Apparatus and method for assembling a heater assembly for a non-nicotine pod assembly

Abstract

An apparatus for assembling a heater assembly of a non-nicotine pod assembly includes a base, a wick feeder, a slider, and a holder. The wick feeder extends toward the base and defines a channel configured to receive a wick configured to draw a non-nicotine pre-vapor formulation via capillary action. The slider is configured to move along a plane on a top surface of the base. The holder is disposed on the top surface of the base.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This disclosure relates to an apparatus for preparing and assembling heater assemblies for non-nicotine capsule components. Background Technology

[0002] Non-nicotine electronic cigarettes or electronic cigarette devices include a heating element that causes a non-nicotine vapor precursor formulation to evaporate to produce non-nicotine vapor.

[0003] The non-nicotine electronic cigarette device includes a power source, such as a rechargeable battery, disposed within the device. The power source is electrically connected to a heater. The power source supplies power to the heater, causing the heater to heat to a temperature sufficient to convert the non-nicotine vapor precursor formulation into non-nicotine vapor. The non-nicotine vapor exits the non-nicotine electronic cigarette device through a mouthpiece including at least one outlet. Summary of the Invention

[0004] This section provides a general overview of the disclosure, rather than a full disclosure of the complete scope or all features of the disclosure.

[0005] At least one exemplary embodiment relates to an apparatus for assembling a heater assembly of a non-nicotine capsule assembly, the apparatus including a substrate, a core feeder, a slider, and a support. The core feeder extends toward the substrate and defines a channel configured to receive a core configured to draw in a non-nicotine vapor precursor formulation via capillary action. The slider is configured to move along a plane on a top surface of the substrate. The support is disposed on the top surface of the substrate.

[0006] An exemplary device may include a core retainer that extends parallel to and is adjacent to the core feeder for holding the core in a channel.

[0007] An exemplary device may include a cutter having a blade configured to slide along the top surface of a slider to cut a core.

[0008] The core feeder in the exemplary device can be configured to rotate relative to the substrate.

[0009] An exemplary device may include a stop fixed to the base. The core feeder may be rotatably attached to and supported by the stop.

[0010] The bracket of the exemplary device may be configured to receive a support member of the heater assembly therein, and the bracket may be configured to fix the support member relative to the base for inserting the core.

[0011] The channels in the core feeder of the exemplary device can be configured to guide the core to align with the heater on the support.

[0012] The core feeder of the exemplary device can extend orthogonally to the substrate.

[0013] The bracket of the exemplary device may include locking fingers configured to engage a support of the heater assembly and retain the support within the bracket.

[0014] The bracket of the exemplary device can be configured as a support for fixing the heater assembly. A slider can include a front face orthogonal to the top surface of the substrate. The slider can be configured to contact fingers of the heater on the support to move the fingers to a vertical position, thereby compressing the core.

[0015] An exemplary device's core feeder may include a plate and a retainer. The plate may be configured orthogonal to the substrate and may define a channel. The retainer may be configured orthogonal to the substrate and adjacent to the plate. The retainer and the plate may define a slot for guiding the core.

[0016] An exemplary device may include a stop fixed to a base. The plate may be rotatably attached to and supported by the stop.

[0017] The retainer of the exemplary device can be fixed to the plate such that the retainer and the plate are configured to rotate relative to the base and the stop.

[0018] The bracket of the exemplary device can be configured to: fix the support of the heater assembly and lock the position of the support relative to the base.

[0019] The bracket of the exemplary device may include locking fingers configured to engage a support and retain the support within the bracket.

[0020] An exemplary device may include a blade configured to slide along the top surface of a slider.

[0021] At least one exemplary embodiment relates to a method of assembling a heater assembly of a non-nicotine capsule assembly, and includes: fixing a support of the heater assembly relative to a substrate with a bracket; aligning a core strip in the heater of the support with a guide plate mounted on the substrate, the core strip being configured to draw a non-nicotine vapor precursor formulation via capillary action; cutting a portion of the core strip with a blade configured to slide relative to the substrate; clamping a portion of the heater around a portion of the core strip with a slider configured to slide relative to the substrate; and releasing the support from the substrate with a bracket.

[0022] An exemplary method for fixing a support relative to a base may include locking the support in a bracket.

[0023] Aligning the core strip in the heater of the support member using an exemplary method may include inserting the core strip into a channel in a guide plate.

[0024] Aligning the core strip in the heater of the support member may include inserting the core strip into the gap defined by the channel in the guide plate and the retainer plate fixed to the guide plate.

[0025] Other aspects of the application will become apparent from the description provided herein. The descriptions and specific examples in this invention are for illustrative purposes only and are not intended to limit the scope of this disclosure. Attached Figure Description

[0026] The various features and advantages of the non-limiting embodiments of the invention will become clearer when the detailed description is reviewed in conjunction with the accompanying drawings. The drawings are provided for illustrative purposes only and should not be construed as limiting the scope of the claims. Unless explicitly stated otherwise, the drawings are not considered to be drawn to scale. Various dimensions in the drawings may have been enlarged for clarity.

[0027] Figure 1A It is a front perspective view of an apparatus or fixture for assembling a heater assembly for a non-nicotine pod assembly, according to at least one exemplary embodiment.

[0028] Figure 1B yes Figure 1A The rear perspective view of the device shown.

[0029] Figure 2A yes Figure 1A A perspective view of an exemplary embodiment of the assembly of the device and the guiding device shown.

[0030] Figure 2B yes Figure 2A The top perspective view of the assembled base and guide device is shown.

[0031] Figure 3 yes Figure 1A A perspective view of an exemplary embodiment of the base of the device shown.

[0032] Figure 4A yes Figure 1A A perspective view of an exemplary embodiment of the assembly of the device, including the base and slider.

[0033] Figure 4B yes Figure 4A The side view of the assembled base and slider is shown.

[0034] Figure 5 yes Figure 1A The diagram shows a perspective view of an exemplary embodiment of the device, in which the guiding device has been removed.

[0035] Figure 6 yes Figure 1A The illustrated perspective view of an exemplary embodiment of the device, wherein the guide device, core feeder, and core holder are removed.

