Nicotine electronic vaping device

Abstract

A nicotine e-vaping device (10) includes a heater (240), a power control circuit (120), and a memory module (210). The heater (240) is configured to heat a nicotine pre-vapor formulation. The power control circuit (120) is coupled to the heater (240) by an electrical wire (150). The power control circuit (120) is configured to apply a pulse width modulated power signal to the heater (240) through the electrical wire (150) and to receive information through the electrical wire (150). The memory module (210) is configured to detect a plurality of pulses in the pulse width modulated power signal, record information based on the detected plurality of pulses, and output the recorded information to the power control circuit (120) via the electrical wire (150).

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This disclosure relates to a nicotine electronic vaping (or e-vaping) device. Background Technology

[0002] The nicotine e-vapor device includes a heating element that heats a nicotine vapor pre-preparation to produce nicotine vapor.

[0003] The nicotine e-vaporizer includes a power source, such as a rechargeable battery, disposed within the device. The power source is electrically connected to a heater. The power source supplies power to the heater, causing it to heat to a temperature sufficient to convert the nicotine vapor pre-preparation into nicotine vapor. The nicotine vapor exits the nicotine e-vaporizer through a mouthpiece including at least one outlet. The nicotine e-vaporizer may include a memory, such as a heat-resistant electrically erasable programmable read-only memory (EEPROM). Summary of the Invention

[0004] At least one exemplary embodiment relates to a nicotine electronic vaporizer device, comprising a heater, a power control circuit, and a memory module. The heater element is configured to heat a nicotine vapor pretreatment. The power control circuit is connected to the heater element via a wire. The power control circuit is configured to apply a pulse-width modulated power signal to the heater element via the wire and to receive information via the wire. The memory module is configured to detect multiple pulses in the pulse-width modulated power signal, record information based on the detected multiple pulses, and output the recorded information to the power control circuit via the wire.

[0005] At least one exemplary embodiment relates to a memory module for a cartridge of a nicotine electronic vaporizer, the memory module including a fuse array and a memory controller. Each fuse in the fuse array is configured to open based on a threshold voltage. The memory controller is configured to receive a pulse width modulated power signal via a wire and to apply a voltage greater than or equal to the threshold voltage to one or more fuses in the fuse array based on a plurality of pulses in the pulse width modulated power signal.

[0006] At least one exemplary embodiment relates to a memory module for a cartridge of a nicotine electronic vaporizer, the memory module including a memory and a memory controller coupled to the memory. The memory controller is configured to read information stored in the memory and output the information via the wire by modifying a pulse-width modulation power signal carried by the wire.

[0007] At least one exemplary embodiment relates to a power control circuit for a nicotine electronic vaporizer, the power control circuit including a power application circuit and an integrated circuit. The power application circuit is configured to output a pulse-width modulated power signal to a heater element via a wire. The integrated circuit includes an analog-to-digital converter (ADC) configured to receive data transmission via the wire by detecting current changes in one or more pulses of the pulse-width modulated power signal, and to control the power application circuit to output the pulse-width modulated power signal.

[0008] At least one exemplary embodiment relates to a nicotine cartridge for a nicotine electronic vaporizer, the nicotine cartridge comprising: a memory module including a fuse array, each fuse in the fuse array being configured to open based on a threshold voltage; a memory controller configured to receive a pulse width modulation power signal via wires and to apply a voltage greater than or equal to the threshold voltage to one or more fuses in the fuse array based on a plurality of pulses in the pulse width modulation power signal; a reservoir configured to hold a nicotine vapor pre-preparation; and a heater element configured to heat a nicotine vapor pre-preparation drawn from the reservoir, wherein the heater element is part of the wires.

[0009] At least one exemplary embodiment relates to a nicotine cartridge for a nicotine electronic vaporizer, the nicotine cartridge comprising: a memory module including a memory, and a memory controller coupled to the memory, the memory controller being configured to read information stored in the memory and output the information via the wire by modifying a pulse width modulation power signal carried by the wire; a reservoir configured to hold a nicotine vapor pre-preparation; and a heater element configured to heat a nicotine vapor pre-preparation drawn from the reservoir, wherein the heater element is part of the wire.

[0010] At least one exemplary embodiment relates to a nicotine electronic vaporizer device comprising: a reservoir configured to hold a nicotine vapor pre-preparation; a heater element configured to heat the nicotine vapor pre-preparation drawn from the reservoir; a power control circuit including a power application circuit configured to output a pulse-width modulated power signal to the heater element via a wire; and an integrated circuit including an analog-to-digital converter (ADC) configured to receive data transmission via the wire by detecting current changes in one or more pulses of the pulse-width modulated power signal and to control the power application circuit to output the pulse-width modulated power signal. The heater element is part of the wire. Attached Figure Description

[0011] The non-limiting exemplary embodiments described herein become more apparent upon examination of 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. Unless explicitly stated otherwise, the drawings should not be considered to be drawn to scale. Various dimensions of the drawings may be enlarged for clarity.

[0012] Figure 1 This is a simplified view of a nicotine electronic vaporizer according to at least one exemplary embodiment.

[0013] Figure 2 This is a diagram of the electrical system and heater of a nicotine electronic vaporizer according to at least one exemplary embodiment.

[0014] Figure 3 This is a diagram of a memory module according to at least one exemplary embodiment.

[0015] Figure 4A This is a flowchart illustrating a method for recording information into a memory module according to at least one exemplary embodiment.

[0016] Figure 4B This is a flowchart illustrating a method for transmitting information to a subject according to at least one exemplary embodiment.

[0017] Figure 5 It is a block diagram of a fuse memory according to at least one exemplary embodiment.

[0018] Figure 6 This is a time-shift diagram illustrating an exemplary recording operation according to at least one exemplary embodiment.

[0019] Figure 7 It is an exemplary pulse width modulation signal according to at least one exemplary embodiment.

[0020] Figure 8 It is another exemplary pulse width modulation signal according to at least one exemplary embodiment.

[0021] Figure 9 It is another exemplary pulse width modulation signal according to at least one exemplary embodiment.

[0022] Figure 10 It is another exemplary pulse width modulation signal according to at least one exemplary embodiment.

[0023] Figure 11 It is another exemplary pulse width modulation signal according to at least one exemplary embodiment.

[0024] Figure 12 It is an exemplary power circuit according to at least one exemplary embodiment. Detailed Implementation

[0025] This document discloses several detailed example implementations. However, for the purpose of describing the example implementations, the specific structural and functional details disclosed herein are only representative. Furthermore, the example implementations can be implemented in many alternative forms and should not be construed as being limited to the example implementations described herein.

