Cartridges for evaporator devices

Abstract

Disclosed herein are cartridges for use in vaporizers or vaporization devices. Also disclosed herein are vaporizers or vaporization devices, atomizer components, and methods.

Description

[0001] CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0002] This application claims priority to U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 62 / 848,681, filed on May 16, 2019, and U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 62 / 682,144, filed on June 7, 2018, each entitled “Porous Substrate Surface Heater,” the disclosures of which are incorporated herein by reference in their entirety. Background Art

[0003] Vaporization devices, including electronic vaporizers or electric vaporizer devices, allow for the delivery of vapor containing one or more active ingredients by inhalation of the vapor. Electronic vaporizer devices are increasingly finding widespread use in areas such as regulated medical use in drug delivery, and consumption of nicotine, tobacco, other liquid-based substances, and other plant-based smokeable substances, such as hemp crops, including solid (e.g., loose leaves) materials, solid / liquid (e.g., suspensions, liquid coatings) materials, wax extracts, and pre-filled pods (packets, packaged containers, etc.) of such materials. Electronic vaporizer devices can be particularly portable, self-contained, and easy to use. Summary of the invention

[0004] Aspects of the present subject matter relate to cartridges for vaporizers or vaporization devices, vaporizers or vaporization devices, atomizer components, and methods.

[0005] In one exemplary aspect, the cartridge may include: a reservoir housing including a reservoir chamber configured to selectively hold a vaporizable material; and an atomizer in fluid communication with the reservoir chamber. The atomizer includes: a porous substrate configured to draw vaporizable material from the reservoir chamber; and at least one surface heater configured to heat at least a portion of the vaporizable material drawn into the porous substrate into vaporized vaporizable material. The porous substrate includes at least one vent extending therethrough, the at least one vent configured to allow air to enter the reservoir chamber in response to at least a portion of the vaporizable material being drawn out of the reservoir chamber. The at least one surface heater includes at least one conductive layer deposited on a portion of the porous substrate.

[0006] The porous matrix can have various configurations. In some aspects, the porous matrix can extend from a first surface to a second surface opposite the first surface. The at least first surface can be located within the reservoir chamber, and the at least one conductive layer can be deposited on the second surface.

[0007] The at least one vent can have various configurations. In some aspects, the at least one vent can include a first portion having a first cross-sectional area and a second portion having a second cross-sectional area less than the first cross-sectional area. In these aspects, the first portion can be adjacent to the reservoir chamber, and the second portion can be located at a distal end of the reservoir chamber.

[0008] In another exemplary aspect, a vaporizer device is disclosed. The vaporizer device may include a vaporizer body, the vaporizer body including a first airflow path; and a cartridge as described above. The cartridge is selectively coupled to the vaporizer body, wherein at least a portion of the atomizer is exposed to the first airflow path, and at least one vent is in fluid communication with the first airflow path.

[0009] In some aspects, the cartridge can include a second airflow pathway in fluid communication with the first airflow pathway.

[0010] In another exemplary aspect, the cartridge may include: a reservoir housing including a reservoir chamber configured to selectively hold a vaporizable material; and an atomizer in fluid communication with the reservoir chamber. The atomizer includes a substrate having a channel extending at least partially therethrough, the channel configured to receive a predetermined volume of vaporizable material from the reservoir chamber at a predetermined rate. The atomizer also includes at least one surface heater configured to selectively heat at least a portion of the vaporizable material received in the channel into vaporized vaporizable material.

[0011] At least one surface heater can have various configurations. In some aspects, at least one surface heater can include at least one conductive layer deposited on a portion of a substrate. In other aspects, at least one surface heater can include a first surface heater on a first portion of a substrate and a second surface heater on a second portion of a substrate.

[0012] The substrate can have various configurations. In some aspects, the substrate can have at least two spaced surfaces, each surface defining the boundary of the passage separately. The substrate can include a substrate extending between at least two spaced surfaces, wherein the substrate further defines the boundary of the passage. In these aspects, the substrate can be formed as an integral structure.

[0013] In other aspects, the substrate may include a first sidewall and a second sidewall spaced apart from each other in a first direction. The first sidewall and the second sidewall may each extend from an inner surface to an outer surface, wherein each inner surface defines a boundary of the channel. In these aspects, the substrate may include a third sidewall and a fourth sidewall spaced apart from each other in a second direction opposite to the first direction. The third sidewall and the fourth sidewall may each extend from an inner surface to an outer surface, wherein each inner surface defines a boundary of the channel.

[0014] In some aspects, the substrate can include at least one vent extending from a first surface of the substrate to a second surface of the substrate, wherein the second surface is opposite the first surface.

[0015] The at least one vent can have various configurations. In some aspects, the at least one vent can include a first portion having a first cross-sectional area and a second portion having a second cross-sectional area less than the first cross-sectional area. In these aspects, the first portion can be adjacent to the reservoir chamber, and the second portion can be located at a distal end of the reservoir chamber.

[0016] In another exemplary aspect, a vaporizer device is disclosed. The vaporizer device may include a vaporizer body including a first airflow path, and a cartridge as described above. The cartridge is selectively coupled to the vaporizer body, wherein at least a portion of the atomizer is exposed to the first airflow path.

[0017] In some aspects, the cartridge can include a second airflow pathway that can be in fluid communication with the first airflow pathway.

[0018] In another exemplary aspect, the cartridge may include a mouthpiece, a reservoir configured to hold a vaporizable material, and an atomizer component. The atomizer component includes: a porous substrate configured to draw the vaporizable material from the reservoir to an evaporation surface exposed to an air flow path; and a surface heater configured to heat the vaporizable material. The porous substrate has a rigid, non-deformable form. The surface heater includes at least one conductive layer deposited on a portion of the porous substrate, wherein the evaporation surface includes the portion of the porous substrate.

[0019] The porous substrate can have various configurations. In some aspects, the porous substrate can be at least partially contained in the reservoir. In other aspects, the porous substrate can be completely contained in the reservoir, wherein the surface heater can be positioned away from the vaporizable material in the reservoir.

[0020] In some aspects, the porous substrate can be in fluid communication with the reservoir on a surface other than the portion on which the surface heater is deposited. In some aspects, the porous substrate can include a plurality of voids distributed throughout the porous substrate.

[0021] In some aspects, the porous matrix can include a stacked configuration formed by a plurality of separate matrices stacked on top of each other. In these aspects, at least a portion of the surface heater can be disposed between two of the plurality of separate matrices.

[0022] In some aspects, the portion of the porous substrate on which the conductive layer is deposited can include a flat surface, a concave surface, or a cylindrical surface.

[0023] At least one conductive layer can have various configurations. In some aspects, at least one conductive layer can include a trace pattern or a plate. In other aspects, at least one conductive layer can include a micro-electromechanical system (MEMS) layer.

[0024] In some aspects, at least one conductive layer can allow vaporizable material from a reservoir to pass therethrough. In some aspects, the at least one conductive layer can include one or more electrical contacts for interfacing with one or more corresponding pins. In these aspects, the one or more electrical contacts can be deposited on a surface of the porous substrate without a remaining portion of the at least one conductive layer being deposited on the surface.

[0025] The mouthpiece may have various configurations. In some aspects, the mouthpiece may be disposed at a first end of the cartridge body, and the heating element may be disposed at a second end of the body opposite the first end.

[0026] In some aspects, the cartridge can include an air inlet channel configured to direct an airflow along the evaporation surface in an airflow path such that when the surface heater is activated, vaporizable material drawn by the porous substrate along the evaporation surface is vaporized into the airflow.

[0027] In another exemplary aspect, a vaporization device is disclosed. The vaporization device may include a reservoir configured to hold a vaporizable material, and an atomizer component. The atomizer component includes: a porous substrate configured to draw the vaporizable material from the reservoir to an evaporation surface exposed to an airflow path; and a surface heater configured to heat the vaporizable material. The porous substrate has a rigid, non-deformable form. The surface heater includes at least one conductive layer deposited on a portion of the porous substrate, wherein the evaporation surface includes the portion of the porous substrate.

[0028] The porous substrate can have various configurations. In some aspects, the porous substrate can be at least partially contained in the reservoir. In other aspects, the porous substrate can be completely contained in the reservoir, wherein the surface heater can be positioned away from the vaporizable material in the reservoir.

[0029] In some aspects, the porous substrate can be in fluid communication with the reservoir on a surface other than the portion on which the surface heater is deposited. In some aspects, the porous substrate can include a plurality of voids distributed throughout the porous substrate.

[0030] In some aspects, the porous matrix can include a stacked configuration formed by a plurality of separation matrices stacked on top of each other. In these aspects, at least a portion of the surface heater can be disposed between two of the plurality of separation matrices.

[0031] In some aspects, the portion of the porous substrate on which the conductive layer is deposited can include a flat surface, a concave surface, or a cylindrical surface.

[0032] At least one conductive layer can have various configurations. In some aspects, at least one conductive layer can include a trace pattern or a plate. In other aspects, at least one conductive layer can include a micro-electromechanical system (MEMS) layer.

[0033] In some aspects, at least one conductive layer can allow vaporizable material from a reservoir to pass therethrough. In some aspects, the at least one conductive layer can include one or more electrical contacts for interfacing with one or more corresponding contact pins. In these aspects, the one or more electrical contacts can be deposited on a surface of the porous substrate without a remaining portion of the at least one conductive layer being deposited on the surface.

[0034] In some aspects, the evaporation device can include an air inlet channel configured to direct an airflow along the evaporation surface in an airflow path so that when the surface heater is activated, vaporizable material drawn along the evaporation surface by the porous substrate can be vaporized into the airflow.

[0035] In another exemplary aspect, an atomizer component is disclosed. The atomizer component may include: a porous substrate configured to draw a vaporizable material from a reservoir, wherein the porous substrate has a rigid, non-deformable form; and a surface heater configured to heat the vaporizable material. The surface heater includes at least one conductive layer deposited on a portion of the porous substrate.

[0036] The porous substrate can have various configurations. In some aspects, the porous substrate can be at least partially contained in the reservoir. In other aspects, the porous substrate can be completely contained in the reservoir, wherein the surface heater can be positioned away from the vaporizable material in the reservoir.

[0037] In some aspects, the porous substrate can be in fluid communication with the reservoir on a surface other than the portion on which the surface heater is deposited. In some aspects, the porous substrate can include a plurality of voids distributed throughout the porous substrate.

[0038] In some aspects, the porous matrix can include a stacked configuration formed by a plurality of separation matrices stacked on top of each other. In these aspects, at least a portion of the surface heater can be disposed between two of the plurality of separation matrices.

[0039] In some aspects, the portion of the porous substrate on which the conductive layer is deposited can include a flat surface, a concave surface, or a cylindrical surface.

[0040] At least one conductive layer can have various configurations. In some aspects, at least one conductive layer can include a trace pattern or a plate. In other aspects, at least one conductive layer can include a micro-electromechanical system (MEMS) layer.

[0041] In some aspects, at least one conductive layer can allow vaporizable material from a reservoir to pass therethrough. In some aspects, at least one conductive layer can include one or more electrical contacts that interface with one or more corresponding contact pins. In these aspects, the one or more electrical contacts can be deposited on a surface of the porous substrate without a remaining portion of the at least one conductive layer being deposited on the surface.

[0042] In some aspects, the porous substrate can be configured to draw the vaporizable material from the reservoir to the vaporization surface exposed to the airflow path. In these aspects, the atomizer component can include an air inlet channel configured to direct the airflow along the vaporization surface in the airflow path so that when the surface heater is activated, the vaporizable material drawn by the porous substrate along the vaporization surface can be vaporized into the airflow.

[0043] In another exemplary aspect, a method is disclosed. The method may include drawing a vaporizable material from a reservoir of a vaporizing device to a vaporizing surface through a porous substrate, wherein the porous substrate has a rigid, non-deformable form on at least a portion of the surface, on which a surface heater including at least one conductive layer is deposited. The porous substrate is in direct fluid communication with at least a portion of the reservoir, and the surface heater is not in direct fluid communication with the reservoir and is directly along an airflow path. The method also includes heating the vaporizing surface with the surface heater to cause vaporization of the vaporizable material, and causing the vaporized vaporizable material to be entrained in an airflow along the airflow path to a mouthpiece of the vaporizing device.

[0044] The porous substrate can have various configurations. In some aspects, the porous substrate can be at least partially contained in the reservoir. In other aspects, the porous substrate can be completely contained in the reservoir, wherein the surface heater can be positioned away from the vaporizable material in the reservoir.

[0045] In some aspects, the porous substrate can be in fluid communication with the reservoir on a surface other than the portion on which the surface heater is deposited. In some aspects, the porous substrate can include a plurality of voids distributed throughout the porous substrate.

[0046] In some aspects, the porous matrix can include a stacked configuration formed by a plurality of separate matrices stacked on top of each other. In these aspects, at least a portion of the surface heater can be disposed between two of the plurality of separate matrices.

[0047] In some aspects, the portion of the porous substrate on which the conductive layer is deposited can include a flat surface, a concave surface, or a cylindrical surface.

[0048] At least one conductive layer can have various configurations. In some aspects, at least one conductive layer can include a trace pattern or a plate. In other aspects, at least one conductive layer can include a micro-electromechanical system (MEMS) layer.

[0049] In some aspects, at least one conductive layer can allow vaporizable material from a reservoir to pass therethrough. In some aspects, the at least one conductive layer can include one or more electrical contacts for interfacing with one or more corresponding contact pins. In these aspects, the one or more electrical contacts can be deposited on a surface of the porous substrate without a remaining portion of the at least one conductive layer being deposited on the surface.

