Housing portion, aerosol generating device, and method

Abstract

According to the present disclosure, there is provided a housing portion (112) for an aerosol generating device (100), the aerosol generating device including an electronic component (102), a first conductive element (140) electrically connected to the electronic component (102), and a second conductive element (150) electrically connected to the electronic component (102), the housing portion including a conductive member (114) formed as an integral part of the housing portion, the conductive member being configured to provide an electrical connection between the first conductive element and the second conductive element, such that the electrical connection is severed when the housing portion is removed. An aerosol generating device and method are also provided.

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a housing portion, and in particular to a housing portion for an aerosol generating device. The present disclosure further relates to an aerosol generating device and method. [Background technology]

[0002] Battery cell recycling is a recycling activity aimed at reducing the number of battery cells discarded with regular household waste. Battery cells contain heavy metals and toxic chemicals, and disposing of them in the same processes as regular household waste raises concerns about soil and water contamination. Furthermore, battery cell recycling may help prevent future shortages of battery cell materials and enable a sustainable lifecycle for these technologies.

[0003] The aerosol generating device is configured to heat an aerosol substrate to generate an aerosol for inhalation. The aerosol generating device includes a power source in the form of a battery cell. The battery cell provides power for operation of the aerosol generating device, and may, for example, provide the power necessary to generate the aerosol. It may be desirable to have access to the battery cell for replacement and / or recycling.

[0004] Aerosol generating devices typically include a number of electrical connections between components of the aerosol generating device and also provide connectivity to auxiliary devices.

[0005] Routing electrical connections is often problematic due to space constraints within conventional aerosol generating devices.

[0006] Furthermore, replacing and recycling components of aerosol-generating devices, particularly battery cells, is often complicated due to the electrical connections within the device. Furthermore, accessing the battery cells poses safety risks to the person performing the disassembly. Hazards associated with removing battery cells include electrical, chemical, and thermal hazards and their potential interactions. Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0007] SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION It is an object of the present invention to overcome at least some of the problems mentioned above or elsewhere. [Means for solving the problem]

[0008] According to the present disclosure, there is provided a housing part, an aerosol generating device and a method, comprising the features defined in the claims.

[0009] According to a first aspect of the present invention, there is provided a housing part for an aerosol generating device, the aerosol generating device comprising an electronic component device, a first conductive element device electrically connected to the electronic component device, and a second conductive element device electrically connected to the electronic component device, the housing part comprising a conductive member device formed as an integral part of the housing part, the conductive member device configured to provide an electrical connection between the first conductive element device and the second conductive element device, whereby the electrical connection is severed when the housing part is removed.

[0010] In this manner, electrical connections may (e.g., selectively) be provided by the provision of the housing portion itself. It will be understood that this is because the conductive member arrangement is formed as an integral part of the housing portion. Throughout this description, this may be referred to as the conductive member arrangement "in" the housing portion. This structure is in contrast to typical electrical connection arrangements that require internal, permanent, or more dedicated electrical connection elements (e.g., electrical wiring separate from any device housing, which will be understood to be not integral with the housing portion) to form connections to or between electrical components. Instead, in the present invention, connections to or between one or more electronic components are provided by the housing portion. For the avoidance of doubt, the housing portion does not simply cover or house the conductive member arrangement (e.g., conventional wiring), but rather itself provides the electrical connection by the integrally formed conductive member arrangement. It will be understood that with this structure, electrical connections are provided to the electronic component arrangement by the conductive member arrangement of the housing portion.

[0011] This is highly advantageous in increasing the amount of available space within the aerosol generating device and / or reducing the size of the aerosol generating device. Furthermore, such a structure can simplify the process of accessing, replacing, and recycling components of the aerosol generating device, since fewer electrical connection elements need to be provided within the device. Furthermore, because the housing portions provide the electrical connections, the electrical connections are severed when the housing portions are removed. This improves safety when accessing the components of the aerosol generating device, as the electrical connections are broken, opened, or severed when the housing portions are removed. This also improves safety or counterfeit prevention, as the conductive elements can function as a key or switch for operating the device. If a cover without conductive elements is used, the device may not function as intended or at all.

[0012] Furthermore, the housing portion may facilitate the connection of auxiliary devices to the aerosol generating device, thereby allowing the functionality of the aerosol generating device to be expanded in some way by the connection of the auxiliary devices. A system may be provided comprising the aerosol generating device and the auxiliary devices described herein. The electronic component arrangement of the aerosol generating device may comprise electronic components. It may be desirable to form an electrical connection with electronic components from outside (e.g., external) the aerosol generating device. The auxiliary device may be electrically connected to the electronic components of the aerosol generating device via the conductive member arrangement of the housing portion. That is, the auxiliary device may be electrically connected to the conductive member arrangement of the housing portion.

[0013] As described in more detail below, the auxiliary device may be a discharge device for discharging a battery cell of the aerosol generating device. The auxiliary device may include a first auxiliary device component. The first auxiliary device component may be a component arranged to receive (or draw) power from the aerosol generating device. The auxiliary device may be connectable to the conductive member arrangement of the housing portion to discharge the battery cell of the aerosol generating device via the first auxiliary device component.

[0014] In relation to the above, in other words, the housing portion may be said to include an integrally formed conductive member arrangement. The housing portion may be said to be configured to provide an electrical connection, as it will be understood that the conductive member arrangement provides the electrical connection and that the conductive member arrangement is integral with the housing portion. The housing portion may be configured to be detached to sever the electrical connection. The housing portion may be easily detachable (e.g., detachably or releasably attachable).

[0015] In one example, the housing portion may be configured to be removable from connection with the aerosol generating device, thereby severing the electrical connection, for example, by removal of an integrally formed conductive member arrangement.

[0016] While the advantages of this structure will be understood from the above, it is important to note that such a structure ensures user safety, since when the housing part (and, consequently, the integrally formed conductive member arrangement) is removed, the electrical connection (which may be the supply of power to the components of the aerosol generating device) is severed. In this way, it can be ensured that the electrical connection or power supply is severed and / or terminated upon removal of the housing part. As will be understood below, removing the housing part may expose electrical components, so it is highly advantageous to sever the electrical connection or terminate the power supply when the housing part is removed. Removal of the housing part may be by the housing part being removably (or releasably) attachable, connectable, or mountable to or on the aerosol generating device, as will be explained in more detail below. The housing part may, for example, be an outer cover that covers or provides an outer surface or face of the aerosol generating device.

[0017] In one example, the electronic component device includes a first electronic component and a second electronic component, the first conductive element device is electrically connected to the first electronic component, the second conductive element device is electrically connected to the second electronic component, and the conductive member device of the housing portion is configured to be connected between the first conductive element device and the second conductive element device, thereby providing an electrical connection between the first electronic component and the second electronic component by the conductive member device of the housing portion.

