Aerosol-generating system and electronic device for an aerosol-generating system

Abstract

The invention relates to an electronic device for an aerosol-generating system, in particular an electronic device for housing a battery. The electronic device comprises a first housing portion (110), wherein the first housing portion (110) is configured to removably engage an aerosol-generating article (102) comprising a substrate to be heated by a heating element to generate an aerosol, and the first housing portion is configured to operably connect a battery (150) in a use position to provide electrical power to the heating element; and a second housing portion (130) configured to engage the first housing portion (110) in a locked position, wherein in the locked position at least one of the first housing portion (110) or the second housing portion (130) houses the battery (150) in the use position. An inlet (114) is provided on the first housing portion (110) or on the second housing portion (130), wherein the inlet (114) is configured to receive a protruding tool (190) of a user. The electronic device further comprises an actuation device configured to abut against the protruding tool (190) pushed into the inlet (114) by the user and, in response, release the second housing portion (130) from the locked position. The invention further relates to an aerosol-generating system (100) comprising an aerosol-generating article (102) and an electronic device having a cavity for a battery.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to a portable and handheld electronic device for an aerosol generation system, particularly an electronic device having a chamber for removably holding a battery. The invention also relates to a portable and handheld aerosol generation system comprising an aerosol generation article and an electronic device having a chamber for removably holding a battery. Background Technology

[0002] Aerosol-generating articles in which an aerosol-forming matrix, such as that containing tobacco or nicotine, is heated rather than burned are known in the art. Typically, in such heated smoking articles, an aerosol is generated by transferring heat from a heat source of an electronic device to a physically separated aerosol-forming matrix or material, which may be positioned in contact with, within, around, or downstream of the heat source. During use of the aerosol-generating article, volatile compounds are released from the aerosol-forming matrix through heat transfer from the heat source and are entrained in the air drawn through the aerosol-generating article. Preferably, the aerosol-forming matrix is ​​a solid aerosol-forming matrix. However, the aerosol-forming matrix may comprise both solid and liquid components. Alternatively, the aerosol-forming matrix may be a liquid aerosol-forming matrix. As the released compound cools, it condenses to form an aerosol.

[0003] The aerosol generation system is formed by an electronic device, which includes a heat source or heater, typically a heating element, arranged to apply heat to a matrix in the aerosol generation article when it is mounted onto the electronic device. In known electronic devices, a battery is required as a power source to supply power to the heating element. The housing of the electronic device is typically fixed in place to ensure that the enclosed electrical components are not accessible to the user.

[0004] When a battery's capacity is depleted, an electronic device ceases to function without a replacement. Removing a depleted battery is difficult because it is inaccessible inside the device's casing, causing inconvenience or requiring the user to discard the device. Furthermore, due to various current and future regulations, and also for the repair of electronic devices or the facilitation of different components, specifically batteries, there is a need for a mechanism that allows for easy replacement of electronic device batteries, as batteries tend to age after repeated use and may become inoperable after device use.

[0005] The purpose of certain instances or embodiments of the present invention is to at least partially solve, mitigate or eliminate at least one of the problems and / or disadvantages associated with the prior art. Summary of the Invention

[0006] The present invention is set forth in the appended claims.

[0007] According to one aspect of the present invention, an electronic device is provided for generating aerosols from a matrix in an aerosol-generating article, the electronic device comprising:

[0008] A first housing portion, wherein the first housing portion is configured to removably engage an aerosol generating article comprising a matrix to be heated by a heating element to generate an aerosol, and the first housing portion is configured to operatively connect a battery to a use position to provide power to the heating element;

[0009] A second housing portion is configured to engage with a first housing portion in a locked position, wherein in the locked position, at least one of the first housing portion or the second housing portion accommodates the battery in the use position.

[0010] An inlet, wherein the inlet is disposed on the first housing portion or the second housing portion, wherein the inlet is configured to receive a protruding tool of the user; and

[0011] An actuating device configured to abut against the protruding tool pushed into the inlet by the user, and in response, to release the second housing portion from the locked position.

[0012] Therefore, the electronic device for the aerosol generation system described herein provides easy access to one or more batteries, allowing for convenient removal and replacement when they are depleted, malfunctioning, or damaged. Compared to known electronic devices, the user can easily remove the housing portion of the device, which originally held the battery in place during use, using a standardized and simple protruding tool. Removing the housing portion provides clearance and access to the chamber holding the battery, facilitating easy disconnection, removal, and replacement of the battery.

[0013] Electronic devices containing batteries enclose all electrical components to ensure they are out of the user's reach, but can be easily removed and replaced when the battery is depleted, malfunctions, or is damaged, without the risk of damaging other electrical components.

[0014] The battery is removed and replaced using one or more commonly used tools available to the user, such as a protruding tool. Preferably, the protruding tool can be a SIM card removal tool or pin, also known as a bobby tool, which is known for removing or ejecting a SIM card or SIM card tray from a smartphone. Preferably, the protruding pin of the protruding tool has a diameter of less than 1 mm, more preferably in the range of 0.6 mm to 0.9 mm. Preferably, the inlet is sized to removably receive the protruding pin for engagement with an actuating device. Preferably, the opening diameter of the inlet is less than 1.5 mm, more preferably less than 1.2 mm. By allowing the user easy and convenient access to the chamber holding the battery for replacement or removal, the user can extend the use of the electronic device using any number of batteries.

[0015] Electronic devices may include aerosol generation device housing assemblies.

[0016] The first housing portion can be configured to receive and removably engage the aerosol-generating article.

[0017] The first housing portion may include a biasing member.

[0018] The actuator can be operatively connected to the biasing component.

[0019] The first housing portion may include a peripheral wall and an opening at an end of the peripheral wall. The peripheral wall may be configured to surround the battery in a usage position to house the battery within the first housing portion. Optionally, the battery may be mounted to a frame, and the peripheral wall surrounds both the battery and the frame to which the battery is mounted.

[0020] The second housing portion can be configured as a cap for the opening of the first housing portion. The second housing portion can be mounted to the opening using mutually compatible means disposed on the second housing portion and the opening. In an example, the second housing portion includes a flange portion configured to fit within the opening, such as by forming an interference fit with the inner wall of the opening.

[0021] The second housing portion may include a peripheral wall and an opening at an end of the peripheral wall. The peripheral wall may be configured to surround the battery in a usage position to house the battery within the second housing portion. Optionally, the battery may be mounted to a frame, and the peripheral wall surrounds both the battery and the frame to which the battery is mounted.

[0022] The first housing portion can be configured as a cap for the opening of the second housing portion. The first housing portion can be mounted to the opening using mutually compatible means disposed on the first housing portion and the opening. In an example, the first housing portion includes a flange portion configured to fit within the opening, such as by forming an interference fit with the inner wall of the opening.

[0023] The first housing portion and the second housing portion can together enclose the chamber, in which the battery is housed in the usage position.

[0024] The second housing part can be the battery casing or shell.

[0025] In these ways, electronic devices can be configured in a variety of ways to house a series of batteries, such that when loaded for use, the device encloses all electrical components to ensure that they are out of the user's reach, but when the batteries are depleted, malfunction, or damaged, they can be easily removed and replaced without the risk of damaging other electrical components.

[0026] The biasing member can be configured to push the second housing portion or battery apart from the first housing portion in response to the user pushing a protruding tool into the inlet.

[0027] In this way, the first housing part and the second housing part can be reliably separated from each other, allowing the user to pull or slide the two housing parts apart without obstruction or hindrance, so as to allow the removal or replacement of one or more batteries.

[0028] The biasing member can be configured to release a locking mechanism in response to a user pushing a protruding tool into the inlet, the locking mechanism mechanically locking the first housing portion and the second housing portion together.

[0029] In this way, the mechanism unlocks the first housing portion and the second housing portion from each other, at least mechanically, so that the user can pull or slide the two housing portions apart without obstruction or hindrance, allowing the removal or replacement of one or more batteries.

[0030] In an example, the biasing member can be configured to both release the locking mechanism that mechanically locks the first housing portion and the second housing portion together and push the second housing portion or battery away from the first housing portion in response to the user pushing the protruding tool into the inlet.

[0031] In this manner, in the variant, not only do the first and second housing parts release from each other, but the housing parts also slightly shift from the locked position. Release and shifting can be facilitated by a single user action of pushing a protruding tool into the inlet.

[0032] The first housing portion may include a distal portion configured to receptively and removably engage an aerosol-generating article. The first housing portion may include a proximal portion at an end of the first housing portion opposite the distal portion.

[0033] In the locked position, the chamber can be confined within the peripheral wall. The peripheral wall can be fixedly mounted to either the first housing portion or the second housing portion.

[0034] The perimeter wall can be defined at the first end by the base of the second shell portion.

[0035] The peripheral wall may be defined at the second end by the first housing portion, for example by the inner wall of the distal portion or by the inner wall of the proximal portion.

[0036] In the usage position, the battery can be releasably connected to the first housing portion. When the second housing portion is released from the locked position, the battery can remain connected to the first housing portion.

[0037] In this way, the second housing portion can be released from the locked position and then held close to the aerosol generation system. Both the second housing portion and the battery are prevented from falling off the first housing portion.

[0038] The first housing portion may include at least one device terminal. Each of the at least one device terminal may be configured to mate with a corresponding battery terminal on the battery to connect the battery to the first housing portion.

[0039] In this way, the battery can be secured to the first housing portion, thus forming a reliable electrical connection.

[0040] In response to the user pushing the protruding tool into the inlet, the battery separates from the first housing portion.

[0041] In this way, a reliable electrical connection can be disconnected without the user applying excessive force.

[0042] The first housing portion may also include a first retaining element. The first retaining element may be configured to engage a complementary second retaining element on the battery to mount the battery to the first housing portion in the use position. Furthermore, in response to a user pushing a protruding tool into the inlet, an actuation device may disengage the first retaining element from the second retaining element.

[0043] In this way, once the battery is released from the locked position, it remains physically connected to the first housing portion until the user chooses to detach the battery.

