Nicotine e-vaping devices with integrated heater-thermocouple

Abstract

A nicotine cartridge (100) for a nicotine e-vaping device (500) includes a housing defining a reservoir (134) containing a nicotine pre-vapor formulation (180). The nicotine cartridge (100) also includes a wick (240) configured to transport the nicotine pre-vapor formulation (180) by capillary action and an integrated heater-thermocouple (250). The integrated heater-thermocouple (250) is configured to heat the nicotine pre-vapor formulation (180) in the wick (240) to generate a nicotine vapor, the integrated heater-thermocouple (250) including a first segment (252) made of a first alloy and a second segment (256) made of a second alloy.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This disclosure relates to temperature measurement and control in nicotine e-vaping devices. Background Technology

[0002] Some nicotine e-vaping devices include a first section and a second section connected together. The first section may include a coil and a heater. The coil is configured to move a nicotine pre-vapor preparation by capillary action and is positioned to extend into a reservoir and a vapor passage. The heater is in thermal contact with the coil and is configured to vaporize the nicotine pre-vapor preparation drawn into the vapor passage through the coil. The second section includes a power source configured to supply current to the heater during vaporization. Operation of the nicotine e-vaping device can be initiated manually and / or through inhalation. Summary of the Invention

[0003] At least one embodiment relates to a nicotine cartridge for a nicotine electronic vaporizer. In an exemplary embodiment, the nicotine cartridge may include a housing, a core, and an integrated heater-thermocouple. The housing defines a reservoir containing a nicotine vapor pre-preparation. The core is configured to deliver the nicotine vapor pre-preparation via capillary action. The integrated heater-thermocouple is configured to heat the nicotine vapor pre-preparation in the core to generate nicotine vapor. The integrated heater-thermocouple includes a first segment made of a first alloy and a second segment made of a second alloy.

[0004] At least one embodiment relates to a nicotine electronic vaporizer. In an exemplary embodiment, the nicotine electronic vaporizer may include a nicotine cartridge and a device body. The nicotine cartridge includes a nicotine vapor preformed preparation, a core, and an integrated heater-thermocouple. The core is configured to deliver the nicotine vapor preformed preparation via capillary action. The integrated heater-thermocouple includes a first segment made of a first alloy and a second segment made of a second alloy. The device body is configured to receive the nicotine cartridge. The device body includes a power source, at least one sensor, and a controller. The power source is configured to deliver electrical energy to the integrated heater-thermocouple to heat the nicotine vapor preformed preparation in the core to generate nicotine vapor. The at least one sensor is configured to measure the voltage difference between the first and second segments of the integrated heater-thermocouple due to the supply of electrical energy from the power source. The controller is configured to adjust the supply of electrical energy to the integrated heater-thermocouple based on the voltage difference measured by the at least one sensor. Attached Figure Description

[0005] 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 have been enlarged for clarity.

[0006] Figure 1 This is a front view of a nicotine electronic vaporizer according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0007] Figure 2 yes Figure 1 Side view of a nicotine electronic vaporizer.

[0008] Figure 3 yes Figure 1 Rear view of the nicotine e-vapor device.

[0009] Figure 4 yes Figure 1 A close-up view of a nicotine electronic vaporizer.

[0010] Figure 5 yes Figure 1 A remote view of a nicotine e-vapor device.

[0011] Figure 6 When the nicotine cartridge and the device body are not connected. Figure 1 Front view of a nicotine electronic vaporizer.

[0012] Figure 7 yes Figure 6 An exploded view of the nicotine cartridge.

[0013] Figure 8 yes Figure 7 First exploded view of the evaporator.

[0014] Figure 9 yes Figure 7 The second exploded view of the evaporator.

[0015] Figure 10 yes Figure 8 An exploded view of the evaporation module.

[0016] Figure 11 yes Figure 9 An exploded view of the evaporation module.

[0017] Figure 12 yes Figure 10 An exploded view of the heater sub-component.

[0018] Figure 13 yes Figure 11An exploded view of the heater sub-component.

[0019] Figure 14 yes Figure 6 A partial exploded view of the device body.

[0020] Figure 15 yes Figure 14 Perspective view of the middle battery section.

[0021] Figure 16 yes Figure 15 A partial exploded view of the middle battery section.

[0022] Figure 17 yes Figure 16 A partial exploded view of the battery sub-assembly.

[0023] Figure 18 This is a cross-sectional view of the nicotine cartridge and Figure 6 A partial cross-sectional view of the device body when it is not engaged.

[0024] Figure 19 This is a cross-sectional view of the nicotine cartridge and Figure 18 A partial cross-sectional view of the device body during engagement.

[0025] Figure 20 yes Figure 19 An enlarged view of the cross-section. Detailed Implementation

[0026] This document discloses some detailed exemplary embodiments. However, the specific structural and functional details disclosed herein are representative only for the purpose of describing exemplary embodiments. Exemplary embodiments may be implemented in many alternative forms and should not be construed as being limited to the exemplary embodiments set forth herein.

[0027] Therefore, while the exemplary embodiments can have various modifications and alternative forms, their exemplary embodiments are shown by way of example in the drawings and will be described in detail herein. However, it should be understood that the exemplary embodiments are not intended to be limited to the specific forms disclosed; on the contrary, the exemplary embodiments will cover all modifications, equivalents, and alternatives thereof. Throughout the description of the figures, similar numbers refer to similar elements.

[0028] 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," "near another element or layer," or "covering another element or layer," it may be directly on, connected to, attached to, attached to, or covered by another element or layer, or there may be intermediate elements or layers present. In contrast, when an element is referred to as "directly" on, "directly connected to," or "directly attached to" another element or layer, no intermediate elements or layers are present. Throughout this specification, the same numbers denote the same elements. As used herein, the term "and / or" includes any and all combinations or sub-combinations of one or more of the associated listed items.

[0029] It should be understood that while the terms first, second, third, etc., may be used herein to describe various elements, regions, layers, and / or segments, these elements, regions, layers, and / or segments should not be limited by these terms. These terms are used only to distinguish one element, region, layer, or segment from another. Therefore, without departing from the teachings of the exemplary embodiments, the first element, region, layer, or segment discussed below may be referred to as the second element, region, layer, or segment.

[0030] 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." 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.

[0031] The terminology used herein is for the purpose of describing various exemplary embodiments only and is not intended to limit the exemplary embodiments. As used herein, the singular forms “a” and “described” are also intended to include the plural forms unless the context clearly indicates otherwise. It should be further understood that the terms “comprising” and / or “including”, when used in this specification, specify the presence of the stated features, integrals, steps, operations, and / or elements, but do not exclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, integrals, steps, operations, elements, and / or groups thereof.

[0032] When the terms “about” or “substantially” are used in conjunction with numerical values ​​in this specification, it is intended that the relevant numerical value include manufacturing or operational tolerances (e.g., ±10%) around the value. Furthermore, when the terms “substantially” or “generally” are used in conjunction with geometry, it is intended that the geometry is not required to be precise, but rather that the shape is within the scope of this disclosure. Moreover, regardless of whether a numerical value or shape is modified to “about,” “substantially,” or “substantially,” it should be understood that these values ​​and shapes should be interpreted as including manufacturing or operational tolerances (e.g., ±10%) around the value or shape.

[0033] Unless otherwise defined, all terms used herein (including technical and scientific terms) have the same meaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art to which the exemplary embodiments pertain. It will be further understood that terms, including those defined in commonly used dictionaries, should be interpreted as having meanings consistent with their meanings in the relevant field, and will not be interpreted in an idealized or overly formalized sense unless explicitly defined herein.

[0034] The hardware may be implemented using processing or control circuitry systems, such as, but not limited to, one or more processors, one or more central processing units (CPUs), one or more microcontrollers, one or more arithmetic logic units (ALUs), one or more digital signal processors (DSPs), one or more microcomputers, one or more field-programmable gate arrays (FPGAs), one or more system-on-a-chip (SoCs), one or more programmable logic units (PLUs), one or more microprocessors, one or more application-specific integrated circuits (ASICs), or any other one or more devices capable of responding to and executing instructions in a defined manner.

[0035] Unless otherwise expressly stated or apparent from the discussion, terms such as “processing” or “computing” or “calculating” or “determining” or “displaying” refer to the actions and processes of a computer system or similar electronic computing device that manipulate and convert data represented as physical or electronic quantities in the registers and memories of the computer system into other data similarly represented as physical quantities in the computer system’s memory or registers or other such information storage, transmission or display devices.

[0036] In the following description, exemplary embodiments may be described with reference to the actions and symbolic representations of operations (e.g., in the form of flowcharts, diagrams, data flow graphs, structure diagrams, block diagrams, etc.), which may be implemented as program modules or functional processes that perform specific tasks or implement specific abstract data types, including routines, programs, objects, data structures, etc. Operations may be implemented using existing hardware in existing electronic systems, such as one or more microprocessors, central processing units (CPUs), digital signal processors (DSPs), application-specific integrated circuits (ASICs), system-on-a-chip (SoCs), field-programmable gate arrays (FPGAs), computers, etc.

[0037] One or more exemplary embodiments may be (or include) hardware, firmware, hardware executing software, or any combination thereof. Such hardware may include one or more microprocessors, CPUs, SoCs, DSPs, ASICs, FPGAs, computers, etc., configured as dedicated machines to perform the functions described herein and any other well-known functions of these elements. In at least some cases, CPUs, SoCs, DSPs, ASICs, and FPGAs may be generally referred to as processing circuitry, processors, and / or microprocessors.

[0038] Although a process can be described in terms of sequential operations, many operations can be performed in parallel, concurrently, or simultaneously. Furthermore, the order of operations can be rearranged. A process may terminate when its operations are completed, but there may also be additional steps not included in the diagram. A process can correspond to a method, function, program, subroutine, subroutine, etc. When a process corresponds to a function, its termination may correspond to the function returning to the calling function or the main function.

[0039] 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 read-only memory (ROM), random access memory (RAM), magnetic RAM, magnetic core memory, disk storage media, optical storage media, flash memory devices, and / or 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 instructions and / or data.

[0040] Furthermore, at least some portions of the exemplary embodiments may be implemented by hardware, software, firmware, middleware, microcode, hardware description languages, or any combination thereof. When implemented in software, firmware, middleware, or microcode, program code or code segments for performing necessary tasks may be stored in a machine or computer-readable medium, such as a computer-readable storage medium. When implemented in software, a processor, processing circuitry, or processing unit is programmable to perform the required tasks, thereby transforming it into a dedicated processor or computer.

[0041] A code segment can represent any combination of steps, functions, subroutines, programs, routines, subroutines, modules, software packages, categories or instructions, data structures, or program statements. A code segment can be linked to another code segment or hardware circuit by passing and / or receiving information, data, command-line arguments, parameters, or memory contents. Information, command-line arguments, parameters, data, etc., can be passed, forwarded, or transmitted via any suitable means, including memory sharing, message passing, token passing, network transmission, etc.

[0042] Figure 1 This is a front view of a nicotine electronic vaporizer according to an exemplary embodiment. (Reference) Figure 1 The nicotine e-vapor device 500 may include a sleeve section 310 configured to receive a nicotine cartridge 100 (see below). Figure 6 (For more details). The sleeve section 310 is connected to the battery section housing 360 via a knurled connector 340. The tube 358 may be exposed by the knurled connector 340, such that the exposed surface of the tube 358 constitutes the outer surface of the nicotine e-vaping device 500. The exposed surface of the tube 358 may also be between the sleeve section 310 and the battery section housing 360. At least the combination of the sleeve section 310 and the battery section housing 360 can be considered together as the device housing of the nicotine e-vaping device 500. When the nicotine e-vaping device 500 is fully assembled / engaged, the mouthpiece 110 is located at the proximal end of the sleeve section 310, while the end cap 370 is located at the distal end of the battery section housing 360. The mouthpiece 110 (part of the nicotine cartridge 100) may have a tapered shape, such that its width at its proximal end is smaller than the diameter of the sleeve section 310.

[0043] The proximal and distal ends of the nicotine e-vaping device 500 (and / or its components) may also be referred to as the downstream end and the upstream end, respectively. In particular, 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.

[0044] The sleeve section 310 defines a plurality of air inlets 312. As shown, each of the air inlets 312 may have a hexagonal shape and may be arranged in a staggered array to resemble a honeycomb pattern. However, it should be understood that other shapes and arrangements are possible. For example, instead of (or other than) a hexagonal shape, the air inlets 312 may include triangular, quadrilateral (e.g., square, rhombus), pentagonal, and / or circular shapes. Furthermore, instead of axial arrangement along a portion of the length of the sleeve section 310, the air inlets 312 may be arranged circumferentially around the sleeve section 310. In an exemplary embodiment, the nicotine e-vapor device 500 may include at least a total of ten air inlets 312 (e.g., at least twenty air inlets 312 in total).

[0045] Figure 2 yes Figure 1 Side view of a nicotine e-vaporizer device. (Reference) Figure 2 The opposite sides of the sleeve section 310 may define a first array and a second array of air inlets 312, such that both arrays are partially visible in a side view. In an exemplary embodiment, the first array of air inlets 312 is based on, as Figure 1 The front view of the sleeve section 310 shown is fully visible, while the second array of air inlets 312 is based on the following discussion. Figure 3 The rear view of the sleeve section 310 shown is fully visible.

[0046] based on Figure 2 In the side view, the mouthpiece 110 may have a wedge-shaped or chisel-shaped appearance. However, it should be understood that other shapes and constructions are possible. For example, in one instance, the mouthpiece 110 may alternatively have a cylindrical form. In another case, the mouthpiece 110 may have a truncated conical form or shape.

[0047] Port 368 may be located near the distal end of the battery section housing 360, adjacent to end cap 370. Figure 2 In the side view, port 368 may be seen only as a recess in the battery section housing 360. In an exemplary embodiment, port 368 facilitates charging of the nicotine e-vaping device 500 and / or information transmission to / from the nicotine e-vaping device. Figure 3 Port 368 will be discussed in more detail.

[0048] The light tube 358 is configured to transmit light emitted from at least one internal light source (e.g., an LED) to provide one or more visual indications. Specifically, the light transmitted by the light tube 358 can visually inform an adult vaporizer of the status of the nicotine e-vaping device 500. For example, the visual indications of the light tube 358 may include (but are not limited to) information such as whether the nicotine e-vaping device 500 is on, whether nicotine vapor is being generated, whether the battery is low, whether it is charging or has finished charging, and / or whether the nicotine pre-preparation is low or depleted.

[0049] As described herein, 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 may include liquid, solid, and / or gel formulations. These may include, for example, but not limited to, water, oil, emulsion, beads, solvent, active ingredient, ethanol, plant extract, nicotine, natural or artificial flavorings, vaporizing agents such as glycerin and propylene glycol, and / or any other ingredients suitable for vaporization. During vaporization, the nicotine electronic vaporizer 500 is configured to heat the nicotine vapor pre-preparation to generate nicotine vapor. Nicotine vapor, nicotine aerosol, and nicotine dispersion are used interchangeably and refer to substances generated or output by the disclosed, claimed device and / or its equivalents, wherein such substances may contain nicotine. In an exemplary embodiment, the nicotine electronic vaporizer 500 may be considered an electronic nicotine delivery system (ENDS).

[0050] Return to reference Figure 2 The light tube 358 may be located on the side of the nicotine e-vaping device 500 opposite to the port 368. However, it should be understood that the exemplary embodiments are not limited thereto. For example, in some embodiments, the light tube 358 may be located on the same side of the nicotine e-vaping device 500 as the port 368 (e.g., the rear side of the nicotine e-vaping device 500). Conversely, in other embodiments, the port 368 may be located on the same side of the nicotine e-vaping device 500 as the light tube 358 (e.g., the front side of the nicotine e-vaping device 500).

[0051] Figure 3 yes Figure 1 Rear view of a nicotine e-vaporizer device. (Reference) Figure 3 The second array of air inlets 312 on the rear side of the nicotine electronic vaporizer 500 can be combined as follows Figure 1 The first array of air inlets 312 in the front of the nicotine e-vapor device 500 shown is as described. Therefore, for the sake of brevity, the relevant disclosures regarding the air inlets 312 already discussed above will not be repeated. However, in some embodiments, Figure 3The second array of air inlets 312 in the rear of the nicotine e-vapor device 500 shown can be connected to... Figure 1 The first array of air inlets 312 in the front side of the nicotine e-vaping device 500 shown is different (or vice versa). For example, instead of three staggered rows of seven, eight, and seven air inlets 312 in each array, the number of rows and / or the number of air inlets 312 in each array can be modified to deviate from twenty-two air inlets 312 in each array (or a total of forty-four air inlets 312 for the nicotine e-vaping device 500).

[0052] Port 368 is configured to receive current from an external power source (e.g., via a USB / mini-USB / USB-C cable) to charge the internal power supply within the nicotine e-vaping device 500. Additionally, port 368 can also be configured to send and / or receive data from another nicotine e-vaping device or other electronic device (e.g., a telephone, tablet, or computer) (e.g., via a USB / mini-USB / USB-C cable). Furthermore, the nicotine e-vaping device 500 can be configured to wirelessly communicate with another electronic device (e.g., a telephone) via an application (app) 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 app (e.g., locate the nicotine e-vaping device, check usage information, change operating parameters).

