Electronic cigarette

Abstract

An electronic cigarette is described that includes an outer housing sleeve having an open end and a closed end, and a functional insert containing electrical components, the functional insert configured to be introduced through the open end of the outer housing sleeve and retained within the outer housing sleeve. By grouping the functional electronic components on the functional insert and providing the device housing in the form of a sleeve, the assembly process is simplified because the functional components can be assembled in a first assembly step and then sleeved into the outer housing in a single step, reducing the complexity of the assembly procedure.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a vaporizer for personal use such as an electronic cigarette. In particular, the present invention relates to an electronic cigarette configured to receive a disposable cartridge that houses a vaporizable material.

Background Art

[0002] An electronic cigarette is an alternative to conventional cigarettes. An electronic cigarette vaporizes a liquid instead of generating combustion smoke, and a user can inhale it. The liquid typically contains an aerosol-forming substance such as glycerin or propylene glycol that generates vapor. Other common substances in the liquid include nicotine and various flavors. There are several different types of electronic cigarettes, and generally, electronic cigarettes can be classified into a liquid vaporizer, a heated tobacco vaporizer, or a combination thereof (i.e., a hybrid device).

[0003] An electronic cigarette is typically a handheld inhalation system that includes a mouthpiece portion and a power source portion. An electronic cigarette is generally configured to receive a disposable cartridge that houses a vaporizable material, and further includes a portion that supplies power and a cartridge pedestal for housing the cartridge, the cartridge pedestal being for heating a base material to generate an inhalable vapor that is to be sucked through the mouthpiece.

[0004] Such known devices have several problems. One problem is that the manufacture and assembly of the device are not easy. This is because a large number of functional components have to be assembled within the housing, which can be a time-consuming process requiring considerable skill. Even a slight variation in the positioning of each of the functional components during assembly can lead to a variation in performance between devices.

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0005] An object of the present invention is to provide an electronic cigarette that addresses some of these problems.

Means for Solving the Problems

[0006] According to a first aspect of the present invention, there is provided an electronic cigarette comprising an outer housing sleeve having an open end and a closed end, and a functional insert including a battery and an electronic circuit for supplying power from the battery to a cartridge received in a cartridge pedestal during use, the functional insert being configured to be introduced through the open end of the outer housing sleeve and retained within the outer housing sleeve. By grouping functional electronic components together on the functional insert and providing the device housing in the form of a sleeve, the assembly process is simplified. This is because after assembling the functional components in a first assembly step, connecting them to the inside of the outer housing in a single step can reduce the complexity of the assembly procedure. Also, if this is implemented on an independent integrated structure and then sleeve-connected into the housing, it becomes easier to reproducibly assemble the functional components in the correct arrangement, and variations in the performance of the electronic cigarette can be suppressed. Further, by providing the housing in the form of an independent integrated sleeve, it is possible to manufacture the electronic cigarette in a robust shape that withstands impact forces and better protects the functional components. In some examples, the functional insert may include other electrical components instead of or in addition to the battery and the electrical circuit.

[0007] The term "functional insert" means a component of the device, i.e., a component that includes components related to the function of generating an aerosol for inhalation (especially electrical components). The functional insert is preferably an integrated component to which or in which components of the electronic cigarette are attached. Thus, the functional insert can be assembled in a first step and then in a subsequent second step, and the functional insert can move as an integrated component and be placed in the outer housing and preferably fixed in place with one or more fasteners.

[0008] Specifically, the functional insert is configured to be introduced through the open end of the outer housing sleeve during the initial assembly of the device and then fixed in place.

[0009] The outer housing sleeve preferably includes a hollow tubular housing having an open end through which the functional insert can be inserted into the device during assembly and a closed end. The closed end is "closed" in that the functional insert can only be introduced from the open end, but the closed end may include one or more openings, for example, openings for an air inlet and / or a charging port.

[0010] As used herein, the term "inhaler" or "electronic cigarette" may include an electronic cigarette configured to deliver an aerosol to a user that includes an aerosol containing a smoking aerosol. The smoking aerosol may mean an aerosol having a particle size of 0.5 to 7 microns. The particle size may be less than 10 to 7 microns. The electronic cigarette may be portable. Also, the term "inhaler" or "electronic cigarette" is intended to include "non-combustion heating type" devices that generate an aerosol by heating to a degree that releases vapor without burning a material (e.g., tobacco).

[0011] The functional insert preferably includes, in addition to a battery, a cartridge base for receiving a removable cartridge containing the liquid to be vaporized, and an electronic circuit for supplying power from the battery to the cartridge received in the cartridge base during use. Since these components require careful assembly and relative positioning, manufacturing complexity is significantly reduced by providing them in the form of an integrated functional insert. The functional insert preferably includes one or more of a printed circuit board (PCB), an airflow sensor for detecting inhalation in the mouthpiece to enable starting power supply to the cartridge in the cartridge base, a charging port for connecting the battery to a commercial power supply, and a connection mechanism for connecting to the mouthpiece.

[0012] The cartridge base is preferably a first cartridge base configured to receive a first cartridge so as to connect the first cartridge to the battery and to provide a vapor flow path from the cartridge to the mouthpiece. The first cartridge is preferably a cartomizer, which is a liquid store, a heating element configured to heat the liquid to generate an aerosol, a vapor flow path for carrying the generated vapor from the cartridge to an outlet near the mouthpiece, and electrical contacts for connecting to corresponding contacts in the cartridge base to enable power supply to the heating element. The first cartridge may contain an aerosol-forming substance such as propylene glycol and / or glycerol, and may also contain other substances such as nicotine and acids. The liquid L may also contain a flavor, for example, tobacco, menthol, or other flavors. The mouthpiece may include a vapor outlet, and when the mouthpiece is in the closed position, the vapor generated in the first cartridge can be inhaled by the user through this vapor outlet.

[0013] Preferably, the cartridge base is arranged such that when the cartridge is received in the cartridge base during use, at least a part, preferably most of the cartridge, fits within the outer housing sleeve of the electronic cigarette. Preferably, the cartridge base is arranged such that when the cartridge is received in the cartridge base during use, it fits completely within the outer housing sleeve of the electronic cigarette. Specifically, it is preferred that the functional insert is arranged such that it fits completely within the outer housing sleeve and the cartridge base is located completely within the functional insert. Preferably, the first end of the functional insert lies flush with the open end of the outer housing sleeve and the opening for the cartridge base is located on the first end of the functional insert. In this way, the cartridge is received within the outer housing, the device is made more compact, and the cartridge base is easily accessible. Further, the opening for the cartridge base may be sealed by a mouthpiece portion that contacts the first end of the functional insert.

