Battery assembly

Abstract

A device assembly (100) for holding a removable battery module (150) in an aerosol-generating device comprises: a printed circuit board (102) comprising one or more protrusions (104) configured to abut the battery module in use; one or more electrical contacts (105) configured to be electrically connected to the battery module in use; and a securing device (108) configured, in use, to mechanically urge said battery module towards the one or more protrusions in a direction perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the battery module. The battery module may include a battery cell (152) and one or more tabs (154) extending from the battery cell to abut the electrical contacts.

Description

TECHNICAL FIELD

[0001] The present disclosure relates to an assembly for holding a removable battery module in an aerosol generating device. The present disclosure also relates to a battery assembly for an aerosol generating device. BACKGROUND

[0002] As the demand for aerosol generating devices increases, the demand for accessible, replaceable and serviceable components also increases. In particular, it is desirable to be able to replace the power source in an aerosol generating device. Power sources, such as battery cells, often contain heavy metals and toxic chemicals. Therefore, it is critical to remove and safely dispose of these battery cells.

[0003] The electrical connection between the battery cell of an aerosol generating device and the PCB is typically achieved using one or more connectors. These connectors exist on the PCB and the battery and require a suitable location that is easily accessible. It is also necessary to provide sufficient space on the PCB for the connectors.

[0004] The battery cell is typically irreversibly coupled (e.g. welded) to the internal components of the aerosol generating device.

[0005] One challenge associated with the above is to provide an assembly that both supports a replaceable battery and ensures proper electrical connection. SUMMARY

[0006] According to the present disclosure, there is provided an assembly for holding a removable battery module in an aerosol generating device and a battery assembly for an aerosol generating device comprising features as set out in the claims.

[0007] According to one aspect, there is provided an assembly for holding a removable battery module in an aerosol generating device. The assembly comprises a printed circuit board comprising one or more protrusions configured to abut the battery module, in use. The assembly comprises one or more electrical contacts configured to electrically connect to the battery module, in use. The assembly comprises a securing means configured to mechanically urge the battery module towards the one or more protrusions, in use.

[0008] The electrical contacts on the PCB eliminate the need for connectors, providing a more efficient use of the internal space of the device and allowing for easy disconnection of the battery. Therefore, more space is provided on the PCB for other components, or miniaturization of the PCB is achieved.

[0009] By providing a fixture to mechanically push the battery module towards the electrical contacts of the device assembly, a high mechanical pressure is achieved. Due to this, and without connectors, the battery module can be easily inserted, disconnected and removed.

[0010] The presence of the protrusions on the PCB and the fixture enables the device to create a leverage effect on the battery module, providing a high pressure on the battery module by mechanical pushing. This ensures a good electrical contact between the electrical contacts of the device assembly and the battery module.

[0011] Finally, the connection of the battery to the PCB does not require any tools, making it easy for the user to remove a depleted battery and install a new one.

[0012] The one or more electrical contacts can be located on the one or more protrusions.

[0013] This ensures a good electrical connection between the electrical contacts and the battery module, as the electrical contacts are located at a high pressure point.

[0014] The fixture can be configured to mechanically push the battery module in a direction substantially perpendicular to a longitudinal axis of the battery module.

[0015] By providing a mechanical pushing in a direction substantially perpendicular to a longitudinal axis of the battery module, an increased force can be created, ensuring a reliable physical and electrical connection between the device assembly and the battery assembly.

[0016] The fixture can comprise an elastically deformable member configured to mechanically push the battery module towards the protrusions of the printed circuit board when in use.

[0017] Advantageously, this provides a leverage effect, enabling a high mechanical pressure connection between the PCB and the battery module.

[0018] The fixture can be a lid comprising a conical surface configured to contact an end of the battery module and to mechanically push the battery module towards the protrusions of the printed circuit board when in use.

[0019] Advantageously, the mechanical pushing can be additionally enhanced by the lid, simplifying the design of the device assembly. The lid enables easy removal and insertion of the battery module, while also providing means for pushing the battery module towards the protrusions, providing a leverage effect.

[0020] The fixture can comprise one or more locking pins. The locking pins can be configured to engage one or more locking holes on a cell support of the battery module.

[0021] Advantageously, the locking pin provides a mechanical push forcing the battery module towards the protrusion of the PCB, allowing a simple mechanical connection between the PCB and the battery module to be achieved.

[0022] The securing means can be one or more securing means. Each securing means can comprise a socket. Each socket can be configured to receive an attachment pin of the battery module.

[0023] The pin and socket arrangement allows a tool-free connection / disconnection between the device and the battery module to be achieved.

