Pod assembly, dispensing body and electronic cigarette device including the same

Abstract

An electronic cigarette device may include a pod assembly and a distribution body (112), the distribution body being configured to receive the pod assembly. An atomizer may be arranged in the pod assembly and / or the distribution body. The pod assembly may include a steam precursor compartment, a device compartment, and a steam channel, the steam channel extending from the device compartment and passing through the steam precursor compartment. The pod assembly is an intelligent pod configured to receive, store, and transmit information, and the intelligent pod may communicate with the distribution body and / or another electronic device. The proximal portion of the distribution body includes a steam channel (106) and a through hole (114). The steam channel may extend from the end surface of the proximal portion to the side wall of the through hole. The through hole is configured to receive the pod assembly so that the steam channel of the pod assembly is aligned with the steam channel of the distribution body.

Description

[0001] This patent application is a divisional application of application number 201680023188.9 (PCT / US2016 / 028048) filed on April 18, 2016, entitled “Pod assembly, dispensing body and electronic cigarette device including the same.” Technical Field

[0002] The present invention relates to an electronic smoking device comprising a self-contained article including a vapor precursor. Background Art

[0003] Some electronic cigarette devices include a first part that is connected to a second part via a threaded connection. The first part can be a replaceable barrel, while the second part can be a reusable fixture. The threaded connection can be a combination of a male threaded member on the first part and a female threaded receiver on the second part. The first part includes an outer tube (or shell) extending in a longitudinal direction and an inner tube within the outer tube. The inner tube can be coaxially located within the outer tube. The second part can also include an outer tube (or shell) extending in the longitudinal direction. The electronic cigarette device includes a central air channel that is partially defined by the inner tube and an upstream seal. In addition, the electronic cigarette device includes a reservoir. The reservoir is configured to hold a vapor precursor and an optional storage medium that is operable to store the vapor precursor therein. The reservoir is contained in an outer annular space between the outer tube and the inner tube. The outer annular space is sealed by a seal at the upstream end and a stopper at the downstream end to prevent the vapor precursor from leaking from the reservoir. Summary of the Invention

[0004] An electronic cigarette device may include a pod assembly, a dispensing body configured to receive the pod assembly, and / or an atomizer disposed in at least one of the pod assembly and the dispensing body. The pod assembly may include a steam precursor compartment, a device compartment, and a steam passage extending from the device compartment and through the steam precursor compartment. The steam precursor compartment is configured to hold a steam precursor therein. The dispensing body includes a proximal portion and an opposing distal portion. The proximal portion includes a steam passage and a through-hole. The steam passage may extend from an end surface of the proximal portion to a sidewall of the through-hole. The through-hole may be interposed between the steam passage and the distal portion of the dispensing body. The through-hole is configured to receive the pod assembly. The atomizer may be disposed in at least one of the pod assembly and the dispensing body. The steam precursor compartment of the pod assembly is configured to be in fluid communication with the atomizer during operation of the electronic cigarette device, such that steam precursor from the steam precursor compartment is in thermal contact with the atomizer. The atomizer is configured to heat the steam precursor to generate steam, which then passes through the pod assembly via the steam passage. The through-bore of the dispensing body is configured to receive the pod assembly such that the steam passage of the pod assembly is aligned with the steam passage of the dispensing body to facilitate steam delivery through the steam passage of the dispensing body.

[0005] The steam precursor compartment of the pod assembly may surround the steam channel. For example, the steam channel may pass through the center of the steam precursor compartment.

[0006] Alternatively, the steam passage may be in the form of a passageway disposed along at least one sidewall of the steam precursor compartment. For example, the steam passage may be in the form of a conduit disposed in at least one corner of the steam precursor compartment. The conduits may be disposed in at least two corners of the steam precursor compartment and configured to converge at a location that aligns with the steam passageway of the distribution body when the pod assembly is received in the through-hole.

[0007] The steam precursor compartment and the equipment compartment may be located at opposite ends of the pod assembly. The equipment compartment of the pod assembly may include a storage device. The storage device may be encoded with an electronic identity to allow for at least one of verification of the pod assembly's identity and matching of specific operating parameters of the pod assembly when the pod assembly is inserted into the through-hole of the dispenser body. The storage device may also receive and store information from the dispenser body, such as operating parameters and usage history. Once stored, this information in the storage device remains intact even when the pod is separated from the dispenser body.

[0008] The pod assembly may include a side surface having at least one electrical contact. The distribution body may be configured to at least one of provide power to the pod assembly and communicate with the pod assembly via the at least one electrical contact. The at least one electrical contact may be located at an end of the pod assembly corresponding to the device compartment.

[0009] The size of the through-hole corresponds to the size of the pod assembly. The proximal portion of the dispensing body may include a mouthpiece, which includes a steam channel. When the pod assembly is inserted into the through-hole of the dispensing body, the steam channel may be between the mouthpiece and the device compartment. The electronic cigarette device may also include an attachment structure on at least one of the side walls of the through-hole and the side surface of the pod assembly. The attachment structure is configured to engage and retain the pod assembly when the pod assembly is inserted into the through-hole of the dispensing body. The attachment structure enables an adult smoker to easily insert and remove the pod assembly from the dispensing body. During normal use of the electronic cigarette device, the attachment structure also aligns and secures the pod assembly in place in the dispensing body.

[0010] A pod assembly for an electronic cigarette device may include: a vapor precursor compartment configured to hold a vapor precursor therein; a device compartment in fluid communication with the vapor precursor compartment; and a vapor passage extending from the device compartment and through the vapor precursor compartment. The device compartment may include an atomizer. The device compartment may also include a storage device. A side surface of the pod assembly may include at least one electrical contact. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0011] The various features and advantages of the non-limiting embodiments herein will become more apparent when the detailed description is reviewed in conjunction with the accompanying drawings. The drawings are provided for illustrative purposes only and should not be construed as limiting the scope of the claims. Unless expressly noted, the drawings are not to be considered drawn to scale. Dimensions in the drawings may have been exaggerated for clarity.

[0012] Figure 1 is a perspective view of a dispensing body of an electronic smoking device according to an example embodiment.

[0013] Figure 2 yes Figure 1 An exploded view of the distribution body.

[0014] Figure 3 yes Figure 2 Perspective view of the mouth.

[0015] Figure 4 yes Figure 2 A perspective view of the first frame.

[0016] Figure 5 yes Figure 2 A perspective view of the second frame.

[0017] Figure 6 yes Figure 2 A perspective view of the main part of the .

[0018] Figure 7 yes Figure 2 Perspective view of the end.

[0019] Figure 8 is a perspective view of another dispensing body of an electronic smoking device according to an example embodiment.