[0044] The second housing portion can be configured such that when the actuation device disengages the first retaining element of the first housing portion from the second retaining element of the battery, the second housing portion is released from a locked position. The second housing portion can be fixedly mounted to the end of the battery, for example, by an adhesive portion. The second housing portion can be provided with an interference fit in an opening at the proximal portion of the first housing portion.

[0045] In these ways, because the battery and the second housing portion are released from the first housing portion in a single user action, disassembling the electronics to remove or replace the battery is simplified.

[0046] The first housing portion may include a third retaining element. The third retaining element may be complementary to a second retaining element on the battery and configured to engage the second retaining element to hold the battery in a partially detached position within the first housing portion.

[0047] The first housing portion may include a second inlet configured to receive a user's protruding tool. The second inlet may be configured such that, in response to the user pushing the protruding tool into the second inlet, the battery is released from a partially detached position. The second inlet may have the same or different dimensions as the first inlet for receiving the same protruding tool.

[0048] The first housing portion may include a sliding bracket member slidably mounted to the first housing portion. The sliding bracket member may be configured to slide or otherwise displace relative to the first housing portion in the longitudinal direction. A third retaining element may be disposed on the sliding bracket member.

[0049] In these ways, the battery is released from the locked position but remains held within the first housing section until the user performs a second action. The sliding mechanism allows the user to control the ejection of the battery from the aerosol generating device.

[0050] In the usage position, the battery can be releasably installed into the second housing portion.

[0051] Each of the first housing portion or the second housing portion may include a frame member. The frame member may be configured such that a battery is positioned and mounted to the frame member. The frame member may include a peripheral portion defining a support surface (e.g., a recessed surface). The battery may be positioned on the support surface. The battery may be positioned and mounted to the frame member using an interference fit.

[0052] In these ways, the frame assembly makes it easier for users to load and unload batteries. When installed in the frame assembly, it makes it easier for users to insert and remove batteries from electronic devices.

[0053] The frame member may include an opening through the peripheral portion. The opening may be configured such that, in the position of use, at least one battery terminal or battery terminal plug of the battery can be electrically connected to the heating element through the opening.

[0054] In these ways, the electrical connection between the battery and the first housing portion, and thereby between the battery and the heating element, is simplified. This aperture ensures accurate alignment and mating between the battery terminals and the device terminals, or between the battery terminal plug and the device socket.

[0055] The electronic device may also include at least one adhesive portion arranged to adhere the battery to the frame member.

[0056] The frame member may include a magnetized portion. The magnetized portion may be configured to magnetically engage a complementary portion on the battery in order to guide the battery to a positioning location within the frame member.

[0057] The frame member may include a first connector and a second connector, the first connector being configured to be electrically connected to the terminals of the battery when the battery is located in the frame member, and the second connector being electrically connected to the first connector.

[0058] The second connector can be configured to engage with a socket in the first housing portion when the second housing portion and the battery are in the locked position, thereby electrically connecting the battery to the heating element.

[0059] In these ways, the battery is more securely attached to the frame components. This provides a more reliable electrical connection from the battery to the heating element.

[0060] The second connector can be configured to be electrically connected to a charging device when the second housing portion is detached from the first housing portion, in order to charge the battery electrically connected to the first connector.

[0061] In this way, electronic devices can provide a convenient adapter to recharge the battery.

[0062] The chamber includes a thermal sensor configured to measure the temperature within the chamber. The thermal sensor can be operatively connected to a controller configured to generate an alarm signal when the measured temperature exceeds a threshold temperature. The thermal sensor can be mounted to a frame member and positioned to contact the outer surface of the battery when the battery is located within the frame member. The thermal sensor can be formed within a protective film.

[0063] In these ways, electronic devices can include improved monitoring of batteries in use. The safety of the electronic device is improved.

[0064] The inlet can be located in the first housing section.

[0065] The inlet can be located in the second housing section.

[0066] The actuation device can be installed in either the first housing portion or the second housing portion.

[0067] The inlet is positioned on the second housing portion such that, in the locked position, the inlet extends through the second housing portion to the actuator mounted within the first housing portion.

[0068] The electronic device may also include a second inlet. The second inlet may be configured to receive a protruding tool to allow the user to release the battery from the partially detachable location.

[0069] The inlet or second inlet may include a removable cover.

[0070] An inlet, a second inlet, or both an inlet and a second inlet may simultaneously form an air inlet opening to supply air from the outside of the electronic device toward a distal portion, where the aerosol-forming matrix of the removably received aerosol-forming article may be received. Preferably, an inlet, a second inlet, or both an inlet and a second inlet may form one or more air inlets forming an air passage leading to the distal portion.

[0071] In these ways, electronic devices can be configured to optimize the use of space within them. Entrances can be oriented to restrict or prevent unwanted materials from entering.

[0072] The actuation device may include a fulcrum. The fulcrum may be pivotally mounted to a first housing portion or a second housing portion.

[0073] The actuation device may include a first engagement portion. The first engagement portion may be configured such that, when the fulcrum is mounted to a first housing portion or a second housing portion, the first engagement portion aligns with the inlet to abut the protruding tool when the protruding tool is pushed into the inlet.

[0074] In these ways, the actuating device can be easily mounted to the first housing portion or the second housing portion to provide movement of the actuating device. The actuating device can be configured to reliably respond to being pushed by a protruding tool.

[0075] The heating element of the electronic device may be installed within the first housing portion. Alternatively, the heating element may be installed within an aerosol-generating article comprising a matrix, which is mounted to the first housing portion for use.

[0076] According to another aspect of the invention, a battery is provided, the battery being configured to be encapsulated within a cavity of an electronic device as described herein.

[0077] According to another aspect of the present invention, an electronic device is provided for generating an aerosol from a matrix in an aerosol-generating article, the device comprising:

[0078] A first housing portion, wherein the first housing portion is configured to removably engage an aerosol generating article comprising a matrix to be heated by a heating element to generate an aerosol, and the first housing portion is configured to operatively connect a battery to a use position to provide power to the heating element;

[0079] A second housing portion is configured to engage with a first housing portion in a locked position, wherein in the locked position, the first housing portion and the second housing portion together enclose a chamber for holding the battery in the use position;

[0080] A battery, the battery being arranged to be enclosed in the cavity at the usage location;

[0081] An inlet, wherein the inlet is disposed on the first housing portion or the second housing portion, wherein the inlet is configured to receive a protruding tool of the user; and

[0082] An actuating device configured to abut against the protruding tool pushed into the inlet by the user, and in response, to release the second housing portion from the locked position.

[0083] The electronic device may be a housing assembly of an aerosol generating device.

[0084] The battery may include a second holding element that complements the first holding element disposed in the electronic device. The first and second holding elements together connect the battery to a first housing portion or a second housing portion.

[0085] In this way, the battery can be secured to the first housing portion, thus forming a reliable electrical connection.

[0086] The battery may include an identification tag. The identification tag may be, for example, a QR code tag. The identification tag may be affixed to at least one surface of the battery.

[0087] According to another aspect of the invention, an aerosol generation system is provided, comprising an electronic device as described herein, and a first housing portion mountable to the electronic device for use in generating an aerosol article heated by a heating element.

[0088] According to another aspect of the present invention, an aerosol generation system is provided, comprising:

[0089] Electronic devices; and

[0090] An aerosol generating article comprising a matrix to be heated to form an aerosol, wherein the aerosol generating article is removably mounted to the electronic device for use in heating the matrix by a heating element;

[0091] The electronic device includes:

[0092] A first housing portion is configured to removably engage the aerosol-generating article and to operatively connect a battery to a usage position to provide power to the heating element;

[0093] A second housing portion is configured to engage with a first housing portion in a locked position, wherein in the locked position, the first housing portion and the second housing portion together enclose a chamber for holding the battery in the use position;

[0094] An inlet, wherein the inlet is disposed on the first housing portion or the second housing portion, wherein the inlet is configured to receive a protruding tool of the user; and

[0095] An actuating device configured to abut against the protruding tool pushed into the inlet by the user, and in response, to release the second housing portion from the locked position.

[0096] The aerosol generation system may include a battery arranged to be enclosed in a cavity at the point of use.

[0097] Heating elements can be installed inside aerosol-generating products.

[0098] The aerosol-generating article may include a passage through a portion of the aerosol-generating article for receiving a protruding tool. When the aerosol-generating article is installed into the cavity, the passage may be aligned with the inlet of an electronic device.

[0099] According to another aspect of the present invention, an electronic device is provided for generating aerosols from a matrix in an aerosol-generating article, the electronic device comprising:

[0100] First shell part,

[0101] The first housing portion is configured to removably engage an aerosol generating article comprising a matrix to be heated by a heating element to generate an aerosol, and the first housing portion is configured to operatively connect a battery to a use position to provide power to the heating element.

[0102] The first housing portion includes a first holding element configured to engage a complementary second holding element disposed on the battery, such that the first holding element holds the battery in the usage position.

[0103] An inlet, wherein the inlet is disposed on the first housing portion, and wherein the inlet is configured to receive a protruding tool of the user; and

[0104] An actuating device configured to abut against the protruding tool pushed into the inlet by the user, and in response, to release the battery from the use position.

[0105] As used herein, a peripheral wall includes a peripheral wall that is fixedly mounted to a first housing portion or a second housing portion. The peripheral wall forms a tube or tubular surround suitable for surrounding or partially surrounding the battery when it is loaded onto an electronic device. The peripheral wall extends longitudinally with a uniform cross-sectional shape. The cross-sectional shape can be any suitable shape for accommodating the battery, such as a rectangular shape, a rounded rectangular shape, a circular shape, an elliptical shape, or an irregular cross-sectional shape.

[0106] As used herein, the protruding tool can be any suitable tool having finger-like elements or finger-like protrusions for insertion into an inlet of finite size to actuate the actuator on the aerosol generating device.

[0107] Example:

[0108] The invention is defined in the claims. However, a non-exhaustive list of non-limiting examples is provided below. Any one or more features of these examples may be combined with any one or more features of another example, embodiment, or aspect described herein.

