Aerosol generating system with electrical connector connection flange seal

Abstract

The present invention relates to an aerosol generating system (1) comprising a housing (4), an electrical connector (19) and a sealing member (25), the housing (4) including a housing wall (5), the electrical connector (19) including a plug-receiving opening (23) and a connecting flange (24), the connecting flange (24) extending at least partially around the plug-receiving opening (23), and the sealing member (25) disposed between the connecting flange (24) and an inner surface of the housing wall (5). The present invention further relates to an assembly method for the aerosol generating system (1) and the use of the sealing member (25) in the aerosol generating system (1).

Description

[Technical field]

[0001] The present invention relates to an aerosol generating system with a sealing member, an assembly method for an aerosol generating system, and the use of a sealing member in an aerosol generating system. [Background technology]

[0002] There is a need for improved sealing of aerosol generating systems, particularly against dust and liquids, and also for improved usability of aerosol generating systems. Summary of the Invention

[0003] According to a first aspect of the invention, an aerosol generation system comprises a housing including a connector opening. The connector opening is at least partially covered by a cover element. The cover element includes at least one flap. The at least one flap is movable from a closed position to an open position. In the closed position, the flap may reduce the ingress of liquids, in particular water, or contaminants into the device. The flap may prevent malfunction of the system caused by liquids entering the system. In the open position, the flap may expose the connector opening such that a plug may be inserted into the connector opening.

[0004] The aerosol generation system, particularly the housing, may comprise a connector. The connector opening may provide an opening for the connector. The connector may be an electrical connector. The connector may include an electrical conductor. The aerosol generation system may comprise an electrical connector and the connector opening in the housing may be an opening for the electrical connector. The connector may be configured to allow charging of the aerosol generation system or a part of the aerosol generation system. The connector may be a gas charging port. The connector may be a liquid charging port. The connector opening may be an electrical connector opening, an opening for a gas charging port, and / or an opening for a liquid charging port. The invention may apply to any type of connector. This also applies to other aspects of the invention.

[0005] At least one flap may be adapted to open toward the housing. Such a configuration may improve the usability of the aerosol generation system. A user may press a plug against the flap to form an opening in the cover element and insert the plug into the connector opening. This may eliminate the need for an additional step of first opening or removing the cover element before inserting the plug into the connector opening.

[0006] According to a second aspect of the invention, an aerosol generating system comprises a housing, an electrical connector, and a sealing member. The housing includes a housing wall. The electrical connector includes a plug-receiving opening and a connection flange. The plug-receiving opening may be a cavity adapted to receive a plug in the electrical connector. The connection flange extends at least partially around the plug-receiving opening. The sealing member is disposed between the connection flange and an inner surface of the housing wall. The sealing member may reduce ingress of liquids, particularly water, or contaminants into the device. The sealing member may prevent malfunction of the system and may prevent damage to the electrical connector.

[0007] The electrical connector may have a front section and a rear section. The plug may be inserted into the electrical connector through the front section. The rear section is opposite the front section. A longitudinal direction of the electrical connector may be defined by an axis extending from the front section toward the rear section. A lateral direction may be perpendicular to the longitudinal axis.

[0008] The electrical connector may be a USB connector. The electrical connector may be connected, in particular soldered, to a printed circuit board assembly (PCBA). A coating, in particular a plastic coating, may be applied to protect the solder joints. The coating may be a glue, a polymer, or a combination thereof. The coating may protect the printed circuit board assembly from dust and liquids.

[0009] The housing may include a connector opening. The connector opening may be adjacent to the electrical connector, in particular a front section of the electrical connector. The plug may be inserted into the electrical connector through the connector opening. The connector opening may be at least partially covered by a cover element. The cover element may include at least one flap. The at least one flap is adapted to open towards an interior of the housing.

[0010] The housing wall may include a connector opening. The plug-receiving opening may open towards the connector opening, in particular in the housing wall. The plug-receiving opening, in particular an outer side of the plug-receiving opening, may face the housing wall. The plug-receiving opening, in particular an outer side of the plug-receiving opening, may face the connector opening in the housing wall.

[0011] The sealing member may be disposed at a lateral distance, i.e., from the plug receiving opening, to form a lateral clearance, i.e., a clearance laterally between the sealing member and the plug receiving opening. The lateral clearance may prevent the plug from interfering with the sealing member, particularly when the plug is inserted into or removed from the plug receiving opening. This configuration may improve the durability of the sealing member and the usability of the aerosol generating system. An inner surface of the sealing member may be substantially flush with the connector opening of the housing. An inner edge of the sealing member may be aligned with the connector opening of the housing. The lateral clearance may be the lateral distance between the connector opening and the plug receiving opening.

[0012] The lateral clearance may extend circumferentially around the plug receiving opening. The lateral clearance may have a width of at least 0.1 millimeters, in particular 0.2 millimeters, in particular at least 0.3 millimeters. The maximum width of the lateral clearance may be 30 millimeters. The lateral clearance may be uniform along its extension around the plug receiving opening. The lateral clearance may have substantially the same width along its extension around the plug receiving opening. The width of the lateral clearance may vary along its extension around the plug receiving opening, in particular depending on the shape of a plug that may be inserted into the plug receiving opening.

[0013] The connector opening may have a substantially oval shape.The connector opening may have a substantially circular shape.The connector opening and the plug-receiving opening may have substantially the same shape.

[0014] The aerosol generation system may include a battery charger and an aerosol generating device. The housing may form a part of the battery charger. The aerosol generating device may be fully insertable within the battery charger. The sealing member may be located within the battery charger and may reduce ingress of liquid or contamination into the interior of the battery charger such that both the battery charger and the aerosol generating device are substantially protected from liquid or contamination. The sealing member may prevent malfunction of the system.

[0015] The aerosol generation system may comprise an aerosol generation device. The housing may form part of the aerosol generation device. The sealing member may be located within the aerosol generation device and may reduce ingress of liquid or contamination into the aerosol generation device.

[0016] The aerosol-generating system may comprise an aerosol-generating article having an aerosol-generating substrate. The aerosol-generating article may be a cartridge. The aerosol-generating article may include an aerosol-generating substrate. The aerosol-generating device may comprise a cavity. The cavity may be adapted to receive the aerosol-generating article having the aerosol-generating substrate. The aerosol-generating substrate may be in liquid or solid form. The aerosol-generating substrate may comprise tobacco or herbal materials. The aerosol-generating substrate may be tobacco, herbs, liquids, particularly oils, artificially produced substrates, or combinations thereof.

