Non-nicotine e-vaping device with integrated heater thermocouple

Abstract

Temperature measurement and control in a non-nicotine e-vaping (e-vaping) device.SOLUTION: The non-nicotine cartridge includes a non-nicotine pre-vapor formulation, a wick, and an integrated heater thermocouple 250. The integral heater thermocouple includes a first segment 252 made of a first alloy and a second segment 256 made of a second alloy. 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 non-nicotine pre-vapor formulation to generate a non-nicotine vapor. The at least one sensor is configured to measure a voltage difference between the first segment and the second segment of the integral heater thermocouple during such heating, and the controller adjusts the electrical energy to the integral heater thermocouple based on the measured voltage difference.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 12

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present disclosure relates to temperature measurement and control in non-nicotine e-vaping devices. [Background technology]

[0002] Some non-nicotine e-vapor devices include a first section coupled to a second section. The first section may include a wick and a heater. The wick is configured to move the non-nicotine pre-vapor formulation by capillary action and is positioned to extend into the reservoir and the vapor passage. The heater is in thermal contact with the wick and configured to vaporize the non-nicotine pre-vapor formulation drawn into the vapor passage through the wick. The second section includes a power source configured to provide current to the heater during vaping. Initiation of operation of the non-nicotine e-vapor device may be achieved by manual and / or puff activation. Summary of the Invention [Means for solving the problem]

[0003] At least one embodiment relates to a non-nicotine cartridge for a non-nicotine e-vapor device. In an exemplary embodiment, the non-nicotine cartridge can include a housing, a wick, and an integrated heater thermocouple. The housing defines a reservoir containing a non-nicotine pre-vapor formulation. The wick is configured to transport the non-nicotine pre-vapor formulation by capillary action. The integrated heater thermocouple is configured to heat the non-nicotine pre-vapor formulation in the wick to generate a non-nicotine vapor. The integrated heater thermocouple includes a first segment made from a first alloy and a second segment made from a second alloy.

[0004] At least one embodiment relates to a non-nicotine e-vapor device. In an exemplary embodiment, the non-nicotine e-vapor device may include a non-nicotine cartridge and a device body. The non-nicotine cartridge includes a non-nicotine pre-vapor formulation, a wick, and an integrated heater thermocouple. The wick is configured to transport the non-nicotine pre-vapor formulation by capillary action. The integrated heater thermocouple includes a first segment made from a first alloy and a second segment made from a second alloy. The device body is configured to accept the non-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 non-nicotine pre-vapor formulation in the wick and generate a non-nicotine vapor. The at least one sensor is configured to measure a voltage difference between the first segment and the second segment of the integrated heater thermocouple as a result of the supply of electrical energy from the power source. The controller is configured to regulate the supply of electrical energy to the integral heater thermocouple based on the voltage difference measured by the at least one sensor. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0005] Various features and advantages of the non-limiting embodiments herein will become more apparent from a consideration of the detailed description in conjunction with the accompanying drawings. The accompanying drawings are provided for illustrative purposes only and should not be construed as limiting the scope of the claims. The accompanying drawings are not to be considered as drawn to scale unless explicitly stated. Various dimensions of the drawings may be exaggerated for clarity.

[0006] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is a front view of a non-nicotine e-vaping device according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0007] [Figure 2] FIG. 2 is a side view of the non-nicotine e-vaping device of FIG.

[0008] [Figure 3] FIG. 3 is a rear view of the non-nicotine e-vaping device of FIG.

[0009] [Figure 4] FIG. 4 is a proximal end view of the non-nicotine e-vaping device of FIG.

[0010] [Figure 5] FIG. 5 is a distal end view of the non-nicotine e-vaping device of FIG.

[0011] [Figure 6] 6 is a front view of the non-nicotine e-vaping device of FIG. 1 when the non-nicotine cartridge and device body are not engaged.

[0012] [Figure 7] FIG. 7 is an exploded perspective view of the non-nicotine cartridge in FIG.

[0013] [Figure 8] FIG. 8 is a first exploded perspective view of the vaporizer of FIG.

[0014] [Figure 9] 9 is a second exploded perspective view of the vaporizer of FIG.

[0015] [Figure 10] FIG. 10 is an exploded perspective view of the vaporizing module in FIG.

[0016] [Figure 11] FIG. 11 is an exploded perspective view of the vaporizing module of FIG.

[0017] [Figure 12] 12 is an exploded perspective view of the heater subassembly in FIG. 10. FIG.

[0018] [Figure 13] 13 is an exploded perspective view of the heater subassembly of FIG. 11. FIG.

[0019] [Figure 14] 14 is a partially exploded perspective view of the device main body in FIG.

[0020] [Figure 15] FIG. 15 is a perspective view of the battery section in FIG.

[0021] [Figure 16] 16 is a partially exploded perspective view of the battery unit of FIG.

[0022] [Figure 17] 17 is a partially exploded perspective view of the battery subassembly of FIG. 16. FIG.

[0023] [Figure 18] FIG. 18 is a cross-sectional view of the non-nicotine cartridge of FIG. 6 and a partial cross-sectional view of the device body when disengaged.

[0024] [Figure 19] FIG. 19 is a cross-sectional view of the non-nicotine cartridge of FIG. 18 and a partial cross-sectional view of the device body when engaged.

[0025] [Figure 20] FIG. 20 is an enlarged view of the cross section of FIG. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0026] [Detailed explanation] Although several detailed exemplary embodiments are disclosed herein, the specific structural and functional details disclosed herein are merely representative for purposes of describing the exemplary embodiments, but the exemplary embodiments may be embodied in many alternative forms and should not be construed as being limited to only the exemplary embodiments set forth herein.

[0027] Thus, while exemplary embodiments are susceptible to various modifications and alternative forms, such exemplary embodiments have been shown by way of example in the drawings and will be described in detail herein. It is to be understood, however, that there is no intention to limit the exemplary embodiments to the particular forms disclosed, but on the contrary, the exemplary embodiments are intended to cover all modifications, equivalents, and alternatives thereof. Like numbers refer to like elements throughout the description of the figures.

[0028] When an element or layer is referred to as being "on," "connected to," "coupled to," "attached to," "adjacent to," or "covering" another element or layer, it should be understood that it may be directly connected to, coupled to, attached to, adjacent to, or covering the other element or layer, or that intervening elements or layers may be present. In contrast, when an element is referred to as being "directly on," "directly connected to," or "directly coupled to" another element or layer, there are no intervening elements or layers. As used herein, like numbers refer to like elements. As used herein, the term "and / or" includes any and all combinations or subcombinations of one or more of the associated listed items.

[0029] In this specification, terms such as first, second, and third may be used to describe various elements, regions, layers, and / or sections, but it should be understood that these elements, regions, layers, and / or sections are not limited by these terms. These terms are used only to distinguish one element, region, layer, or section from another region, layer, or section. Thus, a first element, region, layer, or section described below could be referred to as a second element, region, layer, or section without departing from the teachings of the exemplary embodiments.

[0030] For ease of description, spatially relative terms (e.g., "beneath," "below," "lower," "above," "upper," etc.) may be used herein to describe the relationship of one element or feature to another, as illustrated in the figures. It should be understood that spatially relative terms are intended to encompass different orientations of the device during use and operation in addition to the orientation depicted in the figures. For example, if a device in the figures were turned over, elements described as "below" or "beneath" other elements or features would then be oriented "above" the other elements or features. Thus, the term "below" can encompass both an orientation of above and below. Additionally, a device may be otherwise oriented (rotated 90 degrees, oriented in other directions, etc.), and the spatially relative descriptors used herein would 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," "an," and "the" are intended to include the plural forms unless the context clearly dictates otherwise. It will be further understood that as used herein, the terms "includes," "including," "comprises," and / or "comprising" specify the presence of stated features, integers, steps, operations, and / or elements, but do not exclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, integers, steps, operations, elements, and / or groups thereof.

[0032] When the terms "about" or "substantially" are used herein in connection with a numerical value, it is intended that the associated numerical value include manufacturing or operating tolerances (e.g., ±10%) around the stated numerical value. Furthermore, when the terms "generally" or "substantially" are used in connection with a geometric shape, precision in the geometric shape is not required, but a degree of freedom in the shape is intended to be within the scope of the present disclosure. Furthermore, whether a numerical value or shape is modified "about," "generally," or "substantially," it will be understood that these numerical values ​​and shapes should be interpreted as including manufacturing or operating tolerances (e.g., ±10%) around the stated numerical value or shape.

[0033] Unless otherwise defined, all terms (including technical and scientific terms) used herein have the same meaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art to which the illustrated embodiment belongs. Furthermore, terms, including those defined in commonly used dictionaries, should be interpreted as having a meaning consistent with the meaning in the context of the relevant art, and will not be interpreted in an idealized or overly formal sense unless explicitly defined herein.

