Flat heating elements for micro evaporators

Abstract

A heater assembly (20) is configured to vaporize a liquid. The heater assembly (20) includes a substrate (26, 28) and a heating element (24) supported on the substrate (26, 28). The heating element (24) includes a layer of conductive material. The heater assembly (20) also includes a plurality of channels (46) formed of conductive material. Each of the plurality of channels (46) is configured to operate in parallel. Each channel (46) has an inlet end and an outlet end. The inlet end is configured to receive liquid, and the outlet end is configured to discharge steam. The substrate (26, 28) and the heating element (24) form a multilayer structure.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The invention relates to a heater for a micro evaporator, in particular to an electric heating element integrated in a cylinder of the micro evaporator. Background Art

[0002] Microvaporizers, also known as electronic cigarette devices, are used as alternatives to cigarettes, cigars, pipes, and other smoking devices. Electronic cigarette devices can be configured to provide the sensations associated with smoking cigarettes, cigars, or pipes, but without the large amounts of incomplete combustion and pyrolysis products generated by burning tobacco. Microvaporizers can also be configured to deliver medicinal aerosols, such as asthma breathers.

[0003] The heater of a conventional micro-vaporizer typically includes a coiled heating wire that is wrapped around a core that draws a liquid infused with a chemical (e.g., nicotine) from a reservoir. The coiled heating wire heats the liquid in the core, which may not all be vaporized. As a result, the coiled heating wire is inefficient because it heats more liquid than is needed to produce an aerosol. In addition, the coiled heating wire heats the outer surface of the core more than the inner part of the core, and the heating of the core surface is uneven. Therefore, the design of the coiled heating wire may result in inconsistent heating of the liquid, which can affect the particle size in the aerosol formed by the heated core. The taste and user experience of the inhaled aerosol can be adversely affected by many variables, such as inconsistent heating, surface area, and different sizes of aerosol particles.

[0004] Additionally, conventional coiled heating wires and cores heat the entire core within the coil. Therefore, there is only one operable heating zone.

[0005] Conventional coiled heating wires cannot utilize multi-zone heating and must vary the amount of electrical power applied to the coil to regulate the temperature of the liquid flowing through the micro-evaporator. Single-zone configurations provide less control over the temperature of the liquid in the micro-evaporator, allowing for greater temperature fluctuations, which in turn results in greater fluctuations in particle size within the aerosol. Summary of the invention

[0006] The flat heater described herein attempts to improve upon the deficiencies of conventional designs. For example, the flat heater is a simpler design, uses less material, and can regulate the amount of heat applied to the liquid. Since the flat heater can control the amount of heat applied to the liquid, the flat heater can control the size of the particles in the aerosol, and can even generate different predetermined particle sizes in the aerosol mixture. For example, for nicotine absorption, a smaller vapor size (particle size) can allow nicotine to penetrate deeper into the lungs. At the same time, a larger particle size can better activate the taste buds on the tongue. Unlike conventional micro-evaporator heaters, the flat heater described in the present invention can generate two consistent particle sizes.

[0007] Additionally, because the flat panel heater can regulate heat, the flat panel heater can avoid reaching temperatures that produce certain carcinogens.

[0008] In a first aspect of the present technology, a heater assembly may be configured to vaporize a liquid. The heater assembly may include a substrate and a heating element supported on the substrate.

[0009] The heating element may include a conductive material layer having a plurality of channels formed by conductive material. Each of the plurality of channels may be configured to run in parallel. Each channel may have an inlet end and an outlet end. The inlet end may be configured to receive liquid, and the outlet end may be configured to discharge steam. The substrate and the heating element may form a multilayer structure.

[0010] The conductive material may be configured such that the resistance of the heating element at the outlet end of the channel is greater than the resistance at the inlet end of the channel.

[0011] The conductive material may be configured to generate more heat at an outlet end of the channel than at an inlet end of the channel.

[0012] The plurality of channels may be divided into independently controllable heating groups.

[0013] Each group of channels can be powered on according to user needs.

[0014] Each set of conduits may be configured to achieve a respective target temperature range.

[0015] Each respective target temperature range may be different.

[0016] Each respective target temperature range may overlap with another respective target temperature range.

[0017] The heater may be configured to generate an aerosol having a target particle size.

[0018] The heater may be configured to generate an aerosol having more than one target particle size.

[0019] The conductive material may be metal. In addition, the substrate may be glass or acrylic.

