Electronic vaping device, cartridge, and access control system

Abstract

The electronic vaping device comprises a wireless communication circuit and a processing circuit coupled to the wireless communication circuit. The processing circuit is configured to receive authorization information via the wireless communication circuit, which indicates whether the electronic vaping device is authorized to operate a docked detachable cartridge, and the processing circuit conditionally operates the docked detachable cartridge based on the authorization information.

Description

Background Art

[0001] This application claims priority under 35 U.S.C. 119(e) from the following provisional applications, each of which is hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety for all purposes: U.S. Provisional Application No. 63 / 487,102, "Devices, Systems, and Methods for Bluetooth-Compatible Electronic Vaping," filed February 27, 2023; U.S. Provisional Application No. 63 / 487,112, "Implementation of MEMS Sensors in End Products," filed February 27, 2023; U.S. Provisional Application No. 63 / 487,125, "Novel Method for Integrating Multiple Functional Requirements into a Single Component," filed February 27, 2023; U.S. Provisional Application No. 63 / 487,133, "Method for Controlling / Capturing Electronic Liquid in ENDS Devices," filed February 27, 2023; U.S. Provisional Application No. 63 / 487,155, "Rigid-Flex PCBA for Simplified Assembly," filed February 27, 2023; U.S. Provisional Application No. 63 / 487,182, "Reedless Atomizer Technology," filed February 27, 2023; U.S. Provisional Application No. 63 / 487,189, "Alternative Ceramic Atomizer Technology," filed February 27, 2023; U.S. Provisional Application No. 63 / 487,199, "Variable Flow Rate and Power Supply for ENDS Devices," filed February 27, 2023; U.S. Provisional Application No. 63 / 487,204, "Detection of Liquid Flow Loss During Use," filed February 27, 2023; U.S. Provisional Application No. 63 / 502,941, "Alternative Air Path and Liquid Trapping," filed May 18, 2023; U.S. Provisional Application No. 63 / 502,948, "Plastic-to-Plastic Seal Rib for Improved Manufacturability and Quality," filed May 18, 2023; and U.S. Provisional Application No. 63 / 502,954, "Pod ID Alternative Access Restriction Function," filed May 18, 2023.

Technical Field

[0002] The present disclosure relates to an electronic vaping cartridge, and / or an access control system for an electronic vaping device and an electronic vaping cartridge. Description of Related Art

[0003] An electronic vaping ("e-vaping") device typically includes a built-in power source, such as a battery, electrically connected to a heating element that converts a pre-vaporized formulation stored in a cartridge into vapor. The vapor is expelled from the electronic vaping device through a mouthpiece that includes at least one outlet. Electronic vaping devices are typically either entirely disposable (in which case the pre-vaporized formulation is contained within a disposable unit) or partially disposable (in which case a reusable battery section can be attached to a disposable cartridge containing the pre-vaporized formulation). [Overview of the project]

[0004] In this specification, unless otherwise required by context or explicitly noted, the term “electronic vaping device” is used to refer to a complete electronic vaping device or a non-disposable part of an electronic vaping device. In contrast, “cartridge,” “removable cartridge,” and similar terms refer to a removable part of an electronic vaping device that stores the formulation before vaporization, unless otherwise required by context or explicitly noted.

[0005] Various embodiments of electronic vaping devices disclosed herein include electronic vaping devices with wireless capabilities. Wireless-enabled electronic vaping devices can be used to set and enforce access restrictions that limit the use of the electronic vaping device to appropriate adult consumers. Subject to verification that an electronic vaping device including a docked, detachable cartridge is being used by an authorized adult consumer, some functions of such an electronic vaping device can be completely or partially disabled.

[0006] Various embodiments disclosed herein include a replaceable, sealed, non-refillable electronic liquid cartridge, a battery-powered unit equipped with Bluetooth® or other wireless technology (referred to herein as a wireless electronic vaping device), a smartphone application, and a backend server that operates in conjunction with the smartphone application and the wireless electronic vaping device to prevent improper use of the wireless electronic vaping device and the cartridge docked to it. One embodiment of the wireless electronic vaping device includes a device access restriction function that can be implemented using Bluetooth® Low Energy technology (BLE), a dedicated smartphone application, and a cloud-based backend application server (which may be referred to herein as the “server”).

[0007] According to some embodiments, a backend application server implementing adult consumer account procedures is used in conjunction with a wireless electronic vaping device and a smartphone application to help prevent the use of counterfeit removable cartridges, the sharing of removable cartridges with inappropriate adult consumers, and other misuse of wireless electronic vaping devices.

[0008] In one embodiment, the electronic vaping device includes a wireless communication circuit, a processing circuit connected to the wireless communication circuit, a memory connected to the processing circuit, and a wireless communication circuit connected to the memory. The processing circuit is configured to receive authorization information via the wireless communication circuit, which indicates whether the electronic vaping device is authorized to operate a docked removable cartridge, and the docked removable cartridge is conditionally operated based on the authorization information.

[0009] In one embodiment, authorization information includes an authorization list indicating one or more onboard cartridge identifiers associated with one or more authorized removable cartridges. The processing circuit is further configured to store the authorization information in memory and to conditionally activate docked removable cartridges based on the authorization information stored in memory. In some embodiments, the authorization information further includes authorization time limits associated with one or more authorized removable cartridges.

[0010] In various embodiments, the processing circuit is further configured to obtain the onboard cartridge identifier from the docked removable cartridge. The processing circuit may, in response to determining that the onboard cartridge identifier of the docked removable cartridge is included in the approval list, allow power to be supplied to the docked removable cartridge, and / or, in response to determining that the onboard cartridge identifier of the docked removable cartridge is not included in the approval list, prevent power from being supplied to the docked removable cartridge.

[0011] In some embodiments, if the processing circuit determines that the onboard cartridge identifier of a docked removable cartridge is not included in the approval list, it obtains updated authorization information via a wireless communication circuit and conditionally permits power supply to the docked removable cartridge based on the updated authorization information.

[0012] In various embodiments, the processing circuit within the electronic vaping device is further configured to receive authorization information via a wireless communication circuit from an adult consumer mobile device connected to a server device that hosts an account associated with an authenticated adult consumer of the electronic vaping device. The authorization information is generated by the server device based on one or more scanned product identification codes associated with one or more onboard cartridge identifiers. The authorization information may be received via a personal area network.

[0013] In the embodiment, the processing circuit is further configured to control a feedback element, which provides at least one tactile, auditory, or visual indication of the operating state of the docked detachable cartridge.

[0014] In some embodiments, the processing circuit is further configured to determine whether to activate the docked detachable cartridge in response to each docking event.

[0015] In an embodiment, the processing circuit is further configured to obtain the onboard cartridge identifier of the docked removable cartridge via a removable cartridge identification interface. The identification interface may include a radio frequency identification chip, a near-field communication chip, and / or a contact reader.

[0016] In various embodiments, a removable electronic vaping cartridge includes an external surface bearing an indelible scan code and an internal onboard identifier, the onboard identifier being readable by the electronic vaping device while the removable electronic vaping cartridge is docked to the electronic vaping device.

[0017] In some embodiments, a removable electronic vaping cartridge includes at least one of a radio frequency identification chip (RFID), a near-field communication chip, memory, and / or other circuitry configured to store an onboard identifier. In some such embodiments, the onboard identifier can be acquired wirelessly or read by a contact reader included in the electronic vaping device.

[0018] In at least one embodiment, the electronic vaping device includes a wireless communication circuit and a processing circuit connected to the wireless communication circuit, which is configured to be powered on in a locked state, in which state the processing circuit includes a memory (connected to the processing circuit) that prevents power supply to the heating assembly, and the processing circuit is configured to receive authorization to unlock via a communication network through the wireless communication circuit and to transition to an unlocked state in response to such authorization, in which state the processing circuit allows power supply to the heating assembly. In some embodiments, the authorization to unlock is received from a computing device wirelessly connected to the electronic vaping device via the wireless communication circuit.

[0019] In various embodiments, the processing circuitry, memory, and wireless communication circuitry are incorporated into a microcontroller. The memory may be configured to store firmware that, when executed by the microcontroller, causes the microcontroller to determine whether to allow power to be supplied to a docked, detachable electronic vaping cartridge, at least partially based on an unlocking authorization.

[0020] In this embodiment, the electronic vaping device includes an airflow sensor connected to a processing circuit. When unlocked, the processing circuit supplies power to the heating assembly based on the output of the airflow sensor. If the output of the airflow sensor remains active for longer than a threshold time, the power supply to the heating assembly can be stopped.

[0021] In some or all of the above embodiments, the electronic vaping device includes an LED connected to a processing circuit, and the processing circuit is configured to illuminate the LED at least temporarily in response to a transition to an unlocked state.

[0022] Methods according to various embodiments include a server device receiving a scan code associated with an onboard identifier of a removable electronic vaping cartridge; transmitting the onboard identifier of the removable electronic vaping cartridge to an electronic vaping device via an application running on an adult consumer computing device, wherein the transmission of the onboard identifier associated with the removable electronic vaping cartridge indicates that the removable electronic vaping cartridge is authorized for use in the electronic vaping device.

[0023] According to some embodiments, the method further includes storing information in a server-accessible database that links a plurality of internal onboard identifiers associated with a plurality of scan codes, where the plurality of internal onboard identifiers are associated with a predetermined removable electronic vaping cartridge from a plurality of removable electronic vaping cartridges, and a predetermined scan code is associated with a predetermined removable electronic vaping cartridge from a plurality of scan codes.

[0024] One embodiment further includes the establishment of adult consumer accounts for adult electronic vaping consumers by a server device, the adult consumer accounts being associated with one or more electronic vaping devices.

[0025] Other embodiments of the Method include registering one or more onboard identifiers of a plurality of internal onboard identifiers to an adult consumer account of an adult electronic vaping consumer based on one or more received scan codes, and transmitting one or more onboard identifiers to one or more electronic vaping devices associated with the adult consumer account of an adult electronic vaping consumer via an application running on an adult consumer computing device.

[0026] In some embodiments, the step of transmitting the on-board identifier to the electronic vaping device includes transmitting the on-board identifier to an application running on an adult consumer computing device, and the adult consumer computing device transfers the on-board identifier to the electronic vaping device via a personal area network.

[0027] Other embodiments include a method of receiving authorization information in an adult consumer computing device. Here, the authorization information includes an authorization list indicating one or more on-board cartridge identifiers associated with one or more authorized detachable electronic vaping cartridges. Then, the adult consumer computing device transmits the authorization information to the electronic vaping device via a personal area network. The electronic vaping device controls the operation of the docked detachable electronic vaping cartridge based on the authorization information.

[0028] In some embodiments, the adult consumer computing device scans a scan code present on the detachable electronic vaping cartridge and associates the scan code with the adult consumer account. The adult consumer computing device transmits the scan code to the server device. The server device stores information associating the scan code with an internal on-board identifier associated with the detachable electronic vaping cartridge, and the server device registers the internal on-board identifier with the adult consumer account. The adult consumer computing device receives authorization information from the server device.

[0029] Methods according to various embodiments include receiving, in an adult consumer computing device, an indication from the electronic vaping device that an internal on-board identifier associated with a detachable electronic vaping cartridge is not stored in the memory of the electronic vaping device. And in response to receiving the indication, transmitting a request to request updated authorization information from the server device.

[0030] In some embodiments, the server device includes a processor, a memory connected to the processor, and a program of computer-executable instructions stored in the memory and configured to cause the processor to store adult consumer account information. Here, the adult consumer account information includes information associating a removable electronic vaping cartridge with the adult consumer account, and based on the adult consumer account information, use of the removable electronic vaping cartridge by unauthorized adult consumers is prevented.

[0031] ]>In various embodiments, the program of computer-executable instructions further causes the processor to determine whether the number of removable electronic vaping cartridges authorized for an adult consumer account exceeds a threshold, and if the number of removable electronic vaping cartridges authorized for the adult consumer account exceeds the threshold, to suspend or revoke the authorization of previously authorized removable electronic vaping cartridges.

[0032] In other embodiments, the program of computer-executable instructions further causes the processor to determine whether the number of removable electronic vaping cartridges authorized for an adult consumer account within a predetermined time period exceeds a threshold, and if the number of removable electronic vaping cartridges authorized for the adult consumer account within the predetermined time period exceeds the threshold, to suspend or revoke the authorization of previously authorized removable electronic vaping cartridges.

[0033] Various embodiments include a program of computer-executable instructions configured to cause the processor to determine, based on adult consumer account information, that a removable electronic vaping cartridge is a counterfeit.

[0034] According to various embodiments, the electronic vaping device includes a microelectromechanical system (MEMS) sensor, which is protected from liquid by placing the sensor at one end of the electronic liquid trap and a negative pressure port at the other end of the electronic liquid trap.

[0035] In some embodiments, the electronic vaping device comprises a battery housing assembly including a cartridge engagement portion. The cartridge engagement portion includes a cartridge-facing surface configured to engage with a removable cartridge, and an internal surface opposite the cartridge-facing surface. The internal surface includes an elongated liquid trap having a first end and a second end, the second end being distal to the first end. A negative pressure port having a first opening on the cartridge-facing side and a second opening on the internal side, the second opening located within the elongated electronic liquid trap and adjacent to the first end of the liquid trap, and a microelectromechanical system (MEMS) sensor including a sensor diaphragm, the sensor diaphragm positioned adjacent to the second end of the liquid trap and in fluid communication with the second end of the liquid trap.

[0036] In one embodiment, the electronic vaping device further comprises a printed circuit board assembly mounted on the cartridge engagement portion of a battery housing assembly, the printed circuit board having a front facing the cartridge engagement portion and a back opposite to the front, an opening formed in the printed circuit board, a MEMS sensor mounted on the back of the printed circuit board, and a sensor diaphragm positioned on the opening formed in the printed circuit board.

[0037] In some embodiments, the electronic vaping device includes a snap lock molded into the cartridge engagement portion of the battery housing assembly, which holds the printed circuit board assembly in a fixed position relative to the cartridge engagement portion of the battery housing assembly.

[0038] In some embodiments, the electronic vaping device includes a seal with a capillary channel that draws up fluid flowing away from the MEMS sensor into an air sensor path. The capillary channel can be discharged from the electronic vaping device by an adult consumer of the electronic vaping device blowing into the same air path used to supply vapor to the adult electronic vaping consumer.

[0039] In some embodiments, the seal of the electronic vaping device includes a system of capillary channels communicating with an air sensor path and fluid, the capillary channels configured to draw fluid flowing from the diaphragm of the air sensor into the air sensor path. It also includes a molded reed valve connected to the capillary channels and configured to open a fluid discharge path in response to an adult consumer blowing air into the electronic vaping device.

[0040] In various embodiments, rigid-flex printed circuit board assemblies (PCBAs) are used to allow electronic circuits, sensors, microcontrollers, processors, and other components to be positioned within the electronic vaping device in a manner that helps reduce the size of the electronic vaping device and improve its safe and efficient operation. For example, using rigid-flex circuit boards allows MEMS sensors to be positioned near the removable cartridge. This eliminates the need for external wiring that would otherwise have to cross the battery compartment, thus avoiding the risk of exposure to potential wear.

[0041] In one or more embodiments, the electronic vaping device comprises a battery housing assembly including a cartridge-side end, an opposite end facing the cartridge-side end, and at least one side, wherein the cartridge-side end, the opposite end, and at least one side form an opening defining a battery chamber; and a rigid-flex circuit board in which a first rigid circuit board portion is connected to a second rigid circuit board by a flexible circuit board portion, the first rigid circuit board portion being fixed to the cartridge-side end of the battery housing assembly, the second rigid circuit board portion being fixed to the opposite end of the battery housing assembly, and the flexible circuit board portion spanning the battery chamber.

[0042] In some embodiments, electronic vaping devices may include a leadless heating assembly. Conventional heating assemblies (sometimes called atomizers) have thin wire leads that protrude from the atomizer surface. These leads are difficult to align and crimp, creating stress concentration points within the heating assembly and potentially causing problems during manufacturing. Removing the leads from the atomizer design improves the manufacturability and robustness of the design.

[0043] In an embodiment, a heating assembly for an electronic vaping device includes a porous body having a first surface and a second surface, the first surface being in contact with a pre-vaporized formulation and configured to provide a constrained fluid flow of the pre-vaporized formulation through the porous body to the second surface. The electronic vaping device further includes a heating element bonded to the second surface of the porous body and configured to vaporize a portion of the pre-vaporized formulation that has reached the second surface. The heating element includes a leadless electrical contact portion configured to directly engage with an external power supply contact.

[0044] In various embodiments, the leadless electrical contact portion is flush with the second surface. In other embodiments, the leadless electrical contact portion is concave on the second surface. In yet another embodiment, the leadless electrical contact portion protrudes from the second surface.

[0045] In an embodiment, the electronic vaping cartridge includes a heating assembly that heats a pre-vaporized formulation to generate vapor. The heating assembly includes a porous body having a first surface and a second surface, the first surface configured to contact the pre-vaporized formulation and to provide a restricted fluid flow for the pre-vaporized formulation through the porous body to the second surface. The heating assembly further includes a heating element bonded to the second surface and configured to vaporize a portion of the pre-vaporized formulation that reaches the second surface. The heating element includes a leadless electrical contact portion configured to directly engage with an external power contact. The electronic vaping device further includes a cartridge housing configured to hold the heating assembly in a position where the first surface is in fluid contact with a liquid chamber configured to store the pre-vaporized formulation and the second surface is in fluid communication with an air path configured to supply vapor to an adult end user.

[0046] In some embodiments, the cartridge housing includes channels that guide pogo pins located outside the electronic vaping cartridge into direct contact with the leadless electrical contact portion of the heating element.

[0047] In other embodiments, the cartridge housing includes a first pogo pin located inside the electronic vaping cartridge and configured to form an electrical connection with a second pogo pin located outside the electronic vaping cartridge, where the first pogo pin directly engages with the leadless electrical contact portion of the heating element.

[0048] In yet another embodiment, the cartridge housing includes a spring contact configured to directly engage with the leadless electrical contact portion of the heating element. In some such embodiments, the spring contact includes a cantilever spring contact.

[0049] Other embodiments of electronic vaping devices include cylindrical ceramic heating assemblies / atomizers in which nichrome wire is wound around the outer circumference of the heating assembly. In some embodiments, the e-liquid can flow freely through the inner diameter of the ceramic cylinder, which can increase the surface area for vaporization / evaporation compared to other heating assemblies.