[0020] Figure 9 yes Figure 8 An exploded view of the distribution body.

[0021] Figure 10 yes Figure 9 A perspective view of the first mouth.

[0022] Figure 11 yes Figure 9 A perspective view of the second mouth.

[0023] Figure 12 yes Figure 9 A perspective view of the first frame.

[0024] Figure 13 yes Figure 9 Perspective view of the frame molding.

[0025] Figure 14 yes Figure 9 A perspective view of the second frame.

[0026] Figure 15 is a perspective view of a pod assembly of an electronic cigarette device according to an example embodiment.

[0027] Figure 16 yes Figure 15 A top view of the pod assembly.

[0028] Figure 17 yes Figure 15 A side view of the pod assembly.

[0029] Figure 18 yes Figure 15 An exploded view of the pod assembly.

[0030] Figure 19 is a perspective view of multiple pod assemblies according to an example embodiment.

[0031] Figure 20 is a diagram of an electronic cigarette device with a pod assembly inserted into a dispensing body according to an example embodiment.

[0032] Figure 21 A diagram illustrating a system of devices for distributing a subject according to an example embodiment is shown.

[0033] Figure 22 A pod system diagram of a distribution entity is shown according to an example embodiment. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0034] It should be understood that when an element or layer is referred to as being "on another element or layer," "connected to another element or layer," "coupled to another element or layer," or "covering another element or layer," the element or layer may be directly located on, directly connected to, coupled to, or covering the other element or layer, or there may be intermediate elements or layers. In contrast, when an element is referred to as being "directly on," "directly connected to," or "directly coupled to" another element or layer, there are no intermediate elements or layers. Throughout this specification, the same reference numerals represent the same elements. As used herein, the term "and / or" includes any and all combinations of one or more of the listed associations.

[0035] It should be understood that, although the terms first, second, third, etc. used herein can describe different elements, components, regions, layers and / or parts, these elements, components, regions, layers and / or parts should not be limited by these terms. These terms are only used to distinguish one element, component, region, layer or part from another region, layer or part. Therefore, the first element, component, region, layer or part discussed below can be referred to as the second element, component, region, layer or part without departing from the teachings of the exemplary embodiments.

[0036] For ease of description, spatially relative terms (e.g., "below," "beneath," "down," "above," "upper," etc.) may be used herein to describe the relationship of one element or feature to another element or feature as shown in the accompanying drawings. It should be understood that the spatially relative terms are intended to include different orientations of the device in use or operation in addition to the orientation depicted in the accompanying drawings. For example, if the device in the accompanying drawings is turned over, then an element described as "below" or "below" other elements or features will be oriented "above" the other elements or features. Thus, the term "below" can include both above and below orientations. The device can be oriented in other ways (rotated 90 degrees or in other orientations), and the spatially relative descriptors used herein should be interpreted accordingly.

[0037] The terms used herein are for the purpose of describing different embodiments only and are not intended to limit the exemplary embodiments. As used herein, the singular forms "a", "an", and "the" are intended to include the plural forms as well, unless the context clearly indicates otherwise. It should be further understood that when used in this specification, the terms "comprise", "comprising", "including", and / or "comprising" specify the presence of the stated features, wholes, steps, operations, elements, and / or components, but do not exclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, wholes, steps, operations, elements, components, and / or groups thereof.

[0038] Example embodiments are described herein with reference to cross-sectional illustrations, which are schematic illustrations of idealized embodiments (and intermediate structures) of the example embodiments. As such, variations from the shapes of the illustrations as a result, for example, of manufacturing techniques and / or tolerances, are to be expected. Thus, the example embodiments should not be construed as limited to the shapes of the regions shown herein, but rather include deviations in shape that result, for example, from manufacturing. The regions shown in the accompanying drawings are schematic in nature, and their shapes are not intended to illustrate the actual shape of a region of a device and are not intended to limit the scope of the example embodiments.

[0039] Unless otherwise defined, all terms (including technical and scientific terms) used herein have the same meaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art to which the exemplary embodiments belong. It should be further understood that, unless expressly defined herein, terms (including those defined in commonly used dictionaries) should be interpreted as having a meaning consistent with their meaning in the context of the relevant technical field and should not be interpreted in an idealized or overly formal sense.

[0040] Figure 1 is a perspective view of a dispensing body of an electronic cigarette device according to an example embodiment. Figure 1 The dispensing body 104 of the electronic cigarette device includes a frame portion connected to a body portion 118. The frame portion includes a first frame 110 and a second frame 112. Sidewalls 116 (e.g., inner surfaces) of the first frame 110 and the second frame 112 define a through hole 114. The through hole 114 is configured to receive a pod assembly (the pod assembly will be discussed in detail later).

[0041] Typically, an electronic cigarette device may include: a dispensing body 104, a pod assembly inserted into the through hole 114 of the dispensing body 104, and an atomizer, which is arranged in at least one of the pod assembly and the dispensing body 104. The pod assembly may include a vapor precursor compartment (e.g., a liquid compartment), a device compartment, and a vapor channel. The vapor channel may extend from the device compartment and pass through the vapor precursor compartment. The vapor precursor compartment is configured to hold a vapor precursor (e.g., e-cigarette oil) therein. A vapor precursor is a material or a combination of multiple materials that can be converted into vapor. For example, the vapor precursor may be a liquid, solid, and / or gel formulation, including but not limited to water, beads, solvents, active ingredients, ethanol, plant extracts, natural or artificial flavors, and / or vapor precursors such as glycerol and propylene glycol.

[0042] The dispensing body 104 includes a proximal portion and an opposite distal portion. The mouth 108 is arranged at the proximal portion, and the end 120 is arranged at the distal portion. The proximal portion includes a steam passage 106 and a through hole 114. The steam passage 106 extends from the end surface of the proximal portion to the sidewall 116 of the through hole 114. The steam passage 106 is in the form of one or more channels extending through the proximal portion of the dispensing body 104. The through hole 114 is between the steam passage 106 and the distal portion of the dispensing body 104 (e.g., between the mouth 108 and the body portion 118).

[0043] The atomizer (which will be discussed in more detail later) is arranged in at least one of the pod assembly and the dispensing body 104. The steam precursor compartment of the pod assembly is configured to be in fluid communication with the atomizer during operation of the electronic cigarette device, so that the steam precursor from the steam precursor compartment is in thermal contact with the atomizer. The atomizer is configured to heat the steam precursor to generate steam, which passes through the pod assembly via the steam channel. The through hole 114 of the dispensing body 104 is configured to receive the pod assembly so that the steam channel of the pod assembly is aligned with the steam channel 106 of the dispensing body 104 to facilitate steam delivery through the steam channel 106 of the dispensing body 104.