[0020] In another aspect of the present technology, a cartridge for a micro-vaporizer configured to generate an aerosol from a liquid supply. The cartridge may include: a mouthpiece configured to deliver the aerosol to a user's respiratory tract and a reservoir configured to hold a liquid supply. The cartridge may also include the heater assembly discussed above.

[0021] In another aspect of the present technology, the heater assembly can be configured to vaporize a liquid and can include: a substrate and a heating element supported on the substrate. The heating element can include a layer of conductive material having a plurality of elongated slits configured to transport a fluid. The substrate can cover a first portion of each elongated slit. In addition, the substrate can include an opening that exposes a second portion of each elongated slit. The heating element can be configured to heat the fluid in the first portion of the elongated slit to a temperature below the vapor conversion temperature of the fluid. Moreover, the heating element is configured to heat the fluid in the second portion of the elongated slit to a temperature above the vapor conversion temperature of the fluid.

[0022] The heating element may be configured to vaporize the fluid in each elongated slit before the fluid reaches the second portion of the elongated slit.

[0023] The elongated slots may be separated from each other by strips of the conductive material.

[0024] The strip of conductive material may be wider at a first portion of the elongated slot than at a second portion of the elongated slot.

[0025] The substrate may be electrically insulating.

[0026] The elongated slits may be linear in shape and arranged in parallel.

[0027] The elongated slots may be in fluid connection with a common inlet.

[0028] A core may be disposed within the elongated slot.

[0029] A core may be arranged to span the outlet end of the elongated slot.

[0030] The channel may be directed radially towards the centre of the heating element.

[0031] In another aspect of the present technology, a cartridge for a micro-vaporizer configured to generate an aerosol from a liquid supply. The cartridge may include a mouthpiece configured to deliver the aerosol to a user's respiratory tract and a reservoir configured to hold a liquid supply. The cartridge may also include the heater assembly discussed above.

[0032] In another aspect of the present technology, the heater assembly can be configured to vaporize a liquid. The heater assembly can include: a first substrate, a second substrate, and a heating element sandwiched between the first substrate and the second substrate. The heating element can include a layer of conductive material having a plurality of elongated slits, and the plurality of elongated slits are configured to transport a fluid. The first substrate can partially cover the plurality of elongated slits to form an elongated channel. The heating element can include a plurality of independently controlled heating zones. In addition, each elongated channel can be configured to heat the fluid in a multi-stage heating process.

[0033] The conductive material may be configured such that the resistance of the heating element at one end of each elongate channel is different than the resistance at the other end of the elongate channel.

[0034] Each elongated channel may be configured such that liquid toward an inlet of the elongated channel undergoes a first stage of heating at a first temperature, and liquid toward an outlet of the elongated channel undergoes a second stage of heating at a second temperature that is higher than the temperature produced in the first stage of heating.

[0035] The temperature produced by the heating in the first stage may be below the steam conversion temperature of the fluid, and the temperature produced by the heating in the second stage may be above the steam conversion temperature.

[0036] Each heating zone may comprise a plurality of said elongated channels.

[0037] The heating zones can be configured to be energized based on the user's needs.

[0038] Each heating zone can be configured to achieve a respective target temperature range.

[0039] Each respective target temperature range may be different.

[0040] Each respective target temperature range may overlap with another respective target temperature range.

[0041] The heater may be configured to generate an aerosol having a target particle size.

[0042] The heater may be configured to generate an aerosol having more than one target particle size.

[0043] In another aspect of the present technology, a cartridge for a micro-vaporizer configured to generate an aerosol from a liquid supply. The cartridge may include: a mouthpiece configured to deliver the aerosol to a user's respiratory tract and a reservoir configured to hold a liquid supply. The cartridge may also include the heater assembly discussed above. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0044] Figure 1 is a cross-sectional view of an exemplary micro-evaporator including a base, a barrel, and a heater.

[0045] Figure 2 yes Figure 1 A perspective view of the barrel and heater.

[0046] Figure 3 yes Figure 1 Exploded view of the heater.

[0047] Figure 4 yes Figure 1 A perspective view of a heater.

[0048] Figure 5A yes Figure 1 A plan view of the metal heating element of a heater.

[0049] Figure 5B yes Figure 5A A plan view of a portion of a metal heating element.

[0050] Figure 6 is another perspective view of the barrel and heater.

[0051] Figure 7 yes Figure 6 Exploded view of the barrel and heater.

[0052] Figure 8 is a perspective view of another heating element.

[0053] Fig.9A yes Figure 8 Another perspective view of the heating element.