[0014] Preferably, the electronic cigarette further includes a mouthpiece portion (also referred to as a mouthpiece), which is preferably movably connected to the outer housing sleeve or the functional insert by a connection mechanism. The connection mechanism is configured to allow the mouthpiece portion to move relative to the functional insert between a closed position and an open position while remaining connected to the functional insert or the outer housing sleeve by the connection mechanism. In the closed position, the first cartridge base is sealed within the electronic cigarette, and in the open position, the first cartridge base is exposed to be able to receive the first cartridge.

[0015] Preferably, the functional insert includes a first end located at the open end of the housing sleeve and a second end located towards the closed end of the housing sleeve, and the electronic cigarette further includes a mouthpiece movable between an open position and a closed position, the mouthpiece being movable by a movable mechanism (preferably a hinge mechanism) connecting the mouthpiece to the first end of the functional insert. In this way, the first cartridge can be inserted into or removed from the first cartridge pedestal in a simple and user-friendly manner without detaching the mouthpiece from the device, thereby reducing the risk of losing or damaging the mouthpiece components. By connecting the mouthpiece to the functional insert, it is possible to assemble the movable mechanism (e.g., a hinge mechanism) on the functional insert rather than on the housing, thereby simplifying the manufacturing procedure.

[0016] The functional insert may include a first contact surface at the first end of the functional insert, the mouthpiece may include a second contact surface, and the first and second contact surfaces come together when the mouthpiece part is moved to the closed position so that they contact or are close to each other. The first and second contact surfaces may be arranged side by side to hold or be close to each other in the closed position, and a part of one or both surfaces is exposed in the open position. The first cartridge pedestal may be provided within the first contact surface, and at least a part of the first cartridge pedestal is exposed so that the first cartridge can be received when the mouthpiece is moved to the open position. One or both of the contact surfaces may be substantially perpendicular to the extension axis of the functional insert, or one or both may be angled with respect to the extension axis.

[0017] Preferably, the mouthpiece portion includes a second cartridge pedestal configured to receive a second cartridge. Accordingly, the characteristics of the generated vapor can be formed as a combination of two vapors generated from each cartridge, thereby enabling adjustment and enhancement of the vapor characteristics, thereby improving the user experience. The second cartridge is preferably replaceable. The second cartridge can be inserted into the second cartridge pedestal from the opening of the second cartridge pedestal. The second cartridge pedestal may be provided by a mouthpiece channel that extends from the vapor outlet through which the vapor is inhaled through the mouthpiece to an internal opening at a second contact surface adjacent to the first cartridge pedestal when the mouthpiece is in the closed position. The opening of the cartridge pedestal may be provided by the vapor outlet of the mouthpiece portion so that the second cartridge can be inserted when the mouthpiece is in the closed position. The second cartridge may be configured to provide a mouthpiece through which the user inhales the generated vapor. Specifically, when the second cartridge is inserted, a part of the second cartridge may protrude from the mouthpiece portion to provide a mouthpiece.

[0018] The second cartridge may also contain an aerosol-forming substance such as tobacco, propylene glycol, and / or glycerol, and may contain other substances such as nicotine and acids. The liquid may also contain a flavor, for example, may contain tobacco, menthol, or other flavors. The second cartridge preferably contains a tobacco substrate. In this way, the vapor generated in the first cartridge passes through the tobacco substrate, picks up compounds that improve the aroma and nicotine content of the generated vapor, and improves the user experience.

[0019] Preferably, the electronic cigarette is configured such that when the mouthpiece portion is moved to the closed position, a vapor flow path is generated between the first cartridge and the second cartridge. Specifically, the first cartridge is received in the first cartridge pedestal, the second cartridge is received in the second cartridge pedestal, and when the mouthpiece is moved to the closed position, a fluid connection is formed between the first cartridge, the second cartridge, and the mouthpiece. In this way, the vapor generated in the first cartridge flows through the second cartridge, the second cartridge imparts new characteristics to the generated vapor, and then the vapor is inhaled by the user through the mouthpiece. Therefore, it is possible to provide a wide range of various vapor characteristics to improve the user experience, and it is possible to improve the aroma or active ingredient content of the inhaled vapor.

[0020] Preferably, the hinge mechanism connects the mouthpiece to the first end of the functional insert and includes an internal lever. One end of the lever is fixedly connected to the mouthpiece portion, and the opposite end is rotatably connected within a receiving portion disposed within the functional insert. By providing the internal hinge mechanism, this mechanism is protected within the functional insert, the lifespan of this mechanism is extended, the outer shape of the device becomes uniform, and it is possible to improve the ease of use.

[0021] Preferably, the lever is L-shaped, and the lever connects the center point of the mouthpiece portion to a point near the edge of the functional insert. This enables the internal lever to cause a large displacement of the mouthpiece portion with a slight movement of the lever. Specifically, the lever can be connected near the radial end of the first contact surface and closer to the center of the second contact surface.

[0022] Preferably, the receiving part includes an elongated slot configured to allow both rotation of the rotating end of the lever within the elongated slot and linear movement of the rotating end along the elongated slot while holding the rotating end of the lever. In this way, in the open position, the mouthpiece part rotates away from the functional insert and translates away from the functional insert, so that the displacement of the mouthpiece part from the functional insert can be increased. This makes it possible to expose the opening of the first cartridge pedestal with a small amount of rotation of the mouthpiece part, thereby reducing the space required for the hinge mechanism.

[0023] The functional insert may be elongated, and the elongated slot may be at least approximately aligned with the elongation axis of the functional insert, such that when the mouthpiece part moves to the open position, the mouthpiece part rotates relative to the functional insert and moves linearly away from the functional insert. Thus, the mouthpiece part moves away from the functional insert in a direction aligned with the elongation axis of the electronic cigarette, thereby exposing the first contact surface sufficiently for cartridge replacement. The linear movement of the mouthpiece part enables the opening of the cartridge pedestal of the functional insert to be opened with a minimum rotation of the mouthpiece part so that the first cartridge can be inserted.

[0024] Preferably, the electronic cigarette further includes a first retaining element configured to releasably hold the mouthpiece part in the closed position. In this way, the mouthpiece is firmly held in the closed position, preventing accidental opening that could lead to loss of the cartridge, while at the same time allowing the user to easily overcome the holding force and open the device if needed.