[0026] Therefore, while the exemplary embodiments can have various modifications and alternatives, they are illustrated in the figures by way of example and will be described in detail herein. However, it should be understood that the exemplary embodiments are not intended to be limited to the specific forms disclosed; on the contrary, the exemplary embodiments will encompass all modifications, equivalents, and alternatives that fall within the scope of the exemplary embodiments. Throughout the description of the figures, similar numbers refer to similar elements.

[0027] Figure 1 This is a simplified view of a nicotine electronic vaporizer 10 according to at least one exemplary embodiment.

[0028] refer to Figure 1 In at least one exemplary embodiment, the nicotine e-vaporizer 10 includes a body (or first segment) 100 and a replaceable cartridge (or second segment) 200. The first segment 100 and the second segment 200 can be coupled together. For example, the first segment 100 and the second segment 200 can be coupled together using a connector (not shown). The connector may include a male connector having complementary threads on the first segment 100 and a female connector including complementary threads on the second segment 200. The female connector and the male connector can be connected by rotating their threads together. Alternatively, the connector may be a sliding fit connector, a pin connector, a clip connector, a snap-fit ​​connector, etc. Furthermore, the positioning of the male and female connectors may be reversed as needed, such that the female connector is part of the first segment 100 and the male connector is part of the second segment 200.

[0029] exist Figure 1 In the exemplary embodiment shown, the first segment 100 includes a power supply 110, a power control circuit 120, a sensor 134, and an LED array 137. The power control circuit 120 includes a power supply circuit (or power application circuit) 124 and an integrated circuit 127.

[0030] The second segment 200 includes a memory module 210, a reservoir 220, and a heater 240 (or heater element). The reservoir 220 is configured to hold the nicotine vapor pre-formulation. The power control circuit 120 and the memory module 210 are electrically connected via a power line 150. As will be described in further detail below, the power control circuit 120 and the memory module 210 can transmit information via the power line 150. The power control circuit 120 can also supply power to the heater 240 and the memory module 210 via the power line 150.

[0031] The power cord 150 may be a single wire or multiple wires. The heater 240 may be part of the power cord 150. The power cord 150 may also include connecting elements or other conductive elements.

[0032] In some exemplary embodiments, one or both of sensor 134 and air inlet 160 may be included in second segment 200. First segment 100 may include first housing 104. Second segment 200 may include second housing 204.

[0033] Integrated circuit 127 can control power circuit 124, sensor 134, and LED array 137. Integrated circuit 127 can also receive sensor signals from sensor 134. Integrated circuit 127 can control power circuit 124 to provide pulse width modulation (PWM) signals (or PWM power signals) to heater 240 and memory module 210 via power line 150.

[0034] Integrated circuit 127 can also receive information from memory module 210 via power line 150. The information received from memory module 210 may indicate, for example, the level of nicotine vapor pre-preparation in memory 220. Integrated circuit 127 can control LED array 137 based on the received information to display the level of nicotine vapor pre-preparation. For example, LED array 137 may include six LEDs. In this example, if the information received from memory module 210 indicates that memory 220 is half full, integrated circuit 127 can control LED array 137 to light up three of the six LEDs to indicate that memory 220 is half full.

[0035] Sensor 134 may be a capacitive sensor capable of sensing an internal pressure drop within the first section 100. In at least one exemplary embodiment, sensor 134 is configured to generate an output indicating the airflow value and direction in the nicotine e-vaping device 10. In this example, integrated circuit 127 receives the output of sensor 134 and determines (1) whether the direction of the airflow indicates the application of (e.g., drawn-in) negative pressure (relative to positive pressure or blowing) to air outlet 250 and (2) whether the amount of negative pressure applied exceeds a threshold level. The threshold level may be set based on empirical data. If these vaporization conditions are met, integrated circuit 127 controls power circuit 124 to output a PWM signal to heater 240 via power line 150.

[0036] According to at least one exemplary embodiment, sensor 134 is discussed in relation to a capacitive sensor. However, sensor 134 can be any suitable pressure sensor, such as a microelectromechanical system (MEMS), which includes piezoresistive or other pressure sensors.

[0037] Heater 240 can heat the nicotine vapor pre-preparation drawn from reservoir 220 by core 224. Core 224 can draw nicotine vapor pre-preparation from reservoir 220 (e.g., via capillary action), and heater 240 can heat the nicotine vapor pre-preparation in the central portion of core 224 to a temperature sufficient to vaporize the nicotine vapor pre-preparation, thereby producing "vapor". As used herein, "vapor" refers to any substance generated or output from any nicotine e-vaporizer device 10 according to any of the exemplary embodiments disclosed herein. An airflow can exhaust nicotine vapor from air outlet 250.

[0038] In other exemplary embodiments, the air inlet 160 may be located between the first section 100 and the second section 200. In some exemplary embodiments, the heater 240 may be located in the first section 100.

[0039] In at least one exemplary embodiment, the reservoir 220 may include a storage medium, which may be a fibrous material comprising at least one of cotton (e.g., a roll of cotton yarn), polyethylene, polyester, rayon, and combinations thereof. In at least one other exemplary embodiment, the reservoir 220 may include a filler can containing only nicotine vapor pre-preparation without any storage medium. The reservoir 220 may be sized and configured to hold sufficient vapor pre-preparation such that the nicotine e-vaping device 10 may be configured to provide vapor for at least approximately 1000 seconds. Furthermore, the nicotine e-vaping device 10 (more specifically, integrated circuit 127) may be configured to allow each puff to last for a maximum of approximately 5 seconds.

[0040] The nicotine vapor preformulation may contain nicotine. In at least one exemplary embodiment, a flavoring agent (at least one flavoring agent) is included in the nicotine vapor preformulation. In at least one exemplary embodiment, the nicotine vapor preformulation is a liquid, solid, or gel formulation, including but not limited to water, beads, solvents, active ingredients, ethanol, plant extracts, natural or artificial flavors, at least one nicotine vaporizer, such as glycerin and propylene glycol, and combinations thereof.