[0050] The mouthpiece may have various configurations. In some aspects, the mouthpiece may be disposed at a first end of the cartridge body, and the heating element may be disposed at a second end of the body opposite the first end.

[0051] The details of one or more variations of the subject matter described herein are set forth in the accompanying drawings and the description below. Other features and advantages of the subject matter described herein will be apparent from the description and drawings, and from the claims.

[0052] The details of one or more variations of the subject matter described herein are set forth in the accompanying drawings and the description below. Other features and advantages of the subject matter described herein will be apparent from the description and drawings, and from the claims. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0053] The accompanying drawings, which are incorporated in and constitute a part of this specification, illustrate certain aspects of the subject matter disclosed herein and, together with the description, help explain some principles associated with the disclosed embodiments. In the drawings:

[0054] Figure 1 is a cross-sectional perspective view of an exemplary embodiment of a cartridge consistent with embodiments of the present subject matter, wherein a surface heater and a porous matrix are combined;

[0055] Figure 2A is a cross-sectional elevation view of another exemplary embodiment of a cartridge consistent with embodiments of the present subject matter, wherein a surface heater and a porous matrix are combined;

[0056] Figure 2B It was taken along 2B-2B Figure 2A A cross-sectional side view of a material box;

[0057] Figure 3A is a cross-sectional elevation view of another exemplary embodiment of a cartridge consistent with embodiments of the present subject matter, wherein a surface heater and a porous matrix are combined;

[0058] Figure 3B yes Figure 3A A bottom view of a material box;

[0059] Figure 4Ais a partially transparent perspective view of another exemplary embodiment of a cartridge having a surface heater and a porous matrix and connected to a stylus consistent with embodiments of the present subject matter;

[0060] Figure 4B It was intercepted at 4B Figure 4A Enlarged view of the material box;

[0061] Figure 5A is a partially transparent perspective view of another exemplary embodiment of a cartridge having a surface heater and a porous matrix and connected to a stylus consistent with embodiments of the present subject matter;

[0062] Figure 5B It was captured at 5B Figure 5A Enlarged view of the material box;

[0063] Fig. 6A is a perspective view of another exemplary embodiment of a cartridge having a surface heater and a porous matrix consistent with embodiments of the present subject matter;

[0064] Figure 6B It was taken along route 6B-6B Fig. 6A A cross-sectional view of a portion of a cartridge;

[0065] Fig. 7A is a perspective view of another exemplary embodiment of a cartridge having a surface heater and a porous matrix consistent with embodiments of the present subject matter;

[0066] Figure 7B yes Fig. 7A A perspective view of a portion of a cartridge;

[0067] Fig. 8A is a perspective view of another exemplary embodiment of a cartridge having a surface heater and a porous matrix consistent with embodiments of the present subject matter;

[0068] Figure 8B It was intercepted at 8B Fig. 8A An enlarged view of the material box;

[0069] Fig.9A is a perspective view of another exemplary embodiment of a cartridge having a surface heater and a porous matrix consistent with embodiments of the present subject matter;

[0070] Fig. 9B yes Fig.9A A perspective view of a surface heater and a porous substrate;

[0071] Fig.10 is a partial cross-sectional elevation view of an exemplary embodiment of an evaporator device consistent with embodiments of the present subject matter, the evaporator device including a cartridge integrated into an evaporator body;

[0072] Fig.11 is a partially transparent perspective view of another exemplary embodiment of an evaporator device consistent with embodiments of the present subject matter, the evaporator device including a cartridge coupled to an evaporator body;

[0073] Fig.12 A process flow diagram is shown that illustrates one exemplary embodiment of a method of pumping and evaporating a vaporizable material in an evaporation apparatus consistent with embodiments of the current subject matter;

[0074] Fig.13A is an elevation view of a portion of another exemplary embodiment of an evaporator device consistent with embodiments of the present subject matter, the evaporator device including an evaporator body, a heater integrated into the evaporator body, and a cartridge having a porous matrix incorporated therein, the elevation view showing the cartridge insertably received in the evaporator body;

[0075] Fig. 13B yes Fig.13A A front view of an evaporator device with a front portion of the evaporator body removed, the front view showing the cartridge being inserted into the evaporator body;

[0076] Fig. 13C yes Fig.13A A front view of the evaporator device with a front portion of the evaporator body removed, the front view showing the cartridge insertably received in the evaporator body;

[0077] Fig.14 is a cross-sectional elevation view of another exemplary embodiment of a cartridge for use in a vaporizer device consistent with embodiments of the present subject matter, the cartridge having a reservoir and an atomizer including a substrate having a passage defined therethrough and at least one surface heater;

[0078] Fig.15 It was taken along 15-15 Fig.14 A cross-sectional side view of a material box;

[0079] Fig.16 yes Fig.15 An enlarged cross-sectional view of an atomizer;

[0080] Fig.17 is a partially transparent top view of another exemplary embodiment of a vaporizer device including a vaporizer body and a cartridge having a reservoir chamber and an atomizer consistent with embodiments of the current subject matter, showing the vaporizer body and the cartridge separated from one another;

[0081] Fig.18 yes Fig.17A partially transparent top view of an evaporator device of FIG. 1 , showing a cartridge inserted into a cartridge seat of the evaporator body.

[0082] Fig.19 is a cross-sectional view of an exemplary embodiment of a reservoir system configured for use with a vaporizer cartridge and / or vaporizer device consistent with embodiments of the present subject matter;

[0083] Fig. 20 is a cross-sectional view of another exemplary embodiment of a reservoir system configured for use with a vaporizer cartridge and / or vaporizer device consistent with embodiments of the present subject matter;

[0084] Fig.21 is a cross-sectional elevation view of another exemplary embodiment of a cartridge for use in a vaporizer device, the cartridge having a reservoir and an atomizer including a porous matrix having at least one vent extending therethrough and at least one surface heater, consistent with embodiments of the present subject matter;

[0085] Fig. 22 yes Fig.21 An enlarged cross-sectional view of an atomizer;

[0086] Fig.23 yes Fig. 22 An enlarged bottom view of the atomizer;

[0087] Fig.24 is a partially transparent top view of another exemplary embodiment of an exemplary embodiment of a vaporizer device consistent with embodiments of the present subject matter, the vaporizer device including a vaporizer body and a cartridge having a reservoir chamber and an atomizer, showing the vaporizer body and the cartridge separated from one another; and

[0088] Fig.25 yes Fig.24 Partially transparent top view of an evaporator device showing a cartridge inserted into a cartridge seat of the evaporator body. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0089] Embodiments of the current subject matter include devices related to vaporizing one or more materials for inhalation by a user. The term "vaporizer" is often used in the following description and refers to a vaporizing or vaporizer device. Examples of vaporizers consistent with embodiments of the current subject matter include electronic vaporizers, electronic cigarettes, e-cigarettes, etc. In general, such vaporizers are usually portable, frequently handheld devices that heat vaporizable materials to provide an inhalable dose of the material.

[0090] Electronic vaporizers typically use a basic atomizer system that includes a wick element (or wick) having a resistive heating element such as a coil (e.g., a nichrome coil) that is wrapped around the wick element or located within a hollow wick element. As discussed further below, other wick configurations are also possible. The wick may serve at least one or more purposes, including: drawing liquid from a reservoir into an atomizer where it may be evaporated by the coil to allow air to enter the reservoir to replace a certain volume of liquid removed, as well as other potential purposes. When a user draws on the vaporizer, the coil heater may be activated, and the incoming air may flow through the saturated wick / coil assembly, stripping off the vapor, which passes through the user's mouth and into the user's lungs. During and / or after exhalation, capillary action may draw more liquid into the wick and air may return to the reservoir through the wick.

[0091] Traditionally, evaporator devices have utilized wicks that are typically formed of silica, cotton, or fiberglass materials. Traditional silica wick materials are formed by first bundling together thin, continuous filaments, such as silica glass, to form a wire, which is then bundled together to form a cable or rope that serves as a wick. The cable can typically be defined by a nominal outer diameter, a wire count, and / or a value representing a linear density.

[0092] However, such conventional nebulizer systems, in which liquid is drawn from a reservoir into a wick, are limited because liquid is drawn longitudinally at the end of a cable (e.g., at the end of a continuous silica filament). During use of the vaporizer device, liquid may not be replenished as quickly as the user desires because liquid evaporates from the heated area of ​​the wick and more liquid needs to travel along the length of the wick to be replenished. It may be desirable to improve the liquid delivery rate of such a design.

[0093] Conventional nebulizer systems may present certain other problems. For example, conventional nebulizer systems may have many components, be quite complex, and may have great variability in the manufacture and use of the wick and coil components. Moreover, as described above, the wick formed by first bundling thin continuous filaments into wires and then bundling these wires into a cable or rope for the wick may be fragile, and its non-rigid structure may require precise and careful placement, thereby increasing the complexity of manufacturing.

[0094] In other atomizer designs, the traditional wick and coil design has been modified to incorporate a cylindrical ceramic wick, thereby addressing the design challenges of having a non-rigid wick and the disadvantages caused by the longitudinal aspiration of liquid. However, such a design may have multiple parts, also potentially leading to manufacturing complexity.

[0095] In another atomizer design, a chimney coil design is implemented. This design utilizes a ceramic wick formed in a hollow tube with a heating coil inside the hollow tube. Instead of drawing liquid from the reservoir along the axis of the wick, the liquid surrounds the perimeter of the chimney coil, resulting in a larger wicking area and a shorter wicking distance. However, this design still requires many parts, which can also lead to complex manufacturing.

[0096] Each of the above-mentioned atomizers may also include other challenges, as the design is not physically compact, but tends to occupy a large portion of the vaporizer device with which it is combined.

[0097] Atomizer components for vaporizer devices consistent with features of one or more embodiments of the current subject matter can provide advantages and improvements over existing approaches while also incorporating other benefits described herein.As used herein, "atomizer component" is used synonymously with "atomizer."

[0098] The vaporizer consistent with the embodiment of the current theme may include a vaporizer body or device and a cartridge (also referred to as a cartridge). The body / device may include a battery, a microcontroller, and an interface that is electromechanically connected to the cartridge. According to the embodiment of the current theme, the cartridge may generally include a reservoir or reservoir chamber, an air path, and an atomizer component. As used herein, "reservoir" is used synonymously with "reservoir chamber".

[0099] Atomizer components consistent with embodiments of the current subject matter can be formed from a porous substrate having a surface heater on a surface of the substrate (referred to herein as a "heated surface"). The atomizer can also be integrated into the vaporizer body, that is, without any cartridge, or alternatively as a heating plate that is part of the vaporizer body, which is positioned to receive the surface of the porous substrate that is part of the cartridge when the cartridge is coupled to the vaporizer body.

[0100] In the atomizer design consistent with the embodiment of the current theme, the flat wick design can be formed by silicon dioxide, cotton, glass fiber or other materials. Such a design can have favorable wicking characteristics based on the geometric shape of the change, which can also facilitate manufacturing (for example, based on the ease of insertion, Di type cutting ability, etc.). In some embodiments, traces can be printed on the wick. In other embodiments, coils or wires are wound around the wick.

[0101] Figure 1 A cartridge 100 consistent with some embodiments of the current subject matter is shown in cross-section, in which a surface heater 110 and a porous matrix 120 may be incorporated.

[0102] The cartridge 100 may be used with a vaporizer body / device (not shown) having a battery and control circuitry, together configured to generate an inhalable vapor by heating the vaporizable material before and / or as it enters the porous matrix 120 from which it may be vaporized.

[0103] exist Figure 1 In the exemplary configuration shown, the cartridge 100 includes a reservoir (or tank) 105 for holding a vaporizable material (e.g., nicotine e-liquid, or oil, or some other fluid or liquid having a desired vaporizable material), a proximal mouthpiece 109, and an atomizer component located in or in contact with the liquid contained in the reservoir 105. The atomizer component is an integral modular component formed by a porous matrix 120 and a surface heater 110, which together produce a heated surface portion 115 of the atomizer component when the surface heater 110 is activated. According to some aspects, the atomizer component is fixed in the cartridge 100 by, for example, but not limited to, insert molding, welding (e.g., ultrasonic welding, plastic to ceramic welding, radio frequency (RF) welding, etc.), a snap connection, a press fit connection, or any other fixed connection method.

[0104] According to some aspects of the current subject matter, the porous matrix 120 can be in fluid communication with the reservoir 105 on many, most, or even all of its non-heated surfaces (e.g., surfaces other than the heated surface 115). That is, the porous matrix 120 can provide a capillary from the reservoir 105 to an electrical layer (surface heater 110) that is not in direct contact with the reservoir 105.

[0105] exist Figure 1 The air path 130 is shown in FIG. Air can be drawn from the bottom or base of the cartridge 100 and pulled along the side of the atomizer components, in particular the side of the surface heater 110. The air path 130 through the cartridge 100 then passes along the reservoir 105 in a channel 140 between the outer side wall of the reservoir 105 and the inner side wall of the cartridge 100 to the mouthpiece 109. Thus, the atomizer components are directly located in the steam path or air path 130. Other air paths may also be provided to provide air along the surface heater 110.

