E-cigarette personal vaporizer

Abstract

A portable, personal storage and carrying case for an electronic liquid electronic cigarette PV, comprising: (a) a power source for recharging a rechargeable battery in the PV; (b) a reservoir for receiving electronic liquid; and (c) a fluid delivery system adapted to transfer electronic liquid from the reservoir to a chamber in the PV.

Description

Technology Field

[0001] 1. Technology field

[0002] The field of the present invention relates to electronic cigarette personal vaporizers, also known as electronic cigarettes (e-cig or electronic cigarettes), vapesticks, modding kits, personal vaporizers (PVs), advanced personal vaporizers (APVs), or electronic nicotine delivery systems (ENDS). In this specification, we will typically use 'PV' or 'electronic cigarette' as a general term. A PV vaporizes an 'e-liquid' or vaping substance to produce a non-pressurized vapor or mist for inhalation for pleasure or stress relief. An 'e-liquid' or vaping substance is a liquid (or gel or other state) from which vapor or mist for inhalation may be produced, the primary purpose of which is to deliver nicotine.

[0003] Therefore, PVs are consumer products for the mass-market equivalent to cigarettes and are typically used by smokers as part of a tobacco reduction or cessation program. The main components of electronic liquids are usually a mixture of propylene glycol and glycerin and variable concentrations of tobacco-derived nicotine. Electronic liquids may contain various flavorings and may also be accompanied by variable strength nicotine; thus, users during a nicotine reduction or cessation program may choose to reduce nicotine concentrations, including to zero concentration nicotine electronic liquid limits. The term 'electronic liquid' will be used herein as a general term for any type of vaping material.

[0004] Electronic cigarette PVs were first conceived in 1963 and, during the development of the past 50 years, have generally been viewed as a separate and distinct category compared to conventional drug delivery systems. To emphasize the difference regarding drug devices, we will also use the term 'electronic cigarette PV' in this specification in contrast to the term 'PV'.

[0005] Despite this field being over 50 years old, many real-world problems still exist that remain unresolved and serve as barriers to e-cigarette PVs achieving mass-market success; they are still far from replacing conventional cigarettes. If they were to significantly replace tobacco, some experts suggest that large-scale adoption could bring about substantial public health benefits. In an article published on September 1, 2014, in the British Journal of General Practice (DOI: 10.3399 / bjgp14X681253), Professor Robert West and Dr. Jamie Brown of University College London stated, "For every million smokers who switch to e-cigarettes, e-cigarette use carries a significant risk of serious diseases, and even if users continue to use them indefinitely, we can expect a reduction of over 6,000 premature deaths annually in the UK." Background Technology

[0006] 2. Background Technology

[0007] PVs are battery-powered devices that simulate tobacco smoking by producing inhalable vapor (typically propylene glycol and nicotine). They use a heating element known as an atomizer, which vaporizes a liquid solution generally known as electronic liquid or 'juice'. Electronic liquids typically contain a mixture of propylene glycol, vegetable glycerin, nicotine, and flavorings, while others release flavored vapor without nicotine. Vaporization is an alternative to combustion (smoking) that prevents the inhalation of many irritating, toxic, and carcinogenic byproducts. In addition to simulating tobacco smoking, electronic vaporizers may also be used as smoking cessation aids or for nicotine (or other substance) dosage control.

[0008] Most electronic cigarettes are cylindrical in shape, although they can be found in various forms, such as box and pipe styles. First-generation electronic cigarettes were typically designed to mimic cigarettes in both use and appearance. They are commonly referred to as "cig-a-likes." Cig-a-likes are usually disposable, inexpensive items with a often very poor user experience. New-generation electronic cigarettes, often called mods, modding kits, or APVs (Advanced Personal Vaporizers), are released in various form factors, including metal tubes and boxes, housing high-capacity batteries to provide increased nicotine diffusion performance. While many electronic cigarettes consist of standardized, interchangeable parts compatible from one brand to another, disposable devices combine all components into a single part that is discarded when its liquid is depleted. Common components include liquid delivery and container systems, such as cartridges or tanks, atomizers, and power supplies.

[0009] Atomizer

[0010] An atomizer generally consists of a small heating element responsible for vaporizing the e-liquid, as well as a wicking material that absorbs the liquid. Along with the battery, the atomizer is the central component of every personal vaporizer. Differences between atomizers cause variations in the components and their concentrations delivered to users, even when the same liquid is used.

[0011] A short length of resistance wire is wound around a wicking material and then connected to the positive and negative terminals of the device. When activated, the resistance wire (or coil) heats up rapidly, causing the liquid to turn into vapor, which is then inhaled by the user.

[0012] Wicking materials vary greatly from atomizer to atomizer, but silica fibers are commonly used in manufactured atomizers. Numerous atomizer and e-liquid container combinations are available.

[0013] Cartomizers

[0014] A atomizer (a hybrid of a cartridge and an atomizer) or 'cato' consists of an atomizer surrounded by liquid-soaked polyfoam that acts as an e-liquid holder. It is typically processed when the e-liquid produces a burnt taste, which is usually attributed to activation when the atomizer overflows continuously due to wick sedimentation or when the coil dries out. Most atomizers are refillable even if they do not solidify in this way.

[0015] Atomizers can be used on their own or in conjunction with tanks that enable greater e-liquid capacity. In this case, the hybrid term "carto-tank" was coined. When used in a tank, the atomizer must be inserted into a plastic, glass, or metal tube, or holes or slots must be perforated on the sides of the atomizer to allow the liquid to reach the coil.

[0016] Clearomizers

[0017] Clearizers, or "clearos," which are no different from atomizers, use a clear tank into which an atomizer is inserted. However, unlike atomizers, poly-foam material cannot be found in them. There are many different wicking systems employed inside clearizers to ensure good wetting of the wick without overflowing the coil. Some rely on gravity to guide the e-liquid to the wick and coil assembly (e.g., bottom coil clearizers), while others rely on capillary action and, to some extent, the user stirring the e-liquid while handling the clearizer (top coil clearizers).

[0018] electrical energy

[0019] Most portable devices include a rechargeable battery, which tends to be the largest component of the e-cigarette. The battery may contain an electronic airflow sensor that triggers activation by breathing through the device, while other models employ a power button that must be held down during operation. An LED may also be used to indicate activation. Some manufacturers also offer tobacco pack-shaped portable charging and refilling cases (PCCs) that contain larger batteries capable of charging e-cigarettes. Devices aimed at more experienced users may boast additional features, such as variable power output and support for a wide range of internal battery and atomizer types, and may tend to deviate from the tobacco form factor. Some more affordable, recent devices use an electret microphone with a custom IC to detect airflow and display the battery status on an included blue LED.

[0020] Variable power and voltage devices

[0021] Variable voltage or power personal vaporizers are devices containing an embedded electronic chip that allows the user to regulate the power flowing through the heating element. They typically include an LED screen to display various information. Variable PV eliminates the need to switch atomizers to either low or high resistance to change vapor intensity (lower resistance results in higher vapor intensity). They also feature voltage regulation and significant battery protection.

[0022] Some of these devices provide additional features through their menu systems, such as: atomizer resistance checker, remaining battery voltage, inhalation counter, activation interruption, etc.

[0023] electronic liquid

[0024] Electronic liquids, electronic liquids, or simply "liquids" refer to liquid solutions that produce mist or vapor when heated by an atomizer. The main components of electronic liquids are typically mixtures of propylene glycol (PG), vegetable glycerin (VG), and / or polyethylene glycol 400 (PEG400) containing varying concentrations of tobacco-derived nicotine, as well as different levels of alcohol, which are sometimes mixed with concentrated or extracted flavorings. There is variability in the purity, types, and concentrations of the chemicals used in the liquids, and significant variability between the labeled contents and concentrations and the actual contents and concentrations.

[0025] E-liquids are typically sold in bottles, pre-filled single-use cartridges, or as kits for consumers to make themselves. Components are also available individually, and consumers can choose to modify or increase their flavor, nicotine strength, or concentration using various offerings. Pre-made e-liquids are manufactured in a variety of tobacco, fruit, and other flavors, as well as variable nicotine concentrations (including nicotine-free versions). The standard notation "mg / ml" is commonly used on labels to indicate nicotine concentration, sometimes abbreviated to the simple "mg".

[0026] Check sources for this background technology section: Wikipedia entry electronic-cigarettes.

[0027] 3. Discussion of Related Technologies

[0028] Patent literature in this field is quite extensive, starting with the early electronic cigarette PV in 1963.

[0029] Some of the more relevant patent disclosures on this page include the following. We highlight some of the main reasons why each item of the prior art lacks relevance.

[0030] US 2014 / 020697 Liu.

[0031] PV charging device

[0032] No e-liquid refill capability

[0033] No user-replaceable e-liquid cartridges

[0034] No data processor with communication capabilities

[0035] CN 202679020 Chen:

[0036] PV charging device

[0037] No e-liquid refill capability

[0038] No user-replaceable e-liquid cartridges

[0039] No data processor with communication capabilities

[0040] US 2013 / 342157 Liu

[0041] PV charging device

[0042] No e-liquid refill capability

[0043] No user-replaceable e-liquid cartridges

[0044] No data processor with communication capabilities

[0045] CN 201630238 Jian

[0046] PV charging device

[0047] No e-liquid refill capability

[0048] No user-replaceable e-liquid cartridges

[0049] No data processor with communication capabilities

[0050] WO 2011 / 095781 Kind

[0051] Not related to electronic liquids or e-cigarettes

[0052] No electronic liquid refill capability - instead, fill with pressurized gas

[0053] No user-replaceable electronic-liquid cartridge (the gas canister is not described as user-replaceable, and doing so would effectively require the user to take the entire unit in pieces, and thus it does not teach user-replaceability)

[0054] No electric charging capability (the device does not have a battery)

[0055] No data processor with communication capabilities

[0056] US 2012 / 167906 Gysland

[0057] Not a PV charging device

[0058] An e-liquid injection device that uses only a standard e-liquid squeezeable bottle; the user opens the PV, separates it into an atomizer part and an e-liquid chamber part, then attaches the e-liquid chamber part to one end of the device and the squeezeable bottle to the other end of the device, and then squeezes the bottle to deliver the e-liquid upwards.

[0059] No charging capability

[0060] No data processor with communication capabilities

[0061] WO 2011 / 026846 Wedegree

[0062] It is not related to electronic-liquid PV—instead, it is a propane-driven thermal-based device.

[0063] Not an e-liquid refill, just refill the device with liquid propane.

[0064] The mouthpiece is removed before the device is inserted for gas refill.

[0065] No charging capability

[0066] No user-replaceable cartridge

[0067] No data processor with communication capabilities

[0068] WO 2009 / 001078 Kind

[0069] Not related to electronic liquids or e-cigarettes

[0070] Not an electronic liquid refill—instead, fill with pressurized gas

[0071] No user-replaceable cartridges (the gas canister within the refill unit is refilled automatically)

[0072] No charging capability

[0073] No data processor with communication capabilities

[0074] For the sake of completeness, we also refer to other items of non-similar technology that firmly belong to the field of drug inhalation and lack any specific reference to electronic cigarettes or nicotine delivery. The field of the present invention is significantly different from drug inhalation devices, such as asthma inhalers or other metered-dose inhalers, because tobacco smoking is very clearly not a drug action. Specifically, the mindset of electronic cigarette designers is to mimic the non-drug tobacco smoking experience as closely as possible, but without burning tobacco. On the other hand, metered-dose inhalers are typically designed for the precise, rapid, and very infrequent (e.g., only in emergency situations) oral administration of one or two doses of a drug-efficed pressurized aerosol; the user experience of a PV is quite different, as the inhalation of mist or vapor from a non-pressurized source is relatively slow but repeated frequently; the experience is similar to the conventional tobacco smoking experience and is accordingly designed to effectively replace it. An example of a metered-dose inhaler is presented in US 6637430 Ponwell. This lacks relevance for the following reasons:

[0075] No apparent connection to electronic cigarettes—primarily, this is a piezoelectric metered-dose inhaler system for respiratory medications—a very different field from electronic cigarette PVs.

[0076] It is not suitable for refill PVs because it uses a needle to puncture the rubber diaphragm of the metered-dose inhaler (a conventional approach used in drug situations where maintaining the sterility of the medication is critical); although this rubber diaphragm can degrade and tear with a significant number of re-insertions; however, this is not an issue for metered-dose inhalers that are used relatively infrequently, and the sterility of the medication is more important than the durability of the drug delivery mechanism.

[0077] No user-replaceable liquid cartridge (in effect, it teaches refilling of the medication container; therefore, it is not a user-replaceable liquid cartridge)

[0078] There is no combined carrying and storage case for the metered-dose inhaler

[0079] Highlighting the differences between metered-dose inhaler and e-cigarette PV design, one of the many challenges faced by e-cigarette PV designers is how to minimize any toxins in the vapor generated by the PV.

[0080] For example, in the paper 'Hidden Formaldehyde in E-Cigarette Aerosols' published in the New England Journal of Medicine (N Engl J Med 2015; 372:392-394), the authors describe their testing method for the presence of formaldehyde-emitting agents in the vapor of electronic cigarette PVs with variable voltage power supplies (their safety when inhaled is not fully understood) as follows: 'At low voltage (3.3 V), we did not detect the formation of any formaldehyde-emitting agents (predicted limit of detection, approximately 0.1 µg / 10 inhalations). At high voltage (5.0 V), formaldehyde was detected as formaldehyde-emitting agents at an average (±SE) of 380 ± 90 µg / sample (10 inhalations).' They go on to say, "While the way formaldehyde-emitting agents behave in the airways is unknown, formaldehyde is a Group 1 carcinogen according to the International Agency for Research on Cancer." Ensuring that electronic cigarette PVs operate at low voltages (e.g., 3.3V) rather than high voltages (e.g., 5V) might appear to be one solution. However, the subsequent problem is that the PV current must be higher for a good 'vaping' experience, and consequently, this means (a) the PV battery runs out faster, and (b) the e-liquid is consumed more rapidly.

[0081] This is an inconvenience of conventional PV designs because recharging or replacing the battery and refilling with e-liquid take time; furthermore, users may have to carry, for example, spare batteries or charging cables and bottles of e-liquid. This is very different from the relatively uncomplicated and simple experience of opening a conventional cigarette pack and simply lighting it (and, for smokers, a highly appealing ritual). Since we view mimicking the behavioral patterns of the cigarette smoking user experience as the key to a successful product, these are major drawbacks of conventional PV designs.

[0082] One solution is to use large 'modding-kit' type PVs equipped with a large e-liquid reservoir and an ultra-high capacity battery capable of operating at a low voltage of 3.3V associated with formaldehyde non-emission. These devices can be the size of several cigarette packs, and consequently, users sacrifice ease of portability. However, performance or user experience can be good, as these devices can produce a good amount of vapor without requiring frequent and inconvenient battery recharging or replacement and e-liquid refilling. However, when the e-liquid needs to be refilled, it is typically done by exposing the reservoir and then separating the unit to squeeze the e-liquid from a small bottle into the reservoir; this can be slow and cumbersome; users then often carry replacement bottles or e-liquid, especially if they are using e-cigarettes to quit tobacco smoking, as the temptation to buy a pack of cigarettes for smoking can prove difficult to resist once they run out of e-liquid. And this complex e-liquid refill process clearly does not allow for the simplicity or ritual of opening a pack of cigarettes and taking a puff.

[0083] An ideal solution may be an electronic cigarette PV that possesses the form factor of a conventional cigarette and has the best aspects of performance and user experience of a large modding kit-type PV. This specification describes such a solution. The solution is designed to mimic many aspects of the important behavioral and experiential modalities that make smoking attractive to smokers (e.g., the tactile satisfaction of gripping the cigarette pack, opening the lid, and removing the cigarette; the action of gripping a thin cigarette; the simplicity of the user's sole action of taking the cigarette). We believe that mimicking these aspects of user experience is key to the successful mass-market acceptance of electronic cigarettes and, consequently, their significant public health potential.

[0084] The present invention is a portable, personal storage and carrying case for an electronic-liquid electronic cigarette PV, wherein the case comprises: (a) a power source for recharging a rechargeable battery in the PV; (b) a reservoir for receiving an electronic-liquid; and (c) a fluid delivery system adapted to deliver the electronic-liquid from the reservoir to a chamber in the PV. Brief explanation of the drawing

[0085] Examples of the present invention will now be described with reference to the attached drawings, where: Fig. 1 This is a schematic diagram of a conventional electronic cigarette illustrating a method of separating the device into three pieces. All remaining drawings illustrate elements of an electronic cigarette PV or PV case that solve the problems of the prior art. Fig. 2 is an isometric projection of an electronic cigarette PV; Fig. 3 and Fig. 4 It illustrates that the electronic cigarette is partially withdrawn from its portable, personal storage, and carrying case; Fig. 5 It illustrates a user-replaceable electronic cigarette cartridge adapted to be inserted into or attached to a portable, personal storage, and carrying case for PV; Fig. 6a FIG. 6 is a drawing of a simplified version of a case illustrating a user-rechargeable electronic-liquid cigarette and a battery being withdrawn from a portable refill and recharge case, and FIG. 6b illustrates a case having a downwardly hinged PV holder ready to receive a PV; Fig. 7 is This is a cross-sectional view of the portable case of FIG. 6, together with the electronic cigarette PV; Fig. 8 Figure 6 illustrates a PV inserted into a portable case for refilling the electronic liquid; Fig. 9 is a detailed view of the electronic-liquid-injection mechanism inside the portable case of Fig. 6; Fig. 10 This is a cross-sectional view of the PV when stored in the portable case of Fig. 6; Fig. 11 is a cross-sectional view of the PV in Fig. 6; Fig. 12 is an example of a portable case loaded on the side of a PV; Fig. 13 is an example of a portable case loaded on top of a PV; Fig. 14 This is a cross-sectional view of the PV when it refills the e-liquid as it is pushed down via the refill mechanism; FIGS. 15 to 19 is intentionally omitted Fig. 20 It illustrates an isometric view of the operating circle of the case, with the PV holder or chassis shown closed; Fig. 21 It shows an equidistant view of the operating circle of the case with the PV holder or chassis open and the PV fully inserted into the holder; Fig. 22 Is An equal angle of the operating circle of the case is shown, with the PV holder or chassis open and ready to be withdrawn by the user, and the PV raised upward; Fig. 23 These are the isometric views of the holder or chassis; Fig. 24 is the equal angle of the PV used as the operating prototype; Fig. 25 is a cross-sectional view of the PV; Fig. 26 is a cross-sectional view of the case where the chassis is closed and the PV is not presented; Fig. 27 is a cross-sectional view of a case where the chassis is open and the PV is not presented; Fig. 28 It is a cross-sectional view of a case with the silver chassis closed and the PV presented; Fig. 29 is a cross-sectional view of the case where the chassis is closed and the PV is presented; the inter-lock is engaged with the sliding contact block; Fig. 30 This is a cross-sectional view of the case with the chassis open and the PV presented; the interlock is engaged with the sliding contact block and the PV is heated; Fig. 31 is a cross-sectional view of the case with the chassis open and the PV presented; the interlock is no longer engaged with the sliding contact block and the PV is shown protruding upward from the chassis, ready for the user to pull out; FIGS. 32 to 35 is a close-up of the sliding contact block assembly and PV in each of the four FIGS. 28 to 31; Fig. 36 This is an exploded view of the sliding contact block assembly; Fig. 37a is a side view of a sliding contact block assembly; Fig. 37b is a top view of a sliding contact block assembly; Fig. 38 It is an exploded view of the important components, including the PV, chassis, cartridges, and sides of the case; Fig. 39 is intentionally omitted Fig. 40 It is a close-up showing the PV leaning against the pump inside the case; the chassis is opened; Fig. 41 It is a close-up showing the PV pushed down close to the pump; the chassis opens; Fig. 42 is a close-up showing the PV pushed down close to the pump; the chassis is closed; FIGS. 43 to 49 is intentionally omitted; FIGS. 50 to 53 It illustrates the pump at various locations; Fig. 54 is intentionally omitted FIGS. 55 to 59 It illustrates a user-replaceable electronic-liquid cartridge having an integrated pump and overflow valve at various locations; Fig. 60 is the resolved isometric view of the PV; Fig. 61 is the isometric angle of the PV; Fig. 62is a close-up drawing of a wick and coil assembly in which the coil extends vertically along the major axis of the PV; Fig. 63 is a close-up drawing of a wick and coil assembly of different designs, in which the coil runs parallel to the long axis of the PV; Fig. 65 This is an exploded view of a ring connector that provides power and data contacts on a PV. Fig. 66 This is a cross-sectional view of a ring connector; FIGS. 67 to 69 illustrates the variable air inlets of the PV; Fig. 70 This is a high-level schematic diagram illustrating a portable refill case capable of communicating wirelessly and also via wired connections to smartphones, laptops, and modems; Fig. 71 The portable refill unit schematically illustrates that it includes electronic device components such as memory, wireless / wired connections, software, and a controller / processor; there are four electronic liquid cartridges, each having a different flavor and / or nicotine strength. Fig. 72 It illustrates a method in which a user's smartphone can display the current levels of electronic liquid in each separate cartridge; Fig. 73 It illustrates a PV drawn from its case; it automatically initiates heating of the electronic liquid using a battery in the PV. A 'ready' light on the PV illuminates when the device is ready for use. Fig. 74 It illustrates an example of a PV that includes an indication of how much material has been vaporized; Fig. 75 It illustrates a conventional 2-part PV, in which an electronic liquid cartridge is placed on the atomizer and the atomizer is placed on the battery, plus a third module in the middle that displays the amount of consumed electronic liquid. Fig. 76 It illustrates a time-locking case for PV; Fig. 77 Figure [is] a humidity sensor for PV; Figs. 78 and 79 is intentionally omitted FIGS. 80 to 84 This illustrates various approaches to eliminate or reduce electron-liquid leakage in PVs; Fig. 85 illustrates a PV having a hygienic mouthpiece; Fig. 86 It illustrates a PV having a hygienic mouthpiece and using a single-dose electronic liquid capsule at the end of the PV furthest from the mouthpiece; Fig. 87 Figure 1 illustrates a PV and dispenser for single-dose electronic liquid capsules; Fig. 88 is intentionally omitted FIGS. 89 to 94 It illustrates cross-sectional views of a PV having various atomization improvements; Specific details for implementing the invention

[0086] Fig. 1 Figure 1 illustrates a conventional personal vaporizer ('PV'). The PV includes the following main components: a 'liquid' or 'electro-liquid' delivery and container system (A), called a cartridge; an atomizer (B) for vaporizing the liquid; and a power source (C) for supplying power to the atomizer. The cartridge also forms a mouthpiece. A typical design is Figure 1 1 As illustrated in the figure, the battery (C) needs to be inserted into the atomizer (B), and then the cartridge (A) is pushed onto the free end of the atomizer (B). When the cartridge is completely depleted, the user discards the used cartridge and replaces it with a new one. An alternative design views the cartridge as typically a small electronic liquid bottle, which the user considers refillable.

[0087] Conventional PV designs have a number of defects. This detailed description section describes a number of high-level features that address the most significant defects. Embodiments of the present invention use one or more of these high-level features.

[0088] We organize our descriptions of the features using the following categories:

[0089] Section A. Electronic Liquid Refill and Recharge Storage and Carrying Case

[0090] Feature 1. Combined rechargeable and refillable storage and carrying case

[0091] Feature 2. Case with movable PV holder

[0092] Feature 3. Refill PV

[0093] Feature 4. PV Locking Mechanism

[0094] Feature 5. Data Connectivity

[0095] Feature 6. Electronic Execution

[0096] Section B. PV: Simplicity and ease of use

[0097] Feature 7. Refillable and rechargeable PV

[0098] Feature 8. Preheated PV

[0099] Feature 9. PV with dosage indication

[0100] Feature 10. Drip prevention PV

[0101] Section C. User-replaceable electronic-liquid cartridge

[0102] Feature 11. User-rechargeable e-liquid cartridge that fits into a portable storage and carrying case

[0103] Section D manifold

[0104] Feature 12 Hygienic PV

[0105] Feature 13 Single Capsule Dispenser

[0106] Feature 14 Single Capsule PV

[0107] Feature 15 Various configuration improvements

[0108] Each of the upper-level features listed above, and the related detailed features to be listed below for each upper-level feature, may be combined with any other upper-level feature and any other detailed feature. Attachment 1 It provides an integrated summary of each of these.