[0054] Fig. 9B yes Figure 8 Side view of a heating element.

[0055] Fig.10 A plan view of an exemplary heater is shown.

[0056] Fig.11 A plan view of an exemplary heater is shown.

[0057] Fig.12 A plan view of an exemplary heater is shown.

[0058] Fig.13 A plan view of an exemplary heater is shown.

[0059] Fig.14 A plan view of an exemplary heater is shown.

[0060] Fig.15 A plan view of an exemplary heater is shown.

[0061] Fig.16 A side view of an exemplary heater having channels etched into a substrate is shown.

[0062] Mode for Carrying Out the Invention

[0063] Figure 1 An exemplary micro-vaporizer 10 for generating an aerosol for inhalation by a user is shown. The micro-vaporizer 10 may include a base 12 and a cartridge 14. The base 12 may be configured to receive one of a plurality of interchangeable cartridges 14 and may house a power source, such as a battery and / or an electronic device. The cartridge 14 may include a mouthpiece 16 for delivering the aerosol directly into the user's mouth and may include a mounting for a heater 20 (e.g., a recess 18—see FIG. 1 ). Figure 2 ). The power source can provide power to the heater 20, and the electronic device can control the power supplied to the heater 20. In addition, a storage tank or reservoir of the fluid to be vaporized can be placed in the base 12 and / or the barrel 14. The barrel 14 can also include a pump 22 for pumping the fluid from the reservoir through the barrel 14. The barrel 14 can be permanently attached to the base 12, or can be releasably attached to the base 12.

[0064] like Figure 2 As shown, the heater 20 can be mounted to the barrel 14 by being accommodated in the groove 18 in the barrel 14. The heater 20 can generate the heat required to heat and vaporize the fluid (or convert the fluid into an aerosol for delivery to the user's respiratory tract). The configuration or structure of the heater 20 can promote the fluid to flow through the barrel 14 by, for example, capillary action. In some configurations, the heater 20 can draw the fluid out of the barrel 14 without the need for a pump 22.

[0065] like Figure 2-4As shown, the heater 20 may include a flat heating element 24 sandwiched between an inner substrate 26 and an outer substrate 28. The inner substrate 26 and the outer substrate 28 may be arranged so that when the heater 20 is installed in the recess 18, the inner substrate 26 may be positioned against the recessed wall of the recess 18, while the outer substrate 28 faces outward. It is contemplated that the flat heating element 24 may be made of a conductive material, such as a metal or a semiconductor. Different portions of the flat heating element 24 may be made of different types of materials having different conductive properties. In addition, the overall shape and individual components of the flat heating element 24 may be carved, cut, stamped or etched from a blank.

[0066] Substrates 26 and 28 may be transparent to show flat panel heating element 24. The transparency of substrates 26 and 28 may facilitate visual inspection of the operation of heater 20. Substrates 26 and 28 may be flat panels formed of glass, plastic, acrylic, or other materials, which may be non-conductive or dielectric. Flat panel heating element 24 and inner and outer substrates 26 and 28 may together form a flat panel heater having a multi-layer structure (e.g., a heating element sandwiched between two substrates).

[0067] The heater 20 may include an inlet passage 30 for receiving fluid from a storage tank or reservoir, a vaporizing portion 32 for vaporizing the fluid, and one or more outlet passages 34 in the inner base plate 26 for discharging the vaporized fluid toward the nozzle 16 of the cartridge 14. Optionally, the outer base plate 28 may also include one or more outlet passages 34. The heater 20 may also include one or more electrical contacts 36 that may provide conduits for power and communication between the heater and a power source and electronics in the base 12.

[0068] The inlet passage 30 of the heater 20 may receive fluid from a storage tank or reservoir and may traverse the thickness of the inner substrate 26. The inlet portion 38 of the inlet passage 30 may be shaped and sized to sealingly engage with an opening 40 in the wall of the barrel 14 (see FIG. Figure 2 and Figure 3 ). The inlet passage 30 may terminate in a discharge portion 42 that leads to the vaporizing portion 32 of the heater 20. The discharge portion 42 may be shaped and sized differently than the inlet portion 38. For example, the discharge portion 42 may be larger than the inlet portion 38.

[0069] The flat heating element 24 may include alternating rows 44 of fluid channels (or slots) 46 and strips of material 48 (also referred to as metal strips or heating elements). Each strip 48 may be connected to an adjacent strip 48 by a conductive ring 50. The fluid channels 46, strips 48, and loops 50 may form the body of the vaporization portion 32. In addition, the fluid channels 46 and loops 50 may form elongated slots (or elongated channels) in the conductive material.

