Connectors that form electrical and mechanical connections between replaceable units in an aerosol delivery system

Abstract

To provide an aerosol delivery device allowing a cartridge to be removably and operatively connected to a control device.SOLUTION: An aerosol delivery device comprises: a control device 200 that includes a battery 216, a control component 234, and an outer housing 202 that defines a receiving chamber; and a cartridge that includes a mouthpiece portion, a tank that contains a liquid composition, and a heater configured to heat the liquid composition. The cartridge and the control device each include at least one connector configured to provide a magnetic and an electrical connection between the cartridge and the control device such that the cartridge can be removably and operatively received in the cartridge-receiving chamber 212 of the control body, where the at least one connector of the cartridge is located on the mouthpiece portion.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 2

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] This application claims priority to and the benefit of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 16 / 386,940, filed April 17, 2019, entitled "Connectors for Forming Electrical and Mechanical Connections Between Interchangeable Units in an Aerosol Delivery System," and U.S. provisional patent application Ser. No. 62 / 744,978, filed October 12, 2018, entitled "Aerosol Forming Device," each of which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.

[0002] The present disclosure relates to aerosol delivery devices such as smoking articles, and more particularly to aerosol delivery devices (e.g., smoking articles commonly referred to as e-cigarettes) that can utilize electrically generated heat for the generation of an aerosol. The smoking article can be configured to heat an aerosol precursor, which can be made from or incorporate tobacco-derived materials or can incorporate tobacco, and the precursor can form an inhalable substance for human consumption. [Background technology]

[0003] Many smoking devices have been proposed over the years as an improvement or replacement for smoking products that require the burning of tobacco for use. Many of these devices are intentionally designed to provide the sensation associated with cigarette, cigar, or pipe smoking, but without delivering significant amounts of incomplete combustion and pyrolysis products resulting from the burning of tobacco. For this purpose, many smoking products, flavor generators, and medicinal inhalers have been proposed that utilize electrical energy to vaporize or heat volatile substances, or to provide the sensation of cigarette, cigar, or pipe smoking without significantly burning tobacco. For example, see the various alternative smoking articles, aerosol delivery devices, and heat sources described in the background art of U.S. