Vaporizer system and method

Abstract

A system and method for producing inhalable vapor in an electronic vaporization device is provided. The vaporizer may generate a vapor with one or more defined characteristics. In some cases, the vapor may have a predetermined aerosol number density and / or a predetermined average aerosol particle size. The vaporizer may generate the vapor from a vaporizable material. In some cases, the vaporizable material may be a liquid material contained in a cartridge. The vaporizer may include a rechargeable power storage device.

Description

[Technical field]

[0001] This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 61 / 920,225, filed December 23, 2013, U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 61 / 936,593, filed February 6, 2014, and U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 61 / 937,755, filed February 10, 2014, which are incorporated by reference in their entireties. [Background technology]

[0002] The present invention relates to electronic inhalable aerosol devices, or electronic vaping devices, and in particular to electronic aerosol devices that utilize a vaporizable material that is evaporated to create an aerosol vapor capable of delivering an active ingredient to a user.

[0003] Summary of the Invention In some embodiments of the invention, the device comprises an inhalable aerosol, the device including: an oven including an oven chamber and a heater for heating a vapor forming medium in the oven chamber to generate vapor; a condenser including a condensation chamber in which at least a portion of the vapor condenses to form the inhalable aerosol; an air inlet originating from a first airflow path including the oven chamber; and an air vent originating from a second airflow path, the second airflow path connecting air from the air vent to the first airflow path before or in the condensation chamber and downstream from the oven chamber, thereby forming a connecting pathway, wherein the connecting pathway is configured to deliver the inhalable aerosol formed in the condensation chamber to a user.

[0004] In some embodiments of the invention, the oven is within the body of the device. The device may further include a mouthpiece, including at least one of an air inlet, a vent, and a condenser. The mouthpiece may be separable from the oven. The mouthpiece may be integrated into the body of the device, the body including the oven. The device may further include a body including an oven, a condenser, an air inlet, and a vent. The mouthpiece may be separable from the body.

[0005] In some embodiments of the invention, the oven chamber may include an oven chamber inlet and an oven chamber outlet, and the oven further includes a first valve at the oven chamber inlet and a second valve at the oven chamber outlet. The vent may include a third valve. The first valve or the second valve may be selected from the group of a check valve, a percussion valve, a non-return valve, and a one-way valve. The third valve may be selected from the group of a check valve, a percussion valve, a non-return valve, and a one-way valve. The first or second valve may be mechanically actuated. The first or second valve may be electrically actuated. The first or second valve may be manually actuated. The third valve may be mechanically actuated. The third valve may be mechanically actuated. The third valve may be electrically actuated. The third valve may be manually actuated.

[0006] In another aspect of the invention, the device may include a body including at least one of a power source, a printed circuit board, a switch, and a temperature regulator. The device may further include a temperature regulator in communication with a temperature sensor. The temperature sensor may be a heater. The power source may be rechargeable. The power source may be removable. The oven may further include an access lid. The vapor-forming medium may include tobacco. The vapor-forming medium may include a botanical. The vapor-forming medium may be heated in the oven chamber, where the vapor-forming medium may include a humectant to generate a vapor, where the vapor includes a gas-phase humectant. The vapor may be mixed with air from a vent in a condensation chamber to generate an inhalable aerosol including an average particle size of about 1 micron. The vapor-forming medium may be heated in the oven chamber, where the vapor-forming medium is mixed with air from a vent in a condensation chamber to generate an inhalable aerosol including an average particle size of about 0.9 microns or less. The vapor-forming medium may be heated in an oven chamber, where it is mixed with air from a vent in a condensation chamber to generate an inhalable aerosol comprising an average particle size of about 0.8 microns or less. The vapor-forming medium may be heated in an oven chamber, where it is mixed with air from a vent in a condensation chamber to generate an inhalable aerosol comprising an average particle size of about 0.7 microns or less. The vapor-forming medium may be heated in an oven chamber, where it is mixed with air from a vent in a condensation chamber to generate an inhalable aerosol comprising an average particle size of about 0.6 microns or less. The vapor-forming medium may be heated in an oven chamber, where it is mixed with air from a vent in a condensation chamber to generate an inhalable aerosol comprising an average particle size of about 0.5 microns or less.

[0007] In some embodiments of the present invention, the humectant may include glycerol as the vapor-forming medium. The humectant may include vegetable glycerol. The humectant may include propylene glycol. The humectant may include a ratio of vegetable glycerol to propylene glycol. The ratio of vegetable glycerol to propylene glycol may be about 100:0. The ratio of vegetable glycerol to propylene glycol may be about 90:10. The ratio of vegetable glycerol to propylene glycol may be about 80:20. The ratio of vegetable glycerol to propylene glycol may be about 70:30. The ratio of vegetable glycerol to propylene glycol may be about 60:40. The ratio of vegetable glycerol to propylene glycol may be about 50:50. The humectant may include a flavoring material. The vapor-forming medium may be heated to its pyrolysis temperature. The vapor-forming medium may be heated up to 200°C. The vapour forming medium may be heated to a maximum of 160° C. The inhalable aerosol may be cooled to a temperature of a maximum of 50° C.-70° C. before exiting the aerosol outlet of the mouthpiece.

[0008] In an embodiment of the invention, the method includes a method of generating an inhalable aerosol, the method including the step of providing an inhalable aerosol generating apparatus, the apparatus including: an oven including an oven chamber and a heater for heating a vapor-forming medium in the oven chamber and forming vapor therein; a condenser including a condensation chamber in which the vapor forms an inhalable aerosol; an air inlet originating from a first airflow path including the oven chamber; and an air vent originating from a second airflow path, the second airflow path connecting air from the air vent to the first airflow path before or in the condensation chamber and downstream from the oven chamber, thereby forming a connecting pathway, wherein the connecting pathway is configured to deliver the inhalable aerosol formed in the condensation chamber to a user.

[0009] In some embodiments of the invention, the oven is within the body of the device. The device may further include a mouthpiece including at least one of an air inlet, a vent, and a condenser. The mouthpiece may be separable from the oven. The mouthpiece may be integrated into the body of the device, the body including the oven. The method may further include a body including an oven, a condenser, an air inlet, and a vent. The mouthpiece may be separable from the body.

[0010] In some embodiments of the invention, the oven chamber may include an oven chamber inlet and an oven chamber outlet, and the oven further includes a first valve at the oven chamber inlet and a second valve at the oven chamber outlet.

[0011] The vapor forming medium may include tobacco. The vapor forming medium may include a botanical. The vapor forming medium may be heated in an oven chamber, where the vapor forming medium may include a humectant to generate a vapor, the vapor including a gas-phase humectant. The vapor may include an average mass particle size of about 1 micron. The vapor may include an average mass particle size of about 0.9 microns. The vapor may include an average mass particle size of about 0.8 microns. The vapor may include an average mass particle size of about 0.7 microns. The vapor may include an average mass particle size of about 0.6 microns. The vapor may include an average mass particle size of about 0.5 microns.

[0012] In some embodiments of the present invention, the humectant may include glycerol as the vapor-forming medium. The humectant may include vegetable glycerol. The humectant may include propylene glycol. The humectant may include a ratio of vegetable glycerol to propylene glycol. The ratio of vegetable glycerol to propylene glycol may be about 100:0. The ratio of vegetable glycerol to propylene glycol may be about 90:10. The ratio of vegetable glycerol to propylene glycol may be about 80:20. The ratio of vegetable glycerol to propylene glycol may be about 70:30. The ratio of vegetable glycerol to propylene glycol may be about 60:40. The ratio of vegetable glycerol to propylene glycol may be about 50:50. The humectant may include a flavoring material. The vapor-forming medium may be heated to its pyrolysis temperature. The vapor-forming medium may be heated up to 200°C. The vapour forming medium may be heated to a maximum of 160° C. The inhalable aerosol may be cooled to a temperature of a maximum of 50° C.-70° C. before exiting the aerosol outlet of the mouthpiece.

[0013] In an aspect of the invention, the device may be user friendly. The device is not user friendly.

[0014] In an embodiment of the invention, there is provided a method of generating an inhalable aerosol, the method comprising the step of providing a vaporizer, the apparatus generating a vapor having an average mass particle size of about 1 micron or less, the vapor being formed by heating the vapor-forming medium in an oven chamber to a first temperature lower than a thermal decomposition temperature of the vapor-forming medium prior to exiting an aerosol outlet of the apparatus, the apparatus further comprising the step of cooling the vapor to a second temperature lower than the first temperature in a condensation chamber.

[0015] In an embodiment of the present invention, there is provided a method of manufacturing a device for generating inhalable aerosol, the method comprising the steps of providing the device, the device comprising: a mouthpiece with an aerosol outlet at a first end of the device; an oven comprising an oven chamber and a heater for heating a vapor-forming medium in the oven chamber and forming vapor therein; a condenser comprising a condensation chamber in which the vapor forms an inhalable aerosol; an air inlet originating from a first airflow path comprising the oven chamber and the condensation chamber; and an air vent originating from a second airflow path, the second airflow path connecting to a first airflow path before or in the condensation chamber after vapor is formed in the oven chamber, wherein the connected first and second airflow paths are configured to deliver the inhalable aerosol formed in the condensation chamber to a user through the aerosol outlet of the mouthpiece.

[0016] The method may further include providing a device including a power source or battery, a printed circuit board, a temperature regulator, or an operating switch.

[0017] In an embodiment of the invention, an apparatus for generating inhalable aerosol includes a mouthpiece including an aerosol outlet at a first end of the apparatus and an air inlet originating from a first airflow path; an oven including an oven chamber in the first airflow path and a heater for heating a vapor-forming medium in the oven chamber and forming vapor therein; a condenser including a condensation chamber in which the vapor forms an inhalable aerosol; and an air vent originating from a second airflow path, the second airflow path connecting air from the air vent to the first airflow path before or in the condensation chamber and downstream from the oven chamber, thereby forming a connecting pathway, wherein the connecting pathway is configured to deliver the inhalable aerosol formed in the condensation chamber to a user through the aerosol outlet of the mouthpiece.

[0018] In another aspect of the invention, an apparatus for generating inhalable aerosol includes a mouthpiece including an aerosol outlet at a first end of the apparatus, an air inlet originating from a first airflow path, and an air vent originating from a second airflow path, the second airflow path allowing air from the air vent to be connected to the first airflow path; the apparatus further includes an oven including an oven chamber in the first airflow path and a heater for heating a vapor-forming medium in the oven chamber and forming vapor therein; and a condenser including a condensation chamber in which the vapor forms an inhalable aerosol, wherein air from the air vent connects to the first airflow path before or in the condensation chamber and downstream from the oven chamber, thereby forming a connecting pathway, wherein the connecting pathway is configured to deliver the inhalable aerosol to a user through the aerosol outlet of the mouthpiece.

[0019] In another aspect of the invention, a device for generating an inhalable aerosol comprises a device body including a cartridge receptacle; a cartridge comprising: a fluid storage chamber; and a channel integrated into an outer surface of the cartridge, the device further comprising an air inlet passage formed by the channel and an inner surface of the cartridge receptacle when the cartridge is inserted into the cartridge receptacle; wherein the channel forms a first side of the air inlet passage and the inner surface of the cartridge receptacle forms a second side of the air inlet passage.

[0020] In another aspect of the invention, a device for generating an inhalable aerosol comprises a device body, the device body comprising a cartridge receptacle; a cartridge comprising: a fluid storage chamber; and a channel integrated into an outer surface of the cartridge, the device further comprising an air inlet passage formed by the channel and an inner surface of the cartridge receptacle when the cartridge is inserted into the cartridge receptacle; wherein the channel forms a first side of the air inlet passage and the inner surface of the cartridge receptacle forms a second side of the air inlet passage.

[0021] In some embodiments of the invention, the channel may include at least one of a groove, a valley, a depression, a dent, a furrow, a trench, a crease, and a gutter. The integrated channel may include a wall recessed into the surface or protruding from the surface in which it is formed. An inner sidewall of the channel may form an additional side of the air inlet passage. The cartridge may further include a second air passage in fluid communication with the air inlet passage to the fluid reservoir, the second air passage being formed through the material of the cartridge. The cartridge may further include a heater. The heater may be attached to a first end of the cartridge.

[0022] In an embodiment of the invention, the heater may include a heater chamber, a first pair of heater contacts, a fluid wick, and a resistive heating element in contact with the fluid wick, where the first pair of heater contacts includes a thin plate attached around the sides of the heater chamber, with the fluid wick and resistive heating element suspended therebetween. The first pair of heater contacts may further include a molded shape including a tab having a flexible spring valve extending from the heater to complete a circuit with the body. The first pair of heater contacts may be a heat sink that absorbs and dissipates excess heat generated by the resistive heating element. The first pair of heater contacts may be a heat shield that protects the heater chamber from excess heat generated by the resistive heating element. The first pair of heater contacts may be press-fitted into a mounting feature on an exterior wall of the first end of the cartridge. The heater may surround the first end of the cartridge and the first end of the fluid reservoir. The heater may include a first condensation chamber. The heater may include more than one first condensation chamber. The first condensation chamber may be formed along an outer wall of the cartridge. The cartridge may further include a mouthpiece. The mouthpiece may be attached to a second end of the cartridge. The mouthpiece may include a second condensation chamber. The mouthpiece may include more than one second condensation chamber. The second condensation chamber may be formed along an outer wall of the cartridge.

[0023] In an embodiment of the invention, the cartridge may include a first condensation chamber and a second condensation chamber. The first condensation chamber and the second condensation chamber may be in fluid communication. The mouthpiece may include an aerosol outlet in fluid communication with the second condensation chamber. The mouthpiece may include more than one aerosol outlet in fluid communication with more than one second condensation chamber. The mouthpiece may surround the second end of the cartridge and the second end of the fluid reservoir.