[0106] Due to the porosity of the matrix 120 and the resulting capillary action, the porous matrix 120 draws the vaporizable material from the reservoir 105. When the user draws on the mouthpiece 109 of the cartridge 100, air flows into the inlet and flows along the air path 130. In connection with the user's drawing, the surface heater 110 may be activated, for example, by automatically detecting the drawing by a pressure sensor, by detecting the user pressing a button, by detecting a signal generated by a motion sensor, a flow sensor, a capacitive lip sensor, or other methods capable of detecting that the user is drawing or is about to draw or other inhalation, thereby causing air to enter the vaporizer device and flow along the air path 130. When the surface heater 110 is activated, the temperature rises due to the current flowing through the surface heater 110 to generate heat. The heat is transferred to a certain amount of vaporizable material by conduction, convection and / or radiation heat transfer, thereby evaporating at least a portion of the vaporizable material. Heat transfer may occur in the vaporizable material in the reservoir and the vaporizable material drawn into the porous matrix. For example, it may be necessary to preheat some of the vaporizable material in the reservoir before drawing it into the surface heater 110 through the porous matrix. Air entering the vaporizer device flows through the atomizer component along the air path 130, drawing the vaporized vaporizable material from the porous substrate 120. The vaporized vaporizable material then condenses, typically due to cooling, pressure changes, etc., so that it is discharged from the mouthpiece 109 as an aerosol for inhalation by the user.

[0107] The porous matrix 120 can be made of porous ceramic materials, sintered materials, other porous materials, such as high temperature resistant materials, including, for example, but not limited to metals, glass, silicon, carbon or high temperature resistant plastic materials, such as, but not limited to, polyphenylene sulfide (PPS), liquid crystal polymer (LCP) or polyetheretherketone (PEEK). The porous matrix 120 can be characterized by having multiple voids or spaces to allow liquid to be absorbed and transmitted from the reservoir 105. The void size, particle size or porosity of the porous matrix 120 can be selected based on various factors, for example, in order to achieve the desired characteristics or due to the specific parameters of the cartridge / device (such as, for example, the viscosity of the evaporable material and / or other design considerations). Multiple voids or spaces can be inherent characteristics of the material (or multiple materials), or can be formed by, for example, drilling (e.g., laser drilling). The porous matrix 120 can also be characterized by having a rigid, non-deformable structure.

[0108] According to other embodiments of the current theme, the combination of two or more materials can be included in a monolithic porous matrix, and this combination can include two or more materials uniformly distributed on a monolithic porous material, or other relative amounts of two or more materials are spatially heterogeneous structures. For example, in an exemplary configuration, the porous matrix can have a stacked configuration, wherein different substrates are stacked one on top of another (vertical or horizontal). The porosity of the stacked configuration can be reduced from top to bottom in a cartridge (for example, with the most porous material on the top in the reservoir, and with one or more materials with less porosity outside the reservoir). This type of stacked configuration can provide effective absorption for the vaporizable material in the porous matrix inside the reservoir. In various configurations, the porosity of the matrix can be designed so that each layer is specifically manufactured with a specific porosity.

[0109] The one or more materials and configurations (e.g., multiple layers) of the porous matrix 120 may be selected based on various factors, such as to achieve desired properties or due to specific parameters of the cartridge / device (such as, for example, the type of vaporizable material, vaporization temperature, required suction jet volume, size of the porous matrix, and / or surface area of ​​the surface heater). For example, in embodiments of cartridges designed for use with liquid vaporizable materials having relatively high viscosities, the pores of the porous matrix may be relatively larger.

[0110] The porous substrate 120 can be a rectangular block shape or a cube shape. In some embodiments, the porous substrate 120 is a thin rectangular block, wherein the surface heater 110 is contained on the rectangular side with the largest surface area. Other shapes are also within the scope of this theme, as further described below. The large surface area of ​​the surface heater 110 is conducive to heat distribution and faster heating.

[0111] The surface heater 110 may include one or more conductive layers located on or in contact with the porous substrate 120. In some examples, the one or more conductive layers may include a trace pattern deposited on the surface or at least a portion of the surface of the porous substrate 120. The trace pattern may be configured to achieve a desired and controlled resistance and may be uniform or non-uniform in thickness or extension along the surface of the porous substrate 120. The specific shape, pattern, thickness, etc. of the surface heater 110 is advantageous for allowing control of heat transfer to the porous substrate 120 and allowing liquid from the reservoir 105 to pass through. Alternatively, the conductive layer may be a plate or other continuous layer covering the entire surface or a portion of the surface of the heated surface 115 of the substrate 120. Such a plate or other continuous layer may include features such as holes, micro-perforations, etc. to allow vaporizable materials from the reservoir 105 to pass through the surface heater 110. The conductive layer may be made of any conductive material, such as, for example but not limited to, nichrome, stainless steel, nickel, platinum, gold, copper or aluminum. The conductive layer can be a microelectromechanical system (MEMS) layer. In this manner, or in other manners consistent with the current subject matter, the surface heater can be in contact with at least a portion of the surface of the porous substrate and can be at least a portion of (e.g., included in) the evaporation surface of the porous substrate.

[0112] The surface heater 110 can be adhered to the porous substrate 120 in a variety of ways, such as by pulsed laser deposition, physical vapor deposition, chemical vapor deposition, electroplating, electro-less plating, screen printing, etc. In some variations of the current theme, the surface heater 110 can be a stamped component that is snapped onto the porous substrate 120 or otherwise mechanically retained by the porous substrate 120. In other variations, the surface heater 110 can be a stamped component that is insert molded into the porous substrate. In other variations, the surface heater 110 is fixed to the porous substrate 120 by any fixed attachment method.

[0113] In some variations of the current subject matter, atomizer components may have a single heated surface (eg, heated surface 115), while in other variations, there may be more than one heated surface.

[0114] According to an embodiment of the current subject matter, the surface heater 110 may have a low resistance area that may serve as a contact to electrically connect the cartridge 100 to the vaporizer body / device ( Figure 1The electrical contacts 112 shown are shown. The electrical contact area can be located on a different surface than the heated surface 115, and in some variations, the electrical contact area can be on the same surface as the heated surface 115. This configuration of the surface heater 110 with the electrical contacts 112 has manufacturing advantages because the contacts do not require additional components and may not require bridging in the cartridge. In addition, the rigidity of the porous substrate on which the electrical contacts are formed provides a solid contact surface for contact with a contact pin (e.g., a telescopic probe or a leaf spring probe of the evaporator body / device, which requires contact with the electrical contacts of the cartridge to operate, as will be further described below).

[0115] According to some implementations of the current subject matter, the heated surface 115 (and other heated surfaces, if any) are located in the air path 130 .

[0116] According to some embodiments of the current subject matter, the surface heater 110 can have one or more holes or openings that align with one or more corresponding holes of the porous substrate 120 .

[0117] Figure 2A and Figure 2B A cartridge 200 consistent with other embodiments of the current subject matter is shown in cross-sectional front and side views, respectively, in which a surface heater 210 and a porous matrix 220 are incorporated.

[0118] exist Figure 2A In the example configuration shown, the cartridge 200 includes a reservoir (or tank) 205, a proximal mouthpiece 209, and an atomizer component partially located within the reservoir 205 and formed by a porous matrix 220 having a surface heater 210. Figure 2B As shown, the surface heater 210 may be located on two opposing sides of the porous substrate 220, thereby creating two heated surface portions 215 when the surface heater 210 is activated.

[0119] like Figure 2A and Figure 2B As shown, a portion of the porous substrate 220 extends into the reservoir 205, and the surface heater 210 is attached to one or more sides of the porous substrate 220 that are not in direct fluid communication with the reservoir 205. Figure 2B 20 / heater 210 in the reservoir. Figure 2A Also shown in FIG. 2 is an electrical contact 212. The electrical contact 212 is positioned so that it can easily contact a contact pin (eg, a telescopic probe or a leaf spring probe of the vaporizer body / device that requires contact with the electrical contact of the cartridge to operate).

[0120] exist Figure 2A207. The air path 230 is shown in FIG. Air can be drawn from the bottom or base of the cartridge 200 and pulled over the surface heater 210 (through the gap 207). The air path 230 through the cartridge 100 then passes along the side of the reservoir 205 in one or more channels 240 between the outer side wall of the reservoir 205 and the inner side wall of the cartridge 200 to the mouthpiece 209.

[0121] Figure 3A and Figure 3B A state in which a surface heater 310 and a porous matrix 320 are combined is shown by cross-sectional front and bottom views, consistent with further embodiments of the current subject matter.

[0122] exist Figure 3A In the example configuration shown, the cartridge 300 includes a reservoir (or tank) 305, a proximal mouthpiece 309, and an atomizer component located at the bottom of the reservoir 305 and formed by a porous matrix 320 having a surface heater 310. Figure 3B As shown, the surface heater 310 is located at the bottom of the porous matrix 320 opposite the reservoir chamber 305, so that when the surface heater 310 is activated, a heated surface portion 315 is formed on the bottom of the porous matrix 320. Figure 3B Also shown are electrical contacts 312. Electrical contacts 312 are sized and shaped to interface with a contact pin (eg, a telescopic probe or leaf spring probe of the vaporizer body / device that requires contact with electrical contacts 312 of cartridge 300 to operate).

[0123] exist Figure 3A 300. Air can be drawn from the bottom or base of the cartridge 300, contacting the surface heater 310 and the bottom of the porous matrix 320. The air path 330 through the cartridge 300 then passes along the side of the reservoir 305 in a channel 340 between the outer side wall of the reservoir 305 and the inner side wall of the cartridge 300 to the mouthpiece 309. It will be apparent to those skilled in the art that the porous matrix 320 can be configured to completely fill the bottom of the reservoir 305, or can be a porous matrix of a smaller size that is contained within a larger frame of some non-porous material. For example, this can be done to appropriately adjust the amount of vaporized material that the user inhales at each puff.

[0124] Figure 4A-4B and Figure 5A-5B The features of cartridges 400, 500 are shown through various perspective views, including the connection with contact pins 440, 540. The features of cartridges 400 and 500 (and porous substrate / surface heater) are similar to the features of cartridge 200 (and porous substrate 220 / surface heater 210) described above. The airflow through cartridges 400 and 500 is similar to the airflow described with respect to cartridge 200.

[0125] The cartridge 400 includes a reservoir (or tank) 405, a proximal mouthpiece 409, and an atomizer component partially located at the bottom of the reservoir 405. The atomizer component is composed of a porous matrix 420 (with a surface heater 410) Figure 2A and Figure 2B As shown in the figure, the upper portion of the porous substrate 420 is accommodated in the reservoir 405, while the bottom portion thereof, which accommodates the surface heater 410 and the electrical contact 412 (on the extended protrusion of the porous substrate 420), is located outside the reservoir 405. The gap 407 (such as Figure 4B The porous substrate 420 (shown) is formed in the reservoir 405 in an area without vaporizable material on either side of the substrate 420 / heater 410. The electrical contacts 412 provide an electrical connection between the cartridge 400 and the evaporator body / device by contacting the contact pins 440 having a leaf spring probe configuration. The rigidity of the porous substrate 420 on which the electrical contacts 412 are positioned provides a solid connection surface for connection with the contact pins 440.

[0126] The cartridge 500 has a similar structure to the cartridge 400: a reservoir (or tank) 505, a proximal mouthpiece 509, and an atomizer component partially located in the bottom of the reservoir 505. The atomizer component is formed by a porous substrate 520 having a surface heater 510. As shown in the figure, the upper portion of the porous substrate 520 is accommodated in the reservoir 505, and the bottom portion on which the surface heater 510 is accommodated is located outside the reservoir 505. The gap 507 (one of which is as shown in FIG. Figure 5B 550) is formed in the reservoir 505 in an area without vaporizable material on either side of the substrate 520 / heater 510. In this configuration, the electrical contact 512 extends from the surface heater 510 and through the support structure 550, with the bottom edge of the electrical contact 512 exposed and / or accessible to the bottom of the support structure 550. The electrical contact 512 contacts the contact pin 540, which in this configuration may be in the form of a telescopic probe.

[0127] As described above, in some embodiments of the current subject matter, the porous substrate can have a geometry other than a flat surface. For example, the porous substrate can have one or more recessed or convex areas (e.g., curved or triangular) on which the surface heater is positioned (e.g., deposited). The one or more recessed areas can provide a larger surface area for the heated surface within a smaller footprint. Other surfaces of the porous substrate (e.g., the sides other than the one or more heated surfaces) can be flat, recessed, convex, combinations thereof, or other geometries. Fig. 6A and Figure 6BAn example of this construction is shown in , wherein the cartridge 600 with a mouthpiece 609 includes a porous substrate 620 located in a reservoir 605. The porous substrate 620 has two recessed areas, and a surface heater 610 is located on the recessed areas. In certain embodiments, the surface heater 610 can be formed only on just one recessed area. The surface heater 610 can be directly deposited on each recessed side. Two recessed areas can be connected together to form an open cylindrical body. In some embodiments, the two recessed areas can be completely separated and not electrically connected. The bottom area of ​​the porous substrate 620 (for example, the bottom end of the open cylindrical body) is located outside the reservoir 605 or otherwise away from any liquid maintained in the reservoir 605. Electrical contacts 612 can be formed on the bottom area of ​​the porous substrate 620. Although the surface heater 610 is shown with electrical traces arranged in a horizontal configuration (e.g., the electrical traces are orthogonal to the direction of airflow), other configurations, such as vertical orientation (e.g., parallel to the direction of airflow), spiral configurations, zigzag configurations, or other patterns or arrangements are possible. The traces can be connected in series or in parallel.

[0128] In other configurations, in accordance with embodiments of the current subject matter, in addition to forming one or more recessed areas of an open cylindrical body, the porous matrix can be in the form of a half-tube configuration or the like, which can be formed by: a single matrix or by connecting two or more profiles together to form a half-tube. Such a configuration can be similar to Figure 6B The porous substrate is positioned so that the recessed area on which the electrical traces are deposited is away from any vaporizable material held in the reservoir. For example, the porous substrate may be positioned at a corner of the reservoir that contacts the walls of the reservoir, away from a liquid held therein (such as, for example, Figure 1 In such a configuration, a cover, plug, plate, etc. may form the top seal.

