Electronic vaping device, battery section, and charger

Abstract

The present disclosure relates to electronic vaping devices, battery sections, and chargers. A battery section (72) of an electronic vaping device (60) is provided, the battery section (72) comprising a housing (6') extending in a longitudinal direction, the housing (6') having a first end and a second end. The battery section further comprises a power source (1) in the housing (6') and a control circuit (200) in the housing (6'). The battery section (72) further comprises a conductive contact assembly (300) at the second end of the housing (6'), the contact assembly (300) electrically connecting the power source (1) and the control circuit (200), the contact assembly (300) configured to receive external power and at least one command.

Description

[0001] This application is a divisional application of the Chinese Invention Patent Application No. 201780042401.5, filed on July 31, 2017, entitled "Electronic Vaping Device, Battery Section, and Charger." TECHNICAL FIELD

[0002] The present disclosure relates to electronic vaping devices. BACKGROUND

[0003] Electronic vaping devices include a heater element that vaporizes a pre-vapor formulation to produce "vapor."

[0004] Electronic vaping devices include a power source, such as a rechargeable battery, disposed in the device. The battery is electrically connected to the heater such that the heater heats to a temperature sufficient to convert the pre-vapor formulation to vapor. The vapor exits the electronic vaping device through a mouthpiece that includes at least one outlet. SUMMARY

[0005] At least one example embodiment relates to a battery section of an electronic vaping device.

[0006] In at least one example embodiment, a battery section of an electronic vaping device can include a housing extending in a longitudinal direction, the housing having a first end and a second end, a power source in the housing, a control circuit in the housing, and a conductive contact assembly at the second end of the housing, the contact assembly electrically connecting the power source with the control circuit, the contact assembly configured to receive external power and at least one command.

[0007] In at least one example embodiment, the control circuit is configured to detect at least one of a change in resistance and a change in capacitance to detect the at least one command.

[0008] In at least one example embodiment, the contact assembly includes a charge anode and a charge cathode. The control circuit includes a switch configured to electrically separate the charge cathode from a common ground plane.

[0009] In at least one example embodiment, the contact assembly includes a first contact and a second contact insulated from the first contact. One of the first contact and the second contact is substantially ring-shaped, and one of the first contact and the second contact forms at least a portion of an end wall of the battery section. The end wall extends substantially transverse to the longitudinal direction. The first contact can be the end wall, and the second contact can be substantially ring-shaped and can extend around a perimeter of the end wall. The end wall can be substantially opaque.

[0010] In at least one example embodiment, the contact assembly can further include an end cap housing configured to house the first contact therein, the end cap housing including at least one slot. The second contact can be integrally formed with at least one protrusion extending in the longitudinal direction. The at least one protrusion can be configured to be received in the at least one slot. The end cap housing can include a substantially cylindrical sidewall. The sidewall defines a cavity extending through the end cap housing. A first portion of the substantially cylindrical sidewall is received within the housing at the second end of the housing. A second portion of the sidewall is not within the housing. The second portion can be substantially transparent. The end wall can include a printed circuit board.

[0011] In at least one example embodiment, at least one of the first contact and the second contact can be magnetic. At least one of the first contact and the second contact is formed of at least one of stainless steel, gold, or silver.

[0012] At least one example embodiment relates to an electronic vaping device.

[0013] In at least one example embodiment, an electronic vaping device includes a housing extending in a longitudinal direction, the housing having a first end and a second end; a power source in the housing; a control circuit in the housing; a conductive contact assembly at the second end of the housing; a reservoir configured to hold a pre-vapor formulation; and a heater configured to heat the pre-vapor formulation, the heater electrically connected to the power source. The contact assembly electrically connects the power source with the control circuit. The contact assembly can be configured to receive external power and at least one command.

[0014] In at least one example embodiment, the control circuit is configured to detect at least one of a resistance change and a capacitance change to detect the at least one command.

[0015] In at least one example embodiment, the contact assembly includes a charge anode and a charge cathode. The control circuit includes a switch configured to electrically separate the charge cathode from a common ground plane. The contact assembly includes a first contact and a second contact insulated from the first contact. The second contact can be substantially annular, and the first contact can form at least a portion of an end wall. The end wall of the battery section can extend substantially transverse to the longitudinal direction.

[0016] In at least one example embodiment, the contact assembly further includes an end cap housing configured to house the first contact therein. The end cap housing can include at least one slot. The second contact can be integrally formed with at least one protrusion extending in the longitudinal direction. The at least one protrusion is configured to be received in the at least one slot.

[0017] In at least one example embodiment, an electronic vaping device includes a battery section and a first section. The battery section can contain a power source, control circuitry, and a conductive contact assembly. The first section can contain a reservoir and a heater.

[0018] At least one example embodiment relates to a USB charger.

[0019] In at least one example embodiment, a USB charger includes a housing. The housing includes a top wall having a charging slot therein, a first charger contact in the charging slot, a second charger contact in the charging slot, a bottom wall opposite the top wall, and at least one sidewall between the top wall and the bottom wall. The charging slot can be configured to receive an end of an electronic vaping device. The charger also includes at least one magnet proximate to the charging slot. The charger can also include a light pipe that surrounds the charging slot and extends from the charging slot to an exterior surface of the USB charger. The light pipe can be configured to transmit, transfer, or both transmit and transfer light from the electronic vaping device to the exterior surface of the USB charger to indicate a charging status of the electronic vaping device. The housing defines an interior compartment. The charger can also include charger circuitry contained within the interior compartment. The charger circuitry is in communication with the first charger contact and the second charger contact.

[0020] At least one example embodiment relates to a battery section of an electronic vaping device.

[0021] In at least one example embodiment, the battery section includes a housing extending in a longitudinal direction, the housing having a first end and a second end, a power source in the housing, a conductive contact assembly at the second end of the housing, the contact assembly electrically connecting the power source with control circuitry, and control circuitry in the housing configured to detect at least one of a change in resistance and a change in capacitance to detect an input of at least one command. The contact assembly is configured to receive external power and at least one command. The contact assembly can include a charge anode and a charge cathode. The control circuitry includes a switch configured to electrically separate the charge cathode from a common ground plane.

[0022] At least another example embodiment provides an electronic vaporizer including a battery section. The battery section includes: a first housing extending in a longitudinal direction; a power source within the first housing, the power source configured to supply power to a heater coil when the battery section is engaged with a cartridge section, the cartridge section including a storage device and the heater coil; and control circuitry including resistance measurement circuitry and a controller. The control circuitry is configured to: measure an initial resistance of the heater coil in an analog domain; calculate a reference resistance of the heater coil in a digital domain based on the measured initial resistance; measure a current resistance of the heater coil in response to the detection of a puff event; calculate a percentage change in resistance of the heater coil based on the measured current resistance and the reference resistance; and control the power supply to the heater coil based on the calculated percentage change in resistance of the heater coil. Attached Figure Description

[0023] The various features and advantages of the non-limiting embodiments herein will be more readily understood by viewing the specific embodiments 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. The drawings should not be considered to be drawn to scale unless explicitly shown. Various dimensions of the drawings may have been enlarged for clarity.

[0024] Figure 1 This is a side view of an electronic vaporizer according to at least one example embodiment.

[0025] Figure 2 It is based on at least one example embodiment along Figure 1 A cross-sectional view of line II-II of the electronic vaporizer.

[0026] Figure 3A This is an enlarged view of one end of the battery section of an electronic vaporizer according to at least one example embodiment.

[0027] Figure 3B This is an enlarged view of one end of the battery section of an electronic vaporizer according to at least one example embodiment.

[0028] Figure 4 According to at least one example embodiment Figure 2 Exploded view of the conductive contact assembly.

[0029] Figure 5 According to at least one example embodiment Figure 2 Cross-sectional view of the conductive contact assembly.

[0030] Figure 6 It is shown Figure 1 The circuit diagram shown is an example embodiment of the control circuit of the electronic vaporizer.

[0031] Figure 7 is a circuit diagram of an electronic vaping device according to at least one example embodiment Figure 1

[0032] Figure 8 is a circuit diagram of an electronic vaping device according to at least one example embodiment Figure 1

[0033] Figure 9 is a perspective view of a charger for an electronic vaping device according to at least one example embodiment

[0034] Figure 10 is a top view of a charger according to at least one example embodiment Figure 9

[0035] Figure 11 is an exploded view of a charger according to at least one example embodiment Figure 9 and 10

[0036] Figure 12 is a cross-sectional view of a charger according to at least one example embodiment along the line XII-XII Figure 10

[0037] Figure 13 is an exploded view of a charger contact assembly of a charger according to at least one example embodiment Figures 9 to 12

[0038] Figure 14 is a flowchart illustrating an example embodiment of a method of operating a control circuit as shown in Figure 6

[0039] Figure 15 is a flowchart illustrating another example embodiment of a method of operating a control circuit as shown in Figure 6

[0040] Figure 16 is a flowchart illustrating an example embodiment of a method of operating the control circuit in a calibration phase

[0041] Figure 17 is a flowchart illustrating an example embodiment of a method of operating the control circuit in a resistance measurement phase DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0042] Some detailed example embodiments are disclosed herein. However, for the purpose of clarity, not any structure and function details disclosed herein are merely representative. The example embodiments can be embodied in many alternative forms, and should not be construed as limited to the example embodiments set forth herein.​​​​​​​​

[0043] Thus, while the example embodiments are capable of various modifications and alternative forms, embodiments of the example embodiments have been shown by way of example in the drawings and will shortly be described in detail. It should be understood, however, that there is no intent to limit the example embodiments to the particular forms disclosed, but on the contrary, example embodiments are to cover all modifications, equivalents, and alternatives falling within the scope of example embodiments. Like numbers refer to like elements throughout the description of the figures.

