Aerosol supply system with electrical contact protection

Abstract

A component of an aerosol supply system, the component connectable to a second component to form the aerosol supply system, the component comprising: a connection portion configured to engage with a connection portion of the second component; an electrical contact associated with the connection portion and arranged to mate with a corresponding electrical contact in the connection portion of the second component when the component is connected with the second component; and a textured surface configured to inhibit passage of liquid through the textured surface, the textured surface disposed adjacent to the electrical contact to inhibit passage of liquid toward the electrical contact.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This disclosure relates to a component of an aerosol supply system having features that provide protection for electrical contacts, and to an aerosol supply system including such a component. Background Technology

[0002] Many aerosol delivery systems (such as e-cigarettes and other electronic nicotine delivery systems that deliver nicotine via vaporized liquid) are designed as two-part systems, comprising two components that can be connected together to form a complete aerosol delivery system. For example, these components may be a cartridge-type component and a device component. The cartridge-type component includes a liquid reservoir to be vaporized by an atomizer within the cartridge to produce an inhalable aerosol for the user; the device component includes a battery for supplying power to the atomizer to operate it for vaporizing the liquid. The cartridge component may be a single-use component supplied with a pre-filled reservoir, or a multi-use component that the user can refill and refill the reservoir with liquid. Cartridge components intended for single or limited use may be referred to as consumables, intended for disposal after use and replacement with new consumables. The device component may be intended for longer-term use to power refillable cartridges that can be refilled multiple times beyond the reservoir, or to power a series of cartridges.

[0003] Both the cartridge component and the device component have connecting portions that can engage and disengage with connecting portions of other components to allow the aerosol supply system to be assembled and disassembled, such as for refilling or replacing the cartridge component or replacing or recharging the battery of the device component. The connections can be made via, for example, threaded connections, bayonet connections, interference fit connections, or magnetic connections.

[0004] The cartridge component is designed to deliver liquid from the reservoir to the atomizer according to vaporization requirements. This is typically achieved via a porous core that absorbs liquid from the reservoir and delivers it to the atomizer via capillary action, which may be an electrically heated element. Liquid may escape from the reservoir without being vaporized by the atomizer (e.g., via an outlet of the reservoir extending through the porous core, or by dripping from a saturated core), or vaporized liquid may recondense from the inhalable aerosol. This can create free liquid within the aerosol supply system. Another source of free liquid is the condensation of water vapor from the air drawn through the aerosol supply system by the user to obtain an aerosol. Liquid from these or other events may be able to move within the aerosol supply system and find a path to a location where its presence is harmful. In the case of a two-component system, an example is the joint between connecting parts that may include electrical contacts for supplying power from a battery in the device component to the atomizer in the cartridge component. Because the components are configured to be separable, such electrical contacts are inevitably exposed within the connection portion. Any liquid reaching the connection portion can therefore reach the electrical contacts and cause corrosion or short circuits.

[0005] Therefore, methods for protecting electrical contacts from liquid exposure within aerosol supply systems are of interest. Summary of the Invention

[0006] According to a first aspect of some embodiments described herein, a component of an aerosol supply system is provided, the component being connectable to a second component to form an aerosol supply system, and the component comprising: a connecting portion configured to engage with a connecting portion of the second component; an electrical contact associated with the connecting portion and arranged to engage with a corresponding electrical contact in the connecting portion of the second component when the component is connected to the second component; and a textured surface configured to inhibit liquid flow through the textured surface, the textured surface being arranged adjacent to the electrical contact to prevent liquid from flowing toward the electrical contact.

[0007] According to a second aspect of some embodiments described herein, an aerosol supply system including components according to the first aspect is provided.

[0008] These and further aspects of certain embodiments are set forth in the appended independent and dependent claims. It should be understood that features of the dependent claims may be combined with each other, and features of the independent claims may be combined with those combinations expressly set forth in the claims. Furthermore, the methods described herein are not limited to the specific embodiments such as those set forth below, but include and are contemplated any suitable combination of features presented herein. For example, a component or an aerosol supply system comprising a component may be provided according to the methods described herein, which, as appropriate, include any one or more of the various features described below. Attached Figure Description

[0009] Various embodiments of the present invention will now be described in detail by way of example only, with reference to the following accompanying drawings, in which: Figure 1 A simplified schematic longitudinal section is shown through an exemplary aerosol supply system to which various aspects of this disclosure may be applied; Figure 2 A simplified schematic longitudinal section is shown of another exemplary aerosol delivery system to which various aspects of this disclosure can be applied, the system including a cartridge component and a device component; Figure 3 A simplified schematic longitudinal section is shown through an end of an exemplary cartridge component and device component having a connection portion in a disassembly configuration, to which various aspects of this disclosure can be applied; Figures 4A to 4C A simplified schematic longitudinal section is shown through the ends of three exemplary components with different constructions of electrical contacts, aspects of which can be applied to the ends; Figure 5 A plan view of an exemplary connection portion of a cartridge component or device component having a surface texture for electrical contact protection, according to a first example, is shown. Figure 6 A plan view of an exemplary connection portion of a cartridge component or device component having a surface texture for electrical contact protection, according to a second example, is shown. Figure 7 A plan view of an exemplary connection portion of a cartridge component or device component having a surface texture for electrical contact protection, according to a third example, is shown. Figures 8A to 8E A highly schematic and non-scaled plan view representation of multiple parts of different instances of a textured surface is shown; Figure 9 and Figure 10 A highly schematic, non-scale cross-sectional view of portions of two instance-textured surfaces is shown; and Figure 11 and Figure 12Photographic images of portions of two exemplary textured surfaces are shown. Detailed Implementation

[0010] This document discusses / 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 apparatus discussed herein that are not described in detail can be implemented according to any conventional techniques used to implement such aspects and features.

[0011] As described above, this disclosure relates to electronic aerosol or vapor supply systems, such as electronic cigarettes. Throughout the following description, the terms "electronic cigarette" and "electronic cigarette" may be used interchangeably; however, it should be understood that these terms are used interchangeably with aerosol (vapor) supply systems or devices. These systems are designed to generate an inhalable aerosol by vaporizing a liquid or gel-like aerosol matrix, which may or may not contain nicotine. Furthermore, mixing systems may include a liquid or gel matrix plus a solid matrix that is also heated. This solid matrix may be, for example, tobacco or other non-tobacco products, which may or may not contain nicotine. As used herein, the term "aerosolizable matrix material" is intended to refer to a matrix material that can be aerosolized by applying heat or some other means. The term "aerosol" is used interchangeably with "vapor."

