Non-nicotine e-vaping device including reservoir assembly

Abstract

A non-nicotine e-vaping device including a reservoir assembly is provided.SOLUTION: The reservoir assembly for a non-nicotine e-vaping device includes a shell, a wick 238, and a membrane 264. The shell includes a first opening 252, and an inner surface of the shell at least partially defines a reservoir 232 configured to hold a non-nicotine pre-vapor formulation. The wick extends from an interior of the reservoir to an exterior of the reservoir. The wick is configured to draw the non-nicotine pre-vapor formulation held in the reservoir to an exterior of the reservoir. The first film covers the first opening. The first membrane is one or more layers of liquid impermeable, air permeable fabric.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 2

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] Exemplary embodiments generally relate to a non-nicotine e-vaping device that includes a reservoir assembly. [Background technology]

[0002] The non-nicotine electronic vaping device includes a heating element that vaporizes a non-nicotine pre-vapor formulation held in a reservoir to produce a non-nicotine vapor.

[0003] [Summary] At least one exemplary embodiment relates to a reservoir assembly for a non-nicotine electronic vaping device. The reservoir assembly includes a shell, a wick, and a membrane. The shell includes a first opening and an interior of the shell at least partially defining a reservoir configured to hold a non-nicotine pre-vapor formulation containing non-nicotine. The wick extends from the interior of the reservoir to the exterior of the reservoir, and the wick is configured to draw the non-nicotine pre-vapor formulation held in the reservoir to the exterior of the reservoir. The first membrane covers the first opening. The first membrane includes one or more layers of liquid-impermeable, air-permeable fabric.

[0004] Another exemplary embodiment relates to a reservoir assembly for a non-nicotine electronic vaping device. The reservoir assembly includes a shell, a plunger, and a wick. The shell extends in a first direction. The shell includes a first end and an inner surface. The inner surface of the shell at least partially defines an interior of the shell. The plunger extends through the interior of the shell in a second direction perpendicular to the first direction. The plunger includes a first surface and a second surface opposite the first surface. The first surface and a limited portion of the inner surface of the shell define a liquid containment region in the limited portion of the inner surface of the shell between the first surface of the plunger and the first end of the shell. The liquid containment region is a reservoir configured to hold a non-nicotine pre-vapor formulation. The plunger is configured to move in a first direction within the shell in response to a first force applied to the first surface of the plunger by a volume of the non-nicotine pre-vapor formulation contained in the liquid containment region. The core extends from the interior of the shell to the exterior of the liquid-containing region.

[0005] Another exemplary embodiment relates to a method including providing a shell and a plunger, filling a liquid containing region with a non-nicotine pre-vapor formulation, and disposing a portion of a wick in the liquid containing region. The shell extends in a first direction. The shell includes a first end, an opening at the first end, and an inner surface. The inner surface of the shell partially defines an interior of the shell. The plunger extends through the interior of the shell in a second direction perpendicular to the first direction. The plunger includes a first surface and a second surface opposite the first surface. The first surface and a limited portion of the inner surface of the shell define a liquid containing region in a limited portion of the interior of the shell between the first surface of the plunger and the first end of the shell. The liquid containing region is a reservoir configured to hold the non-nicotine pre-vapor formulation, and the liquid containing region is a reservoir configured to hold the non-nicotine pre-vapor formulation. Filling the liquid containing region with the non-nicotine pre-vapor formulation is performed such that the plunger is moved in a first direction away from the first end of the shell by the non-nicotine pre-vapor formulation based on the non-nicotine pre-vapor formulation applying a first force to a first surface of the plunger. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0006] 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 should not be considered to be drawn to scale unless explicitly noted. Various dimensions of the drawings may be exaggerated for clarity.

[0007] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is a side view of a non-nicotine e-vaping device in accordance with at least one exemplary embodiment.

[0008] [Figure 2] FIG. 2 is a cross-sectional view of an exemplary embodiment of a first section of the non-nicotine electronic vaping device shown in FIG. 1 taken along line II-II'.

[0009] [Figure 3] FIG. 3 is an exploded perspective view illustrating an example of an embodiment of the first section shown in FIG.

[0010] [Figure 4] FIG. 4 is a cross-sectional view of an exemplary embodiment of the second section of the non-nicotine electronic vaping device shown in FIG. 1 taken along line II-II'.

[0011] [Figure 5] FIG. 5 is an exploded perspective view illustrating an example of an embodiment of the second section shown in FIG.

[0012] [Figure 6] FIG. 6 is a cross-sectional view of the exemplary embodiment of the non-nicotine electronic vaping device shown in FIG. 1 taken along line II-II'.

[0013] [Figure 7]FIG. 7 is a cross-sectional view of an exemplary embodiment of a reservoir assembly.

[0014] [Figure 8] FIG. 8 is a cross-sectional view of another exemplary embodiment of a reservoir assembly.

[0015] [Figure 9] FIG. 9 is a cross-sectional view of another exemplary embodiment of a reservoir assembly.

[0016] [Figure 10] FIG. 10 is a cross-sectional view of another exemplary embodiment of a reservoir assembly.

[0017] [Figure 11] FIG. 11 is a flow diagram illustrating a method for preparing a reservoir assembly. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0018] Several detailed exemplary embodiments are disclosed herein. However, the specific structural and functional details disclosed herein are merely representative for purposes of describing the exemplary embodiments. However, 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.

[0019] Thus, while example embodiments are susceptible to various modifications and alternative forms, such example embodiments have been shown by way of example in the drawings and will be described in detail herein. It should be understood, however, that there is no intention to limit the example embodiments to the particular forms disclosed, but on the contrary, the example embodiments are intended to cover all modifications, equivalents, and alternatives falling within the scope of the example embodiments. Like numbers refer to like elements throughout the description of the figures.

[0020] When an element or layer is referred to as being "on," "connected to," "coupled to," or "covering" another element or layer, it is understood that it may be directly on, connected to, coupled to, or covering the other element or layer, and 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.

[0021] 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.

[0022] 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.

[0023] The terminology used herein is for the purpose of describing various exemplary embodiments only and is not intended to be limiting of the exemplary embodiments. As used herein, the singular forms "a," "an," and "the" are intended to include the plural forms as well, unless the context clearly dictates otherwise. It will be further understood that the terms "includes," "including," "comprises," and / or "comprising," as used herein, 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.

[0024] When the words "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 as "about" or "substantially," it should 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.

[0025] 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 exemplary embodiments belong. 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 should not be interpreted in an idealized or overly formal sense unless expressly so defined herein.