[0129] In another embodiment, the semi-tubular chimney may be substantially centered within the reservoir (similar to Fig. 6A ), but wherein the opposite side of the recessed area is not part of the porous substrate, but is adhered or otherwise bonded to the porous substrate to form a half-tube cylindrical body for the airflow path.

[0130] As described above, in some exemplary configurations, the porous substrate can be formed by stacking two or more layers (vertically or horizontally), so that the heater is contained in the porous substrate between two layers. In other configurations, the surface heater can be embedded in a portion of the porous substrate. Fig. 7A and Figure 7BSuch a configuration is shown, wherein a cartridge 700 is shown with a mouthpiece 709. In this configuration, the top of the porous matrix 720 is contained within the reservoir 705, while the bottom, in which the surface heater 710 is embedded (or placed between stacked layers), is contained outside the reservoir 705. Electrical contacts 712 extend from the surface heater 510 and through the support structure 750 to provide contact with the contact pins.

[0131] Fig. 8A and Figure 8B The features of the cartridge 800 with a mouthpiece 809 are shown in perspective view, and the mouthpiece 809 includes an insulating layer 860 that contacts or adheres to a portion of a porous matrix 820. In this configuration, a surface heater 810 is deposited on the outer surface of the insulating layer 860, on a side away from the fluid communication with the contents of the reservoir 805. An electrical contact 812 is also provided. The insulating layer 860 is used to electrically isolate the surface heater 810 from the porous matrix 820, while also allowing the vaporizable material from the reservoir 805 that is sucked into the porous matrix 820 to pass through and be heated and condensed due to a certain degree of porosity. The surface heater 810 can be adhered to the insulating layer 860 in the same manner as described above with respect to adhering the surface heater to the porous matrix. In some embodiments, the insulating layer is deposited on the porous matrix, and an electrical layer (surface heater) is deposited on the insulating layer, wherein one or more portions of the insulating layer are ablated to provide or increase porosity.

[0132] According to embodiments of the current subject matter, the porous matrix can be in the shape of a cylinder with the surface heaters screen printed or otherwise deposited on the exterior of the cylinder. Fig.9A and Fig. 9B An example of the above structure is shown, wherein the cartridge 900 with a reservoir 905 includes a tubular porous matrix 920 having a surface heater 910 and an electrical contact 912 adhered (e.g., deposited) on the outside of the porous matrix 920. As shown, the two end regions of the porous matrix 920 extend into the reservoir 905 so as to be directly fluidically connected to the evaporable material contained therein. The portion to which the surface heater 910 and the electrical contact 912 are adhered is not directly fluidically connected to the reservoir 905. Due to the porosity of the matrix 920 and the capillary action produced, the porous matrix 920 draws the evaporable material from the reservoir 905. That is, the porous matrix 920 is a capillary in the reservoir 905, wherein the electrical layer (surface heater 910) is not capillary connected to the reservoir 905.

[0133] Fig.10 An exemplary vaporizer device 1000 consistent with an embodiment of the current subject matter is shown, which includes a cartridge 1002 integrated into a vaporizer body 1004. The cartridge may be similar to FIG. 2A to FIG. 2BIn the illustrated embodiment, the vaporizer body 1004 includes a power source 1050 connected to the surface heater 1010 via electrical contacts, and a controller 1060 for various operations such as heating and puff detection.

[0134] Fig.11 Features of the device 1100 are shown, where a cartridge 1102 (having a porous matrix surface heater 1120 and a mouthpiece 1109) is coupled to a vaporizer body 1145 (having a power source 1150 and a controller 1160). It shows how any cartridge described herein can be coupled to and / or inserted into the vaporizer body. An airflow path 1130 is also shown, where the airflow moves over one or more portions of the surface heater 1120.

[0135] According to an embodiment of the present subject matter, the cartridge is insertably received in a cartridge seat within the vaporizer body to configure the vaporizer device for use. FIG. 13A to FIG. 13C An example of such a configuration is shown in , where a cartridge 1302 having a reservoir 1305 includes a porous matrix 1320 , and an evaporator body 1345 includes a cartridge seat 1304 and a surface heater 1310 .

[0136] Fig.13A The view in FIG. 1 shows an example of a cartridge 1302 that may be insertably received in a cartridge seat within a vaporizer body 1345 to configure the vaporizer device 1300 for use.

[0137] Fig. 13B and Fig. 13C Features of an exemplary evaporator device 1300 consistent with embodiments of the current subject matter are shown. The evaporator device 1300 may include an evaporator body 1345 and a cartridge 1302. The evaporator body 1345 may include a cartridge seat 1304 configured to mechanically connect the evaporator body 1345 to the cartridge 1302. The cartridge 1302 may generally include a reservoir (or tank) 1305, an air path, and a porous matrix 1320 consistent with embodiments of the current subject matter. The evaporator body 1345 may include a surface heater 1310 configured to couple with the porous matrix 1320 to generate a heated surface portion when the cartridge 1302 is insertably received in the cartridge seat 1304.

[0138] In some embodiments, the cartridge may have one or more surfaces of a porous matrix (wick) exposed to the cartridge receiving end. A surface heater may be exposed so that when the cartridge is inserted into the cartridge seat, the surface heater couples with the wick. The surface heater may be configured so that it is flexible and can be bent from an upward arc to a flat or substantially flat surface, thereby providing additional tension / contact between the wick and the surface heater. Fig. 13C An example of the above configuration is shown, wherein a porous matrix 1320 coupled to a surface heater 1310 is shown.

[0139] Various features of the above-described embodiments of the current subject matter may be combined. For example, an atomizer component according to an embodiment of the current subject matter may have some features of each of the above-described embodiments.

[0140] Atomizer components according to embodiments of the current subject matter can result in improved aerosol production characteristics relative to conventional wicks, such as wicks formed from silica glass fiber strands, by retaining more liquid per unit volume very close to the evaporation surface due to the porosity of the porous matrix and the shape of the porous matrix.

[0141] Atomizer components consistent with embodiments of the current subject matter can have increased liquid carrying capacity while also being thermally stable and having sufficient structural integrity to accommodate its use in vaporizer devices. In addition, the porous substrates according to embodiments described herein are rugged, easily automated manufacturing designs. In particular, electrical traces are allowed to be printed directly onto the evaporation surface of the porous substrate in one way or another, thereby eliminating the need to manufacture separate electrical components and embed or attach them to the substrate.

[0142] According to some embodiments, the flat surface side of the porous matrix described herein provides an easily controllable heated surface. The flat design allows the size of the heating area and the surface heater (e.g., the conductive trace pattern) to be controlled by, for example, adjusting the exact pattern of the electric heater traces in different areas. In addition, the flat surface side has an increased surface area compared to traditional round wicks.

[0143] In addition, using a conductive material for the surface heater (e.g., in the form of a trace pattern) allows the temperature of the surface heater to be controlled using a correlation based on the thermal coefficient of resistance (TCR). Different conductive materials (e.g., nickel) can be selected and used to achieve a more stable TCR, thereby achieving precise temperature sensing / control.

[0144] Reference Fig.12 , process flow Fig.12Features of a method are shown, which may optionally include some or all of the following. At 1204, a vaporizable material is provided in a reservoir of a vaporizing device. At 1206, a mouthpiece is provided where a user can provide negative pressure to cause an airflow to flow over a vaporizing surface. At 1210, the vaporizable material is drawn from a reservoir of the vaporizing device through a porous substrate to a vaporizing surface, the vaporizing surface comprising a heated surface of the porous substrate having a surface heater disposed thereon. At 1220, the vaporizing surface is heated using a surface heater disposed near the vaporizing surface. The heating causes the vaporizable material in the vaporizing surface to vaporize. At 1230, the vaporized vaporizable material is entrained in an airflow to the mouthpiece of the vaporizing device.

[0145] The following is a brief description of certain aspects of the invention which is not intended to be limiting.

[0146] In some aspects, a cartridge for a vaporizer device includes a mouthpiece, a reservoir configured to hold a vaporizable material, and an atomizer component. The atomizer component includes: a porous substrate configured to draw the vaporizable material from the reservoir to a vaporization surface exposed to an airflow path; the porous substrate has a rigid, non-deformable form; and a surface heater configured to heat the vaporizable material, the surface heater including at least one conductive layer deposited on a portion of the porous substrate, the vaporization surface including the portion of the porous substrate.

[0147] According to some aspects, a vaporization device includes a reservoir configured to hold vaporizable material and an atomizer component. The atomizer component includes: a porous substrate configured to draw vaporizable material from the reservoir to an evaporation surface exposed to an airflow path; the porous substrate has a rigid, non-deformable form; and a surface heater configured to heat the vaporizable material, the surface heater including at least one conductive layer deposited on a portion of the porous substrate, the evaporation surface including the portion of the porous substrate.

[0148] In some aspects, a method includes drawing a vaporizable material from a reservoir of a vaporization device to a vaporization surface through a porous substrate having a rigid, non-deformable form, depositing a surface heater including at least one conductive layer on at least a portion of the porous substrate, wherein the porous substrate is in direct fluid communication with the at least a portion of the reservoir, and further, the surface heater is not in direct fluid communication with the reservoir but is directly along an airflow path; heating the vaporization surface with the surface heater to cause vaporization of the vaporizable material; and causing the vaporized vaporizable material to be entrained in an airflow along the airflow path to a mouthpiece of the vaporization device.

[0149] In some aspects, the atomizer component includes a porous substrate configured to draw a vaporizable material from a reservoir, the porous substrate having a rigid, non-deformable form, and a surface heater configured to heat the vaporizable material, the surface heater comprising at least one conductive layer deposited on a portion of the porous substrate.

[0150] According to some aspects, the porous matrix is ​​at least partially contained within the reservoir.

[0151] According to some aspects, the porous matrix is ​​completely contained within the reservoir, and the surface heater is positioned away from the vaporizable material in the reservoir.

[0152] According to some aspects, the porous substrate is in fluid communication with the reservoir on a surface other than the portion on which the surface heater is deposited.

[0153] In some aspects, the air inlet passage is configured to direct airflow along the evaporation surface in the airflow path such that when the surface heater is activated, vaporizable material drawn by the porous substrate along the evaporation surface is vaporized into the airflow.

[0154] According to some aspects, at least one conductive layer includes a trace pattern or board.

[0155] According to some aspects, at least one conductive layer comprises a microelectromechanical system (MEMS) layer.

[0156] According to some aspects, at least one conductive layer allows vaporizable material from the reservoir to pass therethrough.

[0157] In some aspects, at least one conductive layer further comprises one or more corresponding electrical contacts for interfacing with one or more contact pins. The one or more electrical contacts may be deposited on a surface of the porous substrate without a remaining portion of the at least one conductive layer being deposited on the surface.

[0158] In some aspects, the mouthpiece is disposed at a first end of the cartridge body and the heating element is disposed at a second end of the body opposite the first end.

[0159] In some aspects, the porous matrix includes a plurality of voids distributed throughout the porous matrix.

[0160] In some aspects, the porous matrix comprises a stacked configuration formed of a plurality of separate substrates stacked one on top of another.

[0161] According to some aspects, at least a portion of the surface heater is disposed between two of the plurality of separation matrices.

[0162] According to some aspects, the portion of the porous substrate on which the conductive layer is deposited includes a flat surface, a concave surface, or a cylindrical surface.

[0163] As described above, conventional vaporizer devices have used an atomizer including a wicking element (or wick) that draws a certain amount of vaporizable material from a reservoir (reservoir chamber) into a portion of the atomizer including a heating element (e.g., conduction, convection, and / or radiation). Typically, in this case, the heating element is thermally connected to the wicking element, and the wicking element is at least partially disposed in a reservoir chamber containing a large amount of vaporizable material. As a result, when the wicking element is heated to evaporate at least a portion of the vaporizable material contained therein, a certain amount of heat is lost to a large amount of vaporizable material. Therefore, in order to ensure that a sufficient amount of vaporizable material in the wicking element is evaporated, excess energy is supplied by the heating element. In addition, due to insufficient thermal insulation of the atomizer, additional heat losses may be caused, thereby requiring additional excess energy to be provided. This lack of thermal insulation may also cause at least a portion of the supplied energy to be dissipated to other areas of the vaporizer device, which may result in loss of structural integrity of the device, damage to internal components, etc. In addition, due to the microstructure of the wicking element, it may also be difficult to control the amount and rate of inhalation of vaporizable material into the wicking element. Various features and devices that improve or overcome these problems are described below. For example, various features are described herein that allow for more controlled delivery of vaporizable material to a heated region of a vaporizer device, which provides advantages and improvements over prior methods while also introducing additional benefits as described herein.

[0164] In some aspects, the evaporator cartridge described herein utilizes an atomizer in fluid communication with a reservoir chamber, which is configured to selectively hold a vaporizable material. The atomizer includes a substrate having a channel extending at least partially therethrough, which allows the vaporizable material to be more controllably delivered to the heating area of ​​the vaporizer device. As an example, the structural dimensions (e.g., diameter, length, etc.) of the channel can be customized to control the quantity and / or rate at which the vaporizable material (e.g., from a reservoir chamber containing a large amount of vaporizable material) is received in the atomizer for subsequent evaporation. In this way, the channel can be configured to receive a predetermined volume of vaporizable material, for example, from a reservoir chamber at a predetermined rate. The atomizer also includes at least one surface heater, which is configured to selectively heat at least a portion of the vaporizable material received in the channel to the vaporizable material after evaporation. At least one surface heater can provide a smaller defined heating area for the vaporizable material. As discussed in more detail below, the atomizer allows the vaporizable material to be drawn into it, and is therefore separated from the remaining large amount of vaporizable material. This can avoid unnecessary heating of large amounts of vaporizable material when vaporizing the vaporizable material in the atomizer. Thus, thermal efficiency can be optimized.