[0109] Introduction

[0110] The following sections will describe an electronic cigarette system that embodies aspects of the present invention; the system comprises the following:

[0111] Electronic cigarette PV; the size and shape may be similar to conventional cigarettes or slightly larger. This Fig. 2 It is illustrated in [image]. Mimicking the size and shape of conventional cigarettes is very useful because it makes the PV much more attractive to smokers who are trying to quit cigarettes.

[0112] A portable, personal storage and carrying case for recharging the battery in the PV and also refilling the e-liquid chamber in the PV; the size and shape may be similar to or slightly larger than a conventional cigarette pack of 20 cigarettes. This Fig. 3 (PV is partially withdrawn in this case) and Fig. 4 It is illustrated in (PV is fully withdrawn from this case).

[0113] A user-rechargeable cartridge that fits into a case and can be easily replaced by the user with a new cartridge when running out or to try different strengths or flavors of e-liquid. The cartridge capacity can be approximately 10 ml of e-liquid; this can be roughly approximated to 5 packs of 20 cigarettes. Fig. 5 Refer to .

[0114] PV can be stored in the case regardless of whether it is in use, and since the case can operate to allow its user to refill PV from a rechargeable cartridge and also recharge PV, the PV can always remain in a fully refilled and recharged state regardless of whether it is removed from the case. There is no longer any need for the user to carry spare batteries for small refill bottles of PV or e-liquid.

[0115] One design of this new system is, Fig. 3 and Fig. 4 As illustrated, it has a PV that is automatically charged with e-liquid by being fitted into a holder hinged outward from the main body of the case and activating a micro-pump that transfers e-liquid from a user-rechargeable cartridge in the case to a reservoir in the PV when the user manually pushes the PV up and down. When the holder is closed into the case, the electronic contacts on the PV engage with the charging contacts inside the case to transfer power from the case battery to the rechargeable battery in the PV. This means the following:

[0116] The vaping performance of the PV is always optimal; there is no performance degradation associated with the PV battery or the nearly empty PV e-liquid reservoir.

[0117] PV can be vaped at lower voltages (possibly associated with zero formaldehyde emissions – see discussion of related technology above): in conventional systems, this can provide a good vaping experience when the resistance of the heating element in the atomizer is sufficiently low (and thus the total power is sufficient but not too high, typically in the 6-8 watt range), but results in serious weaknesses of high battery drain and high e-liquid consumption. These weaknesses are now completely irrelevant to the new system due to the ease of refilling and recharging the PV using a storage and carrying case.

[0118] Because the storage case is designed as a portable, personal storage and carrying case (typically similar in size to a pack of 20 cigarettes), the user will generally carry it with him or her (in their pocket or handbag, etc.) at all times and thus keep the PV in it at all times. Since the storage case is significantly larger than a conventional PV, it allows the user to store much more e-liquid in a rechargeable e-liquid cartridge and can contain a much larger capacity battery. Consequently, the e-liquid cartridge in the carrying case needs to be replaced only relatively rarely (for a smoker who typically smokes 20 cigarettes a day after switching to this system, a new cartridge may then be needed every 5 days: very roughly, 10 puffs consume 0.1 ml of e-liquid, equivalent to one cigarette; the PV itself stores 2 ml of e-liquid, equivalent to 20 cigarettes; and the cartridge in the case typically stores approximately 10 ml of e-liquid, equivalent to five packs of 20 cigarettes, compliant with EU Directive 2014 / 40 / EU (known as the Tobacco Products Directive). Furthermore, the case also needs to be recharged only rarely (depending on use, perhaps once a week) (e.g., using a USB charging cable connected to a laptop or main power adapter).

[0119] This system is designed to refill and recharge the PV thousands of times without damaging either the case or the PV. The system provides the user with an e-cigarette PV that possesses the form factor of a conventional cigarette and the performance and user experience (e.g., vapor intensity) of a large modding kit-type PV, but completely eliminates the inconvenience of separating the PV to refill it with e-liquid from a small bottle. The system also mimics the tactile familiarity of handling an object similar in size to a pack of 20 cigarettes, the ritual of opening a pack and removing a cigarette, and gripping a cigarette-sized object. We believe this combination is the key to large-scale consumer acceptance of e-cigarettes.

[0120] Section A. Electronic Liquid Refill and Recharge Storage and Carrying Case

[0121] this Section A In this section, we will describe an e-liquid refill and recharge storage and transport case. The case implements the following numerous useful features:

[0122] Feature 1. Combined rechargeable and refillable storage and carrying case

[0123] Feature 2. Case with movable PV holder

[0124] Feature 3. Refill PV

[0125] Feature 4. PV Locking Mechanism

[0126] Feature 5. Data Connectivity

[0127] Feature 6. Electronic Execution

[0128] In this Section A, we will summarize each of these six features and then describe them in detail. Attachment 1 It gathers these features into an integrated summary.

[0129] Feature 1. Combined rechargeable and refillable storage and carrying case

[0130] The above features are: a portable, personal storage and carrying case for an electronic-liquid electronic cigarette PV, comprising: (a) a power source for recharging a rechargeable battery in the PV; (b) a reservoir for receiving electronic-liquid; and (c) a fluid delivery system adapted to deliver electronic-liquid from the reservoir to a chamber in the PV. In one embodiment, the reservoir for receiving electronic-liquid is a user-rechargeable electronic-liquid cartridge.

[0131] As mentioned above, this approach is the key to an e-cigarette PV that possesses the form factor of conventional cigarettes and offers the performance and user experience of a large modding kit-type PV. Refilling and recharging the PV is fast and convenient because it can occur easily and readily, regardless of whether the user returns the PV to its case. The e-liquid cartridge in the case requires relatively infrequent (e.g., once a week) but quick and mess-free replacement; this is much easier than manually refilling by squeezing e-liquid from a small bottle. It can also have a simple relationship with conventional cigarette consumption (e.g., '100 cigarettes in the case').

[0132] In addition, the two features of recharging the PV battery and the PV electronic-liquid chamber have an operational interrelationship that creates an improved result as a whole—we have an synergistic combination of features that is entirely lacking in the non-similar field of metering inhalers, for example, as exemplified by US 6637430 Ponwell.

[0133] Specifically, efficient e-liquid PVs consume a significant amount of e-liquid and also current. Cigarettes did not sell well in the market because they do not allow for high e-liquid consumption or high current. Cases that can simply recharge PVs are unsatisfactory because PVs need to be frequently refilled with e-liquid, which means separating them, which is messy and inconvenient. However, if you add an e-liquid refill feature to the case as envisioned in Feature 1, it means that you can drive the heating element in the PV at a sufficiently high current to provide much better performance—meaning you are consuming more e-liquid because you are heating it up faster—and also that consuming the PV battery faster is no longer a problem because you can conveniently refill the PV with e-liquid when inserting it back into the carrying case and also into the rechargeable PV battery. Therefore, adding e-liquid PV refill capability has an synergistic relationship with the PV battery recharging function—it allows the PV to operate at higher currents and higher liquid consumption rates without the inconvenience of having to regularly disassemble the PV for refills or battery changes, while providing much better vaping performance.

[0134] Also, with Feature 1, we can drive the atomizer at low voltages (e.g., 3.3V) that do not produce formaldehyde, if we use a low resistance wire in the atomizer—which will not only not produce formaldehyde but will also produce warmer and more vapor than can be produced when the device is driven at 5V.

[0135] Systems that do not have a combined refill and recharge carrying case cannot replicate this experience at lower voltages, such as 3.3V, because the 3.3V and low resistance combination implies faster battery drain and faster e-liquid drainage than the higher voltage and higher resistance combination. As mentioned above, faster PV battery drainage and faster e-liquid drainage are not weaknesses of Feature 1, as recharging the PV and refilling it with e-liquid is quick and convenient and can occur easily regardless of whether the PV is returned to the storage and carrying case.

[0136] Feature 2. Case with a movable PV holder

[0137] The above feature is a portable, personal storage and carrying case for an e-liquid electronic cigarette PV, in which a movable holder or chassis with a PV inserted therein brings the electric charging contacts on the PV into direct or indirect connection with the electric charging contacts in the case connected to a power source, such as a rechargeable battery in the case.

[0138] By requiring the PV to be inserted into a movable holder or chassis in the case, it becomes much easier not only to guide the PV into precise alignment with the electric charging contacts in the case, but also (preferably) to guide the electro-liquid injection aperture in the PV into precise alignment with the electro-liquid nozzle used for electro-liquid transfer to the PV. Precise alignment is highly desirable to ensure good electro-contact, to minimize leakage, and to ensure optimal performance of the electro-liquid fluid transfer mechanism.

[0139] Feature 3. Refill PV

[0140] The above features are: a portable, personal storage and carrying case for an e-liquid electronic cigarette PV that refills the e-liquid into the PV when the PV is inserted into the case, either completely or partially, while keeping the PV intact and undamaged.

[0141] By ensuring that the PV remains completely undamaged (in contrast to some pharmaceutical inhalation devices that require a needle in the container storing fluid medication to puncture the rubber containment in the inhalation device, for example), the design is robust and can be used for thousands of refill operations (in contrast to the very small number using a needle to punch the rubber containment).

[0142] Other related high-level features are: a portable, personal storage and carrying case for an electronic cigarette PV that refills the PV using a fluid delivery system, such as a pump, which is activated by pressing and releasing the entire, complete PV while the PV is accommodated in a holder in the case in precise alignment with the fluid delivery mechanism.

[0143] Since the pump may not operate efficiently and leakage may occur if the PV is not precisely aligned (e.g., along the longitudinal axis of the pump nozzle), using a holder to accommodate the PV in precise alignment with the fluid transfer system is highly desirable to minimize leakage and ensure optimal performance of the electro-liquid fluid transfer mechanism, especially in pumps where the mechanism is activated by the relative motion of the PV near the pump.

[0144] The related upper-level feature is an e-liquid electronic cigarette PV that is adapted to be refilled with e-liquid when inserted into a case, including an e-liquid injection aperture centered along the main axis of the PV to minimize any off-center forces that could otherwise jeopardize the e-liquid sealing.

[0145] Other high-level features include: a portable, personal storage and carrying case for an e-liquid electronic cigarette PV that is adapted for the user to transfer e-liquid into a rechargeable e-liquid cartridge in the case.

[0146] If the case includes a user-refillable cartridge, trying new flavors or strengths of e-liquid becomes quick and messy for the user by replacing their own cartridges and swapping them with our cartridge. Because the cartridge capacity will be much larger than the PV's e-liquid chamber (e.g., 10 ml for a user-refillable cartridge compared to 1 ml or 2 ml inside the PV chamber), cartridge replacement occurs relatively rarely—typically once every 5 days for a user simulating smoking 20 cigarettes a day. It also provides the user with ease in measuring the effectiveness of any nicotine reduction program they are following—gradually shifting cartridge replacement from every 5 days to every 6 days, every 7 days, and so on. For many average users, this is an easy metric to follow.

[0147] Feature 4. PV locking mechanism

[0148] The above feature is a portable, personal storage and carrying case for an e-liquid electronic cigarette PV, which is adapted to firmly lock the PV into a charging position; and when the PV is locked into the charging position, the electric charging contacts on the PV are directly or indirectly connected to the electric charging contacts in the case that are connected to a power source in the case, such as a rechargeable battery.

[0149] By ensuring that the PV is locked in place, efficient charging can occur, and the risk of damage to electronic contacts (both on the PV and on the case) caused by the unintended movement of the PV is reduced. This is particularly important because the case is a portable storage and carrying case.

[0150] Feature 5. Cases with data connectivity

[0151] The above features are a portable, personal storage and carrying case for an electronic liquid e-cigarette PV, comprising: (a) a user-rechargeable electronic liquid cartridge; and (b) a fluid delivery system adapted to transfer electronic liquid from the cartridge to a chamber in the PV; and a data processor that controls the transmission of a signal requesting the user in the case to replace the user-rechargeable electronic liquid cartridge.

[0152] Having the case transmit requests for electronic-liquid cartridge replacement is very convenient for the user and also ensures that replacement cartridges are supplied in a timely manner—this is especially important when the user is on a tobacco or nicotine reduction program, as the user may be easily tempted to use cigarettes again if the case runs out of electronic-liquid. Therefore, the validity of accepting this system as a tobacco substitute (and health concerns regarding cigarettes are the overwhelming reason for accepting electronic cigarettes) benefits greatly from the timely, automatic, and backroom management of supplying replacement cartridges directly to the end-user.

[0153] Feature 6. Electronic execution method

[0154] A higher-level feature is: a method used in a portable, personal storage and carrying case specifically adapted for a refillable electronic cigarette PV and for refilling and recharging said PV, wherein the case comprises the steps of: (a) transferring electronic liquid from a user-refillable electronic liquid cartridge to said PV; and (b) automatically transmitting a signal to an electronic performance platform requesting the user to replace the user-refillable electronic liquid cartridge, either directly or via a connected smartphone. The method may comprise the steps of: (a) detecting the level or amount of electronic liquid within the user-refillable electronic liquid cartridge in said case; and (b) automatically transmitting a signal to an electronic performance platform requesting the user to replace the user-refillable electronic liquid cartridge, either directly or via a connected smartphone.

[0155] This feature is related to Feature 5 and is a method to which the same benefits apply. Note that 'detecting the level or amount of electronic liquid in a user-rechargeable electronic liquid cartridge in a case' may be inferred, for example, from the number of refills of a PV equipped with the cartridge, or from the total number of inhalations made with the cartridge, and may be direct or indirect.

[0156] Furthermore, arbitrary features (each of which may be combined with any of the other upper-level features 1 through 6) include the following:

[0157] The movable chassis is also equipped with an electro-fluid reservoir, battery, printed circuit board, and fluid transfer mechanism.

[0158] The quantitative amount of electronic liquid is transferred to the PV by a fluid transfer mechanism in the case—usually 0.1 ml per individual pumping stroke when a micro-pump is used.

[0159] A portable refill case or unit includes a housing, a holder for securing or attaching a personal vaporizer thereto.

[0160] The holder includes a biasing means for receiving a personal vaporizer in a support position, and the biasing means is arranged so that a user pressing the personal vaporizer can enable the biasing means to engage with a refill mechanism in the refill position of the personal vaporizer.

[0161] The holder can be rotatably connected to a portable refill unit, and accordingly, it can move between open and closed modes, and the open and closed modes have corresponding private vaporizers, wherein in the closed mode, the private vaporizer is engaged with a refill mechanism to receive a substance dosage, and in the open mode, the private vaporizer is released from the refill mechanism.

[0162] The refill mechanism includes a pump.

[0163] The refill mechanism includes a refill valve.

[0164] The refill mechanism is electronically controlled.

[0165] The portable refill case further includes a counter / measure system for counting or estimating material consumption-related data, such as the number of times a personal vaporizer has been refilled from a fluid reservoir.

[0166] The counter / measurement system counts the number of times a personal vaporizer is inserted into a unit for refilling.

[0167] The counter / measure system is resettable, and the portable refill unit stores and / or displays the value provided by the counter / measure system corresponding to the number of times the personal vaporizer has been refilled from the fluid reservoir.

[0168] The counter / measurement system directly measures consumption-related data by measuring changes in the amount of material stored in the unit.

[0169] The portable refill case or unit stores consumption-related data and transmits said data to another device, such as a smartphone, using a wired or wireless connection.

[0170] The fluid reservoir is a removable liquid cartridge in the portable refill unit so that it can be replaced.

[0171] The portable refill case or unit is further adapted to change the amount of vapor fluid at the delivered dose of vapor fluid.

[0172] Section A In the next section, we will list the operations of the following features in detail.

[0173] Feature 1: Combined rechargeable and refillable storage and carrying case

[0174] Feature 2: Case with movable PV holder

[0175] Feature 3: Refill PVs

[0176] Feature 4: PV Locking Mechanism

[0177] Features 1, 2, 3, and 4. Combined rechargeable and refillable storage and carrying case;

[0178] Case having a movable PV holder;

[0179] Refill PV;

[0180] PV locking mechanism

[0181] The next section focuses on these four features to explain the case and PV in more detail. The related drawings are FIGS. 6 to 10 am.

[0182] A portable charging device for replenishing the electronic liquid or vapor fluid of an electronic cigarette PV comprises: an electronic liquid reservoir for storing multiple doses of electronic liquid; and a refill mechanism configured to engage with the electronic cigarette PV to transfer a dose of electronic liquid from the reservoir to the electronic cigarette PV:

[0183] The embodiments may provide a refill case for refilling a single dose (or multiple doses determined by the end user) of e-liquid into an e-cigarette PV. The e-liquid may be supplied to the e-cigarette PV from a tank in a filling and refill case that accommodates more reserve e-liquid. The tank may be a user-rechargeable cartridge.

[0184] A single dose of e-liquid delivered to the PV (and subsequently received in the e-liquid chamber within the PV) may be equivalent to a single measure of the substance (e.g., the amount of nicotine inhaled from one ordinary cigarette). Typically, 0.1 ml is produced for each pumping puff using the micro-pump design described later in this section; this is equivalent to approximately 10 puffs of a cigarette. The e-liquid chamber in the PV typically holds 1 ml to 3 ml of e-liquid, which is very roughly equivalent to 10 to 30 cigarettes.

[0185] The fluid reservoir in the filling and refill case can store multiple doses of e-liquid; the amount of e-liquid stored in the reservoir can be 10 ml, which is significantly larger than the fluid in conventional cartridges or glass bottles inserted into conventional e-cigarettes. This makes refilling the case with a new e-liquid cartridge much less frequent; with conventional PV, the cartridge had to be refilled or replaced when a relatively small dose was consumed; with our approach, it is a cartridge that fits into the carrying case to be replaced, and this is done easily; because it accommodates much more than conventional PV cartridges, replacement occurs much less frequently. Refilling the PV occurs easily and quickly, regardless of whether the user inserts the PV back into the carrying case. This is not only more convenient for the end-user but also significantly reduces waste. Ideally, the cartridges are fully recyclable.

[0186] High-capacity e-liquid cartridges that are easily rechargeable by the user are particularly important at relatively low voltages and low resistances (e.g., closer to 3.3V than 5V; closer to 2 ohms than 2.8 ohms - usually 2.4 ohms - 1.9 ohms for 3.3V - resistance) because the e-liquid consumption in PVs can be quite high. This can result in high consumption, and conventional PV designs are very inconvenient due to the need to disassemble the PV and manually drop the e-liquid into a small reservoir by squeezing the liquid bottle. However, this is no longer a problem due to the ease of refilling the e-liquid in the PV, whether it is put back into the case or not.

[0187] The user can also now monitor the use of the PV (and the resulting nicotine use) in a manner similar to conventional tobacco consumption. For example, a single dose may be equivalent to the amount of e-liquid required to simulate the nicotine consumption equivalent to a single tobacco cigarette. Using the micro-pump system described later in this section, pressing the PV down near the micro-pump just once causes approximately 0.1 ml to be delivered from the case to the PV; this is approximately equivalent to 10 puffs of a cigarette. Consequently, the user can pump the PV down just once to deliver the e-liquid equivalent to a single cigarette, or 5 times for 5 cigarettes, or 10 times for 10 cigarettes.

[0188] In one design, the volume of e-liquid stored in the PV chamber can be equivalent to the volume of e-liquid required for an e-cigarette to mimic a pack of 20 tobacco cigarettes. Thus, users can conveniently adjust their nicotine consumption through the PV. The maximum capacity of the e-liquid chamber in the PV is 2 ml, which is very roughly equivalent to 20 cigarettes. It is easy to understand that this equivalence to conventional cigarettes is important for users to estimate their usage and is therefore important for nicotine reduction usage; users find it difficult to compare their previous tobacco consumption with conventional e-cigarettes, and this lack of transparency hinders the widespread acceptance of e-cigarettes, despite the fact that this is an important part of the scientific opinion that e-cigarettes are significantly safer than conventional cigarettes.

[0189] A single dose may also be any set of other amounts equivalent to a single dose, for example by the end-user, or automatically by PV or in cases where the end-user is following a nicotine reduction program. This generalization applies throughout this specification and to all of the various innovative features described herein.

[0190] Embodiments may provide a rechargeable case battery adapted so that a portable charging and refilling case allows the PV to recharge its battery from the rechargeable case battery. The portable charging and refilling case may provide the advantage that the user can simultaneously refill the e-liquid in the PV and also recharge the PV's battery. This ensures that it can provide sufficient e-liquid and power to provide a good vaping experience, regardless of whether the PV is drawn out of the case or not.

[0191] A portable charging and refill case may include a PV holder for housing a PV. The holder may support the PV in a specific position, provide storage, and enable the refilling and charging of the PV.

[0192] The PV holder may include a biasing means for receiving the PV in a support position. The biasing means may be arranged such that pressing the PV causes the biasing means to engage with the refill mechanism in the refill position. To refill a dose of vapor liquid into the PV, the PV may be inserted into the holder. The holder may be a drawer such that when the PV is placed in the drawer, pushing the PV downward causes the PV to engage with the refill mechanism, thereby pumping the electronic liquid into the PV to fill a single dose of electronic liquid into the electronic liquid chamber of the PV.

[0193] Alternatively, the PV holder can be rotatably connected to a portable charging and refill case, so that the PV holder can move between open and closed positions, the open and closed positions have corresponding PV positions, where in the closed position the PV is engaged with a refill mechanism to receive an e-liquid dosage and in the open position the PV is released from the refill mechanism.

[0194] The refill mechanism may include a pump. In this example, the interaction between the PV and the refill mechanism may cause the pump to transfer a measured dose of electronic liquid to the PV. The refill mechanism may include a refill valve. The refill mechanism may be electronically controlled. A more detailed description of the electronic liquid transfer mechanism will be provided later.

[0195] A portable charging device or case may include a counter / measure system for counting the number of times PV has been refilled from the electronic-liquid reservoir. The counter may be resettable, and the portable charging and refill case may display a value provided by the counter corresponding to the number of times PV has been refilled from the fluid reservoir in the case. The value may be the number of times PV has been refilled from the reservoir since it was last reset, or it may be the total number of times the dosage of electronic-liquid supplied by the reservoir by the refill mechanism. Data may be displayed or stored on a processor within the portable charging and refill case, which is provided via wired or wireless connection or directly to the Internet, to an auxiliary device, such as a smartphone, wearable device, or portable computer, for analysis and display. Furthermore, monitoring usage may be used to determine when the electronic-liquid in the reservoir is nearly depleted and, accordingly, trigger the replacement of the fluid reservoir (e.g., by an electronic performance platform delivered directly to the user, or by automatically directing the replacement (or a weekly or monthly replacement amount, or a substantial other amount, at the user's option) by notifying the user that a replacement is required).

[0196] The embodiments can be further adapted to vary the amount of electronic liquid in a single dose, and such variations may be based on the previous usage of PV (e.g., as monitored by a counter). In this manner, the amount of electronic liquid (or concentration in the vapor fluid) in the delivered dose is gradually reduced over time to help the user reduce the consumption of a substance in the vapor fluid (e.g., nicotine or caffeine). This concept can be extended to allow the user to indicate the time period and the amount by which they wish to reduce consumption. Based on this indication, the embodiments can adjust the amount of electronic liquid in a single dose, and accordingly, the desired reduction in consumption is achieved automatically over a set time period or according to a specific smoking cessation program.

[0197] The electronic liquid reservoir can be a liquid cartridge that is removable from a portable charging and refilling case, and accordingly, it can be easily and quickly replaced by the user without the risk of mess or spills. Thus, when the electronic liquid reservoir is depleted, the user can insert a new liquid cartridge, and the reservoir becomes sufficient.

[0198] The PV may include a liquid chamber for holding a dose of electronic liquid, wherein the PV is adapted to be coupled with a portable filling and refill case to receive a dose of electronic liquid from a fluid reservoir. The PV may include a PV valve.

[0199] The connection of the PV valve and the refill valve allows the administration of the electronic liquid to be pumped from the reservoir of the portable filling and refill case into the fluid chamber of the PV. Thus, when the PV is in the refill position or is moved to the refill position, the dosage of the electronic liquid can be delivered to the PV. When the PV is not in the refill mechanism, the PV valve can be closed so that the electronic liquid is stored in the PV.

