Nicotine Vaping Devices

Abstract

The nicotine e-vapor device (10) includes a heater (240), a power control circuit (120), and a memory module (210). The heater (240) is configured to heat a nicotine pre-vapor formulation. The power control circuit (120) is coupled to the heater (240) through an electrical wire (150). The power control circuit (120) is configured to apply a pulse-width modulated power signal to the heater (240) through the electrical wire (150) and to receive information via the electrical wire (150). The memory module (210) is configured to detect pulses in the pulse-width modulated power signal, record information based on the detected pulses, and output the recorded information to the power control circuit (120) through the electrical wire (150).

Description

[Technical field]

[0001] The present disclosure relates to nicotine electronic vaping devices or nicotine e-vaping devices. [Background technology]

[0002] Nicotine electronic vaping devices, or nicotine e-vapor devices, include a heating element that heats a nicotine pre-vapor formulation to produce a nicotine vapor.

[0003] The nicotine e-vaporizing device includes a power source (such as a rechargeable battery) disposed within the device. The power source is electrically connected to the heater. The power source provides power to the heater such that the heater heats the nicotine pre-vapor formulation to a temperature sufficient to convert the nicotine vapor into a nicotine vapor. The nicotine vapor exits the nicotine e-vaporizing device through a mouthpiece that includes at least one outlet. The nicotine e-vaporizing device may include a memory, such as a heat-resistant electrically erasable programmable read-only memory (EEPROM). Summary of the Invention

[0004] At least one exemplary embodiment relates to a nicotine e-vapor device that includes a heater, a power control circuit, and a memory module. The heater element is configured to heat a nicotine pre-vapor formulation. The power control circuit is coupled to the heater element via an electrical wire. The power control circuit is configured to apply a pulse width modulated power signal to the heater element via the electrical wire and to receive information via the electrical wire. The memory module is configured to detect pulses of the pulse width modulated power signal, record information based on the detected pulses, and output the recorded information to the power control circuit via the electrical wire.

[0005] At least one exemplary embodiment relates to a memory module for a cartridge of a nicotine e-vaping device, the memory module including an array of fuses and a memory controller, each fuse of the array of fuses configured to open based on a threshold voltage, the memory controller configured to receive a pulse-width modulated power signal via an electrical line and to apply a voltage equal to or greater than the threshold voltage across one or more fuses of the array of fuses based on a plurality of pulses of the pulse-width modulated power signal.

[0006] At least one exemplary embodiment relates to a memory module for a cartridge of a nicotine e-vaping device, the memory module including a memory and a memory controller coupled to the memory, the memory controller configured to read information stored in the memory and output the information over the electrical wires by modifying a pulse width modulated power signal carried by the electrical wires.

[0007] At least one exemplary embodiment relates to a power control circuit for a nicotine e-vaping device, the power control circuit including a power application circuit and an integrated circuit. The power application circuit is configured to output a pulse-width modulated power signal over an electrical line to a heater element. The integrated circuit includes an analog-to-digital converter (ADC) configured to receive a data transmission over the electrical line by detecting a change in current of one or more pulses of the pulse-width modulated power signal, and to control the power application circuit to output the pulse-width modulated power signal.

[0008] At least one exemplary embodiment relates to a nicotine cartridge for a nicotine e-vaping device, the nicotine cartridge comprising: a memory module including an array of fuses, where each fuse in the array of fuses is configured to open based on a threshold voltage; and a memory controller configured to receive a pulse-width modulated power signal via the electrical wire and to apply a voltage equal to or greater than the threshold voltage across one or more fuses in the array of fuses based on a plurality of pulses of the pulse-width modulated power signal; a reservoir configured to hold a nicotine pre-vapor formulation; and a heater element configured to heat the nicotine pre-vapor formulation drawn from the reservoir, where the heater element is part of the electrical wire.

[0009] At least one exemplary embodiment relates to a nicotine cartridge for a nicotine e-vaping device, the nicotine cartridge comprising: a memory module including a memory; a memory controller coupled to the memory, the memory controller configured to read information stored in the memory and to output information via the electrical wire by modifying a pulse width modulated power signal carried by the electrical wire; a reservoir configured to hold a nicotine pre-vapor formulation; and a heater element configured to heat the nicotine pre-vapor formulation drawn from the reservoir, the heater element being part of the electrical wire.

[0010] At least one exemplary embodiment relates to a nicotine e-vapor device comprising a reservoir configured to hold a nicotine pre-vapor formulation, a heater element configured to heat the nicotine pre-vapor formulation drawn from the reservoir, and a power control circuit including a power application circuit configured to output a pulse width modulated power signal over the electrical wire to the heater element, and an integrated circuit including an analog-to-digital converter (ADC) configured to receive a data transmission over the electrical wire by detecting a change in current of one or more pulses of the pulse width modulated power signal and to control the power application circuit to output the pulse width modulated power signal. The heater element is part of the electrical wire.

[0011] Non-limiting exemplary embodiments described herein may become more apparent upon consideration of the detailed description in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, which are provided solely for illustrative purposes and should not be construed as limiting the scope of the claims. The accompanying drawings should not be considered to be drawn to scale unless expressly noted. For purposes of clarity, various dimensions of the drawings may be exaggerated. [Brief description of the drawings]

[0012] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is a simplified diagram of a nicotine electronic vaping device, or nicotine e-vaping device, in accordance with at least one exemplary embodiment. [Diagram 2] FIG. 2 is a diagram of an electrical system of a nicotine e-vaping device and heater according to at least one exemplary embodiment. [Diagram 3] FIG. 3 is a diagram of a memory module in accordance with at least one example embodiment. [Figure 4A] FIG. 4A is a flow diagram illustrating a method for recording information in a memory module in accordance with at least one exemplary embodiment. [Figure 4B] FIG. 4B is a flow diagram illustrating a method of transmitting information to a body in accordance with at least one exemplary embodiment. [Diagram 5] FIG. 5 is a block diagram of a fuse memory in accordance with at least one example embodiment. [Figure 6] FIG. 6 is a time lapse diagram illustrating an exemplary recording operation in accordance with at least one exemplary embodiment. [Figure 7] FIG. 7 is an example pulse width modulated signal in accordance with at least one example embodiment. [Figure 8] FIG. 8 is another example pulse width modulated signal in accordance with at least one example embodiment. [Figure 9] FIG. 9 is another example pulse width modulated signal in accordance with at least one example embodiment. [Figure 10] FIG. 10 is another example pulse width modulated signal in accordance with at least one example embodiment. [Figure 11] FIG. 11 is another example pulse width modulated signal in accordance with at least one example embodiment. [Figure 12] FIG. 12 is an example power supply circuit in accordance with at least one example embodiment. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0013] Some detailed exemplary embodiments are disclosed herein. However, the specific structural and functional details disclosed herein are merely representative for the purpose of describing the exemplary embodiments. However, the exemplary embodiments may be embodied in many alternative forms and should not be construed as being limited to only the exemplary embodiments described herein.

[0014] As a result, while the exemplary embodiments are susceptible to various modifications and alternative forms, exemplary embodiments have been shown by way of example in the drawings and are described in detail herein. However, there is no intention to limit the exemplary embodiments to the particular forms disclosed, but on the contrary, it should be understood that the exemplary embodiments are intended to cover all modifications, equivalents, and alternatives falling within the scope of the exemplary embodiments. Like numerals refer to like elements throughout the description of the figures.