[0109] Example Ex1: An electronic device for generating an aerosol from a matrix in an aerosol-generating article, the electronic device comprising:

[0110] A first housing portion, wherein the first housing portion is configured to removably engage an aerosol generating article comprising a matrix to be heated by a heating element to generate an aerosol, and the first housing portion is configured to operatively connect a battery to a use position to provide power to the heating element;

[0111] A second housing portion is configured to engage with a first housing portion in a locked position, wherein in the locked position, at least one of the first housing portion or the second housing portion accommodates the battery in the use position.

[0112] An inlet, wherein the inlet is disposed on the first housing portion or the second housing portion, wherein the inlet is configured to receive a protruding tool of the user; and

[0113] An actuating device configured to abut against the protruding tool pushed into the inlet by the user, and in response, to release the second housing portion from the locked position.

[0114] Example Ex2: An electronic device of Ex1, wherein the first housing portion includes a biasing member, wherein the biasing member is configured to push the second housing portion or the battery away from the first housing portion in response to the user pushing the protruding tool into the inlet.

[0115] Example Ex3: An electronic device of Ex1 or Ex2, wherein in the use position, the battery is releasably coupled to the first housing portion and remains coupled to the first housing portion when the second housing portion is released from the locked position.

[0116] Example Ex4: An electronic device of Ex3, wherein the first housing portion includes at least one device terminal, and wherein each of the at least one device terminal is configured to engage with a corresponding battery terminal on the battery to connect the battery to the first housing portion.

[0117] Example Ex5: Electronic device of Ex3, wherein in response to the user pushing the protruding tool into the inlet, the battery separates from the first housing portion.

[0118] Example Ex6: An electronic device of Ex3, wherein the first housing portion further includes a first retaining element configured to engage a complementary second retaining element on the battery to mount the battery to the first housing portion in the use position, and wherein, in response to the user pushing the protruding tool into the inlet, the actuation device disengages the first retaining element from the second retaining element.

[0119] Example Ex7: An electronic device of Ex6, wherein the second housing portion is configured such that when the actuation device disengages the first holding element of the first housing portion from the second holding element of the battery, the second housing portion is released from the locked position.

[0120] Example Ex8: An electronic device of Ex6, wherein a first housing portion includes a complementary third holding element configured to engage a second holding element on the battery to hold the battery in a partially detached position within the first housing portion.

[0121] Example Ex9: An electronic device of Ex8, wherein the first housing portion includes a second inlet configured to receive the user's protruding tool; wherein the second inlet is configured such that, in response to the user pushing the protruding tool into the second inlet, the battery is released from the portion detachment position.

[0122] Example Ex10: An electronic device of Ex9, wherein the first housing portion includes a sliding member slidably mounted to the first housing portion for sliding relative to the first housing portion in a longitudinal direction, and wherein the third holding element is disposed on the sliding member.

[0123] Example Ex11: An electronic device of Ex1 or Ex2, wherein, in the usage position, the battery is releasably mounted to the second housing portion.

[0124] Example Ex12: An electronic device of any one of Examples Ex1 to Ex11, wherein the first housing portion or the second housing portion includes a frame member configured such that the battery is positioned and mounted to the frame member.

[0125] Example Ex13: An electronic device of Ex12, wherein the frame member includes a peripheral portion defining a support surface, such as a recessed surface, and wherein the battery is positioned on the support surface.

[0126] Example Ex14: An electronic device of Ex13, wherein the frame member includes an aperture through the peripheral portion, wherein the aperture is configured such that, in the use position, at least one battery terminal or battery terminal plug of the battery is electrically connected to the heating element through the aperture.

[0127] Example Ex15: An electronic device of any one of Examples Ex12 to Ex14, further comprising at least one adhesive portion arranged to adhere the battery to the frame member.

[0128] Example Ex16: An electronic device of any one of Examples Ex12 to Ex15, wherein the frame member includes a magnetized portion configured to magnetically engage a complementary portion on the battery in order to guide the battery to a positioning position in the frame member.

[0129] Example Ex17: An electronic device of any one of Examples Ex12 to Ex16, wherein the frame member includes a first connector and a second connector, the first connector being configured to be electrically connected to a terminal of the battery when the battery is located in the frame member, and the second connector being electrically connected to the first connector.

[0130] Example Ex18: An electronic device of Ex17, wherein the second connector is configured to engage with a socket in the first housing portion when the second housing portion and the battery are in the locked position, thereby electrically connecting the battery to the heating element.

[0131] Example Ex19: An electronic device of Ex17, wherein the second connector is configured to be electrically connected to a charging device when the second housing portion is detached from the first housing portion, for charging the battery electrically connected to the first connector.

[0132] Example Ex20: An electronic device of any one of Examples Ex1 to Ex19, wherein the chamber includes a thermal sensor configured to measure the temperature inside the chamber.

[0133] Example Ex21: Electronic device of Ex20, wherein the thermal sensor is operatively connected to a controller configured to generate an alarm signal when the measured temperature exceeds a threshold temperature.

[0134] Example Ex22: An electronic device belonging to Ex20 or Ex21 of any one of claims 10 to 17, wherein the thermal sensor is mounted to a frame member and positioned to contact the outer surface of the battery when the battery is located in the frame member.

[0135] Example Ex23: An electronic device of any one of Examples Ex20 to Ex22, wherein the thermal sensor is formed within a protective film.

[0136] Example Ex24: An electronic device of any one of Examples Ex1 to Ex23, wherein the inlet is disposed in the first housing portion.

[0137] Example Ex25: An electronic device of any one of Examples Ex1 to Ex23, wherein the inlet is disposed in the second housing portion.

[0138] Example Ex26: An electronic device of Ex24 or Ex25, wherein the actuation device is mounted to the first housing portion or the second housing portion.

[0139] Example Ex27: An electronic device of Ex24, wherein the inlet is located on the second housing portion such that, in the locked position, the inlet extends through the second housing portion to the actuating device mounted within the first housing portion.

[0140] Example Ex28: An electronic device of Ex26, wherein the actuation device includes a fulcrum and the fulcrum is pivotally mounted to the first housing portion or the second housing portion.

[0141] Example Ex29: An electronic device of Ex28, wherein the actuation device includes a first engagement portion configured such that, when the protruding tool is pushed into the inlet, the first engagement portion aligns with the inlet to abut the protruding tool, provided that the fulcrum is mounted to the first housing portion or the second housing portion.

[0142] Example Ex30: An electronic device of any one of Examples Ex1 to Ex28, wherein the heating element is mounted within the first housing portion.

[0143] Example Ex31: An electronic device of any one of Examples Ex1 to Ex30, further comprising a battery encapsulated in a cavity at the place of use.

[0144] Example Ex32: An electronic device of Ex31, wherein the battery includes a second retaining element that is complementary to a first retaining element disposed in the electronic device, and wherein the first retaining element and the second retaining element together connect the battery to the first housing portion or the second housing portion.

[0145] Example Ex33: An electronic device of Ex31 or Ex32, wherein the battery includes an identification tag, such as a QR code tag, disposed on at least one surface of the battery.

[0146] Example Ex34: An aerosol generation system comprising an electronic device of any one of Examples Ex1 to Ex33, and a first housing portion of the electronic device for use in generating an aerosol article heated by the heating element.

[0147] Example Ex35: An aerosol generation system including electronic devices, wherein the heating element is installed within the aerosol generation article.

[0148] Example Ex36: An aerosol generation system of Ex34 or Ex35, wherein the aerosol generation article includes a passage through a portion of the aerosol generation article for receiving a protruding tool, and wherein the passage is aligned with the inlet of the electronic device when the aerosol generation article is installed into the cavity.

[0149] Example Ex37: An electronic device for generating an aerosol from a matrix in an aerosol-generating article, the electronic device comprising:

[0150] First shell part,

[0151] The first housing portion is configured to removably engage an aerosol generating article comprising a matrix to be heated by a heating element to generate an aerosol, and the first housing portion is configured to operatively connect a battery to a use position to provide power to the heating element.

[0152] The first housing portion includes a first holding element configured to engage a complementary second holding element disposed on the battery, such that the first holding element holds the battery in the usage position.

[0153] An inlet, wherein the inlet is disposed on the first housing portion, and wherein the inlet is configured to receive a protruding tool of the user; and

[0154] An actuating device configured to abut against the protruding tool pushed into the inlet by the user, and in response, to release the battery from the use position.

[0155] Example Ex38: An aerosol generation system of any one of Examples Ex1 to Ex37, wherein a first housing portion may include a peripheral wall and an opening at an end of the peripheral wall, and wherein the peripheral wall is configured to surround the battery in the use position to accommodate the battery in the first housing portion.

[0156] Example Ex39: An aerosol generation system of Ex38, wherein the battery is mounted to a frame, and the peripheral wall surrounds both the battery and the frame to which the battery is mounted.

[0157] Example Ex40: An aerosol generation system of Ex38 or Ex39, wherein the second housing portion is configured as a cap of the opening of the first housing portion.

[0158] Example Ex41: An aerosol generation system of Ex40, wherein the second housing portion is mounted to the opening of the first housing portion using a mutually compatible device disposed on the second housing portion and the opening.

[0159] Example Ex42: An aerosol generation system of Ex41, wherein the mutually compatible device includes a flange portion disposed on the second housing portion and configured to form an interference fit with the inner wall of the orifice.

[0160] Example Ex43: Aerosol generation systems of Examples Ex1 to Ex37, wherein the second housing portion includes a peripheral wall and an opening at an end of the peripheral wall, and wherein the peripheral wall is configured to surround the battery in the use position to accommodate the battery in the second housing portion.

[0161] Example Ex44: An aerosol generation system of Example Ex43, wherein the battery is mounted on a frame, and the peripheral wall surrounds both the battery and the frame on which the battery is mounted.

[0162] Example Ex45: An aerosol generation system of Ex43 or Ex44, wherein the first housing portion is configured as a cap of the opening of the second housing portion.

[0163] Example Ex46: An aerosol generation system of Ex45, wherein the first housing portion is mounted to the mouth of the second housing portion using a mutually compatible device disposed on the first housing portion and the mouth.