[0044] It will 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, it can be directly on, connected, coupled or covering the other element or layer or one or more intervening elements or layers can also be present. 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 intervening elements or layers present. Like numbers refer to like elements throughout the description of the figures.

[0045] It will be understood that, although the terms first, second, third, etc. can be used herein to describe various elements, components, regions, layers and sections, these elements, components, regions, layers and sections should not be limited by these terms. These terms are only used to distinguish one element, component, region, layer or section from another element, component, region, layer or section. Thus, a first element, component, region, layer or section discussed below could be termed a second element, component, region, layer or section without departing from the teachings of example embodiments.

[0046] To facilitate description, spatially relative terms, such as "beneath", "below", "lower", "above", "upper" and the like, can be used herein for describing the relationship of one element or feature to another element or feature as illustrated in the figures. It will be understood that the spatially relative terms are intended to encompass different orientations of the device in use or operation in addition to the orientations depicted in the figures. For example, if the device in the figures is turned over, elements described as "below" or "beneath" other elements or features would then be oriented "above" the other elements or features. Thus, the term "below" can encompass both an orientation of above and below. The device can be otherwise oriented (rotated 90 degrees or at other orientations) and the spatially relative descriptors used herein interpreted accordingly.

[0047] The terminology used herein is for the purpose of describing various embodiments only and is not intended to limit the exemplary embodiments. As used herein, the singular forms “a” and “described” inherently include the plural forms unless the context clearly indicates otherwise. It should be further understood that the terms “comprising” and “including”, when used in this specification, specify the presence of the stated features, integrals, steps, operations, elements, or components, but do not exclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, integrals, steps, operations, elements, components, and / or groups thereof.

[0048] This document describes exemplary embodiments with reference to cross-sectional diagrams, which are schematic illustrations of idealized embodiments (and intermediate structures) of the exemplary embodiments. Therefore, the shape of the diagrams is expected to vary due to, for example, manufacturing techniques or tolerances. Thus, the exemplary embodiments should not be construed as limited to the shape of the areas shown herein, but should include, for example, shape deviations caused by manufacturing processes.

[0049] Unless otherwise defined, all terms used herein (including technical and scientific terms) shall have the same meaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art to which the exemplary embodiments pertain. It should be further understood that terms including those defined in commonly used dictionaries shall be interpreted as having a meaning consistent with the meaning of the term in the context of the relevant art, and shall not be interpreted in an idealized or overly formal sense unless expressly defined herein.

[0050] Figure 1 This is a side view of an electronic vaporizer according to at least one example embodiment.

[0051] In at least one example embodiment, such as Figure 1 As shown, the electronic vaporizer (e-vaporizer) 60 may include a replaceable cartridge (or first section) 70 and a reusable battery section (or second section) 72, which may be coupled together at a threaded connection 205. It should be understood that the connection 205 may be any type of connection, such as at least one of a sliding fit, pawl, clamp, bayonet, or snap-fit.

[0052] In at least one exemplary embodiment, connector 205 may be the connector described in U.S. Application No. 15 / 154,439, filed May 13, 2016, the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference. As described in U.S. Application No. 15 / 154,439, connector 205 may be formed by a deep drawing process.

[0053] In at least one example embodiment, the first segment 70 may include a first housing 6, and the second segment 72 may include a second housing 6'. The electronic vaporizer 60 includes a mouthpiece insert 8.

[0054] In at least one example embodiment, the housing 6 and the second housing 6' can have a generally cylindrical cross-section. In other example embodiments, the housing 6 and 6' can have a generally triangular cross-section along one or more of the first section 70 and the second section 72. Further, the housing 6 and 6' can have the same or different cross-sectional shapes, or the same or different sizes. As discussed herein, the housing 6 and 6' can also be referred to as an outer housing or a main housing.

[0055] In at least one example embodiment, the electronic vaping device 60 can include a conductive contact assembly 300 including a first contact 310 (in Figure 2 Figs. 3 and 5-6), a second contact 320, and an end cap housing 340, which are described in more detail below. Each of the first contact 310 and the second contact 320 can be used to charge a power source of the electronic vaping device. The first contact 310, the second contact 320, and the end cap housing 340 are described in more detail below.

[0056] As discussed in more detail later, the first contact 310, the second contact 320, or both can be used to charge a power source of the electronic vaping device and to input touch commands. Accordingly, the conductive contact assembly 300 can be configured to both charge a power source of the electronic vaping device and to input touch commands to control the electronic vaping device.

[0057] Figure 2 is a cross-sectional view along line II-II of the electronic vaping device of Figure 1 Fig. 2.

[0058] In at least one example embodiment, as shown in Figure 2 Fig. 1, the first section 70 can include a reservoir 22 configured to store a pre-vapor formulation and a heater 14 that can vaporize the pre-vapor formulation, which can be drawn from the reservoir 22 through a wick 28. The electronic vaping device 60 can include features set forth in Tucker et al., U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2013 / 0192623, filed January 31, 2013, the entirety of which is incorporated by reference herein. In other example embodiments, the electronic vaping device can include features set forth in at least one of U.S. Patent Application No. 15 / 135,930, filed April 22, 2016, U.S. Patent Application No. 135,923, filed April 22, 2016, or U.S. Patent No. 9,289,014, issued March 22, 2016, the entirety of each of which is incorporated by reference herein.

[0059] In at least one example embodiment, the pre-vapor formulation is a material or combination of materials that can be converted into a vapor. For example, the pre-vapor formulation can be at least one of a liquid, a solid, or a gel formulation, including but not limited to, water, beads, solvents, active ingredients, ethanol, plant extracts, natural or artificial flavors, vapor formers such as glycerin and propylene glycol, and combinations thereof.

[0060] In at least one example embodiment, the first segment 70 can include a housing 6 extending in a longitudinal direction, and an inner tube (or airway) 62 coaxially positioned within the housing 6.

[0061] At an upstream end of the inner tube 62, a nose 61 of a gasket (or seal) 15 can fit into the inner tube 62, and an outer periphery of the gasket 15 can provide a seal with an inner surface of the housing 6. The gasket 15 can also include a central longitudinal air passage 20 in fluid communication with the inner tube 62 to define an inner passageway (also referred to as a central channel or central inner passageway) 21. A transverse channel 33 at a back portion of the gasket 15 can intersect and communicate with the air passage 20 of the gasket 15. This transverse channel 33 ensures that there is communication between the air passage 20 and a space 35 defined between the gasket 15 and the first connector segment 37.

[0062] In at least one example embodiment, the first connector segment 37 can include an out-of-thread segment for enabling connection between the first segment 70 and the second segment 72.

[0063] In at least one example embodiment, more than two air inlet ports 44 can be included in the housing 6. Alternatively, a single air inlet port 44 can be included in the housing 6. Such an arrangement allows for the air inlet port 44 to be placed in proximity to the connector 205 without being obstructed by the presence of the first connector segment 37. This arrangement can also reinforce the area of the air inlet port 44 to facilitate accurate drilling of the air inlet port 44.

[0064] In at least one example embodiment, the air inlet port 44 can be provided in the connector 205 instead of the housing 6. In other example embodiments, the connector 205 can not include a threaded portion.

[0065] In at least one example embodiment, at least one air inlet port 44 can be formed in the housing 6 adjacent to the connector 205, thereby minimizing the chances of a finger of an adult vaper plugging one of the ports and controlling the resistance to draw (RTD) during a draw on the vapor cigarette. In at least one example embodiment, the air inlet port 44 can be machined into the housing 6 by a precision tooling such that the port diameter is carefully controlled and replicated from one e-vapor device 60 to the next during manufacturing.

[0066] In at least one example embodiment, the air inlet port 44 can be sized and configured such that the electronic vaping device 60 has a resistance to draw (RTD) in a range of about 60 mm H20 to about 150 mm H20.

[0067] In at least one example embodiment, the nose 93 of the second gasket 10 can fit into the first end 81 of the inner tube 62. The outer periphery of the second gasket 10 can provide a substantially tight seal in combination with the inner surface 97 of the housing 6. The second gasket 10 can include a central passage 63 disposed between the inner passage 21 of the inner tube 62 and the interior of the mouth end insert 8, which can transport vapor from the inner passage 21 to the mouth end insert 8. The mouth end insert 8 includes at least two outlets, which can be off-axis positioned from the longitudinal axis of the electronic vaping device 60. The outlets can be angled outwardly relative to the longitudinal axis of the electronic vaping device 60. The outlets can be substantially evenly distributed around the periphery of the mouth end insert 8 so as to substantially evenly distribute vapor in the mouth of an adult vaper during a vaping session and create a fuller mouthful in the mouth. Thus, as the vapor is delivered to the mouth of the adult vaper, the vapor can enter the mouth and can move in different directions so as to provide a full mouth feel.