[0034] The hardware may be implemented using processing or control circuitry 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 systems 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 device or devices capable of responding to and executing instructions in a defined manner.

[0035] Unless otherwise indicated, and as will be apparent from the following description, descriptions using terms such as "processing" or "computing" or "calculating" or "determining" or "displaying" will be understood to refer to the operation and processing of a computer system or similar electronic computing device, manipulating and transforming data represented as physical (electronic) quantities in the computer system's registers and memory into other data similarly represented as physical quantities in the computer system's memory or registers or other such information storage, transmission or display device.

[0036] In the description that follows, exemplary embodiments may be described with reference to acts and symbolic representations of operations (e.g., in the form of flowcharts, flow diagrams, data flow diagrams, structure diagrams, block diagrams, etc.) that may be implemented as program modules or functional processes including routines, programs, objects, data structures, etc. that perform particular tasks or implement particular abstract data types. The 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), SoCs, field programmable gate arrays (FPGAs), computers, etc.

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

[0038] While a process may be described in terms of sequential operations, many of the operations may be performed in parallel, simultaneously, or concurrently. Additionally, the order of operations may be shuffled. A process may terminate when its operations are completed, or may have additional steps not included in the diagram. A process may correspond to a method, a function, a procedure, a subroutine, a subprogram, etc. When a process corresponds to a function, its termination may correspond to the function returning to the calling function or to the main function.

[0039] As disclosed herein, the terms "storage medium," "computer-readable storage medium," or "non-transitory computer-readable storage medium" may refer to one or more devices for storing data, including read-only memory (ROM), random-access memory (RAM), magnetic RAM, core memory, magnetic 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 non-portable storage devices, optical storage devices, and various other media that can store, store, or carry instruction(s) 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, the program code or code segments to perform the necessary tasks may be stored on a machine- or computer-readable medium, such as a computer-readable storage medium. When implemented in software, processor(s), processing circuit(s), or processing unit(s) may be programmed to perform the necessary tasks, thereby converting them into special-purpose processor(s) or computer(s).

[0041] A code segment may represent a procedure, a function, a subprogram, a program, a routine, a subroutine, a module, a software package, a class, or any combination of instructions, data structures, or program statements. A code segment may be coupled to another code segment or a hardware circuit by passing information, data, arguments, parameters, or memory contents. Information, arguments, parameters, data, etc. may be passed, forwarded, or transmitted via any suitable means, such as memory sharing, message passing, token passing, network transmission, etc.

[0042] FIG. 1 is a front view of a non-nicotine e-vaping device according to an exemplary embodiment. Referring to FIG. 1, the non-nicotine e-vaping device 500 may include a sleeve portion 310 configured to receive a non-nicotine cartridge 100 (described in more detail below with respect to FIG. 6). The sleeve portion 310 is connected to a battery section housing 360 via a knurled connector 340. A light pipe 358 may be exposed by the knurled connector 340, such that an exposed surface of the light pipe 358 constitutes an outer surface of the non-nicotine e-vaping device 500. The exposed surface of the light pipe 358 may also be between the sleeve portion 310 and the battery section housing 360. The combination of at least the sleeve portion 310 and the battery section housing 360 may collectively be referred to as the device housing of the non-nicotine e-vaping device 500. When the non-nicotine e-vaping device 500 is fully assembled / engaged, the mouthpiece 110 is disposed at the proximal end of the sleeve portion 310, and the end cap 370 is disposed at the distal end of the battery section housing 360. The mouthpiece 110 may have a tapered shape such that the width at its proximal end is smaller than the diameter of the sleeve portion 310 .

[0043] The proximal and distal ends of the non-nicotine e-vaping device 500 (and / or its components) may also be referred to as the downstream and upstream ends, respectively. In particular, as used herein, "proximal" (and conversely, "distal") refers to the relationship to the adult vapor during vaping, and "downstream" (and conversely, "upstream") refers to the relationship to the flow path of the non-nicotine vapor.

[0044] The sleeve portion 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 arrangement to resemble a honeycomb pattern. However, it should be understood that other shapes and arrangements are possible. For example, instead of (or in addition to) a hexagonal shape, the air inlets 312 may include a triangular, rectangular (e.g., square, diamond), pentagonal, and / or circular shape. Furthermore, instead of an axial arrangement along a partial length of the sleeve portion 310, the air inlets 312 may be arranged circumferentially around the sleeve portion 310. In an exemplary embodiment, the non-nicotine e-vaping device 500 may include at least 10 total air inlets 312 (e.g., at least 20 total air inlets 312).

[0045] Figure 2 is a side view of the non-nicotine e-vaping device of Figure 1. Referring to Figure 2, opposing sides of the sleeve portion 310 may define a first array of air inlets 312 and a second array of air inlets 312, such that both arrays are partially visible in side view. In an exemplary embodiment, the first array of air inlets 312 is fully visible based on a front view of the sleeve portion 310, as shown in Figure 1, while the second array of air inlets 312 is fully visible based on a rear view of the sleeve portion 310, as shown in Figure 3, which will be described below.

[0046] Mouthpiece 110 may have a wedge-shaped or chisel-shaped appearance based on the side view of FIG. 2. However, it should be understood that other shapes and configurations are possible. For example, in one example, mouthpiece 110 may instead have a cylindrical shape. In another example, mouthpiece 110 may have a cone-shaped or frusto-cone-shaped.

[0047] The port 368 may be located near the distal end of the battery section housing 360, adjacent the end cap 370. In the side view of FIG. 2, the port 368 may appear as simply a recess in the battery section housing 360. In an exemplary embodiment, the port 368 facilitates charging and / or communication of information to / from the non-nicotine e-vaping device 500. The port 368 is described in more detail in connection with FIG. 3.

[0048] The light pipe 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. In particular, the light transmitted by the light pipe 358 can visually inform an adult vaper of the status of the non-nicotine e-vaping device 500. For example, the visual indications provided by the light pipe 358 may include, but are not limited to, information on whether the non-nicotine e-vaping device 500 is on, whether non-nicotine vapor is being generated, whether the battery is low, whether charging is occurring or is complete, whether the non-nicotine pre-vapor formulation is low or depleted, etc.

[0049] As referred to herein, a non-nicotine pre-vapor formulation is a material or combination of materials that does not contain nicotine and can be converted into a non-nicotine vapor. For example, a non-nicotine pre-vapor formulation may include liquid, solid, and / or gel formulations. These include, but are not limited to, solutions or suspensions (e.g., emulsions) containing, for example, water, oil, beads, solvents, active ingredients, ethanol, botanical extracts, non-nicotine compounds, natural or artificial flavors, vapor-forming agents such as glycerin or propylene glycol, and / or other ingredients suitable for vaping. During vaping, the non-nicotine e-vaping device 500 is configured to heat the non-nicotine pre-vapor formulation to generate a non-nicotine vapor. Non-nicotine vapor, non-nicotine aerosol, and non-nicotine dispersion may be used interchangeably and refer to substances generated or emitted by the disclosed and claimed devices and their equivalents, where such substances lack nicotine.

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

[0051] Figure 3 is a rear view of the non-nicotine e-vaping device of Figure 1. Referring to Figure 3, the second array of air inlets 312 at the rear side of the non-nicotine e-vaping device 500 may be as described in relation to the first array of air inlets 312 at the front side of the non-nicotine e-vaping device 500 shown in Figure 1. Therefore, the relevant disclosure of the air inlets 312 already described above will not be repeated for the sake of brevity. However, in some embodiments, the second array of air inlets 312 at the rear side of the non-nicotine e-vaping device 500 shown in Figure 3 may be different from the first array of air inlets 312 at the front side of the non-nicotine e-vaping device 500 shown in Figure 1 (or vice versa). For example, instead of a staggered arrangement of three rows of seven, eight, and seven air inlets 312 per array, the number of rows and / or the number of air inlets 312 per array may be changed away from 22 air inlets 312 per array (or a total of 44 air inlets 312 for the non-nicotine e-vaping device 500).

[0052] The port 368 is configured to receive current from an external power source (e.g., via a USB / mini-USB / USB-C cable) to charge an internal power source within the non-nicotine e-vaping device 500. Additionally, the port 368 may also be configured to transmit data to and / or receive data (e.g., via a USB / mini-USB / USB-C cable) from another non-nicotine e-vaping device or other electronic device (e.g., a phone, tablet, computer). Furthermore, the non-nicotine e-vaping device 500 may be configured to wirelessly communicate with another electronic device, such as a phone, via application software (app) installed on the electronic device. In such an example, an adult vaper may control or otherwise interface (e.g., find the non-nicotine e-vaping device, review usage information, change operating parameters) with the non-nicotine e-vaping device 500 via the app.