[0050] In various embodiments, a heating assembly for an electronic vaping device includes a porous solid in the shape of a hollow cylindrical body with an open end, wherein the inner wall of the hollow cylinder is configured to define part of the fluid path between two portions of a divided fluid reservoir holding the pre-vaporization formulation, and the porous solid restricts the fluid flow between the inner wall and the outer wall of the hollow cylinder. The electronic vaping device further includes a heating element configured to contact the outer wall of the hollow cylinder and vaporize part of the pre-vaporization formulation that reaches the outer wall.

[0051] In some embodiments, the heating element includes a conductor wound around the outer circumference of a hollow cylinder. In other embodiments, the heating element includes a conductor formed on the outer wall of a hollow cylinder. In yet another embodiment, the heating element includes a leadless electrical contact portion configured to directly engage with an external power supply contact.

[0052] In various embodiments, the electronic vaping cartridge includes a divided liquid reservoir configured to hold a pre-vaporization formulation, the divided liquid reservoir including a first reservoir, a second reservoir separated from the first reservoir, and a fluid connection path between the first and second reservoirs. The electronic vaping cartridge further includes an air path intersecting the fluid connection path, and further includes a heating assembly, the heating assembly comprising a porous solid in the shape of a hollow cylindrical body with an open end, the heating assembly positioned at the intersection of the air path and the fluid connection path, the inner wall of the hollow cylinder defining a closed fluid passage, and substantially isolating the fluid connection path from the air path, except for constrained fluid flow between the inner wall of the hollow cylinder and the outer wall of the hollow cylinder. The heating assembly includes a heating element configured to contact the outer wall of the hollow cylinder and vaporize a portion of the pre-vaporization formulation that reaches the outer wall.

[0053] In some embodiments, the electronic vaping cartridge includes a cradle formed at the intersection of an air path and a fluid connection path, the cradle having a shape that securely holds the heating assembly in place.

[0054] In some embodiments, the electronic vaping device includes an intake port that changes shape based on the airflow requested by the adult consumer. When the adult consumer inhales the device more strongly, thereby increasing the negative pressure, the intake port deforms to allow for increased airflow. An airflow sensor detects the increase in airflow, and the power output to one or more heating elements is adjusted accordingly. Thus, when the adult consumer inhales the device more strongly, i.e., requests additional airflow, the airflow increases, and the increased power to the heating elements increases total particulate matter (TPM), more faithfully replicating the experience of a combustible cigarette.

[0055] Methods according to various embodiments include using an airflow sensor to detect changes in airflow required by an adult consumer of an electronic vaping device, and controlling a heating assembly that generates an inhalable dispersion based on the requested airflow changes. The heating assembly is configured to generate an inhalable dispersion by heating a consumable.

[0056] In some embodiments, controlling a heating assembly to produce a variable amount of aspirable dispersion includes adjusting the amount of power supplied to the heating elements of the heating assembly based on the required airflow changes. In other embodiments, controlling a heating assembly to produce different amounts of aspirable dispersion includes changing the duty cycle of the power supply that powers the heating elements. In yet another embodiment, controlling a heating assembly to produce various amounts of aspirable dispersion includes changing the number of heating elements included in the heating assembly and supplying power based on the required airflow changes.

[0057] In various embodiments, methods for controlling the airflow using a deformable membrane at the air intake, in conjunction with controlling the heating assembly, are also included. In some embodiments, control of the suction resistance using the deformable membrane is also included. In one or more embodiments, the deformable membrane is configured to begin deforming at a predetermined negative pressure.

[0058] In various embodiments, the electronic vaping device includes an intake port with a deformable membrane configured to control the airflow in accordance with the airflow requested by an adult consumer, an airflow sensor configured to produce an output indicating that a change in airflow has been detected, and a heating assembly configured to heat the consuming material to produce an inhalable dispersion, the amount of inhalable dispersion produced by the heating assembly varying depending on the amount of power supplied to the heating assembly. A processing circuit is configured to receive the output of the airflow sensor and to control the heating assembly based on the output of the airflow sensor to vary the amount of inhalable dispersion produced.

[0059] In some embodiments, the processing circuit is configured to control the heating assembly to change and generate a different amount of aspirable dispersion by adjusting the amount of power supplied to the heating elements of the heating assembly, by changing the duty cycle of the power supply that powers the heating elements, and / or by changing the number of heating elements included in the heating assembly.

[0060] In other embodiments, the electronic vaping device includes a circuit to monitor the resistance, resistance change rate, or other resistance characteristics of the heating assembly, and cuts off the power supply to the heating assembly when the resistance characteristics exceed a threshold. In at least some embodiments, a drop in the liquid level is estimated from the resistance characteristics, and a drop in the liquid level notification is displayed to the adult user of the electronic vaping device.

[0061] In various embodiments, a method for operating an electronic vaping device includes exciting a heating element configured to heat a pre-vaporized formulation to produce an inhalable dispersion, determining, based on the resistance characteristics of the heating element while it is operating, that the amount of pre-vaporized formulation reaching the heating element is insufficient, and reacting by stopping the energization of the heating element if the resistance characteristics exceed a threshold. In some embodiments, this method also includes displaying a notification to the adult consumer of the electronic vaping device in response to the resistance characteristics exceeding a threshold.

[0062] In some embodiments, the method includes updating a threshold each time the heating element is energized. In various embodiments, the threshold indicates that the resistance of the heating element has exceeded a resistance threshold, and / or the rate of change of the measured resistance of the heating element has exceeded a rate of change threshold.

[0063] In some embodiments, this method includes measuring the rate of change of the measured resistance during the initial energization period and setting a threshold based on the rate of change of the measured resistance during the initial energization period. In various embodiments, the threshold is empirically derived based on data generated using a temperature-responsive heating element.

[0064] In various embodiments, the electronic vaping device includes a heating element configured to heat a pre-vaporization formulation to produce an inhalable dispersion, and a microcontroller connected to the heating element. The microcontroller is programmed to energize the heating element, determine that the amount of pre-vaporization formulation reaching the heating element is small based on its resistance characteristics while the heating element is operating, and to react by stopping the energization of the heating element if the resistance characteristics exceed a threshold.

[0065] In various embodiments, the microcontroller is further programmed to generate a notification signal indicating that the pre-vaporization formulation is below a threshold level. In some embodiments, the microcontroller is further programmed to transmit the notification signal to at least one of the following: a transducer configured to generate vibration, a speaker configured to generate an audible alarm, or an onboard radio interface configured to send a wireless notification to an accompanying mobile device application.

[0066] In various embodiments, the microcontroller is further programmed to update a threshold each time the heating element is energized. In some embodiments, the threshold indicates that the resistance of the heating element has exceeded a resistance threshold, or that the rate of change of the resistance of the heating element has exceeded a rate of change threshold.

[0067] In some embodiments, the microcontroller is further programmed to measure the rate of change of resistance during the initial energization period and to set a threshold based on the rate of change of resistance measured during the initial energization period.

[0068] In one embodiment, the microcontroller includes an analog-to-digital converter with a sufficient sampling rate to measure minute resistance changes down to approximately 6 mΩ.

[0069] In some embodiments, the liquid pre-vaporization formulation is stored in a storage tank in a removable cartridge. As the pre-vaporization formulation is consumed, the pressure in the tank decreases, which can adversely affect the flow of the pre-vaporization formulation. In one such embodiment, a tank seal acts as a check valve between the tank and a liquid trap maintained at ambient atmospheric pressure. When the pressure in the tank decreases, the check valve equalizes the pressure in the tank with the pressure in the liquid trap.

[0070] In various embodiments, an electronic vaping cartridge includes a tank configured to hold a pre-vaporization formulation in a liquid state; a liquid trap including at least one first opening that fluidly communicates with ambient atmospheric pressure and a second opening that fluidly communicates with the tank; and a tank seal having a flexible portion extending to cover the second opening of the liquid trap, the flexible portion functioning as a check valve that isolates the liquid trap from the tank when the first pressure in the tank exceeds the second pressure in the liquid trap and allows air to flow from the liquid trap to the tank when the second pressure in the liquid trap exceeds the first pressure in the tank.

[0071] An exemplary embodiment of electronic vaping also includes a heated assembly seal. This heated assembly seal works in cooperation with the molded portion of the electronic vaping cartridge to isolate the liquid trap from the vapor path within the electronic vaping cartridge.

[0072] In some embodiments, the electronic vaping cartridge includes a plurality of liquid traps, each liquid trap including a second opening that fluidly communicates with a different part of the tank. The tank seal includes a plurality of flexible parts, each of which extends over and covers the second opening of a given liquid trap.

[0073] By combining some or all of the embodiments described above in various combinations, improved electronic vaping devices can be created. For example, a wireless-enabled electronic vaping device, or a removable cartridge for use in a wireless-enabled electronic vaping device, can be implemented to use different combinations of the control circuits, liquid / fluid traps, seals, and / or heating assemblies disclosed herein.

[0074] Various embodiments disclosed herein provide a Bluetooth-enabled electronic vaping device that includes a replaceable, sealed, non-refillable electronic liquid cartridge, a battery-powered unit with Bluetooth® technology (referred to herein as a wireless electronic vaping device), a smartphone application, and a backend server that works in conjunction with the smartphone application and the wireless electronic vaping device to prevent improper use of the electronic vaping device and / or cartridge. One embodiment of the wireless electronic vaping device includes a device access restriction function that can be implemented using Bluetooth® Low Energy technology (BLE), a dedicated smartphone application, and a cloud-based backend application server (server). [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0075] Various features and advantages of the non-limiting embodiments described herein will become more apparent upon closer examination 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. Unless expressly stated otherwise, the accompanying drawings are not to be considered to be drawn to scale. For clarity, various dimensions in the drawings may be exaggerated.

[0076] [Figure 1] Figure 1 is a block diagram showing access and control systems for electronic vaping devices according to various embodiments.

[0077] [Figure 2A] Figures 2A and 2B are flowcharts showing how to operate the electronic vaping device of Figure 1 according to various embodiments. [Figure 2B] Figures 2A and 2B are flowcharts showing how to operate the electronic vaping device of Figure 1 according to various embodiments.

[0078] [Figure 3]Figure 3 is a flowchart showing how to operate the server device shown in Figure 1 according to various embodiments.

[0079] [Figure 4] Figure 4 is a flowchart showing how to operate the adult consumer computing device of Figure 1 according to various embodiments.

[0080] [Figure 5A] Figures 5A to 5C show graphical user interface (GUI) screens according to various embodiments. [Figure 5B] Figures 5A to 5C show graphical user interface (GUI) screens according to various embodiments. [Figure 5C] Figures 5A to 5C show graphical user interface (GUI) screens according to various embodiments.

[0081] [Figure 6A] Figure 6A is a block diagram showing low liquid detection circuits according to various embodiments.

[0082] [Figure 6B] Figure 6B is a block diagram showing wireless-enabled microcontrollers according to various embodiments.

[0083] [Figure 7] Figure 7 is a schematic diagram showing the connection relationships between a wireless microcontroller and other circuits included in a wireless electronic vaping device, according to various embodiments.

[0084] [Figure 8] Figure 8 is a schematic diagram showing a microcontroller and pressure sensing circuit configured to detect suction according to various embodiments.

[0085] [Figure 9]Figure 9 is a schematic diagram showing pulse width modulation type power adjustment circuits according to various embodiments.

[0086] [Figure 10] Figure 10 is a schematic diagram showing a battery charging circuit for an electronic vaping device according to various embodiments.

[0087] [Figure 11] Figure 11 is a block diagram showing the operation methods of an electronic vaping device according to various embodiments.

[0088] [Figure 12] Figure 12 is a block diagram showing the operation of the heater control process in an electronic vaping device according to various embodiments.

[0089] [Figure 13] Figure 13 is a block diagram showing a method for scheduling analog-to-digital converter (ADC) readings to measure the resistance of a heating assembly included in an electronic vaping device, according to various embodiments.

[0090] [Figure 14] Figure 14 is a block diagram showing methods for heater control and short-circuit / overcurrent protection in an electronic vaping device, according to various embodiments.

[0091] [Figure 15] Figure 15 is a block diagram showing methods for controlling the duty cycle of a heating element according to various embodiments.

[0092] [Figure 16] Figure 16 is a block diagram showing methods for establishing wireless communication with an electronic vaping device according to various embodiments.

[0093] [Figure 17]Figure 17 is a block diagram showing a method for controlling access to a wireless electronic vaping device using an unlock timer, according to various embodiments.

[0094] [Figure 18] Figure 18 is a perspective view of a reusable electronic vaping assembly according to various embodiments.

[0095] [Figure 19] Figure 19 shows the internal components of a reusable electronic vaping device according to various embodiments.

[0096] [Figure 20] Figure 20 shows a detachable electronic vaping cartridge configured to be coupled to a reusable electronic vaping device according to various embodiments.

[0097] [Figure 21] Figure 21 shows the electrical connections between a reusable electronic vaping device and a detachable electronic vaping cartridge docked to the device, according to various embodiments.

[0098] [Figure 22] Figure 22 is a perspective view of a disposable electronic vaping device according to various embodiments.

[0099] [Figure 23] Figure 23 is a side view of a disposable electronic vaping device according to various embodiments.

[0100] [Figure 24] Figure 24 is an exploded perspective view of a disposable electronic vaping device, showing its internal components according to various embodiments.

[0101] [Figure 25]Figure 25 is an exploded view of a disposable electronic vaping device including a highly multifunctional seal, according to various embodiments.

[0102] [Figure 26] Figure 26 is a cross-sectional view of a disposable electronic vaping device according to various embodiments, illustrating the interaction between a highly functional seal and a portion of the clamshell case of the electronic vaping device.

[0103] [Figure 27] Figure 27 is a perspective view of a highly multifunctional seal according to various embodiments.

[0104] [Figure 28] Figure 28 is an exploded view of a reusable electronic vaping device including a rigid-flex printed circuit board assembly (PCBA) according to various embodiments.

[0105] [Figure 29] Figure 29 is a perspective view of assembled battery holders according to various embodiments.

[0106] [Figure 30] Figure 30 is an exploded view showing the front of a rigidflex PCBA positioned to be attached to the cartridge engagement portion of a reusable electronic vaping device according to various embodiments.

[0107] [Figure 31] Figure 31 is a partial cross-sectional perspective view of the cartridge engagement portion of a reusable electronic vaping device according to various embodiments.

[0108] [Figure 32A] Figure 32A is a top view of an airway seal including an elongated liquid trap, according to various embodiments.

[0109] [Figure 32B]Figure 32B is a perspective view showing capillary seals according to various embodiments.

[0110] [Figure 33] Figure 33 is a perspective view of leadless heating assemblies according to various embodiments.

[0111] [Figure 34A] This figure shows a cylindrical heating assembly according to various embodiments.

[0112] [Figure 34B] Figure 34B is a cross-sectional view along line A–A' of a cylindrical heating assembly according to various embodiments.

[0113] [Figure 35] Figure 35 is a flowchart showing a method for varying the airflow rate and output based on the required suction volume according to various embodiments.

[0114] [Figure 36A] Figure 36A is an exploded view of the intake port of an electronic vaping device including a silicone valve and a rigid valve seat, according to various embodiments.

[0115] [Figure 36B] Figure 36B is a perspective view of an assembled air intake port of an electronic vaping device according to various embodiments.

[0116] [Figure 36C] Figure 36C is a perspective view of a slightly modified intake port of an electronic vaping device according to various embodiments.

[0117] [Figure 36D] Figure 36D is a perspective view of a more fully modified intake port of an electronic vaping device according to various embodiments.

[0118] [Figure 37]Figure 37 shows liquid traps and tank seals according to various embodiments.

[0119] [Figure 38] Figure 38 is a cross-sectional view showing a liquid trap and tank seal according to various embodiments.

[0120] [Figure 39] Figure 39 is an exploded view of heating assemblies, heating assembly seals, and heating assembly holders according to various embodiments.

[0121] [Figure 40] Figure 40 is an exploded perspective view of a liquid trap assembly, including crush ribs and a heating assembly cover, according to various embodiments. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0122] The various embodiments described herein include electronic vaping devices with wireless communication capabilities (hereinafter referred to as "electronic vaping devices"). In some embodiments, the wireless communication capabilities include the ability to communicate with external computing devices via a personal area network (PAN), such as a Bluetooth® personal area network. As used herein, a personal area network (PAN) is generally characterized by device pairing, communication over shorter distances than a local area network (LAN), and relatively low power consumption compared to other network types. However, although the various embodiments disclosed herein employ a PAN, it is also possible to use other types of wireless networks in some or all of those embodiments.

[0123] In embodiments, the functions of the electronic vaping device and the corresponding electronic vaping control system include, but are not limited to, encrypted data communication between the application and the server, and / or between the application and the electronic vaping device; third-party age / identity verification; the ability to ship the electronic vaping device and / or replaceable cartridges in a locked state to prevent adult consumers from using the electronic vaping device and / or replaceable cartridges without prior authentication / authentication; backward compatibility prevention functions that restrict the use of certain types of replaceable electronic vaping cartridges to certain types of electronic vaping devices; and anti-counterfeiting functions.

[0124] Various embodiments described herein disclose electronic vaping devices, disposable electronic vaping devices, reusable electronic vaping devices, electronic vaping cartridges, and detachable electronic vaping cartridges. The term electronic vaping device encompasses both disposable electronic vaping devices, reusable electronic vaping devices with a docked detachable electronic vaping cartridge, and reusable electronic vaping devices without a docked detachable electronic vaping cartridge. In various embodiments, disposable electronic vaping devices include an integrated cartridge or other consumables in addition to a battery, power control / processing circuitry, and / or wireless communication circuitry. In various embodiments, detachable electronic vaping cartridges and integrated electronic vaping cartridges do not include power control / processing circuitry and / or wireless communication circuitry.

[0125] Referring to Figure 1, an electronic vaping device access control (EDAC) system 100 will be described according to various embodiments. The EDAC system 100 includes a wireless electronic vaping device 110, further including a processor / microcontroller 111, a memory 112 for storing authorization information 113, and a personal area network (PAN) radio circuit 114. The adult consumer computing device 120 further includes a PAN radio circuit 124, a LAN / WAN / cellular radio circuit 121, a processor 122, a memory 123 for storing adult consumer applications 126, and a camera / scanner / code reader 125. The server device 130 further includes a communication interface 131, a processor 132, a memory 133, a database 140, a communication network 150, and a communication carrier system 160.

[0126] In one embodiment, the wireless electronic vaping device 110 may be a disposable electronic vaping device including a non-adult consumer replaceable consumable, or a reusable electronic vaping device configured to operate in conjunction with an adult consumer replaceable consumable, such as a replaceable cartridge containing a pre-vaporized formulation. In various embodiments, the wireless electronic vaping device 110 communicates with the adult consumer computing device 120's PAN (e.g., Bluetooth® network) to request authorization information, provide operating status information, and provide information to identify the wireless electronic vaping device 110 to the adult consumer computing device 120. It should be noted that while the exemplary embodiments focus on wireless-enabled electronic vaping devices, electronic vaping devices that can communicate with a computer via a wired connection, such as a Universal Serial Bus (USB) connection, are also included in the scope of these exemplary embodiments.