[0015] FIG. 1 is a simplified diagram of a nicotine e-vaping device 10 according to at least one exemplary embodiment.

[0016] With reference to FIG. 1, in at least one exemplary embodiment, a nicotine electronic vaping device (nicotine e-vaping device) 10 includes a body (or first section) 100 and a replaceable cartridge (or second section) 200. The first section 100 and the second section 200 may be coupled together. For example, the first section 100 and the second section 200 may be coupled together using a connector (not shown). The connector may include a male connector piece having reciprocal threads on the first section 100 and a female connector piece including reciprocal threads on the second section 200. The female connector and the male connector may be connected by turning threads together. Alternatively, the connector may be a slip-fit ​​connector, a detent connector, a clamp connector, a clasp connector, or the like. Additionally, the positions of the male connector and the female connector may be reversed as desired, such that a portion of the female connector is part of the first section 100 and a portion of the male connector is part of the second section 200.

[0017] 1, the first section 100 includes a power supply 110, a power supply control circuit 120, a sensor 134, and an LED array 137. The power supply control circuit 120 includes a power supply circuit (or power application circuit) 124 and an integrated circuit 127.

[0018] The second section 200 includes a memory module 210, a reservoir 220, and a heater 240 (or heater element). The reservoir 220 is configured to hold a nicotine pre-vapor formulation. The power control circuitry 120 and the memory module 210 may be electrically connected through a power line 150. As described in more detail below, the power control circuitry 120 and the memory module 210 may communicate information via the power line 150. The power control circuitry 120 may also provide power to the heater 240 and the memory module 210 via the power line 150.

[0019] The power line 150 may be a single wire or may be multiple wires. The heater 240 may be part of the power line 150. The power line 150 may also include connecting elements or other conductive elements.

[0020] In some exemplary embodiments, one or both of the sensor 134 and the air inlet 160 may be included in the second section 200. The first section 100 may include a first outer housing 104. The second section 200 may include a second outer housing 204.

[0021] The integrated circuit 127 may control the power supply circuit 124, the sensor 134, and the LED array 137. The integrated circuit 127 may also receive a sensor signal from the sensor 134. The integrated circuit 127 may control the power supply circuit 124 to provide a pulse-width modulated (PWM) signal (or PWM power signal) via the power line 150 to the heater 240 and the memory module 210.

[0022] The integrated circuit 127 may also receive information from the memory module 210 via the power line 150. The information received from the memory module 210 may indicate, for example, the level of the nicotine pre-vapor formulation in the reservoir 220. The integrated circuit 127 may control the LED array 137 to indicate the level of the nicotine pre-vapor formulation based on the received information. For example, the LED array 137 may include six LEDs. In this example, if the information received from the memory module 210 indicates that the reservoir 220 is half full, the integrated circuit 127 may control the LED array 137 to light three of the six LEDs to indicate that the reservoir 220 is half full.

[0023] The sensor 134 may be a capacitive sensor capable of sensing an internal pressure drop within the first section 100. In at least one exemplary embodiment, the sensor 134 is configured to generate an output indicative of the magnitude and direction of airflow through the nicotine e-vaping device 10. In this example, the integrated circuit 127 receives the output of the sensor 134 and determines (1) whether the direction of airflow indicates the application of negative pressure (e.g., inhalation) to the air outlet 250 (compared to positive pressure or blowing), and (2) whether the magnitude of the negative pressure application exceeds a threshold level. The threshold level may be set based on empirical data. When these vaping conditions are met, the integrated circuit 127 controls the power circuit 124 to output a PWM signal to the heater 240 via the power line 150.

[0024] According to at least one exemplary embodiment, the sensor 134 is discussed with respect to a capacitive sensor, however, the sensor 134 may be any suitable pressure sensor, such as a microelectromechanical system (MEMS) including a piezo-resistive or other pressure sensor.

[0025] The heater 240 may heat the nicotine pre-vapor formulation drawn from the reservoir 220 by the wick 224. The wick 224 may draw the nicotine pre-vapor formulation from the reservoir 220 (e.g., by capillary action), and the heater 240 may heat the nicotine pre-vapor formulation in the central portion of the wick 224 to a temperature sufficient to vaporize the nicotine pre-vapor formulation, thereby generating a "vapor." As referred to herein, a "vapor" is any substance generated or output from any nicotine e-vaporing device 10 according to any of the exemplary embodiments disclosed herein. The airflow may carry the nicotine vapor to the air outlet 250.

[0026] In yet other exemplary embodiments, the air inlet 160 may be between the first section 100 and the second section 200. In some exemplary embodiments, the heater 240 may be within the first section 100.

[0027] In at least one exemplary embodiment, the reservoir 220 may include a storage medium, which may be a fibrous material including at least one of cotton (e.g., a roll of cotton gauze), polyethylene, polyester, rayon, combinations thereof, or the like. In at least one other exemplary embodiment, the reservoir 220 may be devoid of any storage medium and may include a filled tank containing only the nicotine pre-vapor formulation. The reservoir 220 may be sized and configured to hold sufficient nicotine pre-vapor formulation such that the nicotine e-vaporing device 10 may be configured for at least about 1000 seconds of vapor draw. Additionally, the nicotine e-vaporing device 10 (more specifically, the integrated circuit 127) may be configured to allow each puff to last up to about 5 seconds.

[0028] The nicotine prevapor formulation comprises nicotine. In at least one exemplary embodiment, a flavoring agent (at least one flavoring agent) is included within the nicotine prevapor formulation. In at least one exemplary embodiment, the nicotine prevapor formulation is at least one of a liquid formulation, a solid formulation, or a gel formulation that includes, but is not limited to, water, beads, a solvent, an active ingredient, ethanol, a botanical extract, a natural or artificial flavor, at least one nicotine vapor former (such as glycerin, propylene glycol, etc.), or a combination thereof.

[0029] In at least one exemplary embodiment, the at least one nicotine vapor former of the nicotine prevapor formulation includes a diol (at least one of propylene glycol and 1,3-propanediol), glycerin, and combinations, or partial combinations thereof. Various amounts of the nicotine vapor former may be used. For example, in some exemplary embodiments, the at least one nicotine vapor former is included in an amount ranging from about 20 percent by weight based on the weight of the nicotine prevapor formulation to about 90 percent by weight based on the weight of the nicotine prevapor formulation (e.g., the nicotine vapor former is about 50 percent to about 80 percent, or about 55 percent to 75 percent, or about 60 percent to 70 percent). As another example, in at least one exemplary embodiment, the nicotine prevapor formulation includes a weight ratio of diol to glycerin ranging from about 1:4 to 4:1, where the diol is propylene glycol, or 1,3-propanediol, or a combination thereof. In at least one exemplary embodiment, the ratio is about 3:2. Other amounts or ranges may be used.

[0030] In at least one exemplary embodiment, the nicotine prevapor formulation includes water. Various amounts of water may be used. For example, in some exemplary embodiments, water may be included in an amount ranging from about 5 weight percent based on the weight of the nicotine prevapor formulation to about 40 weight percent based on the weight of the nicotine prevapor formulation, or from about 10 weight percent based on the weight of the nicotine prevapor formulation to about 15 weight percent based on the weight of the nicotine prevapor formulation. Other amounts or percentages may be used. For example, in at least one exemplary embodiment, the remainder of the nicotine prevapor formulation that is not water (and is not nicotine or flavorings) is a nicotine vapor former (discussed above), the nicotine vapor former being 30 weight percent to 70 weight percent propylene glycol, and the remaining portion of the nicotine vapor former being glycerin. Other amounts or percentages may be used.

