Low-temperature electron vaporization device and method thereof

Abstract

To provide a device that generates inhalable aerosol.SOLUTION: A device 100 includes: a heater that is configured to generate inhalable aerosol and is configured for at least ON mode and standby mode; at least one sensor that includes at least one of an accelerometer and a vibration sensor and is configured to detect the movement of the device; and a controller that is configured to shift from the standby mode to the ON mode on the basis of the at least one sensor having detected the movement of the device.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1

Description

Technical Field

[0001] (Cross - Reference) This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 61 / 524,308, filed on Aug. 16, 2011, which is hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety.

Background Art

[0002] The use of tobacco products and the harmful side effects of smoking continue to draw attention worldwide. When many regulations are imposed regarding smoking in the workplace or public places, the interest in the development of alternative products becomes significantly greater. One way to reduce the harmful side effects of smoking is not to burn tobacco products. This is because many of the harmful analytes such as Hoffman analytes obtained from smoking are ingested by the combustion of substances.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0003]

Patent Document 1

Patent Document 2

Patent Document 3

Patent Document 4

Patent Document 5

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0004] The difficulty of developing and selling devices capable of carrying aerosolized tobacco products is being addressed in terms of the visual and physical appeal of use, appealing to users. It is desirable to have a device that can be used multiple times to aerosolize a variety of different substances and, on the other hand, provides users with a sensation similar to that of smoking, such as visible vapor. Devices and products that can aerosolize tobacco products and reduce the Hoffmann analytes and mutagenic substances delivered to users compared to smoking are desirable.

Means for Solving the Problems

[0005] A device for generating an inhalable aerosol is provided herein, the device comprising: a mouthpiece, a body portion; an electronic heater within the body portion including a printed circuit board for heating a sticky vaporizable material to generate an inhalable aerosol; and a temperature regulator. The inhalable aerosol can include a pod containing particles less than about 2 microns (by its longest dimension, regardless of length, width, or depth), or can accommodate loose leaf tobacco and other plant products (without a pod).

[0006] In one aspect, a resistive heating element and a thermistor for monitoring and precisely controlling the evaporation temperature are disclosed for use in a device for aerosolizing a material. In some embodiments, the heating element includes an electronic circuit with a power transistor for driving the electronic heater. In certain embodiments, the tail of the electronic circuit is soldered to a PCB (printed circuit board). In some embodiments, the device includes an aerogel insulator to maintain efficiency and low exposed surface temperature. In certain embodiments, the aerogel is a silica aerogel with reinforcing fibers (e.g., Pyrogel 2250 flexible aerogel blanket). In some embodiments, the device includes a single button interface, and the single button interface provides means for turning on, turning off, and waking from sleep.

[0007] In some embodiments, the electronic heater includes a polyimide film ("flex") printed heater circuit (alternatively referred to as a flexible heater circuit). In certain embodiments, an electronic heater is provided that includes a soldered thermistor element for a control loop. In certain embodiments, the device includes a PID (proportional, integral, derivative) control loop to control the operating temperature.

[0008] In some embodiments, the device includes a magnetic charge connector. In some embodiments, the device includes a time or sensor-based standby activation to conserve battery, which may also be referred to as standby mode, alternatively. In certain embodiments, the sensing means includes monitoring a thermistor to detect whether the heater is being loaded by a user blowing on the device, or an accelerometer or other tactile / vibration sensor, a capacitive (touch) sensor.

[0009] In some embodiments, the heater is a metal heater, and the components of the heater are heat staked, ultrasonically welded, or overmolded into plastic components that can withstand high temperatures. The process forms a hermetic seal or a dust seal. In some embodiments, a separate mouthpiece design is disclosed for use in a device that aerosolizes a material. Half of the separate mouthpiece is removable and conforms to the outer shape of the device. In some embodiments, the mouthpiece is attached to the body of the device using rare earth magnets. In some embodiments, the mouthpiece is attached to the body using a plastic retainer or other similar mechanism. In other embodiments, the mouthpiece is integrated with the device using a hinge or other mechanism (e.g., a string, etc.). In certain embodiments, the mouthpiece rotates or slides to provide visibility of the heating chamber. In certain embodiments, the mouthpiece is completely separated from the attachment mechanism for cleaning or replacement but is capturable ( "capturable in a removable manner") for reconnection to the device.

[0010] In another aspect, an electronic stand-alone vaporizer device for use with loose leaf tobacco and / or other plant products is provided. In some embodiments, the device includes a mouthpiece that is retractable from the device with a push-push mechanism. In some embodiments, the push-push mechanism also rotates the device by a magnet embedded in the mouthpiece and a hall effect sensor on a PCB (printed circuit board). In certain embodiments, the mouthpiece includes a compression spring, a leaf spring, and a stainless steel tube attached to the mouthpiece with a catch groove and a toggle slider. In some embodiments, the device includes a magnetic on / off control using a reed or hall effect switch. In certain embodiments, the magnetic control is integrated into the mouthpiece to eliminate additional buttons. In some embodiments, the mouthpiece accommodates the push-push mechanism for pulling and / or retracting the mouthpiece. In some embodiments, the device includes a magnet lid for covering the vaporization chamber. In some embodiments, the device includes a thermally conductive shell to distribute excess heat and maintain a low exposed surface temperature. In some embodiments, the device includes a button-activated temperature selector that includes a visual, audible indicator, and / or other haptic output (such as vibration). In some embodiments, the mouthpiece is integrated with the device using a hinge or other mechanism (such as a string, etc.). In some embodiments, the vaporization device includes a thin-walled metal heating chamber. The thin wall allows for rapid startup due to low heat capacity. In some embodiments, the device includes an angled lid that uses a magnet fixture or snap fixture to hold the lid in its closed position to prevent accidental opening. The angled lid has no visible removal button.

[0011] In another aspect, a device that mimics smoking is provided, which generates an aerosol inhaled by a subject by heating a sticky substance containing a plant product up to about 150 °C, and the aerosol has a tactile response in the mouth or respiratory tract. The sticky substance can include an aerosol-forming medium that can contain at least one of propylene glycol and glycerin to generate a visible aerosol when heated. The sticky substance can also include tobacco and flavorants.

[0012] The device can deliver an active ingredient that is part of the aerosol to the user. The active ingredient can be absorbed by the respiratory tract. The aerosol can contain particles with a diameter of less than about 2 microns.

[0013] The target temperature for heating the sticky substance in the device can be from about 100 °C to about 200 °C. Preferably, the target temperature is about 150 °C for generating the aerosol.

[0014] In another aspect, a method for providing a tactile response in the mouth or respiratory tract is disclosed. The method includes the steps of deploying a device that mimics smoking, wherein the device generates a smokeless aerosol having a tactile response in the mouth or respiratory tract by heating a sticky substance containing a plant product inside; heating the sticky substance to a target temperature; generating an aerosol having a tactile response in the mouth or respiratory tract from the heated sticky substance; and inhaling the aerosol. The sticky substance can include an aerosol-forming medium that can contain at least one of propylene glycol and glycerin to produce a visible aerosol when heated. The sticky substance can include at least one of tobacco and flavorants. The device can deliver an active ingredient that is part of the aerosol to the user. The active ingredient can be absorbed by the respiratory tract.

[0015] A device for generating an inhalable aerosol is provided herein, the device comprising a mouthpiece, a body portion, an electronic heater including a heater circuit, an oven, and a printed circuit board within the body portion, the electronic heater configured to heat an adhesive vaporizable material to generate an inhalable aerosol; and a temperature regulator.

[0016] In some embodiments, the mouthpiece is separate or integrated into the device. In some embodiments, the mouthpiece is retractable from the device by a push-push mechanism.

[0017] In some embodiments, the heater circuit is soldered to a heater circuit board. In some embodiments, the electronic heater includes a resistive heating element and a thermistor configured to monitor and accurately control the vaporization temperature of the adhesive vaporizable material. In some embodiments, the heater circuit is a thin film polyimide heater.

[0018] In some embodiments, the electronic heater is sealed by a hermetic seal or a dust seal.

[0019] In some embodiments, the device includes a magnetic control unit using a reed or Hall effect switch. In some embodiments, the magnetic control unit using a reed or Hall effect switch is integrated into the mouthpiece.

[0020] In some embodiments, the device includes a magnet lid.

[0021] In some embodiments, the device includes a thermally conductive shell configured to distribute excess heat and maintain a low exposed surface temperature.

[0022] In some embodiments, the device includes a time-based or sensor-based standby mode activation section. In some embodiments, the sensor includes an accelerometer or other tactile / vibration sensor, a capacitive (touch) sensor, or a sensor for monitoring a thermistor configured to detect whether the heater is being worn by the user blowing on the device.

[0023] In some embodiments, the device includes a proportional-integral-derivative (PID) control loop configured to control the operating temperature.

[0024] In some embodiments, the device includes a thin-walled metal heating chamber.

[0025] In other embodiments, the device includes an aerogel insulator. In some embodiments, the aerogel insulator includes a silica aerogel with reinforcing fibers.

[0026] In some embodiments, the heater becomes a plastic component capable of withstanding high temperatures by being pressed with heat, ultrasonically joined, or overmolded. In some embodiments, the heater becomes a plastic component capable of withstanding high temperatures by being heat-stated or swaged with heat. In some embodiments, the heater becomes a plastic component capable of withstanding high temperatures by being swaged with heat.

[0027] In some embodiments, the device further includes a magnetic charge connector configured to connect the device to a charger.

[0028] In some embodiments, the device includes a single button interface.

[0029] In some embodiments, the sticky vaporizable material is in a removable pod. In some embodiments, the removable pod contains particles of the sticky vaporizable material that are less than about 2 microns. In some embodiments, the removable pod contains a sticky vaporizable material that consists essentially of a particle size of less than about 2 microns.

[0030] Devices for generating an inhalable aerosol are provided herein, the devices including a mouthpiece, a body portion, and an electronic heater within the body portion configured to heat a sticky vaporizable material to generate an inhalable aerosol; a temperature regulator, and an aerogel insulator.

[0031] Devices for generating an inhalable aerosol are provided herein, the devices including a mouthpiece, a body portion, and an electronic heater within the body portion configured to heat a sticky vaporizable material to generate an inhalable aerosol; a temperature regulator, and a magnetic charge connector.

[0032] Devices for generating an inhalable aerosol are provided herein, the devices including a mouthpiece, a body portion, and an electronic heater within the body portion configured to heat a sticky vaporizable material to generate an inhalable aerosol; a battery, a temperature regulator, and a time or sensor-based standby activation configured to conserve the power of the battery.

[0033] Devices for generating an inhalable aerosol are provided herein, the devices including a mouthpiece, a body portion, and an electronic heater within the body portion configured to heat a sticky vaporizable material to generate an inhalable aerosol; a battery, a temperature regulator, or a temperature control loop.

[0034] A device for generating an inhalable aerosol is provided herein, the device including a mouthpiece, a body portion, an electronic heater within the body portion configured to heat a tacky vaporizable material to generate an inhalable aerosol; a battery, a temperature regulator, and a single button interface.

[0035] A device for generating an inhalable aerosol is provided herein, the device including a mouthpiece, a body portion, an electronic heater within the body portion configured to heat a tacky vaporizable material to generate an inhalable aerosol; a battery, and a temperature regulator, wherein the electronic heater is sealed by a hermetic seal or a dust seal.

[0036] A device for generating an inhalable aerosol is provided herein, the device including a mouthpiece, a body portion, a vaporization chamber; an electronic heater within the body portion configured to heat a tacky vaporizable material to generate an inhalable aerosol; a temperature regulator, and a magnetic lid configured to cover the vaporization chamber.

[0037] A device for generating an inhalable aerosol is provided herein, the device including a mouthpiece, a body portion, an electronic heater within the body portion configured to heat a tacky vaporizable material to generate an inhalable aerosol; a thermally conductive shell configured to distribute excess heat and maintain a low exposed surface temperature; and a temperature regulator.

[0038] A device for generating an inhalable aerosol is provided herein, the device including a mouthpiece, a body portion, an electronic heater within the body portion configured to heat a tacky vaporizable material to generate an inhalable aerosol; and a temperature regulator, and a push-push mechanism configured to toggle the mouthpiece between a retracted position and an "on" position.

[0039] A device for generating an inhalable aerosol is provided herein, the device comprising a mouthpiece, a body portion, an electronic heater within the body portion configured to heat a tacky vaporizable material to generate an inhalable aerosol; a temperature regulator, and a button-operated temperature selector by means of a visual indicator, an audible indicator, and / or a vibration indicator.

[0040] A device for generating an inhalable aerosol is provided herein, the device comprising a mouthpiece, a body portion, an electronic heater within the body portion configured to heat a tacky vaporizable material to generate an inhalable aerosol; a temperature regulator, and an inclined lid comprising a magnet fixture or a snap fixture configured to maintain the lid in its closed position and / or configured to prevent accidental opening of the lid.

[0041] A device for generating an inhalable aerosol is provided herein, the device comprising a mouthpiece, a body portion, an electronic heater within the body portion configured to heat a tacky vaporizable material to generate an inhalable aerosol; and a temperature regulator, wherein the mouthpiece is integrated with the device.

[0042] A device for generating an inhalable aerosol is provided herein, the device comprising a mouthpiece, a body portion, an electronic heater including a heater circuit within the body portion configured to heat a tacky vaporizable material to generate an inhalable aerosol; and a temperature regulator, wherein the heater circuit has low resistance so that a single battery can operate the device.

[0043] (Incorporation by reference) All publications, patents, and patent applications mentioned herein are hereby 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.

[0044] An excellent understanding of the features and advantages of the present invention can be obtained by referring to the following detailed description of illustrative embodiments in which the principles of the present invention are used and the accompanying drawings.

Brief Description of the Drawings

[0045]

Figure 1

Figure 2

Figure 3

Figure 4

Figure 5

Figure 6

Figure 7

Figure 8

Modes for Carrying Out the Invention

[0046] The invention described in this specification has a wide range of uses in the inhalation of active substances, as evaluated by those skilled in the art who have considered this disclosure. For example, devices, cartridges (i.e., pods) such as those disclosed in U.S. Application No. 11 / 485,168 (Patent Application 1), systems, kits, and methods can be used, for example, to inhale tobacco products through the mouth or nose. Devices, systems, kits, and methods can be used to inhale any substance, such as plant substances, pharmaceutical substances, nutritional substances, or any other substance, to provide, for example, benefits or excitement to the end user.

[0047] A device for generating an inhalable aerosol is provided herein, the device comprising a mouthpiece, a body portion, and an electronic heater within the body portion, the electronic heater including a heater circuit, an oven, and a printed circuit board, the electronic heater being configured to heat an adhesive vaporizable material to generate an inhalable aerosol, and including an electric heater and a temperature regulator.

[0048] In some embodiments, the mouthpiece is separable or integrated into the device. In some embodiments, the mouthpiece is retractable from the device by a push-push mechanism.

[0049] In some embodiments, the heater circuit is soldered to a heater circuit board. In some embodiments, the electronic heater includes a resistive heating element and a thermistor configured to monitor and accurately control the vaporization temperature of the adhesive vaporizable material. In some embodiments, the heater circuit is a thin film polyimide heater.

[0050] In some embodiments, the electronic heater is sealed by a hermetic seal or a dust seal.

[0051] In some embodiments, the device includes a magnetic control unit using a reed or Hall effect switch. In some embodiments, the magnetic control unit using a reed or Hall effect switch is integrated into the mouthpiece.

[0052] In some embodiments, the device includes a magnetic lid.

[0053] In some embodiments, the device includes a thermally conductive shell configured to distribute excess heat and maintain a low exposed surface temperature.

[0054] In some embodiments, the device includes a time-based or sensor-based standby mode activation unit. In some embodiments, the sensor includes an accelerometer or other tactile / vibration sensor, a capacitive (touch) sensor, and a sensor for monitoring a thermistor configured to detect whether the heater is being worn by a user blowing on the device.

[0055] In some embodiments, the device includes a proportional-integral-derivative (PID) control loop configured to control the operating temperature.

[0056] In some embodiments, the device includes a thin-walled metal heating chamber.

[0057] In other embodiments, the device includes an aerogel insulator. In some embodiments, the aerogel insulator includes a silica aerogel with reinforcing fibers.

[0058] In some embodiments, the heater becomes a plastic component capable of withstanding high temperatures by being pressed with heat, ultrasonically welded, or overmolded. In some embodiments, the heater becomes a plastic component capable of withstanding high temperatures by being heat stated or swaged. In some embodiments, the heater becomes a plastic component capable of withstanding high temperatures by being swaged with heat.

[0059] In some embodiments, the device further includes a magnetic charge connector configured to connect the device to a charger.

[0060] In some embodiments, the device includes a single button interface.

[0061] In some embodiments, the tacky vaporizable material is within a removable pod. In some embodiments, the removable pod contains particles of the tacky vaporizable material that are less than about 2 microns. In some embodiments, the removable pod contains a tacky vaporizable material consisting essentially of a particle size less than about 2 microns.

[0062] A device for generating an inhalable aerosol is provided herein, the device comprising an inhalation mouth, a body portion, an electronic heater within the body portion configured to heat a sticky vaporizable material to generate an inhalable aerosol, a battery, a temperature regulator, and a single button interface. A typical device (100) is illustrated in FIG. 1, the device comprising a single button interface (102) for on, off, and wake-up from sleep mechanisms, and a heater circuit (105, showing the tail) soldered to a PCB (104) and a battery (103) (e.g., a LiPo battery). As shown in FIG. 1, the outer half (101) of the body portion snaps together to hold and protect the device. In some examples, the outer body portion is molded as one piece. In some embodiments, the single button interface provides mechanisms for turning on, turning off, and waking up from sleep. In other embodiments, additional buttons are included for any of these functions. For example, pressing the single button for 1 second turns the device on. Pressing and holding the button for 5 seconds disables the operation-based low power standby and automatically turns off the power. Alternatively, a second button can be used to disable the operation-based low power standby and / or turn off the power. When the user does not want the device to cool down while left on a table, for example, the user can use this override. In some embodiments, after startup, pressing the single button for a very long time (10 seconds or more) turns the device off again. This is to prevent accidental startup, such as in a wallet. When on, pressing the button momentarily turns off the power. In some embodiments, the single or one or more buttons can report the remaining battery level (e.g., via blinking of an LED), change the operating temperature of the device, or change the nominal intensity of the LED if the user is in a dark environment and does not want to be distracted by the light. These various features can be caused by the indicated press time or number of presses, one or more buttons or the same button, by pressing one or more buttons or the same button.