[0044] Figure 2 yes Figure 1 Exploded view of the distribution body. Figure 2 , the first frame 110 and the second frame 112 are configured to be combined to form a frame portion of the dispensing body 104. A variety of options are available for combining the first frame 110 and the second frame 112. In one exemplary embodiment, the first frame 110 is a female member and the second frame 112 is a male member configured to engage with the female member. Alternatively, the first frame 110 may be a male member and the second frame 112 may be a female member configured to engage with the male member. Although exemplary embodiments are not limited thereto, the first frame 110 may be coupled to the second frame 112 via a snap fit, friction fit, or slide-on arrangement.

[0045] The first frame 110 can be considered as the front frame of the distribution body 104, and the second frame 112 can be considered as the rear frame (or opposite). In addition, the proximal ends of the first frame 110 and the second frame 112 define a steam channel 106 between them when combined. The steam channel 106 can be in the form of a single channel, which is communicated with the through-hole 114 defined by the sidewall 116. Alternatively, the steam channel 106 can be in the form of a plurality of channels, which are communicated with the through-hole 114 defined by the sidewall 116. In this example, a plurality of channels can include a central channel surrounded by peripheral channels (or just a few evenly spaced channels). Each of the plurality of channels can independently extend from the through-hole 114 to the proximal surface of the frame portion. Alternatively, a common channel can partially extend from the through-hole 114 and then be divided into a plurality of channels extending to the proximal surface of the frame portion.

[0046] The mouthpiece 108 is configured to be slidably connected to the proximal end of the frame portion that defines the steam passage 106. Therefore, the outer surface of the proximal end formed by the first frame 110 and the second frame 112 can correspond to the inner surface of the mouthpiece 108. Alternatively, the proximal end that defines the steam passage 106 can be integrally formed as a part of the mouthpiece 108 (rather than becoming a part of the frame portion). The mouthpiece 108 can be fixed via a snap-fit or other appropriate arrangement. In an exemplary embodiment, the mouthpiece 108 is a removable component that is intended to allow the adult smoker to replace it actively, by suggestion or necessarily. For example, in addition to its intended function, the mouthpiece 108 provides visual or other sensory appeal to the adult smoker. In particular, the mouthpiece 108 can be made of decorative materials (such as wood, metal, ceramic) and / or include designs (such as patterns, images, characters). Therefore, the mouthpiece 108 can be customized by the adult smoker to provide the expression of personality and personal characteristics. In other cases, the removable nature of the mouthpiece 108 may facilitate recommended replacement due to number of uses or necessitated replacement due to wear or damage over time (e.g., a chipped mouthpiece 108 resulting from an accidental drop of the electronic cigarette device).

[0047] The lower ends of the first frame 110 and the second frame 112 opposite to the proximal end (the proximal end defines the steam passage 106) are configured to be inserted into the main body 118. For the convenience of fixed fit, the outer surfaces of the lower ends of the first frame 110 and the second frame 112 can correspond to the receiving inner surfaces of the main body 118. In addition, the lower ends of the first frame 110 and the second frame 112 can also define a groove between them to accommodate one or more electric wires, which are connected to one or more electrical contacts arranged in the side wall 116 (such as the lower surface of the side wall 116 opposite to the steam passage 106). A power source (such as a battery) can also be arranged in the groove to supply necessary current through the wires. Alternatively, a power source can be arranged in the available space between the plug-in lower end and the end 120 of the frame portion in the main body 118.

[0048] A first button 122 and a second button 124 may be disposed on the main body 118 and connected to their respective circuits and electronic components. In one exemplary embodiment, the first button 122 may be a power switch, while the second button 124 may be a battery level indicator. The battery level indicator may display a representation of the available power (e.g., 3 out of 4 bars). Additionally, the battery level indicator may flash and / or change color to warn the adult smoker to recharge the electronic cigarette device. To stop the flashing, the adult smoker may simply press the second button 124. Thus, the buttons of the electronic cigarette device may have control and / or display functions. It should be understood that the examples of the first button 122 and the second button 124 are not intended to be limiting, and different implementations may be possible depending on the desired functionality. Therefore, more than two buttons (and / or buttons having different shapes) may be disposed near the same location or at different locations on the electronic cigarette device.

[0049] Figure 3 yes Figure 2 Perspective drawing of the mouth. Figure 3 The mouthpiece 108 may be an open, cap-like structure that is configured to slide onto the proximal end of the frame portion defining the steam passage 106. The mouthpiece 108 may have a relatively wide base that tapers to a narrower top. However, it should be understood that the exemplary embodiments are not limited thereto. The mouthpiece 108 may also be shaped to better accommodate an adult smoker's mouth during steam inhalation. For example, one side of the mouthpiece 108 may be straighter, while the opposite side may be more curved.

[0050] Figure 4 yes Figure 2 Perspective view of the first frame. Figure 4 , the first frame 110 includes a sidewall 116 that defines a through-hole 114. The first frame 110 is configured to be coupled to the second frame 112, which also includes a sidewall 116 that defines a through-hole 114. Because the coupled through-holes 114 are configured to receive the pod assembly, the sidewalls 116 of the first frame 110 and the second frame 112 can form a relatively smooth and continuous surface to facilitate insertion of the pod assembly.

[0051] Figure 5 yes Figure 2 A perspective view of the second frame. Figure 5 The second frame 112 is configured to be coupled to the first frame 110 such that the shape defined by the coupled sidewalls 116 corresponds to the shape of the side surfaces of the pod assembly. Furthermore, attachment structures (e.g., mating members / recesses, magnetic arrangements) may be provided on at least one of the sidewalls 116 and the side surfaces of the pod assembly.

[0052] For example, the attachment structure may include a mating member formed on the sidewall 116 (of the first frame 110 and / or the second frame 112) and a corresponding recess formed on the side surface of the pod assembly. Conversely, the mating member may be formed on the side surface of the pod assembly, while the corresponding recess may be formed on the sidewall 116 (of the first frame 110 and / or the second frame 112). In one non-limiting embodiment, the mating member may be a circular structure to facilitate engagement / disengagement of the attachment structure, while the recess may be a concave indentation that corresponds to the curvature of the circular structure. The mating member may also be spring-loaded to retract when the pod assembly is inserted into the through-hole 114 (via spring compression) and extend when the mating member aligns with the corresponding recess (via spring decompression). The engagement of the mating member with the corresponding recess may produce an audible click, which notifies the adult smoker that the pod assembly is securely and properly positioned in the through-hole 114 of the dispensing body 104.

[0053] In another example, the attachment structure may include a magnetic arrangement. For example, a first magnet may be arranged in the side wall 116 (of the first frame 110 and / or the second frame 112), and a second magnet may be arranged in the side surface of the pod assembly. The first and / or second magnet may be exposed or hidden behind a layer of material. The first and second magnets are oriented to attract each other, and multiple pairs of first and second magnets may be provided to ensure that the pod assembly will be fixed and properly aligned in the through-hole 114 of the distribution body 104. Thus, when the pod assembly is inserted into the through-hole 114, the magnets (e.g., the first and second magnets) will attract each other and thereby hold the pod assembly in the through-hole 114 while properly aligning the channel outlet of the pod assembly with the steam channel 106 of the distribution body 104.

[0054] Figure 6 yes Figure 2 A perspective view of the main part of the Figure 6 The main body portion 118 can be a tubular structure that forms the base of the dispensing body 104. The cross-section of the main body portion 118 can be oval, although other shapes are possible depending on the structure of the frame portion. An adult smoker can hold the electronic cigarette device by the main body portion 118. Therefore, the main body portion 118 can be formed of (or covered with) a material that provides enhanced grip and / or texture for the fingers.

[0055] Figure 7 yes Figure 2 Reference Figure 7 , the end portion 120 is configured to be inserted into the distal end of the main body portion 118. The shape of the end portion 120 can correspond to the shape of the distal end of the main body portion 118 to provide a smoother and continuous transition between the two surfaces.

[0056] Figure 8 is a perspective view of another dispensing body of an electronic cigarette device according to an example embodiment. Figure 8 The distribution body 204 includes a side wall 216 that defines a through hole 214 configured to receive the pod assembly. The basic portion of the frame of the distribution body 204 has a first frame 210, a frame molding 211, and a second frame 212 (e.g., Figure 9 The steam passage 206 and the first mouth 208 are provided at a proximal end portion of the dispensing body 204 .

[0057] Figure 9 yes Figure 8 Exploded view of the distribution body. Figure 9 , the frame molding 211 is sandwiched between the first frame 210 and the second frame 212. However, it should be understood that the first frame 210 and the second frame 212 can be modified and constructed so that the frame molding 211 is not required. The steam channel 206 can be defined by the two proximal ends of the first frame 210 and the second frame 212 and the second mouth 209. Therefore, the steam channel 206 extends from the side wall 216 to the outlet end of the second mouth 209. The first mouth 208 is configured to slide onto the second mouth 209. In an exemplary embodiment, the first mouth 208 can be configured to be removable, while the second mouth 209 can be configured to be permanent. Alternatively, the first mouth 208 can be integrated with the second mouth 209 to form a removable single structure.

[0058] A first button 222, a second button 224, and a third button 226 may be provided on the second frame 212 of the dispensing body 204. In one example embodiment, the first button 222 may be a display (e.g., a battery level indicator), the second button 224 may control the amount of vapor precursor available to the heater, and the third button 226 may be a power button. However, it should be understood that the example embodiments are not limited thereto. Obviously, the buttons may have different implementations depending on the desired functionality. Thus, different numbers of buttons (and / or having different shapes) may be provided near the same location or at different locations on the electronic cigarette device. In addition, features and considerations related to the dispensing body 104 that may also be applied to the dispensing body 204 may be as discussed above with respect to the dispensing body 104.

[0059] Figure 10 yes Figure 9 A perspective view of the first mouth. Figure 10 , the first mouth portion 208 is configured to fit on the second mouth portion 209. Therefore, the inner surface of the first mouth portion 208 may correspond to the outer surface of the second mouth portion 209.

[0060] Figure 11 yes Figure 9A perspective view of the second mouth. Figure 11 The second mouth 209 defines the steam passage 206 therein. The second mouth 209 can be similar to the combined proximal ends of the first and second frames 110, 112 that define the steam passage 106 of the dispensing body 104.

[0061] Figure 12 yes Figure 9 Perspective view of the first frame. Figure 12 The first frame 210 includes a side wall 216 that defines the through hole 214. The top end of the first frame 210 may include a connection structure that facilitates connecting at least the second nozzle 209 thereto.

[0062] Figure 13 yes Figure 9 Perspective drawing of the frame molding. Figure 13 The frame molding 211 may be in the form of a curved strip supported by the center plate. When disposed between the first frame 210 and the second frame 212, the frame molding 211 forms a side surface of the distribution body 204, although example embodiments are not limited thereto.

[0063] Figure 14 yes Figure 9 A perspective view of the second frame. Figure 14 , the second frame 212 includes a sidewall 216 that defines the through-hole 214. The top end of the second frame 212 may include a connection structure that facilitates connecting at least the second mouth 209 thereto. Additionally, the surface of the second frame 212 may be provided with a patterned or textured appearance. Such patterns and textures may have aesthetic (e.g., visually appealing) and / or functional (e.g., enhancing grip). Although not shown, the surface of the first frame 210 may be similarly configured.

[0064] Figure 15 is a perspective view of a pod assembly of an electronic cigarette device according to an example embodiment. Figure 15 Pod assembly 302 includes a pod trim 310 disposed between a first cap 304 and a second cap 314. First cap 304 can be considered a front cap, while second cap 314 can be considered a rear cap (or vice versa). First cap 304 and second cap 314 can be formed of a transparent material to allow viewing of the contents (e.g., steam precursor) within pod assembly 302. Pod trim 310 defines a channel outlet 312 for releasing steam generated within pod assembly 302.

[0065] Pod assembly 302 is a self-contained item that can be sealed using a protective film wrapped around pod molding 310. Furthermore, due to the closed-system nature of pod assembly 302, the risk of damage and contamination can be reduced. Similarly, the chance of undesirable physical exposure (e.g., through leaks) to the vapor precursor in pod assembly 302 can be reduced. Furthermore, pod assembly 302 can be configured to prevent refilling.

[0066] Figure 16 yes Figure 15 A top view of the pod assembly. Figure 16 , the second cap 314 is wider than the first cap 304. Thus, the pod molding 310 can be angled outwardly from the first cap 304 toward the second cap 314. However, it should be understood that other configurations are possible depending on the design of the pod assembly 302.

[0067] Figure 17 yes Figure 15 Side view of the pod assembly. Figure 17 , the second cap 314 is longer than the first cap 304. Therefore, the pod molding 310 can be tilted outward from the first cap 304 toward the second cap 314. Thus, the pod assembly 302 can be inserted into the dispenser body such that the side corresponding to the first cap 304 is first received in the through-hole. In one example embodiment, the pod assembly 302 can be inserted into the through-hole 114 of the dispenser body 104 and / or the through-hole 214 of the dispenser body 204.

