibly interconnected and configured to be selectively arranged in any one of at least two different states, the at least two different states including an attached state and a detached state, in the attached state, the housing parts are attached to each other, and in the detached state, the housing parts are detached from each other; a power consumption unit configured to consume power to generate an aerosol during operation of the aerosol generating device; a power supply unit configured to supply power to the power consumption unit in the attached state of the housing parts, wherein the first housing part includes the power consumption unit, and wherein the second housing part includes the power supply unit. The separability of the power supply unit from the power consumption unit allows for easy replacement of the power supply unit, such that the lifespan of the aerosol generating device is no longer limited to the lifespan or capacity of the battery. Additionally, different power supply units with different battery capacities can be provided to allow for a modular power design, where the user can select different battery power supply units according to the power capacity desired by the user.

[0006] Preferred embodiments are the subject of the dependent claims. The following discloses preferred features:

[0007] Housing part

[0008] The first housing part and the second housing part may be mechanically and electrically coupled to each other in the attached state.

[0009] The first housing part and the second housing part may be mechanically and electrically disconnected from each other in the detached state.

[0010] The first housing part and the second housing part may be reusable.

[0011] The first housing part and the second housing part may be configured to be repeatedly arranged in any one of at least two different states multiple times.

[0012] The first housing part may include an aerosol generating article receiving cavity for removably receiving an aerosol generating article.

[0013] By manual operation in a tool-free manner, the first housing part and the second housing part can be interconnected between the attached state and the detached state, and vice versa.

[0014] The first housing part may include a heater module.

[0015] The second housing part may include a battery module.

[0016] Power consumption unit

[0017] The power consumption unit may include a heater for heating the aerosol or a product for generating the aerosol.

[0018] The heater may be an induction coil.

[0019] The heater may be a resistive heating device or other types of heating devices.

[0020] The aerosol generating device may further include a controller configured to control the power consumption of the heater in the attached state of the housing.

[0021] The power consumption unit may include an aerosol generation chamber.

[0022] The power consumption unit may be removable from the first housing part.

[0023] The power consumption unit may only be removable from the first housing part in the split state of the housing parts.

[0024] Power supply unit

[0025] The power supply unit may include at least one battery, preferably at least one single-use battery or rechargeable battery, or a battery holder for such batteries.

[0026] The battery may be a standard type battery, preferably one or more batteries sized 18650 or 21700.

[0027] The battery may be removably attached to the power supply unit.

[0028] The power supply unit may be removable from the second housing part.

[0029] The power supply unit may only be removable from the second housing part in the split state of the housing parts.

[0030] The opening of the second housing part for removing the power supply unit from the second housing part may be covered by the first housing part in the attached state.

[0031] The second housing part may include a cavity for accommodating the power supply unit and a cover for closing the cavity.

[0032] The power supply unit may be hermetically sealed within the second housing part.

[0033] Shape and structure of the housing

[0034] In the attached state of the housing parts, the separation line or separation plane between the housing parts may extend along one of the main axes of the device, preferably the longitudinal axis.

[0035] In the attached state of the housing parts, each of the housing parts in the housing part can extend along one of the main axes of the device, preferably the longitudinal axis.

[0036] The housing parts in the attached state can together form the housing of the aerosol generating device.

[0037] The housing can be shaped as an oval cylinder.

[0038] The housing can be shaped as a cuboid with rounded edges.

[0039] The housing can extend along the longitudinal axis.

[0040] The housing can include a top end and a bottom end that intersect the longitudinal axis.

[0041] The housing can include at least one side wall that extends from the top end to the bottom end and surrounds the longitudinal axis.

[0042] The side wall can have no corners and / or edges between the top end and the bottom end of the housing.

[0043] At least two side surfaces of the side wall can be parallel to each other and / or parallel to the longitudinal axis.

[0044] The housing parts can be firmly connected to each other in the attached state.

[0045] The housing parts can be elastically preloaded relative to each other in the attached state to prevent rattling or wobbling between the housing parts.

[0046] At least one of the first housing part and the second housing part can be partially or completely made of plastic, especially ABS.

[0047] At least one of the first housing part and the second housing part can be partially or completely made of or coated with metal, especially aluminum or aluminum alloy.

[0048] At least one of the first housing part and the second housing part can have a matte surface finish.

[0049] Compared with the second housing part, the first housing part can have a different color and / or surface finish.

[0050] The first housing part can have a protruding element that protrudes towards the second housing part in the attached state.

[0051] The protruding element can protrude laterally from the main longitudinal body of the first housing part at the side where the aerosol generating article receiving cavity is arranged in the longitudinal body.

[0052] The protruding element can form a mating surface of the first housing part.

[0053] The protruding element can protrude beyond the mating surface of the first housing part.

[0054] The protruding element can be fully received in a corresponding cavity / openings of the second housing part in the attached state of the housing parts, such that for example the outer edges of the first housing part and the second housing part facing each other in the attached state are arranged to form a substantially straight line.

[0055] The protruding element can be located between two electrical terminals of the first housing part for electrically connecting the first housing part to the second housing part.

[0056] The terminal of the first housing part close to the protruding element can be a male electrical terminal and is configured to be electrically connected to a female electrical terminal of the second housing part.

[0057] The second housing part can have a protruding element protruding towards the first housing part in the attached state.

[0058] The protruding element can protrude laterally from the main longitudinal body of the second housing part at the bottom end of the second housing part.

[0059] The protruding element can form the mating surface of the second housing part.

[0060] The protruding element can protrude beyond the mating surface of the second housing part.

[0061] The protruding element can be fully received in a corresponding cavity / openings of the first housing part in the attached state of the housing parts, such that for example the outer edges of the first housing part and the second housing part facing each other in the attached state are arranged to form a substantially straight line.

[0062] The protruding element can be located between two electrical terminals of the second housing part for electrically connecting the second housing part to the first housing part.

[0063] The terminal of the second housing part close to the protruding element can be a male electrical terminal and is configured to be electrically connected to a female electrical terminal of the first housing part.

[0064] Generation of signals and detection of triggering events

[0065] The device can be configured to detect a trigger event and generate a visual and / or acoustic and / or tactile signal when the trigger event is detected.

[0066] The device can be configured to detect the position or state of the housing part or a change in the position or state of the housing part as a trigger event, preferably an event of entering an attached and / or locked state.

[0067] The device may be configured to detect a user operation as a triggering event, the user operation preferably being a press of a button, in particular a release button such as a release button for splitting the housing part, or a main activation unit for activating the generation of an aerosol.

[0068] The device may be configured to detect the presence of at least one of a first housing part and a second housing part, a power consumption unit and a power supply unit as a triggering event by means of an authentication key in an attached state of the housing part.

[0069] Intermediate state of the housing part

[0070] The first housing part and the second housing part may be configured to be selectively arranged in any one of at least three different states, the at least three different states including an attached state, a split state, and an intermediate state, in which the housing parts are mechanically movably coupled to each other and electrically disconnected from each other.

[0071] The use of the intermediate state may enable a user to establish a small and hard-to-reach electrical connection between the housing parts via a guided and easily created mechanical connection. Thus, the assembly process may be faster, and wear of the electrical contacts may be reduced, thereby increasing the lifespan of the housing parts. As described below, the "guidance" within the intermediate state may be achieved via one or more of a guiding mechanism, the shape of the mating surfaces of the housing parts, and a cushioning mechanism.

[0072] The housing parts may define a fulcrum in the intermediate state, where the housing parts may pivot relative to each other from an extended configuration to an adjacent configuration about the fulcrum.

[0073] The housing parts may be configured to split from each other by pivoting the housing parts in the intermediate state relative to each other from an adjacent configuration to an extended configuration about the fulcrum and then disconnecting the housing parts from each other.

[0074] In order to transfer from the split state to the attached state and / or from the attached state to the split state, the housing parts may have to enter the intermediate state.

[0075] Guiding mechanism for relative movement of the housing part

[0076] The device may include a guiding mechanism for guiding the movement of the housing parts relative to each other.

[0077] The guiding mechanism may be configured to guide the movement of the housing parts relative to each other in the intermediate state.

[0078] The guiding mechanism may be configured to guide the movement of the housing parts relative to each other along a predetermined trajectory.

[0079] The guiding mechanism can be configured to guide at least one translational and / or rotational movement of the housing parts relative to each other, preferably at least one translational and / or rotational movement along and / or around at least one of the main axes of the device.

[0080] The guiding mechanism can be configured to guide the movement of the housing parts relative to each other along a linear and / or circular and / or curved path.

[0081] The guiding mechanism can include a male guiding element and a female guiding element, which are configured to engage with each other to effect the guiding movement. The male guiding element can be provided on one of the first housing part and the second housing part. The female guiding element can be provided on the other of the first housing part and the second housing part.

[0082] The male guiding element can be a guide pin or a guide rail.

[0083] The female guiding element can be a guiding groove.

[0084] The guiding mechanism can further include a stop to limit the guiding movement of the housing parts relative to each other in a predetermined position.

[0085] The stop can be provided on one of the first housing part and the second housing part, and is configured to abut against the other of the first housing part and the second housing part in the attached state.

[0086] Fitting surface of the housing part

[0087] Each of the housing parts can include at least one mating surface, wherein the mating surfaces are configured to face and / or engage with each other in the attached state.

[0088] The first housing part and the second housing part can include male mating surfaces, and the other of the first housing part and the second housing part can include female mating surfaces.

[0089] The male mating surface element can have a shape opposite to that of the female mating surface element.

[0090] The male mating surface can have a convex shape, and the female mating surface has a concave shape.

[0091] The male mating surface can extend from the top end and / or the bottom end of one of the first housing part and the second housing part, wherein the female mating surface can extend from the top end and / or the bottom end of the corresponding other of the first housing part and the second housing part.

[0092] Each of the mating surfaces can be adjacent to at least one side surface of the corresponding housing part, wherein the side surfaces of the housing parts are flush with each other in the attached state.

[0093] The mating surface can be adjacent to two side surfaces on opposite sides of the corresponding housing part and be located between the two side surfaces, wherein two pairs of two side surfaces of the housing part on opposite sides are flush with each other in the attached state.

[0094] The mating surface can be located between two parallel mating surface edges.

[0095] The male mating surface and the female mating surface can include a male guiding element of the guiding mechanism of the device, wherein the other of the male mating surface and the female mating surface includes a female guiding element of the guiding mechanism.

[0096] The height of the male mating surface can be in the range of 40% to 100%, preferably 60% to 98%, especially 70% to 85% of the corresponding housing part.

[0097] The width of the male mating surface can be in the range of 60% to 100%, preferably 80% to 98%, especially 85% to 95% of the width of the corresponding housing part.

[0098] An area between 40% and 100%, preferably 60% to 98%, especially 70% to 85% of the mating surface can extend parallel to the longitudinal axis of the aerosol generating device.

[0099] Buffer element

[0100] The device can include a buffer mechanism configured to buffer the housing parts relative to each other in the attached state.

[0101] At least one of the first housing part and the second housing part can include a male buffer element, and the other of the first housing part and the second housing part includes a female buffer element, wherein the male buffer element and the female buffer element are engaged with each other in the attached state so as to elastically preload the housing parts relative to each other.

[0102] At least one of the buffer elements can be removably attached to the corresponding housing part.

[0103] At least one of the buffer elements can form or cover a cover for covering an opening of the corresponding housing part, especially an opening for removing a power supply unit or a power consumption unit from the corresponding housing part.

[0104] The cover can be attached by a screw mount.

[0105] The male buffer element can be embodied as a snap-fit projection configured to snap-fit into a corresponding recess of the female buffer element.

[0106] The male buffer element can be configured to expand into the female buffer element when entering the attached state of the housing part.

[0107] Each of the male buffer element and the female buffer element can be symmetrical with respect to the longitudinal direction and / or the transverse direction of the aerosol generating device.

[0108] The male buffer element can be in the form of a pad, a knob or an elongate element.

[0109] The male buffer element and the female buffer element can have the same dimensions.

[0110] The aerosol generating device can include a plurality of buffer elements.

[0111] The male buffer element and the female buffer element can be joined by a form-fitting connection.

[0112] At least one of the male buffer element and the female buffer element can include an elastic material.

[0113] The elastic material includes rubber.

[0114] At least one of the male buffer element and the female buffer element can be configured to be displaced by the other of the male buffer element and the female buffer element before entering the engagement.

[0115] Each of the male buffer element and the female buffer element can be disposed on a respective mating surface of a respective housing part.

[0116] Reversible locking mechanism

[0117] The device can include a reversible locking mechanism configured to reversibly lock the housing parts relative to each other in the attached state of the housing.

[0118] The reversible locking mechanism can achieve a secure connection and prevent the housing parts from accidentally separating in the attached state.

[0119] The reversible locking mechanism can be configured to be reversibly arranged in either a locked state or an unlocked state. In the locked state, the housing parts are locked relative to each other in the attached state of the housing parts, and in the unlocked state, the housing parts are unlocked relative to each other.

[0120] The locking mechanism can include a self-locking mechanism configured to self-lock the housing parts when entering the attached state.