[0012] As used herein, the term "component" is used to refer to a part, segment, unit, module, assembly, or the like of an electronic cigarette or similar device that may contain several smaller parts or elements within an outer housing or wall. An electronic cigarette may be formed or constructed from one or more such components, and these components may be removably or detachably connected to each other, or may be permanently joined together during manufacturing to define the entire electronic cigarette. The invention is applicable to systems comprising at least two components detachably connected to each other, and configured, for example, to carry an aerosolizable matrix material (cartridge, atomizer, or consumable) of a component holding liquid, or another aerosolizable matrix material, and a control unit or device component having a battery for providing power to operate an element for generating vapor from the matrix material. For the purpose of providing concrete examples, in this disclosure, cartridges or atomizers (cartridge components or consumables) are described as examples of aerosolizable matrix material carrying portions or components; however, this disclosure is not limited in this respect and is applicable to any construction of aerosolizable matrix material carrying portions or components. Furthermore, such a component may include more or fewer components than those included in the example. The same applies to device components.

[0013] This disclosure specifically, but not exclusively, relates to aerosol supply systems and components thereof utilizing aerosolizable matrix materials in liquid or gel form, said aerosolizable matrix materials being held in reservoirs, tanks, containers, or other receivers included in the system. Such systems include arrangements for conveying matrix materials from reservoirs to provide matrix materials for generating vapor / aerosols. The terms “liquid,” “gel,” “fluid,” “source liquid,” “source gel,” “source fluid,” etc., are used interchangeably with “aerosolizable matrix material” and “matrix material” to refer to such aerosolizable matrix material having a form capable of being stored and delivered according to examples of this disclosure.

[0014] Figure 1 This is a height schematic diagram (not to scale) of a typical exemplary aerosol / vapor supply system (such as an electronic cigarette 10), presented for the purpose of illustrating the relationships between the various components of a typical system and explaining the general principles of operation. In this example, the electronic cigarette 10 has a generally elongated shape extending along a longitudinal axis indicated by dashed lines and includes two main components: a control or electrical component, segment or unit (device component) 20, and a cartridge component, assembly, or segment 30 (sometimes referred to as an atomizer or transparent atomizer) that carries an aerosolizable matrix material and operates as a vapor-generating component.

[0015] The cartridge component 30 includes a reservoir 3 containing a source liquid or other aerosolizable matrix material, including formulations such as liquids or gels that generate aerosols, for example, containing nicotine. As an example, the source liquid may contain about 1% to 3% nicotine and 50% glycerin, with the remainder containing approximately equal amounts of water and propylene glycol, and may also contain other components such as flavorings. Nicotine-free source liquids may also be used, for example, to deliver flavorings. A solid matrix (not shown) may also be included, such as a portion of tobacco or other flavoring element, through which vapors generated from the liquid pass. The reservoir 3 is in the form of a storage tank, which may be a container or receiver in which the source liquid can be stored, allowing the liquid to move and flow freely within the boundaries of the storage tank. For consumable cartridge components 30, the reservoir 3 may be sealed during manufacturing after filling so that it is disposable after the source liquid has been consumed; additionally, it may have an inlet port or other opening through which a user can add new source liquid. The cartridge component 30 also includes an electrically powered heating element or heater 4 located outside the reservoir 3 for generating an aerosol by heating and vaporizing the source liquid. It should be noted that in other instances, the source liquid may be generated by an alternative power source (e.g., a vibrating mesh). A liquid transfer or delivery device (liquid delivery element), such as a wick or other porous element 6, may be provided to deliver the source liquid from the reservoir 3 to the heater 4 or other vapor generator. The wick 6 may have one or more portions located inside the reservoir 3 or otherwise in fluid communication with the liquid in the reservoir 3 to absorb the source liquid and transfer it by wicking or capillary action to other portions of the wick 6 adjacent to or in contact with the heater 4. The liquid is thus heated and vaporized to be replaced by fresh source liquid from the reservoir for transfer to the heater 4 via the wick 6. The wick can be considered a bridge, path, or conduit between the reservoir 3 and the heater 4, delivering or transferring liquid from the reservoir to the heater. The terms including conduit, liquid conduit, liquid transfer path, liquid delivery path, liquid transfer mechanism or element, and liquid delivery mechanism or element are used interchangeably herein to refer to the core or the corresponding component or structure.

[0016] The heater and wick (or similar) combination is sometimes referred to as an atomizer or atomizer assembly 7, and the reservoir 3 and its source liquid plus the atomizer 7 can be collectively referred to as an aerosol source. Other terms may include liquid delivery assembly or liquid transport assembly, wherein, in this context, these terms may be used interchangeably to refer to a vapor generating element (vapor generator) plus a wick or similar component or structure (liquid transport element) that delivers or transports liquid obtained from the reservoir to the vapor generator for the generation of vapor / aerosol. Figure 1Compared to the highly schematic representation, various designs are possible, in which components can be arranged differently. For example, the wick 6 can be a completely separate element from the heater 4, or the heater 4 can be configured to be porous and at least a portion (conductive mesh, such as a metal mesh) capable of directly performing the wicking function. In electrical or electronic equipment, the vapor-generating element can be an electrically heated element that operates by ohmic / resistance (joule) heating or by induction heating. Thus, in general, an atomizer can be considered as one or more elements that realize the function of a vapor-generating or vaporizing element capable of generating vapor from a source liquid delivered to the atomizer and a liquid delivery or transporting element capable of delivering or transporting liquid from a reservoir or similar liquid reservoir to the vapor generator by wicking action / capillary force. Atomizers are typically housed in the cartridge component of an aerosol generating system. In some designs, liquid can be dispensed directly from the reservoir to the vapor generator without the need for separate wicking or capillary elements. Embodiments of this disclosure apply to all and any such configurations consistent with the examples and descriptions herein.

[0017] return Figure 1 The cartridge component 30 also includes a mouthpiece or mouthpiece portion 35 having an opening or aerosol outlet through which the user inhales the aerosol generated by the atomizer 7. In other designs, the mouthpiece may be provided as a separate component, which may be permanently or detachably attached to the cartridge component 30.