[0026] 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-chips (SoCs), one or more programmable logic units (PLUs), one or more microprocessors, one or more application specific integrated circuits (ASICs), or other devices capable of responding to and executing instructions in a defined manner.

[0027] 1 is a side view of a non-nicotine e-vaping device 10 according to at least one exemplary embodiment. The non-nicotine e-vaping device 10 can be considered an e-vaping non-nicotine delivery system (ENDS) device. In at least one exemplary embodiment, the non-nicotine e-vaping device 10 includes a replaceable cartridge (or first section) 105 and a reusable battery section (or second section) 110. The first section 105 and the second section 110 may be coupled together with a connector assembly 115 having an air inlet 145.

[0028] 1, the first section 105 includes a first housing 120 and the second section 110 includes a second housing 120′. The non-nicotine electronic vaping device 10 includes a mouth-end insert 125 at the first end 130 and an end cap 135 at the second end 140.

[0029] According to at least one exemplary embodiment, first housing 120 and second housing 120' may have a generally cylindrical cross-section. In other exemplary embodiments, first housing 120 and second housing 120' may have a generally triangular, rectangular, oval, square, or polygonal cross-section along one or more of first section 105 and second section 110. Furthermore, first housing 120 and second housing 120' may have the same or different cross-sectional shapes, or the same or different sizes. As described herein, first housing 120 and second housing 120' may also be referred to as outer housings or main housings.

[0030] Although the exemplary embodiments may be described in some examples with respect to a first section 105 coupled to a second section 110, the exemplary embodiments should not be limited to these examples.

[0031] Figure 2 is a cross-sectional view of the first section 105 of the non-nicotine electronic vaping device 10 taken along line II-II in Figure 1. Figure 3 is an exploded perspective view of an example embodiment of the first section 105 shown in Figure 2.

[0032] 2 and 3, the first housing 120 extends longitudinally. A central longitudinal air passage 208 extends through a portion of the first housing 120 and is in fluid communication with the air tube 202 of the reservoir assembly 204 to define an inner passage (also referred to as a central channel or central inner passage) 210.

[0033] The first connector piece 216 fits into a first end of the first housing 120. The first connector piece 216 is part of the connector assembly 115 (shown in FIG. 1).

[0034] In at least one exemplary embodiment, first connector piece 216 is a hollow cylinder having female threads on a portion of its inner side. First connector piece 216 is electrically conductive and may be formed of or coated with a conductive material. The female threads (or female threaded portion) may mate with male threads (or male threaded portion) on second section 110 to connect first section 105 and second section 110. However, the illustrated embodiment is not limited to this exemplary embodiment. Rather, the connector may be, for example, a snug fit connector, a detent connector, a clamp connector, a clasp connector, or the like. Furthermore, the positions of the male and female connectors may be reversed, if desired, so that the male connector is part of first section 105.

[0035] The conductive post 218 is nested within a hollow portion of the first connector piece 216. The conductive post 218 may be formed from a conductive material (e.g., stainless steel, copper, etc.) and may function as an anode portion of the first connector piece 216.

[0036] The conductive posts 218 define the central air passage 214. The gasket insulator 220 holds the conductive posts 218 within the first connector piece 216. The gasket insulator 220 also electrically insulates the conductive posts 218 from an outer portion 222 of the first connector piece 216.

[0037] The outer portion 222 of the first connector piece 216 functions as the cathode connector of the first connector piece 216. The outer portion 222 is sometimes referred to herein as the cathode connector or cathode portion. The outer portion 222 may be formed of an electrically conductive material (e.g., stainless steel, copper, etc.).

[0038] 2 and 3, connection point 224 connects a central passageway 228 (or channel) disposed between inner passageway 210 of air conduit 202 and the interior of mouth-end insert 125. Non-nicotine vapor can flow from inner passageway 210 through central passageway 228 and into the cavity within mouth-end insert 125. In at least one exemplary embodiment, air conduit 202 may have a diameter of approximately 4 mm.

[0039] The mouth-end insert 125 includes at least two outlets 230, which may be located off-axis from the longitudinal axis of the non-nicotine electronic vaping device 10. The outlets 230 may be recessed or non-recessed and may be angled outward relative to the longitudinal axis of the non-nicotine electronic vaping device 10. The outlets 230 may be substantially evenly distributed about the circumference of the mouth-end insert 125 to provide a substantially uniform distribution of the non-nicotine vapor.

[0040] First section 105 further includes a reservoir assembly 204. Reservoir assembly 204 includes a reservoir 232 that includes a reservoir housing 233 configured to store a non-nicotine pre-vapor formulation. First section 105 also includes a vaporizer 234. Vaporizer 234 includes a heating element 236 and a wick 238. In some exemplary embodiments, vaporizer 234 is included in reservoir assembly 204. Vaporizer 234 is configured to vaporize the non-nicotine pre-vapor formulation drawn from reservoir 232 to form a non-nicotine vapor. Non-nicotine vapor, non-nicotine aerosol, and non-nicotine dispersion are used interchangeably and refer to a substance lacking nicotine that is produced or output by any non-nicotine e-vaping device and / or elements of the disclosure, claims, and / or equivalents thereof.

[0041] 2, in at least one exemplary embodiment, reservoir 232 surrounds inner passageway 210 and air conduit 202. Heating element 236 may extend across inner passageway 210 between opposing portions of reservoir 232. In at least some exemplary embodiments, heating element 236 may extend parallel to the longitudinal axis of inner passageway 210.

[0042] The reservoir 232 may be sized and configured to hold sufficient non-nicotine pre-vapor formulation such that the non-nicotine electronic vaping device 10 may be configured to vape for at least about 200 seconds. Further, the non-nicotine electronic vaping device 10 may be configured such that each puff lasts for up to about 5 seconds.

[0043] As described above, the vaporizer 234 includes a heating element 236 and a wick 238. The wick 238 may include at least a first end and a second end, which may extend on opposite sides of the reservoir 232. The heating element 236 may at least partially surround a central portion of the wick 238.

[0044] The wick 238 may draw the non-nicotine pre-vapor formulation from the reservoir 232 (e.g., via capillary action), and the heating element 236 may heat the non-nicotine pre-vapor formulation in a central portion of the wick 238 to a temperature sufficient to vaporize the non-nicotine pre-vapor formulation, thereby producing a non-nicotine vapor.