[0017] The housing may include a housing wall. The cover element may be attached to an inner surface of the housing wall. Such a configuration may protect the cover element and improve durability of the cover element. The cover element may extend into the connector opening of the housing wall such that the outer surface of the housing wall and the cover element are substantially horizontal. The outer surface of the housing wall and the outer surface of the cover element may be continuous. Such a configuration may reduce build-up of contamination inside the connector opening and improve usability.

[0018] The cover element may also be attached to the outer surface of the housing wall. Such a configuration may allow for easier replacement of the cover element. A recessed section may be formed in the outer surface of the housing wall to provide space for the cover element. The depth of the recessed section may be substantially equal to the thickness of the cover element such that the outer surface of the housing wall and the cover element are at substantially the same level.

[0019] The cover element may include a support structure, and the support structure may be attached to the housing wall. The cover element may be indirectly attached to the housing wall. A spacing element may be provided between the cover element and the housing wall.

[0020] The cover element may overlap the housing wall, in particular by 0.5 mm to 10 mm, in particular by 1 mm to 5 mm. The overlap may be adapted to seal the connector opening. The overlap may form an attachment area of ​​the cover element to the housing wall.

[0021] The flap may in particular be connected to the housing wall by means of an adhesive, in particular glue, or a double-sided adhesive tape.

[0022] The cover element may substantially seal the connector opening when the at least one flap is in the closed position. The cover element may be substantially waterproof when the at least one flap is in the closed position. The cover element may be substantially impermeable to liquids when the at least one flap is in the closed position. The cover element may be substantially dustproof when the at least one flap is in the closed position.

[0023] The cover element may include an attachment portion. The attachment portion may be at least partially attached to the housing wall. The at least one flap may be connected to the attachment portion. The at least one flap may be adapted to bend toward the interior of the housing, and the attachment portion may remain fixed.

[0024] The attachment portion may extend at least partially around the at least one flap, preferably the attachment portion extends circumferentially around the at least one flap. Such a configuration may provide good structural support for the at least one flap. The attachment portion and the at least one flap may be formed from the same material. The attachment portion and the at least one flap may be formed from a single piece. The attachment portion and the at least one flap may be separate pieces connected by a connecting element or adhesive.

[0025] The at least one flap may be adapted to move resiliently from an open position to a closed position. The at least one flap may move to the closed position without application of an external force. The connection opening may be immediately (or automatically) covered and sealed after the plug is disconnected from the connector opening. This may be convenient for the user and may additionally prevent the introduction of liquids or contamination into the aerosol generation system.

[0026] The cover element opening may be formed in the cover element when the at least one flap is in an open position. The cover element opening may be formed when an external object, in particular a plug, for example a USB plug, is pressed against the at least one flap. The cover element opening may be formed in the center of the cover element or from a peripheral edge of the cover element, depending on where the at least one flap is located inside the cover element. The plug may then be inserted through the cover element opening to connect with a connector inside the aerosol generation system. When the external object is removed from the aerosol generation system, the at least one flap may return to a closed position to substantially close the cover element opening.

[0027] The cover element may include at least one bend line between the at least one flap and the attachment portion. The at least one bend line may facilitate bending of the at least one flap. The at least one bend line may be a groove or grooves. The groove may be formed on an outer surface of the cover element or on an inner surface of the cover element. The groove may be formed on both surfaces of the cover element.

[0028] The cover element may include a first slit. The cover element may include at least one second slit. The at least one second slit may be connected to the first slit. The first slit and the at least one second slit may be disposed between the at least one flap and the attachment portion. The first slit and the at least one second slit may also be disposed between two adjacent flaps. At least one of the slits may define an edge of the flap. The edges of the adjacent flaps may separate from each other to form the cover element opening when the flap is bent toward the interior of the housing.

[0029] The at least one second slit may also be formed at least partially in a double-sided adhesive tape that may be used to join the cover element to the housing. The first slit may also be formed at least partially in the double-sided adhesive tape. The double-sided adhesive tape may bend together with the flap.

[0030] At least one of the slits may be a cut through the entire thickness of the cover element. The slits have a slit width of less than 0.5 mm, in particular less than 0.1 mm. The first slit may have a width greater than the at least one second slit. The first slit may have a width of 0.5 mm to 0.3 mm, preferably 0.4 mm. The at least one second slit may have a width of 0.15 mm to 0.0.05 mm, preferably 0.1 mm. The slits may have no width, i.e. adjacent slit faces may be in contact with each other. This may improve the sealing function of the flap.

[0031] The first slit may extend in a first direction. The at least one second slit may extend in at least one second direction. The at least one second direction may be different from the first direction. The slits extending in different directions may facilitate the formation of the cover element opening. In particular, due to the slits, the tensile stress in the cover element may be reduced or may be absent in the cover element. This is also true when the device and the cover element are potentially subjected to different thermal deformations or during deformation of the cover element by moving at least one flap to an open position. This may improve the durability of the cover element.

[0032] The at least one second direction and the first direction may be disposed at an angle between 70 degrees and 170 degrees, particularly between 90 degrees and 150 degrees, and particularly between 110 degrees and 130 degrees.

[0033] The first slit may extend in a first direction along a substantially straight line. The at least one second slit may be connected to an end of the first slit. The one or more second slits may be connected to a first end of the first slit. The one or more second slits may be connected to a second end of the first slit.

[0034] The at least one second slit may extend beyond the connector opening, which may facilitate bending of the flap and reduce stress in the cover element.

[0035] The first slit may be disposed substantially in the center of the cover element. The at least one second slit may extend in a direction from the first slit toward a boundary of the cover element. The at least one second slit may be connected to a first end of the first slit and may extend in a direction away from a second end of the first slit.

[0036] The cover element may include a plurality of second slits. The plurality of second slits may form a substantially symmetrical pattern with respect to a first axis, and the first axis may be substantially parallel to the first direction. A first end and a second end of the first slit may be disposed on the first axis. The plurality of second slits may form a substantially symmetrical pattern with respect to a second axis, and the second axis may be substantially perpendicular to the first direction. The second axis may extend through a center point of the first slit.