[0025] Preferably, the electronic cigarette further includes a second retaining element configured to releasably hold the mouthpiece portion in the open position, whereby the mouthpiece portion is bistable and in an equilibrium position in both the open and closed positions. Accordingly, the mouthpiece is stably held in both the open and closed positions, and one or both cartridges can be replaced more easily. The first and / or second retaining elements preferably include magnets. The term "magnet" may include one or more of a permanent magnet, magnets of different polarities, or a ferromagnetic material. Preferably, the mouthpiece is always under the action of one or both magnetic retaining elements when moving between the open and closed positions, thereby ensuring that the mouthpiece is moved from any point within the movement range to one of these two stable equilibrium positions. Preferably, the electronic cigarette further includes a biasing element configured to bias the mouthpiece to the closed position.

[0026] Preferably, the functional insert includes a battery. The functional insert is elongate, the first cartridge pedestal and the battery extend adjacent to each other in the longitudinal direction, and the hinge mechanism is located above the battery. This enables efficient use of the space within the outer housing sleeve provided by the functional insert.

[0027] Preferably, the mouthpiece portion includes a seal configured to abut against the vapor outlet of the first cartridge when the mouthpiece is in the closed position, thereby forming a fluid connection between the first cartridge and the mouthpiece. In some examples, the seal has a first side configured to abut against the first cartridge and a second, opposite side configured to abut against the second cartridge when the mouthpiece is in the closed position, thereby forming a fluid connection between the first cartridge and the second cartridge. Preferably, the seal is away from the opening to the first cartridge pedestal when the mouthpiece is in the open position but contacts the opening when in the closed position. The seal may form part of the mouthpiece. In this way, the seal does not interfere with the replacement of the first cartridge.

[0028] Preferably, the outer housing sleeve further includes a rim that runs circumferentially around the inner surface of the sleeve at the open end, and the functional insert is configured to engage with this rim. In this way, the rim engages with the functional insert to fix the functional insert within the housing. Specifically, the rim is arranged to engage with the functional insert to hold the functional insert in the correct position within the outer housing sleeve, whereby, for example, the first end of the functional insert aligns with the open end of the housing sleeve.

[0029] Preferably, the functional insert includes a circumferential rim that runs around the outer surface of the functional insert, and the circumferential rim of the functional insert is arranged to contact the rim of the housing sleeve to hold the functional insert in a fixed position within the housing sleeve. Thereby, a simple means for positioning the functional insert in the correct position within the housing is obtained.

[0030] Preferably, the housing sleeve includes a first aperture on its inner surface, and the functional insert includes a corresponding second aperture that is arranged to align with the first aperture when the functional insert is received in the outer housing sleeve, whereby the housing sleeve and the functional insert can be mutually attached by a fastener (for example, a screw passing through their aligned apertures). Specifically, the first aperture may be provided near or at the open end of the outer housing sleeve so as to provide easy access for fixing the apertures together. In this way, the functional insert can be fixed in a fixed position within the outer housing sleeve with minimal fixing means, thereby enabling the electronic cigarette to be quickly assembled in a simple manner.

[0031] Preferably, the functional insert includes an outer shell for housing electrical components. Preferably, the functional insert includes a first shell part and a second shell part, and the first and second shell parts are connected to each other along a longitudinal joint surface and configured to surround electrical components therein. Thereby, the electrical components housed within the shell of the functional insert and also within the outer sleeve are further protected. This configuration is easy to assemble. After the electrical components are arranged, they are surrounded by the shell parts from both sides to obtain an integrated functional insert, which can be inserted into the outer housing sleeve. Preferably, the shell and / or the first and second shell parts include a thermoplastic material suitable for thermoplastic welding or ultrasonic welding.

[0032] Preferably, the first shell part and the second shell part are offset from each other, whereby one shell part extends further in the direction towards the closed end of the housing sleeve than the other shell part. Thereby, it is possible to expose a specific functional component while keeping it held within the shell and accessible, which enables, for example, them to be replaceable.

[0033] Preferably, the first shell part and the second shell part include an engagement structure configured for mutual attachment, and this engagement structure realizes a snap lock or a friction fit. Thereby, the assembly of the functional insert until it is sleeve-connected within the outer housing becomes even easier.

[0034] Preferably, the housing sleeve further includes at least one guide rail disposed along the inner surface, and the functional insert includes slots configured to engage with this guide rail. Preferably, this guide rail and the slots are arranged such that the functional insert can only be inserted in a predetermined orientation. Thereby, it is ensured that the functional insert is correctly oriented with respect to the outer housing sleeve. Preferably, the guide rail further includes an aperture for receiving a fixture for attaching the insert to the housing sleeve. The functional insert may further include an aperture arranged to align with the aperture on the guide rail, whereby it is possible to fix the functional insert within the outer housing, which is done, for example, using a screw passing through both apertures. Since these apertures are easily accessible from the open ends, this step may be carried out after the functional insert is inserted, thereby making the assembly easier.

[0035] Preferably, the functional insert includes a first end including an opening for the cartridge pedestal and a second end at the opposite end of the functional insert, and the first end of the functional insert is angled such that the functional insert has an increased length along the side along the longitudinal straight line passing through the cartridge pedestal. In this way, the space for the cartridge pedestal within the functional insert becomes larger, making it possible to accommodate a larger volume cartridge.

[0036] Preferably, the functional insert is elongated, and the functional insert includes a battery and a cartridge pedestal, and the battery and the cartridge are along the extension axis of the functional insert Stretched out and arranged so that the sides face each other in this way. In this way, the volume of the functional insert is efficiently utilized.

[0037] In another aspect of the present invention, a kit including an electronic cigarette and a removable cartridge is provided. The electronic cigarette includes an outer housing sleeve having an open end and a closed end, a cartridge pedestal arranged to receive the removable cartridge, and a functional insert including electrical components. The functional insert is configured to be introduced through the open end of the outer housing sleeve and is held within the outer housing sleeve. In another aspect of the present invention, a first cartridge configured to be used with an electronic cigarette as defined in any of the appended claims is provided.

[0038] In another aspect of the present invention, a method of assembling an electronic cigarette is provided. The method includes providing a functional insert including electrical components and an outer housing sleeve having an open end and a closed end, introducing the functional insert through the open end of the outer housing sleeve, and fixing the functional insert so that it is held within the outer housing sleeve.

