Aerosol supply device

Abstract

An aerosol supply device and a method of assembling the same, the aerosol supply device comprising: a power source electrically connected via an electrical connector for powering one or more components of the aerosol supply device; and the supporting piece supports the electric connector and keeps the electric connector electrically connected with the power supply. A power module includes a power source and a support.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This disclosure relates to an aerosol supply device and an aerosol supply system. Background Technology

[0002] Smoked articles (such as cigarettes, cigars, etc.) burn tobacco during use to produce tobacco smoke. Attempts have been made to provide alternatives to these articles by offering aerosol supply devices and systems configured to heat (but not burn) aerosol-generating materials, releasing compounds without combustion. The aerosol-generating materials can be, for example, tobacco or other non-tobacco products that may or may not contain nicotine. Such aerosol supply devices may include, for example, a power source for powering a heating element of the device. Summary of the Invention

[0003] According to one aspect of the present invention, an aerosol supply device is provided for generating aerosols from aerosol generating materials, the aerosol supply device comprising: a power source for supplying power to one or more components of the aerosol supply device; an electrical connector for electrically connecting to the power source; and a support member for supporting the electrical connector, the support member being configured to retain the electrical connector electrically connected to the power source.

[0004] In some embodiments, the aerosol-generating material is in the form of one or more of the following: solid, liquid, gel, wax, etc. In some embodiments, the aerosol-generating material includes a liquid. In some embodiments, the aerosol-generating material contains nicotine.

[0005] In one embodiment, the aerosol supply device includes a heating device arranged to heat the aerosol-generating material.

[0006] In this implementation, the power source supplies power to the heating element of the aerosol supply device and / or any other suitable electrical components of the device (in the form of electricity).

[0007] In this implementation, the power source is a battery.

[0008] In one embodiment, the power supply is housed (received) within the power supply housing of the device. In another embodiment, the power supply as a whole is contained within the power supply housing of the device (within the device housing).

[0009] In one embodiment, an electrical connector extends into the power receiving portion of the device for electrical connection to a power source. In another embodiment, the electrical connector has a longitudinal extension (extending along this longitudinal extension), and is either a pin-type or sleeve-type electrical connector. In yet another embodiment, the electrical connector is rigid and is rigidly mounted within the device.

[0010] In one embodiment, the electrical connector is located at the distal end of the power receiving portion of the device, such that the power supply forms an electrical connection with the electrical connector (only) when it is substantially fully inserted into the power receiving portion.

[0011] In this implementation, the support member can move and / or deform relative to the electrical connector in the lateral direction.

[0012] In one embodiment, the support is at least partially formed of an elastic material. In another embodiment, the elastic material includes silicone and / or rubber.

[0013] In this implementation, the support is made entirely of an elastic material.

[0014] In this embodiment, the support is formed of an electrically insulating material.

[0015] In one embodiment, the support includes a recess for receiving an electrical connector.

[0016] In one embodiment, the support includes a pair of recesses for receiving an electrical connector from a pair of electrical connectors.

[0017] In one implementation, the recess extends partially, rather than completely, through the thickness of the support.

[0018] In one embodiment, the recess is configured to contact and support at least a portion of the outer periphery of the electrical connector.

[0019] In one embodiment, the recess has a tapered opening.

[0020] In one embodiment, the support includes one or more deformable elements.

[0021] In one implementation, the deformable element is configured to allow the support to deform in its lateral (in-plane) direction.

[0022] Deformable elements can be disposed at the periphery of the support member or within the main body of the support member (away from its periphery). Deformable elements can include any of the following: recesses, protrusions, through holes, and cavities within the material of the support member.

[0023] In one embodiment, one or more deformable elements have a pattern of one or more notches and / or protrusions located around the periphery of the support.

[0024] In one embodiment, the periphery of the support member has a pattern of multiple notches and / or multiple protrusions. In another embodiment, the multiple notches and / or protrusions are spaced substantially evenly around the periphery of the support member. In yet another embodiment, the width of each protrusion (e.g., measured along the periphery of the support member) differs from the width of each notch (e.g., measured along the periphery of the support member), and in yet another embodiment, the width of each protrusion is smaller than the width of each notch.

[0025] In one implementation, the support is held by a retainer configured to restrict movement of the support.

[0026] In this implementation, the retainer is formed of an inelastic (rigid) material.

[0027] In one embodiment, the retainer extends around at least a portion of the lateral periphery of the support (in another embodiment around the entire lateral periphery) to restrict lateral movement of the support.

[0028] In one embodiment, at least a portion of the retainer is disposed between the support and the power source. In another embodiment, at least a portion of the retainer clamps the support to restrict out-of-plane (upward and / or downward) movement of the support.

[0029] In this embodiment, the support is positioned at the end adjacent to the power source.

[0030] In this embodiment, the support member is (only) located at (near) a (single) longitudinal end of the power supply. In this embodiment, the support member does not extend, and does not extend along any longitudinal side of the power supply. In this embodiment, the support member does not extend laterally beyond the limits of the end of the power supply.

[0031] In an implementation, the power supply has a cylindrical or cubic shape, such that the (longitudinal) ends of the power supply have a substantially circular or rectangular shape.

[0032] In one embodiment, the support includes a central portion having a rectangular or circular shape.

[0033] In one embodiment, the power source can be removed from the aerosol supply device. In another embodiment, the power source and support structure can be removed from the aerosol supply device. In yet another embodiment, the power source and support structure (and optionally a retainer for the support structure) can be removed from the aerosol supply device together as a power module.

[0034] In one embodiment, the power supply and support form a power module that can be removed from the device. In another embodiment, the power module further includes one or more of the following: a retainer for the support, a housing for the power supply, and an end cap for the power supply.

[0035] In one implementation, the power supply (power module) can be removed from the bottom of the device.

[0036] In one embodiment, the device has an opening through which a power source (power module) can be inserted (into) and / or removed (from) the power source housing. In another embodiment, the opening is at least partially covered by a (removable) portion of the device's housing.

[0037] According to one aspect of the present invention, an aerosol supply system is provided, comprising: an aerosol supply device; and an aerosol generating material. The aerosol supply device may have any of the features described herein (including any features of the embodiments described above).

[0038] In one embodiment, the aerosol supply device includes an aerosol generating material, such that the aerosol generating material is configured as part of the aerosol supply device (included therein).

[0039] In one embodiment, the aerosol supply device includes a reservoir containing liquid aerosol generating materials.

[0040] According to one aspect of the present invention, a power module for an aerosol supply device is provided, the power module comprising: a power source; and a support configured to receive an electrical connector of the aerosol supply device and maintain the electrical connector electrically connected to the power source. The power module and the support may have any of the features described herein (including any features of the above embodiments).

[0041] In some implementations, the power module also includes a retainer, such as having any of the features described herein (including any of the features of the above-described implementations).

[0042] In some implementations, the power module also includes a housing and / or a bottom cover for protecting the power supply from damage.

[0043] In one implementation, the power module can be removed from the aerosol supply device and / or inserted into the aerosol supply device.

[0044] According to one aspect of the present invention, a method for assembling an aerosol supply device is provided, the aerosol supply device including an electrical connector for electrical connection to a power source, the method comprising:

[0045] Provides a support for the electrical connector of the aerosol supply device; and

[0046] The power supply is electrically connected to the electrical connector, and the power supply is held electrically connected to the electrical connector by a support.

[0047] In one embodiment, the support member and the power supply are arranged together to form the power module of the aerosol supply device. In another embodiment, the power module is oriented into the aerosol supply device with the support member entering the device before the power supply.

[0048] Aerosol supply devices, electrical connectors, power supplies, support components, and power modules may have any of the features described herein (including any features of the embodiments described above).