[0037] The at least one second slit may be shorter than the first slit. The at least one second slit may have a length of 10% to 70%, particularly 20% to 60%, and particularly 30% to 50% of the length of the first slit. The first slit may have a length of 5 mm to 20 mm, preferably 8 mm to 12 mm. The at least one second slit may have a length of 1 mm to 10 mm.

[0038] The cover element may include four second slits. The second slits may be inclined at an angle of 90 degrees to 150 degrees with respect to the first direction. Two of the four second slits may be connected to a first end of the first slit. The two second slits may extend in different directions with respect to a center line of the first slit. The two second slits may extend in a direction away from the second end of the first division. The other two of the four second slits may be connected to a second end of the first slit. The two second slits connected to the second end of the first slit may extend in different directions with respect to a center line of the first slit. The two second slits connected to the second end of the first slit may extend in a direction away from the first end of the first division.

[0039] The cover element may include a short flap and a long flap. Short and long may refer to the extension of the flap in a direction substantially parallel to an edge of the housing wall surrounding the connector opening. The connection opening may have a short side and a long side. The short flap may be adjacent to the short side of the connection opening. The long flap may be adjacent to the long side of the connection opening. The short flap and the long flap may be separated by at least one second slit.

[0040] The cover element may include two short flaps and two long flaps. The two long flaps may be separated by a first slit. The two adjacent long and short flaps may be separated by a second slit. The two flaps may be disposed on opposite sides of the connector opening. The two opposing flaps may have the same length.

[0041] The cover element may have a length of 5 mm to 25 mm, preferably 10 mm to 20 mm, and a width of 5 mm to 10 mm. The size of the cover element may be at least the size of the connector opening.

[0042] The at least one flap may have a thickness of 0.1 mm to 2 mm, in particular 0.2 mm to 1 mm, preferably 0.3 mm to 0.5 mm. This flap thickness may adequately seal the connector opening but still allow bending of the at least one flap. This flap thickness may allow the flap to move elastically from an open position to a closed position. The attachment portion of the cover element may have the same thickness as the flap. The attachment portion of the cover element may have a lower thickness than the flap. This may improve the flexibility of the flap. The attachment portion of the cover element may have a greater thickness than the flap. This may improve the sealing properties of the flap.

[0043] The at least one flap may be made of a thermoplastic elastomer or silicone. In particular, the at least one flap may be made of a thermoplastic elastomer, soft or hard rubber, polytetrafluorene, polyurethane, ethylene propylene diene monomer rubber, silicone, nitrile, or a combination thereof. The flap material may be substantially waterproof. The flap material may be substantially impermeable to liquids. The flap material may be capable of returning to a closed position after being deformed by a bending action. In particular, the flap material may be capable of returning to a closed position without the application of an external force.

[0044] At least one flap may include at least one magnet. In this context, a magnet may be understood as a material having its constituent atoms ordered so as to exhibit magnetic properties. A magnet may generate a substantially persistent magnetic field even in the absence of an applied magnetic field.

[0045] The at least one magnet may be attached to or embedded in the at least one flap. The at least one flap may have magnetic material properties. The flap may be made of a magnetic material, in particular a self-adhesive magnetic material.

[0046] At least one magnet or magnetic material may interact with another magnet or metal embedded in the attachment portion or another flap.

[0047] The at least one magnet may be attached to an inner or outer surface of the at least one flap. The at least one magnet may be located adjacent to the slit. The at least one magnet may be adapted to facilitate moving the at least one flap to the closed position. The at least one magnet may be adapted to facilitate holding the at least one flap in the closed position. The at least one magnet may improve sealing of the cover element. The at least one magnet may attract adjacent flap edges separated by a slit to one another when the flaps are in the closed position.

[0048] The magnetic material may facilitate moving the at least one flap to the closed position. The magnetic material may facilitate retaining the at least one flap in the closed position. The magnetic material may improve sealing of the cover element. The magnetic material may attract adjacent flap edges separated by a slit to one another when the flaps are in the closed position.

[0049] The exterior surface of the housing wall may include at least one connector opening edge adjacent the connector opening. The at least one connector opening edge may be adapted to be in surface contact with the respective at least one flap. Surface contact may refer to an area of ​​the at least one connector opening edge in contact with an area of ​​the at least one flap.

[0050] The at least one connector opening edge may be rounded or chamfered. The rounded or chamfered design may allow the at least one connector opening edge to make surface contact with the at least one flap.

[0051] The at least one flap may be adapted to bend along the connector opening edge. A rounded or chamfered design of the connector opening edge may provide a smooth support for the at least one flap when the at least one flap is in an open position. In the open position, the at least one flap may be in contact with the connector opening edge or may follow the surface of the connector opening edge. The rounded or chamfered edge may improve the durability of the flap.

[0052] Two adjacent connector opening edges may be separated by a recess. The recess may be formed in the housing wall. The recess may reduce stresses, in particular tensile stresses, in the cover element when the at least one flap is bent into the open position. The edge of the recess may have the same shape as the connector opening edge, in particular it may be rounded or chamfered. The at least one second slit may extend towards the location of the recess.

[0053] The ratio of the fillet radius of the connector opening edge to the thickness of the flap is 0.5 to 10, preferably 1 to 5. The fillet radius of the connector opening edge is 1 mm to 50 mm, particularly 3 mm to 25 mm, and particularly 5 mm to 10 mm. Such a radius can result in smooth bending of the flap and can increase the durability of the flap.

[0054] The aerosol generation system may further comprise an electrical connector. The electrical connector may include an electrical connector casing. The electrical connector casing may have a plug receiving opening and may have a connection flange. The connection flange may extend at least partially around the plug receiving opening. The connection flange preferably extends circumferentially around the plug receiving opening. The connection flange may have an elliptical or circular ring shape. The aerosol generation system may further comprise a sealing member. The sealing member may be disposed between the electrical connector and the housing, in particular the housing wall.

[0055] The at least one flap may contact an edge of the electrical connector when the at least one flap is in the open position. The at least one flap may form a bulge when in contact with an edge of the electrical connector. The at least one flap may move past the electrical connector such that the at least one flap does not contact the electrical connector and such that a bulge is not formed. In the open position, an extension of the at least one flap towards the interior of the aerosol generation system may be equal to or less than the distance between the electrical connector and the housing wall. In the closed position, a distance that the at least one flap extends beyond the connector opening edge towards the center of the connector opening may be equal to or less than the distance between the electrical connector and the housing wall. In the closed position, a distance that the at least one flap overlaps the connector opening may be equal to or less than the distance between the electrical connector and the housing wall.