[0045] In at least one exemplary embodiment, the non-nicotine prevapor formulation is a material or combination of materials that can be converted into a non-nicotine vapor lacking nicotine. For example, the non-nicotine prevapor formulation may be a liquid, solid, and / or gel formulation, including, but not limited to, water, beads, solvents, active ingredients, ethanol, plant extracts, natural or artificial flavors, and / or non-nicotine prevapor formulations such as glycerin and propylene glycol. In some exemplary embodiments, the non-nicotine prevapor formulation may include tobacco and / or other plant materials, which may or may not be mixed with flavorings, non-nicotine vapor formers, fillers, binders, and / or polymers. The tobacco and / or other plant materials may be in the form of leaves, shreds, films, bits, particles, powders, beads, and combinations thereof.

[0046] In at least one exemplary embodiment, the wick 238 may include a filament (or thread) capable of drawing the non-nicotine pre-vapor formulation. For example, the wick 238 may be a bundle of glass (or ceramic) filaments, a bundle including windings of glass filaments, or the like, all of which may be capable of drawing the non-nicotine pre-vapor formulation via capillary action due to the gaps between the filaments. The filaments may be generally aligned transverse to the longitudinal direction of the non-nicotine e-vapor device 10. In at least one exemplary embodiment, the wick 238 may include 1 to 8 filament strands, each consisting of multiple glass filaments twisted together. The ends of the wick 238 may be flexible and collapsible to fit within the narrow confines of the reservoir 232. The filaments may have a cross-section that is generally cross-shaped, clover-shaped, Y-shaped, or any other suitable shape.

[0047] In at least one exemplary embodiment, the wick 238 may comprise any suitable material or combination of materials. Examples of suitable materials may include, but are not limited to, glass and ceramic or graphite-based materials. The wick 238 may have any suitable capillary action to accommodate non-nicotine pre-vapor formulations having different physical properties, such as density, viscosity, surface tension, and vapor pressure. The wick 238 may be non-conductive.

[0048] In at least one exemplary embodiment, the heating element 236 (or heater) may include a coil of wire (heater coil) that at least partially surrounds the wick 238. The wire used to form the coil of wire may be metallic. The heating element 236 may extend completely or partially along the length of the wick 238. The heating element 236 may also extend completely or partially around the circumference of the wick 238. In some exemplary embodiments, the heating element 236 may or may not be in contact (or direct contact) with the wick 238. The heating element 236 may be part of a vapor assembly. The vapor assembly may include the heating element 236, an air passageway, and any other portions of the non-nicotine e-vaporizing device that assist in the formation of non-nicotine vapor from the non-nicotine pre-vapor formulation.

[0049] 2 and 3, the heating element 236 is electrically connected to the conductive post 218 via a first electrical lead 240 and to the outer portion 222 via a second electrical lead 240′. Thus, the outer portion 222 and the conductive post 218 form respective external electrical connections to the heating element 236.

[0050] In at least some other exemplary embodiments, the heating element 236 may be in the form of a flat body, a ceramic body, a solid wire, a mesh, a cage of resistive wire, or any other suitable form. More generally, the heating element 236 may be any heater configured to vaporize a non-nicotine pre-vapor formulation.

[0051] In at least one exemplary embodiment, the heating element 236 may be formed of any suitable electrically resistive material. Examples of suitable electrically resistive materials may include, but are not limited to, copper, titanium, zirconium, tantalum, and metals from the platinum group. Examples of suitable metal alloys include, but are not limited to, stainless steel, nickel, cobalt, chromium, aluminum-titanium-zirconium, hafnium, niobium, molybdenum, tantalum, tungsten, tin, gallium, manganese, and iron-containing alloys, and superalloys based on nickel, iron, cobalt, and stainless steel.

[0052] For example, the heating element 236 may be formed of nickel aluminide, a material having an alumina layer on its surface, iron aluminide, and other composite materials, and the electrically resistive material may optionally be embedded, encapsulated, or coated in an insulating material, or vice versa, depending on the energy transfer kinetics and the required external physicochemical properties. The heating element 236 may include at least one material selected from the group consisting of stainless steel, copper, copper alloy, nickel-chromium alloy, superalloy, and combinations thereof. In an exemplary embodiment, the heating element 236 may be formed of a nickel-chromium alloy or an iron-chromium alloy. In another exemplary embodiment, the heating element 236 may be a ceramic heater having an electrically resistive layer on its outer surface.

[0053] In at least one exemplary embodiment, the heating element 236 may heat the non-nicotine pre-vapor formulation within the wick 238 by thermal conduction. Alternatively, heat from the heating element 236 may be conducted to the non-nicotine pre-vapor formulation by a thermal conduction element, or the heating element 236 may transfer heat to incoming ambient air drawn through the non-nicotine electronic vaping device 10 during vaping, which heats the non-nicotine pre-vapor formulation by convection.

[0054] 2 , the reservoir assembly 204 has a wick 238 passing over the air conduit 202 and adjacent to a first opening 252 at a first end 254 of a shell 256 of the reservoir assembly 204. A transfer material 258 may be adjacent to the wick 238. A reservoir 232 for the non-nicotine pre-vapor formulation may be defined by an inner surface of the shell 256 between the first end 254 of the shell 256 and a second end 260 of the shell 256. The transfer material 258 and the wick 238 may be configured to cooperate to wick the non-nicotine pre-vapor formulation to the exterior of the reservoir 232.

[0055] In some exemplary embodiments, the first opening 252 extends through a side (not shown) of the air conduit 202. If the shell 256 is cylindrical, the reservoir 232 may be annularly spaced between the outer surface of the air conduit 202 and the inner surface of the shell 256, and between the first end 254 and the second end 260 of the shell 256. The reservoir 232 may contain a non-nicotine pre-vapor formulation. Although exemplary embodiments are shown with the shell 256 having a cylindrical shape, the shell 256 may have a shape other than cylindrical, such as rectangular, square, oval, or any other shape.

[0056] In at least one exemplary embodiment, as shown in FIG. 2 , the reservoir assembly 204 may include a second opening 262 defined in a second end 260 of the outer shell 256. The second opening 262 may be covered by a membrane 264. The membrane 264 may be one or more layers of fabric. The fabric may be a liquid-impermeable and air-permeable fabric. For example, the fabric may be Gore-Tex, or a fabric woven with hydrophobic fibers, or a fabric with a hydrophobic coating.

[0057] During transport, particularly by air, any air within reservoir 232 may expand due to a decrease in air pressure outside the reservoir. The expanded air may escape reservoir 232 through membrane 264. In this manner, there may be no pressure difference between the interior and exterior of the reservoir. By providing a mechanism by which air within the reservoir may be removed from the reservoir, the likelihood of leakage of the non-nicotine pre-vapor formulation from reservoir 232 during transport, shipping, and use may be reduced.