[0018] The device or device component 20 includes a unit or battery 5 (hereinafter referred to as a battery, and which may be rechargeable) to provide power to the electrical components of the electronic cigarette 10, particularly operating the heater 4. Additionally, a controller 28 is present for overall control of the electronic cigarette, such as a printed circuit board and / or other electronic devices or circuits. When vapor is desired, the control electronics / circuit 28 uses power from the battery 5 to operate the heater 4, for example in response to a signal from an inhalation air pressure sensor or airflow sensor (“inhalation sensor”, not shown) on the detection system 10, during which air enters through one or more air inlets 26 in the wall of the device component 20. When the heating element 4 is operated, it vaporizes the source liquid supplied from the reservoir 3 via the liquid delivery element 6 to generate an aerosol, which the user then inhales through an opening in the mouthpiece 35. As the user inhales at the mouthpiece 35, the aerosol travels along one or more airflow channels connecting the air inlets 26 to the aerosol source. Figure 1(Not shown) The air is transported from the aerosol source to the mouthpiece 35. In this example, since the system's air inlet 26 is located within the device component 20, the cartridge component 30 has its own air inlet in airflow communication with the device component 20, allowing air drawn in through the device component's air inlet 26 to reach the interior of the cartridge component 30 and the atomizer 7. In other designs, the air inlet may be located in the outer wall of the cartridge component 30, allowing air to enter the cartridge component 30 directly, rather than via the device component 20.

[0019] In this example related to the present disclosure, the device component (control unit) 20 and the cartridge component (atomizer, consumable) 30 are separate connectable components that are detachable from each other and reattachable by moving along a direction parallel to the longitudinal axis, such as... Figure 1 As indicated by the double-headed arrows in the diagram. Each component 20, 30 has a connecting portion 21, 31 at its corresponding end facing the other component, and when the aerosol supply system 10 is ready for use or in use, components 20, 30 are connected together by cooperative engaging elements (e.g., screw or bayonet engagement, push-in engagement, snap-fit ​​engagement, or magnetic connection) at the connecting portions 21, 31, which provide mechanical communication between the device component 20 and the cartridge component 30, and in this case, electrical communication. If the heater 4 operates by ohmic heating, or in the case of using a vibrating mesh vapor generator or other electric vapor generator, electrical connection is required, such that when these components in the cartridge component 30 are connected to the battery 5 in the power unit, current can pass through the heater 4 or otherwise be supplied to the vapor generator, and / or to any other electric components in the cartridge component. In systems using induction heating, if there is no vapor generation component requiring electricity located in the cartridge component 30, the electrical connection for vapor generation can be omitted, although electricity still needs to be supplied to other electric components in the cartridge component. For induction heating, an induction coil can be housed in device component 20 and supplied with power from battery 5. The cartridge component 30 and device component 20 are shaped such that, when connected, heater 4 is appropriately exposed to the flux generated by the coil for the purpose of generating current in the material of heater 4. For all non-induction powered components, connection portions 21, 31 include electrical contacts to complete the circuit between the powered component and battery 5 when cartridge component 30 and device component 20 are connected together. Furthermore, the connection portions 21, 31 of the two components 20, 30 include openings for air to flow from device component 20 to cartridge component 30, and one or more air inlets 26 are designed in one or more outer walls of device component 20. Connection portions 21, 31 thus provide an interface between cartridge component 30 and device component 20. Figure 1The design is merely an example arrangement, and the various components and features may be distributed differently between device component 20 and cartridge component 30, and may include other elements not described. The two components 20 and 30 may be as follows: Figure 1 The components are connected end-to-end in a longitudinal configuration or in a different configuration (such as a parallel, side-by-side arrangement). The system may or may not be generally cylindrical and / or have a generally longitudinal shape. Any one or both of components 20, 30 may be processed and replaced when depleted (e.g., when the reservoir 3 is empty or the battery 5 is flat), or are intended for multiple uses achieved by actions such as refilling the reservoir 3 and recharging the battery 5. In other instances, the aerosol supply system 10 may be integral, as portions of the device component 20 and the cartridge component 30 are included in a single housing and cannot be separated. In such cases, the concepts of this disclosure (which relate to the features of the connecting portions 21, 31 of the connecting components 20, 30) may instead (or additionally, where the cartridge component 30 and the device component 20 are separable) be implemented at the interface between the cartridge component 30 and the detachable mouthpiece component as described above. Embodiments and examples of this disclosure are applicable to any of these and other configurations that will be apparent to those skilled in the art.

[0020] The presence of a liquid aerosolizable matrix material in the reservoir 3 can lead to unwanted free "escape" liquid within the cartridge component 30. Liquid can leak out of the reservoir 3 through one or more holes through which the porous core 6 extends into the reservoir to absorb the liquid, for example, if the core 6 does not fit tightly within the hole. Any weak joints between components of the reservoir 3 can also allow leakage, for example, due to damage or manufacturing defects. Liquid may be able to seep gradually from these holes, or may be forced out of the reservoir 3 due to pressure differences caused by changes in atmospheric pressure or pressure waves within the reservoir 3 caused by impact. Other reasons for the presence of free liquid outside the reservoir 3 could be a high wicking rate, which delivers the liquid to the heater 4 much faster than the liquid can be converted into vapor, and condenses the already vaporized liquid back from its aerosol form. Any such escaped liquid can move freely along channels and gaps within the internal structure of the cartridge component 30 and can reach the connection portion 31, where the cartridge component 30 engages with the device component 20. Liquid originating from within the aerosol supply system 10 and reaching the interface area can then interact with the electrical contacts of the connection portions 21, 31. The electrical contacts must be exposed within each connection portion 21, 31 to form an electrical connection with electrical contacts in another connection portion 21, 31, and are therefore susceptible to the influence of any nearby liquids.

[0021] Although there may be multiple paths through which liquid from within the aerosol supply system can reach the connection portions 21 and 31, these paths may be caused by manufacturing defects, damage, or gaps intended for other purposes, but may be significantly provided by the airflow channels through the aerosol supply system.

[0022] Figure 2 A highly schematic, simplified longitudinal cross-sectional view of an exemplary aerosol supply system with the illustrated airflow channel is shown. The airflow channel 8 begins at an air inlet 26 in the outer wall of the device component 20 and extends through the aerosol supply system 10 to an outlet 35a in the mouthpiece 35. After the air inlet 26, the airflow channel 8 becomes a central channel or passageway extending longitudinally along the central axis of the aerosol supply system 10. The airflow channel 8 reaches a connection portion 21 of the device component 20, which has an opening in its end face opposite a corresponding end face with a corresponding opening on the connection portion 31 of the cartridge component 30, through which the airflow channel 8 continues into the cartridge component 30. Once within the cartridge component 30, the width of the airflow channel 8 increases to define a chamber 9 in which an atomizer 7 is located, such that air A flowing along the airflow channel 8 can pass over and / or through the atomizer 7 to collect the vapor generated by the atomizer 7 and produce an aerosol. Following chamber 9, the width of airflow passage 8 narrows and extends to mouthpiece outlet 35a, where the user inhales to draw air A into air inlet 26 and inhale along airflow passage 8. Air / aerosol A then exits mouthpiece outlet 35s and enters the user's mouth for inhalation.