[0056] The electrical connector may be a USB connector, in particular a USB Type C connector. The electrical connector casing may house the conductive parts. The electrical plug may be inserted into the plug receiving opening to mate with the conductive parts.

[0057] The connection flange may be attached to the electrical connector casing.The connection flange may be attached to the electrical connector casing by laser welding.

[0058] The connection flange may form part of the electrical connector casing. In particular, the connection flange and the electrical connector casing may be formed from a single piece.

[0059] The connection flange may project laterally from the electrical connector casing. Laterally in this context means that the electrical connector casing may extend substantially along a longitudinal casing axis and the connection portion may project from the electrical connector casing in a direction perpendicular to the longitudinal casing axis. The connection flange may be disposed at a forward portion of the electrical connector. The connection flange may define a front face of the electrical connector. In particular, the connection flange may extend the front face of the electrical connector. Forward is defined as the direction in which a plug may be inserted into the electrical connector.

[0060] The connection flange may protrude from the electrical connector casing by at least 1 millimeter, preferably at least 2 millimeters, preferably at least 3 millimeters. These values ​​may ensure that the connection flange provides a sufficiently large support for the sealing member. The connection flange may protrude from the electrical connector casing by up to 20 millimeters. The connection flange may have a length of 8 millimeters to 12 millimeters, preferably 9 millimeters to 11 millimeters. The length of the connection flange may be defined as the distance from a first end of the connection flange to a second end of the connection flange along a direction in which the connection flange may mainly extend. The connection flange may have a width of 3 millimeters to 6 millimeters, preferably 3.5 millimeters to 4.5 millimeters. The width of the connection flange may be defined as the distance from a first end of the connection flange to a second end of the connection flange in a direction perpendicular to a direction in which the connection flange may mainly extend.

[0061] The connection flange may be made of metal, preferably stainless steel. The connection flange may be a metal ring. The connection flange may be made of a polymer material.

[0062] The sealing member may abut an inner surface of the housing wall. The housing wall may include a groove formed in the inner surface of the housing wall for receiving the sealing member. The groove may extend circumferentially around the connector opening and may hold the sealing member in place.

[0063] The inner surface of the housing wall may be processed, particularly using computer numerical control, to provide a smooth surface which may improve the air tightness of the sealing member and may also improve the sealing ability.

[0064] The sealing member may also abut the front surface of the connection flange. The sealing member may seal the area between the front surface of the connection flange and the inner surface of the housing wall.

[0065] The sealing member may reduce ingress of liquids and contaminants into the aerosol generation system.The sealing member may extend circumferentially around the connector opening.The sealing member may extend circumferentially around the plug-receiving opening.

[0066] The cover element may be attached to an inner surface of the housing wall and the sealing member may abut the cover element. A spacing element may be provided between the sealing member and the housing wall. A spacing element may be provided between the sealing member and the connection flange.

[0067] The sealing member may be attached to the inner surface of the housing wall by means of an adhesive, in particular glue or a double-sided adhesive tape.The sealing member may be attached to the connection flange by means of an adhesive, in particular glue or a double-sided adhesive tape.

[0068] The sealing member may be molded onto the connection flange, in particular by injection or compression molding, preferably by liquid injection molding. Molding may improve the seal between the electrical connector and the sealing member. Furthermore, molding may reduce the risk of separation of the sealing member from the connection flange, resulting in a robust design. If the sealing member is molded onto the connection flange, it may also abut a lateral surface of the electrical connector casing.

[0069] The sealing member may be an O-ring. The sealing member may be made of foam. The sealing member may be made of thermoplastic elastomer, rubber, polytetrafluorene, polyurethane, ethylene propylene diene monomer rubber, silicone, nitrile, or a combination thereof.

[0070] The sealing member may have a thickness of 0.5 mm to 5 mm, preferably 1 mm to 3 mm, preferably 1.5 mm to 2.5 mm. The thickness of the sealing member may be defined as the extension of the sealing member in the longitudinal direction of the electrical connector.

[0071] The sealing member may have a width of 0.5 millimeters to 10 millimeters, preferably 1 millimeter to 5 millimeters, preferably 2 millimeters to 3 millimeters. The width of the sealing member may be defined as the lateral distance of the electrical connector from the inner edge of the sealing member to the outer edge of the sealing member.

[0072] The sealing member may have a length of 8 mm to 12 mm, preferably 9 mm to 11 mm. The length of the sealing member may be defined as the distance from a first end of the sealing member to a second end of the sealing member in a direction in which the sealing member may primarily extend. The extension of the sealing member perpendicular to the direction in which the sealing member may primarily extend may be 3 mm to 5 mm, preferably 3.5 mm to 4.5 mm.

[0073] The sealing member may be disposed at a lateral distance from the plug-receiving opening to form a lateral clearance between the sealing member and the plug-receiving opening. The lateral clearance may allow a plug to be inserted into the plug-receiving opening without interference with the sealing member. Such a configuration may improve the durability of the sealing member and the utility of the aerosol generating system. An inner surface of the sealing member may be substantially flush with the connector opening of the housing. An inner edge of the sealing member may be aligned with the connector opening of the housing. The lateral clearance may be the lateral distance between the connector opening and the plug-receiving opening.

[0074] The lateral clearance may extend circumferentially around the plug receiving opening. The lateral clearance may have a width of at least 0.1 millimeters, in particular 0.2 millimeters, in particular at least 0.3 millimeters. The maximum width of the lateral clearance may be 30 millimeters. The lateral clearance may be uniform along its extension around the plug receiving opening. The lateral clearance may have substantially the same width along its extension around the plug receiving opening. The width of the lateral clearance may vary along its extension around the plug receiving opening, in particular depending on the shape of the plug that may be inserted in the plug receiving opening. The lateral clearance may also include additional assembly tolerances.

[0075] An inner edge of the sealing member may be aligned with the connector opening of the housing. The inner edge of the sealing member may be recessed relative to the connector opening. This may protect the sealing member, particularly from sunlight or external objects. Such a configuration may improve the durability of the sealing member.