[0058] Figure 4 is a cross-sectional view of a second section of one embodiment of the non-nicotine electronic vaping device 10 along line II-II' in Figure 1. Figure 5 is an exploded perspective view of an exemplary embodiment of the second section 110 shown in Figure 4.

[0059] The second section 110 may be a reusable section of the non-nicotine electronic vaping device 10, which may be rechargeable by an external charging device. Alternatively, the second section 110 may be disposable. In this example, the second section 110 may be used until the energy from the power source 402 (described below) is depleted (e.g., until the energy falls below a threshold level).

[0060] 4 and 5 , according to at least this exemplary embodiment, the power source 402 includes an anode connection 404 and a cathode connection 406. Each of the anode connection 404 and the cathode connection 406 may be in the form of one or more electrical leads or wires. The power source 402 (power supply or power source) may be a battery. For example, the power source 402 may be a lithium ion battery or a variant of a lithium ion battery, such as a lithium ion polymer battery. The battery may be disposable or rechargeable. The power source may be configured to provide power to the heating element 236.

[0061] Second section 110 further includes a connector piece 408 at a first end of second section 110. In the exemplary embodiment shown in FIG. 4, connector piece 408 is a male connector and is configured to connect to female first connector piece 216 of first section 105. Alternatively, connector piece 408 may be a female connector configured to connect to a male connector of first section 105.

[0062] 4, connector piece 408 includes threads 410 configured to mate with corresponding threads on first connector piece 216 of first section 105. Although illustrated as a threaded connection, according to at least some other exemplary embodiments, connector piece 408 may be, for example, a snug fit connector, a detent connector, a clamp connector, a clasp connector, or the like.

[0063] The cathode connection (connector piece 408) of the power supply 402 terminates in and is electrically connected to a sensor assembly 424 located proximate the second end of the second section 110. The sensor assembly 424 is described in more detail below.

[0064] The anode connection 404 terminates in and is electrically connected to a conductive post 412. The conductive post 412 can function as the anode portion of the connector piece 408. The conductive post 412 defines a central passageway 414 that is in fluid communication with one or more side vents 416. The side vents 416 can be holes drilled in the conductive post 412. The central passageway 414 and the one or more side vents 416 enable puff detection by a sensor assembly (e.g., a puff sensor assembly) 424 due to changes in pressure as air is drawn through the air inlet 145.

[0065] 4 shows only two side vents 416 and two air inlets 145, illustrative embodiments should not be limited to this example. Rather, conductive post 412 may include any number of side vents 416, and connector piece 408 may include any number of air inlets 145. For example, conductive post 412 may include four side vents 416 spaced equally apart around the circumference of conductive post 412. Similarly, connector piece 408 may include four air inlets 145 spaced equally apart around the circumference of connector piece 408.

[0066] The conductive post 412 further includes an upper portion 418 having an indent that, when connected to the second section 110, allows air drawn in through the air inlet 145 to flow and / or communicate through the end of the second section 110 to the first section 105.

[0067] The conductive posts 412 may be formed from a conductive material (e.g., stainless steel, copper, etc.) and nested within the hollow portion of the connector piece 408. When the connector piece 408 of the second section 110 is mated to the first connector piece 216 of the first section 105, the top portion 418 (and conductive posts 412) physically and electrically connects to the conductive posts 218, allowing current to flow from the power source 402 to the heating element 236. This electrical connection also allows electrical signals to be transmitted between the first section 105 and the second section 110.

[0068] 4 and 5, gasket insulator 420 holds conductive post 412 within connector piece 408. Gasket insulator 420 also electrically insulates conductive post 412 from outer portion 422 of connector piece 408. Outer portion 422 may be formed of a conductive material (e.g., stainless steel, copper, etc.) and may function as the cathode portion of connector piece 408.

[0069] As mentioned above, connector piece 408 includes one or more air inlets 145 configured to communicate ambient air to connector piece 408. Air inlets 145 are also sometimes referred to as vents or air vents.

[0070] Ambient air drawn into connector piece 408 may combine and / or mix with air flowing out of one or more side vents 416 and flow into first section 105 when first section 105 is coupled to second section 110. In at least one exemplary embodiment, air inlet 145 may be embedded into connector piece 408 immediately below threads 410 at an angle perpendicular or substantially perpendicular to the longitudinal centerline of connector piece 408.

[0071] The sidewalls of the air inlet 145 may be chamfered so that the sidewalls slope inward (e.g., to “countersink” the sidewalls at the rim of the air inlet 145). By chamfering the sidewalls at the rim of the air inlet 145 (as opposed to using a relatively sharp edge at the rim of the air inlet 145), the air inlet 145 may be less likely to become clogged or partially blocked (by reducing the effective cross-sectional area of ​​the air inlet 145 near the rim of the air inlet 145). In at least one exemplary embodiment, the sidewalls at the rim of the air inlet 145 may be chamfered (sloped) to be approximately 38 degrees relative to the longitudinal length (or longitudinal centerline) of the connector piece 408 and the second housing 120′ of the second section 110.

[0072] In at least one exemplary embodiment, the air inlet 145 may be sized and configured so that the non-nicotine electronic vaping device 10 has a resistance to draw (RTD) in the range of about 60 mmH2O to about 150 mmH2O.

[0073] Still referring to Figures 4 and 5, as mentioned above, second section 110 includes a sensor assembly (eg, a puff sensor assembly) 424.

[0074] 4, for example, sensor assembly 424 is electrically connected to and powered by power source 402. In at least this exemplary embodiment, sensor assembly 424 includes a sensor 426 (e.g., a puff sensor) and control circuitry 428.

[0075] Control circuitry 428 is configured to provide electrical current and / or electrical signals to first section 105. To this end, control circuitry 428 is electrically connected to conductive post 412 (the anode portion of connector piece 408) via control circuitry wiring 430 (or leads) and to outer (cathode) portion 422 of connector piece 408 via control circuitry wiring 432 (or leads). In at least this example, control circuitry wiring 432 functions as the cathode of an electrical circuit that includes sensor assembly 424.

[0076] The sensor 426 may be a capacitance sensor capable of sensing an internal pressure drop within the second section 110. The sensor 426 and the control circuit 428 may cooperate to open and close a heater control circuit (not shown) between the power source 402 and the heating element 236 of the first section 105 when coupled to the second section 110. In at least one exemplary embodiment, the sensor 426 is configured to generate an output indicative of the magnitude and direction of airflow through the non-nicotine electronic vaping device 10. In this example, the control circuit 428 receives the output of the sensor 426 and (1) determines whether the direction of the airflow indicates the application of negative pressure (e.g., inhalation) to the mouth-end insert 125 (as opposed to positive pressure or blowing, for example); and (2) determines whether the magnitude of the negative pressure application exceeds a threshold level. If these vaping conditions are met, the control circuit 428 electrically connects the power source 402 to the heating element 236, activating the heating element 236.