[0036] Figures 7A to 7D They are Figure 1A Perspective, side, top, and rear views of an exemplary embodiment of the device's support.

[0037] Figure 7E yes Figures 7A to 7D A side view of an exemplary embodiment of the lock and spring of the bracket shown.

[0038] Figure 7F yes Figures 7A to 7E A perspective view of an example of a lock on a bracket shown.

[0039] Figure 8A yes Figure 1A A front perspective view of an exemplary embodiment of the clamping assembly of the device shown.

[0040] Figure 8B yes Figure 8A A front perspective view of an exemplary embodiment of the clamp assembly, including the stop and the spring.

[0041] Figure 8C yes Figure 8A A perspective view of an exemplary embodiment of the fasteners of the clamp assembly shown.

[0042] Figure 8D yes Figure 8A Rear perspective view of the fixture assembly shown.

[0043] Figure 9A yes Figure 1A A front perspective view of an exemplary embodiment of the core guiding device of the device shown.

[0044] Figure 9B yes Figure 9A The side view of the core guide device shown.

[0045] Figure 10 Is with Figure 1A A perspective view of an exemplary embodiment of a cutter used with the device shown.

[0046] Figure 11 This is a flowchart of at least one exemplary embodiment of a method for preparing and assembling a heater assembly of a non-nicotine capsule component.

[0047] Figure 12 This is a top view of an exemplary embodiment of the chip.

[0048] Figure 13 Is with Figure 1A A top view of an exemplary embodiment of a slicing guide device used with the device shown.

[0049] Figure 14 Is with Figure 13 A top view of an exemplary embodiment of a blade used in conjunction with the slicing guide device shown.

[0050] Figures 15A to 15B The diagram illustrates the use of Figure 13 The slice guide device shown and Figure 14 An exemplary embodiment of the method for slicing a core sheet with a blade is shown.

[0051] Figure 16A This is a top view of an exemplary embodiment of a sliced ​​core sheet.

[0052] Figure 16B It comes from Figure 16A A top view of an exemplary embodiment of the core strip of the sliced ​​core sheet shown.

[0053] Figure 17A The diagram shows that Figure 16B The core strip shown is inserted Figures 9A to 9B An exemplary embodiment of the method in the channel of the core guiding device shown.

[0054] Figure 17B The diagram illustrates how to make Figure 4A An exemplary embodiment of the method of sliding a slider to contact a portion of a core strip, illustrated in the figure.

[0055] Figure 18 The diagram illustrates the use of Figure 10 The cutter shown cuts the core strip from the channel. Figure 17B An exemplary embodiment of the method for the core strip portion shown.

[0056] Figure 19 The diagram shows that Figures 9A to 9B The core guide device shown surrounds Figure 8C An exemplary embodiment of a method for pivoting the fastener in a rotatable manner is shown.

[0057] Figures 20A to 20B The illustration shows the insertion of a support member into the heater assembly of a non-nicotine pod assembly. Figures 7A to 7D An exemplary embodiment of the method in the scaffold shown.

[0058] Figures 21A to 21B An exemplary embodiment of a method for inserting a core into a heater assembly of a non-nicotine pod assembly is illustrated.

[0059] Figure 21C An exemplary embodiment of a method for compressing the core portion between the fingers of a heater assembly of a non-nicotine pod assembly is illustrated.

[0060] Figure 21D An exemplary embodiment of a method for cutting a portion of a core is illustrated.

[0061] Figures 22 to 24 The diagram shows from Figure 1A An exemplary embodiment of the method for releasing a heater assembly of a non-nicotine pod component from a device is shown.

[0062] Figure 25 This is a front view of an exemplary embodiment of a heater assembly that is an assembly of non-nicotine pod components. Detailed Implementation

[0063] This document discloses some detailed exemplary embodiments. However, the specific structural and functional details disclosed herein are merely representative for the purpose of describing exemplary embodiments. Exemplary embodiments may be implemented in many alternative forms and should not be considered limited to the exemplary embodiments listed herein.

[0064] Therefore, while exemplary embodiments can be various modifications and alternatives, exemplary embodiments are shown through the accompanying drawings and will be described in detail herein. However, it should be understood that there is no intention to limit the exemplary embodiments to the specific forms disclosed; rather, the exemplary embodiments cover all modifications, equivalents, and alternatives falling within the scope of the exemplary embodiments. The same reference numerals denote the same elements throughout the description of the drawings.

[0065] A non-nicotine e-cigarette device (or non-nicotine e-cigarette apparatus) includes a heating element that vaporizes a non-nicotine vapor precursor formulation to produce non-nicotine vapor. The non-nicotine vapor precursor formulation may be encapsulated in a housing or a non-nicotine pod assembly. The non-nicotine e-cigarette device includes a power source, such as a rechargeable battery, disposed within the device. The power source is electrically connected to a heater assembly of the non-nicotine pod assembly. The power source supplies power to the heater assembly, causing the heater assembly to heat to a temperature sufficient to convert the non-nicotine vapor precursor formulation in the non-nicotine pod assembly into non-nicotine vapor. The non-nicotine vapor exits the non-nicotine e-cigarette device through a mouthpiece including at least one outlet.

[0066] A non-nicotine vapor preformulation is a material or combination of materials that does not contain nicotine and can be converted into a non-nicotine vapor. For example, non-nicotine vapor preformulations can include liquid, solid, and / or gel formulations. These can include, for example, but not limited to, solutions and suspensions (e.g., emulsions) containing water, oils, beads, solvents, active ingredients, ethanol, plant extracts, non-nicotine compounds, natural or artificial flavorings, vapor-forming agents such as glycerin and propylene glycol, and / or any other ingredients suitable for inhalation. During inhalation, a non-nicotine electronic cigarette device is configured to heat the non-nicotine vapor preformulation to generate non-nicotine vapor. Non-nicotine vapor, non-nicotine aerosol, and non-nicotine dispersant are used interchangeably and refer to substances generated or output by the disclosed, claimed device and / or its equivalents, wherein such substances do not contain nicotine.