[0023] Therefore, it can be understood that any liquid L originating from within the aerosol supply system 10 can travel via the airflow channel 8 to the connection portions 21, 31. Liquid aerosolizable matrix material leaking from the reservoir 3 (in this example having an annular shape surrounding the airflow channel 8 and chamber 9) via a wick hole (not shown), dripping from a supersaturated wick, and / or condensing from its vaporized form can be located in some other portion of chamber 9 and / or airflow channel 8, and can travel directly along airflow channel 8 to the connection portion 31 of the cartridge component 30. Once at the connection portion 31, the liquid L can operate between the opposing surfaces of the connection portions 21, 31 of the connection components 20, 30, and thereby reach any electrical contact associated with the connection portions 21, 31 and in the interface area (in... Figure 2 (Not shown in the image).

[0024] Another source of liquid originating from within the aerosol supply system 10 that can reach the interface area between connection portions 21 and 31 is condensation from any water vapor carried by air inhaled into the airflow channel when the user inhales, and / or present in the user in any possible exhalation into the mouthpiece outlet 35a. Air will also be present in the airflow channel when the aerosol supply system is not in use. When temperature conditions are favorable, water vapor in the air can condense on the inward-facing wall of the airflow channel 8 to produce liquid water, which can travel along the airflow channel 8 to reach the interface area between connection portions 21 and 31 and any exposed electrical contacts located within the connection portions.

[0025] While the appearance of the liquid aerosolizable matrix material outside the reservoir and potential subsequent exposure of electrical contacts may be incidental issues caused by specific conditions such as damage or pressure changes, condensation formation is more likely to be an inherent, frequent, or ongoing event in frequently used aerosol supply systems. Therefore, while preventing or mitigating electrical contact exposure to all liquids originating within the aerosol supply system is meaningful, protecting electrical contacts from condensation may be particularly important.

[0026] This disclosure attempts to address the problem of electrical contacts being exposed to liquid at the interface of the connecting parts of an aerosol supply system by providing one or more textured surfaces adjacent to the electrical contact arrangement associated with the connection portion of the component. It has been determined that appropriately constructed textures formed or provided on a surface can inhibit liquid flow through or across the textured area. When present on a surface adjacent to the electrical contact, the texture can interrupt the movement of liquid toward the electrical contact and thereby inhibit any liquid originating within the aerosol supply system from reaching or directly contacting the electrical contact. The aerosol supply system is thus protected from liquid exposure at its electrical contacts, including liquid-aerosolizable matrix materials and condensate.

[0027] Examples of suitable textured surfaces are described in more detail below. However, in a broader sense, a textured surface includes regions or areas that define multiple protruding and / or recessed or sunken surface features having dimensions on the micrometer scale. These features can be considered as textured features including, for example, protrusions / recesses, depressions / convexities, or peaks / valleys. In the case of small volumes of free or escaping liquid generated within an aerosol supply system, surface features of this size provide an obstacle to the free movement or flow of the liquid on the surface due to surface tension in the liquid. Preventing or inhibiting the movement of small amounts of liquid on a textured surface in at least one direction (depending on the configuration of the protrusions and recesses) allows small amounts of liquid to be stopped from reaching the electrical contacts in areas where the liquid would have to cross to reach them, if the textured surface is positioned adjacent to the electrical contacts. Conveniently, the textured surface can be located on one or more faces of one or two connecting portions of the components and near any electrical contacts to block or capture any liquid entering the interface between the components that would otherwise interact with the electrical contacts.

[0028] Using textured surfaces to protect electrical contacts from liquid exposure allows for a simple, compact, and durable protection method that eliminates the need for additional components, such as the absorbent material liner used in some aerosol supply systems to trap free liquid. Textured surfaces can be applied to existing surfaces within the existing parts of the aerosol supply system, thus not occupying space within the system itself.

[0029] The connecting portion of the components includes multiple surfaces on the exterior of the individual components, which become interior surfaces when the components are connected, with one surface of one component facing a corresponding surface on another component. Typically, but not necessarily, electrical contacts forming an electrical connection between the components are associated with the connecting portion and are associated in some way with one or more of the surfaces such that a textured surface can be provided on the surface adjacent to the electrical contacts. An exemplary arrangement of the electrical contacts is described below. Some portions of the surfaces may be occupied or included in a mechanism for physical connection, such as a threaded or snap-fit ​​engagement. Depending on the tightness of the fit at the joint between the components, one or more spaces of different sizes may exist between the components through which liquids accessible to the interface can move and may reach the electrical contacts. To mitigate this problem, it is proposed that a textured surface be provided on at least a portion of at least one surface of the connecting portion of at least one of the components, where the electrical contacts are located or accessible. Furthermore, the electrical contacts associated with the connecting portion may not be located on a portion considered a surface, but rather a textured surface may be provided on some other portions of the connecting portion to protect the electrical contacts where appropriate, and such arrangements are within the scope of this disclosure.

[0030] Figure 3A simplified longitudinal cross-sectional view of the connection portion of an exemplary component is shown. The cartridge component 30 and the device component 20 are shown as separate or detachable from each other, attachable by being placed together and subsequently detachable by moving apart in the longitudinal direction indicated by the double-headed arrows. The cartridge component 30 has a portion of an airflow channel 8 disposed therein (generally, but not substantially centrally positioned as shown), wherein the airflow channel 8 leads to an end face 32 of the cartridge component 30, wherein, when the components are connected to form a system, the end face 32 is substantially transverse to the airflow channel 8 and thus transverse to the direction of the airflow A through the aerosol supply system along the airflow channel 8. The device component 20 similarly has a portion of an airflow channel 8 disposed centrally therein for alignment with a portion of the airflow channel 8 in the cartridge component 30 when the components 20, 30 are connected together. Furthermore, the airflow channel 8 leads to a transverse end face 22 of the device component 20, wherein, when the components 20, 30 are connected to connect the two portions of the airflow channel 8, the end faces 22, 32 face each other in an opposing arrangement. When components 20 and 30 are connected, the end faces 22 and 32 that are placed together are included in the connecting portions 21 and 31 of components 20 and 30. For clarity, in Figure 3 Other features that may be present at or on end faces 22, 32 are omitted, but these features may be present depending on the design of the aerosol supply system. In this example, the connecting portions 21, 31 also include a collar 34 (but not necessarily present, depending on the nature of the mechanical coupling used to hold components 20, 30 together during connection), which extends longitudinally from the outer edge of the end face 32 of the cartridge component 30 and defines a cavity into which the connecting portion 21 of the device component 20 is inserted for the connection of components 20, 30. The collar 34 has an inner surface 33, and the device component 30 has an outward-facing sidewall or side surface 23 of its connecting portion 21, which are opposite when the components are connected. The inner surface 33 and the side surface 23 may include various features (not shown) to achieve mechanical connection, such as cooperating threads, engaging protrusions and recesses for snap-fit ​​or push-in engagement, or shaped edges and protrusions for bayonet engagement. A collar or similar extension that enables engagement may alternatively be part of device component 20. Electrical contacts (not shown) associated with connecting portions 21, 31 may be located, for example, on, in, or behind any of these surfaces.