[0076] According to a third aspect of the invention there is provided an assembly method, in particular for an aerosol generation system according to the first or second aspects of the invention. The assembly method comprises the steps of: providing a connector opening in a housing part; attaching a cover element to the housing part of the aerosol generation system; locating an electrical connector inside the housing part; the cover element covering the connector opening and comprising a flap.

[0077] The assembly method may further include attaching a sealing member to the electrical connector.

[0078] The assembly method may further include attaching a sealing member to an inner surface of the housing portion, particularly adjacent the connector opening.

[0079] The assembly method steps may be performed in any possible order.

[0080] According to a fourth aspect of the present invention there is provided a method of assembly, particularly for an aerosol generation system according to the first or second aspects of the present invention. The method of assembly comprises the steps of: attaching a sealing member to an electrical connector. The electrical connector is positioned inside a housing of the aerosol generation system. The sealing member is attached to an inner surface of the housing, particularly adjacent the connector opening in the housing.

[0081] The assembly method may also include forming a connection flange on the electrical connector, preferably on a front section of the electrical connector, to enlarge a front face of the electrical connector, the front face may face the housing wall.

[0082] The assembly method may also include attaching a connection flange to the electrical connector to enlarge a front surface of the electrical connector.

[0083] The sealing member may be attached to a surface of the connection flange facing the housing wall.

[0084] Attaching the sealing member to the electrical connector may include molding the sealing member onto the connection flange, preferably by liquid injection molding.

[0085] According to a fifth aspect of the present invention there is provided the use of a flap, particularly in an aerosol generating system according to the first or second aspects of the present invention, to reduce the ingress of dust and liquid through the connector opening. The use of a flap provides an efficient and quick way of exposing the connector opening and may therefore improve the usability of the aerosol generating system.

[0086] According to a sixth aspect of the present invention, there is provided the use of a sealing member, particularly in an aerosol generating system according to the first or second aspect of the present invention, for sealing a space between an electrical connector inside the aerosol generating system and a housing wall of the aerosol generating system against ingress of dust and liquids, which may prevent ingress of liquids and dust, which may improve the durability and usability of the aerosol generating system.

[0087] A system according to the first or second aspect of the invention may be assembled according to the method of the third or fourth aspect of the invention. An assembly method according to the third or fourth aspect of the invention may be used to assemble a system according to the first or second aspect of the invention. The use of a flap according to the fifth aspect of the invention may be implemented in a system according to the first or second aspect of the invention by using method steps from the method according to the third or fourth aspect of the invention. The use of a sealing member according to the sixth aspect of the invention may be implemented in a system according to the first or second aspect of the invention by using method steps from the method according to the third or fourth aspect of the invention. [Brief description of the drawings]

[0088] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 shows a perspective view of an aerosol generation system according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Diagram 2] FIG. 2 shows a perspective view of an aerosol generation system according to another embodiment of the present invention. [Diagram 3] FIG. 3 shows a front view of a cover element of the aerosol generation system of FIG. [Figure 4] FIG. 4 shows a front view of the connector opening of the aerosol generation system of FIG. [Diagram 5] FIG. 5 shows a partial cross-sectional view of the aerosol generation system of FIG. 1 in the region of the connector opening and the cover element. [Figure 6] FIG. 6 shows a partial cross-sectional view of the aerosol generation system of FIG. 1 in the region of the connector opening and cover element, rotated 90 degrees relative to the view of FIG. [Figure 7] FIG. 7 shows a partial cross-sectional view of the same area as FIG. 6, but for a different embodiment. [Figure 8] FIG. 8 is a diagram of an electrical connector mounted to a housing wall according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 9] FIG. 9 shows a perspective view of an electrical connector according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 10] FIG. 10 illustrates a perspective rear view of the electrical connector and sealing member of FIG. [Figure 11] FIG. 11 shows a partial cross-sectional view of the electrical connector and sealing member of FIG. [Figure 12] FIG. 12 illustrates a perspective view of an electrical connector and sealing member according to another embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 13] FIG. 13 shows a partial cross-sectional view of the electrical connector and sealing member of FIG. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0089] The present invention is defined in the claims. However, below is provided a non-exhaustive list of non-limiting examples. Any one or more of the features of these examples may be combined with any one or more features of the other examples, embodiments, or aspects described herein.

[0090] Example 1: A system, such as an aerosol generating system, comprising a housing, the housing including a connector opening, in particular an opening for an electrical connector, the connector opening being at least partially covered by a cover element, the cover element including at least one flap, the at least one flap being movable from a closed position to an open position.

[0091] Example 2: A system, such as an aerosol generating system according to Example 1, wherein at least one flap is adapted to open towards the interior of the housing.

[0092] Example 3: A system, such as an aerosol generation system, comprising a housing, an electrical connector, and a sealing member, the housing including a housing wall, the electrical connector including a plug-receiving opening and a connecting flange, the connecting flange extending at least partially around the plug-receiving opening, and the sealing member disposed between the connecting flange and an inner surface of the housing wall.

[0093] Example 4: A system, for example an aerosol generating system according to Example 3, wherein the housing includes a connector opening, the connector opening is covered by a cover element, the cover element includes at least one flap, and the at least one flap is adapted to open toward the inside of the housing.

[0094] Example 5: A system, such as an aerosol generating system according to Example 3 or 4, wherein the sealing member is disposed at a lateral distance from the plug-receiving opening to form a lateral clearance between the sealing member and the plug-receiving opening.

[0095] Example 6: A system, for example an aerosol generating system according to any one of Examples 3 to 5, wherein the sealing member is disposed at a lateral distance from the inner opening of the connection flange to form a lateral clearance between the sealing member and the inner opening of the connection flange.

[0096] Example 7: A system, such as an aerosol generating system according to any one of Examples 5 or 6, wherein the lateral clearance extends circumferentially around the plug-receiving opening.

[0097] Example 8: A system, such as an aerosol generation system according to any one of Examples 5 to 7, in which the lateral clearance has a width of at least 0.1 mm, in particular at least 0.2 mm, preferably at least 0.3 mm.

[0098] Example 9: A system, such as an aerosol generation system according to any one of Examples 1-8, wherein the connector opening has a substantially elliptical shape.

[0099] Example 10: The aerosol generation system comprises a battery charger and an aerosol generation device, the housing forming part of the battery charger, such as the aerosol generation system according to any one of Examples 1-9.