[0067] In an exemplary embodiment, the non-nicotine vapor preformulation does not include or originate from tobacco. The non-nicotine compound in the non-nicotine vapor preformulation may be a liquid or a portion of a liquid, or included therein, including extracts, oils, alcohols, tinctures, suspensions, dispersions, colloids, generally non-neutral (weakly acidic or weakly basic) solutions, or combinations thereof. During the preparation of the non-nicotine vapor preformulation, the non-nicotine compound may be infused, mixed, or otherwise combined with other components of the non-nicotine vapor preformulation.

[0068] In exemplary embodiments, non-nicotine compounds undergo a slow, natural decarboxylation process over a longer period of time at relatively low temperatures (including at or below room temperature, e.g., 72°F). Furthermore, if exposed to higher temperatures (especially in the range of approximately 175°F or higher) at relatively low pressures (e.g., 1 atmosphere) for a period of time (minutes or hours), non-nicotine compounds may undergo a significantly increased decarboxylation process (e.g., 50% or higher decarboxylation). Temperatures of approximately 240°F or higher can result in rapid or transient decarboxylation at relatively high decarboxylation rates, but further increases in temperature can lead to impairment of some or all of the chemical properties of the non-nicotine compound.

[0069] In an exemplary embodiment, the non-nicotine compound may be derived from medicinal plants (e.g., natural components of plants that provide medically acceptable therapeutic effects).

[0070] Non-nicotine vapor precursor formulations may contain non-nicotine compounds that provide medically acceptable therapeutic effects (e.g., treatment of pain, nausea, seizures, mental disorders). Details of the treatment methods can be found in U.S. Application No. 15 / 845,501, filed December 18, 2017, entitled “VAPORIZING DEVICES AND METHODS FOR DELIVERING ACOMPOUND USING THE SAME,” the disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.

[0071] In an exemplary embodiment, at least one flavoring agent is present in an amount ranging from about 0.2% to about 15% by weight (e.g., about 1% to 12%, about 2% to 10%, or about 5% to 8%), based on the total weight of the non-nicotine vapor precursor preparation. The at least one flavoring agent may be at least one of a natural flavoring agent, an artificial flavoring agent, or a combination of natural and artificial flavoring agents. The at least one flavoring agent may include flavonoids or other flavor compounds. For example, the at least one flavoring agent may include menthol, wintergreen, peppermint, cinnamon, cloves, combinations thereof, and / or extracts thereof. Furthermore, flavoring agents may be included to provide other herbal spices, fruit spices, nut spices, spirits spices, roasting spices, mint spices, flavoring spices, combinations thereof, and any other desired flavorings.

[0072] Figure 1A and Figure 1B These are, respectively, front and rear perspective views of an apparatus or fixture for assembling a non-nicotine pod assembly according to at least one exemplary embodiment. The apparatus may be used in at least one exemplary embodiment with... Figure 10 The illustrated cutter is used in conjunction with, and in at least one exemplary embodiment, the cutter... Figure 13 and Figure 14 The illustrated slicing guide and blade are used together to prepare and assemble heater assemblies for non-nicotine capsule assemblies as described herein.

[0073] refer to Figure 1A and Figure 1B In at least one exemplary embodiment, the device or fixture 10 includes a base 14, a guide device 18, a slider 22, a core guide device 26 (or a non-nicotine core guide device), a bracket 30, and a stop 34.

[0074] In at least one exemplary embodiment, a detailed illustration of the substrate 14 is provided. Figure 3As shown in the figure. The base 14 may include a longitudinal channel 38 with sidewalls 42, 46. Each sidewall includes steps 50, 54 that increase the width of the longitudinal channel 38. The longitudinal channel 38 may have a first width W1 at the base or bottom 58 of the longitudinal channel 38, and may have a second width W2 at the top 62 of the longitudinal channel 38 above the steps 50, 54, wherein the second width W2 is greater than the first width W1.

[0075] exist Figure 1A , Figure 1B and Figure 3 In the exemplary embodiments shown, for example, the base 14 may include a transverse channel 66 with sidewalls 70, 74 defining the transverse channel 66. The transverse channel 66 may extend orthogonally to and intersect with the longitudinal channel 38. One sidewall 70 of the transverse channel 66 may include a step 78, while the other sidewall 74 is flat. The step 78 may increase the width of the transverse channel 66. The transverse channel 66 may have a first width LW1 at the bottom of the transverse channel 66 or at the base 82, and may have a second width LW2 at the top 86 of the transverse channel 66 above the step 78, wherein the second width LW2 is greater than the first width LW1.

[0076] The sidewall 70 may include a slot 88 at the location of the bracket 30. Thus, the slot 88 divides the sidewall 70 into two parts 70(a) and 70(b).

[0077] exist Figure 1A , Figure 1B and Figure 3 In the exemplary embodiments shown, for example, the base 14 may include a plurality of holes 90, 94, 98 extending orthogonally through the base 14. Hole 90 may receive fasteners (e.g., bolts, screws, or other fasteners) for securing the guide device 18 to the top surface 100 of the base 14. Hole 94 may receive fasteners (e.g., bolts, screws, or other fasteners) for securing the bracket 30 to the base 14. Hole 98 may receive fasteners (e.g., bolts, screws, or other fasteners) for securing the stop 34 to the base 14. A slot 102 may also be defined by the base 14 between the holes 98. The slot 102 may receive a portion of the stop 34.

[0078] In addition, the substrate 14 may include a support cutout 106 aligned with the longitudinal channel 38 and the hole 94 for receiving the support 30. The width of the support cutout 106 corresponds to the width of the support 30, thereby simplifying the assembly of the support 30 on the substrate 14.

[0079] At the intersection between the longitudinal channel 38 and the transverse channel 66, a support cutout 110 may be defined by the base 14. The support cutout 110 may provide a track or guide for inserting components of the heater assembly of a non-nicotine pod assembly into the bracket 30. The width SW of the support cutout may be smaller than the width W1 of the longitudinal channel 38 and the width HCW of the bracket cutout 106. The support cutout 110 may extend from the intersection between the longitudinal channel 38 and the transverse channel 66, beyond the plane of the sidewall 70, into the slot 88, and into the section of the base 14 with the bracket cutout 106.