[0068] Figure 18 yes Figure 15 Exploded view of the pod assembly. Figure 18 , the interior space of the pod assembly 302 can be divided into multiple compartments by means of the components therein. For example, the tapered outlet of the steam channel 308 can be aligned with the channel outlet 312, and the space defined by the first cap 304, the steam channel 308, the pod molding 310, and the second cap 314 can be considered a steam precursor compartment. In addition, the space defined below the steam channel 308 can be considered an equipment compartment. For example, the equipment compartment can include the atomizer 306. One benefit of including the atomizer 306 in the pod assembly 302 is that the atomizer 306 will only be used for the amount of steam precursor contained in the steam precursor compartment, and thus will not be overused.

[0069] Figure 19 is a perspective view of a plurality of pod assemblies according to an example embodiment. Figure 19Each pod assembly 402 includes a pod molding 410 disposed between a first cap 404 and a second cap 414. A steam channel 408 is aligned with a channel outlet 412 and disposed above the atomizer 406. The pod assembly 402 is sealed to retain a steam precursor 418 therein and to prevent damage to the steam precursor 418. The steam precursor compartment of the pod assembly 402 is configured to retain the steam precursor 418, while the equipment compartment includes the atomizer 406.

[0070] In more detail, a pod assembly 402 for an electronic cigarette device may include a vapor precursor compartment configured to hold a vapor precursor 418 therein. A device compartment is in fluid communication with the vapor precursor compartment. The device compartment includes an atomizer 406. A vapor channel 408 extends from the device compartment and through the vapor precursor compartment.

[0071] Pod assembly 402 is configured to be inserted into a dispenser body. Thus, the dimensions of pod assembly 402 can correspond to the dimensions of a through-hole (e.g., 114) of a dispenser body (e.g., 104). When pod assembly 402 is inserted into the through-hole of the dispenser body, steam passage 408 can be between the mouthpiece (e.g., 108) and the device compartment.

[0072] An attachment structure (e.g., a convex / concave arrangement, a magnetic arrangement) may be provided on at least one of the side walls (e.g., 116) of the through-hole (e.g., 114) and the side surfaces of the pod assembly 402. The attachment structure may be configured to engage and retain the pod assembly 402 when the pod assembly 402 is inserted into the through-hole of the distribution body. In addition, the channel outlet 412 may be utilized to secure the pod assembly 402 in the through-hole of the distribution body. For example, the distribution body may be provided with a retractable steam connector configured to be inserted into the channel outlet 412 to secure the pod assembly 402 while also supplementing the steam path from the channel outlet 412 to the steam channel (e.g., 106) of the distribution body (e.g., 104). The steam connector may also be a circular structure and / or spring-loaded to facilitate its retraction (e.g., compression via a spring) and extension (e.g., decompression via a spring).

[0073] In one example embodiment, the steam precursor compartment of the pod assembly 402 may surround the steam passage 408. For example, the steam passage 408 may pass through the center of the steam precursor compartment, although example embodiments are not limited in this regard.

[0074] Optionally, with Figure 19Unlike the steam passage 408 shown, the steam passage can be in the form of a passage arranged along at least one side wall of the precursor compartment. For example, the steam passage can be provided in the form of a passage that spans between the first cap 404 and the second cap 414 while extending along one or both sides of the inner surface of the pod molding 410. Thus, the passage can have a thin rectangular cross-section, although the exemplary embodiments are not limited thereto. When the passage is arranged along both side walls of the steam precursor compartment (e.g., both inner side walls of the pod molding 410), the passages along each side wall can be configured to converge at a location (e.g., passage outlet 412) that aligns with the steam passage (e.g., 106) of the distribution body (e.g., 104) when the pod assembly 402 is received in the through-hole 114.

[0075] In another embodiment, the steam passage can be in the form of a conduit disposed in at least one corner of the steam precursor compartment. Such a corner can be at the interface between the first cap 404 and / or the second cap 414 and the inner surface of the pod molding 410. Thus, the conduit can have a triangular cross-section, although example embodiments are not limited thereto. When the conduits are disposed in at least two corners of the steam precursor compartment (e.g., a front corner, a rear corner, a diagonal corner, or a side corner), the conduits in each corner can be configured to converge at a single location (e.g., a channel outlet 412) that aligns with the steam passage (e.g., 106) of the distribution body (e.g., 104) when the pod assembly 402 is received in the through-hole 114.

[0076] The steam precursor compartment and the device compartment can be at opposite ends of the pod assembly 402. The device compartment can include a storage device. The storage device can be encoded with an electronic identity to allow at least one of verification of the identity of the pod assembly 402 and pairing of specific operating parameters of the pod assembly 402 when the pod assembly 402 is inserted into the through-hole of the dispensing body (e.g., smart calibration). The electronic identity can help prevent counterfeiting. The operating parameters can help optimize the steam experience without placing an additional burden on adult smokers to determine the appropriate settings. In an example embodiment, the level of steam precursor in the pod assembly 402 can be tracked. In addition, once the pod assembly 402 has exceeded its expected service life, its activation can be restricted. Therefore, the pod assembly 402 (and 302) can be considered a smart pod.

[0077] A side surface of pod assembly 402 includes at least one electrical contact 416 and / or data connection 417 (e.g., two or three electrical contacts and / or data connections). The dispenser body can be configured to at least one of power and communicate with pod assembly 402 via the at least one electrical contact 416. The at least one electrical contact 416 can be positioned at an end of pod assembly 402 corresponding to the device compartment. Due to its intelligent nature, pod assembly 402 can communicate with the dispenser body and / or another electronic device (e.g., a smartphone). Thus, usage patterns and other information (e.g., fragrance intensity, throat sensation, number of puffs) can be generated, stored, transmitted, and / or displayed. The intelligence, connection features and other relevant aspects of the pod assembly, dispensing body and the entire electronic cigarette device are further discussed in U.S. application No. 62 / 151,160 (Atty. Dkt. No. 24000-000200-US-PS1 (ALCS2853)), U.S. application No. 62 / 151,179 (Atty. Dkt. No. 24000-000201-US-PS1 (ALCS2854)) and U.S. application No. 62 / 151,248 (Atty. Dkt. No. 24000-000202-US-PS1 (ALCS2855)), the entire contents of each application are incorporated herein by reference.