[0024] In an embodiment of the invention, the device may include an airflow path including an air inlet passage, a second air passage, a heater chamber, a first condensation chamber, a second condensation chamber, and an aerosol outlet. The airflow path may include more than one air inlet passage, a heater chamber, more than one first condensation chamber, more than one second condensation chamber, and more than one aerosol outlet. The heater may be in fluid communication with a fluid reservoir. The fluid reservoir may be capable of holding a condensed aerosol fluid. The condensed aerosol fluid may include a nicotine formulation. The condensed aerosol fluid may include a humectant. The humectant may include propylene glycol. The humectant may include vegetable glycerin.

[0025] In an embodiment of the invention, the cartridge may be separable. In an embodiment of the invention, the cartridge is a receptacle and the separable cartridge forms a separable coupling. The separable coupling may include a frictional assembly, a snap-fit ​​assembly, or a magnetic assembly. The cartridge may include a fluid reservoir, a heater attached to a first end with a snap-fit ​​coupling, and a mouthpiece attached to a second end with a snap-fit ​​coupling.

[0026] In an embodiment of the invention, a device for generating an inhalable aerosol includes a device body including a cartridge receptacle for receiving a cartridge; wherein when a cartridge including a channel integrated into its outer surface is inserted into the cartridge receptacle, an inner surface of the cartridge receptacle forms a first side of an air inlet passage and the channel forms a second side of the air inlet passage.

[0027] In an embodiment of the invention, a device for generating an inhalable aerosol comprises a device body including a cartridge receptacle for receiving a cartridge; wherein the cartridge receptacle includes a channel integrated into an inner surface and forms a first side of an air inlet passage when the cartridge is inserted into the cartridge receptacle, and an outer surface of the cartridge forms a second side of the air inlet passage.

[0028] In an embodiment of the present invention, a cartridge for a device that generates an inhalable aerosol includes a fluid storage chamber; a channel integrated into the outer surface, which forms a first side of an air inlet passage; and, wherein when the cartridge is inserted into a cartridge receptacle, the inner surface of a cartridge receptacle in the device forms a second side of the air inlet passage.

[0029] In an embodiment of the present invention, a cartridge for a device for generating an inhalable aerosol comprises a fluid storage chamber, wherein an outer surface of the cartridge forms a first side of an air inlet channel when inserted into a device body comprising a cartridge receptacle, and the cartridge receptacle further comprises a channel integrated into an inner surface, said channel forming a second side of the air inlet passage.

[0030] The cartridge may further include a second air passage in fluid communication with the channel, the second air passage being formed through the material of the cartridge from an exterior surface of the cartridge to the fluid reservoir.

[0031] The cartridge may include at least one of a groove, a valley, a depression, a dimple, a ridge, a furrow, a crease, and a gutter. The integral channel may include a wall recessed into the surface or protruding from the surface into which it is formed. An inner sidewall of the channel may form an additional side of the air inlet passage.

[0032] In another aspect of the invention, a device for generating an inhalable aerosol comprises a cartridge, the cartridge comprising: a fluid storage chamber; a heater attached to a first end, the heater comprising a first heater contact, a resistive heating element attached to the first heater contact; the device further comprises a device body, the device body comprising: a cartridge receptacle for receiving the cartridge; a second heater contact suitable for receiving the first heater contact and completing a circuit; a power source connected to the second heater contact; and a printed circuit board (PCB) connected to the power source and the second heater contact; wherein the PCB is configured to detect a lack of fluid based on the measured resistance of the resistive heating element and shut down the device.

[0033] The printed circuit board (PCB) includes a microcontroller; a switch; a circuit including a reference resistor; and an algorithm including logic for controlling parameters; where the microcontroller cycles the switch at regular intervals to measure the resistance of the resistive heating element relative to the reference resistor and applies the algorithm control parameters to control the temperature of the resistive heating element.

[0034] The microcontroller may instruct the device to shut off if the resistance exceeds a control parameter threshold, indicating the resistive heating element is dry.

[0035] In an embodiment of the present invention, a cartridge for a device for generating an inhalable aerosol comprises a fluid storage chamber, a heater attached to a first end, the heater comprising: a heater chamber; a first pair of heater contacts; a fluid wick, and a resistive heating element in contact with the fluid wick; wherein the first pair of heater contacts comprises a thin plate attached around a side of the heater chamber, with the fluid wick and the resistive heating element suspended therebetween.

[0036] The first pair of heaters may further include a molded feature including a tab having a flexible spring valve extending from the heater to complete a circuit with the body. The heater contacts may be configured to connect with a second pair of heater contacts in a cartridge receptacle of the device body to complete the circuit. The first pair of heater contacts may also be a heat sink to absorb and dissipate excess heat generated by the resistive heating element. The first pair of heater contacts may be a heat shield to protect the heater chamber from excess heat generated by the resistive heating element.

[0037] In an embodiment of the present invention, a cartridge for a device for generating an inhalable aerosol comprises a heater comprising: a heater chamber; a pair of thin plate heater contacts in the heater chamber; a fluid wick positioned between the heater contacts; and a resistive heating element in contact with the fluid wick; wherein the heater contacts each comprise a fixed portion and the resistive heating element is pulled therebetween.

[0038] In an embodiment of the invention, a cartridge for an inhalable aerosol generating device may include a heater attached to a first end of the cartridge.

[0039] The heater may surround the first end of the cartridge and the first end of the fluid reservoir. The heater may include more than one first condensation chamber. The heater may include a first condensation chamber. The condensation chambers may be formed along an outer wall of the cartridge.

[0040] In an embodiment of the invention, a cartridge for an inhalable aerosol generating device may include a fluid reservoir; and a mouthpiece attached to a second end of the cartridge.

[0041] The mouthpiece may surround the second end of the cartridge and the second end of the fluid reservoir. The mouthpiece may include a second condensation chamber. The mouthpiece may include more than one second condensation chamber. The second condensation chambers may be formed along an outer wall of the cartridge.

[0042] In an embodiment of the present invention, a cartridge for a device for generating an inhalable aerosol comprises a fluid storage chamber; a heater attached to a first end; and a mouthpiece attached to a second end; wherein the heater comprises a first condensation chamber and the mouthpiece comprises a second condensation chamber.

[0043] The heater may include more than one first condensation chamber and the mouthpiece may include more than one second condensation chamber. The first condensation chamber and the second condensation chamber may be in fluid communication. The mouthpiece may include an aerosol outlet in fluid communication with the second condensation chamber. The mouthpiece may include two or more aerosol outlets. The cartridge may meet ISO recycling standards. The cartridge may meet ISO recycling standards for plastic waste.

[0044] In an embodiment of the present invention, a device for generating an inhalable aerosol comprises a device body including a cartridge receptacle; and a removable cartridge; wherein the cartridge receptacle and the removable cartridge form a separable coupling, and the separable coupling comprises a frictional assembly, a snap-fit ​​assembly, or a magnetic assembly.

[0045] In an embodiment of the present invention, a method of manufacturing an inhalable aerosol generating device includes the steps of providing a device body including a cartridge receptacle; and providing a removable cartridge; wherein the cartridge receptacle and the separable cartridge form a separable coupling, including a frictional assembly, a snap-fit ​​assembly, or a magnetic assembly.

[0046] In an embodiment of the present invention, a method of manufacturing a cartridge for an inhalable aerosol generating device includes the steps of providing a fluid storage chamber; attaching a heater to a first end by a snap-fit ​​connection; and attaching a mouthpiece to a second end by a snap-fit ​​connection.

[0047] In an embodiment of the present invention, a cartridge for a device for generating inhalable aerosols having an airflow path includes a channel, the channel including a portion of an air inlet passage; a second air passage in fluid communication with the channel; a heater chamber in fluid communication with the second air passage; a first condensation chamber in fluid communication with the heater chamber; a second condensation chamber in fluid communication with the first condensation chamber; and an aerosol outlet in fluid communication with the second condensation chamber.

[0048] In an embodiment of the present invention, a cartridge for a device for generating an inhalable aerosol comprises a fluid storage chamber; a heater attached to a first end; and a mouthpiece attached to a second end; wherein the mouthpiece comprises two or more aerosol outlets.

[0049] In an embodiment of the present invention, a system for powering an electronic device for generating inhalable vapor includes: a rechargeable power storage device housed within the electronic device for generating inhalable vapor; two or more charging pins accessible from an exterior surface of the electronic device for generating inhalable vapor, the charging pins being in electrical communication with the rechargeable power storage device; a charging base including two or more charging contacts configured to supply power to the rechargeable power storage device, wherein the charging pins of the device are reversible such that the device can be charged in the charging base for charging by a first charging pin on the device contacting a first charging contact on the charging base and a second charging pin on the device contacting a second charging contact on the charging base, and by a first charging pin on the device contacting a second charging contact on the charging base and a second charging pin on the device contacting the first charging contact on the charging base.

[0050] A charging pin may be visible on the exterior housing of the device. A user may permanently disable the device by opening the housing. A user may permanently disable the device by opening the housing.

[0051] Additional aspects and advantages of the present disclosure will become readily apparent to those skilled in the art from the following detailed description, wherein only illustrative embodiments of the present disclosure are shown and described. As will be realized, the present disclosure is capable of other and embodiments, and its various details can be modified in various obvious respects, all without departing from the present disclosure. Accordingly, the drawings and description are to be regarded as illustrative in nature, and not as restrictive.

[0052] <Incorporated by reference> All publications, patents, and patent applications mentioned in this specification are herein incorporated by reference to the same extent as if each individual publication, patent, or patent application was specifically and individually indicated to be incorporated by reference. [Brief description of the drawings]

[0053] The novel features of the invention are set forth with particularity in the appended claims. A better understanding of the features and advantages of the present invention will be obtained by reference to the following detailed description that sets forth illustrative embodiments, in which the principles of the invention are utilized, and the accompanying drawings, in which: [Figure 1] 1 is an illustrative cross-sectional view of a typical vaporization device. [Diagram 2] 1 is an illustrative cross-sectional view of a typical vaporization device with various electronic mechanisms and valves. [Diagram 3] 1 is an illustrative cross-sectional view of another exemplary vaporization device including a condensation chamber, an air inlet, and an air vent in a mouthpiece. [Figure 4A]1 is an illustrative example of an oven section of another typical vaporizer configuration with an access lid behind the oven, the oven section including an oven having an air inlet, an air outlet, and additional vents in the airflow path. [Figure 4B] 1 is an illustrative example of an oven section of another typical vaporizer configuration with an access lid behind the oven, the oven section including an oven having an air inlet, an air outlet, and additional vents in the airflow path. [Figure 4C] 1 is an illustrative example of an oven section of another typical vaporizer configuration with an access lid behind the oven, the oven section including an oven having an air inlet, an air outlet, and additional vents in the airflow path. [Diagram 5] 1 is an illustrative isometric view of an assembled inhalable aerosol device. [Figure 6A] 1 shows an exemplary arrangement and cross-sectional view of the device body and sub-components; [Figure 6B] 1 shows an exemplary arrangement and cross-sectional view of the device body and sub-components; [Figure 6C] 1 shows an exemplary arrangement and cross-sectional view of the device body and sub-components; [Figure 6D] 1 shows an exemplary arrangement and cross-sectional view of the device body and sub-components; [Figure 7A] FIG. 2 is an illustrative isometric view of an assembled cartridge. [Figure 7B] 1 illustrates an exemplary exploded view of a cartridge assembly. [Figure 7C] FIG. 4 is a cross-sectional side view of A in FIG. 3 showing the inlet channel, inlet hole, and relative arrangement of the fluid wick, resistive heating element, and heater contacts, as well as the heater chamber inside the heater. [Figure 8A] FIG. 2 is an exemplary cross-sectional end view of an exemplary cartridge inside a heater. [Figure 8B] FIG. 1 illustrates an exemplary side view of a cartridge with the cap removed and the heater shown in shading / outline. [Figure 9]4 is an exemplary sequence of a method for assembling a cartridge. [Figure 10A] 1 is an exemplary sequence showing the airflow / vapor paths for the cartridge. [Figure 10B] 1 is an exemplary sequence showing the airflow / vapor paths for the cartridge. [Figure 10C] 1 is an exemplary sequence showing the airflow / vapor paths for the cartridge. [Figure 11] 4 illustrates an exemplary assembly sequence for assembling the central member of the device. [Figure 12] 4 illustrates an exemplary assembly sequence for assembling the central member of the device. [Figure 13] 4 illustrates an exemplary assembly sequence for assembling the central member of the device. [Figure 14] 1 shows front, side and cross-sectional views of an assembled inhalable aerosol device. [Figure 15] FIG. 1 is an illustrative diagram of an assembled inhalable aerosol device in an activated state. [Figure 16A] 1 is a typical example of a charging device for an aerosol device and application of the charger with the device. [Figure 16B] 1 is a typical example of a charging device for an aerosol device and application of the charger with the device. [Figure 16C] 1 is a typical example of a charging device for an aerosol device and application of the charger with the device. [Figure 17A] FIG. 1 is a block diagram of a proportional-integral-derivative (PID) controller and a typical example of a circuit diagram showing the essential components in an apparatus for controlling the temperature of a coil. [Figure 17B] FIG. 1 is a block diagram of a proportional-integral-derivative (PID) controller and a typical example of a circuit diagram showing the essential components in an apparatus for controlling the temperature of a coil. [Figure 18] The device has charging contacts visible through the external housing of the device. [Figure 19] FIG. 2 is an exploded view of the charging assembly of the device. [Figure 20] FIG. 2 is a detailed view of the charging assembly of the device. [Figure 21] FIG. 2 is a detailed view of the charging pin in the charging assembly of the device. [Figure 22] It is a device that is located inside the charging station. [Figure 23] Circuitry provided on a PCB configured to enable the device to include reversible charging contacts. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0054] Provided herein are systems and methods for generating a vapor from a material. The vapor may be delivered for inhalation by a user. The material may be a solid, liquid, powder, solution, paste, gel, or any material with other physical consistency. The vapor may be delivered to a user for inhalation by a vaporizer. The vaporizer may be a portable vaporizer. The vaporizer may be one that is held in one hand by a user.