[0053] While the port 368 is shown as being located on the rear side of the non-nicotine e-vaping device 500 in Figure 3, it should be understood that other locations are possible. For example, in some embodiments, the port 368 may instead be located on the front side of the non-nicotine e-vaping device 500 in Figure 1. Additionally, in other embodiments, the port 368 may be located at the distal end of the non-nicotine e-vaping device 500 such that it is accessible through the end cap 370.

[0054] FIG. 4 is a proximal end view of the non-nicotine e-vaping device of FIG. 1. Referring to FIG. 4, the mouthpiece 110 defines a vapor outlet 112. During vaping, generated non-nicotine vapor is drawn from the non-nicotine e-vaping device 500 through the vapor outlet 112. While the vapor outlet 112 is shown as being centered coincident with the central longitudinal axis of the non-nicotine e-vaping device 500, it should be understood that the vapor outlet 112 may be off-center (e.g., offset from the central longitudinal axis) in some examples. Furthermore, while only one vapor outlet 112 is shown in FIG. 4, it should be understood that exemplary embodiments are not limited thereto. Notably, in some embodiments, the mouthpiece 110 may define multiple vapor outlets 112. For example, the mouthpiece 110 may define two vapor outlets 112, which may extend parallel (e.g., longitudinally) or divergently. In another example, the mouthpiece 110 may define three vapor outlets 112. In such an embodiment, the three vapor outlets 112 may be aligned in a straight line, with the middle vapor outlet 112 extending longitudinally and the other two vapor outlets 112 extending divergently. Alternatively, the three vapor outlets 112 may all extend parallel to one another.

[0055] It should also be understood that the positioning, arrangement, and quantity of the vapor outlet(s) 112 may further vary depending on the configuration of the mouthpiece 110. Particularly in exemplary embodiments in which the mouthpiece 110 has a cylindrical or conical (as opposed to flattened) shape, additional options may exist for the location, arrangement, and quantity of the vapor outlet(s) 112. For example, where space permits, an embodiment with three vapor outlets 112 may have a triangular arrangement for the vapor outlets 112. Similarly, an embodiment with four vapor outlets 112 may have a triangular arrangement with a central vapor outlet 112, or alternatively, a quadrangular (e.g., square, diamond) arrangement. Similarly, embodiments with more vapor outlets 112 may have a quadrangular arrangement, a pentagonal arrangement, a hexagonal arrangement, a heptagonal arrangement, or an octagonal arrangement, and may or may not include a central vapor outlet 112.

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

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

[0058] FIG. 5 is a distal end view of the non-nicotine e-vaping device of FIG. 1. Referring to FIG. 5, an end cap 370 and a button 372 are disposed at the distal end of the non-nicotine e-vaping device 500. The end cap 370 may be engaged with the battery section housing 360 via an interference fit (which may also be referred to as a press fit or a friction fit). For example, an outer sidewall portion of the end cap 370 may be engaged with a corresponding inner sidewall portion of the battery section housing 360. Additionally, the outer sidewall portion of the end cap 370 may be knurled to enhance the engagement. In an exemplary embodiment, the end cap 370 also defines an opening configured to accommodate the button 372. In such an example, the end cap 370 is a fixed structure and the button 372 is a movable structure that is movable (e.g., depressible) relative to the end cap 370.

[0059] The button 372 may be a power button for the non-nicotine e-vaping device 500. In particular, the button 372, when pressed, may activate a power source within the non-nicotine e-vaping device 500. While the button 372 is shown as being located at the distal end of the non-nicotine e-vaping device 500, it should be understood that exemplary embodiments are not limited thereto. For example, in some embodiments, the button 372 may instead be located on the front of the non-nicotine e-vaping device 500 (e.g., on the same side as the light pipe 358).

[0060] 6 is a front view of the non-nicotine e-vapor device of FIG. 1 when the non-nicotine cartridge and the device body are not engaged. Referring to FIG. 6, a non-nicotine e-vapor device 500 includes a non-nicotine cartridge 100 and a device body 300, where the device body 300 is configured to accept the non-nicotine cartridge 100. The non-nicotine cartridge 100 includes a housing configured to hold a non-nicotine pre-vapor formulation 180. When the non-nicotine cartridge 100 is engaged with the device body 300, a majority of the non-nicotine cartridge 100 may be hidden from view by a sleeve portion 310, while the mouthpiece 110 remains visible (e.g., as shown in FIG. 1). Additionally, the non-nicotine pre-vapor formulation 180 in the non-nicotine cartridge 100 may be visible through the device body 300 via an air inlet 312 in the sleeve portion 310. During vaping, the non-nicotine pre-vapor formulation 180 is heated to produce a non-nicotine vapor, which is inhaled from the non-nicotine e-vaping device 500 through the mouthpiece 110.

[0061] The non-nicotine cartridge 100 may be considered a consumable item that is replaced when the non-nicotine pre-vapor formulation 180 therein is depleted. The level of non-nicotine pre-vapor formulation 180 within the non-nicotine cartridge 100 may be visually confirmed through the air inlet 312 of the sleeve portion 310. In some embodiments, the non-nicotine e-vaping device 500 may additionally provide notification (e.g., via the light pipe 358) when the non-nicotine pre-vapor formulation 180 within the non-nicotine cartridge 100 is deemed depleted. In other examples, the non-nicotine e-vaping device 500 may also provide notification (e.g., via the light pipe 358) that another unacceptable condition exists. Examples of other unacceptable conditions include, but are not limited to, a poor electrical connection and / or an unapproved or approved non-nicotine cartridge that is no longer deemed suitable for vaping (e.g., an excessively long period of time, such as one year, has passed since the first vaping event with the non-nicotine cartridge).

[0062] The shape of the device body 300 may correspond to the shape of the non-nicotine cartridge 100 (e.g., a generally cylindrical shape for both the device body 300 and the non-nicotine cartridge 100). However, in other examples, the shape of the device body 300 may differ from the shape of the non-nicotine cartridge 100. For example, the non-nicotine cartridge 100 may have a cylindrical shape, while the device body 300 may have one of the different shapes disclosed herein (e.g., a cubic shape), or vice versa. Thus, the non-nicotine e-vaping device 500 may have an overall shape (which is primarily influenced by the device body 300) that differs from the shape of the non-nicotine cartridge 100.

[0063] FIG. 7 is an exploded perspective view of the non-nicotine cartridge in FIG. 6. Referring to FIG. 7, the non-nicotine cartridge 100 includes a mouthpiece 110, a first seal 120, a tank 130, a second seal 140, and a vaporizer 150. The tank 130 defines a reservoir 134 configured to hold a non-nicotine pre-vapor formulation 180 when the non-nicotine cartridge 100 is assembled. In addition, the sidewall of the tank 130 may define at least one vapor channel extending therethrough. As shown, the sidewall of the tank 130 defines vapor channels 132 a, 132 b (which may also be referred to as a first vapor channel 132 a and a second vapor channel 132 b). In an exemplary embodiment, vapor channels 132a, 132b may be defined in opposite (e.g., diametrically opposite) sides of the sidewall of tank 130, such that reservoir 134 is between vapor channel 132a and vapor channel 132b. Also, vapor channel 132a and vapor channel 132b may be parallel to each other and to the longitudinal axis of tank 130. Tank 130 may be formed of a transparent material to allow viewing of the contents therein (e.g., non-nicotine pre-vapor formulation 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 openings 122a and 122b (which may also be referred to as the first opening 122a and the second opening 122b). As a result, when the first seal 120 engages with the tank 130 to seal the proximal side of the reservoir 134, the openings 122a and 122b are aligned with the vapor channels 132a and 132b, respectively. This engagement allows non-nicotine vapor generated by the vaporizer 150 during vaping to travel up the vapor channels 132a and 132b, through the openings 122a and 122b, respectively, to the mouthpiece 110, and out the vapor outlet 112. When the non-nicotine cartridge 100 is assembled, the first seal 120 may be hidden from view by the mouthpiece 110 (which also engages with the tank 130). Additionally, the first seal 120 may be formed of or include a resilient structural material (eg, silicone).

[0065] The second seal 140 is configured to engage with the tank 130 to seal the distal side of the reservoir 134. In particular, the second seal 140 is configured to close the opening 136 of the tank 130, thereby sealing the distal side of the reservoir 134. In an exemplary embodiment, the second seal 140 is formed of a resilient material (e.g., silicone) and includes a head portion, a body portion, and a neck portion between the head and body portions. The diameter of the head portion of the second seal 140 may be larger than the diameter of the opening 136 and smaller than the diameter of the body portion of the second seal 140, and 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 urged through the opening 136 of the tank 130, the neck portion of the second seal 140 may be resiliently seated in the opening 136 in a fluid-tight manner, while the head portion of the second seal 140 is within the reservoir 134 and the body portion of the second seal 140 is outside the reservoir 134. In such an example, by gripping opposing surfaces of the tank 130 that define the opening 136, the head and body portions of the second seal 140 may help ensure that the second seal 140 provides the desired seal while maintaining its proper position.