Brief Description of the Drawings

[0039] Here, the present invention will be described with reference to the following accompanying drawings. The accompanying drawings illustrate embodiments of the present invention by way of example, and similar features are denoted by the same reference numerals therein:

[0040]

Figure 1A

Figure 1B

Figure 2A

Figure 2B

Figure 3

Figure 4

Figure 5A

Figure 5B

Figure 5C

Figure 5D

Figure 6

Figure 7A

Figure 7B

Figure 8

Figure 9

Mode for Carrying Out the Invention

[0041] Figures 1A to 2B schematically show the electronic cigarette 1, which includes an outer housing sleeve 10 having an open end 11 and a closed end 12, and a functional insert 20 including the electrical components of the device. The functional insert 20 is configured to be introduced into the open end 11 of the outer housing sleeve 10 and is held within the outer housing sleeve 10. These features have several advantages. Specifically, this structure enables a modular assembly process in which the functional electronic components of the device can be assembled into a single integrated assembly (functional insert 20), and by simply introducing this into the housing sleeve 10, it is possible to form the completed device 1 shown in Figure 2A. In this way, the device can be disassembled and repaired by simply removing the outer housing sleeve as needed. Another advantage from the perspective of temperature management is that by suspending the functional insert within the outer housing sleeve 10, heat conduction from the heater component to the outer shell can be minimized. Furthermore, the outer housing sleeve 10 may be formed as a single integral component, thereby enhancing strength and damage resistance. Hereinafter, some further technical advantages will be described regarding the specific component groups of the device.

[0042] Figures 1A and 1B schematically show exemplary embodiments of the functional insert 20 and the outer housing sleeve 10, respectively. Figures 2A and 2B schematically show in an external view and a cross-sectional view the electronic cigarette formed from the functional insert 20 held within the outer housing sleeve 10. As shown in Figure 2A, the electronic cigarette 1 has a generally elongated body extending from a base end 2 to a mouthpiece end 3, and a mouthpiece portion 30 is located at the mouthpiece end 3. As shown in Figure 1A, the functional insert 20 includes the functional components of the device 1, that is, the electronic components that realize the aerosol generation function of the device 1. Specifically, the functional insert includes a first cartridge pedestal 21 for receiving a first removable cartridge 40, a power source in the form of a battery 22, and an electronic circuit for controllably supplying power from the battery 22 to the cartridge 40 received in the cartridge pedestal 21 during use.

[0043] The electronic cigarette 1 includes a mouthpiece portion 30 connected to a function insert 20. The mouthpiece portion 30 is movable relative to the function insert 20 by a connection mechanism 31 between an open position and a closed position. In the open position, a first cartridge pedestal 21 is exposed to receive a first cartridge 40. In the closed position, the first cartridge pedestal 21 is sealed within the electronic cigarette 1. In this way, the mouthpiece portion 30 can move to the open position while remaining connected to the function insert 20 via the connection mechanism 31, thereby enabling the insertion of the cartridge 40 into the first cartridge pedestal 21 of the function insert 20. The mouthpiece portion 30 can then return to the closed position to seal the received first cartridge 40 within the device 12.

[0044] The electronic cigarette 1 is assembled by installing a functional insert 20 inside the outer housing speed 10, forming the complete electronic cigarette 1 shown in FIG. 2A. During use, power is supplied to the cartridge received in the cartridge pedestal 21, the heating element is heated, and while the aerosol-generating liquid contained in the cartridge 40 is vaporized, the user inhales through the mouthpiece portion 30, so that the aerosol is inhaled by the user through the mouthpiece 30. The illustrated device further includes a second cartridge pedestal 32 provided inside the mouthpiece 30. The second cartridge pedestal is arranged to receive the second cartridge 41. The first and second cartridge pedestals 21, 32 and the mouthpiece are configured to form a sealed fluid passage from the first cartridge 40 received in the first cartridge pedestal 21 through the second cartridge 41 received in the second cartridge pedestal 32 to the mouthpiece when the mouthpiece is closed, thereby enabling the inhaled vapor to contain components from both the first cartridge 40 and the second cartridge 41. As shown in FIGS. 1A, 2A, and 2B, when the second cartridge 41 is received in the mouthpiece 30, a part of the second cartridge 41 is arranged to protrude from the mouthpiece 30 so as to be part of the mouthpiece where the user can inhale the generated vapor.

[0045] The cross-sectional view of FIG. 2B shows various features of the functional insert 20. Specifically, FIG. 2B shows a battery 22 and an electronic circuit 23 configured to supply power from the battery to a cartridge 40 received in a first (main) cartridge pedestal 21. FIG. 2B further shows how, when the mouthpiece 30 is in the closed configuration, a second cartridge 41 received in a second cartridge pedestal 32 within the mouthpiece 30 sealingly engages with the first cartridge 40 received in the first cartridge pedestal 21. In this way, the aerosol generated within the first cartridge passes through the second cartridge 41 and is drawn through an air outlet 42 located at a protruding portion of the second cartridge 41 that serves as the mouthpiece, such that the inhaled aerosol contains components from both the first cartridge 40 and the second cartridge 41.

[0046] As shown in FIGS. 1A - 2B, both the functional insert 20 and the housing sleeve 10 have substantially the same-sized, matching elongated shapes, such that when the electronic cigarette 1 is assembled, as shown in FIGS. 2A and 2B, the functional insert 20 fits entirely within the outer housing sleeve 10. The body of the functional insert 20 extends between a first end 24 that includes an opening to the first cartridge pedestal 21 and a second (base) end 25. The electronic cigarette 1 is configured such that the first end 24 of the functional insert 20 is disposed at the open end 11 of the outer housing sleeve 10 and the second (base) end 25 of the functional insert 20 is disposed at the closed end 12 of the outer housing sleeve 10. The mouthpiece 30 of the electronic cigarette 1 is connected to the first end 24 of the functional insert 20 by a movable mechanism 31.

[0047] As most clearly shown in FIG. 3, the connection mechanism 31 between the mouthpiece portion 30 and the functional insert 20 is preferably configured as a hinge mechanism 70. As seen in FIGS. 1A, 2B, and 4, the hinge mechanism 70 is connected to the first end portion 24 of the functional insert 20 and is arranged to be completely sealed within the electronic cigarette 1 when the mouthpiece 30 is in the closed configuration. This is advantageous because the hinge mechanism 70 is not visible from the outside of the electronic cigarette 1 during use of the device, and the user's hand does not interfere with the hinge mechanism 70. Further, it is possible to protect the hinge mechanism 70 inside the electronic cigarette 1 when the mouthpiece 30 is in the closed position.