[0068] In at least one example embodiment, the space defined between the gaskets 10 and 15 and the housing 6 and the inner tube 62 can establish the bounds of the reservoir 22. The reservoir 22 can contain a pre-vapor formulation, and optionally a storage medium (not shown) configured to store the pre-vapor formulation therein. The storage medium can include a wrap of cotton gauze or other fibrous material around the inner tube 62.

[0069] In at least one example embodiment, the reservoir 22 can be contained in the outer annular region between the inner tube 62 and the housing 6 and between the gaskets 10 and 15. Thus, the reservoir 22 can at least partially enclose the inner passage 21. The heater 14 can extend across the inner passage 21 between opposing portions of the reservoir 22. In some example embodiments, the heater 14 can extend parallel to the longitudinal axis of the inner passage 21.

[0070] In at least one example embodiment, the reservoir 22 can be sized and configured to hold enough pre-vapor formulation such that the electronic vaping device 60 can be configured for vaping for at least about 200 seconds. Further, the electronic vaping device 60 can be configured to allow each puff to last for up to about 5 seconds.

[0071] In at least one example embodiment, the storage medium can be a fibrous material including at least one of cotton, polyethylene, polyester, rayon, and combinations thereof. The fibers can have a diameter ranging from about 6 microns to about 15 microns in size (e.g., about 8 microns to about 12 microns or about 9 microns to about 11 microns). The storage medium can be a sintered, porous, or foamed material. Additionally, the fiber size can be set to be unsuitable for air draw-in and can have a Y-shape, a cross-shape, a clover-shape, or any other suitable shape in cross-section. In at least one example embodiment, the reservoir 22 can include a fill can that does not have any storage medium and contains only a pre-vapor formulation.

[0072] During vaping, pre-vapor formulation can be transferred from the reservoir 22, the storage medium, or both, to the vicinity of the heater 14 by capillary action of the wick 28. The wick 28 can include at least a first end and a second end, which can extend into opposite sides of the reservoir 22. The heater 14 can at least partially surround a central portion of the wick 28, such that when the heater 14 is activated, pre-vapor formulation in the central portion of the wick 28 can be vaporized by the heater 14 to form a vapor.

[0073] In at least one example embodiment, the wick 28 can include filaments (or threads) having the ability to draw pre-vapor formulation. For example, the wick 28 can be a glass (or ceramic) filament bundle, a bundle including a set of glass filament windings, or the like, all of which are arranged to be able to draw pre-vapor formulation via capillary action through interstitial spacing between the filaments. The filaments can be aligned substantially in a direction perpendicular (transverse) to a longitudinal direction of the electronic vaping device 60. In at least one example embodiment, the wick 28 can include one to eight filament strands, each strand including a plurality of glass filaments twisted together. The ends of the wick 28 can be flexible and can be folded into bounds of the reservoir 22. The filaments can have a substantially cross-shape, a clover-shape, a Y-shape, or any other suitable shape in cross-section.

[0074] In at least one example embodiment, the wick 28 can include any suitable material or combination of materials. Examples of suitable materials can be, but are not limited to, glass, ceramic-based, or graphite-based materials. The wick 28 can have any suitable capillary draw action to accommodate pre-vapor formulations having different physical properties, such as density, viscosity, surface tension, and vapor pressure. The wick 28 can be electrically non-conductive.

[0075] In at least one example embodiment, the heater 14 can include a wire coil at least partially surrounding the wick 28. The wire can be a metal wire. The heater coil can extend completely or partially along a length of the wick 28. The heater coil can also extend completely or partially around a circumference of the wick 28. In some example embodiments, the heater 14 can or can not contact the wick 28.

[0076] In at least one example embodiment, the heater coil can be formed of any suitable electrically resistive material. Examples of suitable electrically resistive materials can include, but are not limited to, copper, titanium, zirconium, tantalum, and platinum group metals. Examples of suitable metal alloys include, but are not limited to, stainless steel, nickel-containing, cobalt-containing, chromium-containing, aluminum-containing, titanium-containing, zirconium-containing, hafnium-containing, niobium-containing, molybdenum-containing, tantalum-containing, tungsten-containing, tin-containing, gallium-containing, manganese-containing, and iron-containing alloys, and nickel-, iron-, cobalt-, stainless steel-based superalloys. For example, the heater 14 can be formed of nickel aluminide, a material having an alumina layer on its surface, iron aluminide, and other composite materials, the electrically resistive material can optionally be embedded in, encapsulated or coated with an insulating material, or vice versa, depending on the kinetics of energy transfer and the external physicochemical properties required. The heater 14 can include at least one material selected from the group consisting of stainless steel, copper, copper alloys, nickel-chromium alloys, superalloys, and combinations thereof. In an example embodiment, the heater 14 can be formed of a nickel-chromium alloy or an iron-chromium alloy. In another example embodiment, the heater 14 can be a ceramic heater having a resistive layer on its outer surface.

[0077] The inner tube 62 can include a pair of opposing slots such that the core 28 and the first 109, second 109' electrical leads or ends of the heater 14 can extend from respective ones of the opposing slots. Providing opposing slots in the inner tube 62 can facilitate placement of the heater 14 and the core 28 into position within the inner tube 62 without affecting the edges of the slots and the coiled segments of the heater 14. Thus, the edges of the slots can not be allowed to affect and alter the coil spacing of the heater 14, which would otherwise create potential hot spot sources. In at least one example embodiment, the inner tube 62 can have a diameter of about 4 millimeters, and each of the opposing slots can have major and minor dimensions of about 2 millimeters by about 4 millimeters.

[0078] The first lead 109 is physically and electrically connected to the outboard threaded connector segment 37. As shown, the outboard threaded first connector segment 37 is a hollow cylinder having external threads on a portion of the outer rear surface. The connector segment is electrically conductive, and can be formed of or coated with an electrically conductive material. The second lead 109' is physically and electrically connected to the first electrically conductive post 110. The first electrically conductive post 110 can be formed of an electrically conductive material, such as stainless steel, copper, or the like, and can have a T-shaped cross-section as shown. The first electrically conductive post 110 is nested within the hollow portion of the first connector segment 37, and is electrically insulated from the first connector segment 37 by an insulating sheath 111. The first electrically conductive post 110 can be hollow as shown, and the hollow portion can be in fluid communication with the air passageway 20. Thus, the first connector segment 37 and the first electrically conductive post 110 form respective external electrical connections to the heater 14. Figure 2 The first lead 109 is physically and electrically connected to the outboard threaded connector segment 37. As shown, the outboard threaded first connector segment 37 is a hollow cylinder having external threads on a portion of the outer rear surface. The connector segment is electrically conductive, and can be formed of or coated with an electrically conductive material. The second lead 109' is physically and electrically connected to the first electrically conductive post 110. The first electrically conductive post 110 can be formed of an electrically conductive material, such as stainless steel, copper, or the like, and can have a T-shaped cross-section as shown. The first electrically conductive post 110 is nested within the hollow portion of the first connector segment 37, and is electrically insulated from the first connector segment 37 by an insulating sheath 111. The first electrically conductive post 110 can be hollow as shown, and the hollow portion can be in fluid communication with the air passageway 20. Thus, the first connector segment 37 and the first electrically conductive post 110 form respective external electrical connections to the heater 14.

[0079] In at least one example embodiment, heater 14 can heat the steam pre-mixed material in the core 28 via thermal conduction. Alternatively, heat from heater 14 can be conducted to the steam pre-mixed material via a heat-conducting element, or heater 14 can transfer heat to incoming ambient air drawn through the electronic vaporizer 60 during vaporization, which in turn heats the steam pre-mixed material via convection.

[0080] It should be understood that, instead of using core 28, heater 14 may comprise a porous material incorporating a resistance heater, which is formed of a high-resistivity material capable of rapidly generating heat.

[0081] like Figure 2 As shown, the second segment 72 includes a power supply 1, a control circuit 200, a sensor 16, and a conductive contact assembly (also referred to as a contact assembly or connector assembly) 300. As shown, the control circuit 200 and the sensor 16 are housed within a housing 6'. The contact assembly 300 forms one end of the second segment 72, and a second threaded connecting segment 112 forms the second end. As shown, the second connecting segment 112 has a hollow cylindrical shape with threads on its inner rear surface. The inner diameter of the second connecting segment 112 matches the outer diameter of the first connecting segment 37, allowing the two connecting segments 37 and 112 to be screwed together to form a connector 205. Furthermore, the second connecting segment 112, or at least its other rear surface, is conductive, for example, formed of or containing a conductive material. Thus, during connection, an electrical and physical connection occurs between the first connecting segment 37 and the second connecting segment 112.

[0082] As shown, the first lead 720 electrically connects the second connector segment 112 to the control circuit 200. The second lead 730 electrically connects the control circuit 200 to the first terminal 113 of the power supply 1. The third lead 725 electrically connects the second terminal 114 of the power supply 1 to the power terminal of the control circuit 200 to provide power to the control circuit 200. The second terminal 114 of the power supply 1 is also physically and electrically connected to the second conductive post 115. The second conductive post 115 may be formed of a conductive material (e.g., stainless steel, copper, etc.) and may have the following characteristics: Figure 2 The diagram shows a T-shaped cross-section. The second conductive post 115 is nested within the hollow portion of the second connecting segment 112 and is electrically insulated from the second connecting segment 112 by an insulating shell 116. The second conductive post 115 may also be hollow, as shown. When the first connecting segment 37 and the second connecting segment 112 are engaged, the second conductive post 115 is physically and electrically connected to the first conductive post 110. Furthermore, the hollow portion of the second conductive post 115 may be in fluid communication with the hollow portion of the first conductive post 110.