[0200] In the next section, we will explain the PV and the case with reference to the drawings.

[0201] Figures 6 and 7 With reference to the above, a portable charging and refill case (100) according to the present invention is illustrated. The portable charging and refill case (100) houses a fluid reservoir (3) and a rechargeable case battery (68), both of which are removable and replaceable by the user. The PV holder or receptacle chassis (2) is a holder sized to tightly accommodate a PV (1); it is illustrated in an open form and adapted to store an electronic cigarette (1) or any other PV in a specific position that allows the PV (1) to accurately engage with and align with the electric charging contacts, data transfer contacts, and electronic-liquid refill nozzles all within the case. In this embodiment, the PV holder or receptacle chassis (2) is pivotally attached to the main body of the portable charging and refill case (100), so that in a closed form, the PV (1) is tightly stored within the casing of the portable charging and refill case (100).

[0202] When in use, the electronic cigarette PV (1) is placed in the PV holder or receptacle chassis (2), and then the chassis (2) is moved into a closed form to store and / or refill the electronic cigarette PV (1). In the closed form, the electronic cigarette (1) is in the refill position and can be pressed to engage with the electronic liquid reservoir (3) in the case (100) for receiving a dose of electronic liquid from the fluid (usually, 0.1 ml is pumped across for each downward pumping stroke, as mentioned above). Alternatively, the electronic cigarette (1) can be refilled upon insertion into the PV holder (2) using several other fluid delivery actions, such as a pressure pump, an electric pump, a peristaltic pump, etc.

[0203] The electronic cigarette (1) can also recharge its internal battery (59) as well as its electronic-fluid chamber from the recharge case (100). This provides the user with the advantage that, since refilling and recharging can be achieved directly and messily from the portable charging and refill case (100), there is no longer a need to carry spare cartridges of electronic-fluid to refill the electronic cigarette (1) or spare batteries to power the PV.

[0204] do 7 At a schematic level, an example of a portable charging and refill case (100) is illustrated in a cross-sectional view, and an electronic cigarette (1) for the portable charging and refill case (100) is illustrated. The electronic-liquid chamber of the electronic cigarette (1) is adapted to receive and store a single dose of electronic-liquid fluid. The reservoir (3) of the portable charging and refill case (100) stores multiple doses of electronic-liquid and is connected to a dispensing pump (4). The pump (4) includes a valve (34), valve seals (13 & 14), and a bias spring (87). When the pump (4) is operated, a dose of electronic-liquid is transferred from the portable charging and refill case (100) to the electronic-liquid chamber of the electronic cigarette (1) through a hollow shaft (61).

[0205] The electronic cigarette (1) is placed in the PV holder (2) in the support position. In the support position, the electronic cigarette is released from the refill mechanism. In the embodiment, the biasing member (87) prevents the electronic cigarette (1) from engaging with the refill mechanism (4), thereby allowing the electronic cigarette to be maintained in the support position.

[0206] To operate the pump (4), the electronic cigarette (1) is pressed. The pressing of the electronic cigarette (1) overcomes the biasing force provided by the biasing member (87) and causes the electronic cigarette (1) to move to the refill position or refill by being pressed downward.

[0207] When refilling, the electronic cigarette engages with a refill mechanism (4) to accommodate a dose of electronic liquid. A counter (not shown; part of the electronic devices in the case) monitors the number of doses dispensed by the refill mechanism (4) and displays the value on a display in the case and / or transmits usage data to an auxiliary device (e.g., a smartphone) having a display for the user via a wire (e.g., USB) or wirelessly (e.g., Bluetooth). The counter can display the number of doses dispensed by the refill mechanism (4) since the counter was last reset and / or display the total number of doses dispensed by the refill mechanism (4). This provides the user with the advantage of having the opportunity to monitor their consumption. The counter can indicate to the user when the fluid reservoir (3) holds a volume less than a threshold (e.g., when the vapor fluid in the reservoir is almost consumed).

[0208] Detection that the amount of vapor fluid in the reservoir is lower than a threshold value can be used to trigger the replacement of the fluid reservoir, for example, by automatically directing the delivery of the fluid reservoir replacement.

[0209] Fig. 7 In the schematic diagram, the chassis (2) is merely a holder for the PV and pump (4) mechanism; in a more detailed description of the working device, we will see later in this Section A (e.g. Fig. 26 inside Fig. 31 The chassis also supports the case battery, electronic devices, and electronic-liquid reservoir; this will simplify the connection between the pump and the electronic-liquid reservoir, thereby eliminating the need for flexible electronic-liquid pipes.

[0210] Fig. 8The example illustrates an additional example of a portable charging and refill case (100) for use. Here, a PV holder (2) is rotatably connected to the portable charging and refill case (100) and swivels in an open form to accommodate an electronic cigarette (1). To refill the electronic cigarette (1) with an electronic liquid, the electronic cigarette (1) is placed in the PV holder (2) when the PV holder (2) is in the open form. Then, the PV holder (2) is moved to a closed form. In the closed form, the position of the electronic cigarette (1) allows the electronic cigarette (1) to engage with a refill mechanism (4) to accommodate a specific or predetermined dose of electronic liquid.

[0211] Fig. 9 The interaction between the electronic cigarette (1) and the refill mechanism (4) is illustrated in more detail. The refill mechanism (4) includes a hollow stem shaft (61) that engages with the electronic cigarette (1) when the electronic cigarette (1) is in the refill position. Pushing the PV (1) downward to the refill position causes the vapor fluid to be pumped from the fluid reservoir (3) to the electronic cigarette (1). In the example, the refill mechanism (4) is electronically controlled. For example, the pump (4) can be operated, or the refill valve (34) can be opened in response to a received signal.

[0212] Fig. 10 The illustration shows an electronic cigarette (1) stored in a refill position within a portable charging and refill case (100). When the PV holder (2) is in a closed position, electronic liquid is pumped from the fluid reservoir (3) into the liquid chamber of the electronic cigarette (1) to refuel the electronic cigarette (1). For example, this is achieved by the upper part (32) of the PV being pushed downward by a camming action when the holder (2) is closed, thereby overcoming the bias spring (87). Alternatively, the electronic pump can be activated when the PV is in a closed position. Additionally, the electronic cigarette (1) can recharge its battery (59) from the rechargeable case battery (68) of the portable charging and refill case (100).

[0213] Fig. 11 Referring to the illustration, an electronic cigarette (1) for a portable charging and refill case (100) is illustrated. The electronic cigarette (1) has a liquid chamber (48) for storing an electronic liquid dose. The liquid chamber is connected to a PV valve (29). When the electronic cigarette (1) is connected to the refill mechanism (4) of the portable charging and refill case (100), the PV valve (29) is opened to allow an electronic liquid dose to enter the chamber (48). When the electronic cigarette (1) is not connected to the refill mechanism (4), the PV valve (29) is closed so that the vapor liquid is stored in the liquid chamber and does not leak out.

[0214] It will be understood that the portable charging and refill case (100) is not limited in shape and may not be rectangular. The refill mechanism (4) may not include a pump, except for some other types of fluid delivery mechanisms, and refilling the electronic cigarette fluid into the electronic cigarette (1) may be achieved by alternative means. Furthermore, the charging function may also occur by using a fixed (e.g. desktop-based; plugged into a power socket) charging station instead of using the portable charging and refill case.

[0215] For example, now Fig. 12 and Fig. 13 Referring to the, modified embodiments are illustrated in which the PV holder (2) is rotatably connected to a portable charging and refill case (100). More specifically, Fig. 12 This illustrates an embodiment in which a PV holder is formed as a recess on the side of a portable charging and refill case (100). The recess is adapted to accommodate the PV (1).

[0216] Fig. 13This illustrates an alternative embodiment in which the PV holder is formed as a cylindrical hollow barrel along the central longitudinal axis of the circular portable filling and refill case (100). The PV can be positioned as a hollow barrel in a support position ( Fig. 13, left side As shown in ). At the support position, the PV is released from the refill mechanism.

[0217] In the embodiment, an unillustrated biasing member prevents the PV from engaging with the refill mechanism, thereby keeping the PV in a supported position. To operate the refill mechanism of the portable filling and refill case (100), the PV is pushed further into the hollow barrel. This additional pressing of the PV overcomes the biasing force provided by the biasing member, and the PV Fig. 13, right side Move to the refill location as shown in [image].

[0218] At the refill position, the PV is connected to a refill mechanism to receive a dose of electronic liquid from the storage of the portable charging and refill case (100).

[0219] do 14 When the electronic cigarette PV is pressed down onto the refill nozzle of the case, the case charging contacts electrically contact the electronic cigarette PV charging contacts that electrically connect the electronic cigarette to the case battery, and accordingly, the electronic cigarette can recharge its internal battery from the rechargeable case battery; thereby, both the PV and its electronic liquid reservoir are replenished when inserted into the case. The electronic contacts can also provide mechanisms for data to be transmitted to the portable case through the PV.

[0220] Non-pressurized pump technology can be used in this design to dispense a predetermined volume of electronic liquid. The device consists of a single pump with a hollow control tube. The pump has a chamber having a predefined volume of electronic liquid to be received for dispensing. When the PV is pressed, force is applied to the electronic liquid under pressure, out through the pump nozzle from the electronic liquid pump and into the PV chamber through a one-way valve. When the pump is released, it returns to its original state under a spring mechanism, and in doing so, draws liquid into the liquid chamber through the hollow control tube to replenish the pump, thereby becoming ready to deliver electronic liquid to the PV during the next downstroke of the PV.

[0221] The pump is preferably a pump referred to as a "high-delivery" pump, which makes it possible to fill bottles by operating the pump only once. For example, the pump is appropriately used to deliver 0.1 ml / shot to refuel a PV chamber.

[0222] The pump dosage volume can be predefined or variable depending on usage requirements. For variable dosages, pump movement can be variably limited by a screw mechanism. For example, half normal pump movement equals half liquid suction and ejection.

[0223] Pressurized pump technology can also be used: a liquid cartridge can be pressurized, like a small aerosol, to move predetermined volumes of liquid. The vaporizer can incorporate a valve containing a liquid chamber. When the system is pressurized, no 'pump' is required; instead, the fluid moves directly from the cartridge to the PV chamber, where the volume is fixed.

[0224] Operating system

[0225] In the next section, we will describe the operating system. For clarity, we will write the defined terms indexed in the brief description section of the drawings in capital letters. The relevant drawings are Fig. 20 inside Fig. 69 We propose reviewing these drawings using an index of defined terms as the first step in understanding the system.

[0226] The system includes several main components, a personal vaporizer (1) and a portable, personal refill and recharge case (100). Fig. 20 It illustrates the function, test prototype (i.e., not the industrial design finish of the final consumer product). The rest of the fabrication drawings also pertain to this test prototype. The case (100) is illustrated having a left side (6) and a right side (7). The case includes a receptacle chassis (2); the receptacle chassis (2) acts as a PV holder, firmly receiving the PV (1) when it is inserted into the case (6, 7). The receptacle chassis also acts as a mount on which the electronic-liquid reservoir (3), fluid delivery mechanism (4), battery (68), and related components are placed.

[0227] The entire receptacle chassis (2) rotates 15° relative to the internal pivot screw (18) of the case (6, 7), and the receptacle chassis (2) is screw (35)( Fig. 26 Leaf spring (17) attached to the receptacle chassis (2) via (first illustrated in) Fig. 26 By (first depicted in), it is closed by being biased in a positive direction, 0°.

[0228] Fig. 20 The figure illustrates an equidistant view of the case (100) with the receptacle chassis (2) completely closed; Fig. 21 The receptacle chassis (2) is rotated 15° open and the upper part of the PV (1) is fully inserted into the PV holder part of the receptacle chassis (2), showing an equal angle of the case (100). Fig. 22 Is PV (1) is slightly raised and is an isometric view of the case (100) ready for the user to withdraw from the case (100). PV (1) is heated to its operating temperature using the battery in the case and is 'ready to vape'. Fig. 23 The receptacle chassis (2) itself illustrates an equal angle. Fig. 24 This illustrates the isometric view of the PV (1) (again, note that this is a test prototype and not a consumer version). The PV (1) has a tip (32); at the end of the tip (32), there is a centrally located aperture through which the electronic fluid passes when refilling the PV (1). A seal inlet (27) seals the aperture near the pump nozzle of the fluid delivery mechanism to prevent leakage or outflow of the electronic fluid. Three radially arranged vents are located around this central aperture; vents for vapor intake are present. A ring connector assembly (49) at the other end of the PV (1) provides electrical power and data contacts that engage with the electrical power and data contacts in the case (100). The tube body (56) contains all components.

[0229] Fig. 25[Figure] illustrates a cross-sectional view of the PV (1). Starting from the left side, a seal inlet (27) seals the PV near the fluid delivery nozzle in the case; a valve (29) allows the electronic liquid to pass up into the PV and prevents it from leaking out after it is biased in place by the spring (30). The valve (29) opens when force is applied by the fluid, induced by the fluid delivery mechanism, which exceeds the force of the spring (30). Grub screws (31) hold the valve (29) and the spring (30) in place. An O-ring (28) seals the tip (32) near the body of the PV (1). The atomizer includes a coil and wick assembly (52) having a vaporizer end cap (50) and a vaporizer insulation sleeve (51). A fluid chamber (48) stores the electronic liquid; lengths of the wick element extending parallel to the body of the PV are completely submerged in the electronic liquid within the fluid chamber (48); A wicking element that extends vertically to the main body of the PV and around which an electronic heating element is wound is not, however, immersed in the electronic liquid and draws the electronic liquid upward from the completely immersed limbs. Furthermore, an O-ring (28) seals the electronic liquid chamber (48) from the remainder of the tube body (56) of the PV (1). The outer body (53) of the PV surrounds the vaporizer.

[0230] The carburetor outer body (53) and the carburetor inner body (55) are insulated by a bush vaporizer body (54). Current is transmitted to the carburetor inner body (55) through a wire connected to the PCB (60). One leg of the coil (52) contacts the carburetor inner body (55), and the other coil leg contacts the carburetor outer body (53). This Fig. 62 Most of it can be clearly seen from this. The outer body (53) of the carburetor is connected to ground.

[0231] The pressure sensor / transducer (58) is mounted behind the vaporizer unit in the pressure sensor housing (57). It is wired to the PCB (60). An Arduino chip (66) mounted on the PCB (60) can be used to monitor, control, set, and provide feedback on information related to vaping functionality.

[0232] A 3.7V 140mAh LiPo battery (59) is placed on a PCB (60). The base of the PCB (60) is wired to a ring connector (49) having four connections - one power, one ground, and two signals. The ring connector (49) consists of alternating ring contacts (42) and insulating rings (43), is mounted on a screw (44), and ends with a terminal cap (36).

[0233] When air is drawn through the PV (1), the pressure sensor / transducer (58) is activated, causing current to be transmitted to the coil / wick assembly (52). The coil heats the wick immersed in the vaping fluid, emitting vapor that is carried by the airflow.

[0234] O-rings (28) seal the vaping chamber (48) from the air passage. An integrated (and therefore very strong) stainless steel tube (56) houses all parts as mentioned above with cutouts so that an RGB LED (64) can display the status of the PV (1) for both battery power and fluid level vaping. An additional small hole is placed over a reset switch (65) mounted on a PCB (60).

[0235] PV (1) charges its 140mAh battery through the ring connector (49). In addition, information is supplied back to the PCB main case (16) through 2 connections on the ring connector (49).

[0236] We now Fig. 26 Looking at this, we see a cross-sectional view of a case (100) in which the receptacle chassis (2) is completely closed by the case; PV (1) is omitted for clarity. Fig. 27The figure illustrates a cross-sectional view of a case (100) with the receptacle chassis (2) rotated 15° open, again with the PV not inserted for clarity. To load / insert the PV (1) into the receptacle chassis (2), hand pressure is applied to the exposed lower section of the receptacle chassis (2). The receptacle chassis (2) uses hand pressure, Fig. 26 As illustrated in, from its closed position, also 27 It is rotated to the 15° "open" position shown in the figure, and the leaf spring (17) supplies resistance to be supported by leaning against the inner walls of the case (6 & 7).

[0237] Fig. 27The diagram clearly illustrates how all the important components required in the case (100) are mounted on the receptacle chassis (2). The important components are the electro-liquid pump (4), which is placed in the void in the electro-liquid cartridge (3). A hollow stem shaft (61) is biased upward by a spring and protrudes from one end of the pump (4); when the PV is pressed near this hollow stem shaft (61), it presses the corresponding hollow stem shaft (61) downward, applying force to move the electro-liquid in the pump (4) over the hollow stem shaft (61) to the PV; the electro-liquid cannot return to the reservoir (3) because the ball valve (34) at the base of the pump (4) is closed. Additionally, a rechargeable battery (68) and a solenoid (22) that triggers an interlock mechanism, and a lever or pawl (10) having a tooth at one end positioned near the sliding contact block (5) are mounted on the receptacle chassis (2). When the sliding contact block (5) is fully engaged with the PV, the pawl rises near the edge of the sliding contact block (5) and locks, preventing it from moving back into the case (100) and thereby locking the PV in place. Various PCB components are also shown mounted on the receptacle chassis (2), such as microswitches (70) and the PCB (16). Screws (35) and a leaf spring (17) mounted near the receptacle chassis (2) are, Fig. 26 As illustrated in [Figure], it biases the receptacle chassis (2) in a closed position; it Fig. 27 It is depicted in its open position.

[0238] Fig. 28 Moving on, we now see the PV (1) fully inserted into the receptacle chassis (2), which is completely closed within the case (100). The PV (1) is held in place by a small ridge on the upper part of the sliding contact block (5) that engages with the upper circumferential channel of the PV (1).

[0239] There is no power from the receptacle chassis (2) to the coil & wick assembly (52) or solenoid (22). The system is in standby mode.

[0240] The receptacle chassis (2) is in the closed 0° position.

[0241] The pole / lever (10) is biased 6° horizontally by the spring (19) and is in its separated position.

[0242] The 4-way sliding contact block (5) is pushed by the cam block (8) into contact with the ring connector assembly (49) - the action of rotating the receptacle chassis (2) to the closed 0° position advances the 4-way sliding contact block (5) toward the spring (23) (for more details on the operation of the 4-way sliding contact block (5) Fig. 32 inside Fig. 35 reference).

[0243] Fig. 29 It illustrates a device in an activated mode in which the solenoid (22) is activated and the pole / lever (10) is activated to lock the sliding contact block (5) in place.

[0244] Power is supplied from the receptacle chassis (2) to the solenoid (22). Power is supplied to the solenoid (22) when a small angular displacement with respect to the case (6 & 7) of the receptacle chassis (2) activates the micro-switch (70) attached to the case (6 & 7).

[0245] The receptacle chassis (2) is in the closed 0° position.

[0246] The pole / lever is pushed upward at 0° to its engaged position, horizontal by the solenoid (22), locking the 4-way sliding contact block (5) into electrical contact with the ring connector assembly (49) (for more details regarding the operation of the 4-way sliding contact block (5) Fig. 32 inside Fig. 35 (Reference). Accordingly, a mechanical interlock is formed between the 4-way sliding contact block (5) and the PV (1).

[0247] Fig. 30 It shows the preheated mode. : The receptacle chassis (2) is now fully opened; the PV (1) is locked in place and the sliding contact block (5) is also locked in place by the pole / lever (10); current is drawn from the case battery (68) to heat the coil in the PV (1) and the coil in the wick assembly (52).

[0248] Power is supplied from the coil & wick assembly (52) in the receptacle chassis (2) only when the receptacle chassis (2) is fully rotated to its open position at 15°.

[0249] The pole / lever is pushed upward to 0° horizontally by the solenoid (22) in its engaged position.

[0250] The 4-way sliding contact block (5) makes electrical contact with the ring connector assembly (49). (For more details regarding the operation of the 4-way sliding contact block (5) Fig. 32 inside Fig. 35 reference).

[0251] The mechanical interlock between the 4-way sliding contact block (5) and the PV (1) is continuously engaged.

[0252] When preheating is complete, the solenoid (22) releases the pole / lever (10) and the sliding contact block (5) is withdrawn from the PV (1), and this is the next step 31 As illustrated, the shaft (61) in the pump (4) is biased to rise slightly upward out of the case (100). Therefore, Fig. 31 It displays the activated mode.

[0253] No power is supplied to the coil & wick assembly (52) or solenoid (22) from the receptacle chassis (2).

[0254] The receptacle chassis (2) is 3mm in line with PV (1) and open at 15°.

[0255] The 4-way sliding contact block (5) is disconnected from the ring connector assembly (49) under pressure from the spring (23). (For more details regarding the operation of the 4-way sliding contact block (5) Fig. 32 inside Fig. 35 reference).

[0256] The pole / lever (10) is biased 6° from the horizontal by the spring (19) and is in its unfastened position.

[0257] The mechanical interlock between the 4-way sliding contact block (5) and the PV (1) is now released.

[0258] Fig. 32 inside Fig. 37 This illustrates the operation of the 4-way sliding contact block (5).

[0259] The 4-way sliding contact block (5) connects power, ground, and two signal inputs / outputs from the PCB main case (16) to the PV PCB (60). A mechanical interlock between the 4-way sliding contact block (5) and the PV (1) is incorporated into the following design: the body (46) of the 4-way sliding contact block (5) has a finger projection that engages with an undercut on a PV ring connector (49) providing an interlock facility. This illustrates the locking of the finger projection to the PV. FIGS. 32 to 34 , and showing that the 4-way sliding contact block (5) is now released after it slides back into the case and PV (1), Fig. 35 It is most evident when comparing.

[0260] The 4-way sliding contact block (5) has a pawl / lever in a 6° position that is usually released and is biased away from and out of contact with the ring connector (49) on the PV by a threaded spring (23) when mounted on a receptacle chassis (2) in an open 15° position. Fig. 35 .

[0261] The 4-way sliding contact block (5) is FIGS. 32 to 33 As shown in the illustration, when the receptacle chassis (2) is rotated back to the closed 0° position in the case (6 & 7)—for example, when storing PV—it is pushed into contact with the PV ring connector (49).

[0262] The cam block (8) is fixed to the case (6 & 7). When the receptacle chassis (2) rotates into the case (6 & 7), the spring (23) biasing the 4-way sliding contact block (5) is compressed because the 4-way sliding contact block (5) is supported by leaning against the cam block (8).

[0263] The 4-way sliding contact block (5) includes 4 contact fingers (24). Fig. 36 and Fig. 37It clearly illustrates these—a 4-way sliding contact block (46) and five support rings (45)—housing in the main body. Four lines are connected to the contact fingers (24). These are connected to the pads on the PCB main case (16). The 4-way sliding contact block (5) is limited to 2 mm in its linear movement by the guide plate (9).

[0264] Fig. 38 This is an exploded view of the case (100) and its components, and its detailed operation has been described above. The receptacle chassis (2) forms the main housing for all major components. When the device is assembled, the cover (12) is fitted snugly. The receptacle chassis houses the PCB main case (16). It has a micro USB connector (67) for communicating and recharging the main battery and a 650mAh battery (68) connected thereto. The PCB main case (16) is secured to the receptacle chassis (2) by PCB standoffs (69). These also serve as fixing holes for the lid (12). A solenoid (22) is attached to the receptacle chassis (2) via a solenoid mounting block (11), and control is provided to the solenoid mounting block (11) via a slotted screw hole. The PCB main case (16) has an Arduino chip mounted thereon that controls all electrical functions associated with the devices. As a result, it is possible for users to change the power delivered to the atomizer and thereby customize the vaping experience to their specific preferences. The Arduino chip can be controlled by a connected smartphone app that communicates with the Arduino chip via Bluetooth LE. The following types of data can be tracked by the Arduino chip and relayed to the user's connected smartphone app:

[0265] Recovery of PV exiting the case

[0266] Duration of out-of-case PV

[0267] The internal clock used by the Arduino chip stores data regarding initial use; that is, if it is disconnected for several days, it stores data.