[0018] That is, the electrical connection may be between multiple electronic components of the aerosol generating device. That is, the first electronic component and the second electronic component may be components of the aerosol generating device. In this way, the electrical connection between the electronic components of the aerosol generating device may be provided by the housing portion.

[0019] In one example, the first electronic component is a power supply or a component powered by a power supply, and / or the second electronic component is a power supply or a component powered by a power supply.

[0020] When the first electronic component is a power source and the second electronic component is a power source, an electrical connection may be between the power sources so as to form a power supply system for supplying power to the aerosol generating device or an auxiliary device. When the first electronic component is a power source and the second electronic component is a component powered by the power source (or vice versa), the electrical connection facilitates the supply of power from the power source to said component. As mentioned above, this is highly advantageous in terms of a simpler, more robust construction and improved safety during disassembly. In particular, the supply of power to said component may be terminated by removing a housing part.

[0021] In one example, the first conductive element device comprises a first pair of conductive elements, the second conductive element device comprises a second pair of conductive elements, the conductive member device comprises a pair of conductive members, a first conductive member of the pair of conductive members connectable between a first conductive element of the first pair of conductive elements and a first conductive element of the second pair of conductive elements, and a second conductive member of the pair of conductive members connectable between a second conductive element of the first pair of conductive elements and a second conductive element of the second pair of conductive elements.

[0022] In this manner, a robust electrical connection can be formed between the first and second electronic components. Removal of at least one of the pair of conductive members (e.g., by removing a housing portion) results in an electrical disconnection.

[0023] In one example, the housing portion is removably positionable relative to and / or removably attachable to the aerosol generation device.

[0024] In this way, when the housing portion is attached, the conductive member arrangement of the housing portion provides an electrical connection with the electronic component arrangement. However, and very advantageously, by removing (e.g., separating) the housing portion, the electrical connection can be severed (e.g., terminated) by removing the conductive member arrangement by removing (e.g., separating) the housing portion. That is, the electrical circuit can be opened by removing the housing portion. This improves safety during disassembly of the aerosol generating device, because, in some instances, when a housing portion is removed to access components within the aerosol generating device, the power supply is simultaneously disconnected. The housing portion may be removably positionable within or on the aerosol generating device.

[0025] In one example, the electrically conductive member arrangement of the housing portion is configured to form part of an electrical circuit of the aerosol generating device.

[0026] In this way, an electrical circuit can be formed by providing the housing part. Conversely, the electrical circuit can be broken, opened, or disconnected by removing the housing part. This is highly advantageous because the supply of electrical current between components of the aerosol generating device can be terminated by removing the housing part, thus improving safety when accessing the components of the aerosol generating device.

[0027] In one example, the electrically conductive member arrangement of the housing portion is configured to form part of an electrical circuit of a battery module of the aerosol generating device.

[0028] In this way, the supply of power from the battery module to other components of the aerosol generating device or the battery module itself may be terminated by removing the housing part.

[0029] In one example, the housing portion forms part of a battery module of the aerosol generating device.

[0030] This allows the housing portion to be formed as a part of the battery module of the aerosol generating device, thereby simplifying the structure. The housing portion may be formed integrally with the battery module.

[0031] In one example, the conductive member arrangement of the housing portion is configured to provide electrical connections to enable operation of one or more components of the electronics arrangement of the aerosol generating device.

[0032] In this way, when a housing portion is provided, one or more electronic components of the aerosol generating device are operable or functional, whereas when a housing portion is not provided (or is removed), the operation of one or more electronic components of the aerosol generating device can be terminated, thereby allowing the entire aerosol generating device to operate or cease to operate depending on whether a housing is provided.

[0033] In one example, the housing portion is positionable relative to the aerosol generation device to close or cover an outer surface or part of an outer surface of the aerosol generation device.

[0034] In this way, removing a housing portion (which may expose electrical components) breaks the electrical connection, thereby improving safety. Furthermore, this provides a simplified method for breaking the electrical connection. Further advantages include increasing the amount of available space within the aerosol generating device and / or reducing the size of the aerosol generating device.

[0035] In one example, the housing portion comprises a transparent or translucent layer through which the conductive member arrangement is visible.

[0036] Such a structure can simplify assembly of the aerosol generating device, as the conductive element to which the conductive member arrangement is connected can be seen so that the user or manufacturer can accurately locate it, which also improves safety.

[0037] According to a second aspect of the present invention, there is provided an aerosol generating device comprising a housing part according to the first aspect of the present invention.

[0038] The second aspect of the invention may incorporate some or all of the features of the first aspect of the invention, as appropriate or convenient.

[0039] According to a third aspect of the present invention, there is provided an aerosol generating device comprising an electronic component device, a first conductive element device electrically connected to the electronic component device, a second conductive element device electrically connected to the electronic component device, and a housing part comprising a conductive member device formed as an integral part of the housing part, wherein the conductive member device is configured to provide an electrical connection between the first conductive element device and the second conductive element device, such that the electrical connection is severed when the housing part is removed.

[0040] As noted above with respect to the first embodiment, such a structure is highly advantageous because the electrical connection is provided by the provision of the housing portion itself. It will be understood that this is because the conductive member arrangement is formed as an integral part of the housing portion. Throughout this description, this will sometimes be referred to as the conductive member arrangement "of" the housing portion. This is in contrast to typical electrical connection arrangements that require an electrical connection element (e.g., electrical wiring separate from any device housing, which will be understood to be not integral with the housing portion) to form a connection to or between electrical components of the aerosol generating device. Instead, in the present invention, the connection to or between one or more electronic components is provided by the housing portion. For the avoidance of doubt, as noted above, the housing portion does not simply cover or house the conductive member arrangement (e.g., conventional wiring), but itself provides the electrical connection by means of the integrally formed conductive member arrangement. It will be understood that with this structure, the electrical connection to the electronic component arrangement is provided by the conductive member arrangement of the housing portion.

[0041] Therefore, as described above, the available space within the aerosol generating device can be increased and / or the overall size of the aerosol generating device can be reduced. Furthermore, such a structure can simplify the process of accessing, replacing, and recycling components of the aerosol generating device, since fewer electrical connection elements need to be provided within the device. Furthermore, because the housing portions provide the electrical connections, the electrical connections are severed when the housing portions are removed. This improves safety when accessing the components of the aerosol generating device, as the electrical connections are broken, opened, or severed when the housing portions are removed. This also improves safety or counterfeit prevention, as the conductive elements can function as a key or switch for device operation. If a cover without conductive elements is used, the device may not function as intended or at all.

[0042] The third aspect of the invention may incorporate some or all of the features of the first and / or second aspects of the invention, as required or appropriate.