[0078] Figure 20 is a diagram of an electronic cigarette device according to an example embodiment with a pod assembly inserted into a dispenser body. Figure 20 , the electronic cigarette device 500 includes a pod assembly 502 (e.g., a smart pod) that is inserted into a dispensing body 504. The pod assembly 502 can be as described in connection with the pod assembly 302 and the pod assembly 402. Thus, the pod assembly 502 can be a hassle-free and leak-free component that can be relatively easily replaced when the vapor precursor therein is low / depleted or when another flavor is desired.

[0079] Figure 21 FIG. 2100 shows a device system of a distribution entity according to an example embodiment. The device system 2100 may be a system in the distribution entity 104 or the distribution entity 204 .

[0080] The device system 2100 includes a controller 2105, a power supply 2110, an actuator control 2115, a pod electrical / data interface 2120, a device sensor 2125, an input / output (I / O) interface 2130, a steam indicator 2135, at least one antenna 2140, and a storage medium 2145. The device system 2100 is not limited to Figure 21 For example, the device system 2100 may include additional components. However, for the sake of brevity, the additional components are not described.

[0081] The controller 2105 may be hardware, firmware, hardware executing software, or any combination thereof. When the controller 2105 is hardware, such existing hardware may include one or more central processing units (CPUs), digital signal processors (DSPs), application-specific integrated circuits (ASICs), field-programmable gate arrays (FPGAs), computers, etc., which are configured as dedicated machines to implement the functions of the processor 220. As described above, CPUs, DSPs, ASICs, and FPGAs may generally be referred to as processing devices.

[0082] In the case where the controller 2105 is a processor executing software, the controller 2105 is configured as a special-purpose machine to execute the software stored in the storage medium 2145 to implement at least one function of the controller 2105 .

[0083] As discussed herein, the terms "storage medium," "computer-readable storage medium," or "non-transitory computer-readable storage medium" may refer to one or more devices for storing data, including read-only memory (ROM), random access memory (RAM), magnetic RAM, magnetic core memory, magnetic disk storage media, optical storage media, flash memory devices, and / or other tangible machine-readable media for storing information. The term "computer-readable medium" may include, but is not limited to, portable or fixed storage devices, optical storage devices, and various other media capable of storing, containing, or carrying instructions and / or data.

[0084] refer to Figure 21 , the controller 2105 communicates with the power supply 2110 , the actuator control 2115 , the pod electrical / data interface 2120 , the device sensor 2125 , the input / output (I / O) interface 2130 , the steam indicator 2135 , and at least one antenna 2140 .

[0085] Controller 2105 communicates with the CC-NVM in the pod via pod electrical / data interface 2120. More specifically, controller 2105 can utilize encryption to authenticate the pod. As will be described, controller 2105 communicates with the CC-NVM package to authenticate the pod. More specifically, the non-volatile memory is encoded with product and other authentication information during manufacturing.

[0086] The memory device may be encoded with an electronic identity to allow for at least one of verification of the pod's identity and pairing of specific operating parameters of the pod when the pod assembly 402 is inserted into the through-hole of the dispensing body. In addition to verification based on the pod's electronic identity, the controller 2105 may authorize use of the pod based on an expiration date of the vapor precursor and / or heater stored in the non-volatile memory of the CC-NVM. If the controller determines that the expiration date encoded in the non-volatile memory has expired, the controller may not authorize use of the pod and disable the electronic cigarette device.

[0087] Controller 2105 (or storage medium 2145) stores key materials and proprietary algorithm software used for encryption. For example, encryption algorithms rely on the use of random numbers. The security of these algorithms depends on how random these numbers are. These numbers are typically pre-generated and encoded into a processor or memory device. By using puff parameters (e.g., puff duration, puff interval, or a combination thereof) to generate numbers, example embodiments can increase the randomness of the numbers used for encryption, making these numbers more random and more individualized than pre-generated random numbers. All communications between controller 2105 and the pod can be encrypted.

[0088] Additionally, the pod can serve as a general payload carrier for other information, such as software patches for the e-cigarette device. Because encryption is used in all communications between the pod and the controller 2105, this information is more secure, making the e-cigarette device less susceptible to malware or viruses being installed. Using CC-NVM as a carrier for information, such as data and software upgrades, allows the e-cigarette device to use software upgrades without being connected to the internet, and allows adult smokers to undergo the download process required by most other consumer electronic devices that require regular software upgrades.

[0089] The controller 2105 may also include a cryptographic accelerator to allow the resources of the controller 2105 to perform functions other than encoding and decoding related to authentication. The controller 2105 may also include other security features, such as preventing unauthorized use of communication channels and preventing unauthorized access to data if the pod or smoker is not authenticated.

[0090] In addition to the cryptographic accelerator, the controller 2105 may include other hardware accelerators. For example, the controller 2105 may include a floating point unit (FPU), a separate DSP core, a digital filter, and a fast Fourier transform (FFT) module.

[0091] Controller 2105 operates a real-time operating system (RTOS), controls system 2100, and can be updated by communicating with the CC-NVM or when system 2100 is connected to another device (e.g., a smartphone) via I / O interface 2130 and / or antenna 2140. I / O interface 2130 and antenna 2140 allow system 2100 to connect to various external devices such as smartphones, tablets, and personal computers. For example, I / O interface 2130 may include a micro-USB connector. System 2100 can use the micro-USB connector to charge power supply 2110b.

[0092] The controller 2105 may include onboard RAM and flash memory to store and execute code including analysis, diagnosis, and software upgrades. Alternatively, the storage medium 2145 may store the code. Additionally, in another exemplary embodiment, the storage medium 2145 may be onboard the controller 2105.

[0093] The controller 2105 may also include on-board clock, reset, and power management modules to reduce the area covered by the PCB in the distribution body.

[0094] Device sensors 2125 may include a plurality of sensor transducers that provide measurement information to controller 2105. Device sensors 2125 may include a power supply temperature sensor, an external pod temperature sensor, a heater current sensor, a power supply current sensor, an airflow sensor, and an accelerometer to monitor motion and direction. The power supply temperature sensor and the external pod temperature sensor may be thermistors or thermocouples, while the heater current sensor and the power supply current sensor may be resistor-based sensors or another sensor configured to measure current. The airflow sensor may be a micro-electromechanical system (MEMS) flow sensor or another sensor configured to measure airflow.

[0095] The data generated from the multiple sensing transducers may be sampled at a sampling rate suitable for the parameters being measured using independent multi-channel analog-to-digital converters (ADCs).

[0096] The controller 2105 may adjust the heater profile and other profiles of the vapor precursor based on the measurement information received from the controller 2105. For convenience, these profiles are generally referred to as evaporation or vapor profiles.

[0097] The heater profile corresponds to the power profile supplied to the heater during the few seconds that the puff occurs. An example of a heater profile might be one that delivers maximum power to the heater when the puff begins, then immediately reduces the power to about half or a quarter after a second or so.