[0024] According to an aspect, there is provided a battery assembly for an aerosol generation device. The battery assembly comprises a battery module and a device assembly as described above.

[0025] The battery assembly as described above eliminates the need for connectors, providing a more efficient use of the internal space of the assembly, and allowing the battery module to be easily disconnected. As a result, more space is provided on the PCB for other components, or a miniaturization of the PCB is achieved.

[0026] Additionally, a larger surface contact can be provided for the electrical connection, allowing a high current to be drawn from the battery, while avoiding overheating of the electrical contacts.

[0027] By providing a securing means to mechanically push the battery module towards the electrical contacts of the device assembly, a high mechanical pressure is achieved. As a result of this, and without connectors, the battery module can be easily inserted, disconnected and removed.

[0028] Finally, the connection of the battery module to the PCB does not require any tools.

[0029] The battery module can comprise a battery cell. The battery module can comprise one or more tabs extending from the battery cell. The tabs can be configured to abut one or more electrical contacts of the device assembly.

[0030] Advantageously, the tabs allow a mechanical push connection to be formed between the battery module and the PCB. The tabs eliminate the need for connectors on the battery module and the PCB, allowing a simpler tool-free design.

[0031] The tabs provide a larger surface area for the electrical connection, allowing a high current to be drawn from the battery module, while avoiding overheating of the electrical contacts.

[0032] The battery cell of the battery module can be cylindrical. The battery module can comprise a spacer configured to provide a square edge to the battery module. The one or more tabs can be arranged at least partially on an outer surface of the spacer.

[0033] Cylindrical cells are often used in devices due to their simple structure and low cost. Using cylindrical cells can result in a loss of available space within the device. Furthermore, it can be difficult to restrict the orientation of cylindrical cells. By providing spacers on the cells, this lost space is utilized while ensuring that the cell orientation is maintained. This allows for the connection provided by mechanical pressure.

[0034] The battery cells of the battery module may be pouches. One or more tabs may extend from one end of the pouch.

[0035] The soft pack unit is easier to manipulate; therefore, its shape can be adjusted to fit the device. This results in a more compact device assembly. Additionally, the tabs can be flush with the surface of the soft pack, thus promoting a secure mechanical connection between the battery module and the PCB.

[0036] The battery module may include a battery cell support member. The battery cell support member may be located between the battery cells of the battery module and the printed circuit board.

[0037] The battery cell support provides a rigid surface for the soft pack cells to apply force to. The force does not need to be applied directly to the battery cell, thus avoiding the risk of damage to the battery cell.

[0038] The one or more tabs may be configured to extend around the battery cell support in use to contact one or more electrical contacts of the device assembly.

[0039] The location of the tabs advantageously enables mechanical pressure to force an electrical connection between the device assembly and the battery module.

[0040] The battery cell support may include one or more locking holes configured to engage one or more locking pins of a fixture of the device assembly.

[0041] By providing locking holes in the battery cell support, pressure is not applied directly to the battery cell itself, thereby avoiding damage or deformation caused by pressure. In addition, pressure is applied to one or more tabs, thereby ensuring a better electrical connection.

[0042] Finally, the locking holes provide a mechanical push that forces the battery module toward the electrical contacts of the device assembly, thereby allowing for a simple mechanical connection between the PCB and the battery module.

[0043] The fixing means of the battery module is a cover including a tapered surface configured to contact the battery cell support to mechanically push the battery module towards the protrusion of the printed circuit board when in use.

[0044] Advantageously, the mechanical push can be further enhanced by the cover, thereby simplifying the design of the device assembly.The cover enables easy removal and insertion of the battery module, while also providing a means for pushing the battery module towards the protrusion, thereby providing a lever effect.

[0045] The fixing device can be configured to mechanically push the battery module in a direction substantially perpendicular to the longitudinal axes of the battery cells of the battery module. In other words, the mechanical pushing can occur in a direction substantially perpendicular to the largest plane of the battery module.

[0046] Advantageously, a more reliable connection can be provided between the battery module and the PCB. Furthermore, pushing the battery module in a direction substantially perpendicular to the longitudinal axes of the battery cells of the battery module can make more efficient use of the space within the aerosol-generating device, as connections need not be made at both ends of the battery module. Furthermore, the need for additional connectors is avoided.

[0047] Advantageously, increased force may be generated, thereby ensuring a reliable physical and electrical connection between the device assembly and the battery assembly.

[0048] The tabs of the battery module may be non-planar.