[0083] While the first section 70 has been shown and described as having the male connector section and the second section 72 has been shown and described as having the female connector section, alternative embodiments include the opposite, where the first section 70 has the female connector section and the second section 72 has the male connector section.

[0084] In at least one example embodiment, the power source 1 includes a battery disposed in the electronic vaping device 60. The power source 1 can be one of a lithium-ion battery or a variant thereof, such as a lithium-ion polymer battery. Alternatively, the power source 1 can be a nickel-metal hydride battery, a nickel-cadmium battery, a lithium-manganese battery, a lithium-cobalt battery, or a fuel cell. The electronic vaping device 60 can be vaped by an adult vaping user until the energy in the power source 1 is depleted, or in the case of a lithium polymer battery, reaches a minimum voltage cutoff level.

[0085] In at least one example embodiment, the power source 1 is rechargeable. The second section 72 can include circuitry configured to allow the battery to be charged by an external charging device. To recharge the electronic vaping device 60, a USB charger or other suitable charger assembly can be used as described below.

[0086] In at least one example embodiment, the sensor 16 is configured to generate an output indicative of the value and direction of airflow in the electronic vaping device 60. The control circuit 200 receives the output of the sensor 16 and determines (1) whether the airflow direction indicates a puff (as opposed to a blow) on the mouth end insert 8 and (2) whether the magnitude of the puff exceeds a threshold level. If these vaping conditions are met, the control circuit 200 electrically connects the power source 1 to the heater 14; thus, the heater 14 is activated. That is, the control circuit 200 electrically connects the first lead 720 and the second lead 730 (e.g., by activating the heater power control circuit 945, as discussed below with respect to Figure 6 In alternative embodiments, the sensor 16 can indicate a pressure drop and the control circuit 200 activates the heater 14 in response thereto.

[0087] In at least one example embodiment, the control circuit 200 can also include a light 48 that the control circuit 200 activates to emit light when the heater 14 is activated, when the battery is recharging, or both. The light 48 can include one or more light emitting diodes (LEDs). The LEDs can include one or more colors (e.g., white, yellow, red, green, blue, etc.). Further, the light 48 can be arranged to be visible to an adult vaper during vaping, and can be positioned between the first end 210 and the second end 220 of the e-vaping device 60. Additionally, the light 48 can be used for e-vaping system diagnostics or to indicate that recharging is in progress. The light 48 can also be configured such that an adult vaper can activate, deactivate, or activate and deactivate the heater activation light 48 for privacy.

[0088] In at least one example embodiment, the control circuit 200 can include a time period limiter. In another example embodiment, the control circuit 200 can include a manually operable switch for an adult vaper to initiate heating. The time period for which current is supplied to the heater structure 14 can be set or preset depending on the amount of pre-vapor formulation to be vaporized. In yet another example embodiment, the sensor 16 can detect a pressure drop, and the control circuit 200 can supply power to the heater 14 as long as the heater activation condition is met.

[0089] Next, operation of the e-vaping device to form a vapor will be described. For example, in response to a draw on the mouth end insert 8, air is drawn substantially through the at least one air inlet 44 into the first section 70. The air passes through the air inlets 50, into the transverse channel 33 at the back side portion of the gasket 15, and into the air passageway 20 of the gasket 15, into the inner passageway 21, and through the outlet 24 of the mouth end insert 8. If the control circuit 200 detects the vaping condition discussed above, the control circuit 200 initiates power supply to the heater 14 so that the heater 14 heats the pre-vapor formulation in the wick 28 to form a vapor. The vapor and air flowing through the inner passageway 21 combine together, and exit the e-vaping device 60 through the outlet 24 of the mouth end insert 8.

[0090] When activated, the heater 14 can heat a portion of the wick 28 enclosed by the heater for less than about 10 seconds.

[0091] In at least one example embodiment, the first section 70 can be replaceable. In other words, once the pre-vapor formulation of the cartridge is depleted, only the first section 70 can be replaced. Alternative arrangements can include example embodiments in which the entire e-vaping device 60 can be discarded once the reservoir 22 is depleted. In at least one example embodiment, the e-vaping device 60 can be a single piece e-vaping device.

[0092] In at least one example embodiment, the electronic vaporizer 60 may be about 80 mm to about 110 mm long and about 7 mm to about 8 mm in diameter. For example, in one example embodiment, the electronic vaporizer may be about 84 mm long and may have a diameter of about 7.8 mm.

[0093] In at least one example embodiment, such as Figure 2 As shown, the electronic vaporizer 60 includes a contact assembly 300, as referenced below. Figures 4 to 5 To describe in more detail.

[0094] Figure 3A This is an enlarged view of one end of the second (or battery) section of an electronic vaporizer according to at least one example embodiment.

[0095] In at least one example embodiment, such as Figure 3A As shown, the second segment 72 and Figure 2 The same applies. Control circuit 200 is mounted on rigid printed circuit board 410. Circuit board 410 is connected to first contact 310 via lead 700. Circuit board 410 is connected to second contact 320 via lead 710.

[0096] Figure 3B This is an enlarged view of one end of the second section of an electronic vaporizer according to at least one example embodiment.

[0097] In at least one example embodiment, such as Figure 3B As shown, the second segment 72 and Figure 2 The same applies. The control circuit 200 is mounted on the flexible printed circuit board 1000. The flexible printed circuit board 1000 allows for the inclusion of a larger battery 1 because... Figure 3A Compared to the rigid circuit board 410, the flexible printed circuit board 1000 requires less space within the housing 6'.

[0098] Figure 4 According to at least one example embodiment Figure 2 Exploded view of the conductive contact assembly. Figure 5 It is based on at least one example embodiment along Figure 4 The line VV Figure 4 A cross-sectional view of the assembled (or non-disassembled) version of the conductive contact assembly.

[0099] like Figure 4 and 5 As shown, contact assembly 300 and Figure 2 The same as shown, but with more details. (As shown) Figure 4 As shown, the contact assembly 300 includes a first contact 310, a second contact 320, and an end cap housing 340.

[0100] The first contact 310 has the shape of a disk. In at least one example embodiment, the first contact 310 can be formed from a printed circuit board (PCB) that can be rigid or flexible. The first contact 310 includes a substrate, where a first conductive portion 312 is formed on the upper surface of the substrate and a second conductive portion 314 is formed on the bottom surface of the substrate. At least one conductive via 313 electrically connects the first conductive portion 312 and the second conductive portion 314 (see Figure 5 ). The first and second conductive portions 312, 314 can be copper, stainless steel, magnetic stainless steel, etc. The first conductive portion 312 can have a substantially circular shape, can be patterned, or both. For example, in the example of Figure 4 , the conductive portion 312 forms the outline of the number "10". The first conductive portion 312 has an area that is free of overlap with the second contact 320, and the first conductive portion 312 of the first contact 310 is electrically isolated from the second contact 320. Alternatively, a non-conductive portion 311 of the substrate is exposed, and the second contact 320 overlaps, contacts, or both, the non-conductive portion 311.

[0101] As shown, the end cap housing 340 has a substantially hollow cylindrical shape defined by a sidewall 350. The lower portion of the sidewall 350 includes a ridge 355, and the upper portion includes a flange 360. In at least one example embodiment, the flange 360 has an outer diameter that is about the same as the outer diameter of the housing 6'. The sidewall 350 has an outer diameter that is slightly smaller than the inner diameter of the housing 6' such that the sidewall 350 can be held in place in the housing 6' by a friction fit. The sidewall 350 can include the ridge 355 to assist in holding the end cap housing 340 within the housing 6'.

[0102] In at least one example embodiment, the end cap housing 340 includes an inner flange or ridge 305 that protrudes from the inner rear surface. The first contact 310 rests on the inner flange 305. Two protruding fins 315 protrude from one end of the end cap housing 340. The protruding fins 315 separate the inner flange 305 from the flange 360. The second contact 320 rests on the outer convex edge of the flange 360. Although two protruding fins 315 are shown that each extend at least 90 degrees around the end of the end cap housing 340, it should be understood that more or less than two protruding fins 315 can be formed.

[0103] As stated above, a portion of the second contact 320 mates with the flange 360 of the end cap housing 340, and in doing so, the protrusion 380 of the second contact 320 mates in the slot 390 in the sidewall 350 of the end cap housing 340, thereby securing the second contact 320 with the end cap housing 340 and holding the first contact 310 in place against the inner flange 305. As shown, the protrusion 380 of the second contact 320 is shaped to mate with the slot 390 in the sidewall 350 of the end cap housing 340. Figure 5As shown in FIG. 7, lead 700 is connected to second conductive portion 314, and lead 710 is connected to at least one of tabs 380.

[0104] In at least one example embodiment, end cap housing 340 can be formed of plastic. At least a portion of flange 360 of end cap housing 340 can be transparent such that light from heater activation light 48 can be seen through flange 360. First contact 310 and second contact 320 can be opaque (e.g., can include a solder mask that substantially prevents light from being seen through the PCB) such that light 48 cannot be seen through the end of electronic vaping device 60.