[0070] The vaporization portion 32 can be divided into a fluid distribution area 52 adjacent to the inlet channel 30 and a transition area 54 adjacent to the outlet channel 34. Fluid can enter the vaporization portion 32 through the inlet channel 30. Thus, the discharge portion 42 of the inlet channel 30 can extend through all of the fluid channels 46 in the fluid distribution area 52 so that all of the fluid channels 46 can directly receive fluid from the inlet channel 30. In addition, portions of the fluid channels 46 in the fluid distribution area 52 can be fluidly connected to each other through a common fluid channel (or transverse fluid channel) 56. The common fluid channel 56 can extend across all of the fluid channels 46 so that excess fluid in one fluid channel 46 can be directed to another fluid channel 46 with available capacity. The fluid distribution area 52 can help explain the uneven distribution of fluid from the discharge portion 42 of the inlet channel 30 due to the orientation of the barrel. The fluid distribution area 52 can also help explain the uneven consumption of fluid due to different vaporization rates in different fluid channels 46. It is contemplated that the discharge portion 42 of the inlet passage 30 may extend through only some of the fluid passages 46 , or may be in fluid connection with only one fluid passage 46 .

[0071] The transition zone 54 of the vaporization portion 32 can facilitate the transition of the fluid from the liquid state to the vapor state. The fluid can be heated (or preheated) by the band 48 when entering the transition zone 54 from the fluid distribution area 52. It is contemplated that the fluid can also be heated to a lesser extent by a portion of the band 48 in the fluid distribution area 52. In addition, the heat introduced into the fluid passage 46 can be limited so that the fluid remains in a liquid state when flowing through the fluid passage 46.

[0072] Each fluid channel 46 can discharge heated fluid (in liquid form) into an open area 58 defined by the inner edge of the corresponding ring 50. The rings 50 can be sized so that the open area 58 receives a small amount of fluid. In addition, a portion of each ring 50 can extend into the outlet channel 34 so that only a portion of the open area 58 is covered by the inner substrate 26 and the outer substrate 28.

[0073] The transition from liquid to vapor may occur in the portion of the open area 58 covered by the inner and outer substrates 26, 28. The heat generated by the ring 50 may cause bubbles to form at the edge of the outlet channel 34, so that when the fluid reaches the outlet channel 34, the fluid is completely converted to vapor and no liquid leaks from the outlet channel 34. Once in the vapor state, the fluid may flow through the outlet channel 34, through the opening 60 in the groove 18, and to the nozzle 16.

[0074] It is contemplated that the open area 58 may be sized to capture any liquid that reaches the outlet passage 34 (e.g., by means of surface tension) so that such liquid does not leak into the mouthpiece 16. Accordingly, the open area 58 of the ring 50 may have an area of, for example, two square millimeters, one square millimeter, or less.

[0075] The movement of fluid through the fluid channels 46 can be caused by a pressure differential in each fluid channel 46. The pressure differential can be caused by the user inhaling steam through the mouthpiece 16. The movement of steam through the outlet channel 34 can reduce the pressure in the fluid channel 46, thereby causing a pressure drop within the fluid channel 46. The movement of fluid through the fluid channels 46 can also be caused by capillary action within the fluid channels 46. It is conceivable that the pressure differential can also be generated by the pump 22 in the barrel 14. In addition, a wicking material can be provided in each fluid channel 46 to draw the fluid through the fluid channel 46 by wicking action. It should be understood that the source of the force that moves the fluid through the fluid channels 46 may not be limited to the above examples, and other sources may also provide the force required to drive the fluid through the fluid channels 46.

[0076] The band 48 and the ring 50 can generate heat by resistive heating. It is further contemplated that the heater 20 can utilize multi-stage heating, wherein the fluid flowing through the fluid passage 46 receives increasing amounts of heat as the fluid flows from the inlet passage 30 to the outlet passage 34. Given that the amount of heat generated in a resistive heater depends on the amount of resistance in the material to which electricity is applied, for multi-stage heating, the band 48 can have a different resistance than the ring 50. In particular, the ring 50 can have a greater resistance than the band 48.

[0077] One way to achieve different resistances is to vary the width (or cross-sectional shape) of the conductive material. Figure 4-5B As shown, the conductive material forming the ring 50 may be thinner (or have a smaller cross-section) than the conductive material of the strip 48. Therefore, the strip 48 may have a lower resistance and may generate less heat than the ring 50.