[0031] Figure 4AA highly simplified and schematic longitudinal sectional view of a first exemplary connection portion of a component having electrical contacts is shown. Components 20 and 30 can be either or both of device component 20 and cartridge component 30. It should be noted that cooperating electrical contacts will be required on both components 20 and 30, but may or may not take the same form or construction in the two connection portions 21 and 31. Features of the connection portions 21 and 31 relating to the mechanical connection for connecting components 20 and 30 are omitted for clarity. For clarity, air passages are also omitted and, as mentioned above, may or may not be present at the connection portions 21 and 31. In this example, a pair of electrical contacts 40 are supported on the lateral end faces 22 and 32 of components 20 and 30, such as being formed in or on the lateral end faces 22 and 32 of components 20 and 30, or mounted on the lateral end faces 22 and 32 of components 20 and 30. As depicted, electrical contacts 40 protrude from end faces 22, 32, but may alternatively be flush with or substantially flush with end faces 22, 32, such as by being disposed in end faces 22, 32 or deposited on end faces 22, 32 as a conductive film or conductive layer. Electrical leads, wires or other conductive elements 42 are shown connecting electrical contacts 40 to the interior of components 20, 30 via end faces 22, 32 for electrical connection to electrical components (not shown) present within components 20, 30.

[0032] Figure 4BA highly simplified and schematic longitudinal cross-sectional view of a second exemplary connection portion of a component with electrical contacts is shown. Similarly, components 20 and 30 can be either or both of device component 20 and cartridge component 30. It should be noted that cooperating electrical contacts will be required on both components 20 and 30, but the two connection portions 21 and 31 may or may not take the same form or construction, and mechanical connection features and airflow channels are omitted for clarity, and as mentioned above, they may or may not be present at connection portions 21 and 31. In this example, a pair of electrical contacts 40 are supported on a substrate, circuit board, or chip 44 located inside components 20 and 30. A pair of holes 43 are provided in the transverse end faces 22 and 32, and the electrical contacts 40 protrude outward from the substrate 44 through the holes 43 so as to be accessible from the outside of components 20 and 30. The electrical contacts 40 thus extend through end faces 22 and 32. Therefore, the electrical contacts 40 may be in the form of a repositionable pin. Alternatively, the electrical contact 40 may take the form of a pogo pin or some other spring-loaded, spring-mounted, or movable base. A suitable electrical connection (not shown) may be formed with the substrate 44 or similar electrical components (not shown) within components 20, 30. Depending on the construction of the electrical contact 40 and the hole 43, a seal may be provided to prevent liquid from flowing out through the hole 43 into the interior of components 20, 30. However, such a seal does not protect the electrical contact 40 itself from any liquid that may enter the interface between components 20, 30; therefore, a textured surface as proposed herein may be employed.

[0033] Figure 4CA highly simplified and schematic longitudinal sectional view of a third exemplary connection portion of a component with electrical contacts is shown. Similarly, components 20 and 30 can be either or both of device component 20 and cartridge component 30. It should be noted that cooperating electrical contacts will be required on both components 20 and 30, but may or may not take the same form or construction in the two connection portions 21 and 31. Mechanical connection features and airflow channels are omitted for clarity and, as mentioned above, may or may not be present at connection portions 21 and 31. In this example, the transverse end faces 22 and 32 have a pair of recesses or cavities 45 formed therein (or, in another portion of components 20 and 30, a hole formed in the transverse end face, behind which a recess or cavity is formed), and the electrical contacts 40 are supported within each recess 45. The electrical contacts 40 are thus accessible through end faces 22 and 32. The outer ends of the electrical contacts may be flush with end faces 22 and 32 or extend behind end faces 22 and 32. When components 20 and 30 are separated from other components, this arrangement, in which the electrical contacts 40 do not protrude from the end faces 22 and 32, protects the electrical contacts 40 from damage or contamination. Electrical leads, wires, or other conductive elements 42 are shown connecting the electrical contacts 40 to the interior of components 20 and 30 via the base of the recess 45 for electrical connection to electrical components (not shown) present within components 20 and 30.

[0034] although Figures 4A to 4C Each instance includes two electrical contacts, but the connecting portion of the component may have more or fewer electrical contacts associated with it, but it must have at least one associated electrical contact. Furthermore, the form of the electrical contacts is not limited to... Figures 4A to 4C Examples; other operable arrangements will be obvious to a technician. Furthermore, the electrical contacts can be located within the connection portion, unlike... Figures 4A to 4C As shown in the example above.

[0035] The proposed textured surfaces can be arranged in a variety of ways to inhibit liquid from flowing through the textured surfaces toward the electrical contacts. Some examples will now be described, but this disclosure is not limited to this approach. Those skilled in the art will appreciate that one or more textured surfaces can be arranged in other ways to protect adjacent electrical contacts from exposure to liquid.

[0036] Figure 5 A simplified plan view of the ends of components constructed according to an exemplary model is shown. Components 20 and 30 have end faces 22 and 32 included in their connecting portions, as if joined. Figure 3 and Figures 4A to 4CDescribed, the centrally located tubular airflow channel 8 opens at end faces 22, 32. In this example, components 20, 30 have circular cross-sections, and therefore end faces 22, 32 have circular shapes. A pair (first and second) electrical contacts 40 are shown, symmetrically located on either side of the airflow channel. The electrical contacts 40 can be configured to be supported on end faces 22, 32, protrude through end faces 22, 32, or be accessible through end faces 22, 32, for example, in combination with... Figures 4A to 4C As described. In this example, a textured surface 25 is disposed over the entire area of ​​end faces 22, 32. For clarity, other features of end faces 22, 32 are omitted, but may include elements that enable physical engagement with a connecting portion of another component. The textured surface 25 may have gaps or openings therein to accommodate any such features. Existing across all or substantially all of the end faces 22, 32, a single textured surface 25 is adjacent to the first and second electrical contacts 40, its dimensions not only surrounding but also completely surrounding the electrical contacts 40. In this way, the electrical contacts 40 are protected from liquid approach from any direction across the end faces 22, 32, and the textured surface 25 is capable of capturing or blocking approaching liquids in the interface region at any location near and away from the electrical contacts 40.