[0127] In this embodiment, it is assumed that an adult electronic vaping consumer has previously installed the adult consumer application 126 on the adult consumer computing device 120 and has set up an authenticated account on the server device 130. In this embodiment, when the wireless electronic vaping device 110 is used for the first time, the wireless electronic vaping device 110 can start the pairing process with the adult consumer computing device 120. Once pairing is complete, the wireless electronic vaping device 110 transmits electronic vaping device identification information to the adult consumer computing device 120. The adult consumer application 126 uses this device identification information to associate the wireless electronic vaping device 110 with a previously established authenticated account and transmits the identification information and account information to the server device 130. In some embodiments, the association is performed on the server based on the account information and device identification information transmitted by the adult consumer application 126.

[0128] In some embodiments, if the adult consumer application 126 receives registration approval for the wireless electronic vaping device 110 from the server device 130, the adult consumer application 126 allows the wireless electronic vaping device 110 to exchange further information with the adult consumer application 126. Otherwise, the adult consumer application 126 may terminate communication between the wireless electronic vaping device 110 and the adult consumer computing device 120. In some embodiments, before terminating communication, the adult consumer application 126 may send a message to the wireless electronic vaping device 110 to display an error message. In some embodiments, an "authentication failure counter" is incremented on the wireless electronic vaping device 110, the adult consumer application 126, or the server device 130. After the number of authentication failure attempts reaches a threshold, the wireless electronic vaping device 110 may be permanently or temporarily disabled. In other embodiments, an "authentication failure timer" on the wireless electronic vaping device 110, the adult consumer application 126, or the server device 130 can be incremented to prevent additional authentication attempts for a predetermined period. In some embodiments, an authentication failure counter can be used in combination with a time limit.

[0129] For example, continuing as described above, after the wireless electronic vaping device 110 is registered, the wireless electronic vaping device 110 can send a request for authorization information to the adult consumer computing device 120. In another embodiment, the authorization information is pushed to the wireless electronic vaping device 110 as part of the initial registration process for the wireless electronic vaping device 110. In some embodiments, the wireless electronic vaping device 110 sends a request for authorization information to the adult consumer computing device 120 each time a removable / replaceable electronic vaping cartridge is docked to the wireless electronic vaping device 110.

[0130] In various embodiments, the wireless electronic vaping device 110 stores the received authorization information 113 in memory 112. When a removable / replaceable electronic vaping cartridge is docked to the wireless electronic vaping device 110, the wireless electronic vaping device 110 verifies that the onboard cartridge identifier contained in the docked electronic vaping cartridge is included in the list of approved electronic vaping cartridges in the authorization information. If the onboard cartridge identifier matches the cartridge identifier included in the authorization information, the wireless electronic vaping device 110 activates the docked electronic vaping cartridge. If they do not match, the docked electronic vaping cartridge is not activated. In some embodiments, if the authorization information is changed, the currently operating electronic vaping cartridge may be stopped.

[0131] In various embodiments, the adult consumer computing device 120 includes, but is not limited to, a smartphone, tablet, laptop, desktop, wearable, or other computing device that runs the adult consumer application 126 and can communicate with the wireless electronic vaping device 110. As described above, the adult consumer computing device 120 transmits authorization information obtained from the server device 130 to the wireless electronic vaping device 110 so that the wireless electronic vaping device 110 can use it for its own operation control, access control, and operation of the electronic vaping cartridge docked to the wireless electronic vaping device 110.

[0132] In various embodiments, the adult consumer computing device 120 uses a camera / scanner / code reader 125 to collect identification information related to the wireless electronic vaping device 110, the electronic vaping cartridge, or both. This identification information is transmitted to a server device 130 using an adult application 126, and the server device 130 generates authorization information based on the identification information collected by the adult computing device 120. For example, when purchasing an electronic vaping cartridge, an adult electronic vaping consumer may scan a computer-readable code, such as a barcode or QR code (registered trademark), which is permanently printed on the electronic vaping cartridge or is on or included with the packaging of the electronic vaping cartridge.

[0133] In at least one embodiment, the computer-readable code identifies the electronic vaping cartridge but does not match an onboard identifier contained in an inaccessible area of ​​the electronic vaping cartridge (e.g., the electronic vaping cartridge's onboard memory). In some embodiments, information associating a QR code®, which is indelibly printed on a surface visible from the outside of the electronic vaping cartridge, with an internal onboard identifier of the electronic vaping cartridge is recorded during the manufacture of the electronic vaping cartridge, and this association information is stored in the memory 133 of the server device 130. The server device 130 uses the scanned QR code® information provided by the adult consumer application 126 and the adult consumer computing device 120 to generate authorization information to be delivered to the wireless electronic vaping device 110.

[0134] In various embodiments, the adult consumer computing device 120 communicates with the server device 130 via either the communication carrier system 160 or the communication network 150. Communication between the adult consumer computing devices 120 is initiated by either the server device 130 or the adult consumer computing device 120. For example, the adult consumer computing device 120 may send a request for authorization information or a request for registration of electronic vaping to the server device 130. Alternatively, the server device 130 may perform scheduled push transmissions of authorization information to the adult consumer computing device 120, push authorization information in response to trigger events such as changes in authorization information, or the server device 130 may send a communication establishment request to the adult consumer computing device 120.

[0135] The authorization information transmitted from the server device 130 to the adult consumer computing device 120 may include the latest cartridge authorization information. In some embodiments, the adult consumer application 126 stores the authorization information in either encrypted or unencrypted format so that the adult consumer application 126 can transmit the authorization information to the wireless electronic vaping device 110 during periods when the adult consumer computing device 120 does not have a network connection. In at least one embodiment, whenever the server device 130 generates updated authorization information for an account associated with an adult electronic vaping consumer, the updated authorization information is pushed to the adult consumer application 126. In some embodiments, the updated authorization information is transmitted from the server device 130 to the adult consumer computing device 120 in response to a request from the adult consumer application 126, or in response to the server device 130 receiving scanned QR code® information affecting the adult electronic vaping consumer's account.

[0136] As an example, the server device 130 receives association information that links a computer-readable code indelibly engraved on the external surface of a removable electronic vaping cartridge with an onboard identifier contained in the corresponding removable electronic vaping cartridge. In at least one embodiment, without the association information, it is not possible to identify the onboard identifier of an electronic vaping cartridge solely from the computer-readable code on the external surface of the removable electronic vaping cartridge. In at least one embodiment, when an electronic vaping cartridge is manufactured, the association information for that electronic vaping cartridge is provided to the server device 130.

[0137] In various embodiments, the server device 130 receives information from a scanned computer-readable code on a removable electronic vaping cartridge. The information from the scanned computer-readable code is received from an adult consumer application 126 running on an adult consumer computing device 120. In various embodiments, the adult consumer application 126 provides the server device 130 with information from the scanned computer-readable code only if an adult electronic vaping consumer with an established adult consumer account is logged into the adult consumer application 126. This allows the adult consumer application 126 to provide the server device 130 with sufficient information to associate the information from the scanned computer-readable code with the appropriate account. In various embodiments, the server device 130 may receive an explicit account identifier or infer the account identifier from other data provided, such as a token, an identifier for the adult consumer computing device 120, or information obtained when a communication session is established between the adult consumer computing device 120 and the server device 130.

[0138] In one embodiment, the server device 130 identifies the onboard identifier of a removable electronic vaping cartridge based on association information, generates authorization information including the onboard identifier of the removable electronic vaping cartridge, and stores the authorization information in the database 140 along with other adult consumer account information 141 of the adult electronic vaping consumer. The authorization information includes, but is not limited to, registered cartridge information 142 and registered electronic vaping device information 144. Registered cartridge information 142 includes, but is not limited to, cartridge QR code (registered trademark) information, cartridge onboard identifier, association information, registration date and time, activation date and time, registration timer, activation timer, activation status, registration status, total number of registered cartridges (current and past), counter, cartridge characteristics / type, etc. Registered electronic vaping device information 144 includes, but is not limited to, component identifiers, registration date and time, warranty information, usage information, assembly identifier, registration timer, registration status, total number of registered devices (current and past), counter, etc.

[0139] Next, referring to Figure 2A, a method 200 for operating the electronic vaping system of Figure 1 will be described according to various embodiments.

[0140] As shown in block 203, electronic vaping starts method 200 with the power on.

[0141] As shown in block 205, the wireless electronic vaping device 110 (Figure 1) obtains authorization information from the adult consumer computing device 120 (Figure 1). In one embodiment, the wireless electronic vaping device obtains authorization information by transmitting a request via a personal area network (PAN). In at least one embodiment, the request may, but may not, indicate whether a cartridge is currently docked and the operational status of that cartridge. In various embodiments, the wireless electronic vaping device can determine whether a cartridge is docked by measuring the resistance between two electrical contacts used to supply power to a heating element contained in a docked removable cartridge included in the wireless electronic vaping device 110. If the electronic vaping cartridge is not docked in the wireless electronic vaping device 110, the resistance between the two electrical contacts may indicate an open circuit. However, once the electronic vaping cartridge is docked, the heating element contained in the removable cartridge completes the circuit between the two electrical contacts included in the wireless electronic vaping device 110, reducing the resistance between the two electrical contacts, so an open circuit is no longer indicated. In various embodiments, the electronic vaping cartridge is determined to be installed when the measured resistance between the two electrical contacts decreases. In at least one embodiment, the measured resistance value changes from substantially infinite to a value defined by the resistance of the heating element (e.g., in the range of approximately 0.5 ohms to 2.8 ohms). The measurement of resistance between the two electrical contacts included in the wireless electronic vaping device 110 will be described later.

[0142] In some embodiments, docking an electronic vaping cartridge to a wireless electronic vaping device triggers the generation of a request. In other embodiments, a request may be generated when the electronic vaping device is powered on, in response to another trigger event, in response to a notification from a computing device that updated authorization information is available, when a computing device performs a scan operation, or in similar circumstances. In at least one embodiment, the onboard identifier of the docked cartridge is not transmitted to the computing device in the request.

[0143] In some embodiments, the authorization information obtained from the computing device includes one or more identifiers of authenticated electronic vaping cartridges currently registered in an account associated with an account of an adult electronic vaping consumer to which the wireless electronic vaping device is registered. In various embodiments, an electronic vaping cartridge may be registered in an adult electronic vaping consumer's account but may not be included in the authorization information because it is not unapproved for other reasons, as will be described later.

[0144] In some embodiments, authorization information may be transmitted to the wireless electronic vaping device in an encrypted form to prevent unauthorized access to the authorization information if the information is intercepted during transmission, but this is not necessarily required. Other data security measures, including the incorporation of "dummy" information into the authorization information, may be employed in some embodiments.

[0145] As shown in block 207, the wireless electronic vaping device stores authorization information in local memory, such as memory 112 (Figure 1). All or part of the authorization information may be stored in encrypted or unencrypted format.

[0146] As shown in block 209, the wireless electronic vaping device determines whether an electronic vaping cartridge is currently docked to the device. If there is no currently docked detachable electronic vaping cartridge, the electronic vaping device waits until a docked electronic vaping cartridge is detected.

[0147] As shown in block 210, when a docked electronic vaping cartridge is detected, the wireless electronic vaping device obtains the onboard identifier of the docked electronic vaping cartridge from the cartridge itself. In various embodiments, the onboard identifier of the installed cartridge can be obtained from a memory built into the electronic vaping cartridge by a contact reader, a radio frequency identification (RFID) reader circuit, a near-field communication (NFC) circuit, etc.

[0148] As shown in block 211, the wireless electronic vaping device determines whether the docked electronic vaping cartridge is authorized to be operated by the wireless electronic vaping device. In embodiments, the wireless electronic vaping device determines whether the docked electronic vaping cartridge is authorized to be operated by the wireless electronic vaping device by comparing an onboard identifier obtained from the docked electronic vaping cartridge with stored authorization information. In at least one embodiment, if the onboard identifier of the docked electronic vaping cartridge is included in the list of authorized electronic vaping cartridges stored in the memory of the wireless electronic vaping device, the wireless electronic vaping device determines that the docked electronic vaping cartridge is authorized. Otherwise, the wireless electronic vaping device determines that the docked electronic vaping cartridge is not authorized.

[0149] As shown in Block 213, if the wireless electronic vaping device determines that the docked electronic vaping cartridge is authorized, the operation of the docked electronic vaping cartridge may be permitted. In some embodiments, the operation of the docked electronic vaping cartridge may involve setting a software activation switch that allows power to be supplied to the heating assembly of the docked electronic vaping cartridge in response to puff detection by a puff sensor. The use of the puff sensor to control the power supply to the docked electronic vaping cartridge will be discussed later.

[0150] In at least one embodiment, when a detachable electronic vaping cartridge is undocked, the cartridge immediately becomes inactive, and when it is subsequently docked again with a wireless electronic vaping device, the cartridge needs to be reactivated.

[0151] As shown in Block 217, the wireless electronic vaping device can generate a notification indicating the activation status of the docked cartridge. In various embodiments, the notification may include one or more tactile, auditory, or visual notifications from either the electronic vaping device itself or a paired mobile device, or both.

[0152] Next, referring to Figure 2B, the method 250 for operating the electronic vaping shown in Figure 1 will be described according to various embodiments.

[0153] As shown in block 213, the docked electronic vaping cartridge is operated as described in method 200 (Figure 2A). In some embodiments, the operation of the docked electronic vaping cartridge may include setting a software switch that allows power to be supplied to the heating assembly of the docked electronic vaping cartridge.

[0154] As shown in block 255, the wireless electronic vaping device determines whether the activated electronic vaping cartridge has been undocked. If so, as shown in block 257, the activated electronic vaping cartridge becomes deactivated. In various embodiments, deactivating an electronic vaping cartridge includes prohibiting the supply of power to the heating device of a docked electronic vaping cartridge.

[0155] As shown in block 259, the wireless electronic vaping device determines whether the authorization of the active electronic vaping cartridge has expired. In some embodiments, the period for which the software switch described above with respect to block 213 in Figure 2A remains activated is limited. In one such embodiment, the wireless electronic vaping device starts the authorization expiration timer at the same time as setting the software activation switch. In response to the expiration of the authorization timer, the active electronic vaping cartridge is deactivated, and in some embodiments, the authorization information associated with the active electronic vaping cartridge is removed from the stored authorization information.

[0156] In yet another embodiment, a data expiration timer is set in relation to the wireless electronic vaping device that stores authorization information. When the data expiration timer expires, the wireless electronic vaping device marks the authorization information as outdated, deletes the authorization information, and / or sends a request to a computing device, such as the adult consumer computing device 120 shown in Figure 1, requesting updated authorization information. If the authorization has expired, the operating electronic vaping cartridge is deactivated, as shown in block 257.

[0157] As shown in Block 261, the wireless electronic vaping device determines whether the authorization of an active electronic vaping cartridge has been revoked. In at least one embodiment, the wireless electronic vaping device makes this determination based on additional information received, for example, from a paired mobile phone or other computing device. This additional information may include information indicating specific authorization information to be deleted from the storage device within the wireless electronic vaping device, a revocation list to be used in combination with other stored authorization information, and / or alternative authorization information to be stored in place of previously stored authorization information. If the authorization has revoked, the active electronic vaping cartridge is deactivated, as shown in Block 257.

[0158] Next, with reference to Figure 3, a method 300 for operating the server device of Figure 1 according to various embodiments will be described. As shown in block 303, the server device (such as the server device 130 in Figure 1) establishes communication with an adult consumer application (such as the adult consumer application 126) running on the adult consumer computing device 120 (Figure 1). As shown in block 305, the server device determines whether it has received a request from the adult consumer application to establish an adult consumer account. In various embodiments, this request may include one or more of the following: adult consumer identification information, age verification information, address information, consent information, warning confirmation information, or similar information.

[0159] As shown in block 307, the server determines whether to allow the request to open an adult consumer account. In some embodiments, the decision on whether to allow the opening of an adult consumer account may involve a variety of identity verification and authentication processes, including but not limited to the use of a third-party identity verification service. In various embodiments, the decision on whether to allow the opening of an adult consumer account may include determining whether the adult consumer requesting the account meets the age and identity verification requirements, whether the adult consumer already has an account, whether any previously opened accounts associated with the adult consumer have been closed or suspended, whether the closed account was closed as a result of the adult consumer violating sharing and use policies and requirements, and whether any violations associated with a suspended account have been rectified by the adult consumer.

[0160] As shown in block 309, if account registration is permitted, the server establishes an adult electronic vaping consumer account and associates the account with the adult consumer. In some embodiments, the adult consumer application and / or adult consumer computing device are also associated with the adult consumer account. In some embodiments, the adult consumer can associate multiple computing devices with the adult consumer account during or after account setup.

[0161] As shown in block 311, the server determines whether it has received a registration request for an electronic vaping device from an adult consumer application. In at least some embodiments, this request may include information identifying the electronic vaping device to be registered to the adult consumer account of an adult electronic vaping consumer.

[0162] As shown in block 313, in response to receiving a request to register an electronic vaping device, the server determines whether registration of the electronic vaping device is permitted. This determination includes determining whether the electronic vaping device is counterfeit based on its serial number or other identifying information associated with the device; determining the number of electronic vaping devices currently registered in an adult consumer account; determining the number of electronic vaping devices registered in the account within a given period; determining whether the electronic vaping device is already registered in one or more other accounts; determining whether the number of registered electronic vaping devices exceeds the electronic vaping device quantity threshold; and determining whether registration of the electronic vaping device related to the request has been previously refused or canceled.

[0163] For example, if an adult consumer attempts to register an electronic vaping device that is already registered to another adult consumer account, the registration request for that device may be rejected. Similarly, if the same electronic vaping device has been rejected three times within the past week, registration may be rejected.

[0164] As shown in block 315, if the server determines that it is permissible to register an electronic vaping device with an adult consumer account, the server registers the electronic vaping device and stores information about the electronic vaping device, and in some embodiments, information about the electronic vaping device registration process, in the adult consumer account information 141 contained in the database 140.

[0165] As shown in block 317, the server determines whether it has received a registration request for an electronic vaping cartridge from an adult consumer application. In at least some embodiments, this request may include information that identifies the electronic vaping cartridge to be registered in the adult consumer account of an adult electronic vaping consumer. This information may include an identifier obtained by scanning a computer-readable code (such as a QR code® or barcode) displayed on the external surface of the electronic vaping cartridge.