[0049] The non-planar tabs provide a more robust connection between the battery module and the electrical contacts of the device assembly.

[0050] According to one aspect, there is provided an aerosol-generating device comprising a device assembly as described above.

[0051] By providing an aerosol-generating device with a device assembly, an aerosol-generating device is provided that allows easy, tool-free access to the battery module. This allows for quick and easy removal and / or replacement of the battery module. The provided aerosol-generating device also advantageously ensures a better electrical connection between the device assembly and the battery assembly.

[0052] Other advantages, objects and features of the present invention will be described in the following description, by way of example only, with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which similar components in different embodiments may be given the same reference numerals. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0053] Examples of the present disclosure will now be described with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0054] Figure 1a shows a side view of a first example of a battery module;

[0055] Figure 1b shows a front view of a first example of a battery module;

[0056] Figure 2aA side view of the first example of the device assembly is shown;

[0057] Figure 2b A front view of the first example of the device assembly is shown;

[0058] Figure 3a A side view of the first example of the battery assembly is shown;

[0059] Figure 3b A front view of the first example of the battery assembly is shown;

[0060] Figure 4a A side view of the second example of the device assembly in a closed configuration is shown;

[0061] Figure 4b A side view of the second example of the device assembly in an open configuration is shown;

[0062] Figure 4c A side view of the second example of the battery assembly is shown;

[0063] Figure 5a A perspective view of a third example of a battery module is shown;

[0064] Figure 5b A side view of a third example of a battery module is shown;

[0065] Figure 6a A side view of a third example of a device assembly is shown;

[0066] Figure 6b A side view of a third example of a battery assembly is shown; and

[0067] Figure 7 A flowchart of a method of using a battery assembly is shown. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0068] As used herein, the term “aerosol precursor material”, “vapor precursor material” or “vaporizable material” can refer to a smokeable material which may, for example, comprise nicotine or tobacco and a vaporization agent. The aerosol precursor material is configured to release an aerosol upon heating. The tobacco can take the form of a number of different materials such as cut rag, granulated tobacco, tobacco leaf and / or reconstituted tobacco. The nicotine can be in the form of a nicotine salt. Suitable aerosol precursor materials include: polyols such as sorbitol, glycerol, and glycols (such as propylene glycol or triethylene glycol); non-polyols (such as monohydric alcohols), acids (such as lactic acid), glycerol derivatives, esters (such as triacetin, triethylene glycol diacetate, triethyl citrate, glycerol or vegetable glycerol). In some examples, the aerosol precursor material is substantially a liquid which contains or comprises one or more solid particles (such as tobacco).

[0069] As used herein, the term “aerosol generation device” is synonymous with “aerosol generating device” or “device” and can include a device configured to heat an aerosol precursor material and deliver an aerosol to a user. The device can be portable. “Portable” can mean that the device is for use while being held by a user. The device can be adapted to generate a variable amount of aerosol that can be controlled by a user input.

[0070] As used herein, the term “aerosol” can include a suspension of vaporisable material as one or more of: solid particles; liquid droplets; gas. The suspension can be in a gas, including air. Aerosol herein can generally mean / include vapour. The aerosol can comprise one or more components of vaporisable material.

[0071] Figure 1a and Figure 1b A side view and a front view of a first example of a battery module 150 are shown. The battery module 150 can include a battery cell 152. The battery cell 152 can be a lithium-ion soft-pack cell. The battery module 150 can include one or more tabs 154 extending from the battery cell 152. The tabs 154 can each extend from one end of the battery cell 152 of the battery module 150. In some examples, the tabs 154 include a bend configured to hook onto another component. The tabs 154 can be made of a highly conductive metal or alloy. The electrical conductivity of these tabs can be enhanced using a highly conductive coating which can be in the form of a nickel layer.

[0072] The battery module 150 can act as a power supply device to power an aerosol generation device.

[0073] The battery module 150 can include a battery cell support 156. The battery cell support 156 can be sized and shaped to cover a surface of the battery cell 152.

[0074] The battery cell 152 can be mounted on the battery cell support 156. In this way, a major face of the battery cell support 156 can be larger than a major face of the battery cell 152. The battery cell support 156 can be substantially flat. The battery cell support 156 can comprise a substantially rigid material, such as an epoxy-glass material or a plastic material substrate commonly used for PCBs.

[0075] The battery cell support 156 can include an extension 158. The extension 158 can be located at one end of the battery cell support 156. The extension 158 can be located at the same end of the battery module 150 as the tabs 154. Alternatively, the battery cell support 156 can not include an extension.