[0055] The vaporizer includes more than one heating element, which may be a resistive heating element. The heating element may heat the material such that the temperature of the material increases. Vapor may be produced as a result of heating the material. Energy is required to power the heating element, which may come from a battery in electrical communication with the heating element. Alternatively, a chemical reaction (e.g., combustion or other exothermic reaction) may provide energy to the heating element.

[0056] One or more aspects of the vaporizer may be designed and / or controlled to deliver vapor with one or more specified characteristics to a user. For example, aspects of the vaporizer that are designed and / or controlled to deliver vapor with specified characteristics may include a heating temperature, a heating mechanism, an air inlet to the device, an internal volume of the device, and / or a material composition.

[0057] In some cases, the vaporizer may have an "atomizer" or "cartomizer" configured to heat the aerosol-forming solution (e.g., the vaporizable material). The aerosol-forming solution may include glycerin and / or propylene glycol. The vaporizable material may be heated to a temperature sufficient to vaporize.

[0058] The atomizer may be a device or system configured to generate an aerosol. The atomizer may include a small heating element configured to heat and / or vaporize at least a portion of the vaporizable material, and a wicking material that draws the liquid vaporizable material into the atomizer. The wicking material may include silica fiber, cotton, ceramic, hemp, stainless steel mesh, and / or rope cable. The wicking material may be configured to draw the liquid vaporizable material into the atomizer without a pump or other mechanical moving parts. A resistance wire may be wrapped around the wicking material and connected to the anode and cathode of a power source (e.g., an energy source). The resistance wire may be a coil. When the resistance wire is activated, the resistance wire (or coil) may increase in temperature as a result of a current passing through the resistance wire to generate heat. The heat may be transferred to at least a portion of the vaporizable material via conductive, transmissive, and / or radiative heat transfer such that at least a portion of the vaporizable material evaporates.

[0059] Alternatively, or in addition to an atomizer, the vaporizer may include a "cultomizer" to generate an aerosol from the vaporizable material for inhalation by the user. The cartomizer may include a cartridge and an atomizer. The cartomizer may include a heating element surrounded by liquid-soaked poly-foam that acts as a holder for the vaporizable material (e.g., liquid). The cartomizer may be reusable, reconstructable, refillable, and / or disposable. The cartomizer may include a tank for extra storage of the vaporizable material.

[0060] Air may be drawn into the vaporizer to carry the vaporized aerosol away from the heating element, where it is then cooled and condensed to form airborne liquid particles which may then be drawn through the mouthpiece by the user.

[0061] Vaporization of at least a portion of the vaporizable material may occur in the vaporizer at a lower temperature compared to the temperature required to generate inhalable vapor in a cigarette. A cigarette may be a device in which smokable material is burned to generate inhalable vapor. The lower temperature of the vaporizer may result in less decomposition and / or reaction of the vaporized material and therefore generate an aerosol with fewer chemical components compared to a cigarette. In some cases, the vaporizer may generate an aerosol with fewer chemical components harmful to human health compared to a cigarette. In addition, the aerosol particles in the vaporizer undergo near complete evaporation in the heating process, and the near complete evaporation may result in an average particle size (e.g., diameter) value that is smaller than the average particle size in the tobacco or plant-based effluent.

[0062] A vaporizer may be a device configured to extract one or more active ingredients of plant material, tobacco, and / or botanicals or other herbs, or mixtures, for inhalation. Vaporizers may be used with pure chemicals and / or humectants, mixed or unmixed with plant material. Vaporization may be an alternative to combustion (or fuming), avoiding the inhalation of many irritating and / or toxic carcinogenic by-products that result from the pyrolysis process of burning tobacco or plant products at temperatures above 300°C. Vaporizers may operate at temperatures below 300°C.

[0063] The vaporizer (e.g., vaporizer) may not have an atomizer or cartomizer. Instead, the device may include an oven. The oven may be at least partially enclosed. The oven may have an opening that can be opened and closed. The oven may be covered by a heating element, or alternatively, the heating element may be in thermal communication with the oven through another mechanism. The vaporizable material may be disposed directly in the oven or in a cartridge that fits the oven. The heating element in thermal communication with the oven may heat a mass of vaporizable material to create a gas phase vapor. The heating element may heat the vaporizable material via conductive, convective, and / or radiative heat transfer. The vapor may be released into a vaporization chamber where the vapor condenses to form an aerosol having typical liquid vapor particles with particles having an average mass diameter of about 1 micron or greater. In some cases, the average mass diameter may be about 0.1-1 micron.

[0064] As used herein, the term "vapor" may generally refer to a substance in the gas phase that is at a temperature below its critical point. A vapor may be condensed into a liquid or solid by increasing its pressure without decreasing its temperature.

[0065] As used herein, the term "aerosol" may generally refer to a colloid of small solid particles or droplets in air or another gas. Examples of aerosols may include clouds, fumes, and smoke, including smoke from tobacco or botanical products. The liquid or solid particles in the aerosol may have different diameters of average mass, ranging from monodisperse aerosols that can be produced in a laboratory and contain uniformly sized particles to polydisperse colloidal systems that exhibit a range of particle sizes. As the size of these particles becomes larger, the settling velocity of the particles increases, which allows the particles to settle out of the aerosol faster, making the aerosol appear less dense, and shortening the time the aerosol remains in the air. Interestingly, aerosols with smaller particles appear denser or more dense because they have more particles. Particle number has a much larger effect on light scattering than particle size (at least for the considered range of particle sizes), allowing vapor clouds with many smaller particles to appear denser than clouds with fewer but larger particle sizes.

[0066] As used herein, the term "humectant" may generally refer to a substance used to keep things moist. A humectant may attract and hold moisture from the air by absorption, allowing the water to be used by other substances. Humectants are also commonly used in many tobacco or botanical and electronic vaporization products to keep the product moist, as well as as a vapor forming medium. Examples include propylene glycol, glycerol, glycerin, and sugar polyols such as honey.

[0067] <Quick ventilation> In some cases, the vaporizer may be configured to deliver an aerosol with a high particle density. The particle density of an aerosol may refer to the number of aerosol droplets relative to the volume of air (or other dry gas) between the aerosol droplets. A dense aerosol may be easily visible to a user. In some cases, a user may inhale the aerosol and at least some of the aerosol particles may impact the user's lungs and / or mouth. After inhaling the aerosol, the user may exhale the remaining aerosol. If the aerosol is dense, the remaining aerosol may have a particle density sufficient to make the exhaled aerosol visible to a user. In some cases, a user may prefer a dense aerosol that has visual impact and / or is palatable.

[0068] The vaporizer may include a vaporizable material. The vaporizable material may be contained in a cartridge, or the vaporizable material may be loosely disposed in one or more cavities of the vaporizer. A heating element may be provided in the device to raise the temperature of the vaporizable material such that at least a portion of the vaporizable material forms a vapor. The heating element may heat the vaporizable material by conductive heat transfer, conductive heat transfer, and / or radiative heat transfer. The heating element may heat the cartridge and / or the cavity in which the vaporizable material is stored.

[0069] The vapor formed after heating the vaporizable material may be delivered to a user. The vapor may be transported through the device from a first location in the device to a second location in the device. In some cases, the first location may be a location where at least a portion of the vapor was generated, such as the cartridge or cavity, or an area adjacent to the cartridge or cavity. The second location may be a mouthpiece. The user may suck on the mouthpiece to inhale the vapor.

[0070] At least a portion of the vapor may condense after the vapor is generated and before the vapor is inhaled by the user. The vapor may condense in a condensation chamber. The condensation chamber may be a part of the device through which the vapor passes before delivery to the user. In some cases, the device may include at least one vent disposed in the condensation chamber of the vaporizer. The vent may be configured to introduce ambient air (or other gas) into the vaporization chamber. The temperature of the air introduced into the vaporization chamber may be lower than the temperature of the gas and / or gas / vapor mixture in the condensation chamber. The introduction of a relatively lower temperature gas into the vaporization chamber may result in quenching of the heated gas and vapor mixture generated by heating the vaporizable material. Quenching of the gas and vapor mixture may generate a dense aerosol that includes a high concentration of droplets having a smaller diameter and / or a smaller average mass compared to an aerosol that is not quenched prior to inhalation by the user.

[0071] Aerosols containing a high concentration of droplets with smaller diameters and / or smaller average masses compared to aerosols that are not quenched prior to inhalation by the user may be formed in a two-step process. The first step may take place in an oven chamber where the vaporizable material (e.g., a mixture of tobacco and / or botanicals and a humectant) is heated to an elevated temperature. Evaporation at elevated temperatures may occur faster than evaporation at room temperature, and the oven chamber may fill with a vapor phase of the humectant. The humectant may continue to evaporate until the partial pressure of the humectant equals the saturation pressure. At this point, the gas is cooled to 1 (S=P partial / P sat ) is said to have a saturation level of

[0072] In the second step, the gas (e.g., steam and air) may exit the oven and enter a condenser or condensation chamber where it may begin to cool. As the gas phase vapor cools, the saturation pressure may decrease. As the saturation pressure decreases, the saturation increases and the vapor may begin to condense and form droplets. In some devices, without the additional cooling vent, the cooling may be relatively slower, so that high saturation pressure may not be reached and the droplets produced in devices without the additional cooling vent may be relatively larger and fewer in number. When the cooler air is introduced, a temperature gradient may be created between the cooler air and the relatively warmer gas in the device. Mixing between the cooler air and the relatively warmer gas in the confined space inside the vaporizer may lead to quenching. Quenching may produce high saturation, small particles, and a high concentration of the smaller particles, forming a thicker and denser vapor cloud compared to the particles produced in the device without the vent.

[0073] For purposes of this disclosure, when referring to percentages of humectants such as vegetable glycerol or propylene glycol, "about" means a variation of 5%, 10%, 20%, or 25%, depending on the embodiment.

[0074] For purposes of this disclosure, when referring to the average mass diameter in particle size, "about" means a variation of 5%, 10%, 20%, or 25%, depending on the embodiment.

[0075] A vaporization device configured to quench vapor includes a mouthpiece including an aerosol outlet at a first end of the device; an oven including an oven chamber and a heater for heating a vapor-forming medium in the oven chamber and forming vapor therein; a condenser including a condensation chamber in which the vapor forms an inhalable aerosol; an air inlet originating from a first airflow path including the oven chamber and the condensation chamber; an air vent originating from a second airflow path, the second airflow path including an air vent that connects to the first airflow path before or in the condensation chamber after vapor is formed in the oven chamber, wherein the connected first and second airflow paths are configured to deliver the inhalable aerosol formed in the condensation chamber to a user through the aerosol outlet of the mouthpiece.

[0076] In some embodiments, the oven is within the body of the apparatus. The oven chamber may include an oven chamber inlet and an oven chamber outlet. The oven may further include a first valve at the oven chamber inlet and a second valve at the oven chamber outlet.

[0077] The oven may be contained within a housing of the device. In some cases, the body of the device may include a vent and / or a condenser. The body of the device may include one or more air inlets. The body of the device may include a housing that holds and / or at least partially contains one or more elements of the device.

[0078] The mouthpiece may be connected to the body. The mouthpiece may be connected to the oven. The mouthpiece may be connected to a housing that at least partially encloses the oven. In some cases, the mouthpiece may be separable from the oven, the body, and / or the housing that at least partially encloses the oven. The mouthpiece may include at least one of an air inlet, an air vent, and a condenser. The mouthpiece may be integrated into the body of the device. The body of the device may include the oven.

[0079] In some cases, one or more of the vents may include a valve. The valve may regulate the flow of air into the device through the vent. The valve may be controlled via a mechanical and / or electrical control system.

[0080] The vaporizer configured to quench vapor may include a body, a mouthpiece, an aerosol outlet, a condenser with a condensation chamber, a heater, an oven with an oven chamber, a first airflow inlet, and at least one vent disposed downstream of the body and the oven and upstream of the mouthpiece.

[0081] FIG. 1 shows an example of a vaporizer configured to quench vapor. The device (100) may include a body (101). The body may house and / or integrate one or more components of the device. The body may house and / or integrate a mouthpiece (102). The mouthpiece (102) may have an aerosol outlet (122). A user may inhale the generated aerosol via the aerosol outlet (122) on the mouthpiece (102). The body may house and / or integrate an oven portion (104). The oven portion (104) may include an oven chamber in which a vapor-forming medium (106) is disposed. The vapor-forming medium may include tobacco and / or botanicals, with or without a second humectant. In some cases, the vapor-forming medium may be contained in a removable and / or refillable cartridge.

[0082] Air may be drawn into the device through the first air inlet (121). The first air inlet (121) may be on the end of the device (100) opposite the mouthpiece (102). Alternatively, the first air inlet (121) may be adjacent to the mouthpiece (102). In some cases, a sufficient pressure drop to draw air into the device through the first air inlet (121) may be caused by a user blowing into the mouthpiece (102).

[0083] The vapor-forming medium (e.g., vaporizable material) may be heated in the oven chamber by a heater (105) to generate a hot gas phase (vapor) of tobacco or botanicals and humectants / vapor-forming components. The heater (105) may transfer heat to the vapor-forming medium via conductive, convective, and / or radiative heat transfer. The generated vapor is drawn from the oven section into the condensation chamber (103a) of the condenser (103), where it begins to cool and condense into airborne microparticles or droplets, thereby forming the initial aerosol, before being drawn from the mouthpiece through the aerosol outlet (122).