[0164] Example Ex47: An aerosol generation system of Ex46, wherein the mutually compatible device includes a flange portion disposed on the first housing portion and configured to form an interference fit with the inner wall of the opening.

[0165] Example Ex48: An aerosol generation system of any one of Examples Ex1 to Ex47, wherein the first housing portion and the second housing portion together enclose a chamber, and the battery is housed in the chamber at the use position.

[0166] Example Ex49: An aerosol generation system of any one of Examples Ex1 to Ex47, wherein the second housing portion is the outer casing or shell of the battery. Attached Figure Description

[0167] The example will now be described further with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:

[0168] Figure 1A A front view of an example aerosol generation system in its assembled configuration is shown.

[0169] Figure 1B It shows Figure 1A A front view of an example aerosol generation system, in which the aerosol generation article has been removed from the aerosol generation device;

[0170] Figure 1C It shows Figure 1B Example aerosol generation system and a side view highlighting the tool;

[0171] Figure 2A It shows a configuration Figures 1A to 1C A front view of the aerosol generating apparatus of the aerosol generating system, in which the second housing portion is partially detached from the first housing portion;

[0172] Figure 2B It shows Figure 2A A front view of an aerosol generating apparatus, wherein the second housing portion has been removed from the first housing portion;

[0173] Figure 3 It shows Figure 2A and Figure 2B A front view of the first housing portion, in which the battery has been removed from the first housing portion;

[0174] Figure 4 A front view of another example first housing portion is shown, including a frame member that is fixedly mounted to the first housing portion;

[0175] Figure 5A It shows Figure 4 A side view of the first housing portion, wherein the second housing portion is mounted to the first housing portion in a locked position;

[0176] Figure 5B It shows Figure 4 A side view of the first housing portion, wherein the second housing portion has been removed from the first housing portion;

[0177] Figure 5C It shows Figure 4 A side view of the first housing portion, wherein the battery has been removed from the first housing portion;

[0178] Figure 6 A front view of another example of the first housing section is shown, with the battery removed;

[0179] Figure 7 The front view of the example highlighting tool is shown;

[0180] Figure 8A A side view of another example aerosol generating device and protruding tool is shown;

[0181] Figure 8B It shows Figure 8A Front view of the aerosol generating device;

[0182] Figure 8C It shows Figure 8A A front view of an aerosol generating device, wherein the second housing portion and the battery have been removed from the first housing portion;

[0183] Figure 8D It shows Figure 8C A front view of the second housing section, with the battery removed;

[0184] Figure 9A A perspective view of yet another example aerosol generating device is shown, in which the first housing portion, the second housing portion, and the battery are disassembled from each other;

[0185] Figure 9B A perspective view of the second housing portion is shown, and Figure 9A An illustrated view of the battery;

[0186] Figure 10A A perspective view of yet another example aerosol generating device is shown, in which the first housing portion, the second housing portion, and the battery are disassembled from each other;

[0187] Figure 10B It shows Figure 10A The aerosol generating device, wherein the battery and the second housing portion have been partially removed from the first housing portion;

[0188] Figure 11A It shows Figure 10A and Figure 10B A cross-sectional view of an aerosol generating device, wherein the second housing portion is engaged with the first housing portion in a locked position;

[0189] Figure 11B It shows Figure 10A and Figure 10BA cross-sectional view of an aerosol generating device, wherein the battery and the second housing portion have been partially removed from the first housing portion;

[0190] Figure 12A It shows Figure 10A and Figure 10B A cross-sectional view of an aerosol generating device, wherein the battery is mounted in a frame member, the frame member being engaged with a first housing portion in a locked position;

[0191] Figure 12B It shows Figure 12A A cross-sectional view of an aerosol generating device, wherein the frame members and the second housing portion have been partially disassembled from the first housing portion;

[0192] Figure 13A A cross-sectional view of another aerosol generating device is shown, in which the battery and the second housing portion are engaged with the first housing portion in a locked position;

[0193] Figure 13B It shows Figure 13A A cross-sectional view of an example, in which a protruding tool releases the second housing portion from the first housing portion;

[0194] Figure 13C It shows Figure 13A A cross-sectional view of an example, wherein the second retaining element engages with the third retaining element of the sliding frame component of the first housing portion;

[0195] Figure 13D It shows Figure 13C A cross-sectional view of an example, in which the locking element of the sliding frame component is released from the retainer of the first housing portion;

[0196] Figure 13E It shows Figure 13D A cross-sectional view of an example, wherein the battery is spaced apart from the biasing member of the first housing portion; and

[0197] Figure 13F It shows Figure 13E A cross-sectional view of an example where the sliding component is at its lower travel limit. Detailed Implementation

[0198] Certain terms are used in the following description for convenience only and are not restrictive. The terms “down,” “up,” “front,” “back,” “upward,” “downward,” and “below” indicate directions in the referenced figures and are relative to the described components during assembly and installation. The terms “inner,” “inward,” “outer,” and “outward” refer to directions toward and away from the specified centerline or geometric center (e.g., central axis) of the described element, respectively, and their specific meanings are self-evident from the context of the description.

[0199] Furthermore, as used herein, the terms “connection,” “link,” and “installation” are intended to include both direct connections between two components in which no other component is inserted and indirect connections between components in which one or more other components are inserted. The terms include those specifically mentioned above, their derivatives, and words with similar meanings.

[0200] Furthermore, unless otherwise specified, the use of ordinal adjectives such as “first,” “second,” “third,” etc., merely indicates different examples of similar objects and is not intended to imply that the objects described must be in a given order in time, space, rank, or in any other way.

[0201] Now for reference Figures 1A to 3 An example aerosol generation system 100 including electronic devices is shown. Figure 1A In the illustration, the aerosol generating article 102 is shown as being removably mounted to an electronic device, in which case the aerosol generating device includes a first housing portion 110 and a second housing portion 130. Figure 1B and Figure 1C In the image, the aerosol-generating article 102 is shown as being disassembled from the aerosol-generating apparatus.

[0202] A first housing portion 110 is configured to removably engage an aerosol generating article 102 comprising a matrix to be heated by a heating element to generate an aerosol, and the first housing portion is configured to operatively connect a battery 150 to a use position to provide power to the heating element. A second housing portion 130 is configured to engage with the first housing portion 110 in a locked position, wherein in the locked position, the first housing portion 110 and the second housing portion 130 together enclose a chamber for retaining the battery 150 in the use position. In the use position, the battery 150 is substantially housed within the second housing portion 130. An inlet 114 is provided on the first housing portion 110 and configured to receive a user's protruding tool 190. An actuation device within the first housing portion 110 is configured to abut against the protruding tool 190 when pushed into the inlet 114 by the user, and in response, release the second housing portion 130 from the locked position. This may be the release of a mechanical lock, or the pushing of housing portions 110, 130 apart, or both.

[0203] The first housing portion 110 may be configured to removably engage the aerosol generating article 102. For example, the aerosol generating article 102 is mounted to the aerosol generating device by positioning the mounting portion 104 of the aerosol generating article 102 within a cavity 112 at an end portion of the aerosol generating device. When the aerosol generating system 100 is in use, the mounting portion 104 is held within the cavity 112 by a suitable interference fit, fastener, or other attachment means. In some instances, fasteners or attachment means may lock the aerosol generating article 102 to the aerosol generating device during use. When the matrix in the aerosol generating article 102 has been consumed and needs to be replaced, the user selectively releases the aerosol generating article 102, for example, by unlocking the fasteners, and removes it from the aerosol generating device.

[0204] The aerosol generation system 100 may further include a heating element for heating the matrix of the aerosol generation article to aerosolize one or more substances in the matrix. The heating element may be disposed within the aerosol generation article 102, in the cavity 112 of the first housing portion 110, or may be distributed between the aerosol generation article 102 and the first housing portion 110, for example, in the non-limiting case of induction heating, a sensor within the aerosol generation article 102 that forms the aerosol, and an induction coil disposed in the cavity 112.

[0205] The first housing portion 110 is also configured to operatively connect the battery 150 to the use position to supply power to the heating element. For example, particularly in... Figures 2A to 3 As shown, the battery 150 includes a first battery terminal 151 and a second battery terminal 152. The second housing portion 130 includes a first device terminal 131 and a second device terminal 132 disposed at a proximal portion 115 of the second housing portion 130. When the battery 150 is operatively connected to the first housing portion 110, the first battery terminal 151 engages with the first device terminal 131, and the second battery terminal 152 engages with the second device terminal 132. In this manner, the battery 150 is releasably connected to the first housing portion 110 and remains connected to the first housing portion 110 when the second housing portion 130 is released from a locked position.

[0206] In this example, a heating element is disposed within the aerosol generating article 102. This heating element is, for example, but not limited to, coils and core elements conventionally used for heating liquid matrices. Thus, when the aerosol generating article 102 is mounted to an aerosol generating apparatus, the heating element is electrically connected to a battery 150 held within a chamber. When the mounting portion 104 is received within the cavity 112, electrical connection can be provided through suitable cooperative electrical connections that contact each other.

[0207] In an alternative embodiment, the heating element may be disposed within the first housing portion of the aerosol generating apparatus. This heating element may be, for example, a resistance heating element or a dielectric heating element. The heating element is arranged to apply heat to the matrix of the aerosol generating article when it is mounted onto the aerosol generating apparatus. In this way, the aerosol generating article does not need to contain any electrical components, reducing the cost of manufacturing the aerosol generating article. As another example, the heating element may be disposed at both the aerosol generating article and the first housing portion, for example, in a non-limiting case with a sensor within the aerosol-forming aerosol generating article and an induction coil disposed at the cavity for induction heating.

[0208] An inlet 114 is provided on the first housing portion 110 of the aerosol generating device. The inlet 114 is formed as an opening on the outer surface of the first housing portion 110. The inlet 114 extends through the outer surface to an actuating device mounted within the first housing portion 110. The inlet 114 is designed to receive only a limited number of atomizers (e.g., with reference to...). Figure 7 The size of the protruding tool 190 (as described in the example) is a suitable size. For example, the inlet 114 may have an opening with a diameter of 1 mm. In other instances, the diameter of the inlet opening is less than 1.5 mm or preferably less than 1.2 mm. In this way, the inlet is small enough to substantially prevent unwanted material from entering, but is easily accessible if the user wants to release the second housing portion 130 from the first housing portion 110.