[0080] Figure 2A and Figure 2B yes Figure 1A This is a perspective view of an exemplary embodiment of the assembly of the device or fixture 10, including the base 14 and the guide device 18. As previously described, the guide device 18 can be secured to the base 14 at a hole 90 in the base 14. The guide device 18 may include a corresponding first hole 114 aligned with the hole 90 in the base 14 and receiving fasteners to secure the guide device 18 to the base 14.

[0081] The guide device 18 may include a second hole 118, a third hole 122, and a slot 126. The slot 126 may be longitudinally positioned along the center of the guide device 18 above a channel 38 in the base 14. The second hole 118 may be positioned along each side 130, 134 and at the front end 138 of the slot 126. The second hole 118 may receive a pin, rod, or screw extending through the second hole 118 to apply slight pressure to the slider 22, ensuring that the movement of the slider 22 is actuated and controlled by the pin 150. The third hole 122 receives a pin, rod, or screw to set the functional travel distance of the slider 22 and may be positioned at the lateral center of the front end 142 of the guide device 18 and extend through to the front end 138 of the slot 126.

[0082] Figure 4A and Figure 4B yes Figure 1A This is a perspective view of an exemplary embodiment of the assembly of the device or fixture 10, including the base 14 and the slider 22. The slider 22 is slidable within a longitudinal channel 38. The slider 22 may include a pin 150 and a plate 146 extending from its top surface 154. On the top surfaces 158, 162 of each step 50, 54, the plate 146 can be stationary and slidable. The front end 166 of the plate 146 may include a lug or protrusion 170 having a front face 174, which is slidable within a slot 88 of the base 14.

[0083] Pin 150 can extend orthogonally to plate 146 and can be received in slot 126 of guide device 18, as, for example Figure 1A and Figure 1BAs illustrated, the groove 126 can serve as a guide and stop for the pin 150. In the fully forward position, the pin 150 abuts (e.g., contacts) the front end 138 of the groove 126, and the plane along the front face 174 of the lug 170 on the slider 22 is aligned with the plane along the sidewall 70 of the transverse channel 66. In the fully rearward position, the pin 150 abuts (e.g., contacts) the rear end 178 of the groove 126, and the plane along the rear face 182 of the plate 146 of the slider 22 is aligned with the plane along the rear face 186 of the base 14.

[0084] refer to Figure 5 The figure shows Figure 1A A perspective view of an exemplary embodiment of the device or clamp 10 shown, wherein the guiding device has been removed. Figure 1A , Figure 1B and Figure 5 As shown, for example, the core guide device 26 can be fixed to the base 14 by a stop 34. As previously described, the stop 34 can be fixed to the base 14 at the slot 102 and the hole 98 (by fasteners). In addition, the return spring 190 can be fixed to the outer front surface 194 of the stop 34 and the front surface 198 of the base 14, such that the plane along the front surface 194 is aligned with the plane along the front surface 198, and restricting the front surface 194 of the stop 34 from protruding beyond the front surface 198 of the base 14.

[0085] For example, such as Figure 1A and Figures 8A to 9B As illustrated, the core guide device 26 can be secured to the stop 34 by fasteners (such as shoulder screws 202). In some exemplary embodiments, fasteners 202 ( Figure 8C The block 34 may include a top 206 and a body 210, the body having a smooth portion 214 and a threaded portion 218. The threaded portion 218 can engage with a thread in a hole 222 in the stop 34. Figure 8B Hole 222 may be a countersunk hole having a large-diameter portion 226 and a small-diameter portion 230, the large-diameter portion engaging with a portion of the smooth portion 214 of fastener 202, and the small-diameter portion being threaded and engaging with the threaded portion 218 of fastener 302. The top 206 of fastener 202 may be knurled, slotted, or knurled and slotted to facilitate insertion into and removal from hole 222.

[0086] like Figure 9A and Figure 9BAs illustrated in the exemplary embodiments, the core guiding device 26 may include a core feeder 234 (or a non-nicotine core feeder) and a core retainer 238 (or a non-nicotine core retainer). The core feeder 234 may be a plate or a channeled plate in which channels or grooves 242 are formed. The channel 242 may extend across the width of the core feeder 234 and its width may be sufficient to accommodate a core configured to aspirate a non-nicotine vapor precursor formulation via capillary action (discussed in further detail below). For example, the width of the channel 242 may range from 0.0625 inches to 1 inch, and more specifically, from 0.125 inches to 0.5 inches. While exemplary widths are provided, it should be understood that the width of the channel 242 may be of different sizes to accommodate cores of different sizes configured to aspirate a non-nicotine vapor precursor formulation via capillary action.

[0087] The core holder 238 may be a flat plate aligned with (and fixed to) the core feeder 234 to define a guide or track 246 in the core feeder 234 for inserting a core for non-nicotine wicking during assembly (discussed in further detail below). The core holder 238 may include a hole 254 in the core feeder 234 (…). Figure 1B Aligned holes 250 receive fasteners therein to secure the core retainer 238 to the core feeder 234. Fasteners or pins extending through one of the holes 250 may extend beyond the core feeder 234 and fit within a track 258 in the stop 34, thereby allowing the core feeder 234 to pivot relative to the stop 34. Furthermore, a smooth portion 214 of the fastener 202 is received within a hole in the core guide 26, providing a pivot point around which the core guide 26 can rotate.

[0088] Figures 6 to 7F The diagram shows Figure 1A A detailed view of an exemplary embodiment of the support of the device or clamp 10 shown. The support 30 may include a base 262, a lock 266, and an elastic member 270 (e.g., a spring). The base 262 may further include a groove 274 for receiving one or more fingers of a heater assembly of a non-nicotine pod assembly (described further below) and / or portions of the lock 266. The base 262 may also include a hole 278 configured to align with a hole 94 in the base 14 and receive fasteners to secure the support 30 to the base 14.

[0089] In some exemplary embodiments, the lock 266 may further include an actuator 282 and at least one locking finger 286. The lock 266 may be rotatably secured to the base 262 at a hole 290 in the actuator 282. The hole 290 in the actuator 282 may be aligned with a hole 294 in the base 262 to receive a lever or pin therein. The lever or pin may provide a pivot point about which the actuator 282 may rotate. The actuator 282 may include a protrusion or lever 298 configured to be operated by an assembly technician to move the actuator 282 between a first forward position and a second rearward position. In the first position, the locking finger 286 may be in an open or unlocked position (described further below), and in the second position, the locking finger 286 may be in a closed or locked position (described further below).