[0041] In at least one exemplary embodiment, the nicotine vaporizing agent in the nicotine vapor preformulation comprises at least one diol (such as at least one of propylene glycol and / or 1,3-propanediol), glycerol, and combinations or sub-combinations thereof. Various amounts of the nicotine vaporizing agent can be used. For example, in some exemplary embodiments, the amount of the at least one nicotine vaporizing agent included ranges from about 20% by weight to about 90% by weight of the nicotine vapor preformulation (e.g., the nicotine vaporizing agent is in the range of about 50% to about 80%, or in the range of about 55% to 75%, or in the range of about 60% to 70%). As another example, in at least one exemplary embodiment, the nicotine vapor preformulation comprises a weight ratio of diol and glycerol ranging from about 1:4 to 4:1, wherein the diol is propylene glycol or 1,3-propanediol or combinations thereof. In at least one exemplary embodiment, this ratio is about 3:2. Other amounts or ranges can be used.

[0042] In at least one exemplary embodiment, the nicotine vapor preform includes water. Various amounts of water can be used. For example, in some exemplary embodiments, the amount of water that may be included ranges from about 5% by weight to about 40% by weight of the nicotine vapor preform, or from about 10% by weight to about 15% by weight of the nicotine vapor preform. Other amounts or percentages can be used. For example, in at least one exemplary embodiment, the remainder of the nicotine vapor preform that is not water (nor nicotine or flavoring) is a nicotine vapor-forming agent (described above), wherein the nicotine vapor-forming agent is 30% to 70% by weight of propylene glycol, and the remainder of the nicotine vapor-forming agent is glycerin. Other amounts or percentages can be used.

[0043] In at least one exemplary embodiment, the nicotine pre-vapor preparation includes at least one flavoring agent in an amount ranging from about 0.2% by weight to about 15% by weight (e.g., the flavoring agent may be in the range of about 1% to about 12%, or about 2% to about 10%, or about 5% to about 8%). In at least one exemplary embodiment, the at least one flavoring agent may be at least one of a natural flavoring agent, an artificial flavoring agent, or a combination of natural and artificial flavoring agents. For example, the at least one flavoring agent may contain menthol, etc.

[0044] In at least one exemplary embodiment, the nicotine vapor preformulation comprises nicotine in an amount of about 1% to about 10% by weight. For example, the nicotine content ranges from about 2% to 9%, or about 2% to 8%, or about 2% to 6%. In at least one exemplary embodiment, the portion of the nicotine vapor preformulation that is not nicotine or a flavoring agent comprises 10-15% by weight of water, wherein the remainder of the nicotine vapor preformulation is a mixture of propylene glycol and a nicotine vaporizing agent, wherein the weight ratio of the mixture ranges from about 60:40 to 40:60. Other combinations, amounts, or ranges may be used.

[0045] return Figure 1 In at least one exemplary embodiment, core 224 may include a filament (or thread) capable of drawing nicotine vapor pre-preparation from reservoir 220. For example, core 224 may be a glass (or ceramic) filament bundle, a bundle comprising a set of glass filament windings, etc., all arrangements of which may be capable of drawing nicotine vapor pre-preparation via capillary action through the gaps between the filaments. The filament may be generally aligned in a direction perpendicular (transverse) to the longitudinal direction of nicotine e-vaping device 10. In at least one exemplary embodiment, core 224 may include one to eight filamentous cores, each core comprising multiple glass filaments twisted together. The ends of core 224 may be flexible and foldable into the boundaries of reservoir 220. The filament may have a generally cross-shaped, clover-shaped, Y-shaped, or any other suitable cross-section.

[0046] In at least one exemplary embodiment, core 224 may comprise any suitable material or combination of materials. Examples of suitable materials may include, but are not limited to, glass, ceramic-based, or graphite-based materials. Core 224 may have any suitable capillary action to accommodate nicotine vapor preformulations with different physical properties, such as density, viscosity, surface tension, and nicotine vapor pressure. Core 224 may be conductive or non-conductive.

[0047] In at least one exemplary embodiment, heater 240 may include a coil of wire (heater coil) that at least partially surrounds core 224. The wire used to form the coil may be metallic. Heater 240 may extend entirely or partially along the length of core 224. Heater 240 may also extend entirely or partially around the circumference of core 224. In some exemplary embodiments, heater 240 may or may not contact (or directly contact) core 224.

[0048] In at least some other exemplary embodiments, heater 240 may take the form of a planar body, a ceramic body, a single wire, a mesh, a resistive wire cage, or any other suitable form. More generally, heater 240 may be any heater configured to vaporize a nicotine vapor pre-preparation.

[0049] In at least one exemplary embodiment, heater 240 may heat the nicotine vapor pre-preparation in core 224 via thermal conduction. Alternatively, heat from heater 240 may be conducted to the nicotine vapor pre-preparation via a heat-conducting element, or heater 240 may transfer heat to incoming ambient air drawn through nicotine e-vaping device 10 during vaping, which in turn heats the nicotine vapor pre-preparation via convection.

[0050] In at least one exemplary embodiment, heater 240 may be formed of any suitable resistive material. Examples of suitable resistive materials may include, but are not limited to, copper, titanium, zirconium, tantalum, and metals from the platinum group. Examples of suitable metal alloys include, but are not limited to, stainless steel, nickel-containing, cobalt-containing, chromium-containing, aluminum-titanium-zirconium-containing, hafnium-containing, niobium-containing, molybdenum-containing, tantalum-containing, tungsten-containing, tin-containing, gallium-containing, manganese-containing, and iron-containing alloys, as well as superalloys based on nickel, iron, cobalt, and stainless steel. For example, depending on the energy transfer kinetics and desired external physicochemical properties, heater 240 may be formed of nickel aluminide, materials with an alumina layer on the surface, iron aluminide, and other composite materials, and the resistive material may optionally be embedded in, encapsulated in, or coated with an insulating material, or vice versa. Heater 240 may include at least one material selected from the group consisting of: stainless steel, copper, copper alloys, nickel-chromium alloys, superalloys, and combinations thereof. In at least one exemplary embodiment, heater 240 may be formed of a nickel-chromium alloy or an iron-chromium alloy. In another exemplary embodiment, heater 240 may be a ceramic heater with a resistive layer on its outer surface.

[0051] According to at least one exemplary embodiment, the first housing 104 and the second housing 204 may have a generally cylindrical cross-section. In other exemplary embodiments, the first housing 104 and the second housing 204 may have a generally triangular, rectangular, elliptical, square, or polygonal cross-section. Furthermore, the first housing 104 and the second housing 204 may have the same or different cross-sectional shapes, or the same or different dimensions. As discussed herein, the first housing 104 and the second housing 204 may also be referred to as housings or main shells.

[0052] Although exemplary embodiments may be described in some cases with respect to the first segment 100 connected to the second segment 200, the exemplary embodiments should not be limited to these instances.

