Aerosol supply device

Abstract

The aerosol delivery device includes a battery support having a main portion defining a longitudinal axis, a first end portion at a first end of the main portion along the longitudinal axis, and a second end portion at a second end of the main portion along the longitudinal axis. The first and second end portions extend away from a first side of the main portion in a first direction substantially perpendicular to the longitudinal axis. The device further includes a battery supported between the first and second end portions and a heater assembly including an inductor coil. The device further includes a printed circuit board (PCB) engaged with the second side of the main portion and disposed between the main portion and the heater assembly, with an end of the inductor coil connected to the PCB.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to an aerosol supply device and a battery support for the aerosol supply device.

Background Art

[0002] Smoking articles such as cigarettes and cigars generate tobacco smoke by burning the tobacco during use. Attempts have been made to provide alternatives to these articles that burn tobacco by creating products that release compounds without burning. Examples of such products include heating devices that release compounds by heating rather than burning the material. The material can be, for example, tobacco or other non-tobacco products, which may or may not contain nicotine.

Summary of the Invention

[0003] According to a first aspect of the present disclosure, a battery support, a main portion defining a longitudinal axis, a first end portion at a first end of the main portion along the longitudinal axis, a second end portion at a second end of the main portion along the longitudinal axis, the first end portion and the second end portion extending away from a first side of the main portion in a first direction substantially perpendicular to the longitudinal axis, the battery support, a battery supported between the first end portion and the second end portion, a heater assembly comprising a coil, a printed circuit board (PCB) engaged with a second side of the main portion and disposed between the main portion and the heater assembly, the ends of the coil being connected to the PCB, the printed circuit board, An aerosol supply device comprising is provided.

[0004] According to a second aspect of the present disclosure, a main portion defining a longitudinal axis, a first end portion disposed at a first end of the main portion along the longitudinal axis; a second end portion disposed at a second end of the main portion along the longitudinal axis, the first end portion and the second end portion being a battery support for an aerosol supply device that extends away from a first side of the main portion in a first direction substantially perpendicular to the longitudinal axis; the first end portion and the second end portion are configured to receive a battery therebetween; a battery support is provided, wherein a second side of the main portion is configured to engage a printed circuit board (PCB).

[0005] Further features and advantages of the present invention will become apparent from the following description of the preferred embodiments of the present invention given by way of example only with reference to the accompanying drawings. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0006]

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DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0007] As used herein, the term "aerosol - generating material" typically includes materials that provide volatile components upon heating, in the form of an aerosol. The aerosol - generating material can include any tobacco - containing material, for example, it can include one or more of tobacco, tobacco derivatives, expanded tobacco, reconstituted tobacco, or tobacco substitutes. The aerosol - generating material may also include other non - tobacco products, and depending on the product, may or may not contain nicotine. The aerosol - generating material can be in the form of, for example, a solid, liquid, gel, or wax. The aerosol - generating material can also be, for example, a combination or blend of materials. The aerosol - generating material may be known as a "smoking material".

[0008] Devices are known that heat an aerosol - generating material without burning or combusting it to volatilize at least one component of the aerosol - generating material to form an aerosol that can typically be inhaled. Such devices are sometimes described as "aerosol - generating devices", "aerosol - supplying devices", "non - combustion heating devices", "tobacco - heated product devices" or "tobacco - heating devices", or similar thereto. Similarly, there are so - called e - cigarette devices that vaporize an aerosol - generating material, typically in liquid form, which may or may not contain nicotine. The aerosol - generating material can take the form of a rod, cartridge, or cassette that can be inserted into the device, or may be provided as part of these. A heater for heating and volatilizing the aerosol - generating material may be provided as a "permanent" part of the device.

[0009] The aerosol delivery device can receive an article containing an aerosol - generating material for heating. The "article" in this context is a component that contains or includes an aerosol - generating material when in use, and optionally other components that are used. The article is heated to volatilize the aerosol - generating material. A user can insert the article into the aerosol delivery device, and then the aerosol delivery device is heated to generate an aerosol, which is subsequently inhaled by the user. The article can be of a predetermined or specific size configured to be placed, for example, within a heating chamber of a device sized to receive the article.

[0010] A first aspect of the present disclosure defines an aerosol delivery device comprising a battery support. The battery support comprises a main portion, a first end portion, and a second end portion. The first end portion and the second end portion extend away from a first side of the main portion and receive a battery therebetween. A printed circuit board (PCB) engages a second side of the main portion and is disposed between the main portion and a heater assembly. The heater assembly includes at least one coil, and an end of the at least one coil is connected to the PCB. Thus, the battery support not only serves to support the battery in place but also acts as a support to which other components of the device can be attached and connected. Such a battery support provides stability to the device. Additionally, the process of assembling the device can be simplified as various components can be attached to the battery support during the assembly of the device. Thus, the device can be assembled starting from the battery support.

[0011] In a particular configuration, the battery support is rigid for stability. In one example, the battery support is made from a plastic material such as polyetheretherketone (PEEK). Any material used should be able to withstand the heat generated by the heater assembly. In a particular example, the heater assembly comprises a susceptor that is heated to about 250°C to 300°C. The melting point of PEEK is about 343°C.

[0012] In a particular configuration, the battery support is electrically insulated to avoid short - circuiting of the battery.

[0013] As described above, the PCB engages with the second side of the main portion of the battery support. The engagement can be through a connection such as adhesion, snap - fitting, etc., or by being received on the second side.