[0209] An actuating device (not shown) is located at the inner end of inlet 114. The actuating device is operatively connected to a retaining element that holds the first housing portion 110 and the second housing portion 130 in a locked position. The retaining element may be a complementary male and female portion, which can be operatively disengaged from each other, for example, by being pushed apart by the actuating device. For example, the male portion may be a flange, a point, a hook, or a rib. For example, the female portion may be a corresponding or complementary recess, opening, groove, or slot. Each of the complementary pairs may be disposed on either the first housing portion, the second housing portion, a battery mounted to the first housing portion, or a battery mounted to the second housing portion.

[0210] The second housing portion 130 includes a peripheral wall 136 extending longitudinally between an opening 134 and a base 138. The opening 134 defines an opening sized to fit onto the battery 150 when the second housing portion 130 is mounted to the first housing portion 110. The peripheral wall 136 has a length slightly longer than the length of the battery 150 fitted within the aerosol generating device. In this example, the peripheral wall 136 has a substantially rectangular cross-sectional shape. The size of the rectangular cross-sectional shape is adapted to surround the battery 150 in its use position.

[0211] In the locked position, the second housing portion 130 engages with the first housing portion 110 such that the first housing portion 110 and the second housing portion 130 together enclose the chamber holding the battery 150. In the locked position, the chamber is defined within the peripheral wall 136 of the second housing portion 130 and is defined at a first end by the base 138 of the second housing portion 130 and at a second end by the proximal portion 115 of the first housing portion 110. In other words, the proximal portion 115 of the first housing portion 110 is inserted into the opening 134 of the second housing portion 130 to form the chamber.

[0212] The second housing portion 130 includes one of the complementary retaining elements described above, such as a male or female portion. For example, a groove may be provided at or near the opening 134, the groove being configured to engage a complementary protruding rib at the proximal portion 115.

[0213] In use, when a user wishes to replace the battery, the protruding tool 190 is inserted into the inlet 114 of the first housing portion 110. As the user pushes the protruding tool 190 into the inlet 114, the actuating device abuts against the protruding tool. By pushing the protruding tool 190 into the inlet 114, the user generates a pushing force on the actuating device. In response to the pushing force, the actuating device releases the second housing portion from the first housing portion. For example, the pushing force may temporarily deform at least one portion of the retaining element, or may displace or retract the retaining elements relative to each other to release the second housing portion from the locked position. For example, the actuating device may be operable to retract a protruding rib on the first housing portion from a recess on the second housing portion to release the second housing portion from the first housing portion.

[0214] With the second housing portion 130 released from the first housing portion 110, the second housing portion 130 is pulled out from the battery 150 held on the first housing portion 110. The user can then access the battery 150 to replace it with a replacement battery.

[0215] To install the replacement battery 150, the user mates the battery terminals with the corresponding device terminals to connect the replacement battery 150 to the first housing portion 110. The replacement battery 150 is thus operatively connected to the heating element of the aerosol generation system 100. The second housing portion 130 then slides onto the battery 150 and along the battery until the opening 134 reaches the proximal portion 115. A final push bringing the first housing portion 110 and the second housing portion 130 towards each other re-engages the complementary holding elements of each housing portion, making the reassembled aerosol generation device ready for use.

[0216] Now for reference Figures 4 to 5CAnother example electronic device in the form of an aerosol generating apparatus, i.e., an aerosol generating system 200, is shown. The aerosol generating system 200 is shown as an aerosol generating article not installed in the electronic device. (In features and references) Figures 1A to 3 When the described features are the same, the reference numerals are also the same, but the first digit is "2".

[0217] The aerosol generating device includes a first housing portion 210, which includes a distal portion 216 and a proximal portion 215. (See reference...) Figures 1A to 1C The distal portion 216 is configured to removably engage the aerosol-generating article in the cavity 212.

[0218] The first housing portion 210 includes a frame member 240. The frame member 240 is fixedly mounted to the proximal portion 215 of the first housing portion 210. The frame member 240 includes a planar support surface 242 defined by a peripheral portion 244. The peripheral portion 244 forms a raised edge of the support surface 242 and is sized such that a battery 250 is positioned on the support surface 242, wherein a first battery terminal 251 mates with a first device terminal 231 and a second battery terminal 252 mates with a second device terminal 232.

[0219] The second housing portion 230 includes a peripheral wall 236 extending longitudinally between an opening 234 and a base 238. The opening 234 defines an opening sized to fit between the battery 250 and the frame member 240 when the second housing portion 230 is mounted to the first housing portion 210. The peripheral wall 236 has a length slightly longer than the length of the battery 250 fitted within the aerosol generating device. In an example, the peripheral wall 236 has a cross-sectional shape sized to be substantially rectangular around the battery 250 and the frame member 240 when the battery 250 is in the use position.

[0220] In the locked position, the second housing portion 230 engages with the first housing portion 210 such that the first housing portion 210 and the second housing portion 230 together enclose and retain the chamber containing the battery 250 and the frame member 240. In the locked position, the chamber is defined within the peripheral wall 236 of the second housing portion 230 and is defined at a first end by the base 238 of the second housing portion 230 and at a second end by the proximal portion 215 of the first housing portion 210. In other words, the proximal portion 215 of the first housing portion 210 is inserted into the opening 234 of the second housing portion 230 to form the chamber. In the use position, the battery frame 240 and the battery 250 are substantially housed within the second housing portion 230.

[0221] The first housing portion 210 and the second housing portion 230 each include complementary holding elements, such as those described herein.

[0222] An inlet 214 is provided on the second housing portion 230 of the aerosol generating device. The inlet 214 is formed as an opening through the peripheral wall 236 of the second housing portion 230. The inlet 214 is positioned on the second housing portion 230 such that, in the locked position, the inlet 214 extends through the peripheral wall 236 to an actuator mounted within the first housing portion 210. In other words, when the second housing portion 230 is mounted to the first housing portion 210 in the locked position, the actuator is accessible via the inlet 214 by a protruding tool 190.

[0223] In use, when the user wishes to replace the battery, the protruding tool 190 is inserted into the inlet 214 of the second housing portion 230 until it reaches the actuation device of the first housing portion 210 through the inlet 214. When the user pushes the protruding tool 190 into the inlet 214, the actuation device abuts against the protruding tool. By pushing the protruding tool 190 into the inlet 214, the user... Figures 1A to 3 The examples described are essentially the same as those used to generate thrust on the actuator.

[0224] With the second housing portion 230 released from the first housing portion 210, the second housing portion 230 is pulled out from the battery 250 located on the frame member 240 of the first housing portion 210. The user can then access the battery 250 to replace it with a replacement battery. The replacement battery 250 is installed by loading the replacement battery onto the frame member 240 such that the corresponding battery terminals mate with the corresponding device terminals, and by pushing the first housing portion 210 and the second housing portion 230 toward each other to re-engage the complementary holding elements of each housing portion.

[0225] As will be appreciated, the aerosol generation system 200 may be adapted to releasably mount the frame member 240 to the first housing portion 210. In this manner, the frame member may be configured such that an actuation device of the first housing portion releases the frame member. That is, by pushing a protruding tool into the inlet, the user generates a pushing force that releases both the second housing portion and the frame member from the first housing portion. The frame member and the battery are separated from each other to allow the user to more easily replace the battery and load a replacement battery into the existing frame member, or to allow the user to replace both the battery and frame member sub-assemblies for replacement.

[0226] Now for reference Figure 6 The illustration shows the first housing portion 310 of another example electronic device in the form of an aerosol generating apparatus of an aerosol generating system. (Features and references are provided.) Figures 4 to 5C In cases where the described examples are the same, the reference numerals are also the same, but the first digit is "3".

[0227] The first housing portion 310 is shown as an aerosol-generating article not attached to an electronic device. The first housing portion 310 is also shown without a second housing portion, which will be referenced above. Figures 4 to 5C The second housing portion 230 described is substantially the same.

[0228] The frame member 340 includes a thermal sensor 320. The thermal sensor 320 is disposed on the support surface 342 of the frame member 340 and is connected to a controller within the housing of the first housing portion 310 via a connector 321. The thermal sensor 320 is formed in a plate shape within a protective film.

[0229] Thermal sensor 320 is configured to measure the temperature within the chamber during use. Specifically, thermal sensor 320 is positioned to contact the outer surface of battery 350 located within frame member 340 to monitor the temperature of battery 350. The temperature measured by thermal sensor 320 is reported to the controller during use, causing the controller to generate an alarm signal when the measured temperature exceeds a threshold temperature. In response to the alarm signal, the user may be alerted and / or the electrical connection between battery 350 and the heating element may be disconnected.

[0230] Now for reference Figure 7 An example of a protruding tool 190 is shown. The protruding tool 190 includes fingers 194 and a handle 192 attached to the fingers 194 to allow a user to grip the protruding tool 190. The protruding tool 190 is formed of metal (e.g., steel or aluminum).

[0231] In this example, the finger 194 is rod-shaped, with a diameter of 0.7 mm and a length of 8 mm. The handle 192 is a ring, with a length of 25 mm and a width of 8 mm. Thus, the protruding tool is easily manipulated to insert the finger 194 into the inlet and apply a pushing force to the actuating device to release the second housing portion.

[0232] Now for reference Figures 8A to 8D Another example of an aerosol generation system 700 is shown, which includes an electronic device in the form of an aerosol generation apparatus. The aerosol generation system 700 is shown as an aerosol generation article without the electronic device installed. (In features and references) Figures 4 to 5C In cases where the described examples are the same, the reference numerals are also the same, but the first digit is "7".

[0233] The aerosol generating apparatus includes a first housing portion 710 and a second housing portion 730, similar to Figures 4 to 6 The first housing portion 310 and the second housing portion 330 shown are different in that the second housing portion 730 encloses the first housing portion 710 in the locked position.

[0234] In the usage position, the frame 740 and the battery 750 are essentially housed within the second housing portion 730.