[0043] In one example, the electronic component device includes a first electronic component and a second electronic component, the first conductive element device is electrically connected to the first electronic component, the second conductive element device is electrically connected to the second electronic component, and the conductive member device is configured to be connected between the first conductive element device and the second conductive element device, whereby the conductive member device of the housing portion provides an electrical connection between the first electronic component and the second electronic component.

[0044] According to a fourth aspect of the present invention, there is provided a method for providing an electrical connection between an aerosol generating device and an electronic component, the aerosol generating device comprising an electronic component, a first electrically conductive element electrically connected to the electronic component, and a second electrically conductive element electrically connected to the electronic component, the method comprising configuring a conductive element formed as an integral part of a housing portion to provide an electrical connection between the first and second electrically conductive elements.

[0045] Thus, the electrical connection is provided by providing the housing portion, which is highly advantageous as will be appreciated from the above advantages and the description provided herein.

[0046] In one example, a method includes providing an aerosol generating device.

[0047] The fourth aspect of the invention may incorporate some or all of the features of the first, second and / or third aspects of the invention, as required or appropriate.

[0048] According to a fifth aspect of the present invention, there is provided a method for severing (e.g., removing) an electrical connection in an aerosol generating device comprising an electronic component, a first conductive element electrically connected to the electronic component, and a second conductive element electrically connected to the electronic component, the method comprising removing a housing portion of the aerosol generating device, the housing portion comprising a conductive member formed as an integral part of the housing portion and configured to provide an electrical connection between the first conductive element and the second conductive element, thereby severing the electrical connection.

[0049] The electrical connection is therefore removable by removal of the housing parts, which is highly advantageous as will be appreciated from the advantages described above, particularly those relating to the first and second aspects, and from the description provided herein.

[0050] In one example, a method includes providing an aerosol generating device.

[0051] The fifth aspect of the invention may incorporate some or all of the features of the first, second, third and / or fourth aspects of the invention, as required or appropriate.

[0052] Examples of the present disclosure will now be described with reference to the accompanying drawings. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0053] [Figure 1] 1 shows an aerosol generating device. [Figure 2] 2 shows a cross section of the aerosol generating device of FIG. 1 taken along line AA and looking in the direction of the arrows. [Figure 3] 2 shows a cross-sectional view of the aerosol generating device of FIG. 1 taken along line BB and looking in the direction of the arrows. [Figure 4] Shows the system. [Figure 5] The general methodological principles are presented. [Figure 6]The general methodological principles are presented. [Figure 7] 1 shows an aerosol generating device. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0054] As used herein, the terms “aerosol precursor material,” “vapor precursor material,” or “vaporizable material” are used interchangeably and may refer to a material and / or composition that may include, for example, nicotine or tobacco and a vaporizer. The aerosol precursor material is configured to release an aerosol when heated or otherwise mechanically stimulated (e.g., by vibration). The tobacco can take the form of a variety of materials, such as cut tobacco, granulated tobacco, tobacco leaf, and / or reconstituted tobacco. The nicotine may be in the form of a nicotine salt. Suitable vaporizers include polyols (e.g., sorbitol), glycerol and glycols (e.g., propylene glycol or triethylene glycol), non-polyols (e.g., monohydric alcohols), acids (e.g., lactic acid), glycerol derivatives, esters (e.g., triacetin), triethylene glycol diacetate, triethyl citrate, glycerin, or vegetable glycerin. In some examples, the aerosol precursor material is a substantially liquid that retains or comprises one or more solid particles, such as tobacco. The aerosol generating device is configured to aerosolize the aerosol precursor material without combustion to facilitate delivery of the aerosol to a user. Furthermore, as is common in the art, the terms "vapor" and "aerosol," and related terms such as "vaporize," "volatilize," and "aerosolize" may generally be used interchangeably.

[0055] As used herein, the term "aerosol generation device" is synonymous with "aerosol generating device," or "device" may include a device configured to heat an aerosol precursor material and deliver an aerosol to a user. The device may be portable. "Portable" may refer to a device that is used while held by a user. The device may be adapted to generate a variable amount of aerosol that can be controlled by user input.

[0056] As used herein, the term "aerosol" may include a suspension of vaporizable material as one or more of solid particles, liquid droplets, or gas. The suspension may be in a gas, including in air. Aerosol herein may generally refer to / include a vapor. The aerosol may include one or more components of the vaporizable material.

[0057] 1, there is shown in plan view an aerosol generating device 100. The outlines of components that are hidden or obscured by other components are shown in FIG. 1 with dashed lines.

[0058] The aerosol generating device 100 includes a housing 110. In this example, the housing 110 is the entire housing of the aerosol generating device 100. That is, the housing 110 may surround the aerosol generating device 100 and house the components of the aerosol generating device 100 therein.

[0059] The housing 110 comprises a housing portion 112. The housing portion 112 is an important feature of the present invention. The housing portion 112 is a portion for the aerosol generating device 100. That is, the housing portion 112 may be for attachment to the aerosol generating device 100. The housing portion 112 may be a part of the housing 110 (e.g., a portion or part of the outer periphery of the aerosol generating device 100). Additionally or alternatively, the housing portion 112 may be a housing component, compartment, or part of a housing, such as a cover. The housing portion 112 may be a larger or smaller portion of the housing 110 (i.e., the housing portion 112 may provide an area greater or less than half of the total surface area of ​​the housing 110). The housing portion 112 may be removable to access the internal components of the aerosol generating device 100.

[0060] Importantly, as will be discussed in more detail below, the housing portion 112 includes an electrically conductive member arrangement 114. The electrically conductive member arrangement 114 is connectable within the aerosol generating device 100 to provide an electrical connection within the aerosol generating device 100. That is, the electrically conductive member arrangement 114 is configured to provide an electrical connection.

[0061] As will be appreciated from the description herein and the advantages of providing an electrical connection "using the housing portion 112," the conductive member device 114 is formed as an integral part of the housing portion 112. Throughout the description herein, this may be referred to as the conductive member device 114 "of" the housing portion 112. In other words, the housing portion 112 and the conductive member device 114 are integrally formed. The conductive member device 114 and the housing portion 112 may be formed as a unitary structure or may be "integrally formed." The housing portion 112 and the conductive member device 114 may be formed in a single process, for example, by additive manufacturing. Alternatively, the conductive member device 114 may be attached to the housing portion 112; for example, a separate conductive member device 114 may be connected to and supported by the housing portion 112. The housing portion 112 may include a recess and the conductive member device 114 embedded in the housing portion 112. It will be appreciated that the conductive member device 114 may be embedded in the housing part 112, for example by providing said conductive member device 114 in a recess in the housing part 112, or by a different construction method as will be understood by those skilled in the art. The conductive member device 114 may also be provided as a separate layer on the housing part 112, for example on the inward facing surface of the housing part 112, which may enable providing an electrical connection when the housing part 112 is connected or attached to the aerosol generating device 100.