[0166] As shown in block 319, in response to receiving a registration request for an electronic vaping cartridge, the server determines whether registration of the electronic vaping cartridge is permitted. This determination may include determining whether the electronic vaping cartridge is a counterfeit device based on the serial number or other identifying information associated with the electronic vaping cartridge; determining the number of electronic vaping cartridges currently registered in an adult consumer account; determining the number of electronic vaping cartridges registered in the account within a given period; determining whether the electronic vaping cartridge is already registered in one or more other accounts; determining whether the number of registered electronic vaping cartridges exceeds an electronic vaping cartridge quantity threshold; determining whether registration of the electronic vaping cartridge associated with the request has been previously rejected or canceled; or similar determinations.

[0167] For example, if the electronic vaping cartridge quantity threshold is set to 20, and an adult consumer's account already has 20 cartridges registered, the current electronic vaping cartridge registration may be rejected until one of the 20 already registered electronic vaping cartridges is deregistered.

[0168] As shown in block 321, if the server determines that it is permissible to register an electronic vaping cartridge to an adult consumer account, the server registers the electronic vaping cartridge and stores information about the electronic vaping cartridge, and in some exemplary embodiments, information about the electronic vaping cartridge registration process, in the adult consumer account information 141 contained in the database 140.

[0169] In some embodiments, the deregistration of a previously registered electronic vaping cartridge may be performed as part of cartridge registration in block 315 or as a prerequisite for cartridge registration in block 313. Deregistration of a previously registered electronic vaping cartridge may include marking or flagging the electronic vaping cartridge. In some embodiments, an adult consumer may manually request the deregistration of a designated electronic vaping cartridge, or electronic vaping cartridges may be automatically deregistered to prevent the number of registered cartridges from exceeding a cartridge count threshold.

[0170] For example, the server can establish a cartridge registration queue so that whenever a new electronic vaping cartridge is registered, the oldest registered electronic vaping cartridge is automatically deregistered. In some embodiments, automatic deregistration can be performed upon receiving a "cartridge empty" indicator from an adult consumer application to the server.

[0171] As shown in block 323, the server receives an authorization information request for an adult consumer application. In various embodiments, this request may include a request sent from the adult consumer application to the server, or a system request generated in response to an event, which may include, but not limited to, the expiration of an authentication or registration period, the removal of a cartridge from a list of valid electronic vaping cartridges, or the addition of an electronic vaping cartridge to a list of stolen or recalled cartridges. In various embodiments, the authorization information request may be an account-level request, or it may be specific to one or more particular electronic vaping devices. In the case of an account-level request, the authorization information is distributed to multiple electronic vaping devices associated with the account, and registered cartridges become freely available for use in the registered electronic vaping devices. In other embodiments, the authorization information may be specific to a single electronic vaping device, and in addition to account-level registration, a particular cartridge may be authorized for use in a particular electronic vaping device.

[0172] As shown in block 325, the server determines whether the authorization information request is approved. In some embodiments, the authorization information request may be rejected if there is no registered electronic vaping device or registered electronic vaping cartridge in the adult consumer account associated with the request, or if the adult consumer account associated with the request is locked or revoked. Furthermore, in some embodiments, if the request is associated with a particular electronic vaping device, the request may be rejected if that electronic vaping device has been reported as lost or stolen.

[0173] As shown in block 327, the server sends the requested authorization information to the application.

[0174] Referring to Figure 4, a method 400 for operating the adult consumer computing device 120 of Figure 1 will be described according to various embodiments. In various embodiments, this method is implemented in a specially configured application such as the adult application 126 shown in Figure 1.

[0175] As shown in block 403, the adult consumer application establishes a communication session with the server device 130 (Figure 1). As shown in block 405, the adult electronic vaping consumer can use the application to register and / or log in to their adult electronic vaping consumer account.

[0176] As shown in Block 407, a computing device, under the control of an adult consumer application, controls a scanner, camera, or other type of reader to scan or read a computer-readable code on the outer surface of an electronic vaping device or electronic vaping cartridge. In some embodiments, the computer-readable code may also be scanned or read additionally or alternatively from the packaging of the electronic vaping device or electronic vaping cartridge, but in at least one embodiment, the computer-readable code is permanently engraved on the electronic vaping device or electronic vaping cartridge itself. The permanently engraved computer-readable code includes, but is not limited to, a barcode or QR code® that is added or formed by etching, printing, molding, painting, welding, pasting, or other means on a surface visible from the outside of the electronic vaping device or electronic vaping cartridge.

[0177] As shown in Block 409, in one embodiment, an adult consumer mobile device transmits some or all of the scanned information to a server. In at least one embodiment, the scanned information includes an electronic vaping device identifier or an electronic vaping cartridge identifier. The electronic vaping device identifier or electronic vaping cartridge identifier may or may not match an internal onboard identifier built into the electronic vaping device or electronic vaping cartridge. In some embodiments, using a non-matching onboard identifier and an externally accessible identifier can make it more difficult to counterfeit or fraudulently register a detachable electronic vaping cartridge and / or electronic vaping device.

[0178] As shown in block 411, in various embodiments, in response to sending scanned information to the server, the adult consumer application receives authorization information from the server related to the scanned information. The authorization information related to the scanned information from the server may include an internal identifier associated with the scanned information. For example, suppose the externally verifiable identifier associated with a removable electronic vaping cartridge is "EXTERNAL1234". The adult consumer computing device sends the identifier EXTERNAL1234 to the server, and the server links the identifier EXTERNAL1234 to another identifier INTERNAL9476. The server returns the identifier INTERNAL9476 in a list of one or more authorized removable electronic vaping cartridges included in the authorization information.

[0179] At this point, as shown in block 413, in some embodiments, communication between the adult consumer computing device and the electronic vaping device is established via a personal area network (PAN). In other embodiments, communication between the adult consumer computing device and the electronic vaping device may be established beforehand.

[0180] As shown in block 415, the adult consumer application determines whether the electronic vaping device that the adult consumer computing device is currently communicating with is registered for use with the adult consumer account to which the adult electronic vaping consumer is logged. In some embodiments, the adult consumer application can make this decision locally based on authorization information previously received from the server. In another embodiment, the adult consumer application sends an identifier for the electronic vaping device to the server, the server makes the decision, and notifies the adult consumer application of the result.

[0181] As shown in Block 417, if the electronic vaping device that the adult consumer computer is communicating with is registered to the appropriate account, the adult consumer application transmits the authorization information received from the server to the registered electronic vaping device. Thus, continuing the previous example, the identifier EXTERNAL1234 transmitted to the server resulted in the server transmitting the identifier INTERNAL9476 to the adult consumer application running on the adult consumer computing device. The adult consumer computing device then transmits the identifier INTERNAL9476 to the electronic vaping device. In various embodiments described herein, authorization information may be transmitted to the electronic vaping device before the detachable electronic vaping cartridge is docked to the electronic vaping device, or while the detachable electronic vaping cartridge is docked to the electronic vaping device.

[0182] As shown in Block 419, after an electronic vaping cartridge is docked to an electronic vaping device, an adult consumer application may receive a notification from the electronic vaping device indicating the activation status of the docked cartridge. Continuing the previous example, the electronic vaping device activates the docked electronic vaping cartridge if the onboard identifier of the electronic vaping cartridge matches the identifier INTERNAL9476 received in authorization information sent from the adult consumer application to the electronic vaping device.

[0183] As shown in Block 423, in various embodiments, an adult consumer application determines whether a docked electronic vaping cartridge is authenticated based on information received from the electronic vaping device. In at least one embodiment, authentication of the electronic vaping cartridge is determined by the electronic vaping device, and it is conceivable that the electronic vaping device activates the cartridge if it determines that the docked electronic vaping cartridge is authenticated. In some of these embodiments, the electronic vaping device will not activate the docked electronic vaping cartridge unless it is authenticated. Therefore, if a notification from the electronic vaping device indicates that the electronic vaping cartridge is activated, the adult consumer application may conclude in Block 423 that the docked electronic vaping cartridge is authenticated. Conversely, if the electronic vaping device notifies the adult consumer application that the docked electronic vaping cartridge is not activated, the adult consumer application may conclude that the docked electronic vaping cartridge is not authenticated, unless there is another malfunction indicator from the electronic vaping device.

[0184] As shown in Block 425, if an adult consumer application determines in Block 423 that the docked electronic vaping cartridge is not authenticated, the adult consumer application can send a request to the server for updated authorization information. By sending a request for updated authorization information upon notification that the docked electronic vaping cartridge is not authenticated, the electronic vaping device can ensure that it obtains the most up-to-date authorization information available.

[0185] Similarly, if the adult consumer application determines in block 415 that the electronic vaping device being communicated is not registered with the adult electronic vaping consumer account, it can execute block 425 to obtain the most up-to-date authorization information available.

[0186] As shown in Block 427, in various embodiments, an adult consumer application may instruct an adult consumer computing device to generate a notification indicating the activation status of a docked cartridge. Notifications generated by the adult consumer computing device may be local to the computing device or external to the computing device. Examples of notifications local to the computing device include, but are not limited to, displaying a notification window within the graphical user interface (GUI) of the adult consumer application; displaying a notification object on the display screen of an adult consumer computing device, either inside or outside the adult consumer application; activating transducers contained in the adult consumer computing device to generate vibration; blinking, flashing, or otherwise operating one or more light-emitting diodes (LEDs) on the adult consumer computing device; sending an audio signal to the speaker of the computing device to generate an audible tone alert or voice message; and generating any combination of audible, visual, and / or tactile alerts.

[0187] Examples of notifications to external computing devices include, but are not limited to, sending emails, social media notifications or messages, text messages, sending notification activation signals to one or more electronic vaping devices, sending information to servers managing adult consumer accounts, troubleshooting, and / or product improvements.

[0188] Additional embodiments are disclosed. In one of the disclosed embodiments, a Bluetooth®-enabled electronic vaping device can generate an inhalable aerosol by utilizing the heating of an e-liquid. A Bluetooth®-enabled electronic vaping device is an example of an electronic vaping device with wireless capabilities. Various features in the embodiments of electronic vaping devices described herein are applicable to both wireless and non-wireless electronic vaping devices. In various embodiments, an electronic vaping device includes a reusable electronic vaping device (also called a power control unit) and a replaceable electronic vaping cartridge (also called a POD), where the replaceable electronic vaping cartridge is docked to the reusable electronic vaping device, and these two components together form the electronic vaping device. In some such embodiments, the electronic vaping cartridge includes a ceramic heating assembly, or atomizer, which may further include a nickel-chromium heating element. The reusable electronic vaping device may include a power control unit, which includes a battery, a puff sensor, processing circuits such as a microcontroller, and a printed circuit board assembly (PCBA). In various embodiments, a reusable electronic vaping device is configured to power a replaceable cartridge and heat the e-liquid stored in the replaceable cartridge to produce an inhalable aerosol. The PCBA included in the reusable electronic vaping device may include wireless communication circuits such as Bluetooth® transmitter / receiver technology and antennas.

[0189] In various embodiments, a first type of replaceable, non-refillable electronic liquid cartridge (electronic vaping cartridge) may utilize a mechanical reverse-interchange prevention feature configured to prevent the first type of electronic vaping cartridge from being used with an incompatible electronic vaping device by preventing the formation of an electrical circuit with the incompatible electronic vaping device.

[0190] In various exemplary embodiments, a device access restriction function implemented in the circuitry of a wireless electronic vaping device prevents the operation of an electronic vaping cartridge docked to the wireless electronic vaping device unless it has been unlocked by an authorized (or authorized) adult consumer. In various embodiments, a locked electronic vaping device enters a locked or deactivated state and remains in that state. In this state, the power output connected to the docked electronic vaping cartridge does not supply power to the heating assembly of the docked electronic vaping cartridge. This state persists until an unlock command is received.

[0191] In various embodiments, electronic vaping devices are locked at the time of manufacture and shipment. In some embodiments, authorized adult consumers can wirelessly send lock and unlock commands to the electronic vaping device from a smartphone with a smartphone application installed. Adult consumers may need to create an age-verified authentication account and log in to that account in order to register and unlock the wireless electronic vaping device. In some embodiments, the wireless electronic vaping device is linked to a single authenticated adult consumer account, and that user has exclusive control over unlocking the wireless electronic vaping device.

[0192] Table 1 shows an overview of the access restriction function in various embodiments. Overview of Access Restriction Features for Bluetooth-Enabled Electronic Vaping Devices [Table 1]

[0193] Wireless electronic vaping devices utilize Bluetooth® technology to pair with adult consumers' computing devices (including, but not limited to, smartphones, desktop computers, laptops, tablets, and wearable devices), and in some embodiments, enable the wireless electronic vaping device to communicate with applications running on the computing device. While the term “application” is used in relation to the embodiments described herein, in any or all embodiments, the same or similar functionality can be achieved using a browser or software other than an “app.” Therefore, as used herein, “application,” “adult consumer application,” and other similar derived terms should be interpreted to include web browsers, or web browsers that provide access to web pages, services, or remotely hosted and / or executed software programs available through other software running on the computing device of an adult electronic vaping consumer.

[0194] This application can be used to unlock and lock electronic vaping devices. In various embodiments, unlocking a wireless electronic vaping device means allowing the wireless electronic vaping device to activate an authenticated electronic vaping cartridge currently docked to it. The application can connect to a server device 130 (Figure 1) to facilitate account creation, age and identity verification, and device registration.

[0195] Before an adult consumer can unlock a wireless electronic vaping device using an adult consumer application, they may be required to create an authenticated and age-verified account. In some embodiments, an adult consumer can initiate the unlocking of a wireless electronic vaping device via an adult consumer application, but whether the electronic vaping device is permitted to be unlocked by the adult consumer ultimately depends on the information contained in the adult consumer account and the identifier associated with the electronic vaping device and / or docked electronic vaping cartridge.

[0196] In various embodiments, during the registration process, adult electronic vaping consumers may be asked to provide household information and / or other information. For example, whether any minors under the age of 21 reside in the same household as the adult electronic vaping consumer, or whether the adult electronic vaping consumer works near any minors. Such information may be stored by the server as part of the adult electronic vaping consumer's account information. For example, server device 130 (Figure 1) may store household information and / or other information in database 140 (Figure 1) along with other adult consumer account information 141 (Figure 1). Household information and / or other information may also be stored additionally and / or alternatively on the adult consumer's computing device 120 (Figure 1). This information may later be used by the consumer app 126 to notify consumers of various electronic vaping device limitations and / or safety features. For example, as described below, this information may be used as the basis for determining the maximum duration of the lockout timer.

[0197] In some embodiments, an adult consumer account can be created after downloading and installing an application on a smartphone or other adult consumer computing device. In various embodiments, account information is stored on a server device, so account creation is possible on any computing device that can access the server device, regardless of whether the computing device has wireless capabilities and can communicate with an electronic vaping device. The application can transmit data entered to the server during the account creation process, and the server can verify age and identity against a third-party database with public records and ensure that an individual creates only one unique account.

[0198] After the age and identity of an adult consumer are verified, the adult consumer can pair their wireless vaping device with their smartphone. Each wireless vaping device may contain a unique ID stored in the unit's firmware, and unlocking it may require a corresponding wireless vaping device-specific security key from the server. The application can send the wireless vaping device's unique ID to the server. The server can register the unique wireless vaping device ID to a unique adult consumer account and send a unique security key to the app that matches the security key factory-installed in the wireless vaping device's firmware. In some embodiments, the adult consumer can then issue lock and unlock commands to the wireless vaping device without contacting the server again. According to some embodiments, an unlocked wireless vaping device will automatically relock after a maximum of 72 hours (the adult consumer can choose a shorter period, but it cannot exceed 72 hours). This automatic relock time may be partially shortened based on the information contained in the adult consumer account information 141.

[0199] In at least one embodiment, only the authorized adult consumer who initially registered the wireless electronic vaping device can unlock and lock that device during subsequent use. To reduce the possibility of improper sharing of the electronic vaping device after it has been associated with an account, it may be prevented from being transferred to another account. To minimize the possibility of unauthorized transfer to others, server security rules may allow only one account per individual and limit the number of wireless electronic vaping devices that can be registered to one account at any one time to three.

[0200] In various embodiments, the wireless electronic vaping device may include a rechargeable 400 mAh lithium-ion battery cell (210400001) for energy storage and a PCBA (100040) configured to control the functions of the wireless electronic vaping device. The battery cell and PCBA may be housed in a rugged zinc alloy housing. In some embodiments, other types and sizes of batteries may be implemented. A microcontroller unit (MCU) or other processing device / circuit mounted on the PCBA may, in some embodiments, control all or substantially all of the device functions, including but not limited to Bluetooth® connectivity, device access restrictions, and / or safety features. In other embodiments, wireless functions may be controlled by processing circuitry including a suitable commercially available wireless modem circuit.

[0201] In various embodiments, all or part of the locking function resides on the wireless electronic vaping device, and the locked / unlocked state of the wireless electronic vaping device is maintained even when the battery is completely depleted.

[0202] In some embodiments, after a wireless electronic vaping device is paired with an adult consumer application, the device may receive lock and unlock commands and / or authorization information from the adult consumer application. Upon receiving the lock command and / or authorization information, the wireless electronic vaping device may enter a locked state and may not activate power output to the removable electronic vaping cartridge. This state persists until an unlock command and / or updated authorization information is received. Upon receiving the unlock command and / or updated authorization information, the device enters an active state and supplies power to the removable electronic vaping cartridge when air is drawn from the cartridge.

[0203] In various embodiments, the unlock command may include a time interval. In other embodiments, one or more time periods associated with the wireless electronic vaping device and / or a removable electronic vaping cartridge may be included in authorization information received and stored by the wireless electronic vaping device. A timer in the device's firmware is set according to the time period received in the unlock command or authorization information. When this timer expires, the device may return to a locked state and remain locked until an unlock command is received.

[0204] While the embodiments described above describe wireless electronic vaping devices including a reusable electronic vaping device and a replaceable electronic vaping cartridge, various features disclosed with respect to such systems can be implemented in disposable electronic vaping devices including a single, integrated device configured to provide vapor generation capabilities essentially equivalent to those provided by a reusable electronic vaping device and a docked, replaceable electronic vaping cartridge. Thus, the terms “disposable electronic vaping device” or “disposable wireless electronic vaping device” refer to electronic vaping devices in which the entire electronic vaping device is replaced after the consumables stored within the electronic vaping device (e.g., pre-vaporization formulations) have been consumed.

[0205] Next, with reference to Figures 5A-5C, graphical user interface (GUI) screens based on various embodiments will be described. In various embodiments, GUI screens 500A, 500B, and 500C are presented on the display screen by an application, browser, or other program running on an adult consumer computing device such as the adult consumer computing device 120 (Figure 1).

