Hot wire anemometer airflow measurement, suction detection and ambient temperature tracking

Abstract

A method of controlling a hot wire anemometer (HWA) (2220A) of a nicotine e-vaping device (500) includes controlling, by a first PID controller, a power level applied by the nicotine e-vaping device (500) to the HWA (2220A) based on a temperature of a heated element of the HWA (2220A) and a temperature setpoint; generating a puff detection signal indicative of whether or not a puff is currently occurring with respect to the nicotine e-vaping device (500); and detecting, by a second PID controller, a change in an ambient temperature of the HWA (2220A) when the puff detection signal indicates that no puff is currently occurring with respect to the nicotine e-vaping device (500); and controlling, by the second PID controller, the temperature setpoint such that the temperature setpoint changes in response to the detected change in the ambient temperature of the HWA (2220A).

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This disclosure relates to nicotine electronic vaporizers including self-contained articles having nicotine vapor preforms. Background Technology

[0002] Nicotine electronic vaping devices are used to vaporize nicotine pre-preparation materials into nicotine vapor. These electronic vaping devices may be referred to as e-vaping devices. Nicotine electronic vaping devices include a heater that vaporizes the nicotine pre-preparation material to produce nicotine vapor. Nicotine electronic vaping devices may include several electronic vaping elements, including a power source, a cylinder or electronic vaping chamber including the heater, and a reservoir capable of holding the nicotine pre-preparation material. Summary of the Invention

[0003] According to at least some example embodiments, a method for controlling a hot-wire anemometer (HWA) of a nicotine e-vaping device includes: controlling a power level applied to the HWA by the nicotine e-vaping device by a first PID controller based on the temperature of a heated element of the HWA and a temperature setpoint; generating a puff detection signal indicating whether puffing is currently occurring with respect to the nicotine e-vaping device; and detecting a change in the ambient temperature of the HWA by a second PID controller when the puff detection signal indicates that puffing is not currently occurring with respect to the nicotine e-vaping device; and controlling the temperature setpoint by the second PID controller such that the temperature setpoint changes in response to the detected change in the ambient temperature of the HWA.

[0004] Controlling the power level applied to the HWA by the nicotine e-vaping device may include: generating a drive signal setpoint by the first PID controller, wherein the power level applied to the HWA by the nicotine e-vaping device is based on the drive signal setpoint.

[0005] The method may further include: when the inhalation detection signal indicates that inhalation is currently occurring with respect to the nicotine e-vapor device, determining the flow rate of the air flowing around the HWA based on the drive signal setpoint.

[0006] Generating the suction detection signal may include: determining the gradient of the drive signal setpoint; and generating the suction detection signal based on the determined gradient of the drive signal setpoint.

[0007] The method may further include generating a pulse width modulation (PWM) drive signal based on the drive signal setpoint; and applying power to the HWA by applying the PWM drive signal to the HWA.

[0008] Generating the PWM drive signal may include generating the PWM drive signal such that the duty cycle of the PWM is controlled based on the drive signal set value.

[0009] Generating the drive signal setpoint may include the first PID controller generating the drive signal setpoint based on the difference between the temperature of the heated element of the HWA and the temperature setpoint.

[0010] Detecting changes in the ambient temperature of the HWA can include the second PID controller detecting changes in the ambient temperature of the HWA based on the difference between the drive signal setpoint and the drive signal setpoint set point.

[0011] Detecting changes in the ambient temperature of the HWA can include the second PID controller detecting changes in the ambient temperature of the HWA based on the difference between the drive signal setpoint and the drive signal setpoint set point.

[0012] Controlling the temperature setpoint may include: increasing the temperature setpoint by the second PID controller in response to detecting an increase in the ambient temperature of the HWA; and decreasing the temperature setpoint by the second PID controller in response to detecting a decrease in the ambient temperature of the HWA.

[0013] According to at least some example embodiments, a nicotine e-vaping device includes: a nicotine pre-vaping preparation storage section for storing a nicotine pre-vaping preparation; a heater configured to generate nicotine vapor by heating the nicotine pre-vaping preparation; a hot-wire anemometer (HWA); a first PID controller configured to control a power level applied by the nicotine e-vaping device to the HWA based on the temperature of a heated element of the HWA and a temperature setpoint; a puff detection signal generator configured to generate a puff detection signal indicating whether puffing is currently occurring with respect to the nicotine e-vaping device; and a second PID controller configured such that when the puff detection signal indicates that puffing is not currently occurring with respect to the nicotine e-vaping device, the second PID controller detects a change in the ambient temperature of the HWA, and the second PID controller controls the temperature setpoint such that the temperature setpoint changes in response to the detected change in the ambient temperature of the HWA.

[0014] The first PID controller can be configured to control the power level applied to the HWA by the nicotine e-vaping device by generating a drive signal setpoint, the power level applied to the HWA by the nicotine e-vaping device being based on the drive signal setpoint.

[0015] The second PID controller can also be configured to determine the flow rate of the air flowing around the HWA based on the drive signal setpoint when the inhalation detection signal indicates that inhalation is currently occurring with respect to the nicotine e-vapor device.

[0016] The suction detection signal generator is configured to determine the gradient of the drive signal setpoint and generate the suction detection signal based on the determined gradient of the drive signal setpoint.

[0017] The nicotine electronic vaporizer may further include a drive signal generator configured to generate a pulse width modulation (PWM) drive signal based on the drive signal setpoint, and to apply power to the HWA by applying the PWM drive signal to the HWA.

[0018] The drive signal generator can be configured to control the duty cycle of the PWM drive signal based on the drive signal setpoint.

[0019] The first PID controller can be configured to generate the drive signal setpoint based on the difference between the temperature of the heated element of the HWA and the temperature setpoint.

[0020] The second PID controller can be configured to detect changes in the ambient temperature of the HWA based on the difference between the drive signal setpoint and the drive signal setpoint set point.

[0021] The second PID controller can be configured to detect changes in the ambient temperature of the HWA based on the difference between the drive signal setpoint and the drive signal setpoint set point.

[0022] The second PID controller can be configured to control the temperature setpoint by increasing the temperature setpoint in response to detecting an increase in the ambient temperature of the HWA, and decreasing the temperature setpoint in response to detecting a decrease in the ambient temperature of the HWA. Attached Figure Description

[0023] The various features and advantages of the non-limiting embodiments herein will become more apparent upon reading the detailed description in conjunction with the accompanying drawings. The drawings are provided for illustrative purposes only and should not be construed as limiting the scope of the claims. Unless expressly stated otherwise, the drawings should not be considered to be drawn to scale. Various dimensions of the drawings may be enlarged for clarity.

[0024] Figure 1 This is a front view of a nicotine electronic vaporizer according to an example implementation.

[0025] Figure 2 yes Figure 1 Side view of a nicotine electronic vaporizer.

[0026] Figure 3 yes Figure 1 Rear view of a nicotine electronic vaporizer.

[0027] Figure 4 yes Figure 1 A near-end view of a nicotine electronic vaporizer.

[0028] Figure 5 yes Figure 1 A view of the far end of a nicotine electronic vaporizer.

[0029] Figure 6 yes Figure 1 A perspective view of a nicotine electronic vaporizer.

[0030] Figure 7 yes Figure 6 A magnified view of the container inlet.

[0031] Figure 8 yes Figure 6 A cross-sectional view of a nicotine electronic vaporizer.

[0032] Figure 9 yes Figure 6 A perspective view of the main body of a nicotine electronic vaporizer.

[0033] Figure 10 yes Figure 9 Front view of the main body of the device.

[0034] Figure 11 yes Figure 10 Enlarged perspective view of the through hole in the image.

[0035] Figure 12 yes Figure 10 An enlarged perspective view of the electrical connector of the device.

[0036] Figure 13 yes Figure 6A perspective view of the container assembly of a nicotine electronic vaporizer.

[0037] Figure 14 yes Figure 13 Another perspective of the container component.

[0038] Figure 15 yes Figure 13 A partial exploded view of the container component.

[0039] Figure 16 yes Figure 15 A perspective view of the connector module.

[0040] Figure 17 yes Figure 15 Another perspective view of the connector module.

[0041] Figure 18 yes Figure 17 A perspective view of the connector module without a core and heater.

[0042] Figure 19 yes Figure 18 An exploded view of the connector module.

[0043] Figure 20 yes Figure 18 Another exploded view of the connector module.

[0044] Figure 21A A device system diagram of the device body according to an example implementation is shown.

[0045] Figure 21B An example of a microprocessor according to an example implementation is shown.

[0046] Figure 22A A container system diagram of container components according to an example implementation is shown.

[0047] Figure 22B The example implementation is shown. Figure 22A An example of a container system, where the cryptographic coprocessor is omitted.

[0048] Figure 23 A container system connected to a device system is shown according to an example implementation.

[0049] Figures 24A-24D The example implementation is shown. Figure 22A An example implementation of the heated element included in the hot wire anemometer (HWA) of the container system.

[0050] Figure 25A It is a diagram of the internal PID control loop based on the example implementation.

[0051] Figure 25B-25D It shows Figure 25A Example waveform of the pulse width modulation (PWM) drive signal.

[0052] Figure 26 It is a diagram of the external PID control loop according to the example implementation.

[0053] Figure 27 This is a flowchart illustrating the method of operating HWA according to the example implementation plan. Detailed Implementation

[0054] It should be understood that when a component or layer is referred to as being "on," "connected to," "coupled to," or "covering" another component or layer, it may be directly on, connected to, coupled to, or cover another component or layer, or there may be intermediate components or layers. In contrast, when a component is referred to as being "directly" on, "directly connected to," or "directly coupled to" another component or layer, there are no intermediate components or layers. Throughout this specification, similar designations refer to similar components.

[0055] 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 region, layer, or section. Therefore, without departing from the teachings of the example embodiments, the first element, component, region, layer, or section discussed below may be referred to as the second element, component, region, layer, or section.

[0056] 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.

[0057] 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, unless the context clearly indicates otherwise, the singular forms “a,” “an,” and “the” are also intended to include the plural forms. It should be further understood that when the terms “comprising,” “including,” “containing,” and “comprising” 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.

[0058] 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. The areas shown in the figures are schematic in nature, and their shapes are not intended to illustrate the actual shape of the areas of the device, nor are they intended to limit the scope of the exemplary embodiments.

[0059] 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 example 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.

[0060] As used herein, “nicotine e-vaping device” may sometimes be used with any of the following terms and is considered synonymous with: nicotine e-vapordevice, nicotine e-vapor apparatus, and nicotine e-vaping apparatus.

[0061] Figure 1 This is a front view of a nicotine electronic vaporizer according to an example implementation. Figure 2 yes Figure 1 Side view of a nicotine electronic vaporizer. Figure 3 yes Figure 1 Rear view of a nicotine e-vaporizer. (Refer to...) Figure 1-3The nicotine e-vaping device 500 includes a device body 100 configured to receive a container assembly 300. The container assembly 300 is a modular article configured to contain a nicotine vapor pre-preparation. A "nicotine vapor pre-preparation" is a material or combination of materials that can be converted into nicotine vapor. For example, a nicotine vapor pre-preparation can be at least one of a liquid, solid, or gel preparation, comprising, but not limited to, water, beads, solvents, active ingredients, alcohols, plant extracts, natural or artificial flavorings, vaporizing agents such as glycerol and propylene glycol, and combinations thereof. During vaping, the nicotine e-vaping device 500 is configured to heat the nicotine vapor pre-preparation to produce nicotine vapor. As used herein, "vapor" means any substance generated or output from any nicotine e-vaping device according to any of the exemplary embodiments disclosed herein.

[0062] The device body 100 includes a front cover 104, a frame 106, and a rear cover 108. The front cover 104, frame 106, and rear cover 108 form a device housing that encloses mechanical components, electronic components, and circuitry associated with the operation of the nicotine e-vaping device 500. For example, the device housing of the device body 100 may enclose a power source configured to supply power to the nicotine e-vaping device 500, which may include supplying current to the container assembly 300. Additionally, when assembled, the front cover 104, frame 106, and rear cover 108 may constitute most of the visible portion of the device body 100.

[0063] A front cover 104 (e.g., a first cover) defines a main opening configured to receive a frame structure 112. The frame structure 112 defines a through-hole 150 configured to receive a container assembly 300. (This is in conjunction with, for example...) Figure 9 Let's discuss the through-hole 150 in more detail.

[0064] The front cover 104 also defines a second opening configured to receive a light guide device. The second opening may resemble a slot (e.g., a segmented slot), but other shapes are possible depending on the shape of the light guide device. In an example embodiment, the light guide device includes a light guide lens 116. Furthermore, the front cover 104 defines a third and a fourth opening configured to receive a first button 118 and a second button 120. Each of the third and fourth openings may resemble a rounded square, but other shapes are possible depending on the shape of the button. A first button housing 122 is configured to expose a first button lens 124, while a second button housing 123 is configured to expose a second button lens 126.

[0065] The operation of the nicotine electronic vaporizer 500 can be controlled by a first button 118 and a second button 120. For example, the first button 118 may be a power button, and the second button 120 may be an intensity button. Although two buttons related to the light guide device are shown in the accompanying drawings, it should be understood that more (or fewer) buttons may be provided depending on the available features and desired user interface.

[0066] Frame 106 (e.g., base frame) is the central support structure of the device body 100 (and the nicotine e-vaping device 500 as a whole). Frame 106 may be referred to as a chassis. Frame 106 includes a proximal end, a distal end, and a pair of side sections between the proximal and distal ends. The proximal and distal ends may also be referred to as the downstream end and the upstream end, respectively. As used herein, "proximal" (and conversely, "distal") refers to the adult vaporizer during vaporization, while "downstream" (and conversely, "upstream") refers to the flow of nicotine vapor. To increase strength and stability, bridging sections (e.g., approximately at the midpoint along the length of frame 106) may be provided between the opposing inner surfaces of the side sections. Frame 106 may be integrally formed, thus becoming a monolithic structure.

[0067] Regarding the construction material, frame 106 can be formed of alloy or plastic. The alloy (e.g., die-casting grade, machinable grade) can be an aluminum (Al) alloy or a zinc (Zn) alloy. The plastic can be polycarbonate (PC), acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS), or a combination thereof (PC / ABS). For example, polycarbonate can be LUPOY SC1004A. Furthermore, for at least one of functional and aesthetic reasons, frame 106 can be provided with a surface finish (e.g., to provide a superior appearance). In an example embodiment, frame 106 (e.g., when formed of an aluminum alloy) can be anodized. In another embodiment, frame 106 (e.g., when formed of a zinc alloy) can be coated with hard enamel or painted. In another embodiment, frame 106 (e.g., when formed of polycarbonate) can be metallized. In yet another embodiment, frame 106 (e.g., when formed of acrylonitrile butadiene styrene) can be electroplated. It should be understood that the construction materials of frame 106 may also be applied to at least one of the front cover 104, rear cover 108, and other suitable parts of the nicotine electronic vaporizer 500.

[0068] The rear cover 108 (e.g., a second cover) also defines an opening configured to receive the frame structure 112. The front cover 104 and the rear cover 108 may be configured to engage with the frame 106 via a snap-fit ​​arrangement.

[0069] The main body 100 of the device also includes a mouthpiece 102. The mouthpiece 102 can be fixed to the proximal end of the frame 106.

[0070] Figure 4 yes Figure 1 A near-end view of a nicotine electronic vaporizer. (Refer to...) Figure 4 The outlet surface of the mouthpiece 102 defines multiple steam outlets. In a non-limiting embodiment, the outlet surface of the mouthpiece 102 may be elliptical.

[0071] Figure 5 yes Figure 1 A view of the distal end of a nicotine electronic vaporizer. (Refer to...) Figure 5 The distal end of the nicotine e-vaping device 500 includes a port 110. Port 110 is configured to receive current from an external power source (e.g., via a USB cable) to charge the internal power supply within the nicotine e-vaping device 500. Furthermore, port 110 can also be configured to send and receive data to another nicotine e-vaping device or other electronic device (e.g., a telephone, tablet, or computer), or to send and receive data (e.g., via a USB cable). Additionally, the nicotine e-vaping device 500 can be configured to wirelessly communicate with another electronic device (e.g., a telephone) via an application installed on that device. In this case, the adult vaper can control the nicotine e-vaping device 500 or otherwise interact with it via the application (e.g., locate the nicotine e-vaping device 500, check usage information, change operating parameters).

[0072] Figure 6 yes Figure 1 A perspective view of a nicotine electronic vaporizer. Figure 7 yes Figure 6 A magnified view of the container inlet. (See reference) Figure 6-7 And as briefly mentioned above, the nicotine e-vapor device 500 includes a container assembly 300 configured to contain a nicotine vapor pre-formulation. The container assembly 300 has an upstream end (facing the light guide device) and a downstream end (facing the mouthpiece 102). In a non-limiting embodiment, the upstream end is the surface of the container assembly 300 opposite the downstream end. The upstream end of the container assembly 300 defines a container inlet 322. The device body 100 defines a through-hole (e.g., Figure 9 The through-hole 150 is configured to receive the container assembly 300. In an example embodiment, the frame structure 112 of the device body 100 defines the through-hole and includes an upstream edge. As shown, particularly in Figure 7 In the middle, the upstream edge of the frame structure 112 is angled (e.g., tilted inward) so as to expose the container inlet 322 when the container assembly 300 is placed in the through hole of the device body 100.

[0073] For example, the upstream edge of the frame structure 112 is configured as a concave scoop to guide ambient air into the container inlet 322, rather than following the shape of the front cover 104 (so as to be flush with the front of the container assembly 300 and thus shield the container inlet 322). This angled / concave scoop configuration can help reduce or prevent clogging of the air inlet (e.g., container inlet 322) of the nicotine e-vapor device 500. The depth of the concave scoop allows less than half (e.g., less than a quarter) of the upstream end face of the container assembly 300 to be exposed. Alternatively, in a non-limiting embodiment, the container inlet 322 is in the form of a slot. Furthermore, if the device body 100 is considered to extend in a first direction, the slot can be considered to extend in a second direction, wherein the second direction is transverse to the first direction.

[0074] Figure 8 yes Figure 6 A cross-sectional view of a nicotine electronic vaporizer. Figure 8 In the figure, the cross-section is taken along the longitudinal axis of the nicotine electronic vaporizer 500. As shown, the device body 100 and container assembly 300 include mechanical components, electronic components, and circuitry associated with the operation of the nicotine electronic vaporizer 500, which will be discussed in more detail herein and incorporated herein by reference. For example, the container assembly 300 may include mechanical components configured to actuate to release a nicotine vapor pre-formulation from a sealed reservoir therein. The container assembly 300 may also have mechanical features configured to engage with the device body 100 to facilitate insertion and placement of the container assembly 300.

[0075] Furthermore, the container assembly 300 can be a "smart container," comprising at least one of electronic components and circuitry configured to store information, receive information from or transmit information to the device body 100, or transmit and receive information from the device body 100. This information can be used to verify the container assembly 300 used with the device body 100 (e.g., to prevent the use of unapproved / counterfeit container assemblies). Additionally, this information can be used to identify the type of the container assembly 300, and then associate that type with a vaporization profile based on the identified type. The vaporization profile can be designed to specify general parameters for heating nicotine vapor pre-preparations and can be adjusted, refined, or otherwise modified by the adult vaporizer before, during, or both before and during vaporization.

[0076] The container assembly 300 can also communicate with the device body 100 to convey other information that may be relevant to the operation of the nicotine e-vapor device 500. Examples of such information may include the level of nicotine pre-vapor formulation within the container assembly 300 and the length of time that has elapsed since the container assembly 300 was inserted into the device body 100 and activated.

[0077] The device body 100 may include mechanical components (e.g., complementary structures) configured to perform operations of engaging, holding, and activating at least one of the container assembly 300. Furthermore, the device body 100 may include at least one of electronic components and circuitry configured to receive current to charge an internal power source (e.g., a battery), which in turn is configured to supply power to the container assembly 300 during vaporization. Additionally, the device body 100 may include at least one of electronic components and circuitry configured to communicate with at least one of the container assembly 300, different nicotine e-vaping devices, other electronic devices (e.g., telephones, tablets, computers), and an adult vaporizer.

[0078] Figure 9 yes Figure 6 A perspective view of the main body of a nicotine electronic vaporizer. (Refer to...) Figure 9 The frame structure 112 of the device body 100 defines a through hole 150. The through hole 150 is configured to receive a container assembly 300. To facilitate the insertion and placement of the container assembly 300 into the through hole 150, the upstream edge of the frame structure 112 includes a first upstream protrusion 128a and a second upstream protrusion 128b.

[0079] The downstream sidewall of the frame structure 112 may define a first downstream opening, a second downstream opening, and a third downstream opening. A retaining structure including a first downstream protrusion 130a and a second downstream protrusion 130b engages with the frame structure 112 such that the first downstream protrusion 130a and the second downstream protrusion 130b protrude through the first downstream opening and the second downstream opening of the frame structure 112, respectively, and enter the through hole 150.

[0080] Figure 10 yes Figure 9 A front view of the main body of the device. (Refer to...) Figure 10 The device body 100 includes a device electrical connector 132 disposed on the upstream side of the through-hole 150. The device electrical connector 132 of the device body 100 is configured to electrically engage with a container assembly 300 disposed within the through-hole 150. As a result, during vapor inhalation, power can be supplied from the device body 100 to the container assembly 300 via the device electrical connector 132. Furthermore, data can be sent to and received from the device body 100 and the container assembly 300, or both, via the device electrical connector 132.

[0081] Figure 11 yes Figure 10 Enlarged perspective view of the through-hole. (Refer to...) Figure 11 The first upstream protrusion 128a, the second upstream protrusion 128b, the first downstream protrusion 130a, the second downstream protrusion 130b, and the distal end of the mouthpiece 102 protrude into the through hole 150. In an example embodiment, the first upstream protrusion 128a and the second upstream protrusion 128b are fixed structures (e.g., fixed pivots), while the first downstream protrusion 130a and the second downstream protrusion 130b are retractable structures (e.g., retractable members). For example, the first downstream protrusion 130a and the second downstream protrusion 130b can be configured (e.g., spring-loaded) to default to an extended state, while also being configured to temporarily transition to a retracted state (and reversibly return to the extended state) to facilitate insertion of the container assembly 300.

[0082] Figure 12 yes Figure 10 Enlarged perspective view of the device electrical contacts. The device electrical contacts of the device body 100 are configured to engage with the container electrical contacts of the container assembly 300 when the container assembly 300 is disposed within the through-hole 150 of the device body 100. (Refer to...) Figure 12 The device body 100 includes a device electrical connector 132 as its electrical contacts. The device electrical connector 132 includes power contacts and data contacts. The power contacts of the device electrical connector 132 are configured to supply power from the device body 100 to the container assembly 300. As shown, the power contacts of the device electrical connector 132 include a first pair of power contacts and a second pair of power contacts (they are positioned closer to the front cover 104 than the rear cover 108). The first pair of power contacts (e.g., the pair adjacent to the first upstream protrusion 128a) may be a single integral structure different from the second pair of power contacts and includes two protrusions extending into the through-hole 150 during assembly. Similarly, the second pair of power contacts (e.g., the pair adjacent to the second upstream protrusion 128b) may be a single integral structure different from the first pair of power contacts and includes two protrusions extending into the through-hole 150 during assembly. The first pair of power contacts and the second pair of power contacts of the device electrical connector 132 can be retractably mounted and biased to extend into the through hole 150 by default and retract from the through hole 150 (e.g., independently) when subjected to a force that overcomes the bias.

[0083] Figure 13 yes Figure 6 A perspective view of the container assembly of a nicotine electronic vaporizer. Figure 14 yes Figure 13 Another perspective of the container component.

[0084] Figure 13 yes Figure 6A perspective view of the container assembly of a nicotine electronic vaporizer. Figure 14 yes Figure 13 Another perspective of the container component. (See reference) Figure 13 and Figure 14 The container assembly 300 for a nicotine e-vaping device 500 includes a container body configured to contain a nicotine vapor pre-preparation. Therefore, the container assembly 300 is an example of a nicotine vapor pre-preparation storage portion of the nicotine e-vaping device 500. The container body has an upstream end and a downstream end. The upstream end of the container body defines a container inlet 322. The downstream end of the container body defines a container outlet 304, which is in fluid communication with the container inlet 322 at the upstream end. During vaporization, air enters the container assembly 300 via the container inlet 322, and vapor exits the container assembly 300 via the container outlet 304. The container inlet 322 is shown in the figures as a trough. However, it should be understood that the exemplary embodiment is not limited to this, and other forms are possible.

[0085] Container component 300 includes connector module 320 (e.g., Figure 16 The connector module is disposed within the container body and exposed by an opening in the upstream end. The outer surface of the connector module 320 includes at least one electrical contact. The at least one electrical contact may include multiple power contacts. For example, the multiple power contacts may include a first power contact 324a and a second power contact 324b. The first power contact 324a of the container assembly 300 is configured to contact the first power contact of the device electrical connector 132 of the device body 100 (e.g., adjacent to...). Figure 12 The first upstream protrusion 128a in the container assembly 300 is electrically connected to the power contact of the device electrical connector 132 of the device body 100 (e.g., adjacent to the power contact of the first upstream protrusion 128a). Similarly, the second power contact 324b of the container assembly 300 is configured to connect to the second power contact of the device electrical connector 132 of the device body 100 (e.g., adjacent to the power contact of the first upstream protrusion 128a in the container assembly 300). Figure 12 The second upstream protrusion 128b in the container assembly 300 is electrically connected to the power contact. Furthermore, at least one electrical contact of the container assembly 300 includes a plurality of data contacts 326. The plurality of data contacts 326 of the container assembly 300 are configured to connect with the data contacts of the device electrical connector 132 (e.g., ...). Figure 12 The five protrusions in the middle are electrically connected. Although two power contacts and five data contacts associated with the container assembly 300 are shown, it should be understood that other variations are possible depending on the design of the device body 100.

[0086] In an example implementation, container assembly 300 includes a front side, a back side opposite the front side, a first side side between the front and back sides, a second side side opposite the first side side, an upstream end face, and a downstream end face opposite the upstream end face. The corners of the sides and end faces (e.g., the corner between the first side side and the upstream end face, the corner between the upstream end face and the second side side, the corner between the second side side and the downstream end face, and the corner between the downstream end face and the first side side) may be rounded. However, in some cases, the corners may be angled. Furthermore, the peripheral edge of the front side may be in the form of a flange. The outer surface of connector module 320 (exposed by the container body) can be considered part of the upstream end face of container assembly 300. The front side of container assembly 300 may be wider and longer than the back side. In this case, the first and second side sides may be angled inwards toward each other. The upstream and downstream end faces may also be angled inwards toward each other. Due to the angled surfaces, insertion of container assembly 300 will be unidirectional (e.g., from the front side of device body 100 (the side associated with front cover 104)). As a result, the possibility of the container assembly 300 being incorrectly inserted into the device body 100 can be reduced or prevented.

[0087] As shown in the figure, the container body of the container assembly 300 includes a first housing segment 302 and a second housing segment 308. The first housing segment 302 has a downstream end defining a container outlet 304. The edge of the container outlet 304 may optionally be a recessed or recessed region. In this case, the region may resemble a recess, wherein the side of the edge adjacent to the back of the container assembly 300 can be opened, while the side of the edge adjacent to the front can be surrounded by a protrusion at the downstream end of the first housing segment 302. The protrusion may act as a stop for the distal end of the mouthpiece 102. As a result, this configuration of the container outlet 304 can facilitate receiving and aligning the distal end of the mouthpiece 102 (e.g., via the open side of the edge) Figure 11 This facilitates its subsequent placement against a protrusion at the downstream end of the first housing section 302. In a non-limiting embodiment, when the container assembly 300 is properly inserted into the through-hole 150 of the device body 100, the distal end of the mouthpiece 102 may also include an elastic material (or be formed of an elastic material) to facilitate the formation of a seal around the container outlet 304.

[0088] The downstream end of the first housing section 302 further defines at least one downstream recess. In an example embodiment, the at least one downstream recess is in the form of a first downstream recess 306a and a second downstream recess 306b. The container outlet 304 may be located between the first downstream recess 306a and the second downstream recess 306b. The first downstream recess 306a and the second downstream recess 306b are configured to engage with a first downstream protrusion 130a and a second downstream protrusion 130b of the device body 100, respectively. Figure 11As shown, the first downstream protrusion 130a and the second downstream protrusion 130b of the device body 100 can be disposed on adjacent corners of the downstream sidewall of the through hole 150. The first downstream recess 306a and the second downstream recess 306b can each be in the form of a V-shaped notch. In this case, each of the first downstream protrusion 130a and the second downstream protrusion 130b of the device body 100 can be in the form of a wedge structure, which is configured to engage with the corresponding V-shaped notch in the first downstream recess 306a and the second downstream recess 306b. The first downstream recess 306a can abut the corner and the first side of the downstream end face, while the second downstream recess 306b can abut the corner and the second side of the downstream end face. As a result, the edges of the first and second side faces of the first downstream recess 306a and the second downstream recess 306b can be opened respectively. In this case, as Figure 14 As shown, each of the first downstream recess 306a and the second downstream recess 306b can be a three-sided recess.

[0089] The second housing section 308 has an upstream end that further defines (in addition to the container inlet 322) a plurality of openings (e.g., a first electrical contact opening 325a, a second electrical contact opening 325b, and a data contact opening 327), which are configured to expose the connector module 320 within the container assembly 300. Figure 15-16 The upstream end of the second housing section 308 defines at least one upstream recess. In an example embodiment, the at least one upstream recess is in the form of a first upstream recess 312a and a second upstream recess 312b. A container inlet 322 may be located between the first upstream recess 312a and the second upstream recess 312b. The first upstream recess 312a and the second upstream recess 312b are configured to engage with a first upstream protrusion 128a and a second upstream protrusion 128b of the device body 100, respectively. Figure 12As shown, the first upstream protrusion 128a and the second upstream protrusion 128b of the device body 100 can be disposed on adjacent corners of the upstream sidewall of the through hole 150. The depth of each of the first upstream recess 312a and the second upstream recess 312b can be greater than the depth of each of the first downstream recess 306a and the second downstream recess 306b. The end of each of the first upstream recess 312a and the second upstream recess 312b can also be more rounded than the end of each of the first downstream recess 306a and the second downstream recess 306b. For example, the first upstream recess 312a and the second upstream recess 312b can each be in the form of a U-shaped indentation. In this case, each of the first upstream protrusion 128a and the second upstream protrusion 128b of the device body 100 can be in the form of a circular knob, which is configured to engage with the corresponding U-shaped indentation in the first upstream recess 312a and the second upstream recess 312b. The first upstream recess 312a may be adjacent to the corner and the first side surface of the upstream end face, while the second upstream recess 312b may be adjacent to the corner and the second side surface of the upstream end face. As a result, the edges of the first and second side surfaces adjacent to the first and second upstream recesses 312a and 312b, respectively, can be opened.

[0090] The first housing section 302 may define therein a reservoir configured to contain a nicotine vapor pre-preparation. The reservoir may be configured to hermetically seal the nicotine vapor pre-preparation until the container assembly 300 is activated to release the nicotine vapor pre-preparation from the reservoir. As a result of the hermetically sealed design, the nicotine vapor pre-preparation may be isolated from the environment and from the internal components of the container assembly 300 that may potentially react with the nicotine vapor pre-preparation, thereby reducing or preventing the possibility of adverse effects on at least one of the shelf life and sensory characteristics (e.g., taste) of the nicotine vapor pre-preparation. The second housing section 308 may include a structure configured to activate the container assembly 300 and, upon activation, receive and heat the nicotine vapor pre-preparation released from the reservoir.

[0091] The container assembly 300 can be manually activated by an adult vaporizer before being inserted into the device body 100. Alternatively, the container assembly 300 can be activated as part of the insertion into the device body 100. In an example embodiment, the second housing section 308 of the container body includes a perforator configured to release a pre-nicotine vapor formulation from a reservoir in the first housing section 302 during activation of the container assembly 300. The perforator may take the form of a first activation pin 314a and a second activation pin 314b, which will be discussed in more detail herein.

[0092] To manually activate the container assembly 300, an adult vapor user can press the first activation pin 314a and the second activation pin 314b inward (e.g., simultaneously or sequentially) before inserting the container assembly 300 into the through-hole 150 of the device body 100. For example, the first activation pin 314a and the second activation pin 314b can be manually pressed until their ends are substantially flush with the upstream end face of the container assembly 300. In an example embodiment, inward movement of the first activation pin 314a and the second activation pin 314b results in the reservoir seal being punctured or otherwise damaged, thereby releasing the nicotine vapor pre-formulation therefrom.

[0093] Alternatively, as part of inserting the container assembly 300 into the device body 100, in order to activate the container assembly 300, the container assembly 300 is initially positioned such that the first upstream recess 312a and the second upstream recess 312b engage (e.g., upstream engagement) with the first upstream protrusion 128a and the second upstream protrusion 128b, respectively. Since each of the first upstream protrusion 128a and the second upstream protrusion 128b of the device body 100 can be in the form of a circular knob configured to engage with a corresponding U-shaped notch in the first upstream recess 312a and the second upstream recess 312b, the container assembly 300 can then be relatively easily pivoted into the through-hole 150 of the device body 100 about the first upstream protrusion 128a and the second upstream protrusion 128b.

[0094] Regarding the pivoting of the container assembly 300, the axis of rotation can be considered to extend through the first upstream protrusion 128a and the second upstream protrusion 128b and be orthogonal to the longitudinal axis of the device body 100. During the initial positioning and subsequent pivoting of the container assembly 300, as the container assembly 300 enters the through-hole 150, the first actuating pin 314a and the second actuating pin 314b will contact the upstream sidewall of the through-hole 150 and will change from an extended state to a retracted state when the first actuating pin 314a and the second actuating pin 314b are pushed into (e.g., simultaneously) the second housing section 308. When the downstream end of the container assembly 300 reaches the vicinity of the downstream sidewall of the through-hole 150 and contacts the first downstream protrusion 130a and the second downstream protrusion 130b, the first downstream protrusion 130a and the second downstream protrusion 130b will retract and then elastically extend (e.g., spring back) as the positioning of the container assembly 300 allows the first downstream protrusion 130a and the second downstream protrusion 130b of the device body 100 to engage with the first downstream recess 306a and the second downstream recess 306b of the container assembly 300, respectively.

[0095] As described above, according to the example embodiment, the mouthpiece 102 is secured to the retaining structure 140 (of which the first downstream protrusion 130a and the second downstream protrusion 130b are part). In this case, the retraction of the first downstream protrusion 130a and the second downstream protrusion 130b from the through-hole 150 will cause the mouthpiece 102 to simultaneously shift by a corresponding distance in the same direction (e.g., downstream direction). Conversely, when the container assembly 300 has been fully inserted for downstream engagement, the mouthpiece 102 will spring back simultaneously with the first downstream protrusion 130a and the second downstream protrusion 130b. When the container assembly 300 is properly positioned within the through-hole 150 of the device body 100, in addition to the elastic engagement of the first downstream protrusion 130a and the second downstream protrusion 130b, the distal end of the mouthpiece 102 is also configured to be biased against the container assembly 300 (and aligned with the container outlet 304 to form a relatively airtight seal).

[0096] Furthermore, downstream engagement can produce at least one of an audible click and tactile feedback to indicate that the container assembly 300 is correctly positioned within the through-hole 150 of the device body 100. When correctly positioned, the container assembly 300 will be mechanically, electrically, and fluidly connected to the device body 100. Although the non-limiting embodiments herein describe upstream engagement of the container assembly 300 that occurs prior to downstream engagement, it should be understood that the associated mating, activation, and / or electrical arrangements can be reversed such that downstream engagement occurs prior to upstream engagement.

[0097] Figure 15 yes Figure 13 A partial exploded view of the container component. (See reference...) Figure 15 The first housing section 302 includes a steam passage 316. The steam passage 316 is configured to receive steam generated during vapor extraction and is in fluid communication with the container outlet 304. In an example embodiment, the dimensions (e.g., diameter) of the steam passage 316 gradually increase as it extends toward the container outlet 304. Furthermore, the steam passage 316 may be integrally formed with the first housing section 302. An insert 342 and a seal 344 are disposed at the upstream end of the first housing section 302 to define a reservoir of the container assembly 300. For example, the insert 342 may be disposed within the first housing section 302 such that the peripheral surface of the insert 342 engages along an edge (e.g., via an interference fit) with the inner surface of the first housing section 302, such that the interface between the peripheral surface of the insert 342 and the inner surface of the first housing section 302 is fluid-tight (e.g., at least one of liquid-tight and air-tight). In addition, the seal 344 is attached to the upstream side of the insert 342 to close the reservoir outlet in the insert 342 so as to accommodate a fluid seal (e.g., at least one of a liquid seal and an air seal) for providing the nicotine vapor pre-preparation in the reservoir.

[0098] The upstream end of the second housing section 308 defines a container inlet 322, a first electrical contact opening 325a, a second electrical contact opening 325b, a data contact opening 327, a first upstream recess 312a, a second upstream recess 312b, a first pin opening 315a, and a second pin opening 315b. As described above, the container inlet 322 allows air to enter the container assembly 300 during vapor extraction, while the first electrical contact opening 325a, the second electrical contact opening 325b, and the data contact opening 327 are configured to expose the first electrical contact 324a, the second electrical contact 324b, and the data contact 326 of the connector module 320, respectively. In an example embodiment, the first electrical contact 324a and the second electrical contact 324b are mounted on the module housing 354 of the connector module 320. Additionally, the data contact 326 may be disposed on a printed circuit board (PCB) 362. Furthermore, the container inlet 322 may be located between the first upstream recess 312a and the second upstream recess 312b, while the contact openings (e.g., the first electrical contact opening 325a, the second electrical contact opening 325b, and the data contact opening 327) may be located between the first pin opening 315a and the second pin opening 315b. The first pin opening 315a and the second pin opening 315b are configured to accommodate the first start pin 314a and the second start pin 314b extending therethrough, respectively.

[0099] Figure 16 yes Figure 15 A perspective view of the connector module. Figure 17 yes Figure 16 Another perspective view of the connector module. (Refer to...) Figure 16-17 The overall frame of connector module 320 includes module housing 354. Additionally, connector module 320 has multiple surfaces, including an outer surface and side surfaces adjacent to the outer surface. In an example embodiment, the outer surface of connector module 320 is formed by module housing 354, first power contact 324a, second power contact 324b, data contact 326, and the upstream surface of printed circuit board (PCB) 362. The side surfaces of connector module 320 may be integral parts of module housing 354 and are generally orthogonal to the outer surface.

[0100] Container assembly 300 defines a flow path from container inlet 322 to container outlet 304. The flow path through container assembly 300 includes a first branch portion, a second branch portion, and a converging portion. Container inlet 322 is upstream of the first and second branch portions of the flow path. Specifically, as... Figure 16As shown, the sides (e.g., inlet sides) above the first power contacts 324a and 324b of the module housing 354 (and connector module 320) are recessed to define a separator 329 together with the initial segments of the first and second branch portions of the flow path. The separator 329 extends from the outer surface of the module housing 354 (e.g., Figure 16 In the recessed example embodiment, the side above the first power contact 324a and the second power contact 324b of the module housing 354 can also be regarded as an inlet portion defining the flow path, which is downstream of the container inlet 322 and upstream of the first branch portion and the second branch portion of the flow path.

[0101] The pair of longer sides (e.g., vertical sides) of the module housing 354 are also recessed to define subsequent segments of the first and second branch portions of the flow path. In this document, the pair of longer sides of the module housing 354 may be referred to as lateral surfaces in an alternative manner. Figure 16 In China (but in Figure 20 (As shown in the diagram) Sectors of the module housing 354, covered by a printed circuit board (PCB) 362, define a first branch portion and other segments of the second branch portion, as well as a converging portion of the flow path. The other segments of the first and second branch portions respectively include a first curved segment (e.g., a first curved path 330a) and a second curved segment (e.g., a second curved path 330b). As will be discussed in more detail herein, the first and second branch portions converge to form the converging portion of the flow path.

[0102] When the connector module 320 is placed within the receiving cavity in the downstream side of the second housing section 308, the non-recessed side of the module housing 354 abuts against the sidewall of the receiving cavity in the second housing section 308, while the recessed side of the module housing 354, together with the sidewall of the receiving cavity, defines a first branch portion and a second branch portion of the flow path. The connector module 320 can be placed within the receiving cavity of the second housing section 308 via a close-fitting arrangement, such that the connector module 320 is substantially fixed within the container assembly 300.

[0103] like Figure 17As shown, connector module 320 includes a core 338 configured to transfer a nicotine vapor pre-preparation to heater 336. Heater 336 is configured to heat the nicotine vapor pre-preparation during vaporization to generate nicotine vapor. Heater 336 is electrically connected to at least one electrical contact of connector module 320. For example, one end of heater 336 (e.g., a first end) may be connected to a first electrical contact 324a, while the other end of heater 336 (e.g., a second end) may be connected to a second electrical contact 324b. In an example embodiment, heater 336 includes a folded heating element. In this case, core 338 may have a planar form, configured to be held by the folded heating element. When container assembly 300 is assembled, core 338 is configured to be in fluid communication with absorbent material, such that nicotine vapor pre-preparation in the absorbent material (when container assembly 300 is activated) is transferred to core 338 via capillary action. In this specification, heater may also be referred to as a heating engine.

[0104] In an example implementation, the incoming airflow entering the container assembly 300 through the container inlet 322 is guided by a separator 329 into a first branch and a second branch of the flow path. The separator 329 may be wedge-shaped and configured to split the incoming airflow in opposite directions (e.g., at least initially). The split airflow may include a first airflow (traveling through the first branch of the flow path) and a second airflow (traveling through the second branch of the flow path). After being split by the separator 329, the first airflow travels along the inlet side and continues around a corner to a first lateral surface and along the first lateral surface to a first curved path 330a. Similarly, the second airflow travels along the inlet side and continues around a corner to a second lateral surface and along the second lateral surface to a second curved path 330b (e.g., Figure 20 The converging portion of the flow path is downstream of the first and second branch portions. Heater 336 and core 338 are downstream of the converging portion of the flow path. Therefore, in the converging portion of the flow path (e.g., Figure 20 In the convergence path 330c, the first airflow combines with the second airflow to exit at the module outlet 368 (e.g., in the module housing 354) through the module housing 354. Figure 18 (marked in the middle) forms a combined flow before heater 336 and core 338.

[0105] According to at least some exemplary embodiments, the core 338 may be a fiber pad or other structure having holes / voids designed for capillary action. Additionally, the core 338 may have a rectangular shape, but the exemplary embodiments are not limited thereto. For example, the core 338 may have an alternative shape of an irregular hexagon, with two sides facing inward and angled toward the heater 336. The core 338 may be formed into the desired shape or cut from a larger sheet into such a shape. When the lower section of the core 338 tapers toward the winding section of the heater 336 (e.g., a hexagonal shape), the possibility of nicotine vapor pre-prepared formulations continuously avoiding evaporation in a portion of the core 338 (due to its distance from the heater 336) can be reduced or avoided. Furthermore, as described above, the heater 336 may include a folded heating element configured to hold the core 338. This folded heating element may also include at least one tip configured to protrude into the core 338.

[0106] In an example embodiment, heater 336 is configured to undergo Joule heating (also known as ohmic / resistive heating) when an electric current is applied thereto. More specifically, heater 336 may be formed of one or more conductors and is configured to generate heat when an electric current passes through it. The current may be supplied from a power source (e.g., a battery) within device body 100 and transmitted to heater 336 via a first electrical contact 324a or a second electrical contact 324b.

[0107] The conductor suitable for heater 336 includes at least one of iron-based alloys (e.g., stainless steel) and nickel-based alloys (e.g., nickel-chromium alloy). Heater 336 may be made of a conductive sheet (e.g., metal, alloy) that is stamped to cut a winding pattern therefrom. The winding pattern may have curved segments arranged alternately with horizontal segments, allowing the horizontal segments to bend back and forth while extending parallel. Furthermore, the width of each horizontal segment of the winding pattern may be substantially equal to the spacing between adjacent horizontal segments of the winding pattern, but the example embodiments are not limited to this. To obtain the form of heater 336 shown in the figures, the winding pattern can be folded to clamp the core 338. Additionally, when the tip is part of heater 336, the protrusions corresponding to the tip are bent (e.g., at least one of inward and orthogonal) before folding the winding pattern. Due to the tip, the likelihood of the core 338 slipping out of heater 336 is reduced or prevented. The heater and related structures are discussed in more detail in U.S. Application No. 15 / 729,909, filed October 11, 2017, entitled “Folded Heater For Electronic Vaping Device,” the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference.

[0108] Reference Figure 15The first housing section 302 includes a vapor passage 316. The vapor passage 316 is configured to receive nicotine vapor generated by the heater 336 and is in fluid communication with the container outlet 304. In an example embodiment, the dimensions (e.g., diameter) of the vapor passage 316 gradually increase as it extends toward the container outlet 304. Furthermore, the vapor passage 316 may be integrally formed with the first housing section 302. An insert 342 and a seal 344 are disposed at the upstream end of the first housing section 302 to define a reservoir of the container assembly 300. For example, the insert 342 may be disposed within the first housing section 302 such that the peripheral surface of the insert 342 engages along an edge (e.g., via an interference fit) with the inner surface of the first housing section 302, such that the interface between the peripheral surface of the insert 342 and the inner surface of the first housing section 302 is fluid-tight (e.g., at least one of liquid-tight and air-tight). Furthermore, a seal 344 is attached to the upstream side of the insert 342 to close the reservoir outlet in the insert 342, so as to provide fluid-tight (e.g., at least one of a liquid seal and an air seal) containment of the nicotine vapor preformation in the reservoir. In this document, the first housing section 302, the insert 342, and the seal 344 may be collectively referred to as the first section. As will be discussed in more detail herein, the first section is configured to hermetically seal the nicotine vapor preformation until the container assembly 300 is activated.

[0109] According to at least some example embodiments, the insert 342 includes a retainer portion projecting from an upstream side and a connector portion projecting from a downstream side. According to at least some example embodiments, the retainer portion of the insert 342 is configured to receive absorbent material, while the connector portion of the insert 342 is configured to engage with a vapor passage 316 of the first housing section 302. The connector portion of the insert 342 may be configured to be disposed within the vapor passage 316 and thus engage the interior of the vapor passage 316. Alternatively, the connector portion of the insert 342 may be configured to receive the vapor passage 316 and thus engage with the exterior of the vapor passage 316. The insert 342 also defines a reservoir outlet through which a nicotine vapor pre-prepared formulation flows when the seal 344 is punctured during startup of the container assembly 300. The retainer portion and the connector portion of the insert 342 may be located between the reservoir outlets (e.g., a first reservoir outlet and a second reservoir outlet), but the example embodiments are not limited to this. Furthermore, the insert 342 defines a steam conduit extending through the retainer portion and the connector portion. As a result, when the insert 342 is positioned within the first housing section 302, the steam conduit of the insert 342 will be aligned with and in fluid communication with the steam passage 316 to form a continuous path through the reservoir to the container outlet 304 for the nicotine vapor generated by the heater 336 during vaporization.

[0110] A seal 344 is attached to the upstream side of an insert 342 to cover the reservoir outlet in the insert 342. In an example embodiment, the seal 344 defines an opening (e.g., a central opening) configured to provide adequate clearance to accommodate a retainer portion (which protrudes from the upstream side of the insert 342) when the seal 344 is attached to the insert 342. When the seal 344 is pierced by the first actuating pin 314a and the second actuating pin 314b of the container assembly 300, the two pierced sections of the seal 344 are pushed into the reservoir as flaps, thus forming two pierced openings in the seal 344 (e.g., one on each side of the central opening). The size and shape of the pierced openings in the seal 344 may correspond to the size and shape of the reservoir outlet in the insert 342. Conversely, when in an unpierced state, the seal 344 will have a planar form and only one opening (e.g., a central opening). The seal 344 is designed to be robust enough to remain intact during normal movement and operation of the container assembly 300, thereby preventing premature or unintentional breakage. For example, the seal 344 may be a coated foil (e.g., aluminum-backed Tritan).

[0111] The second housing section 308 is configured to include various components configured to release, receive, and heat the nicotine vapor pre-formulation. For example, the first actuating pin 314a and the second actuating pin 314b are configured to pierce a reservoir in the first housing section 302 to release the nicotine vapor pre-formulation. Each of the first actuating pin 314a and the second actuating pin 314b has a distal end extending through a corresponding one of the first pin opening 315a and the second pin opening 315b in the second housing section 308. In an example embodiment, the distal ends of the first actuating pin 314a and the second actuating pin 314b are visible after assembly (e.g., Figure 13 The remainder of the first actuating pin 314a and the second actuating pin 314b are concealed within the container assembly 300 and are not visible. Furthermore, each of the first actuating pin 314a and the second actuating pin 314b has a proximal end positioned adjacent to and upstream of the seal 344 prior to actuation of the container assembly 300. When the first actuating pin 314a and the second actuating pin 314b are pushed into the second housing section 308 to actuate the container assembly 300, the proximal end of each of the first actuating pin 314a and the second actuating pin 314b will advance through the insert 342, resulting in piercing the seal 344, which will release the nicotine vapor preformation from the reservoir. Movement of the first actuating pin 314a can be independent of movement of the second actuating pin 314b (and vice versa).

[0112] The absorbent material can be downstream of and in fluid communication with the core 338. Furthermore, as described above, the absorbent material is configured to engage with the retainer portion of the insert 342 (which can protrude from the upstream side of the insert 342). The absorbent material can be annular, but the example embodiments are not limited thereto. For example, the absorbent material can resemble a hollow cylinder. In this case, the outer diameter of the absorbent material can be substantially equal to (or slightly larger than) the length of the core 338. The inner diameter of the absorbent material can be smaller than the average outer diameter of the retainer portion of the insert 342 to create an interference fit. To facilitate engagement with the absorbent material, the tip of the retainer portion of the insert 342 can be tapered. The absorbent material can be configured to receive and contain a certain amount of nicotine vapor pre-formulation released from the reservoir upon activation of the container assembly 300. The core 338 can be positioned within the container assembly 300 in fluid communication with the absorbent material, such that the nicotine vapor pre-formulation can be drawn from the absorbent material to the heater 336 via capillary action. The core 338 can be in physical contact with the upstream side of the absorbent material. Additionally, the core 338 can be aligned with the diameter of the absorbent material, but the example implementation is not limited to this.

[0113] like Figure 17 As shown, heater 336 may have a folded configuration to clamp the opposing surfaces of core 338 and establish thermal contact with these opposing surfaces. Heater 336 is configured to heat core 338 during vaporization to generate nicotine vapor. To facilitate this heating, a first end of heater 336 may be electrically connected to a first electrical contact 324a. Figure 16 and Figure 18 The second end of heater 336 can be electrically connected to the second power contact 324b. Figure 16 and Figure 18 As a result, current can be supplied from a power source (e.g., a battery) within the device body 100 and transmitted to the heater 336 via the first power contact 324a or via the second power contact 324b. For the sake of brevity, this has already been discussed above (e.g., in conjunction with...). Figure 16-17 Other details regarding the connector module 320 will not be repeated in this section. In an example embodiment, the second housing section 308 includes a receiving cavity for the connector module 320. The second housing section 308 and the aforementioned components located therein are collectively referred to as the second section. During vaporization, nicotine vapor generated by the heater 336 is drawn through the steam conduit of the insert 342, through the steam passage 316 of the first housing section 302, out of the container outlet 304 of the container assembly 300, and through the steam passage 136 of the mouthpiece 102 to reach the steam outlet.

[0114] Figure 18 yes Figure 17 A perspective view of the connector module without a core and heater. Figure 19 yes Figure 18 An exploded view of the connector module. Figure 20 yes Figure 18 Another exploded view of the connector module. (Refer to...) Figure 18-20 The module housing 354 forms the frame of the connector module 320. The module housing 354 defines the separator 329 and the flow path for air drawn into the container assembly 300. The heating chamber is in fluid communication with the flow path in the upstream side of the module housing 354 via the module outlet 368.

[0115] As described above, the flow path of the air drawn into the container assembly 300 includes a first branch portion, a second branch portion, and a converging portion defined by the module housing 354. In the example embodiment, the first branch portion and the second branch portion are symmetrical portions bisected by the axis of the converging portion corresponding to the flow path. For example, as Figure 20 As shown, the first branch portion, the second branch portion, and the converging portion may respectively include a first curved path 330a, a second curved path 330b, and a converging path 330c. The first curved path 330a and the second curved path 330b may be substantially U-shaped paths, while the converging path 330c may be substantially linear paths. Based on an axis corresponding to the converging path 330c and aligned with the top of the separator 329, the first branch portion of the flow path may be a mirror image of the second branch portion of the flow path. During vapor fumigation, the air drawn in through the container inlet 322 may be separated by the separator 329 and initially flow away from the separator 329 in opposite directions, then flow in parallel, and then each airflow makes a U-turn (via the first curved path 330a and the second curved path 330b) and converges into a combined flow (via the converging path 330c), which returns towards the separator 329 before reaching the heating chamber through the module outlet 368. Heater 336 and core 338 can be positioned such that both sides are exposed substantially equally to the combined airflow passing through module outlet 368. During vaporization, the generated nicotine vapor is entrained by the combined airflow traveling through the heating chamber to vapor passage 316.

[0116] like Figures 19-20 As shown, each of the first power contact 324a and the second power contact 324b may include a contact surface and a contact leg. The contact leg (which may have an elongated configuration) may be orthogonally oriented relative to the contact surface (which may be square), but the example embodiment is not limited thereto. The module housing 354 may define a pair of shallow recesses and a pair of orifices to facilitate the mounting of the first power contact 324a and the second power contact 324b. During assembly, the contact surface of each of the first power contact 324a and the second power contact 324b may be positioned in a corresponding one of the pair of shallow recesses so as to be substantially flush with the outer surface of the module housing 354 (e.g., Figure 16Additionally, the contact leg of each of the first power contact 324a and the second power contact 324b may extend through a corresponding one of a pair of orifices to protrude from the downstream side of the module housing 354 (e.g., Figure 18 The heater 336 can then be connected to the contact legs of each of the first power contact 324a and the second power contact 324b.

[0117] Printed circuit board (PCB) 362 on its upstream side (e.g., Figure 20 This includes multiple data contacts 326, and on its downstream side (e.g., Figure 19 The module includes multiple electronic components, including sensor 364. Sensor 364 can be positioned on a printed circuit board (PCB) 362 such that sensor 364 is within a convergence path 330c defined by module housing 354. In an example embodiment, the printed circuit board (PCB) 362 (and associated components fixed thereon) is a separate structure that is initially inserted into a receiving cavity in the downstream side of the second housing segment 308 such that data contact 326 is exposed by data contact opening 327 of the second housing segment 308. Subsequently, module housing 354 (having a first power contact 324a, a second power contact 324b, a heater 336, and a core 338 mounted thereon) can be inserted into the receiving cavity such that the first power contact 324a and the second power contact 324b are exposed by the first power contact opening 325a and the second power contact opening 325b of the second housing segment 308, respectively. Alternatively, in order to simplify the above two-step insertion process into a one-step insertion process, it should be understood that the printed circuit board (PCB) 362 (and related components fixed thereon) may be attached to the module housing 354 (e.g., to form a single integrated structure) to cover the first bending path 330a, the second bending path 330b, the convergence path 330c and the module outlet 368.

[0118] The module outlet 368 can be a suction resistance (RTD) port. In this configuration, the suction resistance of the nicotine e-vaping device 500 can be adjusted by changing the size of the module outlet 368 (rather than changing the size of the container inlet 322). In an example embodiment, the size of the module outlet 368 can be selected such that the suction resistance is between 25 and 100 mm water column (e.g., between 30 and 50 mm water column). For example, a module outlet 368 with a diameter of 1.0 mm can produce a suction resistance of 88.3 mm water column. In another case, a module outlet 368 with a diameter of 1.1 mm can produce a suction resistance of 73.6 mm water column. In yet another case, a module outlet 368 with a diameter of 1.2 mm can produce a suction resistance of 58.7 mm water column. In yet another case, a module outlet 368 with a diameter of 1.3 mm can produce a suction resistance of approximately 40 to 43 mm water column. In particular, due to the internal arrangement of the module outlet 368, its size can be adjusted without affecting the external aesthetics of the container assembly 300, thereby allowing for more standardized product designs for container assemblies with various suction resistances (RTDs), while also reducing the possibility of unintentionally blocking the entry of air.

[0119] Figure 21A A device system 2100 according to an example embodiment of the device body 100 is shown. The device system 2100 may be a system within the device body 100 of the nicotine electronic vapor device 500.

[0120] Device system 2100 includes a controller 2105, a power supply 2110, actuator controls 2115, a container electrical / data interface 2120, device sensors 2125, an input / output (I / O) interface 2130, a vapor user indicator 2135, at least one antenna 2140, and a storage medium 2145. Device system 2100 is not limited to... Figure 21A The features shown are illustrated. For example, device system 2100 may include additional elements. However, for the sake of brevity, additional elements are not described. In other example embodiments, device system 2100 may not include an antenna.

[0121] The controller 2105 can be hardware, firmware, hardware executing software, or any combination thereof. When the controller 2105 is hardware, such existing hardware may include one or more central processing units (CPUs), microprocessors, processor cores, multiprocessors, digital signal processors (DSPs), application-specific integrated circuits (ASICs), field-programmable gate arrays (FPGAs), or computers configured as dedicated machines to perform the functions of the controller 2105. CPUs, microprocessors, processor cores, multiprocessors, DSPs, ASICs, and FPGAs are generally referred to as processing devices.

[0122] In cases where controller 2105 is or includes a processor executing software, controller 2105 is configured as a dedicated machine (e.g., a processing device) to execute software stored in memory accessible to controller 2105 (e.g., storage medium 2145 or another storage device) to perform the functions of controller 2105. The software may be embodied in program code, including instructions for performing or controlling any or all operations described herein as being performed by controller 2105 or controller 2105A. Figure 21B ).

[0123] As disclosed herein, the terms "storage medium," "computer-readable storage medium," or "non-transitory computer-readable storage medium" can refer to one or more means for storing data, including at least one of read-only memory (ROM), random access memory (RAM), magnetic RAM, magnetic core memory, magnetic disk storage media, optical storage media, flash memory devices, and other tangible machine-readable media for storing information. The term "computer-readable medium" may include, but is not limited to, portable or fixed storage devices, optical storage devices, and various other media capable of storing, containing, or carrying at least one of instructions and data.

[0124] Figure 21B An example of controller 2105A according to an example implementation is shown. According to one example implementation, Figure 21B The controller 2105A shown is Figure 21A The example embodiment of controller 2105 shown is illustrated. Controller 2105A may be or include a microprocessor. Furthermore, controller 2105A may include input / output interfaces, such as general purpose input / output (GPIO) and interconnect circuitry (I / O). 2 C) Interfaces such as the Serial Peripheral Interface (SPI) bus; multi-channel analog-to-digital converters (ADCs); and clock input terminals, such as... Figure 21B As shown in the example. However, exemplary embodiments should not be limited to this example. For example, controller 2105A may also include a digital-to-analog converter and an arithmetic circuit system or circuit.

[0125] return Figure 21A The controller 2105 communicates with a power supply 2110, actuator controls 2115, a container electrical / data interface 2120, device sensors 2125, an input / output (I / O) interface 2130, a vapor user indicator 2135, on-product controls 2150, and at least one antenna 2140. According to at least some example embodiments, the on-product controls 2150 may include any one or more devices capable of being manually operated by an adult vapor user to indicate value selection. Exemplary embodiments include, but are not limited to, one or more buttons, dials, capacitive sensors, and sliders.

[0126] Controller 2105 communicates with a cryptographic coprocessor (CC-NVM) or non-volatile memory (NVM) in container assembly 300 via container electrical / data interface 2120. The term CC-NVM can refer to one or more hardware modules, including a processor and NVM for encryption and related processing. More specifically, controller 2105 can utilize encryption to authenticate container assembly 300. As will be described, controller 2105 communicates with a CC-NVM packet or NVM to authenticate container assembly 300. More specifically, the non-volatile memory can be encoded with product and other information during manufacturing for authentication.

[0127] The memory device can be electronically identified to allow at least one of a pairing of the container assembly 300's authentication and operating parameters specific to the type (or physical construction, such as heating engine type) of the container assembly 300 when it is inserted into the device body 100. In addition to authentication based on the electronic identity of the container assembly 300, the controller 2105 can also authorize the use of the container assembly 300 based on the expiration date of the nicotine vapor pre-preparation stored in a non-volatile memory encoded as an NVM or CC-NVM. If the controller determines that the expiration date encoded in the non-volatile memory has passed, the controller can refuse to authorize the use of the container assembly 300 and disable the nicotine e-vaporizer device 500.

[0128] Controller 2105 (or storage medium 2145) stores key materials and proprietary algorithm software for encryption. For example, the encryption algorithm relies on the use of random numbers. The security of these algorithms depends on the degree of genuine randomness of these numbers. These numbers are typically pre-generated and encoded into a processor or storage device. Example implementations can increase the randomness of the numbers used for encryption by using vapor extraction parameters, such as the duration of vapor extraction instances, the intervals between vapor extraction instances, or combinations thereof, to generate numbers that are more random and individual-specific than pre-generated random numbers. All communication between controller 2105 and container assembly 300 can be encrypted.

[0129] Furthermore, the container component 300 can serve as a general payload carrier for other information, such as software patches for the nicotine e-vaping device 500. This information is more secure because encryption is used in all communication between the container component 300 and the controller 2105, and the nicotine e-vaping device 500 is less susceptible to malware or viruses. Using CC-NVM as a carrier for information such as data and software updates allows the nicotine e-vaping device 500 to be updated with software without requiring an internet connection, and allows adult vapers to experience the download process like most other consumer electronic devices that require regular software updates.

[0130] The controller 2105 may also include an encryption accelerator to allow the resources of the controller 2105 to perform functions other than the encoding and decoding involved in authentication. The controller 2105 may also include other security features, such as preventing unauthorized use of the communication channel and preventing unauthorized access to data in the event that the container or adult vapor user is not authenticated.

[0131] In addition to the encryption accelerator, controller 2105 may include other hardware accelerators. For example, controller 2105 may include a floating-point unit (FPU), a separate DSP core, digital filters, and a Fast Fourier Transform (FFT) module.

[0132] Controller 2105 is configured to operate a real-time operating system (RTOS), control device system 2100, and can be updated by communicating with an NVM or CC-NVM, or when device system 2100 is connected to other devices (e.g., smartphones) via at least one of I / O interface 2130 and antenna 2140. I / O interface 2130 and antenna 2140 allow device system 2100 to connect to various external devices, such as smartphones, tablets, and PCs. For example, I / O interface 2130 may include a micro-USB connector. Device system 2100 can use the micro-USB connector to charge power supply 2110b.

[0133] Controller 2105 may include onboard RAM and flash memory to store and execute code, including analytics, diagnostics, and software upgrades. Alternatively, storage medium 2145 may store code. Additionally, in another example embodiment, storage medium 2145 may be located on controller 2105.

[0134] The controller 2105 may also include an onboard clock, reset, and power management module to reduce the area covered by the PCB in the device body 100.

[0135] Device sensor 2125 may include multiple sensor transducers that provide measurement information to controller 2105. Device sensor 2125 may include a power supply temperature sensor, an external container temperature sensor, a current sensor for the heater, a power supply current sensor, an airflow sensor, and an accelerometer to monitor movement and orientation. The power supply temperature sensor and the external container temperature sensor may be thermistors or thermocouples, and the current sensor for the heater and the power supply current sensor may be resistance-based sensors or another type of sensor configured to measure current. The airflow sensor may be a microelectromechanical system (MEMS) flow sensor or another type of sensor configured to measure airflow, such as a hot-wire anemometer. Furthermore, see the following references. Figure 22A-26In more detail, instead of using a flow sensor in the device sensor 2125 included in the device system 2100 of the device body 100 to measure airflow, a hot-wire anemometer 2220A located in the container system 2200 of the container assembly 300 can be used to measure airflow.

[0136] Data generated from one or more of the device sensors 2125 can be sampled at a sampling rate suitable for parameters measured using a discrete multichannel analog-to-digital converter (ADC).

[0137] The controller 2105 can adaptively modify the heater profile and other profiles for the nicotine vapor pre-formulation based on measurement information received from the controller 2105. For convenience, these are often referred to as vaporization profiles or vapor profiles. The heater profile identifies the power profile to be supplied to the heater during the few seconds of vapor extraction. For example, when an instance of vapor extraction begins, the heater profile may deliver maximum power to the heater, but immediately reduce the power to half or a quarter after about one second. According to at least some example embodiments, pulse width modulation can be used to modulate the electrical power supplied to the heater.

[0138] Additionally, the heater profile can be modified based on the negative pressure applied to the nicotine e-vapor device 500. The use of a MEMS flow sensor allows for the measurement of vapor extraction intensity and serves as feedback to the controller 2105 to adjust the power of the heater delivered to the container, which may be referred to as heating or energy delivery.

[0139] According to at least some example embodiments, when controller 2105 identifies that a container is currently installed (e.g., via SKP), controller 2105 matches the associated heating profile designed for that particular container. Controller 2105 and storage medium 2145 store data and algorithms that allow the generation of heating profiles for all SKUs. In another example embodiment, controller 2105 can read the heating profile from the container. Adult vapor users can also adjust the heating profile to suit their preferences.

[0140] like Figure 21A As shown, controller 2105 sends data to power supply 2110 and receives data from the power supply. Power supply 2110 includes power supply 2110b and power controller 2110a that manages the power output by power supply 2110b.

[0141] The power source 2110b may be a lithium-ion battery or a variant thereof, such as a lithium-ion polymer battery. Alternatively, the power source 2110b may be a nickel-metal hydride battery, a nickel-cadmium battery, a lithium-manganese battery, a lithium-cobalt battery, or a fuel cell. Alternatively, the power source 2110b may be rechargeable and include circuitry that allows the battery to be charged via an external charging device. In this case, the circuitry provides power during charging for a desired (or alternatively, predetermined) number of vapor extraction instances, after which the circuitry must be reconnected to the external charging device.

[0142] Power controller 2110a issues commands to power source 2110b based on instructions from controller 2105. For example, when the container is certified and an adult vapor user activates device system 2100, power source 2110 can receive a command from controller 2105 to supply power to the container (via the container's electrical / data interface 2120) (e.g., via an activation switch, such as a toggle button, capacitive sensor, or IR sensor). When the container is not certified, controller 2105 may not send commands to power source 2110 or may send a command to power source 2110 not to provide power. In another example embodiment, if the container is not certified, controller 2105 may disable all operation of device system 2100.

[0143] In addition to supplying power to the container, power supply 2110 also supplies power to controller 2105. Furthermore, power controller 2110a can provide feedback to controller 2105 indicating the performance of power supply 2110b.

[0144] The controller 2105 sends data to and receives data from at least one antenna 2140. The at least one antenna 2140 may include at least one of a Near Field Communication (NFC) modem, a Bluetooth Low Energy (LE) modem, and other modems for other wireless technologies such as Wi-Fi. In an example embodiment, the communication stack is in the modem, but the modem is controlled by the controller 2105. The Bluetooth LE modem is used for data and control communication with an application on an external device (e.g., a smartphone). The NFC modem can be used to pair the nicotine e-vaping device 500 with applications and for retrieving diagnostic information. Furthermore, the Bluetooth LE modem can be used to provide location information (so that adult vapers can locate the nicotine e-vaping device 500) or for authentication during purchase.

[0145] As described above, the device system 2100 can generate and adjust various profiles for vaporizers. The controller 2105 uses the power supply 2110 and actuator controls 2115 to adjust the profile for adult vaporizer users.

[0146] Actuator control 2115 includes passive and active actuators to adjust the desired steam profile. For example, device body 100 may include an inlet passage within a mouthpiece. Actuator control 2115 can control the inlet passage based on commands from controller 2105 associated with the desired steam profile.

[0147] Furthermore, actuator control 2115 is used to energize the heater in conjunction with power supply 2110. More specifically, actuator control 2115 is configured to generate a drive waveform associated with a desired vapor profile. As described above, each possible profile is associated with a drive waveform. Upon receiving a command from controller 2105 indicating a desired vapor profile, actuator control 2115 may generate an associated modulated waveform for power supply 2110.

[0148] The controller 2105 supplies information to the vapor user indicator 2135 to indicate the status and ongoing operation to the adult vapor user. The vapor user indicator 2135 includes a power indicator (e.g., an LED) that is activated when the controller 2105 senses that the adult vapor user has pressed a button. The vapor user indicator 2135 may also include a vibrator, a speaker, a current status indicator of vaporization parameters controlled by the adult vapor user (e.g., nicotine vapor volume), and other feedback mechanisms.

[0149] Once the container assembly 300 is certified, the controller 2105 operates the power supply 2110, actuator control 2115, vapor user indicator 2135, and antenna 2140 based on information stored on the container by the adult vapor user using the nicotine e-vaping device 500 and by the NVM or CC-NVM. Furthermore, the controller 2105 may include logging functionality and is capable of implementing algorithms to calibrate the nicotine e-vaping device 500. The logging function is performed by the controller 2105 to record usage data and any unexpected events or malfunctions. The recorded usage data can be used for diagnostics and analysis. The controller 2105 can calibrate the nicotine e-vaping device 500 using buttonless vaporization (i.e., vaporization without pressing a button, such as when nicotine vapor is generated by applying negative pressure to the mouthpiece), adult vapor user configuration, and information stored on the CC-NVM or NVM, including vapor inhalation sensing, nicotine pre-preparation levels, and nicotine pre-preparation compositions. For example, controller 2105 can command power supply 2110 to supply power to the heater in the container based on a vaporization profile associated with the nicotine vapor pre-formulation composition in the container. Alternatively, the vaporization profile can be encoded in a CC-NVM or NVM and utilized by controller 2105.

[0150] Figure 22AA container system diagram according to an example implementation is shown. Container system 2200 may be a system within container component 300.

[0151] like Figure 22A As shown, container system 2200 includes CC-NVM 2205, main electrical / data interface 2210, heater 2215, and container sensor 2220. Container system 2200 communicates with device system 2100 via main electrical / data interface 2210 and container electrical / data interface 2120. CC-NVM 2205 includes cryptographic coprocessor 2205a and non-volatile memory 2205b. Controller 2105 can access information stored in non-volatile memory 2205b for authentication and operation of container component 300 via communication with cryptographic coprocessor 2205a.

[0152] In another example implementation, container component 300 may not have a cryptographic coprocessor. For example, Figure 22B It shows Figure 22A An example of a container system, in which the cryptographic coprocessor 2205a is omitted according to the example implementation. Figure 23 The connection according to the example implementation is shown. Figure 21A Example of container system 22B of the device system.

[0153] like Figure 22B As shown, container system 2200 may include non-volatile memory 2205b instead of CC-NVM 2205, and omits cryptographic coprocessor 2205a. When cryptographic coprocessor is absent in container system 2200, controller 2105 can read data from non-volatile memory 2205b without using cryptographic coprocessor to control / define heating profiles.

[0154] The non-volatile memory 2205b can be electronically coded to allow authentication of at least one of the container and pairing of container-type-specific operating parameters when the container assembly is inserted into the through-hole of the device body 100. In addition to authentication based on the container's electronic identity, the controller 2105 can also authorize the use of the container based on the expiration date of the nicotine vapor pre-preparation stored in the non-volatile memory 2205b. If the controller determines that the expiration date coded in the non-volatile memory 2205b has passed, the controller can refuse to authorize the use of the container and disable the nicotine e-vapor device 500.

[0155] In addition, the non-volatile memory 2205b can store information such as nicotine pre-vapor preparation stock units (SKUs) (including nicotine pre-vapor preparation compositions) in the nicotine pre-vapor preparation compartment, software patches for the device system 2100, and product usage information such as vapor extraction instance counts, vapor extraction instance durations, and nicotine pre-vapor preparation levels. The non-volatile memory 2205b can also store operating parameters specific to the container type and nicotine pre-vapor preparation composition. For example, the non-volatile memory 2205b can store the electrical and mechanical design of the container for use by the controller 2105 to determine commands corresponding to the desired vaporization profile.

[0156] For example, the level of nicotine pre-vapor formulation in the container can be determined in one of two ways. In one example embodiment, one of the container sensors 2220 directly measures the level of nicotine pre-vapor formulation in the container.

[0157] In another exemplary embodiment, non-volatile memory 2205b stores a count of vapor extraction instances from the container, and controller 2105 uses the count of vapor extraction instances as a proxy for the amount of vaporized nicotine vapor pre-prepared formulation.

[0158] At least one of the controller 2105 and the storage medium 2145 can store nicotine vapor preformulation calibration data that identifies the operating point of the nicotine vapor preformulation composition. The nicotine vapor preformulation calibration data includes data describing how the nicotine vapor preformulation flow rate changes with the remaining nicotine vapor preformulation level or how volatility changes with the service life of the nicotine vapor preformulation, and can be used by the controller 2105 for calibration. The nicotine vapor preformulation calibration data can be stored in tabular format by at least one of the controller 2105 and the storage medium 2145. The nicotine vapor preformulation calibration data allows the controller 2105 to equate the vapor extraction instance count with the vaporized nicotine vapor preformulation dose.

[0159] The controller 2105 writes the nicotine vapor pre-preparation level and vapor extraction instance count to the non-volatile memory 2205b in the container, such that if the container is removed from the device body 100 and later reinstalled, the accurate nicotine vapor pre-preparation level of the container is still known by the controller 2105.

[0160] Operating parameters (e.g., power supply, power supply duration, air duct control) are referred to as vapor profiles. Furthermore, non-volatile memory 2205b can record information transmitted by controller 2105. Even if the device body 100 is disconnected from the container, the non-volatile memory 2205b can retain the recorded information.

[0161] In an example implementation, the non-volatile memory 2205b may be a programmable read-only memory.

[0162] The heater 2215 is actuated by the controller 2105 and transfers heat to at least a portion of the nicotine vapor pre-preparation in the container assembly 300, for example, according to a command profile (volume, temperature (based on a power profile) and flavor) from the controller 2105.

[0163] Heater 2215 may be a planar body, a ceramic body, a single wire, a resistance wire cage, a coil surrounding a core, a mesh, a surface, or any other suitable form. Examples of suitable resistive materials include titanium, zirconium, tantalum, and platinum group metals. Examples of suitable metal alloys include 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, as well as superalloys based on nickel, iron, cobalt, and stainless steel. For example, the heater may be formed from nickel-aluminate compounds, materials with an alumina coating on the surface, iron-aluminate compounds, and other composite materials. The resistive material may be embedded in, encapsulated in, or coated with an insulating material, or vice versa, depending on the energy transfer kinetics and desired external physicochemical properties. In one embodiment, heater 2215 comprises at least one material selected from the group consisting of stainless steel, copper, copper alloys, nickel-chromium alloys, superalloys, and combinations thereof. In another embodiment, heater 2215 is formed from a nickel-chromium alloy or an iron-chromium alloy. In one embodiment, heater 2215 may be a ceramic heater having a resistance layer on its outer surface.

[0164] In another embodiment, heater 2215 may be made of iron-aluminate compounds (e.g., FeAl or Fe3Al), such as those disclosed in U.S. Patent No. 5,595,706, jointly owned by Sikka et al., filed December 29, 1994, or nickel aluminate (e.g., Ni.sub.3Al), the entire contents of which are hereby incorporated by reference.

[0165] The heater 2215 can determine the amount of nicotine vapor pre-formulation to be heated based on feedback from the container sensor or controller 2105. The flow of the nicotine vapor pre-formulation can be regulated by capillary action or wicking. Furthermore, the controller 2105 can send commands to the heater 2215 to adjust the air inlet of the heater 2215.

[0166] Data generated from container sensor 2220 can be sampled at a sampling rate suitable for parameters measured using a discrete multichannel analog-to-digital converter (ADC). Container sensor 2220 may include, for example, a heater temperature sensor, a nicotine pre-vapor formulation flow rate monitor, an airflow sensor, and a suction detector. According to at least one example embodiment, the heater temperature sensor may be a thermistor or a thermocouple, and nicotine pre-vapor formulation flow rate sensing may be performed by container system 2200 using electrostatic interference or an in-nicotine pre-vapor formulation rotor.

[0167] The container sensor 2220 may also include a hot-wire anemometer (HWA) 2220A. The HWA 2220A provides airflow rate sensing functionality and may also be referred to as the flow sensor 2220A in this specification. Furthermore, as described below... Figure 24A-27 As discussed in more detail below, according to at least some example implementations, the hot-wire anemometer (HWA) 2220A can be used in conjunction with a dual-control-loop architecture using a single heated element to facilitate any or all of (i) airflow rate sensing, (ii) suction detection, and (iii) ambient temperature tracking. For example, in some conventional systems that include an HWA, the HWA is designed to measure continuous flow, thus using two or more sensing elements: one to measure the ambient temperature and another to measure the heat transfer rate from a particular heated element. Therefore, by using a single heated element to perform airflow rate sensing and ambient temperature tracking, the complexity of the hardware (e.g., circuitry) required to perform these functions can be advantageously reduced. Furthermore, the ability to track the ambient temperature of the HWA 2220A is also useful because the effects of nearby heating engines can be taken into account when estimating the temperature of the heated element of the HWA 2220A.

[0168] As used herein, when the term "ambient temperature" is used with respect to an HWA or flow sensor, it may refer to the air temperature immediately adjacent to the HWA or flow sensor. For example, when at least the heated element (or flow sensor) 2220A of the HWA is inside the container assembly 300, the ambient temperature of the HWA (or flow sensor) 2220A may refer to the temperature of the air surrounding the heated element (or flow sensor 2220A) of the HWA within the container assembly 300. According to at least some example embodiments, if the air temperature within the container assembly 300 is substantially uniform (e.g., when nicotine vapor is not currently being drawn through the outlet of the nicotine e-vaping device 500, or when the heater 2215 is not currently actuated), then references to "ambient temperature" of the HWA (or flow sensor) 2220A in this specification may generally refer to the temperature of the air within the container assembly 300.

[0169] See below for reference Figure 24A-26 In more detail, the HWA 2220A includes a heated element that becomes hot due to the application of power to it. Furthermore, the temperature of the heated element affects its resistance (ohms). Therefore, the voltage of the heated element can be used to estimate its temperature. Additionally, in the presence of flowing air, heat is carried away from the heated element of the HWA 2220A by the flowing air; therefore, the airflow rate around the heated element of the HWA 2220A can be estimated using the power level required to maintain a specific temperature of the heated element of the HWA 2220A. As used in this specification, the air flowing through the space immediately adjacent to the heated element of the HWA (or flow sensor) 2220A can simply be referred to as the air flowing around the HWA (or flow sensor) 2220A or the air flowing around the heated element of the HWA (or flow sensor) 2220A. Reference will be made below. Figures 24A-24D Examples of the heated elements of the HWA 2220A are discussed in more detail.

[0170] According to at least some example implementations, the HWA 2220A can be Figure 19 The sensor 364 (or included in the sensor). Therefore, as mentioned above, the sensor 364 and Figure 19 and Figure 20 As described above, HWA 2220A can be located within the convergence path 330c. Furthermore, as referenced above... Figure 19 and Figure 20 The convergence path 330c is described as being drawn into the container assembly 300 through the container inlet 322 and exiting through the module outlet 368. Figure 17 The heater 336 is located on top of the module outlet, which is part of the air flow path of the HWA 2220A. Therefore, according to at least some example embodiments, the air flowing around the HWA 2220A is the air flowing from the container inlet 322 to the module outlet 368 via the converging path 330c (e.g., during suction).

[0171] Figures 24A-24D An exemplary embodiment of the heated element included in the HWA 2220A is shown. (Reference) Figure 24A The heated element of HWA 2220A can be implemented by a first etched serpentine element 2402A or a second etched serpentine element 2402B. For example... Figure 24A As shown, the first etched serpentine element 2402A includes a first serpentine line 2408A suspended between the first support 2404A and the second support 2406A, and the second etched serpentine element 2402B includes a second serpentine line 2408B suspended between the third support 2404B and the fourth support 2406B. (Reference) Figure 24BThe heated element of the HWA 2220A can be implemented using a single-wire element 2402C. For example... Figure 24B As shown, the single-wire element includes a single wire 2408C that is vertically suspended between the fifth support 2404C and the sixth support 2406C. (Reference) Figure 24C The heated element of the HWA 2220A can be implemented using a wire-wound element 2410. For example, the wire-wound element 2410 can be a wire-wound surface mount (SMT) inductor from Coilcraft. (See reference) Figure 24D The heated element of the HWA 2220A can be implemented using a thin-film resistance temperature detector (RTD) 2412. This will now be referenced below. Figures 25A-25D and Figure 26 The paper discusses a dual control loop architecture based on at least some example implementations.

[0172] Figure 25A This is a diagram of the internal PID control loop 2500. Figure 25B-25D It shows Figure 25A The first to third example waveforms 2526-1 to 2526-3 of the pulse width modulation (PWM) drive signal 2526, Figure 26 This is a diagram of the external PID control loop 2600.

[0173] like Figure 25A As shown, the internal PID control loop 2500 calculates the internal error Error_I based on the difference between the internal setpoint SP_I and the internal process variable PV_I output from the internal process 2520. For example, controller 2105, or a controller included in the container system 2200 of the container assembly 300, can determine the difference between the internal setpoint SP_I and the internal process variable PV_I by performing a summation operation 2518. Figure 25A In the example shown, the summation operation 2518 includes calculating the sum of the internal setpoint SP_I and the internal process variable PV_I in the inverse (i.e., negative (-)) form as the internal error Error_I. Based on the internal error Error_I, the internal PID controller 2510 applies a correction to the internal control variable CV_I, which is then applied as an input to the internal process 2520, such that the internal error Error_I is reduced or, alternatively, minimized. The internal PID controller 2510 is configured to generate the control variable CV_I by determining the proportional (P), integral (I), and derivative (D) terms using the internal error Error_I according to known methods. According to at least some example embodiments, the internal PID controller 2510 may be contained within a controller 2105 in the device system 2100 of the device body 100, or contained as a separate controller in the container system 2200 of the container assembly 300. The internal process 2520 will now be discussed in more detail below.

[0174] refer to Figure 25A Internal process 2520 is a process for driving flow sensor 2220A. According to at least some example embodiments, internal process 2520 includes a drive signal generation function 2522, flow sensor 2220A, and voltage-to-temperature conversion function 2524. According to at least some example embodiments, drive signal generation function 2522 and voltage-to-temperature conversion function 2524 may be included by a controller. For example, the operations performed by drive signal generation function 2522 or voltage-to-temperature conversion function 2524 as described in the specification may be performed or controlled by controller 2105. As another example, the operations performed by drive signal generation function 2522 or voltage-to-temperature conversion function 2524 as described in the specification may be performed or controlled by a separate controller included in container system 2200 of container assembly 300.

[0175] The flow sensor 2220A is driven by a pulse width modulation (PWM) drive signal 2526, which is generated by a drive signal generation function 2522. According to at least some example embodiments, the drive signal generation function 2522 generates the PWM drive signal 2526 by controlling the power supply 2110 to generate the PWM drive signal 2526 and applying the PWM drive signal (e.g., via the container electrical / data interface 2120) to the flow sensor 2220A, and applies the PWM drive signal 2526 to the flow sensor 2220A. Applying the PWM drive signal 2526 to the flow sensor 2220A causes heat to accumulate in the heated element of the flow sensor 2220A, thus increasing the temperature of the heated element. For example, Figure 25B-25D The first to third example waveforms 2526-1 to 2526-3 of the PWM drive signal 2526 are shown. These example waveforms 2526-1 to 2526-3 illustrate how the magnitude of the current in the PWM drive signal 2526 changes with time. Figure 25B-25D In the example shown, the vertical axis of the first to third example waveforms 2526-1 to 2526-3 indicates the magnitude of the current of the PWM drive signal 2526, which can be expressed, for example, in amperes (A) or milliamperes (mA). Figure 25B-25D In the examples shown, the horizontal axis of the first to third example waveforms 2526-1 to 2526-3 represents time, which can be expressed, for example, in seconds (s) or milliseconds (ms). Figure 25B-25D As shown, according to at least some example embodiments, the PWM drive signal 2526 is a periodic signal oscillating between a high value (H) and a low value (L). Figure 25B-25DIn the example shown, the first to third example waveforms 2526-1 to 2526-3 share the same period, a common period of 2540, while the first to third duty cycles 2550-1 to 2550-3 of the first to third example waveforms 2526-1 to 2526-3 are different from each other.

[0176] return Figure 25A The drive signal setpoint 2514 controls the power level (and thus the heat generated therefrom) applied to the heated element of the flow sensor 2220A by controlling the duty cycle of the PWM drive signal 2526 generated by the drive signal generation function 2522. For example, according to at least some example embodiments, the drive signal generation function 2522 generates the PWM drive signal 2526 such that the duty cycle of the PWM drive signal 2526 increases as the drive signal setpoint 2514 output from the internal PID controller 2510 to the drive signal generation function 2522 increases, and decreases as the drive signal setpoint 2514 output from the internal PID controller 2510 to the drive signal generation function 2522 decreases.

[0177] For example, according to at least some example embodiments, the internal PID controller 2510 can generate a drive signal setpoint 2514 within an upper and lower limit, and the drive signal generation function 2522 can generate the PWM drive signal 2526 in a manner that the duty cycle of the PWM drive signal 2526 is proportional to the drive signal setpoint 2514. For example, as Figure 25B-25D As shown, Figure 25B The first exemplary waveform 2526-1 has a first duty cycle 2550-1 corresponding to approximately 50% of the common period 2540. Figure 25C The second exemplary waveform 2526-2 has a second duty cycle 2550-2 that corresponds to approximately 25% of the common period 2540. Figure 25C The third duty cycle 2550-3 of the third exemplary waveform 2526-3 corresponds to approximately 75% of the common period 2540. Therefore, in the example scenario where the upper and lower limits of the drive signal setpoint 2514 are 10.0 and 0.0 respectively, the drive signal generation function 2522 can generate a signal in response to the drive signal setpoint 2514 being 5.0. Figure 25B The first exemplary waveform 2526-1 with a first duty cycle 2550-1 is generated in response to the drive signal setpoint 2514 being 2.5. Figure 25C The second exemplary waveform 2526-2, with a second duty cycle 2550-2, is generated in response to the drive signal setpoint 2514 being 7.5. Figure 25CThe third exemplary waveform 2526-3 has a third duty cycle 2550-3. Although 10.0 and 0.0 are provided as examples of the upper and lower limits of the drive signal setting value 2514, respectively, the upper and lower limits of the drive signal setting value 2514 are not limited to the values ​​10.0 and 0.0, and can be set to any value.

[0178] return Figure 25A When the PWM drive signal 2526 is at a high level, the voltage of the flow sensor 2220A, i.e., the flow sensor voltage 2528, can be measured. For example, Figure 25B-25D Each sample 2530 is shown. According to at least some example embodiments, each sample 2530 illustrates an example timing sequence for sampling the flow sensor voltage 2528. According to at least some example embodiments, the sampling of the flow sensor voltage 2528 can be performed or controlled by controller 2105 or a controller included in the container system 2200 of the container assembly 300. According to at least some example embodiments, such as Figure 25B-25D As shown, sampling 2530 can occur periodically when the PWM drive signal 2526 is at a high (H) level, and sampling 2530 may not occur when the PWM drive signal 2526 is at a low (L) level. According to at least some example embodiments, the current of the PWM drive signal 2526 when it is high (H) is known, and the relationship between the temperature and resistance of the heated element of the flow sensor 2220A is also known. Therefore, according to known methods (e.g., using Ohm's law), the voltage-temperature conversion function 2524 converts the flow sensor voltage 2528 into the flow sensor temperature 2516.

[0179] Therefore, the process controlled by the internal PID control loop 2500 is the internal process 2520, the internal setpoint SP_I is the temperature setpoint 2512, the internal control variable CV_I is the drive signal setpoint 2514, and the internal process variable PV_I is the flow sensor temperature 2516.

[0180] therefore, Figure 25AThe internal PID control loop 2500 operates to continuously correct the drive signal setpoint 2514 (thereby changing the duty cycle of the PWM drive signal 2526, and thus changing the heat generated by the heated element of the flow sensor 2220A) in order to reduce or, alternatively, minimize the difference between the flow sensor temperature 2516 and the temperature setpoint 2512. As the airflow rate through or across the heating element of the flow sensor 2220A increases, the rate at which heat is extracted from the heating element by the flowing air increases. As the rate at which heat is extracted from the heating element by the flowing air increases, the power level that should be applied to the heated element also increases in order to maintain the temperature of the heated element at the temperature setpoint 2512. Therefore, by measuring or estimating the power level applied to the heated element of the flow sensor 2220A, the nicotine e-vaping device 500 (e.g., at least one of the controller 2105 and the controller of the container system 2200) can measure or estimate the airflow velocity passing around the heated element of the flow sensor 2220A, thereby measuring or estimating the airflow velocity through at least one of the nicotine e-vaping device 500 and the container assembly 300.

[0181] However, when the temperature setpoint 2512 remains fixed, the performance of the flow sensor 2220A may be negatively affected when the ambient temperature changes. For example, if the ambient temperature of the flow sensor 2220A increases, the temperature of the heated element of the flow sensor 2220A may also increase, for example, due to the heated element receiving heat from the air in its immediate vicinity. As the temperature of the heated element increases, the resistance (ohms Ω) of the heated element also increases. Therefore, the value of the flow sensor voltage 2528 measured from the flow sensor 2220A and the value of the flow sensor temperature 2516 generated by the voltage-temperature conversion function 2524 also increase. Furthermore, if, for example, the flow sensor temperature 2516 exceeds the temperature setpoint 2512, the resulting value of the internal error Error_I will cause the internal PID controller 2510 to attempt to reduce the flow sensor temperature 2516 by reducing the power level applied to the heated element of the flow sensor 2220A (i.e., by reducing the drive signal setpoint 2514 to reduce the duty cycle of the PWM drive signal 2556). Therefore, if the internal error Error_I is large enough that the internal PID controller 2510 attempts to reduce the power level applied to the heated element below the level required for reliable operation of the flow sensor 2220A, the flow sensor 2220A may become unresponsive due to lack of power and thus cease performing the flow sensing function. For example, if the internal PID controller 2510 reduces the drive signal setpoint 2514 to a level where the resulting duty cycle of the PWM drive signal 2556 is too low to provide sufficient power to the flow sensor 2220A, the flow sensor 2220A may become unresponsive due to lack of power and thus cease performing the flow sensing function.

[0182] Therefore, to avoid the scenario described above where the flow sensor 2220A stops operating normally, the operation should be adjusted according to changes in the ambient temperature of the flow sensor 2220A. Figure 25A The internal PID control loop 2500 with a temperature setpoint 2512 may be beneficial. One solution is to use a separate temperature sensor specifically designed for detecting the ambient temperature of the flow sensor 2220A.

[0183] However, according to at least some example implementations, including Figure 26 The external PID control loop of the 2600 and its dual control loop architecture, combined with the above discussion, Figure 25A The internal PID control loop 2500 can track changes in the ambient temperature of the flow sensor 2220A and adjust the temperature setpoint 2512 accordingly. This will be discussed in more detail below. Figure 26 The external PID control loop is 2600.

[0184] refer to Figure 26 The external PID control loop 2600 calculates the external error Error_O based on the difference between the external setpoint SP_O and the external process variable PV_O output from the external process 2620. For example, controller 2105, or a controller included in the container system 2200 of the container assembly 300, can determine the difference between the external setpoint SP_O and the external process variable PV_O by performing a summation operation 2618. Figure 26 In the example shown, the summation operation 2618 includes calculating the sum of the internal setpoint SP_I and the external process variable PV_O in inverse (i.e., negative (-)) form as the external error Error_O. Based on the external error Error_O, the external PID controller 2610 applies a correction to the external control variable CV_O, which is then applied as an input to the external process 2620, such that the external error Error_O is reduced or, alternatively, minimized. (See above reference...) Figure 25A The internal PID controller 2510 of the internal PID control loop 2500 is discussed, and the external PID controller 2610 is configured to generate the external control variable CV_O by determining the proportional (P), integral (I), and derivative (D) terms using an external error Error_O according to a known method. According to at least some example embodiments, the external PID controller 2610 may be included by controller 2105 within the device system 2100 of the device body 100, or may be included as a separate controller within the container system 2200 of the container assembly 300. According to at least some example embodiments, both the internal PID controller 2510 and the external PID controller 2610 may be included by controller 2105 within the device system 2100 of the device body 100, both may be included as the same single controller within the container system 2200 of the container assembly 300, or may each be included as a separate controller, for example, two controllers within the container system 2200 of the container assembly 300.

[0185] like Figure 26 As shown, according to at least some example embodiments, the process controlled by an external PID control loop 2600, the external process 2620 is Figure 25A The internal PID control loop is 2500. For example, such as... Figure 26 As shown, the external setpoint SP_O of the external PID control loop 2600 is the drive signal setpoint 2612, the external control variable CV_O of the external PID control loop 2600 is the temperature setpoint 2512 of the internal PID control loop 2500, and the external process variable PV_O of the external PID control loop 2600 is the drive signal setpoint 2514 of the internal PID control loop 2500.

[0186] therefore, Figure 26The external PID control loop 2600 operates to continuously correct the temperature setpoint 2512 input to the internal PID control loop 2500, thereby reducing or alternatively minimizing the difference between the drive signal setpoint 2514 output by the internal PID control loop 2500 and the drive signal setpoint 2612. Furthermore, according to at least some example embodiments, the external PID control loop 2600 does not adjust the temperature setpoint 2512 input to the internal PID control loop 2500 during suction. For example, as... Figure 26 As shown, the external PID control loop 2600 may include a multiplexer 2650. According to at least some example embodiments, the function of the multiplexer 2650 may be performed by the controller 2105 or a controller included in the container system 2200 of the container assembly 300. Furthermore, as... Figure 26 As shown, when the suction detection signal 2640 has a first logic value (e.g., logic high) indicating that suction is occurring (i.e., indicating that nicotine vapor is currently being drawn through the outlet of the nicotine e-vaping device 500 or container assembly 300, or that negative pressure is being applied to the outlet of the nicotine e-vaping device 500 or container assembly 300), the current value of the temperature setpoint 2512 input to the multiplexer 2650 is fixed along with the value provided to the internal PID control loop 2500 until the suction detection signal 2640 changes to a second logic value (e.g., logic low) indicating that suction is not currently occurring (i.e., indicating that nicotine vapor is not currently being drawn through the outlet of the nicotine e-vaping device 500 or container assembly 300, or that negative pressure is not currently being applied to the outlet of the nicotine e-vaping device 500 or container assembly 300). When the suction detection signal 2640 transitions to a second logic value (e.g., logic low) indicating that suction is not currently occurring, the multiplexer 2650 simply outputs a temperature setpoint 2512, which is output by the external PID controller 2610 as an input to the internal PID control loop 2500. Therefore, the internal setpoint SP_I (i.e., temperature setpoint 2512) of the internal PID control loop 2500 has a fixed value when suction occurs and a variable value when suction is not occurring. The manner in which the temperature setpoint 2512 changes when suction is not occurring will now be discussed in more detail below. (See below for reference.) Figure 27 In more detail, the suction detection signal 2640 can be generated by a suction detection signal generator. According to at least some example embodiments, the suction detection signal generator is a controller (e.g., controller 2105 or a controller within the container system 2200 of the container assembly 300).

[0187] When the ambient temperature of the flow sensor 2220A increases, the drive signal setpoint 2514 can be found in the above text. Figure 25AThe approach is simplified. However, the external PID controller 2610 can prevent the drive signal setpoint 2514 from dropping to a point where the flow sensor 2220A might become unresponsive. For example, refer to... Figure 26 When the drive signal setpoint 2514 decreases relative to the drive signal setpoint 2612, the magnitude of the external error Error_O increases. In response, the external PID controller 2610 operates by increasing the temperature setpoint 2512 according to the change in the ambient temperature of the flow sensor 2220A to reduce the external error Error_O, thereby causing the drive signal setpoint 2514 to increase. For example, the internal PID controller 2510 will increase the drive signal setpoint 2514 in response to the increased temperature setpoint 2512 because additional power needs to be applied to the heated element of the flow sensor 2220A to raise the temperature of the heated element to the newly increased temperature setpoint 2512.

[0188] In addition to raising the temperature setpoint 2512 in response to an increase in the ambient temperature of the flow sensor 2220A, as discussed in the example scenario above, the external PID control loop 2600 can also lower the temperature setpoint 2512 in response to a decrease in the ambient temperature of the flow sensor 2220A. For example, in the case where the ambient temperature of the flow sensor 2220A decreases, the temperature of the heated element of the flow sensor 2220A may also decrease, for example, due to heat loss to the air by the heated element at its immediate vicinity. As the temperature of the heated element decreases, the resistance of the heated element also decreases. Therefore, the values ​​of the flow sensor voltage 2528 measured from the flow sensor 2220A and the flow sensor temperature 2516 generated by the voltage-temperature conversion function 2524 also decrease. Furthermore, if, for example, the flow sensor temperature 2516 is lower than the temperature setpoint 2512, the resulting value of the internal error Error_I will cause the internal PID controller 2510 to attempt to raise the flow sensor temperature 2516 by increasing the power level applied to the heated element of the flow sensor 2220A (i.e., by increasing the duty cycle of the PWM drive signal 2556 by increasing the drive signal setpoint 2514). Additionally, as the drive signal setpoint 2514 increases relative to the drive signal setpoint 2612, the magnitude of the external error Error_O increases. In response, the external PID controller 2610 reduces the magnitude of the external error Error_O by lowering the temperature setpoint 2512 according to the change in the ambient temperature of the flow sensor 2220A, thereby causing the drive signal setpoint 2514 to decrease. For example, the internal PID controller 2510 will reduce the drive signal setpoint 2514 in response to the reduced temperature setpoint 2512, because the power level applied to the heated element of the flow sensor 2220A will need to be reduced in order to reduce the temperature of the heated element to the newly reduced temperature setpoint 2512.

[0189] According to at least some example embodiments, the level of the drive signal setpoint 2612 can be set according to the preferences of the designer or manufacturer of at least one of the nicotine e-vaping device 500 and the container assembly 300. According to at least some example embodiments, the level of the drive signal setpoint 2612 can be stored according to the preferences of the designer or manufacturer of the nicotine e-vaping device 500 (e.g., in at least one of the device body 100 and the container assembly 300). For example, according to at least some example embodiments, the level of the drive signal setpoint 2612 can be set according to the desired margin between the ambient temperature of the HWA 2220A and the temperature of the heated element of the HWA 2220A (i.e., when no inhalation occurs).

[0190] Therefore, the external PID control loop 2600 can advantageously use the flow sensor 2220A to control the temperature setpoint 2512 to change according to variations in the ambient temperature of the flow sensor 2220A, without requiring a separate temperature sensor (e.g., within the container assembly 300) for detecting the ambient temperature of the flow sensor 2220A. Reference will be made below. Figure 27 Exemplary methods for operating HWA according to at least some example implementation schemes are explained.

[0191] Figure 27 It is a flowchart illustrating how to operate an HWA based on at least some example implementation schemes.

[0192] refer to Figure 27 In step S2710, the temperature of the heated element of HWA is determined. For example, as referenced above. Figure 25A As discussed, the controller (e.g., controller 2105 or a controller included in the container system 2200 of the container assembly 300) can perform or control the operation of measuring the flow sensor voltage 2528, and the voltage-temperature conversion function 2424 can convert the measured flow sensor voltage 2528 into a flow sensor temperature 2516 representing the temperature of the heated element of the HWA 2220A.

[0193] In step S2720, based on the determined temperature of the heated element of the HWA and the temperature setpoint, the power level applied to the HWA by the nicotine electronic vaporizer is controlled. For example, as referenced above... Figure 25AAs discussed, the internal PID controller 2510 generates a drive signal setpoint 2514 (i.e., an internal control variable CV_I) based on the difference between the temperature setpoint 2512 (i.e., the internal setpoint SP_I) and the flow sensor temperature 2516 (i.e., the internal process variable PV_I). Furthermore, the drive signal setpoint 2514 controls the power level applied to the heated element of the flow sensor 2220A by, for example, controlling the duty cycle of the PWM drive signal 2526.

[0194] In step S2730, a suction detection signal is generated. According to at least some example embodiments, a suction detection signal 2640 can be generated by a controller (e.g., controller 2105 or a controller included in the container system 2200 of the container assembly 300) by monitoring at least one of a drive signal setpoint 2514 and its gradient. For example, in step S730, when the suction detection signal 2640 has a value indicating that suction is not currently occurring (e.g., a logic low value or 0), the controller can change the value of the suction detection signal 2640 to a value indicating that suction is currently occurring (e.g., a logic high value or 1) in response to determining that the current level of the drive signal setpoint 2514 (or the average level on a sliding window of levels) has exceeded a suction initiation level threshold and determining that the current gradient of the drive signal setpoint 2514 (or the average gradient on a sliding window of gradients) has exceeded a suction initiation gradient threshold. Furthermore, in step S730, when the suction detection signal has a value indicating that suction is currently occurring (e.g., a logic high value or 1), the controller may, in response to at least one of the following conditions, determine that the current level of the drive signal setpoint 2514 (or the average level of the sliding window of the level) has fallen to the suction end level threshold, and determine that the current gradient of the drive signal setpoint 2514 (or the average gradient of the sliding window of the gradient) has fallen below the suction end gradient threshold, change the value of the suction detection signal 2640 to a value indicating that suction is not currently occurring (e.g., a logic low value or 0).

[0195] In step S2740, a determination is made as to whether suction has been detected. For example, if the level indication of the suction detection signal 2640 generated in step S2730 indicates that no suction (N) has been detected, the method proceeds to step S2750.

[0196] In step S2750, a determination is made regarding whether a change in the ambient temperature of the HWA is detected. For example, as mentioned above... Figure 26In this manner, the external PID controller 2610 can determine that the ambient temperature of the HWA 2220A has changed based on the detected increase in the magnitude of the external error Error_O. Furthermore, the sign of the external error Error_O can indicate to the external PID controller 2610 the direction of the ambient temperature change of the HWA 2220A (e.g., increase or decrease). If no change in the ambient temperature of the HWA 2220A (N) is detected in step S2750, the method ends. If a change in the ambient temperature of the HWA 2220A (Y) is detected in step S2750, the method proceeds to step S2760.

[0197] In step S2760, the temperature setpoint is controlled such that it changes in response to a detected change in the ambient temperature of the HWA. For example, as described above... Figure 26 As discussed, the external PID controller 2610 can respond to a change in the ambient temperature of HWA 2220A detected in step S2750 by adjusting the value of the temperature setpoint 2512 according to the ambient temperature of HWA 2220A. For example, the external PID controller 2610 can increase the temperature setpoint 2512 in response to detecting an increase in the ambient temperature of HWA 2220A, and the external PID controller 2610 can decrease the temperature setpoint 2512 in response to detecting a decrease in the ambient temperature of HWA 2220A. According to at least some example embodiments, the method ends after step S2760.

[0198] Returning to step S2750, if the level indication of the suction detection signal 2640 generated in step S2730 detects suction (Y), the method proceeds to step S2770.

[0199] In step S2770, the airflow rate of the air flowing around the HWA is determined based on the power level applied to the HWA. For example, in step S2770, a controller (e.g., controller 2105 or a controller included in the container system 2200 of the container assembly 300) may determine the airflow rate of the air flowing around the HWA based on the current drive signal setpoint 2514. Specifically, as discussed above, the heated element of the HWA 2220A becomes hot due to the power applied to the heated element via the PWM drive signal 2526. Furthermore, the temperature of the heated element affects the resistance (ohms) of the heated element. Therefore, the voltage of the heated element (e.g., flow sensor voltage 2528) can be used to estimate the temperature of the heated element (e.g., flow sensor temperature 2516). Furthermore, in the presence of flowing air, heat will be carried away from the heated element of the HWA 2220A by the flowing air. Therefore, the airflow rate of the air flowing around the heated element of the HWA 2220A can be estimated using the power level required to maintain a specific temperature of the heated element of the HWA 2220A. Additionally, the power level required to maintain a specific temperature of the heated element of the HWA 2220A can be determined or estimated based on the current drive signal setpoint 2514, which controls the current power level applied to the heated element of the HWA 2220A by controlling the duty cycle of the PWM drive signal 2526 applied to the HWA 2220A. Therefore, the controller 2105, or the controller included in the container system 2200, can use this drive signal setpoint 2514 to determine or estimate the airflow rate of the air flowing around the heated element of the HWA 2220A. Furthermore, the airflow rate of the air flowing around the heated element of the HWA 2220A can indicate the airflow rate of at least one of the container assembly 300 and the nicotine electronic vapor device 500. For example, as referenced above. Figure 13 and 14 As noted, during vapor fume inhalation, air enters the container assembly 300 through the container inlet 322 and exits the container assembly through the container outlet 304. Furthermore, as referenced above... Figure 18-20 As noted, sensor 364 may be or may include HWA2220A, therefore HWA 2220A may be located within convergence path 330c. Furthermore, as referenced above... Figure 18-20The converging path 330c is part of an airflow path that is drawn into the container assembly 300 through the container inlet 322, travels through the heating chamber (e.g., enters from the module outlet 368 and exits into the vapor passage 316), and exits the container assembly 300 via the container outlet 304. Therefore, according to at least some example embodiments, the air flowing around the HWA 2220A is the air flowing from the container assembly 300 of the e-vaping device 500 via the container inlet 322 and the container outlet 304 (e.g., during inhalation), and thus the flow rate of the air flowing around the heated element of the HWA 2220A can indicate the airflow rate of at least one of the container assembly 300 and the nicotine e-vaping device 500.

[0200] Therefore, according to at least some example implementations, a single HWA (e.g., HWA 2220A) combined with... Figure 25A The internal PID control loop 2500 and Figure 26 The dual control loop architecture of the external PID control loop 2600 can facilitate any or all of the following: (i) airflow rate sensing, (ii) suction detection and (iii) ambient temperature tracking for improving airflow rate sensing without requiring the implementation of an additional temperature sensor for sensing the ambient temperature of the HWA.

[0201] While many example embodiments have been disclosed herein, it should be understood that other variations are 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 method for controlling a hot-wire anemometer (HWA) of a nicotine electronic vaporizer, the method comprising: The power level applied to the HWA by the nicotine electronic vaporizer is controlled by the first PID controller based on the temperature of the heated element of the HWA and the temperature setpoint. Generate a puff detection signal, the puff detection signal indicating whether puffing has occurred with respect to the nicotine e-vaporizer, wherein the temperature setpoint has a fixed value when the puff detection signal indicates that puffing has occurred with respect to the nicotine e-vaporizer; and When the inhalation detection signal indicates that no inhalation is currently occurring with respect to the nicotine e-vaporizer device. The change in ambient temperature of the HWA is detected by a second PID controller; and The temperature setpoint is controlled by the second PID controller so that the temperature setpoint changes in response to changes in the detected ambient temperature of the HWA.

2. The method of claim 1, wherein controlling the power level applied to the HWA by the nicotine e-vapor device comprises: The drive signal setpoint is generated by the first PID controller. The power level applied to the HWA by the nicotine electronic vaporizer is based on the drive signal setting value.

3. The method according to claim 2, further comprising: When the inhalation detection signal indicates that inhalation is currently occurring with respect to the nicotine e-vapor device, the flow rate of the air flowing around the HWA is determined based on the drive signal setpoint.

4. The method according to claim 2 or 3, wherein generating the suction detection signal comprises: Determine the gradient of the drive signal setpoint; as well as The suction detection signal is generated based on the determined gradient of the driving signal set value.

5. The method according to claim 2 or 3, further comprising: A pulse width modulation (PWM) drive signal is generated based on the drive signal set value; as well as Power is applied to the HWA by applying the PWM drive signal to the HWA.

6. The method of claim 5, wherein generating the PWM drive signal comprises generating the PWM drive signal such that the duty cycle of the PWM is controlled based on a drive signal setpoint.

7. The method according to claim 2 or 3, wherein generating the drive signal setpoint comprises: The first PID controller generates the drive signal setpoint based on the difference between the temperature of the heated element of the HWA and the temperature setpoint.

8. The method according to claim 2 or 3, wherein detecting changes in the ambient temperature of the HWA comprises: The second PID controller detects the change in ambient temperature of the HWA based on the difference between the drive signal setpoint and the drive signal setpoint.

9. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein controlling the temperature setpoint comprises: In response to the detection of an increase in the ambient temperature of the HWA, the second PID controller increases the temperature setpoint; as well as In response to the detection of a decrease in the ambient temperature of the HWA, the second PID controller lowers the temperature setpoint.

10. A nicotine electronic vaporizer, comprising: The nicotine vapor pre-preparation storage section is used to store nicotine vapor pre-preparation formulations. A heater configured to generate nicotine vapor by heating the nicotine vapor pretreatment; HWA hot-wire anemometer; A first PID controller is configured to control the power level applied to the HWA by the nicotine e-vapor device based on the temperature of the heated element of the HWA and the temperature setpoint. A puff detection signal generator, configured to generate a puff detection signal indicating whether a puff has occurred with respect to the nicotine e-vaporizer, wherein the temperature setpoint has a fixed value when the puff detection signal indicates that a puff has occurred with respect to the nicotine e-vaporizer; and A second PID controller is configured such that when the inhalation detection signal indicates that no inhalation is currently occurring with respect to the nicotine e-vaporizer device... The second PID controller detects changes in the ambient temperature of the HWA, and The second PID controller controls the temperature setpoint so that the temperature setpoint changes in response to changes in the detected ambient temperature of the HWA.

11. The nicotine e-vaping device of claim 10, wherein the first PID controller is configured to control the power level applied by the nicotine e-vaping device to the HWA by generating a drive signal setpoint, the power level applied by the nicotine e-vaping device to the HWA being based on the drive signal setpoint.

12. The nicotine e-vaping device of claim 11, wherein the second PID controller is further configured to determine the flow rate of air flowing around the HWA based on the drive signal setpoint when the inhalation detection signal indicates that an inhalation is currently occurring with respect to the nicotine e-vaping device.

13. The nicotine electronic vaporizer according to claim 11 or 12, wherein the inhalation detection signal generator is configured to, Determine the gradient of the drive signal setpoint, and The suction detection signal is generated based on the determined gradient of the driving signal set value.

14. The nicotine electronic vaporizer according to claim 11 or 12, further comprising: A drive signal generator, the drive signal generator being configured to, Based on the drive signal setpoint, a pulse width modulation (PWM) drive signal is generated, and Power is applied to the HWA by applying the PWM drive signal to the HWA.

15. The nicotine electronic vaporizer of claim 14, wherein the drive signal generator is configured to control the duty cycle of the PWM drive signal based on the drive signal setpoint.

16. The nicotine electronic vaporizer according to claim 11 or 12, wherein the first PID controller is configured to generate the drive signal setpoint based on the difference between the temperature of the heated element of the HWA and the temperature setpoint.

17. The nicotine electronic vaporizer according to claim 11 or 12, wherein the second PID controller is configured to detect changes in the ambient temperature of the HWA based on the difference between the drive signal setpoint and the drive signal setpoint set point.

18. The nicotine electronic vaporizer according to any one of claims 10 to 12, wherein the second PID controller is configured to control the temperature setpoint by: In response to detecting an increase in the ambient temperature of the HWA, the temperature setpoint is increased, and The temperature setpoint is lowered in response to the detection of a decrease in the ambient temperature of the HWA.

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