[0121] The locking mechanism can include at least one male locking element provided on one of the first housing part and the second housing part and at least one female locking element provided on the other of the first housing part and the second housing part.

[0122] The male locking element and the female locking element can be configured to engage with each other to lock the housing parts.

[0123] The male locking element and the female locking element can be configured to disengage from each other to unlock the housing parts.

[0124] At least one of the male locking element and the female locking element can be mechanically and / or elastically pre-loaded into the engaged position.

[0125] The male locking element and the female locking element can be configured to engage with each other according to the hook and eye principle.

[0126] The male locking element and the female locking element can be configured to establish a mechanical and / or electrical connection between the first housing part and the second housing part.

[0127] The reversible locking mechanism can include at least one snap-fit connection.

[0128] The snap-fit connection can include a mechanical holding mechanism for mechanical purposes.

[0129] The snap-fit connection can include electrical terminals for electrical interconnection of the first housing part and the second housing part.

[0130] The reversible locking mechanism can include two snap-fit connectors arranged at opposite ends of the first housing part and the second housing part.

[0131] Actuator for the locking mechanism

[0132] The locking mechanism can include an actuator configured to lock or unlock the locking mechanism upon actuation.

[0133] The actuator can include a button.

[0134] The locking mechanism can include at least one active locking member provided on one of the first housing part and the second housing part and at least one passive locking member provided on the other of the first housing part and the second housing part, wherein actuation of the actuator can move the active locking member.

[0135] Actuation of the actuator can cause the active locking member to engage the passive locking member to lock the locking mechanism.

[0136] Actuation of the actuator can cause the active locking member to disengage from the passive locking member to unlock the locking mechanism.

[0137] Actuation of the actuator may require a push / pull / slide / rotate operation by the user.

[0138] The button can be provided on the bottom end or the side wall of the device.

[0139] The button can form at least 75% of the surface of the bottom end.

[0140] Closing mechanism for the aerosol generation article receiving cavity

[0141] An aerosol generating device may include an aerosol generating article receiving cavity for receiving an aerosol generating article, wherein the device may further include a closing mechanism configured to be selectively arranged in each of at least two different states, the at least two different states including an open state and a closed state, in the open state, the aerosol generating article receiving cavity is at least partially or completely exposed, and in the closed state, the aerosol generating article receiving cavity is completely closed.

[0142] The closing mechanism may prevent dirt from entering the aerosol generating article receiving cavity in the closed state, thus ensuring proper aerosol generation without dirt particles hindering the heating of the aerosol generating article.

[0143] The first housing part may include the aerosol generating article receiving cavity.

[0144] An opening communicates with the aerosol generating chamber of the aerosol generating device.

[0145] The opening may be located at the top end of the device.

[0146] The closing mechanism may be configured to transfer between the open state and the closed state by manual / finger operation, preferably by a push / pull operation.

[0147] The closing mechanism may be removably attached to at least one of the first housing part and the second housing part.

[0148] The closing mechanism may be attached to at least one of the first housing part and the second housing part by a bayonet mount.

[0149] The closing mechanism may be mechanically and / or magnetically attached to at least one of the first housing part and the second housing part.

[0150] The closing mechanism may be attached to a protruding element of the first housing part that protrudes towards the second housing part in the attached state.

[0151] The closing mechanism may be configured to be arranged in the closed state even in the split state of the housing parts.

[0152] The closing mechanism may be mechanically and / or magnetically held in the open state and / or the closed state.

[0153] The closing mechanism may be configured to seal the opening in the closed state preferably in an airtight or gas-tight manner.

[0154] The closing mechanism may include an attachment base and a cover, the attachment base being (removably) attached to at least one of a first housing part and a second housing part, the cover being configured to change its position and / or shape relative to the attachment base for transferring the closing mechanism between an open state and a closed state.

[0155] Movable cover

[0156] The closing mechanism may include a guide for guiding the movement of the cover relative to the attachment base between an open state and a closed state.

[0157] One of the cover and the attachment base may include a male guiding element, such as a guide pin, wherein the other of the cover and the attachment base includes a female guiding element, such as a guide pin receptacle.

[0158] The attachment base may be removably attached to a protruding element of the first housing part by a screw connection, a bayonet connection or other rotatable element.

[0159] The torque engagement surface of the screw or rotatable element may be arranged at the lower surface / inner surface of the protruding element.

[0160] One of the male guiding element and the female guiding element may be provided on the protruding element of the first housing part.

[0161] The cover may be configured to move relative to the attachment base along a linear and / or circular and / or curved path between an open state and a closed state.

[0162] The attachment base may have the shape of a post.

[0163] In the attached state of the housing parts and the closed state of the closing mechanism, the attachment base may not be visible from the outside.

[0164] The attachment base may be attached to and / or detached from at least one of the first housing part and the second housing part.

[0165] The closing mechanism may be detachable in the detached state of the housing parts.

[0166] The device has a closed outer surface in the attached state of the housing parts and the closed state of the closing mechanism.

[0167] The closing mechanism includes a cover, the cover being configured to change its shape for transferring the closing mechanism between an open state and a closed state.

[0168] The cover may be attached to the second housing part.

[0169] Foldable cover

[0170] The covering may be a foldable covering configured to fold and unfold for transferring a closing mechanism between an open state and a closed state.

[0171] The covering may be at least partially made of an elastic material.

[0172] The covering may include at least two segments pivotally / foldably connected.

[0173] The segments may be integrally formed.

[0174] The segments may be connected by means of solid joints.

[0175] The segments may be configured to be angled / adjacent to each other in the open state.

[0176] The segments may be configured to be aligned / flush with each other in the closed state.

[0177] In the closed state of the closing mechanism, the separation line between the two segments may be aligned with the separation line or separation plane of the housing part in the attached state.

[0178] In the closed state of the closing mechanism, the perimeter of each of the segments may be aligned with the perimeter of the housing part.

[0179] One of the segments includes a protrusion that may be configured to enter the opening in the closed state of the closing mechanism.

[0180] Each of the segments may be adapted to cover the top end of one of the housing parts in the housing part in the closed state of the closing mechanism.

[0181] The color and / or material of each of the segments may be adapted to the color and / or material of the housing part covered by the respective segment at the top end of the housing part in the closed state of the closing mechanism.

[0182] Various aspects of the cover

[0183] The covering may be made of metal and / or plastic.

[0184] The covering may include a metal coating.

[0185] The covering may be made of at least two different materials.

[0186] The covering may have an elastic body (silicon or silicon-like body).

[0187] The covering may include a metal or metal-like coating.

[0188] The metal coating of the covering may extend on the outer surface of the covering to form an end edge aligned with the outer edge of the first housing part.

[0189] The metal coating may include at least one magnetic material.

[0190] The magnetic material may include at least one of iron, nickel, and cobalt.

[0191] The closing mechanism may include a cover that is movable between an open state and a closed state.

[0192] The lid may be attached to the second housing part.

[0193] The cover may be configured to slide between an open state and a closed state relative to the housing along a linear and / or circular and / or curved path.

[0194] The cover may have an oval shape.

[0195] The cover may have two parallel outer edges.

[0196] The direction of movement of the cover may be parallel to its parallel outer edges.

[0197] The cover has two convex outer edges at its opposite ends.

[0198] The direction of movement of the cover may be aligned with its main axis.

[0199] The cover may be movable in a plane perpendicular to the main axis of the device, in particular the longitudinal axis of the device.

[0200] The device may include guides for guiding the movement of the cover between an open state and a closed state.

[0201] At least one of the first housing part and the second housing part may define a frame that partially or completely surrounds the cover in the open state and / or the closed state.

[0202] The frame may partially or completely surround the cover in the plane of extension of the cover.

[0203] The frame may partially or completely surround the cover in the direction of movement of the cover between an open state and a closed state.

[0204] The frame may be provided on a protruding element of the first housing part that protrudes laterally from the main longitudinal body of the first housing part.

[0205] Electrical connection between the power supply unit and the power consumption unit

[0206] The device may include an electrical connection for electrically connecting a power supply unit to a power consumption unit in an attached state of the housing parts, wherein the electrical connection includes a first electrical contact provided on a first housing part and a second electrical contact provided on a second housing part, and wherein the first electrical contact and the second electrical contact are elastically preloaded against each other in the attached state.

[0207] At least one of the first electrical contact and the second electrical contact may include a spring-loaded element.

[0208] The spring-loaded element may be at least one of a pin, a sphere, or a ball.

[0209] The pin may be a spring pin.

[0210] At least one of the first electrical contact and the second electrical contact may include a recess for receiving the spring-loaded element or a terminal.

[0211] The terminal may be a contact plate.

[0212] The recess may include a spring-loaded metal tab configured to engage with the pin.

[0213] Each of the first electrical contact and the second electrical contact may be provided on a respective mating surface of the respective housing part.

[0214] Charge indicator

[0215] The device may further include a charge indicator indicating the charge level of the power supply unit.

[0216] The charge indicator may include an electronic display.

[0217] The charge indicator display may be on the power supply unit.

[0218] The electronic display may be at least one of a segmented display, an LED display, or an OLED display.

[0219] The charge indicator may further include a charge indicator activator positioned on one of the first housing part and the second housing part and configured to activate the charge indicator.

[0220] The charge indicator activator may be a button or a touch display.

[0221] In the attached state of the housing parts, the button for activating the charge indicator display may not be visible.

[0222] The button for activating the charge indicator display may be provided on the mating surface of the second housing part.

[0223] The charging indicator may further include a controller configured to control the electronic display to show the charging status of the power supply unit when the user interacts via the charging indicator activator.

[0224] Replaceable battery module

[0225] The aerosol generating device may further include a replaceable battery module configured to be removably attached to the first housing portion instead of the second housing portion, wherein the replaceable battery module houses a second power supply unit configured to supply power to the power consumption unit in the attached state.

[0226] The second power supply unit may have a second charge storage capacity different from the storage capacity of the power supply unit housed in the first housing portion.

[0227] The ratio of the storage capacities of the first power supply unit and the second power supply unit may be between 1.5 and 3, preferably between 1.5 and 2.5, especially between 1.7 and 2.3.

[0228] Compared with the second housing portion, the replaceable battery module may have the same interface for electrical and / or mechanical connection to the first housing portion.

[0229] Identification parts and units

[0230] At least one of the first housing portion and the second housing portion, the power consumption unit, and the power supply unit may include an identification member, and the device includes an identification unit for identifying at least one of the first housing portion and the second housing portion, the power consumption unit, and the power supply unit by means of the identification member.

[0231] The identification member may include an authentication key, such as a secret and hidden authentication key.

[0232] The identification member may be unique to allow unique identification of the housing portion or unit equipped with the unique identification member.

[0233] The identification unit may include a communication interface that enables communication between at least two of the first housing portion and the second housing portion, the power consumption unit, and the power supply unit for identification.

[0234] The communication interface may be at least one of a wireless communication interface or a contact-based interface.

[0235] The identification member may be permanently embedded.

[0236] The identification member may be at least one of an embedded SIM (eSIM) or an integrated SIM (iSIM).

[0237] The apparatus may be configured to permit power supply from the power supply unit to the power consumption unit upon successful identification of the power consumption unit and the power supply unit.

[0238] Charging module

[0239] The aerosol-generating device may further include a charging module configured to be removably attached to the second housing part rather than the first housing part, wherein the charging module is configured to charge the power supply unit in the attached state.

[0240] The power supply unit may include a rechargeable power source and a charging circuit located within the housing part that houses the power supply unit and configured to control the power supply received from an external device for recharging the power source.

[0241] The power supply unit may include a rechargeable battery.

[0242] The battery may include a lithium-based battery.

[0243] The power supply unit may include charging electrical contacts located on the housing part that houses the power supply unit for receiving a power supply from an external device for recharging the power source.

[0244] The charging electrical contacts may include a second electrical contact that is electrically connected and / or wherein the charging electrical contacts form part of a USB-A connector, a USB-B connector, a USB-C connector, or a micro-USB connector.

[0245] The charging circuit may include a wireless charging circuit configured to wirelessly receive a power supply from an external device for recharging the power source.

[0246] Compared with the first housing part, the charging module may have the same interface for electrical and / or mechanical connection to the second housing part.

[0247] Method for assembling an aerosol generating device

[0248] According to a second aspect of the present invention, there is provided a method for assembling an aerosol-generating device according to any one of the foregoing examples, comprising the steps of: transferring the housing parts from the split state, in which the housing parts are both electrically and mechanically disconnected, to an intermediate state in which the housing parts are electrically disconnected from each other and are mechanically movably coupled relative to each other; and moving the housing parts relative to each other in the intermediate state until an attached state is entered, in which the housing parts are both electrically and mechanically coupled to each other.

[0249] List of examples

[0250] The present invention is defined in the claims. However, a non-exhaustive list of non-limiting examples is provided below. Any one or more features of these examples may be combined with any one or more features of another example, embodiment, or aspect described herein.