[0100] Example 11: The aerosol generation system comprises an aerosol generation device, and the housing forms part of the aerosol generation device, such as the aerosol generation system according to any one of Examples 1-9.

[0101] Example 12: An aerosol-generating system comprising an aerosol-generating article having an aerosol-generating substrate, such as an aerosol-generating system according to any one of Examples 1-11.

[0102] Example 13: An aerosol generating system, such as an aerosol generating system according to any one of Examples 1 to 12, wherein the aerosol generating device comprises a cavity, the cavity being adapted to receive an aerosol generating article having an aerosol-generating substrate.

[0103] Example 14: A system, such as an aerosol generating system according to any one of Examples 1-13, wherein the housing comprises a housing wall and the cover element is attached to an inner surface of the housing wall.

[0104] Example 15: A system, such as an aerosol generating system according to any one of Examples 1-13, wherein the housing comprises a housing wall and the cover element is attached to an outer surface of the housing wall.

[0105] Example 16: A system, such as an aerosol-generating system according to embodiment 14 or 15, in which the cover element overlaps with the housing wall, in particular by 0.5 mm to 10 mm, preferably by 1 mm to 5 mm.

[0106] Example 17: A system, such as an aerosol generating system according to any one of Examples 1-16, wherein the cover element substantially seals the connector opening when the at least one flap is in the closed position.

[0107] Example 18: A system, for example an aerosol generating system according to any one of Examples 1 to 17, wherein the cover element includes an attachment portion, at least one flap is connected to the attachment portion, and the at least one flap is adapted to bend toward the inside of the housing, and the attachment portion remains fixed.

[0108] Example 19: The mounting portion is at least partially attached to the housing wall, such as the aerosol generating system according to Example 18.

[0109] Example 20: A system, such as an aerosol generating system according to Example 18 or 19, wherein the attachment portion extends at least partially around at least one flap.

[0110] Example 21: A system, such as an aerosol generation system according to any one of Examples 1-20, wherein at least one flap is adapted to move elastically from an open position to a closed position.

[0111] Example 22: A system, such as an aerosol generation system according to any one of Examples 1-21, wherein the cover element opening is formed in the cover element when the at least one flap is in the open position.

[0112] Example 23: A system, such as an aerosol generating system according to any one of Examples 18-20, wherein the cover element includes at least one bend line between at least one flap and the attachment portion.

[0113] Example 24: A system, such as an aerosol generating system according to any one of Examples 1 to 23, wherein the cover element comprises a first slit and at least one second slit, and the at least one second slit is connected to the first slit.

[0114] Example 25: A system, such as an aerosol generating system according to Example 24, wherein the first slit extends in a first direction and at least one second slit extends in at least one second direction, the at least one second direction being different from the first direction.

[0115] Example 26: A system, such as an aerosol generating system according to Example 25, wherein at least one of the second direction and the first direction are arranged at an angle of 70 degrees to 170 degrees, preferably 90 degrees to 150 degrees.

[0116] Example 27: A system, such as an aerosol generating system according to any one of Examples 24-26, wherein the first slit extends substantially along a straight line in the first direction.

[0117] Example 28: At least one second slit is connected to an end of the first slit, such as a system, for example an aerosol generation system according to any one of Examples 24-27.

[0118] Example 29: At least one second slit extends beyond the connector opening, such as a system, for example an aerosol generation system according to any one of Examples 24-28.

[0119] Example 30: A system, such as an aerosol generating system according to any one of Examples 1-29, wherein the cover element comprises a short flap and a long flap.

[0120] Example 31: A system, such as an aerosol generating system according to Example 30, in which two flaps are disposed on opposite sides of the connector opening, and the two opposite flaps have the same length.

[0121] Example 32: A system, such as an aerosol generation system according to any one of Examples 1 to 31, wherein at least one flap has a thickness of 0.1 mm to 2 mm, in particular 0.2 mm to 1 mm, preferably 0.3 mm to 0.5 mm.

[0122] Example 33: A system, such as an aerosol generating system according to any one of Examples 1-32, wherein at least one flap is made of a thermoplastic elastomer or silicone.

[0123] Example 34: A system, such as an aerosol generating system according to any one of Examples 1-33, wherein at least one flap comprises at least one magnet.

[0124] Example 35: A system, such as an aerosol generating system according to any one of Examples 1-34, wherein at least one flap has magnetic material properties.

[0125] Example 36: A system, such as an aerosol generating system according to any one of Examples 1-35, wherein at least one magnet is attached to or embedded in at least one flap.

[0126] Example 37: A system, for example an aerosol generating system according to any one of Examples 1 to 36, wherein the outer surface of the housing wall includes at least one connector opening edge adjacent to the connector opening, and the at least one connector opening edge is adapted to be in surface contact with each of the at least one flap.

[0127] Example 38: A system, for example an aerosol generating system according to any one of Examples 1 to 37, wherein the outer surface of the housing wall includes at least one connector opening edge adjacent to the connector opening, and at least one flap is adapted to bend along the at least one connector opening edge.

[0128] Example 39: A system, such as an aerosol generating system according to Example 37 or 38, wherein at least one connector opening edge is rounded or chamfered.

[0129] Example 40: A system, such as an aerosol generating system according to any one of Examples 37-39, wherein two adjacent connector opening edges are separated by a recess.

[0130] Example 41: At least one second slit extends into the region of the recess, such as in a system, such as an aerosol generating system according to Example 40.

[0131] Example 42: A system, such as an aerosol generating system according to Example 39, wherein the ratio of the fillet radius of at least one connector opening edge to the thickness of at least one flap is 0.5-10, preferably 1-5.

[0132] Example 43: A system, such as an aerosol generating system according to example 39 or 42, wherein the fillet radius of at least one connector opening edge is between 1 mm and 50 mm, in particular between 3 mm and 25 mm, in particular between 5 mm and 10 mm.

[0133] Example 44: A system, for example an aerosol generating system according to any one of Examples 1 to 43, comprising an electrical connector, the electrical connector including an electrical connector casing having a plug receiving opening, a connection flange extending at least partially around the plug receiving opening, and a sealing member disposed between the electrical connector and the housing.

[0134] Example 45: A system, such as an aerosol generating system according to Example 44, wherein the connecting flange extends circumferentially around the plug-receiving opening.