[0031] In at least one exemplary embodiment, the nicotine prevapor formulation includes at least one flavorant in an amount ranging from about 0.2 percent to about 15 percent by weight (e.g., the flavorant can be in the range of about 1 percent to 12 percent, or about 2 percent to 10 percent, or about 5 percent to 8 percent). In at least one exemplary embodiment, the at least one flavorant can be at least one of a natural flavorant, an artificial flavorant, or a combination of a natural flavorant and an artificial flavorant. For example, the at least one flavorant can include menthol, etc.

[0032] In at least one exemplary embodiment, the nicotine prevapor formulation comprises nicotine in an amount ranging from about 1 weight percent to about 10 weight percent. For example, the nicotine ranges from about 2 weight percent to about 9 weight percent, or from about 2 weight percent to about 8 weight percent, or from about 2 weight percent to about 6 weight percent. In at least one exemplary embodiment, the portion of the nicotine prevapor formulation that is not nicotine or flavorings comprises 10 to 15 weight percent water, and the remaining portion of the nicotine prevapor formulation is a mixture of propylene glycol and nicotine vapor formers in a weight ratio ranging from 60:40 to 40:60. Other combinations, amounts, or ranges may be used.

[0033] Referring back to FIG. 1, in at least one exemplary embodiment, the wick 224 may include a filament (or thread) capable of drawing the nicotine pre-vapor formulation from the reservoir 220. For example, the wick 224 may be a bundle of glass (or ceramic) filaments, a bundle including a group of wound glass filaments, or the like, all of which arrangements may be capable of drawing the nicotine pre-vapor formulation by capillary action through the gaps between the filaments. The filaments may be generally aligned in a direction perpendicular (transverse) to the longitudinal axis of the nicotine e-vaping device 10. In at least one exemplary embodiment, the wick 224 may include 1-8 filament strands, each strand including multiple glass filaments twisted together. End portions of the wick 224 may be flexible and may be folded within the confines of the reservoir 220. The filaments may have a cross-section that is generally cross-shaped, clover-shaped, Y-shaped, or any other suitable shape.

[0034] In at least one exemplary embodiment, the wick 224 may include any suitable material or combination of materials. Examples of suitable materials may be, but are not limited to, glass, ceramic-based materials, or graphite-based materials. The wick 224 may have any suitable capillary drawing behavior to accommodate nicotine pre-vapor formulations having different physical properties, such as density, viscosity, surface tension, nicotine vapor pressure, etc. The wick 224 may be conductive or non-conductive.

[0035] In at least one exemplary embodiment, the heater 240 may include a coil of wire (heater coil) that at least partially surrounds the wick 224. The wire used to form the coil of wire may be metallic. The heater 240 may extend completely or partially along the length of the wick 224. The heater 240 may further extend to completely or partially surround the circumference of the wick 224. In some exemplary embodiments, the heater 240 may or may not be in contact (or in direct contact) with the wick 224.

[0036] In at least some other exemplary embodiments, heater 240 may be in the form of a planar body, a ceramic body, a single wire, a mesh, a cage of resistive wire, or any other suitable form. More generally, heater 240 may be any heater configured to vaporize a nicotine pre-vapor formulation.

[0037] In at least one exemplary embodiment, the heater 240 may heat the nicotine pre-vapor formulation within the wick 224 by thermal conduction. Alternatively, heat from the heater 240 may be conducted to the nicotine pre-vapor formulation by a thermally conductive element, or the heater 240 may transfer heat to the incoming ambient air drawn through the nicotine e-vapor device 10 during vaping, which in turn heats the nicotine pre-vapor formulation by convection.

[0038] In at least one exemplary embodiment, the heater 240 may be formed of any suitable electrically resistive material. Examples of suitable electrically resistive materials may include, but are not limited to, copper, titanium, zirconium, tantalum, and metals from the platinum group. Examples of suitable metal alloys include, but are not limited to, stainless steel, nickel-containing, cobalt-containing, chromium-containing, aluminum-titanium-zirconium-containing, hafnium-containing, niobium-containing, molybdenum-containing, tantalum-containing, tungsten-containing, tin-containing, gallium-containing, manganese-containing, and iron-containing alloys, and nickel-based, iron-based, cobalt-based, and stainless steel-based superalloys. For example, the heater 240 may be formed of nickel aluminide, materials having a layer of alumina on the surface, iron aluminide, and other composite materials, and the electrically resistive material may be optionally embedded, encapsulated, or coated with an insulating material, or vice versa, depending on the required energy transfer kinetics and external physicochemical properties. Heater 240 may include at least one material selected from the group consisting of stainless steel, copper, copper alloys, nickel-chromium alloys, superalloys, and combinations thereof. In at least one exemplary embodiment, heater 240 may be formed of a nickel-chromium alloy or an iron-chromium alloy. In another exemplary embodiment, heater 240 may be a ceramic heater having an electrically resistive layer on its outer surface.

[0039] According to at least one exemplary embodiment, the first outer housing 104 and the second outer housing 204 may have a generally cylindrical cross-section. In other exemplary embodiments, the first outer housing 104 and the second outer housing 204 may have a generally triangular, rectangular, oval, square, or polygonal cross-section. Furthermore, the first outer housing 104 and the second outer housing 204 may have the same or different cross-sectional shapes, or the same or different sizes. As discussed herein, the first outer housing 104 and the second outer housing 204 may also be referred to as outer or main housings.

[0040] Although the exemplary embodiments may be described in some instances with respect to a first section 200 coupled to a second section 100, the exemplary embodiments should not be limited to these examples.

[0041] The first section 100 may be a reusable section of the nicotine e-vaping device 10, which may be rechargeable by an external charging device. Alternatively, the first section 100 may be disposable. In this embodiment, the first section 100 may be used until the energy from the power source 110 is depleted (e.g., until the energy falls below a threshold level).

[0042] The power source 110 may be a lithium ion battery or a different type of lithium ion battery such as a lithium ion polymer battery. The power source 110 may be disposable or rechargeable.

[0043] The air inlet 160 may be one or more holes drilled into the first outer housing 104. The air inlet 160 allows for puff detection by the sensor 134, which is caused by a change in pressure as air is drawn through the air inlet 160.

[0044] 1, one hole is shown that is the air inlet 160, but the exemplary embodiment should not be limited to this example. Rather, the first outer housing 104 may include any number of holes or air inlets 160. In at least one exemplary embodiment, the air inlet 160 may be sized and configured such that the nicotine e-vaping device 10 has a resistance to withdrawal (RTD) within a range of about 60 millimeters of water column to about 150 millimeters of water column.

[0045] The air outlet 250 may be one or more holes drilled into the second outer housing 204, or a separate mouthpiece at the end of the housing 204. Although one hole is shown in FIG. 1 as the air outlet 250, the exemplary embodiment should not be limited to this example. Rather, the second outer housing 204 may include any number of holes or air outlets 250. In at least one exemplary embodiment, the air outlet 250 may be sized and configured such that the nicotine e-vaping device 10 has a resistance to withdrawal (RTD) within a range of about 60 millimeters of water column to about 150 millimeters of water column.

[0046] A continuous air passage may exist between the air inlet 160 and the air outlet 250 such that air is drawn into the air inlet 160 , passes through the heater 240 , and exits the air outlet 250 .