[0062] An important feature of the present invention is that the conductive member arrangement 114 is an integral part of the housing portion 112, such that the electrical connection is severed when the housing portion 112 is removed. It will be appreciated that removal of the housing portion 112 will remove the conductive member arrangement 114 due to the integral construction, thereby severing the electrical connection and / or terminating the power supply between the electrical components.

[0063] Providing electrical connections using the housing portion 112 is highly advantageous. In this way, the housing portion 112 may replace or alleviate the need for additional electrical connections (e.g., wiring) within the aerosol generating device. This simplifies construction, maintenance, provides additional available space within the aerosol generating device 100, leads to a reduced form factor for the aerosol generating device 100, is a more robust construction than electrical wiring, and may reduce manufacturing costs.

[0064] A further important advantage is that by using the housing portion 112 to provide the electrical connection, the electrical connection is severed when the housing portion 112 is removed from its attachment to the aerosol generating device 100. In other words, the electrical connection is severed when the housing portion 112 is removed. This is highly advantageous for improving safety in the replacement and recycling process of aerosol generating device components.

[0065] Informally, a primary feature of the present invention is the provision of electrical connections by providing housing portion 112 itself, rather than incorporating separate electrical connection elements (eg, wires, etc.).

[0066] As will be appreciated from the above, but emphasized here, the housing portion 112 does not simply cover or house the conductive member arrangement 114 (as is typical of aerosol generating devices that include a housing that houses conventional electrical connections, such as hardwired components), but rather provides electrical connection through the integrally formed conductive member arrangement 114. It will be appreciated that this structure allows the conductive member arrangement 114 of the housing portion 112 to provide electrical connection with the electronic component arrangement 102 (described further herein).

[0067] The conductive member device 114 may include one or more conductive members 114. The one or more conductive members 114 may be metallic members.

[0068] The housing portion 112 may be configured to provide electrical connection with one or more electronic components of the aerosol generating device 100. The electrical connection may be provided by an electrical conducting member arrangement 114, in particular by one or more electrical conducting members 114a, 114b.

[0069] Electrical connections may be formed between multiple components, thus providing electrical connectivity therebetween.

[0070] As described in later examples, the housing portion 112, which provides electrical connection with one or more electronic components of the aerosol generating device 100, may allow an auxiliary device (which may be an external device) to be electrically connected to one or more electronic components by connecting to the conductive member arrangement 114 of the housing portion 112.

[0071] The aerosol generating device 100 comprises an electronic component device 102. The electronic component device 102 may comprise a first electronic component 120. The electronic component device 102 may further comprise a second electronic component 130.

[0072] The first electronic component 120 may be a power source 120. In this example, the power source 120 is a battery cell 120. The battery cell 120 may be a can cell, a soft pouch battery cell, or any other suitable type of battery cell.

[0073] The second electronic component 130 may be any electronic component other than the power source 120. The second electronic component 130 may be a component that receives power from the power source 120. The second electronic component 130 is preferably a printed circuit board (PCB) 130. Multiple PCBs may be provided, and the PCBs may be connected (e.g., electrically connected). The PCB 130 or multiple PCBs may form part of the processor of the aerosol generating device 100. Alternatively, the second electronic component 130 may be an additional power source or a battery cell.

[0074] The aerosol generating device 100 includes a first conductive element arrangement 140. The first conductive element arrangement 140 is electrically connected to an electronic component arrangement. The first conductive element arrangement may include a first pair of conductive elements 140. In the example shown in FIG. 1 , the first pair of conductive elements 140 is electrically connected to a first electronic component 120, which may be the power source 120, as described above. The first pair of conductive elements 140 may include a first conductive element 140a electrically connected to a first terminal (e.g., a positive terminal) of the power source 120. The first pair of conductive elements 140 may include a second conductive element 140b electrically connected to a second terminal (e.g., a negative terminal) of the power source 120.

[0075] The first pair of conductive elements 140 may be provided in a battery module of the aerosol generating device 100. The battery module may include a battery cell 120. The first pair of conductive elements 140 may be tabs that are connected to terminals of the battery cell 120.

[0076] The aerosol generating device 100 includes a second conductive element arrangement 150. The second conductive element arrangement 150 is electrically connected to the electronic component arrangement. The second conductive element arrangement 150 may include a second pair of conductive elements 150. In the example shown in FIG. 1 , the second pair of conductive elements 150 is electrically connected to a second electronic component 130, which may be a component 130 powered by the power source 120, such as a PCB 130, as described above. The second pair of conductive elements 150 may be provided on or within the electronic component 130. The second pair of conductive elements 150 may include a first conductive element 150a electrically connected to the electrical circuit of the second electronic component 130. The second pair of conductive elements 150 may include a second conductive element 150b electrically connected to the electrical circuit of the second electronic component 130.

[0077] As described above, the housing portion 112 includes an electrically conductive member device 114. The electrically conductive member device 114 is configured to be connected between the first electrically conductive element device 140 and the second electrically conductive element device 150, such that the electrically conductive member device 114 of the housing portion 112 provides (e.g., can provide) an electrical connection with the electronic component device 102. As described above, in this manner, the housing portion 112 may replace or alleviate the need for additional electrical connections (e.g., wiring) within the aerosol generating device 100. This simplifies construction and maintenance, provides additional available space within the aerosol generating device 100, leads to a reduced form factor of the aerosol generating device 100, is more robust than electrical wiring, and reduces manufacturing costs. A further important advantage is that by providing an electrical connection using the housing portion 112, removing the housing portion 112 from its attachment to the aerosol generating device 100 results in the electrical connection being severed. This is highly advantageous for improving safety during the replacement and recycling process of aerosol generating device components.

[0078] Also, as discussed herein, such a feature can serve as an important or anti-counterfeiting measure: if a different cover is used that does not have the necessary conductive material (e.g., a counterfeit product or from a different supplier), the aerosol generating device may not function as intended by the original manufacturer, or may not function at all.

[0079] Referring to Figure 2, there is shown a cross-sectional view of the aerosol generating device of Figure 1. The cross-section is taken along line AA (shown in Figure 1) and viewed in the direction of the associated arrow.

[0080] Housing portion 112 is visible in Figure 2. Housing portion 112 extends over first electronic component 120 and second electronic component 130. Conductive member arrangement 114 on housing portion 112 provides electrical connection between said components 120, 130. First conductive member arrangement 140 and second conductive member arrangement 150 are shown in Figure 2.

[0081] Referring to Figure 3, there is shown a cross-sectional view of the aerosol generating device of Figure 1. The cross-section is taken along line BB (shown in Figure 1) and viewed in the direction of the associated arrow.