[0251] Removable battery aspect

[0252] Example ExI: An aerosol-generating device comprising:

[0253] a first housing part and a second housing part, the first housing part and the second housing part being reversibly interconnected and configured to be selectively arranged in any one of at least two different states, the at least two different states including an attached state and a split state, in the attached state, the housing parts are attached to each other, and in the split state, the housing parts are split from each other,

[0254] a power consumption unit configured to consume power during operation of the aerosol-generating device to generate an aerosol,

[0255] a power supply unit configured to supply power to the power consumption unit in the attached state of the housing parts,

[0256] wherein the first housing part includes the power consumption unit, and

[0257] wherein the second housing part includes the power supply unit.

[0258] Example ExI1: The aerosol-generating device according to Example ExI, wherein the first housing part and the second housing part are mechanically and electrically coupled to each other in the attached state.

[0259] Example ExI2: The aerosol-generating device according to any one of Examples ExI or ExI1, wherein the first housing part and the second housing part are mechanically and electrically disconnected from each other in the split state.

[0260] Example ExI3: The aerosol-generating device according to any one of Examples ExI to ExI2, wherein the first housing part and the second housing part are reusable.

[0261] Example ExI4: The aerosol-generating device according to any one of Examples ExI to ExI3, wherein the first housing part and the second housing part are configured to be repeatedly arranged in any one of the at least two different states a plurality of times.

[0262] Example ExI5: An aerosol-generating device according to any one of Examples ExI to ExI4, wherein the first housing part includes an aerosol-generating article receiving cavity for removably receiving an aerosol-generating article.

[0263] Example ExI6: An aerosol-generating device according to any one of Examples ExI to ExI5, wherein by manual operation in a tool-free manner, the first housing part and the second housing part can be interconnected between the attached state and the split state, and vice versa.

[0264] Example ExI7: An aerosol-generating device according to any one of Examples ExI to ExI6, wherein the first housing part includes a heater module.

[0265] Example ExI8: An aerosol-generating device according to any one of Examples ExI to ExI7, wherein the second housing part includes a battery module.

[0266] Example ExI9: An aerosol-generating device according to any one of Examples ExI to ExI8, wherein the power consumption unit includes a heater for heating the aerosol or a product for generating the aerosol.

[0267] Example ExI9a: An aerosol-generating device according to Example ExI9, wherein the heater is an induction coil.

[0268] Example ExI9b: An aerosol-generating device according to any one of Examples ExI9 or ExI9a, wherein the heater is a resistive heating device.

[0269] Example ExI10: An aerosol-generating device according to any one of Examples ExI to ExI9, wherein the device further includes a controller configured to control the power consumption of the heater in the attached state of the housing.

[0270] Example ExI11: An aerosol-generating device according to any one of Examples ExI to ExI10, wherein the power consumption unit includes an aerosol-generating chamber.

[0271] Example ExI12: An aerosol-generating device according to any one of Examples ExI to ExI11, wherein the power consumption unit is removable from the first housing part.

[0272] Example ExI12a: An aerosol-generating device according to Example ExI12, wherein the power consumption unit is removable from the first housing part only in the split state of the housing parts.

[0273] Example ExI13: An aerosol-generating device according to any one of Examples ExI to ExI12a, wherein the power supply unit comprises at least one battery, preferably at least one single-use battery or rechargeable battery, or a battery holder for such a battery.

[0274] Example ExI13a: An aerosol-generating device according to Example ExI13, wherein the at least one battery is a standard battery, preferably a battery having a size of 18650 or 21700.

[0275] Example ExI13b: An aerosol-generating device according to Example ExI13 or ExI13a, wherein the battery is removably attached to the power supply unit.

[0276] Example ExI14: An aerosol-generating device according to any one of Examples ExI to ExI13b, wherein the power supply unit is removable from the second housing part.

[0277] Example ExI14a: An aerosol-generating device according to Example ExI14, wherein the power supply unit is removable from the second housing part only in a disassembled state of the housing part.

[0278] Example ExI14b: An aerosol-generating device according to any one of Examples ExI14 or ExI14a, wherein an opening in the second housing part for removing the power supply unit from the second housing part is covered by the first housing part in the attached state.

[0279] Example ExI15: An aerosol-generating device according to any one of Examples ExI to ExI14b, wherein the second housing part includes a cavity for receiving the power supply unit and a lid for closing the cavity.

[0280] Example ExI16: An aerosol-generating device according to any one of Examples ExI to ExI15, wherein the power supply unit is hermetically sealed within the second housing part.

[0281] Example ExI17: An aerosol-generating device according to any one of Examples ExI to ExI16, wherein a separation line or separation plane between the housing parts extends along one of the main axes of the device, preferably the longitudinal axis, in the attached state of the housing parts.

[0282] Example ExI18: An aerosol-generating device according to any one of Examples ExI to ExI17, wherein each of the housing parts extends along one of the main axes of the device, preferably the longitudinal axis, in the attached state of the housing parts.

[0283] Example ExI19: An aerosol-generating device according to any one of Examples ExI to ExI18, wherein the housing parts in the attached state together form the housing of the aerosol-generating device.

[0284] Example ExI19a: An aerosol-generating device according to Example ExI19, wherein the housing is shaped as an oval cylinder.

[0285] Example ExI19b: An aerosol-generating device according to any one of Examples ExI19 or ExI19a, wherein the housing is shaped as a cuboid with rounded edges.

[0286] Example ExI19c: An aerosol-generating device according to any one of Examples ExI19 to ExI19b, wherein the housing extends along a longitudinal axis.

[0287] Example ExI19ci: An aerosol-generating device according to Example ExI19c, wherein the housing includes a top end and a bottom end that intersect the longitudinal axis.

[0288] Example ExI19cii: An aerosol-generating device according to any one of Examples ExI19c to Ex19ci, wherein the housing includes at least one side wall that extends from the top end to the bottom end and surrounds the longitudinal axis.

[0289] Example ExI19ciia: An aerosol-generating device according to the previous example, wherein the side wall has no corners and / or edges between the top end and the bottom end of the housing.

[0290] Example ExI19ciii: An aerosol-generating device according to any one of Examples ExI19 to ExI19ciia, wherein at least two side surfaces of the side wall are parallel to each other and / or parallel to the longitudinal axis.

[0291] Example ExI20: An aerosol-generating device according to any one of Examples ExI to ExI19, wherein the housing parts are firmly connected to each other in the attached state.

[0292] Example ExI21: An aerosol-generating device according to any one of Examples ExI to ExI20, wherein the housing parts are elastically preloaded relative to each other in the attached state to prevent rattling or wobbling between the housing parts.

[0293] Example ExI22: An aerosol-generating device according to any one of Examples ExI to ExI21, wherein the device is configured to detect a trigger event and generate a visual and / or acoustic and / or tactile signal when the trigger event is detected.

[0294] Example ExI22a: An aerosol-generating device according to the previous example, wherein the device is configured to detect the position or state of the housing part or a change in the position or state of the housing part as a triggering event, preferably an event of entering an attached and / or locked state.

[0295] Example ExI22b: An aerosol-generating device according to any one of Examples ExI22 to ExI22a, wherein the device is configured to detect a user operation as a triggering event, the user operation preferably being a press of a button, the button being in particular a release button, such as a release button for splitting the housing part, or a main activation unit for activating the generation of the aerosol.

[0296] Example ExI22c: An aerosol-generating device according to any one of Examples ExI22 to ExI22b, wherein the device is configured to detect the presence of at least one of the first housing part and the second housing part, the power consumption unit and the power supply unit in the attached state of the housing part by means of an authentication key as a triggering event.

[0297] Example ExI23: An aerosol-generating device according to any one of Examples ExI to ExI22, wherein at least one of the first housing part and the second housing part is partially or completely made of plastic, in particular ABS.

[0298] Example ExI24: An aerosol-generating device according to any one of Examples ExI to ExI23, wherein at least one of the first housing part and the second housing part is partially or completely made of metal, in particular aluminum.

[0299] Example ExI25: An aerosol-generating device according to any one of Examples ExI to ExI24, wherein at least one of the first housing part and the second housing part has a matte surface finish.

[0300] Example ExI26: An aerosol-generating device according to any one of Examples ExI to ExI25, wherein the first housing part has a different color and / or surface finish compared to the second housing part.

[0301] Example ExI27: An aerosol-generating device according to any one of Examples ExI to ExI26, wherein the first housing part has a protruding element that protrudes towards the second housing part in the attached state.

[0302] Example ExI27a: An aerosol-generating device according to the previous example, wherein the protruding element protrudes laterally from the main longitudinal body of the first housing part at the side of the longitudinal body where the aerosol-generating article receiving cavity is arranged.

[0303] Example ExI27b: An aerosol-generating device according to any one of Examples ExI27 or ExI27a, wherein the protruding element forms a mating surface of the first housing part.

[0304] Example ExI27c: An aerosol-generating device according to any one of Examples ExI27 to ExI27b, wherein the protruding element protrudes beyond the mating surface of the first housing part.

[0305] Example ExI27d: An aerosol-generating device according to any one of Examples ExI27 to ExI27c, wherein the protruding element is fully received in a corresponding cavity / openings of the second housing part in the attached state of the housing parts, such that the outer edges of the first housing part and the second housing part that face each other in the attached state are arranged to form substantially a straight line.

[0306] Example ExI27e: An aerosol-generating device according to any one of Examples ExI27 to ExI27d, wherein the protruding element is located between two electrical terminals of the first housing part for electrically connecting the first housing part to the second housing part.

[0307] Example ExI27ei: An aerosol-generating device according to the previous example, wherein the terminal of the first housing part close to the protruding element is a male electrical terminal and is configured to be electrically connected to a female electrical terminal of the second housing part.

[0308] Example ExI28: An aerosol-generating device according to any one of Examples ExI to ExI27e, wherein the second housing part has a protruding element that protrudes towards the first housing part in the attached state.

[0309] Example ExI28a: An aerosol-generating device according to Example ExI28, wherein the protruding element protrudes laterally from the main longitudinal body of the second housing part at the bottom end of the second housing part.

[0310] Example ExI28b: An aerosol-generating device according to any one of Examples ExI28 to ExI28a, wherein the protruding element forms a mating surface of the second housing part.

[0311] Example ExI28c: An aerosol-generating device according to any one of Examples ExI28 to ExI28b, wherein the protruding element protrudes beyond the mating surface of the second housing part.

[0312] Example ExI28d: An aerosol-generating device according to any one of Examples ExI28 to ExI28c, wherein the protruding element is completely received in a corresponding cavity / openings of the first housing part in the attached state of the housing part, such that, for example, the outer edges of the first housing part and the second housing part facing each other in the attached state are arranged to form a substantially straight line.

[0313] Example ExI28e: An aerosol-generating device according to any one of Examples ExI28 to ExI28d, wherein the protruding element is located between two electrical terminals of the second housing part for electrically connecting the second housing part to the first housing part.

[0314] Example ExI28ei: An aerosol-generating device according to the previous example, wherein the terminal of the second housing part close to the protruding element is a male electrical terminal and is configured to be electrically connected to a female electrical terminal of the first housing part.

[0315] Intermediate state

[0316] Example ExII: An aerosol-generating device according to any one of the previous examples, wherein the first housing part and the second housing part are configured to be selectively arranged in any one of at least three different states, the at least three different states including the attached state, the split state, and an intermediate state, in which the housing parts are mechanically movably coupled to each other and electrically disconnected from each other.

[0317] Example ExII1: An aerosol-generating device according to Example ExII, wherein the housing parts define a fulcrum in the intermediate state, about which the housing parts can pivot relative to each other from an extended configuration to an adjacent configuration.

[0318] Example ExII2: An aerosol-generating device according to any one of Examples ExII to ExII1, wherein the housing parts are configured to be split from each other by pivoting the housing parts relative to each other from the adjacent configuration to the extended configuration about the fulcrum in the intermediate state and then disconnecting the housing parts from each other.

[0319] Example ExII3: An aerosol-generating device according to any one of Examples ExII to ExII2, wherein in order to transfer from the split state to the attached state and / or in order to transfer from the attached state to the split state, the housing parts must enter the intermediate state.

[0320] Guiding mechanism

[0321] Example ExIII: An aerosol generating device according to any one of the foregoing examples, wherein the device includes a guiding mechanism for guiding the relative movement of the housing parts with respect to each other.

[0322] Example ExIII1: An aerosol generating device according to Example ExIII, wherein the guiding mechanism is configured to guide the relative movement of the housing parts with respect to each other in the intermediate state.

[0323] Example ExIII2: An aerosol generating device according to any one of Examples ExIII to ExIII1, wherein the guiding mechanism is configured to guide the relative movement of the housing parts with respect to each other along a predetermined trajectory.

[0324] Example ExIII3: An aerosol generating device according to any one of Examples ExIII to ExIII2, wherein the guiding mechanism is configured to guide at least one translational and / or rotational movement of the housing parts with respect to each other, preferably at least one translational and / or rotational movement along and / or around at least one of the main axes of the device.

[0325] Example ExIII4: An aerosol generating device according to any one of Examples ExIII to ExIII3, wherein the guiding mechanism is configured to guide the relative movement of the housing parts with respect to each other along a linear and / or circular and / or curved path.