[0047] FIG. 2 is a diagram of an electrical system of the nicotine e-vaping device 10 according to at least one exemplary embodiment. In the exemplary embodiment of FIG. 2, the power supply circuit 124 includes a transistor 125, and an output signal from an integrated circuit 127 is input to a gate of the transistor 125 via a control line 130. The source of the transistor 125 may be connected to a rail 140. The rail 140 is connected to a power supply 110, and the voltage applied to the rail is the voltage of the power supply 110. The drain of the transistor 125 may be connected to a power supply line 150. In this configuration, the output signal from the integrated circuit 127 may turn on the gate of the transistor 125, allowing current from the power supply 110 to pass through the power supply circuit 124. The power supply circuit 124 should not be limited to this example and may include other electrical circuit elements such as transistors, resistors, capacitors, inductors, combinations thereof, subcombinations thereof, and the like. For example, FIG. 12 includes an alternative embodiment of the power supply circuit 124.

[0048] The integrated circuit 127 may include, among other things, a controller 129. The controller 129 may include processing circuitry, such as hardware including logic circuitry, or a hardware / software combination, such as a processor executing software, or a combination thereof. For example, the processing circuitry may more specifically include, but is 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 device, a microprocessor, an application specific integrated circuit (ASIC), and the like.

[0049] In another exemplary embodiment, the integrated circuit 127 may be connected to a manually operable switch (not shown) for an adult vaper to activate the heater 240 .

[0050] Still referring to FIG. 2, the integrated circuit 127 may further include an analog-to-digital converter (ADC) 128. The ADC 128 may be an oscillator-based converter. As described in more detail below, the ADC 128 may be connected to the power supply line 150 and configured to determine when the current through the power supply line 150 changes beyond a particular threshold. For example, the integrated circuit 127 (or the controller 129) via the ADC 128 may detect a first bit value (e.g., “1”) in response to determining that the current of the PWM signal changes beyond a threshold during a pulse of the PWM signal, and may detect a second bit value (e.g., “0”) in response to determining that the current of the PWM signal does not change beyond a threshold during a pulse of the PWM signal. The first bit value and the second bit value of “1” and “0”, respectively, are used only as examples. The first bit value and the second bit value may be reversed in some exemplary embodiments. The ADC 128 may output a signal based on the detected current through the power supply line 150. The integrated circuit 127 may determine which data was transmitted based on the signal output from the ADC 128. The integrated circuit 127 may be configured to receive information from the memory module 210 only via the power line 150. Thus, no additional electrical connections are required for data transmission between the controller 212 and the integrated circuit 127.

[0051] The integrated circuit 127 may determine the threshold value based on the load of the power supply circuit 124. For example, during a start-up phase, the bit series "010101..." may be transmitted by changing the load of the memory module 210 during a series of pulses of the PWM signal. The integrated circuit 127 may measure the current of the data bits "0" and "1" and determine the threshold value for further transmission.

[0052] In at least one exemplary embodiment, the integrated circuit 127 may include a time period limiter to limit the time period during which the PWM signal is continuously applied to the heater 240. The time period may be set or preset depending on the amount of nicotine pre-vapor formulation to be vaporized. In one example, the time period during which the PWM signal is continuously applied to the heater 240 may be limited such that the heater 240 heats a portion of the wick 224 for less than about 10 seconds. In another example, the time period during which the PWM signal is continuously applied to the heater 240 may be limited such that the heater 240 heats a portion of the wick 224 for about 5 seconds.

[0053] The operation of the nicotine e-vaping device 10 to generate a nicotine vapor when the first section 100 is coupled to the second section 200 will now be described with reference to FIGS.

[0054] With reference to FIG. 1, air is primarily drawn into the first section 100 through the air inlet 160 in response to the application of negative pressure to the air outlet 250 .

[0055] When the sensor 134 detects airflow through the first section 100 that exceeds a threshold, the sensor 134 transmits a signal to the integrated circuit 127. In response to the signal from the sensor 134, the integrated circuit 127 controls the power circuit 124 to begin providing a PWM signal to the heater 240 such that the heater 240 heats the nicotine pre-vapor formulation on the wick 224 to generate a nicotine vapor.

[0056] Air drawn through air inlet 160 enters first outer housing 104 , passes through heater 240 , and then flows through air outlet 250 .

[0057] Air flowing over heater 240 combines and mixes with the nicotine vapor generated by heater 240 and the air and vapor mixture passes through air outlet 250 .

[0058] In the exemplary embodiment shown in FIG. 2, the PWM signal may be generated by the integrated circuit 127 by intermittently applying a voltage to the gate of a transistor in the power supply circuit 124 .

[0059] 3 is a diagram of a memory module 210 according to at least one example embodiment. FIGs. 2 and 3 are connected at node 260N.

[0060] The memory module 210 may be directly or indirectly connected to the power line 150. The memory module 210 may include a regulator 215, a controller (or memory controller) 212, a fuse memory 217, and an additional load 219.

[0061] The regulator 215 may be directly or indirectly connected to the power line 150 and may be configured to charge a decoupling capacitor (not shown) in the regulator 215 to provide power to the controller 212. In some exemplary embodiments, the regulator 215 may be omitted. The controller 212 may also be directly or indirectly connected to the power line 150. The controller 212 may be configured to receive data transmitted over the power line 150 (via node 260N) based on the PWM signal. Exemplary methods and protocols by which the controller 212 may receive data based on the PWM signal are described below with respect to FIGS. 7-11. The controller 212 may operate using power received directly from the PWM signal and may operate using power received from the regulator 215 in gaps between pulses of the PWM signal. The memory module 210 may be configured to receive power only from the PWM signal via the power line 150.

[0062] The controller 212 may include processing circuitry, such as hardware including logic circuitry, or a combination of hardware / software, such as a processor executing software, or a combination thereof. For example, the processing circuitry may more specifically include, but is 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 device, a microprocessor, an application specific integrated circuit (ASIC), and the like.

[0063] As described in more detail below with respect to Figures 7-11, the controller 212 may transmit data over the power line 150 by selectively connecting and disconnecting the additional load 219 to and from the power line 150 (e.g., connecting the additional load 219 to the power line 150 during a portion of a pulse of the PWM signal to indicate a first bit value ("1"), and not connecting the additional load 219 to the power line 150 during a pulse of the PWM signal to indicate a second bit value ("0").

[0064] The controller 212 may also record the received information in the fuse memory 217 by applying a voltage across fuses contained in the fuse memory 217. The fuse memory 217 may include an array of fuses. Each fuse in the array of fuses may be opened by applying a voltage across the fuse that exceeds a set voltage. For example, the fuses may have a set voltage at which the fuse opens at approximately 2 volts. The controller 212 may be configured to apply a voltage across the fuse that exceeds a set voltage (greater than 2 volts in this example) to open the fuses in the array of fuses. In one embodiment, the fuse memory 217 may include an array of 1024 fuses with a first 1016 fuses dedicated to recording information related to the amount of nicotine pre-vapor formulation left in the reservoir 220 and the remaining 8 fuses dedicated to storing other information, such as a product identifier, serial number, or the like.

[0065] An additional load 219 may be connected between the power supply line 150 and ground. The additional load 219 may be a transistor 220 with the gate of the transistor 220 connected to the controller 212. In one embodiment, the transistor 220 may be an NMOS transistor. In another embodiment, the transistor 220 may be a PMOS transistor.