[0098] Pulse wave modulation is usually used instead of flipping an on / off switch to turn the power fully on or fully off to achieve power modulation.

[0099] Additionally, the heater profile can be modified by the degree of negative pressure applied to the electronic cigarette device by the adult smoker. The use of a MEMS flow sensor allows the puff intensity to be measured and used as feedback to the controller 2105 to adjust the amount of power delivered to the pod's heater, which can be referred to as heating or energy delivery.

[0100] When the controller 2105 identifies the currently installed pod (e.g., via SKU), the controller 2105 matches the relevant heating profile designed for that particular pod. The controller 2105 and storage medium 2145 will store data and algorithms that allow heating profiles to be generated for all SKUs. Adult smokers can also adjust the heating profile to suit their preferences.

[0101] like Figure 21 As shown, the controller 2105 sends and receives data to and from the power supply 2110. The power supply 2110 includes a power supply 2110b and a power controller 2110a to manage the power output of the power supply 2110b.

[0102] Power source 2110b may be a lithium-ion battery or a variant thereof, such as a lithium-ion polymer battery. Alternatively, power source 2110b may be a nickel-metal hydride battery, a nickel-cadmium battery, a lithium-manganese battery, a lithium-cobalt battery, or a fuel cell. Optionally, power source 2110b may be rechargeable and include circuitry that allows the battery to be recharged via an external charging device. In this case, while charging, the circuitry provides power for a desired (or optionally predetermined) number of puffs, after which the circuitry must be reconnected to the external charging device.

[0103] Power supply controller 2110a provides commands to power supply 2110b based on instructions from controller 2105. For example, when the pod is authenticated and the adult smoker activates system 2100 (e.g., by activating a switch such as an on / off button, a capacitive sensor, or an infrared sensor), power supply 2110 may receive a command from controller 2105 to provide power to the pod (via power / data interface 2120). When the pod is not authenticated, controller 2105 may either not send a command to power supply 2110 or send a command to power supply 2110 not to provide power. In another example embodiment, if the pod is not authenticated, controller 2105 may disable all operations of system 2100.

[0104] In addition to providing power to the pod, the power supply 2110 also provides power to the controller 2105. Additionally, the power supply controller 2110a can provide feedback to the controller 2105 indicating the performance of the power supply 2110b.

[0105] The controller 2105 sends data to and receives data from at least one antenna 2140. The at least one antenna 2140 may include a near field communication (NFC) modem and a Bluetooth low energy (LE) modem and / or other modems for other wireless technologies (e.g., Wi-Fi). In an example embodiment, the communication stack is in the modem, but the modem is controlled by the controller 2105. The Bluetooth LE modem is used for data and control communications with an application on an external device (e.g., a smartphone). The NFC modem can be used to pair the e-cigarette device with the application and retrieve diagnostic information. In addition, the NFC modem can be used to provide location information (enabling adult smokers to find the e-cigarette device) or authentication during purchase.

[0106] As described above, the system 2100 can generate and adjust various profiles for an electronic cigarette. The controller 2105 uses the power supply 2110 and the actuator control 2115 to adjust the profile for an adult smoker.

[0107] Actuator control 2115 includes passive and active actuators to adjust the desired steam profile. For example, the dispensing body may include an inlet channel in the mouth. Actuator control 2115 can control the inlet channel based on commands from controller 2105 related to the desired steam profile.

[0108] Additionally, actuator control 2115 is used in conjunction with power supply 2110 to supply energy to the heater. More specifically, actuator control 2115 is configured to generate a drive waveform associated with a desired e-cigarette profile. As described above, each possible profile is associated with a drive waveform. Upon receiving a command from controller 2105 indicating a desired e-cigarette profile, actuator control 2115 can generate the associated modulation waveform for power supply 2110.

[0109] The controller 2105 provides information to the steam indicator 2135 to indicate the status and operation of the adult smoker. The steam indicator 2135 includes a power indicator (e.g., an LED) that is activated when the controller 2105 senses that the adult smoker has pressed a button. The steam indicator 2135 may also include a vibrator, a speaker, an indicator of the current status of the smoker-controlled electronic cigarette parameter (e.g., vapor volume), and other feedback mechanisms.

[0110] In addition, the system 2100 may include a plurality of on-product controls 2150 that provide commands from the adult smoker to the controller 2105. The on-product controls 2150 include an on-off button, which may be, for example, a switch button, a capacitive sensor, or an IR sensor. The on-product controls 2150 may also include an e-cigarette control button (if the adult smoker wishes to supply energy to the heater instead of the buttonless e-cigarette feature), a hard reset button, a touch-based slider control (for controlling the setting of e-cigarette parameters such as puff volume), and an e-cigarette control button for activating a slider control and mechanically adjusting the air inlet.

[0111] Once the pod's identity is verified, the controller 2105 operates the power supply 2110, actuator control 2115, vapor indicator 2135, and antenna 2140 based on the adult smoker using the e-cigarette device and the information stored on the pod's CC-NVM. Additionally, the controller 2105 may include a logging function and be capable of implementing algorithms to calibrate the e-cigarette device. The controller 2105 performs a logging function to record usage data and any unexpected events or malfunctions. The recorded usage data can be used for diagnostics and analysis. The controller 2105 can use the buttonless e-cigarette, the smoker's configuration, and information stored on the CC-NVM (including puff sensing, vapor precursor levels, and vapor precursor composition) to calibrate the e-cigarette device. For example, the controller 2105 can command the power supply 2110 to power the heater in the pod based on an e-cigarette profile associated with the vapor precursor composition in the pod. Alternatively, the e-cigarette profile can be encoded in the CC-NVM and used by the controller 2105.

[0112] Figure 22 A pod system diagram of a distribution entity is shown according to an example embodiment. Pod system 2200 can be in pod assembly 502, pod assembly 302, and pod assembly 402.

[0113] like Figure 22 As shown, the pod system 2200 includes CC-NVM 2205, main body electrical / data interface 2210, heater 2215 and pod sensor 2220. The pod system 2200 communicates with the device system 2100 via the main body electrical / data interface 2210 and the pod electrical / data interface 2120. For example, the main body electrical / data interface 2210 may correspond to Figure 19 The battery contacts 416 and the data interface 417 shown connected in the pod 402. Thus, the CC-NVM 2205 is coupled to the data interface 417 and the battery contacts 416.

[0114] The CC-NVM 2205 includes a cryptographic coprocessor 2205a and a non-volatile memory 2205b. The controller 2105 can access information stored on the non-volatile memory 2205b for authentication and to operate the pod by communicating with the cryptographic coprocessor 2205a.