[0066] Thus, the first seal 120 and the second seal 140 are configured to engage the tank 130 such that the reservoir 134 is sealed and isolated from the vapor channels 132a, 132b. The combination of the first seal 120, the tank 130, and the second seal 140 may be collectively referred to as the housing of the non-nicotine cartridge 100. In an exemplary embodiment, the second seal 140 may be configured as a pierceable structure that completely covers the opening 136 of the tank 130 (when unpierced / unpunctured). In such an embodiment, the reservoir 134 may remain sealed until the tip of the vaporizer 150 is received and engaged by the tank 130 (e.g., during assembly, prior to vaping, as shown in FIG. 6 ) to pierce the second seal 140 and extend through the opening 136 into the reservoir 134 to access the non-nicotine pre-vapor formulation 180 therein.

[0067] FIG. 8 is a first exploded perspective view of the vaporizer of FIG. 7 . FIG. 9 is a second exploded perspective view of the vaporizer of FIG. 7 . Referring to FIGS. 8-9 , vaporizer 150 includes vaporizing module 200, which can be at least partially retained within catch ring 160 and bayonet connector 170. Catch ring 160 defines opening 162 configured to accommodate vaporizing module 200. Similarly, bayonet connector 170 defines opening 172 configured to receive vaporizing module 200. When vaporizer 150 is assembled, catch ring 160 engages with bayonet connector 170 to surround and retain vaporizing module 200. Furthermore, a tip or piercing portion of vaporizing module 200 protrudes beyond the rim of catch ring 160, with the remainder of vaporizing module 200 being substantially or completely hidden within bayonet connector 170, depending on the angle. In an exemplary embodiment, the vaporizing module 200 may be held by / in the catch ring 160 and the bayonet connector 170 via an interference fit.

[0068] The bayonet connector 170 (which is part of the vaporizer 150 and, therefore, part of the non-nicotine cartridge 100) facilitates connection between the non-nicotine cartridge 100 and the device body 300. As shown in FIGS. 8-9 , the bayonet connector 170 defines a pair of slots 174 each configured to receive a corresponding engaging 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 aid in retention of the corresponding engaging member. Establishing the bayonet connection between the non-nicotine cartridge 100 and the device body 300 is described in more detail herein.

[0069] FIG. 10 is an exploded perspective view of the vaporizing module in FIG. 8 . FIG. 11 is an exploded perspective view of the vaporizing module in FIG. 9 . Referring to FIGS. 10-11 , vaporizing module 200 includes a first module cover 210, a module housing 220, and a heater-wick subassembly 230. Module housing 220 defines a chamber 222, which may also be referred to as a heating chamber or vaporization chamber. In an exemplary embodiment, module housing 220 may be formed of a transparent material to allow viewing of the contents within chamber 222. First module cover 210 is configured to engage with a proximal end of module housing 220. Heater-wick subassembly 230 is configured to engage with an opposing distal end of module housing 220. In this manner, the open end of module housing 220 may be bounded (e.g., capped) by first module cover 210 and heater-wick subassembly 230.

[0070] The first module cover 210 includes a cap portion 216 and a pierce portion 214 protruding from the cap portion 216. The cap portion 216 of the first module cover 210 defines a plurality of openings 218, which may be equally spaced from one another and arranged in a circular array around the pierce portion 214. In the exemplary embodiment, the cap portion 216 defines eight openings 218. However, it should be understood that the quantity, shape, and / or arrangement of the openings 218 in the cap portion 216 may be varied as appropriate to achieve the desired passage of aerosol therethrough from the chamber 222. For example, the cap portion 216 may alternatively define only two openings 218, each having an elongated shape and arranged diametrically opposite to align with the vapor channels 132a and 132b in the tank 130 when the vaporizer 150 is engaged with the tank 130. With respect to assembling the vaporizing module 200 , the cap portion 216 of the first module cover 210 has an outer side configured to engage a corresponding inner side of the module housing 220 .

[0071] The piercing portion 214 defines an orifice 212 that may extend longitudinally through the first module cover 210. For example, the orifice 212 of the piercing portion 214 may be coincident with a central longitudinal axis of the first module cover 210. Furthermore, the piercing portion 214 defines a hole 213 in a sidewall thereof. The hole 213 may be considered to extend laterally through the piercing portion 214 perpendicular to the orifice 212. While FIG. 10 illustrates a pair of holes 213, it should be understood that the exemplary embodiment is not limited in this respect. For example, the piercing portion 214 may instead define a different number of holes 213 (e.g., three, four) in its sidewall. Furthermore, the piercing portion 214 may have an angled proximal surface that tapers to a point or tip to facilitate insertion of the piercing portion 214 through the second seal 140, through the opening 136 of the tank 130, and into the reservoir 134. When the vaporizer 150 is in fluid communication with the reservoir 134 , the non-nicotine pre-vapor formulation 180 enters the vaporizing module 200 through the orifice 212 and / or the holes 213 in the pierced portion 214 .

[0072] Heater-wick subassembly 230 includes second module cover 260, which may function as a base or support for other components of heater-wick subassembly 230. As a result, other components of heater-wick subassembly 230 may be integrally attached or secured to second module cover 260. In an exemplary embodiment, second module cover 260 may be formed of a conductive material. For example, the conductive material may include steel (e.g., 304 stainless steel). With respect to assembling vaporizing module 200, second module cover 260 has an outer side configured to engage with a corresponding inner side of module housing 220.

[0073] The heater-wick subassembly 230 further includes a wick 240 configured to draw or transport the non-nicotine pre-vapor formulation 180 from the reservoir 134 into the vaporizing module 200. The wick 240 may be a fibrous structure with pores / gaps designed for capillary action. In an exemplary embodiment, the wick 240 may have a string-like configuration in which strands of fibers are braided, twisted, and / or woven together. When the vaporizing module 200 is assembled, a proximal portion of the wick 240 may extend into the first module cover 210, while a distal portion of the wick 240 may be supported / retained by the second module cover 260.

[0074] For example, the proximal portion of the wick 240 may be disposed within the pierced portion 214 of the first module cover 210 to substantially occupy the orifice 212 (e.g., FIG. 8 ), thus helping to regulate the supply of the non-nicotine pre-vapor formulation 180 from the reservoir 134. As a result, the possibility of excessive flow of the non-nicotine pre-vapor formulation 180 into the chamber 222 (via the orifice 212 and / or the hole 213) may be reduced or prevented. Instead, the non-nicotine pre-vapor formulation 180 may be drawn into the chamber 222 substantially as needed. In particular, as the non-nicotine pre-vapor formulation 180 in the wick 240 heats (and thus becomes depleted) to produce a non-nicotine vapor during vaping, the wick 240 draws additional non-nicotine pre-vapor formulation 180 from the reservoir 134 to replenish the depleted non-nicotine pre-vapor formulation 180 in the wick 240. The non-nicotine pre-vapor formulation 180 from the reservoir 134 can be inserted into the first module cover 210 through the orifice 212 and / or the hole 213 before being drawn into the wick 240 by capillary action. Meanwhile, when vaping is not occurring, the drawing of the non-nicotine pre-vapor formulation 180 from the reservoir 134 by the wick 240 may slow or stop when the wick 240 becomes saturated. Furthermore, engagement of the first module cover 210 and the second seal 140 may reduce or prevent seepage of the non-nicotine pre-vapor formulation 180 into the opening 218.

[0075] The integrated heater thermocouple 250 is positioned in thermal contact with the wick 240. The non-nicotine e-vapor device 500 is configured such that the integrated heater thermocouple 250 is activated during vaping to heat the non-nicotine pre-vapor formulation 180 in the wick 240 to generate a non-nicotine vapor. The integrated heater thermocouple 250 may be designed to undergo Joule heating (also known as ohmic / resistive heating) upon application of an electric current thereto. 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 therethrough. The electric current may be supplied from 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 (e.g., spirals) around the wick 240. For example, the integrated heater thermocouple 250 may be wrapped around the lower portion of the wick 240 (e.g., around the portion of the wick 240 that does not protrude into the pierced portion 214). Furthermore, in such an example, the integrated heater thermocouple 250 may be oriented such that the axis of its spiral is oblique (e.g., not parallel or perpendicular) to the longitudinal axis of the vaporizing module 200. The integrated heater thermocouple 250 is described in more detail herein.