[0105] As Figure 4 As shown in FIG. 4, stop 440 is disposed on tabs 380 and latches under portion 450 of flange 360 when tabs 380 are engaged with slots 390. Tabs 380 can be resilient such that tabs 380 are slightly bent when inserted into slots 390, but spring back to the original position to lock tabs 380 within slots 390.

[0106] Second contact 320 is electrically conductive, and the electrically conductive portion of first contact 310 is electrically isolated from second contact 320, as described above. Additionally, in at least one example embodiment, first contact 310 and second contact 320 are magnetic. Accordingly, tabs 380 and slots 390 are configured to lock together, thereby preventing magnetic attraction from removing first contact 310 and second contact 320 from electronic vaping device 60.

[0107] In at least one alternative embodiment, at least a portion of first contact 310 can be substantially transparent such that light 48 shines through the side of end cap housing 340.

[0108] Figure 6 is shown Figure 1 A circuit diagram of an example embodiment of control circuit 200 of the electronic vaping device shown. The description of control circuit 200 is described with respect to a situation in which first section 70 is connected to second section 72 as discussed above Figure 6 is shown. Accordingly, heater 14 and power source 1 are both shown Figure 6 in FIG. 7.

[0109] As Figure 6As shown, the control circuit 200 includes a microcontroller 905, a charge controller 800, a mode control switch circuit 920, a heater power control circuit 945, a resistance measurement circuit 94, and a resistor 910. In this example, the mode control switch circuit 920 includes a mode control switch U3, and the heater power control circuit 945 includes a heater power control switch U1. The microcontroller 905 includes an analog-to-digital converter (ADC) 9052 and a digital-to-analog converter (DAC) 9054. The ADC 9052 can be a 10-bit ADC, and the DAC 9054 can be an 8-bit DAC. However, example embodiments should not be limited to these examples.

[0110] The resistance measurement circuit 94 includes a first resistor R1, a second resistor R2, a third resistor R3, a fourth resistor R4, an operational amplifier (OP-AMP) 947, and a resistance measurement switch circuit 946. The resistance measurement switch circuit 946 includes a resistance measurement switch U2. The OP-AMP 947 can be a differential operational amplifier.

[0111] Each of the heater power control switch U1, the resistance measurement switch U2, and the mode control switch U3 can be a transistor (e.g., an NMOS or MOSFET transistor), although example embodiments should not be limited to these examples. For purposes of example, the switches U1-U3 will be described herein as transistors. In this regard, the heater power control switch U1 can be referred to as a heater power control transistor U1, the resistance measurement switch U2 can be referred to as a resistance measurement transistor U2, and the mode control switch U3 can be referred to as a mode control transistor U3. However, again, example embodiments should not be limited to these examples.

[0112] With reference to Figure 6 The capacitor input 940 of the microcontroller 905 is connected to a first terminal of the resistor 910. A second terminal of the resistor 910 is connected to the second contact 320 through the lead 710.

[0113] A first terminal of the mode control transistor U3 is connected to a first node NODE1 between the second terminal of the resistor 910 and the second contact 320. A second terminal of the mode control switch U3 is connected to a negative terminal of the power supply 1, a first end of the heater 14, and a first terminal of the fifth resistor R4 of the resistance measurement circuit 94 at a second node NODE2. A gate of the mode control transistor U3 is connected to the touch / charge enable terminal 930 (also referred to herein as an enable terminal) at the microcontroller 905. As discussed herein, the negative terminal of the power supply 1 can also be referred to as a common ground, ground, ground plane, or common ground plane.

[0114] The charge controller 800 is electrically connected between the first contact 310 (through the lead 700) and the charge enable terminal 935 of the microcontroller 905. The charge controller 800 is also electrically connected to the positive terminal of the power source 1 at the third node NODE3. The positive terminal of the power source 1 is connected to the control circuit 200 through the lead 703, and also to the power input terminal PWR of the microcontroller 905 through the lead 725 to provide power to the control circuit 200 and the microcontroller 905.

[0115] According to at least one example embodiment, the charge controller 800 can be any known charge controller. In one example, the charge controller 800 can include a linear regulator. According to at least one example embodiment, the charge controller 800 can be configured to determine a charge level of the power source 1, and to control the application of a charging current i CH , voltage, or both, to the power source 1 based on the determined charge level. The charge controller 800 can also detect a charging current i CH input through the first contact 310 and the lead 700, and output a charge enable signal CHG EN based on the detected charging current i CH . In at least one example embodiment, the charge enable signal CHG EN can be disabled (e.g., have a first logic value, such as a logic low) when no charging current is detected, and can be enabled (e.g., have a second logic value, such as a logic high) when a charging current is detected. In another example, the charge enable signal CHG EN can be described as being output when a charging current is detected, and as not being output when no charging current is detected. The charge controller 800 can also output a regulated charging current i CH to the positive terminal of the power source 1 to charge the power source 1. As such charge controllers are well known, a more detailed discussion is omitted.

[0116] Still referring to Figure 6 , the first terminal of the heater power control transistor U1 is connected to the positive terminal of the power source 1, and the second terminal of the heater power control transistor U1 is connected to the second terminal of the heater 14 at the fourth node NODE4 through the first lead 720 between the heater 14 and the control circuit 200. The gate of the heater power control transistor U1 is electrically connected to the heater power control terminal 955 of the microcontroller 905. According to at least this example embodiment, the microcontroller 905 outputs a heater power control signal HEAT PWR CTRL to control the heater power control transistor U1 to regulate and control power from the power source 1 to the heater 14.

[0117] The resistance measurement circuit 94 is electrically connected at the fifth node NODE5 to the first terminal of the heater power control transistor U1, the positive terminal of the power supply 1, and the charge controller 800 through the node NODE3. The resistance measurement circuit 94 is also electrically connected to the ADC 9052, the DAC 9054 at the microcontroller 905, and the resistance measurement enable terminal 956.

[0118] Within the resistance measurement circuit 94, the first terminal of the resistance measurement transistor 946 is connected at the fifth node NODE5 to the first terminal of the heater power control transistor U1, the positive terminal of the power supply 1, and the charge controller 800. The second terminal of the resistance measurement transistor 946 is connected to the first terminal of the first resistor R1. The gate of the resistance measurement transistor 946 is connected to the resistance measurement enable terminal 956 at the microcontroller 905.

[0119] The second terminal of the first resistor R1 is connected at the sixth node NODE6 to the positive input of an operational amplifier (OP-AMP) 947, the second terminal of the heater power control transistor U1, the second terminal of the heater 14, and the analog input ANALOG of the microcontroller 905.

[0120] The output terminal of the OP-AMP 947 is connected to the ADC 9052 at the microcontroller 905. A second resistor R2 is connected in parallel between the negative input terminal and the output terminal of the OP-AMP 947. The negative input terminal of the OP-AMP 947 is also connected to the first terminal of a third resistor R3 and the second terminal of a fourth resistor R4.

[0121] The second terminal of the third resistor R3 is connected to the DAC 9054 at the microcontroller 905.

[0122] Still referring to Figure 6 , the microcontroller 905 is also electrically connected to the sensor 16.

[0123] Although Figure 6 the discussion of the example embodiments shown in FIG. 8 relate to the resistance measurement circuit 94 being separate from the microcontroller 905, the example embodiments should not be limited to this example. Indeed, according to one or more other example embodiments, the resistance measurement circuit 94 or one or more components thereof (e.g., the OP-AMP 947) can be included and implemented in the microcontroller 905.

[0124] Example operations of the control circuit 200 shown in FIG. 8 will now be described. Figure 6

[0125] ​According to at least one example embodiment, the mode control transistor U3 is initially set to an on state when the first section 70 is connected to the second section 72. In this example, the mode control transistor U3 is periodically transitioned from the on state to an off state in response to a switching of a charge monitoring signal EN SIG from the microcontroller 905 through an enable terminal 930 (also referred to herein as an enable terminal) based on a monitoring frequency of the control circuit 200. The monitoring frequency is discussed in greater detail later.

[0126] According to at least some example embodiments, each time the mode control transistor U3 is transitioned from the on state to the off state, the control circuit 200 monitors for a touch event in a relatively short interval, sometimes referred to as a touch detection interval. This relatively short interval can occur at the beginning of what can be referred to as a "wake-up" cycle based on a sleep state of the microcontroller, after which the control circuit 200 can return to a state in which the power 1 charge can be initiated.

[0127] As discussed herein, the switching of the charge monitoring signal EN SIG can refer to a signal transition from a logic high to a logic low level. As discussed herein, switching the charge monitoring signal EN SIG to a logic low level can also be referred to as deactivation of the charge monitoring signal EN SIG or deactivation of the output. However, example embodiments should not be limited to this example.

[0128] As discussed herein, the on state of the mode control transistor 920 can also be referred to as an active state, or as the mode control transistor 920 being activated. Similarly, the off state can also be referred to as an inactive state, or as the mode control transistor 920 being deactivated.

[0129] According to one or more example embodiments, the microcontroller 905, the control circuit 200, or both, can operate in one of a monitoring mode, a touch command mode, and a charge mode. Example operations of the control circuit 200 in each of these operating modes are discussed in greater detail below.

[0130] In the monitoring mode, the charge enable signal CHG EN is deactivated, and the mode control transistor U3 is periodically deactivated in response to deactivation of the charge monitoring signal EN SIG from the enable terminal 930 of the microcontroller 905. The deactivation of the charge monitoring signal EN SIG is also characterized by activation of the touch monitoring signal.