[0135] Example 46: A system, such as an aerosol generating system according to example 44 or 45, wherein the connection flange is attached to or forms part of the electrical connector casing.

[0136] Example 47: A system, such as an aerosol-generating system according to any one of Examples 44 to 46, wherein the connection flange protrudes laterally from the electrical connector casing by at least 1 millimeter, preferably at least 2 millimeters, preferably at least 3 millimeters.

[0137] Example 48: A system, such as an aerosol generating system according to any one of Examples 3-47, wherein the sealing member abuts against an inner surface of the housing wall, and the sealing member abuts against a front surface of the connection flange.

[0138] Example 49: A system, such as an aerosol generating system according to any one of Examples 3-48, wherein a groove is formed on the inner surface of the housing wall to receive the sealing member.

[0139] Example 50: A system, such as an aerosol generating system according to any one of Examples 3-49, wherein the sealing member extends circumferentially around the plug-receiving opening and the connector opening in the housing wall.

[0140] Example 51: A system, such as an aerosol-generating system according to any one of Examples 3 to 50, wherein the sealing member is attached to the connecting flange by means of an adhesive, in particular glue, or a double-sided adhesive tape.

[0141] Example 52: A system, such as an aerosol-generating system according to any one of Examples 3 to 51, wherein the sealing member is molded on the connection flange, in particular by liquid injection molding.

[0142] Example 53: A system, such as an aerosol generating system according to any one of Examples 44-52, wherein the sealing member is disposed at a lateral distance from the plug-receiving opening to form a lateral clearance between the sealing member and the plug-receiving opening.

[0143] Example 54: A system, such as an aerosol generating system according to Example 53, wherein the lateral clearance extends circumferentially around the plug-receiving opening.

[0144] Example 55: The system, an aerosol generation system according to embodiment 53 or 54, wherein the lateral clearance has a width of at least 0.1 millimeter, in particular at least 0.2 millimeter, preferably at least 0.3 millimeter.

[0145] Example 56: 1. A method of assembly comprising the steps of: - providing a connector opening in a housing portion; - attaching a cover element to a housing portion of the aerosol generation system; - placing an electrical connector inside the housing portion, wherein a cover element covers the connector opening and includes a flap, an assembly method, for example an assembly method for an aerosol generating system according to any one of Examples 1 to 55 in particular.

[0146] Example 57: 1. A method of assembly, comprising: - attaching a sealing member to the electrical connector; - attaching a sealing member to the inner surface of the housing part, in particular adjacent the connector opening,

[0147] Example 58: 1. A method of assembly comprising the steps of: - attaching a sealing member to the electrical connector; - placing an electrical connector within a housing of the aerosol generation system; - attaching a sealing member to an inner surface of the housing, in particular adjacent the connector opening of the housing, a method of assembly, for example an assembly method for an aerosol generating system according to any one of Examples 1 to 55.

[0148] Example 59: Use of a flap to reduce ingress of dust and liquid through the connector opening, for example, use of a flap in an aerosol generating system, particularly for any one of Examples 1-55.

[0149] Example 60: Use of a flap to seal a space between an internal electrical connector of an aerosol generating system and a housing wall of the aerosol generating system against ingress of dust and liquid, for example, use of a flap in an aerosol generating system according to any one of Examples 1 to 55 in particular.

[0150] Example 61: A system, such as an aerosol-generating system according to any one of Examples 1-55, further comprising an aerosol-generating article comprising an aerosol-generating substrate.

[0151] The embodiments will now be further described with reference to the figures.

[0152] An aerosol generating system 1 according to an embodiment of the present invention is shown in Figure 1. In this embodiment, the aerosol generating system comprises a battery charger 2 and an aerosol generating device. The aerosol generating device is not shown in Figure 1 but may be disposed inside the battery charger 2. The battery charger 2 includes a housing 4 having a housing wall 5. A connector opening 6 is formed inside the housing wall 5. The connector opening 6 is covered by a cover element 7. The cover element 7 is attached to an outer surface of the housing wall 5. The cover element 7 includes a first slit 8 and four second slits 9.

[0153] An aerosol generation system 1 according to another embodiment of the invention is shown in Figure 2. In this embodiment, the aerosol generation system 1 comprises an aerosol generation device 3. The aerosol generation device 2 comprises a housing 4 having a housing wall 5. A connector opening 6 is formed inside the housing wall 5. The connector opening 6 is covered by a cover element 7. The cover element 7 is attached to an inner surface of the housing wall 5. The cover element 7 comprises a first slit 8 and four second slits 9.

[0154] It is also possible for the cover element 7 of the aerosol generating device 3 of Figure 2 to be attached to the outer surface of the housing wall 5, as shown in Figure 1. The cover element 7 of the battery charger 2 of Figure 1 can also be attached to the inner surface of the housing wall 5, as shown in Figure 2.

[0155] FIG. 3 shows the cover element 7 of FIG. 1. The cover element 7 includes a first long flap 10, a second long flap 11, a first short flap 12, and a second short flap 13. An attachment portion 14 extends circumferentially around the flaps 10, 11, 12, 13. The cover element 7 includes a bend line 15. In FIG. 3, the flaps 10, 11, 12, 13 are in a closed position. The cover element 7 seals the connector opening 6 in the closed position. When a plug is pressed against the flaps 10, 11, 12, 13, the flaps bend inwardly to form an opening in the cover element 7.

[0156] Figure 4 shows the connector opening 6 in the housing wall 5 of the battery charger 2 of Figure 1. The connector opening 6 is surrounded by two long connector opening edges 16 and two short connector opening edges 17 on the outer surface of the housing wall 5. The connector opening edges 16, 17 are rounded to provide a smooth support for the cover element 7 to bend. A recess 18 is formed in the housing wall 5 between two adjacent connector opening edges 16 and 17. The edges of the recess 18 are also rounded.

[0157] FIG. 5 shows a cross-sectional view of the connector opening 6. The short flap 12 is in an open position and the long flap 10 is in a closed position. This is for illustrative purposes only. Normally, all flaps 10, 11, 12, 13 move together to the open position when a plug is pressed against them. The short flap 12 bends toward the interior of the housing 4 along the short connector opening edge 17, exposing the electrical connector 19. FIG. 5 also shows that a recessed section 20 is formed in the outer surface of the housing wall 5 to receive the short flap 12, so that the aerosol generation system 1 has a smooth outer surface.