[0049] Any aspect may include any feature described with respect to the other aspect. Attached Figure Description

[0050] Several aspects of the invention will now be described by way of example only, with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:

[0051] Figure 1 and Figure 2 These are schematic diagrams of an aerosol supply system according to embodiments of the present disclosure, which includes a power supply and a support for maintaining an electrical connector electrically connected to the power supply.

[0052] Figure 3 This is a perspective view of the aerosol supply system in the implementation method, showing various features in more detail;

[0053] Figure 4 It shows from Figure 3 Remove the power supply and support components from the aerosol supply system;

[0054] Figure 5 It shows Figure 3 A bottom view of the power supply fixed within the aerosol supply system;

[0055] Figure 6A This is a perspective view of a power supply and support component that is part of the power module of the aerosol supply device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0056] Figure 6B yes Figure 6A A cross-sectional view of the power module along line AA;

[0057] Figure 7A yes Figure 6A A view of the power module, showing the electrical connector received within the support;

[0058] Figure 7B yes Figure 7A Cross-sectional view along line BB; and

[0059] Figure 8 This is a flowchart illustrating the steps of a method for assembling an aerosol supply system in one embodiment.

[0060] It will be understood that while these figures illustrate various aspects and features of this disclosure, they are not exhaustive and / or exclusive.

[0061] Similar reference numerals are used for similar features in the figure. Detailed Implementation

[0062] This document discusses or describes aspects and features of certain examples and implementations. Some aspects and features of certain examples and implementations can be conventionally implemented, and for the sake of brevity, these aspects and features are not discussed / described in detail. Therefore, it will be understood that aspects and features of the devices and methods discussed herein that are not described in detail can be implemented using any conventional techniques for implementing such aspects and features.

[0063] This disclosure relates to an aerosol supply device for generating aerosols from aerosol generating materials, an aerosol supply system including aerosol generating materials, an electrical module for the aerosol supply device, and a method of using the same.

[0064] As used herein, the term "aerosol-generating material" is a material capable of generating aerosols, for example, when heated, irradiated, or electrified in any other way. Aerosol-generating materials may be in the form of, for example, a solid, liquid, or gel, and may or may not contain active substances and / or flavorings. Aerosol-generating materials may include any plant-based material (such as tobacco-containing materials) and may include, for example, one or more of tobacco, tobacco derivatives, expanded tobacco, reconstituted tobacco, and tobacco substitutes. Aerosol-generating materials may also include other non-tobacco products, which may or may not contain nicotine, depending on the product. Aerosol-generating materials may be in the form of, for example, a solid, liquid, gel, wax, etc. Aerosol-generating materials may also be, for example, a combination or mixture of materials. Aerosol-generating materials may also be referred to as "inhalable materials."

[0065] Aerosol-generating materials may include components that produce physiological effects on users, sensory effects on users, or both.

[0066] Aerosol-generating materials may include any one or more of binders, aerosol forming agents, flavorings, active substances, and fillers. The active substances, when delivered to a user, may have some form of psychological effect on the user. Optionally, a solvent (such as water) is also present, and one or more other components of the aerosol-generating material may be soluble in the solvent or insoluble in the solvent. In some embodiments, the aerosol-generating material is substantially free of plant material. In some embodiments, the aerosol-generating material is substantially free of tobacco.

[0067] Aerosol-generating materials may include or may be "amorphous solids". Amorphous solids may be "monolithic solids". In some embodiments, amorphous solids may be dried gels. Amorphous solids are solid materials that can retain some fluid (such as liquid) within them. In some embodiments, aerosol-generating materials may, for example, include from about 50 wt%, 60 wt%, or 70 wt% amorphous solids to about 90 wt%, 95 wt%, or 100 wt% amorphous solids.

[0068] Aerosol-generating materials may include aerosol-generating membranes. Aerosol-generating membranes may include sheets or sheets that may optionally be shredded to form fragments. Aerosol-generating sheets or fragments may be substantially tobacco-free.

[0069] The aerosol supply device disclosed herein can be configured to generate aerosols from an aerosol generating material (which can be supplied to the aerosol supply device in any suitable and desirable manner). The aerosol supply device and the aerosol generating material may be collectively referred to herein as an aerosol generation system.

[0070] According to this disclosure, an aerosol supply device (aerosol supply device system) may include a "non-flammable" aerosol supply device (system) wherein the aerosol generating material is non-flammable or non-ignitable in order to facilitate the delivery of at least one substance to a user.

[0071] Therefore, in some embodiments, the aerosol supply device (system) is a non-flammable aerosol supply device (system), such as a powered non-flammable aerosol supply device (system).

[0072] Without limitation, non-flammable aerosol supply devices (systems) that can be implemented in this disclosure include: heated non-flammable aerosol supply devices (systems) that heat solid materials to generate aerosols without burning the materials, such as heated tobacco products (THP) and charcoal tip heated tobacco products (CTHP); atomizing aerosol supply devices (systems) (commonly referred to as "electronic cigarettes" or "e-cigarettes"), in which liquid materials are heated to generate aerosols; and hybrid aerosol supply devices (systems) similar to atomizing aerosol supply systems, except that the aerosol generated from the liquid material passes through a second material (such as tobacco) to absorb additional components before reaching the user.

[0073] In some implementations, the non-flammable aerosol supply device (system) is an electronic cigarette, also known as an atomizing device or electronic nicotine delivery (END) device (system); however, it should be noted that the presence of nicotine in the aerosol generating material is not necessary.

[0074] In some implementations, the non-combustible aerosol supply device (system) is an aerosol generating material heating device (system), also known as a heated non-combustible device (system). An example of such a device (system) is a tobacco heating device (system).

[0075] In some embodiments, the non-flammable aerosol supply device (system) is a mixing device (system) configured to generate an aerosol using a combination of aerosol-generating materials, one or more of which can be heated. Each of these aerosol-generating materials may, for example, be in solid, liquid, or gel form, and may or may not contain nicotine. In some embodiments, the mixing system includes liquid or gel aerosol-generating materials and solid aerosol-generating materials. Solid aerosol-generating materials may include, for example, tobacco or non-tobacco products.

[0076] The aerosol supply device can receive articles including materials for heating aerosol generation.

[0077] In this context, "article" refers to a component that includes or contains the aerosol-generating material used (which is heated to cause the aerosol-generating material to evaporate), and optionally other components used. The article may be referred to herein as a "consumable." A user may insert the article into an aerosol supply device before it is heated to generate an aerosol, and the user subsequently inhales the aerosol. The article may, for example, have a predetermined or specific size, configured to be arranged within a heated chamber of the device sized to receive the article. An aerosol supply system that includes a device configured to receive the article may generally be referred to as a two-piece aerosol supply system.

[0078] In some embodiments, articles (consumables) for use with non-flammable aerosol supply devices may include aerosol generating materials, aerosol generating material storage areas, aerosol generating material delivery components, aerosol generators, aerosol generating areas, housings, packaging paper, filters, nozzles, and / or aerosol modifiers.

[0079] For example, the article may include an aerosol-generating material, which may be solid or gel. In this case, the consumable may be in rod form, which may also be interchangeably referred to as a "stick" form, and may have a cylindrical shape. Such a consumable may include any of a filter, a cooling element, and a nozzle. Packaging paper may at least partially surround the components of the consumable. Packaging paper may include a paper layer and / or a non-combustible layer such as metal foil (e.g., a flame-retardant layer). Suitablely, packaging paper may include an aluminum foil layer.

[0080] Alternatively, consumables may be provided in various shapes (such as planar forms), wherein the aerosol-generating material is disposed on a support to form a matrix. The support may be, for example, or include paper, cardboard, cardboard, corrugated cardboard, reconstituted material, plastic material, ceramic material, composite material, glass, metal, or metal alloy.

[0081] In arrangements where the aerosol generating material is a liquid, the article (consumable) may include a storage container for storing the aerosol generating material (in this case, the consumable is referred to as a "cartridge").