[0053] The first segment 100 can be a reusable segment of the nicotine e-vaping device 10, wherein the reusable segment can be recharged by an external charging device. Alternatively, the first segment 100 can be disposable. In this example, the first segment 100 can be used until the energy from the power source 110 is depleted (e.g., the energy drops below a threshold level).

[0054] The power source 110 can be a lithium-ion battery, or a variant of a lithium-ion battery, such as a lithium-ion polymer battery. The power source 110 can be disposable or rechargeable.

[0055] Air inlet 160 may be one or more openings into the first housing 104. Air inlet 160 allows sensor 134 to detect suction caused by pressure changes when air is drawn in through air inlet 160.

[0056] although Figure 1 An opening is shown for air inlet 160, but exemplary embodiments should not be limited to this example. Rather, the first housing 104 may include any number of openings or air inlets 160. In at least one exemplary embodiment, the air inlet 160 may be sized and configured such that the nicotine e-vaping device 10 has a draw resistance (RTD) in the range of about 60 mm of water to about 150 mm of water.

[0057] Air outlet 250 may be an opening into one or more holes in the second housing 204 or a separate mouthpiece at the end of the second housing 204. Although in Figure 1An opening is shown for air outlet 250, but exemplary embodiments are not limited to this example. Instead, the second housing 204 may include any number of openings or air outlets 250. In at least one exemplary embodiment, air outlet 250 may be sized and configured such that the nicotine e-vapor device 10 has a draw resistance (RTD) in the range of about 60 mm of water to about 150 mm of water.

[0058] A continuous air passage may exist between the air inlet 160 and the air outlet 250, so that air is drawn from the air inlet 160 through the heater 240 and exits the air outlet 250.

[0059] Figure 2 This is a diagram of the electrical system of a nicotine electronic vaporizer 10 according to at least one exemplary embodiment. Figure 2 In an exemplary embodiment, power circuit 124 includes transistor 125, wherein an output signal from integrated circuit 127 is input to the gate of transistor 125 via control line 130. The source of transistor 125 may be connected to rail 140. Rail 140 is connected to power supply 110, and the voltage applied to the rail is the voltage of power supply 110. The drain of transistor 125 may be connected to power line 150. In this configuration, the output signal from integrated circuit 127 can switch the gate of transistor 125 on, allowing current from power supply 110 to flow through power circuit 124. Power circuit 124 is not limited to this example and may include other circuit elements, such as transistors, resistors, capacitors, inductors, combinations thereof, sub-combinations thereof, etc. For example, Figure 12 An alternative implementation is included for the power circuit 124.

[0060] Integrated circuit 127 may include controller 129, etc. Controller 129 may include processing circuitry, such as hardware including logic circuitry; hardware / software combinations, such as a processor executing software; or combinations thereof. For example, the processing circuitry may more specifically include, but is not limited to: a central processing unit (CPU), an arithmetic logic unit (ALU), a digital signal processor, a microcomputer, a field-programmable gate array (FPGA), a system-on-a-chip (SoC), a programmable logic unit, a microprocessor, an application-specific integrated circuit (ASIC), etc.

[0061] In another exemplary embodiment, integrated circuit 127 may be connected to a manually operable switch (not shown) for an adult vapor smoker to activate electronic heater 240.

[0062] Still referencing Figure 2Integrated circuit 127 may also include an analog-to-digital converter (ADC) 128. ADC 128 may be an oscillator-based converter. As will be described in more detail below, ADC 128 may be connected to power line 150 and configured to determine when the current through power line 150 changes beyond a certain threshold. For example, integrated circuit 127 (or controller 129) may detect a first bit value (e.g., '1') via ADC 128 in response to determining that the current of the PWM signal changes beyond the threshold during the pulse of the PWM signal, and detect a second bit value (e.g., '0') in response to determining that the current of the PWM signal changes without exceeding the threshold during the pulse of the PWM signal. The first bit value of '1' and the second bit value of '0' are merely examples. In some exemplary embodiments, the first bit value and the second bit value may be reversed. ADC 128 may output a signal based on the current detected through power line 150. Integrated circuit 127 may determine which data has been transmitted based on the signal output from ADC 128. Integrated circuit 127 may be configured to receive information from memory module 210 only through power line 150. Therefore, no additional electrical connection is required for data transmission between the controller 212 and the integrated circuit 127.

[0063] Integrated circuit 127 can determine a threshold based on the load of power circuit 124. For example, during the startup phase, a bit sequence “010101…” can be sent by changing the load of memory module 210 during a series of pulses of the PWM signal. Integrated circuit 127 can measure the current of data bits “0” and data bits “1” and determine the threshold for further transmission.

[0064] In at least one exemplary embodiment, integrated circuit 127 may include a time period limiter to limit the duration for which a PWM signal is continuously supplied to heater 240. The time period may be set or preset depending on the amount of nicotine vapor pretreatment to be vaporized. In one example, the duration for which a PWM signal is continuously applied to heater 240 may be limited to a period of less than approximately 10 seconds for a portion of the heating core 224 of heater 240. In another example, the duration for which a PWM signal is continuously applied to heater 240 may be limited to a period of approximately 5 seconds for a portion of the heating core 224 of heater 240.

[0065] Now refer to Figure 1 and Figure 2 The operation of the nicotine electronic vaporizer 10 generating nicotine vapor is described when the first section 100 is connected to the second section 200.

[0066] refer to Figure 1 Air is primarily drawn into the first section 100 through the air inlet 160 in response to the application of negative pressure to the air outlet 250.

[0067] If sensor 134 detects that the airflow through the first section 100 is higher than a threshold, sensor 134 transmits a signal to integrated circuit 127. In response to the signal from sensor 134, integrated circuit 127 controls power circuit 124 to start supplying a PWM signal to heater 240, causing heater 240 to heat the nicotine vapor pretreatment on core 224 to generate nicotine vapor.

[0068] Air drawn in through air inlet 160 enters the first housing 104, passes through heater 240, and then flows through air outlet 250.

[0069] The air flowing over heater 240 combines and mixes with the nicotine vapor produced by heater 240, and the air-vapor mixture passes through air outlet 250.

[0070] exist Figure 2 In the exemplary embodiment shown, a PWM signal is generated by intermittently applying a voltage to the gate of a transistor in a power circuit 124 via an integrated circuit 127.

[0071] Figure 3 This is a diagram of a memory module 210 according to at least one exemplary embodiment. Figure 2 and Figure 3 Connect at node 260N.