[0037] Figure 6 A simplified plan view of the end of a component constructed according to another example is shown. Similarly, components 20 and 30 have end faces 22 and 32 included in their connecting portions, as if joined. Figure 3 and Figures 4A to 4C The described component has a centrally located tubular airflow channel 8 opening at end faces 22 and 32, a pair of electrical contacts 40 symmetrically arranged on either side of end faces 22 and 32, and other features of the end faces omitted for clarity. In this example, components 20 and 30 have a substantially oval cross-section, and therefore end faces 22 and 32 have an oval shape. It will be apparent to those skilled in the art that the aerosol supply can have substantially any cross-sectional shape, such that the end faces of the connecting portions can similarly have any shape. In this example, two (first and second) textured surfaces 25 are provided, one (first) textured surface 25 adjacent to one (first) electrical contact 40, and the other (second) textured surface adjacent to the other (second) electrical contact 40. Each textured surface 25 has the form of a closed (complete) loop completely surrounding its associated electrical contact 40. This allows the textured surface to act as a barrier against liquid flowing from the origin of the liquid at the interface between the connecting parts (such as liquid flowing out from the airflow channel 8) in any direction across end faces 22, 32 toward the electrical contact 40. The term "ring" is not intended to imply or limit it to a circular shape, although the circular shape of the textured surface 25 is... Figure 6As shown, a circular electrical contact 40 (or hole or recess through which the electrical contact protrudes or approaches) is surrounded. It is readily understood that the electrical contact, hole, or recess can have other shapes, and the annular textured surface can be similarly shaped around the electrical contact 40, or it can be shaped differently from the electrical contact, hole, or recess. Therefore, taking into account the available space on end faces 22, 32, the shape of the electrical contact / hole / recess, and / or avoiding any other features present on end faces 22, 32, an annular shape can be conveniently employed. A textured surface in the form of an annular ring allows for inhibition of liquid movement across the end face toward the electrical contact along any approach direction, thus enabling, for example, [further details needed]. Figure 5 The concept of using a textured surface to cover the entire end face allows for a smaller textured surface area to capture or block all liquids. This allows for simpler manufacturing and is better suited to accommodate both the textured surface and any other surface features that may be present on the end face.

[0038] Similarly, in other instances, the annular textured surface can take the form of broken rings or discontinuous rings; in other words, it may contain one or more gaps or broken rings. Gaps may exist in directions where the risk of liquid access is considered lower, such as alignment with other features that could interfere with the flow of liquid toward the electrical contact, or simply to accommodate other features on the end face.

[0039] Figure 7 A simplified plan view of the end of a component constructed according to another exemplary configuration is shown. Similarly, components 20, 30 have end faces 22, 32 (circular in this example) included in their connecting portions, as combined Figure 3 and Figures 4A to 4C The described structure features a centrally located tubular airflow channel 8 opening at end faces 22 and 32, a pair of electrical contacts 40 symmetrically arranged on either side of end faces 22 and 32, and other features of the end faces omitted for clarity. In this example, two distinct textured surfaces 25 with different shapes / areas are shown adjacent to the two electrical contacts 40. While this is primarily for illustrative purposes, allowing for a more concise description of the two forms of textured surface 25, different textured surfaces can be provided for different electrical contacts within a single connection portion if desired, for example, if different forms of electrical contacts are included in the connection portion (where different textured surfaces are suitable), or if other features of the end faces are asymmetrical relative to these electrical contacts, thus making different areas adjacent to the different electrical contacts available. Figure 7In the example, the first electrical contact 40 shown on the left side of end faces 22, 32 has a textured surface 25 adjacent to the first electrical contact, surrounding the electrical contact 40, but not completely or entirely. In other words, the textured surface 25 has the shape of a discontinuous ring as described above. The second electrical contact 40 shown on the right side of end faces 22, 32 has a textured surface 25 adjacent to the second electrical contact as a continuous, complete ring so as to completely surround the electrical contact 40. The textured surface 25 differs from the previously shown textured surfaces in that it does not extend completely on end faces 22, 32 to the electrical contact 40 (or through which the electrical contact 40 extends, or through which the contact electrical contact 40 passes); instead, the untextured portion of end faces 22, 32 lies between the outer edge or outer surface of the electrical contact / hole / recess and the textured surface 25. As will be described in more detail below, some constructions of the textured surface cause liquids to adhere to or remain on the textured surface. The untextured portions of end faces 22 and 32 between the electrical contact 40 and the textured surface 25 help reduce or avoid any of the following risks: for example, if a relatively large droplet is held on the textured surface 25, the liquid captured by the textured surface 25 in this way can still contact the electrical contact 40. Viscous liquids cannot accumulate in close proximity to the electrical contact 40 on the textured surface 25. This further protects the electrical contact 40 from exposure to liquid. This type of gap between the textured surface 25 and the electrical contact 40 can be implemented in combination with any shape or construction of the textured surface, and is not limited to... Figure 7 The depicted continuous textured rings surrounding the electrical contacts.

[0040] While the ring (or other surrounding area) of the textured surface may, in some cases, preferably completely cover the end face with the textured surface, as discussed above, the textured surface should have sufficient width or thickness in the "across" direction (i.e., the direction in which the liquid moves toward the electrical contact on the surface with the textured surface or similar surface) to provide a useful level of inhibition against liquid passage. If the electrical contact is considered as the center point around which the textured surface is disposed, then the cross direction can also be considered as the radial direction in which the liquid moves toward the electrical contact. As an example, the minimum thickness or width of the textured surface may be 1 mm, for instance, if the primary purpose is to trap condensate or liquid aerosolizable matrix material, but this may depend on the viscosity of the liquid involved and therefore on the surface tension. Similarly, a maximum width or thickness may be useful in some cases, where it is important to reduce the total area of ​​the textured surface while still providing sufficient liquid trapping. In other words, the maximum thickness can be defined as a width beyond which the additional effect of liquid trapping provided by a further extent of the textured surface is neither interesting nor beneficial. The maximum thickness may be approximately 10 mm. Therefore, the thickness or width of the ring or other areas of the textured surface along the transverse direction can, for example, range from 1 mm to 10 mm, although the upper and lower limits of this range can be used independently, and larger or smaller values ​​are not excluded, such as thicknesses in the range of 2 mm to 5 mm. Moreover, the width does not have to be constant and can vary around the ring, for example, to better fit the available space on the end face.

[0041] It should be noted that although the above examples include openings for airflow channels 8 on the end faces of components 20 and 30, this is not necessary, for example, in which the air inlet is located in the side wall of the cartridge component, so that airflow does not need to be in the design from device component 20 to cartridge component 30. However, textured surfaces are still relevant because liquid originating from within the aerosol supply system can still reach the interface between connecting parts 21 and 31 through other gaps, channels, or openings in the system structure.