[0158] In Figure 6, the first long flap 10 and the second long flap 11 are attached to a recessed section 20 in the outer surface of the housing wall 5. The second long flap 11 bends along the long connector opening edge 16 and opens towards the interior of the housing 4 to expose the electrical connector 19. The second long flap 11 contacts the edge of the connector 19 and forms a bulge. The first long flap 10 is in a closed position.

[0159] Figure 7 shows the same area of ​​the aerosol generation system 1 as Figure 6, but for a different embodiment. In this embodiment, the electrical connector 19 is set back further towards the interior of the aerosol generation system 1 compared to Figure 6. A second long flap 11 can move past the electrical connector 19.

[0160] FIG. 8 shows a diagram of how the electrical connector 19 is attached to the housing wall 5. The electrical connector 19 extends primarily in a longitudinal direction 100. The electrical connector 19 includes an electrical connector casing 21 that houses an electrically conductive component 22. The electrical connector casing 21 has a plug-receiving opening 23 disposed adjacent the connector opening 6 in the housing wall 5. The electrical connector 19 further includes a connection flange 24. In this embodiment, the connection flange 24 and the electrical connector casing 21 are formed from a single piece. A sealing member 25 is disposed between the housing wall 5 and the connection flange 24. The sealing member 25 abuts against an inner surface of the housing wall 5 and a front surface of the connection flange 24. FIG. 8 shows a lateral clearance 26 between the plug-receiving opening 23 and the sealing member 25.

[0161] 9 and 10 show an electrical connector 19 according to an embodiment of the present invention. An electrical connector casing 21 houses an electrically conductive component 22. A sealing member 25 abuts a front surface of a connection flange 24 and extends circumferentially around a plug-receiving opening 23. The connection flange 24 also extends circumferentially around the plug-receiving opening 23. The inner edge of the connection flange 24 is rounded or chamfered.

[0162] Figure 11 shows a partial horizontal cut through Figure 10. In this embodiment, the connection flange 24 is a separate piece that is attached to the electrical connector casing 21. The sealing member 25 is disposed at a lateral distance from the plug-receiving opening 23 to form a lateral clearance 26.

[0163] FIG 12 shows the electrical connector 19 and sealing member 25 according to the embodiment of FIG 8. FIG 13 shows a horizontal cut through the electrical connector 19 of FIG 12. In this embodiment, the electrical connector casing 21 and the connection flange 24 are formed from a single piece. The sealing member 25 is molded onto the connection flange 24. Both the connection flange 24 and the sealing member 25 extend circumferentially around the plug receiving opening 23. The sealing member 25 is disposed at a lateral distance from the plug receiving opening 23 to form a lateral clearance 26.

[0164] 5-12 show an electrical connector 19. Alternatively, the connector may be any type of connector, for example a gas charging port or a liquid charging port.

Claims

1. an aerosol generation system, Housing and Electrical connector and A sealing member is provided, The housing includes a housing wall, The electrical connector includes a plug receiving opening and a connecting flange, The connecting flange extends at least partially around the plug receiving opening, The sealing member is disposed between the connecting flange and the inner surface of the housing wall. An aerosol generating system in which the connecting flange is disposed on the front portion of the electrical connector, and the front portion is defined as the direction in which the plug is inserted into the electrical connector.

2. The electrical connector includes an electrical connector casing including the plug receiving opening, and the connecting flange forms part of the connector casing. Alternatively, the aerosol generating system according to claim 1, wherein the electrical connector includes an electrical connector casing including the plug receiving opening, and the connecting flange is attached to the electrical connector casing.

3. The aerosol generating system according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the connecting flange defines the front surface of the electrical connector.

4. The aerosol generating system according to any one of claims 1 to 2, wherein the connecting flange extends circumferentially around the plug receiving opening.

5. The aerosol generating system according to any one of claims 1 to 2, wherein the connecting flange protrudes laterally from the electrical connector casing, particularly by at least 1 mm, preferably at least 2 mm, and preferably at least 3 mm.

6. The aerosol generating system according to any one of claims 1 to 2, wherein the sealing member abuts against the inner surface of the housing wall.

7. The aerosol generating system according to any one of claims 1 to 2, wherein the sealing member abuts against the front surface of the connecting flange.

8. The aerosol generating system according to any one of claims 1 to 2, wherein the sealing member extends circumferentially around the plug receiving opening and the connector opening of the housing wall.

9. The sealing member is attached to the connecting flange by an adhesive, particularly glue, or double-sided adhesive tape. Alternatively, the aerosol generating system according to any one of claims 1 to 2, wherein the sealing member is formed on the connecting flange, particularly by liquid injection molding.

10. The aerosol generating system according to any one of claims 1 to 2, wherein the inner edge of the sealing member is aligned with the connector opening of the housing.

11. The aerosol generating system according to any one of claims 1 to 2, wherein the sealing member is disposed at a lateral distance from the plug receiving opening to form a lateral clearance between the sealing member and the plug receiving opening.

12. The aerosol generating system according to claim 11, wherein the lateral clearance has a width of at least 0.1 mm, particularly at least 0.2 mm, and particularly at least 0.3 mm.

13. A method for assembling an aerosol generation system, - A step of enlarging the front surface of the electrical connector by forming a connecting flange on the front section of the electrical connector or attaching a connecting flange to the front section of the electrical connector, - A step of attaching the sealing member to the electrical connector such that the sealing member contacts the front surface of the electrical connector, - The step of placing the electrical connector inside the housing of the aerosol generating system, - A method for assembling an aerosol generating system according to any one of claims 1 to 2, comprising the step of attaching the sealing member to the inner surface of the housing, particularly adjacent to the connector opening of the housing.

14. The use of a sealing member in an aerosol generating system, particularly according to any one of claims 1 to 2, for sealing the space between an internal electrical connector of the aerosol generating system and the housing wall of the aerosol generating system to prevent the ingress of dust and liquid, The electrical connector includes a connecting flange disposed on the front portion of the electrical connector, the front portion being defined as the direction in which the plug is inserted into the electrical connector. The sealing member is disposed between the connecting flange and the inner wall of the housing wall.

15. The aerosol generating system according to any one of claims 1 to 2, further comprising an aerosol generating article containing an aerosol generating substrate.

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