[0235] The first housing portion 710 includes a frame member 740 fixedly mounted to the proximal portion 715 of the first housing portion 710. The battery 750 is located within the peripheral portion 744 of the frame member 740, such that the first battery terminal 751 and the second battery terminal 752 each mate with a corresponding first device terminal 731 and the second device terminal 732.

[0236] The second housing portion 730 includes a peripheral wall 736 extending longitudinally between an opening 734 and a base 738. The opening 734 defines an opening sized to fit between the second housing portion 730 and the frame member 740 and the battery 750, as well as the first housing portion 710, when the second housing portion 730 is mounted to the first housing portion 710. The peripheral wall 736 has a length corresponding to the length of the first housing portion 710. In an example, the peripheral wall 736 has a substantially rectangular cross-sectional shape sized to surround and enclose the battery 750 and the first housing portion 710 when the battery 750 is in the use position.

[0237] In the locked position, the second housing portion 730 engages with the first housing portion 710 such that the first housing portion 710 and the second housing portion 730 together enclose the chamber that holds the battery 750 and the frame member 740. In the locked position, the chamber is defined within the peripheral wall 736 of the second housing portion 730 and is defined at a first end by the base 738 of the second housing portion 730 and at a second end by the proximal portion 715 of the first housing portion 710. The proximal portion 715 of the first housing portion 710 is inserted into the peripheral wall 736 inside the opening 734 of the second housing portion 730 to form the chamber.

[0238] The first housing portion 710 and the second housing portion 730 each include complementary retaining elements, such as those described herein. For example, the retaining element of the first housing portion 710 may be disposed on the inner surface of its opening 734. The retaining element of the second housing portion 730 may be disposed on its distal portion 716.

[0239] An inlet 714 is provided on the second housing portion 730 of the aerosol generating device. The inlet 714 is formed as an opening through the peripheral wall 736 of the second housing portion 730. The inlet 714 is positioned on the second housing portion 730 such that, in the locked position, the inlet 714 extends through the peripheral wall 736 to the actuating device of the first housing portion 710. In other words, when the second housing portion 730 is mounted to the first housing portion 710 in the locked position, the actuating device is accessible via the inlet 714 by the protruding tool 190.

[0240] In use, when the user wishes to replace the battery, the protruding tool 190 is inserted into the inlet 714 of the second housing portion 730 until it reaches the actuation device of the first housing portion 710 through the inlet 714. When the user pushes the protruding tool 190 into the inlet 714, the actuation device abuts against the protruding tool. By pushing the protruding tool 190 into the inlet 714, the user... Figures 1A to 3 The examples described are essentially the same as those used to generate thrust on the actuator.

[0241] With the second housing portion 730 released from the first housing portion 710, the first housing portion 710 is removed from its opening 718. The user can then access the battery 750 to replace it with a replacement battery. The replacement battery 750 is installed by loading it onto the frame member 740, such that the corresponding battery terminals mate with the corresponding device terminals. The first housing portion 710 is inserted into the second housing portion 730 and pushed into the peripheral wall 736 to re-engage the complementary holding elements of each housing portion.

[0242] Now for reference Figure 9A and Figure 9B Another example of an aerosol generation system 400 is shown, which includes an electronic device in the form of an aerosol generation apparatus. The aerosol generation system 400 is shown as an aerosol generation article without the electronic device installed. (In features and references) Figures 4 to 5C In cases where the described examples are the same, the reference numerals are also the same, but the first digit is "4".

[0243] The aerosol generating apparatus includes a first housing portion 410, which includes a distal portion 416 and a proximal portion 415. As described with reference to other examples, the distal portion 416 is configured to removably engage the aerosol generating article in the cavity 412.

[0244] The second housing portion 430 includes a frame member 440. The frame member 440 is fixedly mounted to the base 438 of the first housing portion 410. The frame member 440 includes a planar support surface 442 defined by a peripheral portion 444. The peripheral portion 444 forms a raised edge of the support surface 442 and is sized such that the battery 450 is positioned on the support surface 442.

[0245] The peripheral portion 444 includes an opening 446 at a first end of the frame member 440. When the second housing portion 430 is engaged with the first housing portion 410 in a locked position, the first end of the frame corresponds to the inner end of the frame member 440. In this example, the opening 446 is an elongated slot extending across the first end of the frame member 440. The battery 450 includes a battery terminal plug 451 at one end. The opening 446 of the frame member 440 is sized such that the battery terminal plug 451 is positioned within the opening 446, allowing access to the battery terminal plug 451 from the outside of the frame member 440.

[0246] The first housing portion 410 includes a peripheral wall 417 extending longitudinally from an opening 418 into the first housing portion 410. The opening 418 defines an opening sized to fit between the battery 450 and the frame member 440 when the second housing portion 430 is mounted to the first housing portion 410. The peripheral wall 417 has a length substantially the same as the length of the battery 450 fitted within the aerosol generating device. In an example, the peripheral wall 417 has a rounded rectangular cross-sectional shape. When the battery 450 is installed in the use position, the dimensions of the cross-sectional shape are adapted to surround the battery 450 and the frame member 440.

[0247] In the locked position, the second housing portion 430 engages with the first housing portion 410 such that the first housing portion 410 and the second housing portion 430 together enclose the chamber holding the battery 450. In the locked position, the chamber is defined within the peripheral wall 417 of the first housing portion 410 and is defined at one end by the base 438 of the second housing portion 430 and at the opposite second end by the inner wall of the first housing portion 410. In other words, the base 438 of the second housing portion 430 is inserted into the opening 418 of the first housing portion 410 to form the chamber.

[0248] In the usage position, the frame 440 and the battery 450 are essentially housed within the first housing portion 410.

[0249] The first housing portion 410 and the second housing portion 430 each include one of the aforementioned complementary retaining elements, such as a male portion or a female portion. For example, a groove may be provided at or near the opening 418 of the first housing portion 410 and configured to engage complementary protruding ribs on the base 438.

[0250] The inner wall of the first housing portion 410 includes a device terminal socket. The battery terminal socket is arranged such that when the second housing portion 430 is engaged with the first housing portion 410 in a locked position, the battery terminal plug 451 is connected to the device terminal socket. Specifically, in the locked position, the battery 450 is electrically connected to the first housing portion 410 through an opening 446 in the frame member 440.

[0251] The second housing portion 430 includes an inlet 437. The inlet 437 is formed as an opening through the base 438 of the second housing portion 430. The inlet 437 is positioned on the base 438 such that, in the locked position, the inlet 437 extends through the base 438 to an actuating device mounted at the proximal portion 415 of the first housing portion 410. In other words, when the second housing portion 430 is mounted to the first housing portion 410 in the locked position, the actuating device is accessible via the inlet 437 by a protruding tool 190.

[0252] In use, when the user wishes to replace the battery, the protruding tool 190 is inserted into the inlet 437 of the second housing portion 430 until it reaches the actuation device of the first housing portion 410. When the user pushes the protruding tool 190 into the inlet 437, the actuation device abuts against the protruding tool. By pushing the protruding tool 190 into the inlet 437, the user generates a driving force on the actuation device in substantially the same manner as described in other examples.

[0253] With the second housing portion 430 released from the first housing portion 410, the second housing portion 430, frame member 440, and battery 450 are withdrawn from the first housing portion 410. The user can then access the battery 450 to replace it with a replacement battery. The replacement battery 450 is installed by loading it onto the frame member 440, such that the battery terminal plug 451 is arranged within the aperture 446, ready to mate with the device terminal socket. Pushing the first housing portion 410 and the second housing portion 430 toward each other re-engages the complementary holding elements of each housing portion and mates the battery terminal plug 451 with the device terminal socket.

[0254] Now for reference Figures 10A to 11B Another example of an aerosol generation system 500 is shown, which includes an electronic device in the form of an aerosol generation apparatus. The aerosol generation system 500 is shown as an aerosol generation article without the electronic device installed. (In features and references) Figure 9A and Figure 9B In cases where the described examples are the same, the figure labels are also the same, but the first digit is "5".

[0255] The aerosol generating device includes a first housing portion 510, which is similar to Figure 9A and Figure 9B The first housing portion 410 differs in that it has a cylindrical cross-sectional shape and an entrance 514. In this way, the peripheral wall 517 has a cylindrical cross-sectional shape and extends between the entrance 518 and the inner wall of the first housing portion 510. The entrance 518 is located at the proximal portion 515 of the first housing portion 510.

[0256] As described with reference to other examples, the distal portion 516 of the first housing portion 510 is configured to removably engage an aerosol-generating article in the cavity 512.

[0257] The inner wall of the entrance 514, which is close to the defining peripheral wall 517, is located on the outer surface of the first housing portion 510.

[0258] The peripheral wall 517 is sized to receive a battery 550 having a corresponding shape. In an example, the battery 550 is a cylindrical battery 550 extending longitudinally from the upper end to the lower end, such as, but not limited to, an 18650 type battery. A second retaining element 554 is provided at the upper end of the battery 550. In an example, the second retaining element 554 is formed as a circumferential groove around the upper end of the battery 550.

[0259] In the example shown, battery 550 includes a core and an outer layer. The core includes battery cells formed as rectangular strips. The outer layer may be an overmolded polymer layer. In this way, the outer layer can be easily configured to ensure that battery 550 fits snugly within the cavity of an electronic device. Furthermore, the polymer-molded outer layer provides an increased range of options for forming a first retaining element on battery 550.

[0260] The second housing portion 530 includes a base without a frame member. The second housing portion 530 is configured as a cap for the opening 518 of the first housing portion 510. In particular, the second housing portion 530 includes a cylindrical portion configured to form an interference fit with the inner surface of the opening 518.

[0261] The second housing portion 530 engages with the first housing portion 510 in a locked position using an interference fit at the inner surface of the opening 518. In this manner, the first housing portion 510 and the second housing portion 530 together enclose the chamber holding the battery 550. In the locked position, the chamber is defined within the peripheral wall 517 of the first housing portion 510 and is defined at one end by the second housing portion 530 and at the opposite second end by the inner wall 519 of the first housing portion 510. In other words, the second housing portion 530 is inserted into the opening 518 of the first housing portion 510 to form the chamber.