[0042] In the foregoing description and appended claims, textured surfaces may be present in the cartridge component or device component, or both. Therefore, any reference to a component applies equally to the cartridge component or device component, except where specific details indicate that only one or the other component is involved. In the context of the entire aerosol supply, the two components may be considered as component one and a second component, component one and another component, component one and another component, or first component and second component. The component or first component may be the cartridge component or the device component. The second, additional, or other component may be the device component or the cartridge component.

[0043] The textured surface comprises a plurality of textured features having dimensions on the micrometer scale. These features are distributed over a two-dimensional region or area of ​​a surface on which the textured surface is disposed. Within this region, the textured features include a plurality of protrusions / recesses, depressions / convexities, peaks / valleys, or similar features scattered across the region. Regarding the height of the plane surrounding the region, the textured features may include protrusions / convexities / peaks that rise vertically above the plane of the surface (such that the space between the features is at the level of the plane), or may include depressions / recesses / valleys that reach below the level of the plane of the surface (such that the space between these features is at the level of the plane), or both (such that the level of the plane of the surface is between the height of the protrusions / convexities / peaks and the depth of the depressions / recesses / valleys). The textured surface may be provided on the surface by being directly manufactured on the surface or as part of the surface (i.e., formed from the material used to make the component having the surface), or by being applied to the surface as a surface coating or layer (of the same or different material).

[0044] It has been determined that different configurations of textured features are used to inhibit the flow or movement of liquid on the textured surface in different ways, caused by the different interactions between the liquid surface tension and the different shapes, sizes, and configurations of the features. In particular, by different choices of textured features, surface textures can be configured to inhibit the passage of liquid by adhering the liquid incident on the surface to the textured surface, or by allowing the liquid incident on the surface to flow or move in one direction at the expense of limited or prohibited movement in substantially orthogonal directions.

[0045] Figure 8A A highly schematic and non-scale plan view representation of a first example of a textured surface constructed for adhering a liquid is shown. To enable liquid adhesion, the textured surface has a plurality of discrete textured features 100 on a surface 101 on which the textured surface is disposed. The textured features 100 are arranged to be spaced apart from each other in two dimensions of the plane of the surface 101 over the area occupied by the textured surface. In this example, the textured features 100 are arranged in a regular or periodic array. Because the textured features 100 are discrete and separated from each other, each feature may include a protrusion or peak extending from the plane of the surface 101, or may include a recess or depression “cut out” below the plane of the surface 100, or a combination of both. The textured features 100 are depicted as having a generally circular cross-section parallel to the plane of the surface 101, but this is not required, and the features may have any cross-sectional shape, for example, as specified by the method of forming or setting the textured surface.

[0046] Figure 8BA highly schematic, non-scale plan view representation of a second instance configured as part of a textured surface for adhering liquids is shown. This is similar to... Figure 8A This is an example, but in this case, texture feature 100 is arranged in a square array with regular spacing. Other periodic distributions conforming to other regular arrays can also be used if desired. Alternatively, irregular or non-periodic distributions can be used.

[0047] Figure 8C A highly schematic, non-scale plan view representation of a third example of a textured surface constructed for adhering liquids is shown. In this example, textured features 100 are randomly distributed on surface 101 with irregular and non-constant spacing, lacking any intended periodicity. The choice between a regular or irregular distribution of textured features can be determined by the method of forming the textured features. Alternatively, a regular arrangement with constant spacing is best suited for adhering liquids of a specified viscosity, allowing for the selection of spacing and regularity accordingly to target specific liquids, such as water or a selected type of aerosolizable matrix material. Conversely, a non-periodic arrangement with a certain range of spacing between textured features can be used to provide some adhesion for liquids with viscosities within a certain range, allowing a single textured surface to manage different liquids.

[0048] Figure 8DA highly schematic and non-scale plan view representation of a first example of a portion of a textured surface is shown, configured for the orientation or control of the direction of motion of a liquid flow incident on the textured surface. To manage the direction of liquid movement in this way, the textured surface may take the form of a plurality of continuous textured features 100 on a surface 101 on which the textured surface is disposed. Textured features 100 include a plurality of substantially parallel ridges 102 extending from the plane of surface 101 and / or grooves / valleys / channels “carved out” below the plane of surface 100, or a combination of both. In this example, the ridges / grooves are substantially straight. Therefore, the textured features 102 are continuous along one direction (the ridges / grooves along their length direction of extension) and spaced apart from each other in orthogonal directions (by substantially constant intervals). The effect of this configuration of the textured features 102 is to interrupt or impede any movement of incident liquid in the orthogonal direction indicated by arrow X, while enabling or facilitating any movement of incident liquid in the length direction indicated by arrow Y. In the context of the intended function of the concept proposed in this paper, the orthogonal direction is considered as the "across" direction, along which the passage of liquid is expected to be suppressed, such that the liquid is prevented from reaching the distal side of the textured surface. Therefore, the distal side of the textured surface is protected from exposure to any liquid passing over the surface on which the textured surface is disposed. Conversely, the movement of incident liquid along the length direction of the ridge / groove is facilitated, and thus can be guided away from the cross direction, or intentionally promoted along the length direction, or both.

[0049] Figure 8E A highly schematic, non-scale plan view representation of a second example of a textured surface configured for controlling the direction of liquid movement is shown. The textured feature 102 also includes a plurality of substantially parallel ridges / grooves, but in this example, the ridges / grooves are formed in a ring and arranged substantially concentrically. The depicted example shows these ring shapes as circles, but this is not necessary, and other shapes can be used in configurations where the grooves / ridges are not defined as straight over the extent of the textured surface. The concentric arrangement defines the transverse direction X of the textured surface between the center and the outer edge of the area covered by the textured surface. In this way, liquid movement can be inhibited from points near the center of the textured surface outwards, or from points beyond the textured surface inwards towards the center. The textured surface allows the liquid to move in the circumferential direction Y.