[0053] Although port 368 is Figure 3 The port 368 is shown as being located on the rear side of the nicotine electronic vaporizer 500, but it should be understood that other locations are also possible. For example, in some embodiments, the port 368 may be located instead of being located on the rear side of the nicotine electronic vaporizer 500. Figure 1 The port 368 is located on the front side of the nicotine electronic vaporizer 500. Alternatively, in other embodiments, the port 368 may be located at the distal end of the nicotine electronic vaporizer 500 so that it can be accessed through the end cap 370.

[0054] Figure 4 yes Figure 1 A near-end view of a nicotine e-vaporizer device. (Reference) Figure 4 The mouthpiece 110 defines a vapor outlet 112. During vaporization, nicotine vapor generated is drawn from the nicotine electronic vaporizer 500 through the vapor outlet 112. Although the vapor outlet 112 is shown centered to coincide with the central longitudinal axis of the nicotine electronic vaporizer 500, it should be understood that in some cases, the vapor outlet 112 may be off-center (e.g., offset from the central longitudinal axis). Furthermore, although... Figure 4Only one steam outlet 112 is shown, but it should be understood that the exemplary embodiments are not limited thereto. In particular, in some embodiments, the mouthpiece 110 may define multiple steam outlets 112. For example, the mouthpiece 110 may define two steam outlets 112, which may extend parallel (e.g., longitudinally) or divergently. In another case, the mouthpiece 110 may define three steam outlets 112. In this embodiment, the three steam outlets 112 may be linearly aligned such that the central steam outlet 112 extends longitudinally, while the other two steam outlets 112 extend divergently. Alternatively, all three steam outlets 112 may extend parallel.

[0055] It should also be understood that the location, arrangement, and number of one or more steam outlets 112 may further vary depending on the construction of the mouthpiece 110. In particular, in exemplary embodiments where the mouthpiece 110 has a cylindrical or truncated conical form (rather than a flat form), additional options may exist for the location, arrangement, and number of one or more steam outlets 112. For example, when space permits, an embodiment with three steam outlets 112 may have a triangular arrangement for the steam outlets 112. Similarly, an embodiment with four steam outlets 112 may have a triangular arrangement with a central steam outlet 112, or alternatively a quadrilateral (e.g., square, rhombus) arrangement. Likewise, embodiments with more steam outlets 112 may have a quadrilateral, pentagonal, hexagonal, heptagonal, or octagonal arrangement, which may or may not include a central steam outlet 112.

[0056] As shown in the accompanying drawings, the nicotine e-vaping device 500 may have a generally cylindrical form and a circular cross-section. Alternatively, the nicotine e-vaping device 500 may have a generally polyhedral form with a polygonal cross-section. The choice of the general overall form of the nicotine e-vaping device 500 takes into account various factors, including (but not limited to) aesthetic, functional, and manufacturing considerations. For example, instead of a cylindrical form, the nicotine e-vaping device 500 may have a polyhedral form to provide a more modern appearance and / or prevent or reduce the possibility of unwanted rolling (e.g., anti-roll design).

[0057] The polyhedral form of the nicotine e-vaping device 500 may include a triangular prism, a cube, a pentagonal prism, a hexagonal prism, a heptagonal prism, or an octagonal prism. In a form similar to a triangular prism, the nicotine e-vaping device 500 may have a triangular cross-section (e.g., an equilateral triangle shape). In a form similar to a cube, the nicotine e-vaping device 500 may have a square or rectangular cross-section. In a form similar to a pentagonal prism, the nicotine e-vaping device 500 may have a pentagonal cross-section. In a form similar to a hexagonal prism, the nicotine e-vaping device 500 may have a hexagonal cross-section. In a form similar to a heptagonal prism, the nicotine e-vaping device 500 may have a heptagonal cross-section. In a form similar to an octagonal prism, the nicotine e-vaping device 500 may have an octagonal cross-section.

[0058] Figure 5 yes Figure 1 A rear view of a nicotine e-vaporizer device. (Reference) Figure 5 End cap 370 and button 372 are located at the distal end of the nicotine electronic vaporizer 500. End cap 370 may engage with battery section housing 360 via an interference fit (which may also be referred to as a press fit or friction fit). For example, the outer sidewall of end cap 370 may engage with the corresponding inner sidewall of battery section housing 360. In addition, the outer sidewall of end cap 370 may be knurled to enhance the engagement. In an exemplary embodiment, end cap 370 also defines an opening configured to receive button 372. In this case, end cap 370 is a stationary structure, while button 372 is a movable structure that is movable (e.g., pressable) relative to end cap 370.

[0059] Button 372 may be a power button for the nicotine e-vaping device 500. Specifically, when pressed, button 372 activates the power supply within the nicotine e-vaping device 500. Although button 372 is shown located at the distal end of the nicotine e-vaping device 500, it should be understood that the exemplary embodiments are not limited thereto. For example, in some embodiments, button 372 may instead be located on the front of the nicotine e-vaping device 500 (e.g., so as to be on the same side as the light tube 358).

[0060] Figure 6 When the nicotine cartridge and the device body are not connected. Figure 1 Front view of a nicotine electronic vaporizer. (Reference) Figure 6The nicotine e-vaping device 500 includes a nicotine cartridge 100 and a device body 300, wherein the device body 300 is configured to receive the nicotine cartridge 100. The nicotine cartridge 100 includes a housing configured to hold a nicotine vapor pre-preparation 180. When the nicotine cartridge 100 is engaged with the device body 300, a large portion of the nicotine cartridge 100 is concealed and invisible by a sleeve section 310, while the mouthpiece 110 remains visible (e.g., as shown in the image). Figure 1 (As shown in the diagram). The nicotine vapor pre-preparation 180 within the nicotine cartridge 100 is also visible through the device body 300 via the air inlet 312 in the sleeve section 310. During vaporization, the nicotine vapor pre-preparation 180 is heated to generate nicotine vapor, which is drawn from the nicotine e-vaporizer 500 via the mouthpiece 110.

[0061] The nicotine cartridge 100 can be considered a consumable item to be replaced once the nicotine pre-vapor preparation 180 within it is depleted. The level of the nicotine pre-vapor preparation 180 within the nicotine cartridge 100 can be visually determined via the air inlet 312 in the sleeve section 310. In some cases, the nicotine e-vaping device 500 may additionally (e.g., via the light tube 358) provide notification when the nicotine pre-vapor preparation 180 within the nicotine cartridge 100 is considered depleted. In other cases, the nicotine e-vaping device 500 may also provide an indication (e.g., via the light tube 358) that another unacceptable condition exists. Examples of other unacceptable conditions include (but are not limited to) poor electrical connections and / or unauthorized nicotine cartridges or authorized nicotine cartridges no longer considered suitable for vaporization (e.g., a long period of time has passed since the first vaporization using the nicotine cartridge, such as a year).

[0062] The form of the device body 300 may correspond to the form of the nicotine cartridge 100 (e.g., both the device body 300 and the nicotine cartridge 100 are generally cylindrical). However, in other cases, the form of the device body 300 may differ from that of the nicotine cartridge 100. For example, the nicotine cartridge 100 may be cylindrical, while the device body 300 may be one of the different forms disclosed herein (e.g., cubical), or vice versa. Thus, the nicotine e-vapor device 500 may have an overall form different from that of the nicotine cartridge 100 (which is primarily influenced by the device body 300).

[0063] Figure 7 yes Figure 6 An exploded view of the nicotine cartridge. (Reference) Figure 7The nicotine cartridge 100 includes a mouthpiece 110, a first seal 120, a reservoir 130, a second seal 140, and an evaporator 150. The reservoir 130 defines a collector 134 configured to retain a pre-prepared nicotine vapor 180 when the nicotine cartridge 100 is assembled. Additionally, the sidewalls of the reservoir 130 may define at least one vapor passage extending therethrough. As shown, the sidewalls of the reservoir 130 define vapor passages 132a and 132b (which may also be referred to as first vapor passage 132a and second vapor passage 132b). In an exemplary embodiment, vapor passages 132a and 132b may be defined on opposite sides of the sidewalls of the reservoir 130 (e.g., diameter-opposite), such that the collector 134 lies between vapor passages 132a and 132b. Vapor passages 132a and 132b may also be parallel to each other and parallel to the longitudinal axis of the reservoir 130. The storage tank 130 may be formed of a transparent material to allow observation of its contents (e.g., nicotine vapor pre-preparation 180).