[0268] Regarding pairing with phone GPS and time data

[0269] Number of inhalations

[0270] Duration of each inhalation

[0271] Frequency of inhalation

[0272] Depth of inhalation

[0273] Power supplied to the atomizer

[0274] Current and / or voltage supplied to the atomizer

[0275] Battery Power Level - Case and PV

[0276] Number of times PV was inserted into and / or withdrawn from the case

[0277] The recovery pumped by the PV to refill it with e-liquid

[0278] Remaining vapes (calculated from data)

[0279] Remaining cartridge e-liquid volume - (Calculated from data)

[0280] Whether a new cartridge should be instructed

[0281] Command to indicate a new cartridge

[0282] Types of electronic liquids used (e.g., strength, scent, mixtures of different electronic liquids)

[0283] Unique IDs for the case and PV, and accordingly, the case will only work with the specified PV.

[0284] Additionally, although this may increase complexity and cost, it may be possible to include power control buttons, dials, etc. on the case (100) itself. A display is provided on the receptacle chassis to deliver the device to the user.

[0285] We will now look at the details of the fluid transfer mechanism. The relevant drawings are Fig. 40 , Fig. 41 and Fig. 42 am.

[0286] The fluid transfer operation is as follows: PV (1) is fed into the receptacle chassis aperture (2) when it stops near the top of the pump (4). Pushing PV (1) further closer to the pump (4) causes an additional 3 mm linear movement and transfer of a quantified amount of e-liquid vaping fluid from the receptacle chassis (2) to PV (1). Approximately 0.1 ml of e-liquid is transferred per pumping rate. The reservoir in PV can typically store 1 ml or 2 ml of e-liquid. The fluid chamber (48) of PV (1) can be filled by repeatedly pushing PV (1) down near the pump (4).

[0287] Relieving the pressure of the hand on the lower section of the receptacle chassis (2) causes the receptacle chassis (2) to return to its closed 0° position under the force of the leaf spring (17), thereby closing the PV (1) into the receptacle chassis (2) for safe storage. The device geometry ensures that the upper part of the PV (1) is cammed downward near the upper inner walls of the case (6 & 7) when the receptacle chassis (2) returns to its closed 0° position.

[0288] The case (100) can accommodate a custom-designed 5ml fluid reservoir (3) that can be fitted and withdrawn from the receptacle chassis (2) by pushing in and pulling out. Other sizes of the fluid reservoir (3) are also possible, usually up to 10ml. It is held by a molded rim (62) and sealed to the pump (4) by an integral molded lip seal (63). Different types of vaping fluids can be easily changed without requiring disassembly of the device.

[0289] Fig. 40 The diagram illustrates a loading-discharging position in which the receptacle chassis (2) is in an open 15° position. The pump (4) is mounted on the receptacle chassis (2) and interposed between the valve mounting cup (13) and the valve mounting cap (14). The reservoir (3) is pushed from below into the slot in the receptacle chassis (2), and the molding rim (62) is clicked into the undercut section in the receptacle chassis (2). The reservoir gasket (15) applies pressure to the molding rim (62) to maintain contact with the undercut. The reservoir (3) can be easily inserted and withdrawn by the user. The reservoir (3) has a molding rim seal (63) as an integral feature sealing near the pump (4). The PV (1) is positioned near the hollow stem shaft (61) of the pump (4) but has not yet started to press against the hollow stem shaft (61).

[0290] Fig. 41The refill position is illustrated, and the receptacle chassis (2) is still in the open 15° position. The PV (1) is now illustrated as being flushed into the valve mounting cup (13) and pump (4). The hollow stem shaft (61) is pressed down 3 mm by the PV (1). Fluid is delivered over the pump (4) hollow stem shaft (61) and opens the valve (29) at the PV tip (32). The seal (27) rests on the upper part of the pump (4) hollow stem shaft (61) and supports it. The valve (29) is moved out of its seat by the pressure of the delivered electro-liquid fluid. The spring (30) returns the valve (29) to its seat after the pressure equalizes with the vaping fluid entering the fluid chamber (48).

[0291] Fig. 42 This illustrates the standby position - closed 0° position. The hollow stem shaft (61) is fully compressed and the PV (1) is in a dormant state. The electronic liquid previously pumped into the PV (1) is maintained with the PV (1), and accordingly, it is kept ready for use.

[0292] The detailed operation of the pump (4) will now be explained. The related drawings are Fig. 50 , Fig. 51 , Fig. 52 and Fig. 53 am.

[0293] Fig. 50 The pump (4) is shown at its starting position, ready for initial priming.

[0294] The pump (4) has a non-return ball valve (34) at the fluid inlet end (81) and a slide valve at the fluid outlet end (82). The non-return ball valve (34) consists of a steel ball bearing that moves within a short slotted tube (83) using retaining barbs at one end and seats with a shallow taper at the other end closest to the fluid inlet end (81).

[0295] The slide valve consists of a through hole (84) in a piston rod (86) that is covered or exposed by the action of a piston (85) sliding back and forth across the through hole (84).

[0296] The pump has a piston assembly comprising a valve stem (88), a piston rod (86), a piston (85), and a bias spring (87). The valve stem (88) and the piston rod (86) are permanently joined together and move as one. The piston (85) slides on the piston rod (86) and on the valve stem (88). The bias spring (87) holds the piston (85) in a forward position at the start of its 3 mm stroke and covers the slide valve through-hole (84).

[0297] Applying an axial force to the valve stem (88) of the pump (e.g., as occurs when the PV (1) is pressurized downward on the receptacle chassis (2)) causes the piston assembly to move forward inside the pump body, thereby pressurizing the fluid in front of the piston (85) in the fluid chamber (80). The non-return ball valve (34) prevents the fluid from simply discharging back into the fluid reservoir (3).

[0298] When the hydraulic pressure increases, it overcomes the force applied to the piston (85) by the bias spring (87), thereby causing the piston to move backward relative to the piston rod (86).

[0299] Fig. 51 The piston (85) is shown at the end of its 3 mm stroke; the bias spring (87) is now fully compressed by 1.2 mm. The piston return spring is also now fully compressed by 3 mm. The lubrication through-hole (84) in the piston rod (86) is exposed because the piston (85) is pushed back against the piston rod (86) by increased hydraulic pressure, which exceeds the pressure of the bias spring (87).

[0300] The pressurized fluid in the fluid chamber (80) can now be discharged through the exposed lubrication-through hole (84) and over the inside of the piston rod (86) and valve stem (88) when the piston assembly completes its stroke.

[0301] The electronic liquid of the metering volume (0.1 ml) is discharged into the PV (1) when the piston assembly reaches the peak of its stroke.

[0302] Fig. 52 This illustrates that when the hydraulic pressure drops below the bias spring force, the piston (85) slides forward along the piston rod (86) and covers the lubrication-through hole (84). The fluid chamber (80) is now sealed at both ends.

[0303] Fig. 53 This illustrates removing the axial force on the valve step; this causes the piston return spring (89) to return the piston assembly to its starting point. When the piston assembly returns to its starting point, a vacuum develops in the pump fluid chamber (80). This pulls the non-return ball valve (34) out of its seat, causing fluid from the reservoir to fill the void in the fluid chamber (80).

[0304] The pump cycle is now complete. (As a preliminary step, rotating the piston assembly several times may not be required to remove air from the fluid chamber (80) and replace it with fluid. The fluid chamber (80) is now filled.)

[0305] It is also possible to directly integrate the pump into a user-rechargeable cartridge. This offers several advantages—specifically, if the pump fails, it is only the cartridge that needs replacing, rather than the entire case. Additionally, since the pump is part of the case, if different e-liquid flavors are required, different cartridges must be swapped into the case. Significant residue from the previous flavor may remain within the pump and potentially affect the vaping experience. Integrating the pump into a cartridge eliminates the problem of flavor contamination caused by previous e-liquid residue within the pump.

[0306] This variant FIGS. 55 to 59 It is illustrated in [figure]. The same 0.1 ml pump is used, and its operation is basically as described above. The fluid reservoir (3) has a capacity of 5 ml and is formed as part of the body mold. The body cavity is sealed with a valve cap (90) mold, which is ultrasonically welded to the body. The valve cap (90) at the fluid outlet of the combined pump and cartridge locks the pump in place and also provides guidance to the valve stem (61).

[0307] The combined pump and cartridge include an overflow valve. This consists of a tapered valve seat (91) in the body mold, a steel ball bearing (92), and a return spring (93). The tapered valve seat (91) is located at the end of the bore, which is slightly larger than the bore of the steel ball bearing (92). Channels are present in the bore to enable fluid flow under bypass conditions. The taper is 180° parallel to the non-return valve taper.

[0308] Under normal operation, the overflow valve ball (92) is held in place in its tapered housing by a return spring (93). When a condition occurs where the hydraulic pressure in the pump fluid chamber (80) exceeds the design pressure, the overflow valve ball (92) is forced out of its seat against the resistance provided by the return spring (93). The fluid passes through the steel ball (92) and returns to the storage chamber (3)—this is a bypass condition.

[0309] The integrated pump / reservoir / overflow valve may be in one of the following five different conditions:

[0310] Starting position - Fig. 55 As illustrated in

[0311] The pump fluid chamber (80) is in a filled state.

[0312] The non-return valve ball (34) is placed in its tapered housing.

[0313] The overcurrent valve ball (92) is placed in its tapered housing.

[0314] The pump piston assembly covers the slide valve lubrication through hole (84).

[0315] The fluid in the pump fluid chamber (80) is sealed.

[0316] Starting position - Fig. 56 As illustrated in

[0317] The pump piston assembly moves through its 3mm downward stroke.

[0318] The hydraulic pressure in the pump fluid chamber (80) overcame the bias spring (87) force that enables the upward movement of the piston (85).

[0319] The slide valve is opened so that the fluid flow from the pump fluid chamber (80) flows through the fluid supply through hole (84) to the fluid discharge port (82).

[0320] The non-return valve (34) is kept closed.

[0321] Keep the overcurrent valve (92) closed.

[0322] Downward position - Fig. 57 As illustrated in

[0323] The bias spring (87) has a piston (85) covering the fluid supply through hole (84) and closes the slide valve.

[0324] The volume of fluid in the fluid chamber (80) was consumed by 0.1 ml.

[0325] The remaining fluid in the fluid chamber (80) is no longer pressurized.

[0326] The piston return spring (87) is compressed and applies an upward force to the piston assembly (85).

[0327] Bypass position (this is subject to the condition that hydraulic design limits are exceeded and thus protected from damage to the pump (4) and PV (1)) - Fig. 58 As shown in

[0328] The slide valve is in the open position, and the piston (85) does not cover the fluid supply through hole (84).

[0329] The hydraulic pressure in the pump fluid chamber (80) and valve stem (88) exceeds the design pressure.

[0330] The non-return ball valve (34) is closed.

[0331] The pressure-releasing overflow valve (92) opens against the pressure from the return spring (93). The ball valve (92) is forced out of its seat by the excess hydraulic pressure in the pump fluid chamber (80). The fluid flows around the ball valve (92), through the channels, and back to the reservoir (3).

[0332] When a sufficient volume of fluid is extracted from the pump fluid chamber (80) to the reservoir (3), the hydraulic pressure is reduced in the pump fluid chamber (80), causing the pump piston assembly to complete its stroke. The bias spring (87) pushes the 85 piston over the fluid supply-through hole (84), closing the sliding valve.

[0333] The pump is now in a "downward" condition.

[0334] The positions of both "open" and "bypass" precede the "downward" position.

[0335] Return location - Fig. 59 As illustrated in

[0336] The axial force is removed from the valve stem (88).

[0337] The pump piston assembly returns to its starting position under the force of the return spring (89).

[0338] The vacuum in the pump fluid chamber (80) develops following the pump piston assembly returning to its starting position.

[0339] The vacuum causes the non-return valve ball (34) to move out of its tapered seat, allowing fluid from the reservoir (3) to fill the void.

[0340] The pump fluid chamber (80) is now filled, and the non-return valve ball (34) is placed on its seat.

[0341] The pump is now at the starting position.

[0342] We will now take a close look at PV(1) itself.

[0343] Previously, we [saw] a cross-section of PV(1) ( Fig. 25 I saw ). Fig. 60 It shows the decomposition of PV(1) and Fig. 61 It illustrates the equal angle of PV(1). Fig. 62 This illustrates one design of an atomizer assembly. The PV (1) includes a PV tip (32) comprising a valve (29), a valve spring (30), and a groov screw (31). The PV tip (32) also has three center holes connected to an airway, which allow vaporized liquid to be drawn in. In this design of the atomizer, the heating coil is perpendicular to the major axis of the PV (1). Fig. 63 The illustration depicts an alternative design in which the wicking material has the same 'U' shape but also includes a long element extending along the major axis of the PV (1). The heating coil (98) is wound around this long element and the coil & wick assembly (52) which is then held by the chassis (99). The advantage of this alternative design is that a longer heating coil (98) can be used, and the airflow across the heated coil (98) is more uniform and effective because the coil extends parallel to the airflow instead of perpendicular to it.

[0344] Regarding the vertical and parallel arrangement of the two, the carburetor is positioned behind the tip (32) and consists of a coil and wick assembly (52), a carburetor outer body (53), and a carburetor inner body (55). This is insulated by a bush carburetor body (54). Current is transmitted to the carburetor inner body (55) through a wire connected to the PCB (60). One leg of the coil (52) contacts the carburetor inner body (55), and the other coil leg contacts the carburetor outer body (53). This Fig. 62Most of it can be clearly seen from this. The outer body (53) of the carburetor is connected to ground.

[0345] The pressure sensor / transducer (58) is mounted behind the vaporizer unit in the pressure sensor housing (57). It is wired to the PCB (60). An Arduino chip (66) mounted on the PCB (60) can be used to monitor, control, set, and provide feedback on information related to vaping functionality.

[0346] A 3.7V 140mAh LiPo battery (59) is placed on the PCB (60). The PCB (60) is wired to a ring connector (49) with 4 connections - 1 power, 1 ground, and 2 signals.

[0347] When air is drawn through the PV (1), the pressure sensor / transducer (58) is activated, causing current to be transmitted to the coil / wick assembly (52). The coil heats the wick immersed in the vaping fluid, emitting vapor that is carried by the airflow.

[0348] O-rings (28) seal the vaping chamber (48) from the air passage. An integrated (and therefore very strong) stainless steel tube (56) houses all parts as mentioned above with cutouts so that an RGB LED (64) can display the status of the PV (1) for both battery power and fluid level vaping. An additional small hole is placed over a reset switch (65) mounted on a PCB (60).

[0349] PV (1) charges its 140mAh battery through the ring connector (49). In addition, information is supplied back to the PCB main case (16) through 2 connections on the ring connector (49).

[0350] Now we will look at the ring connector (49) in more detail. Figs. 65 & 66 These are the related drawings.

[0351] The ring connector assembly allows the PV (1) to be placed on the receptacle chassis (2) in any orientation without affecting its connectivity. Four ring contacts (42) having pins of different lengths (38, 39, 40, 41) soldered to them are separated by three insulating rings (43) that are subsequently housed in the end cap-ring connector (36). This ensemble is capped with a PCB-mounted cap / ring connector (37) secured by a screw (44). Wires are then soldered to the respective pins (38, 39, 40, 41) which are soldered to pads on the PCB (60). The ring connector assembly also has two off 1.7 mm slots that captivate the PV PCB (60). The ring connector assembly has a push fit at the end of the tube body-carburetor (56).

[0352] We will now look at variable air intake features. Changing the airflow allows the user to tailor the vaping experience to their specific preferences; for example, an experienced vaper considering generating a large volume of vapor with a variable modding kit-type PV can set the voltage used for much higher power than usual, and he can manually fix the air intake to allow him to breathe in a large volume of vapor. Switching different air intakes is generally a matter of isolating unwanted air intakes and fitting them into air intakes with the required air-hole size(s). One variant of the PV has a variable air intake system in which the casing includes inner and outer tubes; the inner tube has a matrix of air intake holes that can be lined up with the air intake holes in the outer tube; the user rotates the outer tube until the desired number of holes are lined up. For example, the inner tube can have a matrix of holes consisting of six holes formed radially at 30° intervals, regular, square, or repeating across six rows. Next, the outer tube has a square matrix of holes consisting of six holes formed radially at 30° intervals that repeat over six rows. The outer tube slides over the inner tube until the upper rows of holes match. The outer tube is rotated in 30° increments to reveal rows 0, 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, or 6 of holes in the inner tube, thereby varying the cross-sectional area of ​​air that can enter the carburetor body. Fig. 67 It depicts two rows of halls lined up and Fig. 68 It shows 5 rows lined up.

[0353] Fig. 69Another variant illustrated in [the image] comprises two tubes—an inner and an outer tube. The inner tube has a square matrix of holes consisting of six holes formed radially at 30° intervals that repeat over six rows. The outer tube has a spiral matrix of holes consisting of one hole per row, formed radially at 30° intervals that repeat over six rows—a total of six holes. The outer tube slides over the inner tube until the upper rows of holes match. The outer tube is rotated in 30° increments to reveal 0, 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, or 6 rows of holes in the inner tube, thereby varying the cross-sectional area of ​​air that can enter the carburetor body.

[0354] We will now describe the electrical functions of one embodiment in detail. Several simplifications may be used in consumer products; what we will describe below is a prototype embodiment optimized for testing.

[0355] The steps or logic are as follows:

[0356] 1) The device starts in standby mode and is inactive accordingly.

[0357] 2) The user activates the PV (1) by pressing the microswitch (70), causing it to protrude from the slot in the outer case (100).

[0358] 3) A solenoid (22) mounted on the receptacle chassis (2) is powered by a battery (68) that is also mounted on the receptacle chassis (2).

[0359] 4) The solenoid (22) locks the 4-way sliding contact block (5) close to the PV ring connector (49).

[0360] 5) Power to the solenoid (22) is limited to 10 seconds unless the receptacle chassis (2) is rotated 15°.

[0361] 6) The receptacle chassis (2) is rotated 15° against the resistance of the leaf spring (17) (the user squeezes the lower part of the chassis into the case (100)).

[0362] 7) The microswitch (70) activates the closed contacts when the 15° movement ends.

[0363] 8) When the microswitch is activated, power is transmitted from the battery (68) to the coil and wick assembly (52) in the PV (1) through the 4-way sliding connector (5) and the PV ring connector (49).

[0364] 9) The temperature of the PV coil (52) is monitored by on-board electronic devices (directly or indirectly as a function of power and time).

[0365] 10) Power supply to the coil (52) is terminated when the coil (52) reaches its operating temperature, or when a defined time has elapsed sufficiently for the coil to reach its operating temperature; typically, this is achieved in less than 1 s or 2 s.

[0366] 11) Then, power supply to the solenoid (22) is terminated, and the 4-way sliding connector (5) is unlocked.

[0367] 12) Next, the 4-way sliding connector (5) is retracted 2 mm under the force of the spring (23) to disconnect both electrical connections between the PV PCB (60) and the EPV main chassis PCB (16) and also terminate the mechanical interlock between the PV (1) and the 4-way sliding contact block (5).

[0368] 13) Next, PV (1) jumps upward and removes the receptacle chassis (2), which is ready to be removed.

[0369] 14) Next, the PV (1) is removed from the receptacle chassis (2) by the user and placed between the ribs.

[0370] 15) The user inhales from the mouthpiece of PV(1).

[0371] 16) The pneumatic sensor (58) in the air stream within the PV (1) detects air movement and transmits power to the vaporizer coil (52).

[0372] 17) The PV (1) on-board battery (59) supplies power to the vaporizer coil (52).

[0373] 18) The temperature of the PV (1) vaporizer coil (52) is monitored by on-board electronic devices while air flow is present.

[0374] 19) The temperature of the PV (1) vaporizer coil (52) is controlled by cutting off and re-energizing power from the on-board battery (59).

[0375] 20) After stopping the vaping, the PV (1) is placed at the back of the caser (100), that is, on the receptacle chassis (2).

[0376] 21) The receptacle chassis (2) receives power from the spring (17) and returns to its standby mode position, 0°.

[0377] 22) The camming action of the receptacle chassis (2) closing the outer case (6 & 7) transmits linear movement to the EPV.

[0378] 23) Linear movement causes the pump (4) to deliver vaping liquid to replenish the PV (1) on-board reservoir.

[0379] 24) PV(1) returns to standby mode - case inactive.

[0380] One additional feature is that the vaping experience is a function of multiple variables, such as e-liquid compositions, power delivered to the atomizer, temperature reached, and airflow. The case can store different profiles, such as 'lighting', 'smooth', 'intense', 'maximum vapor volume', 'maximum intensity', 'relatively warm vapor', and 'relatively cool vapor'. Each of these can also be a function of a specific e-liquid brand. Users can then select profiles and / or variables that meet their specific preferences on a smartphone app.

[0381] In addition, specific e-liquid brands can determine specific variables of the case and PV themselves. As a result, a user can choose to use the 'Marlboro' brand e-liquid on their smartphone, and the case can then automatically configure parameters, such as power and temperature, to provide an ideal experience for that specific brand. These parameters can be stored in the software or case of the case or PV. It may also be possible to obtain an application specific to the e-liquid brand from an app store, such as the Apple App Store or Google Play; then, this app can automatically configure the connected case with parameters appropriate for optimal performance for that e-liquid brand.

[0382] Section A In the previous section, we listed the behavior of the following features in detail:

[0383] Feature 1: Combined rechargeable and refillable storage and carrying case

[0384] Feature 2: Case with movable PV holder

[0385] Feature 3: Refill PVs

[0386] Feature 4: PV Locking Mechanism

[0387] Section A In the next part, we will see the following:

[0388] Feature 5. Data Connectivity

[0389] Feature 6. Electronic Execution

[0390] Features 5 & 6. Cases with Data Connectivity & Electronic Performance

[0391] In this section, we first Section A The features of data connectivity and electronic performance introduced in the beginning will be described in more detail.

[0392] To provide an overview of the data connectivity features: a portable, personal storage and carrying case for an electronic cigarette PV, comprising a data processor that controls the transmission of a signal requesting a user in the case to replace a rechargeable electronic liquid cartridge.

[0393] A related electronic performance method is a method specifically adapted for a refillable electronic cigarette PV and used in a portable, personal storage and carrying case for refilling and recharging said PV, wherein said case comprises the steps of: (a) transferring electronic liquid from a refillable electronic liquid cartridge to said PV by a user; and (b) automatically transmitting a signal to an electronic performance platform requesting a replacement of the refillable electronic liquid cartridge by a user, either directly or via a connected smartphone.

[0394] The method may include the steps of: (a) detecting the level or amount of electronic liquid within a rechargeable electronic liquid cartridge in which the user in the case detects the electronic liquid; and (b) automatically transmitting a signal to an electronic execution platform, either directly or via a connected smartphone, requesting the user to replace the rechargeable electronic liquid cartridge. Note that 'detecting the level or amount of electronic liquid within a rechargeable electronic liquid cartridge in which the user in the case detects' may be direct or indirect, for example, inferred from the number of refills of PVs equipped with the cartridge, or the total number of inhalations made with the cartridge. Machine learning may also be deployed to analyze the user's usage patterns; for example, if the user tends to vape heavily over the weekend but quite lightly during the week, this may be considered when determining when a replacement cartridge should be indicated. Likewise, the degree of direct interaction between electronic liquid vendors and end-users is possible; When there is a possibility that the user will instruct to replace the cartridge(s), special offers or offers regarding new flavors or new strengths of the e-liquid may be sent to the user (e.g., text, instant message, etc.), or other methods to reinforce brand loyalty.

[0395] Having the case transmit requests for electronic-liquid cartridge replacement is very convenient for the user and also ensures that replacement cartridges are supplied in a timely manner—this is especially important when the user is on a tobacco or nicotine reduction program, as the user may be easily tempted to use cigarettes again if the case runs out of electronic-liquid. Therefore, the validity of accepting this system as a tobacco replacement (and health concerns regarding cigarettes are the overwhelming reason for accepting electronic cigarettes) benefits greatly from the timely, automatic, background instructions for replacement cartridges.

[0396] Optional features (each of which can be combined with other features) include the following:

[0397] The data is material-consumption related data.

[0398] The cartridge(s) can be replaced by the user during normal use, but cannot be refilled by the user.

[0399] The processor is programmed to transmit data through a line or a wireless data connectivity interface.

[0400] The processor is programmed to transmit and / or receive data from the personal vaporization device.

[0401] A processor, or an associated processor, is programmed to determine and store when the case is opened and / or closed.