[0090] The locking finger 286 can be fixed to the front 302 of the lever 282 and can rotate with the lever 282. In some exemplary embodiments, three locking fingers 286 can be fixed to the lever 282. However, it should be understood that any number of locking fingers 286 can be included. In some exemplary embodiments, each locking finger 286 can be: a plate comprising a rectangular body 306 and a hook 310 (…). Figure 7F Hook 310 can be defined by tilt angle 314 and point 318.

[0091] Lug 322 on the side of the toggle 282 opposite to the front 302 contacts the resilient member 270. The resilient member 270 is a flat leaf spring having a body 326 and lugs or protrusions 330 extending from the body 326. The body 326 of the resilient member 270 is secured to the base 262 at a hole 334 by fasteners (e.g., screws or bolts only). The hole 334 is aligned with a hole 278 in the base 262 and configured to receive the fasteners. The lug 330 extends like a cantilever beam and covers the lug 322 of the toggle 282. The lug 330 of the resilient member 270 provides a reaction force on the toggle 282 to bias the toggle 282 into a second rearward position, thereby biasing the locking finger 286 into a locked closed position.

[0092] Figure 10 It is possible to be with Figure 1A This is a perspective view of an exemplary embodiment of a cutter 338 used with the device or clamp 10 shown. The cutter 338 includes a stop 342 and a blade 346. The blade 346 can be positioned on the front 350 of the stop 342. In some embodiments, the blade 346 can be secured to the stop 342 by one or more fasteners.

[0093] The cutter 338 can slide along the top surface 154 of the slider 22 from a first position to a second position. In the first position, the cutter 338 can be positioned on the top surface 154 of the slider 22 between the core guide 26 and the guide 18. In the second position, the cutter 338 can be positioned on the top surface 154 of the slider 22, wherein the blade 346 is positioned near the support 30 and below the core guide 26.

[0094] Still refer to Figure 1 to Figure 10 The exemplary embodiment shown illustrates a method 400 for preparing and assembling a heater assembly of a non-nicotine pod assembly, using the device or fixture 10 and cutter 338. Method 400 may begin at 404. In step 408, the core pad 500 ( Figure 12 ) Slicing guide device 504 ( Figure 13 Coverage. For example, the slice guide 504 may be disposed on the core pad 500.

[0095] In at least one exemplary embodiment, the core pad 500 (or non-nicotine core pad) may include filaments (or threads) capable of drawing in a non-nicotine vapor precursor formulation via capillary action. For example, the core pad 500 may be filaments or sheets of glass (or ceramic) fibers woven together. In at least one exemplary embodiment, the core pad 500 may include any suitable material or combination of materials. Examples of suitable materials may be (but are not limited to) glass, ceramic-based, or graphite-based materials.

[0096] The core pad 500 can possess any suitable capillary action to accommodate non-nicotine vapor precursor formulations with different physical properties (such as density, viscosity, surface tension, and vapor pressure). Capillary action is the movement of non-nicotine vapor precursor formulations (e.g., liquids containing dissolved non-nicotine substances) within the space of the porous core pad 500 material due to adhesive forces, cohesive forces, and surface tension. Capillary action occurs when liquid molecules are attracted and adhere to the inner surface of the porous structure (adhesion), keeping them tightly bound together (cohesion). Notably, capillary action occurs when the adhesion of liquid molecules to the structural walls is stronger than the cohesive forces between molecules. Because non-nicotine vapor precursor formulations can include a variety of substances (such as, but not limited to, water, oil, emulsion, beads, solvent, active ingredient, ethanol, plant or other extracts, non-nicotine compounds, natural or artificial flavorings, vaporizing agents (such as glycerin and propylene glycol, alcohol, tinctures, suspensions, dispersions, colloids, generally non-neutral slightly acidic or slightly alkaline solutions), and / or any other component as described above that may be suitable for evaporation), a wicking material can be designed and constructed for a specific formulation to draw in non-nicotine vapor precursor formulations. Therefore, the material of the wicking pad 500 can have different structures and / or compounds to facilitate capillary action for a specific non-nicotine vapor precursor formulation. For example, the diameter of the pores and / or the size of the gap space in the wicking pad 500 material can be appropriate to draw in the non-nicotine vapor precursor formulation via capillary action based on the physical properties of the formulation (e.g., surface tension) and the physical properties of the material (e.g., hydrophilicity). For example, the size of the capillary space may need to increase with increasing liquid density. Furthermore, in an exemplary embodiment, the core pad 500 may be non-conductive.

[0097] Although the exemplary core pad 500 is in Figure 12 The diagram shows a circular sheet, but it should be understood that the core pad 500 can take any shape, including rectangular, square, or any other shape.

[0098] like Figure 13 As illustrated, the exemplary slicing guide 504 may include one or more slots or channels 508 penetrating its thickness. Each of the channels 508 may extend in the length direction of the slicing guide 504 and may be aligned in the width direction of the slicing guide 504. The channels 508 may be evenly distributed in the width direction such that when the core pad 500 is cut or segmented, strips of equal width are formed.

[0099] A hole 512 may be located at one end of each channel 508. In some embodiments, the hole 512 may be located at an alternative end of the channel 508. The hole 512 at the end of the channel 508 may facilitate the insertion of the blade 516 (described further below). Through the hole 512 at the alternative end of the channel 508, the blade 516 may be inserted into each channel more efficiently and sliced ​​through each channel.

[0100] In step 412, the blade 516 or razor slices through each channel 508 in the slicing guide 504 to cut or divide the core pad 500 into core strips 520. Figure 16A ).exist Figure 14 In the illustrated exemplary embodiment, the blade 516 may include a cutting edge 522 and a clamping portion 526. The cutting edge 522 may be a sharp edge for cutting or dividing the core pad 500 into core strips 520 (or non-nicotine core strips). For example, the clamping portion 526 may be a blunt edge of the blade 516 or a cover layer on the edge of the blade 516 opposite to the cutting edge 522, providing a portion for assembly technicians to clamp the blade 516.