[0014] The first side of the main portion may define a receptacle and may comprise a base and two opposing side walls. The two side walls can extend along the length of the base in a direction parallel to the longitudinal axis and can extend away from the base in a first direction. The battery can be disposed in the receptacle between the first end portion and the second end portion and between the two side walls. In such a configuration, the side walls can provide protection for the sides of the battery, for example, from impact, and / or provide additional rigidity. The length of the base is measured in a direction parallel to the longitudinal axis.

[0015] In some examples, at least a portion of the two side walls abuts against the battery. For example, the edges of these side walls can abut against the battery. By contacting the side walls, the battery is held more firmly in place and lateral movement of the battery is avoided or reduced.

[0016] In a specific configuration, each of the two side walls has an edge shaped to conform to the outer surface of the battery, and the edge abuts against the battery. For example, the edge can be curved to conform to the curved outer surface of the battery. This enables the battery to be more firmly supported.

[0017] The base can define the boundary of the opening between the first side of the main part and the second side of the main part, and the opening is disposed under the PCB. For this reason, there are holes / notches passing through the main part. This can enable better thermal management. For example, the opening allows air to circulate under the PCB. In addition, the opening means that less material is used, thereby reducing the mass and cost of the device. Furthermore, the opening can facilitate assembling components and connecting them to the PCB. For example, the PCB can be mounted on the main part, and the opening allows access to the underside of the PCB while the PCB is held in place. The opening also allows components to be mounted on both sides of the PCB.

[0018] The device can further include a first conductive member that contacts the first battery terminal and a second conductive member that contacts the second battery terminal. The first conductive member and the second conductive member extend through the opening and can be connected to the PCB. The conductive member can be a wire or a conductive strip that connects the battery to the PCB and / or other components of the device. The first and second terminals can be the positive terminal or the negative terminal, and vice versa. Therefore, the opening makes it easier to connect the battery to the PCB. This is because there is no need to route the conductive member around the battery carrier. Thus, this configuration also enables the device to be more compact and reduces the likelihood of battery short - circuit by reducing the length of the conductive member.

[0019] The PCB can define the boundary of a first through-hole through which a first conductive member extends. The PCB can further define the boundary of a second through-hole through which a second conductive member extends. Thus, the PCB can define the boundary of one or more through-holes that receive one or more ends of the conductive member. This can enable the battery to be connected to the other side of the PCB without the need for the conductive member to be routed around the PCB and / or the battery carrier. Thus, the space within the device can be maximized. In addition, the through-holes can also enable a more secure attachment to the PCB.

[0020] The device can further include an end member. The end member can (i) define a receptacle, (ii) include a first attachment element, and (iii) include an end face that defines a part of the outer surface of the aerosol supply device. At least a part of the second end portion of the battery support and at least a part of the heater assembly are disposed within the receptacle. The battery support can also include a second attachment element that engages the first attachment element, such that the end member is connected to one end of the battery support.

[0021] Thus, the battery support includes an attachment element configured to engage a corresponding attachment element of the end member, enabling the end member to be connected to the battery support. The end member can provide protection at the end of the device and can serve to support and fix the heater assembly.

[0022] In a particular configuration, the main part includes a second attachment element. The attachment element may also be known as an attachment feature, attachment component, or attachment member.

[0023] In one example, the first and second attachment elements provide a snap-fit connection. For example, the second attachment element can include a channel extending in a direction parallel to the longitudinal axis, and include a first surface disposed at one end of the channel. The first surface defines a plane disposed perpendicular to the longitudinal axis. Similarly, the first mounting element has an elongated portion extending away from the end face, and a second surface disposed on one end side of the elongated portion, and can include the second surface defines a plane disposed perpendicular to the longitudinal axis, the elongated portion is received within the channel and the first and second surfaces engage.

[0024] Thus, when the first and second mounting elements are fitted together, the two surfaces abut. These surfaces prevent the end member from moving relative to the battery support in a direction parallel to the longitudinal axis. The channel prevents the end member from moving relative to the battery support in a direction perpendicular to the longitudinal axis. The elongated portion is present within the channel, thereby providing a mounting mechanism having a low profile. The channel can be provided by two spaced inclined side walls. These inclined side walls press the elongated portion outward and then "snap" back to their original position before the two surfaces engage.

[0025] In a particular configuration, the first mounting element is substantially "T" shaped, where the underside of the horizontal bar in the "T" provides the second surface and the upright portion of the "T" provides the elongated portion.

[0026] In some examples, the battery support includes a third mounting element and the end member includes a fourth mounting element that engages the third mounting element.

[0027] The device can further include an outer cover, and the end member can further include one or more side surfaces extending away from the end face. The outer cover can surround one or more side surfaces of the battery, the heater assembly, the battery support, and the end member.

[0028] Accordingly, the outer cover can also be supported by the battery support portion. In an exemplary device having an elongated portion and a mounting element with a channel, the outer cover serves to secure the connection between the battery support portion and the end member. For example, the outer cover holds the elongated portion within the channel and thus holds the first and second surfaces in an engaged position.

[0029] In one example, the outer cover abuts against one or more sides of the end member. In a particular configuration, the device can include a second end member disposed at the other end of the device, such that the outer cover is received between the two end members.

[0030] The second side of the main portion includes a first PCB holding member and a second PCB holding member, and the first PCB holding member and the second PCB holding member both (i) extend away from the second side of the main portion in a second direction opposite to the first direction, and (ii) are disposed on opposite sides of the main portion and engage opposite sides of the PCB. The second direction is perpendicular to the longitudinal axis.

[0031] The first and second PCB holding members provide stability by preventing the PCB from moving relative to the battery support portion.

[0032] In some configurations, the PCB holding members provide an interference fit.

[0033] The PCB can include a first notch for receiving the first PCB holding member and a second notch for receiving the second PCB holding member. Accordingly, the notches can limit movement of the PCB in a direction parallel to the axis.

[0034] The PCB can define the boundary of the first coil through-hole and the second coil through-hole. The first end of the coil extends through the first coil through-hole, and the second end of the coil extends through the second coil through-hole. The coil through-holes enable a more secure and robust attachment of the coil to the PCB. For example, when the coil is soldered to the PCB, the stress applied to the solder is smaller.

[0035] In one configuration, the main part includes a first connector and a second connector that extend away from one of the first end portion and the second end portion in a direction parallel to the longitudinal axis. The device further includes a second PCB. The second PCB defines the boundary of the first connector through-hole and the second connector through-hole. The first connector extends through the first connector through-hole, and the second connector extends through the second connector through-hole.

[0036] Accordingly, the second PCB can be connected to the battery support via the first and second connectors. In one example, the first and second connectors are configured to be heated until they melt when received in the first and second connector holes. Melting the ends of the first and second connectors means that the second PCB cannot be removed.

[0037] The second PCB can be connected to the first PCB. The second PCB can be arranged substantially orthogonally to the first PCB.

[0038] In some examples, the coil is configured to cause heating of at least one conductive heating component / element (also known as a heater component / element) during use, so that thermal energy can be conducted from the at least one conductive heating component to the aerosol-forming material, thereby causing heating of the aerosol-forming material.

[0039] In some examples, the coil is configured to generate a varying magnetic field that passes through at least one heating component / element when in use, thereby causing inductive heating and / or magnetic hysteresis heating of the at least one heating component. In such a configuration, the heating component or each heating component can be referred to as a "susceptor". A coil configured to generate a varying magnetic field that passes through at least one conductive heating component when in use, thereby causing inductive heating of the at least one conductive heating component, can be referred to as an "inductive coil" or an "inductor coil".

[0040] The device can include a heating component, such as a conductive heating component, and the heating component can be appropriately positioned or made positionable relative to the coil to enable such heating of the heating component. The heating component can be in a fixed position relative to the coil. Alternatively, at least one heating component, such as at least one conductive heating component, can be included in an article for insertion into the heating zone of the device, the article also including an aerosol-generating material and being removable from the heating zone after use. Alternatively, both the device and such an article can include at least one respective heating component, such as at least one conductive heating component, and the coil can be for causing heating of each of the heating components of the device and the article when the article is within the heating zone.

[0041] In some examples, the coil is helical. In some examples, the coil surrounds at least a portion of the heating zone of a device configured to receive an aerosol-generating material. In some examples, the coil is a helical coil that surrounds at least a portion of the heating zone. The heating zone can be a receptacle shaped to receive an aerosol-generating material.

[0042] In some examples, the device comprises a conductive heating component that at least partially surrounds a heating zone, and the coil is a helical coil that surrounds at least a portion of the conductive heating component. In some examples, the conductive heating component is tubular. In some examples, the coil is an inductor coil.

[0043] Preferably, the device is a tobacco heating device, also known as a non-combustion heating device.

[0044] FIG. 1 shows an example of an aerosol supply device 100 for generating an aerosol from an aerosol-generating medium / material. In general, using the device 100, an exchangeable article 110 comprising an aerosol-generating medium can be heated to generate an aerosol or other inhalable medium that can be inhaled by a user of the device 100.

[0045] The device 100 comprises a housing 102 (in the form of an outer cover) that surrounds and houses various components of the device 100. The device 100 has an opening 104 at one end, through which the article 110 can be inserted for heating by a heating assembly. In use, the article 110 can be fully or partially inserted into the heating assembly, where it can be heated by one or more components of the heater assembly.

[0046] The device 100 of this example comprises a first end member 106, and the first end member 106 comprises a lid 108 that is movable relative to the first end member 106 to close the opening 104 when the article 110 is not in place. In FIG. 1, the lid 108 is shown in an open configuration, but the cap 108 can be moved to a closed configuration. For example, the user can slide the lid 108 in the direction of arrow "A".

[0047] Device 100 can also include a user-operable control element 112, such as a button or a switch, that activates the device 100 when pressed. For example, the user can turn on the device 100 by operating the switch 112.

[0048] Device 100 can also include electrical components such as a socket / port 114 that can receive a cable for charging the battery of device 100. For example, the socket 114 can be a charging port such as a USB charging port. In some examples, the socket 114 can be used to transfer data between device 100 and another device, such as a computing device, either additionally or alternatively.

[0049] FIG. 2 shows the device 100 of FIG. 1 with the outer cover 102 removed and the article 110 absent. The device 100 defines a longitudinal axis 134.

[0050] As shown in FIG. 2, a first end member 106 is disposed at one end of the device 100, and a second end member 116 is disposed at the opposite end of the device 100. The first end member 106 and the second end member 116 together at least partially define the end surface of the device 100. For example, the bottom surface of the second end member 116 at least partially defines the bottom surface of the device 100. The edge of the outer cover 102 can also define a part of the end surface. In this example, the lid 108 also defines a part of the upper surface of the device 100.

[0051] The end of the device closest to the opening 104 is sometimes known as the proximal end (mouth end) of the device 100 because it is closest to the user's mouth during use. During use, the user inserts the article 110 into the opening 104, operates the user control 112 to initiate heating of the aerosol-generating material, and inhales the aerosol generated within the device. Thereby, the aerosol flows through the device 100 along the flow path towards the proximal end of the device 100.

[0052] The other end of the device that is farthest from the opening 104 is the end that is farthest from the user's mouth when in use, and may be known as the distal end of the device 100. When the user inhales the aerosol generated within the device, the aerosol flows away from the distal end of the device 100.