[0326] Example ExIII5: An aerosol generating device according to any one of Examples ExIII to ExIII4, wherein the guiding mechanism includes a male guiding element and a female guiding element, the male guiding element and the female guiding element being configured to engage with each other to effect the guiding movement, wherein the male guiding element is provided on one of the first housing part and the second housing part, and wherein the female guiding element is provided on the other of the first housing part and the second housing part.

[0327] Example ExIII5a: An aerosol generating device according to Example ExIII5, wherein the male guiding element is a guide pin or a guide rail

[0328] Example ExIII5b: An aerosol generating device according to any one of Examples ExIII5 to ExIII5a, wherein the female guiding element is a guiding groove.

[0329] Example ExIII6: An aerosol generating device according to any one of Examples ExIII to ExIII5, wherein the guiding mechanism further includes a stopper to limit the guiding movement of the housing parts with respect to each other in a predetermined position.

[0330] Example ExIII6a: An aerosol-generating device according to Example ExIII6, wherein the stop is provided on one of the first and second housing parts and is configured to abut the other of the first and second housing parts in the attached state.

[0331] mating surface

[0332] Example ExIV: An aerosol-generating device according to any one of the preceding examples, wherein each of the housing parts comprises at least one mating surface, the mating surfaces being configured to face and / or engage with each other in the attached state.

[0333] Example ExIV1: An aerosol-generating device according to Example ExIV, wherein one of the first and second housing parts comprises a male mating surface and the other of the first and second housing parts comprises a female mating surface.

[0334] Example ExIV1a: An aerosol-generating device according to Example ExIV1, wherein the male mating surface element has a shape opposite to that of the female mating surface element.

[0335] Example ExIV1b: An aerosol-generating device according to any one of Examples ExIV1 to ExIV1a, wherein the male mating surface has a convex shape and the female mating surface has a concave shape.

[0336] Example ExIV1c: An aerosol-generating device according to any one of Examples ExIV1 to ExIV1b, wherein the male mating surface extends from the top and / or bottom end of one of the first and second housing parts, and the female mating surface extends from the top and / or bottom end of the corresponding other of the first and second housing parts.

[0337] Example ExIV2: An aerosol-generating device according to any one of Examples ExIV to ExIV1c, wherein each of the mating surfaces is adjacent to at least one side surface of the corresponding housing part, the side surfaces of the housing parts being flush with each other in the attached state.

[0338] Example ExIV3: An aerosol-generating device according to any one of Examples ExIV to ExIV2, wherein each of the mating surfaces is adjacent to and located between two side surfaces on opposite sides of the corresponding housing part, the two pairs of two side surfaces of the housing parts on opposite sides being flush with each other in the attached state.

[0339] Example ExIV4: An aerosol-generating device according to any one of Examples ExIV to ExIV3, wherein each of the mating surfaces is located between the edges of two parallel mating surfaces.

[0340] Example ExIV5: An aerosol-generating device according to any one of Examples ExIV to ExIV4, wherein one of the male mating surface and the female mating surface includes a male guiding element of the guiding mechanism of the device, and the other of the male mating surface and the female mating surface includes a female guiding element of the guiding mechanism.

[0341] Example ExIV6: An aerosol-generating device according to any one of Examples ExIV to ExIV5, wherein the height of the male mating surface is in the range of 40% to 100%, preferably 60% to 98%, particularly 70% to 85% of the corresponding housing part.

[0342] Example ExIV7: An aerosol-generating device according to any one of Examples ExIV to ExIV6, wherein the width of the male mating surface is in the range of 60% to 100%, preferably 80% to 98%, particularly 85% to 95% of the width of the corresponding housing part.

[0343] Example ExIV8: An aerosol-generating device according to any one of Examples ExIV to ExIV7, wherein 40% to 100%, preferably 60% to 98%, particularly 70% to 85% of the area of the mating surface extends parallel to the longitudinal axis of the aerosol-generating device.

[0344] Buffer mechanism

[0345] Example ExV: An aerosol-generating device according to any one of the preceding examples, wherein the device includes a buffer mechanism configured to buffer the housing parts relative to each other in the attached state.

[0346] Example ExV1: An aerosol-generating device according to the previous example, wherein at least one of the first housing part and the second housing part includes a male buffer element, and the other of the first housing part and the second housing part includes a female buffer element, wherein the male buffer element and the female buffer element engage with each other in the attached state so as to elastically preload the housing parts relative to each other.

[0347] Example ExV1a: An aerosol-generating device according to the previous example, wherein at least one of the buffer elements is removably attached to the corresponding housing part.

[0348] Example ExV1b: An aerosol - generating device according to any one of Examples ExV1 to ExV1a, wherein at least one of the buffer elements forms or covers a lid for covering an opening of the corresponding housing part, in particular an opening for removing a power - supply unit or a power - consumption unit from the corresponding housing part.

[0349] Example ExV1bi: An aerosol - generating device according to the previous example, wherein the lid is attached by a screw - mounting.

[0350] Example ExV1c: An aerosol - generating device according to any one of Examples ExV1 to ExV1bi, wherein the male buffer element is embodied as a snap - fit projection configured to snap - fit into a corresponding recess of the female buffer element.

[0351] Example ExV1d: An aerosol - generating device according to any one of Examples ExV1 to ExV1c, wherein the male buffer element is configured to expand into the female buffer element when in an attached state into the housing part.

[0352] Example ExV1e: An aerosol - generating device according to any one of Examples ExV1 to ExV1d, wherein each of the male buffer element and the female buffer element is symmetric with respect to the longitudinal direction and / or the transverse direction of the aerosol - generating device.

[0353] Example ExV1f: An aerosol - generating device according to any one of Examples ExV1 to ExV1e, wherein the male buffer element has the form of a pad, a knob or an elongate element.

[0354] Example ExV1g: An aerosol - generating device according to any one of Examples ExV1 to ExV1f, wherein the male buffer element and the female buffer element have the same dimensions.

[0355] Example ExV1h: An aerosol - generating device according to any one of Examples ExV1 to ExV1g, wherein the aerosol - generating device includes a plurality of buffer elements.

[0356] Example ExV1i: An aerosol - generating device according to any one of Examples ExV1 to ExV1h, wherein the male buffer element and the female buffer element are joined by a form - fit connection.

[0357] Example ExV1j: An aerosol - generating device according to any one of Examples ExV1 to ExV1i, wherein at least one of the male buffer element and the female buffer element includes an elastic material.

[0358] Example ExV1ji: An aerosol - generating device according to the previous example, wherein the elastic material includes rubber.

[0359] Example ExV1k: An aerosol-generating device according to any one of Examples ExV1 to ExV1ji, wherein at least one of the male buffer element and the female buffer element is configured to be displaced by the other of the male buffer element and the female buffer element before entering engagement.

[0360] Example ExV1l: An aerosol-generating device according to any one of Examples ExV1 to ExV1k, wherein each of the male buffer element and the female buffer element is provided on a respective mating surface of the respective housing part.

[0361] Reversible locking mechanism

[0362] Example ExVI: An aerosol-generating device according to any one of the preceding examples, wherein the device comprises a reversible locking mechanism configured to reversibly lock the housing parts relative to each other in the attached state of the housing.

[0363] Example ExVI1: An aerosol-generating device according to the previous example, wherein the reversible locking mechanism is configured to be reversibly arranged in either a locked state or an unlocked state, in the locked state, the housing parts are locked relative to each other in the attached state of the housing parts, and in the unlocked state, the housing parts are unlocked relative to each other.

[0364] Example ExVI2: An aerosol-generating device according to any one of Examples ExVI to ExVI1, wherein the locking mechanism comprises a self-locking mechanism configured to self-lock the housing parts upon entering the attached state.

[0365] Example ExVI3: An aerosol-generating device according to any one of Examples ExVI to ExVI2, wherein the locking mechanism comprises at least one male locking element provided on one of the first housing part and the second housing part and at least one female locking element provided on the other of the first housing part and the second housing part.

[0366] Example ExVI3a: An aerosol-generating device according to the previous example, wherein the male locking element and the female locking element are configured to engage with each other to lock the housing parts.

[0367] Example ExVI3b: An aerosol-generating device according to any one of Examples ExVI3 to ExVI3a, wherein the male locking element and the female locking element are configured to disengage from each other to unlock the housing parts.

[0368] Example ExVI3c: An aerosol-generating device according to any one of Examples ExVI3 to ExVI3b, wherein at least one of the male locking element and the female locking element is mechanically and / or elastically preloaded into the engaged position.

[0369] Example ExVI3d: An aerosol-generating device according to any one of Examples ExVI3 to ExVI3c, wherein the male locking element and the female locking element are configured to engage with each other according to the hook-and-eye principle.

[0370] Example ExVI3e: An aerosol-generating device according to any one of Examples ExVI3 to ExVI3d, wherein the male locking element and the female locking element are configured to establish a mechanical and / or electrical connection between the first housing part and the second housing part.

[0371] Example ExVI4: An aerosol-generating device according to any one of Examples ExVI to ExVI3e, wherein the reversible locking mechanism includes at least one snap-fit connection.

[0372] Example ExVI4a: An aerosol-generating device according to the previous example, wherein the snap-fit connection includes a mechanical retention mechanism for mechanics.

[0373] Example ExVI4b: An aerosol-generating device according to any one of Examples ExVI4 to ExVI4a, wherein the snap-fit connection includes electrical terminals for electrical interconnection of the first housing part and the second housing part.

[0374] Example ExVI5: An aerosol-generating device according to any one of Examples ExVI to ExVI4b, wherein the reversible locking mechanism includes two snap-fit connectors arranged at opposite ends of the first housing part and the second housing part.

[0375] Actuator for the locking mechanism

[0376] Example ExVII: An aerosol-generating device according to any one of Examples ExVI to ExVI5, wherein the locking mechanism includes an actuator configured to lock or unlock the locking mechanism upon actuation.

[0377] Example ExVII1: An aerosol-generating device according to the previous example, wherein the actuator includes a button.

[0378] Example ExVII2: An aerosol-generating device according to any one of Examples ExVII to ExVII1, wherein the locking mechanism includes at least one active locking member provided on one of the first housing part and the second housing part and at least one passive locking member provided on the other of the first housing part and the second housing part, and actuation of the actuator causes the active locking member to move.

[0379] Example ExVII2a: An aerosol-generating device according to the previous example, wherein actuation of the actuator causes the active locking member to engage the passive locking member to lock the locking mechanism.

[0380] Example ExVII2b: An aerosol-generating device according to any one of Examples ExVII2 to ExVII2a, wherein actuation of the actuator causes the active locking member to disengage from the passive locking member to unlock the locking mechanism.

[0381] Example ExVII3: An aerosol-generating device according to any one of Examples ExVII to ExVII2b, wherein actuation of the actuator requires a push / pull / slide / rotate operation by the user.

[0382] Example ExVII4: An aerosol-generating device according to any one of Examples ExVII to ExVII3, wherein the button is provided on the bottom end or side wall of the device.

[0383] Example ExVII4a: An aerosol-generating device according to the previous example, wherein the button forms at least 75% of the surface of the bottom end.

[0384] Closing mechanism

[0385] Example ExVIII: An aerosol-generating device according to any one of the previous examples, wherein the device includes an aerosol-generating article receiving cavity for receiving an aerosol-generating article, and the device further includes a closing mechanism configured to be selectively arranged in each of at least two different states, the at least two different states including an open state and a closed state, in the open state, the aerosol-generating article receiving cavity is at least partially or completely exposed, and in the closed state, the aerosol-generating article receiving cavity is completely closed.

[0386] Example ExVIII1: An aerosol-generating device according to the previous example, wherein the first housing part includes the aerosol-generating article receiving cavity.

[0387] Example ExVIII2: An aerosol generating device according to any one of Examples ExVIII to ExVIII1, wherein the opening communicates with the aerosol generating chamber of the aerosol generating device.

[0388] Example ExVIII3: An aerosol generating device according to any one of Examples ExVIII to ExVIII2, wherein the opening is located at the top end of the device.

[0389] Example ExVIII4: An aerosol generating device according to any one of Examples ExVIII to ExVIII3, wherein the closing mechanism is configured to transfer between the open state and the closed state by manual / finger operation, preferably by a push / pull operation.

[0390] Example ExVIII5: An aerosol generating device according to any one of Examples ExVIII to ExVIII4, wherein the closing mechanism is removably attached to at least one of the first housing part and the second housing part.

[0391] Example ExVIII5a: An aerosol generating device according to the previous example, wherein the closing mechanism is attached to at least one of the first housing part and the second housing part by a bayonet mount.

[0392] Example ExVIII5b: An aerosol generating device according to Examples ExVIII5 to ExVIII5a, wherein the closing mechanism is mechanically and / or magnetically attached to at least one of the first housing part and the second housing part.

[0393] Example ExVIII6: An aerosol generating device according to any one of Examples ExVIII to ExVIII5b, wherein the closing mechanism is attached to a protruding element of the first housing part that protrudes towards the second housing part in the attached state.