[0082] The power source 120 is not visible in Figure 3. The second conductive element arrangement 150 is shown as a contact blade, tongue, or strip that protrudes from (eg, from a surface of) the second electronic component 130.

[0083] To aid in understanding the present invention, reference is made to FIGS.

[0084] The conductive member device 114 of the housing portion 112 may be configured to be connected between the first conductive element device 140 and the second conductive element device 150, thereby providing an electrical connection between the first electronic component 120 and the second electronic component 130 by the conductive member device 114 of the housing portion 112.

[0085] In this way, the first electronic component 120 and the second electronic component 130 can be electrically connected, and the housing portion 112 provides said electrical connection, in contrast to conventional approaches that involve providing wiring or other forms of electrical connection that do not form part of the housing of the aerosol generating device.

[0086] This structure may make space within the aerosol generating device 100 available for additional components or a reduced form factor, and may provide a more robust structure. Furthermore, it will be appreciated that, highly advantageously, removing the housing portion 112 removes the electrical connection. In this manner, during disassembly of the aerosol generating device 100, the housing portion 112 may be removed to access components within the device, thus automatically severing the electrical connection between the first electronic component 120 and the second electronic component 130.

[0087] The conductive member arrangement 114 may comprise a pair of conductive members 114a, 114b.

[0088] A first conductive member 114 (e.g., conductive member 114a) of a pair of conductive members 114 may be connectable between a first conductive element 140 (e.g., conductive element 140a) of a first pair of conductive elements 140 and a first conductive element 150 (e.g., conductive element 150a) of a second pair of conductive elements 150.

[0089] The second conductive member 114 (e.g., conductive member 114b) of the pair of conductive members 114 may be connectable between the second conductive element 140 (e.g., conductive element 140b) of the first pair of conductive elements 140 and the second conductive element 150 (e.g., conductive element 150b) of the second pair of conductive elements 150.

[0090] The conductive member 114 may be connectable by forming a contact connection between the conductive member 114 and the respective conductive element 140, 150.

[0091] As described above, the first conductive element 140a of the pair of conductive elements 140a may be electrically connected to the positive terminal of the power source 120, and the second conductive element 140b of the pair of conductive elements 140b may be electrically connected to the negative terminal of the power source 120. The first conductive element 150a of the second pair of conductive elements 150a may be electrically connected to the second electronic component 130, and the second conductive element 150b of the second pair of conductive elements 150b may be electrically connected to the second electronic component 130. By using the first conductive member 114a of the pair of conductive members 114a to form an electrical connection between the first conductive element 140a of the first pair of conductive elements 140a and the first conductive element 150a of the second pair of conductive elements 150a, and using the second conductive member 114b of the pair of conductive members 114b to form an electrical connection between the second conductive element 140b of the first pair of conductive elements 140b and the second conductive element 150b of the second pair of conductive elements 150b, an electrical circuit may be formed comprising the first electronic component 120, the second electronic component 130, the conductive elements 140, 150, and the conductive member 114. Thus, power or communication may be provided between the first electronic component 120 and the second electronic component 130 using the housing portion 112.

[0092] Although the second conductive element arrangement 150 has been described as comprising pairs of conductive elements, it will be understood (particularly from FIGS. 1 and 3 ) that the second conductive element arrangement 150 may comprise additional (e.g., more than two) conductive elements. In particular, the second conductive element arrangement 150 may comprise two pairs (e.g., four) of conductive elements. This may facilitate electrical connection to additional electronic components. That is, the second electronic component 130 may comprise multiple components or subcomponents that are electrically connected to the first electronic component 120. This may be for the purpose of providing power (e.g., from the power source 120).

[0093] Furthermore, while the conductive member device 114 has been described as comprising a pair of conductive members 114a, 114b, it will be understood that the conductive member device 114 may comprise additional (e.g., more than two) conductive members 114, or particularly, additional pairs of conductive members (e.g., more than one pair). In particular, additional conductive members may be provided to provide electrical connection between a plurality of first electronic components 120 and a plurality of second electronic components 130. In certain examples, a plurality of power sources 120 may be provided, and multiple pairs of conductive members may be provided to electrically connect the power sources 120 with the second electronic components 130 in the manner described herein.

[0094] As best shown in FIG. 1 , the conductive member device 114 may have a large surface area. That is, the members 114a, 114b of the conductive member device 114 have a larger surface area than the elements of the conductive element devices 140, 150 to which they connect or contact. The conductive members 114a, 114b may contact the entire surface of one or more elements of the conductive element devices 140, 150, preferably all elements. This allows for the sustainment of higher currents, e.g., higher currents than can be sustained using typical electrical connections, such as wires, that do not connect to the entire surface of the conductive elements. Alternatively, the larger surface area may make it easier to position or maintain a connection with the conductive member 114.

[0095] In some examples, the housing portion 112 is removably positionable relative to the aerosol generating device 100 .

[0096] In this manner, when attached, the housing portion 112 provides an electrical connection with the electronic component arrangement 102 by way of the conductive member arrangement 114 of the housing portion 112. However, highly advantageously, the electrical connection can be disconnected (e.g., terminated) by removing the housing portion 112 when the conductive member arrangement 114 is removed by removing the housing portion 112. That is, the electrical circuit can be opened by removing the housing portion 112. This improves safety during disassembly of the aerosol generating device 100 because, in some examples, when the housing portion 112 is removed to access components within the aerosol generating device 100, the power source 120 is simultaneously disconnected.

[0097] The housing part 112 may be removably disposed within the aerosol generating device 100 and / or may be removably attachable within or to the aerosol generating device 100. It will be understood that the housing part 112 may be disposed on the aerosol generating device 100, thereby being positionable within the aerosol generating device 100, for closing a face (e.g., the outer surface) of the aerosol generating device 100, or for covering a face (e.g., the outer surface) or a portion of a face (e.g., the outer surface) of the aerosol generating device 100. This may be by removably or releasably attaching the housing part 112 to the aerosol generating device 100. For example, the housing part 112 may be removably or releasably attachable within or to the housing 110. The housing portion 112 may comprise part of a removable attachment mechanism, and the housing 110 or another portion of the aerosol generating device 100 may comprise a corresponding part of the removable attachment mechanism, which parts are attachable or engageable to provide for removable attachment of the housing portion 112 within the aerosol generating device 100.

[0098] In one example, the conductive member arrangement 114 of the housing portion 112 is configured to form part of the electrical circuit of the aerosol generating device 100.

[0099] In this way, a portion of the electrical circuitry can be provided by the housing portion 112, and further, a portion of the electrical circuitry can be removed by removing the housing portion 112. This is highly advantageous as it provides a simple and robust way in which the electrical circuitry can be connected and disconnected simply by providing or removing the housing portion 112.