[0053] The device 100 further comprises a power source 118. The power source 118 can be a battery such as, for example, a rechargeable battery or a non-rechargeable battery. Examples of suitable batteries include lithium batteries (such as lithium ion batteries), nickel batteries (such as nickel cadmium batteries), and alkaline batteries. The battery is electrically coupled to the heater assembly to supply power for heating the aerosol generating material under the control of a controller (not shown) when needed. In this example, the battery is connected to a central support 120 that holds the battery 118 in place. The central support 120 may also be known as a battery support or a battery carrier.

[0054] The device further comprises at least one electronic device module 122. The electronic device module 122 can comprise, for example, a printed circuit board (PCB). The PCB 122 can support at least one controller such as a processor, and memory. The PCB 122 can also include one or more electrical tracks for electrically connecting the various electronic components of the device 100 together. For example, the battery terminals can be electrically connected to the PCB 122 so as to distribute power throughout the device 100. The socket 114 can also be electrically coupled to the battery via an electrical track.

[0055] In an exemplary device 100, the heating assembly is an induction heating assembly and includes various components for heating the aerosol-forming material of the article 110 via an induction heating process. Induction heating is a process of heating a conductor (such as a susceptor) by electromagnetic induction. The induction heating assembly can include an induction element, such as one or more inductor coils, and a device for passing a varying current, such as an alternating current, through the induction element. The varying current in the induction element generates a varying magnetic field. The varying magnetic field penetrates a susceptor appropriately arranged relative to the induction element and generates eddy currents inside the susceptor. The susceptor has an electrical resistance to the eddy currents, and thus, due to the flow of the eddy currents against this resistance, the susceptor is heated by Joule heating. If the susceptor includes a ferromagnetic material such as iron, nickel, or cobalt, heat can also be generated by magnetic hysteresis losses in the susceptor, that is, by the varying orientation of magnetic dipoles in the magnetic material as a result of its alignment with the varying magnetic field. For example, compared to heating by conduction, in induction heating, heat is generated within the susceptor, enabling rapid heating. Further, there is no need for physical contact between the induction heater and the susceptor, which can increase the degrees of freedom in construction and application.

[0056] The inductive heating assembly of the exemplary device 100 includes a susceptor assembly 132 (referred to herein as the "susceptor"), a first inductor coil 124, and a second inductor coil 126. The first inductor coil 124 and the second inductor coil 126 are made of a conductive material. In this example, the first inductor coil 124 and the second inductor coil 126 are made of a Litz wire / cable wound in a helical shape to provide the helical inductor coils 124, 126. The Litz wire comprises a plurality of individual wires that are individually insulated and twisted together to form a single wire. The Litz wire is designed to reduce skin effect losses in the conductor. In the exemplary device 100, the first inductor coil 124 and the second inductor coil 126 are made of a copper Litz wire having a rectangular cross-section. In other examples, the Litz wire can have a cross-section of other shapes, such as circular.

[0057] The first inductor coil 124 is configured to generate a first alternating magnetic field for heating a first section of the susceptor 132, and the second inductor coil 126 is configured to generate a second alternating magnetic field for heating a second section of the susceptor 132. In this example, the first inductor coil 124 is adjacent to the second inductor coil 126 in a direction along the longitudinal axis 134 of the device 100 (i.e., the first inductor coil 124 and the second inductor coil 126 do not overlap). The susceptor assembly 132 can include a single susceptor or two or more separate susceptors. The ends 130 of the first inductor coil 124 and the second inductor coil 126 can be connected to the PCB 122.

[0058] In some examples, it will be appreciated that the first inductor coil 124 and the second inductor coil 126 can have at least one characteristic that is different from each other. For example, the first inductor coil 124 can have at least one characteristic that is different from the second inductor coil 126. More specifically, in one example, the first inductor coil 124 can have an inductance value that is different from the second inductor coil 126. In FIG. 2, the first inductor coil 124 and the second inductor coil 126 are of different lengths, and the first inductor coil 124 is wound around a section of the susceptor 132 that is smaller than the second inductor coil 126. For this reason, the first inductor coil 124 can include a different number of turns (assuming that the spacing between individual turns is substantially the same). In yet another example, the first inductor coil 124 can be made from a material that is different from the second inductor coil 126. In some examples, the first inductor coil 124 and the second inductor coil 126 can be made substantially identical.

[0059] In this example, the first inductor coil 124 and the second inductor coil 126 are wound in opposite directions. This can be useful when the inductor coils are active at different times. For example, initially, the first inductor coil 124 may be operating to heat a first section of the article 110, and at a later time, the second inductor coil 126 may be operating to heat a second section of the article 110. Winding the coils in opposite directions helps to reduce the current that is generated in the coil that is not active when used in conjunction with a particular type of control circuit. In FIG. 2, the first inductor coil 124 is a right-handed helix, and the second inductor coil 126 is a left-handed helix. However, in another embodiment, the inductor coils 124, 126 can be wound in the same direction, or the first inductor coil 124 can be a left-handed helix, and the second inductor coil 126 can be a right-handed helix.

[0060] The susceptor 132 in this example is hollow and thus defines a receptacle for receiving the aerosol-generating material therein. For example, the article 110 can be inserted into the susceptor 132. In this example, the susceptor 132 has a circular cross-section and is tubular.

[0061] The device 100 of FIG. 2 can generally be tubular and further includes an insulating member 128 that at least partially surrounds the susceptor 132. The insulating member 128 can be constructed from any insulating material such as, for example, plastic. In this particular example, the insulating member is constructed from polyetheretherketone (PEEK). The insulating member 128 can serve to insulate the various components of the device 100 from the heat generated within the susceptor 132.