[0082] Implementations are also envisioned in which the aerosol supply device itself includes (contains) aerosol-generating materials (and is not configured to receive removable articles). For example, in the case of liquid aerosol-generating materials, the device may include a reservoir for storing the liquid. It is also possible to configure the device to provide storage (the supply device stores) of other types of aerosol-generating materials (e.g., gels, solids, or amorphous solids (e.g., as described above)).

[0083] Such a device, which itself includes aerosol generating material, can be called a "one-piece" device (similarly, a one-piece system when aerosol generating material is present). A (one-piece) device can be configured to be refillable (and therefore reusable) such that when at least a portion of the (initial) aerosol generating material in the aerosol supply device is depleted, it can be refilled (replaced) with (new) aerosol generating material. Alternatively, a (one-piece) device can be disposable, for example, configured to be disposed of once the aerosol generating material is depleted (e.g., after a predetermined number of inhalations), and therefore may not be configured to be refillable by the user.

[0084] For example, Figure 1 and Figures 3 to 7B An embodiment (one-piece device) of an aerosol supply device (and system) in the form of a reservoir for storing aerosol-generating materials is shown, the reservoir comprising liquid material. However, the aerosol supply device can also receive articles, such as... Figure 2 As shown. In this respect, the scope of this disclosure extends to aerosol generating apparatus (as well as aerosol generating systems and aerosol generating materials) of any suitable and desirable form as described above.

[0085] This disclosure can be implemented as an aerosol generating apparatus (and system) including any conventional features, such as a region (e.g., a reservoir) for receiving consumables or otherwise receiving aerosol generating materials, an aerosol generator (e.g., a heating assembly) configured to generate aerosols from the aerosol generating materials, a housing, a nozzle (through which a user can draw aerosols generated from the aerosol generating materials), a filter, and / or an aerosol modifier.

[0086] The heating assembly can be any suitable and desired heating assembly arranged to heat the aerosol-generating material, such as by resistance heating (heat generated by passing an electric current through a heating element), induction heating (heat generated by inducing a magnetic field, such as heat generated by passing an electric current through a coil to penetrate the sensor material), or radiative heating (e.g., using electromagnetic radiation, such as infrared radiation or microwave radiation, or acoustic radiation, such as ultrasonic radiation). The heating assembly can be disposed within the aerosol-generating apparatus and configured to heat the aerosol-generating material received in the aerosol-generating apparatus. Alternatively or additionally, in the case of a system including articles, the heating assembly can (at least partially) house (internally disposed) articles (consumables).

[0087] When the aerosol-generating material is liquid, a delivery device (e.g., a wick or porous element) can be provided to transport the aerosol-generating material from a reservoir to a heating element. The delivery device may have one or more sections located inside the reservoir, or otherwise in fluid communication with the aerosol-generating material in the reservoir, to draw in the aerosol-generating material and deliver it via wicking or capillary action to other sections of the delivery device adjacent to or in contact with the heating element. Thereby, the aerosol-generating material is heated and atomized, replaced by fresh aerosol-generating material from the reservoir, to be delivered to the heating element via the wick delivery device. The delivery device can be considered as a conduit between the reservoir and the heating element that transports the aerosol-generating material from the reservoir to the heating element.

[0088] An aerosol generation device (system) may include one or more input components for receiving input from a user. The one or more input components may include buttons (such as scroll buttons), switches, dials, microphones, cameras, accelerometers, touchscreens, or any combination thereof. The one or more input components may be assigned functions such as turning the aerosol supply device on and off and selecting operating modes of the aerosol supply system.

[0089] The aerosol generating device may include one or more sensors for detecting one or more characteristics associated with an aerosol supply system (e.g., its aerosol supply device). The one or more sensors may include a suction sensor configured to detect inhalation by a user onto the aerosol supply system, and / or a temperature sensor configured to detect temperatures associated with the aerosol supply system (e.g., the temperature of the heating assembly, heating element, consumables, aerosol generating material, or the temperature of the environment surrounding the aerosol supply system). Alternatively or additionally, other sensors may be provided, such as a consumable detection sensor configured to detect when a consumable engages with the aerosol supply device (e.g., is at least partially received by the aerosol supply device), a consumable identification sensor configured to detect characteristics of the consumable (e.g., characteristics of the aerosol generating material of the consumable), a biometric sensor configured to detect user-related biometric characteristics (e.g., fingerprint, heart rate, respiratory characteristics), or any other suitable and desired sensor.

[0090] The aerosol generating device may include one or more output components for providing output to a user. The one or more output components may include a lamp (such as an LED), a speaker, a tactile component, a display (such as a screen), or any combination thereof.

[0091] The aerosol generating device may include a controller (control circuit) for performing any of the following: receiving (and processing) input from a user (from one or more input components), receiving (and processing) data from one or more sensors, providing output to the user (via one or more output components), and controlling the supply of electricity to the heating components.

[0092] The aerosol generating apparatus may include one or more components for wireless communication with external devices (e.g., mobile phones, computers, remote servers). This may include wireless communication modules, such as Bluetooth modules (e.g., Bluetooth Low Energy modules), ZigBee modules, WiFi modules (e.g., WiFi Direct modules), 2G modules, 3G modules, 4G modules, 5G modules, LTE modules, NFC modules, RFID modules, optical communication modules configured to transmit data using optical signals, audio communication modules configured to transmit data using audio signals, or other wireless communication modules. In such an embodiment, the controller may control the transmission of data to the external device and receive (and process) data received from the external device.

[0093] In all aspects of this disclosure, the aerosol supply device includes a power source.

[0094] In this implementation, the power source is an electrical power source (e.g., a battery). The power source can be provided for (the aerosol supply device can be configured to transmit power from the power source) supplying power to at least one component of the aerosol supply device.

[0095] In particular, in various aspects of this disclosure, both a power supply and a support are provided, the support being configured to maintain the electrical connector of the aerosol supply device electrically connected to the power supply (thereby facilitating power supply to one or more components of the aerosol supply device). Embodiments for such a configuration will be described in more detail below.

[0096] It should be noted that, if necessary, other power sources (in addition to those described herein) may be provided. For example, an exothermic power source may be provided that provides electricity in the form of heat (e.g., when the carbon matrix of the power source is energized). Such a power source can be used to directly heat the aerosol-generating material or to heat transfer materials near the exothermic power source.

[0097] Embodiments of this disclosure can be used in conjunction with any suitable and desired form of aerosol supply device and system (e.g., having any of the features described herein).

[0098] Figure 1 and Figure 2 Both diagrams show schematic diagrams of an aerosol supply system (hereinafter referred to as "system") 1 according to an embodiment of the present invention. System 1 may be a non-flammable aerosol supply system for generating aerosols from aerosol generating materials 3.

[0099] Figure 3 The possible configurations of various components of the aerosol supply system 1 in embodiments of this disclosure are shown in more detail. Figure 3 In the diagram, the housing 10 of the system is shown as transparent to allow a view of the internal components of the device; however, it will be understood that the housing 10 may be opaque in practice.

[0100] System 1 includes an aerosol supply device (hereinafter referred to as "device") 2 and an aerosol generating material 3. Device 2 may be, for example, a non-flammable aerosol supply device 2 having any of the above-described features. The aerosol generating material 3 may be in solid, liquid, and / or gel form.

[0101] In this embodiment, device 2 is configured to include aerosol generating material 3 (which is, for example, a "one-piece" device / system having any of the features described above), such as... Figure 1 As shown. In one embodiment, the device includes (within the housing 10 of the forming device 2) a reservoir 4 for holding (containing) the aerosol generating material 3 (e.g., for holding the aerosol generating material as a liquid).