[0064] The first seal 120 and the second seal 140 are configured to seal or close the reservoir 134. The first seal 120 defines orifices 122a and 122b (which may also be referred to as first orifice 122a and second orifice 122b). As a result, when the first seal 120 engages with the reservoir 130 to seal the proximal side of the reservoir 134, orifices 122a and 122b will align with vapor passages 132a and 132b, respectively. In this engagement, nicotine vapor generated by the evaporator 150 during vapor fumigation can travel upwards into vapor passages 132a and 132b, respectively, and through orifices 122a and 122b, reach the mouthpiece 110 and exit the vapor outlet 112. When the nicotine cartridge 100 is assembled, the first seal 120 can be concealed by the mouthpiece 110 (which also engages with the reservoir 130) and become invisible. Additionally, the first seal 120 may be formed of or include an elastic structural material (e.g., silicone).

[0065] The second seal 140 is configured to engage with the tank 130 to seal the distal side of the reservoir 134. Specifically, the second seal 140 is configured to seal the distal side of the reservoir 134 by closing the opening 136 of the tank 130. In an exemplary embodiment, the second seal 140 is formed of an elastic material (e.g., silicone) and includes a head portion, a body portion, and a neck portion between the head portion and the body portion. The diameter of the head portion of the second seal 140 is larger than the diameter of the opening 136 and smaller than the diameter of the body portion of the second seal 140, while the diameter of the neck portion of the second seal 140 may correspond to the diameter of the opening 136. As a result, when the head portion of the second seal 140 is pushed through the opening 136 in the tank 130, the neck portion of the second seal 140 can resiliently sit within the opening 136 in a liquid-impermeable manner, with the head portion of the second seal 140 inside the reservoir 134 and the body portion of the second seal 140 outside the reservoir 134. In this case, by gripping the opposing surfaces of the tank 130 that defines the opening 136, the head portion and body portion of the second seal 140 can help ensure that the second seal 140 provides the desired seal while maintaining its proper positioning.

[0066] Therefore, the first seal 120 and the second seal 140 are configured to engage the reservoir 130, such that the reservoir 134 is sealed and isolated from the vapor passages 132a and 132b. The combination of the first seal 120, the reservoir 130, and the second seal 140 may also be collectively referred to as the housing of the nicotine cartridge 100. In an exemplary embodiment, the second seal 140 may be configured as a puncture-resistant structure that completely covers the opening 136 in the reservoir 130 (when in a non-puncture / non-penetrating state). In such embodiments, the reservoir 134 may remain sealed until the evaporator 150 is received by the reservoir 130 and engaged with it (e.g., during assembly, before vapor fumigation), such that the tip of the evaporator 150 penetrates the second seal 140 and extends through the opening 136, and enters the reservoir 134 to access the nicotine vapor pre-formulation 180 (e.g., as shown in the image). Figure 6 (as shown in the image).

[0067] Figure 8 yes Figure 7 First exploded view of the evaporator. Figure 9 yes Figure 7 A second exploded view of the evaporator. (Reference) Figure 8-9The evaporator 150 includes an evaporation module 200, which is at least partially held within a retaining ring 160 and a bayonet connector 170. The retaining ring 160 defines an opening 162 configured to receive the evaporation module 200. Similarly, the bayonet connector 170 defines an opening 172 configured to receive the evaporation module 200. When the evaporator 150 is assembled, the retaining ring 160 engages with the bayonet connector 170 to surround and hold the evaporation module 200. Additionally, the tip or penetrating portion of the evaporation module 200 will protrude beyond the edge of the retaining ring 160, while, depending on the angle, the remainder of the evaporation module 200 will be substantially or completely concealed within the bayonet connector 170 and not visible. In an exemplary embodiment, the evaporation module 200 may be held / retained within the retaining ring and bayonet connector by an interference fit of the retaining ring 160 and the bayonet connector 170.

[0068] The bayonet connector 170 (which is part of the evaporator 150 and therefore part of the nicotine cartridge 100) facilitates the connection between the nicotine cartridge 100 and the device body 300. For example... Figure 8-9 As shown, the bayonet connector 170 defines a pair of slots 174, each configured to receive a corresponding engagement member. Each of the slots 174 includes a longitudinal portion 174a and a circumferential portion 174b. Additionally, the circumferential portion 174b may include a groove 174c to help retain the corresponding engagement member. Establishing a bayonet connection between the nicotine cartridge 100 and the device body 300 will be discussed in more detail herein.

[0069] Figure 10 yes Figure 8 An exploded view of the evaporation module. Figure 11 yes Figure 9 An exploded view of the evaporation module. (Reference) Figure 10-11 The evaporation module 200 includes a first module cover 210, a module housing 220, and a heater-core assembly 230. The module housing 220 defines a chamber 222, which may also be referred to as a heating chamber or an evaporation chamber. In an exemplary embodiment, the module housing 220 may be formed of a transparent material to allow observation of the contents within the chamber 222. The first module cover 210 is configured to engage with the proximal end of the module housing 220. The heater-core assembly 230 is configured to engage with the opposite distal end of the module housing 220. In this way, the open end of the module housing 220 may be defined (e.g., covered) by the first module cover 210 and the heater-core assembly 230.

[0070] The first module cover 210 includes a cap portion 216 and a penetrating portion 214 protruding from the cap portion 216. The cap portion 216 of the first module cover 210 defines a plurality of orifices 218, which may be evenly spaced from each other and arranged in a circular arrangement around the penetrating portion 214. In an exemplary embodiment, the cap portion 216 defines eight orifices 218. However, it should be understood that the number, shape, and / or arrangement of the orifices 218 in the cap portion 216 may be suitably varied to achieve a desired pathway for aerosols to pass through the chamber 222. For example, in an alternative, the cap portion 216 may define only two orifices 218, each having an elongated shape and arranged in a diameter-opposite manner to align with the vapor passages 132a and 132b in the tank 130 when the evaporator 150 is engaged with the tank 130. With regard to assembling the vaporization module 200, the cap portion 216 of the first module cover 210 has an outer surface configured to engage with a corresponding inner surface of the module housing 220.

[0071] A penetrating portion 214 defines an aperture 212 that extends longitudinally through the first module cover 210. For example, the aperture 212 in the penetrating portion 214 may coincide with the central longitudinal axis of the first module cover 210. Additionally, the penetrating portion 214 defines a hole 213 in its sidewall. The hole 213 can be considered to extend laterally through the penetrating portion 214 so as to be orthogonal to the aperture 212. Although... Figure 10 A pair of holes 213 are shown, but it should be understood that the exemplary embodiments are not limited thereto. For example, the penetration portion 214 may be modified to define a different number (e.g., three, four) of holes 213 in its sidewalls. Furthermore, the penetration portion 214 may have an angled proximal surface that tapers to a pointed or apical end to facilitate the penetration portion 214 passing through the second seal 140, through the opening 136 in the reservoir 130, and into the collector 134. When the evaporator 150 is in fluid communication with the collector 134, the nicotine vapor preformulation 180 enters the evaporation module 200 via the orifice 212 and / or the holes 213 in the penetration portion 214.

[0072] The heater-core assembly 230 includes a second module cover 260, which can serve as a base or support for other parts of the heater-core assembly 230. Consequently, other parts of the heater-core assembly 230 can be integrally mounted or secured to the second module cover 260. In an exemplary embodiment, the second module cover 260 may be formed of a conductive material. For example, the conductive material may include steel (e.g., 304 stainless steel). Regarding the assembly of the evaporation module 200, the second module cover 260 has an outer surface configured to engage a corresponding inner surface of the module housing 220.

[0073] The heater-core assembly 230 also includes a core 240 configured to draw or deliver the nicotine vapor pre-preparation 180 from the reservoir 134 into the evaporation module 200. The core 240 may be a fibrous structure having pores / gap designed for capillary action. In an exemplary embodiment, the core 240 may be in a rope-like form, wherein the fiber strands are braided, twisted, and / or woven together. When the evaporation module 200 is assembled, the proximal portion of the core 240 may extend into the first module cover 210, while the distal portion of the core 240 may be supported / held by the second module cover 260.