[0084] In some cases, relatively cooler air is introduced into the condensation chamber (103a) through the vent (107), causing the vapor to condense faster compared to the vapor in an apparatus without the vent (107). The quenching of the vapor may produce a denser aerosol cloud having particles with an average mass diameter of about 1 micron or less, and, depending on the mixture ratio of the vapor-forming wetting agent, particles with an average mass diameter of about 0.5 microns or less.

[0085] In another aspect, the present invention provides an apparatus for generating an inhalable aerosol, the apparatus comprising a body with a mouthpiece at one end, a body attached at the other end containing a condensation chamber, a heater, an oven (wherein the oven includes a first valve in an airflow path at a first air inlet of the oven chamber and a second valve at an outlet end of the oven chamber), and at least one air vent provided downstream of the body, the oven, and upstream of the mouthpiece.

[0086] 2 shows a schematic diagram of another embodiment of a vaporizer (200). The vaporizer may have a body (201). The body (201) may integrate and / or contain one or more components of the device. The body may integrate or be connected to a mouthpiece (202).

[0087] The body includes an oven portion (204) and an oven chamber (204a) may have a first deflation valve (208) at a first air inlet of the oven chamber and a second deflation valve (209) at an oven chamber outlet. The oven chamber (204a) may be sealed with tobacco or botanicals and / or humectants / vapor forming medium (206) therein. The seal may be air-tight and / or liquid-tight. A heater may be provided in the oven chamber with a heater (205). The heater (205) is in thermal communication with the oven, for example, the heater may surround the oven chamber during the vaporization process. The heater may be in contact with the oven. The heater may be shrouded around the oven. Before inhalation and before air is drawn through the first air inlet (221), pressure may be increased in the sealed oven chamber so that heat is constantly being applied. The pressure may be increased due to a phase change of the vaporizable material. A hot gas phase (vapor) of tobacco or botanicals and humectants / vapor forming components may be achieved by frequently applying heat to the oven. When valves (208) and (209) are opened during inhalation, this heated pressurization process may result in even higher saturation. Higher saturation may result in a relatively high particle concentration of gas phase humectants in the resulting aerosol. When vapor is drawn from the oven section into the condensation chamber (203a) of the condenser (203), for example by inhalation by the user, the vapor of the gas phase humectant is exposed to additional air through the vent (207), and the vapor begins to cool and may condense into airborne droplets. As previously mentioned, the aerosol may be drawn by the user through the mouthpiece (222). This condensation process may be further refined by adding an additional valve (210) to the vent (207) to further control the air and vapor mixing process.

[0088] 2 also shows an exemplary embodiment of additional components found in a vaporizing device, including a power source or battery (211), a printed circuit board (212), a temperature regulator (213), and an operating switch (214), which are housed within an internal electronics housing (214) to isolate them from the harmful effects of moisture in the vapor and / or aerosol. The additional components may be found in vaporizing devices that may or may not include vents as described above.

[0089] In some embodiments of the vaporization device, the components of the device are user-friendly, such as a power source or battery. These components may be replaceable or rechargeable.

[0090] In yet another aspect, the present invention provides an apparatus for generating an inhalable aerosol comprising a first body, a mouthpiece having an aerosol outlet, a condensation chamber in a condenser, an airflow inlet, and an attached second body comprising a channel, an oven with a heater and an oven chamber, wherein the airflow channel is upstream of the oven and mouthpiece outlet to provide airflow through the apparatus, over the oven and into the condensation chamber where an auxiliary air vent is provided.

[0091] FIG. 3 shows a cross-sectional view of a vaporization device (300). The device (300) may include a body (301). The body may be connected to and / or integral with a mouthpiece (302) at one end. The mouthpiece may include a condensation chamber (303a) in a condenser portion (303), an airflow inlet (321), and an air channel (323). The device body may include a proximately positioned oven (304) including an oven chamber (304a). The oven chamber may be within the device body. A vapor-forming medium (306) (e.g., vaporizable material) including tobacco or botanicals and a humectant vapor-forming medium may be disposed in the oven. The vapor-forming medium may be in direct contact with the air channel (323) from the mouthpiece. The tobacco or botanical may be heated by a heater (305) surrounding the oven chamber to produce tobacco or botanical and humectant / vapor forming components, and air, which are drawn by the user puffing the mouthpiece through the first air inlet (321), over the oven, and into the condensation chamber (303a) of the condenser portion (303). Additional air enters through the vent (307) once inside the condensation chamber where the gas-phase humectant vapor begins to cool and condense into airborne droplets, thus creating a denser aerosol cloud with particles having an average mass diameter less than a typical vaporizer without the added vent, before being drawn out of the mouthpiece again through the aerosol outlet (322).

[0092] In some embodiments of the invention, the device includes a mouthpiece including a spray outlet at a first end of the device and an air inlet originating from a first airflow path; an oven including an oven chamber in the first airflow path and a heater for heating a vapor-forming medium in the oven chamber and forming vapor therein; a condenser including a condensation chamber in which the vapor forms an inhalable aerosol; and an air vent originating from a second airflow path, the second airflow path connecting air from the air vent to the first airflow path before or in the condensation chamber and downstream from the oven chamber, thereby forming a connecting pathway, wherein the connecting pathway is configured to deliver inhalable aerosol formed in the condensation chamber to a user through an aerosol outlet of the mouthpiece.

[0093] In some embodiments of the invention, a device includes a mouthpiece including an aerosol outlet at a first end of the device, an air inlet originating from a first airflow path, and a vent originating from a second airflow path, the second airflow path allowing air from the vent to be connected to the first airflow path; the device further includes an oven including an oven chamber in the first airflow path and a heater for heating a vapor-forming medium in the oven chamber and forming vapor therein, the device further includes a condenser including a condensation chamber in which the vapor forms an inhalable aerosol, wherein air from the vent connects to the first airflow path before or in the condensation chamber and downstream from the oven chamber, thereby forming a connecting pathway, wherein the connecting pathway is configured to deliver the inhalable aerosol to a user through the aerosol outlet of the mouthpiece, as shown in the exemplary FIG. 3.

[0094] In some embodiments of the invention, the device may include a body with one or more separable components. For example, the mouthpiece may be separably attached to a body that includes a condensation chamber, heater, and oven, as shown in exemplary Figures 1 or 2.

[0095] In some embodiments of the invention, the device may include a body with one or more separable components. For example, the mouthpiece may be separably attached to the body. The mouthpiece includes the condensation chamber, is attached to or immediately adjacent to the oven, and is separable from the body including the heater and oven, as shown in exemplary FIG.

[0096] In other aspects of the invention, the at least one vent may be located in the condensation chamber of the condenser, as shown in exemplary FIG. 1, 2, or 3. The at least one vent may include a third valve in the airflow path of the at least one vent, as shown in exemplary FIG. 2. The first, second, and third valves may be check valves, flap valves, check valves, or one-way valves. In any of the above aspects of the invention, the first, second, or third valves may be mechanically actuated, electrically actuated, or manually actuated. Those skilled in the art, after reading this disclosure, will recognize that the device may be modified such that any one or each of these openings or vents includes different combinations or variations of the mechanisms as described to control the airflow, pressure, and temperature of the generated vapor and aerosol being generated by configurations of the device, including manually operated openings or vents with or without valves.

[0097] In some embodiments of the present invention, the device may further include at least one of a power source, a printed circuit board, a switch, and a temperature regulator. Alternatively, one skilled in the art will recognize that each of the above configurations also houses the power source (battery), switch, printed circuit board, or temperature regulator within the body.

[0098] In some embodiments of the invention, the device may be disposable when the supply of pre-packaged aerosol-forming medium is exhausted. Alternatively, the device may be rechargeable such that the battery is rechargeable or replaceable and / or the aerosol-forming medium may be refilled by the user / operator of the device. Still further, in other embodiments of the invention, the device may be rechargeable such that the battery is rechargeable or replaceable and / or the operator may also add or refill tobacco or botanical components in addition to the refillable or replaceable aerosol-forming medium of the device.

[0099] As shown in Figures 1, 2, or 3, in some embodiments of the present invention, a vaporizer includes tobacco or botanical that is heated in the oven chamber, where the tobacco or botanical further includes a humectant to generate an aerosol including the humectant and the gas phase components of the tobacco or botanical. In some embodiments of the present invention, the gas phase humectant and tobacco or botanical vapor generated by the heated aerosol forming medium (106)(206)(306) further exits the oven section (104)(204)(304) and enters a condensation chamber (103a)(203a)(303a) to be cooled and mixed with air from special vents (107)(207)(307) after condensing the gas phase vapor to generate a significantly denser and thicker aerosol with more particles having an average mass diameter of about 1 micron or less than that generated without the excess cold air.

[0100] For example, in other embodiments of the invention, the aerosol composition generated by mixing gas phase vapor with cold air may each include different ranges of particles having mean mass diameters of about 0.9 microns or less; about 0.8 microns or less; about 0.7 microns or less; about 0.6 microns or less, and even aerosols containing particle sizes of about 0.5 microns or less.

[0101] The possible variations and ranges of aerosol density are large in that there are a large number of possible combinations of temperature, pressure, tobacco or botanical selection, and humectant selection. However, by eliminating the tobacco or botanical selection and limiting the temperature ranges and humectant ratios to those described herein, the inventors have demonstrated that the device produces a significantly denser, more dense aerosol containing many more particles having an average mass diameter of about 1 micron or less than would be produced without the excess cold air.

[0102] In some embodiments of the present invention, the humectant comprises glycerol or vegetable glycerol as a vapor-forming medium.

[0103] In yet another embodiment of the present invention, the humectant comprises propylene glycol as a vapor forming medium.

[0104] In a preferred embodiment of the present invention, the humectant may comprise a ratio of vegetable glycerol to propylene glycol as a vapor-forming medium. The range of the ratio of vegetable glycerol to propylene glycol may vary between a ratio of about 100:0 and about 50:50. The preferred ratio difference within the above range varies by only 1, for example, the ratio of vegetable glycerol to propylene glycol may be about 99:1. However, more typically, the ratio of vegetable glycerol to propylene glycol may vary in increments of about 5, for example, about 95:5; or about 85:15; or about 55:45.

[0105] In a preferred embodiment, the ratio of vegetable glycerol to propylene glycol for the vapor forming medium is between the range of about 80:20 and about 60:40.

[0106] In a most preferred embodiment, the ratio of vegetable glycerol to propylene glycol for the vapor forming medium is about 70:30.

[0107] In any of the preferred embodiments, the humectant may further comprise a flavoring product. These flavorings may include cocoa solids, liquorice, tobacco, or botanical extracts, to name just a few.

[0108] In some embodiments, the tobacco or botanical is heated in an oven to its pyrolysis temperature, most commonly measured in the range of 300-1000° C. as previously described.

[0109] In a preferred embodiment, the tobacco or botanicals are heated to a maximum of about 300° C. In another preferred embodiment, the tobacco or botanicals are heated to a maximum of about 200° C. In yet another preferred embodiment, the tobacco or botanicals are heated to a maximum of about 160° C. In these low temperature ranges (<300° C.), thermal decomposition of the tobacco or botanicals typically does not occur, but vapor formation of the tobacco or botanical components and flavoring products does occur. In addition, vapor formation of the humectant components mixed in various ratios also occurs, resulting in near complete vaporization, depending on the temperature, since the boiling point of propylene glycol is about 180° C.-190° C. and the boiling point of vegetable glycerol is about 280° C.-290° C.

[0110] In yet another preferred embodiment, the aerosol generated by the heated tobacco or botanicals and humectants is mixed with air provided through an air vent.

[0111] In yet other preferred embodiments, the heated aerosol generated by tobacco or botanicals and humectants is mixed with air and cooled to a temperature of up to about 50° C.-70° C., and at least 35° C., before exiting the mouthpiece, depending on the temperature of the air mixed into the condensation chamber. In some embodiments, the temperature is cooled to a maximum of about 35° C.-55° C., and may have a variation range of about ±10° C. or more, within the overall range of more than about 35° C.-70° C.

[0112] In yet another aspect, the present invention provides a vaporization device for generating inhalable aerosols that includes a unique oven configuration, where the oven includes an access lid and an auxiliary vent located in the airflow channel immediately downstream of the oven and in front of the vent chamber, in which a user may directly access the oven by removing the access lid, thereby allowing the user to refill the device with vaporization material.

[0113] Additionally, additional vents in the airflow channel directly behind the oven and before the vaporization chamber give the user additional control over the amount of air entering the vent chamber downstream and the rate at which the aerosol cools before entering the vent chamber.

[0114] 4A-4C, the device (400) may include a body (401) having an air inlet (421) that allows for the heating process of the initial air into the oven section (404). After heating the tobacco or botanicals and humectant (heater not shown), the generated gas-phase humectant vapor may travel down an airflow channel (423) and pass through an additional vent (407) where a user may selectively increase the airflow to the heated vapor. A user may selectively increase and / or decrease the airflow to the heated vapor by controlling a valve in communication with the vent (407). In some cases, the device may not have a vent. The airflow to the heated vapor through the vent may reduce the temperature of the vapor before it exits the airflow channel at the outlet (422) and increase the condensation rate and vapor density by reducing the diameter of the vapor particles in the vent chamber (not shown), thus generating a thicker and denser vapor compared to the vapor generated by a device without a vent. A user may also access the oven chamber (404a) for refilling or recharging the device (400) through an access lid (430) provided therein. The access lid may be provided on devices with or without vents.

[0115] Provided herein is a method for generating an inhalable aerosol, the method comprising: providing a vaporization device, wherein the device generates a vapor having an average mass particle size of about 1 micron or less, the vapor being formed by heating a vapor-forming medium in an oven chamber of the device to a first temperature below the thermal decomposition temperature of the vapor-forming medium, and cooling the vapor in a condensation chamber to a temperature below the first temperature before exiting an aerosol outlet of the device.