[0102] Alternatively, the aerosol generating material 3 may form the portion of the article 5 received by the device 2, for example, such as Figure 2As shown. Such an implementation can be considered to form a "two-piece" system, for example, having any of the features described above. The device 2 can be configured to receive the article 5 in an article receiving portion 6 of the device 2, which can be at least partially comprised of the housing 10 or a component attached to or inserted therein. The aerosol generating material 3 provided in the article 5 can be in solid, liquid, and / or gel form within the article 5.

[0103] In one embodiment, device 2 is disposable, for example, configured to be disposed of after the aerosol generating material 3 has been depleted. Therefore, in one embodiment, device 2 includes a reservoir 4 for storing the aerosol generating material 3, which is not configured to be refilled by a user. In one embodiment (as will be discussed in more detail below), the power supply 30 of the disposable device can be removed from device 2 for safe disposal or recycling.

[0104] Alternatively, device 2 can be configured to be reusable. For example, the reservoir 4 containing aerosol-generating material can be refilled by the user, or device 2 can be configured to receive a continuous article 5 containing aerosol-generating material. In such an embodiment, power supply 30 can (still) be removed from device 2 for safe disposal or recycling (when the user ultimately wishes to dispose of device 2). Similarly, power supply 30 can be removable (e.g., in the case of a rechargeable battery) for recharging purposes.

[0105] Apparatus 2 will typically include a heating device 7 for heating the aerosol-generating material 3. The heating device can be configured in any suitable and desirable manner.

[0106] The heating device 7 may include, for example, a resistance heating device or an induction heating device.

[0107] In this embodiment, device 2 (itself) includes a heating device. This is used, for example, when the aerosol-generating material 3 (such as...) itself... Figure 1 The device 2 (shown) may be located within or near the reservoir 4 containing the aerosol generating material 3, for example, to heat the aerosol generating material within the reservoir, or to heat the aerosol generating material as it is conveyed (e.g., wicked) past the heating element. The heating device may include one or more resistance heating elements, or, in the case of an induction heating device, a magnetic field generator (e.g., a coil through which current flows) and a sensor (which is heated by the magnetic field).

[0108] For the device 2 configured to receive articles (such as...) Figure 2As shown, the heating device 7 may include one or more resistance heating elements near the article receiving portion 6, configured to heat the article when it is received in the article receiving portion 6. Alternatively, the heating device 7 may be at least partially disposed in the article 5 (e.g., where the article includes a sensor heated by a magnetic field generated by the article, or the article itself includes one or more resistance heating elements).

[0109] Other heating devices are also possible.

[0110] The device may include one or more input components for receiving input from a user. For example, Figure 1 , Figure 2 and Figure 5 A dial 8 is shown, which can be used to select the operating mode of the device. Other input components are also possible, such as any one or more of the following: buttons, switches, microphones, cameras, accelerometers, touchscreens, or combinations thereof. One or more input components can be assigned to perform functions such as turning the aerosol supply device on and off and selecting the operating mode of the aerosol supply system.

[0111] Although not shown in the figure, the device may include one or more output components for providing output to a user, such as a lamp, speaker, tactile component, or display. Although not shown in the figure, the device may include one or more sensors (e.g., as described above). Although not shown in the figure, the device may include one or more components for wireless communication.

[0112] The device may also include a controller (control circuit) 9, which may be operatively coupled to one or more (other) components of the device. For example, the controller may be configured to perform any of the following: receive (and process) inputs from one or more input components 8, receive (and process) data from one or more sensors, control outputs provided by one or more output components, and control the supply of power to the heating assembly 7.

[0113] For ease of illustration, the connections between controller 9 and other components of the device are not shown in the figure, but it will be understood that these components can be connected in any suitable and desirable manner.

[0114] Device 2 may include a housing 10 (outer shell, sometimes referred to as the body) that houses (encloses) various parts of device 2, such as controller 9, heating assembly 7, and reservoir 4 containing liquid aerosol generating material 3. The housing may be formed of any suitable material, such as plastic or metal.

[0115] In this embodiment, device 2 is a handheld electronic atomizing device, meaning that the size and configuration of housing 10 are designed to be held in the user's hand. In other words, in this embodiment, the device is portable.

[0116] The device 2 may include a nozzle 7 through which a user can draw in the aerosol generated by the aerosol generating material 3.

[0117] According to various aspects of this disclosure, the aerosol supply device 2 includes (in embodiments configured to receive) a power source 30 (electrical power supply) for supplying power to one or more components of the aerosol supply device. In other words, the power source is configured to supply electrical power for consumption by at least one electrical component of the device 2.

[0118] One or more components powered by power supply 30 may include any suitable and desired (electrical) components of device 2, such as one or more input components 8, one or more output components, one or more components for wireless communication, heating device 7, and controller 9.

[0119] In an embodiment where the device 2 is configured to receive the article 5, the power supply 30 can also supply power to one or more components of the article 5 (the device can be configured such that the power supply 30 supplies power to them).

[0120] In one embodiment, power source 30 supplies power to heating device 7 of (at least) the device and / or article.

[0121] In this embodiment, the power source 30 is a battery. The battery can be either non-rechargeable or rechargeable.

[0122] Examples of suitable batteries include, for example, lithium batteries (such as lithium-ion batteries), nickel batteries (such as nickel-cadmium batteries), and alkaline batteries.

[0123] In one embodiment, the aerosol supply device 2 includes a power receiving portion 12 (power receiving portion, cavity) in which power 30 is supplied (or can be received).

[0124] In this embodiment, when the aerosol supply device 2 is equipped with a power source (battery), no part of the power source (battery) extends outside the housing 10 of the aerosol supply device 2. In other words, the power source 30 can be entirely housed (received) within the aerosol supply device 2.

[0125] The power source (therefore) forms an internal (rather than external) power source for the aerosol supply device. Therefore, in this embodiment, the power source is provided as a part of the handheld aerosol supply device (which can be received therein).

[0126] In this embodiment, the aerosol supply device does not include a charging interface for receiving power from an external power source.

[0127] In this embodiment, the power source 30 is removable from the aerosol supply device (it is a removable power source). Therefore, the power source 30 can be received within the device 2 and removed from it. For example, the power source can be removable for the purpose of safe disposal (e.g., when disposing of the aerosol supply device), or for replacement or recharging (in the case of a reusable aerosol supply device). In this case, the power source is removable without damaging it.

[0128] In one embodiment, device 2 (its power receiving portion 12) includes an opening 13 into which power 30 is received (inserted) (and through which power can be removed). Power can be inserted through the opening 13 toward the distal end 14 of the power receiving portion 12. Thus, the power receiving portion 12 can be defined between the opening 13 and the distal end 14 (extending between the opening and the distal end).

[0129] In an embodiment, the power supply 30 can be inserted into and / or removed from the bottom side 15 of the device 2 (e.g., as shown in the image). Figure 4 (As shown). This avoids conflict with other components of the device, such as the mouthpiece 7, the reservoir 4 or the article receiving portion 6, and any of the heating devices 7. Therefore, in this embodiment, the power supply 30 is arranged towards the bottom end 15 of the device 2 through its insertion / removal opening 13.

[0130] In this respect, compared with the upper side (end) 16 of the device 4 which faces upward (towards the user's mouth) during use, the bottom side (end) 15 of the device 4 is configured to face downward (away from the user's mouth) during use.

[0131] Alternatively, if desired, the device can be configured such that the power supply 30 can be inserted and / or removed from a side other than the bottom side 15.

[0132] In the embodiment (in use), the power supply 30 is covered (at least partially, in the embodiment completely) by a portion 17 of the housing 10 of the device 2 through its insertion / removal opening 13, which in the embodiment is removable for accessing (inserting and / or removing) the power supply 30.