[0076] The battery cell support 156 can further comprise one or more locking holes 160. The locking holes 160 can be through holes in the battery cell support 156. Alternatively, the locking holes 160 can be cut-out portions in the battery cell support 156. The locking holes 160 can be located at the other end of the battery cell support 156. That is, the locking holes 160 can be positioned substantially away from the one or more tabs 154 and / or the extension 158. Alternatively, the battery cell support can comprise a locking pin.

[0077] The one or more tabs 154 can be configured to extend around the battery cell support 156. That is, the tabs 154 can extend along a side of the battery cell support 156 opposite to the side of the battery cell support 156 on which the battery cell 152 is located. In other words, the tabs 154 can extend from a side of the battery cell support 156 on which the battery cell 152 is mounted and around an edge of the battery cell support 156 to the other side of the battery cell support 156. The one or more tabs 154 can be two tabs 154. One tab 154 can be present on either side of the extension 158. The tabs 154 can extend parallel to a longitudinal axis LB of the battery module. The longitudinal axis of the battery module LB can be the longitudinal axis of the battery cell 152. The longitudinal axis of the battery module LB refers to an axis that extends along a major plane of the battery module 150. Mechanical urging can cause the tabs 154 to abut the electrical contacts 105 of the device assembly 100.

[0078] Figure 2a And Figure 2b Side and front views of a first example of a device assembly 100 are shown. The device assembly 100 is for retaining a removable battery module 150 in an aerosol generating device.

[0079] The device assembly 100 comprises a printed circuit board (PCB) 102. The PCB 102 can provide sufficient rigidity to create a lever effect, as explained in more detail below. The PCB 102 comprises one or more tabs 104. The tabs 104 can be configured to abut the battery module 150 when in use. The tabs 104 can be configured to provide a lever effect on the battery module 150. The tabs 104 can be raised areas of the PCB 102.

[0080] The tabs 104 can be planar. Alternatively, the tabs 104 can be non-planar. The tabs 104 can be any suitable shape, for example, square, rectangular, triangular, circular, elliptical, or any other polygonal or non-polygonal shape. The tabs 104 can form a three-dimensional version of any of these shapes. That is, the tabs 104 can protrude from the surface of the PCB 102.

[0081] The device assembly 100 further comprises one or more electrical contacts 105. The electrical contacts 105 are configured to, in use, abut and electrically connect to the battery module 150. The electrical contacts 105 can be electrical connection points configured to, in use, electrically connect to the tabs 154 of the battery module 150. The one or more electrical contacts 105 can be present on the one or more protrusions 104. The electrical contacts 105 can be configured to electrically connect the battery module 150 to the device assembly 100 (e.g. the PCB 102). That is, the electrical contacts 105 can be configured to electrically connect the battery cells 152 to the PCB 102.

[0082] The electrical contacts 105 can be planar. Alternatively, the electrical contacts 105 can be non-planar. The electrical contacts 105 can be of any suitable shape, such as a square, a rectangle, a triangle, a circle, an ellipse, or any other polygonal or non-polygonal shape. The electrical contacts 105 can form a three-dimensional version of any of these shapes. That is, the electrical contacts 105 can protrude from the surface of the PCB 102 or from the protrusions 104. The electrical contacts 105 can be electrically conductive regions on the PCB 102 or on the protrusions 104, e.g. regions comprising an electrically conductive material. The electrical contacts 105 can be made of a non-corrosive or corrosion-resistant material.

[0083] The device assembly 100 can comprise a flange 106. The flange 106 can be configured to, in use, mechanically urge the battery module 150 towards the protrusions 104 of the PCB 102. This can therefore mechanically urge the battery module 150 towards the electrical contacts 105. That is, the electrical connection between the one or more electrical contacts 105 of the device assembly 100 and the tabs 154 of the battery module 150 can be facilitated by mechanically urging the flange 106. In other words, the battery module 150 can be urged by the flange 106 in a direction perpendicular to the longitudinal axis LB of the battery module 150. The mechanical urging can also be in a direction perpendicular to the longitudinal axis LD of the device assembly 100.

[0084] The flange 106 can be configured to receive the extension 158 of the battery module 150.

[0085] The device assembly 100 includes a securing device 108. The securing device 108 can be one or more securing devices 108. The securing device 108 is configured to mechanically urge the battery module 150 toward the protrusion 104 of the PCB 102 when in use. The securing device 108 can also be configured to mechanically urge the battery module 150 toward the electrical contacts 105. The securing device 108 can be a spring clip or other retaining means such as a hook. The securing device 108 can include one or more locking pins. The locking pins can be configured to engage one or more locking holes 160 of the battery module 150 to retain the battery module 150 in the device assembly 100. The securing device 108 can be configured to retain a cover (not shown).