[0063] As described herein, an electronic heater includes a heater circuit, an oven, and a printed circuit board to heat an adhesive vaporizable material to generate an inhalable aerosol. The heater circuit may be flexible. In some embodiments, the flexible heater circuit is typically etched from a polyimide film coated with copper or constantan. In some embodiments, the flexible heater is constructed by die-cutting a thin sheet of constantan or copper. In this case, the heater circuit must be electrically insulated from adjacent conductive elements in the assembly using a polyimide or other suitable insulator that is stable at high temperatures. The heater circuit heats the attached oven, and the oven heats a cartridge or active material by heat conduction. The resistive heater circuit gets hot when current passes through it. The heat then transfers from the circuit to the walls of the oven. The heat conduction continues from the walls of the oven to the cartridge or active material. Note that most of the heat transfer from the walls of the oven to the active material or cartridge occurs by conduction, although some occurs by convection and radiation.

[0064] In some embodiments, the device includes one or more button interfaces for mechanisms of turning on, turning off, and waking up from sleep, and a heater circuit soldered to the PCB.

[0065] Devices for generating inhalable aerosols are provided herein, the devices comprising: an inhalation mouthpiece; a body portion; an electronic heater within the body portion configured to heat a tacky vaporizable material to generate an inhalable aerosol; a battery, a temperature controller, and a time- or sensor-based standby activation portion configured to conserve the battery power. In some embodiments, the device includes a time- or sensor-based standby activation portion to conserve the battery power. This may, similarly / alternatively, also be referred to as a standby mode. The standby mode may, similarly / alternatively, also be referred to as a sleep or sleep mode. After non-use based on time, movement or lack of movement, posture (e.g., vertical), or placement on a charging dock, or after any combination of these, the device is programmed to switch to a sleep mode (standby mode) at least to conserve battery power. The device may be released from this standby mode or sleep mode by a change in any of movement (e.g., from vertical to horizontal, horizontal to vertical, or movement indicating that the user has picked up the device), removal from a charging dock, user touch, the user blowing on the device, or activation by pressing any button (or any combination thereof) on the device. After a long period in the standby mode, the device powers off and is released and / or powered on by the user pressing a button on the device, and in some embodiments, by the user blowing on the device. In such embodiments, simply moving the device or removing the device from the charging dock does not activate a device that has once powered off. In other embodiments, moving the device or removing the device from the charging dock causes the device to turn on from an off state or standby mode.

[0066] In some embodiments, the standby mode saves battery power by reducing the regulated temperature of the device. For example, regardless of whether the user blows on the device, most of the heat generated by the device is lost to the environment. Therefore, by maximizing the time the device spends in standby and minimizing the internal temperature while in standby, power is conserved. However, when the device wakes up from standby, it is desirable for the device to return to the main operating temperature as quickly as possible in order to give the user the impression that the vaping experience is not interrupted. Therefore, a balanced state must be established. For example, in current device based on electronic cartridges, the main operating temperature is 165 °C and the standby temperature is 150 °C. Since this temperature difference is small enough, when the user activates the device from standby, there is sufficient time for the heater to raise the temperature by the time the user begins to vape, and the user perceives that the generation of vapor is hardly or not interrupted at all. In some embodiments, the temperature difference is set to be 30 °C, 25 °C, 20 °C, 15 °C, 10 °C, or 5 °C between the main operating temperature and the standby temperature. In some embodiments, the temperature difference is set to be any temperature between 30 °C and 5 °C between the main operating temperature and the standby temperature.

[0067] In other embodiments, the battery is a disposable battery. In other embodiments, the battery is a rechargeable battery. In certain embodiments, the rechargeable battery is lead-acid, nickel-cadmium (NiCd), nickel metal hydride (NiMH), lithium ion (Li-ion), lithium ion polymer (Li-ion polymer or LiPo), etc.

[0068] A rechargeable battery, storage battery (storage battery or accumulator) is a type of battery. A battery contains one or more electrochemical cells and is a type of energy accumulator. It is known as a secondary battery because its electrochemical reaction is electrically reversible. Rechargeable batteries come in many different shapes and sizes, ranging from button cells to megawatt systems connected to stabilize the power grid. Several different combinations of chemicals are commonly used, including: lead-acid, nickel-cadmium (NiCd), nickel metal hydride (NiMH), lithium-ion (Li-ion), and lithium-ion polymer (Li-ion polymer, Li-poly, Li-pol, Lipo, LIP, PLI, or Lip).

[0069] The device can create a temperature high enough to aerosolize the product contained inside the device. A typical device can include a mouthpiece and a body having a heater, an oven chamber, a LiPo battery, and a control device for maintaining the operating temperature. The temperature selected by the user can be used as an input to this system, as described above. In some embodiments, the temperature can be preset. An example of a device operating temperature regulator includes a bimetallic actuator. Alternatively, the system can be used to measure the current temperature and can compare the current temperature with a predetermined temperature, for example, by using a thermocouple sensor, and can control an electrochemical valve (e.g., a servo valve or a solenoid valve), for example, by using a microcontroller. The temperature selected by the user can be used as an input to this system, as described above. Typically, the operating temperature of the device is at most 200 °C.

[0070] Devices for generating inhalable aerosols are provided herein, the devices including a mouthpiece, a body portion, and an electronic heater within the body portion configured to heat an adhesive vaporizable material to generate an inhalable aerosol; a battery, a temperature regulator, and a temperature control loop. In certain embodiments, a heater including a soldered thermistor element for the control loop is provided. In certain embodiments, the device includes a PID (proportional, integral, derivative) control loop for controlling the operating temperature. The control loop serves to accurately adjust a desired setpoint temperature for the device. Depending on the design and use of the device, the setpoint temperature may be fixed in some embodiments, and in other embodiments, the setpoint temperature may be selectable by the user. The setpoint may vary dramatically during operation of the device. For example, in standby mode, the setpoint drops by a certain amount. In some embodiments, the input for the control loop is generally a thermistor located on or adjacent to the heater circuit. This thermistor is connected to a microcontroller, which makes A / D measurements and the resulting value is used in calculating the PID control variable. The control variable then sets the duty cycle (and resulting output) of the heater circuit.

[0071] A device for generating an inhalable aerosol is provided herein, the device including an inhalation mouthpiece, a body portion, an electronic heater including a heater circuit within the body portion configured to heat an adhesive vaporizable material to generate an inhalable aerosol, and a temperature regulator, the heater circuit having a low resistance such that a single battery can operate the device. In some embodiments, the heater circuit has a low resistance such that a single battery may be used to operate the device. In some embodiments, the resistance of the heater circuit is selected such that the output of the heater circuit is high enough to reach a predetermined operating temperature within an acceptable heating time and such that the system can withstand the load by the user puffing on the device. An approximation is provided by the following relationship: R = V^2 / P, where V is the battery voltage under load, P is the desired wattage of the heater, and R is the heater circuit resistance.