[0078] The multi-stage heating of each fluid channel 46 may allow for better control of the temperature applied to the fluid flowing through the transition zone 54. Since different temperatures produce different particle sizes when forming an aerosol, better control of temperature may allow for better control of the particle size in the aerosol produced by vaporizing the fluid in the heater 20. Different particle sizes may be required depending on the use of the micro-vaporizer 10. For example, the absorption of nicotine requires a smaller particle size for absorption in the user's lungs, while a larger particle size may improve the taste of the aerosol.

[0079] In addition to the multi-stage heating in each fluid channel 46, the transition zone 54 can also have multi-zone heating of the fluid channels 46, bands 48 and rings 50 across different rows 44. In particular, different rows 44 can be divided into groups that are driven separately. Therefore, heat can be controlled not only by grading the heat applied to each fluid channel 46, but also by driving one, some or all of the individually driven rows 44. Each group of rows 44 can be associated with a specific heating temperature range and / or resistance range. In addition, the current applied to each group of rows 44 can be selected to achieve the desired heating of the fluid in the corresponding fluid channel 46 and the open area 58.

[0080] Multi-zone heating across different rows 44 can allow controlled generation of particles of different sizes within a common aerosol. As described above, smaller particle sizes are required for nicotine absorption, while larger particle sizes can improve the taste of the aerosol. Multi-zone heating across different rows 44 can produce more than one particle size, thereby addressing multiple particle size requirements for nicotine-infused aerosols.

[0081] Multi-zone heating can also improve the efficiency of the heater 20 by tailoring the amount of heating to the needs of the user. For example, if the user inhales a smaller aerosol flow rate, only one or two groups of rows 44 can be activated to generate heat. If the user inhales more aerosol, more groups of rows 44 can be activated to generate more heat. Therefore, using multi-zone heating across different rows 44 can reduce the average electrical power consumed by the heater 20 by only utilizing the number of rows 44 required by the user's needs.

[0082] Alternatively, the transition zone 54 of the vaporization portion 32 may utilize single-stage heating. For single-stage heating, the width (or cross-sectional shape) of the conductive material of the band 48 and the ring 50 may be the same. Therefore, the resistance of the band 48 and the ring 50 may be the same, and the heat generated by the band 48 and the ring 50 may be the same.

[0083] Figure 6 and Figure 7An exemplary configuration is shown in which the heating element 24 is mounted on only one substrate 28. In this configuration, when the heater 20 is mounted within the recess 18, the fluid channel 46 can be surrounded by the recess walls and the outer substrate 28. The configuration can operate in substantially the same manner as a configuration utilizing two substrates.

[0084] Another aspect of this technology is Figures 8 to 9B As can be seen, the heating element 24 can include a wick 62 to help draw fluid through the fluid passages 46 and the open areas 58. The wick 62 can be held in place by a wick retainer 64 and can extend through all or part of the rows 44. It is contemplated that the ring 50 can overlap the wick 62 so that the wick 62 contacts the fluid in the open areas 58 within the ring 50. Figure 8 and Fig.9A The vaporizer portion 32 is shown to include only the transition zone 54 because the absorbent capacity of the core 62 can serve as a substitute for the fluid distribution zone 52. However, it should be understood that the vaporizer portion 32 in a configuration utilizing the core 62 can include the fluid distribution zone 52. It is contemplated that in addition to (or instead of) Figure 8 and Fig.9A In addition to the positions shown in FIG. 4 , multiple cores 62 may be located in each individual fluid channel 46 .

[0085] Fig.10 The heating element 24 is shown wherein the common fluid channel 56 receives fluid directly from the opening 40. Thus, the only fluid channel in the fluid distribution region 52 may be the common fluid channel 56. The entire fluid channel 46 may be within the transition region 54.

[0086] Although thus far, the fluid channels 46 and bands 48 of the heating element 24 have been illustrated as being positioned in a rectangular arrangement, the fluid channels 46 and bands 48 may be arranged in any shape depending on the configuration of the associated cartridge 14. For example, Fig.11 As shown, the fluid channels 46 and bands 48 may be arranged in a circular pattern.

[0087] For a circular configuration, the inner substrate 26 (and optionally the outer substrate 28) may have one or more inlet channels 30 in direct fluid communication with the fluid distribution area 52. The fluid distribution area 52 may include only one common fluid channel 56 located around the circumference of the heating element 24. The common fluid channel 56 may be in direct fluid communication with the one or more inlet channels 30, and may be in direct fluid communication with each of the fluid channels 46.

[0088] In addition, the fluid channels 46 can converge toward the center of the circle. Thus, the band 48 can become wider toward the circumference of the circle and thinner toward the center of the circle. This can have the effect that the resistance of the band 48 gradually increases toward the center of the circle. Thus, the heat generated by the band 48 can gradually increase toward the center of the circle. The ring 50 and the open area 58 can be adjacent to each other in the central area of ​​the circle, and the outlet channel 34 can be located in this area. Similar to the other arrangements previously discussed, a portion of each ring 50 can extend into the outlet channel 34, so that only a portion of the open area 58 is covered by the inner substrate 26 and the outer substrate 28.

[0089] Fig.12 and Fig.13 Heating elements 24 having rings 50 of different shapes are shown. For example, Fig.12 The ring 50 in the embodiment may be in the form of a flat plate annulus. Fig.13 The ring 50 in may be more trapezoidal in shape.

[0090] Fig.14 and Fig.15 A heater arrangement with a centralized outlet is shown. In such an arrangement, the inlet channel 30 may be located on opposite sides of the heater 20. The fluid channel 46 and band 48 may extend from the inlet channel 30 at the edge of the heater 20 to the outlet channel 34 at the center of the heater 20. It should be understood that such an arrangement may include two transition zones 54 that may or may not share a common ring 50 and opening area 58.

[0091] Each transition region 54 may be associated with a particular set of electrical contacts 36. Fig.14 and Fig.15 The arrangement shown in the figure may include four electrical contacts 36, but more or fewer electrical contacts 36 may be used. Thus, each transition zone 54 may serve as an independently driven heating zone for multi-zone heating. It is contemplated that each transition zone 54 may be further divided into groups of independently driven belts 48 and / or rings 50.

[0092] It is contemplated that the heating element 24 may include sensors (not shown) strategically placed in the vaporization portion 32 that may provide temperature, pressure, and / or fluid flow feedback to the electronics in the base 12. The heating element 24 may also include microvalves (not shown) for each fluid channel 46 to isolate these channels when they are not needed due to low demand. The microvalves may also be connected to the electronics in the base 12.

[0093] Alternative embodiments of the present invention may include printing or etching fluid channels 46 on or in the surface of one or both of substrates 26 and 28, such as Fig.16electrically separated bands 48 / channels 46 or groups of bands 48 / fluid channels 46 to allow electricity to be selectively applied to individual bands 48 or groups of bands 48, and the channels 46 / bands 48 may be arranged in straight rows 44 or in a pie shape and arranged in a circular array.

[0094] It is conceivable that Fig.16 As shown, the fluid channels 46 can be divided into multiple groups so that the heater 20 can vaporize more than one type of fluid at the same time. For example, the inner substrate 26 can define a first group of fluid channels 46, and the outer substrate 28 can define a second group of fluid channels 46. The heating element 24 can be between the two groups of fluid channels 46 so that the fluids flowing through the two groups of channels 46 are separated from each other. In this configuration, the first group of fluid channels 46 can receive a first type of fluid, and the second group of fluid channels 46 can receive a second type of fluid. In addition, the two groups of fluid channels 46 can receive fluids of their respective types through their respective inlets. In addition, the two groups of fluid channels 46 can discharge steam to their respective outlets, which are in fluid communication with the outlet channel 34. In addition, the two groups of fluid channels 46 can share an inlet and share an outlet. In the configuration of a single inlet and outlet, the inlet and outlet can be equipped with valves or other flow regulating devices to guide each type of fluid through the inlet and flow to one of the fluid channel groups. It should be understood that in the configuration of a single inlet and outlet, the fluid can be provided to the corresponding fluid channel group 46 at one time. In addition, different steam can be mixed at a single outlet.

[0095] It is further contemplated that the fluid channels 46 may be divided into multiple groups so that the heater 20 may produce more than one size of particles in the aerosol. For example, a first group of fluid channels 46 (formed by the inner substrate 26) may produce particles of a first size, while a second group of fluid channels 46 (formed by the outer substrate 28) may produce particles of a second size.

[0096] It is further contemplated that a majority of the heating element 24 may be omitted, such that only the ring 50 remains. In such a configuration, the inner substrate 26 and the outer substrate 28 may together form a single fluid channel 46.