[0062] The insulating member 128 can also completely or partially support the first inductor coil 124 and the second inductor coil 126. For example, as shown in FIG. 2, the first inductor coil 124 and the second inductor coil 126 are disposed around the insulating member 128 and are in contact with the radially outer surface of the insulating member 128. In some examples, the insulating member 128 does not abut the first inductor coil 124 and the second inductor coil 126. For example, a small gap can exist between the outer surface of the insulating member 128 and the inner surfaces of the first inductor coil 124 and the second inductor coil 126.

[0063] In a particular example, the susceptor 132, the insulating member 128, and the first inductor coil 124 and the second inductor coil 126 are coaxial about the central longitudinal axis of the susceptor 132.

[0064] FIG. 3 shows a side view of the device 100 in partial cross-section. In this example, there is an outer cover 102. The rectangular cross-sectional shape of the first inductor coil 124 and the second inductor coil 126 can be seen more clearly.

[0065] Device 100 further includes a support portion 136 that engages one end of susceptor 132 to hold susceptor 132 in a fixed position. Support portion 136 is connected to the second end member 116.

[0066] The device can also include a second printed circuit board 138 associated within control element 112.

[0067] Device 100 further includes a second lid / cap 140 and a spring 142 disposed on the distal end side of device 100. Spring 142 enables the second lid 140 to be opened to provide access to susceptor 132. A user can open the second lid 140 and clean susceptor 132 and / or support portion 136.

[0068] Device 100 further includes an expansion chamber 144 that extends from the proximal end of susceptor 132 toward the opening 104 of the device. A holding clip 146 for abutting against and holding article 110 is at least partially disposed within expansion chamber 144 when article 110 is received within device 100. Expansion chamber 144 is connected to end member 106.

[0069] FIG. 4 is an exploded view of device 100 of FIG. 1 with outer cover 102 omitted.

[0070] FIG. 5A shows a cross-sectional view of a portion of device 100 of FIG. 1. FIG. 5B shows a detailed view of the region of FIG. 5A. FIGS. 5A and 5B show article 110 received within susceptor 132, where article 110 is sized such that the outer surface of article 110 abuts the inner surface of susceptor 132. This ensures that heating is most efficient. Article 110 in this example includes aerosol generating material 110a. Aerosol generating material 110a is disposed within susceptor 132. Article 110 can also include other components such as filters, packaging materials, and / or cooling structures.

[0071] FIG. 5B shows that the outer surface of susceptor 132 is separated from the inner surfaces of inductor coils 124 and 126 by a distance 150 measured in a direction perpendicular to the longitudinal axis 158 of susceptor 132. In one particular example, the distance 150 is about 3 mm to 4 mm, about 3 to 3.5 mm, or about 3.25 mm.

[0072] FIG. 5B further shows that the outer surface of insulating member 128 is spaced from the inner surfaces of inductor coils 124 and 126 by a distance 152 measured in a direction perpendicular to the longitudinal axis 158 of susceptor 132. In one particular example, the distance 152 is about 0.05 mm. In another example, the distance 152 is substantially 0 mm and the inductor coils 124 and 126 are in contact with and touch the insulating member 128.

[0073] In one example, susceptor 132 has a wall thickness 154 of about 0.025 mm to 1 mm, or about 0.05 mm.

[0074] In one example, susceptor 132 has a length of about 40 mm to 60 mm, about 40 mm to 45 mm, or about 44.5 mm.

[0075] In one example, insulating member 128 has a wall thickness 156 of about 0.25 mm to 2 mm, 0.25 mm to 1 mm, or about 0.5 mm.

[0076] FIG. 6 shows the battery support portion 120 of FIGS. 2 and 4 in more detail. The battery support portion 120 includes a main portion 202, a first end portion 204, and a second end portion 206. The main portion 202 defines a longitudinal axis 208 parallel to the y-axis. The first end portion 204 is disposed at the first end of the main portion 202, and the second end portion 206 is disposed at the second end of the main portion 202. The first end portion 204 and the second end portion 206 extend away from the first side of the main portion 202 in a first direction 210 that is substantially perpendicular to the longitudinal axis 208. Thus, the first side of the main portion 202 is the side facing outward from the main portion 202 in the first direction 210. The first direction is parallel to the x-axis.

[0077] In this example, the battery 118 is shown in a state separated from the battery support portion 120. The battery 118 can be connected to the battery support portion 120 by moving the battery 118 in the direction of arrow 200 toward the battery support portion 120. When connected to the battery support portion 120, the battery 118 is held between the first end portion 204 and the second end portion 206. For example, the upper end 118a of the battery 118 is received by the first end portion 204, and the lower end 118b of the battery 118 is received by the second end portion 206. One or more end support portions 212a, 212b can also be present to help fix the battery 118 in place. The end support portions 212a, 212b can be integrated with the first end portion 204 and the second end portion 206 so as to form a part of the first end portion 204 and the second end portion 206, or can be separate and connected to the first end portion 204 and the second end portion 206.

[0078] FIG. 6 further shows the PCB 122 engaged with the second side of the main portion 202. The second side of the main portion 202 is the side that faces outward from the main portion 202 in a second direction 214 that is parallel to and opposite the first direction 210. The second direction 214 is also parallel to the x-axis and perpendicular to the longitudinal axis 208. The PCB 122 may be attached to the main portion 202 or connected via another means such as a friction fit, snap fit, etc. In this example, the PCB 122 defines a longitudinal axis parallel to the longitudinal axis 208 of the main portion 202.