[0086] Alternatively, in examples where the battery cell support can include locking pins, the securing device 108 can be one or more locking holes.

[0087] The flange 106 or the securing device 108 can include an elastically deformable member configured to mechanically urge the battery module 150 toward the protrusion 104 of the PCB 102 when in use.

[0088] The device assembly 100 can include a frame 110. The PCB 102 can be mounted on the frame 110. The flange 106 and / or the securing device 108 can be integral with the frame 110. The flange 106 and / or the securing device 108 can be mounted on and / or protrude from the frame 110. Alternatively, the flange 106 and / or the securing device 108 can be integral with or protrude from the PCB 102. The flange 106 and / or the securing device 108 can be integral with or protrude from any portion of the device assembly 100.

[0089] The frame 110 can include a plastic material or a metal material. The frame 110 can provide a housing for the device assembly 100.

[0090] The frame 110 can be shaped similarly to the PCB 102 such that the PCB 102 can be mounted on the frame 110. In this way, the major face of the frame 110 can be larger than the major face of the PCB 102. The frame 110 can be substantially planar.

[0091] The electrical contacts 105 can be present on any portion of the device assembly 100. The electrical contacts 105 can be present on the PCB 102, the protrusion 104, the securing device 108, the flange 106, and / or the frame 110. The electrical contacts 105 can be present on a combination of different locations within the device assembly 100. That is, the electrical contacts 105 can be located in any location that enables the electrical contacts 105 to electrically connect the PCB 102 with the battery module 150.

[0092] The cover can be configured to cover the battery module 150 when the battery module 150 is received in the device assembly 100. The cover can provide additional mechanical urging of the battery module 150 toward the electrical contacts 105 of the PCB 102. The cover can be substantially the same size as the frame 110 of the device assembly 100.

[0093] The cover can include one or more cover locking holes (not shown). The cover locking holes can be configured to receive the securing devices 108 when assembled. That is, when the one or more securing devices 108 are one or more locking pins, the one or more locking pins can be configured to engage the one or more cover locking holes. Alternatively, the one or more securing devices 108 can be one or more device locking holes, and the cover can include one or more cover locking pins. In other words, the securing devices 108 can be configured to engage both the one or more locking holes 160 of the battery module 150 and the one or more cover locking holes of the cover.

[0094] Alternatively, the cover locking holes can be engaged away from the securing devices 108 such that the cover does not interact with the securing devices 108.

[0095] Figure 4a And Figure 4b A first example of a battery assembly 180 is shown. The battery assembly includes a device assembly 100 and a battery module 150. When assembled, the battery module 150 is detachably held by the device assembly 100.

[0096] As Figure 3a And Figure 3b shown, the extension 158 can be received by the flange 106. Alternatively, a portion of one end of the battery cell support 156 can be received by the flange 106. The securing devices 108 can be received by the locking holes 160. One or both of the flange 106 or the securing devices 108 can mechanically urge the battery module 150 toward the protrusion 104 of the PCB 102. Additionally or alternatively, interaction between the securing devices 108 and the cover can provide a force to mechanically urge the battery module 150 toward the protrusion 104 of the PCB 102. The mechanical urging occurs perpendicular to the longitudinal axis LB of the battery module. The mechanical urging can cause the tab 154 to abut the electrical contacts 105.

[0097] In Figure 3a And Figure 3b the longitudinal axis LB of the battery module 150 is aligned with the longitudinal axis LD of the device assembly 100. However, depending on the design and shape of the device assembly 100, the longitudinal axis LB of the battery module 150 can not be aligned with the longitudinal axis LD of the device assembly 100. That is, the battery module 150 can be oriented in any orientation within the device assembly 100.

[0098] The mechanical push can also occur perpendicular to the longitudinal axis LD of the device assembly.

[0099] In use, the battery cell support 156 can be located between the battery cells 152 of the battery module 150 and the PCB 102 of the device assembly 100. The tab 154 can be sandwiched between the protrusion 104 of the PCB 102 and the battery cell support 156. In examples where electrical contacts 105 are present on the protrusion 105, the tab 154 can be sandwiched between the electrical contacts 105 of the device assembly 100 and the battery cell support 156.

[0100] Additional electrical components can be present on the battery cell support 156 and / or the PCB 102. These components can advantageously be positioned such that, when the battery assembly 180 is assembled, the components are housed in the space between the battery cell support 156 and the PCT 102.