[0402] The processor, or related processor, is programmed to measure or record the charge level of the battery in the portable refill unit and also the charge level of the battery in the personal vaporizer.

[0403] The processor, or related processor, is programmed to detect the cartridge type and volume.

[0404] The portable refill unit is adapted to receive material consumption-related data from the personal vaporizer.

[0405] A processor, or a related processor, is programmed to measure the consumption of the above or each substance, including related factors such as time, place, and temperature.

[0406] A processor, or an associated processor, is programmed to output consumption-related data structured according to any one or more of the following variables: day / night, daily, weekly, season, weather, and any other factor.

[0407] A processor, or a related processor, is programmed to control any one or more of the following: mixing of e-liquids from different cartridges in a refill unit; nicotine or smoking cessation or reduction, periods between 'vapes'; e-liquid rearrangement; age / parental controls, social network updates; e-liquid recommendations.

[0408] A processor, or an associated processor, is programmed to use consumption-related data for the above or each material with an algorithm that calculates when to order one or more replacement cartridges or prompt a user to order one or more replacement cartridges.

[0409] A processor, or an associated processor, is programmed to direct replacement cartridges when running out by sending a request directly to an execution server, or by sending a message to a connected smartphone or wearable device for sending a request to an execution server.

[0410] A processor, or a related processor, is programmed to control the mixing and consumption of the above or other materials.

[0411] A processor, or an associated processor, is programmed to use user location data, such as location data from GPS or other satellite or ground-based positioning systems.

[0412] Location data comes from the portable refill unit itself or from the location finding system in the personal vaporizer.

[0413] A processor, or a related processor, is programmed to provide an alert to the user, either directly or via a smartphone or wearable device, when consumables for a personal vaporizer are close to being available at retail.

[0414] The processor is programmed to transmit and / or receive data using a tablet, smartphone, computing device, or any other auxiliary computing device, or using a personal vaporizer.

[0415] The above tablet, smartphone, wearable device, PC, laptop, or other auxiliary computing device is programmed to perform any of the functions listed above (e.g., using a downloadable app)—that is, the power and 3G / 4G wireless connectivity of the existing computer and the GPS capabilities of the tablet / smartphone are used instead of having to build the corresponding capabilities into a refill unit.

[0416] A processor, or an associated processor, is programmed to provide data to a downloadable smartphone application and / or receive data therefrom.

[0417] A downloadable smartphone application can control the portable refill unit.

[0418] A downloadable smartphone application can control any one or more of the following: mixing of e-liquids from different cartridges in a refill unit; nicotine cessation or reduction, duration between 'vapes'; e-liquid rearrangement; age / parental controls, social network updates; e-liquid recommendations; parameters determining PV performance or vaping experience (e.g., power, temperature, airflow).

[0419] The processor is programmed to integrate with personal assistant programs such as Google Now and Apple Siri.

[0420] The portable refill unit can be remotely locked and unlocked via a smartphone application, for example, by entering a PIN.

[0421] The portable refill unit can be remotely locked and unlocked via a smartphone application or other remote device to prevent the release of vaporization devices from the refill unit, to assist in stopping or reducing material usage, to prevent tampering, and to prevent access by children.

[0422] The portable refill unit can be automatically locked and unlocked remotely depending on whether the smartphone paired with the unit is within a specified range or whether it is exchanging appropriate data with the unit.

[0423] Data is transmitted via a wireless link or a direct electrical connection.

[0424] The following section explains these drawings with reference to the drawings; the related drawings are Fig. 70 and Figure 72.

[0425] Fig. 70[Image] is a high-level schematic diagram illustrating a portable refill case capable of communicating wirelessly and also via a wired connection to a smartphone, laptop, and modem; these devices transmit data via the Internet or other networks—this may be arbitrary consumption data (including how consumption varies according to various parameters, such as night / day, daily, weekly, season, weather, time, location, temperature, and any other factors). The data is variable, particularly for PV vendors, if it can be associated with the demographic profile of the device user; such demographic profile may be entered by the user when they register their device online (e.g., for the first purchase of PV, or when they wish to purchase e-liquid or set up an automated e-carry for replacement e-liquid), or may be extracted or inferred from information posted on social networks. The data may also be used by e-carry companies to process instructions and to provide replacement consumables (e-liquid, PV, case) to the user.

[0426] Fig. 72 It schematically illustrates that a portable refill unit includes electronic device components such as memory, wireless / wired connectivity, software, and a controller / processor. Additionally, a cartridge, each having a different flavor or strength of electronic liquid, includes four components; the case can monitor the consumption of electronic liquid in each component and share the consumption data with a connected smartphone app as well as an electronic performance platform.

[0427] The refill unit itself can measure how much e-liquid remains in its cartridge(s) or tank(s). Various methods for doing so exist as follows:

[0428] 1. Ultrasonic distance sensor for depth, some tilt sensor for detecting the angle of the cartridge and whether the electronic liquid is close to an electrical circuit between different electrical contacts at different levels within the cartridge.

[0429] 2. Measurement of the weight of the tank(s)

[0430] 3. Capacitive sensor. As the electronic liquid has a different permittivity with respect to air, if the concentric circles of the conductors are maintained in a vertical position, a change in the height of the electronic liquid will cause a proportional change in the capacitance between the conductors. This can be supplied to a circuit capable of detecting the change and thereby the change in the electronic liquid level.

[0431] 4. Using a pneumatic sensor at the top of a flexible tube, the lower part of which is accommodated directly above the bottom of the tank. The pressure in the tube changes as the electronic liquid level rises and falls. This is very safe, inexpensive, robust, and reliable.

[0432] Each of these technologies can also be used in the PV itself.

[0433] Section B. PV: Simplicity and ease of use

[0434] preceding Section A It focused on aspects of refill and recharge cases. We now look at this new Section B Next, we will proceed to describe the various features of the electronic cigarette PV itself. The PV implements a number of useful features that contribute to the user experience, defined by the simplicity and ease of use.

[0435] Section A Following the sequential numbering used in, these features are as follows:

[0436] Feature 7. Refillable and rechargeable PV

[0437] Feature 8. Preheated PV

[0438] Feature 9. PV with dosage indication

[0439] Feature 10. Drip prevention PV

[0440] We will look at each of them in turn.

[0441] Feature 7. Refillable and rechargeable PV

[0442] A significant problem with conventional e-cigarette PV designs is that refilling the cartridge reservoir can be slow and messy; it typically requires the user to purchase small bottles of e-liquid, carefully disassemble the PV, line up the bottle's nozzle, and gently squeeze to refill the cartridge. Likewise, removing used, non-refillable cartridges and replacing them with new ones is wasteful, rather than messy, especially since typical cartridges are not recyclable.

[0443] The feature is a refillable and rechargeable electronic cigarette PV that is not disassembled to refill or charge the e-liquid during normal use, nor is it disassembled for battery access, replacement, or other battery interactions.

[0444] A second aspect of this feature is a rechargeable vessel in which none of the above is detachable from any part of the casing during normal use, or is not detachable from it; a refillable and rechargeable electronic cigarette PV having a casing comprising a refillable electronic liquid reservoir and an atomizer. The body of the casing may be a monolithic, integrated casing (usually having a circular or square profile) into which the components are inserted from either or both ends.

[0445] A third aspect of this feature is a refillable and rechargeable electronic cigarette PV designed to be refillable and rechargeable only when inserted into a carrying case for the PV during normal use or otherwise secured, and the carrying case is specifically adapted to refill and recharge the PV.

[0446] Ensuring that the PV does not need to be disassembled during normal use for e-liquid charging or refilling leads to a much simpler user experience. Furthermore, it makes the design much more robust because it features a single, strong, integrated casing without the screws that would enable disassembly; robustness is critical for consumer devices that will be dropped and typically not handled gently, and will be returned to and withdrawn from their casing thousands of times.

[0447] A fourth aspect of this feature is a refillable and rechargeable electronic cigarette PV having a tip comprising: (a) an electronic liquid injection aperture designed to engage an electronic liquid delivery mechanism; (b) one or more vapor outlets distributed around the electronic liquid injection aperture; and electrical charging contacts spaced apart from the tip.

[0448] The related drawings are FIGS. 7 to 11 am. Fig. 7 It also illustrates a PV case (100) that serves as an electronic-liquid refill unit; it includes a replaceable electronic-liquid cartridge (3) and a battery (68) capable of recharging the battery in the PV (1). Fig. 7 is a cross-sectional view of the re-fit unit (100) and PV (1); Figure 8 The figure illustrates a PV (1) inserted into a refill unit (100); figure 9 It illustrates a pump dispenser in a refill unit (100) that automatically replenishes the electronic-liquid reservoir in the PV (1) while the PV (1) is pushed down; Fig. 10It illustrates a PV (1) that is fully charged and stored in a case (100). When the PV (1) is stored in the case, the PV (1) is also pushed down to activate a pump dispenser to ensure that the PV (1) is fully replenished with an electronic liquid.

[0449] PV (1) is not disassembled to refill the storage or to replenish or replace the material differently during normal use. The battery (5) in the refill unit (1) also charges the battery while PV (1) is stored in the refill unit (1).

[0450] Fig. 24 and Fig. 25 illustrated in and above Section A The detailed design of the operating prototype, which is sufficiently described in [here], also exemplifies the above features.

[0451] Feature 8. Preheated PV

[0452] Conventional electronic cigarettes usually start heating the atomizer only when an inhalation is detected; as a result, the first inhalation can provide a rather poor experience and a good vaping experience is provided only after the atomizer has sufficiently heated the e-liquid two or three times.

[0453] In this section, we describe several different 'preheated' features. By utilizing these 'preheated' features, the feature can automatically start heating, eliminating the need for an 'on' switch in the PV, which contributes to a simpler user experience and reduces costs.

[0454] The first preheated feature is a portable, personal storage and carrying case for an e-liquid electronic cigarette PV that automatically begins providing power to heat the electric atomizing element in the PV when the case in which the PV is stored is opened. By using a battery in the case to provide power for this preheating, this reduces battery consumption in the PV.

[0455] The second 'preheated' feature is an electronic cigarette PV that automatically heats the electric atomizing element when it detects that the PV is no longer in electrical contact with the charging contacts in the portable carrying case where it is stored (e.g., when the case is opened and the PV pops out of the case).

[0456] The first and second preheating features may be combined—for example, the first step is for the battery in the case to provide power for preheating when the case is opened; the second step is for the battery in the PV to take over heating when it detects that the PV is no longer in electrical contact with the electrical power contacts in the case and consequently no longer relies on power from the case. Typically, this second step occurs simply when the pressure sensor in the PV detects that the user is inhaling.

[0457] The third preheated feature is a portable, personal storage and carrying case for an electronic cigarette PV that includes a locking system for releasing a locking mechanism, for the time the PV is heating using power from a power source in the case, and for firmly locking the PV in the heating position after the PV has been sufficiently heated. The case can automatically move the PV to a position where it can be easily removed from the case by the end-user once the PV has been sufficiently heated. The user can also press the PV back down while it is inside the case to initiate heating.

[0458] In this section, we also introduce a feature of the PV that automatically indicates when it has reached an accurate operating temperature. As a personal vaporization device that stores a substance to be vaporized, the device includes means to indicate, by visual cue, auditory cue, touch feedback, haptic, vibration, heat, or other sensory signals, when the device is ready for use by sufficiently heating the substance for a predetermined time while the device turns to a predetermined temperature. Accordingly, the PV (or instead case) can indicate when the PV is ready for use because heating to an operating level has been reached or heating for a predetermined time has occurred. For example, a simple LED may light up when the PV is ready for intake.

[0459] This type of indicator is very useful because the user experience is very poor when the user attempts to inhale before the atomizer can effectively generate vapor with the correct characteristics (which occurs when the e-liquid is too cold and sticky).

[0460] The arbitrary features of the PV (each of which can be combined with other features) include the following:

[0461] Heating of the electronic liquid begins when the case storing the device, such as a portable refill case, is opened to reveal the device.

[0462] Heating of the electronic liquid can be performed by auxiliary heating elements within the PV electronic liquid chamber; these heating elements are intended not to heat the electronic liquid to its vaporization temperature but simply to raise its temperature, and thus the electronic liquid transported to the heating elements heated to its vaporization temperature by a wick is already preheated.

[0463] Heating the material to a temperature at which the device is ready for use can be predicted or inferred to be sufficient purification because the charge level of the battery used to provide power for heating the material is known with certainty.

[0464] The charge level is known with certainty because the sensor directly measures the corresponding charge level.

[0465] The charge level is clearly known because it can be estimated as fully charged since it is stored in a case containing a battery that automatically charges the battery in the device.

[0466] Heating of the material starts automatically when the device is removed from its case.

[0467] Heating of the material occurs when a new capsule containing the material to be vaporized during extraction from the case is fitted into the case or otherwise secured so that the device firmly fastens it.

[0468] The indicator is a visual indicator, or a sound velocity indicator, or a type indicator or a vibration indicator.

[0469] The following section describes these features with reference to the drawings; the related drawings are Fig. 73 am. Fig. 73 Refer to:

[0470] A: When the vaporizer is removed from the case, the electrical contacts are disconnected from the case, and the vaporizer automatically starts heating the liquid (preheating).

[0471] B: Illustrates how the charging contacts between the case and the PV are disconnected when the PV is removed from the case.

[0472] C: As schematically illustrated by a small circle with radiations, when the PV is ready for use, the light on the PV shines or glows. The 'ready' indicator may also be vibration or sound instead or in addition.

[0473] Preheating can also be started when the case is simply opened and before the PV is withdrawn (the user can set whether preheating starts only when the case is opened or only when the PV is withdrawn from the case (e.g., via a smartphone app). Starting the heating process while the PV is still fully inside the case causes the battery in the case to be used to provide power (typically by fully charging the charge in the PV's internal battery, as the corresponding internal battery provides current to the atomizer). The above Section A (especially Fig. 30 and Fig. 31 The detailed design of the operating prototype, which is fully described in the and related descriptions, also exemplifies the above features.

[0474] This drawing also illustrates a single capsule dispenser (Fig. 13), wherein the PV uses a small capsule, and the electronic liquid and the corresponding capsule are extracted from the dispenser by a user who inserts the PV into the dispenser; then the single capsule is attached to the end of the PV. In this variant, preheating of the electronic liquid begins when the device is attached to the case to tightly secure the capsule containing the material to be vaporized; the PV includes an indicator of the same type to indicate that the PV is ready for use (e.g., has reached the correct operating temperature); an alternative example is that it pops out of the case when it is ready for use.

[0475] In each case, the temperature is typically not measured directly (even if it could); instead, it can be inferred from current consumption, the resistance of the atomizer heating element, and any other relevant factor(s). Since the local battery, particularly in the PV, is generally fully charged or near full charge when heating begins, using the elapsed heating time can serve as a simple and efficient surrogate for the temperature of the e-liquid having this system, as it continuously changes while the PV is stored in the case. Furthermore, because the PV itself and the case may possess knowledge of when the PV was last used and for how long, the remaining charge in the PV battery can be reliably inferred, and the predicted heating time can be automatically adjusted to compensate for varying charge levels. In conventional PVs with small rechargeable batteries, time may not be used as a surrogate because users generally do not reliably keep the battery close to full charge.

[0476] Feature 9. PV with dosage indication

[0477] In this section, we describe a feature of an e-cigarette PV that displays the consumption of e-liquid using a visual indicator that extends or moves down the body of the PV away from the mouthpiece. The visual indicator is fully moved or extended to indicate that a single dose has been consumed.

[0478] The arbitrary features of the PV (each of which can be combined with other features) include the following:

[0479] The indication is a visual, auditory, touch feedback, haptic, vibration, heat, or any other sensory signal.

[0480] The indicator may be a visual indicator that extends or moves downward toward the end of the device away from the mouthpiece, and whose extension or movement from the starting position to the final position corresponds to the consumption or vaporization of a single dose of substance.

[0481] The indicator may also be a visual indicator that extends or moves around the device, and that extending or moving from a starting position to a final position corresponds to consuming or vaporizing a single dose of the substance.

[0482] The indicator can provide a visual indication that changes to a specific color when a single dose of the substance is consumed or vaporized.

[0483] The indicator can provide haptic indications.

[0484] The indicator can provide a column-based display.

[0485] There is an additional indicator that shows the battery charge level in the device.

[0486] The above or each indicator is implemented as a module that the user can connect to a conventional battery and any of the following: a conventional cartridge, atomizer, or cartomizer.

[0487] The module can be fitted into conventional batteries and conventional cartridges, atomizers, or cartomizers.

[0488] The PV can also include a humidity sensor capable of monitoring humidity changes and evaluating how much steam the device is producing.

[0489] The humidity sensor is located in the mouse of the atomizer.

[0490] The humidity sensor is implemented in a module that the user can connect to a conventional battery and any of the following: a conventional cartridge, atomizer, or cartomizer.

[0491] The humidity sensor is implemented in the battery pack component, or the atomizer, or the atomizer, or the mouthpiece.

[0492] PV configured to use humidity data for dosage control.

[0493] The PV is configured to transmit humidity data to a case, a connected smartphone, or directly to a computing device.

[0494] The PV can be designed to be coupled with a portable refill storage and transport case comprising a reservoir for an electronic liquid, wherein the personal vaporizer can be refilled and the vaporizer can be refilled only when fitted into or otherwise coupled to the portable case during normal use, and the case is operable to refill the personal vaporizer and accordingly the personal vaporizer has a single dose of the substance to be vaporized.

[0495] The PV can be designed to be coupled with a portable unit for storing a portable vaporization device, wherein the unit is programmed to prevent the release of the device for a predetermined amount of time as an aid for interrupting or reducing material usage.

[0496] o Time is displayed via colored lights or a countdown timer.

[0497] This feature also covers personal vaporization devices that include humidity sensors capable of monitoring humidity changes and, accordingly, evaluating how much vapor the device is generating.

[0498] The arbitrary features of the PV (each of which can be combined with other features) include the following:

[0499] The humidity sensor is implemented in a module that the user can connect to a conventional battery and any of the following: a conventional cartridge, atomizer, or cartomizer.

[0500] The humidity sensor is implemented in the battery pack component, or the atomizer, or the atomizer, or the mouthpiece.

[0501] PV is configured to use humidity data for dosage control.

[0502] The PV is configured to transmit humidity data to a case, a connected smartphone, or directly to a computing device.

[0503] This feature also encompasses a portable unit for storing a portable vaporization device, wherein the unit is programmed to prevent the release of the personal vaporization device for a predetermined amount of time as an aid for the interruption or reduction of material usage. The time is indicated on the portable unit via colored lights or a countdown timer, or through data transmitted to an auxiliary device capable of displaying this information.

[0504] The following section describes these features with reference to the drawings; the related drawings are Fig. 2 , and FIGS. 74 to 75 am.

[0505] An example of a vaporizer that displays an indication of how much substance has been vaporized Fig. 74 It is illustrated in the figure, where the amount of vapor inhaled is inferred using a pressure sensor that detects when the user inhales (and arbitrarily the intensity of the inhalation or the volume inhaled), plus a time sensor that measures how long the inhalation lasts.

[0506] There are various methods for indicating when a single or end-user-set dose of electronic liquid is consumed or vaporized.

[0507] A: The light moves below the vaporizer as if it is 'fading out'. A similar visual indicator Fig. 2 As illustrated in Fig. 2; a series of 12 LEDs gradually light up as the PV consumes nicotine equivalent to a single cigarette—usually one LED lights up per inhalation, where the e-liquid intensity used means that 12 inhalations correspond to smoking a single cigarette. The user can also set the LEDs so that a single LED lights up when nicotine equivalent to a whole cigarette is consumed. Accordingly, the device in Fig. 2 can show when one to twelve whole cigarettes have been consumed.

[0508] B: A single light changes color to indicate how much has been inhaled. A traffic light system (green, yellow, red) or a change in light brightness (dimming with usage) may be used, and when the light appears red or becomes completely dark, it means that the dose has been delivered; the PV may stop operating at this point for a set period if the user is in a nicotine or smoking cessation or reduction program.

[0509] C: The lighting at one end of the PV, or anywhere else, changes the color as described above.

[0510] Conventional PVs can be adapted to use this feature: Fig. 75As described above, the electronic liquid cartridge is positioned on top of the atomizer and the atomizer on top of the battery; however, by adding a third module between the standard cartridge / atomizer / cartomizer and the battery, the additional new module includes an indicator that changes to show when a single or end-user-set dose of substance has been consumed or vaporized. Many conventional PVs use standard sizes, and accordingly, this approach upgrades the conventional PV to be much more useful for smoking or nicotine cessation or reduction programs.

[0511] Fig. 76 This is a different approach to dosage control as follows: The PV case is programmed to prevent the emission of the PV for a predetermined amount of time as an aid to prevent the interruption or reduction of substance usage, prevention of unauthorized handling, and prevention of children accessing the PV. The case itself can indicate that a single dose of the substance, including a dose set by the end-user, has been consumed or vaporized from the PV it stores. The case can be programmed or controlled to not power on for a specified time period, a specific number of times, or at a specific frequency or duration (e.g., via the user's smartphone); these can all be varied and controlled by a smartphone app.

[0512] Fig. 77 It illustrates humidity sensor variations as described above.

[0513] Feature 10. PV drip prevention

[0514] In this section, we describe several drip-prevention features in PV.

[0515] The first feature is a PV comprising (a) an electron-liquid injection aperture designed to engage an electron-liquid delivery mechanism, which is centrally located along the long axis of the PV and connected to an electron-liquid storage chamber in the PV; (b) one or more vapor outlets distributed around the electron-liquid injection aperture, wherein the vapor outlets are connected by passages to a vapor chamber containing a vaporization element, and the vapor chamber is sealed from the electron-liquid storage chamber.

[0516] The second feature is that when the electron-liquid injection aperture in the PV is inserted into the refill unit, it is adapted to align with a hollow tube that is part of the fluid delivery system in the refill unit, and the aperture includes a flexible seal through which the tube is inserted or passed, and the seal is an electron-liquid leakage-inhibiting PV that ensures any drips of electron-liquid are retained in the PV when the PV is withdrawn or removed from the refill unit.

[0517] The third feature is a PV having electro-liquid leakage suppression, in which the vapor passage is not a straight line from the atomizer through the path but instead includes at least one turn and ends at one or more vapor outlets distributed around an electro-liquid suction nozzle located at the center along the long axis of the PV.

[0518] The arbitrary features of the PV (each of which can be combined with other features) include the following:

[0519] The presence of barriers makes the length of the passage significantly longer than when the barriers are not present.

[0520] Barriers ensure that the passage is not a straight path.

[0521] The barriers cause the width of the passage to shrink compared to the case where the barriers were not present.

[0522] The barriers include double caps.

[0523] The barriers make the passage a winding path.

[0524] The passage is lined with an absorbent material to absorb any droplets discharged from the unit without obstructing the flow of steam through the passage.

[0525] These features also encompass a personal vaporizer comprising a unit for storing a substance to be vaporized, an atomizer, and a passage connecting the atomizer to a mouthpiece from which vapor can be drawn by the user, wherein the passage is lined with an absorbent material to absorb any droplets emitted from the unit without obstructing the flow of vapor through the passage.

[0526] The above Section A The detailed design of the operating prototype, as fully described in [here], also exemplifies the first and second features mentioned above.

[0527] The following section further explains these features with reference to the drawings; the related drawings are FIGS. 80 to 84 am.

[0528] Fig. 80A It illustrates a second barrier in the mouthpiece that does not significantly impede the vapor flow but provides a harder, winding path (dark arrow) for the electron-liquid droplets to flow through. A rigid tube around the liquid reservoir is added to prevent the electron-liquid droplets from being pushed out (conventional PVs may have a flexible tube that can be squeezed). A soft, flexible sheath around the rigid tube may be provided for a better tactile feel.

[0529] Fig. 80B Is Fig. 80A A variant is illustrated in which the vapor path is not serpentine, and instead, a double cap is provided on the mouthpiece, making it much less likely for electronic-liquid droplets to be ejected.

[0530] Fig. 80C It illustrates an additional variation in which a series of fins in the mouthpiece makes it much less likely for electronic-liquid droplets to be ejected.