[0048] As best seen in FIGS. 3 and 4, the hinge mechanism 70 includes a lever 72, and the lever 72 includes a first connection end portion 74 fixedly connected to the mouthpiece portion 30 and a second connection end portion 76 rotatably connected to the receiving portion 77 of the functional insert 20. The second connection end portion 76 may be configured as a rotary joint 76. The rotary joint 76 may be in the form of a pin or axle held within the receiving portion 77 of the functional insert 20 such that a rotation axis, which is the center of rotation of the lever 72, is defined by the rotary joint 76.

[0049] The electronic cigarette device 1 is desirably made to be compact and have an ergonomic shape. Accordingly, it is required to reduce the internal space required for the hinge mechanism 70. Accordingly, the movement of the lever 72 in the horizontal direction of the electronic cigarette 1 must be reduced. Accordingly, the hinge mechanism 70 may be designed to provide a combination of rotational movement and linear movement of the mouthpiece portion 30 when the mouthpiece portion 30 moves to the open position.

[0050] The hinge mechanism 70 may be configured to allow the mouse piece portion 30 to rotate and move axially away from the functional insert 20, thereby enabling the opening 26 of the first cartridge pedestal 21 to be exposed with a small amount of rotation of the mouse piece portion 30, and thereby reducing the space required for the hinge mechanism 70. To achieve the rotational and linear movement of the mouse piece portion 30, a rotary joint 76 at the rotational end 76 of the lever 72 is held in a receiving portion 77 in the form of an elongate axial slot 77 shown in FIG. 2B. The linear slot 77 and the lever 72 are held such that the rotational end of the lever 72 can rotate within the slot 77 and move linearly in a direction corresponding to the elongate axis of the slot 77. In this way, the lever 72 can rotate and translate as the mouse piece portion 30 moves to the open position.

[0051] Accordingly, the linear slot 77 defines end positions including the limits of linear movement, and those end positions respectively correspond to the positions of the rotary joint 76 when the mouse piece portion 30 is in the closed and open positions. Thus, the joint 76 at the rotational end of the lever 72 is at the lower end of the linear slot when the mouse piece portion is in the closed position, as shown in FIG. 2B, and at the upper end of the linear slot 77 when the mouse piece portion 4 is in the open position, as shown in FIG. 4.

[0052] The limiting surface S shown in FIG. 2B may be provided on an axial extension connected to the functional insert 20 and contacts the corresponding surface of the lever when the lever reaches the fully open position, restricting further rotation of the lever 72. In other words, the functional insert 20 includes an inner surface S arranged to contact the lever when the lever 72 rotates, preventing further rotation at a specific point. This surface S may be provided as a portion of the first end 24 of the functional insert 20 that extends in a direction along the elongate axis of the functional insert 20 towards the mouse piece 30.

[0053] By the linear movement of the mouthpiece portion 30, the opening 26 of the main cartridge pedestal 21 can be opened so that the first cartridge 40 can be introduced with a minimum rotation of the mouthpiece portion 30. Also, thereby, the space required in the functional insert 20 for the hinge mechanism 70 is reduced.

[0054] One or more holding elements 88, preferably in the form of magnetic elements, may be arranged to facilitate the rotational and linear movement of the mouthpiece portion 30 realized by the hinge mechanism 70. Specifically, a magnetic element 88b (see FIG. 2B) may be provided on the limiting surface S, and a corresponding magnetic material 88a may be provided on the opposing surface of the lever 72, whereby when the user first opens the mouthpiece portion 4, the lever 72 rotates and linearly translates upward so that the corresponding magnets come into contact with each other, and thereafter, the mouthpiece portion 30 is held in a stable open position.

[0055] As shown in FIG. 3, the lever 72 is substantially L-shaped and includes a horizontal portion 73, a vertical portion 75, and a joint 76. By being L-shaped, a point towards the center on the lower side of the mouthpiece portion 30 can be connected to a point near the radial tip of the upper surface of the first end of the functional insert 20. Thereby, an internal lever mechanism can be provided, and the displacement of the mouthpiece portion 30 from the functional insert with a smaller amount of rotation is enhanced.

[0056] Figures 5A and 5B show further details of the functional insert 20. As shown in Figures 5A and 5B, the functional insert 20 may include an outer shell 50 that houses various electronic components of the functional insert 20. Specifically, the shell 50 may include a first shell portion 51 and a second shell portion 52. The first and second shell portions 51, 52 are arranged to be interconnected along a longitudinal joint surface that runs along the elongation axis of the functional insert 20. Thereby, the first and second shell portions 51, 52 seal the functional electrical components within the shell 50. The first and second shell portions 51, 52 may include a thermoplastic material that enables the first and second shell portions 51, 52 to be welded along the longitudinal joint surface to seal the shell 50 surrounding the internal electronic components. In other examples of the present invention, the first and second shell portions 51, 52 may include corresponding engagement structures configured to engage with each other, thereby enabling the first and second shell portions 51, 52 to be releasably engaged with each other to seal the electronic components. For example, the engagement structure can enable a snap-lock connection or a friction fit connection between the shell portions 51, 52.

[0057] To enable inspection, replacement, or repair of the internal electrical components, one or more parts of the shell portions 51, 52 may be removable. Also, the shell 50 of the functional insert 20 includes a circumferential rim 53 that runs around the outer surface of the shell 50 at the first end 24 of the functional insert 20. To assist in holding the functional insert 20 in the correct position within the outer housing shell 10, the functional insert rim 53 engages with a corresponding feature within the outer housing shell 10. This will be described later. As shown in Figure 5B, the functional insert 20 further includes a longitudinal slot 54 that runs along the outer surface of the shell in a direction corresponding to the elongation axis of the functional insert 20.

[0058] As shown in Figure 5C, the first shell portion 51 and the second shell portion 52 may be offset relative to each other when assembled. In other words, at least one of the distal ends of the first shell portion 51 and the second shell portion 52 is offset relative to the other.

[0059] For example, as shown in FIG. 5D, one of the shell portions 51, 52 may be shorter than the other shell portion 51, 52. For example, the length of the distance may be 50-75%. This enables some of the components to remain exposed when the first shell portion 51 and the second shell portion are combined with each other. The exposed components can be more easily removed when replacement is necessary, or may be assembled onto the insert after the first shell portion 51 and the second shell portion 52 are mutually attached.

[0060] In this embodiment, only one of the shell portions 51, 52 contacts the bottom of the housing sleeve. This further enables a separate component to be disposed at the bottom of the housing sleeve, for example, an air channel piece or a plug 300 can be disposed. This will be described in detail with reference to FIGS. 7-9.