[0131] The frequency, and thus the periodicity of deactivation of the mode control transistor U3, of the charge monitoring signal EN_SIG is based on the state of the microcontroller 905 in a monitoring mode. In one example, the monitoring mode can include a plurality of states. In each of the plurality of states, the charge monitoring signal EN_SIG can have a different frequency, and thus, the deactivation of the mode control transistor U3 can have a different periodicity. In one example, the monitoring mode can include an active state, a standby state, and a hibernate state.

[0132] In an example of the active state, the charge monitoring signal EN_SIG can have a frequency of about 100 hertz, such that the mode control transistor U3 is deactivated (turned into the off state) about once every 0.01 seconds.

[0133] In an example of the standby state, the charge monitoring signal EN_SIG can have a frequency of about 50 hertz, such that the mode control transistor U3 is deactivated about once every 0.05 seconds.

[0134] In an example of the hibernate state, the charge monitoring signal EN_SIG can have a frequency of about 10 hertz, such that the mode control transistor U3 is deactivated about once every 0.10 seconds.

[0135] When a cartridge (e.g., the first section 70) including a heater element is attached to a battery section (e.g., the second section 72), the microcontroller 905 detects that the cartridge is attached to the battery section and defaults to the active state. As is generally known, the microcontroller 905 can detect attachment of the cartridge to the battery section based on a change in resistance (e.g., from a substantially infinite resistance to a finite resistance value) due to the attachment of the cartridge.

[0136] If the cartridge has been attached and the sensor 16 does not detect a puff event within a first threshold interval (e.g., about 20 seconds) of the time of attachment of the cartridge, the microcontroller 905 transitions to the standby state. While in the standby state, if the sensor 16 does not detect a puff event within a second threshold period of time (e.g., 40 seconds) of the attachment of the cartridge (or alternatively, another 20 second interval of time from the time the microcontroller 905 transitions to the standby state), the microcontroller 905 transitions to the hibernate state. The microcontroller remains in the hibernate state until the sensor 16 detects a puff event. If the sensor 16 detects a puff event in the standby or hibernate state, the microcontroller 905 transitions to the active state to increase responsiveness to the adult vaper. When no cartridge is attached, the microcontroller 905 remains in the hibernate state until a cartridge is attached. As discussed above, when a cartridge is attached, the microcontroller 905 transitions to the active state.

[0137] Figure 14 is a flowchart illustrating operations Figure 6A flowchart of an example embodiment of the method of the control circuit 200 shown. The following will be discussed with respect to the following scenario Figure 14 The example embodiment shown in FIG. 9: the microcontroller 905 is initially operated in a monitoring mode with the mode control transistor 920 in an on state. However, example embodiments should not be limited to this example.

[0138] As discussed above, in the monitoring mode, the mode control transistor U3 is periodically deactivated by deactivating the charge monitoring signal EN_SIG output from the enable terminal 930 of the microcontroller 905. Figure 14 The method shown in FIG. 9 can be periodically performed when the mode control transistor 920 is deactivated. In this regard, Figure 14 The method shown in FIG. 9 can be performed according to the frequency of the charge monitoring signal EN_SIG.

[0139] Referring to Figure 14 At step S1404, the microcontroller 905 detects whether a touch input by the adult vaper is entered while the mode control transistor U3 is deactivated in response to deactivation of the charge monitoring signal EN_SIG by the microcontroller 905.

[0140] With respect to step S1404, in one example, when the mode control transistor U3 is in an off state and the adult vaper touches the second contact 320, the body part (e.g., finger) of the adult vaper touching the second contact 320 and the second contact 320 itself act as capacitor terminals that change the measured capacitance along the circuit path between the second contact 320 and the capacitance input 940. When the microcontroller 905 detects this change in capacitance, the microcontroller 905 determines that the adult vaper has touched the second contact 320, thereby detecting a touch input by the adult vaper.

[0141] If the microcontroller 905 does not detect a touch input by the adult vaper at step S1404, the microcontroller 905 remains in the monitoring mode and operates as described above.

[0142] Still referring to step S1404, if the microcontroller 905 detects a touch input, the microcontroller 905 enters a touch command mode at step S1406.

[0143] In the touch command mode, the mode control transistor 920 is maintained in an off state to electrically isolate the contact 320, the lead 710, and the resistor 910 from at least the heater 14 and the negative terminal of the power supply 1. Since the default state of the mode control transistor U3 is on, the microcontroller 905 maintains the mode control transistor U3 in an off state by preventing the charge monitoring signal EN_SIG from being enabled (or output), thereby turning on the mode control transistor 920.

[0144] Still referring to Figure 14 After entering the touch command mode at step S1406, the microcontroller 905 detects a touch command input by the adult vaper at step S1408. According to at least some example embodiments, the microcontroller 905 detects a touch command input by the adult vaper based on the frequency, length, or frequency and length of the touch by the adult vaper.

[0145] Once the touch command input by the adult vaper is detected at step S1408, the microcontroller 905 executes the detected touch command at step S1410.

[0146] The following table shows touch commands and operations performed in response to the touch inputs according to one or more example embodiments.

[0147] Table 1

[0148]

[0149] Table 2

[0150]

[0151] Table 3

[0152]

[0153] Table 4

[0154] LED off input = squeeze contact assembly for 5 seconds Battery level (%) Device response 100-0 None

[0155] In at least one example embodiment, the electronic vaping device can respond to a variety of different touch commands as shown in Tables 1-4. In other example embodiments, the vaping configuration can be altered by input, or the device can be locked out from vaping by a tap contact assembly.

[0156] Still referring to Figure 14 Although not shown, after executing the detected touch command, the microcontroller 905 can return to the monitoring mode.

[0157] Figure 15 is a flowchart showing another example embodiment of a method of operating Figure 6 the control circuit 200 shown in FIG. 2. The example embodiment shown in Figure 15 FIG. 4 will be discussed with respect to the following scenario: the microcontroller 905 is initially operating in the monitoring mode with the mode control transistor U3 in the on state. However, the example embodiment should not be limited to this example.

[0158] When the mode control transistor 920 is in the on state, at step S1504, the microcontroller 905 determines whether the power source 1 is charging based on the charge enable signal CHG EN from the charge controller 800. As mentioned above, the charge controller 800 outputs the charge enable signal CHG EN based on the presence of the charge current i CH through the first contact 310 and the lead 700. In one example, the microcontroller 905 determines that the power source 1 is charging if the charge enable signal CHG EN from the charge controller 800 has been enabled (e.g., has a logic high level). As discussed herein, the enabling of the charge enable signal CHG EN can also be referred to as the outputting of the charge enable signal CHG EN.

[0159] If the microcontroller 905 detects that the power source 1 is charging at step S1504, the microcontroller 905 enters the charging mode at step S1508.

[0160] In the charging mode, the mode control transistor 920 remains in the on state until the charge controller 800 indicates that the charge current i CH is no longer flowing to the positive terminal of the power source 1 by disabling the charge enable signal CHG EN. In one example, while in the charging mode, the microcontroller 905 maintains the mode control transistor 920 in the on state by preventing the disabling of the charge monitoring signal EN SIG that has been enabled.

[0161] Although not explicitly shown in Figure 15 , the microcontroller 905 can return to the monitoring mode when the charge controller 800 disables the charge enable signal CHG EN.

[0162] Returning to step S1504, if the microcontroller 905 does not detect that the power source 1 is charging, the microcontroller 905 remains in the monitoring mode and operates as discussed above.

[0163] As discussed above, the control circuit 200 also includes the resistance measurement circuit 94.

[0164] During a puffing event of an adult vaper, the application of power to the heater 14 changes the resistivity of the heater 14, which causes an increase in the resistance of the heater 14. Using the resistance measurement circuit 94, the microcontroller 905 is configured to monitor the change in resistance of the heater 14 during a puffing event and control the power supplied to the heater 14 based on the change in resistance. In at least one example embodiment, the microcontroller 905 can selectively disable the operation of the vaporizer by cutting off power to the heater 14 based on the change in resistance of the heater 14.

[0165] In Figure 6In the resistance measurement circuit 94 shown in FIG. 1, the first resistor Rl is a precision reference resistor having a known resistance value (e.g., about 10.00 ohms). Resistors R2, R3, and R4 are stable resistors used to set the gain and bias of the OP-AMP 947. Resistors R2, R3, and R4 also have known resistance values. The DAC 9054 and the ADC 9052 share the same reference voltage V battery In this case, the reference voltage V battery is the voltage of the power supply 1. In view of Figure 6 The voltage output V op-amp is given by the equation (1) shown below:

[0166]

[0167] According to one or more example embodiments, the resistance measurement circuit 94 can operate in a calibration mode or phase and a monitoring mode or phase.

[0168] Figure 16 is a flowchart showing an example embodiment of a method of operating the control circuit 200 in the calibration phase. As discussed above, the microcontroller 905 defaults to an active state when a cartridge (e.g., the first section 70) containing a heater element is attached to a battery section (e.g., the second section 72). In addition, the control circuit 200 enters the calibration phase when a cartridge (e.g., the first section 70) containing a heater element is attached to a battery section (e.g., the second section 72). The calibration phase is also referred to as a fine resistance calibration phase.