[0133] In one embodiment, the removable portion 17 of the housing 10 includes at least a portion (and in one embodiment, the entirety) of the bottom end 15 of the housing 10. Therefore, in one embodiment, at least a portion (and in one embodiment, the entirety) of the bottom end of the device 2 is removable for the purpose of accessing the power source 30.

[0134] When the power supply 30 is located within the device 2, the power supply can have any suitable and desired shape and any suitable and desired orientation.

[0135] In an embodiment, the power source 30 has a substantially cylindrical or cubic shape (which is typically the case for a battery, for example). The power source 30 may extend along its length (in its longitudinal direction L) between a first longitudinal end and a second longitudinal end (longitudinally spaced ends) 31, 32, and may have a circular or square cross-sectional shape (extending in its transverse direction T). The power source 30 may be elongated because its length dimension (measured in the longitudinal direction L) is greater than its transverse dimension (measured in the transverse direction T).

[0136] In one embodiment, the power supply 30 is inserted into the device 2 along its longitudinal direction L (first the longitudinal end 32 of the power supply is inserted, and then the rest of the power supply 30 is inserted). Therefore, in one embodiment, the power receiving portion 12 of the device 2 is configured to receive the power supply 30 inserted along its longitudinal direction L.

[0137] In one embodiment, the power receiving portion 12 has a longitudinal direction L' and a transverse direction T', which coincide with the longitudinal direction L and transverse direction T of the power supply 30. In another embodiment, the power receiving portion 12 has a length and transverse dimension sufficient to accommodate (in this embodiment, fully accommodate) the power supply 30.

[0138] The power receiving portion 12 may include a power holding member (holder) 18 for holding the power source 30 in a desired position and / or orientation when received. For example, the holding member 18 may be located (or toward) the distal end 14 of the power receiving portion 12 for holding the power source 30 when it is (fully) inserted (the distal end 14 is the end of the receiving portion 12 opposite to its opening 13).

[0139] In the example shown in the figure, the retaining member 18 includes a pair of arms 19 to retain (clamp) at least a portion of the power source toward its distal end when the power source 30 is inserted. However, other configurations for the retaining member 18 may be used if desired (e.g., having fewer or more arms, or including a cylindrical or cubic sleeve in which the power source is inserted, or other suitable and desirable configurations).

[0140] In use, when power source 30 is provided, power source 30 supplies power to one or more components of the aerosol supply device 2 via one or more electrical connectors 20. Therefore, in this embodiment, device 2 includes one or more electrical connectors 20 for electrical connection to power source 30. The electrical connectors 20 can be of any suitable and desirable form.

[0141] In this embodiment, two electrical connectors 20 are provided. In this case, the first electrical connector can be connected to the positive terminal of the power supply 30, and the second electrical connector can be connected to the negative terminal of the power supply 30. Alternatively, a different number of electrical connectors can be provided if desired.

[0142] In one embodiment, each electrical connector 20 extends into the power receiving portion 12 of the device 2 for electrical connection to the power source 30. In another embodiment, each electrical connector is formed of a conductive material (such as metal) (at least partially, and in this embodiment entirely).

[0143] In this embodiment, each electrical connector 20 has a longitudinal extent and thus extends (protrudes) along its length (along its longitudinal direction L”). For example, such electrical connectors are pin-type (pin) connectors and sleeve connectors. In this embodiment, the electrical connector has a lateral extent (in its lateral direction T”) corresponding to a substantially circular cross-sectional shape; however, other cross-sectional shapes (e.g., polygonal, square, rectangular, star, etc.) may be used if desired.

[0144] Each electrical connector 20 may be adjustable (movable) in its longitudinal (length) direction L”. For example, each electrical connector 20 may have an adjustable longitudinal range, such as having an adjustable length, such as being extendable and / or retractable, such as being spring-loaded. An example of such an electrical connector is a spring pin connector. Such a configuration can provide tolerances to help obtain a good electrical connection to the power source. However, according to this disclosure, such adjustable connectors are unnecessary because (as will be discussed in more detail below) this disclosure provides supports for supporting the electrical connectors and maintaining the electrical connection between the electrical connectors and the power source, which in embodiments provide longitudinal and / or lateral tolerances for the electrical connection.

[0145] In this implementation, each electrical connector 20 is rigid (and does not have an adjustable longitudinal and / or lateral range).

[0146] Each electrical connector 20 can be disposed within the device 2 in any suitable and desired configuration to allow electrical connection to a power source.

[0147] In this embodiment, each electrical connector 20 is rigidly mounted in the device 2 (and cannot move in its longitudinal direction L” and / or lateral direction T”).

[0148] In one embodiment, electrical connectors 20 (two in one embodiment, all electrical connectors 20 in one embodiment) are positioned toward the distal end 14 of the power receiving portion 12 (at the distal end in one embodiment), such that the power supply 30 forms an electrical connection with the electrical connectors 20 only when it is substantially fully inserted into the power receiving portion 12. In this respect, there may be no electrical connector for connecting to the power supply 30 near the opening 13.

[0149] In this implementation, all electrical connectors 20 are positioned (and therefore) near the (single) longitudinal end 32 of the power supply.

[0150] In one embodiment, the electrical connector 20 extends into the power receiving portion 12. In another embodiment, the electrical connector extends substantially along the longitudinal direction L of the power receiving portion 12.

[0151] In one embodiment, the longitudinal direction L of the electrical connector (along which the electrical connector extends) is substantially the same as the longitudinal direction L' of the power receiving portion 12 and / or the longitudinal direction L of the power supply 30. In another embodiment, the lateral direction T” of the electrical connector is substantially the same as the lateral direction T' of the power receiving portion 12 and / or the lateral direction T of the power supply 30.

[0152] Electrical connectors can be disposed in device 2 in any suitable and desirable manner. For example, electrical connector 20 can be disposed (mounted) on one or more printed circuit boards (PCBs) 21 (in this embodiment, both are disposed on the same PCB). The PCB can then provide connections to one or more components of device 2 powered by power supply 30.

[0153] The applicant has recognized that a reliable electrical connection between the power supply and the electrical connector of the aerosol supply device is important for the reliable functioning of the aerosol supply device. This may be particularly applicable to devices with a power supply configured to be removed, but also to devices with a non-removable power supply.

[0154] In this regard, in addition to the power supply 30 and the electrical connector 20, this disclosure also provides a support 40 for supporting the electrical connector 20, the support being configured to maintain the electrical connector 20 electrically connected to the power supply 30. The applicant has recognized that a reliable electrical connection can be achieved by providing something such as a support.

[0155] Figure 1 and Figure 2 The position of the support 40 relative to the power supply 30 and the electrical connector 20 is illustrated illustratively with reference to an exemplary embodiment. Figure 6A and Figure 6B Embodiments of the shape and configuration of the support member 40 relative to the power supply 30 are shown in more detail, and Figure 7A and Figure 7B The configuration and position of the electrical connector are shown when the electrical connector 20 is maintained in electrical connection with the power supply 30.

[0156] In this embodiment, the support member 40 is (only) configured (provided) at (a single) longitudinal end 32 of the power supply 30 (adjacent to it). In this embodiment, the support member does not extend longitudinally along any part of the power supply (does not extend along any longitudinal side 33 of the power supply). In this embodiment, the support member 40 is located at the longitudinal end 32 of the power supply, which is (firstly) inserted into the device 2 and is adjacent to the distal end 14 of the power receiving portion 12 of the device in use.

[0157] The support member has a lateral range in the embodiment that spans at least a portion (at least 50% in the embodiment, at least 70% in the embodiment, at least 80% in the embodiment, and substantially all) of the lateral dimension of the longitudinal end 32 of the power source.

[0158] The size and / or shape of the support member 40 can therefore be designed to be positioned at the (longitudinal) end 32 of the power supply 30. In an embodiment, the support member does not extend laterally beyond the extent of the end 32 (outer periphery) of the power supply.