[0097] Advantages provided by the above configuration may include increasing the contact surface area between the heated portion of the strip 48 and the fluid flowing through the fluid channel 46, the ability to adjust the amount of heat applied to the fluid and the amount of fluid applied to the strip by selectively heating the ring 50 and / or the strip 48. The above configuration may also reduce manufacturing costs and have simplified components compared to conventional electronic cigarette heaters. Other advantages of the above configuration may be that the rings 50 within the same heater may have different sizes, so that some rings 50 may form vapor particles of one size, while rings 50 of another size may form vapor particles of another size.

[0098] Although at least one exemplary embodiment of the present invention is disclosed herein, it should be understood that modifications, substitutions, and alternatives are obvious to those of ordinary skill in the art and may be made without departing from the scope of the present disclosure. The present disclosure is intended to cover any modifications or variations of the exemplary embodiments. In addition, in the present disclosure, the terms "comprise" or "include" do not exclude other elements or steps, the terms "one" or "an" do not exclude plural numbers, and the term "or" means one or both of them. In addition, the described features or steps may also be used in combination with other features or steps, and in any order, unless otherwise implied by the disclosure or context.

Claims

1. A heater assembly (20) configured to vaporize a liquid, the heater assembly (20) comprising: substrate (26, 28); a heating element (24) supported on the substrate (26, 28), the heating element (24) comprising a layer of conductive material; and a plurality of channels (46) formed from the conductive material, each of the plurality of channels (46) being configured to operate in parallel; wherein each channel (46) has an inlet end and an outlet end, the inlet end being configured to receive liquid and the outlet end being configured to discharge steam; wherein the substrate (26, 28) and the heating element (24) form a multi-layer structure; The conductive material is configured such that the resistance of the heating element (24) at the outlet end of the channel (46) is greater than the resistance at the inlet end of the channel (46).

2. The heater assembly (20) according to claim 1, wherein: The conductive material is configured to generate more heat at an outlet end of the channel (46) than at an inlet end of the channel (46).

3. The heater assembly (20) of claim 1, wherein: The plurality of channels (46) are divided into independently controllable heating groups.

4. The heater assembly (20) according to claim 3, wherein: Each group of channels (46) is energized according to user needs.

5. The heater assembly (20) of claim 3, wherein: Each group of channels (46) is configured to achieve a respective target temperature range.

6. The heater assembly (20) of claim 5, wherein: Each respective target temperature range is different.

7. The heater assembly (20) of claim 5, wherein: Each respective target temperature range overlaps with another respective target temperature range.

8. The heater assembly (20) of claim 1, wherein: The heating element (24) is configured to generate an aerosol having a target particle size.

9. The heater assembly (20) of claim 1, wherein: The heating element (24) is configured to generate an aerosol having more than one target particle size.

10. The heater assembly (20) of claim 1, wherein: The conductive material is metal.

11. The heater assembly (20) of claim 1, wherein: The substrates (26, 28) are glass or acrylic.

12. A cartridge (14) for a micro-vaporizer (10) configured to generate an aerosol from a liquid supply, the cartridge (14) comprising: a mouthpiece (16) configured to deliver the aerosol to the respiratory tract of a user; a reservoir configured to hold a supply of liquid; and The heater assembly (20) as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 11.

13. A micro-vaporizer (10) configured to generate an aerosol from a liquid supply, the micro-vaporizer (10) comprising: A cartridge (14) having a nozzle (16), a liquid reservoir and a heater assembly (20) as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 11; and A base (12) is configured to receive the cartridge (14), the base (12) including electronics configured to control and provide power to the heater assembly (20).

14. A heater assembly (20) configured to vaporize a liquid, the heater assembly comprising: substrate (26, 28); and a heating element (24) supported on the substrate (26, 28), the heating element (24) comprising a layer of conductive material having a plurality of elongated slits (46), the plurality of elongated slits (46) being configured to convey a fluid; wherein the substrate (26, 28) covers a first portion of each elongated slit (46); wherein the substrate (26, 28) comprises an opening, wherein the opening exposes the second portion of each elongated slit (46) to the outside; wherein the heating element (24) is configured to heat the fluid in the first portion of the elongated gap (46) to a temperature below a steam conversion temperature of the fluid; and Wherein the heating element (24) is configured to heat the fluid in the second portion of the elongated gap (46) to a temperature above a steam conversion temperature of the fluid.

15. The heater assembly (20) of claim 14, wherein: The heating element (24) is configured to vaporize the fluid in each elongated slit (46) before the fluid reaches the second portion of the elongated slit.