[0079] As described above, the aerosol supply device 100 includes a heater / heating assembly having at least one inductor coil 124, 126. FIG. 4 shows a configuration of one or more inductor coils 124, 126 with respect to the battery support. The heater assembly is disposed on the second side of the main portion 202, and the PCB 122 is disposed between the main portion 202 and the heater assembly. As shown in FIGS. 2 and 3, the ends 130 of one or more inductor coils 124, 126 can be connected to the PCB 122.

[0080] In the example of FIG. 6, the first side of the main portion 202 includes two opposing sidewalls 216a, 216b and a base 218. In this particular example, the base 218 defines the boundary of an opening between the first side of the main portion 202 and the second side of the main portion 202, and the opening is disposed under the PCB 122. For this reason, there are holes / notches through the main portion 202 such that the base 218 mainly serves as a "void". This allows access to the underside of the PCB 122. The opening can include a plurality of through-holes rather than a single through-hole. For example, the base can include one or more dividing structures 218a (shown in FIG. 8) that divide the opening into two or more through-holes. Such a dividing structure can provide, for example, additional rigidity. In other examples, since the base 218 is hard, there is no opening through the main portion 202.

[0081] The two side walls 216a, 216b extend in a direction parallel to the longitudinal axis 208 along the length of the base 218. The two side walls 216a, 216b also extend away from the base 218 in the first direction 210. The two side walls 216a, 216b and the base 218 together define a receptacle 220. As most clearly shown in FIG. 4, when the battery 118 is connected to the battery support 120, the battery 118 is at least partially disposed within the receptacle 220 between the first end portion 204 and the second end portion 206 and between the two side walls 216a, 216b.

[0082] In some examples, at least a portion of the two side walls 216a, 216b abuts against the battery 118. For example, when the battery is connected to the battery support 120, the outer edges 222a, 222b of the two side walls 216a, 216b abut against the battery 118. In other examples, the battery 118 does not contact the edges 222a, 222b of the two side walls 216a, 216b.

[0083] In the example of FIG. 6, each of the two side walls 216a, 216b includes edges 222a, 222b shaped to conform to the outer surface of the battery 118. The battery in this example is cylindrical, and the edges 222a, 222b are curved to better secure the battery 118. The receptacle 220 can also have a shape that conforms to the outer surface of the battery 118. For example, the receptacle 220 can have a "U" shape for receiving the battery 118.

[0084] As shown in FIG. 6, the battery 118 includes a first conductive member 224 that contacts the first battery terminal and a second conductive member 226 that contacts the second battery terminal. The first and second battery terminals can be, for example, a positive terminal or a negative terminal. The conductive members 224, 226 can be wires or conductive strips that connect the battery 118 to the PCB 122. The conductive members 224, 226 typically extend away from the battery 118 and toward the PCB 122 in the second direction 214.

[0085] When the battery 118 is connected to the battery support portion 120, the first conductive member 224 and the second conductive member 226 extend through the opening in the base portion 218 so as to be connectable to the PCB 122.

[0086] The PCB 122 can define the boundary of the through hole through which the first conductive member 224 extends. The PCB 122 can further define the boundary of the second through hole through which the second conductive member 226 extends. For this reason, the PCB 122 can include one or more through holes for receiving the ends of the conductive members 224, 226.

[0087] As shown in FIGS. 2 and 4, the end member 116 is disposed at one end of the device 100. FIG. 7 shows the end member 116 in more detail. As shown, the end member 116 defines a receptacle 302. The end member 116 also includes at least one mounting element 304a, 304b, whereby the end member 116 can be connected to the battery support portion 120. The end member 116 includes an end face 306 that defines a part of the outer surface of the aerosol supply device 100. For example, the end face 306 can form the bottom surface of the device 100.

[0088] When the end member 116 is connected to the battery support portion 120, the second end portion 206 of the battery support portion 120 and at least a part of the heater assembly are received within the receptacle 302. For example, as shown in FIG. 4, the support portion 136 that engages one end of the susceptor 132 is received within the receptacle 302. FIG. 3 most clearly shows the support portion 136 and the second end portion 206 that are disposed within the receptacle 302 when the device is assembled.

[0089] As described above, the end member 116 includes at least one mounting element 304a, 304b. Similarly, the battery support 120 also includes at least one mounting element. For example, as shown in FIG. 6, the battery support 120 includes a second mounting element 304c that engages with the first mounting element 304a of the end member 116. This enables the end member 116 to be connected to the lower end of the battery support 120.

[0090] In the example shown, the main portion 202 includes the second mounting element 304c, but the mounting element can be located anywhere on the battery support 120.

[0091] In this example, the first mounting element 304a and the second mounting element 304c provide a snap-fit connection. For example, the second mounting element 304c includes a channel 228 that extends in a direction parallel to the longitudinal axis 208. The channel 228 can be provided by two side walls 232a, 232b. The second mounting element 304c includes a first surface 231 arranged at one end of the channel. The first surface 231 defines a plane arranged perpendicular to the longitudinal axis 208. The first surface 231 is defined by one or both of the upper surfaces of the two side walls 232a, 232b.

[0092] The first mounting element 304a includes an elongated portion 308 that extends away from the end face 306 in a direction parallel to the longitudinal axis 208. The first mounting element 304a further includes a second surface 310 arranged towards one end of the elongated portion 308. The second surface 310 defines a plane arranged perpendicular to the longitudinal axis 208. The second surface 310 is defined by one or both of the lower surfaces of the upper portion 312 of the first mounting element 304a. Thus, in this example, the first mounting element 304a is "T" shaped, where the lower side of the horizontal bar in the "T" provides the second surface 310 and the upright portion of the "T" provides the elongated portion 308.