[0101] like Figure 15A and Figure 15B As illustrated, the cutting edge 522 of the blade 516 is inserted into the hole 512 of each channel 508 of the slicing guide 504 and passes through or slices the length of the channel 508. This movement of the blade 516 cuts or separates the core pad 500 located below the slicing guide 504. The blade 516 then moves to the next channel 508 until slicing is performed in each channel 508 of the slicing guide 504.

[0102] In step 416, the slice guide 504 is removed, and the core strip 520 is separated from the core pad 500. For example... Figure 16A and Figure 16B As illustrated, when the slice guide 504 is removed from the core pad 500, the core pad 500 is divided into a plurality of core strips 520 corresponding to the positions of the channels 508. Each core strip 520 can be separated from the adjacent strip 520.

[0103] In step 420, the core strip 520 is inserted into the guide device or track 246 of the core guide device 26. For example... Figure 17A As shown in the figure, the width of the channel 242 of the limiting guide device or track 246 is slightly larger than the width of the core strip 520 to accommodate and guide the core strip 520.

[0104] In step 424, the end of the core strip 520 is removed using a cutter 338. (As...) Figure 17B and Figure 18As illustrated, the slider 22 of the device or clamp 10 is moved to a position that clamps the core strip 520 onto the support 30 to restrict the movement of the core strip 520 during cutting. The cutter 338 moves from a position not in contact with the core strip 520 to a position in contact with the core strip 520. Specifically, the blade 346 of the cutter 338 is moved to a position to slice the core strip 520, forming an edge that extends parallel to the plane on the top surface 154 of the slider 22.

[0105] In step 428, the core guide device 26 rotates about the fastener 202. In at least one exemplary embodiment, the core guide device 26 is rotatably secured to the stop 24 by the fastener 202. The body 210 of the fastener 202 extends through a hole 222 in the core retainer 238, the core plate 234, and the stop 24. When the core guide device 26 rotates relative to the stop 24, a protrusion or other portion extending from the back of the core plate 234 can slide within a track 258 in the stop 24. Figure 19 As illustrated, the core guide device 26 can be rotated from a position where its longitudinal axis A is parallel to the plane on the top surface 100 of the substrate 14 to a position where its longitudinal axis A intersects the plane on the top surface 100 of the substrate 14. In some embodiments, the core guide device 26 can be rotated clockwise such that its longitudinal axis A forms an angle with the plane on the top surface 100 of the substrate 14, the angle being in the range of 45°-90°, more specifically, in the range of 75°-90°.

[0106] In step 432, the lever 298 on the actuator 282 of the lock 266 is engaged to move the locking finger 286 to a first position, such that the finger is unlocked and in the open position. In some embodiments, the lock 266 may be rotatably fixed to the base 262 to rotate about a rod or pin within a hole 290 in the actuator 282. The locking finger 286 may rotate with the rotation of the actuator 282. In one embodiment, as... Figure 20A As shown in the illustration, pressing the lever 298 on the toggle 282 forward moves the locking finger 286 to the first position.

[0107] Lug 322 on the side of the toggle 282 opposite to the front 302 contacts the resilient member 270. The resilient member 270 is a flat leaf spring having a body 326 and lugs or protrusions 330 extending from the body 326. The body 326 of the resilient member 270 is fixed to the base 262. The lug 330 extends like a cantilever beam and covers the lug 322 of the toggle 282. The lug 330 of the resilient member 270 provides a reaction force on the toggle 282 to bias the toggle 282 into a second rearward position, thereby biasing the locking finger 286 into a locked closed position.

[0108] Therefore, when the lever 298 on the toggle 282 of the lock 266 is engaged to move the locking finger 286 to the first position, the lug 322 applies force to the elastic member 270.

[0109] In step 436, the preliminary heater arrangement 524 (or preliminary non-nicotine heater arrangement) of the non-nicotine pod assembly is inserted into the bracket 30. For example... Figure 20A and Figure 20B As illustrated, in at least one exemplary embodiment, the initial heater arrangement 524 of the non-nicotine pod assembly may include a base 528 and a heating element 532 having wire loops or serpentine wires forming a coil 536. The wires used to form the coil may be metallic. A first set of wire loops 536a may extend perpendicular to the top surface 540 of the base 528. A second set of wire loops 536b may extend at an angle to the first set of wire loops 536a and the top surface 540. For example, the second set of wire loops 536b may extend at an angle in the range of 30°–60° relative to the top surface 540, and more specifically, at an angle of 45° relative to the top surface 540.

[0110] The heating element 532 may extend fully or partially across the width of the base 528. In some exemplary embodiments, the heating element 532 may contact (e.g., in direct contact) the assembled core (described further below).

[0111] The bracket 30 is disposed in the bracket cutout 106 of the base 14 such that the slot 88 exists between the bracket 30 and the base 14 at a position above the support cutout 110. Therefore, when the initial heater arrangement 524 of the non-nicotine pod assembly is inserted into the bracket 30, the base 528 is inserted into the support cutout 110 and the slot 88, at least partially below the bracket 30.

[0112] The initial heater arrangement 524 of the non-nicotine pod assembly is inserted into the bracket 30 until the first set of wire loops 536a contacts the bracket 30 at a position close to the slot 274 on the bracket 30.

[0113] In step 440, the lever 298 of the toggle 282 is released, causing the toggle 282 to return to the second position. As previously described, the lug 330 of the elastic member 270 provides a reaction force on the toggle 282 to bias the toggle 282 into the second rearward position, thereby biasing the locking finger 286 into the locked closed position. Figure 20B As shown, when the toggle 282 is moved to the second position, the locking finger 286 engages with the first set of wire circuits 536a to hold the preliminary heater arrangement 524 on the bracket 30.