16. The heater assembly (20) of claim 14, wherein: The elongated slots (46) are separated from each other by strips (48) of the conductive material.

17. The heater assembly (20) of claim 16, wherein: The strip of conductive material (48) is wider at a first portion of the elongated slot (46) than at a second portion of the elongated slot (46).

18. The heater assembly (20) of claim 15, wherein: The substrates (26, 28) are electrically non-conductive or dielectric.

19. The heater assembly (20) of claim 15, wherein: The elongated slits (46) are linear in shape and are arranged in parallel.

20. The heater assembly (20) of claim 15, wherein: The elongated slit (46) is fluidly connected to the common inlet (30).

21. The heater assembly (20) of claim 15, wherein: A core (62) is disposed within the elongated slot (46).

22. The heater assembly (20) of claim 15, wherein: A core (62) is disposed across the outlet end of the elongated slot.

23. The heater assembly (20) of claim 15, wherein: The elongated slit (46) points radially toward the center of the heating element (24).

24. A cartridge (14) for a micro-vaporizer (10) configured to generate an aerosol from a liquid supply, the cartridge (14) comprising: a mouthpiece (16) configured to deliver the aerosol to the respiratory tract of a user; a reservoir configured to hold a supply of liquid; and The heater assembly (20) as claimed in any one of claims 14 to 23.

25. A micro-vaporizer (10) configured to generate an aerosol from a liquid supply, the micro-vaporizer (10) comprising: a cartridge (14) having a nozzle (16), a liquid reservoir and a heater assembly (20) as claimed in any one of claims 14 to 23; and A base (12) is configured to receive the cartridge (14), the base (12) including electronics configured to control and provide power to the heater assembly (20).

26. A heater assembly (20) configured to vaporize a liquid, the heater assembly (20) comprising: A first substrate (26); A second substrate (28); and a heating element (24) sandwiched between the first substrate and the second substrate, the heating element (24) comprising a layer of conductive material having a plurality of elongated slits, the plurality of elongated slits being configured to convey a fluid; wherein the first substrate partially covers the plurality of elongated slits to form elongated channels (46); and wherein the heating element (24) comprises a plurality of independently controlled heating zones, and Wherein each elongated channel (46) is configured to heat the fluid in a multi-stage heating process.

27. The heater assembly (20) of claim 26, wherein: The conductive material is configured such that the resistance of the heating element (24) at one end of each elongated channel (46) is different than the resistance at the other end of the elongated channel (46).

28. The heater assembly (20) of claim 27, wherein: Each elongated channel (46) is configured such that the liquid in the elongated channel (46) toward the inlet of the elongated channel (46) undergoes first-stage heating at a first temperature, and the liquid in the elongated channel (46) toward the outlet of the elongated channel (46) undergoes second-stage heating at a second temperature, which is higher than the temperature produced in the first-stage heating.

29. The heater assembly (20) of claim 28, wherein: The temperature produced by the heating in the first stage is lower than the steam conversion temperature of the fluid, and the temperature produced by the heating in the second stage is higher than the steam conversion temperature.

30. The heater assembly (20) of claim 26, wherein: Each heating zone comprises a plurality of said elongated channels (46).

31. The heater assembly (20) of claim 26, wherein: The heating zones are configured to be energized based on user demand.

32. The heater assembly (20) of claim 26, wherein: Each heating zone is configured to achieve a respective target temperature range.

33. The heater assembly (20) of claim 32, wherein: Each respective target temperature range is different.

34. The heater assembly (20) of claim 32, wherein: Each respective target temperature range overlaps with another respective target temperature range.

35. The heater assembly (20) of claim 26, wherein: The heating element (24) is configured to generate an aerosol having a target particle size.

36. The heater assembly (20) of claim 26, wherein: The heating element (24) is configured to generate an aerosol having more than one target particle size.

37. A cartridge (14) for a micro-vaporizer (10) configured to generate an aerosol from a liquid supply, the cartridge (14) comprising: a mouthpiece (16) configured to deliver the aerosol to the respiratory tract of a user; a reservoir configured to hold a supply of liquid; and A heater assembly (20) as claimed in any one of claims 26 to 36.

38. A micro-vaporizer (10) configured to generate an aerosol from a liquid supply, the micro-vaporizer (10) comprising: a cartridge (14) having a nozzle (16), a liquid reservoir and a heater assembly (20) as claimed in any one of claims 26 to 36; and A base (12) is configured to receive the cartridge (14), the base (12) including electronics configured to control and provide power to the heater assembly (20).

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