[0093] When the end member 116 is moved toward the battery support 120 in a third direction 314 (parallel to the longitudinal axis 208), the first attachment element 304a engages the second attachment element 304c. Here, the elongated portion 308 is received within the channel 228 and the first surface 231 engages the second surface 310. For example, the upper portion 312 of the first attachment element 304a contacts the inclined surfaces of the side walls 232a, 232b, causing the first attachment element 304a to bend outward. When the upper portion 312 of the first attachment element 304a is moved beyond the upper surfaces of the two side walls 232a, 232b, the first attachment element 304a moves inward again, whereby the first surface 231 contacts the second surface 310. Since the channel 228 has a width greater than the width of the elongated portion 308, the elongated portion 308 is within the channel 228. Due to the opposing first surface 231 and the second surface 310, the end member 116 cannot be separated from the battery support 120 without bending the first attachment element 304a outward or lifting the upper portion 312 beyond the side walls 232a, 232b. FIG. 2 shows the end member 116 connected to the battery support 120.

[0094] FIG. 7 further shows a third optional attachment element 304b that is substantially the same as the first attachment element 304a. The third attachment element 304b can engage a fourth attachment element disposed on the opposite side of the battery support 120.

[0095] FIGS. 2, 4, 6, and 7 show one particular type of snap - fit attachment element. Alternatively, other snap - fit attachment elements may be used.

[0096] As described in connection with FIG. 1, the device 100 can further include an outer cover 102 that surrounds and houses the various components of the device 100. The outer cover can surround one or more sides 316 of the battery 118, the heater assembly, the battery support 120, and the end member 116. FIG. 7 shows an end member 116 having a continuous side 316 that extends around the end member 116 and the longitudinal axis 208 (when the end member 116 is attached to the battery support 120). In other examples, the end member 116 can have a square or rectangular footprint such that there are four sides extending around the end member 116. One or more sides 314 extend away from the end face 306 in a third direction 314. The end member 116 and / or the battery support 120 can include one or more attachment elements for holding the outer cover 102 in place.

[0097] In this example, the outer cover 102 abuts one or more sides 316 of the end member 116, which can help hold the elongate portion 308 within the channel 228.

[0098] As described above, the device 100 can include a further end member 106 disposed at the other end of the device 100 such that the outer cover 102 is received between the two end members 106, 116.

[0099] FIG. 8 shows an example of another battery support 420. The battery support 420 can include any or all of the features of the battery support 120 but will not be described again for the sake of brevity. The battery support 420 can be used in the device 100 in place of the battery support 120. The features of the battery support 420 described below can also be incorporated into the battery support 120.

[0100] The battery support portion 420 includes a main portion 402, a first end portion 404, and a second end portion 406. The main portion 402 defines a longitudinal axis 408 parallel to the y-axis. The first side of the main portion 402 includes two opposing side walls 416a, 416b and a base 418. The base 418 includes an opening and one or more dividing structures 218a that divide the opening into two through holes.

[0101] Unlike the exemplary battery support portion 120 described in FIG. 6, the battery support portion 420 of FIG. 8 further includes a first PCB holding member 422a and a second PCB holding member 422b. The first PCB holding member 422a and the second PCB holding member 422b both extend away from the second side of the main portion 402 in the second direction 214 and are disposed on opposite sides of the main portion 402. The first PCB holding member 422a and the second PCB holding member 422b are configured to engage opposite sides of the PCB 122. For example, the PCB 122 can be received between the first PCB holding member 422a and the second PCB holding member 422b to fix the PCB 122 in place. The PCB 122 can be held in place, for example, by a friction fit.

[0102] FIG. 9 shows a portion of the device 100 including the battery support portion 420 of FIG. 8. In this example, the end member 116 is connected to the battery support portion 116 via a mounting element. In this example, the first inductor coil 124 and the second inductor coil 126 have a circular cross-section instead of the rectangular cross-section shown in FIG. 2.

[0103] The PCB 122 includes a first notch (not visible in the figure) for receiving the first PCB holding member 422a and a second notch 424b for receiving the second PCB holding member 422b. The notches engage with the holding members 422a, 422b to better fix the PCB 122.

[0104] FIG. 9 shows more clearly the ends 130 of the first inductor coil 124 and the second inductor coil 126 connected to the PCB 122. The PCB has a first inductor coil through-hole 426a and a second inductor coil through-hole 426b defines the boundary of Alternatively, the first end 130a of the first inductor coil 124 can extend through the first inductor coil through-hole 426a, and the second end 130b of the first inductor coil 124 can extend through the second inductor coil through-hole 426b. The PCB has third and fourth inductor coil through-holes defines the boundary of Alternatively, the first end of the second inductor coil 126 can extend through the third inductor coil through-hole, and the second end of the second inductor coil 126 can extend through the fourth inductor coil through-hole

[0105] Returning to FIG. 6, the main portion 202 can further include a first connector 229 and a second connector (not visible in the figure). The first connector 229 of and the second connectors The tag is extend away from either or both of the first end portion 204 and the second end portion 206 in a direction parallel to the longitudinal axis 208. In FIG. 6, the first connector 229 of and the second connectors The tag is extend away from the second end portion 206. The device 100 further includes a second PCB 230. The second PCB 230 can be associated with and connected to, for example, the socket / port 114. The second PCB 230 defines the boundaries of the first connector through-hole and the second connector through-hole, and the first connector 229 extends through the first connector through-hole, and the second connector extends through the second connector through-hole. Thus, the second PCB 230 can be connected to the battery support 120 via the first connector 229 of and the second connectors. In the example shown, the second PCB 230 is connected to the first PCB 122 via conductive tracks / wires. The second PCB 230 can be arranged substantially orthogonally to the first PCB 122

[0106] In one example, the second PCB 230 is, the first connector 229 of and the second connectors The tag is are held in place by friction fit when inserted into the first and second connector through-holes. In another example, the first connector 229 of and the second connectors of the tag the cross-sectional area of the ends is the first connector 229 of and the second connectors The tag is can be increased when inserted into the first and second connector through-holes. Thereby, the second PCB 230 is held in place. The cross-sectional area can be increased, for example, by heating and melting the first connector 229 of and the second connectors of the tag ends. Alternatively, the first connector 229 of and the second connectors of the tag ends can be bent.

[0107] FIG. 8 shows similar first connector 428a and second connector 428b. As in FIG. 6, each connector 428a, 428b has a first wide portion and a second narrower portion. The second PCB 230 can receive the first connector 428a and the second connector 428b until the PCB 230 abuts against the wider portion.

[0108] The above embodiments are understood as examples for the description of the present invention. Further embodiments of the present invention are envisioned. It should be understood that any feature described in connection with any one embodiment may be used alone or in combination with other features described, and may also be used in combination with one or more features of any other embodiment, or any combination of any other embodiments. Furthermore, equivalents and modifications not described above may also be used without departing from the scope of the present invention as defined in the appended claims.

Claims

1. A battery support part, comprising: A main part defining a longitudinal axis; A first end portion at a first end of the main part along the longitudinal axis; A second end portion at a second end of the main part along the longitudinal axis, wherein the first end portion and the second end portion extend away from a first side of the main part in a first direction substantially perpendicular to the longitudinal axis; a battery support part; A battery supported between the first end portion and the second end portion; A heater assembly including a coil; A printed circuit board engaged with a second side of the main part and disposed between the main part and the heater assembly, wherein an end of the coil is connected to the printed circuit board; a printed circuit board; Comprising: The printed circuit board defines a boundary between a first coil through-hole and a second coil through-hole, a first end of the coil extends through the first coil through-hole, and a second end of the coil extends through the second coil through-hole; an aerosol supply device.

2. The first side of the main part defines a receptacle and includes a base and two opposing side walls; The two side walls extend along a length of the base in a direction parallel to the longitudinal axis; The two side walls extend away from the base in the first direction; The battery is disposed in the receptacle between the first end portion and the second end portion and between the two side walls; the aerosol supply device according to Claim 1.

3. The aerosol supply device according to Claim 2, wherein at least a part of the two side walls abuts against the battery.

4. The aerosol supply device according to Claim 3, wherein each of the two side walls has an edge shaped to conform to an outer surface of the battery, and the edge abuts against the battery.

5. The base defines a boundary of an opening between the first side and the second side of the main part, and the opening is disposed under the printed circuit board; the aerosol supply device according to any one of Claims 2 to 4.

6. A first conductive member in contact with a first battery terminal; A second conductive member in contact with a second battery terminal; Comprising: The aerosol supply device according to claim 5, wherein the first conductive member and the second conductive member extend through the opening and are connected to the printed circuit board.

7. The aerosol supply device according to claim 6, wherein the printed circuit board defines a boundary of a first through hole through which the first conductive member extends.

8. An end member, defining a receptacle, comprising a first attachment element, and an end face defining a part of the outer surface of the aerosol supply device, An aerosol supply device comprising: at least a part of the second end portion of the battery support portion and at least a part of the heater assembly are disposed within the receptacle of the end member; The aerosol supply device according to any one of claims 1 to 7, wherein the battery support portion comprises a second attachment element that engages with the first attachment element, and the end member is connected to one end of the battery support portion.

9. The main portion comprises the second attachment element, and the second attachment element comprises a channel extending in a direction parallel to the longitudinal axis; and a first surface disposed at one end of the channel, the first surface defining a plane disposed perpendicular to the longitudinal axis; The first attachment element comprises an elongated portion extending away from the end face; and a second surface disposed toward one end of the elongated portion, the second surface defining a plane disposed perpendicular to the longitudinal axis; The aerosol supply device according to claim 8, wherein the elongated portion is received within the channel and the first surface engages with the second surface.

10. further comprising an outer cover, the end member further comprising one or more side surfaces extending away from the end face, The aerosol supply device according to claim 8 or 9, wherein the outer cover surrounds the battery, the heater assembly, the battery support portion, and one or more side surfaces of the end member.

11. The second side of the main portion comprises a first printed circuit board holding member and a second printed circuit board holding member, and the first printed circuit board holding member and the second printed circuit board holding member both extend away from the second side of the main portion in a second direction opposite to the first direction. The aerosol supply device according to any one of claims 1 to 10, which is disposed on the side opposite to the main portion and engages with the opposite side of the printed circuit board.

12. The aerosol supply device according to claim 11, wherein the printed circuit board includes a first notch for receiving the first printed circuit board holding member and a second notch for receiving the second printed circuit board holding member.

13. The main portion includes a first connector and a second connector extending away from one of the first end portion and the second end portion in a direction parallel to the longitudinal axis, and the device further includes a second printed circuit board, the second printed circuit board defines a boundary between a first connector through hole and a second connector through hole, the first connector extends through the first connector through hole, and the second connector extends through the second connector through hole. The aerosol supply device according to any one of claims 1 to 12.

14. An aerosol supply system comprising the aerosol supply device according to any one of claims 1 to 13, an article comprising an aerosol generating material, and.

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