[0077] In one example, the heater control circuitry may include a heater power control transistor (not shown). The control circuitry 428 may operate the heater power control transistor to electrically connect the power supply 402 to the heating element 236. In at least one embodiment, the heater power control transistor (or heater control circuitry) may form part of the control circuitry 428.

[0078] The control circuit 428 and the sensor 426 may be separate components located on a printed circuit board and connected via electrical contacts. Additionally, although described herein with respect to a capacitive sensor, the sensor 426 may be any suitable pressure sensor, for example, a microelectromechanical system (MEMS) including a piezoresistive or other pressure sensor.

[0079] The control circuitry 428 may include, among other things, a controller. According to one or more exemplary embodiments, the controller may be implemented using hardware, a combination of hardware and software, or a storage medium storing software. 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-chips (SoCs), one or more programmable logic units (PLUs), one or more microprocessors, one or more ASICs, or other apparatus or devices capable of responding to and executing instructions in a defined manner.

[0080] In another exemplary embodiment, the control circuit 428 may include a manually operable switch for manually activating the heating element 236 .

[0081] In at least one exemplary embodiment, the control circuit 428 may include a time period limiter that limits the time period during which current is continuously supplied to the heating element 236. The time period may be set or preset depending on the amount of non-nicotine pre-vapor formulation desired to be vaporized. In one example, the time period for continuously applying current to the heating element 236 may be limited so that the heating element 236 heats a portion of the wick 238 for less than about 10 seconds. In another example, the time period for continuously applying current to the heating element 236 may be limited so that the heating element 236 heats a portion of the wick 238 for about 5 seconds.

[0082] 4 and 5, the sensor assembly 424 is cradled in a sensor holder 434 at the second end of the second section 110. In at least one exemplary embodiment, the sensor holder 434 may be part of a silicone or rubber gasket; however, the exemplary embodiment should not be limited to this example.

[0083] A heat-activated light 436 may also be disposed at the second end of the second section 110. In the exemplary embodiment shown in FIG. 4, the heat-activated light 436 may be disposed within the end cap 135. The heat-activated light 436 may include one or more light-emitting diodes (LEDs). The LEDs may include one or more colors (e.g., white, yellow, red, green, blue, etc.). Furthermore, the heat-activated light 436 may be configured to glow when the power source 402 supplies current to the heating element 236. The heat-activated light 436 may be utilized for non-nicotine e-vaping system diagnostics or to indicate that a recharge of the power source 402 is in progress. The heat-activated light 436 may also be configured to be able to activate or deactivate the heat-activated light 436 for privacy purposes. The heat-activated light 436 may be part of the sensor assembly 424 or may be electrically connected to the sensor assembly 424.

[0084] FIG. 6 is a cross-sectional view of the exemplary embodiment of the non-nicotine electronic vaping device shown in FIG. 1 taken along line II-II'.

[0085] In Figure 6, the first section 105 is shown coupled to the second section 110. The arrows in Figure 6 indicate an exemplary air flow through the non-nicotine electronic vaping device 10.

[0086] The operation of the non-nicotine electronic vaping device 10 to produce a non-nicotine vapor when the first section 105 is coupled to the second section 110 will now be described with reference to FIG.

[0087] Referring to FIG. 6, air is drawn into first section 105 primarily through at least one of air inlets 145 in response to application of negative pressure to mouth end insert 125 .

[0088] When the control circuit 428 detects the above-described vaping condition, the control circuit 428 begins supplying power to the heating element 236 so that the heating element 236 heats the non-nicotine pre-vapor formulation on the wick 238 to produce a non-nicotine vapor.

[0089] Air drawn in through the air inlet 145 enters the cavity in the connector piece 408, passes through an indent in the top portion 418, and enters the central air passage 214. From the central air passage 214, the air flows through the air passage 208 and through the inner passage 210.

[0090] The air flowing through inner passageway 210 combines and / or mixes with the non-nicotine vapor produced by heating element 236, and the mixture of air and non-nicotine vapor passes from inner passageway 210 into central passageway 228 and then into the cavity within mouth-end insert 125. From the cavity within mouth-end insert 125, the mixture of air and non-nicotine vapor flows out outlet 230.

[0091] FIG. 7 is a cross-sectional view of an exemplary embodiment of a reservoir assembly 700 .

[0092] 7 is similar to reservoir assembly 204 of FIG. 2, except that reservoir assembly 700 includes a second opening 262 in the form of a slit in outer shell 256. The slit may extend from first end 254 of outer shell 256 to second end 260 of outer shell 256. Alternatively, the slit may extend only a portion of the distance between first end 254 and second end 260 of outer shell 256.

[0093] In at least one exemplary embodiment, the reservoir assembly 200 may include multiple second openings 262 in the form of slits. Two of the second openings 262 may be slits on opposite sides of the outer shell 256. Having multiple slits allows for multiple locations for air to escape from the reservoir 232 to equalize the air pressure between the interior and exterior of the reservoir. For example, if the reservoir 232 contains only about one-tenth of air, the reservoir 232 may be positioned such that air does not come into contact with the membrane 264 covering the second opening 262, preventing air from escaping if there is only one second opening 262. However, if there are multiple second openings 262, air can escape through one of the other second openings 262. The second openings 262 may extend in any direction along the outer shell 256. The second openings 262 may be covered by one or more membranes 264. For example, each second opening 262 may be covered by a respective membrane 264 .

[0094] FIG. 8 is a cross-sectional view of another exemplary embodiment of a reservoir assembly 800 .

[0095] 8, reservoir assembly 800 is the same as reservoir assembly 204 of FIG. 2, except that second openings 262 are in the form of pinholes. In at least one exemplary embodiment, reservoir assembly 800 may include a plurality of second openings 262 in the form of pinholes. The plurality of second openings 262 may be covered by one or more membranes 264. For example, each second opening 262 may be covered by a respective membrane 264.

[0096] FIG. 9 is a cross-sectional view of another exemplary embodiment of a reservoir assembly 900 .