[0114] In step 444, the core guide device 26 is rotated counterclockwise to a position where its longitudinal axis A is parallel to a plane on the top surface 100 of the base 14. As previously shown, the core guide device 26 is rotatably secured to the stop 24 by fastener 202. The body 210 of the fastener 202 extends through a hole 222 in the core retainer 238, the core plate 234, and the stop 24. When the core guide device 26 rotates relative to the stop 24, a protrusion or other portion extending from the back of the core plate 234 can slide within a track 258 in the stop 24. The core guide device 26 can be rotated from a position where its longitudinal axis A intersects with a plane on the top surface 100 of the base 14 to a position where its longitudinal axis A is parallel to a plane on the top surface 100 of the base 14.

[0115] In step 448, the core strip 520 slides into the channel 242 in the core guide device 26, until it contacts the top surface 540 of the base 528 of the preliminary heater arrangement 524 of the non-nicotine capsule assembly. Figure 21A and Figure 21B As illustrated, the core strip 520 includes an edge 544 that extends parallel to a plane on the top surface 154 of the slider 22. The edge 544 is positioned to contact the top surface 540 of the base 528 of the initial heater arrangement 524. Furthermore, the core strip 520 contacts the first set of electrical circuits 536a.

[0116] In step 452, the pin 150 of the slider 22 moves to a fully forward position, in which the pin 150 contacts the front end 138 of the groove 126 and is aligned with the plane of the front face 174 of the lug 170 on the slider 22 along the plane of the side wall 70 of the transverse channel 66.

[0117] like Figure 21B and Figure 21C As illustrated, during the movement of slider 22 to the fully forward position, the front end 174 of the lug 170 on slider 22 contacts the second set of wire circuits 536b, bending the second set of wire circuits 536b from a position angled to the first set of wire circuits 536a and the top surface 540 to a position substantially parallel to the first set of wire circuits 536a and in contact with the core strip 520. In the fully forward position, the front end 174 of the lug 170 on slider 22 clamps the first set of wire circuits 536a and the second set of wire circuits 535b together to compress the core strip 520 and fix the core strip 520 relative to the initial heater arrangement 524, forming a heater assembly or heater core assembly 524'.

[0118] In step 456, the core strip 520 is cut to form a core 548 (or a non-nicotine core). In some embodiments, a cutter 338 is used to remove the ends of the core strip 520. Figure 21D As illustrated, the cutter 338 moves from a position not in contact with the core strip 520 to a position in contact with the core strip 520. Specifically, the blade 346 of the cutter 338 moves to a position to slice the core strip 520, forming an edge extending parallel to the plane on the top surface 154 of the slider 22. The final cut is the core 548.

[0119] In step 460, the core guide device 26 rotates clockwise. For example... Figure 22 As illustrated, the core guide device 26 is rotatable about the fastener 202. The core guide device 26 can be rotated from a position where its longitudinal axis A is parallel to a plane on the top surface 100 of the base 14 to a position where its longitudinal axis A intersects the plane on the top surface 100 of the base 14. In some embodiments, the core guide device 26 can be rotated clockwise such that its longitudinal axis A forms an angle with the plane on the top surface 100 of the base 14, the angle being in the range of 45°–90°, more specifically, in the range of 75°–90°.

[0120] In step 464, the pin 150 of the slider 22 is moved to release the heater assembly 524' (or non-nicotine heater assembly) of the non-nicotine pod assembly. In some embodiments, the pin 150 is moved to a fully rearward position, such as... Figure 23 As shown. In the fully rearward position, pin 150 can contact the rear end 178 of groove 126 and is aligned with the plane of the rear end 182 of plate 146 of slider 22 and the plane of the rear end 186 of base 14.

[0121] In step 468, the lever 298 of the toggle 282 is engaged to release the lock 266. Engaging the lever 298 moves the locking finger 286 to a first position, such that the finger is unlocked and in the open position. In some embodiments, the lock 266 may be rotatably fixed to the base 262 to rotate about a rod or pin within a hole 290 in the toggle 282. The locking finger 286 may rotate with the rotation of the toggle 282. In one embodiment, as... Figure 24 As shown in the illustration, pressing the lever 298 on the toggle 282 forward moves the locking finger 286 to the first position.

[0122] Lug 322 on the side of the toggle 282 opposite to the front 302 contacts the resilient member 270. The resilient member 270 extends like a cantilever beam and covers the lug 322 of the toggle 282. The resilient member 270 provides a reaction force on the toggle 282 to bias the toggle 282 into a second rearward position, thereby biasing the locking finger 286 into a locked closed position. Therefore, when the lever 298 on the toggle 282 of the lock 266 engages to move the locking finger 286 to the first position, the lug 322 applies force to the resilient member 270.

[0123] In step 472, the heater assembly 524 of the non-nicotine pod assembly is removed from the support 30. (As...) Figure 23 and Figure 24 As illustrated, the heater assembly 524' is removed from the support 30 by sliding the heater assembly 524' in the slot 88 and support cutout 110 away from the support 30 until the heater assembly 524' leaves the edge of the support 30. The heater assembly 524' of the non-nicotine pod assembly is then removed from the support cutout 110.

[0124] In step 476, the lever 298 of the toggle 282 is released, causing the toggle 282 to return to the second position. As previously described, the lug 330 of the resilient member 270 provides a reaction force on the toggle 282 to bias the toggle 282 into the second rearward position, thereby biasing the locking finger 286 into the locked closed position.

[0125] In step 480, method 400 ends.

[0126] Now for reference Figure 25 The illustration shows an embodiment of a heater assembly 524' with a non-nicotine pod assembly assembled. A core 548 is sandwiched between a first set of wire circuits 536a and a second set of wire circuits 536b, such that the core 548 is fixed relative to the heater assembly 524'. An exemplary heater assembly is disclosed in U.S. Application No. 16 / 696,081, filed November 26, 2019, entitled "NON-NICOTINE POD ASSEMBLIES AND NON-NICOTINE E-VAPING DEVICES," the entire disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference.

[0127] It should be understood that when an element or layer is referred to as "on another element or layer," "connected to another element or layer," "attached to another element or layer," or "covering another element or layer," the element or layer may be directly located on, directly connected to, attached to, or cover the other element or layer, or there may be intermediate elements or layers. Conversely, when an element is referred to as "directly located on another element or layer," "directly connected to another element or layer," or "directly attached to another element or layer," there are no intermediate elements or layers. Throughout this specification, the same reference numerals denote the same elements. As used herein, the term "and / or" includes any and all combinations of one or more of the listed related items.