[0531] Fig. 81 The figure illustrates a seal placed over the end of an electronic-liquid wet fiber; by capping the wet fiber in this way with a consistent and efficient seal, it makes it much more difficult for electronic-liquid droplets to move into the suction track. Fig. 81 In this case, it is combined with a long, slender cap to further reduce the possibility of any droplets of the electronic liquid leaking.

[0532] Fig. 82 It is illustrated by adding a seal to the end of the electronic-liquid wet fiber, and also adding a dry fiber or foam rubber fitting to absorb any discharged droplets and prevent vapor from increasing. If any small droplets adhere to the side of the inner cap, the return shape of the inner cap causes them to fall off the suction tip.

[0533] The selection of the absorbent material is important: hydrophilic absorbent materials that absorb water and aqueous liquids are effective. The material is in the form of a small tube designed to fit into the small space at the end of the inhaler, and it swells by rapidly absorbing liquids such as water or liquid nicotine gel. Types of materials include, but are not limited to, the following:

[0534] synthetic sponge

[0535] synthetic chamois

[0536] ultrafine synthetic fibers

[0537] Hydrogels (hydrogels are highly absorbent (they can contain more than 90% water) natural or synthetic polymer networks)

[0538] Absorbent materials must not absorb moisture from the vapor suspension, as inhalation can be harmful, and only liquids moving freely within the vaporizer case are absorbed. Hydrophilic materials may also be changed periodically to ensure that vaporizer performance is not reduced.

[0539] Fig. 83 It illustrates an approach that moves the e-liquid reservoir to the farthest end from the mouthpiece—this provides a much longer path for random e-liquid droplets to flow before reaching the mouthpiece. It also balances the tobacco more naturally and provides a better vaping / vapor experience.

[0540] Fig. 84 It illustrates containing an electronic liquid in a sealed container to stop droplet movement. The wick will exit the container through a tight hole and use capillary action to maintain the wet coating. It is highly unlikely that the wick itself would allow the movement of electronic liquid droplets that could leak from the mouthpiece. It is highly unlikely that the wick itself would allow the movement of electronic liquid droplets that could then leak from the mouthpiece.

[0541] Section C: User-replaceable electronic-liquid cartridge

[0542] Section A It focused on storage and transport cases, and the section B While the focus was on PV, this Section C In this, we describe the features of user-rechargeable electronic-liquid cartridges.

[0543] Following the consecutive numbering in the previous sections:

[0544] Feature 11. User-replaceable electronic-liquid cartridge

[0545] The first feature is a user-rechargeable electronic-liquid cartridge adapted to be inserted into or attached to a portable, personal storage and carrying case for an electronic-liquid electronic cigarette PV. Fig. 5 is a cartridge (3) and an operating prototype that uses this cartridge Section A Explains the city. Fig. 6 Different designs of cartridges (3) drawn from the case (100) are illustrated. Fig. 7 It illustrates a cartridge (3) that is fully inserted into a case (100).

[0546] The compensatory feature is a portable, personal storage and carrying case for an electronic cigarette PV, in which the case contains a user-removable electronic liquid cartridge.

[0547] Major supplementary features:

[0548] The electronic liquid cartridge has a casing that is adapted to be fitted into a chamber in a portable, personal storage and carrying case for electronic liquid electronic cigarette PV by the user.

[0549] The cartridge has an outer surface that forms part of the casing of the case (with this variation, the cartridge is still 'inside the case', and the case still 'includes the cartridge' as its parts are described in this specification).

[0550] The cartridge is attached to the case—for example, the cartridge forms an extension into the case; when the case and the cartridge are combined, they form an integrated object (with this variation, the cartridge is still 'inside the case', and the case still 'includes the cartridge' as their parts are described herein).

[0551] The electronic-liquid cartridge is substantially deformable during normal use to displace fluid from the cartridge.

[0552] The electronic-liquid cartridge is constructed using PET.

[0553] The electronic liquid cartridge is designed to be fitted inside a portable, personal storage and carrying case for an electronic liquid electronic cigarette PV by a press fit near the seal, wherein the cartridge is formed with a gap designed to accommodate and engage a micro-pump located in the case, with the micro-pump sealed near the nozzle in the cartridge.

[0554] The electronic-liquid cartridge is designed to be fitted inside a portable, personal storage and carrying case for an electronic-liquid electronic cigarette PV with a press fit near the seal, where the cartridge includes an integrated micro-pump.

[0555] The case includes a user-rechargeable cartridge having several compartments and can be filled by combining the PV with the electronic liquid from the several compartments.

[0556] The case includes several user-removable electronic-liquid cartridges and can fill the PV by combining the electronic-liquids from several cartridges.

[0557] The case and / or cartridge includes an overcurrent channel that captures and returns excess electronic liquid that is pumped up from the cartridge but not stored in the PV to the cartridge.

[0558] The cartridge is inserted into the case.

[0559] The cartridge includes an electronic identifier, such as an RFID chip.

[0560] The cartridge includes physical features on its surface, such as raised or lowered portions, which physically engage with compensating features on the wall of the case aperture into which the cartridge is inserted.

[0561] Physical features form the shape of a word or logo, such as a trademark word or logo.

[0562] In this section, we describe in more detail the features of a refill unit comprising cartridges / chambers that can be refilled by multiple users. As a portable unit for refilling a reservoir in a portable vaporization device, the unit comprises cartridges or chambers that can be replaced by multiple users, each containing a substance to be vaporized, wherein the unit causes the portable vaporization device to be filled with one specific substance or a predetermined mixture of two or more substances.

[0563] Optional features (each of which can be combined with other features) include the following:

[0564] The user can specify which material is used to refill the PV.

[0565] The user can specify the material(s) to be refilled to create a custom mixture.

[0566] Customized mixtures may follow smoking or nicotine cessation or reduction programs.

[0567] Combining multiple cartridge / chamber approaches with the features of Feature 5 'Intelligent Case' leads to many useful and novel features: for example, the Case can learn which scents / intensities of e-liquids a user prefers as a function of possible daytime, location, day of the week, and time of day. Like a good personal assistant, the Case can then compare a pre-matched scent / intensity with these given factors or even suggest it to the user (for example, a message may appear on the user's smartphone app that exchanges data with the PV and / or Case). The Case and / or related smartphone app (or any other type of connected electronic device, such as wearable glasses, smartwatches, etc.) also recommend new scent(s) or other things the user might like in a manner largely similar to online music services.

[0568] The following section explains these drawings with reference to the drawings; the related drawings are Fig. 71 and do 72 am.

[0569] An example of a portable charging and refill case (numbered 1, 2, 3, and 4) equipped with four separate cartridges is Fig. 71A It is illustrated in. Four cartridges are used for exemplary purposes, and this may be more or fewer.

[0570] Fig. 71BIt illustrates four cartridges loaded into carriages; each cartridge will have a different strength or type of e-liquid. For example, if the user is following a smoking or nicotine cessation or reduction program, each cartridge may have a different nicotine strength; one cartridge may be a placebo or vitamin / mineral e-liquid or just a standard propylene glycol-based. Another approach may have e-liquids of similar nicotine strength but with different flavors. It may also be possible to have different flavors of e-liquid that are entirely nicotine-free—which may be particularly useful for those who have successfully completed a nicotine cessation program. Each cartridge is individually user-replaceable (but not refillable for normal use, though this is one possible variation).

[0571] The carriage may be under the control of software and a processor in the unit (which consequently may be under the control of a user’s smartphone or other device—typically, the user may input the desired mixture via an app running on the smartphone, and then the smartphone may transmit appropriate control data to the processor in the unit; the smartphone may be replaced by any other suitable type of computing device, including wearable computing devices that receive touch-based and / or verbal commands) and has small valves (not shown) used to allow or prevent the electronic liquid from flowing from each cartridge to the refill mechanism. The unit may also include a touchscreen that allows the user to input the desired mixture directly into the unit. Mixing of the electronic liquids may occur in the carriage itself or in a separate chamber when the cartridge is removed.

[0572] Fig. 71CFigure [illustrates] a single cartridge having four chambers; the cartridge includes valves (each schematically illustrated as a circle using lines) that cause different chambers to open or close as appropriate under the control of software and a processor (again, generally, implementing commands received from the user's smartphone). Mixing of the electronic liquids may occur in the carriage itself or in separate chambers when the cartridge is removed. The entire cartridge is user-replaceable (user-refillable under normal use, but this is one possible variation).

[0573] Fig. 72 It illustrates how a user's smartphone can display the current levels of electronic liquid in each cartridge;

[0574] In step A, the electronic devices in the case record the levels of the cartridges.

[0575] In step B, when the vaporizer is inserted into the case, it transmits its usage data to the electronic devices in the case.

[0576] In step C, the case provides a visual indication when at least one cartridge level is low. This can take into account the current levels in the cartridge(s) and also predict future levels by taking into account the consumption rate by the user and how much electronic liquid remains in the PV itself.

[0577] In step D, the case transmits data to a connected smartphone device to indicate a low cartridge level. When deciding whether to alert the user or instruct them to replace the cartridges, the case may consider how much e-liquid remains or how much it has been consumed by the vaporizer.

[0578] The smartphone can display a message, such as "Cartridge 2 replacement instruction, nicotine strength xx?" or "We predict that you will run out of e-liquid nicotine strength xx within 4 days at your current consumption rate, would you like us to instruct again," along with a "Buy Now" option. If the user selects the "Buy Now" option, the message is transmitted via the internet to an e-service provider that then installs it in the case and sends the cartridge replacement to the user.

[0579] The above 'multi-liquid' cartridge can be controlled by an electromechanical valve system that adjusts the volume of liquid flowing through a valve, thereby moving a pin to control the flow and amount of liquid into the anti-chamber, and consequently produce a defined mixture discharged to a vaporizer by either a non-pressurized or pressurized pump system. This can be electrically controlled to mix a predetermined volume and mixture of liquids. Examples are as follows.

[0580] A predefined smoking cessation program to reduce nicotine levels over a period of time.

[0581] Mixing several liquids to create unique scents.

[0582] Transition from menthol inhalation to straight nicotine-based inhaled liquids.

[0583] Child protection cartridge lock

[0584] Various features

[0585] Feature 12. Hygienic PV

[0586] In this section, we introduce a feature of a PV including a hygienic mouthpiece: a personal vaporization device including a housing and a mouthpiece, wherein the mouthpiece is extendable from the body of the device and retractable therein.

[0587] The arbitrary features of the PV (each of which can be combined with other features) include the following:

[0588] The mouthpiece is made of a soft-touch material.

[0589] The mouthpiece extends from the housing when the tip of the device at the opposite end of the mouthpiece is pressed by the user.

[0590] Extending the mouthpiece causes the device to automatically start heating the material to be vaporized.

[0591] A second press by the user causes the mouthpiece to be retracted into the main body.

[0592] The following section explains these drawings with reference to the drawings; the related drawings are Fig. 85 and 86 am. Fig. 85 It illustrates a PV having an outer sleeve through which the mouthpiece / atomizer and battery parts of the PV can slide. Fig. 85A It illustrates a schematic appearance with the mouthpiece or suction tip fully extended; Fig. 85B is illustrating the mouthpiece / atomizer and battery parts, Fig. 85A This is a cross-sectional view of. Fig. 85C In this case, the suction tip is completely retracted into the sleeve; as a result, the battery end of the PV is now protruding out of the sleeve. Fig. 85D Is Fig. 85CThe internal parts of the drawing are illustrated. When the suction tip is fully retracted, the user can click the other end to make the suction tip pop out; clicking it again can make the tip retract in roughly the same way as clicking the top of a ballpoint pen. Clicking the end can also be used to turn on the PV to start heating. Clicking the end to make the suction tip pop out can also be used to turn on the PV to start heating.

[0593] Fig. 86 The same four views of the PV are shown, but this time with a different design (more fully explained as Feature 14). In this different design, a single-dose capsule is secured at the distal end of the PV furthest from the inhalation tip; pushing the soft-tip inhalation into the sleeve / housing causes the capsule to be ejected.

[0594] Feature 13. Single capsule dispenser

[0595] In this section, we introduce a feature of a dispenser that stores a number of capsules, each containing a substance to be vaporized, wherein the dispenser allows a personal vaporization device to be inserted into the dispenser to securely fasten the capsules.

[0596] Optional features of the capsule dispenser (each of which may be combined with other features) include the following:

[0597] A stack of capsules is inserted into the dispenser, and a spring pushes the stack upward inside the dispenser. A stack of capsules is inserted into the dispenser.

[0598] A spring can be any other type of device for applying force. A spring can be another type of device for applying force.

[0599] The capsule is designed to be firmly coupled with the vaporization device when the device is pressurized near the capsule.

[0600] A single capsule contains a substance equivalent to a single [combustible] cigarette.

[0601] A single capsule contains an amount of nicotine or a substance designed for smoking cessation or reduction programs.

[0602] A single capsule may be any of the following: nicotine, caffeine, vitamins, minerals, flavoring substances, or any mixture of any of these.

[0603] Different capsules can be selected by the user for different nicotine strengths.

[0604] Different capsules can be selected by the user for different nicotine flavors.

[0605] Different capsules can be selected by the user for different types of various substances.

[0606] The following section explains these features with reference to the drawings: Related drawings are drawings 87 am.

[0607] Fig. 87a: A stack of capsules is inserted into a dispenser, and a spring (or any other type of device for applying force) pushes the stack up inside the dispenser.

[0608] Figs. 87b and 87c: The capsule is designed to be firmly engaged (e.g., press fit) with the PV device when the PV device is inserted down into the case and pressurized near the capsule. The capsule engages with the end furthest from the suction tip / mouthpiece.

[0609] The PV can be withdrawn from the case with the capsule firmly attached. A single capsule usually contains e-liquid equivalent to a single cigarette. A single capsule may also contain an amount of substance designed for tobacco or nicotine cessation or reduction programs—therefore also 87a A stack of capsules illustrated in [the image] may have progressively less nicotine.

[0610] Feature 14. Single Capsule PV

[0611] In this section, we introduce a feature of a PV having an ejectable single-dose capsule. It is a personal vaporizer device comprising a capsule containing a substance to be vaporized at one end of the housing furthest from the mouthpiece, wherein the capsule is ejected by a user who pressurizes the components of the device.

[0612] The arbitrary features of the PV (each of which can be combined with other features) include the following:

[0613] The component pressed by the user is a button.

[0614] The component pressurized by the user is the mouthpiece, which slides out of the housing and retracts back into the housing, and mouthpiece retracting causes the capsule to be ejected.

[0615] A single capsule contains an amount of substance equivalent to a single cigarette.

[0616] A single capsule contains a predetermined amount of substance determined or selected by the user.

[0617] A single capsule contains an amount of substance designed for tobacco or nicotine cessation programs.

[0618] The PV is designed to be connected to a dispenser that stores a number of capsules, each containing a vaporized substance, wherein the vaporization device is inserted into the dispenser to securely fasten the capsules during normal use.

[0619] This feature also encompasses a personal vaporizer including a unit for storing the material to be vaporized and a mouthpiece at one end, wherein the reservoir for storing the material to be vaporized is positioned toward the end furthest from the mouthpiece.

[0620] The arbitrary features of the PV (each of which can be combined with other features) include the following:

[0621] A unit is a capsule that encapsulates matter.

[0622] The unit is a conventional electronic cigarette cartridge.

[0623] The unit is pressurized on the end of the carburetor and securely connected to the carburetor.

[0624] The following section explains these drawings with reference to the drawings; the related drawings are Fig. 83 and Fig. 86 .

[0625] Fig. 83 It illustrates moving the e-liquid chamber to the end furthest from the mouthpiece; in this case, the entire atomizer is moved to the end furthest from the mouthpiece. This balances the PV more naturally and consequently provides a better experience.

[0626] Fig. 86 It shows that a single-dose capsule is secured at the distal end of the PV furthest from the inhalation tip; pushing the soft-tip inhalation into the sleeve / housing causes the capsule to be ejected.

[0627] Feature 15. Various compositional improvements

[0628] This section describes extensive structural improvements; and the related drawings are FIGS. 89 to 94am.

[0629] Fig. 89 The device illustrates an electronic liquid capsule (usually having a dosage of nicotine equivalent to, for example, a single cigarette or a pack of five cigarettes). The capsule is inserted into a heated atomizer by the user, after which a mouthpiece is placed over the capsule; a penetration point forms a small perforation in the top of the capsule, allowing heated vapor to be drawn through the mouthpiece. This design allows the user to know how much they are 'vaping' and is also much cheaper and much easier to use for refilling compared to conventional approaches.

[0630] Fig. 90 Figure 1 illustrates a spiral, acid-etched element used as a heating element; acid etching increases the effective surface area of ​​the heating element; spiraling the element around a wet mat enables a much larger element than usual, which also provides faster and more efficient vapor generation and also inhibits the wet mat from releasing electron-liquid droplets.

[0631] Fig. 91 Figure 111 illustrates an acid-etched heating element surrounding the outside of an electronic-liquid wet core; this approach provides a large heating area but is simpler than the spiral array of Figure 111. A second barrier prevents droplet leakage.

[0632] Fig. 92 It illustrates a large wick composed of compressed fibers, such as the nib of a marker pen, that is inserted into a container and draws out the electronic liquid from it; the sides of the wick outside the electronic liquid container are in contact with an acid-etched heating element; the efficiency of the wick in drawing out the electronic liquid upward provides consistent vapor.

[0633] Fig. 93It illustrates the use of a pair of piezotransducers that generate ultrasounds to produce an electron-liquid vapor; the electron-liquid is in a sealed chamber having a watertight valve capable of releasing vapor rather than droplets.

[0634] Fig. 94 It illustrates the use of a chemical heat source to heat the electronic liquid; the combined chemicals are encapsulated with the electronic liquid container; when the capsule is pushed near a penetration pin at one end of the sleeve, the mixture of chemicals generates enough heat to produce vapor, which the user sucks through the mouthpiece. Sufficient heat can be provided to vaporize a single dose. This design eliminates the need for batteries or control electronic devices. It can be inexpensive to manufacture.

[0635] Attachment 1: Integrated Summary of concepts

[0636] This section summarizes the most important high-level features described above; embodiments of the invention may include one or more of these high-level features, or one or more of major incidental features, or any combination of any of these.

[0637] As before, we will organize this summary into three sections:

[0638] Section A. Electronic Liquid Refill and Recharge Storage and Carrying Case

[0639] Feature 1. Combined rechargeable and refillable storage and carrying case

[0640] Feature 2. Case with movable PV holder

[0641] Feature 3. Refill PV

[0642] Feature 4. PV Locking Mechanism

[0643] Feature 5. Data Connectivity

[0644] Feature 6. Electronic Execution

[0645] Section B. PV: Simplicity and ease of use

[0646] Feature 7. Refillable and rechargeable PV

[0647] Feature 8. Preheated PV

[0648] Feature 9. PV with dosage indication

[0649] Feature 10. Drip prevention PV

[0650] Section C. User-replaceable electronic-liquid cartridge

[0651] Feature 11. User-rechargeable e-liquid cartridge that fits into a portable storage and carrying case

[0652] we are Section A We will begin with... To facilitate the mapping of these features to future patent claims, we will label the features as 'concepts' and number them in a manner similar to claims. Any individually dependent concept (e.g., 'concept in Claim 1') should also be considered as covering all multiple dependent claims (e.g., equivalent to 'concept in any prior concept'). Also, note that any concept relating to any feature may be combined with any other concept attributable to any feature.

[0653] Section A: E-liquid Refill and Recharge Storage and Carrying Case

[0654] Feature 1. Combined rechargeable and refillable storage and carrying case

[0655] Feature 2. Case with movable PV holder

[0656] Feature 3. Refill PV

[0657] Feature 4. PV Locking Mechanism

[0658] Feature 5. Data Connectivity

[0659] Feature 6. Electronic Execution

[0660] Feature 1. Combined rechargeable and refillable PV storage and transport case

[0661] 1. A portable, personal storage and carrying case for an electronic-liquid electronic cigarette PV, comprising: (a) a power source for recharging a rechargeable battery in the PV; (b) a reservoir for receiving electronic-liquid; and (c) a fluid delivery system adapted to deliver electronic-liquid from the reservoir to a chamber in the PV.

[0662] 2. In Concept 1, the reservoir for receiving the electronic liquid is a case, which is a user-rechargeable electronic liquid cartridge.

[0663] 3. In Concept 2, the user-rechargeable electronic-liquid cartridge is fitted into or attached to the case.

[0664] 4. In Concept 2, the user-rechargeable electronic-liquid cartridge is a case designed to allow the electronic-liquid to be discharged only when the cartridge is correctly positioned in the case during normal use.

[0665] 5. A case according to Concept 2, wherein the electronic-liquid capacity of the user-replaceable cartridge is greater than the electronic-liquid capacity of the chamber within the PV, at least three times, and preferably five times.

[0666] 6. In Concept 1, the fluid delivery system adapted to deliver the electronic liquid from the PV to the storage in the case comprises a pump that delivers an electronic liquid approximately equivalent to a single cigarette for each pumping stroke.

[0667] 7. In Concept 1, the case comprises, for example, one or more rechargeable batteries or one or more user-rechargeable batteries when the PV is stored in the case, and electrical contacts designed to be securely connected to contacts in the PV.

[0668] 8. In Concept 1, the overall size and shape of the case is such that it is kept in a normal pocket.

[0669] 9. A case that can be locked or disabled to prevent use by a minor or unauthorized person in Concept 1.

[0670] 10. A case according to Concept 9 that can be locked or disabled to prevent use by a minor or unauthorized user, and can be unlocked using data transmitted or exchanged with an authorized user's smartphone.

[0671] 11. In Concept 1, the case comprises a user-removable electronic-liquid cartridge, and the combination of the cartridge and the case forms a portable, personal device for storing, transporting, and refilling the electronic-liquid of the PV during normal use.

[0672] 12. In Concept 1, a case that automatically begins to provide power to heat an electronic atomizing element in the PV when the case in which the PV is stored is opened.

[0673] 13. A case in Concept 1 that also presents when the PV is ready for use because heating to an operating level has been reached or has occurred for a predefined time.

[0674] 14. A case capable of filling the PV by combining the electronic-liquid from several different electronic-liquid compartments in Concept 1.

[0675] 15. A case according to Concept 1, comprising several user-removable electronic-liquid cartridges and capable of filling the PV by combining electronic-liquids from several cartridges.

[0676] 16. A case according to Concept 1, comprising an overcurrent channel for capturing and returning excess electronic liquid that is pumped up from the cartridge but not stored in the PV to the cartridge.

[0677] 17. In Concept 1, the user-rechargeable cartridge comprises physical features on its surface, such as rising or falling portions, which physically engage with compensation features on the wall of the case aperture into which the cartridge is inserted.

[0678] 18. In Concept 17, the physical features form the shape of a word or logo, such as a trademark word or logo.

[0679] 19. In Concept 1, moving the movable holder or chassis into which the PV is inserted brings the electric charging contacts on the PV into direct or indirect connection with the electric charging contacts in the case connected to the power source in the case, the rechargeable battery.

[0680] 20. A case of Concept 1, operable to refill an electronic liquid in the PV when the PV is fully or partially inserted into the case, while maintaining the PV intact and undamaged. .

[0681] 21. In concept 1, the case is adapted to firmly lock the PV into a charging position; and when the PV is locked into the charging position, the electric charging contacts on the PV are directly or indirectly connected to the electric charging contacts in the case that are connected to a power source in the case.

[0682] 22. A case according to Concept 1, comprising (a) a user-rechargeable electronic-liquid cartridge; and (b) a fluid delivery system adapted to transfer electronic-liquid from the cartridge to a chamber in the PV; and a data processor that controls the transmission of a signal requesting the user in the case to replace the user-rechargeable electronic-liquid cartridge.

[0683] 23. A case in which, in Concept 1, the electronic liquid contains nicotine and the PV is not a pharmaceutical device but instead the electronic liquid is vaporized in the PV and the vapor is inhaled to simulate a tobacco smoking experience, and which is a device that replaces cigarettes in normal use.

[0684] 24. A portable, personal storage and carrying case for an e-liquid e-cigarette PV, adapted to transfer e-liquid from a rechargeable e-liquid cartridge to the e-cigarette PV in or attached to the case.

[0685] Feature 2. Case with a movable PV holder

[0686] 1. In Concept 1, moving the movable holder or chassis into which the PV is inserted brings the electric charging contacts on the PV into direct or indirect connection with the electric charging contacts in the case connected to the power source in the case, the rechargeable battery.