[0101] Figure 4a and Figure 4b A side view of a second example of a device assembly 200 is shown. Figure 4c A side view of a second example of a battery assembly 280 is shown. The battery assembly 280 comprises the second example of the device assembly 200 and a battery module 250.

[0102] In Figures 4a to 4c , the reference numerals used are analogous to those used in Figures 1 to Figure 3b , where the same reference numerals are increased from ‘100’ to ‘200’. For example, the protrusion in Figure 3b has the reference numeral 204 when compared to the protrusion 104 of Figures 1 to Figure 4a .

[0103] Without describing in detail the features of the second example of the device assembly 200, the battery module 250 and the battery assembly 280, it can be assumed that they share features analogous to those of the first example of the device assembly 100, the battery module 150 and the battery assembly 180.

[0104] The second example of the battery module 250 can be substantially identical to the first example of the battery module 150. Alternatively, the battery module 250 can be substantially identical to a third example of a battery module 350, which will be described in more detail later.

[0105] As shown in Figure 4a and Figure 4b , the device assembly 200 for retaining a removable battery module 250 (shown in Figure 4c ) in an aerosol generating device comprises a PCB 202. The PCB 202 comprises one or more protrusions 204. The protrusions 204 are configured to abut the battery module 250 in use.

[0106] The device assembly 200 further comprises electrical contacts 205. The electrical contacts 205 are configured to be electrically connected to the battery module 250 when in use. The electrical contacts 205 can be located on the protrusion 204. The device assembly 200 can further comprise a flange 206. The flange 206 can be configured to mechanically push the battery module 250 towards the protrusion 204 of the PCB 202 when in use.

[0107] The device assembly 200 can comprise a body 212. The body 212 can house the PCB 202 and the frame 210. The body 212 can be integral with the frame 210. That is, the body 212 and the frame 210 can be the same component.

[0108] The device assembly 200 comprises a securing device 208. The securing device 208 is configured to mechanically push the battery module 250 towards the protrusion 204 of the PCB 202 when in use. The mechanical pushing can push the battery module 250 towards the electrical contacts 205. The securing device 208 can be part of the body 212 or the frame 210. The securing device 208 can be a lid, for example an end cap. The end cap 208 can be configured to allow the battery module 250 to be inserted into and removed from the device assembly 200.

[0109] Figure 4a The device assembly 200 is shown with the end cap 208 in the closed configuration. Figure 4b The device assembly 200 is shown with the end cap 208 in the open configuration.

[0110] The end cap 208 can be attached to the body 212 or the frame 210 by a hinge. The hinge can allow the end cap 208 to rotate about a pivot point.

[0111] The end cap 208 can comprise an inner tapered surface 214. The tapered surface 214 can be configured to contact one end of the battery module 250 and to mechanically push the battery module 250 towards the protrusion 204 of the PCB 202 when in use. The end cap 208 is configured such that when in the closed position, the tapered surface 214 of the end cap 208 provides a force to the battery module 250 to force the battery module 250 towards the protrusion 204 of the PCB 202. In other words, the force provided by the end cap 208 can be perpendicular to the longitudinal axis LB of the battery module. The force can be perpendicular to the longitudinal axis LD of the device assembly.

[0112] Figure 4c A second example of the battery assembly 280 is shown. When assembled, the battery module 250 is secured by the device assembly 200.

[0113] As Figure 4cAs shown, the end cap 208 can provide mechanical push to the battery cell support 256 of the battery module 250. Alternatively, the end cap 208 can provide mechanical push to the battery cell 252 of the battery module 250. The end cap 208 can contact an end of the battery module 250 distal from the one or more tabs 254. In this example, the battery cell 252 can not include a locking hole. The flange 206 can receive the extension 258 when in use.

[0114] Figure 5a and Figure 5b A third example of a battery module 350 is shown. In Figure 5a and Figure 5b the reference numbers used are similar to those used in FIGS. 1- 149, where the same reference numbers are increased from ‘100’ to ‘300’. For example, when compared to the tabs 154 of the battery module 150, Figure 1a the tabs in the battery module 350 have reference numbers 354. Figure 5a

[0115] Without describing the features of the third example of the battery module 350 in detail, it can be assumed that they share features similar to those of the first example of the battery module 150.