[0097] 9, reservoir assembly 900 is the same as reservoir assembly 204 of FIG. 2. However, reservoir assembly 900 includes a plunger 902 that extends across the interior of shell 256 and forms a seal to prevent the non-nicotine pre-vapor formulation from passing under plunger 902. A first side of plunger 902 and a portion of shell 256 define a liquid-containing region 904 (or reservoir) for the non-nicotine pre-vapor formulation. If reservoir assembly 900 includes air conduit 202, plunger 902 includes a hole (opening) that allows plunger 902 to fit around air conduit 202 in shell 256. Plunger 902 may be configured to move based on the volume of non-nicotine pre-vapor formulation in liquid-containing region 904. For example, as the non-nicotine pre-vapor formulation is pulled by a wicking force through the wick 238 and transfer material 258, the atmospheric pressure outside the liquid containment region 904 remains the same, but the pressure of the liquid within the liquid containment region 904 decreases. This change in pressure reduces the force on a first side of the plunger 902, while the atmospheric pressure on a second side of the plunger 902 opposite the first side remains the same. The force difference causes the plunger 902 to move in a first direction toward the first end 254 of the outer shell 256.

[0098] If the frictional force of plunger 902 against shell 256 and / or air tube 202 is greater than the force difference, plunger 902 will not move. An optional passive actuator 906 may apply a third force to the second side of plunger 902 to overcome the frictional force. Passive actuator 906 may be a spring inside shell 256 that pushes against second end 260 of shell 256 and the second side of plunger 902.

[0099] In at least one exemplary embodiment, reservoir assembly 900 may include multiple second openings 262 in the form of slits. Two of the second openings 262 may be slits on opposite sides of outer shell 256. Having multiple slits allows for multiple locations for air to escape from reservoir 232 to equalize air pressure between the interior of reservoir 232 and the exterior of the reservoir.

[0100] FIG. 10 is a cross-sectional view of an exemplary embodiment of a reservoir assembly 1000 prior to filling the reservoir assembly 1000 with a non-nicotine prevapor formulation.

[0101] In at least one exemplary embodiment, the reservoir assembly 1000 may include a shell 256 having a first opening 252 (or openings) at a first end 254 of the shell 256. A plunger 1002 may be disposed within the shell 256 with a first side of the plunger 1002 contacting the first end 254 of the shell 256, the plunger 1008 extending across the interior of the shell 256. The first side of the plunger 1002 and a limited portion of the interior of the shell 256 define a liquid containment region for a non-nicotine pre-vapor formulation.

[0102] 10 has no volume. This is to prevent the presence of air within the liquid containing region before the reservoir assembly is filled with the non-nicotine pre-vapor formulation. As previously mentioned, the plunger 1002 reduces and / or prevents the inclusion of air in the non-nicotine pre-vapor formulation to reduce and / or prevent leakage during transportation, shipping, and / or vaping.

[0103] FIG. 11 is a flow diagram illustrating a method for preparing a reservoir assembly.

[0104] 11, in S1110, a reservoir assembly 900 includes a shell 256 and a plunger 902. For example, a reservoir assembly may be provided as shown in FIG.

[0105] In S1120, the liquid containing region is filled with the non-nicotine pre-vapor formulation. This may be accomplished by connecting the first opening 252 (or multiple openings) to a filling device (not shown), which can supply the non-nicotine pre-vapor formulation to the first opening 252 and apply hydraulic pressure to the non-nicotine pre-vapor formulation to push the plunger 902 in a first direction away from the first end 254 of the shell 256. As the plunger 902 moves in the first direction, the liquid containing region increases in volume and fills with the non-nicotine pre-vapor formulation. A small amount of air, such as air that was in the first opening 252 before the filling device was connected to the first opening 252, may enter the liquid containing region 904. The plunger 902 may be moved until the second side of the plunger 902 contacts the second end 260 of the shell 256, or the plunger 902 may be moved to any position between the first end 254 and the second end 260 of the shell 256 based on the amount of non-nicotine pre-vapor formulation to be delivered to the reservoir assembly 900.

[0106] In S1130, a portion of the wick 238 may be disposed in the liquid containment region 904 through the first opening 252. The wick 238 may be a two-stage wick or a single-stage wick. When the wick 238 is inserted, the wick 238 may contain a small amount of air within the wick 238. The wick 238 absorbs a portion of the non-nicotine pre-vapor formulation and some or all of the air within the liquid containment region through a wicking action. The wicking action generally causes a significant portion of the air contained in the liquid containment region and the air within the wick 238 to escape through the wick 238 to the outside of the liquid containment region.

[0107] S1140 is optional. In S1140, if desired, a force may be applied to the second side of the plunger 902 to remove any air from the liquid containing region 904. The force may be applied by hand or with some form or actuator, such as a tool, machine, or passive actuator 906. The force may be applied for a set time or until the non-nicotine pre-vapor formulation begins to be forced out of the liquid containing region 904 from the wick. This may not be necessary if a negligible amount of air has entered the liquid containing region.

[0108] S1150 is also optional. In S1150, a passive actuator 906 may be coupled to a second side of the plunger 902 within the shell 256. The passive actuator 906 may be coupled to a second end of the shell 256. The passive actuator 906 may be a spring or other form of passive actuator that is inserted through the second opening 262. The passive actuator 906 may be inserted after the liquid containing region 904 is filled with the non-nicotine pre-vapor formulation.

[0109] 11 may have the advantage of having no or a negligible amount of air within the liquid-containing region 904. Such a liquid-containing region does not include a plunger 902 or a passive actuator 906. Instead, the reservoir assembly may be similar to those of FIGS. 1, 6, 7, and 8 and include an opening (or openings) 262 covered by a membrane 264 to accommodate removal of liquid from the reservoir.

[0110] [Example of an embodiment using a non-nicotine prevapor formulation] In exemplary embodiments, flavorings (at least one flavoring) and / or non-nicotine compounds are included in the non-nicotine pre-vapor formulation. In exemplary embodiments, the non-nicotine pre-vapor formulation is a liquid, solid, dispersion, and / or gel formulation, including water, beads, a solvent, an active ingredient, ethanol, a botanical extract, a natural or artificial flavor, and / or at least one non-nicotine vapor-forming agent, such as, but not limited to, glycerin and propylene glycol.

[0111] The non-nicotine compound does not include nicotine. In an exemplary embodiment, the non-nicotine compound does not include tobacco or a compound derived from tobacco. In an exemplary embodiment, the non-nicotine compound is cannabis or includes at least one cannabis-derived component. In an exemplary embodiment, the cannabis-derived component includes at least one of a cannabis-derived cannabinoid (e.g., a phytocannabinoid, or a cannabinoid synthesized by the cannabis plant), at least one cannabis-derived terpene, at least one cannabis-derived flavonoid, or a combination thereof.