[0100] In a highly advantageous example, the conductive member arrangement 114 of the housing part forms part of an electrical circuit connecting to the power source 120. The housing part 112 provides a safety feature in that removal of the housing part 112 results in an opening of the electrical circuit (which may be, for example, on the positive polarity of the battery cell 120). The housing part 112 avoids the risk of a short circuit during the process of replacing or removing the battery cell. Removing the housing part 112 from the aerosol generating device 100 can disconnect the positive polarity of the electrical circuit.

[0101] In one example, the conductive member arrangement 114 of the housing portion 112 is configured to form part of the electrical circuit of the battery module of the aerosol generating device 100.

[0102] In this way, the supply of power from the battery module to other components of the aerosol generating device 100 or to the battery module itself may be terminated by removing the housing portion 112.

[0103] In one example, the housing portion 112 forms part of the battery module of the aerosol generating device 100.

[0104] The housing portion 112 may be formed with the battery module (e.g., may be integrally formed with or be integrated with the battery module). That is, the housing portion 112 may have one or more battery module components formed thereon or attached thereto. Thus, when the housing portion 112 is removed, the one or more battery module components are removed. For example, the battery cells 120 may be attached to the housing portion 112. Furthermore, the housing portion 112 may form a housing for the battery cells 120.

[0105] The battery module may include one or more battery module components. The battery module may be for connection to the aerosol generating device 100 to supply power to the aerosol generating device 100. The battery module may include a power source 120, in particular battery cells 120. The battery module may include a battery module hardware protection system. The battery module hardware protection system may include fuses and / or protection integrated circuit (IC) modules. The battery module hardware protection system may include an interface (e.g., a user interface).

[0106] The conductive member arrangement 114 of the housing portion 112 may be configured to form part of the electrical circuit of the battery module by providing electrical connections between one or more of the battery module components described above.

[0107] In one example, the conductive member arrangement 114 of the housing portion 112 is configured to provide electrical connections to enable operation of one or more components of the electronic component arrangement 102 of the aerosol generating device 100.

[0108] It is highly advantageous to use the housing portion 112 to provide electrical connections to enable operation of one or more components of the electronics apparatus 102. In this manner, the housing portion 112 may replace or alleviate the need for additional electrical connections (e.g., wiring) within the aerosol generating device 100. This simplifies construction, maintenance, provides additional available space within the aerosol generating device 100, leads to a reduced form factor for the aerosol generating device 100, is a more robust construction than electrical wiring, and reduces manufacturing costs.

[0109] A further important advantage is that such a structure allows the operation of one or more components of the electronic assembly 102 to be terminated upon removal of the housing portion 112 from attachment to the aerosol generating device 100. This is highly advantageous for improving safety in the replacement and recycling process of aerosol generating device components.

[0110] In one example, the housing portion 112 includes a transparent or translucent layer, and the conductive member arrangement 114 of the housing portion 112 may be visible through the transparent or translucent layer.

[0111] Such a structure can simplify the assembly of the aerosol generating device 100, since it is possible to see that the conductive elements 140, 150 to which the conductive member arrangement 114 is connected are accurately positioned, which can also improve safety.

[0112] In some examples, the conductive member device 114 of the housing portion 112 may be accessible (e.g., selectively accessible) from outside the aerosol generating device 100. A portion of the housing portion 112 may be removable, for example, to access the conductive member device below said portion of the housing portion 112. The conductive member device 114 may be accessible through an opening in the housing portion 112. In this manner, an auxiliary device may be connectable to the conductive member device 114. The advantages of an auxiliary device will be understood below.

[0113] 4, there is shown a system 400. The system 400 comprises an aerosol generating device 100 (as described herein) and an auxiliary device 410.

[0114] Auxiliary device 410 is a discharge device, which is a device specifically configured to draw current from power source 120 .

[0115] The auxiliary device 410 can be electrically connected to the aerosol generation device 100 by forming an electrical connection with the conductive member arrangement 114 of the housing portion 112. This may be via a removable portion of the housing portion 112 as described above, or in other ways. Importantly, the auxiliary device 410 may be electrically connected to the aerosol generation device 100 without removing the housing portion 112.

[0116] In this example, the first electronic component 120 of the electronic component apparatus 102 is the power source 120. The auxiliary device 410 includes a first auxiliary device component 412. The first auxiliary device component may be a component arranged to receive (or draw) current from the power source 120. That is, the first auxiliary device component may be a discharge component. The discharge component may be a resistive load or other suitable component. The auxiliary device 410 may include a connector 414 for forming an electrical connection with the conductive member apparatus 114, thereby receiving (or drawing) current from the power source 120. In this way, the power source 120 (particularly the battery cell) can be discharged without removing the housing portion 112. This is advantageous for improving safety during disassembly or recycling processes.

[0117] In another example, the auxiliary device 410 may be integrally formed with the housing part 112. That is, the housing part 112 may be or may provide the auxiliary device 410. In this manner, the housing part 112 may be electrically connectable to the aerosol generating device 100 to facilitate discharging the power source 120. In such an example, an existing housing part of the aerosol generating device 100 may be removed and replaced with the housing part 112 comprising the auxiliary device 410. The housing part 112 may be electrically connected to the aerosol generating device 100, thereby discharging the power source 120.

[0118] Referring to Figure 5, there is shown a schematic diagram of a method for providing electrical connections to an aerosol generating device. The method may be a method for providing electrical connections to an electronics unit of an aerosol generating device.

[0119] The aerosol generating device involved in the method may be the aerosol generating device 100 described above.

[0120] The aerosol generating device includes an electronic component device, a first conductive element device electrically connected to the electronic component device, and a second conductive element device electrically connected to the electronic component device.

[0121] Optional step S510 includes providing an aerosol generating device as described in the previous paragraph or elsewhere herein.

[0122] Step S520 includes configuring a conductive member arrangement formed as an integral part of the housing portion to provide an electrical connection between the first conductive element arrangement and the second conductive element arrangement.

[0123] Thereby, providing the electrical connection may be by means of the conductive member arrangement of the housing portion providing the electrical connection with the electronic component arrangement.

[0124] Referring to Figure 6, there is shown a schematic diagram of a method for disconnecting (e.g., removing) an electrical connection within an aerosol generating device.

[0125] The method may involve severing (eg, removing) an electrical connection between the aerosol generating device and an electronic component device.

[0126] The aerosol generating device involved in the method may be the aerosol generating device 100 described above.

[0127] The aerosol generating device includes an electronic component device, a first conductive element device electrically connected to the electronic component device, and a second conductive element device electrically connected to the electronic component device.

[0128] Optional step S610 includes providing an aerosol generating device as described in the previous paragraph or elsewhere herein.

[0129] Step S620 includes removing a housing portion from the aerosol generating device, the housing portion comprising a conductive member device formed as an integral part of the housing portion, the conductive member device configured to provide an electrical connection between the first conductive element device and the second conductive element device, whereby removing the housing portion severs the electrical connection.