[0116] In some embodiments, the vapor is cooled after exiting the oven during the condensation phase by mixing relatively cool air with the vapor in a condensation chamber, where condensation of the vapor-phase humectant occurs more quickly due to the higher saturation achieved at the moment of aeration than typically occurs in standard vaporizers or aerosol generators, producing a higher concentration of smaller particles with fewer by-products in a denser aerosol.

[0117] In some embodiments, the formation of an inhalable aerosol is a two-step process. The first step takes place in an oven where a mixture of tobacco or botanicals and a humectant is heated to a high temperature. Evaporation at high temperatures occurs faster than evaporation at room temperature, and the oven chamber is filled with the vapor phase of the humectant. The humectant will continue to evaporate until the partial pressure of the humectant equals the saturation pressure. At this point, the gas is at a pressure of 1(S=P partial / P sat ) is said to have a saturation level of

[0118] In the second step, the gas leaves the oven chamber and passes through the condensation chamber in the condenser where it begins to cool. As the gas phase vapor cools, the saturation pressure also decreases, which causes the saturation to increase and the vapor to condense and form small droplets. When cold air is introduced, the large temperature gradient between the two fluids mixing in an enclosed space leads to very fast cooling, which results in high saturation, small particles, and a high concentration of smaller particles, forming a thicker and denser vapor cloud.

[0119] Provided herein is a method of generating an inhalable aerosol, the method comprising: a vaporizer having a body with a mouthpiece at one end and a body attached at the other end, the vaporizer including a condenser with a condensation chamber, a heater, an oven with an oven chamber, and at least one vent disposed in the body, downstream of the oven, and upstream of the mouthpiece, wherein tobacco or botanicals containing a humectant are heated in the oven chamber to generate a vapor containing the gas-phase humectant.

[0120] As mentioned above, a vaporizer having an auxiliary vent positioned within the condensation chamber capable of supplying cool air (relative to the heated gaseous components) to the gas phase vapor and tobacco or botanical components exiting the oven section may be used to provide a method of producing a significantly denser, thicker aerosol containing more particles having an average mass diameter of about 1 micron or less than that produced without the excess cool air.

[0121] In another aspect, provided herein is a method of generating an inhalable aerosol, the method comprising: a vaporizer having a body with a mouthpiece at one end and a body attached at the other end, the vaporizer comprising a condenser with a condensation chamber, a heater, an oven with an oven chamber (wherein the oven further comprises a first valve in an airflow path at an inlet end of the oven chamber and a second valve at an outlet end of the oven chamber), and at least one air vent disposed in the body, downstream of the oven, and upstream of the mouthpiece, wherein tobacco or botanicals containing a humectant are heated in the oven chamber to generate a vapor containing the gas-phase humectant.

[0122] As shown in exemplary FIG. 2, prior to inhalation and before air is drawn through the first air inlet (221), during the vaporization phase, by sealing the tobacco or botanicals and humectant vapor-forming medium (206) in the oven chamber (204a) and applying heat with the heater (205), pressure will build up in the oven chamber as heat is continually applied by an electronic heating circuit generated through a combination of a battery (211), a printed circuit board (212), a thermoregulator (213), and an operator controlled switch (not shown) to generate a hotter vapor-phase humectant (vapor) of the tobacco or botanicals and humectant vapor-forming components. This heated pressurization process creates a higher degree of saturation when valves (208)(209) are opened during inhalation, resulting in a higher concentration of particles in the resulting aerosol, and as the vapors are drawn off from the oven section into the condensation chamber (203a), they are again exposed to additional air via vent (207) as previously described, before the aerosols are drawn off through the mouthpiece (222), causing the vapors to begin to cool and condense into airborne droplets. The inventors also note that this condensation process may be further refined by adding an additional valve (210) to vent (207) to further control the air and vapor mixing process.

[0123] In some embodiments of any one of the inventive methods, the first, second, and / or third valves are one-way valves, check valves, flute valves, or non-return valves. The first, second, and / or third valves may be mechanically actuated. The first, second, and / or third valves may be electrically actuated. The first, second, and / or third valves may be automatically actuated. The first, second, and / or third valves may be manually actuated, either directly by a user, or indirectly in response to an input command from a user to a control system that actuates the first, second, and / or third valves.

[0124] In another aspect of the invention, the device further comprises at least one of a power supply, a printed circuit board, or a temperature regulator.

[0125] In any of the foregoing aspects of the inventive method, one of skill in the art, after reading this disclosure, will recognize that the method may be modified such that any one or each of these openings or vents is configured with different combinations or variations of mechanisms or electronics as described to control the airflow, pressure, and temperature of the vapor generated and aerosol being generated by these device configurations, including manually operated openings or vents with or without valves.

[0126] The possible variations and ranges of aerosol density are large in that there are a large number of possible combinations of temperature, pressure, tobacco or botanical choice, and humectant choice, but by eliminating the tobacco or botanical choice and limiting the temperature to the ranges and humectant ratios described herein, the inventors have demonstrated a method to produce a significantly denser, more dense aerosol containing many more particles with an average mass diameter of 1 micron or less than would be produced without the excess cold air.

[0127] In some embodiments of the inventive method, the humectant comprises a ratio of vegetable glycerol to propylene glycol as a vapor-forming medium. The range of the ratio of vegetable glycerol to propylene glycol will vary between a ratio of about 100:0 and about 50:50. The preferred ratio difference within the above range varies by only 1, for example, the ratio of vegetable glycerol to propylene glycol may be about 99:1. However, more typically, the ratio of vegetable glycerol to propylene glycol will vary in increments of 5, for example, about 95:5; or about 85:15; or about 55:45.

[0128] Vegetable glycerol is less volatile than propylene glycol and therefore will recondense to a greater extent. A humectant with a higher concentration of glycerol will produce a thicker aerosol. The addition of propylene glycol produces an aerosol with a lower concentration of condensed phase particles and a higher concentration of gas phase effluent. When the aerosol is inhaled, this gas phase effluent is often perceived as throat burning or unpleasant. For some consumers, it may be desirable to vary the degree of this sensation. The ratio of vegetable glycerol to propylene glycol may be manipulated to balance the aerosol thickness with the correct amount of "throat burning".

[0129] In a preferred embodiment of the method, the ratio of vegetable glycerol to propylene glycol for the vapor forming medium is between the range of about 80:20 and about 60:40.

[0130] In a most preferred embodiment of the method, the ratio of vegetable glycerol to propylene glycol for the vapor forming medium is about 70:30.Those skilled in the art will appreciate that there are mixtures with different ratios for consumers with different tastes.

[0131] In any of the preferred embodiments of the method, the humectant further comprises a flavoring product. These flavorings include enhancers such as cocoa solids, liquorice, tobacco, or plant extracts, to name a few.

[0132] In some embodiments of the method, the tobacco or botanical is heated to its pyrolysis temperature.

[0133] In a preferred embodiment of the method, the tobacco or botanical is heated to a maximum of about 300°C.

[0134] In another preferred embodiment of the method, the tobacco or botanical is heated to a maximum of about 200° C. In yet another embodiment of the method, the tobacco or botanical is heated to a maximum of about 160° C.

[0135] As mentioned above, at such low temperatures (<300°C), thermal decomposition of tobacco or botanicals typically does not occur, but vapor formation of tobacco or botanical components and flavoring products does. As inferred from the data provided by Baker et al., the aerosols generated at these temperatures also have little or at least 70% less Hoffman analytes than those of common tobacco or botanical tobacco, and score significantly better on the Ames test than those generated by burning common tobacco. In addition, vapor formation of the humectant components mixed in various ratios also occurs, resulting in near complete vaporization depending on the temperature, since the boiling point of propylene glycol is about 180°C-190°C and the boiling point of vegetable glycerol is about 280°C-290°C.

[0136] In any one of the foregoing methods, the inhalable aerosol produced by tobacco or botanicals containing a humectant and heated in the oven produces an aerosol containing gas phase humectant, which is further mixed with air provided through an air vent.

[0137] In any one of the foregoing methods, the aerosol generated by the heated tobacco or botanicals and humectants mixed with air is cooled to a temperature of about 50° C.-70° C., and at least 35° C., before exiting the mouthpiece. In some embodiments, the temperature is cooled to a maximum of about 35° C.-55° C., and may have a variation range of about ±10° C. or more within the overall range of about 35° C.-70° C.

[0138] In some embodiments of the method, a vapor containing a gas-phase humectant may be mixed with air to generate an aerosol having an average mass particle size of about 1 micron or less.

[0139] In other embodiments of the method, the aerosol composition generated by mixing gas phase vapor with cold air may each include a range of particles having mean mass diameters of about 0.9 microns or less; about 0.8 microns or less; about 0.7 microns or less; about 0.6 microns or less, for example, and even aerosols containing particle sizes of about 0.5 microns or less.

[0140] In some cases, the vaporizer may be configured to generate an inhalable aerosol. The device may be a self-contained vaporizer. The device may include a rectangular body that functions to complement aspects of a separable and reusable cartridge with an air inlet channel, an air passage, multiple condensation chambers, flexible heater contacts, and multiple aerosol outlets. Additionally, the cartridge may be configured for ease of manufacture and assembly.

[0141] Provided herein is a vaporizer for generating inhalable aerosols. The vaporizer may include a device body, a separable cartridge assembly further including a heater, at least one condensation chamber, and a mouthpiece. The vaporizer provides compact assembly and disassembly of components using removable couplings; overheat cut-off protection for the resistive heating element; an air inlet passage (closed channel) formed by assembly of the device body and the separable cartridge; at least one condensation chamber in the separable cartridge assembly; a heater contact; and one or more refillable, reusable, and / or reusable components.

[0142] A device for generating an inhalable aerosol is provided herein, the device comprising a device body including a cartridge receptacle; a cartridge comprising a reservoir and a channel integral with an outer surface of the cartridge, and an air inlet passage formed by the channel and an inner surface of the cartridge receptacle when the cartridge is inserted into the cartridge receptacle, the cartridge may be formed from metal, plastic, ceramic, and / or composite materials. The reservoir may hold a vaporizable material. FIG. 7A shows an example of a cartridge (30) used in the device. The vaporizable material may be a liquid at or near room temperature. In some cases, the vaporizable material may be a liquid below room temperature. As illustrated in various non-limiting embodiments in FIGS. 5-6D, 7C, 8A, 8B, and 10A, the channel may form a first side of the air inlet passage, and the inner surface of the cartridge receptacle may form a second side of the air inlet passage.

[0143] A device for generating an inhalable aerosol is provided herein. The device may comprise a body that houses, contains, and / or is integral with one or more components of the device. The device body may comprise a cartridge receptacle. The cartridge receptacle may comprise an integral channel on an inner surface of the cartridge receptacle; and an air inlet passageway formed by the channel and an outer surface of the cartridge when the cartridge is inserted into the cartridge receptacle. The cartridge may be loaded and / or inserted into the cartridge receptacle. The cartridge may have a fluid reservoir. The channel may form a first side of the air inlet passageway, and the outer surface of the cartridge forms a second side of the air inlet passageway. The channel may comprise at least one of the following: grooves; valleys; tracks; depressions; indentations; streaks; grooves; creases; and gutters. The integral channel may include a wall that is recessed into a surface or protrudes from the surface in which it is formed. An inner sidewall of the channel may form an additional side of the air inlet passageway. The channels may have a cross-section that is circular, oval, square, rectangular, or other shape. The channels may have a closed cross-section. The channels may have a width of about 0.1 cm, 0.5 cm, 1 cm, 2 cm, or 5 cm. The channels may be about 0.1 mm, 0.5 mm, 1 mm, 2 mm, or 5 mm deep. The channels may be about 0.1 cm, 0.5 cm, 1 cm, 2 cm, or 5 cm long. There may be at least one channel.

[0144] In some embodiments, the cartridge includes a second air passage in fluid communication with the air inlet passage to the fluid reservoir, the second air passage being formed by the material of the cartridge.

[0145] 5-7C show various views of a compact electronic device assembly (10) for generating an inhalable aerosol. The compact electronic device (10) may include a device body (20) with a cartridge receptacle (21) for receiving a cartridge (30). The device body may have a square or rectangular cross section. Alternatively, the cross section of the body may be of other regular or irregular shapes. The cartridge receptacle may be shaped to accommodate an opened cartridge (30a) or "pod." A cartridge may be opened when a protective cap is removed from a surface of the cartridge. In some cases, a cartridge may be opened when a hole or opening is formed in a surface of the cartridge. The pod (30a) may be inserted into the open end of the cartridge receptacle (21) such that an exposed first heater contact tip (33a) on the heater contact (33) of the pod contacts the second heater contact (22) of the device body, thereby forming the device assembly (10).

[0146] 14, it is apparent in plan view that the channel air inlet 50 remains exposed when the pod 30a is inserted into the notched body of the cartridge receptacle 21. The size of the channel air inlet 50 may be varied by altering the placement of the notches in the cartridge receptacle 21.

[0147] The device itself consists of a rechargeable battery, a printed circuit board (PCB) (24) with a microcontroller that contains the device's operating logic and software instructions, and a user-supplied power supply (WSU) for powering the heater circuit. PuffingThe cartridge may further include a pressure switch (27) for detecting pressure, an indicator light (26), charging contacts (not shown), and an optional charging magnet or magnetic contacts (not shown). The cartridge may further include a heater (36). The heater may be powered by a rechargeable battery. The temperature of the heater may be controlled by a microcontroller. The heater may be attached to the first end of the cartridge.

[0148] In some embodiments, the heater may include a heater chamber (37), a first pair of heater contacts (33)(33'), a fluid wick (34), and a resistive heating element (35) in contact with the wick. The first pair of heater contacts may include a thin plate attached around the sides of the heater chamber. The fluid wick and resistive heating element may be suspended between the heater contacts.