[0165] The matrix can have various configurations. In some respects, for example, the matrix can have at least two spaced surfaces, and each surface defines the boundary of the passage. In these respects, the passage is open-ended, and therefore extends through the thickness or depth of the matrix completely. For example, the matrix can include the first sidewall and the second sidewall spaced apart from each other in a first direction, wherein the first sidewall and the second sidewall extend from the inner surface to the outer surface separately. The inner surface of the first sidewall and the inner surface of the second sidewall define the boundary of the passage separately. The matrix can also include the third sidewall and the fourth sidewall spaced apart from each other in a second direction opposite to the first direction, wherein the third sidewall and the fourth sidewall extend from the inner surface to the outer surface separately. The inner surface of the third sidewall and the inner surface of the fourth sidewall define the boundary of the passage separately.

[0166] The size and shape of the passage can depend at least on the structural dimensions of the substrate. For example, two or more of the spaced surfaces (for example, the inner surface of the first and second sidewalls or the inner surface of the third and fourth sidewalls) in at least two spaced surfaces can be parallel or at least approximately parallel alternatively. In some aspects, one or more of the two or more spaced surfaces can be at least approximately flat alternatively. In other aspects, one or more of the two or more spaced surfaces can be curved, undulating, ridged or non-planar on at least some surfaces. It will be appreciated by those skilled in the art that the quantity and / or rate of receiving the vaporizable material in the passage can depend at least on the distance and length between at least two spaced surfaces. Like this, the vaporizable material of a predetermined volume can enter the passage via capillary pressure and / or gravity.

[0167] In some cases where the capillary pressure generated within the channel draws the vaporizable material therein, the diameter of the channel may be equal to the distance between the at least two spaced-apart surfaces, and / or its length may be equal to the length of one or more of the at least two spaced-apart surfaces. In other cases where the capillary pressure draws the vaporizable material into the channel, the diameter of the channel may be less than the distance between the at least two spaced-apart surfaces, and / or its length may be less than the length of one or more of the at least two spaced-apart surfaces.

[0168] The substrate may further include a substrate extending between at least two spaced surfaces. The substrate may have various configurations. Generally speaking, the substrate extends from a first surface (e.g., inner surface) to a second surface (e.g., outer surface) opposite to the first surface, wherein the first surface further defines the boundary of the passage. In these respects, the passage is end-closed, and therefore partially extends through the thickness or depth of the substrate. The size and shape of the substrate may at least depend on the structural dimensions of at least two spaced surfaces and the distance therebetween. For example, in various aspects, the first and second surfaces may alternatively be parallel or at least approximately parallel. In other respects, the first and second surfaces may have other relative orientations. In some aspects, one or both surfaces in the first and second surfaces may alternatively be at least approximately flat. In other respects, one or both surfaces in the first and second surfaces may be curved, undulating, ridged or other non-planar on at least some surfaces.

[0169] The substrate can be formed of any suitable material (multiple materials). In some aspects, the substrate is formed of one material, while in other embodiments, the substrate is formed of two or more materials. For example, the substrate can include a first sidewall and a second sidewall formed of one material (e.g., a conductive material) and a substrate formed of another material (e.g., a conductive material). In some aspects, the substrate can be formed as an integral structure.

[0170] In some aspects, the substrate may include at least one vent extending from a first surface of the substrate to a second surface of the substrate, the second surface being opposite to the first surface. That is, at least one vent completely penetrates the thickness or depth of the substrate. The at least one vent may be configured to allow air to flow into the reservoir chamber in response to at least a portion of the vaporizable material being withdrawn from the reservoir chamber and entering the passageway of the substrate. The inflow of air can help stabilize the hydrostatic displacement generated in the cartridge when the vaporizable material is drawn into the porous substrate.

[0171] The at least one vent can have a variety of configurations. In some aspects, the at least one vent can have a varying cross-sectional area, while in other aspects, the at least one vent can have a constant cross-sectional area. For example, the at least one vent can include a first portion having a first cross-sectional area and a second portion having a second cross-sectional area less than the first cross-sectional area. In some aspects, the first portion can be proximal to the reservoir chamber, and the second portion is distal to the reservoir chamber.

[0172] In some respects, at least one surface heater can be positioned and therefore extends across two different parts of substrate. In other respects, at least one surface heater can include a first surface heater on substrate first part and a second surface heater on substrate second part. For example, the first surface heater can be located on the outer surface of the first side wall of substrate, and the second surface heater can be located on the outer surface of the second side wall of substrate. In some respects, the first surface heater and the second surface heater can be electrically isolated from each other (for example, without electrical communication). In other embodiments, the first surface heater and the second surface heater are electrically bridged together (for example, electrically connected).

[0173] At least one surface heater can have various configurations. For example, in some aspects, at least one surface heater can include at least one conductive layer located on at least one portion of the substrate or in contact with at least one portion of the substrate. At least one conductive layer can include a trace pattern deposited on at least one surface of the substrate or at least one surface (for example, the outer surface of the first or second side wall, the outer surface of the first and second side wall, or the outer surface of the first and second side wall and the second surface of the substrate). The trace pattern can be configured to achieve desired and controllable resistance, and can be uniform or uneven along the thickness direction of the substrate or along the surface extension direction of the substrate. The specific shape, pattern, thickness, etc. of the surface heater may be advantageous in allowing control to control heat transfer to the substrate. Alternatively, at least one conductive layer can be a plate or other continuous layer covering at least one entire surface of the substrate (for example, the outer surface of the first or second side wall, the outer surface of both the first and second side wall, or the outer surface of both the first and second side wall and the second surface of the substrate). At least one conductive layer can be made of any conductive material, such as but not limited to nickel-chromium alloy, stainless steel, nickel, platinum, gold, copper or aluminum. At least one conductive layer can be a micro-electromechanical system (MEMS) layer. In this manner, or in other manners consistent with the current subject matter, at least one surface heater can be in contact with at least a portion of the surface of the substrate.

[0174] At least one surface heater can be adhered to the porous substrate in a variety of ways, such as by pulsed laser deposition, physical vapor deposition, chemical vapor deposition, electroplating, chemical plating, screen printing, etc. In some variations of the current theme, at least one surface heater can be a stamped component that is snapped onto the substrate or otherwise mechanically held by the substrate. In other variations, at least one surface heater can be a stamped component that is embedded in the substrate. In other variations, at least one surface heater is fixed to the porous substrate by any fixed attachment method.

[0175] At least one surface heater may have a low resistance region that may serve as a contact to electrically interface the cartridge with the evaporator body (eg, to a contact pin of the evaporator body (eg, a telescopic probe or leaf spring probe of the evaporator body)).

[0176] Fig.14 and Fig.15 An exemplary cartridge 1400 for a vaporizer device is shown. More specifically, the cartridge 1400 includes a reservoir housing 1402 and an atomizer 1404 in fluid communication with a reservoir chamber 1406. Figures 14 to 16 The illustrated atomizer 1404 includes a substrate 1408 having a passage 1410 extending partially therethrough and first and second surface heaters 1412, 1414. Specific components of the cartridge 1400 are not shown for purposes of simplicity only.

[0177] The reservoir housing 1402 includes a reservoir chamber 1406. The reservoir chamber 1406 is configured to hold a vaporizable material (not shown). Although the reservoir housing 1402 can have a variety of sizes and shapes, as shown in FIG. Fig.14 and Fig.15 The reservoir housing 1402 is shown to be substantially rectangular. The reservoir housing 1402 includes at least two sets of opposing side walls, wherein a first set of opposing side walls 1416a, 1416b extend substantially perpendicularly to a second set of opposing side walls 1418a, 1418b. As shown, these side walls 1416a, 1416b, 1418a, 1418b define at least a portion of the reservoir chamber 1406. In addition, as shown in FIG. Fig.15 As shown, the reservoir housing includes a third set of opposing side walls 1419a, 1419b that extend substantially perpendicular to the first and second sets of opposing side walls 1416a, 1416b, 1418a, 1418b.

[0178] Although the substrate 1408 can have a variety of configurations, Figures 14 to 16 As shown, the substrate 1408 includes first and second opposing side walls 1420, 1422 and a base 1424 extending therebetween. The first and second opposing side walls 1420, 1422 are spaced apart from each other by a distance (D). Although the first and second opposing side walls 1420, 1422 and the base 1424 can have a variety of shapes and sizes, as shown, the two opposing side walls 1420, 1422 and the base 1424 are each substantially rectangular. Fig.16As further shown, the first and second opposing side walls 1420, 1422 extend from inner surfaces 1420a, 1422a to outer surfaces 1420b, 1422b, respectively, and the substrate 1424 extends from the inner surface 1424a to the outer surface 1424b. The inner surfaces 1420a, 1422a, 1424a define the boundaries of the channel 1410 that partially extends through the matrix 1408. As a result, in the illustrated embodiment, the first end 1410a of the channel 1410 is open and in fluid communication with the reservoir chamber 1406, and the second end 1410b of the channel is closed. In addition, in the illustrated embodiment, the second end 1410b is defined by the inner surface 1424a of the substrate 1424.

[0179] In use, the channel 1410 receives at least a portion of the vaporizable material (not shown) from the reservoir chamber 1406 through its first end 1410a toward its second end 1410b. As described above, the structural dimensions (diameter and length) of the channel 1410 can control the amount and / or flow rate of the vaporizable material from the reservoir chamber 1406 and into the atomizer 1404. In the illustrated embodiment, the diameter (Dc) of the channel 1410 is equal to the distance (D) between the first and second opposing side walls 1420, 1422, and the length (Lc) of the channel 1410 is less than the length (L1, L2) of the first and second opposing side walls 1420, 1422. As a result, the amount and / or rate of the vaporizable material received in the channel 1410 depends at least on the distance (D) between the first and second opposing side walls 1420, 1422 of the substrate 1408 and the length (L1, L2) of the first and second opposing side walls 1420, 1422. Thus, depending on at least the distance (D) and the lengths ( L1 , L2 ), a predetermined volume of vaporizable material may enter the channel 1410 by capillary pressure and / or gravity to be vaporized by the first surface heater 1412 and / or the surface heater 1414 .

[0180] Although the first and second surface heaters 1412, 1414 can have various configurations, such as Figures 14 to 16 As shown, the first and second surface heaters 1412, 1414 each include a conductive layer having a trace pattern. As shown, the first surface heater 1412 is deposited on a portion of the outer surface 1420b of the first opposing side wall 1420, and the second surface heater 1414 is deposited on a portion of the outer surface 1422b of the second opposing side wall 1422. In addition, as shown in FIG. Fig.14 As shown, two electrical contacts 1426a, 1426b are located at opposite ends of the trace pattern of the conductive layer of the first surface heater 1412. Although not shown, two electrical contacts are also located at opposite ends of the trace pattern of the conductive layer of the second surface heater 1414. Each electrical contact is sized and shaped to be compatible with the evaporator body, for example Fig.17 and Fig.18 The stylus (e.g., a telescopic probe or a leaf spring probe) of the evaporator body 1702 is shown connected for operation. In use, the first surface heater 1412 and / or the second surface heater 1414 are activated to generate heat, thereby evaporating at least a portion of the evaporable material in the channel 1410 and thus in the matrix 1408 into evaporated evaporable material.

[0181] like Fig.14 As further shown, the cartridge 1400 also includes an internal passage 1428 extending from an inlet 1430 to an outlet 1432 of the cartridge 1400. The internal passage 1428 is configured to direct air and vaporized vaporizable material through the cartridge 1400 for inhalation by a user. Although the internal passage 1428 can have a variety of configurations, for example, Fig.15 As shown, the internal passage 1428 is defined by at least the first and second opposing side walls 1434a, 1434b. In addition, in the illustrated embodiment, the side wall 1416b of the reservoir housing 1402 and the first side wall 1434a of the internal passage 1428 are the same. In other embodiments, the size and shape of the internal passage 1428 can be different, including any other possible shape.

[0182] In addition, if Fig.14 As shown, the cartridge 1400 further includes a set of coupling elements 1438a, 1438b, which can be used to selectively couple the cartridge 1400 to the evaporator body, for example Fig.17 and Fig.18 1402. Although the set of coupling elements 1438a, 1438b can have various configurations, in the illustrated embodiment, each coupling element 1438a, 1438b includes a protrusion extending outwardly from the side wall of the cartridge 1400. In particular, the protrusion of the first coupling element 1438a extends from the side wall 1416a of the reservoir housing 1402, and the protrusion of the second coupling element 1438b extends from the second side wall 1434b of the internal channel 1428 of the cartridge 1400. In other embodiments, the set of coupling elements 1438a, 1438b can have any other suitable configuration that can be used to selectively couple to corresponding features (e.g., channels, slots, holes, hooks, grooves, detents, etc.) in the evaporator body.

[0183] Fig.17 and Fig.18 An exemplary evaporator device 1700 is shown, which includes an evaporator body 1702 and a cartridge 1704. Fig.17 In FIG. 1 , the evaporator body 1702 and the cartridge 1704 are shown in a separated configuration, while in FIG. Fig.18 , the evaporator body 1702 and the cartridge 1704 are shown in a coupled configuration. The cartridge 1704 is similar to Fig.14and Fig.15 Therefore, the material box 1400 in FIG. 1 is not described in detail here. Fig.17 and Fig.18 Specific components of the evaporator device 1700 are not shown.