[0159] The support member 40 may be substantially planar in shape (except for, for example, any recesses or protrusions on its planar surface, such as those for receiving or otherwise contacting the electrical connector 20 or for holding the support member in place, as discussed in more detail below). In this respect, the shape of the support member 40 may not be substantially curved (e.g., not zigzag or parabolic).

[0160] In an implementation, at least one side, such as at least the bottom side of the support 40 (which is adjacent to and faces the power source), is substantially flat.

[0161] The support member may have a lateral direction T”' and a longitudinal direction L”', which may correspond to the lateral directions T, T’, T” and the longitudinal directions L, L’, L” of the power supply 30 and / or the power receiving part 12 and / or the electrical connector 20.

[0162] In this embodiment, the (maximum) lateral dimension (width, w) of the support member 40 (in the direction T”’, and therefore in the direction of the plane of the support member 40) is greater than the (maximum) longitudinal dimension (height, h) of the support member 40 (in the longitudinal direction L”’). Therefore, in this embodiment, the support member 40 extends primarily in its lateral direction T”’.

[0163] In one embodiment, the (maximum) lateral dimension (width, w) of the support member is approximately 10 mm to approximately 20 mm. In another embodiment, the (maximum) longitudinal dimension (height, h) of the support member is approximately 1 mm to approximately 10 mm.

[0164] As described above, the power supply 30 may have a cylindrical or cubic shape with a substantially circular or rectangular longitudinal end 32. In this case, at least a portion of the support 40 (e.g., at least the central portion 41) may have a circular or rectangular shape so as to at least partially match the shape of the longitudinal end of the power supply 30.

[0165] In one embodiment, at least the central portion 41 of the support member 40 is substantially planar. In another embodiment, the entire support member 40 is substantially planar.

[0166] In one embodiment, the support 40 is configured to receive the electrical connector 20 to help maintain the electrical connector's electrical connection to the power supply 30.

[0167] In one embodiment, the support 40 includes one or more recesses 42 for receiving (configured to receive) the electrical connector 20. In such an embodiment, during use, the electrical connector extends into the recess 42 (and is supported within the recess 42 by the surrounding material of the support 40).

[0168] In one embodiment, a corresponding recess 42 is provided for receiving each electrical connector 20 (such that in one embodiment, two recesses 42 are respectively provided for the first electrical connector and the second electrical connector 20).

[0169] Alternatively, a single recess 42 may be provided for receiving two electrical connectors 20.

[0170] In the implementation, the shape of each recess 42 (at least for a portion of the longitudinal range (height) of the recess) substantially corresponds to the shape of the outer periphery of the electrical connector 20 it receives (e.g., in the case of an electrical connector with a circular cross-section).

[0171] In one embodiment, each recess 42 contacts (and thus supports) the electrical connector 20 substantially around its entire lateral periphery (at least a portion along the length (longitudinal direction L”) of the electrical connector.

[0172] Alternatively, the recess 42 can be shaped such that it does not perfectly match (correspond to) the outer periphery of the electrical connector. In this way, the recess can (only) contact (and support) a portion (rather than the entire lateral periphery) of the electrical connector 20. This still provides sufficient support for the electrical connector.

[0173] In one embodiment, the support 40 is configured to contact at least a portion of the lateral periphery of the electrical connector to support the electrical connector and prevent lateral movement.

[0174] In this embodiment, the recess 42 (one or both recesses 42) extends through a portion (but not the entire) of the support 40 (along its longitudinal direction L”). In other words, the recess extends partially, but not completely, through the thickness (height, h) of the support. Therefore, in this embodiment, the recess 42 does not form a through-hole in the support 40. Alternatively, it is possible to provide a through-hole as the recess 42 if desired.

[0175] In one embodiment, to facilitate insertion of the electrical connector 20 into the recess 42 (and to provide tolerance during insertion), each recess 42 has a tapered opening 44 that widens toward the entrance of the recess. Therefore, in one embodiment, the opening 44 of the recess 42 is larger than the (lateral) dimension of the electrical connector 20 it receives.

[0176] In one embodiment, one or more electrical connectors 20 are supported within corresponding recesses 42 of the support member 40, but do not directly contact the power source. In another embodiment, additional electrical connectors 43 (e.g., wires) are disposed within each recess 42 and are in electrical contact with the power source.

[0177] When the positive and negative terminals are located at opposite ends of the power supply 30 (e.g., in the case of a battery), providing additional electrical connectors 43 (e.g., wires) can facilitate connection to both the positive and negative terminals of the power supply 30, respectively. In this regard, in an embodiment, an additional first electrical connector (wire) 43 that makes electrical contact with the positive terminal of the power supply 30 is provided in the first recess 42, and an additional second electrical connector (wire) 43 that makes electrical contact with the negative terminal of the power supply is provided in the second recess 42.

[0178] The support 40 can be configured such that an additional electrical connector 43 (e.g., a wire) is at least partially retained within the support 40. For example, the support may include one or more additional recesses 44 in which the additional electrical connector 43 (wire) is provided. This can provide a compact design.

[0179] In this embodiment, the support member 40 is non-conductive and therefore does not conduct electrical energy between the electrical connector 20 and the power supply 30. In this embodiment, the support member is formed essentially entirely of a non-conductive (electrically insulating) material.

[0180] In this implementation, the support 40 can move and / or deform relative to the electrical connector 20. This can help provide tolerance for the electrical connection between the electrical connector and the power supply 30.

[0181] In this embodiment, the support member 40 is (at least) capable of lateral movement and / or deformation relative to the electrical connector 20 (range). Therefore, in this embodiment, the support member 40 is (at least) capable of movement and / or deformation in its lateral direction T”' (in this embodiment, at least capable of movement and / or deformation in the lateral directions T, T', T” of the power supply 30 and / or the power receiving portion 12 and / or the electrical connector 20).

[0182] In this embodiment, the support is at least partially formed of an elastic material. In this respect, the elastic material is a material configured to deform and at least partially (and substantially completely in this embodiment) return to its original shape. In this embodiment, the elastic material includes one or more of the following: silicone and rubber.

[0183] In one embodiment (e.g., as shown in the figure), the entire support member 40 is formed of an elastic material. For example, and in another embodiment, the entire support member 40 may be formed (only) of a single piece (monolithic) elastic material. This provides a relatively inexpensive and simple configuration.

[0184] However, it is also possible to make a portion (but not all) of the support 40 formed of an elastic material. Therefore, in embodiments, the support includes both elastic and inelastic (rigid) materials (such as plastics, ceramics, resins, metals, or other materials).

[0185] For example, the central portion 41 of the support member may be formed of an inelastic (rigid) material, and the circumferentially outer portion (e.g., the rest) of the support member 40 may be formed of an elastic material. Alternatively, for example, the central portion 41 may be formed of an elastic material, and the circumferentially outer portion (e.g., the rest) of the support member 40 may be formed of an inelastic (rigid) material.

[0186] In an embodiment, one or more portions of the support 40 are formed of an elastic material, such as one or more or all of the following: the portion of the support forming the recess 42; the portion of the support adjacent to (but not necessarily forming) the recess 42; the central portion 41 of the support 40; and the portion of the support forming at least a portion of the (laterally outermost) periphery 46 of the support.

[0187] In one embodiment, the support 40 includes one or more deformable elements 49 configured to assist in the deformation of the support, preferably in the lateral deformation of the support (in its lateral direction T”').

[0188] In one embodiment, the deformable element 49 is formed of an elastic material (e.g., formed in or corresponding to the elastic material of the support 40).

[0189] For example, in an embodiment where at least a portion of the central portion 41 of the support 40 is formed of an inelastic material and the circumferentially outer portion of the support (e.g., at the periphery of the support) is formed of an elastic material (or, for example, the material at the periphery of the support is more elastic than elsewhere in the support), the (more) elastic material can be considered to form the deformable element 49 of the support.