[0061] As shown in FIG. 6, the outer housing sleeve 10 further includes a circumferential protrusion 13 (i.e., an inner rim on the inner surface of the housing), which extends radially inward from the inner surface of the outer housing sleeve 10 and runs around the circumference of the inner surface near the first open end 11 of the outer housing sleeve 10. The circumferential protrusion 13 is arranged to contact the corresponding rim 53 of the functional insert 20 when the functional insert 20 is inserted into the outer housing sleeve 10, so as to hold the functional insert 20 within the outer housing sleeve 10. Thereby, the functional insert is reliably held in the correct position in the longitudinal direction of the housing, for example, the cartridge pedestal opening 26 is reliably aligned with the open end of the housing 10.

[0062] FIG. 6 also shows a guide rail 14 running along the longitudinal axis of the outer housing 10, which runs along the inner surface, downward from the circumferential projection 13, towards the closed end 12 within the outer housing sleeve 10. The guide rail 14 is configured to engage with a corresponding slot 54 on the outer surface of the shell 50 of the functional insert 20 shown in FIG. 5B. In this way, the functional insert 20 must be inserted into the outer housing 10 in the correct orientation, whereby the guide rail 14 engages with the slot 54 to guide the functional insert 20 into the housing 10, thereby holding the functional insert 20 in the correct position. This may be used, for example, to ensure that the functional insert 20 is in the correct orientation within the device, for example, such that the air inlet and charging port within the functional insert are correctly aligned with corresponding apertures at the closed end 12 of the outer housing sleeve 10. A plurality of guide rails 14 may be arranged around the circumference of the inner surface of the outer housing 10, and corresponding slots 54 may be arranged on the functional insert 20 to receive these guide rails. In the example of FIGS. 5 and 6, two guide rails 14 are provided on opposite surfaces within the outer housing 10, and corresponding slots 54 are provided on opposite surfaces along the longitudinal axis of the functional insert 20.

[0063] The outer housing sleeve 10 and the functional insert preferably further include means for fastening the functional insert 20 to the outer housing sleeve when the functional insert 20 is received in the correct position within the outer housing sleeve 10. In the example shown in FIGS. 5 and 6, both the outer housing sleeve 10 and the functional insert include a fastening function in the form of apertures 15, 55. Specifically, an aperture 15 is provided at the uppermost surface of the guide rail 14 within the outer housing sleeve, and a corresponding aperture 55 is provided on the rim 53 of the functional insert. The apertures 15, 55 are positioned to align when the functional insert 20 is received in the correct position within the outer housing sleeve 10. Thereafter, the functional insert 20 may be secured to the outer housing sleeve by a fastener, such as a screw, that engages through both sets of apertures 15, 55. In this way, the functional insert 20 can be secured within the outer housing sleeve 10 by minimal fastening means that allow the functional insert to be removed in a simple manner. FIG. 4 shows the fastener, which in this case is a screw disposed within the functional insert aperture 55 on the upper surface of the functional insert below the mouthpiece 30. In this way, the screw is easily accessible, allowing the electronic cigarette 1 to be assembled in a simple manner.

[0064] As shown in FIG. 5B, it is preferable that the first end portion 24 of the functional insert 20 is angled such that the longitudinal length of the functional insert 20 along the portion including the cartridge base 21 of the functional insert 20 becomes longer. In other words, the functional insert 20 is shaped such that the length in the extending direction from the first end portion 24 to the second end portion 25 varies. Specifically, due to the slope surface at the first end portion 24, the longitudinal length of the region of the functional insert including the cartridge base 21 is increased. Thereby, the cartridge base 21 can occupy a larger volume in the device, the device can receive a larger cartridge 40, and the service life can be extended. As described above, it is preferable that the first cartridge base 21 and the battery 22 are arranged adjacent to each other within the functional insert 20. The battery and the first cartridge base may be arranged along the extension axis of the functional insert 20, whereby the volumes of both the battery 22 and the elongated cartridge base 21 are maximized most efficiently within a given size of the functional insert 20.

[0065] FIGS. 7A to 8 show an alternative example of the electronic cigarette 1 according to the present invention. Similar to the case of the foregoing example, the electronic cigarette 1 includes an outer housing sleeve 100 having a closed end portion 102 opposite to the open end portion. Similar to the case of the foregoing embodiment, the outer housing sleeve 100 has an air inlet 117 located at the closed end portion. The electronic cigarette 1 further includes a functional insert 200 shown in FIG. 7A. The functional insert 200 includes an electronic component including a cartridge base 221 configured to receive a movable cartridge 40. The functional insert 200 is introduced from the open end portion 101 of the outer housing sleeve 100 and held within the housing sleeve 100 to form the electronic cigarette 1.

[0066] The examples of FIGS. 7 to 9 differ from the aforementioned electronic cigarette 1 in that they further include an air channel plug 210, which is disposed between the closed end 102 of the outer housing sleeve 100 and the functional insert 200 within the outer housing sleeve 100. The air channel plug 300 includes an air channel 310, and the air channel 310 provides at least a part of an air flow path connecting the air inlet 117 of the outer housing sleeve 100 to the cartridge pedestal 221. The air channel plug 300 is a plug of material that occupies a portion at the first end 102 of the internal volume of the outer housing sleeve 100. Specifically, the air channel plug 300 may include a piece of material that substantially fills the internal volume of the closed end 102 of the outer housing sleeve 100 and extends a specific length L1 from the closed end 102 towards the open end 101.

[0067] The air channel plug 300 serves several purposes. First, it serves to ensure that the air flow entering the device 1 passes only through the defined air flow path 310. In some devices that do not include such an air channel plug, air can enter the device through openings in the casing, such as the charging port, which can lead to a reduced pressure drop when inhaled through the mouthpiece, affecting the generation of aerosol and the correct triggering of the pressure sensor to activate the device. Further, the air channel plug 300 can serve to protect the electrical components of the functional insert 200 by preventing contact between the functional insert 200 and the closed end within the outer housing sleeve 100.