[0077] As shown in FIG. 11 , the first electrical contact 270 may be disposed upstream of the second module cover 260. When assembled, the distal end of the second module cover 260 extends through the opening defined by the first electrical contact 270. In an exemplary embodiment, the first electrical contact 270 is structured as a washer having an undulating or wavy form. The first electrical contact 270 may be covered with gold plating. For example, the first electrical contact 270 may have an interior (base structure) formed of steel (e.g., spring steel) and an exterior formed of gold (e.g., a deposited layer).

[0078] The second electrical contact 290 may be disposed at a distal end of the heater-wick subassembly 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 (base structure) formed of brass and an exterior formed of gold (e.g., a deposited layer). The second electrical contact 290 also defines a passage 292 that allows airflow into the chamber 222.

[0079] When heater-wick subassembly 230 is assembled, a first end of integrated heater thermocouple 250 may be electrically connected to second module cover 260 / first electrical contact 270, and a second end of integrated heater thermocouple 250 may be electrically connected to second electrical contact 290. Insulator 280 electrically insulates second electrical contact 290 from second module cover 260 / first electrical contact 270. In an exemplary embodiment, insulator 280 is structured as a grommet having a sheath-like form that receives second electrical contact 290 and extends through second module cover 260 / first electrical contact 270. Further, in such an example, a first end of integrated heater thermocouple 250 may be secured between second module cover 260 and insulator 280, and a second end of integrated heater thermocouple 250 may be secured between insulator 280 and second electrical contact 290.

[0080] Figure 12 is an exploded perspective view of the heater subassembly in Figure 10. Figure 13 is an exploded perspective view of the heater subassembly in Figure 11. In particular, the heater subassembly is a heater-wick subassembly 230 without the wick 240. Referring to Figures 12-13, an 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 junction 254 (which may also be referred to as a "hot" junction). Furthermore, the first segment 252 is made of a first alloy, and the second segment 256 is made of a second alloy (different from the first alloy).

[0081] In exemplary embodiments in which integrated heater thermocouple 250 is in the form of a helical structure (wrapped around wick 240), the helical structure includes multiple coils. In such an example, the multiple coils include at least one coil corresponding to first segment 252 and at least one coil corresponding to second segment 256. As a result, at least one coil of first segment 252 is made of a first alloy and at least one coil of second segment 256 is made of a second alloy. Furthermore, at least one coil of the first alloy may be welded to at least one coil of the second alloy at joint 254.

[0082] The multiple coils of the integrated heater thermocouple 250 may be in the form of 5 to 10 total coils (e.g., 6 to 9 total coils). 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 a first alloy and the second segment 256 may include four coils of a second alloy.

[0083] In terms of orientation, the vaporizing module 200 may be considered to include a housing having a first longitudinal axis, and the helical structure of the integrated heater thermocouple 250 may be considered to have a second longitudinal axis that intersects the first longitudinal axis and forms an oblique angle with the first longitudinal axis. In such an example, at least one coil of the first segment 252 (which is made of the first alloy) is downstream from at least one coil of the second segment 256 (which is made of the 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 include 95% nickel and 2% aluminum (e.g., Alumel), and the nickel-chromium alloy may include 90% nickel and 10% chromium (e.g., Chromel). Regarding physical properties, the first alloy has a first electrical resistivity and a first thermal conductivity, and the second alloy has a second electrical resistivity and a second thermal conductivity. In an exemplary embodiment, the first electrical resistivity is less than the second electrical resistivity, and the first thermal conductivity is greater than the second thermal conductivity. Furthermore, the integrated heater thermocouple 250 may have a Seebeck coefficient of approximately 35-75 μV / °C (e.g., 41 μV / °C, 50 μV / °C, 68 μV / °C). Furthermore, the integrated heater thermocouple 250 may have an overall resistance of approximately 0.5-3.5 Ω (e.g., 1 Ω).

[0085] As described above, the integrated heater thermocouple 250 is configured to undergo Joule heating (also known as ohmic / resistive heating) when an electric current is applied thereto. Additionally, the integrated heater thermocouple 250 has a first segment 252 of a first alloy connected at a junction 254 to a second segment 256 of a second alloy (different from the first alloy). As a result of the dissimilar alloys and the associated thermoelectric effect, a voltage is generated when the junction 254 undergoes a temperature change (e.g., when Joule heating occurs to produce a non-nicotine vapor). This voltage is temperature dependent and can therefore be used to determine the temperature at the junction 254. For example, the relationship between voltage and temperature can be determined from empirical studies and stored in a look-up table (LUT). In this manner, 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 rim 264 and a distal rim 266 around the opening 262. As shown in the drawings, the circumference of the proximal rim 264 may be greater than the circumference of the distal rim 266. The proximal rim 264 of the second module cover 260 may help retain the distal portion of the wick 240 and / or contain any small amounts of the non-nicotine pre-vapor formulation 180 that may leach therefrom. Additionally, the outer edge of the proximal rim 264 may be chamfered to facilitate engagement with the module housing 220.

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

[0088] Insulator 280 includes a sheath portion 284 and a flange portion 286, and defines an opening 282 extending therethrough. During assembly, insulator 280 is inserted through second module cover 260 (as well as through first electrical contact 270) such that the outer sidewall of sheath portion 284 engages the sidewall of opening 262 in second module cover 260. Furthermore, when assembled, flange portion 286 of insulator 280 may generally conform to distal rim 266 of second module cover 260.

[0089] The second electrical contact 290 includes a shaft portion 294 and a base portion 296 and defines a passageway 292 extending therethrough. When assembled, the second electrical contact 290 extends through the opening 282 in the insulator 280 (and similarly through the first electrical contact 270 and the second module cover 260) such that the passageway 292 in the second electrical contact 290 connects to the chamber 222 in the vaporizing module 200. Furthermore, the base portion 296 of the second electrical contact 290 may generally coincide with the flange portion 286 of the insulator 280. As described above, the insulator 280 electrically insulates the second electrical contact 290 from the second module cover 260 / first electrical contact 270. Furthermore, the base portion 296 also defines a groove 298 extending perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the second electrical contact 290. In the exemplary embodiment, and as described in more detail herein, the groove 298 in the base portion 296 is configured to provide access for incoming air to enter the passage 292 of the second electrical contact 290 when the non-nicotine cartridge 100 is engaged with the device body 300.

[0090] In the heater subassembly, a first end corresponding to the first segment 252 of the integrated heater thermocouple 250 may be electrically connected to the second module cover 260 / first electrical contact 270, and a second end corresponding to the second segment 256 of the integrated heater thermocouple 250 may be electrically connected to the second electrical contact 290. In particular, the first end corresponding to the first segment 252 of the integrated heater thermocouple 250 may be secured between the second module cover 260 and the insulator 280, and the second end corresponding to the second segment 256 of the integrated heater thermocouple 250 may be secured between the insulator 280 and the second electrical contact 290.

[0091] 14 is a partially exploded perspective view of the device body in FIG. 6. Referring to FIG. 14, device body 300 includes a sleeve portion 310 and a battery portion 320. Sleeve portion 310 is configured to receive non-nicotine cartridge 100 when non-nicotine cartridge 100 is inserted into device body 300 and engages battery portion 320. Additionally, as shown, sleeve portion 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 promote the intake of ambient air that enters device body 300, moves toward the power source (within battery portion 320), then moves inward and toward integrated heater thermocouple 250 within non-nicotine cartridge 100.

[0092] The battery portion 320 includes a bayonet adapter 330 configured to engage with the bayonet connector 170 of the non-nicotine cartridge 100. In particular, to engage the non-nicotine cartridge 100 with the device body 300, the distal end of the non-nicotine cartridge 100 (the end of the non-nicotine cartridge 100 having the bayonet connector 170) is inserted into the sleeve portion 310 of the device body 300 until the slot 174 of the bayonet connector 170 initially engages with the engaging member of the bayonet adapter 330. Once initial engagement occurs, the non-nicotine cartridge 100 can then be turned / twisted / rotated relative to the device body 300 to interlock with the device body 300. As a result, a non-nicotine e-vaping device 500 can be provided in which a bayonet connection is established between the non-nicotine cartridge 100 and the device body 300. The battery portion 320 of the device body 300 also includes the knurled connector 340, light pipe 358, battery section housing 360, and end cap 370 previously described in connection with the previous figures. As a result, although additional details may be provided subsequently herein, such descriptions will not be repeated herein for the sake of brevity.