[0206] Figure 5A shows one embodiment of a slide-to-lock screen 500A, which includes a lock slider 548. By operating this slider, an adult user can lock and / or unlock a registered electronic vaping device. In various embodiments, the slide-to-lock screen 500A may also include a time indicator 535 showing the current time, which is obtained from the operating system of the device used to display the slide-to-lock screen 500A. The slide-to-lock screen 500A may also display an adult consumer identifier 536, which is obtained from consumer account information 141 stored by the server device 130 (Figure 1). A network and / or power indicator 541 of the computing device, obtained from the operating system of the computing device, may also be displayed. A settings icon 542 and a login information area 537 may also be displayed. The login information area 537 can provide the previous login information obtained from the server device 130 (Figure 1). An additional information selector 543 (for example, its variations are well known in the art) can be used to enable an adult to select, customize, and / or change the information displayed in the login information area 537.

[0207] In some embodiments, the slide-to-lock screen 500A may also include an image 539 of the selected electronic vaping device. Information identifying electronic vaping devices registered with an adult electronic vaping consumer is stored in a database 140 (Figure 1) and distributed from a server device 130 (Figure 1) to an adult consumer computing device 120 (Figure 1) and may be displayed to the adult electronic vaping consumer. This information may include images in some embodiments. A sort selector 544 (variations thereof are well known in the art) is used to sort the displayed electronic vaping devices if an adult consumer owns multiple electronic vaping devices registered to their account. Model information 545 can also be obtained from the server device 130 (Figure 1) or directly from a wireless-enabled electronic vaping device that is paired with the adult consumer computing device 120 used to display the slide-to-lock screen 500A and is currently communicating. In various embodiments, electronic vaping device battery charge information 546 may also be obtained directly or indirectly from a wireless-enabled electronic vaping device. An automatic lock time indicator 547 (showing the time when the selected electronic vaping device is automatically locked), a last lock / unlock time indicator 549, and a last inhalation time indicator 550 may also be displayed. Information such as the time when the electronic vaping device is automatically locked and the time when the electronic vaping device was last locked / unlocked may be obtained from the local storage of the wireless electronic vaping device 110, the adult consumer computing device 120, and / or the server device 130.

[0208] In some embodiments, some of the displayed information may be determined based on a lockout timer implemented by a processing circuit on an adult consumer's wireless-enabled electronic vaping device. In other embodiments, some of the displayed information may be determined by an alarm function implemented on an adult consumer computing device. In yet another embodiment, some of the information is obtained from a server device. In yet another embodiment, different instances of the information may be determined by multiple electronic vaping devices, the adult consumer's computer, and / or server devices. This allows for cross-verification and confirmation of the information. In some such embodiments, information obtained by one device may be treated as more reliable than information from another device. For example, if there is a discrepancy in lockout timing data, the lockout timing data maintained by the electronic vaping device may take precedence.

[0209] In various embodiments, the information provided by the final inhalation time indicator 550 may be obtained from memory installed in the electronic vaping device. In various embodiments, processing circuits on the electronic vaping device maintain operational information such as the number of inhalations, the time associated with each inhalation, the inhalation time, power on / off events, lock / unlock events, and docking / undocking events. In some such embodiments, while the electronic vaping device 110 is communicating with the adult consumer computing device 120, the electronic vaping device transmits stored data to the adult consumer computing device 120 that may include timer status and other operational information in addition to the above data. The adult consumer computing device 120 may store and / or transfer that information to the server device 130.

[0210] In various embodiments, the last lock / unlock time indicator 549 and the last inhalation time indicator 550 are used to allow an adult consumer to monitor their vaping behavior and / or to ensure that the adult consumer's electronic vaping device is not being misused. For example, if an adult consumer is aware that they vaped 8 hours ago, but the last inhalation time indicator 550 shows that the last inhalation was only 2 hours ago, the adult consumer may be alerted to an anomaly.

[0211] Figure 5B shows the out-of-range screen 500B, which includes an out-of-range indicator 553. This indicator shows that the selected electronic vaping device, represented in image 539, is not within the communication range of the adult consumer computing device 120 or is otherwise unable to communicate. In some embodiments, an information icon displayed in conjunction with the out-of-range indicator 553 may provide additional information regarding why the adult consumer computing device 120 cannot communicate with the selected electronic vaping device. In some embodiments, the last recognized locked / unlocked state is indicated by the device locked state indicator 554. Similar to the slide-lock screen 500A, the out-of-range screen 500B may display a last-lock / unlock time indicator 549 and a last-vaping time indicator 550. In various embodiments, the out-of-range screen 500B may also display a new device addition object 552. Selecting this presents the adult consumer with the option to pair and / or register another electronic vaping device.

[0212] Figure 5C shows an embodiment of the lockout timer setting screen 500C. In some embodiments, the lockout timer setting screen 500C includes a timer setting object 558 that allows an adult consumer to define the time until the electronic vaping device is locked out and cannot be used until actively unlocked. Note that the instruction area 556 indicates that the maximum time until lockout is 30 minutes. In some embodiments, the standard lockout time may be 72 hours. However, if minors reside in the same household as the adult electronic vaping consumer, the maximum lockout time may be reduced to prevent potential misuse. In the illustrated embodiment, the lockout timer is set to a maximum of 30 minutes. In various embodiments, after selecting the duration of the lockout timer, the adult consumer's settings can be saved by selecting / activating the “Save” object 559. A back object 560 is provided to assist the adult consumer in navigating between GUI screens, and by operating it, the adult can lock / unlock registered electronic vaping devices. In various embodiments, the slide-to-lock screen 500A may include a time indicator 535 showing the current time, an adult consumer identifier 536, a network and / or computing device power indicator 541, a settings icon 542, a login information area 537 (providing previous login information), and an additional information selector 543 (allowing the adult to change the information displayed in the login information area 537).

[0213] Next, with reference to Figure 6A, an embodiment of the low-liquid-level detection circuit 500 in an electronic vaping device will be described. In various embodiments, electronic vaping devices, including disposable and reusable electronic vaping devices / power control units, employ a low-liquid-level detection circuit to prevent changes in aerosol characteristics due to overheating of the heating element, which may be caused by insufficient liquid flow. Changes in aerosol characteristics include, but are not limited to, changes in taste that tend to occur during periods of low liquid volume.

[0214] In typical operation, the resistance of the tank / cartridge heating element is measured during use. If the resistance measurement exceeds a software-defined threshold, the electronic vaping device stops heating and notifies the adult user that a liquid shortage error has occurred. The detection threshold used by this software may be updated each time power is supplied to the heating element. In some embodiments, the rate of change is calculated early after the start of use (e.g., less than 333 milliseconds after the heating element is first powered). This initial measurement can be used to set a steady-state threshold for later use, for example, after 333 milliseconds or more have elapsed since the heating element was first powered. These and other thresholds may be empirically derived from data generated by the temperature-responsive heating element.

[0215] As shown in the figure, the low liquid detection circuit 500 includes a microcontroller 509, a measurement circuit 515, a power control circuit 517, a heating element 513, a battery 511, a speaker 501, an LED 503, a vibration motor 505, and a wireless interface 507.

[0216] The battery 511 supplies heating power 519 to the heating element 513. The power control circuit 517 controls the supply of heating power 519 to the heating element 513 by closing (or maintaining an open state of) the power path 523. The power control circuit 517 is controlled by a heating control signal 529 generated by the microcontroller 509. The power control circuit 517 further provides the microcontroller 509 with a heating fault detection signal 531.

[0217] Resistance measurement is performed by the measurement circuit 515 via the measurement path 521. The measurement circuit 515 performs the measurement based on the measurement control signal 525 generated by the microcontroller 509 and provides the measurement result to the microcontroller 509 via the trace resistance measurement signal 527.

[0218] The microcontroller 509 determines whether a low liquid state is present based on the trace resistance measurement signal 527 and issues an appropriate heating control signal 529 to the power control circuit 517. The heating control signal 529 can cause the power control circuit 517 to adjust or otherwise control the power supplied to the heating element 513, for example, by opening the power path 523 and / or by adjusting the pulse width modulation of the heating power 519 in accordance with the heating control signal 529.

[0219] In response to the detection of a low liquid level event, the microcontroller 509 sends an instruction 533 to one or more feedback elements, including a speaker 501 that generates an audible alarm, an LED 503 (for visual alarm generation), a transducer / vibration motor 505 (for tactile alarm generation), or a wireless interface 507 (for transmission to an adult consumer application, thereby generating an alarm on an adult consumer computing device (not shown)).

[0220] Next, with reference to Figure 6B, a wireless-enabled microcontroller 509 will be described according to various embodiments. The microcontroller 509 includes a wireless subsystem 610, an energy management subsystem 620, a processing core and memory subsystem 630, and a clock management subsystem 640 connected to an Advanced High Performance Bus (AHB) 660. The microcontroller 509 further includes a digital peripheral subsystem 655 and an analog peripheral subsystem 650 connected to an Advanced Peripheral Bus (APB) 665.

[0221] Next, referring to Figure 7, the connections between the wireless-enabled microcontroller 509 and other circuits included in the wireless electronic vaping device will be described according to various embodiments. The microcontroller 509 includes a plug-in terminal 701, a battery analog-to-digital converter (ADC) terminal 702, and a charging terminal 703 connected to the corresponding terminal of the power supply circuit 705. The microcontroller 509 also includes a pulse-width modulation (PWM) terminal 707, a PWM shunt 708, and a heater ADC terminal 709 connected to the corresponding terminal of the heater circuit 710. The microcontroller 509 also includes a universal asynchronous transceiver (UART) transmit (TX) terminal 712, a UART receive (RX) terminal 713, and an nRST reset terminal 714 connected to the corresponding terminal of the USB connector 715 and grounded via transient suppression diodes 722 and 723. The antenna terminal 718 is connected to the shield pin 719 of the USB connector 715 and further grounded via transient suppression diode 721.

[0222] Next, with reference to Figure 8, a microcontroller 509 and associated pressure sensing circuit 810 configured to detect suction will be described according to various embodiments. Figure 8 shows the microcontroller 509 operationally connected to various external circuits. For example, a pressure sensor circuit 810, also referred to herein as a puff sensor, is connected to port PC00812 of the microcontroller 509. In various embodiments, the microprocessor 509 uses the output of the pressure sensor circuit 810 to determine whether an adult consumer is suctioning an electronic vaping device. In various embodiments, the pressure sensor circuit 810 includes a microelectromechanical system (MEMS) sensor, which has an output voltage that fluctuates based on changes in capacitance resulting from the movement of a flexible membrane caused by pressure changes due to air movement associated with an adult consumer suctioning air through an electronic vaping device.

[0223] Next, with reference to Figure 9, the pulse-width modulation (PWM) power adjustment circuit 900 will be described according to various embodiments. The battery power supply 905 supplies power to the pogo pins 907 and 909. The battery power supply 905 is regulated by transistors Q1911 and Q2913. Transistor Q1911 controls the PWM of the battery power supply 905. For example, it controls the percentage of time the battery power supply 905 is available to the pogo pins 907 and 909 based on a PWM output signal 930 generated by the microcontroller 509 (Figure 8). This PWM output signal is generated based on a PUFF signal generated by the pressure sensor 810. The PUFF signal detects pressure changes due to air movement associated with the action of an adult user drawing from an electronic vaping device. Transistor Q2913 controls the magnitude of the PWM voltage available to the pogo pins 907 and 909 based on a PWM shunt signal 920 generated by a microcontroller (not shown). The heater analog-to-digital (ADC) converter terminal 940 of the microcontroller (not shown) is connected to node 940, where pulse-width modulated battery power 905 is sampled.

[0224] Figure 10 shows a battery charging circuit 1000 used to charge the onboard rechargeable battery of an electronic vaping device according to various embodiments.

[0225] Figures 11-17 are flowcharts illustrating various embodiments of methods for operating a wireless electronic vaping device. In some embodiments, the illustrated methods may be implemented using a processor, such as a microcontroller unit (MCU), configured to execute the method using an instruction program stored in firmware or other memory. In some such embodiments, the wireless electronic vaping device firmware included in a Bluetooth®-enabled electronic vaping device can control the power output applied to a heating assembly by adjusting the average voltage applied to the heating element using pulse-width modulation (PWM) technology. PWM can be used to reduce the average voltage output of a DC voltage by rapidly switching the power on and off repeatedly. In embodiments, the value obtained by dividing the time the power is on by the total duration of the output may be called the duty cycle.

[0226] The wireless electronic vaping device is configured to remain powered on and stays on in standby mode. During standby mode, the firmware continuously waits for an activation signal from the airflow sensor. This sensor may include a diaphragm that detects pressure changes that occur when an adult electronic vaping user inhales from the electronic vaping device. The airflow sensor outputs a reference voltage to the MCU when airflow is detected and returns the reference voltage to ground if no airflow is detected. In various embodiments, the airflow detected by the airflow sensor may be referred to as a "puff." If the puff duration is less than the defined maximum puff duration, the firmware may measure the resistance of the heating assembly included in the electronic vaping device. Note that both heating assemblies that are part of a disposable electronic vaping device and heating assemblies included in a cartridge docked to a reusable electronic vaping device are considered to be included in the electronic vaping device.

[0227] If the measured resistance value falls below the short-circuit (overcurrent) threshold, the firmware executes a short-circuit subroutine. In some embodiments, if the resistance value exceeds the short-circuit (overcurrent) threshold, the firmware: 1) calculates the duty cycle required to achieve the target power output; 2) supplies power according to the calculated duty cycle; and 3) illuminates an LED to notify the adult user that the electronic vaping device is operating. In various embodiments, the MCU polls the airflow (puff) sensor and repeats this cycle if the activation signal is still active. The MCU can respond by returning the electronic vaping device to standby mode if it determines that the activation signal is no longer active.

[0228] In some embodiments, a maximum suction time subroutine is included, in which the MCU blinks an LED (e.g., 10 times), waits for the activation signal from the airflow sensor to become inactive, and returns to standby mode when it is determined that the activation signal is inactive.

[0229] In some embodiments, as part of a short-circuit (overcurrent) protection subroutine, the MCU blinks an LED (e.g., three times), waits for the activation signal from the airflow sensor to become inactive, and returns the electronic vaping device to standby mode when the signal becomes inactive.

[0230] In various embodiments, upon receiving a signal from the airflow (suction) sensor and / or the contacts of a removable cartridge, the electronic vaping device may be configured to activate and enable BLE radio if the following conditions are met: firstly, the computing device (e.g., a smartphone) has been previously bonded (paired) with the wireless electronic vaping device; or secondly, the wireless electronic vaping device is in pairing mode and the correct passkey (device secret key exported at the time of manufacture) has been provided from an application running on the computing device.

[0231] Next, with reference to Figure 11, a method 1100 for operating an electronic vaping device based on various embodiments will be described. In some embodiments, after the electronic vaping device is reset, the hardware and onboard peripherals of the electronic vaping device are initialized. For example, as shown in block 1101, the Bluetooth® Low Energy (BLE) stack, analog-to-digital converter (ADC), and various timers (all of which may be included in the microcontroller) used to control the wireless operation of the electronic vaping device are initialized.

[0232] As shown in block 1105, the heater control process operation may be initialized. In various embodiments, the heater control process operation is performed to activate the electronic vaping heating assembly to heat the pre-vaporization formulation and generate vapor. In various embodiments, the operation of the heating assembly includes supplying power to the heating elements contained in the heating assembly in response to the initiation of suction by an adult electronic vaping consumer.

[0233] As shown in block 1107, during or after the initialization process, the electronic vaping device may display a charge status indicator to the adult electronic vaping user. The charge indicator may include a chargeable / unchargeable indicator, or it may indicate the charge level by displaying different colored indicators depending on the charge level (e.g., green indicates good, yellow indicates need for charging, and red indicates insufficient charge for use).

[0234] As shown in block 1109, the electronic vaping device may be placed into a low-power mode depending on the remaining battery life. For example, if it is estimated that the remaining battery life will only provide a number of puffs below a threshold (e.g., 4 puffs), the electronic vaping device will enter sleep mode.

[0235] As shown in block 1111, error codes indicating errors identified during the initialization process may also be displayed.

[0236] Next, with reference to Figure 12, the heater control process operation 1105 in an electronic vaping device will be described according to various embodiments. In various embodiments, the analog-to-digital converter (ADC) of the microcontroller performs the processing action 1105 to control the amount of heat generated by the heating assembly. As shown in block 1201, the microcontroller may perform a check to determine whether the high-current event (hce) flag is set. As shown in block 1203, if the hce_periodic_update_flag is set, an ADC read is scheduled and the heater control finite state machine (fsms) is updated. As shown in block 1205, a check is performed to determine whether the scheduled ADC read has completed. If it has completed, various parameters, including but not limited to the battery, heating assembly, and / or PWM duty cycle, are updated, as shown in block 1207.

[0237] Next, referring to Figure 13, a method 1300 for scheduling analog-to-digital converter (ADC) readings for measuring the resistance of a heating assembly included in an electronic vaping device will be described according to various embodiments. A determination will be made as shown in block 1203 as to whether the puff is active. This determination can be made by a microcontroller based on the output of a puff sensor (e.g., pressure sensor 810 in Figure 8).

[0238] As shown in block 1303, a determination is made as to whether the heating assembly is turned on. In some embodiments, the determination of whether the heating assembly is turned on may include a determination based on the state of transistors Q1 911 (Figure 9) and Q2 913 (Figure 9). As shown in block 1305, if the puff is not active, or if the puff is active, if the heating element is not turned on, transistor Q2 913 can be turned on outside of the scheduled time to perform an ADC read. In at least some embodiments, the ADC read is performed during the period when transistor Q1 911 is off.

[0239] As shown in block 1307, when the puff is active and the heating assembly is on, ADC readings are taken during the scheduled on-time of transistor Q2 913 (Figure 9).

[0240] Next, with reference to Figure 14, heater control and short-circuit / overcurrent protection methods 1400 in electronic vaping devices according to various embodiments will be described. In various embodiments, method 1400 provides additional safety features to protect the electronic vaping device from short-circuit and overcurrent conditions. In some embodiments, a short-circuit or overcurrent event is flagged if, during an ADC reading event (transistor Q1 911 is ON, or transistor Q2 913 is ON (Figure 9)), either the resistance of the heating assembly or the battery load voltage exceeds a specified limit. If a short-circuit or overcurrent condition occurs, the heating assembly may be turned OFF. In some embodiments, even if a short-circuit or overcurrent event is not flagged, the heating assembly may be turned OFF if the turn-on time of transistor Q1 911 exceeds the maximum puff duration. In some embodiments, the puff sensor may remain operational for all other time while the puff is being operated by an adult consumer.