[0128] It should be understood that although the terms first, second, third, etc., as used herein may describe different elements, components, regions, layers, and / or portions, these elements, components, regions, layers, and / or portions should not be limited by these terms. These terms are used only to distinguish one element, component, region, layer, or portion from another region, layer, or portion. Therefore, the first element, component, region, layer, or portion discussed below may be referred to as a second element, component, region, layer, or portion without departing from the teachings of the exemplary embodiments.

[0129] For ease of description, spatially related terms (e.g., "below," "below," "lower," "above," "upper," etc.) may be used herein to describe the relationship of an element or feature to another element or feature shown in the accompanying drawings. It should be understood that, in addition to the orientations depicted in the drawings, spatially related terms are intended to include different orientations of the device in use or operation. For example, if the device in the drawings is flipped, an element described as "below" or "below other elements or features" would 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 spatially related descriptive terms used herein shall be interpreted accordingly.

[0130] The terminology used herein is for the purpose of describing different exemplary embodiments only and is not intended to limit the exemplary embodiments. The singular forms “a,” “an,” and “described” as used herein are intended to include the plural forms as well, unless the context clearly indicates otherwise. It should be further understood that, when used in this specification, the terms “comprising,” “including,” “containing,” and / or “comprising” indicate the presence of the stated features, integrals, steps, operations, elements, and / or components, but do not exclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, integrals, steps, operations, elements, components, and / or groups thereof.

[0131] This document describes exemplary embodiments with reference to cross-sectional diagrams, which are representative illustrations of ideal embodiments (and intermediate structures) of the exemplary embodiments. Thus, variations in the shape of the diagrams can be anticipated as a result of, for example, manufacturing techniques and / or tolerances. Therefore, exemplary embodiments should not be considered limited to the shape of the areas shown herein, but rather include, for example, deviations in shape due to manufacturing processes.

[0132] Unless otherwise defined, all terms used herein (including technical and scientific terms) shall have the same meaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art to which the exemplary embodiments pertain. It should be further understood that, unless expressly defined herein, terms (including those defined in commonly used dictionaries) shall be interpreted as having a meaning consistent with their meaning in the context of the relevant technical field and shall not be interpreted in an idealized or overly formal sense.

[0133] Exemplary embodiments are disclosed herein. It should be understood that other variations are possible. Such variations should not be considered as departing from the spirit and scope of this disclosure, and it will be apparent to those skilled in the art that all such modifications are intended to be included within the scope of the following claims.

Claims

1. An apparatus for assembling a heater assembly for a non-nicotine capsule assembly, the apparatus comprising: Matrix; A core feeder extending toward the substrate and defining a channel configured to receive a core, the core being constructed to aspirate a non-nicotine vapor precursor via capillary action. A slider, the slider being configured to move along a plane on the top surface of the substrate; and The bracket is disposed on the top surface of the base. The bracket is configured as a support for fixing the heater assembly, the slider includes a front face orthogonal to the top surface of the base, and the slider is configured to contact the fingers of the heater on the support to move the fingers to a vertical position, thereby compressing the core.

2. The device as claimed in claim 1, further comprising: A core holder, which extends parallel to and is adjacent to the core feeder, is used to hold the core in the channel.

3. The device as described in claim 1, further comprising: A cutter having a blade configured to slide along the top surface of the slider to cut the core.

4. The device as claimed in claim 1, wherein, The core feeder is configured to rotate relative to the substrate.

5. The device as claimed in claim 1, further comprising: A stop block, the stop block being fixed to the base body. The core feeder is rotatably attached to and supported by the stop block.

6. The device as claimed in claim 1, wherein, The bracket is configured to receive the support member of the heater assembly therein, and the bracket is configured to fix the support member relative to the base for inserting the core.

7. The device as claimed in claim 6, wherein, The channels in the core feeder are configured to guide the core to align with the heater on the support.

8. The device as claimed in claim 1, wherein, The core feeder extends orthogonally to the substrate.

9. The device as claimed in claim 1, wherein, The bracket includes locking fingers configured to engage the support of the heater assembly and retain the support within the bracket.

10. The device as claimed in claim 1, wherein, The core feeder includes a plate and a retainer, the plate being configured orthogonal to the substrate and defining the channel, and the retainer being configured orthogonal to the substrate and adjacent to the plate, the retainer and the plate defining a slot for guiding the core.

11. The apparatus of claim 10, further comprising: A stop block, the stop block being fixed to the base body. The plate is rotatably attached to and supported by the stop block.

12. The device as claimed in claim 11, wherein, The retainer is fixed to the plate such that the retainer and the plate are configured to rotate relative to the base and the stop.

13. The device as claimed in claim 1, wherein, The bracket is configured to: fix the support member of the heater assembly and lock the position of the support member relative to the base.

14. The device as claimed in claim 13, wherein, The bracket includes locking fingers configured to engage the support member and retain the support member within the bracket.

15. The apparatus of claim 1, further comprising: A blade configured to slide along the top surface of the slider.

16. A method of assembling a heater assembly of a non-nicotine pod assembly, the method comprising: The heater assembly is fixed to the base by a bracket; Align the core in the heater of the support with the core feeder mounted to the base, the core being configured to draw in a non-nicotine vapor precursor via capillary action; A portion of the core is cut using a blade configured to slide relative to the substrate; A portion of the heater is clamped around a portion of the core using a slider configured to slide along a plane located on the top surface of the substrate; and The support member is released from the base using the bracket. The bracket is disposed on the top surface of the base. The core feeder extends toward the substrate and defines a channel configured to receive cores. The slider includes a front face orthogonal to the top surface of the substrate, and the slider is configured to contact the fingers of the heater on the support to move the fingers to a vertical position, thereby compressing the core.

17. The method of claim 16, wherein, Fixing the support relative to the base includes locking the support in the bracket.

18. The method of claim 16, wherein, Aligning the core in the heater of the support member includes inserting the core into the channel of the core feeder.

19. The method of claim 16, wherein, Aligning the core in the heater of the support member includes inserting the core into the gap defined by the channel of the core feeder and the retainer plate fixed to the core feeder.

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