[0072] Devices for generating inhalable aerosols are provided herein, the devices including an inhalation mouthpiece, a body portion, and an electronic heater within the body portion configured to heat a tacky, vaporizable material to generate an inhalable aerosol; a battery, a temperature regulator, and the electronic heater is sealed by a hermetic seal or a dust seal. As shown in FIG. 2, an exemplary device (200) includes a thin-walled stainless steel tube (210) that pierces a sealed lid of a capsule (i.e., a pod). The thin-walled stainless steel tube (210) (e.g., a metallic “oven”) within the exemplified device is pressed with heat (e.g., heat staked, or swaged with heat), ultrasonically welded, or overmolded to become a plastic part that can withstand high temperatures. The process forms a hermetic seal or a dust seal (airtight seal) (240) that prevents ambient dust from entering the internal chamber of the device and prevents dust from the internal insulating material from exiting or entering the heating chamber of the device. The plastic part may include any thermoplastic material that provides high-temperature stability. In some embodiments, the plastic part includes polyphenylene sulfide (PPS (trade name Ryton)), polyetherimide (PEI (trade name Ultem)), liquid crystal polymer (LCP), etc. In a particular embodiment, the plastic part is PPS. PPS is used due to its generally excellent moldability.

[0073] In some embodiments, the oven is heat staked or swaged with heat to become a plastic part that can withstand high temperatures. As mentioned herein, with heat staking, the material is formed around the entire perimeter of the mating edge. Heat staking creates several thermoplastic posts that are inserted through holes in the formed metal oven, and the posts are heated to form a kind of "rivet". In certain embodiments, the oven is swaged with heat to become a plastic part that can withstand high temperatures. In some embodiments, the oven is joined to the plastic part using an adhesive. In certain embodiments, the adhesive is stable at high temperatures so that it does not soften or off-gas. In some embodiments, the oven is connected to the plastic part by a mechanical mechanism using a crimp threaded connection, press fit, etc. For any mechanical joining, in some embodiments, an o-ring is used between the two parts to ensure the formation of a dust seal. It is important to minimize heat transfer at this joint point. This is because in this way, a lot of heat is transferred to the external casing of the device (and thus lost to the environment).

[0074] Devices for generating inhalable aerosols are provided herein, the devices comprising a mouthpiece, a body portion, and an electronic heater within the body portion configured to heat an adhesive vaporizable material to generate an inhalable aerosol; a temperature regulator, and an aerogel insulator. In some embodiments, the aerogel insulator is an aerogel blanket. In some embodiments, the device includes an insulating chamber (220) that includes an aerogel blanket (not shown in FIG. 2; see FIG. 5) to maintain efficiency and a low exposed surface temperature. In some embodiments, the aerogel may be a silica aerogel with reinforcing fibers (e.g., Pyrogel 2250 Flexible Aerogel Blanket).

[0075] As provided herein, the term "aerogel" refers to a synthetic porous material derived from a gel in which the liquid element of the gel has been replaced by a gas. As a result, it is a solid with a very low density and low thermal conductivity. Aerogels are excellent thermal insulators because they render almost ineffective the three methods of heat transfer (convection, conduction, and radiation). Aerogels are made almost entirely of gas, which is a very poor heat conductor, so aerogels are excellent electrical insulators. Silica aerogels are particularly good because silica is also a poor thermal conductor (on the other hand, metallic aerogels are not as effective). Aerogels are excellent convection inhibitors because air cannot circulate through the lattice. Silica aerogels are the most common type of aerogel and have been the most widely studied and used. It is a silica-based material derived from silica gel. Carbon aerogels are made of particles on the order of nanometers in size that are covalently bonded together. It has a very high porosity (greater than 50%. Pore diameter less than 100 nm) and a surface area ranging between 400 - 1,000 m2 / g. Aerogels made of aluminum oxide are known as alumina aerogels. These aerogels are used as catalysts, especially when "doped" with metals other than Al. Nickel-alumina aerogels are the most common combination.

[0076] In some embodiments, the device includes two magnets (230) (e.g., gold-plated rare earth magnets, etc.) that are used both as a mechanical attachment and as a battery charging conduit (not shown) to a charging dock. The magnets need to be strong enough to hold the device in place on the charging dock. In some embodiments, the magnets include NdFeB, grade N42. In some embodiments, the magnets have a surface field of 6,128 gauss. The pod (270) is inserted into an oven having a polyimide thin film heater and a thermistor applied thereto externally. The polyimide thin film heater is composed of a thin, high dielectric, lightweight organic polymer film that provides very good tensile strength, tear resistance, and dimensional stability.

[0077] Accordingly, a device for generating an inhalable aerosol is provided herein, the device including an inhalation mouthpiece, a body portion, an electronic heater within the body portion configured to heat a sticky vaporizable material to generate an inhalable aerosol, a temperature regulator, and a magnetic charge connector.

[0078] In some embodiments, the battery used in the device is a single cell LiPo battery (e.g., size 18 - 650, 2600 mAh lithium ion single cell, or size 14 - 650, 940 mAh lithium ion single cell) for repeated use of the device. In some embodiments, the battery used in the device is another suitable rechargeable battery of size 18 - 650, 2600 mAh or size 14 - 650, 940 mAh. The device can be used for 10, 20, 30, 40, 50, 60 or more uses (depending on the size of the rechargeable battery used). In some embodiments, the device can be used for 60 or more uses. The device can also be used for continuous or discontinuous uses up to 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7 or 8 hours or more. The cartridges for use with the device can be disposed of after each use or can be used for multiple uses. The long - term use of the device provides the advantage that the user does not need to repair the device or regularly charge the battery.

[0079] Generally, the operating temperature of the device is at most 200°C. In many cases, the temperature required to aerosolize the product is between about 100 - 200°C. In some embodiments, the temperature required to aerosolize the product is about 150°C. Once the product within the device is aerosolized, the aerosolized product is provided to the user through the inhalation mouthpiece. In many cases, typical devices are designed to mimic smoking devices such as cigarettes, pipes, or cigar pipes.