[0184] The evaporator body 1702 and the cartridge 1704 may be coupled to each other via corresponding coupling elements. Fig.17 and Fig.18 As shown, the evaporator body 1702 includes a first set of coupling elements 1706a, 1706b, and the cartridge 1704 includes a second set of corresponding coupling elements 1708a, 1708b. Although the first and second sets of coupling elements can have various configurations, in the illustrated embodiment, the first set of coupling elements 1706a, 1706b includes two recessed holes extending inwardly into the evaporator body 1702, and the second set of coupling elements 1708a, 1708b includes two protrusions extending outwardly from two opposing side walls 1709a, 1709b of the cartridge 1704.

[0185] The evaporator body 1702 can have various configurations. Fig.17 and Fig.18 As shown, the evaporator body 1702 includes a sleeve 1710 extending from a proximal end 1710a to a distal end 1710b. The sleeve 1710 defines a cartridge seat 1712 within the evaporator body 1702, which is configured to receive at least a portion of the cartridge 1704. The distal end 1710b of the sleeve 1710 is coupled to a bottom plate 1714, which is configured to accommodate at least a portion of additional components of the evaporator device 1700, such as a power source, input devices, sensors, output devices, controllers, communication hardware, memory, etc. Once the cartridge 1704 is coupled to the evaporator body 1702, as shown in FIG. Fig.18 As shown, a first airflow path 1720 is created within the cartridge seat 1712 between the distal end 1710 b of the sleeve 1710 and the distal end 1704 d of the cartridge 1704 .

[0186] Furthermore, if Fig.17 and Fig.18As shown, the first air inlet 1718 extends through the wall 1711 of the sleeve 1710. The first air inlet 1718 is configured to allow at least a portion of ambient air outside the evaporator body 1702 and therefore the reservoir housing 1705 of the cartridge 1704 to enter the evaporator device 1700. In use, when the user draws on the device, at least a portion of the ambient air enters the evaporator body 1702 and travels through the first airflow path 1720. As will be described in detail below, the evaporated vaporizable material joins the first airflow path 1720 and combines with at least a portion of the air to form a mixture. The mixture travels through the remainder of the first airflow path 1720 and then through the second airflow path 1722, which extends through the internal channel 1724 of the cartridge 1704. In this way, the first and second airflow paths 1720, 1722 are fluidly connected to each other.

[0187] In use, once the cartridge 1704 is coupled to the vaporizer body 1702, the first surface heater 1726 and / or the second surface heater (at Fig.17 and Fig.18 The vaporizer 1728 (which is covered in the middle) can be activated by the user drawing suction on the cartridge 1704, and at least a portion of the vaporizable material within the matrix 1730 of the atomizer 1728 is vaporized into vaporized vaporizable material. The suction also simultaneously draws ambient air into the first air flow path through the first air inlet 1718 of the sleeve 1710. As a result, at least a portion of the vaporized vaporizable material is combined with the air flowing along the first air flow path 1720. Subsequently, at least a portion of the combined vaporized vaporizable material and air continue to travel through the evaporator body 1702 and enter the second air flow path 1722 of the cartridge 1704. When the combined vaporized vaporizable material and air travel through at least the second air flow path 1722, and therefore through the internal channel 1724 of the cartridge 1704, they are at least partially condensed into an aerosol for subsequent inhalation by the user.

[0188] As described above, the evaporable material is drawn from the reservoir chamber at least in part due to the capillary action provided by the porous matrix. However, as the evaporable material is drawn out from the reservoir chamber, the pressure inside the reservoir chamber decreases, thereby generating a vacuum and resisting the capillary action. This reduces the efficiency of the porous matrix in drawing out the evaporable material from the reservoir chamber, thereby, for example, when the user draws on the evaporator device, reducing the efficiency of the evaporator evaporating the required amount of evaporable material. In addition, the vacuum generated in the reservoir chamber may eventually lead to the inability to draw out all the evaporable material therefrom, thereby wasting the evaporable material. The various features and devices described below can improve or overcome these problems. For example, various features for controlling the airflow in the evaporator device are described herein, which can provide advantages and improvements relative to existing methods, while also introducing the additional benefits described herein.

[0189] Fig.19 and Fig. 20 An exemplary first embodiment and a second embodiment of a reservoir system 2000, 2100 are shown, respectively, which are configured for use in an evaporator cartridge and / or an evaporator device to improve airflow in the evaporator device. More specifically, Fig.19 and Fig. 20 The reservoir system 2000, 2100 shown in the improved pressure regulation within the reservoir chamber 2006, 2106 allows the vacuum created in the reservoir chamber 2006, 2106 to be released after the user draws on the vaporizer device. This allows the capillary action of the porous matrix of the atomizer 2104 to continue to effectively draw vaporizable material from the reservoir chamber 2006, 2106 after each draw.

[0190] like Fig.19 and Fig. 20 As shown, the reservoir system 2000,2100 includes a reservoir chamber 2006,2106 configured to accommodate vaporizable material. Except for the porous matrix through the atomizer 2104, all sides of the reservoir chamber 2006,2106 are sealed by the reservoir housing wall 2002,2102. The atomizer 2004,2104 also includes a surface heater deposited on the surface of the porous matrix. The porous matrix is ​​configured to provide capillary action, which attracts vaporizable material from the reservoir chamber 2006,2106 toward the surface heater to be evaporated into aerosol by the surface heater. The aerosol is then combined with the airflow 2020,2120 that travels along the airflow channel 2024,2124 of the vaporizer device, for the user to inhale.

[0191] The reservoir system 2000, 2100 also includes an airflow restrictor 2018, 2118 that restricts the airflow 2020, 2120 passing along the airflow channel 2024, 2124 of the vaporizer device, for example when a user draws on the vaporizer device. The restriction of the airflow 2020, 2120 caused by the airflow restrictor 2018, 2118 can allow a vacuum to be formed along a portion of the airflow channel 2024, 2124 downstream of the airflow restrictor 2018, 2118. The vacuum generated along the airflow channel 2024, 2124 can help draw the aerosol along the airflow channel 2024, 2124 for inhalation by the user. At least one airflow restrictor 2018, 2118 can be included in each reservoir system 2000, 2100, and the airflow restrictor 2018, 2118 can include any number of features for restricting the airflow along the airflow channel 2024, 2124.

[0192] like Fig.19 and Fig. 20 As shown, each reservoir system 2000, 2100 may also include a vent 2010, 2110 configured to selectively allow air to pass into the reservoir chamber 2006, 2106 to increase the pressure of the reservoir chamber 2006, 2106, for example, to relieve the negative pressure (vacuum) of the reservoir chamber 2006, 2106, as discussed above, which is generated by the vaporizable material being drawn out of the reservoir chamber 2006, 2106. At least one vent 2010, 2110 may be associated with the reservoir chamber 2006, 2106. The vent 2010, 2110 may be an active valve or a passive valve, and the vent 2010, 2110 may include any number of features to allow air to enter the reservoir chamber 2006, 2106 to relieve the negative pressure generated in the reservoir chamber 2006, 2106. Various embodiments of vents and vent configurations (eg, embodiments of porous substrates including one or more vents) are described in more detail below.

[0193] For example, Fig.19 As shown, an embodiment of the vent 2010 may include a passage extending between the reservoir chamber 2006 and the airflow channel 2024. In another embodiment, as shown in FIG. Fig. 20 As shown, embodiments of the vent 2110 can include a passage extending between the reservoir chamber 2106 and the ambient air outside the system 2100. In either case, the vents 2010, 2110 have a diameter of a certain size so that when the pressure across the vent 2010 is balanced (e.g., the pressure in the reservoir chamber 2006 is approximately the same as the pressure in the airflow channel 2024, or the pressure in the reservoir chamber 2106 is approximately the same as the pressure outside the system 2100), the fluid tension of the vaporizable material prevents the vaporizable material from passing through the passage. However, the vent passage has a diameter of a certain size so that the vacuum pressure generated in the reservoir chamber 2006, 2106 breaks the surface tension of the vaporizable material along the vent passage.

[0194] Accordingly, see Fig.19 , a certain volume of air can flow from the air flow channel 2024 to the reservoir chamber 2006 and relieve the vacuum pressure. Fig. 20, a volume of air can be delivered from outside the system 2100 to the reservoir chamber 2106 and relieve the vacuum pressure. Once the volume of air is added to the reservoir chamber 2006, 2106, the pressure across the vents 2010, 2110 is balanced again, allowing the surface tension of the vaporizable material to prevent air from entering the reservoir chamber 2006, 2106 and prevent the vaporizable material from leaking out of the reservoir chamber 2006, 2106 through the vent channel. Additionally, in addition to the diameter, the vent channel can also include a length that defines the volume of fluid that can pass through the vent when a pressure differential is experienced across the vent.

[0195] In an exemplary embodiment, the diameter size of the ventilation channel may include approximately 0.3mm to 0.6mm, and may also include a diameter having a size of approximately 0.1mm to 2mm. The material of the ventilation channel may also assist in controlling ventilation, such as determining the contact angle between the wall of the ventilation channel and the evaporation material. The contact angle may affect the surface tension generated by the evaporation material, and therefore affect the threshold pressure difference generated on the vent before a certain volume of fluid passes through the vent, as described above. The ventilation channel may include various shapes / sizes and configurations within the scope of the present invention. In addition, various embodiments of cartridges and cartridge parts including one or more various ventilation features are described in more detail below.

[0196] The positioning of vent 2010,2110 (for example, passive vent) and air flow restrictor 2018,2118 relative to atomizer 2004,2104 contributes to the effective operation of reservoir system 2000,2100. For example, the improper positioning of vent 2010,2110 or air flow restrictor 2018,2118 may cause the accidental leakage of vaporizable material from reservoir chamber 2006,2106. The present invention solves the effective positioning of vent 2010,2110 and air flow restrictor 2018,2118 relative to atomizer 2004,2014 (comprising porous matrix). For example, the pressure difference between passive vent and porous matrix is ​​very little or does not have pressure difference and can cause effective reservoir system to alleviate the vacuum pressure in reservoir chamber, and when preventing leakage, makes porous matrix play effective capillary action. The structure of the reservoir system with effective positioning of vent and air flow restrictor relative to atomizer is described in more detail below.

[0197] like Fig.19As shown, the airflow restrictor 2018 can be positioned upstream of the atomizer 2004 along the airflow channel 2024, and the vent 2010 is positioned along the reservoir chamber 2006 so as to provide fluid communication between the reservoir chamber 2006 and a portion of the airflow channel 2024 located downstream of the atomizer 2004. In this way, when the user draws on the vaporizer device, a negative pressure is generated downstream of the airflow restrictor 2018, so that the atomizer is subjected to the negative pressure. Similarly, the side of the vent 2010 that is in communication with the airflow channel 2024 is also subjected to the negative pressure.

[0198] In this way, a very small amount of pressure difference or no pressure difference is generated between the vent 2010 and the atomizer 2004 during suction (e.g., when the user inhales or absorbs air from the vaporizer device). However, after suction, the capillary action of the porous matrix will draw the vaporizable material from the reservoir chamber 2006 to supplement the vaporizable material that was evaporated and inhaled due to the previous suction. As a result, a vacuum or negative pressure will be generated in the reservoir chamber 2006. Then, a pressure difference will occur between the reservoir chamber 2006 and the airflow channel 2024. As discussed above, the vent 2010 can be configured so that the pressure difference (e.g., threshold pressure difference) between the reservoir chamber 2006 and the airflow channel 2024 allows a certain volume of air to enter the reservoir chamber 2006 from the airflow channel 2024, thereby alleviating the vacuum in the reservoir chamber 2006, and returning to the equilibrium pressure across the vent 2010 and the stable reservoir system 2000.

[0199] In another embodiment, Fig. 20 As shown, the airflow restrictor 2118 can be positioned downstream of the atomizer 2104 along the airflow channel 2124, while the vent 2110 is positioned along the reservoir chamber 2106 so that it provides fluid communication between the reservoir chamber 2106 and a portion of the airflow channel 2124 located upstream of the atomizer 2104. In this way, when the user draws on the vaporizer device, the atomizer 2104 and the vent 2110 experience little or no suction or negative pressure caused by suction, resulting in little or no pressure difference between the atomizer 2104 and the vent 2110. Similar to Fig.19 In the case of a vacuum, the pressure differential created across the vent 2110 is the result of the capillary action of the porous matrix sucking the vaporizable material from the reservoir chamber 2106 after suction. As a result, a vacuum or negative pressure will be created in the reservoir chamber 2106. A pressure differential will then occur across the vent 2110.

[0200] As described above, vents 2010, 2110 can be configured so that the pressure difference (e.g., threshold pressure difference) between reservoir chambers 2006, 2106 and airflow channel 2024 or atmosphere (ambient air) allows a certain volume of air to enter the reservoir, thereby alleviating the vacuum in reservoir chambers 2006, 2106. This balances the pressure across vents 2010, 2110 and stabilizes reservoir systems 19, 20. Vents 2010, 2110 can include various configurations and features, and can be positioned at various locations along the cartridge, thereby obtaining various results. For example, one or more vents can be located near an atomizer or form a part of an atomizer. In such a configuration, one or more vents can provide fluid (e.g., air) communication between a reservoir chamber and an atomizer (when a user draws air from the vaporizer, airflow passes through the channel, and is therefore a part of an airflow path).