[0190] In one embodiment, the deformable element 49 is disposed at (or near) the (lateral) periphery 46 of the support 40.

[0191] In this respect, in the implementation, the support 40 is more likely to deform at its periphery 46 than at its center.

[0192] This can be configured in any suitable and desired manner. For example, deformable elements including one or more notches 48 and / or protrusions 47 can be disposed at the periphery of the support. Alternatively or additionally, deformable elements comprising a different, more elastic material can be disposed at (near) the periphery 46 of the support, which is more elastic than the material disposed closer to the center of the support 40. Alternatively or additionally, deformable elements can be provided by providing a material that is thinner at (towards the center) of the support 40 than the material at (towards the center).

[0193] In one embodiment, the deformable element includes one or more recesses 48 (e.g., slots) and / or protrusions 47 (e.g., teeth) located at the periphery 46 of the support 40.

[0194] In one embodiment, the notch 48 and / or the protrusion 47 each extend substantially through the entire height h (the entire longitudinal dimension L”’) of the support 40. However, alternatively, the notch and / or protrusion may be provided that extend only over a portion (rather than the entire) of the height of the support 40.

[0195] The notch 48 and / or protrusion 47 can have any suitable and desired shape. For example, and in an embodiment, the notch and / or protrusion (when viewed from the top or bottom of the support 40) can have a substantially rectangular shape (which can form corresponding rectangular teeth). In such an embodiment, the support 40 provided with a plurality of notches and / or protrusions can be formed in a gear shape (e.g., as shown in the image). Figure 6A and Figure 6B (As shown).

[0196] Alternatively or additionally, other shapes of notches and / or protrusions are also possible, such as triangles, polygons, curves, etc.

[0197] For example, the support member 40 can be provided with undulating, wavy, or Z-shaped patterns of notches 48 and protrusions 47.

[0198] In one embodiment, the deformable element 49 includes a pattern of multiple notches 48 and / or multiple protrusions 47 spaced apart around the periphery 46 of the support 40.

[0199] Therefore, in the embodiment, the support 40 is patterned around its (lateral) periphery 46.

[0200] Multiple notches 48 and / or multiple protrusions 47 may be spaced substantially evenly around the perimeter 46 of the support 40. This can help to allow the support 40 to deform uniformly in any lateral direction.

[0201] In one embodiment, the support member 40 includes at least two, at least three, at least four, or at least five recesses 48. In another embodiment, the support member 40 includes fewer than twenty recesses, and in yet another embodiment, fewer than fifteen recesses 48.

[0202] In one embodiment, the support member 40 includes at least two, at least three, at least four, or at least five protrusions 47. In another embodiment, the support member 40 includes fewer than twenty recesses, and in yet another embodiment, fewer than fifteen protrusions 47.

[0203] For example, in Figure 6A and Figure 6B In the embodiment shown, the support member 40 includes twelve recesses 48 and twelve protrusions 47.

[0204] In the implementation, the size of (each) notch 48 (this size is, for example, the width W of the notch measured along the perimeter 46) i ) different from the size of (each) protrusion 47 (this size is, for example, the width W of the protrusion measured along the perimeter 46). p ).

[0205] In the implementation, the size (width W) of each notch 48 i ) Greater than the dimension (width W) of (each) protrusion 47 p In other words, in the implementation, the size (width W) of each protrusion 47 is... p The size (width W) of each notch is less than 48. i ).

[0206] In the implementation, the dimension (width W) of each protrusion 47 is... p The size (width W) of each notch is less than 48. i 50% of the size of (each) notch 48 (width W) in the implementation. i 40% of the width of the protrusion. Limiting the width of the protrusion in this way can help provide good deformability for the support 40.

[0207] In the implementation, the size (width Wp) of each protrusion 47 is less than 25%, less than 20%, less than 15%, or less than 10% of the perimeter of the support 40 (or, in the case of a substantially circular shape, the perimeter of the outermost circumference of the support).

[0208] Although the aforementioned deformable element 49 includes a notch 48 and / or a protrusion 47 located at the periphery 46 of the support 40, alternatively or additionally, the deformable element 49 may be provided within the body of the support 40 (away from its periphery 46).

[0209] Therefore, in this embodiment, one or more deformable elements 49 are disposed within the body of the support 40 (away from its periphery 46). Such deformable elements 49 can have any suitable and desired shape, location, and configuration that allows the support 40 to deform laterally. For example, the deformable element 49 may include a recess, through-hole, or cavity within the structure of the support. The deformable element may have a substantially circular, square, or elongated shape, or other suitable and desired shape. The deformable element 49 may be positioned toward the periphery 46 of the support 40, or, if necessary, toward the center of the support 40.

[0210] The support 40 can be located directly on the power supply 30 (no other components are provided between the support 40 and the power supply 30, and for example, no components hold the support 40 in place at the longitudinal end of the power supply 30). However, in an embodiment, a retainer 50 is provided for holding the support 40 in place relative to the power supply 30.

[0211] In one embodiment, the retainer 50 is configured to restrict the lateral and / or longitudinal movement of the support 40 (to restrict the movement of the support 40 in the longitudinal direction L, L' or the lateral direction T, T' of the power supply 30 and / or power receiving portion 12 of the device).

[0212] In one embodiment, the retainer 50 is formed of an inelastic and non-flexible (rigid) material (e.g., such as plastic, resin, ceramic, etc.). In another embodiment, the retainer is non-conductive.

[0213] In one embodiment, the retainer 50 extends around at least a portion (in this embodiment around the entire periphery) of the (lateral) periphery 46 of the support 40. For example, at least a portion of the retainer 50 may form a circular or rectangular ring 51 around the periphery 46 of the support 40. This can help limit the movement of the support 40 in the lateral direction T of the power supply 30.

[0214] In one embodiment, the support 40 is configured such that at least a portion of its periphery 46 corresponds to one or more (or all) of the protrusions 47 of the retainer 50 (e.g., where the retainer 50 surrounds the support 40 circumferentially). Additionally, at least a portion of the periphery 46 of the support 40 corresponds to one or more (at least some) of the recesses 48 that do not contact the retainer 50 (where the retainer 50 surrounds the support circumferentially). In this way, the support 40 can remain undeformed around the recesses 48 or prevent deformation of the recesses.

[0215] Therefore, in one embodiment, each of the protrusions 47 located at the periphery of the support 40 contacts the retainer 50 for the support 40 circumferentially. In another embodiment, one or more (at least some) recesses 48 in the periphery of the support 40 do not contact the retainer 50 circumferentially.

[0216] In one embodiment, the retainer 50 extends at least partially above and / or below the support 40. In other words, the retainer extends at least partially on the lateral (planar) surface of the support. This can help limit out-of-plane (longitudinal, upward, and / or downward) movement of the support 40.

[0217] In one embodiment, at least a portion 52 of the retainer 50 is disposed between the support 40 and the power supply 30.

[0218] In one embodiment, at least a portion 53 of the retainer 50 is disposed on the opposite side of the support 40 relative to the power source 30 (in use, on top of the support 40) to hold the support 40 against the power source 30 (and, for example, to prevent the support 40 from falling off the power source 30). This portion 53 may be configured, for example, as one or more clamping elements, such as those extending laterally inward from the ring 51 formed by the retainer 50.

[0219] In one embodiment, at least a portion 53 of the retainer 50 clamps the support to restrict out-of-plane (upward and / or downward) movement of the support.

[0220] An exemplary configuration of the retainer 50 can be found in Figure 6A , Figure 6B , Figure 7A and Figure 7B This shows that other configurations are also possible.

[0221] As described above, the power supply 30 can be removed from the device 2, for example, through the opening 13 leading to the power supply receiving portion 12 (and can be inserted therein).