[0093] FIG. 15 is a perspective view of the battery portion of FIG. 14. Referring to FIG. 15, the bayonet adapter 330 includes at least one engagement member 334 configured to mate / interlock with the bayonet connector 170 of the non-nicotine cartridge 100. In the exemplary embodiment, the bayonet adapter 330 includes a pair of engagement members 334 protruding from its outer sidewall. Further, the engagement members 334 may be diametrically opposed to one another. The bayonet adapter 330 also defines an opening 332 that exposes (e.g., provides access to) the pin 352. The bayonet adapter 330 and the pin 352 of the battery portion 320 may be considered electrical contacts of the device body 300. In particular, when the device body 300 is engaged with the non-nicotine cartridge 100, the bayonet adapter 330 is configured to electrically contact the first electrical contact 270 of the non-nicotine cartridge 100, and the pin 352 is configured to electrically contact the second electrical contact 290 of the non-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, the pin 352 may have an interior (base structure) formed of brass and an exterior formed of (e.g., vapor-deposited) gold.

[0094] The knurled connector 340 defines at least one passage 344 for the entry of air (e.g., air flowing inwardly and en route to the vaporizing module 200). The at least one passage 344 of the knurled connector 340 is in fluid communication with the opening 332 of the bayonet adapter 330. In particular, during vaping, air drawn into the non-nicotine e-vaping device 500 via the air inlet 312 flows through the annular space between the sleeve portion 310 and the non-nicotine cartridge 100 toward the battery portion 320 (e.g., in a first longitudinal direction), then flows inward (e.g., radially) via the at least one passage 344 of the knurled connector 340 to the opening 332 of the bayonet adapter 330, and then through the opening 332 (e.g., in a second longitudinal direction) before flowing into the vaporizing module 200. In an exemplary embodiment, the knurled connector 340 may be covered with chrome plating. For example, knurled connector 340 may have an interior (base structure) formed from brass and an exterior formed from chrome (eg, a deposited layer).

[0095] Figure 16 is a partially exploded perspective view of the battery portion of Figure 15. Referring to Figure 16, the dimensions of the engaging members 334 of the bayonet adapter 330 are configured to substantially correspond to the dimensions of the slots 174 of the bayonet connector 170. Furthermore, each of the engaging members 334 may include a ridge 336 to help maintain an established bayonet connection (e.g., by interlocking with the corresponding slot 174). For example, the ridge 336 of each engaging member 334 is configured to seat within the corresponding groove 174c of each of the slots 174. The ridge 336 may have a linear configuration extending radially below each engaging member 334 (e.g., from the sidewall of the bayonet adapter 330 to the edge of the engaging member 334). The relatively tight fit between the engagement member 334 of the bayonet adapter 330 and the slot 174 of the bayonet connector 170 may generate tactile and / or auditory feedback (e.g., an audible click) to notify the adult vaper that the non-nicotine cartridge 100 has been properly coupled to the device body 300.

[0096] The knurled connector 340 is configured to connect / couple the sleeve portion 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 a non-knurled portion therebetween, with a proximal (e.g., upper) band for engagement with the sleeve portion 310 and a distal (e.g., lower) band for engagement with the battery section housing 360. In an exemplary embodiment, the knurling is hidden by the sleeve portion 310 and the battery section housing 360 when the device body 300 is assembled. The exterior of the sleeve portion 310 and the battery section housing 360 may be flush with the exposed non-knurled portion of the knurled connector 340 when the device body 300 is assembled. The knurling may include linear (e.g., longitudinal) ridges. However, it should be understood that other patterns are suitable. For example, the knurling may alternatively have a circular, angled, or diamond pattern.

[0097] As shown in FIG. 16 , the knurled connector 340 defines a pair of passages 344. The pair of passages 344 may be radially disposed in the knurled connector 340. As a result, a line extending through the knurled connector 340 via the passages 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 (e.g., to a greater extent than the knurl) from the rim to an area surrounding each passage 344 to provide an entrance (e.g., a cove-like entry port) to each passage 344 when the sleeve portion 310 is engaged with the knurled connector 340. In such an example, incoming air during vaping can reach the passages 344 through these recessed entrances.

[0098] The knurled connector 340 also defines an opening 342 and a hole 346 for accommodating components of the battery subassembly 350. In particular, when the battery portion 320 is assembled, the pin 352 extends through the opening 342 of the knurled connector 340 and into the opening 332 of the bayonet adapter 330. In this assembled state, the proximal end of the pin 352 may be approximately flush with the engaging member 334 of the bayonet adapter 330, although exemplary embodiments are not limited thereto. The hole 346 of the knurled connector 340 is configured to expose a light pipe 358. The light pipe 358 may include red, green, and blue (RGB) light-emitting diodes (LEDs), and these primary colors can be combined to produce not only white light but also numerous other hues of light. As a result, the emitted light can be transmitted by the light pipe 358 in a manner that is visible and useful to adult vapers.

[0099] Additionally, the battery subassembly 350 includes a first printed circuit board (PCB) 354 configured to mechanically support and electrically connect various components of the battery portion 320, including a first sensor 356, pins 352, and a light pipe 358. In an exemplary embodiment, the first sensor 356 may be a combined pressure sensor and temperature sensor. Additionally, the pins 352 may be pogo pins or spring-loaded pins. The light pipe 358 may include five light-emitting diodes, although it should be understood that a different number may be implemented. The light pipe 358 may be utilized to communicate various types of information to the adult vaper.

[0100] For example, with respect to battery level, illuminating all five lights via the light pipe 358 may indicate a full battery, while illuminating fewer lights, such as three lights, may indicate a medium battery level. Meanwhile, illuminating only one light may indicate a low battery level. The light may also change color (e.g., to a warning color, such as red) to make the indication easier to recognize. Furthermore, the light may flash to indicate the urgency of a particular indication. The desired type of information or function can be accessed by pressing a button 372 ( FIG. 5 ) located on the distal end of the non-nicotine e-vaping device 500. In an exemplary embodiment, pressing the button 372 once may display the battery level (e.g., for five seconds). In another example, successive presses of the button 372 within a short period of time may result in different functions or displays. Specifically, pressing the button 372 five times in succession may power the non-nicotine e-vaping device 500 on and off. As such, the non-nicotine e-vaping device 500 may be puff-activated and / or button-activated.

[0101] FIG. 17 is a partially exploded perspective view of the battery subassembly of FIG. 16. Referring to FIG. 17, the 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 by and electrically connected to the first printed circuit board 354 and / or the second printed circuit board 364. A power source 362 is disposed within the battery section housing 360. The power source 362 may be a rechargeable battery configured to provide current to the integrated heater thermocouple 250 of the non-nicotine cartridge 100 in response to a puff or button actuation.

[0102] At least one of the first sensor 356 and the second sensor 366 may be configured to measure a voltage difference between the first segment 252 and the second segment 256 of the integrated heater thermocouple 250 as a result of the supply of electrical energy from the power source 362 (e.g., when the non-nicotine pre-vapor formulation 180 is heated to produce a non-nicotine vapor). If both the first sensor 356 and the second sensor 366 are used to measure voltage, the measurements may be averaged to obtain an average value. The controller 359 may be configured to adjust the supply of electrical energy 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 check the temperature of the integrated heater thermocouple 250 based on the voltage difference and to stop the supply of electrical energy if the temperature exceeds an upper threshold.

[0103] Because the measured voltage at junction 254 of integrated heater thermocouple 250 is temperature-dependent, the relationship between voltage and temperature can be determined from empirical studies and organized / stored in a look-up table (LUT). In such an example, during vaping, the measured voltage can be used by controller 359 to access the temperature at junction 254 of integrated heater thermocouple 250 from the look-up table (which may be stored within controller 359 or in a separate memory). If controller 359 determines that the temperature exceeds an upper threshold, controller 359 may adjust the duty cycle to scale down (e.g., a 50% duty cycle may be scaled down to 25%). On the other hand, if controller 359 determines that the temperature is below a lower threshold, controller 359 may adjust the duty cycle to scale up (e.g., a 50% duty cycle may be scaled up to 75%). Such temperature control may operate in a closed loop. In an alternative embodiment, the relationship between voltage and temperature may be expressed as an equation and calculated rather than accessed from a LUT.

[0104] Figure 18 is a cross-sectional view of the non-nicotine cartridge and a partial cross-sectional view of the device body of Figure 6 in an unengaged state. Referring to Figure 18, the non-nicotine cartridge 100 is configured to be insertable into the sleeve portion 310 of the device body 300 such that the slots 174 (Figure 8) of the bayonet connector 170 initially mate with the engaging members 334 of the bayonet adapter 330. In particular, the longitudinal portion 174a (Figure 9) of each slot 174 is configured to receive the corresponding engaging member 334 until the engaging member 334 abuts against an end face of the longitudinal portion 174a. Once this initial engagement occurs, the non-nicotine cartridge 100 can then be rotated / twisted / turned (e.g., clockwise) relative to the device body 300 so that the engagement member 334 slides circumferentially within the corresponding circumferential portion 174b of the slot 174 until the ridge 336 (Figure 16) of the engagement member 334 resiliently seats within the groove 174c (Figure 8) of the slot 174, thereby mechanically interlocking the non-nicotine cartridge 100 with the device body 300.