[0115] The non-volatile memory 2205b may be encoded with an electronic identity to allow for at least one of verification of the pod's identity and pairing of specific operating parameters of the pod when the pod assembly is inserted into the through-hole of the dispensing body. In addition to verification based on the pod's electronic identity, the controller 2105 may authorize use of the pod based on an expiration date of the vapor precursor and / or heater stored in the non-volatile memory 2205b encoded into the CC-NVM. If the controller determines that the expiration date encoded into the non-volatile memory 2205b has expired, the controller may not authorize use of the pod and disable the electronic cigarette device.

[0116] In addition, the non-volatile memory 2205b can store information such as the stock keeping unit (SKU) of the vapor precursor in the vapor precursor compartment (including the vapor precursor composition), software patches for the system 2100, product usage information (e.g., number of puffs, puff duration), and vapor precursor level. The non-volatile memory 2205b can store specific operating parameters and vapor precursor compositions for a pod. For example, the non-volatile memory 2205b can store the electronic and mechanical design of the pod to be used by the controller 2105 to determine commands corresponding to a desired e-cigarette profile.

[0117] For example, the vapor precursor level in the pod can be determined in one of two ways. In one example embodiment, a pod sensor 2220 directly measures the vapor precursor level in the pod.

[0118] In another example embodiment, the non-volatile memory 2205b stores the number of puffs obtained from the pod, and the controller 2105 uses the obtained number of puffs instead of the amount of vaporized vapor precursor.

[0119] The controller 2105 and / or the storage medium 2145 can store vapor precursor calibration data that identifies the operating point of the vapor precursor composition. The vapor precursor calibration data includes data describing how the flow rate changes with the remaining vapor precursor level or how the volatility changes with the use time of the vapor precursor and can be used by the controller 2105 for calibration. The vapor precursor calibration data can be stored by the controller 2105 and / or the storage medium 2145 in a tabular format. The vapor precursor calibration data allows the controller 2105 to equate the number of puffs obtained with the amount of vaporized vapor precursor.

[0120] The controller 2105 writes the vapor precursor level and the acquired puff count back to the non-volatile memory 2205b in the pod so that if the pod is removed from the dispensing body and subsequently reinstalled, the controller 2105 will still know the precise vapor precursor level of the pod.

[0121] The operating parameters (e.g., power supply, power duration, air channel control) are referred to as an e-cigarette profile. Furthermore, the non-volatile memory 2205b can record information communicated with the controller 2105. The non-volatile memory 2205b can retain the recorded information even when the dispenser is separated from the pod.

[0122] In one example embodiment, the non-volatile memory 2205b may be a programmable read-only memory.

[0123] The heater 2215 is actuated by the controller 2105 and transfers heat to the vapor precursor according to the command profile (volume, temperature (based on the power profile) and aroma) from the controller 2105.

[0124] Heater 2215 can be a metal coil wound around a core, mesh, or surface, or made of, for example, a ceramic material. Examples of suitable resistive materials include titanium, zirconium, tantalum, and platinum group metals. Examples of suitable metal alloys include stainless steel, nickel-, cobalt-, chromium-, aluminum-, titanium-, zirconium-, hafnium-, niobium-, molybdenum-, tantalum-, tungsten-, tin-, gallium-, manganese-, and iron-containing alloys, as well as superalloys based on nickel, iron, cobalt, and stainless steel. For example, the heater can be formed from nickel-aluminum compounds, materials with an aluminum oxide layer on the surface, iron-aluminum compounds, and other materials. Depending on the energy transfer dynamics and desired external physicochemical properties, the resistive material can optionally be embedded, encapsulated, or covered with an insulating material, or vice versa. In one embodiment, heater 14 comprises at least one material selected from the group consisting of stainless steel, copper, copper alloys, nickel-chromium alloys, superalloys, and combinations thereof. In one embodiment, heater 2215 is formed from a nickel-chromium alloy or an iron-chromium alloy. In one embodiment, heater 2215 can be a ceramic heater having a resistive layer on its outer surface.

[0125] In another embodiment, the heater 2215 can be made of an iron-aluminum compound (e.g., FeAl or Fe3Al), or a nickel-aluminum compound (e.g., Ni3Al), such as those described in U.S. Patent No. 5,595,706, co-owned by Sikka et al., filed on December 29, 1994, the entirety of which is incorporated herein by reference.

[0126] Based on feedback from the pod sensor or controller 2105, heater 2215 can determine the amount of vapor precursor to heat. The flow rate of the vapor precursor can be controlled by a microcapillary or wicking effect. In addition, controller 2105 can send commands to heater 2215 to adjust the air inlet of heater 2215.

[0127] Pod sensors 2220 may include a heater temperature sensor, a vapor precursor flow rate monitor, and an airflow monitor. The heater temperature sensor may be a thermistor or thermocouple, and system 2200 may use electrostatic interference or a rotating body in a liquid to perform flow rate sensing. The airflow sensor may be a micro-electromechanical system (MEMS) flow sensor or another sensor configured to measure airflow.

[0128] The data generated from the pod sensors 2220 may be sampled at a sampling rate appropriate for the parameters being measured using independent multi-channel analog-to-digital converters (ADCs).

[0129] Although several exemplary embodiments have been disclosed herein, it will be understood that other modifications are possible. Such modifications are not to be regarded as a departure from the spirit and scope of the invention, and all such modifications as would be obvious to one skilled in the art are intended to be included within the scope of the following claims.

Claims

1. A pod assembly for an electronic cigarette device, comprising: First Cap; a second cap, which is opposite to the first cap and is wider than the first cap; a pod molding disposed between the first cap and the second cap and inclined outwardly from the first cap toward the second cap; wherein the first cap, the second cap, and the pod molding are assembled together to define an interior space of the pod assembly, wherein the pod molding defines a channel outlet for releasing steam generated in the pod assembly; and a steam channel arranged in the interior space so that the interior space is divided into a steam precursor compartment and an equipment compartment, and an outlet of the steam channel is aligned with the channel outlet; wherein the steam precursor compartment is configured to hold a steam precursor therein, and the equipment compartment is in fluid communication with the steam precursor compartment; The steam channel extends from the equipment compartment and passes through the steam precursor compartment.

2. The pod assembly according to claim 1, wherein: The equipment compartment includes the nebulizer.

3. The pod assembly according to claim 1, wherein: The device compartment includes storage devices.

4. The pod assembly according to claim 1, wherein: A side surface of the pod assembly includes at least one electrical contact.

5. The pod assembly according to claim 1, wherein: The steam passage has an outlet located between the first surface and the second surface.

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