[0112] In exemplary embodiments, the non-nicotine compound is in the form of, or contained within, a solid, semi-solid, gel, hydrogel, or a combination thereof. The non-nicotine compound is injected into, mixed into, or bound to the non-nicotine prevapor formulation. In exemplary embodiments, the non-nicotine compound is in the form of, or contained within, a liquid or partially liquid form, including an extract, oil, tincture, suspension, dispersion, colloid, alcohol, a general non-neutral (weakly acidic or weakly basic) solution, or a combination thereof, and the non-nicotine compound is injected into, mixed into, or combined with the non-nicotine prevapor formulation. In exemplary embodiments, the non-nicotine compound is a component of the non-nicotine prevapor formulation. In exemplary embodiments, the non-nicotine prevapor formulation is, or is part of, a dispersion, suspension, gel, hydrogel, colloid, or a combination thereof, and the non-nicotine compound is a component of the non-nicotine prevapor formulation.

[0113] In exemplary embodiments, the non-nicotine compound undergoes a slow, natural decarboxylation process over an extended period of time at low temperatures, including room temperature (72°F) or below. In exemplary embodiments, when the non-nicotine compound is exposed to elevated temperatures, particularly in the range of about 175°F or above, for periods of time (minutes or hours, at relatively low pressures, such as 1 atmosphere), the non-nicotine compound may undergo a significantly increased decarboxylation process, on the order of 50% decarboxylation or greater. However, at even higher temperatures (above about 240°F), rapid or instantaneous decarboxylation can occur, with potentially high decarboxylation rates (50% or greater), and further increases in temperature may cause partial or total degradation of the chemical properties of the non-nicotine compound.

[0114] In exemplary embodiments, the at least one non-nicotine vapor-forming agent of the non-nicotine pre-vapor formulation includes a diol (such as propylene glycol and / or 1,3-propanediol), glycerin, and combinations or partial combinations thereof. Various amounts of the non-nicotine pre-vapor formulation may be used. For example, in some exemplary embodiments, the at least one non-nicotine vapor-forming agent is included in an amount ranging from about 20% by weight based on the weight of the non-nicotine pre-vapor formulation to about 90% by weight based on the weight of the non-nicotine pre-vapor formulation (e.g., the non-nicotine vapor-forming agent is in a range of about 50% to about 80%, or about 55% to 75%, or about 60% to 70%). As another example, in exemplary embodiments, the non-nicotine pre-vapor formulation includes a weight ratio of diol to glycerin ranging from about 1:4 to 4:1, where the diol is propylene glycol, 1,3-propanediol, or a combination thereof. In exemplary embodiments, the ratio is about 3:2. Other amounts or ranges may be used.

[0115] In exemplary embodiments, the non-nicotine pre-vapor formulation includes water. Various amounts of water may be used. For example, in some exemplary embodiments, water may be present in an amount ranging from about 5% by weight of the non-nicotine pre-vapor formulation to about 40% by weight of the non-nicotine pre-vapor formulation, or from about 10% by weight of the non-nicotine pre-vapor formulation to about 15% by weight of the non-nicotine pre-vapor formulation. Other amounts or percentages may be used. For example, in exemplary embodiments, the remaining portion of the non-nicotine pre-vapor formulation that is not water (and that is not a non-nicotine compound and / or flavoring) is a non-nicotine vapor former (described above), and the non-nicotine vapor former is between 30% and 70% by weight propylene glycol, with the remainder of the non-nicotine vapor former being glycerin. Other amounts or percentages may be used.

[0116] In exemplary embodiments, the non-nicotine prevapor formulation includes at least one flavoring agent in an amount ranging from about 0.2% to about 15% by weight (e.g., the flavoring agent may range from about 1% to 12%, or from about 2% to 10%, or from about 5% to 8%). In exemplary embodiments, the at least one flavoring agent includes a volatile cannabis flavor compound (flavonoid). In exemplary embodiments, the at least one flavoring agent includes a flavor compound instead of or in addition to a cannabis flavor compound. In exemplary embodiments, the at least one flavoring agent may be at least one of a natural flavor, an artificial flavor, or a combination of a natural flavor and an artificial flavor. For example, the at least one flavoring agent may include menthol, wintergreen, peppermint, cinnamon, clove, combinations thereof, and / or extracts thereof. Additionally, flavoring agents may be included to provide herbal flavors, fruit flavors, nut flavors, booze flavors, roasted flavors, mint flavors, savory flavors, combinations thereof, and any other desired flavors.

[0117] In exemplary embodiments, the non-nicotine compound may be a naturally occurring component of a medicinal plant or a plant with medically acceptable therapeutic effects. The medicinal plant may be the cannabis plant, and the component may be at least one cannabis-derived component. Cannabinoids (phytocannabinoids) are an example of cannabis-derived components. Cannabinoids interact with receptors in the body to exert various effects. As such, cannabinoids have been used for various medicinal purposes. The cannabis-derived material may include leaves and / or flower material from one or more cannabis plants, or an extract from one or more cannabis plants. In exemplary embodiments, the one or more species of cannabis plant include Cannabis sativa, Cannabis indica, and Cannabis ruderalis. In some exemplary embodiments, the non-nicotine prevapor formulation is a mixture of cannabis and / or cannabis-derived components, or is derived from 60-80% (e.g., 70%) Cannabis sativa and 20-40% (e.g., 30%) Cannabis indica.

[0118] Examples of cannabinoids derived from cannabis include tetrahydrocannabinolic acid (THCA), tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), cannabidiol acid (CBDA), cannabidiol (CBD), cannabinol (CBN), cannabicyclol (CBL), cannabichromene (CBC), cannabigerol (CBG), etc. Tetrahydrocannabinolic acid (THCA) is the precursor of tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), and cannabidiol acid (CBDA) is the precursor of cannabidiol (CBD). Tetrahydrocannabinolic acid (THCA) and cannabidiol acid (CBDA) can be converted to tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) and cannabidiol (CBD), respectively, through heating. In an exemplary embodiment, the heat from heater 60 may effect decarboxylation to convert tetrahydrocannabinolic acid (THCA) in the non-nicotine pre-vapor formulation to tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), and / or decarboxylation to convert cannabidiolic acid (CBDA) in the non-nicotine pre-vapor formulation to cannabidiol (CBD).

[0119] In examples where both tetrahydrocannabinolic acid (THCA) and tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) are present in a non-nicotine pre-vapor formulation, decarboxylation and the resulting conversion will 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 pre-vapor formulation for vaporization. Similarly, in examples where both cannabidiolic acid (CBDA) and cannabidiol (CBD) are present in a non-nicotine pre-vapor formulation, decarboxylation and the resulting conversion will result in a decrease in cannabidiolic acid (CBDA) and an increase in cannabidiol (CBD). At least 50% (e.g., at least 87%) of the cannabidiol acid (CBDA) may be converted to cannabidiol (CBD) via a decarboxylation process during heating of a non-nicotine prevapor formulation for purposes of vaporization.