[0116] The battery module 350 includes a battery cell 352. The battery cell 352 can be substantially cylindrical, such that the battery module 350 is a pseudo-cylindrical battery module 350. The battery cell 352 can be a lithium-ion battery cell encased in a steel can, or it can be a prismatic cell. The battery module 350 can include a spacer 362. The spacer 362 can be configured to provide a square edge to the battery module 350. That is, the spacer 362 can be a prism, where the faces of the prism are right triangles with curved hypotenuses. That is, one side of the prism can be shaped to be flush with the cylindrical battery cell 352, thereby providing a square edge to the battery cell 352.

[0117] One or more tabs 354 can extend from one end of the battery cell 352. One or more tabs 354 can extend from both ends of the battery cell 352. The one or more tabs 354 can be arranged to extend at least partially on an outer surface of the spacer 362.

[0118] Figure 6a A side view of a third example of a device assembly 300 is shown. Figure 6b A side view of a third example of a battery assembly 380 is shown. The battery assembly 380 includes the device assembly 300 and the third example of the battery module 350.

[0119] In Figure 6a and Figure 6b the reference numbers used are similar to those used in FIGS. 1- 149, where the same reference numbers are increased from ‘100’ to ‘300’. For example, when compared to the tabs 154 of the battery module 150, Figure 3b the tabs in the battery module 350 have reference numbers 354.​Figure 3b numerals are used in the same reference numerals as in FIG. 1, where the same reference numerals are incremented from '100' to '300'. For example, when compared with FIG. Figure 3b When compared with the protrusion 104, Figure 6a The protrusion in has reference numeral 304 .

[0120] Without describing the features of the third example of device assembly 300 and battery assembly 380 in detail, it can be assumed that they share similar features to those of the first example of device assembly 100 and battery assembly 180 .

[0121] like Figure 6a As shown, a device assembly 300 is used to retain a removable battery module 350 in an aerosol-generating device. The device assembly 300 includes a PCB 302. The PCB 302 includes one or more protrusions 304. The protrusions 304 are configured to abut the battery module 350 during use. The device assembly 300 includes one or more electrical contacts 305. The electrical contacts 305 are configured to abut the battery module 350 during use and electrically connect to the battery module.

[0122] The device assembly 300 may include a fixing device 308. The fixing device 308 may be configured to mechanically urge the battery module 350 towards the protrusion 304 of the PCB 302 when in use.

[0123] The fixing means 308 may comprise an elastically deformable member configured to mechanically push the battery module 350 towards the protrusion 304 of the PCB 302 when in use. Figure 6b , which shows a battery assembly 380. The square edges formed by the spacers 362 enable the cylindrical battery module 350 to be pushed toward the protrusion 304 in different orientations. This allows one or more tabs 354 to be forced toward the protrusion 304 and, in some examples, toward the electrical contacts 305. In this example, the force from the fixture 308 is provided in a direction substantially perpendicular to the longitudinal axis LB of the battery cell. The force may also be substantially perpendicular to the longitudinal axis LD of the device assembly.

[0124] One end of the battery cell 352 of the battery module 350 may be received by the flange 306 of the device assembly 300 .

[0125] The battery module 150, 250, 350 can be configured to provide electrical energy to the aerosol generation device at a voltage in the range of 1 V to 5 V. Preferably, the battery module 150, 250, 350 can be configured to provide electrical energy to the aerosol generation device 300 at a voltage in the range of 3 V to 4.2 V. Most preferably, the battery module 150, 250, 350 can be configured to provide electrical energy to the aerosol generation device 300 at a voltage of, for example, 3.6 V or 3.7 V. Such a voltage source is particularly advantageous for modern aerosol generation devices in view of the chargeability, high energy density, and large capacity. The battery module 150, 250, 350 can comprise a lithium-ion battery cell 152, 252, 352.

[0126] More generally, a battery assembly 180, 280, 380 is provided in which two conductors can be used. A first conductor (i.e. the electrical contact 105, 205, 305) can be provided in the device assembly 100, 200, 300. A second conductor (i.e. the tab 154, 254, 354) can be provided on the battery cell 152, 252, 352 of the battery module 150, 250, 350. The two conductors can be brought into contact with each other by mechanical pressure. The mechanical pressure can be provided by the combination of the fixation device 108, 208, 308 and the protrusion 104, 204, 304 to create a lever effect.

[0127] The battery assembly 180, 280, 380 can be used in or as part of an aerosol generation device. For example, an aerosol generation device comprising the device assembly 100, 200, 300 can be provided.