[0074] For example, the proximal portion of the core 240 may be disposed within the penetrating portion 214 of the first module cover 210 so as to substantially occupy the aperture 212 (e.g., Figure 8 This facilitates the regulation of the supply of nicotine vapor pre-formulation 180 from the reservoir 134. As a result, the possibility of excessive inflow of nicotine vapor pre-formulation 180 into the chamber 222 (via orifices 212 and / or 213) is reduced or prevented. Instead, nicotine vapor pre-formulation 180 can be drawn into the chamber 222 substantially as needed. Specifically, when the nicotine vapor pre-formulation 180 within the core 240 is heated to generate nicotine vapor during vaporization (and thus depleted), the core 240 draws additional nicotine vapor pre-formulation 180 from the reservoir 134 to replenish the depleted nicotine vapor pre-formulation 180 within the core 240. Nicotine vapor pre-formulation 180 from the reservoir 134 can enter the first module cover 210 through orifices 212 and / or 213 before being drawn into the core 240 via capillary action. On the other hand, when no vapor extraction is occurring, once the core 240 is saturated, the absorption of the nicotine vapor pre-formulation 180 from the reservoir 134 by the core 240 may slow down or stop. Additionally, the entry of the nicotine vapor pre-formulation 180 into the orifice 218 can be reduced or prevented by the engagement of the first module cover 210 and the second seal 140.

[0075] An integrated heater-thermocouple 250 is arranged to make thermal contact with the core 240. The nicotine e-vaping device 500 is configured such that the integrated heater-thermocouple 250 is activated during vaporization to heat the nicotine vapor pre-preparation 180 in the core 240 to generate nicotine vapor. The integrated heater-thermocouple 250 may be designed to undergo Joule heating (also known as ohmic / resistance heating) when an electric current is applied to it. More specifically, the integrated heater-thermocouple 250 may be formed of a conductor (resistive material) and configured to generate heat when an electric current passes through it. The current may be supplied by a power source (e.g., a battery) within the device body 300.

[0076] In an exemplary embodiment, the integrated heater-thermocouple 250 is in the form of a helical coil that wraps around the core 240 (e.g., spirally). For example, the integrated heater-thermocouple 250 may wrap around the lower portion of the core 240 (e.g., around the portion of the core 240 that does not protrude into the penetration portion 214). Additionally, in this case, the integrated heater-thermocouple 250 may be oriented such that the axis of its spiral is at an angle relative to the longitudinal axis of the evaporation module 200 (e.g., neither parallel nor orthogonal). The integrated heater-thermocouple 250 will be discussed in more detail herein.

[0077] like Figure 11 As shown, a first electrical contact 270 may be disposed on the upstream side of a second module cover 260. During assembly, the distal end of the second module cover 260 extends through an opening defined by the first electrical contact 270. In an exemplary embodiment, the first electrical contact 270 is structured as a gasket having an undulating or corrugated form. The first electrical contact 270 may be covered with gold plating. For example, the first electrical contact 270 may have an interior (underlying structure) formed of steel (e.g., spring steel) and an exterior formed of gold (e.g., as a deposited layer).

[0078] The second electrical contact 290 may be located at the distal end of the heater-core assembly 230, extending through the first electrical contact 270 and the second module cover 260. In an exemplary embodiment, the second electrical contact 290 may be gold-plated. For example, the second electrical contact 290 may have an interior (underlying structure) formed of brass and an exterior formed of gold (e.g., as a deposited layer). The second electrical contact 290 also defines a passage 292 that allows airflow into the chamber 222.

[0079] When assembling the heater-core assembly 230, a first end of the integrated heater-thermocouple 250 is electrically connected to the second module cover 260 / first electrical contact 270, while a second end of the integrated heater-thermocouple 250 is electrically connected to the second electrical contact 290. An insulator 280 electrically isolates the second electrical contact 290 from the second module cover 260 / first electrical contact 270. In an exemplary embodiment, the insulator 280 is configured as a loop in the form of a sheath, the loop receiving the second electrical contact 290 and extending through the second module cover 260 / first electrical contact 270. Additionally, in this case, the first end of the integrated heater-thermocouple 250 can be fixed between the second module cover 260 and the insulator 280, while the second end of the integrated heater-thermocouple 250 can be fixed between the insulator 280 and the second electrical contact 290.

[0080] Figure 12 yes Figure 10 An exploded view of the heater sub-component. Figure 13 yes Figure 11An exploded view of the heater sub-assembly. Specifically, the heater sub-assembly is the heater-core sub-assembly 230 without the core 240. Reference Figure 12-13 The integrated heater-thermocouple 250 includes a first segment 252 and a second segment 256. The first segment 252 and the second segment 256 are connected at a joint 254 (which may also be referred to as a "thermal" joint). In addition, the first segment 252 is made of a first alloy, and the second segment 256 is made of a second alloy (which is different from the first alloy).

[0081] In an exemplary embodiment where the integrated heater-thermocouple 250 is in the form of a spiral structure (which wraps around the core 240), the spiral structure includes a plurality of coils. In this case, the plurality of coils includes at least one coil corresponding to the first segment 252 and at least one coil corresponding to the second segment 256. As a result, at least one coil of the first segment 252 is made of a first alloy, and at least one coil of the second segment 256 is made of a second alloy. Additionally, at least one coil of the first alloy may be welded to at least one coil of the second alloy at a joint 254.

[0082] The integrated heater-thermocouple 250 may have multiple coils in total, ranging from five to ten (e.g., six to nine coils in total). For example, the first segment 252 of the integrated heater-thermocouple 250 may include one coil of a first alloy, and the second segment 256 may include five coils of a second alloy. Alternatively, the first segment 252 of the integrated heater-thermocouple 250 may include two coils of the first alloy, and the second segment 256 may include four coils of the second alloy.

[0083] Regarding orientation, the evaporation module 200 can be considered as including a housing having a first longitudinal axis, and the helical structure of the integrated heater-thermocouple 250 can be considered as having a second longitudinal axis intersecting the first longitudinal axis to form an angle of inclination. In this case, at least one coil of the first segment 252 (made of a first alloy) is downstream of at least one coil of the second segment 256 (made of a second alloy).

[0084] According to an exemplary embodiment, the first alloy is a nickel-aluminum alloy, and the second alloy is a nickel-chromium alloy. For example, the nickel-aluminum alloy may comprise 95% nickel and 2% aluminum (e.g., an aluminum-nickel alloy), and the nickel-chromium alloy may comprise 90% nickel and 10% chromium (e.g., a chromium-nickel alloy). Regarding physical properties, the first alloy has a first resistivity and a first thermal conductivity, and the second alloy has a second resistivity and a second thermal conductivity. In an exemplary embodiment, the first resistivity is less than the second resistivity, and the first thermal conductivity is greater than the second thermal conductivity. Additionally, the integrated heater-thermocouple 250 may have a Seebeck coefficient of approximately 35 to 75 μV / ℃ (e.g., 41 μV / ℃, 50 μV / ℃, 68 μV / ℃). Furthermore, the total resistance of the integrated heater-thermocouple 250 may be approximately 0.5 to 3.5 Ω (e.g., 1 Ω).

[0085] As described above, the integrated heater-thermocouple 250 can be configured to undergo Joule heating (also known as ohmic / resistance heating) when an electric current is applied to it. Additionally, the integrated heater-thermocouple 250 has a first segment 252 of a first alloy, which connects at a junction 254 to a second segment 256 of a second alloy (different from the first alloy). Due to the dissimilar alloys and the associated thermoelectric effects, a voltage is generated when the junction 254 experiences a temperature change (e.g., when Joule heating occurs to generate nicotine vapor). This voltage depends on the temperature and can therefore be used to determine the temperature at the junction 254. For example, the relationship between voltage and temperature can be determined empirically and stored in a lookup table (LUT). In this way, the integrated heater-thermocouple 250 can function as both a heater and a thermocouple.

[0086] The second module cover 260 defines an opening 262 and has a proximal edge 264 and a distal edge 266 surrounding the opening 262. As shown, the circumference of the proximal edge 264 may be larger than the circumference of the distal edge 266. The proximal edge 264 of the second module cover 260 may help retain the distal portion of the core 240 and / or contain a small amount of nicotine vapor pre-formulation 180 that may leak from it. In addition, the outer edge of the proximal edge 264 may be angled to facilitate engagement with the module housing 220.

[0087] The first electrical contact 270 defines an opening 272 and has an annular shape, which may also be wavy. During assembly, the first electrical contact 270 engages with the second module cover 260 such that the distal edge 266 of the second module cover 260 extends through the opening 272 in the first electrical contact 270. As a result, when assembled, the first electrical contact 270 can be positioned against the underside of the second module cover 260 (e.g., via an interference fit with the distal edge 266).

[0088] The insulator 280 includes a sheath portion 284 and a flange portion 286, and also defines an opening 282 extending therethrough. During assembly, the insulator 280 is inserted through a second module cover 260 (and through a first electrical contact 270) such that the outer wall of the sheath portion 284 engages with the sidewall of the opening 262 in the second module cover 260. Additionally, during assembly, the flange portion 286 of the insulator 280 may abut against the distal edge 266 of the second module cover 260.