[0394] Example ExVIII7: An aerosol generating device according to any one of Examples ExVIII to ExVIII6, wherein the closing mechanism is configured to be arranged in the closed state even in the disassembled state of the housing parts.

[0395] Example ExVIII8: An aerosol generating device according to any one of Examples ExVIII to ExVIII7, wherein the closing mechanism is mechanically and / or magnetically held in the open state and / or the closed state.

[0396] Example ExVIII9: An aerosol-generating device according to any one of Examples ExVIII to ExVIII8, wherein the closing mechanism is configured to seal the opening in the closed state, preferably in an airtight or gas-tight manner.

[0397] Example ExVIII10: An aerosol-generating device according to any one of Examples ExVIII to ExVIII9, wherein the closing mechanism comprises an attachment base and a cover, the attachment base being (removably) attached to at least one of the first housing part and the second housing part, the cover being configured to change its position and / or shape relative to the attachment base for transferring the closing mechanism between the open state and the closed state.

[0398] Example ExVIII10a: An aerosol-generating device according to the previous example, wherein the closing mechanism comprises a guide for guiding the movement of the cover relative to the attachment base between the open state and the closed state.

[0399] Example ExVIII10ai: An aerosol-generating device according to the previous example, wherein one of the cover and the attachment base comprises a male guide element, such as a guide pin, and the other of the cover and the attachment base comprises a female guide element, such as a guide pin.

[0400] Example ExVIII10b: An aerosol-generating device according to any one of Examples ExVIII10 to ExVIII10ai, wherein the attachment base is removably attached to a protruding element of the first housing part by a screw joint, a bayonet joint or other rotatable element.

[0401] Example ExVIII10bi: An aerosol-generating device according to the previous example, wherein the torque-engaging surface of the screw or rotatable element is arranged at the lower surface / inner surface of the protruding element.

[0402] Example ExVIII10bii: An aerosol-generating device according to any one of Examples ExVIII10b to ExVIII10bi, wherein one of the male guide element and the female guide element is provided on the protruding element of the first housing part.

[0403] Example ExVIII10c: An aerosol-generating device according to any one of Examples ExVIII10 to ExVIII10bii, wherein the cover is configured to move relative to the attachment base along a linear and / or circular and / or curved path between the open state and the closed state.

[0404] Example ExVIII10d: An aerosol generating device according to any one of Examples ExVIII10 to ExVIII10c, wherein the attachment base has the shape of a column.

[0405] Example ExVIII10e: An aerosol generating device according to any one of Examples ExVIII10 to ExVIII10d, wherein in the attached state of the housing part and in the closed state of the closing mechanism, the attachment base is not visible from the outside.

[0406] Example ExVIII10f: An aerosol generating device according to any one of Examples ExVIII10 to ExVIII10e, wherein the attachment base is attachable to at least one of the first housing part and the second housing part and / or detachable from at least one of the first housing part and the second housing part.

[0407] Example ExVIII11: An aerosol generating device according to any one of Examples ExVIII to ExVIII10f, wherein the closing mechanism is detachable in the detached state of the housing part.

[0408] Example ExVIII12: An aerosol generating device according to any one of Examples ExVIII to ExVIII11, wherein the device has a closed outer surface in the attached state of the housing part and the closed state of the closing mechanism.

[0409] Collapsible cover

[0410] Example ExIX: An aerosol generating device according to any one of Examples ExVIII to ExVIII12, wherein the closing mechanism includes a cover configured to change its shape to transfer the closing mechanism between the open state and the closed state.

[0411] Example ExIX1: An aerosol generating device according to the previous example, wherein the cover is attached to the second housing part.

[0412] Example ExIX2: An aerosol generating device according to any one of Examples ExIX to ExIX1, wherein the cover is a collapsible cover configured to fold and unfold to transfer the closing mechanism between the open state and the closed state.

[0413] Example ExIX3: An aerosol generating device according to any one of Examples ExIX to ExIX2, wherein the cover is at least partially made of an elastic material.

[0414] Example ExIX4: An aerosol-generating device according to any one of Examples ExIX to ExIX3, wherein the covering comprises at least two segments pivotably / foldably connected to each other.

[0415] Example ExIX4a: An aerosol-generating device according to the previous example, wherein the segments are integrally formed.

[0416] Example ExIX4b: An aerosol-generating device according to any one of Examples ExIX4 to ExIX4a, wherein the segments are connected by means of a solid joint.

[0417] Example ExIX4c: An aerosol-generating device according to any one of Examples ExIX4 to ExIX4b, wherein the segments are configured to be angled / adjacent to each other in the open state.

[0418] Example ExIX4d: An aerosol-generating device according to any one of Examples ExIX4 to ExIX4c, wherein the segments are configured to be aligned / flush with each other in the closed state.

[0419] Example ExIX4e: An aerosol-generating device according to any one of Examples ExIX4 to ExIX4d, wherein in the closed state of the closing mechanism, the separation line between the two segments is aligned with the separation line or separation plane of the housing part in the attached state.

[0420] Example ExIX4f: An aerosol-generating device according to any one of Examples ExIX4 to ExIX4e, wherein in the closed state of the closing mechanism, the perimeter of each of the segments is aligned with the perimeter of the housing part.

[0421] Example ExIX4g: An aerosol-generating device according to any one of Examples ExIX4 to ExIX4f, wherein one of the segments comprises a protrusion configured to enter an opening in the closed state of the closing mechanism.

[0422] Example ExIX4h: An aerosol-generating device according to any one of Examples ExIX4 to ExIX4g, wherein each of the segments is adapted to cover the top end of one of the housing parts in the closed state of the closing mechanism.

[0423] Example ExIX4i: An aerosol-generating device according to any one of Examples ExIX4 to ExIX4h, wherein the color and / or material of each of the segments is adapted to the color and / or material of the housing part covered by the respective segment at the top end of the housing part in the closed state of the closing mechanism.

[0424] Example ExIX5: An aerosol-generating device according to any one of Examples ExIX to ExIX4i, wherein the covering is made of metal and / or plastic.

[0425] Example ExIX6: An aerosol-generating device according to any one of Examples ExIX to ExIX5, wherein the covering is made of at least two different materials.

[0426] Example ExIX7: An aerosol-generating device according to any one of Examples ExIX to ExIX6, wherein the covering has an elastic body (a silicone or silicone-like body).

[0427] Example ExIX8: An aerosol-generating device according to any one of Examples ExIX to ExIX7, wherein the covering includes a metal or metal-like coating.

[0428] Example ExIX8a: An aerosol-generating device according to the previous example, wherein the metal coating of the covering extends on the outer surface of the covering to form an end edge aligned with the outer edge of the first housing part.

[0429] Example ExIX8b: An aerosol-generating device according to any one of Examples ExIX8 to ExIX8a, wherein the metal coating includes at least one magnetic material.

[0430] Example ExIX8c: An aerosol-generating device according to any one of Examples ExIX8 to ExIX8b, wherein the magnetic material includes at least one of iron, nickel, and cobalt.

[0431] Slidable covering

[0432] Example ExX: An aerosol-generating device according to any one of Examples ExVIII to ExIX8c, wherein the closing mechanism includes a covering that is movable between the open state and the closed state.

[0433] Example ExX1: An aerosol-generating device according to the previous example, wherein the covering is attached to the second housing part.

[0434] Example ExX2: An aerosol-generating device according to any one of Examples ExX to ExX1, wherein the covering is configured to slide between the open state and the closed state relative to the housing along a linear and / or circular and / or curved path.

[0435] Example ExX3: An aerosol-generating device according to any one of Examples ExX to ExX2, wherein the covering has an oval shape.

[0436] Example ExX4: An aerosol generating device according to any one of Examples ExX to ExX3, wherein the covering has two parallel outer edges.

[0437] Example ExX4a: An aerosol generating device according to the previous example, wherein the direction of movement of the covering is parallel to its parallel outer edges.

[0438] Example ExX5: An aerosol generating device according to any one of Examples ExX to ExX4a, wherein the covering has two convex outer edges at its opposite ends.

[0439] Example ExX6: An aerosol generating device according to any one of Examples ExX to ExX5, wherein the direction of movement of the covering is aligned with its main axis.

[0440] Example ExX7: An aerosol generating device according to any one of Examples ExX to ExX6, wherein the covering is movable in a plane perpendicular to the main axis of the device, in particular the longitudinal axis of the device.

[0441] Example ExX8: An aerosol generating device according to any one of Examples ExX to ExX7, wherein the device includes a guide for guiding the movement of the covering between the open state and the closed state.

[0442] Example ExX9: An aerosol generating device according to any one of Examples ExX to ExX8, wherein at least one of the first housing part and the second housing part defines a frame that at least partially or completely surrounds the covering in the open state and / or the closed state.

[0443] Example ExX9a: An aerosol generating device according to the previous example, wherein the frame at least partially or completely surrounds the covering in the plane of extension of the covering.

[0444] Example ExX9b: An aerosol generating device according to any one of Examples ExX9 to ExX9a, wherein the frame at least partially or completely surrounds the covering in the direction of movement of the covering between the open state and the closed state.

[0445] Example ExX9c: An aerosol generating device according to any one of Examples ExX9 to ExX9b, wherein the frame is provided on a protruding element of the first housing part, the protruding element protruding laterally from the main longitudinal body of the first housing part.

[0446] Electrical connection

[0447] Example ExXI: An aerosol - generating device according to any one of the preceding examples, wherein the device includes an electrical connection for electrically connecting the power - supply unit to the power - consumption unit in the attached state of the housing part, wherein the electrical connection includes a first electrical contact provided on the first housing part and a second electrical contact provided on the second housing part, and wherein the first electrical contact and the second electrical contact are elastically pre - loaded against each other in the attached state.

[0448] Example ExXI1: An aerosol - generating device according to the previous example, wherein at least one of the first electrical contact and the second electrical contact includes a spring - loaded element.

[0449] Example ExXI1a: An aerosol - generating device according to the previous example, wherein the spring - loaded element is at least one of a pin or a ball.

[0450] Example ExXI1b: An aerosol - generating device according to any one of Examples ExXI1 to ExXI1a, wherein the pin is a spring - pin.

[0451] Example ExXI2: An aerosol - generating device according to any one of Examples ExXI to ExXI1b, wherein at least one of the first electrical contact and the second electrical contact includes a recess for receiving the spring - loaded element or a terminal.

[0452] Example ExXI2a: An aerosol - generating device according to the previous example, wherein the terminal is a contact plate.

[0453] Example ExXI2b: An aerosol - generating device according to any one of Examples ExXI2 to ExXI2a, wherein the recess includes a spring - loaded metal tab configured to engage with the pin.

[0454] Example ExXI3: An aerosol - generating device according to any one of Examples ExXI to ExXI2b, wherein each of the first electrical contact and the second electrical contact is provided on a respective mating surface of the respective housing part.

[0455] Charge indicator / battery - module features

[0456] Example ExXII: An aerosol - generating device according to any one of the preceding examples, wherein the device further includes a charge indicator indicating the charge level of the power - supply unit.

[0457] Example ExXII1: An aerosol - generating device according to the previous example, wherein the charge indicator includes an electronic display.

[0458] Example ExXII1a: An aerosol-generating device according to the previous example, wherein the charging indicator display is on the power supply unit.

[0459] Example ExXII1b: An aerosol-generating device according to any one of Examples ExXII1 to ExXII1a, wherein the electronic display is at least one of a segmented display, an LED display, or an OLED display.

[0460] Example ExXII2: An aerosol-generating device according to any one of Examples ExXII to ExXII1b, wherein the charging indicator further comprises a charging indicator activator positioned on one of the first housing part and the second housing part and configured to activate the charging indicator.

[0461] Example ExXII2a: An aerosol-generating device according to the previous example, wherein the charging indicator activator is a button or a touch display.

[0462] Example ExXII2b: An aerosol-generating device according to any one of Examples ExXII2 to ExXII2a, wherein in the attached state of the housing parts, the button for activating the charging indicator display is not visible.

[0463] Example ExXII2c: An aerosol-generating device according to any one of Examples ExXII2 to ExXII2b, wherein the button for activating the charging indicator display is provided on the mating surface of the second housing part.

[0464] Example ExXII3: An aerosol-generating device according to any one of Examples ExXII to ExXII2c, wherein the charging indicator further comprises a controller configured to control the electronic display to show the charging state of the power supply unit when the user interacts via the charging indicator activator.

[0465] Replaceable battery module

[0466] Example ExXIII: An aerosol-generating device according to any one of the previous examples, wherein the aerosol-generating device further comprises a replaceable battery module configured to be removably attached to the first housing part rather than the second housing part, wherein the replaceable battery module houses a second power supply unit configured to supply power to the power-consuming unit in the attached state.

[0467] Example ExXIII1: An aerosol-generating device according to the previous example, wherein the second power supply unit has a second charge storage capacity different from the storage capacity of the power supply unit housed within the first housing part.