[0072] The memory module 210 can be directly or indirectly connected to the power supply line 150. The memory module 210 may include a regulator 215, a controller (or memory controller) 212, a fuse memory 217, and an additional load 219.

[0073] Regulator 215 can be directly or indirectly connected to power line 150 and can be configured to charge a decoupling capacitor (not shown) within regulator 215 to power controller 212. In some exemplary embodiments, regulator 215 may be omitted. Controller 212 can also be directly or indirectly connected to power line 150. Controller 212 can be configured to receive data transmitted via power line 150 (via node 260N) based on a PWM signal. Reference will be made below. Figure 7-11 Exemplary methods and protocols for receiving data based on PWM signals are described for the controller 212. The controller 212 can operate using power received directly from the PWM signal, and can also operate using power received from the regulator 215 during the intervals between pulses in the PWM signal. The memory module 210 can be configured to receive power from the PWM signal only via power line 150.

[0074] Controller 212 may include processing circuitry, such as hardware including logic circuitry; hardware / software combinations, such as a processor executing software; or combinations thereof. For example, the processing circuitry may more specifically include, but is not limited to: a central processing unit (CPU), an arithmetic logic unit (ALU), a digital signal processor, a microcomputer, a field-programmable gate array (FPGA), a system-on-a-chip (SoC), a programmable logic unit, a microprocessor, an application-specific integrated circuit (ASIC), and so on.

[0075] Please refer to later. Figure 7-11 In more detail, the controller 212 can transmit data through the power line 150 by selectively connecting and disconnecting the additional load 219 from the power line 150 (e.g., connecting the additional load 219 to the power line 150 during a portion of the pulse of the PWM signal to indicate a first bit value (“1”), and not connecting the additional load 219 to the power line 150 during the pulse of the PWM signal to indicate a second bit value (“0”).

[0076] The controller 212 can also record received information in the fuse memory 217 by applying a voltage to the fuses included in the fuse memory 217. The fuse memory 217 may include a fuse array. Each fuse in the fuse array can be turned on by applying a voltage higher than a set voltage to the fuses. For example, the fuses may have a set voltage for turning on fuses of about 2 volts. The controller 212 can be configured to apply a voltage higher than the set voltage (in this example, higher than 2 volts) to the fuses to turn on the fuses in the fuse array. In one example, the fuse memory 217 may include an array of 1024 fuses, wherein the first 1016 fuses are dedicated to recording information related to a certain amount of nicotine vapor pre-preparation remaining in the reservoir 220, and the remaining 8 fuses are dedicated to storing other information, such as product identifiers, serial numbers, etc.

[0077] An additional load 219 may be connected between power line 150 and ground. The additional load 219 may be a transistor 220, with its gate connected to controller 212. In one example, transistor 220 may be an NMOS transistor. In another example, transistor 220 may be a PMOS transistor.

[0078] Additional loads can also be implemented in other configurations. For example, additional load 219 may include multiple transistors, resistors, capacitors, combinations thereof, or sub-combinations thereof.

[0079] Figure 4A This is a flowchart illustrating a method for recording information to a memory module 210 according to at least one exemplary embodiment. For illustrative purposes, information regarding... Figure 1-3 Discussion of the nicotine e-vapor device and electrical system shown. Figure 4A The method shown.

[0080] At S310, the power control circuit 120 outputs a PWM signal to the controller 212 via power line 150 based on the battery voltage. The power control circuit 120 can output a PWM signal in response to a signal from sensor 134. The PWM signal can be a rectangular PWM signal, or it can include a signal embedded within a PWM signal. The PWM signal is received at the controller 212 via power line 150.

[0081] At S320, controller 212 obtains information from the PWM signal. For example, controller 212 can detect the number of pulses in the PWM signal and determine the operable time (operation time) of heater 240 based on the detected number of pulses. Controller 212 can also determine the information to be recorded based on the detected number of pulses or the operation time of heater 240. As another example, controller 212 can detect a signal embedded in the PWM signal and determine the information to be recorded based on the signal embedded in the PWM signal. See below for further details. Figure 7-11 This paper discusses example methods and protocols for embedding signals within PWM signals.

[0082] At S330, controller 212 records the acquired information. For example, the acquired information may be the operating time of heater 240, and controller 212 may open one fuse in fuse memory 217 per second of heater 240 operation based on the number of pulses in the PWM signal. As another example, controller 212 may open multiple fuses based on information conveyed by a signal embedded in the PWM signal. For example, the embedded signal may include an indication of the number of fuses to be opened. The embedded signal may also include other commands, such as a request to memory 217 to send a signal indicating the number of fuses already opened in the portion of the fuses dedicated to the amount of nicotine vapor pre-preparation in storage 220. Alternatively, controller 212 may be programmed to send data indicating the number of fuses opened when the PWM signal lasts for at least a set number of pulses.

[0083] Figure 4B This is a flowchart illustrating a method for transmitting information to a subject according to at least one exemplary embodiment.

[0084] At S340, controller 212 can transmit data via power line 150 by modifying the load of power circuit 124 when power control circuit 120 outputs a PWM signal. Since the battery acts as a voltage source, load changes will alter the current drawn through power line 150. The load change can be achieved by connecting an additional load 219 to power line 150. For example, additional load 219 may include transistor 220. Transistor 220 can be turned on by applying a voltage to its gate via controller 212. Transistor 220 may be connected between power line 150 and ground. When transistor 220 is turned on, the current through power line 150 increases. Therefore, controller 212 can modify the load of power circuit 124 by turning on transistor 220. In this way, controller 212 can communicate information by selectively modifying the load of power circuit 124 (e.g., turning transistor 220 on and off) during the PWM clock cycle. Therefore, controller 212 can output information recorded in fuse memory 217 to power control circuit 120 via power line 150. To reiterate, controller 212 can output recorded information via power line 150 during the period when power control circuit 120 outputs a PWM signal to heater 240 via power line 150. Example methods and protocols for transmitting or conveying information by selectively modifying the load of power circuit 124 will be referred to later. Figure 7-11 Let's have a discussion.

[0085] At S350, integrated circuit 127 (via ADC 128) detects the transmitted data by measuring the current of the PWM signal in response to a current change caused by the connection of the additional load 219 to controller 212. That is, for example, integrated circuit 127 senses a change in the current drawn through power line 150 and detects the transmitted data based on the sensed change in the current drawn through power line 150. The data may include the last bit or bits of a checksum (e.g., including at least one parity bit or acknowledgment bit).