[0068] By allowing the air flow path into the device to pass through the air channel 310 in the air channel plug 300, the air flow pressure applied by inhalation at the mouthpiece is ensured to reach the sensor, and it is possible to prevent the sensor from being triggered by the air flow passing through the opening of the base of the device above the air flow sensor. Also, this reduces the empty space in the internal volume of the device, which might otherwise cause a lack of responsiveness in the sensor. The air channel plug 300 is preferably made of a deformable elastic material, for example, a stretchable material that deforms according to the shape of the internal volume of the outer housing sleeve 100 and absorbs impacts within the device to protect the electrical components of the functional insert 200. The air channel plug 300 also provides a seal spanning the cross-section of the internal volume of the outer housing sleeve 100, whereby the air flow entering the outer housing sleeve 100 is restricted except for that passing through the passage via the air channel 310. The air channel plug 300 preferably extends over a length L1 from the closed end 102 to the open end of the outer housing sleeve, and L1 corresponds to more than 25% of the total length L2 of the housing measured from the closed end 102 to the open end 101. This achieves sufficient shock absorption to prevent damage due to accidental dropping of the device, and also has the advantage that the cartridge pedestal 221 can be correctly positioned to place the cartridge air inlet within the device.

[0069] The air channel 310 is preferably arranged to pass through the air channel plug 300, i.e., through the center of mass of the deformable elastomeric material. The air channel 310 and the air channel plug 300 that houses it may extend upward from the closed end of the device just enough to engage an inlet at the base of the cartridge pedestal, whereby the air channel directly connects the air inlet of the outer housing 100 to an air inlet (not shown) of the cartridge pedestal 221. In other examples, such as the example shown in FIG. 7A, the elastomeric material forming the air channel plug 300 may extend a certain distance in the longitudinal direction of the housing, leaving a gap between the air channel plug 300 and the air inlet of the cartridge pedestal 221 and the internal volume of the housing.

[0070] The functional insert 200 preferably achieves shock absorption by contacting the air channel plug 300 within the outer housing sleeve, preventing significant contact between the functional insert, which could exert forces that might damage components, and the outer housing sleeve. More preferably, the functional insert 200 engages the air channel plug 300 such that the functional insert 200 and the air channel plug 300 are attached together and may be assembled as an integral assembly and inserted and fixed within the outer housing sleeve 100. This is a significant advantage in terms of manufacturing simplicity.

[0071] The connection between the functional insert 200 and the air channel plug 300 can be accomplished in several different ways. In the example of FIG. 7A, the PCB 220 extends along the elongation axis of the device 1 from the connection points with the battery 222 and the cartridge pedestal 221 towards the second (base) end 102, where it engages with a slot 301 provided in the air channel plug 300. In this way, the PCB 220, which is connected to the electronic components of the functional insert 200, extends downward along the elongation axis towards the closed end of the housing 100 and into the slot provided in the air channel plug 300, and the mechanical connection between the functional insert 200 and the air channel plug 300 is achieved by this slot holding the PCB.

[0072] The electronic cigarette 1 described above, as well as the electronic cigarette 1 described with respect to FIGS. 7 and 8, may also include a charging port 302 that enables the device to be connected to a commercial power source to charge the battery 222. In the examples of FIGS. 7 and 8, the charging port 302 is provided within the air channel plug 300 and is connected by an electrical circuit 303 to the electronic components of the functional insert 200. This provides another connection between the air channel plug 300 and the functional insert 200. Specifically, the charging port 302 is generally a metal aperture configured to receive a commercial power charger, and all or part of it may be disposed within the elastomeric material of the air channel plug 300, and the open end of the charging port extends from the base such that it aligns with an aperture at the closed end 102 of the outer housing sleeve 100. The charging port 302 may be connected to the PCB 220 within the slot 301 within the air channel plug 300. In this way, a mechanical and electrical connection between the functional insert 200 and the air channel plug 300 is realized using the existing features of these components (i.e., without any additional components for fixation).

[0073] When the functional insert 200 and the connected air channel plug 300 are disposed within the outer housing sleeve 100 shown in FIG. 7B, the lower end portion 304 of the air channel plug 300 including the charging port 302 engages the inside of the closed end portion 102 of the outer housing sleeve 100. The charging port 302 is aligned with a corresponding opening in the base of the outer housing sleeve 100, and the opening 217 of the air channel 310 of the air channel plug 300 is aligned with the air inlet 117 in the base at the closed end portion 102 of the outer housing sleeve 100.

[0074] As described above, in the examples of FIGS. 7A and 7B, the mouthpiece portion 30 is provided at the first end portion 224 of the functional insert 200, and the mouthpiece portion 30 is hingedly connected to the functional insert, whereby when the functional insert 200 is received within the outer housing sleeve 100, the mouthpiece is movable between the open position and the closed position shown in FIG. 7A, and in the closed position, the open end portion 101 of the outer housing sleeve is sealed and the second cartridge pedestal 32 is connected to the first cartridge pedestal 221 of the functional insert 200. These components are as described above with respect to FIGS. 1-6.

[0075] FIG. 8 schematically shows another example of the electronic cigarette 1 in which the functional insert 200 and the air channel plug 300 are received within the outer housing sleeve 100 to form the electronic cigarette 1. As described above, the air channel plug 300 includes a plug of elastic material disposed at the closed end within the outer housing sleeve, and this plug separates the inner surface of the closed end from the functional insert 200, achieving a shock-absorbing effect and control of the air flow path from the air inlet 117 at the closed end portion 102 of the outer housing sleeve 100 to the first cartridge pedestal 221. As described above, the PCB 220 connected to the functional insert 200 extends downward along the longitudinal axis of the electronic cigarette 1 and engages the slot 301 to mechanically connect the air channel plug 300 and the functional insert 200.

[0076] FIG. 8 further shows an air flow sensor housing 240, which houses an air flow sensor (shown in FIG. 9) within an internal cavity arranged to hold the air flow sensor. The internal cavity that holds the air flow sensor is in fluid communication with a first cartridge pedestal 221 such that the air flow sensor is triggered when the user inhales at the mouthpiece 30. The air flow sensor is also connected to a power source and turns on the power supply from the battery to the heater when a change in air pressure corresponding to the user's inhalation in the device is detected. As shown in FIG. 8, the air flow sensor housing 240 also includes an independent air flow through-channel 241 that is not connected to the internal chamber. The air flow through-channel 241 connects to an air flow passage 310 within an air channel plug 300. Thus, the air flow through-channel 241 of the air flow sensor housing 240 and the air channel 310 of the air channel plug together provide an air flow passage from the air inlet 117 of the outer housing sleeve 100 to the cartridge pedestal 221. The air flow sensor housing 240 may also include a material similar to that of the air channel plug 300 (e.g., a deformable elastic material such as a stretchable material). At the same time, the air channel plug 300 and the air flow sensor housing 240 provide an air flow passage from the inlet to the cartridge pedestal 221 that does not pass over the air flow sensor. This prevents the air flow sensor from being triggered by the air flow through the inlet 117, except when the air flow sensor is triggered by a drop in air pressure due to the user's inhalation at the mouthpiece (which is delivered directly to the internal chamber of the air flow sensor housing). These functions are described in detail with reference to FIG. 9.