[0149] In some embodiments, there may be more than one resistive heating element (35), (35') and more than one wick (34), (34'). In some embodiments, the heater contacts (33) may comprise a flat plate; a male contact; a female receptacle, or both; a flexible contact and / or a copper alloy or another conductive material. The first pair of heater contacts may further comprise a molded shape that may include a tab (e.g., a flange) with a flexible spring valve extending from the heater to complete a circuit with the device body. The first pair of heater contacts may be a heat sink that absorbs and dissipates excess heat generated by the resistive heating element. Alternatively, the first pair of heater contacts may be a heat shield that protects the heater chamber from the excessive heat generated by the resistive heating element. The first pair of heater contacts may be press-fitted into a mounting feature on the exterior wall of the first end of the cartridge. The heater may surround the first end of the cartridge and the first end of the fluid reservoir.

[0150] As illustrated in the assembly shown in the exploded view of FIG. 7B, the heater enclosure may include two or more heater contacts (33), each of which includes a plate that may be machined or stamped from a copper alloy or similar conductive material. Tip flexibility is provided by a cutaway clearance feature (33b) made below the male contact tip (33a) that takes full advantage of the inherent spring properties of the sheet or plate metal material. Another advantage and improvement of this type of contact is reduced space requirements, simplified construction of the spring contacts (to the pogo pins), and ease of assembly. The heater may include a first condensation chamber. The heater may include more than one additional condensation chamber in addition to the first condensation chamber. The first condensation chamber may be formed along the outer wall of the cartridge.

[0151] In some cases, the cartridge (e.g., pod) is configured for ease of manufacturing and assembly. The cartridge may include an enclosure. The enclosure may be a tank. The tank may include an internal fluid reservoir (32). The internal fluid reservoir (32) is open at one or both ends and includes raised rails on side ends (45b) and (46b). The cartridge may be formed from plastic, metal, composite, and / or ceramic materials. The cartridge may be rigid or flexible.

[0152] The tank may further include a set of first heater contact plates (33) formed from a copper alloy or another conductive material that are attached to the sides of the first end of the tank and have a thin cutout below the contact tips (33a) that span the open end (53) of the tank. The plates may be attached to pins or posts as shown in FIG. 7B or 5, or by other common means such as compression just below the enclosure (36). A fluid core (34) with a resistive heating element (35) wrapped around it is placed between and attached to the first heater contact plates (33). The heater (36), including a raised interior edge on the interior end (not shown), a thin mixing area (not shown), and a primary condensation channel cover (45a) that slides over rails (45b) on the sides of the tank in the front half of the tank, form the primary condensation channel / chamber (45). Additionally, small male snap features (39b) on the ends of the channel cover are configured to fit into female snap features (39a) and are placed into the center body of the tank's side, creating a snap-fit ​​assembly.

[0153] As will be further clarified below, the combination of a fluid core (34) with an open sided end (53), a protruding tip (33a) of the contact plate (33), and a resistive heating element (35) enclosed at the open end of the fluid storage tank under a heater (36) with a thin mixing region therein creates an efficient heater system. In addition, a primary condensation channel cover (45a) that slides on rails (45b) on the side of the tank creates a one-piece, easy to assemble primary condensation chamber (45), all within the heater at the first end of the cartridge (30) or pod (30a).

[0154] In some embodiments of the device, the heater may surround at least a first end of the cartridge, as shown in Figure 9. The enclosed first end of the cartridge may include the heater and an internal fluid reservoir. In some embodiments, the heater further includes at least one first condensation chamber (45).

[0155] FIG. 9 shows illustrated steps that may be taken to assemble a cartomizer and / or mouthpiece. In step AB, the fluid reservoir (32a) may be oriented with the heater inlet (53) facing upwards. The heater contact (33) may be inserted into the fluid reservoir. The flexible tab (33a) may be inserted into the heater contact (33). In step D, the resistive heating element (35) may be wound around the wick (34). In step E, the wick (34) and heater (35) may be placed into the fluid reservoir. One or more free ends of the heater may be located outside of the heater contact. The one or more free ends may be soldered in place, placed in a groove, or snap-fitted into place. At least a portion of the one or more free ends may be in communication with the heater contact (33). In step F, the heater enclosure (36) may be snap-fitted into place. The heater enclosure (36) may be attached to the fluid reservoir. Step G shows the heater enclosure (36) in place over the fluid reservoir. In step H, the fluid reservoir can be turned upside down. In step I, the mouthpiece (31) can be attached to the fluid reservoir. Step J shows the mouthpiece (31) in place over the fluid reservoir. In step K, the end (49) can be attached to the fluid reservoir opposite the mouthpiece. Step L shows the cartridge (30) fully assembled. Figure 7B shows an exploded view of the assembled cartridge (30).

[0156] Depending on the size of the heater and / or heater chamber, the heater may have more than one wick (34) and resistive heating element (35).

[0157] In some embodiments, the first pair of heater contacts (33) further includes a molded shape including a tab (33a) with a flexible spring valve extending from the heater. In some embodiments, the cartridge (30) includes a heater (33) that is inserted into a cartridge receptacle (21) of the device body (20), and the flexible tab (33a) is inserted into the second pair of heater contacts (22) to complete a circuit with the device body. The first pair of heater contacts (33) may be a heat sink that absorbs and dissipates excess heat generated by the resistive heating element (35). The first pair of heater contacts (33) may be a heat shield that protects the heater chamber from excessive heat generated by the resistive heating element (35). The first pair of heater contacts may be press-fitted into a mounting feature on the exterior wall of the first end of the cartridge. The heater (36) may surround the first end of the cartridge and the first end of the fluid reservoir (32a). The heater may include a first condensation chamber (45). The heater may include at least one additional condensation chamber (45), (45'), (45''), etc. The first condensation chamber may be formed along an outer wall of the cartridge.

[0158] In yet another embodiment of the device, the cartridge may further comprise a mouthpiece (31), the mouthpiece comprising at least one aerosol outlet channel / second condensation chamber (46); and at least one aerosol outlet (47). The mouthpiece may be attached to the second end of the cartridge. The second end of the cartridge with the mouthpiece may be exposed from the end when the cartridge is inserted into the device. The mouthpiece may comprise more than one second condensation chamber (46), (46'), (46''), etc. The second condensation chambers are formed along the outer wall of the cartridge.

[0159] A mouthpiece (31) may enclose the second end of the cartridge and the internal fluid reservoir. The partially assembled unit (e.g., with the mouthpiece removed) may be inverted and filled with vaporizable fluid through the remaining (second) open end on the opposite side. Once filled, a snap-fit ​​mouthpiece (31) is inserted into the end, closing and sealing the second end of the reservoir. The mouthpiece further comprises a raised interior lip (not shown) and an aerosol outlet channel cover (46a) that slides over a rail (46b) placed on the side of the rear half of the reservoir, forming an aerosol outlet channel / second condensation chamber (46). The aerosol outlet channel / second condensation chamber (46) slides over the end of the main condensation chamber (45) at a transition area (57), creating a confluence of vapor exiting the main chamber and proceeding through the end of the aerosol outlet channel (46) and the aerosol outlet (47) at the user end of the mouthpiece (31).

[0160] The cartridge may include a first condensation chamber and a second condensation chamber (45), (46). The cartridge may include more than one first condensation chamber and more than one second condensation chamber (45), (46), (45'), (46'), etc.

[0161] In some embodiments of the device, the first condensation chamber (45) may be formed along the exterior of the cartridge fluid reservoir (31). In some embodiments of the device, the aerosol outlet (47) is present at the end of the aerosol outlet chamber (46). In some embodiments of the device, the first and second condensation chambers (45)(46) may be formed along the exterior of one side of the cartridge fluid reservoir (31). In some embodiments, the second condensation chamber may be the aerosol outlet chamber. In some embodiments, another pair of first and / or second condensation chambers (45'), (46') are formed along the exterior of the cartridge fluid reservoir (31) on another side of the device. In some embodiments, another aerosol outlet (47') is also present at the end of the second pair of condensation chambers (45'), (46').

[0162] In any one of the embodiments, the first condensation chamber and the second condensation chamber may be in fluid communication as shown in FIG. 10C.

[0163] In some embodiments, the mouthpiece may include an aerosol outlet (47) in fluid communication with the second condensation chamber (46). The mouthpiece may include more than one aerosol outlet (47), (47') in fluid communication with the one or more second condensation chambers (46), (46'). The mouthpiece may enclose the second end of the cartridge and the second end of the fluid reservoir.

[0164] In each of the embodiments described herein, the cartridge may include an airflow passage, the airflow passage including: an air inlet passage; a heater; at least a first condensation chamber; an aerosol outlet chamber; and an outlet port. In some of the embodiments described herein, the cartridge may include an airflow passage, the airflow passage including: an air inlet passage; a heater; a first condensation chamber; a second condensation chamber; and an outlet port.

[0165] In yet another embodiment described herein, the cartridge may include an airflow passage including at least one air inlet passage; a heater; at least a first condensation chamber; at least one second condensation chamber; and at least one outlet port.

[0166] As illustrated in Figures 10A-10C, an airflow passage is created when a user draws (e.g., puffs) by engaging the mouthpiece (31), which essentially pulls air through the air inlet opening (50) of the channel, through the air inlet passage (51), through the second air passage (air inlet hole in the tank) (41) of the tank's air inlet (52), into the heater chamber (37), and then into the heater inlet (53). At this point, the pressure sensor senses the user's puff and activates a circuit to the resistive heating element (35), which in turn begins to produce vapor from the vapor fluid (e-juice). As air enters the heater inlet (53), it begins to mix and circulate in the narrow chambers over and around the wick (34) and between the heater contacts (33), producing heat and thick, concentrated vapor as it mixes within the airflow passage (54) created by the sealing structural obstruction (44). 8A shows a detailed view of the sealing structure obstruction (44). Finally, vapor may be drawn from the heater along an air passage (55) near the shoulder of the heater and into the primary condensation chamber (45) where the vapor diffuses and begins to cool. As the diffusing vapor travels along the airflow passage, it transitions out of the primary chamber through a transition area (57), creating a junction with vapor exiting the primary condensation chamber (45), entering the secondary vapor chamber (46), traveling through the aerosol outlet (47) and arriving at the end of the mouthpiece (31) to the user.

[0167] As illustrated in Figures 10A-10C, the device may have dual sets of air inlet passages (50-53), dual primary condensation chambers (55 / 45), dual secondary condensation chambers and vent channels (57 / 46), and / or dual aerosol exit vents (47).

[0168] Alternatively, the device may have an airflow passage, the airflow passage including an air inlet passage (50)(51); a second air passage (41); a heater chamber (37); a first condensation chamber (45); a second condensation chamber (46); and / or an aerosol outlet (47).

[0169] In some cases, the device may have an airflow passage, which includes more than one air inlet passage; more than one secondary air passage; a heater chamber; more than one first condensation chamber; more than one secondary condensation chamber; and more than one aerosol outlet, as clearly illustrated in Figures 10A-10C.

[0170] In any one of the embodiments described herein, the heater (36) may be in fluid communication with the internal fluid reservoir (32a).

[0171] In each of the embodiments described herein, the fluid reservoir (32) is in fluid communication with the heater chamber (37), and the fluid reservoir is capable of holding a condensed aerosol fluid, as illustrated in Figures 10A, 10C, and 14.

[0172] In some embodiments of the device, the aggregated aerosol fluid may include a nicotine formulation. In some embodiments, the aggregated aerosol fluid may include a humectant. In some embodiments, the humectant may include propylene glycol. In some embodiments, the humectant may include vegetable glycerin.

[0173] In some cases, the cartridge may be removable from the device body. In some embodiments, the cartridge receptacle and the removable cartridge may form a separable connection. In some embodiments, the separable connection may include a friction assembly. As illustrated in Figures 11-14, the device may have a press-fit (friction) assembly between the cartridge pod (30a) and the device receptacle. Additionally, a recess / friction capture such as 43 may be utilized to capture the pod (30a) in the device receptacle or to hold the protective cap (38) on the pod, as illustrated in Figure 8B.

[0174] In other embodiments, the separable coupling may include a snap-fit ​​or snap-lock type assembly. In yet another embodiment, the separable coupling may include a magnetic assembly.

[0175] In any one of the embodiments described herein, the cartridge components may include a snap-fit ​​or snap-lock assembly, as shown in Figure 5. In any one of the embodiments, the cartridge components may be reusable, refillable, and / or recyclable. The design of such cartridge components lends itself to the use of reusable plastic materials, such as polypropylene, for the majority of the components.

[0176] In some embodiments of the device (10), the cartridge (30) may include: a fluid reservoir (32); a heater (36) attached to a first end by snap-fit ​​connections (39a), (39b); and a mouthpiece (31) attached to a second end by snap-fit ​​connections (39c), (39d) (not shown, but similar to 39a and 39b). The heater (36) may be in fluid communication with the fluid reservoir (32). The fluid reservoir may be capable of holding an aggregated aerosol fluid. The aggregated aerosol fluid may include a nicotine formulation. The aggregated aerosol fluid may include a humectant. The humectant may include propylene glycol and / or vegetable glycerin.

[0177] Provided herein is a device for generating an inhalable aerosol, the device comprising: a device body (20) including a cartridge receptacle (21) for accommodating a cartridge (30), wherein when a cartridge including an integral channel (40) on its outer surface is inserted into the cartridge receptacle (21), an inner surface of the cartridge receptacle forms a first side of an air inlet passage (51), and the channel forms a second side of the air inlet passage (51).

[0178] Provided herein is a device for generating an inhalable aerosol, the device comprising: a device body (20) including a cartridge receptacle (21) for receiving a cartridge (30), the cartridge receptacle including an integral channel on its inner surface forming a first side of an air inlet passage when the cartridge is inserted into the cartridge receptacle, and an outer surface of the cartridge forming a second side of an air inlet passage (51).