[0086] At S360, integrated circuit 127 determines whether data has been received without errors. Integrated circuit 127 can use one or more checksum bits to check the sum of previously received bits against a checksum, thereby determining whether data has been received without errors. Since the method of using a checksum to determine whether data has been received correctly is known, further discussion is omitted.

[0087] If integrated circuit 127 determines at S360 that the data has been received without error, then at S370, integrated circuit 127 can control power circuit 124 to transmit a reception acknowledgment via a PWM signal. The acknowledgment can be embedded in the PWM signal. Alternatively, the reception acknowledgment can be sent by transmitting a setting pulse in the PWM signal without modification. More on this later... Figure 7-11Exemplary methods and protocols for embedding information (e.g., acknowledgment information or bits) within PWM signals are discussed.

[0088] Returning to S360, if integrated circuit 127 determines that data was received incorrectly (e.g., checksum failure), integrated circuit 127 can control power circuit 124 to send a request to retransmit the data (negative acknowledgment) via a PWM signal. This request can be embedded in the PWM signal, as will be discussed later. Figure 7-11 This will be discussed in more detail below. Alternatively, as will be described in more detail below, a request to retransmit data can be transmitted by shortening the set pulse in the PWM signal. Based on the request to retransmit data (or a negative acknowledgment), the memory module 210 can retransmit the data.

[0089] Using the same or substantially the same operation, integrated circuit 127 can request and receive information (e.g., product identification, serial number, combinations thereof) stored in fuse memory 217.

[0090] Integrated circuit 127 can determine, based on this data, the number of LEDs in LED array 137 that are activated. For example, this data could indicate the total number of seconds the heater 240 has been activated (as represented by data stored in fuse memory 217). Integrated circuit 127 can determine the percentage (or fraction) of the total time the heater 240 can be activated before the reservoir 220 is depleted (e.g., all or substantially all of the nicotine vapor pre-preparation stored in reservoir 220 has vaporized, reservoir 220 is empty or has fallen below a threshold level), represented by the total number of seconds the heater 240 has been activated, and activate the same percentage of LEDs in LED array 137. Integrated circuit 127 can know a priori or determine, in several different ways, the total time the heater 240 can be activated before the nicotine vapor pre-preparation stored in reservoir 220 is depleted. For example, data could indicate the total number of seconds the heater 240 can be activated before the nicotine vapor pre-preparation stored in reservoir 220 is depleted. As another example, before the nicotine vapor pre-formulation in the reservoir 220 is depleted, the integrated circuit 127 can be pre-programmed with the number of seconds that the heater 240 can be activated. As yet another example, before the reservoir 220 is depleted, the integrated circuit 127 can be pre-programmed with the number of seconds that the heater 240 can be activated for a specific product type. In this case, the integrated circuit 127 can request the product type from the memory module 210 and determine the number of seconds based on the identified product type.

[0091] As another example, controller 212 can determine the number of LEDs in LED array 137 to be activated based on the aforementioned percentage, and controller 212 can send data indicating the determined number of LEDs in LED array 137 to integrated circuit 127. Integrated circuit 127 can activate the LEDs in LED array 137 according to the number indicated in the data.

[0092] Figure 5 This is a block diagram of a fuse memory 217 according to at least one exemplary embodiment.

[0093] As described above, the fuse storage 217 may include a fuse array. For example, the fuse array may include 1024 fuses. The reservoir 220 may include sufficient nicotine vapor pre-preparation so that the heater 240 vaporizes the nicotine vapor pre-preparation for approximately 1016 seconds. A first portion of the fuse array (e.g., 1016 fuses) may represent the total operating time of the heater 240. A second portion (e.g., 8 fuses) may store additional information, such as a product identifier or serial number for the cartridge. The number of fuses in a portion of the fuse storage 217 need not be correlated one-to-one with the number of seconds the heater 240 actively heats the nicotine vapor pre-preparation to produce nicotine vapor before the reservoir 220 is depleted, but can be correlated with any amount of time. For example, if the reservoir 220 holds only enough nicotine vapor pre-formulation to allow the heater 240 to operate for about 508 seconds before the reservoir 220 is depleted, the first part of the fuse array can still include 1016 fuses, each representing half of the total operating time of the heater 240 in seconds.

[0094] The fused wire array can store other information in the second part, including information indicating at least one flavor, date, or other information related to the cartridge of the nicotine vapor pre-preparation.

[0095] Figure 6 This is a time-shift diagram illustrating information recorded in fuse memory 217 according to at least one exemplary embodiment.

[0096] Figure 6 The controller 212 is shown to be able to operate from t1 to t n Every time t i An example of how a set voltage is applied to one of the fuses. For example, if from each time t... i To the next time t i+1If the time interval is one second and the PWM signal has a period of 50 milliseconds, then the controller 212 can apply a set voltage to one of the fuses after receiving 20 pulses at time t1. The controller 212 can then apply a set voltage to the second fuse after receiving another 20 pulses at time t2. In this way, one fuse will be turned on for each group of 20 pulses received by the heater 240 and the controller 212.

[0097] According to at least some exemplary embodiments, the fuse is permanently open and does not require a sustaining voltage to maintain its open or closed position. Therefore, the fuse memory 217 is non-volatile. Thus, even after the nicotine e-vaping device 10 has been turned off and on again, the controller 212 can continue to record information about the total operating time of the heater 240 by continuously opening one fuse at each time t. The ability of the fuse to remain in the open or closed state is also not significantly affected by the heat generated by the heater 240. Therefore, the aforementioned fuse memory 217 is able to retain information without a constant voltage and without being significantly affected by the heat generated by the heater 240. The fuse memory is also generally less expensive than a thermally erasable programmable read-only memory (EEPROM).

[0098] The controller 212 can be configured to determine which fuses have not yet been opened in order to know which fuse to open next. The controller 212 can also determine how many fuses have been opened in the portion of the fuses dedicated to the amount of nicotine vapor pre-formulation in the reservoir 220 in order to respond to a signal sent by the request memory module 210 indicating the remaining dose of nicotine vapor pre-formulation in the reservoir 220.

[0099] Figure 7 It is an exemplary PWM signal according to at least one exemplary implementation. Figure 8 It is another exemplary PWM signal according to at least one exemplary implementation.

[0100] exist Figure 7 and Figure 8 In this diagram, the power control circuit 120 and the memory module 210 can communicate according to a first protocol. The upper figure shows the current through the power line 150, and the middle figure shows the voltage through the power line 150. The third figure shows the PWM clock cycle.