[0089] The second electrical contact 290 includes a shaft portion 294 and a base portion 296, and further defines a passage 292 extending therethrough. During assembly, the second electrical contact 290 extends through an opening 282 in the insulator 280 (and through the first electrical contact 270 and the second module cover 260), such that the passage 292 in the second electrical contact 290 leads to a chamber 222 in the evaporation module 200. Additionally, the base portion 296 of the second electrical contact 290 may abut a flange portion 286 of the insulator 280. As described above, the insulator 280 electrically isolates the second electrical contact 290 from the second module cover 260 / first electrical contact 270. Furthermore, the base portion 296 also defines a recess 298 extending orthogonally to the longitudinal axis of the second electrical contact 290. In an exemplary embodiment, and as will be discussed in more detail herein, the groove 298 in the base portion 296 is configured to provide a passage for airflow into the passage 292 in the second electrical contact 290 when the nicotine cartridge 100 engages with the device body 300.

[0090] In the heater subassembly, the first end of the first segment 252 corresponding to the integrated heater-thermocouple 250 is electrically connected to the second module cover 260 / first electrical contact 270, while the second end of the second segment 256 corresponding to the integrated heater-thermocouple 250 is electrically connected to the second electrical contact 290. Specifically, the first end of the first segment 252 corresponding to the integrated heater-thermocouple 250 can be fixed between the second module cover 260 and the insulator 280, while the second end of the second segment 256 corresponding to the integrated heater-thermocouple 250 can be fixed between the insulator 280 and the second electrical contact 290.

[0091] Figure 14 yes Figure 6 A partially exploded view of the device body. (See reference) Figure 14The device body 300 includes a sleeve section 310 and a battery section 320. The sleeve section 310 is configured to receive the nicotine cartridge 100 when it is inserted into the device body 300 to engage with the battery section 320. Additionally, as shown, the sleeve section 310 defines an array of inlet openings or air inlets 312. The array of inlet openings or air inlets 312 may be in the form of a honeycomb pattern configured to facilitate the entry of ambient air into the device body 300, which travels toward the power source (within the battery section 320) before moving inwards, and then toward the integrated heater—thermocouple 250—in the nicotine cartridge 100.

[0092] The battery section 320 includes a bayonet adapter 330 configured to engage with a bayonet connector 170 of the nicotine cartridge 100. Specifically, to engage the nicotine cartridge 100 with the device body 300, the distal end of the nicotine cartridge 100 (the end of the nicotine cartridge 100 with the bayonet connector 170) is inserted into the sleeve section 310 of the device body 300 until the slot 174 of the bayonet connector 170 initially engages with the engagement member of the bayonet adapter 330. Once initial engagement occurs, the nicotine cartridge 100 can be rotated / twisted / rotated relative to the device body 300 to interlock with it. As a result, a nicotine e-vapor device 500 can be provided, wherein a bayonet connection is established between the nicotine cartridge 100 and the device body 300. The battery section 320 of the device body 300 also includes a knurled connector 340, a light tube 358, a battery section housing 360, and an end cap 370, which have been discussed above in conjunction with the preceding figures. As a result, for the sake of brevity, such descriptions will not be repeated herein, but additional details may be provided later.

[0093] Figure 15 yes Figure 14 Perspective view of the middle battery section. (Reference) Figure 15The bayonet adapter 330 includes at least one engaging member 334 configured to mate / interlock with the bayonet connector 170 of the nicotine cartridge 100. In an exemplary embodiment, the bayonet adapter 330 includes a pair of engaging members 334 projecting from its outer sidewall. Additionally, the engaging members 334 may be diametrically opposed to each other. The bayonet adapter 330 also defines an opening 332 that exposes a pin 352 (e.g., to provide passage to the pin). The pin 352 of the bayonet adapter 330 and the battery section 320 can be considered as electrical contacts of the device body 300. Specifically, when the device body 300 engages with the nicotine cartridge 100, the bayonet adapter 330 is configured to electrically contact a first electrical contact 270 of the nicotine cartridge 100, while the pin 352 is configured to electrically contact a second electrical contact 290 of the nicotine cartridge 100. The bayonet adapter 330 may be formed of a conductive material, such as steel (e.g., 304 stainless steel). The pin 352 may be gold-plated. For example, pin 352 may have an interior (underlying structure) formed of brass and an exterior formed of gold (e.g., as a deposited layer).

[0094] The knurled connector 340 defines at least one path 344 for incoming air (e.g., air flowing inward and along a path to the evaporation module 200). At least one path 344 in the knurled connector 340 is in fluid communication with an opening 332 in the bayonet adapter 330. Specifically, during vaporization, air drawn into the nicotine e-vaping device 500 via the air inlet 312 flows toward the battery section 320 (e.g., in a first longitudinal direction) in the annular space between the sleeve section 310 and the nicotine cartridge 100, and then flows inward (e.g., radially) to the opening 332 in the bayonet adapter 330 via at least one path 344 in the knurled connector 340 before flowing to the evaporation module 200 through the opening 332 (e.g., in a second longitudinal direction). In an exemplary embodiment, the knurled connector 340 may be chrome-plated. For example, the knurled connector 340 may have an interior (underlying structure) formed of brass and an exterior formed of chromium (e.g., as a deposited layer).

[0095] Figure 16 yes Figure 15 A partial exploded view of the middle battery section. (Reference) Figure 16The dimensions of the engagement members 334 of the bayonet adapter 330 are configured to substantially correspond to the dimensions of the slots 174 in the bayonet connector 170. Additionally, each engagement member 334 may include a ridge 336 to help maintain the established bayonet connection (e.g., by interlocking with the corresponding slot 174). For example, the ridge 336 of each engagement member 334 is configured to lie within a corresponding groove 174c in each of the slots 174. The ridge 336 may have a linear form extending radially over the underside of each engagement member 334 (e.g., from the sidewall of the bayonet adapter 330 to the edge of the engagement member 334). Due to the relatively tight fit between the engagement members 334 of the bayonet adapter 330 and the slots 174 of the bayonet connector 170, tactile and / or auditory feedback (e.g., an audible click) can be generated to notify the adult vaporizer user that the nicotine cartridge 100 has been properly engaged with the device body 300.

[0096] The knurled connector 340 is configured to connect / couple the sleeve section 310 and the battery section housing 360 of the device body 300. As shown, the knurling on the outer sidewall of the knurled connector 340 may be in the form of two bands separated by an intermediate unknurled section, wherein the proximal (e.g., upper) band engages with the sleeve section 310, and the distal (e.g., lower) band engages with the battery section housing 360. In an exemplary embodiment, the knurling is concealed by the sleeve section 310 and the battery section housing 360 when the device body 300 is assembled. When the device body 300 is assembled, the exterior of the sleeve section 310 and the battery section housing 360 may also be flush with the exposed unknurled section of the knurled connector 340. The knurling may include straight (e.g., longitudinal) ridges. However, it should be understood that other patterns may be suitable. For example, the knurling may alternatively have a circular pattern, an angled pattern, or a diamond pattern.

[0097] like Figure 16 As shown, the knurled connector 340 defines a pair of paths 344. The pair of paths 344 may be arranged diametrically within the knurled connector 340. Consequently, lines extending through the knurled connector 340 via the paths 344 may intersect the central longitudinal axis of the knurled connector 340 while coinciding with the diameter of the knurled connector 340. Furthermore, the exterior of the knurled connector 340 may be recessed from its edge (e.g., more recessed than the knurling) into the area surrounding each path 344 to provide an inlet (e.g., a cavity-like entry point) to each path 344 when the sleeve section 310 engages with the knurled connector 340. In this case, incoming air during vapor fume extraction can reach the paths 344 via these recessed inlets.

[0098] The knurled connector 340 also defines an opening 342 and a hole 346 to receive portions of the battery subassembly 350. Specifically, when assembling the battery segment 320, a pin 352 extends through the opening 342 in the knurled connector 340 and into the opening 332 in the bayonet adapter 330. In this assembled state, the proximal end of the pin 352 may be at substantially the same level as the engagement member 334 of the bayonet adapter 330, but the exemplary embodiment is not limited thereto. The hole 346 in the knurled connector 340 is configured to expose a light tube 358. The light tube 358 may include red, green, and blue (RGB) light-emitting diodes (LEDs), wherein these primary colors can be combined to produce white light as well as many other light hues. As a result, the emitted light can be transmitted by the light tube 358 in a manner visible and useful to an adult vapor user.