[0066] The additional load may also be implemented in other configurations. For example, the additional load 219 may include a number of transistors, resistors, capacitors, combinations thereof, or subcombinations thereof.

[0067] 4A is a flow diagram illustrating a method for recording information in the memory module 210 according to at least one example embodiment. For illustrative purposes, the method shown in FIG. 4A will be discussed with respect to the nicotine e-vaping device and electrical system shown in FIGS. 1-3.

[0068] At S310, the power control circuit 120 outputs a PWM signal to the controller 212 via the power line 150 based on the voltage of the battery. The power control circuit 120 may output the PWM signal in response to a signal from the sensor 134. The PWM signal may be a rectangular PWM signal or may include a signal embedded within the PWM signal. The PWM signal is received at the controller 212 via the power line 150.

[0069] At S320, the controller 212 obtains information from the PWM signal. For example, the controller 212 may detect the number of pulses in the PWM signal and determine the time the heater 240 is operable (operation time) based on the number of detected pulses. The controller 212 may also determine the information to record based on the number of detected pulses or the time the heater 240 is operating. As another example, the controller 212 may detect a signal embedded in the PWM signal and determine the information to record based on the signal embedded in the PWM signal. Exemplary methods and protocols for embedding signals in the PWM signal are discussed below with respect to FIGS. 7-11.

[0070] At S330, the controller 212 records the acquired information. For example, the acquired information may be the time that the heater 240 is operable, and the controller 212 may open one fuse in the fuse memory 217 for each second that the heater 240 is operated based on the number of pulses of the PWM signal. As another example, the controller 212 may open several fuses based on information conveyed by a signal embedded in the PWM signal. For example, the embedded signal may include an indication of the number of fuses to be opened. The embedded signal may also include other commands (such as requesting the memory 217) to transmit a signal indicating the number of fuses already opened in the portion of the fuses dedicated to the amount of nicotine pre-vapor formulation in the reservoir 220. Alternatively, the controller 212 may be programmed to transmit data indicating the number of fuses already opened if the PWM signal continues for at least a set number of pulses.

[0071] FIG. 4B is a flow diagram illustrating a method of transmitting information to a body in accordance with at least one exemplary embodiment.

[0072] At S340, the controller 212 may transmit data over the power supply line 150 by modifying the load of the power supply circuit 124 while the PWM signal is output by the power supply control circuit 120. Because the battery acts as a voltage source, a change in the load changes the current drawn through the power supply line 150. The change in the load may be accomplished by connecting an additional load 219 to the power supply line 150. For example, the additional load 219 may include a transistor 220. The transistor 220 may be turned on by the controller 212 to apply a voltage to the gate of the transistor 219. The transistor 220 may be connected between the power supply line 150 and ground. The current through the power supply line 150 increases when the transistor 220 is turned on. Thus, the controller 212 may modify the load of the power supply circuit 124 by turning on the transistor 220. In this manner, the controller 212 may communicate information by selectively modifying the load of the power supply circuit 124 (e.g., turning on and off the transistor 220) during a PWM clock cycle. Thus, controller 212 may output the information stored in fuse memory 217 to power supply control circuit 120 via power supply line 150. In other words, controller 212 may output the stored information via power supply line 150 while power supply control circuit 120 outputs a PWM signal to heater 240 via power supply line 150 to heater 240. Exemplary methods and protocols for transmitting or communicating information by selectively modifying the load of power supply circuit 124 are discussed below with respect to Figures 7-11.

[0073] At S350, integrated circuit 127 (via ADC 128) detects the transmitted data by measuring the current of the PWM signal in response to a change in current caused by the connection of additional load 219 by controller 212. That is, for example, integrated circuit 127 senses a change in the current drawn through power line 150 and detects the transmitted data based on the sensed change in the current drawn through power line 150. The data may include a final bit(s) as a checksum (e.g., including at least one parity or validation bit).

[0074] At S360, the integrated circuit 127 determines whether the data was received without error. The integrated circuit 127 may use a checksum bit(s) to check the sum of previously received bits against the checksum to determine whether the data was received without error. Methods for using a checksum to determine whether data was received correctly are well known and will not be discussed further.

[0075] If integrated circuit 127 determines that the data was received without error at S360, integrated circuit 127 may control power circuit 124 to transmit an acknowledgment via the PWM signal at S370. The acknowledgment may be embedded in the PWM signal. Alternatively, the acknowledgment may be transmitted by transmitting a set pulse of the PWM signal without modification. Exemplary methods and protocols for embedding information (e.g., confirmation information or bits) within the PWM signal are discussed below with respect to FIGS. 7-11.

[0076] Returning to S360, if the integrated circuit 127 determines that the data was received with an error (e.g., a checksum failed), the integrated circuit 127 may control the power circuit 124 to transmit a request to resend the data (a negative acknowledgement) via the PWM signal. The request may be embedded in the PWM signal, as discussed in more detail below with respect to Figures 7-11. Alternatively, the request to resend the data may be transmitted by shortening a set pulse of the PWM signal, as described in more detail below. Based on the request to resend the data (or the negative acknowledgement), the memory module 210 may resend the data.

[0077] Using the same or substantially the same operations, integrated circuit 127 may request and receive information stored in fuse memory 217 (eg, product identification, serial number, combinations thereof, etc.).

[0078] The integrated circuit 127 may determine the number of LEDs of the LED array 137 to activate based on the data. For example, the data may indicate the total number of seconds the heater 240 has been active (as represented by the data stored in the fuse memory 217). The integrated circuit 127 may determine the percentage (or proportion) of the total time the heater 240 can be active (represented by the total number of seconds the heater 240 has been active) before the reservoir 220 is depleted (e.g., all or substantially all of the nicotine pre-vapor formulation stored in the reservoir 220 has been vaporized and the reservoir 220 is empty or below a threshold level) and may activate the same percentage of LEDs of the LED array 137. The integrated circuit 127 may know or determine a priori the total time the heater 240 can be active before the nicotine pre-vapor formulation stored in the reservoir 220 is depleted in a number of different ways. For example, the data may indicate the total number of seconds that the heater 240 may be active before the nicotine pre-vapor formulation stored in the reservoir 220 is depleted. As another example, the integrated circuit 127 may be pre-programmed with the number of seconds that the heater 240 may be active before the nicotine pre-vapor formulation in the reservoir 220 is depleted. As yet another example, the integrated circuit 127 may be pre-programmed with the number of seconds that the heater 240 may be active for a particular product type before the reservoir 220 is depleted. In this case, the integrated circuit 127 may request this product type from the memory module 210 and determine the number of seconds based on the identified product type.

[0079] As another example, the controller 212 may determine the number of LEDs in the LED array 137 to activate based on the above-mentioned percentage, and the controller 212 may send data to the integrated circuit 127 indicating the determined number of LEDs in the LED array 137. The integrated circuit 127 may activate the LEDs in the LED array 137 according to the number indicated in the data.

[0080] FIG. 5 is a block diagram of fuse memory 217 in accordance with at least one example embodiment.