[0169] During a puff event, stress on the heater 14 can cause a change in the "static" resistance of the heater coil. In one example, the "static" resistance can change by up to 0.5% from a previous value during the first 5 to 10 puff events on a new cartridge. Accordingly, the microcontroller 905 can monitor the length of time between puff events, and if the time interval between puff events exceeds a threshold value (e.g., about 25 seconds), the control circuit 200 can also enter the calibration phase. Thus, the control circuit 200 can enter the calibration phase in response to at least two triggering events; namely, attaching a new cartridge to the second section 72, and if the time interval between puff events exceeds a threshold value.

[0170] Referring to Figure 16 In response to one or more of the triggering events described above, at step S1604, the microcontroller 905 measures a coarse resistance R coil_coarse In this case, the coarse resistance of the heater coil is a low resolution measurement taken by the microcontroller 905 in the analog domain.

[0171] According to at least one example embodiment, the heater 14 and the arrangement of the first resistor Rl, which is a known stable resistance, present a voltage at the sixth node NODE6 that is input to, sensed at, or input to and sensed at the analog input ANALOG of the microcontroller 905. In this example, the first resistor Rl and the coil of the heater 15 form a voltage divider circuit. The microcontroller 905 then calculates the resistance of the heater 14 based on the known voltage of the power supply (e.g., V in ), the voltage sensed or measured at the sixth node NODE6 (e.g., V out ), and the known resistance of the first resistor Rl.

[0172] According to at least one other example embodiment, the OP-AMP 947 can be a component integrated in the microcontroller 905. In this example, a rough resistance measurement R coil_coarse is taken by reconfiguring the positive input of the OP-AMP 947 as an ADC input of the microcontroller 905. Once the pin is reconfigured, the heater 14 and the arrangement of the first resistor Rl, which is a known stable resistance, present a voltage on NODE6 that the microcontroller 905 can calculate the resistance of the heater 14 based on. The microcontroller 905 can calculate the resistance of the heater 14 in the same manner as discussed above.

[0173] At step S1606, the microcontroller 905 selects a suitable digital code or word CODE coil_coarse based on the initial rough resistance measurement R DAC . According to at least one example embodiment, the microcontroller 905 selects the digital code CODE DAC such that the output voltage V op-amp of the OP-AMP 947 does not saturate the input of the ADC 9052 during subsequent measurements. In one example, the digital code CODE DAC may be selected such that the output of the OP-AMP 947 is substantially zero.

[0174] At step S1608, the ADC 9052 at the microcontroller 905 samples the voltage output V op-amp of the OP-AMP 947 to generate a digital representation CODE op-amp of the voltage output V ADC_0 of the OP-AMP 947.

[0175] At step S1610, the microcontroller 905 calculates the initial resistance R op-amp of the heater coil based on the sampled voltage output V coil_0Thereby, the calibration phase of the resistance measurement circuit 94 is completed.

[0176] After calibration or between repetitions of the calibration phase, the digital code CODE DAC to fix the voltage output of the DAC 9054.

[0177] After a puff event is detected by the sensor 16 and during a subsequent vaping session, the heater power control signal HEAT PWR CTRL controls the heater power control transistor U1 to regulate the voltage output from the power supply 1 to the heater 14. According to at least one example embodiment, the heater power control signal HEAT PWR CTRL has a duty cycle of 64 milliseconds. According to at least this example embodiment, the duty cycle includes a regulation period and a resistance measurement period. The regulation period can be one of the first, last 60 milliseconds of the 64 milliseconds, while the resistance measurement period can be the remainder of the duty cycle (e.g., one of the first, last 4 milliseconds of the duty cycle).

[0178] During the regulation period of the duty cycle, the heater power control signal HEAT PWR CTRL is a pulse train that turns the heater power control transistor U1 on and off to regulate the voltage applied to the heater 14 by the power supply 1. Also during the regulation period of the duty cycle, the resistance measurement enable signal RES MEAS EN is deactivated so that the resistance measurement transistor U2 remains in an off (or open) state.

[0179] During the resistance measurement period, the heater power control transistor U1 is switched to an off (open) state, while the resistance measurement transistor U2 is maintained in an on (closed) state for a given time interval sufficient to allow the microcontroller 905 to take a voltage sample from the output of the OP-AMP 947. In one example, the given time interval can be less than or equal to about 4 milliseconds (e.g., about 1 millisecond).

[0180] Figure 17 is a flowchart illustrating an example embodiment of a method of operating the control circuit 200 during the resistance measurement phase. The method illustrated in Figure 17 is performed during the resistance measurement period of the duty cycle during a puff event.

[0181] Referring to Figure 17 , in response to attaching a cartridge (e.g., the first section 70) containing a heater element to a battery section (e.g., the second section 72), at step S1702, the microcontroller 905 initiates a count value i for the cartridge to zero. The microcontroller 905 tracks the (e.g., consecutive) number of times the heater 14 is powered off due to the attached cartridge with the count value i.

[0182] After initializing the count value i, when sensor 16 detects a suction event in step S1704, microcontroller 905 adjusts the output voltage V from OP-AMP 947 in step S1706. op-amp The microcontroller 905 then performs a measurement or sampling based on the sampled voltage V. op-amp Generate the output voltage V of the OP-AMP 947 op-amp Updated digital representation (CODE) ADC_1 ).

[0183] In step S1708, the microcontroller 905 then bases the output voltage V of the OP-AMP 947 on... op-amp The updated number represents the CODE ADC_1 Calculate the initial measuring resistance R of the coil according to equation (2) shown below. coil_0 With the current resistance R of heater 14 coil_1 The percentage change in resistance between %ΔR.

[0184]

[0185] After calculating the percentage change in resistance %ΔR, in step S1710, the microcontroller 905 compares the calculated percentage change in resistance %ΔR with the percentage change in threshold %R. TH The comparison between the two values ​​determines whether to cut off the power to the heater. If the calculated percentage change in resistance %ΔR exceeds (e.g., is greater than) the threshold percentage change %R... TH In step S1711, the microcontroller 905 cuts off the power to the heater 14 by disabling the heater power control signal HEAT_PWR_CTRL and thereby setting the heater power control transistor U1 to the off state (disconnected).

[0186] The microcontroller 905 then increments the counter value i in step S1712, and in step S1714 determines whether the counter value i exceeds the counting threshold LOCK_TH. The counting threshold LOCK_TH represents the threshold number of times the power to the heater 14 may be temporarily disconnected before preventing an adult vaporizer from using the current cylinder for further vaporization. If the counter value is greater than or equal to the counting threshold LOCK_TH, then the counter value i exceeds the counting threshold LOCK_TH. In one example, the counting threshold LOCK_TH may be approximately 5, but this example embodiment should not be limited to this one.

[0187] If the microcontroller 905 determines that the count value i exceeds the count threshold LOCK TH, then at step S1716 the microcontroller 905 prevents power from reaching the heater 14 until the current cartridge is removed and replaced. As in step S1711, the microcontroller 905 cuts power to the heater 14 by deactivating the heater power control signal HEAT PWR CTRL, thereby setting the heater power control transistor U1 to an off state (open).

[0188] Returning to step S1714, if the count value i does not exceed the count threshold LOCK TH (i < LOCK TH), then the process returns to step S1704 and the method continues as discussed above after the sensor 16 detects the next puff event.

[0189] Returning now to step S1710, if the microcontroller 905 determines that the %AR does not exceed the threshold percent change %R TH (%AR < %R TH ) and thus power to the heater 14 does not have to be cut, then the microcontroller 905 reinitializes the count value i to zero at step S1702 and continues as discussed above after the sensor 16 detects the next puff event.

[0190] While equation (2) provides a complete analytical solution for the resistance change, some assumptions can be made to simplify the equation. One assumption is that the resistance change is relatively small such that some intermediate steps can be linearized using Taylor expansion, thereby resulting in equation (3) shown below.

[0191]

[0192] As the static current draw can be increased, in at least one example embodiment, to use the capacitive touch channel on the microcontroller 905, the control circuit 200 can detect the effect of an adult vaper's body on the circuit capacitance. Differences in skin moisture should not affect the ability of the circuit to respond to an adult vaper's input.

[0193] As discussed above, according to one or more example embodiments, the mode control transistor 920 can be a MOSFET or NMOS transistor and can provide a more reliable detection even when the sensitivity of the capacitive measurement is reduced.

[0194] In at least one other example embodiment, a diode (not shown) can be added to the charge controller input. In this example, the diode acts as a break until a charge voltage exists across the second contact 320 and the first contact 310.

[0195] Figure 7This is a diagram of a control circuit according to another example embodiment.

[0196] In at least one example embodiment, the adult vapor user's command can be detected by a change in resistance rather than capacitance. In this example, the second contact 320 is a charge cathode electrically connected to the negative terminal of a power source. The first contact 310' is a charge anode electrically connected to the input 1010 of an analog-to-digital converter (ADC) included in the microcontroller 905'.

[0197] According to at least this example embodiment, the microcontroller 905' may be configured to detect the resistance between the charged anode 310' and the charged cathode 320'. When an adult vaper, for example, places a finger across the charged anode 310' and the charged cathode 320', the connection between the charged anode 310' and the charged cathode 320' closes, thereby changing the resistance to the input of the microcontroller 905'. The microcontroller 905' detects this resistance change to detect the tactile input of the adult vaper.