[0222] In one embodiment, the power supply 30 and the support 40 (and optionally the retainer 50 in an embodiment that provides a retainer) can be removed from (and inserted into) the device 2, for example, through the opening 13 leading to the power receiving portion 12 of the device, when the removable cover 17 of the device 2 is removed.

[0223] The device 2 can be configured such that the power supply 30 can be removed before or without removing the support 40 and / or the retainer 50. Similarly, the device 2 can be configured such that the power supply 30 can be inserted into the device independently of the support 40 and / or the retainer 50 (e.g., the support 40 and / or the retainer 50 are installed in the device 2 before the power supply 30 is installed).

[0224] However, in some embodiments, the power supply 30 and the support 40 (and optionally the retainer 50 in embodiments that provide a retainer) are removable (and insertable) together as a removable (and insertable) power module 60 for the device.

[0225] By arranging the power supply 30 and the support 40 together (and optionally, the retainer 50 in an embodiment that provides a retainer), the support 40 can help receive and support the electrical connector 20 when the power supply 30 is inserted into the device, while allowing for component tolerances to maintain electrical connection between the electrical connector and the power supply.

[0226] For example, Figure 4 The diagram illustrates removing the power module 60 from the device 2 by first removing the removable cover 17 and then removing the power module 60 through the opening 13 of the device. These actions can be reversed to insert the power module 60 into the device 2.

[0227] In this regard, in embodiments, this disclosure includes a power module 60 for an aerosol supply device 2, the power module 60 including a power source 30, a support 40, and optionally a retainer 50 (in embodiments providing a retainer), which has any of the features described herein. For example, Figure 6A and Figure 6B An exemplary implementation of the configuration of the power module 60 is shown.

[0228] In one implementation, the power module 60 can be inserted into and / or removed from the aerosol supply device (as a single module), for example, to allow disposal of the power supply 30.

[0229] The power module 60 may include (in addition to the power supply 30, the support 40, and the optional retainer 50) any other suitable and desired components for facilitating the insertion of the power supply 30 into the power supply 30 of the device 2 and / or the removal of the power supply from the device.

[0230] For example, and in an embodiment, the power module 60 may include a housing 61 for the power supply 30. The housing 61 may be configured to protect the power supply 30 from damage. The housing 61 may extend over at least a portion of the surface of the power supply 30, for example, extending over at least the longitudinal side 33 of the power supply 30, for example, completely surrounding the longitudinal side 33 of the power supply 30. For example, the housing 61 may include a circular or rectangular tube.

[0231] The power module 60 may also include a cover 62 for covering the longitudinal end 31 of the power supply 30. The cover 62 may cover the (bottom) longitudinal end 31 of the power supply 30 opposite to the support 40 (at the other end of the power supply, in contrast) (in other words, cover the longitudinal end of the power supply 30 where the support 40 is not located).

[0232] In one embodiment, the end cap 62 includes a securing member 63 for securing the power module 60 (power supply 30) to the device 2 when it is received in the device 2. This configuration provides direct securing of the power module within the device 2, as well as direct release and removal of the power module from the device 2.

[0233] For example (such as) Figure 5 As shown, the bottom cover 62 of the power module 60 may include a fixing member 63 in the form of an extension, which can be fixed to the device 2 or locked to the device, for example.

[0234] Support 40 and / or retainer 50 may form a top cover of power module 60 to cover the top longitudinal end of power supply 30 (and prevent damage).

[0235] Figure 8 This is a flowchart illustrating the method steps for assembling an aerosol supply device according to an embodiment of this disclosure.

[0236] The method includes: when assembly of device 2 is required (step 70), providing a support member 40 for supporting the electrical connector 20 of device 2 (step 71), in an embodiment including receiving the electrical connector 20 in a recess 42 of the support member 40. The method also includes: electrically connecting a power supply 30 to the electrical connector (step 72).

[0237] Device 2, support 40 and power supply 30 may have any of the features described herein.

[0238] Method steps 71 and 72 can be performed in sequence (so that the support 40 is positioned before and separate from the power supply 30).

[0239] Alternatively, and in an implementation, method steps 71 and 72 may be performed simultaneously (in parallel) to simultaneously set the support 40 and the power supply 30 (e.g., by providing a power module 60 that includes the support 40 and the power supply 30).

[0240] In this implementation, the power module is oriented with the support 40 entering the device before the power supply 30 (inserted into the device), and thus the support 40 receives the electrical connector 20 in its recess 42 before the power supply 30 is electrically connected to the electrical connector 20. In this way, the support 40 can help provide tolerance during insertion and allow for a good electrical connection.

[0241] The retainer 50 may also be disposed between the support 40 and the power supply 30 for holding the support 40 in place relative to the power supply 30, and may have, for example, any of the features described herein. In an embodiment, the retainer 50 also forms part of the power module 60.

[0242] The power module 60 may have any of the features described herein.

[0243] The various embodiments described herein are presented solely to aid in understanding and teaching the claimed features. These embodiments are provided only as representative examples of implementations and are not exhaustive and / or exclusive. It should be understood that the advantages, implementations, examples, functions, features, structures, and / or other aspects described herein should not be considered as limitations on the scope of the invention as defined by the claims or on its equivalents, and other embodiments may be utilized and modifications may be made without departing from the scope of the claimed invention. In addition to those specifically described herein, various embodiments of the invention may suitably include, consist of, or substantially consist of suitable combinations of the disclosed elements, components, features, portions, steps, devices, etc. Furthermore, this disclosure may include other inventions not currently claimed but which may be claimed in the future.

Claims

1. An aerosol supply device (2) for generating aerosols from aerosol generating materials, the aerosol supply device comprising: A power supply (30) is provided for supplying power to one or more components of the aerosol supply device (2); An electrical connector (20) for electrical connection to the power source (30); and A support (40) supports the electrical connector (20) and is configured to maintain the electrical connector in electrical connection with the power source (30).

2. The aerosol supply device according to claim 1, wherein, The support (40) can move and / or deform relative to the electrical connector in the lateral direction.

3. The aerosol supply device according to claim 1 or claim 2, wherein, The support (40) is at least partially formed of an elastic material.

4. The aerosol supply device according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein, The support member (40) is formed of an electrically insulating material.

5. The aerosol supply device according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein, The support member (40) includes a recess (42) for receiving the electrical connector (20).

6. The aerosol supply device according to claim 5, wherein, The recess (42) has a tapered opening (44).

7. The aerosol supply device according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein, The support (40) includes one or more deformable elements.

8. The aerosol supply device according to claim 7, wherein, The one or more deformable elements have a pattern of one or more notches and / or one or more protrusions located around the periphery of the support.

9. The aerosol supply device according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein, The support (40) is held by a retainer (50) configured to restrict the movement of the support.

10. The aerosol supply device according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein, The support (40) is disposed adjacent to the end (32) of the power source (30).

11. The aerosol supply device according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein, The support member (40) includes a central portion (41) having a rectangular or circular shape.

12. The aerosol supply device according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein, The power source (30) can be removed from the aerosol supply device (2).

13. An aerosol supply system (1), comprising: The aerosol supply device (2) according to any one of the preceding claims; as well as Aerosol generating materials (3).

14. A power module (60) for an aerosol supply device, the power module comprising: Power supply (30); as well as The support (40) is configured to receive the electrical connector of the aerosol supply device and maintain the electrical connector in electrical connection with the power source (30).

15. A method of assembling an aerosol supply device (2), the aerosol supply device including an electrical connector (20) for electrical connection to a power source (30), the method comprising: A support (40) is provided to support the electrical connector (20) of the aerosol supply device; as well as The power source (30) is electrically connected to the electrical connector (20), and the power source (30) is kept electrically connected to the electrical connector (20) by the support member (40).

Images