[0081] As discussed above, the fuse memory 217 may include an array of fuses. For example, the array of fuses may include 1024 fuses. The reservoir 220 may include sufficient nicotine pre-vapor formulation for the heater 240 to vaporize the nicotine pre-vapor formulation for approximately 1016 seconds. A first portion of the fuse array (e.g., 1016 fuses) may represent the total operating time of the heater 240. A second portion (e.g., 8 fuses) may store other information, such as a product identifier or serial number of the cartridge 200. The number of fuses in a section of the fuse memory 217 need not correlate one-to-one with the number of seconds that the heater 240 is actively heating the nicotine pre-vapor formulation to generate a nicotine vapor before the reservoir 220 is depleted, but may correlate with any amount of time. For example, if the reservoir 220 only holds enough nicotine pre-vapor formulation for the heater 240 to operate for approximately 508 seconds before the reservoir 220 is depleted, then the first portion of the fuse array may still include 1016 fuses, each fuse representing one-half second of the total operating time of the heater 240.

[0082] The fuse array may store other information in a second portion, which may include information representing at least one flavor of the nicotine pre-vapor formulation, a date, or other information associated with the cartridge 200.

[0083] FIG. 6 is a time lapse diagram illustrating the recording of information in fuse memory 217 in accordance with at least one example embodiment.

[0084] FIG. 6 shows that the controller 212 n Each time t i , an example is shown in which a set voltage can be applied across one of the fuses. For example, at each time t i From the next time t i+1If the time to open is 1 second and the PWM signal has a period of 50 milliseconds, the controller 212 may apply a set voltage across one of the fuses after 20 pulses are received at time t1. The controller 212 may then apply a set voltage across a second fuse after another 20 pulses are received at time t2. In this manner, one fuse is opened for each set of 20 pulses received by the heater 240 and the controller 212.

[0085] According to at least some exemplary embodiments, the fuses are permanently open and do not require a sustained voltage to hold an open or closed position. Thus, the fuse memory 217 is non-volatile. As a result, even after the nicotine e-vaping device 10 is powered off and powered on again, the controller 212 can continue to record information about the total operating time of the heater 240 by continuing to open one fuse at each time t. The ability of the fuses to hold an open or closed state is also not significantly affected by the heat generated by the heater 240. As a result, the above-mentioned fuse memory 217 can maintain information without a constant voltage and without being significantly affected by the heat generated by the heater 240. Fuse memories are also generally less costly than heat-resistant electrically erasable programmable read-only memories (EEPROMs).

[0086] The controller 212 may be configured to determine which fuses are not open in order to know which fuses to open next. The controller 212 may also determine how many fuses are already open in the portion of fuses dedicated to the amount of nicotine pre-vapor formulation in the reservoir 220 in order to respond to a request for the memory module 210 to transmit a signal indicating the amount of nicotine pre-vapor formulation remaining in the reservoir 220.

[0087] 7 is an example PWM signal in accordance with at least one exemplary embodiment; and FIG 8 is another example PWM signal in accordance with at least one exemplary embodiment.

[0088] 7 and 8, power control circuit 120 and memory module 210 may communicate according to a first protocol. The top graph shows the current through power line 150, and the middle graph shows the voltage on power line 150. The third graph shows a PWM clock cycle.

[0089] In the first protocol, the PWM signal may not include any embedded signal from the power control circuit 120 .

[0090] The memory module 210 may count the number of pulses received in the PWM signal to determine when to open a fuse in the fuse memory 217.

[0091] The controller 212 may transmit the data after scanning the data stored in the fuse memory 217. Scanning the fuse memory 217 may take approximately 10 PWM clock cycles.

[0092] After scanning the fuse memory 217, the controller 212 transmits formulation data indicating the number of fuses in the first portion of the fuse memory 217 that are still open (D9-D0: nicotine pre-vapor formulation remaining in the reservoir 220).

[0093] After the formulation data portion, the controller 212 transmits the product identification or serial number stored in a second portion of the fuse memory 217 (P7-P0: product identification or serial number).

[0094] After the product identification or serial number, the controller 212 transmits two checksum or parity bits (C1-C0: checksum).

[0095] If all information is correctly received by the power control circuit 120, the integrated circuit 127 controls the power circuit 124 to transmit a full PWM pulse in the acknowledgement (ACK) PWM clock cycle as shown in Figure 8. If all information is not correctly received by the power control circuit 120, the integrated circuit 127 controls the power circuit 124 to transmit a short PWM pulse (negative acknowledgement) in the acknowledgement (ACK) PWM clock cycle as shown in Figure 7. The short PWM pulse may be shorter in length than the previous pulse of the PWM signal (e.g., less than half a PWM clock cycle).

[0096] In FIG. 7, the transmitted data (including the data portion, the product identification or serial number, the checksum, a combination thereof, or a sub-combination thereof) is retransmitted in response to a short pulse of the ACK PWM clock cycle.

[0097] As mentioned above, the controller 212 may connect additional loads 219 to increase the current through the power line 150 to transmit data. For example, in Fig. 7, the current graphs of D9, D0, P1, C1 indicate that a data "1" is transmitted, whereas the current graphs of D8, P7, P0, C0 indicate that a bit "0" is transmitted. The controller 212 is configured to output the data by connecting the additional loads 219 to the power line 150 during a portion of a pulse of the PWM signal to indicate a first bit value ("1"), and by not connecting the additional loads 219 to the power line 150 during a pulse of the PWM signal to indicate a second bit value ("0").

[0098] 9 is another example PWM signal according to at least one example embodiment. In FIG. 9, power control circuit 120 and memory module 210 may communicate according to a second protocol. The hardware used to communicate using the second protocol may be the same or substantially the same as the hardware used to communicate using the first protocol.

[0099] In the second protocol, the power control circuitry 120 may communicate with the memory module 210 by modifying the width of the pulses of the PWM signal. For example, in the first mode, the power control circuitry 120 may modify the pulses to have a width greater than 50% of the PWM clock cycle to indicate a "1". In the second mode, the power control circuitry 120 may modify the pulses to have a width less than 50% of the PWM clock cycle to indicate a "0". The memory module 210 (more specifically, the controller 212) may be configured to detect the width of a single pulse of the PWM signal and record information based on the width of the pulse. Furthermore, the memory module 210 may be configured to detect the width of each pulse of the PWM signal and record information based on the width of the pulse.

[0100] In the second protocol, power control circuitry 120 and memory module 210 may alternate which devices communicate over power line 150. For example, power control circuitry 120 may communicate 10 bits in the first 10 PWM clock cycles, and memory module 210 may communicate 10 bits in the second 10 PWM clock cycles. In the second protocol, memory module 210 may communicate in the same or substantially the same manner described above in connection with FIG. 4B by selectively connecting load 219 during PWM clock cycles.

[0101] Alternatively, both power control circuitry 120 and memory module 210 may transmit information in the same PWM cycle using a combination of the methods described with respect to Figures 7-9. In one embodiment, the length of the pulse may indicate the information being transmitted from power control circuitry 120, and the current through power line 150 may indicate the information being transmitted by memory module 210.

[0102] 9, the first graph shows data transmitted by the power control circuit 120 by modifying the pulse length of the PWM signal, while the second and third graphs show the voltage and current on the power line 150 when the memory module 210 communicates data by connecting / disconnecting the additional load 219.

[0103] 10 is another example PWM signal in accordance with at least one example embodiment, in which the power control circuit 120 and the memory module 210 may communicate according to a third protocol, in which each PWM clock cycle may be divided into four sections: transmit, idle, receive, and off.