[0262] The first housing portion 510 includes an actuation device 525. The actuation device 525 includes an arm and a biasing member 528. In an example, the biasing member 528 is a compressible spring mounted in the inner wall 519 and longitudinally aligned with the peripheral wall 517. The biasing member 528 is compressed by the upper end of the battery when the battery 550 is inserted into the peripheral wall 517.

[0263] The arm of the actuation device 525 includes a first arm portion and a second arm portion. The first arm portion is aligned with the inner end of the inlet to abut against a protruding tool inserted into the inlet 514. The second arm portion includes a first retaining element 527. The first retaining element 527 is complementary to a second retaining element 554 of the battery 550. That is, the first retaining element 527 is shaped and oriented to be positioned within a circumferential recess of the battery 550 to secure the battery 550 in the use position. The second housing portion 530 thus engages in the opening 518 in a locked position.

[0264] The arm of the actuation device 525 also includes a fulcrum 526. The fulcrum 526 is mounted to the first housing portion 510 such that the arm is pivotable between an engaged position and a disengaged position. In this way, each of the first and second arm portions pivots about the fulcrum 526. Alternatively, the arm may be biased toward the engaged position, for example, by using a secondary biasing member such as a spring.

[0265] At the joint position, such as Figure 11A As shown, the first arm portion abuts against the inner end of the inlet 514, and the first retaining element 527 is positioned to engage with the second retaining element 554 of the battery 550 loaded into the first housing portion 510. The battery 550 is secured in the use position. The biasing member 528 is compressed against the upper end of the battery 550. In the use position, the battery 550 is substantially contained within the first housing portion 510.

[0266] At the disengaged position, such as Figure 11B As shown, the first arm portion is spaced apart from the inner end of the inlet 514, and correspondingly, the first retaining element 527 is spaced apart from the second retaining element 554. The battery 550 is released from the use position.

[0267] In use, when the user wishes to replace the battery, the protruding tool 190 is inserted into the inlet 514 of the first housing portion 510 until it abuts the first arm portion of the actuator 525. By pushing the protruding tool 190 into the inlet 514, the user pushes the actuator 525 from the engaged position to the disengaged position, thereby releasing the battery from the use position. Once released, the biasing member 528 expands freely, thereby providing a pushing force on the upper end of the battery 550 toward the proximal portion 515 of the first housing portion 510. The pushing force pushes the battery 550 against the second housing portion 530 with sufficient force to overcome the interference fit of the second housing portion 530 in the opening 518. The second housing portion 530 is then released from the opening 518.

[0268] With the second housing portion 530 released from the first housing portion 510, the second housing portion 530 and the battery 550 pop out from the first housing portion 510. The user can then access the battery 550 to replace it with a replacement battery.

[0269] The replacement battery 550 is installed by loading it through the opening 518 of the first housing portion 510. The user pushes the battery 550 along the peripheral wall 517 until the second retaining element 554 engages the first retaining element 527 on the second arm portion. The battery 550 is secured in the use position, allowing the user to insert the second housing portion 530 into the opening 518 of the first housing portion 510, thereby encapsulating the battery 550 in the chamber 524.

[0270] Optionally, the second housing portion can be fixedly mounted to the lower end of the battery, or integrally formed with the lower end of the battery. In this way, the chamber is formed in a single step of battery insertion. Similarly, once the actuating device is pushed into the disengaged position by the protruding tool, the second housing portion is released from the first housing portion. In this arrangement, each replacement battery includes replacing the second housing portion, thereby reducing the total number of parts and simplifying the battery replacement process.

[0271] Now for reference Figure 12A and Figure 12B It shows the relationship with Figures 10A to 11B The aerosol generation system 500 is basically the same as the aerosol generation system, except that the battery 550' is installed in the housing (frame member 540 in this example) at the use position.

[0272] The frame member 540 includes a second retaining element 554'. The second retaining element 554' is configured as a notch on the frame member 540.

[0273] At the joint position, such as Figure 12A As shown, the second retaining element 554' is arranged to removably engage the first retaining element 527 of the first housing portion 510 when the frame member 540 is loaded into the first housing portion 510. The battery 550' is secured within the loaded frame member 540 in the use position. The biasing member 528 is compressed against the upper end of the frame member 540. In the use position, the frame 540 and the battery 550' are substantially housed within the first housing portion 510.

[0274] At the disengaged position, such as Figure 12B As shown, the first arm portion is spaced apart from the inner end of the inlet 514, and correspondingly, the first retaining element 527 is spaced apart from the second retaining element 554'. The frame member 540 is unlocked from the actuation device 525, thereby releasing the frame member 540 from the first housing portion 510.

[0275] In use, when the user wishes to replace the battery, the protruding tool 190 is inserted into the inlet 514 of the first housing portion 510 until it abuts the first arm portion of the actuator 525. By pushing the protruding tool 190 into the inlet 514, the user pushes the actuator 525 from the engaged position to the disengaged position, thereby releasing the frame member 540. Once released, the biasing member 528 expands freely, thereby providing a pushing force on the upper end of the frame member 540 toward the proximal portion 515 of the first housing portion 510. The pushing force pushes the frame member 540 against the second housing portion 530 with sufficient force to overcome the interference fit of the second housing portion 530 in the opening 518. The second housing portion 530 is released from the opening 518.

[0276] exist Figure 11A and Figure 11B In the example shown, the mechanical locking of the battery relative to the first housing portion 510 relies on the engagement of the first holding element 527 of the actuation device 525 with a second holding element 554 disposed in the housing of the battery 550. In this respect, the second housing portion 530 can be considered as the housing or shell of the battery 550 itself (as a non-limiting example), and the battery 550 can also be considered as comprising one or more battery cells, and the second housing portion 530 can be a cylindrical housing with the second holding element 554 in the form of a groove or notch for receiving a portion of the actuation device 525.

[0277] However, in Figure 12A and Figure 12B In other examples shown, the second holding element 554 may also not be arranged on or at the battery 550 itself, but rather on an element that removably holds the battery 550.

[0278] In addition, Figure 11A and Figure 11B In the embodiment shown, the actuation device 525 is operatively attached for pivoting relative to the first housing portion 510, but depending on the embodiment, the actuation device 525 may also be operatively attached to a second housing portion, such as the second housing portions 130, 730 described in the examples above.

[0279] As a non-limiting and non-exclusive example, the second holding element may be disposed on the inner wall of the second housing portion (such as the second housing portion 130 described above), or the second holding element may be disposed on a frame member configured to removably hold the battery (such as frame members 240, 740 that removably hold the batteries 250, 750). Standard batteries without the second holding element 554 may also be equipped with a housing.

[0280] Now for reference Figures 13A to 13FAnother example of an aerosol generation system 600 is shown, which includes an electronic device in the form of an aerosol generation apparatus. The aerosol generation system 600 is shown as an aerosol generation article without the electronic device installed. (In features and references) Figures 10A to 11B In cases where the described examples are the same, the reference numerals are also the same, but the first digit is "6".

[0281] The aerosol generating device includes a first housing portion 610, a second housing portion 630, and a battery 650, which are similar to Figures 10A to 11B The first housing portion 510, the second housing portion 530, and the battery 550 are further provided with a sliding bracket 670. The sliding bracket 670 is slidably mounted to the peripheral wall 617 of the first housing portion 610.

[0282] Therefore, the first housing portion 610 includes a peripheral wall 617, which in the illustrated variant has a cylindrical cross-sectional shape and extends between an opening 618 and an inner wall 619. The opening 618 is located at the proximal portion 615 of the first housing portion 610.

[0283] As described with reference to other examples, the distal portion 616 of the first housing portion 610 is configured to removably engage an aerosol-generating article in the cavity 612.

[0284] The entrance 614 is located on the outer surface of the first housing portion 610 near the inner wall 619 of the defining peripheral wall 617.

[0285] Actuation device 625 includes an arm and a biasing member 628. In one example, the biasing member 628 is a compressible spring mounted at or within the inner wall 619. The biasing member 628 is compressed by the upper end of the battery when the battery 650 is inserted into the peripheral wall 617. Actuation device 625 is moved about a fulcrum 626 of the actuation device by a protruding tool 190, which is operated by a user with reference to... Figure 11A and Figure 11B The described instance is pushed into inlet 614 in the same manner, thereby releasing battery 650 from the use position.

[0286] In the example shown, battery 650 is the same as battery 550 described above, including a second retaining element 654 at the upper end and an outer layer surrounding the battery cell within the core.

[0287] A sliding member 670 is mounted to a peripheral wall 617 to slide relative to the peripheral wall 617. The sliding member 670 is configured to slide relative to the peripheral wall 617 in a longitudinal direction. The sliding member 670 includes an inner surface oriented outward toward the peripheral wall 617 and an opposing outer surface. The profile of the outer surface of the sliding member 670 is configured to allow a user to grip the sliding member 670 and apply force to slide the sliding member 670 toward or away from the opening 618 of the first housing portion 610.

[0288] The inner surface includes a post and carriage arms mounted to the post and spaced apart from the inner surface. The carriage arms include an upper arm element and a lower arm element. Each arm element is deflectable about the post. Each arm element is elastically deformable, for example, due to being formed of a plastic material.

[0289] The upper arm element extends from the post toward the distal portion 616 of the first housing portion 610. A third retaining element 674 is disposed on the upper arm element. The upper arm element is deflectable from an internal position to an external position. In its internal position, the third retaining element 674 of the upper arm element protrudes inward from the peripheral wall 617. In its external position, the third retaining element 674 deflects to be flush with the peripheral wall 617. The upper arm element is biased toward the internal position.

[0290] The lower arm element extends from the post toward the proximal portion 615. A locking element 676 is disposed on the lower arm element. The lower arm element is deflectable from an external position to an internal position. In the internal position, the locking element 676 engages a retainer 678 on the inner surface of the peripheral wall 617 to restrict vertical movement of the slide member 670 relative to the first housing portion 610. In the external position, the locking element 676 is released from the retainer 678. The lower arm element is biased toward the external position.