[0468] Example ExXIII2: An aerosol generating device according to Examples ExXIII and ExXIII1, wherein the ratio of the storage capacities of the first power supply unit and the second power supply unit is between 1.5 and 3, preferably between 1.5 and 2.5, particularly between 1.7 and 2.3.

[0469] Example ExXIII3: An aerosol generating device according to Examples ExXIII to ExXIII2, wherein the replacement battery module has the same interface for electrical and / or mechanical connection to the first housing part as compared to the second housing part.

[0470] Identification elements and units

[0471] Example ExXIV: An aerosol generating device according to any one of the preceding examples, wherein at least one of the first housing part and the second housing part, the power consumption unit and the power supply unit includes an identification element, and the device includes an identification unit for identifying at least one of the first housing part and the second housing part, the power consumption unit and the power supply unit by means of the identification element.

[0472] Example ExXIV1: An aerosol generating device according to the previous example, wherein the identification element includes an authentication key.

[0473] Example ExXIV2: An aerosol generating device according to any one of Examples ExXIV to ExXIV1, wherein the identification element is unique, thereby allowing unique identification of the housing part or the unit equipped with the unique identification element.

[0474] Example ExXIV3: An aerosol generating device according to any one of Examples ExXIV to ExXIV2, wherein the identification unit includes a communication interface that enables communication between at least two of the first housing part and the second housing part, the power consumption unit and the power supply unit for identification.

[0475] Example ExXIV3a: An aerosol generating device according to the previous example, wherein the communication interface is at least one of a wireless communication interface or a contact-based interface.

[0476] Example ExXIV3b: An aerosol generating device according to any one of Examples ExXIV3 to ExXIV3a, wherein the identification element is permanently embedded.

[0477] Example ExXIV3c: An aerosol-generating device according to any one of Examples ExXIV3 to ExXIV3b, wherein the identification means is at least one of an embedded SIM (eSIM) or an integrated SIM (iSIM).

[0478] Example ExXIV3d: An aerosol-generating device according to any one of Examples ExXIV3 to ExXIV3c, wherein the identification means includes an authentication key.

[0479] Example ExXIV4: An aerosol-generating device according to any one of Examples ExXIV to ExXIV3d, wherein the device is configured to allow power supply from the power supply unit to the power consumption unit upon successful identification of the power consumption unit and the power supply unit.

[0480] Charging module

[0481] Example ExXV: An aerosol-generating device according to any one of the foregoing examples, wherein the aerosol-generating device further includes a charging module configured to be removably attached to the second housing portion rather than the first housing portion, and wherein the charging module is configured to charge the power supply unit in the attached state.

[0482] Example ExXV1: An aerosol-generating device according to the previous example, wherein the power supply unit includes a rechargeable power source and a charging circuit located within the housing portion that houses the power supply unit and configured to control the power supply received from an external device for recharging the power source.

[0483] Example ExXV2: An aerosol-generating device according to any one of Examples ExXV to ExXV1, wherein the power supply unit includes a rechargeable battery.

[0484] Example ExXV3: An aerosol-generating device according to any one of Examples ExXV to ExXV2, wherein the battery includes a lithium-based battery.

[0485] Example ExXV4: An aerosol-generating device according to any one of Examples ExXV to ExXV3, wherein the power supply unit includes charging electrical contacts located on the housing portion that houses the power supply unit for receiving a power supply from an external device for recharging the power source.

[0486] Example ExXV5: An aerosol-generating device according to any one of Examples ExXV to ExXV4, wherein the charging electrical contact comprises a second electrical contact that is electrically connected and / or wherein the charging electrical contact forms part of a USB-A connector, a USB-B connector, a USB-C connector or a micro-USB connector.

[0487] Example ExXV6: An aerosol-generating device according to any one of Examples ExXV to ExXV5, wherein the charging circuit comprises a wireless charging circuit configured to wirelessly receive a power supply from an external device for recharging the power source.

[0488] Example ExXV7: An aerosol-generating device according to any one of Examples ExXV to ExXV6, wherein the charging module has the same interface for electrical and / or mechanical connection to the second housing part as compared to the first housing part.

[0489] Assembly method

[0490] Example ExXVI: A method for assembling an aerosol-generating device according to any one of the preceding examples, comprising the steps of:

[0491] - transferring the housing parts from the disassembled state, in which the housing parts are both electrically and mechanically disconnected, to an intermediate state, in which the housing parts are electrically disconnected from each other and are mechanically movably coupled relative to each other; and

[0492] - moving the housing parts relative to each other in the intermediate state until an attached state is reached, in which the housing parts are both electrically and mechanically coupled to each other.

[0493] Cross-reference to related applications

[0494] Each of the following PCT patent applications is hereby incorporated herein by reference in its entirety:

[0495] 1. PCT patent application No. PCT / EP2022 / 057230, entitled "Aerosol-generating device comprising Cover Element with Cavity".

[0496] Terms and definitions

[0497] Aerosol-generating device

[0498] An aerosol generating device may be a hand-held electrically operated smoking system, which includes a (rechargeable) battery, control electronics, and a power consumption unit, in particular an electric heater for heating an aerosol generating article specifically designed for use with the aerosol generating device.

[0499] Aerosol generating article

[0500] The aerosol generating article may include an aerosol-forming substrate, such as a tobacco strip or a tobacco rod, and when the aerosol generating article is inserted into the aerosol generating device, the heater contained within the aerosol generating device may be inserted into or positioned around the aerosol-forming substrate. In an alternative electrically operated smoking system, the aerosol generating article may include a capsule containing an aerosol-forming substrate, such as loose tobacco.

[0501] Main axis / longitudinal axis

[0502] The main axis / main extension direction of the aerosol generating device, i.e., the axis / direction along which the aerosol generating device has its maximum length, may be the longitudinal axis / direction. The transverse axis / direction may be perpendicular to the longitudinal axis / direction. The circumferential direction may be defined around the longitudinal axis / direction. In the upright orientation of the aerosol generating device, the longitudinal axis / direction may be the height axis / direction, and the transverse axis / direction may be the horizontal axis / direction. Any indication of "upper", "top", "lower", and "bottom" hereinafter is with respect to the longitudinal axis / direction being the height axis / direction.

[0503] Power consumption unit

[0504] The power consumption unit may be an energy converter configured to consume power, in particular electrical power, and convert it into another energy medium, such as heat energy. The power consumption unit may be or include an electric heater for heating the aerosol generating article, such as a coil for inductive heating.

[0505] Power supply unit

[0506] The power supply unit may be a storage device, in particular an electrical energy storage device. The power supply unit may include one or more (rechargeable or non-rechargeable) batteries, and may also include a battery management system (BMS) for operating the one or more batteries, such as power electronics and / or a controller.

[0507] Housing and housing parts

[0508] The first housing part and the second housing part may together define the housing of the aerosol generating device.

[0509] Buffer mechanism

[0510] As used herein, the term "buffer mechanism" may designate a unit or element that prevents vibrations between a first housing and a second housing. Optionally, when the two housing parts are pressed together, it has some elastic properties to maintain some elasticity. Description of the Drawings

[0511] Exemplary embodiments of the present invention will now be further described with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:

[0512] Figure 1 A perspective view of an aerosol-generating device in an attached state of a first housing part and a second housing part having a sliding attachment mechanism is shown, with the closing mechanism for the aerosol-generating article receiving cavity located at the top of the housing in the first housing part in a closed state (left) and an open state (right);

[0513] Figure 2 A perspective view of the aerosol-generating device in a disassembled state of the housing parts is shown; Figure 1 of the aerosol-generating device;

[0514] Figure 3 A first perspective view of the aerosol-generating device in an intermediate state is shown, in which the first housing part and the second housing part are mechanically coupled for sliding engagement and electrically disconnected; Figure 1 of the aerosol-generating device;

[0515] Figure 4 A second perspective view of the aerosol-generating device in an intermediate state is shown from a different perspective; Figure 1 of the aerosol-generating device;

[0516] Figure 5 A perspective view of the bottom end of the second housing part is shown, depicting a first variant of the electrical terminals of the aerosol-generating device;

[0517] Figure 6 A perspective view of the bottom end of the second housing part is shown, depicting a second variant of the electrical terminals of the aerosol-generating device;

[0518] Figure 7 A perspective view of the bottom end of the second housing part is shown, depicting a first variant of the charging indicator for the aerosol-generating device;

[0519] Figure 8 A perspective view of the bottom end of the second housing part is shown, depicting a second variant of the charging indicator for the aerosol-generating device;

[0520] Figure 9 A perspective view of the top end of the housing parts in an attached state is shown, depicting a first variant of the covering member embodied as a collapsible cap in the closed state of the aerosol-generating device;

[0521] Figure 10 is a perspective view of the top end of the housing part in the attached state, showing the covering member according to the first variant in the open state;

[0522] Figure 11 is a perspective view of the top end of the second housing part, showing the covering member according to the first variant in the split state of the two housing parts;

[0523] Figure 12 is a cross-sectional view of the top end of the housing part in the attached state, showing the covering member according to the first variant in the closed state;

[0524] Figure 13 shows a perspective view of the aerosol generating device according to the second embodiment of the present invention in an intermediate state, wherein the housing parts are mechanically movably coupled and electrically disconnected by a slidable engagement;

[0525] Figure 14 is a perspective view of a second variant of the closing mechanism for an aerosol generating device according to the second embodiment, including a slidable cover;

[0526] Figure 15 is a perspective bottom view of the top end of the first housing part of the aerosol generating device according to the second embodiment, showing the attachment base of the closing mechanism;

[0527] Figure 16 is a perspective top view of the top end of the housing part of the aerosol generating device according to the second embodiment in the attached state, showing the closing mechanism according to the second variant in the closed state;

[0528] Figure 17 is a perspective top view of the top end of the housing part of the aerosol generating device according to the second embodiment in the attached state, showing the closing mechanism according to the second variant in the open state;

[0529] Figure 18 is a perspective view of the top end of the first housing part of the aerosol generating device according to the third embodiment in the split state of the housing part, showing a third variant of the closing mechanism including a slidable cover disposed within a frame;

[0530] Figure 19 is a perspective view of the top end of the aerosol generating device according to the third embodiment in the attached state of the housing part with a small-sized second housing part, showing the closing mechanism as shown in Figure 18 ;

[0531] Figure 20Shows a perspective view of the top end of an aerosol generating device according to a third embodiment in an attached state of a housing part and a large-sized second housing part (i.e., a third housing part), showing the closing mechanism in a closed state as shown in Figure 18 the closing mechanism shown in

[0532] Figure 21 Is a schematic and perspective view of the top end of an aerosol generating device according to a fourth embodiment in an attached state of a housing part, showing a fourth variant of the closing mechanism, the closing mechanism including a slidable cover and a removable attachment base shaped as a carrier disk;

[0533] Figure 22 Is a perspective view of an aerosol generating device according to a second embodiment as shown in Figure 13 in a disassembled state of a housing part, showing a first variant of a buffer mechanism;

[0534] Figure 23 Is a perspective view of an aerosol generating device according to a second embodiment as shown in Figure 13 in a disassembled state of a housing part, showing a second variant of a buffer mechanism;

[0535] Figure 24 Is a perspective view of an aerosol generating device with a press / ratchet locking mechanism according to a fifth embodiment of the present invention;

[0536] Figure 25 Shows another perspective view of an aerosol generating device according to a fifth embodiment in a disassembled state;

[0537] Figure 26 Shows a cross-sectional view of a first locking mechanism of an aerosol generating device according to a fifth embodiment;

[0538] Figure 27 Shows a cross-sectional view of a second locking mechanism of an aerosol generating device according to a fifth embodiment;

[0539] Figure 28 Shows the attachment process of an aerosol generating device according to a fifth embodiment in three steps and views, where the housing part is in a disassembled state in the left view, where the housing part is in an intermediate state in the center view, and where the housing part is in an attached state in the right view;

[0540] Figure 29 Shows the disassembly process of an aerosol generating device according to a fifth embodiment in three steps and views, where the housing part is in an attached state in the left view, where the housing part is in an intermediate state in the center view, and where the housing part is in a disassembled state in the right view;

[0541] Figure 30Shows a schematic architecture of an identification unit for identifying at least one of the housing parts in a housing part of an aerosol generating device according to one embodiment. Detailed description

[0542] Figures 1 to 3 Shows an aerosol generating device 1 in three different states according to a first embodiment, the three different states including Figure 1 the attached state in, Figure 2 the disassembled state in, and Figure 3 the intermediate state in. Other embodiments include the same features as the first embodiment, and the differences will be described herein.

[0543] Referring to Figure 1 , the aerosol generating device 1 includes two housing parts 2, 3 that are reversibly interconnected with each other via a guiding mechanism, thereby allowing the housing parts 2, 3 to slide relative to each other along the longitudinal axis of the device 1.

[0544] The first housing part 2 can accommodate a power consumption unit 4 in the form of a tubular coil, which is configured to consume power during the operation of the aerosol generating device 1 to generate an aerosol by performing inductive heating. In particular, the first housing part 2 includes an opening 5 that has an aerosol generating article receiving cavity in the form of a chamber 6 for receiving an aerosol generating article. The chamber 5 is defined by the tubular coil.