[0241] As shown in block 1401, it is checked whether the puff sensor is active. If not, method 1400 returns to block 1401. If the check in block 1401 determines that the puff sensor is active, method 1400 proceeds to block 1403 to check whether the electronic vaping device is unlocked. If not, method 1400 returns to block 1401.

[0242] As shown in block 1405, the heating assembly is checked by performing an ADC reading as described in Figure 13, or by verifying that the resistance of the heating assembly is within the specified range. As shown in block 1407, the voltage to the heating assembly is checked. For example, by performing an ADC reading as described with reference to Figure 13, or by verifying that the battery load voltage is within the specified range. If either check in block 1405 or 1407 is outside the specified range, the voltage error type is evaluated as shown in block 1409.

[0243] As shown in block 1411, a check is performed to determine if the heater resistance is too low. If the heater resistance is too low, the error is flagged as a short-circuit error (as shown in block 1413). If the heater resistance is not too low, the error may be flagged as an undervoltage error (as shown in block 1415).

[0244] As shown in block 1417, the heating assembly is deactivated in response to either a short-circuit error or an undervoltage error.

[0245] As shown in block 1419, if there are no errors in the results of both blocks 1405 and 1407, check whether the maximum suction time has been reached. As shown in block 1421, if the maximum suction time has been reached, the heating assembly is deactivated and the cooling period begins (see block 1423).

[0246] As shown in block 1425, activating the puff sensor during the cooling period may, in some exemplary embodiments, restart the cooling period. However, in other embodiments, attempting to activate the puff sensor during the cooling period will not activate the heating assembly.

[0247] As shown in block 1427, if the maximum suction time has not been reached in block 19, the puff sensor remains operational and method 1400 is repeated.

[0248] Next, with reference to Figure 15, a method 1500 for controlling the duty cycle of a heating element according to various embodiments will be described. For Q1 (transistor Q1911) and Q2 (transistor Q2911) in Figure 15, see Figure 9. In one embodiment, method 1500 determines the duty cycle required to output the nominal power supplied to the heating assembly. After verification and three ADC measurements (Q1 on measurement, Q1 off measurement, Q2 off measurement, Q2 on measurement), the firmware can calculate the duty cycle based on the battery measurements under load and no load, and the atomizer resistance measurements, respectively. The duty cycle may be determined and adjusted during operation (when inhaled by an adult consumer). In some embodiments, if the heater resistance is determined to exceed the maximum heater resistance, the calculation may not be performed, but the maximum duty cycle may be applied, which may result in the power supplied to the heating assembly being below the nominal value.

[0249] As shown in block 1501, it is checked whether the first ADC measurement taken with Q1 ON is valid. If it is valid, the first ADC measurement is saved, as shown in block 1503.

[0250] As shown in block 1505, it is checked whether a second ADC measurement performed with both Q1 and Q2 turned off is valid. If it is valid, the second ADC measurement is saved, as shown in block 1507.

[0251] As shown in block 1509, it is checked whether the third ADC measurement performed with Q2 ON is valid. If it is valid, the third ADC measurement value is stored, as shown in block 1511.

[0252] As shown in block 1513, it is checked whether both of the following conditions 1) and 2) are true: 1) the first ADC measurement (Q1ON) was valid, and 2) the resistance of the heater assembly is greater than the maximum heater assembly resistance value. As shown in block 1515, if the check result in block 1513 is true, the duty cycle of the heating assembly is set to the maximum PWM duty cycle.

[0253] As shown in block 1517, if the check result in block 1513 is false, the following checks are performed to determine whether both 1) and 2) below are true: 1) the initial ADC measurement (Q1 ON) was valid; and 2) the heater assembly resistance is less than the maximum heater assembly resistance value. As shown in block 1519, if the check result in block 1517 is true, the duty cycle of the heating assembly is calculated so that the heating assembly is supplied with nominal power.

[0254] Next, with reference to Figure 16, a method 1600 for establishing wireless communication with an electronic vaping device will be described according to various embodiments. As shown in block 1601, when in operation, the electronic vaping device enables Bluetooth® Low Energy (BLE) advertisement. As shown in block 1603, the adult consumer mobile device performs a check to determine whether the adult consumer mobile device is in pairing mode. If not, method 1600 terminates.

[0255] As shown in block 1605, when an adult consumer mobile device is in pairing mode, the adult consumer mobile device responds to an advertisement for an electronic vaping device and is ready to accept the electronic vaping device as a paired device after the pairing process is complete.

[0256] As shown in block 1607, it is checked whether the electronic vaping device is wirelessly connected to the adult consumer mobile device. If it is not connected, method 1600 returns to block 1605. If the electronic vaping device is wirelessly connected, a passkey is exchanged. As shown in block 1609, it is checked whether the passkey exchange was completed successfully. Upon confirmation that the passkey exchange was completed successfully, method 1600 moves to block 1615, where the General Attributes (GATT) service is enabled on the electronic vaping device and the adult consumer mobile device to enable the exchange of available services and device characteristics. Furthermore, data and other communications between the application running on the device, the adult mobile device, and the electronic vaping device may occur at this point.

[0257] Returning to block 1611, if the electronic vaping device has been pre-paired (bonded) with the adult consumer mobile device, the adult consumer mobile device attempts to connect to the electronic vaping device. As shown in block 1613, if the electronic vaping device successfully connects to the adult consumer mobile device, method 1600 proceeds to block 1615, where data is exchanged between the electronic vaping device and the adult consumer mobile device.

[0258] As shown in block 1617, it is checked whether the electronic vaping device has been disconnected from the adult consumer mobile device. If not, as shown in block 1615, the adult consumer mobile device and the electronic vaping device can continue exchanging data. Otherwise, method 1600 terminates.

[0259] Next, referring to Figure 17, a method 1700 for controlling access to a wireless electronic vaping device using an unlock timer will be described according to various embodiments. As shown in block 1701, an adult consumer application running on an adult consumer mobile device receives a login password from the adult consumer to attempt to log in to the adult consumer's account. As shown in block 1703, a determination is made as to whether the password count is less than the maximum password count. In at least one embodiment, the password count represents the number of times the adult consumer has used the password to log in to their account. As shown in block 1709, if the password count is less than the maximum password count, the adult consumer application receives a signed JSON Web Token (JWT) from, for example, the server hosting the adult consumer's account. In block 1711, it is checked whether the signed JWT is valid. As shown in block 1713, a new password can be set and the password counter can be reset.

[0260] If, in block 1703, it is determined that the password count is greater than or equal to the maximum password count, method 1700 proceeds to block 1705. An unlock time is set for the electronic vaping device, as shown in block 1705. In at least one embodiment, the electronic vaping device is locked in block 1705 and remains locked until the unlock time elapses in block 1707 and the electronic vaping device is set to the unlocked state. In some embodiments, in block 1705, a lock command is sent to the electronic vaping device, and a timer in the microcontroller firmware of the electronic vaping device is set based on the unlock time.

[0261] Next, with reference to Figure 18, a reusable electronic vaping assembly 1800 will be described according to various embodiments. The reusable electronic vaping assembly 1800 includes a reusable electronic vaping device 1810 and a detachable electronic vaping cartridge 1820. In various embodiments, the detachable electronic vaping cartridge 1820 is configured to dock or mate with the reusable electronic vaping device 1810. The detachable electronic vaping cartridge 1820 includes an internal reservoir filled with a pre-vaporized formulation and an internal heating assembly used to convert the pre-vaporized formulation into vapor using power supplied from the reusable electronic vaping device 1810. In various embodiments, the detachable electronic vaping cartridge 1820 is provided with a mouth end 1871, allowing an adult electronic vaping consumer to inhale air when the detachable electronic vaping cartridge 1820 is docked with the reusable electronic vaping device 1810. In this specification, the mouthpiece refers to the end of a housing, cover, etc., through which an adult consumer performing electronic vaping inhales a dispersion. In contrast, the mouthpiece is a separately identifiable component that is part of the electronic vaping device, while the mouthpiece is fully integrated into the housing, cover, etc. In some such embodiments, the reusable electronic vaping device 1810 includes an air inlet 1899 through which air is drawn into the reusable electronic vaping device 1810 in response to the inhalation of an adult consumer performing electronic vaping. Additional details regarding airflow and operation in the embodiments shown in Figures 18 and 19 will be described later.

[0262] In the illustrated embodiment, the QR code (registered trademark) 1812 is engraved on the detachable electronic vaping cartridge 1820 so as not to disappear. As shown, the QR code (registered trademark) 1812 encodes the following information: "ID number 12987561A2456". However, in various embodiments, the QR code (registered trademark) 1812 can also encode other manufacturing information, such as cartridge compatibility information, date and place of manufacture, content identification information (e.g., concentration and flavor information), and the like.

[0263] In various embodiments, the detachable electronic vaping cartridge 1820 may optionally include an embedded RFID chip 1827, and in some embodiments includes a memory configured to store a near-field communication chip and / or an on-board identifier for identifying the electronic vaping cartridge 1820. The RFID chip 1827 is read by an optional RFID reader 1867 incorporated into the reusable electronic vaping device 1810. The on-board identifier stored in the RFID chip 1827 is linked to the QR code (registered trademark) 1812 during the manufacture of the detachable electronic vaping cartridge 1820.

[0264] FIG. 18 shows a specific arrangement position of the RFID chip 1823 and the RFID reader 1827, but different arrangements may be adopted in various embodiments. Further, in other embodiments, an optional contact reader (not shown) incorporated into the reusable electronic vaping device 1810 may read an on-board cartridge identifier stored in a memory or other circuit incorporated into the detachable electronic vaping cartridge 1820. Various types of memory, contact readers, and the like are well known to those of ordinary skill in the art.

[0265] Next, with reference to Figure 19, the internal components of the reusable electronic vaping device 1810 according to various embodiments will be described. The reusable electronic vaping device 1810 in the illustrated embodiments includes an airflow sensor seal 1823 configured to form a seal around an airflow sensor / puff sensor 1822. In at least one embodiment, the airflow sensor / puff sensor may include the airflow sensor described in U.S. Patent No. 9,072,321 (9,072,321 of 2015), the entire content of which is incorporated herein by reference.

[0266] Various embodiments of the reusable electronic vaping device 1810 include a printed circuit board assembly (PCBA) 1821, an LED cover 1809 covering an LED (not shown) mounted on the PCBA 1821, screws 1807 for securing the PCBA to the housing 1806, a battery holder 1817 mounted inside the housing 1806 and configured to hold a battery cell 1805 with sponge adhesive 1819 attached, a magnet 1815 inserted into the cartridge engagement portion of the housing 1806 and configured to magnetically engage a docked removable electronic vaping cartridge (not shown in this figure), a device contact 1801 extending beyond the docking surface of the cartridge engagement portion of the housing 1806 and configured to supply battery power to the docked removable electronic vaping cartridge, an airway seal on the docking surface of the cartridge engagement portion of the housing 1806, and a battery tube portion 1813 of the housing 1806 configured to guide the removable electronic vaping cartridge to the docking position and support the cartridge after docking. The battery decoration on the housing 1806 identifies the location of a universal serial bus connector 1827 used for wired communication with the battery charging and reusable electronic vaping device 1810.

[0267] In various embodiments, the device contact 1801 includes POGO pins, which have a spring action to ensure that the device contact 1801 makes reliable contact with the corresponding contact in the removable electronic vaping cartridge (see Figure 19). The device contact 1801 of the reusable electronic vaping device 1810 may include long POGO pins. This allows the device contact 1801 to make contact with recessed contacts contained in the removable electronic vaping cartridge. In another embodiment, the device contact 1801 may include short-range POGO pins that are not long enough to reach the recessed contacts provided in the removable electronic vaping cartridge. However, in some embodiments, the removable electronic vaping cartridge is not recessed, or at least not very deeply recessed, so that a reusable electronic vaping device employing short-range POGO pins can make contact.

[0268] Due to the spring / elastic properties of the POGO pin, reusable electronic vaping devices with long POGO pins can be used with both removable electronic vaping cartridges with recessed contacts and removable electronic vaping cartridges with non-recessed (or less recessed) contacts. On the other hand, reusable electronic vaping devices with short-reach POGO pins may only be usable with electronic vaping cartridges with non-recessed (or less recessed) contacts.

[0269] Next, with reference to Figure 20, a removable electronic vaping cartridge 1820 configured to be coupled to a reusable electronic vaping device 1810 will be described according to various embodiments. The removable electronic vaping cartridge 1820 in the illustrated embodiment includes: A tank 1909 comprises a reservoir 1901 that holds the pre-vaporization formulation. A tank seal 1911 is configured to prevent the pre-vaporization formulation from leaking from the reservoir 1901 into unwanted portions of the removable electronic vaping cartridge 1820. A heating assembly 1903 is configured to heat the pre-vaporization formulation to form an inhalable aerosol. A heating assembly cover 1913 covers the heating assembly 1903 and is configured to help contain the pre-vaporization formulation held in the reservoir 1901. A heating assembly seal 1915 is configured to prevent the liquid pre-vaporization formulation from entering the air passage used to supply the inhalable aerosol. The heating assembly holder 1917 is configured to hold the heating assembly 1903 in place. The heating assembly contact 1907 is configured to receive power from the reusable electronic vaping device 1810 when the detachable electronic vaping cartridge 1820 is docked to the reusable electronic vaping device 1810 (see Figure 18). Furthermore, a bottom cover 1905 is provided. The heating assembly contact 1907 is formed in a concave shape, but in other embodiments it may be non-concave or slightly concave.

[0270] In various embodiments, the heating assembly 1903 includes a porous ceramic body 1997 in contact with a reservoir 1901, and an S-shaped heating conductive element 1998 embedded in, formed on, or attached to the side of the porous ceramic body 1997 facing away from the reservoir 1901. The heating assembly 1903 also includes a heater post 1999 protruding from the porous ceramic body 1997 and extending into its interior. The heater post 1999 is electrically connected to the heating element 1998. The portion of the heater post 1999 protruding from the ceramic body is connected to the heating assembly contacts 1907 by soldering, welding, crimping, or other means. Figure 39 shows a perspective view of the heating assembly 1903. During operation, a pre-evaporated formulation permeates the porous ceramic body 1997. When power is supplied to the heating element 1998 via the heater post 1999, the pre-vaporization compound that has permeated the porous ceramic body 1997 is vaporized, forming an inhalable dispersion.

[0271] Referring in combination to Figures 18, 19, and 20, a detailed description of the operation of an embodiment of the reusable electronic vaping assembly 1800 (including a detachable electronic vaping cartridge 1820 docked with a reusable electronic vaping device 1810) is provided. In at least one embodiment, an adult electronic vaping consumer inhales air through the mouth end 1871 when the detachable electronic vaping cartridge 1820 is docked with the reusable electronic vaping device 1810. In the following description, the airflow is indicated by the white arrows in Figures 19 and 20. In the illustrated embodiment, when an adult inhaling electronic vaping inhales through the mouth end 1871, air is drawn into an air inlet 1899 near the bottom of the reusable electronic vaping device 1810, guided by an airflow sensor seal 1823 over the sensing portion of the airflow sensor / puff sensor 1822, and enters a chamber beneath the heating assembly 1903 through an air passage formed between the housings 1806. The steam collection channel provides a fluid connection between the chamber beneath the heating assembly 1903 and the steam supply channel 2091, which has an outlet at its opening 1871. In Figure 20, the steam collection channel is not visible due to the cross-sectional view, but it generally bypasses the heating assembly 1903 as indicated by the white arrows. In various embodiments, the steam collection channel forms a loop that enters and exits the page, guiding air around the heating assembly 1903. An aspirable dispersion is mixed into this air and flows into the steam supply channel 2091.

[0272] The airflow sensor seal 1823 substantially or completely isolates the sensing portion of the airflow sensor / puff sensor 1822 from atmospheric pressure, so that the airflow over the sensing portion generates negative pressure, causing the airflow sensor / puff sensor 1822 to activate. When the removable electronic vaping cartridge 1820 docked with the reusable electronic vaping device 1810 is unlocked for use, as disclosed herein, the airflow sensor / puff sensor 1822, when activated, provides an electrical signal to the processing circuit (located below the PCBA 1821 in Figure 19), as discussed elsewhere in this specification. Based on the signal from the airflow sensor / puff sensor 1822, the processing circuit controls the power flow from the battery cell 1805, through the battery contact 1889, through wiring (not shown in this figure), through the device contact 1801, to the heating assembly contact 1907 of the docked detachable electronic vaping cartridge 1820, and finally to the heating element 1998 of the heating assembly 1903. When power is supplied, the heating element 1998 heats the pre-vaporization formulation that has permeated the porous ceramic body 1997, forming an inhalable dispersion. This inhalable dispersion flows into the airflow path as air flows through the lower chamber of the heating assembly 1903.

[0273] Next, with reference to Figure 21, the electrical connection between the reusable electronic vaping device 2011 and the detachable electronic vaping cartridge 2005 docked to the reusable electronic vaping device 2011 will be described according to various embodiments. In the illustrated embodiment, the reusable electronic vaping assembly 2000 includes the detachable electronic vaping cartridge 2005 docked to the reusable electronic vaping device 2011. The electrical connection between the reusable electronic vaping assembly 2000 and the detachable electronic vaping cartridge 2005 is formed by the device electrical contact 2003 contacting the cartridge electrical contact 2001 while the detachable electronic vaping cartridge 2005 is docked to the reusable electronic vaping device 2011. Note that the cartridge engagement portion of the housing of the electronic vaping device 2011 engages with the bottom cover 2009 of the detachable electronic vaping cartridge 2005. In various embodiments described herein, the power supplied to the device electrical contact 2003 is controlled by a circuit (not shown) included in a reusable electronic vaping device 2011 and supplied to the heating assembly 1903 via the cartridge electrical contact 2001.

[0274] In various embodiments, cartridge electrical contacts 2001 on different models of removable electronic vaping cartridges may be recessed to different depths. This means that a particular model of removable electronic vaping cartridge may be compatible with a corresponding model of reusable electronic vaping device, but not with other models. For example, in the illustrated embodiment, removable electronic vaping cartridge 2005 is incompatible with reusable electronic vaping device 2011 due to an air gap 2002 caused by the recessed cartridge electrical contacts 2001 preventing the device electrical contacts 2003 from establishing electrical contact. In some embodiments, instead of recessing the cartridge electrical contacts 2001, the device electrical contacts 2003 may be recessed.

[0275] Figures 22, 23, and 24 show embodiments of a clamshell-type wireless disposable electronic vaping device, as so named due to its shape. Disposable electronic vaping devices in various embodiments (e.g., disposable electronic vaping device 2300) provide functionality equivalent to that of a reusable electronic vaping device fitted with a removable electronic vaping cartridge. However, in the case of disposable electronic vaping devices, the consumables are enclosed within the same housing that houses the electronic vaping battery and heating circuit. Furthermore, in disposable electronic vaping devices, the consumables are built into the electronic vaping device during manufacturing and are not easily replaced by adult users.