[0104] In the transmit section, the power control circuit 120 may adjust the voltage of the PWM signal to transfer data. Several bits of data may be transmitted during the transmit section of each pulse of the PWM signal. The transmit section may include several data PWM cycles in which a single bit may be transmitted. In one embodiment, a shorter pulse with a lower voltage may indicate a "1" and a longer pulse with a lower voltage may indicate a "0". For example, as shown in FIG. 10, a shorter pulse with a lower voltage in cycle 1 may indicate a "1" and a longer pulse in cycle 2 may indicate a "0".

[0105] In the idle and receive sections of the PWM clock cycle, the voltage may be the higher of the two voltage levels. In the receive section, the memory module 210 may communicate several data bits by selectively connecting additional loads 219 to the power line 150 to draw extra current through the power line 150. A shorter pulse of lower current may indicate a "1," as shown in data PWM cycle 1, and a longer pulse of lower current may indicate a "0," as shown in data PWM cycle 2.

[0106] In the off section, the PWM signal may be at zero volts and zero amps.

[0107] FIG. 11 is another example PWM signal in accordance with at least one example embodiment.

[0108] 11, power control circuit 120 and memory module 210 may communicate according to a fourth protocol, in which each PWM clock cycle may be divided into four sections, similar to the third protocol.

[0109] Unlike the third protocol, data may be transmitted by changing the frequency of the lower voltage pulses (for power control circuit 120) or higher current (for memory module 210). In one embodiment, a group of pulses having a higher frequency may represent a "1" and one or more lower frequency pulses may represent a "0." Memory module 210 (more specifically, controller 212) may be configured to detect the frequency of the pulses of the PWM signal and to record information based on the frequency of the pulses.

[0110] 12 is an exemplary power supply circuit 124 according to at least one exemplary embodiment. The power supply circuit 124 may include an operational amplifier 126, a transistor 125′, and resistors R1 and R2 arranged as a voltage divider circuit. The operational amplifier 126 may receive an output signal from an integrated circuit 127 at a negative input terminal of the operational amplifier 126. The negative input terminal is connected to a control line 130. The output of the operational amplifier 126 may be input to a gate of the transistor 125′. The operational amplifier 126 may receive a feedback voltage at a positive input terminal of the operational amplifier 126. The feedback voltage may be a voltage at a node between resistors R1 and R2. The transistor 125′ may have a source connected to a rail 140 and a drain connected to a power supply line 150. Resistor R1 may be connected between the power supply line 150 and resistor R2. Resistor R2 may be connected between resistor R1 and ground.

[0111] In one exemplary embodiment, the resistance of resistor R1 and the resistance of resistor R2 may be equal. When resistance R1 and resistance R2 are equal, the voltage applied to power line 150 is twice the voltage of the output signal from integrated circuit 127. As a result, the integrated circuit may control the voltage applied to power line 150 to any voltage between ground and the rail 140 voltage based on the output signal from integrated circuit 127.

[0112] In the third or fourth protocol embodiment as described above, integrated circuit 127 may apply a PWM signal having two voltage levels to power line 150 by controlling power circuit 124 shown in FIG. 12 to output an output signal that alternates between two other voltage levels. If the resistance of resistor R1 and the resistance of resistor R2 are equal, the two other voltage levels may be half of the two voltage levels applied to power line 150.

[0113] When an element or layer is referred to as "on," "connected to," "coupled to," or "overlying" another element or layer, it should be understood that this may be directly on, connected to, directly coupled to, or directly overlying the other element or layer, or that intervening elements or layers may be present. In contrast, when an element is referred to as "directly on," "directly connected to," or "directly coupled to" another element or layer, there are no intervening elements or layers present. Like numbers refer to like elements throughout the specification.

[0114] Terms such as first, second, third, etc. may be used herein to describe various elements, components, regions, layers, or sections, and it should be understood that these elements, components, regions, layers, or sections should not be limited by these terms. These terms are used only to distinguish one element, component, region, layer, or section from another region, layer, or section. Thus, a first element, component, region, layer, or section discussed below can be referred to as a second element, component, region, layer, or section without departing from the teachings of the exemplary embodiments.

[0115] Spatial relationship terms (e.g., "below," "down," "lower," "upper," "top," and the like) may be used herein to facilitate describing the relationship between one element or feature and another element or feature as illustrated in the figures. It should be understood that the spatial relationship terms are intended to encompass different orientations of the device in use or operation in addition to the orientation depicted in the figures. For example, if the device in the figures is turned over, an element described as "below" or "below" another element or feature would then be "above" that other element or feature. Thus, the term "below" may encompass both an orientation of above and below. The device may be otherwise oriented (rotated 90 degrees or in other orientations) and the spatial relationship descriptors used herein interpreted accordingly.

[0116] The terms used herein are for the purpose of describing various exemplary embodiments only and are not intended to limit the exemplary embodiments. As used herein, the singular forms "a," "an," and "the" are intended to include the plural, unless the context clearly indicates otherwise. It will be further understood that the terms "includes," "including," "comprises," and "comprising," as used herein, specify the presence of stated features, integers, steps, operations, elements, or components, but do not exclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, integers, steps, operations, elements, components, or groups thereof.

[0117] Exemplary embodiments are described herein with reference to cross-sectional illustrations that are schematic illustrations of idealized embodiments (and intermediate structures) of exemplary embodiments. As such, variations from the shapes of the illustrations as a result, for example, of manufacturing techniques or tolerances, are expected. Thus, exemplary embodiments should not be construed as limiting the shapes of regions illustrated herein but should include deviations in shapes that result, for example, from manufacturing.

[0118] Unless otherwise defined, all terms (including technical and scientific terms) used herein have the same meaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art to which the exemplary embodiments pertain. It will be further understood that terms (including commonly used dictionary defined terms) should be interpreted to have a meaning consistent with the meaning of those terms in the context of the relevant art, and not to be interpreted in an idealized or overly formal sense, except where expressly so defined herein.

[0119] Although exemplary embodiments have been disclosed herein, it should be understood that other variations may be possible. Such variations should not be considered as a departure from the scope of the present disclosure, and all such modifications that would be obvious to one skilled in the art are intended to be included within the scope of the following claims.

Claims

1. a heater element configured to heat the nicotine prevapor formulation; a power control circuit coupled to the heater element through an electrical wire, the power control circuit configured to apply a pulse width modulated power signal to the heater element via the electrical wire and to receive information via the electrical wire; 1. A memory module comprising: detecting a plurality of pulses of the pulse width modulated power signal; and recording information based on the detected plurality of pulses; and a memory module configured to output the recorded information to the power supply control circuit via the electrical wire.

2. 2. The nicotine e-vaping device of claim 1, wherein the memory module is configured to output the recorded information via the electrical wire during output of the pulse width modulated power signal by the power control circuit to the heater element via the electrical wire.

3. The memory module comprises: detecting a number of pulses in the plurality of pulses; and The nicotine e-vaping device of claim 1 or claim 2, configured to record the information based on the number of pulses.

4. The memory module comprises: detecting a width of a pulse in the plurality of pulses; and The nicotine e-vaping device of claim 1 , 2 or 3 , configured to record the information based on the width of the pulses in the plurality of pulses.

5. The memory module comprises: detecting a frequency of a pulse in said plurality of pulses; The nicotine e-vaping device of any of claims 1 to 4, configured to record the information based on the frequency of the pulses included in the plurality of pulses.

6. the memory module includes a fuse memory having an array of fuses; The nicotine e-vaping device of any of claims 1 to 5, wherein the memory module is configured to record the information by opening at least one fuse in the array of fuses.