[0545] The second housing part 3 houses a power supply unit 7. The power supply unit 7 includes a power storage device, in particular a rechargeable battery, to supply power to the tubular coil for generating an aerosol.

[0546] The aerosol generating device 1 further includes a closing mechanism, which in the illustrated variant is in the form of a foldable cover 8 for closing the opening 5 of the chamber 6. The structure and function of the foldable cover 8 will be described with reference to Figures 9 to 12 .

[0547] A main activation unit 9 is provided on the first housing part 2, and the main activation unit is configured to control the operation of the aerosol generating device 1 during user interaction, such as a push operation. The element 9 can also be a curved display screen that allows information to be visually provided to the user, such as but not limited to an LCD or LED display screen, or a display screen with touch-sensitive characteristics, and is thus also configured to operate as an activation unit in combination with the display function. Preferably, the display screen has rounded edges, or a shape that is substantially circular or elliptical, and its outer surface is curved to match the curvature of the curved outer surface of the first housing part 2. Additionally, preferably, when viewed along the axis 100, the display screen 9 is substantially arranged in the middle of the first housing part 2. In this regard, the housing part 3 for holding the battery can be such that no display screen is arranged thereon to simplify the design of the housing part.

[0548] Figure 2 Shows two housing parts 2, 3 in the disassembled state. Each of the two housing parts 2, 3 includes a mating surface 10. The mating surface 10 of the first housing part 2 has a convex shape and is configured to engage with the concave-shaped mating surface 10 of the second housing part 3, and the concave-shaped mating surface is opposite to the convex shape of the first housing part 2.

[0549] A guiding mechanism is provided on the edge of the mating surface 10 to guide the housing parts 2, 3 relative to each other along the main axis 100 during assembly, especially in the intermediate state. The guiding mechanism includes guiding grooves 11 that interact with guide rails 12 arranged on the facing mating surfaces 10.

[0550] A stop 13 is provided on the mating surface 10 of the second housing part 3 to stop the guiding movement when the two housing parts 2, 3 transition from the intermediate state to the attached state. The stop 13 has the form of a protrusion and is configured to engage with a mating recess of the mating surface 10 of the first housing part 2.

[0551] Reference Figure 3 , a buffering mechanism is provided on the mating surface 10. The buffering mechanism includes a male buffering element 14 in the form of an elongated elastic protrusion element provided on the mating surface 10 of the second housing part 3 to engage with a female buffering element 15 in the form of a recess provided on the mating surface 10 of the first housing part 2, so as to preload the housing parts 2, 3 relative to each other in the attached state of the housing parts 2, 3.

[0552] A power supply cover 16 is provided on the mating surface 10 of the second housing part 3 such that the power supply unit 7 or battery accommodated in the second housing part 3 can be replaced to remove the battery from the battery compartment, and the battery compartment can be embedded or arranged in the housing part 3. With the interconnection of the housing parts 3, 4, the cover 16 can be hidden and can also prevent its accidental removal.

[0553] Figure 5 and Figure 6 The male electrical terminal is depicted as part of an electrical connection mechanism for electrically connecting the housing parts 2, 3, especially for electrically connecting the power supply unit 7 to the power consumption unit 4. The electrical connection mechanism includes a male electrical terminal as the first electrical contact 17 and a female electrical terminal (not shown) as the second electrical contact. In the attached state of the housing parts 2, 3, the male electrical terminal and the female electrical terminal are elastically loaded against each other.

[0554] In Figure 5In [reference], the first electrical contact 17 is formed as a spring-loaded tab 18 which is configured to be integrated into a recess to press against the wall of the recess receiving the pin a second electrical contact in the form of a pin.

[0555] In Figure 6 In [reference], the first electrical contact 17 is formed as a spring-loaded ball 19 for cooperation with a second electrical contact in the form of a mating recess to provide an electrical connection in the attached state of the housing parts 2, 3.

[0556] Figure 7 and Figure 8 show a charge indicator 20 indicating the charge level of the power supply unit 7 / battery. As Figure 7 shown in [reference], the charge indicator 20 is positioned on the second housing part 3, in particular on the mating surface 10 of the second housing part 3, such that the charge indicator 20 is not visible in the attached state.

[0557] As Figure 7 shown in [reference], the charge indicator 20 can be embodied as a segmented display, in particular a seven-segment display.

[0558] In Figure 8 In [reference], the charge indicator 20 is provided on the outer surface of the second housing part 3. The charge indicator 20 can include a number of LEDs in a row, where each LED represents a predefined charge level.

[0559] Preferably, the charge indicator 20 is provided on the second housing part 3, in particular integrated into a button (not shown) to activate the charge indicator 20. Preferably, the charge indicator 20 and the button are provided on the mating surface 10 such that they are not visible in the attached state of the housing. In this way, the external design remains simple. Additionally, this allows the user to quickly check the battery status by pressing the button before attaching the housing parts 2, 3, for example in a situation where the user may have several second housing parts 3 at hand (see Figure 19 and Figure 20 ).

[0560] Figures 9 to 12 shows a detailed perspective view of a closing mechanism, where a foldable cover 8 is implemented in an aerosol-generating device 1 according to Figure 1 [reference].

[0561] Figure 9 shows the foldable cover 8 in the closed position.

[0562] Figure 10 shows the foldable cover 8 in the open position.

[0563] As Figure 9 and Figure 10As shown in, the collapsible cover 8 includes two segments 22, 23 embodied in one piece and forming a solid joint. The segments 22, 23 are delimited by a predefined bending edge 24 in the form of an elongated recess provided on the bottom of the collapsible cover 8 to facilitate the folding (opening / closing) operation performed by the user. The second segment 23 is attached to the second housing part 3, and the first segment 22 is pivotally connected to the second segment 23 to close or open the opening 5 of the chamber 6, thereby changing its shape.

[0564] The collapsible cover 8 includes two layers 25, 26. The second layer 26 is formed of an elastic material coated with a metal coating (constituting the first layer 25) on top of the elastic material such that only the metal coating is visible in the closed state. Preferably, the color of the metal coating corresponds to the color of the metal or metal coating of the respective housing parts 2, 3.

[0565] Now referring to Figure 11 , the collapsible cover 8 further includes a tongue 27 to removably attach the cover 8 to the second housing part 3. In particular, the tongue 27 includes a tongue recess 28 to engage with a mating housing-side projection 29 on the mating surface 10 of the second housing part 3.

[0566] Figure 12 A cross-sectional view of the upper part of the aerosol-generating device 1 according to Figure 1 is shown. A first magnetic element 30 in the form of a plate is integrated into the second housing part 3 and configured to engage with a second magnetic element 31 integrated into the collapsible cover 8, in particular the second segment 23 of the collapsible cover, to hold / fix the cover on the second housing part 3. In addition, the first segment 22 of the cover 8 includes a coin-shaped magnetic element 32 configured to engage with the first magnetic element 30 and / or the second magnetic element 31 to hold the collapsible cover 8 in the open position. [[ID=**16]]

[0567] Figures 13 to 17 A detailed perspective view of a closing mechanism including a movable (slidable) cover 33 is shown, which can be used in the aerosol-generating device 1 according to Figure 1 .

[0568] As seen from Figure 13It can be seen that the removable cover 33 is disposed on top of the first housing part 2 and attached to the first housing part 2, wherein the attachment base of the removable cover is embodied as a protruding element 34 in the exemplary form of a semi-cylinder. With this arrangement, even when the second housing part 3 is removed from the first housing part 2, the user can close the chamber 6 with the cover 33. A cavity 34' for receiving the protruding element 34 is provided on the second housing part 3. The cavity 34' has a shape complementary to the protruding element 34 and is dimensioned so as not to interfere with the slidable engagement (i.e., the removable cover 33) during the movement of the removable cover.

[0569] The attachment base (protruding element) 34 is arranged on or on top of the mating surface 10 so as to be invisible in the attached state of the housing parts 2, 3. The attachment base (protruding element) 34 is engaged with the cover 33 via a guiding mechanism. In particular, the cover 33 is provided with a guide groove 35 which engages with a guide pin 36 provided at the top end of the attachment base (protruding element) 34, such that the cover 33 is movable / slidable relative to the attachment base between a closed position and an open position. The attachment base (protruding element) 34 is removably mounted on the first housing part 2 via a mounting member 37, such as a Figure 15 screw mounting member as shown in. Figure 16 The removable cover 33 in the closed position is shown.

[0570] Figure 17 The removable cover 33 in the open position is shown.

[0571] Figures 18 to 20 Depicts Figures 13 to 17 an alternative to the closing mechanism. The closing mechanism includes a frame 38 on top of the attachment base (protruding element), which protrudes laterally from the first housing part 2. The frame 38 is in the extension plane of the removable cover and completely surrounds the removable cover 33 during the movement between the open position and the closed position. A cavity for receiving the protruding element including the frame 38 is provided on the second housing part 3. The cavity has a shape complementary to the protruding element including the frame 38 and is dimensioned so as not to interfere with the removable cover during the movement of the removable cover 33.

[0572] Figures 13 to 20 All cover variants of provide one or more of the following benefits:

[0573] - Removability of the cover, such that the cover can be replaced with a new cover, e.g., for customization or replacement of an old defective cover,

[0574] - Integration of the cover into the first housing part 2 (with the power consumption unit 4), such that the power supply unit 7 (battery) can be removed and at the same time the opening 5 can be closed, and

[0575] -Aesthetic integration of the cover with the double-shell design, in particular with a metal coating adapted to match the color / metal / metal coating of the shell part.

[0576] As Figure 19 and Figure 20 shown, the second shell part 3 can be replaceable. In particular, a plurality of different second shell parts 3 of different sizes with different energy storage capacities are provided, and the plurality of different second shell parts are adapted to engage with the first shell part 2. For example, Figure 19 the second shell part 3 shown in Figure 20 is smaller than the second shell part (also referred to herein as the third shell part 39) of

[0577] Another variant of the closing mechanism is shown in Figure 21 where the movable cover 33 is placed on a removable attachment base in the form of a carrier disk 40 or plate, which is placed on the upper side surfaces of both the first shell part 2 and the second shell part 3 by a removable attachment mechanism, such as a clamp 41 that can engage with a corresponding opening or cavity 42. The attachment base (carrier disk 40 or plate) has an access opening 43 corresponding to the opening 5 for the aerosol-generating article and can slidably hold the movable cover 33 for opening and closing the opening. This feature allows for a removable and replaceable cover 33 and plate design.

[0578] In Figure 22 and Figure 23 a buffer mechanism configured to buffer the shell parts 2, 3 relative to each other in the attached state is shown.

[0579] In Figure 22 for example, a male buffer element 44 in the form of an elongated elastic element made of rubber is provided on the mating surface 10 of the first shell part 2 and mainly extends along the main axis 100. The mating surface 10 of the second shell part 2 includes a female buffer element 45 in the form of a recess to engage with the elastic element in the attached state of the shell, so as to elastically preload the shell parts 2, 3 relative to each other. The male buffer element 44 and the female buffer element 45 are embodied as a snap-fit connection.

[0580] In another variant as shown in Figure 23 the buffer elements 44, 45 are provided on both the lower part and the upper part of the shell.

[0581] In other variants, the upper buffer elements 44, 45 can form a mechanical retention mechanism and form electrical terminals / connectors for the electrical interconnection of the housing parts 2, 3 (see Figure 5 and Figure 6 ), thus combining the two features. In this regard, as shown in Figure 23 , there can be two snap-fit connectors arranged adjacent to the protruding element 34. Such an arrangement at the top of the first housing part 2 also allows for snap-fit engagement at the end of the sliding movement relative to the two housing parts 2, 3. Additionally, since the protruding element 34 is located between the two terminals, accidental short circuits can be prevented, for example if a user places the first housing part 2 on a metallic surface. The terminals of the first housing part 2 that houses the power consumption unit 4 are male / protruding terminals, while the terminals on the second housing part 3 that has the power supply unit 7 should be female / recessed terminals because there is a cavity between the two interconnecting terminals. This function can be reversed such that the electrical terminals / snap-fit interconnection is formed at the bottom or at a combination of the top and bottom.

[0582] Figures 24 to 29 Another variant of the aerosol generating device 1 is shown, in which the housing parts are attached by a press / ratchet locking mechanism instead of the Figures 1 to 3 sliding mechanism shown in Figure 24 and Figure 25 . Different perspective views of the two housing parts 2, 3 in the disassembled state are shown in

[0583] Figure 26 . A cross-sectional view of the first locking mechanism 46 provided on the upper part of the housing parts 2, 3 is shown in

[0584] Figure 27 . A cross-sectional view of the second locking mechanism 47 provided on the lower part of the housing parts 2, 3 is shown. Both the first locking mechanism 46 and the second locking mechanism 47 operate according to the hook and eye principle, while the first locking mechanism 46 is embodied as a passive locking mechanism and the second locking mechanism 47 is embodied as an active locking mechanism.