[0201] Similarly, as described above, a vent located near or forming part of the atomizer can allow air to travel through the vent into the reservoir chamber to increase the pressure inside the reservoir chamber, thereby effectively relieving the vacuum pressure generated by the vaporizable material being drawn into the porous matrix of the atomizer. In this way, the relief of the vacuum pressure allows the vaporizable material that enters the atomizer through the porous matrix to continue to effectively capillary, thereby generating an inhalable vapor during a subsequent puff on the vaporizer device by the user.

[0202] In some aspects, the vaporizer cartridge described herein utilizes an atomizer having a porous matrix that is configured to draw vaporizable material from a reservoir chamber, wherein the porous matrix has at least one vent extending therethrough, the vent being configured to allow air to pass into the reservoir chamber in response to at least a portion of the vaporizable material being drawn out of the reservoir chamber (e.g., when or after a user draws the cartridge). That is, at least one vent may be configured to selectively allow air to pass through and into the reservoir chamber to increase the internal pressure within the reservoir chamber. This may alleviate the negative pressure (vacuum) in the reservoir chamber generated by the vaporizable material being drawn out of the reservoir chamber and into the porous matrix. The atomizer also includes at least one surface heater that is configured to selectively heat at least a portion of the vaporizable material drawn into the porous matrix.

[0203] The porous substrate can have various configurations. Generally, the porous substrate extends from the first surface to the second surface opposite to the first surface. In some aspects, the first surface can be positioned in the reservoir chamber, and therefore directly contacts the evaporable material arranged therein. In this way, at least a portion of the porous substrate resides in the reservoir chamber. The porous substrate can have any suitable shape and size. On the one hand, the porous substrate is substantially rectangular. The size and shape of the porous substrate can at least depend on the structural dimensions of other components of the cartridge and the cartridge itself. For example, in various aspects, the first and second surfaces can be parallel or at least approximately parallel, optionally. In other aspects, the first and second surfaces can have other relative orientations. In a particular aspect, one or both surfaces in the first and second surfaces can be at least approximately flat, optionally. In a particular aspect, one or both surfaces in the first and second surfaces can be curved, undulating, ridged or otherwise non-planar on at least some of the surfaces.

[0204] The porous matrix can be made of porous ceramic material, sintered material, other porous materials, such as high temperature resistant materials, such as but not limited to metal, glass, silicon, carbon or high temperature resistant plastic materials, such as but not limited to polyphenylene sulfide (PPS), liquid crystal polymer (LCP) or polyetheretherketone (PEEK). The porous matrix can be characterized by having multiple voids or spaces to allow absorption and transportation of evaporable materials from the reservoir chamber. The void size, particle size or porosity of the porous matrix can be selected based on various factors such as to achieve the desired characteristics or due to the specific parameters of the cartridge / device (such as, for example, the viscosity and / or other design considerations of the evaporable material). Multiple voids or spaces can be the inherent characteristics of the material (or multiple materials), or can be formed by, for example, drilling (such as laser drilling). The porous matrix can also be characterized by having a rigid, non-deformable structure.

[0205] At least one vent can have a variety of configurations. In some aspects, at least one vent can have a varying cross-sectional area, while in other aspects, at least one vent can have a constant cross-sectional area. For example, at least one vent can include a first portion having a first cross-sectional area and a second portion having a second cross-sectional area less than the first cross-sectional area. In some aspects, the first portion can be adjacent to the reservoir chamber, and the second portion can be at the far end of the reservoir chamber. (It may be said that they can both be close to the reservoir chamber) As a result, the cross-sectional area allows for a lower pressure at the interface between the vaporizable material and the air flow entering the reservoir chamber, while the second cross-sectional area allows for a higher pressure within a portion of the vent passage to prevent the vaporizable material from passing therethrough and thereby preventing leakage from the reservoir chamber.

[0206] By having different cross-sectional areas, this can allow for lower air bubble pinch off resistance on a first end of a first portion of the at least one vent in contact with the reservoir chamber, and higher capillary pressure at a second end of a second portion of the at least one vent, opposite the first end, to counteract the static head of vaporizable material in the reservoir chamber. In some aspects, the at least one vent can have a conical shape, while in other aspects, the at least one vent can have any other possible shape.

[0207] The first portion can extend inwardly from the first surface of porous substrate, and the second portion can extend inwardly from the second surface of porous substrate. In other respects, at least one vent can be located at the edge or end of porous substrate, and at least one vent is partially defined by the inner surface of reservoir housing. It will be appreciated by those skilled in the art that at least one vent can be arranged at multiple positions (for example, at edge or end, middle or any other possible position therebetween) along the length of porous substrate. In some respects, at least one vent can have a conical shape, and in other respects, at least one vent can have any other possible shape.

[0208] At least one surface heater may include one or more conductive layers located on or in contact with at least a portion of a porous substrate. In some examples, one or more conductive layers may include trace patterns deposited on the surface (e.g., second surface) or at least a portion of a surface (e.g., second surface) of a porous substrate. The trace pattern may be configured to achieve desired and controlled resistance, and may be uniform or non-uniform along the thickness of the porous substrate or along the range of the surface extension of the porous substrate. The specific shape, pattern, thickness, etc. of the surface heater may be advantageous in allowing the heat transfer control of the porous substrate to be controlled and allowing the evaporable material from the reservoir chamber to pass through. Alternatively, the conductive layer may be a plate or other continuous layer covering the entire surface or a portion of the second surface of the substrate. Such a plate or other continuous layer may include features such as holes, microperforations, etc., to allow the evaporable material from the reservoir chamber to pass through the surface heater. The conductive layer may be made of any conductive material, such as, for example but not limited to nickel-chromium alloy, stainless steel, nickel, platinum, gold, copper or aluminum. The conductive layer may be a micro-electromechanical system (MEMS) layer. In this manner, or in other methods consistent with the current subject matter, a surface heater can be brought into contact with at least a portion of a surface (eg, the second surface) of a porous substrate.

[0209] At least one surface heater can be adhered to the porous substrate in a variety of ways, such as by pulsed laser deposition, physical vapor deposition, chemical vapor deposition, electroplating, chemical plating, screen printing, etc. In some variations of the current theme, at least one surface heater can be a stamped component that snaps onto the porous substrate or is otherwise mechanically held by the porous substrate. In other variations, at least one surface heater can be a stamped component that is insert molded into the porous substrate. In other variations, at least one surface heater is fixed to the porous substrate by any fixed attachment method.

[0210] At least one surface heater may have a low resistance region that may serve as a contact (electrical contact) for electrically interfacing the cartridge with the evaporator body. The electrical contact region may be located on the second surface of the porous substrate, and in some variations, the electrical contact region may be on a different surface of the porous substrate.

[0211] Fig.21 An exemplary cartridge 1900 for a vaporizer device is shown. More specifically, the cartridge 1900 includes a reservoir housing 1902 and an atomizer 1904 in fluid communication with a reservoir chamber 1906. Fig.21 and Fig. 22 As shown, the atomizer 1904 includes a porous matrix 1908 having at least one vent 1910 extending therethrough and a surface heater 1912. Specific components of the cartridge 1900 are not shown for simplicity purposes only.

[0212] The reservoir housing 1902 includes a reservoir chamber 1906. The reservoir chamber 1906 is configured to hold a vaporizable material (not shown). Although the reservoir housing 1402 may have a variety of sizes and shapes, Fig.21 As shown, the reservoir housing 1902 is generally rectangular. The reservoir housing 1902 includes a first side wall 1916a and a second side wall 1916b opposite to each other and a top wall 1918 extending therebetween. As shown, these walls 1916a, 1916b, 1918 define at least a portion of the reservoir chamber 1906.

[0213] Although the porous matrix 1908 can have a variety of configurations, Figure 21 to Figure 23As shown, the porous matrix 1908 is generally rectangular. The porous matrix 1908 extends from a first surface 1908a to a second opposing surface 1908b. In the illustrated embodiment, the porous matrix 1908 resides at least partially within the reservoir chamber 1906. In particular, the first surface 1908a is located within the reservoir chamber 1906, and the second surface 1908b is flush with the reservoir housing 1902 and defines a portion of the distal end 1906a of the reservoir housing 1902. As a result, the first surface 1908a can be in direct contact with the vaporizable material disposed within the reservoir chamber 1906. In other embodiments, the second surface 1908b can be positioned distal to the distal end 1906a of the reservoir housing 1902. In addition, as Fig.21 As shown, the first surface 1908a defines a portion of the reservoir chamber 1906. In use, when the reservoir chamber 1906 is filled with a vaporizable material, the vaporizable material is drawn into the porous matrix 1908 through the first surface 1908a toward the second surface 1908b for vaporization.

[0214] like Figure 21 to Figure 23 As further shown, at least one vent 1910 extends from the first surface 1908a of the porous matrix 1908 to the second surface 1908b. As described above, the at least one vent 1910 is configured to allow air to enter the reservoir chamber 1906 in response to at least a portion of the vaporizable material being drawn out of the reservoir chamber 1906 (e.g., during use when a user draws on the cartridge 1900 or after drawing). As a result, the internal pressure of the reservoir chamber 1906 can be equalized and thus substantially prevented from creating a vacuum within the reservoir chamber 1906, which can prevent the vaporizable material from being drawn out therefrom. Although the at least one vent 1910 can have a variety of configurations, in the illustrated embodiment, the at least one vent includes a first diameter (D 1 ) and having a first portion 1907a and a second diameter (D 2 ) of the porous substrate 1908, wherein the second diameter is smaller than the first diameter. Thus, the cross-sectional area of ​​the first portion 1907a is greater than the cross-sectional area of ​​the second portion 1907b. As shown, the first portion 1907a extends inwardly from the first surface 1908a of the porous substrate 1908, and the second portion 1907b extends inwardly from the second surface 1908b of the porous substrate 1908.

[0215] Although the surface heater 1912 can have various configurations, such as Fig.21 As shown, and Fig. 22 and Fig.23As shown in more detail in FIG. 1 , the surface heater 1912 includes a conductive layer having a trace pattern. The surface heater 1912 is deposited on a portion of the second surface 1908b of the porous substrate 1908. In addition, as shown, two electrical contacts 1920a, 1920b are located at opposite ends of the trace pattern of the conductive layer. Each electrical contact 1920a, 1920b is sized and shaped to connect to a contact pin (e.g., a telescopic probe or a leaf spring probe) of the evaporator body, such as Fig.24 and Fig.25 The evaporator body 2102 is shown in operation. In use, the surface heater 1912 is activated to generate heat to evaporate at least a portion of the vaporizable material within the porous matrix 1908 into vaporized vaporizable material.

[0216] like Fig.21 As further shown, the cartridge 1900 also includes an internal passage 1922 extending from an inlet 1924 of the cartridge 1900 to an outlet 1926. The internal passage 1922 is configured to guide the vaporizable material after air and vaporization through the cartridge 1900 for the user to inhale. Although the internal passage 1922 can have various configurations, in the illustrated embodiment, the internal passage 1922 is limited by first and second relative sidewalls 1928a, 1928b. In the illustrated embodiment, the sidewall 1916b of the reservoir housing 1902 is identical to the first sidewall 1928a of the internal passage 1922. In other embodiments, the size and shape of the internal passage 1922 may be different, including any other possible shape.

[0217] In addition, if Fig.21 As shown, the cartridge 1400 also includes a set of coupling elements 1932a, 1932b, which can be used to selectively couple the cartridge 1900 to the evaporator body, for example Fig.24 and Fig.25 1902. Although the first set of coupling elements 1932a, 1932b can have various configurations, in the illustrated embodiment, each coupling element 1932a, 1932b includes a protrusion extending outwardly from the side wall of the cartridge 1900. In particular, the protrusion of the first coupling element 1932a extends from the first side wall 1916a of the reservoir housing 1902, and the protrusion of the second coupling element 1932b extends from the second side wall 1928b of the internal channel 1922 of the cartridge 1900.

[0218] Fig.24 and Fig.25 An exemplary evaporator device 2200 is shown, which includes an evaporator body 2202 and a cartridge 2204. Fig.24 In FIG. 2 , the evaporator body 2202 and the cartridge 2204 are shown in a separated configuration, while in FIG. Fig.25, the evaporator body 2202 and the cartridge 2204 are shown in a coupled configuration. The cartridge 2204 is similar to Fig.21 The material box 1900 in FIG. 1 is not described in detail here. Fig.24 and Fig.25 Specific components of the evaporator device 2200 are not shown.

[0219] The evaporator body 2202 and the cartridge 2204 may be coupled to each other via corresponding coupling elements. Fig.24 and Fig.25 As shown, the evaporator body 2202 includes a first group of coupling elements 2206a, 2206b, and the cartridge 2204 includes a second group of corresponding coupling elements 2208a, 2208b. Although the first and second groups of coupling elements can have various configurations, in the illustrated embodiment, the first group of coupling elements 2206a, 2206b includes two recessed holes extending inwardly into the evaporator body 2202, and the second group of coupling elements 2208a, 2208b includes two protrusions extending outwardly from two opposing side walls 2209a, 2209b of the cartridge 2204. In other embodiments, the first and second groups of coupling elements 2206a, 2206b, 2208a, 2208b can have any other suitable corresponding configurations (e.g., protrusions, channels, slots, holes, hooks, grooves, pawls, etc.), which are used to selectively couple the cartridge 2204 to the evaporator body 2202.