[0080] In FIG. 3, a typical device (300) includes a separable suction port (310) design, half of which is removable and conforms to the outer shape of the device. In some embodiments, the suction port is attached to a body portion with a rare earth magnet. In some embodiments, the suction port is attached to a body portion with a plastic retainer or other mechanism.

[0081] A device for generating an inhalable aerosol is provided herein, the device comprising: an inhalation mouthpiece; a main body; an electronic heater within the main body configured to heat a sticky vaporizable material to generate an inhalable aerosol; and a temperature regulator, wherein the inhalation mouthpiece is integrated with the device. In some embodiments, the inhalation mouthpiece is integrated with the device by a hinge or other mechanism (such as a string). In certain embodiments, the inhalation mouthpiece rotates or slides to expose the heating chamber. In certain embodiments, the inhalation mouthpiece is completely separable from the attachment mechanism for cleaning or replacement, but is capturable for reconnection to the device ( "removably capturable"). In some embodiments, the device further includes a magnetic contact portion (312) and a tactile button with an LED-illuminated "halo" indicator. The indicator reports information regarding the state of the device. In some embodiments, a sawtooth pattern indicates that it is hot. In some embodiments, a solid pattern indicates that the setpoint temperature has been reached and that the user can puff on the device. When the battery is very low, in some embodiments, the LED indicator blinks a plurality of times (e.g., 5 times), after which the device powers off. In some embodiments, while the device is being shaken, a motion sensor detects this and the LED indicates the current battery level. For example, it blinks 3 times if fully charged, 2 times if somewhat charged, and 1 time if little charged. The device then resumes normal operation. When the device is placed on a charging dock, in some embodiments, a sawtooth pattern indicates that it is currently charging. In certain embodiments, the LED becomes uniform when charging is complete. In some embodiments, an error state can also be reported. When an internal fault is measured, the indicator blinks 10 times and the device powers off by itself.

[0082] In some embodiments, the device includes a removable mouthpiece that can attach and / or insert a removable pod. The mouthpiece is removed by a quarter turn to expose the removable pod. The removable pod includes tobacco and / or other plant products used to generate inhalable aerosol. The pod, in some embodiments, includes particles having a diameter of less than about 2 microns. In some embodiments, a vaporization device is provided for use with a tacky vaporizable material such as loose leaf tobacco and other plant products (without pods).

[0083] Figure 4 demonstrates a typical device (400) with a mouthpiece (410) that can be retracted from a device with a push-pull mechanism. This turns on the device via a magnet embedded in the mouthpiece and a Hall effect sensor on the PCB. The device includes an LED indicator (such as 460) and a single-piece extruded aluminum outer body. In some embodiments, the LED indicator is tri-color (RGB). In some embodiments, the LED indicator displays multiple colors. For example, when heating, the indicator glows purple. Once the set temperature is reached, the indicator glows green. During standby, it glows blue. When the device is shaken, the battery indicator blinks three times and the color determines the charge level: green if fully charged, yellow if somewhat charged, and red if low on charge. When the mouthpiece is completely removed from the device, the device immediately stops heating and the LED indicates the currently selectable temperature setting by the user: red for high, orange for medium, and yellow for low. By pressing the "temperature setting button" revealed by removing the mouthpiece, the firmware temperature setting is cycled and the new setting is reflected in the LED. When the mouthpiece is reinserted, the device returns to normal heating operation. During charging, the LED is uniformly orange. When charging is complete, the LED becomes uniformly green. As with other embodiments, the LED can report error states by blinking and / or by a characteristic color blink. The colors described above may be changed to any color in accordance with the practice of the present invention.

[0084] In some embodiments, the device includes a suction port that retracts from the device with a push-push mechanism. In some embodiments, the push-push mechanism also turns on the device by a magnet embedded in the suction port and a Hall effect sensor on a PCB (printed circuit board). One of ordinary skill in the art will readily recognize other suitable mechanisms for turning on the device with a suitable sensor.

[0085] A device for generating an inhalable aerosol is provided herein, the device comprising: a mouthpiece; a body portion; an electronic heater within the body portion configured to heat a sticky vaporizable material to generate an inhalable aerosol; a temperature regulator; and a push-push mechanism configured to toggle-lock the mouthpiece between a retracted position and an “on” position. A view of the interior of a typical device of FIG. 4 is shown in FIG. 5. In such an embodiment including a push-push mechanism, the device includes a vaporization chamber lid (576) (opposite the mouthpiece (510)). The device includes a deep-drawn stainless steel heating chamber (524) (“oven”) to which a polyimide thin film circuit heater is applied. The push-push mechanism for retracting the mouthpiece consists of a compression spring (513), a leaf spring (512), and a stainless steel tube (511) attached to the mouthpiece (510), together with a catch groove (534) and a toggle slider (509). A reed switch / Hall effect sensor (533) is incorporated to detect whether the mouthpiece is inserted (the device does not operate). To extend the mouthpiece to the “on” position, the user presses the mouthpiece (510). Since the mouthpiece is attached to the tube (511), this action compresses the compression spring (513). This action causes the leaf spring (512) to move away from the axis of the tube and move onto the outer diameter of the toggle slider (509). Then, when the user releases the mouthpiece, the compression spring pushes the mouthpiece and tube subassembly outward from the device. The angled lid of the leaf spring catches on the toggle slider, causing the slider to move up the tube until it reaches the shoulder of the tube. At this point, the mouthpiece continues to extend from the device, and the leaf spring then rubs along the toggle slider and continues along the shoulder of the outer diameter of the tube. It has the same diameter and thus provides no resistance. When the catch groove of the tube intersects the lid of the leaf spring, the mouthpiece stops and is in the extended “on” position. The push-push mechanism is used to move the mouthpiece to the retracted position by pressing the mouthpiece from the “on” position.The push-push mechanism is thus configured to toggle and hold the suction port between the "on" position, or the extended position where the suction port extends from the main body of the device, and the retracted position. In some embodiments, in the retracted position, the suction port is completely inside the main body of the device. In some embodiments, in the retracted position, the suction port is completely inside the main body of the device but is exposed at the open end of the device. In some embodiments, in the retracted position, the suction port is substantially inside the main body of the device such that a portion of the suction port extends beyond the end from the main body of the device.