[0105] With respect to electrical engagement, the first segment 252 ( FIG. 12 ) of the integrated heater thermocouple 250 of the non-nicotine cartridge 100 may be electrically connected to, among other things, the bayonet adapter 330 of the device body 300, while the second segment 256 ( FIG. 12 ) of the integrated heater thermocouple 250 of the non-nicotine cartridge 100 may be electrically connected to, among other things, the pin 352 of the device body 300. In turn, the bayonet adapter 330 of the device body 300 may be electrically connected to the negative terminal of the power source 362, and the pin 352 of the device body 300 may be electrically connected to the positive terminal of the power source 362. The electrical pathway from the terminal of the power source 362 to the integrated heater thermocouple 250 will be described in more detail herein.

[0106] Upon engagement (mechanically and electrically) with the device body 300, the non-nicotine cartridge 100 may be substantially obscured from view except for the mouthpiece 110. With respect to this substantial obscurity, the reservoir 130, the non-nicotine pre-vapor formulation 180, and a portion of the vaporizer 150 may be partially visible through the air inlet 312 of the sleeve portion 310 of the device body 300. As a result, if sufficient ambient light is present, the level of the non-nicotine pre-vapor formulation 180 in the non-nicotine cartridge 100 may be visually measured by an adult vaper. In contrast, if ambient light is absent or inadequate, the adult vaper may rely on notification from the light pipe 358 that the non-nicotine pre-vapor formulation 180 in the non-nicotine cartridge 100 is low and / or depleted.

[0107] Removal of the non-nicotine cartridge 100 can be achieved by reversing the actions associated with engagement, such as twisting the non-nicotine cartridge 100 in the opposite direction (e.g., counterclockwise) and pulling the non-nicotine cartridge 100 away from the device body 300. Because the engagement member 334 of the bayonet adapter 330 is resiliently seated within the groove 174c of the slot 174, the force required to untwist and disengage the non-nicotine cartridge 100 may be greater than the force used to twist and engage the non-nicotine cartridge 100, which may contribute to disengagement of the non-nicotine cartridge 100 from the device body 300 being an intentional action rather than an unintentional occurrence. Additionally, it should be understood that, for the sake of brevity, not all of the labeled components of FIG. 18 have been specifically mentioned in connection with this section, as such components have already been described above and do not merit further repetition or discussion.

[0108] 19 is a cross-sectional view of the non-nicotine cartridge and a partial cross-sectional view of the device body of FIG. 18 when engaged. Referring to FIG. 19, the flow of air to the integrated heater thermocouple 250 and the resulting vapor flow are shown in dashed lines. In particular, when negative pressure is applied to the mouthpiece 110 of the non-nicotine e-vaping device 500, air is drawn into the air inlet 312 (FIG. 1) of the sleeve portion 310 and flows through the annular space between the sleeve portion 310 and the non-nicotine cartridge 100 in a direction toward the knurled connector 340. The air then flows toward and through a passage 344 within the knurled connector 340. The air flow within the annular space toward the passage 344 within the knurled connector 340 may include a circumferential flow (e.g., a circumferential flow from the annular space in front of the non-nicotine cartridge 100, or a circumferential flow from the annular space behind the non-nicotine cartridge 100). The air flow through the passage 344 of the knurled connector 340 is inward (eg, radially toward the central longitudinal axis of the non-nicotine e-vaping device 500).

[0109] After passing through the passage 344 in the knurled connector 340, the air flow then flows to the second electrical contact 290 and enters the passage 292 in the second electrical contact 290 via the groove 298 (FIG. 13) in the base portion 296 of the second electrical contact 290. The air flow also converges as it flows through the passage 292 in the second electrical contact 290.

[0110] Air exiting the passageway 292 of the second electrical contact 290 flows through / past the integrated heater thermocouple 250 (e.g., puff-activated) and the wick 240, capturing the generated non-nicotine vapor. The entrained non-nicotine vapor then passes through the openings 218 ( FIG. 10 ) in the first module cover 210. In an exemplary embodiment, the passage of the non-nicotine vapor through the first module cover 210 can split the vapor into eight streams as a result of the eight openings 218 ( FIG. 10 ). The split non-nicotine vapor then flows through the vapor channels 132 a, 132 b in the reservoir 130 and converges into two streams that also flow through the openings 122 a, 122 b in the first seal 120 ( FIG. 7 ). After flowing through the first seal 120, the two streams of non-nicotine vapor converge into one stream to exit through the vapor outlet 112 of the mouthpiece 110. However, it should be understood that exemplary embodiments are not so limited. For example, as discussed above, mouthpiece 110 can have different configurations for vapor outlet 112, thus allowing for other variations in the exiting non-nicotine vapor stream.

[0111] FIG. 20 is an enlarged cross-sectional view of FIG. 19. Referring to FIG. 20, the electrical path from the terminals of the power supply 362 (FIG. 17) to the integrated heater thermocouple 250 includes multiple electrical junctions (J1-J8). J1 is the electrical junction 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 junction between the pin 352 (e.g., gold-plated brass) and the second electrical contact 290 (e.g., gold-plated brass). J3 is the electrical junction between the second electrical contact 290 (e.g., gold-plated brass) and the second segment 256 (e.g., nickel-chromium alloy) of the integrated heater thermocouple 250. J4 is the electrical junction between the first segment 252 (e.g., nickel-aluminum alloy) of the integrated heater thermocouple 250 and the second module cover 260 (e.g., stainless steel). J5 is the electrical junction between the second module cover 260 (e.g., stainless steel) and the first electrical contact 270 (gold-plated steel). J6 is the electrical junction between the first electrical contact 270 (e.g., gold-plated steel) and the bayonet adapter 330 (e.g., stainless steel). J7 is the electrical junction between the bayonet adapter 330 (e.g., stainless steel) and the knurled connector 340 (e.g., chrome-plated brass). J8 is the electrical junction between the knurled connector 340 (e.g., chrome-plated brass) and the printed circuit board (e.g., the copper of the first printed circuit board 354).

[0112] Thus, when the non-nicotine e-vaping device 500 is activated (e.g., puff activation), current can also be considered to flow from the positive terminal of the power source 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 source 362. It should be understood that the necessary circuitry in the non-nicotine e-vaping device 500 is connected to the power source 362, although such connections are not necessarily shown in the drawings.

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

[0114] In exemplary embodiments, the non-nicotine prevapor formulation does not contain tobacco or is not derived from tobacco. The non-nicotine compound of the non-nicotine prevapor formulation may be part of a liquid or partially liquid formulation, including an extract, oil, alcohol, tincture, suspension, dispersion, colloid, general non-neutral (weakly acidic or weakly basic) solution, or a combination thereof. During preparation of the non-nicotine prevapor formulation, the non-nicotine compound may be injected, mixed, or otherwise combined with other ingredients of the non-nicotine prevapor formulation.

[0115] In exemplary embodiments, the non-nicotine compound undergoes a slow, natural decarboxylation process over an extended period of time at relatively low temperatures, such as room temperature or below (e.g., 72°F). Furthermore, the non-nicotine compound may undergo a significantly greater decarboxylation process (e.g., greater than 50% decarboxylation) when exposed to elevated temperatures, particularly temperatures in the range of about 175°F or above, for periods of time (minutes or hours) under relatively low pressures, such as 1 atmosphere. Higher temperatures, such as about 240°F or above, may result in rapid or instantaneous decarboxylation with a relatively high decarboxylation rate, although even higher temperatures may degrade some or all of the chemical properties of the non-nicotine compound(s).

[0116] In exemplary embodiments, the non-nicotine compound may be derived from a medicinal plant (e.g., a naturally occurring component of a plant that provides a medically recognized therapeutic effect). The medicinal plant may be a cannabis plant, and the component may be at least one cannabis-derived component. Examples of cannabis-derived components include cannabinoids (e.g., phytocannabinoids) and terpenes. Cannabinoids interact with receptors in the body to produce a variety of effects. As a result, cannabinoids are believed to have a variety of medicinal properties. Cannabinoid-derived materials include leaf and / or flower material from one or more cannabis plants, or extracts from one or more cannabis plants. For example, the one or more cannabis plants may include Cannabis sativa, Cannabis indica, and Cannabis ruderalis. In some exemplary embodiments, the non-nicotine prevapor formulation comprises a mixture of cannabis and / or cannabis-derived components that is, or is derived from, 60-80% (e.g., 70%) Cannabis sativa and 20-40% (e.g., 30%) Cannabis indica.