[0099] The battery subassembly 350 also includes a first printed circuit board (PCB) 354 configured to mechanically support and electrically connect various portions of the battery segment 320, including a first sensor 356, a pin 352, and a light tube 358. In an exemplary embodiment, the first sensor 356 may be a combined pressure sensor and a temperature sensor. Additionally, the pin 352 may be a spring pin or a spring-loaded pin. The light tube 358 may include five light-emitting diodes, but it should be understood that different numbers of light-emitting diodes may be implemented. The light tube 358 can be used to convey various types of information to adult vaporizer users.

[0100] For example, regarding battery power, illuminating all five lights via LED 358 indicates a full battery level, while illuminating fewer lights, such as three, indicates a medium battery level. Conversely, illuminating only one light indicates a low battery level. The color of one or more lights can also be changed (e.g., to a warning color such as red) to enhance the recognition of a given indication. Furthermore, one or more lights can flash to help indicate the urgency of a particular indication. This can be achieved by pressing button 372 at the distal end of the nicotine e-vaporizer device 500. Figure 5 The device allows users to obtain the desired type of information or function. In an exemplary embodiment, pressing button 372 once displays the battery level (e.g., for 5 seconds). In another embodiment, pressing button 372 sequentially over a short period of time produces different functions or displays. Specifically, pressing button 372 five times sequentially turns the nicotine e-vaping device 500 on / off. Therefore, the nicotine e-vaping device 500 can be inhalation-activated and / or button-activated.

[0101] Figure 17 yes Figure 16 A partial exploded view of the battery sub-assembly. (Reference) Figure 17The battery subassembly 350 also includes a second printed circuit board (PCB) 364 configured to mechanically support and electrically connect at least a second sensor 366. The second sensor 366 may be a temperature sensor (e.g., a second temperature sensor). The battery subassembly 350 further includes a controller 359, which may be mechanically supported and electrically connected by the first PCB 354 and / or the second PCB 364. A power source 362 is disposed within the battery section housing 360. The power source 362 may be a rechargeable battery configured to supply current to the integrated heater-thermocouple 250 of the nicotine cartridge 100 in response to suction activation or button activation.

[0102] At least one of the first sensor 356 or the second sensor 366 may be configured to measure the voltage difference between the first segment 252 and the second segment 256 of the integrated heater-thermocouple 250 caused by the supply of electrical energy from the power source 362 (e.g., when the nicotine vapor pretreatment 180 is heated to generate nicotine vapor). When both the first sensor 356 and the second sensor 366 are used to measure the voltage, the measured values ​​may be averaged to obtain an average value. The controller 359 may be configured to adjust the electrical energy supply to the integrated heater-thermocouple 250 based on the voltage difference measured by at least one of the first sensor 356 or the second sensor 366. In an exemplary embodiment, the controller 359 is configured to locate the temperature of the integrated heater-thermocouple 250 based on the voltage difference and to stop the electrical energy supply when the temperature exceeds an upper limit threshold.

[0103] Since the voltage measured at the junction 254 of the integrated heater-thermocouple 250 is temperature-dependent, the relationship between voltage and temperature can be determined empirically and organized / stored in a lookup table (LUT). In this case, during vapor extraction, the measured voltage can be used by the controller 359 to obtain the temperature at the junction 254 of the integrated heater-thermocouple 250 from the lookup table (which may be stored in the controller 359 or in a separate memory). If the controller 359 determines that the temperature exceeds an upper threshold, adjustments can be made by the controller 359 to reduce the duty cycle (e.g., reducing a 50% duty cycle to 25%). On the other hand, if the controller 359 determines that the temperature is below a lower threshold, adjustments can be made by the controller 359 to increase the duty cycle (e.g., increasing a 50% duty cycle to 75%). Such temperature control can operate in a closed loop. In an alternative embodiment, the relationship between voltage and temperature can be expressed as an equation and is calculated rather than obtained from the LUT.

[0104] Figure 18 This is a cross-sectional view of the nicotine cartridge and Figure 6 A partial cross-sectional view of the device body when it is not engaged. (Reference) Figure 18 The nicotine cartridge 100 is configured for insertion into the sleeve section 310 of the device body 300, such that the slot 174 of the bayonet connector 170 ( Figure 8 It initially mates with the engaging member 334 of the bayonet adapter 330. Specifically, the longitudinal portion 174a of each slot 174 ( Figure 9 The nicotine cartridge 100 is configured to receive the corresponding engaging member 334 until the engaging member 334 abuts the end face of the longitudinal portion 174a. Once this initial engagement occurs, the nicotine cartridge 100 can then be rotated / twisted / rotated relative to the device body 300 (e.g., clockwise) such that the engaging member 334 slides circumferentially within the corresponding circumferential portion 174b of the groove 174 until the ridge 336 of the engaging member 334 ( Figure 16 ) Resiliently seated in groove 174c of slot 174 ( Figure 8 This causes the nicotine cartridge 100 to be mechanically interlocked with the device body 300.

[0105] Regarding the electrical connection, the first segment 252 of the integrated heater of the nicotine cartridge 100 - thermocouple 250 ( Figure 12 The bayonet adapter 330 can be electrically connected to the device body 300, while the second segment 256 of the integrated heater-thermocouple 250 of the nicotine cartridge 100 ( Figure 12 The device body 300 can be electrically connected to pin 352 of the device body 300. The bayonet adapter 330 of the device body 300 can then be electrically connected to the negative terminal of the power supply 362, while pin 352 of the device body 300 can be electrically connected to the positive terminal of the power supply 362. The electrical path from the terminal of the power supply 362 to the integrated heater-thermocouple 250 will be discussed in more detail herein.

[0106] When engaged (mechanically and electrically) with the device body 300, the nicotine cartridge 100 is substantially obscured and invisible, except for the mouthpiece 110. Regarding this substantial obscuration, portions of the reservoir 130, the nicotine pre-vapor preparation 180, and the vaporizer 150 are visible through the air inlet 312 portion of the sleeve section 310 of the device body 300. Consequently, when sufficient ambient light is present, the level of nicotine pre-vapor preparation 180 within the nicotine cartridge 100 can be visually measured by an adult vaper. In contrast, when ambient light is absent or insufficient, an adult vaper can rely on notifications of low and / or depleted nicotine pre-vapor preparation 180 within the nicotine cartridge 100 from the light tube 358.

[0107] Removal of the nicotine cartridge 100 can be achieved by causing a movement associated with engagement, such as rotating the nicotine cartridge 100 in the opposite direction (e.g., counterclockwise) and pulling the nicotine cartridge 100 away from the device body 300. Because the engagement member 334 of the bayonet adapter 330 is resiliently located within the groove 174c of the slot 174, the force required to unscrew and disengage the nicotine cartridge 100 can be greater than the force required to twist and engage the nicotine cartridge 100. This helps ensure that the disengagement of the nicotine cartridge 100 from the device body 300 is an intentional action rather than an unintentional one. Furthermore, for the sake of brevity, it should be understood that it is not... Figure 18 All marked parts are mentioned in conjunction with the specific details in this section, as this part has already been discussed above and does not require further repetition or discussion.

[0108] Figure 19 This is a cross-sectional view of the nicotine cartridge and Figure 18 A partial cross-sectional view of the device body during assembly. (Reference) Figure 19 The airflow to the integrated heater-thermocouple 250 and the flow of vapor generated therefrom are shown in dashed lines. Specifically, when a negative pressure is applied to the mouthpiece 110 of the nicotine e-vapor device 500, air is drawn into the air inlet 312 in the sleeve section 310. Figure 1 The air is drawn into the annular space between the sleeve section 310 and the nicotine cartridge 100 in the direction toward the knurled connector 340. Next, air flows toward and through path 344 in the knurled connector 340. The airflow within the annular space toward path 344 in the knurled connector 340 may include a circumferential flow (e.g., from the annular space in front of the nicotine cartridge 100 to the periphery and to one side, or from the annular space behind the nicotine cartridge 100 to the periphery and to one side). The airflow through path 344 in the knurled connector 340 is in an inward direction (e.g., radially toward the central longitudinal axis of the nicotine e-vapor device 500).

[0109] As the airflow passes through path 344 in the knurled connector 340, it then flows to the second electrical contact 290 and through the groove 298 in the base portion 296 of the second electrical contact 290. Figure 13 The airflow enters the passage 292 through the second electrical contact 290. When the airflow flows through the passage 292 in the second electrical contact 290, the airflow also converges.