[0130] From another perspective, by removing the housing part, the electrical connection with the electronic component device is removed by the conductive member device of the housing part.

[0131] For further context, FIG. 7 shows a schematic cross-sectional view of an exemplary aerosol generating device 100.

[0132] The aerosol generating device 100 may be any of the aerosol generating devices 100 described above, i.e., the aerosol generating device 100 described with respect to Figure 7 may incorporate some or all of the features described above, as needed or appropriate.

[0133] The aerosol generating device 100 is adapted to receive therein a consumable item 1002. For example, the aerosol generating device 100 may include a chamber 1004 in which the consumable item 1002 is received.

[0134] The present invention is not limited to the particular aerosol generating device 100 or consumable 1002 described herein. That is, the description of the aerosol generating device 100 and consumable 1002 is provided for illustrative purposes only. Those skilled in the art will recognize that alternative configurations of the aerosol generating device and consumable are compatible with the present invention.

[0135] The consumable product 1002 comprises an aerosol substrate. The term aerosol substrate is a label used to refer to a medium that generates an aerosol or vapor when heated. The aerosol substrate may also be interpreted as an aerosol precursor. In one example, the aerosol substrate is synonymous with smokable material, aerosol-generating substrate, and aerosol-generating medium. The aerosol substrate includes a material that provides volatile components upon heating, typically in the form of a vapor or aerosol. The aerosol substrate may be a non-tobacco-containing material or a tobacco-containing material. The aerosol substrate may include, for example, one or more of tobacco itself, tobacco derivatives, expanded tobacco, reconstituted tobacco, tobacco extract, homogenized tobacco, or tobacco substitutes. The aerosol substrate may also include other non-tobacco products that may or may not contain nicotine, depending on the product. The aerosol substrate may include one or more humectants, such as glycerol or propylene glycol.

[0136] The aerosol generating device 100 may include one or more heaters 1006 configured to provide heat to the consumable item 1002 during use.

[0137] In one example, the consumable 1002 includes a liquid, and the one or more heaters comprise a heating element, such as a coil, ceramic heater, planar resistance heater, mesh heater, MEMS heater, etc., configured to aerosolize the liquid for inhalation. A liquid delivery element or mechanism, such as a porous material, a capillary system, and / or a valve, may transport the liquid to the heating element during use. In some examples, the aerosolized liquid may pass through a solid substrate within the aerosol generating device 100. In other examples, the consumable 1002 may comprise a solid aerosol substrate.

[0138] In one example, the aerosol generating device 100 comprises an atomizing engine, such as a vibrating mesh, to generate an aerosol from a liquid, with or without heating thereof.

[0139] The aerosol generating device 100 may include a mouthpiece 1012 through which a user inhales the generated aerosol using the aerosol generating device 100. The mouthpiece 1012 includes a vent or channel 1014 connected to an area near the consumable 1002 for the passage of any generated aerosol from the consumable 1002 during use. For example, the channel 1014 may extend between an opening in the mouthpiece 1012 and the chamber 1004 that can at least partially receive the consumable 1002. The mouthpiece 1012 is positioned so that it may be received in a user's mouth during use. In other examples, the mouthpiece 1012 is not required, and a portion of the consumable 1002 may protrude from the aerosol generating device 100. In this example, the protruding portion of the consumable 1002 may function as the mouthpiece.

[0140] The aerosol generating device 100 may include a control unit 1008 (or control circuitry) for electronic management of the device. The control unit 1008 may include a PCB or the like (not shown). The control unit 1008 is configured to control one or more heaters 1006.

[0141] The aerosol generating device 100 may include an activation input sensor 1018. The activation input sensor 1018 may be a button, a touchpad, etc. for sensing a user input, such as a tap or a swipe. In another example, the activation input sensor 1018 includes a consumable sensor configured to detect whether the consumable 1002 has been inserted into the aerosol generating device 100. For example, the input sensor 1018 may include an authenticity detector configured to detect whether an authentic consumable 1002 has been inserted into the aerosol generating device 100. Additionally or alternatively, the user input may also include an inhalation action by the user.

[0142] The aerosol generating device 100 may also include a puff sensor 1020 (otherwise known as an inhalation sensor). The puff sensor 1020 is configured to detect an inhalation (i.e., a puff) by a user on the aerosol generating device 100. In one example, the puff sensor 1020 includes a microphone or flow sensor configured for airflow within the chamber 1004 and / or an airflow channel extending from the chamber 1004 through the mouthpiece 1012 to its inhalation outlet, the airflow being associated with the user's inhalation. In another example, the puff sensor 1020 is configured to detect a change in pressure indicating the start of an inhalation by a user on the aerosol generating device 100. In this case, the puff sensor 1020 may be located anywhere on the aerosol device 100 where a change in pressure occurs due to the user's inhalation. In one example, the puff sensor 1020 is located in the channel 1014 between the chamber 1004 and the mouthpiece 1012 of the aerosol generating device 100. The puff sensor 1020 may also detect the end of an inhalation by the user. For example, the puff sensor 1020 may be configured to detect a further change in pressure due to the end of an inhalation by the user.

[0143] The aerosol generating device 100 may include one or more temperature sensors 1022 configured to directly or indirectly measure the temperature of the consumable 1002 within the aerosol generating device 100. The one or more temperature sensors 1022 may comprise temperature sensors, such as thermocouples or thermistors, configured to be located within or adjacent to the consumable 1002 when the consumable 1002 is received within the aerosol generating device 100. For example, the one or more temperature sensors 1022 may be located within the chamber 1004 of the aerosol generating device 100. In another example, the temperature of the consumable 1002 may be measured indirectly through the use of a thermal imaging sensor. In yet another example, the heater 1006 itself functions as a temperature sensor if it has a PTC (positive temperature coefficient) or NTC (negative temperature coefficient) characteristic.

[0144] The aerosol generating device 100 may include a power source 1050, such as a battery cell. The power source 1050 may be the power source 120 (particularly the battery cell 120) described above. The power source 1050 may comprise a battery module as described above, or may be a battery module as described above. The power source may provide electrical energy to the aerosol generating device 100, providing a voltage in the range of 3 V to 18 V, preferably in the range of 3 V to 4.2 V. In a preferred embodiment, the voltage source (which may be the battery cell 110) is a lithium-ion secondary battery providing a voltage value of 3.7 V. Such a voltage source is particularly advantageous for modern aerosol generating devices in terms of rechargeability, high energy density, and large capacity. The power source 1050 may provide power for operation of the aerosol generating device 100, for example, the power required to generate aerosol. In one example, the power source 1050 may also power one or more heaters 1006.