[0086] Many devices use a temperature regulation scheme because a temperature regulator (bimetallic disk or other regulator) is disposed in proximity (in the oven) to the region where temperature has the most significant meaning. Refer to the temperature selection button (535), the PCB (504), the O-ring seal (526) that controls potential aerogel dust, and the insulation chamber (525) that includes the aerogel blanket. Related art generally places temperature-sensitive components in the flow valve, which is vulnerable to the influence of cold-expanded fuel gas and has minimal intimate contact with the vaporization chamber. Examples of related devices and methods are described in U.S. Patent Application No. 11 / 485,168 (Patent Application 1), U.S. Patent No. 4,819,665 (Patent Application 2), U.S. Patent No. 4,793,365 (Patent Application 3), U.S. Patent No. 5,027,836 (Patent Application 4), and International Application WO2006 / 082571 (Patent Application 5). The adjustment scheme of a typical device may be to simply turn the oven switch to match a specific temperature.

[0087] A device for generating an inhalable aerosol is provided herein, the device comprising: an inhalation mouthpiece; a body portion; an electronic heater within the body portion configured to heat a sticky vaporizable material to generate an inhalable aerosol; a temperature regulator; and a button-operated temperature selector provided with a visual indicator, an auditory indicator, and / or a vibration indicator. In some embodiments, the device includes a button-operated temperature selector including a visual indicator, an auditory indicator, and / or other somatic outputs (e.g., vibration). In some embodiments, a tactile (mechanical) switch is used as an input to a microcontroller, which indicates a change to the user (e.g., by a visual LED, an auditory LED, vibration, etc.) via its software and changes the setpoint temperature of the device. The switch may be capacitive, resistive, etc.

[0088] In some embodiments, the vaporization device includes a thin-walled metal heating chamber (or oven chamber). The thin wall allows for a low heat quantity and thus enables a rapid start-up. When the device directly uses a sticky vaporizable material without including such a wall in a pod (or cartridge), the terms "heating chamber", "oven chamber", and "vaporization chamber" are used interchangeably. For devices including a pod or cartridge, the terms "heating chamber" or "oven chamber" are used interchangeably.

[0089] Devices for generating inhalable aerosols are provided herein, the device comprising a mouthpiece, a body portion, a vaporization chamber; an electronic heater within the body portion configured to heat an adhesive vaporizable material to generate an inhalable aerosol; a temperature regulator, and a magnetic lid configured to cover the vaporization chamber. In a typical device (600) of FIG. 6, a typical magnetically attached vaporization chamber lid (676) is shown. The lid (676) is nominally fully embedded in the body portion of the device. This is to prevent the lid from being inadvertently removed in the user's pocket, wallet, etc. To remove the lid, the user presses a finger against one side of the oval lid. The back of the lid is chamfered, causing the opposite side of the lid to pivot up about an axis. Two rare earth magnets are embedded on either side of the lid along its short axis. Two mating magnets are embedded in the body portion of the device at corresponding points. These magnets form a "hinge" about which the lid can rotate. Once the lid has rotated, it is relatively easy to overcome the magnetic force and completely remove the lid, thereby allowing access to the vaporization chamber. In some embodiments, the lid of the vaporization chamber is attached by other mechanisms such as a screw type, snap type, etc. Thus, depending on the embodiment, the device includes an inclined lid that uses a magnetic or snap fitting to hold the lid in its closed position to prevent the lid from accidentally opening. Devices for generating inhalable aerosols are provided herein, the device comprising a mouthpiece, a body portion, an electronic heater within the body portion configured to heat an adhesive vaporizable material to generate an inhalable aerosol; a temperature regulator, and an inclined lid comprising a magnetic or snap fitting configured to maintain the lid in its closed position and / or configured to prevent the lid from accidentally opening.

[0090] One of ordinary skill in the art will readily use an energy source to charge the battery. For example, in FIG. 7, a USB charger (724) with a USB charging cable (734) is shown. In some embodiments, the energy source is a wall-mounted charger. In some embodiments, the energy source is a vehicle charger. In some embodiments, the energy source is a portable charger. In certain embodiments, the energy source includes a solar charger, a wind-powered charger, or other chargers that utilize green energy.

[0091] In some embodiments, the device includes a thermally conductive shell to distribute excess heat and maintain a low exposed surface temperature. In some embodiments, the thermally conductive shell is made of a material with a low specific heat but high thermal conductivity. In some embodiments, the structure of the material within the thermally conductive shell is such that the temperature of the shell is less than 140°F, less than 130°F, less than 120°F, less than 110°F, less than 100°F, less than or equal to 140°F, less than or equal to 130°F, less than or equal to 120°F, less than or equal to 110°F, less than or equal to 100°F, less than or equal to 98.6°F, less than or equal to 90°F, less than or equal to room temperature, less than or approximately equal to 140°F, less than or approximately equal to 140°F, less than or approximately equal to 130°F, less than or approximately equal to 120°F, less than or approximately equal to 110°F, less than or approximately equal to 100°F, less than the temperature at which skin will burn if touched for 2 seconds, less than the temperature at which skin will burn if touched for 5 seconds, less than the temperature at which skin will burn if touched for 10 seconds, and / or such that it reaches approximately room temperature. This combination means that heat dissipates quickly but there is not enough heat absorbed by the hand when grasped. In some embodiments, the thermally conductive shell is made of aluminum or the like. A device for generating an inhalable aerosol is provided herein, the device including a mouthpiece, a body portion, an electronic heater within the body portion configured to heat an adhesive vaporizable material to generate an inhalable aerosol, a thermally conductive shell configured to distribute excess heat and maintain a low exposed surface temperature, and a temperature regulator.

[0092] An internal view of a typical device charged by a USB charger is shown in FIG. 8. The device includes a charger stand (827) (a typical USB charger) that includes a rare earth magnetic charge-based interface (824). A battery (803) (e.g., a Li-ion battery) is charged by means of a flexible PCB (804) that extends down to contact the battery terminals. Similarly, a button (802), an accelerometer (816), an aerogel (814), and a thermistor (815) are also shown to monitor and accurately control the vaporization temperature. The suction ports are attached to the main body from points (844) and (845). Various embodiments of the suction ports described herein or known to those skilled in the art may be used.