[0585] The first locking mechanism 46 includes a hook 48 on the first housing part 2 and a recess (eye) 49 on the second housing part 3 having a spring-loaded pin 50 configured to engage with the hook 48 in the attached state.

[0586] The second locking mechanism 47 includes a hook 51 that is connected to an actuator 52 in the form of a button provided at the bottom of the first housing part 2 to form an active locking member. A pin 53 having a recess for the hook 51 is provided on the second housing part 3 to lock the housing parts 3, 4 relative to each other in the attached state.

[0587] The power supply cover 16 is provided on the mating surface 10 of the second housing portion 3 so that the power supply unit 7 or the battery accommodated in the second housing portion 3 can be replaced.

[0588] exist Figure 28 In the Figures 24 to 27 FIG1 illustrates an exemplary assembly process for attaching the housing parts 2, 3 of an aerosol generating device 1. In a first step, the housing parts 2, 3 are in a disassembled state without any electrical or mechanical connection. Subsequently, the user brings the housing parts 2, 3 into an intermediate state by engaging the male and female locking elements of the first locking mechanism 46, thereby defining a fulcrum 54, in which the housing parts 2, 3 are mechanically and movably coupled, but still electrically disconnected. Next, in the intermediate state, the user pivots the first housing part 2 relative to the second housing part 3 about the fulcrum 54 until the housing parts 2, 3 enter an attached state in which the housing parts 2, 3 are mechanically and electrically coupled, wherein the male and female locking elements of the second locking mechanism 47 come into engagement in the attached state and self-lock the housing parts 2, 3 with an accompanying clicking noise. The electrical and mechanical connection between the housing parts 2, 3 may be established by the same elements or by different elements.

[0589] In order to separate the housing parts 2, 3 from each other, Figure 29 As shown in FIG, the user first presses / pushes the actuator 52 on the bottom of the first housing part 2 to unlock the second locking mechanism 47 and transfer the housing parts 2, 3 from the attached state to the intermediate state. In the next step, the user pivots the second housing part 3 relative to the first housing part 2 about the fulcrum 54. At a predefined angle, the hook 48 of the first locking mechanism 46 pushes the spring-loaded pin 50 of the first locking mechanism 46 downward, thereby enabling the first housing part 2 to be detached from the second housing part 3, thus transferring the housing parts 2, 3 from the intermediate state to the detached state.

[0590] Figure 30 The schematic architecture of an identification unit of the aerosol generating device 1 is shown, which is used to identify the second housing part 3 with the power supply unit 7 by means of an identification element.

[0591] Each second housing part 3 may be equipped with an identification element, the identification element including a SIM 55 or device (Subscriber Identity Module), such as a software-based eSIM card or a SIM card / chip (micro SIM or nano SIM), which may communicate with a data processor 58 via a data communication interface in the attached state of the housing, the data processor being associated with a power consumption unit 4 in the first housing part 2. This may be done directly by communicating with the I / O interface 56 of the SIM or via an additional data processor on the second housing part 3. The SIM 55 includes a secret (and optionally unique Ki encrypted) key that cannot be read from the outside of the SIM 55, which may initially be recorded by the manufacturer in a database to authenticate the original second housing part 3. Typically, the secret key Ki has a 128-bit value. For example, each secret key Ki may be previously recorded in the database and may be (uniquely) associated with an authorized second housing part 3. Thus, the housing part / second housing part 3 may be checked to see whether it is an original or a copy, thereby providing protection for technical reliability. Other data from the SIM 55 may also be used for authentication (in addition to the secret key Ki), such as but not limited to ICCID, IMSI, IMEI, MSISDN, and / or EID. The SIM 55 itself may also use a data processor inside the SIM to generate a session key from the secret Ki key, such that the secret Ki key never leaves the electronics of the second housing part 3, and more specifically, never leaves the internal storage memory of the secret key of the SIM 55. The power consumption unit 4 applies the same encryption / decryption algorithm to authenticate the second housing part 3.

[0592] In a simplified variant, in order to avoid managing many different secret keys for each and every second housing part 3, the second housing part 3 may be equipped with a digital circuit (not necessarily a SIM), which has a secret storage key among a specific finite number of secret keys, or there may be only one secret key for all second housing parts 3, and the power consumption unit 4 / first housing part 2 may request authentication of the second housing part 3 based on the finite number of secret keys or only one secret key. For example, it is possible to use one and the same secret key for the second housing part 3 (or a finite number of second housing parts), and then run an encryption algorithm to generate a session key for each algorithm. The power consumption unit 4 / first housing part 2 may have the same secret key stored therein (e.g., in a manner that cannot be read from the outside), and authenticate the second housing part 3 with the session key using the same algorithm. This would allow mimicking SIM 55 functionality with limited complexity. In this regard, it is also possible to use an eSIM architecture, but only use a finite number of keys, e.g., such that not every second housing part 3 has its unique and secret key Ki, but has a specific finite number or even only one secret key Ki. This solution provides less authentication security, but is easier to manage and may be sufficient to authenticate the second housing part 3 for the aerosol generating device 1.

[0593] Once the power consumption unit 4 has authenticated the second housing part 3, it may be possible to start or allow the formation of an aerosol by the power consumption unit 4, e.g., such that the power consumption unit 4 is able to generate heat. If the second housing part 3 cannot be authenticated, an error message may be generated, e.g., a visual, audible or tactile signal or a combination thereof, and the power consumption unit 4 may be disabled.

[0594] Technically, a SIM 55 or equivalent circuit may also be integrated into the first housing part 2 or module to authenticate the first housing part 2 before allowing the power consumption unit 4 to operate.

[0595] Although data communication may be done via a separate data communication channel between the housing parts 2, 3, it may also be done through Figure 5 and Figure 6 the electrical connection mechanism shown therein, whereby there are only two electrical contacts and no specific data communication terminals or interconnections. Data communication for authentication may also be done via a wireless interface, e.g., Bluetooth or RFID circuitry.

[0596] Additionally, the first housing part 2 and the second housing part 3 can be paired, for example, by means of a pairing process carried out, for example, by the first housing part 2, thus allowing a unique key to be used for each second housing part 3 without actually having to manage all the secret keys in a database. For example, when a new or other original second housing part 3 is interconnected with the first housing part 2 for the first time, the second housing part 3 can request to be paired using a pairing algorithm. However, it is also possible that the pairing is done during the manufacturing phase rather than by the end user.

[0597] For the purposes of this specification and the appended claims, unless otherwise specified, all numbers expressing quantities, amounts, percentages, etc. should be understood to be modified in all instances by the term "about". Moreover, all ranges include the disclosed maximum and minimum points and include any intermediate ranges that may be specifically enumerated or may not be enumerated herein.

[0598] List of reference signs

[0599] 1. Aerosol generating device

[0600] 2. First housing part

[0601] 3. Second housing part

[0602] 4. Power consumption unit (tubular coil)

[0603] 5. Opening

[0604] 6. Chamber (aerosol generating article receiving cavity)

[0605] 7. Power supply unit (battery)

[0606] 8. Foldable cover / cap

[0607] 9. Main activation unit

[0608] 10. (Multiple) mating surfaces of the first housing part 2 and the second housing part 3

[0609] 11. Guide groove (guiding mechanism)

[0610] 12. Guide rail (guiding mechanism)

[0611] 13. Stop

[0612] 14. Male buffer element (buffering mechanism)

[0613] 15. Female buffer element (buffering mechanism)

[0614] 16. Power supply cover

[0615] 17. First electrical contact (electrical connection mechanism)

[0616] 18. Spring-loaded tab

[0617] 19. Spring-loaded ball

[0618] 20. Charge indicator

[0619] 21. Segment display

[0620] 22. First segment of cover 8

[0621] 23. Second segment of cover 8

[0622] 24. Predetermined bending edge of cover 8

[0623] 25. First layer of cover 8 (metal coating)

[0624] 26. Second layer of cover 8 (elastic material)

[0625] 27. Tongue

[0626] 28. Tongue recess

[0627] 29. Housing side projection

[0628] 30. First magnetic element

[0629] 31. Second magnetic element

[0630] 32. Coin-shaped magnetic element

[0631] 33. Removable cover / cap

[0632] 34. Protruding element / 34’. Cavity for protruding element 34

[0633] 35. Guide groove

[0634] 36. Guide pin

[0635] 37. Mounting piece

[0636] 38. Frame

[0637] 39. Third housing part

[0638] 40. Carrier disk

[0639] 41. Clamp

[0640] 42. Cavity for clamp 41

[0641] 43. Proximity opening

[0642] 44. Male buffer element

[0643] 45. Female buffer element

[0644] 46. First locking mechanism

[0645] 47. Second locking mechanism

[0646] 48. Hook of the first locking mechanism

[0647] 49. Eye of the first locking mechanism

[0648] 50. Spring-loaded pin

[0649] 51. Hook of the second locking mechanism

[0650] 52. Actuator (pushable release button)

[0651] 53. Pin having a recess (eye) for the hook 51 of the second locking mechanism

[0652] 54. Fulcrum

[0653] 55. SIM (identification element)

[0654] 56. I / O interface

[0655] 57. Processor of the power supply unit 7 / second housing part 3

[0656] 58. Processor of the power consumption unit 4 / first housing part 2

[0657] 100. Main (longitudinal) axis.

Claims

1. An aerosol generating device, comprising: a first housing part and a second housing part, the first housing part and the second housing part being reversibly interconnected and configured to be selectively arranged in any one of at least two different states, the at least two different states including an attached state and a detached state, in the attached state, the housing parts are attached to each other, and in the detached state, the housing parts are detached from each other, a power consumption unit configured to consume power to generate an aerosol during operation of the aerosol generating device, a power supply unit configured to supply power to the power consumption unit in the attached state of the housing parts, wherein the first housing part includes the power consumption unit, and wherein the second housing part includes the power supply unit, wherein the device includes a buffer mechanism configured to buffer the housing parts relative to each other in the attached state.

2. The aerosol generating device according to the preceding claim, wherein the first housing part and the second housing part are configured to be selectively arranged in any one of at least three different states, the at least three different states including the attached state, the detached state, and an intermediate state, in the intermediate state, the housing parts are mechanically movably coupled to each other and electrically disconnected from each other.

3. The aerosol generating device according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the device includes a guiding mechanism for guiding the movement of the housing parts relative to each other.

4. The aerosol generating device according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein each of the housing parts includes at least one mating surface, and the mating surfaces are configured to face and / or engage with each other in the attached state.

5. The aerosol generating device according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein at least one of the first housing part and the second housing part includes a male buffer element, and the other of the first housing part and the second housing part includes a female buffer element, wherein the male buffer element and the female buffer element engage with each other in the attached state so as to elastically preload the housing parts relative to each other, and wherein the male buffer element has the form of a pad, a knob or an elongate element.

6. The aerosol generating device according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the device includes a reversible locking mechanism configured to reversibly lock the housing parts relative to each other in the attached state of the housing.

7. The aerosol generating device according to the preceding claim, wherein the locking mechanism includes an actuator configured to lock or unlock the locking mechanism upon actuation.

8. An aerosol-generating device according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the device comprises an aerosol-generating article receiving cavity for receiving an aerosol-generating article, and wherein the device further comprises a closure mechanism configured to be selectively arranged in each of at least two different states, the at least two different states including an open state and a closed state, in the open state, the aerosol-generating article receiving cavity is at least partially or completely exposed, and in the closed state, the aerosol-generating article receiving cavity is completely closed.

9. An aerosol-generating device according to the preceding claim, wherein the closure mechanism comprises a foldable cover configured to fold and unfold to transfer the closure mechanism between the open state and the closed state.

10. An aerosol-generating device according to one of the two preceding claims, wherein the closure mechanism comprises a cover movable between the open state and the closed state.

11. An aerosol-generating device according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the device comprises an electrical connection for electrically connecting the power supply unit to the power consumption unit in the attached state of the housing parts, wherein the electrical connection comprises a first electrical contact provided on the first housing part and a second electrical contact provided on the second housing part, and wherein the first electrical contact and the second electrical contact are elastically preloaded against each other in the attached state.

12. An aerosol-generating device according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the device further comprises a charge indicator indicating the charge level of the power supply unit.

13. An aerosol-generating device according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein at least one of the first housing part and the second housing part, the power consumption unit and the power supply unit comprises an identification member, and wherein the device comprises an identification unit for identifying at least one of the first housing part and the second housing part, the power consumption unit and the power supply unit by means of the identification member.

14. An aerosol-generating device according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the aerosol-generating device further comprises a charging module configured to be removably attached to the second housing part rather than the first housing part, and wherein the charging module is configured to charge the power supply unit in the attached state.

15. A method for assembling an aerosol-generating device according to any one of the preceding claims, comprising the steps of: a. transferring the housing parts from the disassembled state, in which the housing parts are both electrically and mechanically disconnected, to an intermediate state, in which the housing parts are electrically disconnected from each other and mechanically movably coupled to each other; b. moving the housing parts relative to each other in the intermediate state until the attached state is reached, in which the housing parts are both electrically and mechanically coupled to each other.

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