[0179] Provided herein is a cartridge (30) for a device for generating an inhalable aerosol (10), the cartridge comprising a fluid storage chamber (32); an integral channel (40) on its outer surface, the channel forming a first side of an air inlet passage (51), and an inner surface of a cartridge receptacle (21) in the device forming a second side of the air inlet passage (51) when the cartridge is inserted into the cartridge receptacle.

[0180] Provided herein is a cartridge (30) for a device for generating an inhalable aerosol (10), the cartridge comprising a fluid storage chamber (32), the exterior surface of the cartridge forming a first side of an air inlet channel (51) when inserted into a device body 10 including a cartridge receptacle (21), the cartridge receptacle further including an integral channel on its interior surface, the channel forming a second side of the air inlet passage (51).

[0181] In some embodiments, the cartridge further includes a second air passage (41) in fluid communication with the channel (40), the second air passage (41) being formed by the material of the cartridge (32) from the outer surface of the cartridge to the interior fluid reservoir (32a).

[0182] In some embodiments of the cartridge receptacle (21) or cartridge (30) of the device body, the integral channel (40) includes at least one of the following: grooves; valleys; depressions; dents; streaks; furrows; creases; and gutters.

[0183] In some embodiments of the cartridge receptacle (21) or cartridge (30) of the device body, the integral channel (40) may include a wall that is recessed into a surface or protrudes from the surface in which it is formed.

[0184] In some embodiments of the cartridge receptacle (21) or cartridge (30) of the device body, the interior sidewall of the channel (40) forms a further side of the air inlet passage (51).

[0185] Provided herein is a device for generating an inhalable aerosol, the device comprising: a cartridge including a fluid storage chamber and a heater attached to a first end including a first heater contact and a resistive heating element attached to the first heater contact; a device body including a cartridge receptacle for receiving the cartridge; a second heater contact suitable for receiving the first heater contact and completing a circuit; a power source connected to the second heater contact; and a printed circuit board (PCB) connected to the power source and the second heater contact, the PCB configured to detect the absence of fluid based on a measured resistance of the resistive heating element and power off the device.

[0186] Now, referring to Figures 13, 14, and 15, in some embodiments, the device body further includes at least one of a second heater contact (22) (shown in detail in Figure 6C); a battery (23); a printed circuit board (24); a pressure sensor (27); and an indicator light (26).

[0187] In some embodiments, the printed circuit board (PCB) further includes a microcontroller; a switch; circuitry including a reference resistor; and an algorithm including logic for controlling parameters; where the microcontroller cycles the switch at regular intervals to measure the resistance of the resistive heating element relative to the reference resistor and applies the algorithm control parameters to control the temperature of the resistive heating element.

[0188] As shown in the basic block diagram of FIG. 17A, the device utilizes a Proportional Integral Derivative controller or PID control law. The PID controller calculates an "error" value as the difference between the measured process variable and the desired setpoint. When PID control is enabled, the power to the coil is monitored to determine if acceptable vaporization is occurring. If, with a given airflow over the coil, the device is producing vapor (heat is removed from the coil to form vapor), more power is required to hold the coil at a given temperature. If the power required to hold the coil at the regulated temperature falls below a threshold, this indicates that the device is currently unable to produce vapor. Under normal operating conditions, this indicates that there is not enough liquid in the fluid wick to produce normal vaporization.

[0189] In some embodiments, the microcontroller instructs the device to shut itself off if the resistance exceeds a control parameter threshold, indicating the resistive heating element is dry.

[0190] In yet another embodiment, the printed circuit board further includes logic capable of detecting the presence of condensed aerosol fluid in the fluid reservoir and can shut off power to the heating contacts if condensed aerosol fluid is not detected. If the microcontroller is running a PID temperature control algorithm (70), the difference (error) between the set point and the coil temperature is used to control the power to the coil so that the coil quickly reaches the set point temperature [between 200°C and 400°C]. If an over-temperature algorithm is used, the power is constant until the coil reaches the over-temperature threshold [between 200°C and 400°C]. (FIG. 17A applies where the set point temperature is the over-temperature threshold and the power is constant until the error reaches 0).

[0191] The essential components of the apparatus used to control the coil temperature of a resistive heating element are further shown in the circuit diagram of Figure 17B, where BATT (23) is the battery; MCU (72) is the microcontroller; Q1 (76) and Q2 (77) are P-channel MOSFETs (switches); R_COIL (74) is the resistance of the coil. R_REF (75) is a fixed reference resistor used to measure R_COIL (74) through a voltage divider (73).

[0192] The battery powers the microcontroller. Every 100ms, the microcontroller turns on Q2 for 1ms so that the voltage between R_REF and R_COIL (voltage divider) is measured by the MCU at V_MEAS. When Q2 is off, the control law controls Q1 with PWM (pulse width modulation) to power the coil (battery discharge by Q1 and R_COIL when Q1 is on).

[0193] In some embodiments of the device, the device body further includes at least one of: a second heater contact; a power switch; a pressure sensor; and an indicator light.

[0194] In some embodiments of the device body, the second heater contact (22) may include a female receptacle; or a male contact, or both; a flexible contact; or a copper alloy or another conductive material.

[0195] In some embodiments of the device body, a battery powers the second heater contact, the pressure sensor, the indicator light, and the printed circuit board. In some embodiments, the battery is rechargeable. In some embodiments, an indicator light (26) indicates the status of the device and / or the battery.

[0196] In some embodiments of the device, the first heater contact and the second heater contact complete a circuit that allows current to flow to the heater contacts when the device body and the removable cartridge are assembled, which can be controlled by an on / off switch. Alternatively, the device can be turned on and off by a puff sensor. The puff sensor can include a capacitive membrane. The capacitive membrane can be similar to the capacitive membrane used in microphones.

[0197] In some embodiments of the device, there is also an auxiliary charging unit in the device body for recharging the battery (23). As shown in Figs. 16A-16C, the charging unit (60) may include a USB device with a base (61) for capturing the device body (20) (with or without the cartridge installed) with a plug (63) for a power source and a protective cap (64). The base may further include a magnet or magnetic contact (62) for holding the device body safely in place during charging. As shown in Fig. 6B, the device body further includes mating charging contacts (28) and magnets or magnetic contacts (29) for the auxiliary charging unit. Fig. 16C is an illustrative example of the device (20) being charged at a power source (65) (laptop computer or tablet).

[0198] In some cases, a microcontroller on the PCB may be configured to monitor the temperature of the heater so that the vaporizable material is heated to a predetermined temperature. The predetermined temperature may be an input provided by a user. A temperature sensor may be in communication with the microcontroller to provide an input temperature to the microcontroller for temperature regulation. The temperature sensor may be a thermistor, thermocouple, thermometer, or other temperature sensor. In some cases, a heating element may function as both a heater and a temperature sensor simultaneously. The heating element may differ from a thermistor by having a resistance with a relatively low dependence on temperature. The heating element may include a resistive temperature detector.

[0199] The resistance of the heating element may be an input to a microcontroller. In some cases, the resistance may be measured by the microcontroller based on measurements from a circuit (e.g., a Wheatstone bridge) having at least one resistor with known resistance. Alternatively, the resistance of the heating element may be measured with a resistive voltage divider in contact with the heating element and a resistor with a known and sufficiently constant resistance. The measurement of the resistance of the heating element may be amplified by an amplifier. The amplifier may be a standard op-amp or an instrumentation amplifier. The amplified signal may contain little noise. In some cases, the charging time of the voltage divider between the heating element and the capacitor may be measured to calculate the resistance of the heating element. In some cases, the microcontroller must stop operation of the heating element during the resistance measurement. The resistance of the heating element may be directly proportional to the temperature of the heating element, such that the temperature is measured directly from the resistance measurement. Measuring the temperature directly from the resistance measurement of the heating element, rather than an additional temperature sensor, may provide a more accurate measurement, since the unknown thermal resistance of the contact between the temperature sensor and the heating element is eliminated. Additionally, the temperature measurement may be direct and therefore faster and eliminates the time lag associated with achieving equilibrium between the heating element and a temperature sensor in contact with the heating element.

[0200] Provided herein is a device for generating an inhalable aerosol, the device comprising: a cartridge including a first heater contact; a device body, the device body comprising: a cartridge receptacle for receiving the cartridge; a second heater contact suitable for receiving the first heater contact and completing a circuit; a power source connected to the second heater contact; a printed circuit board (PCB) connected to the power source and the second heater contact; and a button interface; wherein the PCB is configured with circuitry and algorithms including logic for child safety features.

[0201] In some embodiments, the algorithm requires a code provided by the user to activate the device. In some embodiments, the code is entered by the user with a single button interface. In yet further embodiments, the single button interface is also a power switch.

[0202] Provided herein is a cartridge (30) for a device (10) for generating an inhalable aerosol, the cartridge comprising: a fluid reservoir (32); a heater (36) attached to a first end, the heater comprising: a heater chamber (37); a first pair of heater contacts (33); a fluid wick (34), and a resistive heating element (35) in contact with the fluid wick; wherein the first pair of heater contacts (33) comprises a thin plate attached around the sides of the heater chamber (37), and the fluid wick (34) and resistive heating element (35) are suspended therebetween.

[0203] Depending on the size of the heater or heater chamber, the heater may have more than one fluid wick (34), (34'), resistive heating element (35), (35').

[0204] In some embodiments, the first pair of heaters further includes a molded feature that includes a tab (33a) with a flexible spring valve extending from the heater (36) for completing the connection with the device body (20).

[0205] In some embodiments, the heater contacts (33) are configured to connect with a second pair of heater contacts (22) in the cartridge receptacle (21) of the device body (20) to complete the circuit.

[0206] In some embodiments, the first pair of heater contacts are also heat sinks that absorb and dissipate excess heat generated by the resistive heating element.

[0207] In some embodiments, the first pair of heater contacts is a heat shield that protects the heater chamber from excess heat generated by the resistive heating element.

[0208] Provided herein is a cartridge (30) for a device (10) for generating an inhalable aerosol, the cartridge comprising: a heater (36) comprising: a heater chamber (37); a pair of thin plate heater contacts (33); a fluid wick (34) positioned between the heater contacts (33); and a resistive heating element (35) in contact with the fluid wick; wherein the heater contacts (33) each include a fixed portion and the resistive heating element (35) is pulled therebetween.

[0209] As will be apparent to one of ordinary skill in the art after examining the assembly method shown in FIG. 9, the heater contacts (33) simply fasten or rest on locator pins on either side of the air inlet (53) on a first end of the fluid reservoir inside the cartridge, creating a spacious vaporization chamber containing at least one fluid wick (34) and at least one heating element (35).

[0210] Provided herein is a cartridge (30) for a device (10) for generating an inhalable aerosol, the cartridge including a heater (36) attached to a first end of the cartridge.

[0211] In some embodiments, the heater surrounds the first end of the cartridge and the first end (32)(32a) of the fluid reservoir.

[0212] In some embodiments, the heater includes a first condensation chamber (45).

[0213] In some embodiments, the heater includes more than one first condensation chamber (45)(45').

[0214] In some embodiments, the condensation chamber is formed along the outer wall of the cartridge (45b).

[0215] As previously discussed and depicted in FIGS. 10A, 10B, and 10C, the airflow path through the heater and heater chamber produces steam in the heater circulating airpath (54) which subsequently exits the heater outlet (55) into the first condensation chamber (45), which is formed by the tank body components including the first condensation channel / chamber rails (45b) and the first condensation channel cover (45a) (the outer wall of the heater enclosure).

[0216] Provided herein is a cartridge (30) for a device (10) for generating an inhalable aerosol, comprising a fluid reservoir (32) and a mouthpiece (31), the mouthpiece attached to a second end of the cartridge, and further comprising at least one aerosol outlet (47).

[0217] In some embodiments, the mouthpiece (31) surrounds the second end of the cartridge (30) and the second ends of the fluid reservoirs (32)(32a).

[0218] In addition, as clearly shown in Figure 10C, in some embodiments, the mouthpiece also includes a second condensation chamber (46) in front of the aerosol outlet (47), which is formed by components of the reservoir body (32), including the second condensation channel / chamber rail (46b), the second condensation channel cover (46a) (the outer wall of the mouthpiece), etc. Furthermore, the mouthpiece may also include another aerosol outlet (47') and another (second) condensation chamber (46') in front of the aerosol outlet on another side of the cartridge.

[0219] In other embodiments, the mouthpiece includes more than one secondary condensation chamber (46)(46').

[0220] In some preferred embodiments, a second condensation chamber is formed along the outer wall of the cartridge (46b).

[0221] In each of the embodiments described herein, the cartridge (30) includes an airflow path, the airflow path including air inlet channels and passages (40)(41)(42); a heater chamber (37); at least a first condensation chamber (45); and an outlet port (47). In some of the embodiments described herein, the cartridge (30) includes an airflow path, the airflow path including air inlet channels and passages (40)(41)(42); a heater chamber (37); a first condensation chamber (45); a second condensation chamber (46); and an outlet port (47).

[0222] In yet other embodiments described herein, the cartridge comprises an airflow pathway comprising at least one air inlet channel and passageway (40)(41)(42); a heater chamber (37); at least one first condensation chamber (45); at least one second condensation chamber (46); and at least one outlet port (47).

[0223] In each of the embodiments described herein, the fluid reservoir (32) is in fluid communication with a heater (36), where the fluid reservoir is capable of holding condensed aerosol fluid.

[0224] In some embodiments of the device, the condensed aerosol fluid comprises a nicotine formulation. In some embodiments, the condensed aerosol fluid comprises a humectant. In some embodiments, the humectant comprises propylene glycol. In some embodiments, the humectant comprises vegetable glycerin.

[0225] Provided herein is a cartridge (30) for a device (10) for generating an inhalable aerosol, the cartridge comprising: a fluid reservoir (32); a heater (36) attached to a first end; and a mouthpiece (31) attached to a second end; where the heater comprises a first condensation chamber (45) and the mouthpiece comprises a second condensation chamber (46).