[0093] Any material that can be aerosolized and inhaled by a user may be incorporated into the device or cartridge of the present invention, as will be apparent to those skilled in the art. It is particularly interesting for the material to provide an experience to the user, either in terms of the tactile response within the respirator or in terms of visual feedback regarding the release of the inhaled material. For example, many materials are contemplated for use with the present invention, including, but not limited to, materials containing tobacco, natural or artificial flavoring materials, coffee grounds or coffee beans, mint, chamomile, lemon, honey, tea leaves, cocoa, and other non-tobacco alternatives based on other plant products. The device or cartridge of the present invention may be suitable for use with pharmaceutical compounds or synthetic compounds, either for pharmaceutical or recreational use. Any compound that can be vaporized (or volatilized) at a relatively low temperature and without harmful decomposition products is suitable for use with the cartridge or device of the present invention. Examples of compounds include, but are not limited to, menthol, caffeine, taurine, and nicotine.

[0094] The active ingredients contained in the plant product vaporize at various temperatures. The device can be adjusted, for example, to establish a single stable temperature for the purpose of vaporizing a specific product. The control device can also be used to select various temperature settings. The user determines which setting is used based on the type of cartridge. The control device can affect the desired temperature mechanically, such as by changing the flow rate of the valve, or electrically, such as by means of an electromechanical valve and a microcontroller intermediate. For example, to change the operating temperature of the device of the present invention, the oven chamber can be moved relative to a temperature regulator such as a bimetallic disk.

[0095] Here, tobacco or tobacco material is defined as any combination of natural and synthetic materials that can be vaporized for recreational or medicinal use. In one embodiment of the present invention, the cartridge can be prepared using dried tobacco, glycerin, and flavorings. Those skilled in the tobacco product manufacturing industry are familiar with these materials and other ingredients used in tobacco, cigars, etc. The cartridge can be made by mincing the tobacco (e.g., with a diameter of less than 2 mm, preferably less than 1 mm diameter), adding other ingredients, and mixing until a desired consistency is achieved. In another embodiment, the cartridge can be prepared by processing the filling material to a paste-like consistency (e.g., a particle size of less than 1 mm), which facilitates filling of the cartridge, for example, by using an auger filler, a peristaltic pump, or a piston pump.

[0096] Preferably, the materials used with the device of the present invention, or the materials contained within the cartridge of the present invention, include at least one of a vapor-forming medium and a medium that provides a tactile response in the user's respiratory tract. The aerosolized product from the material inserted into the device can be a combination of a gaseous phase and droplets that remain suspended in a gas / air mixture after condensing from the gaseous phase (the latter constituting the visible portion of the inhaled substance).

[0097] Propylene glycol (PG), glycerin, or a combination of both can be used as the vapor-forming medium. Other vapor-forming media can be used with the cartridges and devices of the present invention. The vapor-forming medium serves to generate visible vapors such as smoke-like vapors when heated. This vapor can be visualized before inhalation and during evaporation of the medium. Since PG exhibits a much higher vapor pressure at equivalent temperatures and enables the device to operate even at low temperatures, PG has several advantages compared to glycerin alone. Energy is stored by lowering the operating temperature, which may potentially further improve the health benefits of using this system.

[0098] The user can avoid touching the hot internal components due to the surrounding insulation features. A typical device can include an insulator that prevents the user from necessarily touching the hot parts of the device. A greater heat insulation capacity is preferred, so that the device operates with the best possible efficiency while an important aspect for the user is to perceive a relatively cold surface temperature. Various strategies can be used to address the user's perception regarding the temperature of the device. The device may be wrapped in a heat insulator having sufficient durability for external use. Materials for this purpose have low thermal conductivity and low heat capacity (specific heat). The combination of these properties results in little heat being transferred to the user's finger. Examples of materials with low thermal conductivity and low heat capacity include some polymers and ceramics. An individual strategy is to use insulation features that prevent the user from directly touching the high-temperature areas. This can minimize the contact area between the user's finger and the device to further reduce the perceived heat. The thermal conductivity and specific heat of the insulation features should be as low as possible.

[0099] Preferred embodiments of the present invention have been shown and described herein, but it will be apparent to those skilled in the art that such embodiments are provided by way of example only. Many variations, changes, and substitutions will occur to those skilled in the art without departing from the present invention. It will be understood that various alternatives to the embodiments of the present invention described herein may be used in practicing the present invention. The following claims define the scope of the present invention, and it is intended that methods and structures within the scope of these claims and their equivalents be covered thereby.

Claims

1. A device for generating an inhalable aerosol, comprising: An oven including an oven chamber defined by a bottom and a wall extending from the bottom; A flexible heater circuit attached to the oven; An electronic heater including the above; The flexible heater circuit is configured to heat up when current passes through, heat the oven by conduction, thereby heating a vaporizable material in the oven to generate the inhalable aerosol; The flexible heater circuit includes a sheet material at least partially wound around the wall of the oven chamber; Device.

2. The device according to claim 1, wherein the sheet material includes a polyimide thin film.

3. The device according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the flexible heater circuit is soldered to a printed circuit board.

4. The device according to claim 1, wherein the sheet material includes an etched polyimide film coated with copper or a polyimide film coated with constantan.

5. The device according to claim 1, wherein the sheet material includes an insulated and die-cut constantan sheet or a die-cut copper sheet.

6. The device according to claim 1, wherein the flexible heater circuit is electrically insulated from adjacent conductive elements within the device.

7. The device according to claim 1, wherein the flexible heater circuit includes polyimide to electrically insulate the flexible heater circuit from adjacent conductive elements within the device.

8. The oven includes: A stainless steel tube; A high-temperature resistant plastic; Including; The stainless steel tube is thermally pressed, ultrasonically joined, adhesively joined, mechanically joined, or overmolded to the high-temperature resistant plastic; The device according to claim 1.

9. The thermal pressing, ultrasonic joining, adhesive joining, mechanical joining, or overmolding of the stainless steel tube to the high-temperature resistant plastic forms a dust seal that prevents: Dust around the oven chamber from entering the internal chamber of the device, or Dust from the internal insulation of the device from entering the oven chamber; The device according to claim 8.

10. The device according to claim 8, wherein the plastic comprises at least one thermoplastic material.

11. The device according to claim 10, wherein the at least one thermoplastic material comprises polyphenylene sulfide (PPS), polyetherimide (PEI), or liquid crystal polymer (LCP).

12. The device according to claim 8, wherein the hot pressing comprises heat staking or hot swaging.

13. The device according to claim 8, wherein the oven comprises an O-ring between the high-temperature resistant plastic and the stainless steel tube.

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