[0687] 2. In Concept 1, the movable chassis is also a case equipped thereon with an electro-fluid reservoir, a battery, a printed circuit board, and a fluid transfer mechanism.

[0688] 3. In Concept 1, a case in which the holder rotates against a screw or other form of an axis in the case.

[0689] 4. In concept 3, the holder is formed as a trigger, and accordingly, a user who almost grips one part of the holder causes the hinged folder to open from the case, thereby allowing the PV stored in the case to be withdrawn from the case.

[0690] 5. In Concept 1, the holder includes a channel through which the PV can slide, and the channel guides the PV to a position required to accurately refill the electronic liquid, case.

[0691] 6. In Concept 5, the channel acts as a stroke that allows the pump to transfer the electronic liquid from the reservoir in the case to the chamber in the PV, and the case that allows the PV to move up and down with respect to the pump.

[0692] 7. In Concept 1, the holder comprises a hinged section that guides the opening of the PV, which is fitted downwardly to the mouthpiece end and contacts a pump nozzle that fills the chamber in the PV with electronic liquid until the pressure in the chamber is equal to the pressure in the electronic liquid cartridge in the case.

[0693] 8. In Concept 1, the PV comprises an electro-liquid injection aperture or nozzle positioned at the center along the principal axis of the PV to minimize any off-center forces that could otherwise jeopardize electro-liquid sealing, and a holder that guides the electro-liquid injection aperture or nozzle into precise alignment with a fluid delivery mechanism.

[0694] 9. In Concept 1, the holder is a case, which is a hinged compartment in which the PV is fitted downward at the mouthpiece end and the PV is primed or activated to transfer the electronic liquid from the cartridge to the chamber in the PV until the pressure inside the chamber is equal to the pressure inside the electronic liquid cartridge in the case, regardless of whether the hinged compartment is closed or not.

[0695] 10. In Concept 1, the holder must be completely closed to bring the electric charging contacts on the PV into direct or indirect connection with the electric charging contacts in the case.

[0696] 11. In Concept 1, the movable holder is a case that must be partially closed to bring the electric charging contacts on the PV into direct or indirect connection with the electric charging contacts in the case.

[0697] 12. A case operable to refill the PV using a fluid transfer system pump that is activated by moving the entire, complete PV with respect to the pump while the PV is accommodated in the holder in Concept 1.

[0698] 13. In Concept 1, the holder is a case that is a side-loading holder.

[0699] 14. In Concept 1, the holder is a case that is moved manually.

[0700] 15. In Concept 1, the holder is a case that is moved using one or more motors.

[0701] 16. A case in which, in Concept 1, the electronic liquid contains nicotine and the PV is not a pharmaceutical device but instead the electronic liquid is vaporized in the PV and the vapor is inhaled to mimic or replace the experience of smoking cigarettes, and which replaces cigarettes in normal use.

[0702] Feature 3: Refill PVs

[0703] 1. It is a portable, personal storage and carrying case for an e-liquid electronic cigarette PV that is operable to refill the e-liquid into the PV when the PV is inserted into the case, either completely or partially, while keeping the PV intact and undamaged. .

[0704] 2. A case according to Concept 1, adapted to transfer electronic liquid from a rechargeable electronic liquid cartridge to an electronic cigarette PV in or attached to the case.

[0705] 3. A case that refills the PV using a fluid transfer system while the PV is accommodated in the holder of the case in a state of precise alignment with the fluid transfer mechanism according to Concept 1.

[0706] 4. In Concept 1, the fluid transfer system is a case in which the pump is activated by moving the entire, complete PV with respect to the pump.

[0707] 5. A case of concept 1 that is operable to refill an electronic liquid into the PV when the PV is inserted into the case, either completely or partially, without the need to disassemble or perforate the PV.

[0708] 6. A case of Concept 1, operable to refill and recharge the PV without needing to disassemble or perforate the PV through an electro-liquid injection aperture or nozzle formed at one end of the mouthpiece, wherein the electro-liquid injection nozzle is separate from the vapor intake nozzle(s).

[0709] 7. In Concept 1, the PV comprises an electron-liquid injection aperture or nozzle positioned at the center along the principal axis of the PV to minimize any off-center forces that could otherwise endanger the electron-liquid, and guide said aperture or nozzle into precise alignment with the fluid transfer mechanism.

[0710] 8. In Concept 7, the aperture or nozzle is aligned with a hollow tube or shaft that is part of a pump, and the aperture or nozzle comprises a flexible seal into which the tube or shaft is inserted, the seal ensuring that any electronic-liquid drips are retained within the PV, case.

[0711] 9. In Concept 7, the tip of the PV comprises a fluid trap and an absorbent wicking to capture any fluid leakage.

[0712] 10. In Concept 1, the hollow electronic-liquid injection tube or shaft is a case extending upward from the central axis of the pump where the PV is located.

[0713] 11. In Concept 1, the PV is refilled using a pump activated by pressing and releasing the entire, complete PV while the PV is demanded in the hinged compartment of the case and the PV can be slid up and down in the compartment.

[0714] 12. In Concept 1, the PV is refilled by a mechanical camming action caused by the upper part of the PV being pressurized or camming downward when it is closed inside a transport case, the camming action pressing the PV and thereby completing the downward stroke of the pumping action, case.

[0715] 13. A case according to Concept 1, comprising a hinged section that guides the opening of the PV, which is fitted downwardly to the end of the mouthpiece and contacts a pump nozzle that fills the chamber in the PV with electronic liquid until the pressure in the chamber is equal to the pressure in the electronic liquid cartridge in the case.

[0716] 14. A case according to Concept 1, comprising a hinged compartment that automatically refills and recharges an electronic cigarette PV, wherein the PV is fitted downward into the mouthpiece end, and the hinged compartment is closed or not, and comprises a pump nozzle that primes or activates the PV to transfer electronic liquid from the cartridge to the chamber in the PV until the pressure inside the chamber is equal to the pressure inside the electronic liquid cartridge in the case.

[0717] 15. In Concept 1, the case comprises a micro-pump designed to be fitted into or received by the aperture of an electronic liquid cartridge.

[0718] 16. A case according to Concept 2, comprising a nozzle or aperture operable to engage with a micro-pump formed in an electronic-liquid cartridge inserted into or attached to the case.

[0719] 17. In Concept 1, the case comprises a user-removable electronic-liquid cartridge, and the combination of the cartridge and the case forms a portable, personal device for storing, transporting, and refilling the electronic-liquid of the PV during normal use.

[0720] 18. A case capable of filling the PV by combining the electronic-liquid from several different electronic-liquid compartments in Concept 1.

[0721] 19. A case according to Concept 1, comprising several user-removable electronic-liquid cartridges and capable of filling the PV by combining electronic-liquids from several cartridges.

[0722] 20. A case according to Concept 1, comprising an overcurrent channel for capturing and returning excess electronic liquid that is pumped up from the cartridge but not stored in the PV to the cartridge.

[0723] 21. In Concept 1, the user-rechargeable cartridge comprises physical features on its surface, such as rising or falling portions, which physically engage with compensation features on the wall of the case aperture into which the cartridge is inserted.

[0724] 22. In Concept 21, the physical features form the shape of a word or logo, such as a trademark word or logo.

[0725] 23. In Concept 1, when the PV is pumped only once, the case delivers an e-liquid approximately equivalent to a single cigarette to the PV, and when the PV is pumped 5 times, the case delivers an e-liquid approximately equivalent to 5 cigarettes.

[0726] 24. A case in which, in Concept 1, the electronic liquid contains nicotine and the PV is not a pharmaceutical device but instead the electronic liquid is vaporized in the PV and the vapor is inhaled to mimic or replace the experience of smoking cigarettes, and which replaces cigarettes in normal use.

[0727] 25. A portable, personal storage and carrying case for an e-liquid e-cigarette PV, adapted for a user in the case to transfer e-liquid from a rechargeable e-liquid cartridge to the e-cigarette PV.

[0728] 26. A portable, personal storage and carrying case for an electronic cigarette PV that refills the PV using a pump, such as a pump, a fluid delivery system that is activated by moving the entire, complete PV relative to the pump while the PV is accommodated in a holder in the case in a state of precise alignment with the fluid delivery mechanism.

[0729] Feature 4: PV locking mechanism

[0730] 1. A portable, personal storage and carrying case for an electronic-liquid electronic-cigarette PV, adapted to firmly lock the PV into a charging position; and when the PV is locked into the charging position, electric charging contacts on the PV are directly or indirectly connected to electric charging contacts in the case that are connected to a power source in the case, such as a rechargeable battery.

[0731] 2. A case that automatically charges the PV in Concept 1, only when the PV is fully inserted and the inter-lock operates to fix the PV in place.

[0732] 3. A case according to Concept 1, which automatically locks the electronic cigarette PV into a fixed recharge position when the case is completely closed for PV storage and transport.

[0733] 4. In Concept 1, the electrical contact portions in the case are located on a sliding contact block that moves from a first position where it is physically connected to the PV and a second position where it is locked in place and also fixes the PV in place.

[0734] 5. A case according to Concept 1, wherein the sliding contact block also includes data transmission contacts that engage directly or indirectly with data transmission contacts in the PV.

[0735] 6. In Concept 1, the electric charging contacts transfer power from the case to the PV by induction, case.

[0736] 7. A case that can be locked or disabled to prevent use by a minor or unauthorized person in Concept 1.

[0737] 8. A case according to Concept 7 that can be locked or disabled to prevent use by a minor or unauthorized user, and can be unlocked using data transmitted or exchanged with an authorized user's smartphone.

[0738] 9. A case according to Concept 1, comprising a locking system for firmly locking the PV to a heating position during the time the PV is heating using power from a power source in the case and after the PV has been sufficiently heated, in order to release the locking mechanism.

[0739] 10. A case according to concept 9, wherein when the PV is sufficiently heated, the PV is automatically moved to a position where it can be easily removed from the case by the end-user.

[0740] 11. In Concept 1, a case that can be locked as part of a user-defined nicotine or smoking reduction or cessation program.

[0741] 12. In concept 11, the lock of the case can be overridden by the user, but the case then transmits an alarm signal to a connected smartphone that tracks the override.

[0742] 13. In concept 12, the smartphone also shares overrides, including sharing with other friends of the user connected through social networks.

[0743] 14. A case in which, in Concept 1, the electronic liquid contains nicotine and the PV is not a pharmaceutical device but instead the electronic liquid is vaporized in the PV and the vapor is inhaled to mimic or replace the experience of smoking cigarettes, and which replaces cigarettes in normal use.

[0744] 15. A method for interacting with an e-liquid e-cigarette PV, comprising: (a) a step of firmly locking the e-cigarette PV in a charging position in a case for a period defined by a nicotine or smoking reduction or cessation program; (b) a step of the user manually overriding the said lock; and (c) a step of notifying the user’s friends that the lock has been overridden.

[0745] Features 5 & 6: Cases with Data Connectivity & Electronic Performance

[0746] 1. A portable, personal storage and carrying case for an electronic liquid electronic cigarette PV, comprising (a) a user-rechargeable electronic liquid cartridge; and (b) a fluid delivery system adapted to deliver electronic liquid from the cartridge to a chamber in the PV; and a data processor that controls the transmission of a signal requesting the user in the case to replace the user-rechargeable electronic liquid cartridge.

[0747] 2. In Concept 1, the case or cartridge is a case that detects the level or amount of electronic liquid within a cartridge that is refillable by a user.

[0748] 3. In Concept 1, the above signal is transmitted to a connected smartphone that is consequently connected to an electronic execution platform.

[0749] 4. In Concept 1, the data processor transmits a signal to a connected smartphone indicating that the battery used to recharge the PV in the case requires recharging.

[0750] 5. A case according to Concept 1 that measures how much electronic liquid remains in a user-refillable cartridge or whether replacement is required by using an ultrasonic distance sensor.

[0751] 6. A case according to Concept 1 that measures how much electronic liquid remains in a user-refillable cartridge or whether replacement is required by using a tilt sensor to detect the angle of the cartridge and whether the electronic liquid is close to an electrical circuit between different electrical contacts of different levels within the cartridge.

[0752] 7. A case according to Concept 1 that measures how much electronic liquid remains in a user-refillable cartridge or whether replacement is required by measuring the weight of the cartridge.

[0753] 8. A case according to Concept 1 that uses a capacitive sensor to measure how much electronic liquid remains in a user-refillable cartridge or whether replacement is required.

[0754] 9. A case according to Concept 1, which measures how much electronic liquid remains in a user-refillable cartridge or whether replacement is required by using a pressure sensor at the top of a flexible tube, the lower part of which is received just above the lower part of the cartridge.

[0755] 10. A case of further predicting the levels of electronic liquid in a cartridge by considering the consumption rate by the user and how much electronic liquid remains in the PV itself, in Concept 1.

[0756] 11. A case of further predicting the ebels of the electronic liquid in the cartridge by considering how much electronic liquid remains in the PV itself in Concept 1.

[0757] 12. A case according to Concept 1, comprising a cartridge having several compartments, capable of filling PV by combining electronic liquids from several compartments, and a data processor controlling the transmission of a signal requesting the replacement of one or more compartments in the cartridge.

[0758] 13. A case according to Concept 1, comprising several user-removable electronic-liquid cartridges, capable of filling a PV by combining electronic-liquids from several cartridges, and a data processor controlling the transmission of a signal requesting the replacement of one or more of the cartridges.

[0759] 14. A case according to Concept 1, which provides a visual indication when at least one cartridge level is low or requires replacement.

[0760] 15. A case according to Concept 1, which transmits a signal to a connected smartphone indicating that a battery used to recharge the PV in the case requires recharging.

[0761] 16. A case in which, in Concept 1, the electronic liquid contains nicotine and the PV is not a pharmaceutical device but instead the electronic liquid is vaporized in the PV and the vapor is inhaled to mimic or replace the experience of smoking cigarettes, and which replaces cigarettes in normal use.

[0762] 17. A method used in a portable, personal storage and carrying case specifically adapted for a refillable electronic cigarette PV and for refilling and recharging said PV, wherein the case comprises the steps of: (a) transferring electronic liquid from a refillable electronic liquid cartridge to said PV by a user; and (b) automatically transmitting a signal to an electronic performance platform requesting the user to replace the refillable electronic liquid cartridge, either directly or via a connected smartphone.

[0763] 18. A method according to Concept 17, wherein the case comprises the steps of: (a) detecting the level or amount of electronic liquid in a rechargeable electronic liquid cartridge in the case; and (b) automatically transmitting a signal to an electronic execution platform requesting the replacement of the rechargeable electronic liquid cartridge by the user, either directly or through a connected smartphone.

[0764] 19. In concept 17, the method wherein the signal is transmitted to a connected smartphone connected to an electronic-performing platform.

[0765] 20. A method according to Concept 17, comprising the step of a machine learning an algorithm or a system learning a user’s electronic liquid consumption patterns and using this to determine when to transmit a signal requesting a replacement electronic liquid cartridge.

[0766] 21. A method according to Concept 17, wherein the electronic liquid comprises nicotine and the PV is not a pharmaceutical device but instead is a device that replaces cigarettes in normal use, wherein the electronic liquid is vaporized in the PV and the vapor is inhaled to mimic or replace the experience of smoking cigarettes.

[0767] Section B: PV: Simplicity and Ease of Use

[0768] Feature 7. Refillable and rechargeable PV

[0769] Feature 8. Preheated PV

[0770] Feature 9. PV with dosage indication

[0771] Feature 10. Drip prevention PV

[0772] Feature 7A: Refillable and rechargeable PV

[0773] 1. A refillable and rechargeable electronic cigarette PV that is not disassembled to refill or charge the e-liquid during normal use, and is also not disassembled for battery access or replacement or other battery interactions.

[0774] 2. An electronic cigarette PV according to Concept 1, wherein the PV comprises a rechargeable battery, a refillable electronic liquid reservoir, and an atomizer, all of which are contained within a casing, and none of which are detachable from or separable from any part of the casing during normal use.

[0775] 3. In Concept 1, the PV is an electronic cigarette PV designed to be refillable and rechargeable only with electronic liquid when inserted into a carrying case for the PV that is adapted for refilling and recharging the PV during normal use.

[0776] 4. An electronic cigarette PV of Concept 1, wherein the PV comprises an electronic liquid injection aperture positioned at the center along the central axis of the PV to minimize any off-center forces that could otherwise jeopardize the electronic liquid sealing.

[0777] 5. An electronic cigarette PV according to Concept 1, which is adapted to be fitted into or connected to a case for refilling and recharging the PV without the need to disassemble or perforate the PV, while keeping the PV intact and undamaged.

[0778] 6. In Concept 1, the case is an electronic cigarette PV that refills and recharges the PV without disassembling or perforating the PV through an electronic liquid injection nozzle formed at one end of the mouthpiece, wherein the electronic liquid injection nozzle is separate from the vapor inhalation nozzle(s).

[0779] 7. An electronic cigarette PV according to Concept 1, wherein the aperture in the PV is aligned with a hollow tube or shaft that is part of a pump, and the aperture comprises a flexible seal into which the tube is inserted, the seal ensuring that any electronic liquid drips are retained within the PV.

[0780] 8. An electronic cigarette PV according to Concept 1, wherein the tip of the PV comprises a fluid trap and an absorbent wicking to capture any fluid leakage.

[0781] 9. An electronic cigarette PV of Concept 1, extending upward from the central axis of a hollow compartment into which a hollow tube or shaft PV is inserted.

[0782] 10. In Concept 1, the PV is an electronic cigarette PV that is refilled using a fluid delivery system in which the PV moves relative to a pump.

[0783] 11. In Concept 10, the PV is an electronic cigarette PV that is refilled using a pump activated by pressing and releasing the entire, complete PV while the PV is accommodated in the holder, sliding up and down within the holder.

[0784] 12. An electronic cigarette PV according to Concept 1, wherein the PV is refilled by mechanical camming caused by the upper part of the PV being pressed downward or camming when it is closed inside a carrying case, the camming action pressing the PV and thereby completing the downward stroke of the pumping action.

[0785] 13. An electronic cigarette PV in Concept 1, wherein the PV is filled by a motor that moves the PV up and down relative to a pump, or moves the pump relative to the PV.

[0786] 14. An electronic cigarette PV according to Concept 1, wherein the PV is fitted downwardly into a mouthpiece end and is adapted to be fitted into or coupled with a case comprising a hinged section that guides the opening of the PV to contact a pump nozzle that fills the chamber in the PV with electronic liquid until the pressure in the chamber is equal to the pressure in the electronic liquid cartridge in the case.

[0787] 15. In Concept 1, the PV is a case for automatically refilling and recharging the electronic cigarette PV, wherein the PV is fitted downward into the mouthpiece end and the case comprises a hinged compartment that primes or activates the PV downward to prime or activate a pump nozzle for transferring electronic liquid from the cartridge to the chamber in the PV until the pressure inside the chamber is equal to the pressure inside the electronic liquid cartridge in the case, regardless of whether the hinged compartment is closed or not, the electronic cigarette PV is adapted to be fitted into or connected thereto.

[0788] 16. In Concept 1, the case automatically refills the electronic cigarette PV from a user-rechargeable electronic liquid cartridge in the case through an electronic liquid nozzle at the center of the mouthpiece end of the PV, and the case includes a micro-pump designed to be fitted into or received by the aperture in the cartridge, the electronic cigarette PV.

[0789] 17. An electronic cigarette PV in which the nozzle or aperture of the PV in Concept 1 is connected to a micro-pump formed in a user-rechargeable electronic liquid cartridge.

[0790] 18. An electronic cigarette PV of Concept 1, wherein the electronic liquid comprises nicotine and the PV is not a pharmaceutical device but instead is a device that replaces cigarettes in normal use, wherein the electronic liquid is vaporized in the PV and the vapor is inhaled to mimic or replace the experience of smoking cigarettes.

[0791] 19. An electronic cigarette PV of Concept 1, designed to be withdrawn from the case before refilling and then inserted near the nozzle in the case for refilling.

[0792] 20. A refillable and rechargeable electronic cigarette PV comprising a rechargeable battery, a refillable electronic liquid reservoir, and an atomizer, all of which are contained within a casing, and none of which are detachable from or separable from any part of the casing during normal use.

[0793] 21. A refillable and rechargeable electronic cigarette PV designed to make the e-liquid refillable and rechargeable only when the PV is inserted into a carrying case for the PV that is adapted for refilling and recharging the PV during normal use.

[0794] Feature 7B: Refillable and rechargeable PV

[0795] 1. A refillable and rechargeable electronic cigarette PV having a tip comprising: (a) an electronic liquid injection aperture designed to engage an electronic liquid delivery mechanism; (b) one or more vapor outlets distributed around the electronic liquid injection aperture; and electrical charging contacts spaced apart from the tip.

[0796] 2. In Concept 1, the electric charging contacts are located at the opposite end of the PV relative to the tip, in an electronic cigarette PV.

[0797] 3. In Concept 2, the electrical contacts are integrated into a contact assembly comprising electrical contacts for transferring power from the case to the battery in the PV and electrical contacts for transferring data to and / or from the PV, an electronic cigarette PV.

[0798] 4. Conceptually, an electronic cigarette PV that is adapted to slide into a personal, portable storage and carrying case capable of recharging the local battery in the PV and refilling the electronic liquid chamber in the PV.

[0799] 5. An electronic cigarette PV according to Concept 1 that is not disassembled for refilling or charging the electronic liquid during normal use, and is not disassembled for battery access or replacement or other battery interactions.

[0800] 6. An electronic cigarette PV according to Concept 1, wherein the PV comprises a rechargeable battery, a refillable electronic liquid reservoir, and an atomizer, all of which are contained within a casing, and none of which are detachable from or separable from any part of the casing during normal use.

[0801] 7. In Concept 1, the PV is an electronic cigarette PV designed to be refillable and rechargeable only with electronic liquid when inserted into a carrying case for the PV that is adapted for refilling and recharging the PV during normal use.

[0802] 8. An electronic cigarette PV of Concept 1, wherein the PV comprises an electronic liquid injection aperture positioned at the center along the central axis of the PV to minimize any off-center forces that could otherwise jeopardize the electronic liquid sealing.

[0803] 9. An electronic cigarette PV according to Concept 1, which is adapted to be fitted into or connected to a case for refilling and recharging the PV without the need to disassemble or perforate the PV, while keeping the PV intact and undamaged.

[0804] 10. In Concept 1, the case is an electronic cigarette PV that refills and recharges the PV without needing to disassemble or perforate the PV through an electronic liquid injection nozzle formed at one end of the mouthpiece, wherein the electronic liquid injection nozzle is separate from the vapor inhalation nozzle(s).

[0805] 11. An electronic cigarette PV according to Concept 1, wherein the aperture in the PV is aligned with a hollow tube or shaft that is part of a pump, and the aperture comprises a flexible seal into which the tube is inserted, the seal ensuring that any electronic liquid drips are retained within the PV.

[0806] 12. An electronic cigarette PV according to Concept 1, wherein the tip of the PV comprises a fluid trap and an absorbent wicking to capture any fluid leakage.

[0807] 13. An electronic cigarette PV of Concept 1, extending upward from the central axis of a hollow compartment into which a hollow tube or shaft PV is inserted.

[0808] 14. In Concept 1, the PV is an electronic cigarette PV that is refilled using a fluid delivery system in which the PV moves relative to a pump.

[0809] 15. In Concept 14, the PV is an electronic cigarette PV that is refilled using a pump activated by pressing and releasing the entire, complete PV while the PV is accommodated in the holder, sliding up and down within the holder.

[0810] 16. An electronic cigarette PV according to Concept 14, wherein the PV is refilled by mechanical camming caused by the upper part of the PV being pressed downward or camming when it is closed inside a carrying case, the camming action pressing the PV and thereby completing the downward stroke of the pumping action.

[0811] 17. An electronic cigarette PV in Concept 14, wherein the PV is filled by a motor that moves the PV up and down with respect to a pump, or moves the pump with respect to the PV.

[0812] 18. An electronic cigarette PV according to Concept 1, wherein the PV is fitted downwardly into a mouthpiece end and is adapted to be fitted into or coupled with a case comprising a hinged section that guides the opening of the PV to contact a pump nozzle that fills the chamber in the PV with electronic liquid until the pressure in the chamber is equal to the pressure in the electronic liquid cartridge in the case.