[0226] In some embodiments, the heater includes more than one first condensation chamber (45)(45') and the mouthpiece includes more than one second condensation chamber (46)(46').

[0227] In some embodiments, the first condensation chamber and the second condensation chamber are in fluid communication. As shown in FIG. 10C, the first and second condensation chambers have a common transition region (57)(57') for fluid communication.

[0228] In some embodiments, the mouthpiece includes an aerosol outlet (47) that is in fluid communication with the second condensation chamber (46).

[0229] In some embodiments, the mouthpiece includes two or more aerosol outlets (47)(47').

[0230] In some embodiments, the mouthpiece includes an aerosol outlet (47)(47') in fluid communication with the two or more secondary condensation chambers (46)(46').

[0231] In any one of the embodiments, the cartridge meets ISO recycling standards.

[0232] In any one of the embodiments, the cartridge meets ISO recycling standards for plastic waste.

[0233] And, in yet another embodiment, the plastic components of the cartridge are constructed of polylactic acid (PLA), where the PLA components are compostable and / or degradable.

[0234] Provided herein is a device (10) for generating an inhalable aerosol, the device comprising a device body (20), the device body (20) comprising a cartridge receptacle (21) and a removable cartridge (30); wherein the cartridge receptacle and the removable cartridge form a separable coupling, the separable coupling comprising a frictional assembly, a snap-fit ​​assembly, or a magnetic assembly.

[0235] In other embodiments of the device, the cartridge is a removable assembly. In any one of the embodiments described herein, the cartridge components may include a snap-lock assembly, such as that shown by snap mechanisms (39a) and (39b). In any one of the embodiments, the cartridge components are recyclable.

[0236] Provided herein is a method for manufacturing a device for generating an inhalable aerosol, the method comprising: providing a device body including a cartridge receptacle; and providing a removable cartridge; wherein the cartridge receptacle and the removable cartridge form a separable coupling, including a frictional assembly, a snap-fit ​​assembly, or a magnetic assembly, when the cartridge is inserted into the cartridge receptacle.

[0237] Provided herein is a method of making an inhalable aerosol generating device (10), the method comprising: providing a cartridge receptacle (21) in a device body (20) comprising one or more internal mating surfaces (21a), (21b), (21c)...; and further providing a cartridge (30), the cartridge (30) comprising one or more external mating surfaces (36a), (36b), (36c)..., a second end and a first end; a tank (32) comprising an internal fluid reservoir (32a); at least one channel (40) on at least one external mating surface, wherein the at least one channel forms one side of at least one air inlet passage (51), and at least one interior wall of the cartridge receptacle forms at least one side of the at least one air inlet passage (51) when a separable cartridge is inserted into the cartridge receptacle.

[0238] FIG. 9 provides an illustrative example of how such a device can be assembled.

[0239] In some embodiments of the method, the cartridge (30) is assembled with a protective, removable cap (38) to protect the exposed heater contact tabs (33a) protruding from the heater (36).

[0240] Provided herein is a method for manufacturing a cartridge for a device for generating an inhalable aerosol, the method comprising the steps of: providing a fluid storage chamber; attaching a heater to a first end by a snap-fit ​​connection; and attaching a mouthpiece to a second end by a snap-fit ​​connection.

[0241] Provided herein is a cartridge (30) for a device (10) for generating an inhalable aerosol, the cartridge including: a channel (50) including a portion of an air inlet passage (51); a second air passage (41) in fluid communication with the channel; a heater chamber (37) in fluid communication with the second air passage; a first condensation chamber (45) in fluid communication with the heater chamber; a second condensation chamber (46) in fluid communication with the first condensation chamber; and an aerosol outlet (47) in fluid communication with the second condensation chamber.

[0242] Provided herein is an inhalable aerosol generating device (10) adapted to receive a removable cartridge (30), the cartridge including a fluid reservoir (or tank) (32); an air inlet (41); a heater (36); a protective removable cap (38), and a mouthpiece (31).

[0243] <Charging> In some cases, the vaporizer may include a power source. The power source may be configured to provide power to the control system, one or more heating elements, one or more sensors, one or more lights, one or more indicators, and / or any other systems of the e-cigarette that require a power source. The power source may be an energy storage device. The power source may be a battery or a capacitor. In some embodiments, the power source may be a rechargeable battery.

[0244] The battery may be contained within the housing of the device. In some cases, the battery may be removed from the housing for charging. Alternatively, the battery may remain in the housing while being charged. Two or more charging contacts may be provided on an exterior surface of the housing of the device. The two or more charging contacts may be in electrical communication with the battery to charge the battery by applying a charging source to the two or more charging contacts without removing the battery from the housing.

[0245] FIG. 18 shows a device (1800) with charging contacts (1801). The charging contacts (1801) may be accessible from an exterior surface of the device's housing (1802). The charging contacts (1801) may be in electrical communication with an energy storage device (e.g., a battery) inside the device's housing (1802). In some cases, the device's housing may not include an opening through which a user accesses components in the device's housing. A user may not be able to remove a battery and / or other energy storage device from the housing. To open the device's housing, a user must disable or permanently release the charging contacts. In some cases, the device may not function after a user opens the housing.

[0246] FIG. 19 shows an exploded view of a charging assembly (1900) in an electronic vaporizer. The housing (not shown) has been removed from the exploded view of FIG. 19. A charging connection pin (1901) may be visible on the exterior of the housing. The charging connection pin (1901) may be in electrical communication with a power storage device of the electronic vaporizer. When the device is connected to a power source (e.g., during charging of the device), the charging pin may facilitate electrical communication between a power storage device inside the electronic vaporizer and a power source outside the housing of the vaporizer. The charging connection pin (1901) may be held in place by a retaining bezel (1902). The charging connection pin (1901) may be in electrical communication with a charger flex (1903). The charging pin may contact the charger flex such that it is not necessary to rigidly couple the charging pin to an electrical connection that electrically communicates with the power source. The charging flex may be rigidly coupled to a printed circuit board (PCB). The charging flex may be in electrical communication with a power storage device through the PCB. The charging flex may be held in place by a bent spring retainer (1904).

[0247] FIG. 20 shows the bent spring retainer in an initial position (2001) and a biased position (2002). The bent spring retainer may hold the retaining bezel in a fixed position. When the charging assembly is enclosed in the housing of the electronic vaporizer, the bent spring retainer may only be biased in one direction.

[0248] 21 shows the position of the charging pin (2101) when the electronic vaporization device is fully assembled with the charging pin (2101) in contact with the charging flex (2102). When the device is fully assembled, at least a portion of the retention bezel may fit into a recess (2103) in the interior of the housing (2104). In some cases, disassembly of the electronic vaporization device renders the bezel ineffective, such that the device cannot be reassembled after disassembly.

[0249] A user may place the electronic smoke generating device in the charging base. The charging base may be a holder with charging contacts configured to connect or mate with charging pins on the electronic smoke generating device to provide charging from a power source (e.g., a wall outlet, a generator, and / or an external power storage device) to an energy storage device in the electronic vaporization device. FIG. 22 shows a device (2302) in a charging base (2301). A charging cable may be connected to a wall outlet, USB, or other power source. Charging pins (not shown) on the device (2302) may be connected to charging contacts (not shown) on the charging base (2301). The device may be configured such that when the device is placed on the base for charging, a first charging pin on the device contacts a first charging contact on the charging base and a second charging pin on the device contacts a second charging contact on the charging base, or a first charging pin on the device contacts a second charging contact on the charging base and a second charging pin on the device contacts a first charging contact on the charging base. The charging pins on the device and the charging contacts on the base may be in contact in any orientation. The charging pins on the device and the charging contacts on the base are agnostic as to whether they are current inlets or outlets. Each of the charging pins on the device and the charging contacts on the base may be a cathode or an anode. The charging pins on the device may be inverted.

[0250] FIG. 23 shows a circuit (2400) that allows for reversing the charging pins on a device. The circuit (2400) may be provided on a PCB in electrical communication with the charging pins. The circuit (2400) may include a metal oxide semiconductor field effect transistor (MOSFET) H-bridge. The MOSFET H-bridge rectifies the change in voltage across the charging pins when the charging pins are reversed from a first configuration to a second configuration, where in the first configuration the device is placed on the base for charging from a first charging pin on the device in contact with a first charging contact on the charging base to a second charging pin on the device in contact with a second charging contact on the charging base, and in the second configuration the first charging pin on the device contacts the second charging contact on the charging base and the second charging pin on the device contacts the first charging contact on the charging base. The MOSFET H-bridge may rectify the change in voltage with an effective current path.

[0251] As shown in FIG. 23, an H-bridge of MOSFETs may include two or more n-channel MOSFETs and two or more p-channel MOSFETs. The n-channel and p-channel MOSFETs may be arranged in an H-bridge. The sources of the p-channel MOSFETs (Q1 and Q3) may be in electrical communication. Similarly, the sources of the n-channel FETs (Q2 and Q4) may be in electrical communication. The drains of the n-type and p-type MOSFET pairs (Q1 with Q2 and Q3 with Q4) may be in electrical communication. A common drain from one n-p pair may be in electrical communication with one or more gates of another n-p pair and / or vice versa. The charging contacts (CH1 and CH2) may be in electrical communication separately with the common drain. The common power supply of the n-type MOSFETs may be in electrical communication with PCB ground (GND). The common power supply of the p-type MOSFETs may be in electrical communication with the charge controller input voltage (CH+) of the PCB. If the CH1 voltage is greater than the CH2 voltage due to the MOSFET gate threshold voltage, Q1 and Q4 are "on" and connect CH1 to CH+ and CH2 to GND. If the CH2 voltage is greater than the CH1 voltage due to the FET gate threshold voltage, Q2 and Q3 are "on" and connect CH1 to GND and CH2 to CH+. For example, CH+ is 9V higher than GND, whether or not there is 9V or 9V across CH1 to CH2. Alternatively, a diode bridge could be used, although a bridge of MOSFETs may be more effective compared to a diode bridge.

[0252] In some cases, the charging base may be configured to be a smart charger. The smart charger may put the device's battery in series with the USB input to charge the device at a higher current compared to a typical charging current. In some cases, the device may charge at a rate of up to about 2 amps (A), 4A, 5A, 6A, 7A, 10A, or 15A. In some cases, the smart charger may include a battery, and power from the battery may be used to charge the device's battery. If the battery in the smart charger has a charge below a predetermined threshold charge, the smart charger may simultaneously charge the battery therein and the battery in the device.

[0253] While preferred embodiments of the present invention have been shown and described herein, it will be apparent to those skilled in the art that such embodiments are provided by way of example only. Numerous modifications, changes, and substitutions will now occur to those skilled in the art without departing from the invention. It is understood that various alternatives to the embodiments of the invention described herein may be utilized in practicing the invention. It is intended that the following claims define the scope of the invention, and that methods and structures within the scope of these claims and their equivalents are covered thereby.

Claims

1. 1. An electronic device for generating inhalable vapor, the electronic device comprising: The main body, a rechargeable power storage device housed within said body; a circuit for charging the power storage device; two device contacts accessible from an outer surface of the electronic device at an end of the body; Equipped with The charging circuit includes an H-bridge of MOSFETs; the two device contacts are in electrical communication with the power storage device via the circuit; the power storage device is configured to be charged by the circuit when the end of the body is placed in a charging base, the charging base including a holder and a magnet for securely holding the body in the holder; the two device contacts are reversible such that the power storage device is charged by the H-bridge of MOSFETs with a first contact of the two device contacts contacting a first charging contact on the charging base and a second contact of the two device contacts contacting a second charging contact on the charging base, and such that the power storage device is charged by the H-bridge of MOSFETs with the first contact of the two device contacts contacting the second charging contact on the charging base and the second contact of the two device contacts contacting the first charging contact on the charging base. electronic equipment.

2. 10. The electronic device of claim 1, wherein the body of the electronic device comprises a printed circuit board including a microcontroller, a pressure switch for detecting a user's puffing action to activate a heater circuit, and an indicator light.

3. 3. The electronic device according to claim 1, wherein the main body of the electronic device comprises a cartridge receptacle for receiving a cartridge.

4. 4. The electronic device of claim 3, wherein the cartridge receptacle is at a first end of the body of the electronic device and the two device contacts are at a second end of the body of the electronic device.

5. A charging station and An electronic device according to any one of claims 1 to 4; Equipped with the charging base includes the first charging contact on the charging base and the second charging contact on the charging base; system.

6. The system of claim 5 , wherein the body of the electronic device includes a magnet or magnetic contact for securing the body within the charging base during charging.

7. 7. A system as claimed in claim 5 or 6, wherein the charging base comprises a USB device.

8. 8. The system according to claim 5, wherein the charging base is provided with a protective cap.

9. 9. The system of claim 5, wherein the first charging contact on the charging base and the second charging contact on the charging base are configured to connect or mate with the two device contacts on the electronic device.

10. A cartridge; An electronic device according to claim 3 or 4; Equipped with the cartridge includes a reservoir and a channel integrated into an exterior surface of the cartridge, the channel and an interior surface of the cartridge receptacle defining an air inlet passage when the cartridge is inserted into the cartridge receptacle; kit.

11. A cartridge; An electronic device according to claim 3 or 4; Equipped with the cartridge includes a reservoir and has an integral channel formed in an inner surface of the cartridge receptacle, the channel and an outer surface of the cartridge defining an air inlet passage when the cartridge is inserted into the cartridge receptacle; kit.

12. The kit of claim 10 or 11, wherein the cartridge further comprises a heater.

13. The kit of claim 12 , wherein the electronic device comprises a microcontroller that controls the heater.

14. 14. The kit of claim 12 or 13, wherein the cartridge and the cartridge receptacle of the electronic device form a separable coupling, the separable coupling comprising a friction assembly, a snap-fit ​​assembly, or a magnetic assembly.

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