[0077] Figure 9 shows an enlarged view of a part of the base end 102 of the electronic cigarette 1 on the side opposite to the mouthpiece end 101. In Figure 9, the air channel plug 300 is located between the functional insert 200 and the inner surface of the closed base end 102 of the outer housing shell 100. The PCB 220 connected to the functional insert 200 also extends downward and enters the slot 301 of the air channel plug 300, and is connected to the charging port 302 via the electric circuit 303. The charging port 302 is embedded in the air channel plug and is accessible through an aperture in the base of the outer housing sleeve 100.

[0078] Figure 9 shows the air flow path from the inlet 117 of the outer housing shell 100 to the cartridge pedestal 221 with a series of arrows A. Figure 9 also shows the air flow sensor 242 located in the internal cavity 243 surrounding the air sensor housing 240. As shown in the cross-sectional view of Figure 9, the air flow sensor cavity 243 is connected to the air flow path up to the mouthpiece via the air flow cavity inlet 244. The air flow cavity inlet 244 extends upward from the cavity 243 in the sensor housing 240 towards the cartridge pedestal 221, whereby the pressure change caused by the user's inhalation is transmitted to the air flow sensor cavity 243.

[0079] Figure 9 also shows the air flow through-channel 241 from the air inlet 117 through the air sensor housing 240. As clearly shown in the figure, the air flow through-channel 241 is separated from the air flow sensor chamber 243 so that the air flow through this path does not pass over the air flow sensor 242. This reliably improves the function of the air flow sensor 242, specifically, the responsiveness is enhanced.

[0080] In this example, the air channel plug 300 extends upward from the closed end 102 of the housing and contacts the air flow sensor housing 240. Further, the air flow channel 310 provided in the air channel plug 300 directly connects the air inlet 117 of the outer housing sleeve 100 to the air flow through channel 241 of the air flow sensor housing 240. Thus, simultaneously, the air channel plug 300 and the air flow sensor housing 240 form an air flow path from the air inlet to the cartridge pedestal 221. Specifically, as shown by arrow A, air enters the air inlet 117, passes through the air flow channel 310 of the air channel plug 300, enters the air flow through channel 241 of the air flow sensor housing 240, heads into the base of the cartridge pedestal 221, extracts the vapor generated there, and transports it to the mouthpiece 30. Since the air flow from the inlet does not directly pass over the air flow sensor, the sensitivity of the air flow sensor to the pressure change of the air flow due to inhalation at the mouthpiece is increased.

Claims

1. An outer housing sleeve having an open end and a closed end, A functional insert including a battery and an electronic circuit for supplying power from the battery to a cartridge received in a cartridge pedestal during use, Comprising, The functional insert is configured to be introduced through the open end of the outer housing sleeve and is held within the outer housing sleeve, The functional insert includes a first shell portion and a second shell portion, and the first shell portion and the second shell portion are connected along a longitudinal joint surface and configured to surround electrical components inside, An electronic cigarette.

2. The electronic cigarette according to claim 1, wherein the functional insert includes a cartridge pedestal for receiving a removable cartridge containing a liquid to be vaporized.

3. The electronic cigarette according to claim 2, wherein the cartridge pedestal is arranged to fit completely within the outer housing sleeve when the cartridge is received in the cartridge pedestal during use.

4. The functional insert includes a first end located at the open end of the outer housing sleeve and a second end located towards the closed end of the outer housing sleeve, and the electronic cigarette further includes, A mouthpiece movable between an open position and a closed position at the first end of the functional insert, The electronic cigarette according to any one of claims 1 to 3.

5. The electronic cigarette according to claim 4, wherein the mouthpiece is movable by a hinge mechanism connecting the mouthpiece to the first end of the functional insert.

6. The electronic cigarette according to claim 5, wherein the hinge mechanism includes an L-shaped lever that connects the center point of the mouthpiece to a point near the edge of the first end of the functional insert.

7. The outer housing sleeve further includes a first rim that runs circumferentially around the inner surface of the outer housing sleeve at the open end, and the functional insert is configured to engage with the first rim. The electronic cigarette according to any one of claims 1 to 6.

8. The functional insert includes a second rim that runs around the outer surface of the functional insert, The second rim of the functional insert is arranged to contact the first rim of the outer housing sleeve to hold the functional insert in a fixed position within the outer housing sleeve. The electronic cigarette according to claim 7.

9. The outer housing sleeve includes a first aperture on the inner surface of the open end, and the functional insert includes a corresponding second aperture arranged to align with the first aperture, such that the outer housing sleeve and the functional insert can be attached to a fastener passing through the aligned first and second apertures. The electronic cigarette according to any one of claims 1 to 8.

10. The first shell portion and the second shell portion are offset from each other such that one shell portion extends further in the direction towards the closed end of the outer housing sleeve than the other. The electronic cigarette according to any one of claims 1 to 9.

11. The first shell portion and the second shell portion include a thermoplastic material suitable for thermoplastic welding or ultrasonic welding. The electronic cigarette according to any one of claims 1 to 10.

12. The first shell portion and the second shell portion include an engagement structure configured for mutual attachment, the engagement structure providing a snap lock or friction fit. The electronic cigarette according to any one of claims 1 to 11.

13. The outer housing sleeve further includes at least one guide rail arranged along the inner surface, and the functional insert includes a slot configured to engage with the guide rail. The electronic cigarette according to any one of claims 1 to 12.

14. The guide rail further includes an aperture for receiving a fastener for attaching the functional insert to the outer housing sleeve. The electronic cigarette according to claim 13.

15. The functional insert includes a first end having an opening to the cartridge pedestal and a second end at the opposite end of the functional insert, and the first end of the functional insert is inclined such that the length along the longitudinal straight line of the functional insert is longer at a position passing through the cartridge pedestal. The electronic cigarette according to any one of claims 1 to 14.

16. The functional insert is elongated, and the functional insert includes a battery and a cartridge pedestal. The battery and the cartridge extend along the elongation axis of the functional insert and are arranged such that their sides face each other. The electronic cigarette according to any one of claims 1 to 15.

Images