7. The nicotine e-vaping device of claim 6, wherein the memory module is configured to record the information by opening a fuse for each constant number of pulses in the pulse-width modulated power signal.

8. The nicotine e-vaping device of claim 7, wherein the memory module is configured to store additional information representing at least one of an identifier, a flavor of the nicotine pre-vapor formulation, a date, or any combination thereof.

9. The nicotine e-vaping device of any of claims 1 to 8, wherein the power control circuit is configured to apply the pulse width modulated power signal in response to application of negative pressure to the nicotine e-vaping device.

10. the memory module is further configured to receive power only from the pulse width modulated power signal; The nicotine e-vaping device of any one of claims 1 to 9, wherein the power supply control circuit is configured to receive the information only via the electrical wire.

11. the memory module is configured to output the stored information to the power supply control circuit by selectively connecting a load to the electric line; A nicotine e-vaping device as described in any of claims 1 to 10, wherein the power supply control circuit is configured to receive the recorded information by detecting a change in current passing through the electrical wire caused by selective connection of the load.

12. The nicotine e-vaping device of any of claims 1 to 11, wherein the memory module is configured to output the recorded information by increasing a current through the electrical wire during at least one pulse of the pulse width modulated power signal.

13. The nicotine e-vaporizing device of any one of claims 1 to 12, further comprising a nicotine cartridge comprising the memory module and a reservoir, the reservoir configured to hold the nicotine pre-vapor formulation.

14. A nicotine cartridge for a nicotine e-vaping device, comprising:

1. A memory module comprising: an array of fuses, each fuse of the array of fuses configured to open based on a threshold voltage; a memory controller configured to receive a pulse-width modulated power signal over the electrical line and to apply a voltage equal to or greater than a threshold voltage across one or more fuses of the array of fuses based on a plurality of pulses of the pulse-width modulated power signal; a reservoir configured to hold a nicotine prevapor formulation; a heater element configured to heat the nicotine pre-vapor formulation drawn from the reservoir; A nicotine cartridge, wherein the heater element is part of the electrical wire.

15. The memory controller, storing information in the array of fuses based on the plurality of pulses; and 15. The nicotine cartridge of claim 14, configured to store at least one of an identifier, a flavor of the nicotine prevapor formulation, a date, or any combination thereof.

16. 16. The nicotine cartridge of claim 14 or claim 15, wherein the memory controller is configured to apply the voltage across fuses in the array of fuses for each number of pulses in the plurality of pulses.

17. The memory module comprises: detecting a frequency of a pulse in said plurality of pulses; A nicotine cartridge as described in claim 14, claim 15 or claim 16, configured to apply a voltage equal to or greater than the threshold voltage across one or more fuses in the array of fuses to record information in the array of fuses based on the frequency of the pulses.

18. The memory module comprises: detecting a width of a pulse in the plurality of pulses; and A nicotine cartridge as described in any one of claims 14 to 17, configured to apply a voltage equal to or greater than the threshold voltage across one or more fuses of the array of fuses to record information based on the width of the pulses in the plurality of pulses.

19. A nicotine cartridge according to any one of claims 14 to 18, wherein the memory controller is further configured to receive information from outside the memory module only via the electrical wires.

20. A nicotine cartridge according to any of claims 14 to 19, wherein the memory controller is further configured to receive power only via the pulse width modulated power signal.

21. A nicotine cartridge for a nicotine e-vaping device, comprising:

1. A memory module comprising: Memory, a memory module including: a memory controller coupled to the memory, the memory controller configured to read information stored in the memory and to output information over the electrical lines by modifying a pulse width modulated power signal carried by the electrical lines; a reservoir configured to hold a nicotine prevapor formulation; a heater element configured to heat the nicotine pre-vapor formulation drawn from the reservoir; A nicotine cartridge, wherein the heater element is part of the electrical wire.

22. 22. The nicotine cartridge of claim 21, wherein the memory controller is configured to output the information by modifying a current of at least one pulse of the pulse width modulated power signal.

23. 23. The nicotine cartridge of claim 22, wherein the memory controller is further configured to output a checksum after transmitting the information.

24. 24. The nicotine cartridge of claim 23, wherein the memory controller is further configured to retransmit the information in response to a negative acknowledgment transmission indicating that the information was not correctly received.

25. 25. The nicotine cartridge of claim 24, wherein the negative acknowledgment transmission is a pulse of the pulse-width modulated power signal having a shorter length than a previous pulse of the pulse-width modulated power signal.

26. The memory controller, connecting a load to the line during a pulse of the pulse width modulated power signal to indicate a first bit value; 26. A nicotine cartridge according to any of claims 21 to 25, further configured to output information by: not connecting a load to the lines during a pulse of the pulse width modulated power signal, and indicating a second bit value.

27. A nicotine cartridge according to any one of claims 21 to 26, wherein the memory controller is configured to output the information by selectively connecting a load to the wire.

28. a reservoir configured to hold a nicotine pre-vapor formulation; a heater element configured to heat the nicotine pre-vapor formulation drawn from the reservoir; A power supply control circuit, a power application circuit configured to output a pulse width modulated power signal over the wires to the heater element; and an integrated circuit including an analog-to-digital converter (ADC) configured to receive a data transmission over the electrical line by detecting a change in current of one or more pulses of the pulse-width modulated power signal and to control the power application circuit to output the pulse-width modulated power signal; A nicotine e-vaping device, wherein the heater element is a portion of an electrical wire.

29. 29. The nicotine e-vaping device of claim 28, wherein the integrated circuit is configured, in response to determining that the data transmission is not correctly received, to control the power application circuit to output a first pulse having a first pulse length, the first pulse length being shorter than a second pulse length of a pulse of the pulse width modulated power signal that precedes the first pulse.

30. the data transmission is a digital signal; and The integrated circuit comprises: detecting a first bit value in response to determining that the pulse width modulated power signal changes beyond a threshold during a pulse of the pulse width modulated power signal; and 30. The nicotine e-vaping device of claim 28 or claim 29, further configured to detect a second bit value in response to determining that the current of the pulse-width modulated power signal does not change by more than the threshold during a pulse of the pulse-width modulated power signal.

31. 31. The nicotine e-vaping device of claim 30, wherein the integrated circuit is further configured to determine the threshold value based on a load of the power application circuit.

32. the integrated circuit is configured to control the power application circuit to output power to the heater element in a first mode and a second mode; the pulses of the pulse width modulated power signal have a first pulse width in the first mode; A nicotine e-vaping device as described in any of claims 28 to 31, wherein the pulses of the pulse width modulated power signal have a second pulse width in the second mode, the second pulse width being smaller than the first pulse width.

33. A nicotine e-vaporizing device according to any of claims 28 to 32, wherein the data transmission indicates a level of the nicotine pre-vapor formulation in the reservoir.

34. 34. The nicotine e-vapor device of claim 33, wherein the integrated circuit is further configured to output an indication of the level of the nicotine pre-vapor formulation based on the data transmission.

35. A nicotine e-vaping device as described in any of claims 28 to 34, wherein the integrated circuit is configured to control the power application circuit to output the pulse width modulated power signal such that information is conveyed by modifying the pulse width of the pulse width modulated power signal.

36. A nicotine e-vaping device as described in any of claims 28 to 35, wherein the integrated circuit is configured to control the power application circuit to output the pulse width modulated power signal such that information is conveyed by modifying the frequency of the pulses of the pulse width modulated power signal.

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