[0101] In the first protocol, the PWM signal may not include any embedded signals from the power control circuit 120.

[0102] The memory module 210 can count the number of pulses received in the PWM signal in order to determine when to turn on the fuse in the fuse memory 217.

[0103] The controller 212 can transmit data after scanning the data stored in the fuse memory 217. The scan of the fuse memory 217 can take approximately 10 PWM clock cycles.

[0104] After scanning the fuse memory 217, the controller 212 sends formulation data indicating the number of still-open fuses in the first part of the fuse memory 217; D9-D0: remaining nicotine vapor preformation in the reservoir 220.

[0105] Following the formulation data section, the controller 212 sends the product identifier or serial number stored in the second part of the fuse memory 217; P7-P0: product identifier or serial number.

[0106] Following the product identification or serial number, controller 212 transmits two checksums or parity bits; C1-C0: checksum.

[0107] If the power control circuit 120 correctly receives all the information, the integrated circuit 127 controls the power circuit 124 to perform as follows: Figure 8 The ACK PWM clock cycle is shown to transmit a complete PWM pulse. If the power control circuit 120 does not receive all the information correctly, the integrated circuit 127 controls the power circuit 124 to transmit the PWM pulse as shown. Figure 7 The acknowledgment (ACK) PWM clock cycle is represented by a short PWM pulse (negative acknowledgment). The short PWM pulse may have a shorter length than the previous pulse of the PWM signal (e.g., less than half the PWM clock cycle).

[0108] exist Figure 7 In response to a short pulse in the ACK PWM clock cycle, the transmitted data (including the data portion, product identifier or serial number, checksum, or a combination thereof or a sub-combination thereof) is retransmitted.

[0109] As described above, the controller 212 can be connected to an additional load 219 to increase the current through the power line 150 for data transmission. For example, in Figure 7 In the current graph indication bit "1" of D9, D0, P1, and C1, the current graph indication bit "0" of D8, P7, P0, and C0 is sent. Controller 212 is configured to output data by connecting an additional load 219 to power line 150 to indicate the first bit value ("1") during a portion of the PWM signal pulse, and by not connecting the additional load 219 to power line 150 to indicate the second bit value ("0") during the PWM signal pulse.

[0110] Figure 9 This is another exemplary PWM signal according to at least one exemplary implementation. Figure 9In this configuration, the power control circuit 120 and the memory module 210 can communicate according to a second protocol. The hardware used for communicating using the second protocol can be the same as or substantially the same as the hardware used for communicating using the first protocol.

[0111] In the second protocol, the power control circuit 120 can communicate with the memory module 210 by modifying the width of the pulses in the PWM signal. For example, in the first mode, the power control circuit 120 can modify the pulses to have a width greater than 50% of the PWM clock period to indicate '1'. In the second mode, the power control circuit 120 can modify the pulses to have a width less than 50% of the PWM clock period to indicate '0'. The memory module 210 (more specifically, the controller 212) can be configured to detect the width of individual pulses in the PWM signal and record information based on the pulse width. Furthermore, the memory module 210 can be configured to detect the width of each pulse in the PWM signal and record information based on the pulse width.

[0112] In the second protocol, the power control circuit 120 and the memory module 210 can alternately communicate via the power line 150. For example, the power control circuit 120 can transmit ten bits in the first ten PWM clock cycles, and the memory module 210 can transmit ten bits in the next ten PWM clock cycles. In the second protocol, the memory module 210 can selectively connect the load during the PWM clock cycle, as described above. Figure 4B They communicate in the same or essentially the same way as described.

[0113] As an alternative, both the power control circuit 120 and the memory module 210 can be used with respect to... Figure 7-9 The described methods combine to send information within the same PWM cycle. In one example, the pulse length can indicate the information sent from the power control circuit 120, and the current through the power line 150 can indicate the information sent from the memory module 210.

[0114] exist Figure 9 In the first figure, the data sent by the power control circuit 120 is shown by modifying the pulse length in the PWM signal. The second and third figures show the voltage and current of the power line 150 when the memory module 210 transmits data by connecting / disconnecting the additional load 219.

[0115] Figure 10 This is another exemplary PWM signal according to at least one exemplary implementation. Figure 10 In this circuit, the power control circuit 120 and the memory module 210 can communicate according to a third protocol. In this third protocol, each PWM clock cycle can be divided into four parts: transmit, idle, receive, and turn off.

[0116] In the transmission section, the power control circuit 120 can modulate the voltage of the PWM signal to transmit data. Several bits of data can be transmitted during the transmission portion of each pulse of the PWM signal. The transmission section may include several data PWM cycles capable of transmitting a single bit. In one example, a shorter pulse of lower voltage can indicate '1', while a longer pulse of lower voltage can indicate '0'. For example, as... Figure 10 As shown, a shorter pulse with a lower voltage in period 1 can indicate '1', and a longer pulse in period 2 can indicate '0'.

[0117] During the idle and receive segments of the PWM clock cycle, the voltage can be at the higher of two voltage levels. In the receive segment, the memory module 210 can transmit several data bits by selectively connecting an additional load 219 to the power line 150 to draw additional current through the power line 150. A shorter pulse with lower current, as shown in data PWM cycle 1, can indicate '1', and a longer pulse with lower current, as shown in data PWM cycle 2, can indicate '0'.

[0118] In the off section, the PWM signal can be at zero volts and zero amperes.

[0119] Figure 11 It is another exemplary PWM signal according to at least one exemplary implementation.

[0120] exist Figure 11 In this protocol, the power control circuit 120 and the memory module 210 can communicate according to a fourth protocol. In the fourth protocol, each PWM clock cycle can be divided into four segments, similar to the third protocol.

[0121] Unlike the third protocol, data can be transmitted by varying the frequency of pulses with lower voltage (for power control circuit 120) or higher current (for memory module 210). In one example, a group of pulses with a higher frequency can indicate '1', and one or more low-frequency pulses can indicate '0'. Memory module 210 (more specifically, controller 212) can be configured to detect the frequency of pulses in the PWM signal and record information based on the pulse frequency.

[0122] Figure 12This is an exemplary power circuit 124 according to at least one exemplary embodiment. Power circuit 124 may include an operational amplifier 126, a transistor 125', and resistors R1 and R2 arranged as a voltage divider circuit. Operational amplifier 126 may receive an output signal from integrated circuit 127 at its negative input terminal. The negative input terminal is connected to control line 130. The output of operational amplifier 126 may be input to the gate of transistor 125'. Operational amplifier 126 may receive a feedback voltage at its positive input terminal. The feedback voltage may be the voltage at the node between resistors R1 and R2. Transistor 125' may have a source connected to rail 140 and a drain connected to power line 150. Resistor R1 may be connected between power line 150 and resistor R2. Resistor R2 may be connected between resistor R1 and ground.