[0813] 19. In Concept 1, the PV is a case for automatically refilling and recharging the electronic cigarette PV, said PV being fitted downward into a mouthpiece end and adapted to be fitted into or coupled with a case comprising a hinged compartment that primes or activates a pump nozzle to transfer electronic liquid from a cartridge to a chamber in the PV until the pressure inside the chamber is equal to the pressure inside the electronic liquid cartridge in the case, regardless of whether the hinged compartment is closed or not.

[0814] 20. In Concept 1, the case automatically refills the electronic cigarette PV from a user-rechargeable electronic liquid cartridge in the case through an electronic liquid nozzle at the center of the mouthpiece end of the PV, and the case includes a micro-pump designed to be fitted into the aperture in the cartridge, the electronic cigarette PV.

[0815] 21. An electronic cigarette PV in which the nozzle or aperture of the PV in Concept 1 is connected to a micro-pump formed in a user-rechargeable electronic liquid cartridge.

[0816] 22. An electronic cigarette PV of Concept 1, wherein the electronic liquid comprises nicotine and the PV is not a pharmaceutical device but instead is a device that replaces cigarettes in normal use, wherein the electronic liquid is vaporized in the PV and the vapor is inhaled to mimic or replace the experience of smoking cigarettes.

[0817] Feature 8: Preheated PV

[0818] 1. A refillable and rechargeable electronic cigarette PV, wherein, while the PV is connected to a power source in the case and heating its atomizer, the PV is firmly locked in a heating position by a locking system in the carrying case, and after the PV is sufficiently heated, it is released from the locking system.

[0819] 2. An electronic cigarette PV according to Concept 1, wherein when the PV is sufficiently heated, it is automatically released from the locking system and moved to a position where it can be easily removed from the case by the end-user.

[0820] 3. In Concept 1, the PV is an electronic cigarette PV that automatically starts heating its atomizer using its own internal power when it detects that the PV is no longer in electrical contact with the charging contacts in the portable case in which it is stored.

[0821] 4. In Concept 1, the PV is an electronic cigarette PV that heats up automatically while connected to power in the case when a mechanical interlock operates to fix the PV in place.

[0822] 5. An electronic cigarette PV, wherein, in Concept 1, the electric charging contacts in the case operate as mechanical interlocks and are located on a sliding contact block that moves from a first position in which it is physically engaged with the PV and a second position in which it is locked in place and also fixes the PV in place.

[0823] 6. An electronic cigarette PV according to Concept 5, wherein the sliding contact block also includes data transmission contacts that engage directly or indirectly with data transmission contacts in the PV.

[0824] 7. Electronic cigarette PV comprising inductive power transfer coils in Concept 1.

[0825] 8. Electronic cigarette PV of Concept 1, which can be locked by a mechanical interlock to prevent use by a minor or unauthorized person.

[0826] 9. In Concept 8, the mechanical interlock can be locked and unlocked using data transmitted or exchanged with an authorized user's smartphone, electronic cigarette PV.

[0827] 10. In Concept 1, the PV is an electronic cigarette PV that automatically locks into a fixed recharge position when the case is completely closed for PV storage and transport.

[0828] 11. An electronic cigarette PV in Concept 1, wherein the heating coil is arranged longitudinally along the long axis of the PV.

[0829] 12. An electronic cigarette PV according to Concept 1, wherein the PV comprises a rechargeable battery, a refillable electronic liquid reservoir, and an atomizer, all of which are contained within a casing, and none of which are detachable from or separable from any part of the casing during normal use.

[0830] 13. In Concept 1, the PV is an electronic cigarette PV designed to be refillable and rechargeable only when inserted into a case for the PV, wherein the case is specifically adapted for refilling and recharging the PV during normal use.

[0831] 14. An electronic cigarette PV according to Concept 1, wherein the PV comprises (a) an electronic liquid injection aperture designed to engage an electronic liquid delivery mechanism; (b) one or more vapor outlets distributed around the electronic liquid injection aperture; and a tip comprising electrically charged contacts spaced apart from the tip.

[0832] 15. An electronic cigarette PV according to Concept 1, wherein additional heating of the electronic liquid is performed by auxiliary heating elements in a PV electronic liquid chamber.

[0833] 16. An electronic cigarette PV of Concept 1, wherein the heating of the electronic liquid PV to a temperature at which it is ready for use can be predicted or inferred with sufficient accuracy because the charge level of the battery in the PV used to provide power for heating the electronic liquid is known with certainty.

[0834] 17. In Concept 16, the charge level is reliably known because the sensor directly measures the corresponding charge level, in an electronic cigarette PV.

[0835] 18. In Concept 16, the charge level is known with certainty because it can be assumed to be fully charged since the device is stored in a portable case containing a battery that automatically charges the battery in the device, in an electronic cigarette PV.

[0836] 19. An electronic cigarette PV that replaces cigarettes in normal use, wherein the electronic liquid comprises nicotine and the PV is not a pharmaceutical device but instead the electronic liquid is vaporized in the PV using a heating element and the vapor is inhaled to mimic or replace the experience of smoking cigarettes.

[0837] 20. A portable, personal storage and carrying case for an electronic-liquid electronic-cigarette PV that automatically begins to provide power to heat the electric atomizing element in the PV when the case in which the PV is stored is opened.

[0838] Feature 9: PV with dosage indication

[0839] 1. A refillable and rechargeable electronic cigarette PV that displays the amount of e-liquid consumed using a visual indicator that extends or moves along the main body.

[0840] 2. In Concept 1, an electronic cigarette PV in which a visual indicator moves away from the mouthpiece and extends down below the body of the PV.

[0841] 3. In Concept 1, the visual of the electronic cigarette PV is fully moved or extended to indicate that a single dose of nicotine has been consumed.

[0842] 4. In Concept 3, a single dose is defined by the user, electronic cigarette PV.

[0843] 5. In Concept 3, an electronic cigarette PV with a single dose that approximates the nicotine in a single cigarette.

[0844] 6. In Concept 1, the visual indicators are a row of LEDs or other indicators, and each indicator changes its appearance when a single puff occurs, electronic cigarette PV.

[0845] 7. In Concept 1, the visual indicator is a row of LEDs or other indicators, and each indicator changes its appearance when inhalations corresponding to smoking a single cigarette occur, electronic cigarette PV.

[0846] 8. An electronic cigarette PV in Concept 1, wherein the heating coil is arranged longitudinally along the long axis of the PV.

[0847] 9. An electronic cigarette PV according to Concept 1, wherein the user can control the airflow through the PV by manually changing the size of the air intake vent in the PV.

[0848] 10. An electronic cigarette PV of Concept 1, wherein the electronic liquid comprises nicotine and the PV is not a pharmaceutical device but instead the electronic liquid is vaporized in the PV and the vapor is inhaled to mimic or replace the experience of smoking cigarettes, and is a device that replaces cigarettes in normal use.

[0849] Feature 10: PV drip prevention

[0850] 1. A PV is a refillable and rechargeable electronic cigarette PV comprising: (a) an electronic liquid injection aperture or nozzle designed to engage an electronic liquid delivery mechanism, said aperture or nozzle connected to an electronic liquid storage chamber in the PV, said aperture or nozzle located centrally along the long axis of the PV; (b) one or more vapor outlets distributed around the electronic liquid injection aperture, said or said vapor outlets being connected by a passage to a vapor chamber containing a vaporization element, said vapor chamber being sealed in the electronic liquid storage chamber. The PV comprises a tip including said one or more vapor outlets.

[0851] 2. An electronic cigarette PV according to Concept 1, wherein the PV is adapted to align with a hollow tube, which is part of the fluid delivery system in the refill unit, when the electronic liquid injection aperture or nozzle in the PV is inserted into the refill unit, and the aperture or nozzle comprises a flexible seal through which the tube is inserted or passes, and the seal has an electronic liquid leakage suppression feature that ensures any electronic liquid drips are retained within the PV when the PV is withdrawn or removed from the refill unit.

[0852] 3. An electronic cigarette PV according to Concept 1, wherein the PV is adapted to be fitted into or connected to a case for refilling and recharging the PV without the need to disassemble or perforate the PV, while maintaining the PV intact and undamaged.

[0853] 4. In Concept 1, the passage connecting the vapor outlet to the vapor chamber is lined with a material capable of absorbing electronic-liquid droplets, an electronic cigarette PV.

[0854] 5. An electronic cigarette PV in Concept 1, wherein the tip of the PV comprises a fluid trap and a material capable of absorbing electronic-liquid droplets to capture any fluid leakage.

[0855] 6. An electronic cigarette PV according to Concept 1, wherein the vapor passage is not a path directly connected from the vapor chamber but includes at least one turn.

[0856] 7. An electronic cigarette PV of Concept 1, extending upward from the central axis of a hollow compartment into which a hollow tube or shaft PV is inserted.

[0857] 8. In Concept 1, the PV is an electronic cigarette PV that is refilled using a fluid delivery system in which the PV moves relative to a pump.

[0858] 9. In Concept 8, the PV is an electronic cigarette PV that is refilled using a pump activated by pressing and releasing the entire, complete PV while the PV is accommodated in the holder, sliding up and down within the holder.

[0859] 10. An electronic cigarette PV according to Concept 1, wherein the PV is refilled by mechanical camming caused by the upper part of the PV being pressed downward or camming when it is closed inside a carrying case, the camming action pressing the PV and thereby completing the downward stroke of the pumping action.

[0860] 11. An electronic cigarette PV in Concept 1, wherein the PV is filled by a motor that moves the PV up and down with respect to a pump, or moves the pump with respect to the PV.

[0861] 12. An electronic cigarette PV according to Concept 1, wherein the PV is fitted downwardly into a mouthpiece end and is adapted to be fitted into or coupled with a case comprising a hinged section that guides the opening of the PV to contact a pump nozzle that fills the reservoir in the PV with electronic liquid until the pressure in the reservoir is equal to the pressure in the electronic liquid cartridge in the case.

[0862] 13. In Concept 1, the PV is a case for automatically refilling and recharging the electronic cigarette PV, said PV being fitted downward into a mouthpiece end and adapted to be fitted into or coupled with a case comprising a hinged compartment that primes or activates a pump nozzle to transfer electronic liquid from a cartridge to a reservoir in the PV until the pressure in the reservoir is equal to the pressure in an electronic liquid cartridge in the case, regardless of whether the hinged compartment is closed or not.

[0863] 14. In Concept 1, the case automatically refills the electronic cigarette PV from a user-rechargeable electronic liquid cartridge in the case through an electronic liquid nozzle at the center of the mouthpiece end of the PV, and the case includes a micro-pump designed to be fitted into the aperture in the cartridge, the electronic cigarette PV.

[0864] 15. An electronic cigarette PV in which the nozzle or aperture of the PV in Concept 1 is connected to a micro-pump formed in a user-rechargeable electronic liquid cartridge.

[0865] 16. An electronic cigarette PV of Concept 1, wherein the electronic liquid comprises nicotine and the PV is not a pharmaceutical device but instead is a device that replaces cigarettes in normal use, wherein the electronic liquid is vaporized in the PV and the vapor is inhaled to mimic or replace the experience of smoking cigarettes.

[0866] In this final part of Attachment 1, we will summarize user-rechargeable electronic-liquid cartridge concepts.

[0867] Section C: User-replaceable electronic-liquid cartridge

[0868] Feature 11 : User-rechargeable electronic-liquid cartridge that fits into a portable storage and carrying case

[0869] 1. A user-rechargeable electronic-liquid cartridge adapted to be inserted into or attached to a portable, personal storage and carrying case for electronic-liquid electronic cigarette PVs.

[0870] 2. In Concept 1, the combination of the cartridge and the case is an electronic liquid cartridge that uses a portable, personal device for the storage and transport of PV and the electronic liquid refill thereof during normal use.

[0871] 3. In Concept 1, the cartridge is an electronic-liquid cartridge having a casing that is adapted to be fitted by a user into a chamber in a portable, personal storage and carrying case.

[0872] 4. An electronic-liquid cartridge according to Concept 1, wherein the cartridge has an outer surface forming a portion of the outer side of the case or an extension into the case, and the case and the cartridge, when combined, form an object that can be stored in a pocket during normal use.

[0873] 5. An electronic liquid cartridge according to Concept 1, wherein the electronic liquid capacity of the user-replaceable cartridge is greater than the electronic liquid capacity of the electronic liquid chamber in the PV, at least three times, and preferably five times.

[0874] 6. An electronic-liquid cartridge adapted to be coupled with a fluid delivery system in a case, according to Concept 1.

[0875] 7. An electronic liquid cartridge adapted to be coupled with a fluid delivery system in a case, which is a pump that delivers an electronic liquid approximately equivalent to a single cigarette to a PV for each pumping stroke according to Concept 6.

[0876] 8. An electronic liquid cartridge of Concept 1, designed to allow the electronic liquid to be discharged from the cartridge only when correctly positioned or attached to the case during normal use.

[0877] 9. In Concept 1, the cartridge is an electronic-liquid cartridge that is not substantially deformable to displace fluid from the cartridge during normal use.

[0878] 10. In Concept 1, the electronic-liquid cartridge is designed to be fitted inside a portable, personal storage and carrying case for an electronic-liquid electronic cigarette PV by a press fit near a seal, and the cartridge is formed with a gap designed to receive and engage with a micro-pump located in the case, the micro-pump being sealed near a nozzle or aperture in the cartridge.

[0879] 11. In Concept 1, the cartridge is an electronic liquid cartridge comprising an integrated micro-pump.

[0880] 12. An electronic liquid cartridge according to Concept 11, wherein the cartridge comprises an overcurrent channel for capturing and returning excess electronic liquid that is pumped up from the cartridge but not stored in the PV to the cartridge.

[0881] 13. An electronic liquid cartridge according to Concept 1, which is one of several cartridges inserted into or attached to a case, wherein the case is operable to select a specific desired cartridge or to mix electronic liquids from several cartridges.

[0882] 14. An electronic liquid cartridge comprising several compartments, each having a different electronic liquid, according to Concept 1.

[0883] 15. An electronic-liquid cartridge comprising, for example, an RFID chip, an electronic identifier in Concept 1.

[0884] 16. An electronic-liquid cartridge according to Concept 1, wherein the cartridge comprises physical features on its surface, such as rising or falling portions, that physically engage with compensation features on the wall of the case aperture into which the cartridge is inserted.

[0885] 17. An electronic-liquid cartridge, wherein the physical features of Concept 16 form the shape of a word or logo, such as a trademark word or logo.

[0886] 18. An electronic liquid cartridge according to Concept 1, adapted to be removed from the storage and carrying case and replaced by a new electronic liquid cartridge by the end-user during normal use.

[0887] 19. An electronic-liquid cartridge having a flavor or nicotine strength selected from a range of different available flavors or nicotine strengths in 18.

[0888] 20. An electronic liquid cartridge according to Concept 1, wherein the level or amount of electronic liquid in or used by the cartridge can be measured or inferred, and accordingly, a timely signal indicating that a replacement cartridge is required can be generated.

[0889] 21. In Concept 20, the signal is transmitted to a connected smartphone connected to an electronic-performing platform, an electronic-liquid cartridge.

[0890] 22. An electronic liquid cartridge of concept 20 that interacts with an ultrasonic distance sensor to measure how much electronic liquid remains in the cartridge or whether replacement is required.

[0891] 23. An electronic liquid cartridge according to Concept 20, interacting with a tilt sensor to detect the angle of the cartridge and whether the electronic liquid in the cartridge is close to an electrical circuit between different electronic contacts at different levels within the cartridge.

[0892] 24. An electronic-liquid cartridge interacting with a weight sensor weighing the cartridge in Concept 20.

[0893] 25. An electronic liquid cartridge that interacts with a capacitive sensor for detecting the level of electronic liquid within the cartridge, according to Concept 20.

[0894] 26. An electronic-liquid cartridge according to Concept 20, wherein the lower portion thereof interacts with a pressure sensor at the upper portion of a flexible tube that is received immediately above the lower portion of the cartridge.

[0895] 27. An electronic liquid cartridge according to Concept 1, wherein the electronic liquid comprises nicotine and the PV is not a pharmaceutical device but instead is a device that replaces cigarettes in normal use, wherein the electronic liquid is vaporized in the PV and the vapor is inhaled to mimic or replace the experience of smoking cigarettes.

[0896] 28. An electronic-liquid cartridge containing nicotine equivalent to approximately 100 cigarettes according to concept 28.

[0897] 29. A method for transmitting a signal regarding the status of a user-rechargeable electronic-liquid cartridge used in a portable, personal storage and carrying case particularly adapted for a refillable electronic-cigarette PV and for refilling and recharging said PV, comprising: (a) transferring electronic-liquid from said rechargeable electronic-liquid cartridge to said PV by the user; and (b) automatically transmitting a signal requesting the user to replace the rechargeable electronic-liquid cartridge to an electronic performance platform, either directly or via a connected smartphone.

[0898] 30. A method according to Concept 29, comprising: (a) detecting the level or amount of electronic liquid in a rechargeable electronic liquid cartridge in which a user in the case detects the electronic liquid; and (b) automatically transmitting a signal to an electronic execution platform requesting the user to replace the rechargeable electronic liquid cartridge, either directly or through a connected smartphone.

[0899] End of Attachment 1 Explanation of the symbols

[0900] 1 Personal Carburetor - PV 2 PV holder and receptacle chassis 3 Repositories (User-rechargeable e-liquid cartridges) 4 pumps 5 4-way sliding contact block 6 cases - L / h 7 Cases - R / h 8 Cam Block 9 Guide Plate 10 poles / levers 11 Solenoid Mounting Block 12 Chassis Lid 13 valve mounting cup 14 Valve Mounting Cap 15 Storage Gasket 16 PCBs - Main Case 17 Leaf Spring 18 pivot screws 19 Spring - Pole / Lever 20 Split Spring Pin - Pole Spring 21 Split Spring Pin - Pole Pivot 22 Solenoid 23 Spring - 4-Way Sliding Contact Block 24 contact fingers 25 ring contact 26 insulation rings 27 Seal Entrance - PV 28 O-rings - PV chamber 29 Valve - PV Tip 30 Spring - PV Tip Valve 31 Grub Screw - PV Tip 32 PV Tips 33 Screw - Guide Plate 34 Valve - Pump 35 Screw - Leaf Spring 36 End Cap - Ring Connector 37 PCB Mount Cap / Ring Connector 38-pin - 180° - ring connector 39-pin - 135° - ring connector 40-pin - 45° - ring connector 41-pin - 0° - ring connector 42 ring contact 43 Insulating Ring 44 Screw - Ring Connector 45 Support Ring - 4-Way Sliding Connector 46 Main Body - 4-Way Sliding Connector 47 Wires - 4-Way Connector Block 48 Fluid Chamber - PV 49 Ring Connector Assembly 50 Carburetor End Cap 51 Carburetor Insulation Sleeve 52 Coil and Wick Assembly 53 Carburetor outer body 54 Bush - Carburetor Body 55 Carburetor inner body 56 Tube body - Carburetor 57 Pressure Sensor Housing 58 Pressure Sensor / Transducer 59 Battery - PV 60 PV PCB 61 Hollow Stem Shaft 62 Sculpted Rim / Undercut 63 Molded Lip Seal 64 RGB LED indicators 65 Reset Switch 66 Arduino chips 67 Micro USB Connector 68 Battery - Chassis 69 PCB standoffs 70 microswitches 71 Power connection insulating bush 80 pump internal fluid chamber 81 Fluid inlet end 82 Fluid discharge end Slotted tube for 83 balls 84 through-hole 85 pistons 86 Piston Rod 87 Bias Spring 88-valve stem 89-Pitton Return Spring 90 valve cap 91 Tapered Valve Seat 92 ball valve 93 Return Spring 94 Valve Seal Washer 95 repository cap 96 Spring Guide 97 Storage Body 98 Type current heating coil 99 heating coil chassis 100 refill and recharge cases

Claims

Claim 1 A portable, personal, battery-powered nicotine delivery system comprising: (a) a pocket charger including a main battery; (b) a personal vaporizer including (i) a secondary battery recharged from the main battery and (ii) a heating element powered by the secondary battery to heat a nicotine-containing substance and generate heated inhalable nicotine vapor, wherein the personal vaporizer is stored within the pocket charger and is detachable from the pocket charger; wherein the pocket charger includes a hinged holder and further includes an electric charging contact connected to the main battery within the pocket charger, wherein the hinged holder is configured to be hinged outward from the pocket charger or open, and the personal vaporizer is configured to be inserted into the hinged holder of the pocket charger, and wherein the hinged holder is openable from the pocket charger from a closed position to an open position, thereby enabling the personal vaporizer stored within the pocket charger to be withdrawn from the pocket charger, and wherein the pocket charger is A system that opens when hinged, and the pocket charger closes when the hinged holder is hinged into the pocket charger. Claim 2 A system according to claim 1, wherein the hinged holder of the pocket charger is configured to secure the personal vaporization device to a charging position. Claim 3 A system according to claim 1, wherein the hinged holder is configured to be rotatably connected to the pocket charger so that the hinged holder moves between the open and closed positions. Claim 4 A system according to claim 1, wherein the pocket charger comprises a spring that positively biases the hinged holder to the closed position. Claim 5 A system according to claim 1, wherein the hinged holder is configured to guide the electric charging contact portion of the personal vaporization device to precise alignment with the electric charging contact portion of the pocket charger. Claim 6 In claim 1, the system automatically detects that the personal vaporization device has been removed from the hinged holder when the electrical contact between the personal vaporization device and the charging contact portion of the pocket charger is disconnected. Claim 7 A system according to claim 1, wherein the hinged holder exposes the upper section of the personal vaporization device when in the open position, thereby enabling a user to fully withdraw the personal vaporization device from the hinged holder. Claim 8 A system according to claim 1, wherein the hinged holder is configured to open from the main body of the pocket charger when a user presses a part of the hinged holder located below the pivot when the pocket charger is in an upright position. Claim 9 A system according to claim 1, wherein the hinged holder is further configured to pivot out from the pocket charger to the open position and the section of the hinged holder subsequently moves into the gap within the pocket charger. Claim 10 A system according to claim 1, wherein the personal vaporization device has a circular cross-section and is configured to be received within the circular opening of the hinged holder. Claim 11 In claim 1, the personal vaporization device is a system in the form of a cylindrical tube. Claim 12 A system according to claim 1, wherein the upper surface of the pocket charger is rounded. Claim 13 A system according to claim 1, wherein the lower surface of the pocket charger is rounded. Claim 14 In claim 1, the pocket charger comprises a display that allows the user to monitor nicotine consumption. Claim 15 A system according to claim 1, comprising a wireless connection circuit that connects the system to a smartphone application that enables a user to monitor usage data. Claim 16 A system according to claim 1, comprising a wireless connection circuit that connects the system to a smartphone application that enables a user to monitor the consumption of the nicotine-containing substance. Claim 17 A system according to claim 1, comprising a wireless connection circuit connecting the system to a smartphone application that enables a user to purchase or order the nicotine-containing substance. Claim 18 A system according to claim 1, further comprising a user-replaceable consumable containing nicotine. Claim 19 In paragraph 18, the user-replaceable consumable is a system that is attached to or inserted into the system by the user. Claim 20 In paragraph 18, the user-replaceable consumable comprises a content heatable by the heating element within the personal vaporization device to generate the heated inhalable nicotine vapor, in a system. Claim 21 In claim 18, the user-replaceable consumable containing nicotine is configured to be pressurized at the end of the personal vaporizing device and securely fastened to the personal vaporizing device. Claim 22 In paragraph 18, the user-replaceable consumable containing nicotine comprises an amount of material equivalent to a single combustible cigarette, in a system. Claim 23 In claim 1, the personal vaporization device is configured to accommodate a user-replaceable consumable containing nicotine when not stored in a closed pocket charger, a system. Claim 24 A system according to claim 1, wherein the hinged holder has a closed position in which a first surface of the hinged holder is parallel to the opposite side of the pocket charger, and the hinged holder has an open position in which the first surface forms an angle of 15 degrees with respect to the opposite side of the pocket charger. Claim 25 In claim 1, the personal vaporization device comprises an inductive power transfer coil, a system.

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