[0220] The evaporator body 2202 may have various configurations. Fig.24 and Fig.25 As shown, the evaporator body 2202 includes a sleeve 2210 extending from a proximal end 2210a to a distal end 2210b. The sleeve 2210 defines a cartridge seat 2212 within the evaporator body 2202, which is configured to receive at least a portion of the cartridge 2204. The distal end 2210b of the sleeve 2210 is coupled to a bottom plate 2214, which is configured to accommodate at least a portion of other components of the evaporator device 22, such as, for example, a power supply, an input device, a sensor, an output device, a controller, communication hardware, a memory, etc. Once the cartridge 2204 is coupled to the evaporator body 2202, as shown in FIG. Fig.25 As shown, a first airflow path 2220 is created within the cartridge seat 2212 between the distal end 2210 b of the sleeve 2210 and the distal end 2204 d of the cartridge 2204 .

[0221] Furthermore, if Fig.24 and Fig.25As shown, the first air inlet 2218 extends through the wall 2211 of the sleeve 2210. The first air inlet 2218 is configured to allow ambient air outside at least a portion of the evaporator body 2202, and therefore outside the reservoir housing 2205 of the cartridge 2204, to enter the evaporator device 2200. In use, when the user draws on the device, at least a portion of the ambient air enters the evaporator body 2202 and travels through the first airflow path 2220. As described in detail below, the evaporated vaporizable material joins the first airflow path 2220 and combines with at least a portion of the air to form a mixture. The mixture travels through the remainder of the first airflow path 2220, and then through the second airflow path 2222, which extends through the internal channel 2224 of the cartridge 2204. In this way, the first and second airflow paths 2220, 2222 are fluidly connected to each other.

[0222] In use, once the cartridge 2204 is coupled to the vaporizer body 2202, the surface heater 2226 of the atomizer 2228 can be activated by the user sucking the cartridge 2204, and at least a portion of the vaporizable material within the porous matrix 2230 of the atomizer 2228 is evaporated into vaporized vaporizable material. The suction also simultaneously draws ambient air into the first air flow path through the first air inlet 2218 of the sleeve 2210. As a result, at least a portion of the vaporized vaporizable material is added to the air traveling along the first air flow path 2220. Subsequently, at least a portion of the added vaporized vaporizable material and air continue to travel through the vaporizer body 2202 and enter the second air flow path 2222 of the cartridge 2204. When the added vaporized vaporizable material and air travel through at least the second air flow path 2222 and thus through the internal channel 2224 of the cartridge 2204, they are at least partially condensed into an aerosol for subsequent inhalation by the user.

[0223] In addition, during the puffing, at least a portion of the ambient air 2232 sucked in through the first air inlet 2218 of the sleeve 2210 enters the reservoir chamber 2234 of the cartridge 2204 through at least one vent 2236 of the porous matrix 2230 of the atomizer 2228. Therefore, the negative pressure in the reservoir chamber 2234 due to the vaporizable material being sucked out of it can be reduced. That is, the ambient air flow 2232 flowing into the reservoir chamber 2234 replaces at least a portion of the volume of the vaporizable material withdrawn from the reservoir chamber. As a result, the internal pressure of the reservoir chamber 2234 of the cartridge 2204 can be at least partially balanced.

[0224] When a feature or element is referred to herein as being "on" another feature or element, it may be directly on another feature or element, or there may also be intermediate features and / or elements. Conversely, when a feature or element is referred to as being "directly on" another feature or element, there are no intermediate features or elements. It should also be understood that when a feature or element is referred to as being "connected," "attached" or "coupled" to another feature or element, it may be directly connected, attached or coupled to another feature or element or there may be intermediate features or elements. Conversely, when a feature or element is referred to as being "directly connected," "directly attached" or "directly coupled" to another feature or element, there are no intermediate features or elements.

[0225] Although described or shown for one embodiment, the features and elements described or shown may apply to other embodiments. It will also be understood by those skilled in the art that a structure or feature referred to as being "adjacent" to another feature may have a portion overlapping or located below the adjacent feature.

[0226] The terms used herein are only for the purpose of describing specific embodiments and implementations, and are not intended to be limiting. For example, as used herein, the singular forms "a", "an", and "the" are also intended to include plural forms, unless the context clearly indicates otherwise. It will also be understood that when the terms "include" and / or "comprise" are used in this specification, they specify the presence of the features, steps, operations, elements, and / or parts, but do not exclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, steps, operations, elements, parts, and / or groups thereof. As used herein, the term "and / or" includes any and all combinations of one or more associated listed items, and may be abbreviated as " / ".

[0227] In the above description and claims, phrases such as "at least one" or "one or more" may appear, followed by a list of combinations of elements or features. The term "and / or" may also appear in a list of two or more elements or features. Unless implicit or significantly contradictory to the context in which it is used, the phrase is intended to represent any element or feature listed separately, or any element or feature used in combination with any other element or feature. For example, the phrases "at least one of A and B", "one or more of A and B", "A and / or B" respectively represent "a single A, a single B, or A and B together". Similar interpretations are also intended for lists containing three or more items. For example, the phrases "at least one of A, B, and C", "one or more of A, B, and C" and "A, B, and / or C" are respectively intended to represent "a single A, a single B, a single C, A and B together, A and C together, B and C together, or A and B and C together". The use of the term "based on" above and in the claims is intended to represent "based at least in part on", thereby also allowing undescribed features or elements.

[0228] For ease of description, spatial relative terms such as "below", "under", "lower", "above", "upper", etc. may be used herein to describe the relationship between an element or feature shown in the drawings and another element or feature. It will be understood that, in addition to the orientations depicted in the drawings, spatial relative terms are also intended to cover different orientations of the device in use or operation. For example, if the device in the drawings is inverted, the elements described as "below" or "below" other elements or features will be oriented to be "above" other elements or features. Therefore, the exemplary term "below..." may include both above and below. The device may be oriented in other ways (rotated 90 degrees or in other orientations), and the spatial relative descriptions used herein are interpreted accordingly. Similarly, unless otherwise specifically noted, the terms "upwardly", "downwardly", "vertical", "horizontally", etc. are used herein only for the purpose of explanation.

[0229] Although the terms "first" and "second" may be used herein to describe various features / elements (including steps), these features / elements should not be limited by these terms unless the context otherwise indicates. These terms may be used to distinguish one feature / element from another feature / element. Thus, without departing from the teachings provided herein, the first feature / element discussed below may be referred to as the second feature / element, and similarly, the second feature / element discussed below may be referred to as the first feature / element.

[0230] As used herein in the specification and claims, including in the examples, and unless otherwise expressly stated, all numbers may be read as if beginning with the word "about" or "approximately", even if the term does not appear explicitly. When describing amplitude and / or position, the phrase "about" or "approximately" may be used to indicate that the value and / or position described is within the reasonable expected range of the value and / or position. For example, the value of the numerical value may be + / -0.1% of the specified value (or range of values), + / -1% of the specified value (or range of values), + / -2% of the specified value (or range of values), + / -5% of the specified value (or range of values), + / -10% of the specified value (or range of values), etc. Unless the context indicates otherwise, any numerical value given herein is also understood to include approximately or approximately the value. For example, if the value "10" is disclosed, "approximately 10" is also disclosed. Any numerical range described herein is intended to include all sub-ranges contained therein. It should also be understood that when a value is disclosed as "less than or equal to" the value, "greater than or equal to the value" and possible ranges between values ​​are also disclosed, as will be understood by those skilled in the art. For example, if a value "X" is disclosed, "less than or equal to X" and "greater than or equal to X" (e.g., where X is a numerical value) are also disclosed. It should also be understood that throughout the application, data is provided in a variety of different formats and that the data represents endpoints and starting points as well as ranges for any combination of data points. For example, if a specific data point "10" and a specific data point "15" are disclosed, it should be understood that greater than, greater than or equal to, less than, less than or equal to, and between 10 and 15 are also disclosed. For example, if 10 and 15 are disclosed, 11, 12, 13, and 14 are also disclosed.

[0231] Although various illustrative embodiments are described above, any of a variety of changes may be made to the various embodiments without departing from the teachings herein. For example, in alternative embodiments, the order in which the various method steps described are performed may often be changed, while in other alternative embodiments, one or more method steps may be skipped entirely. Optional features of various device and system embodiments may be included in some embodiments, but not in other embodiments. Therefore, the foregoing description is provided primarily for exemplary purposes and should not be construed as limiting the scope of the claims.

[0232] The examples and illustrations included herein show, by way of illustration and not limitation, specific embodiments in which the present subject matter may be implemented. As mentioned, other embodiments may be utilized and derived therefrom, so that structural and logical substitutions and changes may be made without departing from the scope of the present invention. These embodiments of the present subject matter may be referred to herein solely by the term "invention" individually or collectively for the purpose of convenience, and if more than one invention is disclosed, it is not intended that the scope of the present application be voluntarily limited to any single invention or inventive concept. Therefore, although specific embodiments have been illustrated and described herein, any arrangement calculated to achieve the same purpose may replace the specific embodiments shown. The present invention is intended to encompass any and all modifications or variations of various embodiments. By reading the above description, the combination of the above embodiments and other embodiments not specifically described herein will be apparent to those skilled in the art.

Claims

1. A material box for an evaporator device, the material box include: a reservoir housing including a reservoir chamber configured to selectively retain a vaporizable material; as well as a nebulizer in fluid communication with the reservoir chamber, the nebulizer comprising: a porous matrix configured to draw the vaporizable material from the reservoir chamber, and at least one vent extending through the porous matrix, the at least one vent configured to allow air to enter the reservoir chamber in response to at least a portion of the vaporizable material being drawn from the reservoir chamber, and at least one surface heater configured to heat at least a portion of the vaporizable material drawn into the porous substrate into vaporized vaporizable material, the at least one surface heater comprising at least one electrically conductive layer deposited on a portion of the porous substrate; The at least one vent has a first portion and a second portion, the first portion has a first cross-sectional area, the second portion has a second cross-sectional area, the second cross-sectional area is smaller than the first cross-sectional area, and wherein the first portion is adjacent to the reservoir chamber and the second portion is located at a distal end of the reservoir chamber.

2. The material box according to claim 1, in, The porous matrix extends from a first surface to a second surface opposite the first surface, and wherein at least the first surface is located within the reservoir chamber and the at least one conductive layer is deposited on the second surface.

3. The material box according to claim 1 or 2, in, The porous matrix includes a plurality of voids configured to draw the vaporizable material from the reservoir chamber.

4. An evaporator device, include: an evaporator body including a first airflow path; as well as The cartridge according to any one of claims 1 to 3, the cartridge being selectively coupled to the vaporizer body, wherein at least a portion of the atomizer is exposed to the first airflow path, and the at least one vent is in fluid communication with the first airflow path.

5. The evaporator device according to claim 4, in, The cartridge includes a second airflow path in fluid communication with the first airflow path.

6. A method, include: drawing vaporizable material from a reservoir of a vaporization device to a vaporization surface through a porous substrate having a rigid, non-deformable form, a surface heater including at least one conductive layer deposited on at least a portion of the porous substrate, wherein the porous substrate has at least one vent, the at least one vent configured to allow air to enter the reservoir chamber in response to at least a portion of the vaporizable material being drawn from the reservoir chamber, wherein the at least one vent has a first portion and a second portion, the first portion having a first cross-sectional area and the second portion having a second cross-sectional area, the second cross-sectional area being smaller than the first cross-sectional area, and wherein the first portion is adjacent to the reservoir chamber and the second portion is located distal to the reservoir chamber, wherein the at least one vent extends through the porous substrate and the porous substrate is in direct fluid communication with at least a portion of the reservoir, and further wherein the surface heater is not in direct fluid communication with the reservoir and is directly along an airflow path; heating the evaporation surface with a surface heater to cause evaporation of the evaporable material; and The vaporized vaporizable material is entrained in an airflow path along the airflow path leading to a mouthpiece of the vaporizing device.

7. The method according to claim 6, in, The porous matrix is ​​at least partially contained within the reservoir.

8. The method according to claim 6, in, The porous matrix is ​​completely contained within the reservoir, and wherein the surface heater is positioned away from the vaporizable material in the reservoir.

9. The method according to any one of claims 6 to 8, in, The porous substrate is in fluid communication with the reservoir on a surface other than a portion on which the surface heater is deposited.

10. The method according to any one of claims 6 to 8, in, The at least one conductive layer comprises a trace pattern or board.

11. The method according to any one of claims 6 to 8, in, The at least one conductive layer includes a microelectromechanical system (MEMS) layer.

12. The method according to any one of claims 6 to 8, in, The at least one electrically conductive layer allows vaporizable material from the reservoir to pass therethrough.

13. The method according to any one of claims 6 to 8, in, The at least one conductive layer also includes one or more electrical contacts for interfacing with one or more corresponding contact pins.

14. The method according to claim 13, in, The one or more electrical contacts are deposited on a surface of the porous substrate, with a remaining portion of the at least one conductive layer not deposited on the surface.

15. The method according to any one of claims 6 to 8, in, The mouthpiece is disposed at a first end of a body of a cartridge of the vaporizing device, and a heating element of the vaporizing device is disposed at a second end of the body opposite to the first end.

16. The method according to any one of claims 6 to 8, in, The porous matrix includes a plurality of voids distributed throughout the porous matrix.

17. The method according to any one of claims 6 to 8, in, The porous matrix includes a stacked structure formed by a plurality of separate matrices stacked on top of each other.

18. The method according to claim 17, in, At least a portion of the surface heater is disposed between two of the plurality of separate substrates.

19. The method according to any one of claims 6 to 8, in, The portion of the porous substrate on which the conductive layer is deposited includes a flat surface, a concave surface, or a cylindrical surface.

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