[0120] 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 DELIVERING A COMPOUND USING THE SAME," the disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.

[0121] While 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 apparent to one skilled in the art are intended to be included within the scope of the following claims.

Claims

1. 1. A reservoir assembly for a non-nicotine electronic vaping device, comprising: the reservoir assembly comprises a shell, an inner surface of the shell, a core, and a first membrane; the shell includes a first opening; the inner surface of the shell at least partially defines a reservoir configured to hold a non-nicotine pre-vapor formulation; The non-nicotine prevapor formulation does not contain nicotine and contains at least one non-nicotine compound; the wick extends from the interior of the reservoir to the exterior of the reservoir and is configured to draw the non-nicotine prevapor formulation held in the reservoir out of the reservoir; the first film covers the first opening; the first membrane comprises one or more layers of liquid-impermeable and air-permeable fabric; thing.

2. 2. The reservoir assembly of claim 1, the fabric comprises woven hydrophobic fibers; thing.

3. 2. The reservoir assembly of claim 1, The first opening is a slit. thing.

4. 2. The reservoir assembly of claim 1, Further, the device includes a plurality of openings and a plurality of membranes, the plurality of openings includes the first opening, each of the plurality of openings is a pinhole; the plurality of films includes the first film, each of the plurality of films covering a respective one of the plurality of openings; thing.

5. 2. The reservoir assembly of claim 1, the shell includes a second opening; the reservoir assembly includes a second membrane covering the second opening; the second membrane comprises one or more layers of a liquid-impermeable and air-permeable second fabric; the second opening and the first opening are on opposite sides of the shell. thing.

6. 2. The reservoir assembly of claim 1, the shell includes a third opening; the wick extends from the third opening; thing.

7. 2. The reservoir assembly of claim 1, further comprising a conduit extending through the shell; the conduit and the shell together define a space between an outer surface of the conduit and the inner surface of the shell as the reservoir; the core extending between the outer surface of the conduit and the inner surface of the shell; thing.

8. A non-nicotine cartridge, A vaporizer assembly comprising the reservoir assembly of claim 1 and a heater, the vaporizer assembly is configured to generate a non-nicotine vapor based on heating the non-nicotine pre-vapor formulation drawn from the reservoir by the wick; thing.

9. 1. A non-nicotine electronic vaping device, comprising: The cartridge according to claim 8; a power supply configured to provide power to the vaporizer assembly; Something that is equipped with.

10. 1. A reservoir assembly for a non-nicotine electronic vaping device, comprising: the reservoir assembly includes a shell, a plunger, and a core; The outer shell is extending in a first direction; a first end and an inner surface; the inner surface of the shell defines an interior of the shell; The plunger extending through the interior of the outer shell in a second direction perpendicular to the first direction; a first surface and a second surface opposite the first surface; a portion of the inner surface of the shell defines a portion of the interior of the shell between the first surface of the plunger and the first end of the shell as a liquid containing region; the liquid containing region is a reservoir configured to contain a non-nicotine prevapor formulation; the plunger is configured to move in the first direction within the shell in response to a first force applied to the first surface of the plunger by a volume of the non-nicotine pre-vapor formulation contained in the liquid containing region; The non-nicotine prevapor formulation does not contain nicotine and contains at least one non-nicotine compound; the wick extends from the interior of the shell to the exterior of the liquid containing region; thing.

11. 11. The reservoir assembly of claim 10, the shell is cylindrical in shape; the first direction extends along a longitudinal axis of the shell; thing.

12. 11. The reservoir assembly of claim 10, a conduit extending in the first direction through the interior of the shell; the plunger includes an opening through which the conduit passes; thing.

13. 13. The reservoir assembly of claim 12, the wick extends through the opening in the conduit; thing.

14. 11. The reservoir assembly of claim 10, the core extends through an opening in the first end of the shell; thing.

15. 11. The reservoir assembly of claim 10, further comprising a passive actuator; the passive actuator is configured to continuously apply a second force on the second surface of the plunger. thing.

16. 16. The reservoir assembly of claim 15, the magnitude of the second force is less than the magnitude of the first force; wherein the first force is associated with passing the non-nicotine pre-vapor formulation through the wick from the liquid containing region to the exterior of the shell. thing.

17. 11. The reservoir assembly of claim 10, the plunger is configured to move within the outer shell based solely on a first force exerted on the first surface of the plunger by a volume of the non-nicotine pre-vapor formulation contained in the liquid containing region and a third force exerted on the second surface of the plunger by atmospheric pressure. thing.

18. A non-nicotine cartridge, A vaporizer assembly comprising the reservoir assembly of claim 10 and a heater, the vaporizer assembly is configured to generate a non-nicotine vapor based on heating the non-nicotine pre-vapor formulation drawn from the interior of the liquid containing region by the wick; thing.

19. 1. A non-nicotine electronic vaping device, comprising: a cartridge according to claim 18; a power supply configured to provide power to the vaporizer assembly. thing.

20. 1. A method of filling a non-nicotine electronic vaping device, comprising: The method includes a providing step, a filling step, and a disposing step, The providing step includes providing an outer shell and a plunger, the shell extends in a first direction; the shell includes a first end, an opening at the first end, and an inner surface; the inner surface of the shell partially defines an interior of the shell; the plunger extends through the interior of the shell in a second direction perpendicular to the first direction; the plunger includes a first surface and a second surface opposite the first surface; the first surface and the limited portion of the interior surface of the shell define a liquid containing region in the limited portion of the interior of the shell between the first surface of the plunger and the first end of the shell; the liquid containing region is a reservoir configured to hold a non-nicotine pre-vapor formulation; The non-nicotine prevapor formulation is nicotine-free and contains at least one non-nicotine compound; In the filling step, the liquid containing region is filled with the non-nicotine pre-vapor formulation such that the plunger is moved in the first direction away from the first end of the shell by the non-nicotine pre-vapor formulation based on the non-nicotine pre-vapor formulation applying a first force to the first surface of the plunger; In the disposing step, a portion of the wick is disposed in the liquid storage region. method.

21. 21. The method of claim 20, applying a second force to the second surface of the plunger to remove air from the liquid containing region. method.

22. 21. The method of claim 20, further comprising coupling a passive actuator to the plunger within the shell; the passive actuator is configured to continuously apply a second force to the second surface of the plunger. method.

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