[0117] Non-limiting examples of cannabinoids derived from cannabis include tetrahydrocannabinolic acid (THCA), tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), cannabidiolic acid (CBDA), cannabidiol (CBD), cannabinol (CBN), cannabicyclol (CBL), cannabichromene (CBC), and cannabigerol (CBG). Tetrahydrocannabinolic acid (THCA) is a precursor of tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), and cannabidiolic acid (CBDA) is a precursor of cannabidiol (CBD). Tetrahydrocannabinolic acid (THCA) and cannabidiolic acid (CBDA) may be converted to tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) and cannabidiol (CBD), respectively, by heating. In exemplary embodiments, the heat from the heater may cause decarboxylation to convert tetrahydrocannabinolic acid (THCA) in the non-nicotine pre-vapor formulation to tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), and / or may cause decarboxylation to convert cannabidiolic acid (CBDA) in the non-nicotine pre-vapor formulation to cannabidiol (CBD).

[0118] When both tetrahydrocannabinolic acid (THCA) and tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) are present in a non-nicotine prevapor formulation, decarboxylation and the resulting conversion result in a decrease in tetrahydrocannabinolic acid (THCA) and an increase in tetrahydrocannabinol (THC). At least 50% (e.g., at least 87%) of the tetrahydrocannabinolic acid (THCA) may be converted to tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) via a decarboxylation process during heating of the non-nicotine prevapor formulation for vaporization. Similarly, in instances where both cannabidiolic acid (CBDA) and cannabidiol (CBD) are present in a non-nicotine prevapor formulation, decarboxylation and the resulting conversion result in a decrease in cannabidiolic acid (CBDA) and an increase in cannabidiol (CBD). At least 50% (e.g., at least 87%) of the cannabidiolic acid (CBDA) may be converted to cannabidiol (CBD) via a decarboxylation process during heating of the non-nicotine prevapor formulation for vaporization.

[0119] Non-nicotine prevapor formulations may include non-nicotine compounds that provide a medically recognized therapeutic effect (e.g., treatment of pain, nausea, epilepsy, psychiatric disorders). Details of the therapeutic method are described in U.S. Application No. 15 / 845,501, filed December 18, 2017, entitled "VAPORIZING DEVICES AND METHODS FOR DELIVER A COMPOUND USING THE SAME," the disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.

[0120] In exemplary embodiments, the at least one flavor valant is present in an amount ranging from about 0.2% to about 15% (e.g., about 1% to 12%, about 2% to 10%, or about 5% to 8%) based on the total weight of the non-nicotine prevapor formulation. The at least one flavor valant may be at least one of a natural flavor valant, an artificial flavor valant, or a combination of a natural flavor valant and an artificial flavor valant. The at least one flavor valant may include a volatile cannabis flavor compound (flavonoid) or other flavor compound instead of or in addition to a cannabis flavor compound. For example, the at least one flavor valant may include menthol, wintergreen, peppermint, cinnamon, clove, combinations thereof, and / or extracts thereof. Additionally, flavorants may be provided that include other herbal flavors, fruit flavors, nut flavors, liquor flavors, roasted flavors, mint flavors, savory flavors, combinations thereof, and other desired flavors.

[0121] While a number of exemplary embodiments are disclosed herein, it should be understood that other variations are possible. Such variations are not to be regarded as a departure from the spirit and scope of the present disclosure, and all such modifications as would be obvious to one skilled in the art are intended to be included within the scope of the claims.

Claims

1. 1. A non-nicotine cartridge for a non-nicotine e-vaping device, comprising: a housing, a wick, and an integral heater thermocouple; the housing defines a reservoir containing a non-nicotine prevapor formulation; the wick is configured to transport the non-nicotine pre-vapor formulation by capillary action; the integrated heater thermocouple is configured to heat the non-nicotine pre-vapor formulation in the wick to produce a non-nicotine vapor; the integrated heater thermocouple includes a first segment made from a first alloy and a second segment made from a second alloy; Non-nicotine cartridges.

2. 2. The non-nicotine cartridge according to claim 1, the housing includes a sidewall and a first longitudinal axis; the sidewall of the housing defines at least one vapor channel extending through the housing along the first longitudinal axis of the housing; Non-nicotine cartridges.

3. 3. The non-nicotine cartridge according to claim 2, the at least one vapor channel includes a first vapor channel and a second vapor channel; The reservoir is present between the first vapor channel and the second vapor channel. Non-nicotine cartridges.

4. 2. The non-nicotine cartridge according to claim 1, the integral heater thermocouple has a Seebeck coefficient of about 35 to 75 μV / °C; Non-nicotine cartridges.

5. 2. The non-nicotine cartridge according to claim 1, the integral heater thermocouple having an overall resistance of about 0.5 to 3.5 Ω; Non-nicotine cartridges.

6. 2. The non-nicotine cartridge according to claim 1, the integral heater thermocouple is in the form of a spiral structure wrapped around the wick; the helical structure includes a plurality of coils; the plurality of coils includes at least one coil of the first alloy and at least one coil of the second alloy; Non-nicotine cartridges.

7. 7. The non-nicotine cartridge according to claim 6, the housing has a first longitudinal axis; the helical structure has a second longitudinal axis that intersects with the first longitudinal axis to form an oblique angle; Non-nicotine cartridges.

8. 7. The non-nicotine cartridge according to claim 6, the at least one coil of the first alloy is downstream from the at least one coil of the second alloy; Non-nicotine cartridges.

9. 7. The non-nicotine cartridge according to claim 6, the at least one coil of the first alloy is welded to the at least one coil of the second alloy at a joint; Non-nicotine cartridges.

10. 7. The non-nicotine cartridge according to claim 6, The plurality of coils has 5 to 10 coils. Non-nicotine cartridges.

11. 11. The non-nicotine cartridge of claim 10, the plurality of coils includes one coil of the first alloy and five coils of the second alloy; Non-nicotine cartridges.

12. 11. The non-nicotine cartridge of claim 10, the plurality of coils includes two coils of the first alloy and four coils of the second alloy; Non-nicotine cartridges.

13. 2. The non-nicotine cartridge according to claim 1, the first alloy has a first electrical resistivity and a first thermal conductivity; the second alloy has a second electrical resistivity and a second thermal conductivity; the first electrical resistivity is less than the second electrical resistivity; The first thermal conductivity is greater than the second thermal conductivity. Non-nicotine cartridges.

14. 2. The non-nicotine cartridge according to claim 1, the first alloy is a nickel-aluminum alloy; the second alloy is a nickel-chromium alloy; Non-nicotine cartridges.

15. 15. The non-nicotine cartridge of claim 14, The nickel-aluminum alloy comprises 95% nickel and 2% aluminum. Non-nicotine cartridges.

16. 15. The non-nicotine cartridge of claim 14, The nickel-chromium alloy comprises 90% nickel and 10% chromium. Non-nicotine cartridges.

17. 1. A non-nicotine e-vaping device comprising: a non-nicotine cartridge and a device body, the non-nicotine cartridge comprises a non-nicotine pre-vapor formulation, a wick, and an integrated heater thermocouple; the wick is configured to transport the non-nicotine pre-vapor formulation by capillary action; the integrated heater thermocouple includes a first segment made from a first alloy and a second segment made from a second alloy; the device body is configured to receive the non-nicotine cartridge; the device body includes a power source, at least one sensor, and a controller; the power supply is configured to provide a supply of electrical energy to the integral heater thermocouple to heat the non-nicotine pre-vapor formulation within the wick to produce a non-nicotine vapor; the at least one sensor is configured to measure a voltage difference between the first segment and the second segment of the integrated heater thermocouple as a result of the supply of the electrical energy from the power source; the controller is configured to adjust the supply of the electrical energy to the integral heater thermocouple based on the voltage difference measured by the at least one sensor. Non-nicotine e-vaping devices.

18. 18. The non-nicotine e-vaping device of claim 17, the controller is configured to calculate a temperature of the integrated heater thermocouple based on the voltage difference and to terminate the supply of the electrical energy when the temperature exceeds an upper threshold. Non-nicotine e-vaping devices.

19. 18. The non-nicotine e-vaping device of claim 17, the device body further includes a sleeve portion configured to receive the non-nicotine cartridge; the sleeve portion defining an array of inlet openings; Non-nicotine e-vaping devices.

20. 20. The non-nicotine e-vaping device of claim 19, the array of inlet openings is in the form of a honeycomb pattern and is configured to facilitate the intake of ambient air that enters the device body and moves inwardly toward the power source and toward the integral heater thermocouple before moving inwardly. Non-nicotine e-vaping devices.

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