[0123] In one exemplary embodiment, the resistances of resistors R1 and R2 can be equal. When resistances R1 and R2 are equal, the voltage applied to power line 150 will be twice the voltage of the output signal from integrated circuit 127. Therefore, the integrated circuit can control the voltage applied to power line 150 to any voltage between ground and rail 140 based on the output signal from integrated circuit 127.

[0124] In an example of the third or fourth protocol as described above, integrated circuit 127 can control the output signal, which alternates between the other two voltage levels. Figure 12 The power circuit 124 shown applies a PWM signal with two voltage levels to the power supply line 150. With resistors R1 and R2 having equal resistance, the two other voltage levels can each be half of the two voltage levels applied to the power supply line 150.

[0125] It should be understood that when an element or layer is referred to as being "on," "connected to," "attached to," or "covering" another element or layer, it may be directly on, connected to, attached to, or cover the other element or layer, or there may be intermediate elements or layers. In contrast, when an element is referred to as being "directly" on, directly connected to, or directly attached to another element or layer, there are no intermediate elements or layers. Throughout this specification, similar designations refer to similar elements.

[0126] It should be understood that although the terms “first,” “second,” “third,” etc., may be used herein to describe various elements, components, regions, layers, or sections, these elements, components, regions, layers, or sections should not be limited by these terms. These terms are used only to distinguish one element, component, region, layer, or section from another element, component, region, layer, or section. Therefore, without departing from the teachings of the exemplary embodiments, the first element, component, region, layer, or section discussed below may be referred to as the second element, component, region, layer, or section.

[0127] For ease of description, spatial relative terms (e.g., “below,” “under,” “lower,” “above,” “upper,” etc.) are used herein to describe the relationship between one element or feature and another element or feature as shown in the figures. It should be understood that, in addition to the orientation depicted in the figures, the spatial relative terms are intended to cover different orientations of the device during use or operation. For example, if the device in the figure is flipped, then an element described as “below” or “under” other elements or features will be oriented “above” other elements or features. Therefore, the term “below” can include both “above” and “below” orientations. The device may be oriented in other ways (rotated 90 degrees or in other orientations), and the spatial relative descriptive terms used herein are to be interpreted accordingly.

[0128] The terminology used herein is for the purpose of describing various exemplary embodiments only and is not intended to limit the exemplary embodiments. As used herein, the singular forms “a” and “described” are also intended to include the plural forms unless the context clearly indicates otherwise. It will also be understood that when the terms “comprising” and “including” are used in this specification, they specify the presence of the said feature, integer, step, operation, element, or component, but do not exclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, integers, steps, operations, elements, components, or groups thereof.

[0129] The exemplary embodiments described herein are illustrated with reference to cross-sectional diagrams, which are schematic illustrations of idealized embodiments (and intermediate structures) of the exemplary embodiments. Thus, variations in the illustrated shapes, such as due to manufacturing techniques or tolerances, are to be expected. Therefore, the exemplary embodiments should not be construed as limited to the shapes of the areas shown herein, but should include, for example, shape deviations caused by manufacturing processes.

[0130] 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 will be further understood that terms, including those as defined in commonly used dictionaries, shall be interpreted as having a meaning consistent with their meaning in the relevant field, and shall not be interpreted in an idealized or overly formalized sense unless expressly defined herein.

[0131] While several exemplary embodiments have been disclosed herein, it should be understood that other variations may be possible. Such variations should not be considered as departing from the scope of this disclosure, and all such modifications that would be obvious to those skilled in the art are intended to be included within the scope of the appended claims.

Claims

1. A nicotine electronic vaporizer, comprising: A heater element configured to heat a nicotine vapor pre-preparation; A power control circuit is connected to the heater element via a wire. The power control circuit is configured to apply a pulse width modulation power signal to the heater element via the wire and to receive information via the wire. as well as Memory module, the memory module being configured to, Detect multiple pulses in the pulse width modulation power signal. Based on the detected pulse recording information, and During the period when the power control circuit outputs a pulse width modulated power signal to the heater element via the wire, the recorded information is output to the power control circuit via the wire.

2. The nicotine electronic vaporizer according to claim 1, wherein the memory module is configured to, Detect the number of pulses included in the plurality of pulses, and The information is recorded based on the number of pulses.

3. The nicotine electronic vaporizer according to claim 1, wherein the memory module is configured to, Detect the width of the pulses included in the plurality of pulses, and The information is recorded based on the width of the pulses included in the plurality of pulses.

4. The nicotine electronic vaporizer according to claim 1, wherein the memory module is configured to, Detect the frequency of the pulses included in the plurality of pulses, and The information is recorded based on the frequency of the pulses included in the plurality of pulses.

5. The nicotine electronic vaporizer according to claim 1, wherein... The memory module includes a fuse memory with a fuse array, and The memory module is configured to record the information by turning on at least one fuse in the fuse array.

6. The nicotine electronic vaporizer of claim 5, wherein the memory module is configured to record the information by opening a fuse for each group of pulses in the pulse width modulated power signal.

7. The nicotine electronic vaporizer of claim 6, wherein the memory module is configured to store additional information indicating at least one of an identifier, the flavor of the nicotine pre-preparation, or the date.

8. The nicotine electronic vaporizer according to claim 1, wherein the power control circuit is configured to apply the pulse width modulation power signal in response to applying a negative pressure to the nicotine electronic vaporizer.

9. The nicotine electronic vaporizer according to claim 1, wherein... The memory module is also configured to receive power only from the pulse width modulation power signal, and The power control circuit is configured to receive the information only via the wire.

10. The nicotine electronic vaporizer according to claim 1, wherein... The memory module is configured to output recorded information to the power control circuit by selectively connecting a load to the wire, and The power control circuit is configured to receive the recorded information by detecting changes in the current through the wire caused by the selective connection of the load.

11. The nicotine electronic vaporizer of claim 1, wherein the memory module is configured to output the recorded information by increasing the current through the wire during at least one pulse of the pulse width modulation power signal.

12. The nicotine electronic vaporizer according to any one of claims 1 to 11, further comprising: The nicotine container includes the memory module and the reservoir, the reservoir being configured to hold the nicotine vapor pre-formulation.

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