[0276] Next, with reference to Figure 22, disposable electronic vaping devices 2300 based on various embodiments will be described. The disposable electronic vaping device 2300 includes a visual indicator 2305, which is shown on the top of the disposable electronic vaping device 2300, although a different location may be used in other embodiments. In various embodiments, the visual indicator 2305 includes a window and an internal LED. The window allows the light produced by the internal LED to be visible from the outside of the disposable electronic vaping device 2300. In various embodiments, the visual indicator 2305 provides a visual indication of one or more states of the disposable electronic vaping device 2300. For example, the visual indicator 2305 may emit or flash green to indicate an unlocked state, emit or flash red to indicate a locked state, emit or flash yellow in response to detection of a low liquid level state, flash in a predetermined pattern or sequence of colors to provide a diagnostic code in response to detection of an error state, and so on.

[0277] Next, with reference to Figure 23, a disposable electronic vaping device based on various embodiments will be described. In the illustrated embodiment, the disposable electronic vaping device 2300 includes an upper half 2311 of a clamshell housing 2402, a lower half 2309 of the clamshell housing 2402, and an air inlet 2301 located at the intersection of the upper half 2311 and the lower half 2309. In at least one embodiment, a second air inlet (not shown) may be provided on the side of the electronic vaping device 2300 opposite to the air inlet 2301. In other embodiments, an air inlet 2307 may be located at a different position on the clamshell housing 2402, and / or a different number of air inlets may be provided.

[0278] Next, with reference to Figure 24, internal components housed in a disposable electronic vaping device according to various embodiments will be described. In the illustrated embodiment, the disposable electronic vaping device 2300 includes a battery 2403, a printed circuit board assembly (PCBA) 2405, a heating assembly 1903, and an electronic liquid chamber 2406 for storing the pre-vaporization formulation. In embodiments, the electronic liquid chamber 2406 may be referred to as a tank. In various embodiments, the electronic liquid chamber 2406 may be implemented as two separate chambers or as a divided chamber having two or more interconnected reservoirs. Figure 24 also shows a battery vent 2415, which may function as an atmospheric pressure reference point in addition to its battery venting function.

[0279] Next, with reference to Figure 25, a disposable electronic vaping device 2300 equipped with a highly multifunctional seal 2503 will be described according to various embodiments. In the illustrated embodiment, the disposable electronic vaping device 2300 includes a lower half 2309 of a clamshell housing, an upper half 2311 of a clamshell housing, a battery 2403, internal (non-replaceable by the consumer) consumables 2501 which may house processing circuits such as a microcontroller 509 (Figures 6A and 6B) and a puff sensor, and a highly multifunctional seal 2503.

[0280] In at least some embodiments, the highly multifunctional seal 2503 can significantly reduce the functionality of other clamshell components by performing functions that would otherwise be provided by multiple different parts. Furthermore, the highly multifunctional seal 2503 enables improved ease of inspection and quality control by consolidating the distribution of important design characteristics from many different parts to a few. Functions that the highly multifunctional seal 2503 may perform include, but are not limited to, forming an airflow path isolated from the battery chamber, supporting and assisting the alignment of other parts during assembly, acting as a vibration damper for the PCBA during ultrasonic welding operations used to join the upper half 2311 of the clamshell housing to the lower half 2309 during manufacturing, acting as a light guide tube so that light generated by an internal LED (not shown) located on the PCBA 2405 reaches the window 2305, and / or providing an electronic liquid trap to prevent electronic liquid from migrating to the pressure sensor.

[0281] Next, referring to Figure 26, the interaction between the highly multifunctional seal 2503 and the clamshell case portion of the disposable electronic vaping device 2300 will be described based on various embodiments. In the illustrated embodiment, the highly multifunctional seal 2503 is formed of translucent silicone and functions as a light pipe by transmitting light from the LED mounted on the PCBA 2405 to the window 2305. Positioning ribs 2601 formed in the clamshell housing work in conjunction with the highly functional seal 2503 to seal the interface with the consumables 2501. The highly multifunctional seal 2503 also directs airflow in a predetermined direction from the battery housing (not shown, outside and to the left of the highly multifunctional seal 2503).

[0282] Next, with reference to Figure 27, the high-performance multi-purpose seal 2503 included in the disposable electronic vaping device 2300 will be described based on various embodiments. In various embodiments, air flows in from the air inlets on both sides of the disposable electronic vaping device 2300, is guided by the high-performance seal 2503 to the negative pressure region of the puff sensor 2701, bypasses the battery chamber (not shown), and flows into the consumables 2501.

[0283] In the illustrated embodiment, the high-performance seal 2503 includes a choke rib 2705 that restricts airflow in the area around the puff sensor 2701, creating a higher negative pressure region for sensor operation. The high-performance seal 2503 may also include an electronic liquid trap 2703 that prevents the transfer of electronic liquid to the puff sensor.

[0284] Next, with reference to Figure 28, a reusable electronic vaping device 2800 including a rigid-flex printed circuit board assembly (PCBA) 2810 will be described according to various embodiments. In various embodiments, the use of a rigid-flex printed circuit board assembly (PCBA) makes it possible to distribute hardware systems housed within a reusable and / or disposable electronic vaping device. In some embodiments, the hardware systems can be distributed with individually soldered wires, replacing low-profile and robust electrical connections. For example, using a rigid-flex PCBA makes it possible to connect pogo pins directly to the rigid surface of the PCBA instead of leaving them cantilever-unsupported. In some embodiments, batteries are soldered directly to the PCBA in a more rigid manner than conventional wiring techniques. The use of a rigid-flex design also makes it possible to increase the usable area of ​​the PCBA within the same overall device footprint. The thermal management performance of a rigid-flex PCBA may also be improved compared to other PCBA types.

[0285] In the illustrated embodiment, the reusable electronic vaping device 2800 includes a rigid-flex PCBA 2810, which in some embodiments houses various circuits including a wireless-enabled microcontroller. Also included is a battery 2820 and a battery holder 2830, which can include a frame having a cartridge engagement portion 2835 at one end. The cartridge engagement portion 2835 is configured to engage a removable electronic vaping cartridge (not shown) docked to the reusable electronic vaping device 2800. In some embodiments, the cartridge engagement portion 2835 includes an opening 2836 for receiving a magnet 2837, which helps to securely hold the docked removable electronic vaping cartridge in place. In various embodiments, the reusable electronic vaping device 2800 also includes a housing 2840 that houses the battery holder and an end cover 2843.

[0286] Next, referring to FIG. 29, a battery holder 2900 assembled according to various embodiments will be described. In the illustrated embodiment, the assembled battery holder 2900 includes the battery holder 2830, a rigid-flex PCBA 2810 held in place by molding tabs 2910 and 2915, and a battery 2820 having battery tabs 2950 soldered to the rigid-flex PCBA 2810.

[0287] Next, referring to Figure 30, the front portion of a rigidflex PCBA positioned to be attached to the cartridge mating portion of a reusable electronic vaping device will be described according to various embodiments. In various embodiments, a MEMS sensor (3003) is mounted on the rigid front portion (2810a) of the rigidflex PCBA. This sensor is located on the back surface of the PCBA, above an opening (not shown) aligned with a negative pressure port (3014) that penetrates the cartridge mating portion (2835). A pogo pin 3005, which provides an electrical connection to a docked, detachable electronic vaping cartridge (not shown), is attached to the rigid front portion 2810a of the rigidflex PCBA.

[0288] After assembly, the pogo pin 3005 penetrates the pin opening 3007 of the cartridge engagement portion 2835 and protrudes from the outer surface of the cartridge engagement portion 2835. The negative pressure port 3014 also provides an airtight air path from the MEMS sensor 3003 to the outer surface of the cartridge engagement portion 2835. In the illustrated embodiment, the battery holder 2830 includes a molded snap lock that holds the rigid front portion 2810a of the rigidflex PCBA in a fixed position relative to the cartridge engagement portion of the battery housing.

[0289] Referring next to Figure 31, a partial cross-sectional perspective view of a cartridge engagement portion 2835 of a battery holder 2830 included in a reusable electronic vaping device according to various embodiments is shown. In the illustrated embodiment, the cartridge engagement portion 2835 has a cartridge-facing surface 3150 configured to engage with a removable cartridge (not shown). The cartridge engagement portion 2835 includes a magnet 1815 and an airway seal 3170 configured to form a seal between an air path on the cartridge-facing surface 3150 of the cartridge engagement portion 2835 and a battery 2820. The airway seal 3170 includes an opening through which a pogo pin 3005 passes, a negative pressure port 3014, and an excess fluid receptacle 3125. The negative pressure port 3014 forms a sealed air path to the opening 3116 in the rigid front portion 2810a of the Rigidflex PCBA, providing an air path for a MEMS sensor (not shown) located on the back surface of the rigid front portion 2810a to sense the negative pressure present on the cartridge side 3150 of the cartridge engagement portion 2835. The power connector P1 on the rigid front portion 2810a of the Rigidflex PCBA is used to connect a second pogo pin 3005 (not shown in this figure).

[0290] Next, with reference to Figure 32A, an airway seal 3200 including an elongated liquid trap 3210 will be described according to various embodiments. In the following description, components shown in Figure 31 will be frequently referenced. In various embodiments, the airway seal 3200 is an example of the airway seal 3170 shown in Figure 31. In the illustrated embodiment, the airway seal 3200 includes an opening 3230 that allows a magnet 1815 (Figure 31) to be inserted into the cartridge engagement portion 2835 of the battery holder 2830 (Figure 31). The airway seal 3200 also includes an opening 3240 that allows a pogo pin 3005 (Figure 31) to pass through the airway seal 3200 and provides an airtight seal around the pogo pin.

[0291] In various embodiments, the airway seal 3200 further comprises an elongated liquid trap 3210, which is configured to press against an opening 3116 (Figure 31) provided in the PCBA 2810A (Figure 31). This opening provides an air path for the sensing portion of the pressure sensor 3003 (Figure 30) to detect pressure via a negative pressure port 3014 (Figure 31) that penetrates the cartridge engagement portion 2835 (Figure 31). In at least one embodiment, the opening in the PCBA 2810A is aligned with the lower part 3216 of the elongated liquid trap 3210, providing a negative pressure air path offset along the length of the elongated liquid trap 3210. In some embodiments, the elongated liquid trap 3210 includes a baffle 3212 or capillary channel similar to that described later in Figure 32B. The baffle 3212 captures free liquid flowing into the offset negative pressure air path formed by the elongated liquid trap 3210 via the negative pressure port 3014, helping to prevent the liquid from reaching the diaphragm of the pressure sensor 3003 (Figure 30).

[0292] Next, with reference to Figure 32B, a capillary seal 3250 based on various embodiments will be described. In various embodiments, the capillary seal 3250 includes an air intake port 3269, a capillary channel 3255, and a reed valve 3257. Note that the components shown in Figure 31 will be frequently referenced in the following description.

[0293] In some embodiments, the capillary seal 3250 may be an embodiment of the airway seal 3170. In another embodiment, the capillary seal 3250 may be used in addition to the airway seal 3170, and by inserting the airway seal 3250 between the airway seal 3170 and the PCBA 2810A, it forms part of a negative air path that allows the intake port 3269 to detect the air pressure present in the negative pressure port 3014, which is detected by the pressure sensor 3003. In yet another embodiment, the capillary channel 3255 and reed valve 3257 of the capillary seal 3250 may be incorporated into the airway seal 3170 or the airway seal 3200.

[0294] In some embodiments, the battery holder 2830 and / or the housing in which the battery holder 2830 is housed may be provided with an exhaust port (not shown) that is in fluid communication with the reed valve 3257. In some such embodiments, the exhaust port may allow the fluid trapped in the capillary channel 3255 to be discharged to the outside of the electronic vaping device or to a liquid trap within the electronic vaping device. These liquid traps may include cavities and / or channels formed in various parts and / or components of the electronic vaping device.

[0295] In one embodiment, during operation of an electronic vaping device equipped with a capillary seal 3250, the liquid pre-vaporization formulation is heated to form an aspirable dispersion in a cavity located below the heating assembly and above the cartridge engagement portion 2835 and the cartridge-facing surface 3150 of the battery 2820. In some cases, a small amount of the liquid pre-vaporization formulation may reach the negative pressure port 3014. In that case, the liquid may attempt to reach the pressure sensor 3003 through the negative pressure port 3014. In various embodiments, the capillary channel 3255 can prevent the liquid flowing through the air inlet 3269 from reaching the printed circuit board 2113.

[0296] In various embodiments, the capillary channel 3255 can draw liquid from the airflow pressure path. This reduces and / or prevents direct contact between the liquid and the pressure sensor 3003. In some embodiments, the pressure sensor 3003 remains unaffected by reducing the amount of "free" liquid in the air path. In various embodiments, the liquid trapped in the capillary channel 3255 is discharged from the capillary channel 3255 via the reed valve 3257 by a burst of positive pressure provided by an adult electronic vaping consumer who sharply blows into the electronic vaping assembly.

[0297] In various embodiments, the capillary channel 3255 is balanced by utilizing the surface tension properties of the pre-vaporized preparation, generating a "wicking" motion. In various embodiments, any liquid pre-vaporized preparation that accidentally flows into the air sensor path is drawn into the capillary channel 3255 away from the seal opening 2119 and the air sensor path. As more liquid flows into the air path, the capillary channel 3255 continues to draw in the liquid until it is full. Once the capillary channel 3255 is full, the additional "free" liquid in the airway may begin to affect the function of the pressure sensor. To remove the liquid trapped in the capillary channel 3255, an adult electronic vaping user can blow air into the device to open one or more reed valves 3257 molded at the outer end of the capillary channel 2105, allowing the trapped liquid to be expelled from the sensor airway path.

[0298] In the illustrated embodiment, the capillary channels 3255 are arranged in a symmetrical throttling spherical pattern surrounding the air inlet 3269, with the inner ends of the throttling spherical portions converging at the air inlet 3269 and the outer ends terminating at the reed valve 3257. The widest portion of each throttling valve is shown to be located near the midpoint between the air inlet 3269 and the reed valve 3257. Inside the throttling valve, the capillary channels 3255 form a meandering path between the air inlet 3269 and the reed valve 3257. In some embodiments, the width of the capillary channels may be constant throughout, wide near the central axis of the throttling valve and narrowing away from the central axis, narrow near the central axis and widening away from the central axis, wide near the air inlet 3269 and gradually narrowing towards the reed valve 3257, or similar. In at least some embodiments, there are no “dead end” paths within the capillary channels 3255. Other capillary channel configurations and shapes can be used besides those shown in the embodiment in Figure 32B.

[0299] Next, with reference to Figure 33, leadless heating assemblies 3300 based on various embodiments will be described. The following embodiments of leadless heating assemblies 3300 focus on leadless heating assemblies used in removable electronic vaping cartridges, but in other embodiments, leadless heating assemblies can be used in disposable electronic vaping devices. Other heating assemblies, such as heating assembly 1903, may have thin wired leads protruding from the surface of the heating assembly. In the embodiments disclosed herein, the protruding leads are eliminated from the heating assembly 3300 to improve manufacturability and enhance the robustness of the resulting heating assembly. In various embodiments, the leadless heating assembly 3300 is used in combination with external electrical contacts configured to directly engage with external power contacts formed on the surface of the heating assembly.

[0300] In various embodiments, an S-shaped heating element 3342 is formed on and / or mounted on the surface of the ceramic body 3345 of the heating assembly 3300. In at least one embodiment, a surface contact 3340 integrally formed with the heating element 3342 is formed as part of the heating element 3342 and / or mounted on the ceramic body 3345 of the heating assembly 3300. External contacts 3305 used in combination with the leadless heating element include, but are not limited to, pogo pins fixed within the heating assembly holder and maintaining direct contact with the surface contact 3340 of the heating assembly using spring pressure, and / or cantilevered flat spring steel contacts (not shown) included in the heating assembly holder 3320. In some embodiments, power contacts may not be included within the heating assembly holder or anywhere within the removable electronic vaping cartridge. Instead, a passage may be formed within the heating assembly holder, allowing external electrical contacts, such as elongated POGO pins included in a reusable electronic vaping device, to extend through the passage and make direct contact with the surface contact 3340 of the leadless heating assembly 3300. The airflow 3349 around the leadless heating assembly 3300 is indicated by a dotted white arrow and is similar to or comparable to the airflow around other heating assemblies such as heating assembly 1903.

[0301] Next, with reference to Figures 34A and 34B, the cylindrical heating assembly 3403 will be described according to various embodiments. In at least one embodiment, the cylindrical ceramic heating assembly 3403 includes a heating element 3414 consisting of a nichrome wire wound around the outer circumference of a cylindrical ceramic body 3416. In some embodiments, the cylindrical heating assembly 3403 may be positioned at the intersection of the air path 3405 and the fluid connection path 3425. The cylindrical shape allows the pre-vaporization mixture to flow freely through a tube 3421 defined by the inner diameter of the cylindrical ceramic body 3416, thereby increasing the surface area for atomization. In various embodiments, the nichrome wire is connected to a POGO pin or other power connector via a mechanical crimping, insulator displacement, or resistance welding process.

[0302] In some embodiments, the cylindrical heating element 3403 is suspended between two endpoints near the bottom of the fluid connection path 3425. The nichrome wire / heating element 3414 may be wound radially around the cylindrical ceramic body 3416. The two endpoints on which the cylindrical heating assembly is suspended may be positioned to be in direct contact with an external power connector. This results in the cylindrical heating assembly 3403 being an embodiment of the leadless heating assembly discussed in relation to Figure 33.

[0303] In various embodiments, the cylindrical heating assembly 3403 functions similarly to other embodiments of heating assemblies disclosed herein, except that it provides an additional surface area for heating the pre-vaporization formulation absorbed by the ceramic body 3416. Thus, the cylindrical heating assembly 3403 is porous and absorbs the pre-vaporization formulation stored in the reservoir 340. When an adult consumer inhales, a puff sensor (not shown) powers the heating element 3414, heating the absorbed pre-vaporization formulation to form an inhalable dispersion. This inhalable dispersion is drawn into the air flowing through the cylindrical heating assembly 3403 and supplied to the adult consumer inhaling the electronic vaping device.