[0050] Figure 9A highly schematic, non-scale cross-sectional view through an exemplary textured surface is shown to indicate some parameters of interest. In this example, the textured features include recesses or grooves formed in the facets on which the textured surface is disposed. Three textured features are shown, but more features may actually exist along a line through the textured surface. The first parameter of interest is the spacing s, shown as the center-to-center distance or interval between adjacent textured features. By way of example only, the spacing s may be about 20 µm or about 25 µm. More generally, the spacing may range from 15 µm to 30 µm, although larger and smaller spacings, such as those in the range of 10 µm to 50 µm, are not excluded. Within or within a region of the textured surface, the spacing may be constant (within manufacturing tolerances, which may depend on the technique used to form the textured features and may be, for example, within 2 µm or 5 µm), or may be selected to take multiple values ​​varying in the range of up to 10 µm, for example, to better manage liquids with different viscosities. The second parameter of interest is the size or dimensions of the individual textured features. Figure 9 The width w is expressed as the width in the direction parallel to the plane of the textured surface and the face on which the textured surface is provided, but more generally includes the height of the protruding feature and the depth of the recessed or sunken feature. These dimensions may be substantially the same or substantially different within a single feature, such that the width may be approximately the same as the height / depth, or the width may be smaller or larger than the height / depth, but generally within the same order of magnitude. For example, these individual dimensions may be about 2 µm or about 3 µm, although larger or smaller dimensions are not excluded, and may be, for example, at least 1 µm, or up to 5 µm, or up to 10 µm. For example, in some cases, textured features may have dimensions in the range of 2 µm to 5 µm, or 1 µm to 10 µm. Within or in a region of the textured surface, the dimensions for all textured features may be constant (within manufacturing tolerances, which may depend on the technique used to form the textured features, and may be, for example, within 0.5 µm or 1 µm), or may be selected to take multiple values ​​varying within a range, for example, to better manage liquids with different viscosities.

[0051] Since the size of individual features and the spacing between adjacent features can be selected, another parameter that may be of interest when characterizing textured surfaces is the density of textured features within the textured surface. Density can be defined as the number of textured features per unit area, or more usefully, encompassing both discrete textured features and parallel grooves / ridges, the number of textured features per unit length across the surface texture. For example, the density could be chosen to be approximately 3, 4, or 5 features per 100 µm (and therefore per 100 µm). 2The density can be approximately 9, 16, or 25 features, but higher or lower values ​​can be used as needed, for example, in the range of approximately 2 to 10 features per µm. Furthermore, the density can be approximately constant across the textured surface, or it can be varied to provide a textured surface better suited to handling liquids with a range of viscosities.

[0052] Figure 10 A highly schematic and non-scale cross-sectional view through another exemplary textured surface is shown, wherein individual textured features have the form of protrusions or ridges extending outward from the face bearing the textured surface.

[0053] Figure 11 A photographic image showing a portion of a non-limiting instance of a textured surface comprising multiple discrete textured features in the form of spaced-apart depressions. A 100µm scale is shown.

[0054] Figure 12 A photographic image of a portion of a non-limiting example of a textured surface is shown, comprising multiple textured features in the form of spaced-apart parallel grooves. A 100µm scale is shown.

[0055] In summary, to address various problems and improve the prior art, this disclosure illustrates, by way of description, various embodiments in which the claimed invention can be implemented. The advantages and features of this disclosure are merely representative examples of embodiments and are not exhaustive and / or exclusive. They are intended only to aid in understanding and teaching the claimed invention. It should be understood that the advantages, embodiments, examples, functions, features, structures, and / or other aspects of this disclosure should not be considered as limitations on this disclosure as defined by the claims or on the equivalents of the claims, and other embodiments may be utilized and modifications may be made without departing from the scope of the claims. In addition to those specifically described herein, various embodiments may suitably include various combinations of the disclosed elements, components, features, parts, steps, devices, etc., constitute various combinations of the disclosed elements, components, features, parts, steps, devices, etc., or consist substantially of various combinations of the disclosed elements, components, features, parts, steps, devices, etc. This disclosure may include other inventions not currently claimed but which may be claimed in the future.

Claims

1. A component of an aerosol supply system, the component being connectable to a second component to form the aerosol supply system, and the component comprising: The connecting portion is configured to engage with the connecting portion of the second component; Electrical contacts, associated with the connection portion and arranged to engage with corresponding electrical contacts in the connection portion of the second component when the component is connected to the second component; as well as A textured surface is configured to inhibit liquid flow through the textured surface, the textured surface being arranged adjacent to the electrical contact to prevent liquid from flowing toward the electrical contact.

2. The component according to claim 1, wherein, The textured surface is formed on the surface of the component, and the electrical contacts extend through the surface.

3. The component according to claim 1, wherein, The textured surface is formed on the surface of the component, through which the electrical contacts can be accessed.

4. The component according to claim 1, wherein, The textured surface is formed on the surface of the component, and the electrical contacts are supported on the surface.

5. The component according to any one of claims 2 to 4, wherein, The surface is the end face of the component, which is substantially transverse to the direction of airflow through the aerosol supply system.

6. The component according to any of the preceding claims, wherein, The electrical contacts include spring pins.

7. The component according to any one of claims 1 to 6, further comprising a second electrical contact and a second textured surface disposed adjacent to the second electrical contact.

8. The component according to any one of claims 1 to 6, further comprising a second electrical contact, wherein the textured surface is further arranged adjacent to the second electrical contact.

9. The component according to any one of claims 1 to 8, wherein, The textured surface is arranged around the electrical contact or around the hole through which the electrical contact can be accessed.

10. The component according to any one of claims 1 to 8, wherein, The textured surface completely surrounds the electrical contact element or hole, through which the electrical contact can be accessed.

11. The component according to claim 9 or claim 10, wherein, The textured surface has a width ranging from 1 mm to 10 mm along the transverse direction.

12. The component according to any of the preceding claims, wherein, The textured surface construction is designed to suppress the passage of liquid in the form of water caused by the condensation of air flowing through the aerosol supply system.

13. The component according to any one of claims 1 to 12, wherein, The textured surface is configured to inhibit the passage of liquid through the textured surface by causing the liquid incident on the textured surface to adhere to the textured surface.

14. The component according to claim 13, wherein, The textured surface includes a plurality of discrete texture features, which are in the form of depressions and / or protrusions spaced apart in two dimensions.

15. The component according to any one of claims 1 to 12, wherein, The textured surface is configured to prevent liquid from passing through the textured surface by guiding the liquid flow incident on the textured surface in a direction away from the transverse direction.

16. The component according to claim 15, wherein, The textured surface includes multiple textured features in the form of a plurality of substantially parallel grooves and / or ridges extending along a direction orthogonal to the transverse direction.

17. The component according to claim 16, wherein, The grooves and / or ridges are arranged substantially concentrically around the electrical contact or around the hole through which the electrical contact can be accessed.

18. The component according to any one of claims 14, 16, or 17, wherein, The texture feature has a size ranging from 1 µm to 10 µm.

19. The component according to any one of claims 1 to 18, wherein, The component is a cartridge component, which includes a reservoir for storing an aerosol-forming matrix and an atomizer for vaporizing the aerosol-forming matrix.

20. The component according to any one of claims 1 to 18, wherein, The component is a device component, which includes a battery for powering the atomizer of the aerosol supply system.

21. An aerosol supply system comprising the components according to any of the preceding claims.

Images