[0145] The aerosol generating device 100 may include a controller 1030. The controller 1030 is connected to the control unit 1008. The controller 1030 is configured to receive data from the control unit 1008. In particular, the controller 1030 is configured to receive data from the control unit 1008 regarding various sensors / inputs of the aerosol generating device 100 (such as the activation input sensor 1018, the puff sensor 1020, and / or the temperature sensor 1022).

[0146] The controller 1030 and the control unit 1008 may be integrated with one another. In one example, a single component performs the functions of the control unit 1008 and the controller 1030. In another example, the control unit 1008 and the controller 1030 are separate components.

[0147] As noted above, the battery module 120 may include one or more battery module components, and the battery module 120 may include visual indicators 150 arranged to indicate battery module component characteristics.

[0148] Furthermore, the aerosol generating device 100 of Figure 7 may include a housing portion 112 having a conductive member device 114 configured to be connected between a first conductive element device and a second conductive element device, whereby the conductive member device 114 of the housing portion 112 provides an electrical connection to an electronic component device (in this example, between the power source 1050 and the controller 1030).

[0149] The aerosol generating device 100 may include a USB port 1052 (e.g., a USB receiving port), which may provide a connection to the controller 1030.

[0150] It will be appreciated that the present invention as described and defined above may enable associated apparatus and methods to facilitate, comply with, or more easily comply with legal and regulatory requirements, guidelines, and standards, particularly those relating to one or more of inspection, display / status, recycling, reuse, repair, replacement, and maintenance of equipment (e.g., batteries or associated devices), whether by an end user or a service provider.

[0151] When referring to the description of this specification as a whole, further details are provided hereby with respect to the terms used above and features described in this disclosure or additional terms related to this disclosure. - "battery" may mean any device that delivers electrical energy produced by the direct conversion of chemical energy, has an internal or external storage, and consists of one or more non-rechargeable or rechargeable battery cells or modules thereof, including batteries that are ready for reuse, ready for repurposing, repurposed, or have undergone remanufacturing; "battery module" may refer to one or more battery module components (e.g., any set of one or more battery cells and / or one or more other components, as described above) connected together or enclosed in an outer casing, housing, enclosure, envelope, packaging material, or the like to protect the cells from internal shock, which is meant to be used alone or in combination with other modules. In some examples, a "battery module" within the context of this specification may otherwise be known as a "battery pack." "battery cell" may mean the basic functional unit within a battery that is comprised of electrodes, electrolyte, container, terminals, and, if applicable, a separator, and contains the active materials whose reaction produces electrical energy. "active material" means a material that chemically reacts to produce electrical energy when a battery cell discharges or stores electrical energy when a battery is being charged.

[0152] While preferred embodiments have been shown and described, it will be understood by those skilled in the art that various changes and modifications may be made therein without departing from the scope of the invention as defined in the appended claims and as described above.

Claims

1. 1. A housing part for an aerosol generating device, the aerosol generating device comprising: an electronic component device; a first conductive element device electrically connected to the electronic component device; a second conductive element device electrically connected to the electronic component device; Equipped with the housing portion includes a conductive member device formed as an integral part of the housing portion, the conductive member device configured to provide an electrical connection between the first conductive element device and the second conductive element device, whereby the electrical connection is severed when the housing portion is removed; Housing part.

2. the electronic component device includes a first electronic component and a second electronic component, the first conductive element device is electrically connected to the first electronic component, the second conductive element device is electrically connected to the second electronic component, and the conductive member device of the housing portion is configured to be connected between the first conductive element device and the second conductive element device, thereby providing an electrical connection between the first electronic component and the second electronic component by the conductive member device of the housing portion; The housing portion of claim 1 .

3. 3. A housing portion according to claim 1 or claim 2, wherein the first electronic component is a power source or a component powered by the power source, and / or the second electronic component is a power source or a component powered by the power source.

4. the first conductive element arrangement comprises a first pair of conductive elements, the second conductive element arrangement comprises a second pair of conductive elements, and the conductive member arrangement comprises a pair of conductive members; a first conductive member of the pair of conductive members is connectable between a first conductive element of the first pair of conductive elements and a first conductive element of the second pair of conductive elements; a second conductive member of the pair of conductive members connectable between a second conductive element of the first pair of conductive elements and a second conductive element of the second pair of conductive elements; A housing part according to any one of claims 1 to 3.

5. The housing part according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the housing part is removably attachable to the aerosol generating device.

6. A housing part according to any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein the electrically conductive member arrangement of the housing part is configured to form part of an electrical circuit of the aerosol generating device.

7. A housing part according to any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein the electrically conductive member arrangement of the housing part is configured to form part of an electrical circuit of a battery module of the aerosol generating device.

8. The housing portion of claim 7 , wherein the housing portion forms part of the battery module of the aerosol generating device.

9. A housing portion according to any one of claims 1 to 8, wherein the conductive member device of the housing portion is configured to provide the electrical connection to enable operation of one or more components of the electronic component device of the aerosol generating device.

10. A housing part according to any one of claims 1 to 9, which is positionable relative to the aerosol generating device so as to close or cover an outer surface or part of an outer surface of the aerosol generating device.

11. An aerosol generating device comprising a housing part according to any one of claims 1 to 10.

12. an electronic component device; a first conductive element device electrically connected to the electronic component device; a second conductive element device electrically connected to the electronic component device; a housing portion having a conductive member arrangement formed as an integral part of said housing portion; Equipped with the conductive member device is configured to provide an electrical connection between the first conductive element device and the second conductive element device, whereby when the housing portion is removed, the electrical connection is severed; Aerosol generating devices.

13. The aerosol generating device of claim 12, wherein the electronic component device includes a first electronic component and a second electronic component, the first conductive element device is electrically connected to the first electronic component, the second conductive element device is electrically connected to the second electronic component, and the conductive member device is configured to be connected between the first conductive element device and the second conductive element device, thereby providing an electrical connection between the first electronic component and the second electronic component by the conductive member device of the housing portion.

14. 1. A method for providing an electrical connection to an aerosol generating device, the aerosol generating device comprising: an electronic component device; a first conductive element device electrically connected to the electronic component device; a second conductive element device electrically connected to the electronic component device; Equipped with The method comprises: providing a conductive member arrangement formed as an integral part of a housing portion for providing an electrical connection between the first conductive element arrangement and the second conductive element arrangement; Including, method.

15. 1. A method for disconnecting an electrical connection in an aerosol generating device, the aerosol generating device comprising: an electronic component device; a first conductive element device electrically connected to the electronic component device; a second conductive element device electrically connected to the electronic component device; removing a housing portion from the aerosol generating device; Including, the housing portion includes a conductive member device formed as an integral part of the housing portion, the conductive member device configured to provide an electrical connection between the first conductive element device and the second conductive element device, whereby removing the housing portion breaks the electrical connection; method.

Images