[0291] The first housing portion 610 includes a second inlet 672. The second inlet 672 is configured to receive a user's protruding tool, such as a protruding tool 190 for insertion into inlet 614 to release the battery 650 from the first housing portion 610. The second inlet 672 is configured such that the protruding tool 190 inserted into the second inlet 672 abuts against a lower arm element.

[0292] In this example, the second inlet 672 is formed through the sliding bracket 670 of the first housing portion 610. Alternatively, the second inlet 672 may be configured to be formed through the peripheral wall 617 of the first housing portion 610, or through both the peripheral wall 617 and the sliding bracket 670.

[0293] In this manner, when the user pushes the protruding tool 190 into the second inlet 672, the protruding tool 190 deflects the lower arm element from its external position to its internal position. Pushing the protruding tool 190 into the second inlet 672 allows the locking element 676 of the lower arm element to be released from the retainer 678.

[0294] The sliding bracket 670 allows the battery 650 to remain in the partially detached position after the actuation device 625 releases the second housing portion 630 from the locked position. By holding the battery 650 in the partially detached position, the battery 650 is released from the locked position but held within the first housing portion 610 until the user performs a second action. (See a series of...) Figures 13A to 13FThe battery holding device allows the user to control the ejection of the battery 650 from the aerosol generating device.

[0295] Now for reference Figure 13A The diagram illustrates an aerosol generation system 600, in which a battery 650 is mounted to a first housing portion 610 in the use position. An actuation device 625 is in an engaged position such that a first retaining element 627 engages with a second retaining element 654 on the battery 650. The battery 650 is secured to the first housing portion 610 in the use position. A biasing member 628 is compressed between an inner wall 619 and the upper end of the battery 650. In the use position, the battery 650 is substantially contained within the first housing portion 610.

[0296] Now for reference Figures 13B to 13F When a user wishes to replace battery 650, they perform a first release from the use position and a second release from the partially disassembled position. To initiate the first release, a protruding tool 190 is inserted into the inlet 614 of the first housing portion 610. The protruding tool 190 is inserted until it abuts the first arm portion of the actuator 625. By pushing the protruding tool 190 into the inlet 614, the user pushes the actuator 625 from the engaged position to the disengaged position, thereby releasing battery 650 from the use position.

[0297] Once released, the bias member 628 expands freely, thereby providing a driving force on the upper end of the battery 650 toward the proximal portion 615 of the first housing portion 610. This driving force pushes the battery 650 against the second housing portion 630 with sufficient force to overcome the interference fit of the second housing portion 630 in the opening 618. The second housing portion 630 is then released from the opening 618.

[0298] The pushing force moves the battery 650 until the second retaining element 654 aligns with the third retaining element 674. When the second retaining element 654 and the third retaining element 674 are aligned, the upper arm element deflects back to its inward position, causing the second retaining element 654 to engage with the third retaining element 674. The battery 650 is thus secured in the partially disassembled position. That is, the battery 650 is secured to the sliding member 670, and the sliding member is prevented from longitudinal movement because the locking element 676 is supported against the retainer 678.

[0299] Special Reference Figure 13C and Figure 13D To release battery 650 from the partially disassembled position, the user inserts a protruding tool 190 into the second inlet 672. The protruding tool 190 is adjacent to the lower arm element. Pushing the protruding tool 190 into the second inlet 672 deflects the lower arm element into its inward position. Locking element 676 is released from retainer 678.

[0300] Once released, the driving force from the bias member 628 freely pushes the battery 650 further toward the proximal portion 615 of the first housing portion 610. Figure 13D The locking element 676 moves beyond the retainer 678 and slides freely longitudinally within the first housing portion 610.

[0301] The third holding element 674 holds the second holding element 654 of the battery in place, such that the pushing force provided by the biasing member 628 causes the sliding member 670 to move together with the battery 650. Figure 13E Since the battery 650 is engaged with the sliding bracket 670, the user can control the further ejection of the battery 650 by controlling the movement of the sliding bracket 670.

[0302] To eject the battery 650, the user moves the battery 650 further toward the proximal portion 615 of the first housing portion 610 until the sliding bracket 670 reaches its travel limit. Figure 13F At the limit of travel of the sliding bracket 670, the battery 650 protrudes from the opening 618. The user can then pull the lower end of the battery 650, causing the second retaining element 654 to straddle the third retaining element 674. The battery 650 is then freely withdrawn from the first housing portion 610.

[0303] The replacement battery 650 is loaded through the opening 618 of the first housing portion 610, and is in accordance with a reference. Figures 13A to 13F The replacement battery is installed by reconnecting the sliding frame component 670 and the actuation device 625 in the reverse order.

[0304] The user pushes the battery 650 along the peripheral wall 617 until the second retaining element 654 engages the third retaining element 674 on the sliding bracket 670. The sliding bracket 670, together with the battery 650, is pushed toward the distal portion 616 of the first housing portion 610 until the locking element 676 passes the retainer 678, and the second retaining element 654 is secured to the first retaining element 627 of the actuation device 625.

[0305] Optionally, the second housing portion can be fixedly mounted to the lower end of the battery, or integrally formed with the lower end of the battery. In this way, the chamber is formed in a single step of battery insertion. Similarly, once the actuation device is pushed into the partially disassembled position by the biasing member, the second housing portion is released from the first housing portion. In this arrangement, each replacement battery includes replacing the second housing portion, thereby reducing the total number of parts and simplifying the battery replacement process.

[0306] Throughout the detailed description and claims, the terms "comprising" and "including," and their variations thereof, mean "including but not limited to," and are not intended to exclude other parts, additions, components, integrals, or steps. Throughout the detailed description and claims, the singular encompasses the plural unless the context requires otherwise. In particular, where the indefinite article is used, the description should be understood to consider both the plural and singular unless the context requires otherwise.

[0307] Features, elements, characteristics, or groups described in connection with specific aspects, embodiments, or examples of the invention should be understood to be applicable to any other aspect, embodiment, or example described herein, unless incompatible therewith. All features disclosed in this specification (including any appended claims, abstract, and drawings) and / or all steps of any method or process so disclosed may be combined in any combination, except for combinations in which at least some such features and / or steps are mutually exclusive. The invention is not limited to the details of any of the foregoing embodiments. The invention extends to any novel feature or combination of any novel features disclosed in this specification (including any appended claims, abstract, and drawings), or to any novel feature or combination of any novel features of any method or process step so disclosed.

[0308] The reader’s attention is directed to all papers and documents that were submitted concurrently with or prior to this specification, that are related to this application, and that are publicly available, and the contents of all such papers and documents are incorporated herein by reference.

Claims

1. An electronic device for generating an aerosol from a matrix in an aerosol-generating article, the electronic device comprising: A first housing portion, wherein the first housing portion is configured to removably engage an aerosol generating article comprising a matrix to be heated by a heating element to generate an aerosol, and the first housing portion is configured to operatively connect a battery to a use position to provide power to the heating element; A second housing portion is configured to engage with a first housing portion in a locked position, wherein in the locked position, at least one of the first housing portion or the second housing portion accommodates the battery in the use position. An inlet is provided on the first housing portion or the second housing portion, wherein the inlet is configured to receive a protruding tool of the user; as well as An actuating device configured to abut against the protruding tool pushed into the inlet by the user, and in response, to release the second housing portion from the locked position; In response to the user pushing the protruding tool into the inlet, the battery separates from the first housing portion.

2. The electronic device of claim 1, wherein the first housing portion includes a biasing member, wherein the biasing member is configured to push the second housing portion or the battery away from the first housing portion in response to the user pushing the protruding tool into the inlet.

3. The electronic device according to claim 1 or 2, wherein in the use position, the battery is releasably coupled to the first housing portion and remains coupled to the first housing portion when the second housing portion is released from the locked position.

4. The electronic device of claim 1, wherein the first housing portion further includes a first retaining element configured to engage a complementary second retaining element on the battery to mount the battery to the first housing portion in the use position, and wherein, in response to the user pushing the protruding tool into the inlet, the actuation device disengages the first retaining element from the second retaining element.

5. The electronic device of claim 4, wherein the second housing portion is configured such that when the actuation device disengages the first holding element of the first housing portion from the second holding element of the battery, the second housing portion is released from the locked position.

6. The electronic device of claim 4, wherein the first housing portion includes a complementary third holding element configured to engage a second holding element on the battery to hold the battery in a partially detached position within the first housing portion.

7. The electronic device of claim 6, wherein the first housing portion includes a second inlet configured to receive the protruding tool of a user; wherein the second inlet is configured such that, in response to the user pushing the protruding tool into the second inlet, the battery is released from the portion detachment position.

8. The electronic device of claim 7, wherein the first housing portion includes a sliding member slidably mounted to the first housing portion for sliding relative to the first housing portion in a longitudinal direction, and wherein the third holding element is disposed on the sliding member.

9. The electronic device according to claim 1 or 2, wherein in the use position, the battery is releasably mounted to the second housing portion.

10. The electronic device according to any one of claims 1 to 9, wherein the first housing portion or the second housing portion includes a frame member configured such that the battery is positioned and mounted to the frame member.

11. The electronic device of claim 10, wherein the frame member is releasably mounted to the first housing portion, and wherein the frame member is configured to detach from the first housing portion together with the battery in response to the user pushing the protruding tool into the inlet.

12. The electronic device of claim 10 or 11, wherein the frame member includes a peripheral portion defining a support surface, such as a recessed surface, and wherein the battery is positioned on the support surface.

13. The electronic device of claim 12, wherein the frame member includes an aperture through the peripheral portion, wherein the aperture is configured such that, in the use position, at least one battery terminal or battery terminal plug of the battery is electrically connected to the heating element through the aperture.

14. The electronic device according to any one of claims 10 to 13, further comprising at least one adhesive portion arranged to adhere the battery to the frame member.

15. The electronic device according to any one of claims 10 to 14, wherein the frame member includes a magnetized portion configured to magnetically engage a complementary portion on the battery in order to guide the battery to a positioning position in the frame member.

Images