[0304] Referring next to Figure 35, a method 3500 for varying airflow and power based on a requested suction is shown according to various embodiments. As shown in block 3503, a first amount of power is applied to the heating assembly of an electronic vaping device. In one or more embodiments, in response to detection of suction by a suction detector, power is supplied for the duration of the suction or until the maximum suction time is reached. As shown in block 3505, it is checked whether there is a change in the requested suction amount. In some embodiments, the suction detector is used to detect the occurrence of suction, but may be insufficient to detect the amount of airflow generated by the suction. In one such embodiment, an airflow sensor can be used to determine the airflow generated by the suction. The airflow associated with the suction may be called the requested airflow or requested suction.

[0305] If block 3505 determines that there is no change in the requested suction amount, method 3500 returns to block 3503. As shown in block 3507, if block 3505 determines that there is a change in the requested suction amount, the amount of power supplied to the heating assembly can be changed based on the change in the requested suction amount. In some embodiments, the change in power supplied to the heating assembly is adjusted by changing the pulse width modulation of the power supplied to the heating elements of the heating assembly, adjusting the magnitude of the power supplied to the heating elements, and / or changing the number of operating heating elements included in the heating assembly.

[0306] As shown in block 3509, the air inlet can be adjusted in response to a change in the required suction volume to alter the airflow. In at least some embodiments, the change in airflow is not linearly related to the change in the required suction volume. In at least one embodiment, the change in airflow can be controlled or altered using mechanical means, including but not limited to the use of an intake valve containing a flexible membrane.

[0307] Next, with reference to Figures 36A-36D, the inhalation port of an electronic vaping device, including a silicone valve and a rigid valve seat, will be described according to various embodiments. In various embodiments, the inhalation port 3600 includes a silicone valve 3601, which includes a projection configured to engage with a hole 3620 in a substantially rigid bottom portion 3603 (which may be part of the cartridge bottom). Figure 36B shows an assembled inhalation port 3650 in a fully closed position. Figure 36C shows an assembled inhalation port 3660 in a slightly open position in response to weak suction. Figure 36D shows an assembled inhalation port 3670 in a more fully open position in response to full suction.

[0308] The silicone valve 3601 may change shape in response to the airflow desired by the adult consumer. When the adult consumer inhales the electronic vaping device more strongly (negative pressure increases), the intake port 3600 deforms to increase the airflow. In various embodiments, the intake port 3600 is used in combination with an airflow sensor (not shown) to adjust the power output to the electronic vaping heating assembly. In some embodiments, the intake port 3600 is used to control the airflow while simultaneously controlling the power supply to the heating assembly, thereby adjusting parameters and creating a consistent system that provides the adult consumer with a cigarette-like experience. In at least one embodiment, when the adult consumer inhales the electronic vaping device more strongly, both the airflow and TPM (temperature, pressure, and humidity) increase, creating a high-fidelity experience.

[0309] In some embodiments, it is possible to create an analog experience for adult consumers by adjusting the power output in conjunction with the size of the air intake. As shown in Figures 36A-36D, the air intake size can be changed by deforming the silicone valve 3601 to expose more holes 3620. In various embodiments, the variable air intake includes a silicone membrane designed to deform at a predetermined negative pressure, allowing for an increase in flow rate during deformation. In various embodiments, a flow meter is used to measure changes in airflow, but the addition of a flow meter makes it possible to remove the pressure sensor from the electronic vaping device.

[0310] Next, with reference to Figure 37, the liquid trap 3705 and the tank seal 3701 will be described according to various embodiments. The cartridge 3700 includes a liquid trap 3705 formed in the bottom cover 3706 of the cartridge 3700, with an opening 3709 at the top, covered by a tank seal 3701. In some embodiments, a side opening 3710 of the liquid trap 3705 is sealed by a heating assembly seal 3703. Other openings (not shown) are open to atmospheric pressure. In the illustrated embodiments, the tank seal 3701 includes a flap covering the opening 3709 and functions as a check valve. In some embodiments, if the pressure in the tank 3750 drops (for example, due to the consumption of pre-vaporization formulation stored in the tank 3750), the pressure difference between the tank 3750 and the liquid trap 3705 causes the flap of the tank seal 3701 to open, allowing air to flow from the liquid trap 3705 into the tank 3750.

[0311] In some embodiments, the liquid trap 3705 may include an absorbent material, which can hold the spill in a confined space away from the intake airflow. In at least some embodiments, the current cartridge reservoir pressure equalization circuit is moved from the air passage in the heating assembly seal to an alternative location at the interface between the atomizer cover and the tank seal. By moving the air path away from the heating assembly / heating assembly seal interface, a large negative pressure space cavity within the heating assembly holder is made to function as a liquid trap.

[0312] By moving the air path away from the atomizer seal, the seal's shape is reduced, improving its contact with the atomizer. Various embodiments include multiple “check valves” or other similar shapes. The check valves allow for air venting of the reservoir for pressure equalization. In some embodiments, the shapes can be formed from plastic or thick-walled silicone for tank seals, which offer relatively high dimensional stability. Furthermore, in at least some embodiments, the current negative space cavity within the heating assembly holder can be inverted and used as a liquid trap containing liquid away from the airflow. In some embodiments, the liquid trap is redundancy used when liquid passes through the “check valves”.

[0313] Next, referring to Figure 38, cross-sectional views showing liquid traps and tank seals based on various embodiments will be described. As shown in Figure 38, the tank seal 3801 covers the upper opening of the liquid trap 3803 formed in the bottom cover 3806 of the electronic vaping cartridge 3800 and functions as a check valve to allow air to flow into the tank 3850, while any liquid that may leak from the check valve flows into the liquid trap 3803.

[0314] Next, with reference to Figure 39, a heating assembly, a heating assembly seal, and a heating assembly holder will be described according to various embodiments. In various embodiments, assembly 3900 can be used in combination with the embodiments shown in Figures 37-38. In the illustrated embodiment, assembly 3900 includes a heating assembly 3910, a heating assembly seal 3903, and a heating assembly holder 3920. In various embodiments, heating assembly 1903 includes a porous ceramic body 1997, an S-shaped heating conductive element 1998 embedded in the porous ceramic body 1997 or formed on or attached to its side, and a heater post 1999 protruding from the porous ceramic body 1997 and extending into its interior.

[0315] In at least some embodiments, the heating assembly holder 3920 has ventilation holes 3901, and when the heating assembly holder 3920 is fitted with the bottom cover in which the liquid trap is formed, an opening is provided above the liquid trap.

[0316] Next, with reference to Figure 40, exploded perspective views of the liquid trap assembly, including the crush ribs and heating assembly cover, will be described according to various embodiments. In at least some embodiments, the bottom cover of the reusable cartridge is provided with molded crush ribs, which deform to hold the bottom cover 4010 in a fitted state with cover 4020.

[0317] In various embodiments, the electronic vaping device may have features described in U.S. Patent No. 10,064,432 (dated September 4, 2018), which are incorporated herein by reference. Various embodiments and corresponding features may also be applied to the electronic vaping devices disclosed in U.S. Patent No. 10,064,432.

[0318] It should be understood that the shape of a power supply battery (or multiple batteries) can vary. For example, a battery may be cylindrical, prismatic, disc-shaped, pouch-type, or any other shape known in the art. Furthermore, it should be understood that batteries of various types can be used. For example, in one embodiment, the battery may be a rechargeable battery (e.g., a lithium-ion battery). In another embodiment, the battery may be a non-rechargeable battery (e.g., an alkaline battery). In yet another embodiment, the battery may include silver oxide, zinc carbon, cadmium, nickel, or any other material known in the art. Furthermore, the battery may include a primary battery and / or a secondary battery. Those skilled in the art will understand that various modifications to the form and details of the battery are possible without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention.

[0319] In this specification, a pre-vaporization formulation refers to a substance (e.g., liquid, wax, gel) that can be converted into vapor in various embodiments. For example, a pre-vaporization formulation may include, but is not limited to, water, a solvent, an active ingredient, ethanol, a plant extract, a natural or artificial fragrance, and / or a vapor-forming agent such as glycerin or propylene glycol.

[0320] It will be understood that plant extracts contain not only active ingredients but also auxiliary components (e.g., compounds that aid in the absorption of active ingredients). Active ingredients include, but are not limited to, nicotine (tobacco-derived nicotine, synthetic nicotine, etc.), caffeine, and / or various plant extracts, including medicinal plants. Tobacco-derived nicotine can be obtained from any species of the Nicotiana genus, e.g., one or more tobacco plants such as Nicotiana rustica and Nicotiana tabacum, and may include blends of two or more different tobacco varieties. Examples of suitable tobacco materials that can be used include, but are not limited to, flame-dried tobacco, Burley tobacco, dark tobacco, Maryland tobacco, Oriental tobacco, rare tobacco, specialty tobacco, and blends thereof. Medicinal plant extracts may be natural components or extracts of medicinal plants that have medically recognized physiological effects (e.g., therapeutic or preventive effects). For example, medicinal plants may be cannabis plants or cannabinoid-like plants (i.e., plants with pharmacological effects similar to cannabis). In the case of cannabis plants, the compounds may be cannabinoids. Cannabinoids interact with receptors in the body, producing a wide range of effects. As a result, cannabinoids have been used for various medical purposes (e.g., pain, nausea, epilepsy, and mental illness). In the case of cannabimimeric plants, their compounds may be cannabimimeric agents. Cannabimimeric agents interact with receptors in the body, producing pharmacological effects similar to those of cannabinoids.

[0321] Examples of cannabinoids include tetrahydrocannabinol (THCA), tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), cannabidiolic acid (CBDA), cannabidiol (CBD), cannabinol (CBN), cannabicyclol (CBL), cannabichromene (CBC), and cannabigerol (CBG). Tetrahydrocannabinol (THCA) is a precursor of tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), and cannabidiolic acid (CBDA) is a precursor of cannabidiol (CBD).

[0322] In some embodiments, in addition to the active ingredient, the prevaporation formulation may contain flavoring agents derived from natural and / or artificial raw materials. Examples include plant extracts (e.g., tobacco extract, cannabis extract, cannabimimic extract), menthol, mint, and / or vanilla.

[0323] When an element or layer is described as “on top of,” “connected to,” “joined,” “attached,” “adjacent to,” or “covering” another element or layer, it should be understood that it may be directly present in, connected to, joined to, attached to, adjacent to, or covering the other element or layer, and that an element or layer may exist between them. When expressed as “adjacent” or “covering,” it may be directly present in, connected to, joined to, attached to, adjacent to, or covering the other element or layer, or there may be an intervening element or layer. In contrast, when an element is described as “directly present,” “directly connected to,” or “directly joined to” another element or layer, there is no intervening element or layer. Throughout the specification, the same number indicates the same component. In this specification, the term “and / or” encompasses any combination or subcombination that includes one or more of the relevant descriptions.

[0324] In this specification, terms such as “first,” “second,” and “third” may be used to describe various elements, components, regions, layers, and / or sections, but these elements, components, regions, layers, and / or sections should not be limited by these terms. These terms are used solely to distinguish one element, component, region, layer, or section from another region, layer, or section. Accordingly, the first element, component, region, layer, or section described below may be referred to as the second element, component, region, layer, or section without departing from the teaching of the embodiments.

[0325] Spatial relative terms (e.g., “downwards,” “below,” “bottom,” “upwards,” “top,” etc.) may be used here for explanatory purposes to describe the relationship between one element or feature and another, as shown in the drawings. It should be understood that spatial relative terms are intended to include different orientations of the device in use or operation, in addition to the illustrated orientation. For example, if the device in the drawing is turned over, the element described as “below” or “below” another element or feature will be positioned “above” that other element or feature. Therefore, the term “down” may include both up and down orientations. The device is positioned in a different orientation (90-degree rotation or other orientations), and the spatial relative descriptors used here are interpreted accordingly.

[0326] The terms used herein are for the purpose of describing various embodiments and are not intended to limit the embodiments. In this specification, the singular forms "a," "an," and "the" are to be interpreted as including the plural form unless the context clearly indicates otherwise. Furthermore, it should be understood that in this specification, the terms "include," "contain," "constitute," and / or "constitute" identify the presence of the described features, elements, steps, operations, components, and / or components, but do not exclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, elements, steps, operations, components, and / or groups thereof.

[0327] While the terms “identical” or “same” are used in the description of the exemplary embodiments, it should be understood that there may be some degree of inaccuracy. Therefore, when an element is described as identical to another element, it should be understood that this means the element or value is identical to the other element within a given manufacturing tolerance or operating tolerance range (e.g., ±10%).

[0328] Where the terms “approximately” or “substantially” are used in relation to numerical values ​​in this specification, the numerical values ​​are intended to include manufacturing tolerances or operating tolerances (e.g., ±10%) around the stated numerical value. Furthermore, where the terms “approximately” and “substantially” are used in relation to geometric shapes, precision of the geometric shape is not required, but rather the tolerance of the shape is intended to be within the scope of the disclosure. Moreover, whether or not numerical values ​​or shapes are modified with “approximately” or “substantially,” it will be understood that these values ​​and shapes should be interpreted as including manufacturing tolerances or operating tolerances (e.g., ±10%) around the stated numerical value or shape.

[0329] A controller may include processing circuits such as hardware including logic circuits, a combination of hardware and software such as a processor that runs software stored in memory, or a combination thereof. For example, processing circuits may more specifically include, but are not limited to, a central processing unit (CPU), an arithmetic logic unit (ALU), a digital signal processor, a microcomputer, a field-programmable gate array (FPGA), a system on a chip (SoC), a programmable logic unit, a microprocessor, or an application-specific integrated circuit (ASIC).

[0330] Unless otherwise specified, all terms used herein (including technical and scientific terms) have the same meaning as those generally understood by those skilled in the art in the field to which the embodiments belong. Furthermore, terms, including those defined in commonly used dictionaries, should be interpreted in a way that is consistent with their meaning in the context of the relevant art, and it will be understood that they should not be interpreted in an idealized or overly formal sense unless expressly defined herein.

Claims

1. An electronic vaping device, It comprises a wireless communication circuit and a processing circuit coupled to the wireless communication circuit, The processing circuit is configured to receive authorization information via the wireless communication circuit, and the authorization information indicates whether or not the electronic vaping device is authorized to operate the docked detachable cartridge. The processing circuit is configured to conditionally activate the docked detachable cartridge based on the authorization information, in an electronic vaping device.

2. In the electronic vaping device according to claim 1, The processing circuit is configured to store the authorization information in memory. An electronic vaping device comprising an approval list indicating one or more onboard cartridge identifiers associated with one or more approved removable cartridges, wherein the approval information includes an approval list indicating one or more onboard cartridge identifiers associated with one or more approved removable cartridges.

3. In the electronic vaping device according to claim 2, The processing circuit further obtains the onboard cartridge identifier of the docked detachable cartridge from the detachable cartridge, An electronic vaping device configured to authorize power supply to a detachable cartridge in response to determining that the onboard cartridge identifier of the docked detachable cartridge is included in the approval list.

4. In the electronic vaping device according to claim 2, The processing circuit further obtains the onboard cartridge identifier of the docked detachable cartridge from the detachable cartridge, An electronic vaping device configured to block power supply to a docked removable cartridge in response to determining that the onboard cartridge identifier of the docked removable cartridge is not included in the approval list.

5. In the electronic vaping device according to claim 2, The processing circuit further determines that the onboard cartridge identifier of the docked detachable cartridge is not included in the approval list, and obtains the updated approval information via the wireless communication circuit. An electronic vaping device configured to conditionally permit the supply of power to the docked detachable cartridge based on the updated authorization information.

6. In the electronic vaping device according to claim 2, The processing circuit is further configured to perform the following: An electronic vaping device that receives authorization information via the wireless communication circuit from an adult consumer mobile device connected to a server device that hosts accounts associated with authenticated adult consumers of the electronic vaping device.

7. In the electronic vaping device according to claim 1, The processing circuit is further configured to receive the authorization information via a personal area network, in an electronic vaping device.

8. In the electronic vaping device according to claim 1, An electronic vaping device, wherein the processing circuit is further configured to control a feedback element, the feedback element providing at least one tactile, auditory, or visual indication of the operating state of the docked detachable cartridge.

9. In the electronic vaping device according to claim 1, The processing circuit is further configured to determine whether or not to activate the docked detachable cartridge in response to each docking event, in an electronic vaping device.

10. In the electronic vaping device according to claim 1, An electronic vaping device, wherein the processing circuit is further configured to obtain the onboard cartridge identifier of the docked detachable cartridge via the detachable cartridge identification interface.

11. An electronic vaping device according to claim 10, wherein the detachable cartridge identification interface includes at least one of a radio frequency identification chip, a short-range wireless communication chip, or a contact reader.

12. A removable electronic vaping cartridge, It comprises an external surface on which an unerasable scan code is inscribed, and an internal onboard identifier, The onboard identifier is readable by the electronic vaping device while the removable electronic vaping cartridge is docked to the electronic vaping device, and is a removable electronic vaping cartridge.

13. A detachable electronic vaping cartridge according to claim 12, Furthermore, a removable electronic vaping cartridge comprising at least one of the following: a radio frequency identification chip (RFID) configured to store the onboard identifier; a short-range wireless communication chip configured to store the onboard identifier; or a memory configured to be read by a contact reader included in the electronic vaping device and for storing the onboard identifier.

14. An electronic vaping device, It comprises a wireless communication circuit and a processing circuit coupled to the wireless communication circuit, An electronic vaping device wherein the processing circuit is configured to operate in a locked state, prevent power supply to the heating assembly while in the locked state, receive authorization to unlock via a communication network through the wireless communication circuit, enter an unlocked state in response to the authorization to unlock, and allow power supply to the heating assembly in the unlocked state.

15. In the electronic vaping device according to claim 14, The processing circuit is further configured to receive authorization for unlocking from a computing device wirelessly coupled to the electronic vaping device, wherein the electronic vaping device is an electronic vaping device.

16. In the electronic vaping device according to claim 14, The processing circuit and the wireless communication circuit are incorporated into a microcontroller in an electronic vaping device.

17. In the electronic vaping device according to claim 16, The memory is configured to store the firmware. An electronic vaping device wherein, when the firmware is executed by the microcontroller, at least part of it causes the microcontroller to determine whether or not to allow power supply to a docked, detachable electronic vaping cartridge based on the authorization for unlocking.

18. An electronic vaping device according to claim 14, Furthermore, the processing circuit is equipped with an airflow sensor, An electronic vaping device wherein the processing circuit is configured to allow power supply to the heating assembly based on the output of the airflow sensor when the lock is released.

19. In the electronic vaping device according to claim 18, An electronic vaping device configured such that, in the unlocked state, if the output of the airflow sensor remains active for a threshold time, the processing circuit stops supplying power to the heating assembly.

20. An electronic vaping device according to claim 14, Furthermore, the processing circuit is equipped with an LED, The processing circuit is configured to light up the LED at least temporarily in response to entering the unlocked state, in an electronic vaping device.

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