[0198] Figure 7 The circuitry allows for lower quiescent current draw. The resistance detection circuitry can be configured to interrupt the microcontroller 905', which allows the microcontroller 905' and the accessory to remain in a low-power sleep state until an adult vaporizer user closes the circuit by touching the second contact 320 of the e-vaping device 60. This wakes the e-vaping device 60 so that an appropriate response can be given to the touch.

[0199] Figure 8 This is a diagram of a control circuit according to another example embodiment.

[0200] In at least one example embodiment, such as Figure 8 As shown, the first contact 310" is the charge anode, which is electrically connected to the charge controller 1120 via diode 1140. The first contact 310" is also electrically connected to the capacitive input 1110 of the microcontroller 905" via resistor 1100. In this example, the control circuitry allows both resistive touch detection and capacitive touch detection to be performed by the electronic vaporizer 60.

[0201] According to at least this example embodiment, a more sensitive resistance measurement can be used to wake up the electronic vaping device 60 when an adult vaper touches the second contact 320. After measuring the resistance, the capacitance is measured to verify that the adult vaper has touched the second contact 320, and to suppress the quiescent current draw requirement of circuitry that relies solely on capacitance-based touch detection.

[0202] Figure 9 This is a perspective view of a charger for an electronic vaporizer according to at least one example embodiment.

[0203] In at least one example embodiment, as shown in FIG. 1, the battery 1 of the electronic vaping device 60 can be recharged using the charger 500. Figure 9 Figures 1 to 8 The battery 1 of the electronic vaping device 60 can be recharged using the charger 500.

[0204] In at least one example embodiment, the charger 500 includes a housing 510 including a top wall 520. The top wall 520 can be at least one of circular in cross-section, generally bell-shaped, or dome-shaped, such that the sides of the top wall 520 are angled downward from a central portion of the top wall 520. The housing 510 can also include a side wall 530 connected to the top wall 520. The top wall 520, at least one side wall 530, and a bottom wall 535 (shown in FIG. 5) define an interior compartment that houses a charging circuit, as discussed below. The housing 510 can be formed from one or more pieces of material, such as plastic or metal. Figure 12

[0205] In at least one example embodiment, the side wall 530 has generally rounded corners, such that the side wall 530 extends completely around the perimeter of the charger 500. In at least one example embodiment, the side wall 530 is integrally formed with the top wall 520, and the edges where the side wall 530 and the top wall 520 meet are generally rounded.

[0206] In other example embodiments, the housing 510 can include four side walls 530 that meet at corners (not shown).

[0207] In at least one example embodiment, a charging slot 540 is formed in the top wall 520 of the housing 510. The charging slot 540 can be generally cylindrical. The charging slot 540 is defined by a bottom wall 600 and at least one interior side wall 610. The charging slot 540 can be sized and configured to receive the second end 220 of the electronic vaping device 60. The bottom wall 600 can be generally flat. In other example embodiments, the bottom wall 600 can include bumps or curves.

[0208] In at least one example embodiment, a light pipe 550 substantially encloses the charging slot 540. The light pipe 550 is generally tubular in shape, such that when the second end 220 of the electronic vaping device 60 is inserted into the charging slot 540, the second end 220 passes through the light pipe 550. The light pipe 550 can include an extension portion 550a that extends through the interior compartment 525 and through a portion of the side wall 530, such that the extension portion 550a is visible at the first end 605 of the charger 500. The light pipe 550 can be formed from a substantially transparent material that allows light from the electronic vaping device 60 to be seen when the electronic vaping device 60 is docked in the charging slot 540. The apex 505 of the top wall 520 can be about the same height as the top surface of the light pipe 550.

[0209] ​​In at least one example embodiment, the charger 500 also includes a USB plug 560. In other example embodiments, instead of the USB plug 560, a mini-USB plug or other power connection plug can be included in the charger 500. The charger 500 can be connected to a power source through the USB plug 560 to allow charging of the battery 1 of the electronic vaping device 60 connected to the charger 500.

[0210] In at least one example embodiment, the housing 510 is smooth. In other example embodiments, the housing 510 can include bumps, ridges, or both, that assist in gripping of the charger 500 when inserting or removing the USB plug 560 from the outlet.

[0211] Figure 10 is a top view of a charger according to at least one example embodiment. Figure 10 is a top view of a charger according to at least one example embodiment. Figure 12 is a cross-sectional view of the charger of Figure 10 is a cross-sectional view of the charger of

[0212] In at least one example embodiment, the charger 500 is the same as in Figure 9 In at least one example embodiment, the charger 500 is the same as in

[0213] As shown, the charger 500 includes a first charging contact 630 and a second charging contact 640. At least one of the first charging contact 630 and the second charging contact 640 can be magnetic. The first charging contact 630 has a T-shaped cross-section with a circular flat top surface that protrudes upward into the charging slot 540. The first charging contact 630 is sized and configured to attract, contact, or both, the first contact 310 of the electronic vaping device 60 to form a first electrical connection therewith and to align the second end 220 of the electronic vaping device 60 within the charging slot 540. The second charging contact 640 is cylindrical with a top surface having a flange that protrudes inward. The second charging contact 640 surrounds the first charging contact 630 and is electrically insulated from the first charging contact 630 by an insulator 635. The insulator 635 is cylindrical with a top surface having a flange that protrudes outward. The second charging contact 640 is sized and configured to attract, contact, or both, the second contact 320 of the electronic vaping device 60 to form a second electrical connection therewith and to align the second end 220 of the electronic vaping device 60 within the charging slot 540. The first charging contact 630, the second charging contact 640, or both, can be formed of magnetic stainless steel or of any other suitable material that provides good conductivity and is magnetic. Figure 12As shown in FIG. 6, the internal components of the charger 500 are shown arranged within the internal compartment 525. As shown, the USB plug 560 extends through the sidewall 530 of the housing 510 into the internal compartment 525. The USB plug 560 is in direct electrical communication with the charger printed circuit board 650, which is in electrical communication with the first charging contact 630 and the second charging contact 640 through the leads 645, 647. The magnet 685 is positioned below a portion of the second charging contact 640 and between the insulator 635 and the second charging contact 640. The flanges of the insulator 635 and the second charging contact 640 extend over the top surface of the magnet 685. The magnet 685 is cylindrical and the first charging contact 630 extends through the center of the magnet 685. The first charging contact 630 can be biased upward into the charging slot by the spring 632 disposed within the insulator 635 so that the first charging contact 630 has a top surface that is higher than the top surface of the second charging contact 640 when the electronic vapor cigarette device 60 is not inserted into the charging slot 540. Figure 13 An exploded view of a charger contact assembly of the charger of Figures 9 to 12 Figure 11 An exploded view of the charger of Figure 9 The guard 675 can substantially prevent or reduce the visibility of light through a portion of the light pipe 550. As shown, the light pipe 550 can include a first tubular portion 552 and an extension portion 554 that extends through the outlet in the sidewall 530.

[0214] Example embodiments have been disclosed herein, but it is understood that other variations are possible. Such variations are not to be regarded as a departure from the scope of the present disclosure, 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 Universal Serial Bus (USB) charger configured to charge an electronic vaping device, the USB charger comprising: a housing including, a top wall having a charging slot configured to receive an end of the electronic vaping device, a first charger contact in the charging slot, a second charger contact in the charging slot, a bottom wall opposite the top wall, and at least one side wall between the top wall and the bottom wall; at least one magnet adjacent to the charging slot, or wherein at least one of the first charger contact or the second charger contact is magnetic; and a light pipe surrounding the charging slot and extending from the charging slot to an exterior surface of the USB charger, the light pipe configured to transmit light from an electronic vaping device to the exterior surface of the USB charger to indicate a charging status of the electronic vaping device.

2. The USB charger of claim 1, wherein the housing defines an interior compartment; and the charger further includes charger circuitry contained within the interior compartment, the charger circuitry in communication with the first charger contact and the second charger contact.

3. The USB charger of claim 1 or 2, wherein the light pipe is tubular in shape such that when an end of an electronic vaping device is inserted into the charging slot, the end of the electronic vaping device passes through the light pipe.

4. The USB charger of claim 2, the light pipe includes an extension portion that extends through the interior compartment and through a portion of the side wall such that the extension portion is visible at an end of the charger.

5. The USB charger of claim 1 or 2, the light pipe is formed of a transparent material that allows light from an electronic vaping device to be seen when the electronic vaping device is docked in the charging slot.

6. The USB charger of claim 1 or 2, wherein an apex of the top wall is at the same height as a top surface of the light pipe.

7. The USB charger of claim 1 or 2, wherein the housing is smooth, or the housing includes a bump, a ridge, or both a bump and a ridge.

8. The USB charger of claim 1 or 2, wherein the second charging contact surrounds the first charging contact.

9. The USB charger of claim 8, wherein the second charging contact is electrically isolated from the first charging contact by an insulator.

10. The USB charger of claim 1 or 2, wherein the magnet is positioned below a portion of the second charging contact.

11. The USB charger of claim 1 or 2, wherein the magnet is cylindrical and the first charging contact extends through a center of the magnet.

12. The USB charger of claim 1 or 2, wherein the first charging contact is biased upward into the charging slot by a spring such that when there is no electronic vaping device inserted into the charging slot, the first charging contact has a top surface that is higher than a top surface of the second charging contact.

13. The USB charger of claim 1 or 2, further comprising a shroud at least partially surrounding the light pipe.

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