[0128] Figure 7 A flowchart of a method 700 is shown, which can comprise a first step 710 of inserting the battery module 150, 250, 350 into the device assembly 100, 200, 300. The method 700 can comprise a second step 720 of fixing the fixation device 108, 208, 308 to mechanically push the battery module 150, 250, 350 towards the protrusion 104, 204, 304 of the PCB 102, 202, 302. The second step 720 can occur during the first step 710. That is, upon insertion of the battery module 150, 250, 350, the fixation device 108, 208, 308 can automatically mechanically push the battery module 150, 250, 350 towards the protrusion 104, 204, 304. Mechanically pushing the battery module 150, 250, 350 towards the protrusion 104, 204, 304 of the PCB 102, 202, 302 can electrically connect the battery module 150, 250, 350 to the electrical contact 105, 205, 305.

[0129] The method 700 can comprise a third step 730 of removing the battery module 150, 250, 350 from the device assembly 100, 200, 300.

[0130] While the preferred embodiments have been illustrated and described, it will be understood by those skilled in the art that various changes and modifications can be made, and that such changes and modifications are both sought and included within the scope of the application as defined by the appended claims and as described above.

Claims

1. A device assembly (100, 200, 300) for retaining a removable battery module in an aerosol-generating device, the device assembly (100, 200, 300) comprising: a printed circuit board (102, 202, 302) comprising one or more protrusions (104, 204, 304) configured to abut the battery module in use, one or more electrical contacts (105, 205, 305) configured to be electrically connected to the battery module in use, and a fixing device (108, 208, 308) configured to mechanically urge the battery module toward the one or more protrusions (104, 204, 304) in use, The fixing device (108, 208, 308) is configured to mechanically push the battery module in a direction substantially perpendicular to a longitudinal axis of the battery module.

2. The device assembly (100, 200, 300) according to claim 1, wherein: The one or more electrical contacts (105, 205, 305) are located on the one or more protrusions (104, 204, 304).

3. The device assembly (100, 300) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein The fixing device (108, 308) includes an elastically deformable member configured to mechanically push the battery module towards a protrusion (104, 304) of the printed circuit board (102, 302) when in use.

4. The device assembly (200) according to claim 1 to 2, wherein: The fixing device (208) is a cover including a tapered surface (214) configured to contact one end of the battery module and mechanically push the battery module toward the protrusion (204) of the printed circuit board (202) when in use.

5. The device assembly (100) according to claims 1 to 2, wherein The fixing device (108) includes one or more locking pins configured to engage one or more locking holes on a battery cell support of the battery module.

6. A battery assembly (180, 280, 380) for an aerosol generating device, the battery assembly comprising: Battery modules (150, 250, 350), and The device assembly (100, 200, 300) according to any one of claims 1 to 5.

7. The battery assembly (180, 280, 380) according to claim 6, wherein: The battery module (150, 250, 350) includes: Battery cells (152, 252, 352); and One or more tabs (154, 254, 354) extending from the battery cell (152, 252, 352), wherein the tabs (154, 254, 354) are configured to abut one or more electrical contacts (105, 205, 305) of the device assembly (100, 200, 300).

8. The battery assembly (380) according to claim 7, wherein the battery cells (352) of the battery module (350) are cylindrical, and wherein, The battery module (350) includes a spacer (362) configured to provide square edges to the battery module (350), wherein the one or more tabs (354) are at least partially disposed on an outer surface of the spacer (362).

9. The battery assembly (180, 280) according to claim 7, wherein: The battery cell (152, 252) of the battery module (150, 250) is a soft pack, and wherein the one or more tabs (154, 254) extend from one end of the soft pack.

10. The battery assembly (180, 280) according to claim 9, wherein: The battery module (150, 250) includes a battery cell support (156, 256) which, when in use, is positioned between a battery cell (152, 252) of the battery module (150, 250) and the printed circuit board (102, 202).

11. The battery assembly (180, 280) according to claim 10, wherein: The one or more tabs (154, 254) are configured to extend around the battery cell support (156, 256) in use to contact one or more electrical contacts (105, 205) of the device assembly (100, 200).

12. The device assembly (180) of any one of claims 10 or 11, wherein the battery cell support (156) includes one or more locking holes (160) configured to engage one or more locking pins of a fixing device (108) of the device assembly (100).

13. The battery assembly (280) according to any one of claims 10 or 11, wherein: The fixing means (208) of the battery module (200) is a cover including a tapered surface (214) configured to contact the battery cell support (256) to mechanically push the battery module (250) toward the protrusion (204) of the printed circuit board (202) when in use.

14. The battery assembly (180, 280, 380) according to any one of claims 6 to 13, wherein: The fixture (108, 208, 308) is configured to mechanically urge the battery module (150, 250, 350) in a direction substantially perpendicular to a longitudinal axis (LB) of the battery module (150, 250, 350).

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