[0110] Airflow exiting passage 292 in the second electrical contact 290 passes through / through the integrated heater-thermocouple 250 (e.g., which is suction-activated) and core 240 to entrain the generated nicotine vapor. The entrained nicotine vapor then passes through orifice 218 in the first module cover 210. Figure 10In an exemplary embodiment, due to the eight orifices 218, nicotine vapor can be divided into eight streams through the passage of the first module cover 210. Figure 10 The diverted nicotine vapors then merge into two streams, which flow through vapor passages 132a and 132b in the storage tank 130, and also through orifices 122a and 122b in the first seal 120. Figure 7 After the flow passes through the first seal 120, the two nicotine vapor streams converge into one stream to exit through the vapor outlet 112 of the mouthpiece 110. However, it should be understood that the exemplary embodiments are not limited thereto. For example, as described above, the mouthpiece 110 may have different configurations for the vapor outlet 112, thus allowing for other variations regarding the exiting nicotine vapor stream.

[0111] Figure 20 yes Figure 19 An enlarged view of the cross-section. (Reference) Figure 20 From the terminal of power supply 362 ( Figure 17 The electrical path to the integrated heater-thermocouple 250 includes multiple electrical connections (J1-J8). J1 is the electrical connection between the printed circuit board (e.g., copper of the first printed circuit board 354) and the pin 352 (e.g., gold-plated brass). J2 is the electrical connection between the pin 352 (e.g., gold-plated brass) and the second electrical contact 290 (e.g., gold-plated brass). J3 is the electrical connection between the second electrical contact 290 (e.g., gold-plated brass) and the second segment 256 of the integrated heater-thermocouple 250 (e.g., nickel-chromium alloy). J4 is the electrical connection between the first segment 252 of the integrated heater-thermocouple 250 (e.g., nickel-aluminum alloy) and the second module cover 260 (e.g., stainless steel). J5 is the electrical connection between the second module cover 260 (e.g., stainless steel) and the first electrical contact 270 (gold-plated steel). J6 is the electrical connection between the first electrical contact 270 (e.g., gold-plated steel) and the bayonet adapter 330 (e.g., stainless steel). J7 is the electrical connection between the bayonet adapter 330 (e.g., stainless steel) and the knurled connector 340 (e.g., chrome-plated brass). J8 is the electrical connection between the knurled connector 340 (e.g., chrome-plated brass) and the printed circuit board (e.g., copper of the first printed circuit board 354).

[0112] Therefore, when the nicotine electronic vapor device 500 is activated (e.g., inhalation activation), the current can be considered to flow from the positive terminal of the power supply 362 to the printed circuit board 354, from the printed circuit board 354 to the pin 352, from the pin 352 to the second electrical contact 290, from the second electrical contact 290 to the second segment 256 of the integrated heater-thermocouple 250, from the second segment 256 to the first segment 252 of the integrated heater-thermocouple 250, from the first segment 252 of the integrated heater-thermocouple 250 to the second module cover 260, from the second module cover 260 to the first electrical contact 270, from the first electrical contact 270 to the bayonet adapter 330, from the bayonet adapter 330 to the knurled connector 340, from the knurled connector 340 to the printed circuit board 354, and from the printed circuit board 354 to the negative terminal of the power supply 362. It should be understood that the necessary circuitry in the nicotine electronic vaporizer 500 is connected to the power supply 362, but such connections are not necessarily shown in the accompanying drawings.

[0113] When determining the temperature at the junction 254 of the integrated heater-thermocouple 250, the controller 359 may take into account the electrical junctions (J1-J8) discussed above. Based on the known materials of the electrical junctions (J1-J8), empirical studies can be performed to generate calibration curves covering the expected operating temperature range of the integrated heater-thermocouple 250. As a result, a factor or correction can be applied by the controller 359 to the initial temperature determination to achieve a corrected temperature that takes into account the electrical junctions (J1-J8) connected to the integrated heater-thermocouple 250.

[0114] While many exemplary embodiments have been disclosed herein, it should be understood that other variations are possible. Such changes should not be considered as departing from the scope of this disclosure, and all such modifications that will be apparent to those skilled in the art are intended to be included within the scope of the appended claims.

Claims

1. A nicotine cartridge for a nicotine electronic vaporizer, comprising: A housing that defines a reservoir for containing a pre-nicotine vapor preparation; A core, the core being configured to deliver the nicotine vapor pre-formulation via capillary action; and An integrated heater-thermocouple configured to heat the nicotine vapor preformulation in the core to generate nicotine vapor, the integrated heater-thermocouple comprising a first segment made of a first alloy and a second segment made of a second alloy; The integrated heater-thermocouple is in the form of a spiral structure wrapped around the core, the spiral structure including multiple coils, the multiple coils including at least one coil of the first alloy and at least one coil of the second alloy; wherein the first alloy has a first resistivity and a first thermal conductivity, the second alloy has a second resistivity and a second thermal conductivity, the first resistivity is less than the second resistivity, and the first thermal conductivity is greater than the second thermal conductivity; and The at least one coil of the first alloy is downstream of the at least one coil of the second alloy.

2. The nicotine cartridge of claim 1, wherein the housing includes a sidewall and a first longitudinal axis, the sidewall defining at least one vapor passage extending through the sidewall and along the first longitudinal axis of the housing.

3. The nicotine container according to claim 2, wherein the at least one vapor passage comprises a first vapor passage and a second vapor passage, and the reservoir is located between the first vapor passage and the second vapor passage.

4. The nicotine cartridge according to claim 1, 2 or 3, wherein the integrated heater-thermocouple has a Seebeck coefficient of 35 to 75 µV / °C.

5. The nicotine cartridge according to claim 1, 2, or 3, wherein the integrated heater-thermocouple has a diameter of 0.5 to 3.5 mm. The total resistance.

6. The nicotine cartridge according to claim 1, 2 or 3, wherein the shell has a first longitudinal axis and the helical structure has a second longitudinal axis intersecting the first longitudinal axis to form an angle of inclination.

7. The nicotine cartridge according to claim 1, 2 or 3, wherein the at least one coil of the first alloy is welded to the at least one coil of the second alloy at a joint.

8. The nicotine cartridge according to claim 1, 2 or 3, wherein the plurality of coils are in the form of five to ten coils.

9. The nicotine cartridge of claim 8, wherein the plurality of coils comprises one coil of the first alloy and five coils of the second alloy.

10. The nicotine cartridge of claim 8, wherein the plurality of coils comprises two coils of the first alloy and four coils of the second alloy.

11. The nicotine cartridge according to claim 1, 2 or 3, wherein the first alloy is a nickel-aluminum alloy and the second alloy is a nickel-chromium alloy.

12. The nicotine cartridge of claim 11, wherein the nickel-aluminum alloy comprises 95% nickel and 2% aluminum.

13. The nicotine cartridge of claim 11, wherein the nickel-chromium alloy comprises 90% nickel and 10% chromium.

14. A nicotine electronic vaporizer, comprising: A nicotine cartridge comprising a nicotine vapor preform, a core, and an integrated heater-thermocouple, the core being configured to deliver the nicotine vapor preform via capillary action, the integrated heater-thermocouple comprising a first segment made of a first alloy and a second segment made of a second alloy, wherein the integrated heater-thermocouple is in the form of a helical structure surrounding the core, the helical structure comprising a plurality of coils, the plurality of coils including at least one coil of the first alloy and at least one coil of the second alloy; wherein the first alloy has a first resistivity and a first thermal conductivity, the second alloy has a second resistivity and a second thermal conductivity, the first resistivity being less than the second resistivity, and the first thermal conductivity being greater than the second thermal conductivity; The at least one coil of the first alloy is downstream of the at least one coil of the second alloy; as well as The device body is configured to receive the nicotine cartridge. The device body includes a power source, at least one sensor, and a controller. The power source is configured to supply electrical energy to the integrated heater-thermocouple to heat the nicotine vapor preform in the core to generate nicotine vapor. The at least one sensor is configured to measure the voltage difference between a first and a second segment of the integrated heater-thermocouple due to the supply of electrical energy from the power source. The controller is configured to adjust the supply of electrical energy to the integrated heater-thermocouple based on the voltage difference measured by the at least one sensor.

15. The nicotine electronic vaporizer of claim 14, wherein the controller is configured to calculate the temperature of the integrated heater-thermocouple based on the voltage difference, and to stop the supply of electrical power when the temperature exceeds an upper limit threshold.

16. The nicotine electronic vaporizer of claim 14 or 15, wherein the device body further includes a sleeve section configured to receive the nicotine cartridge, the sleeve section defining an array of inlet openings.

17. The nicotine electronic vaporizer of claim 16, wherein the array of inlet openings is in the form of a honeycomb pattern, the honeycomb pattern being configured to facilitate the entry of ambient air into the device body, the ambient air traveling toward the power source before moving inward, and then toward the integrated heater-thermocouple.

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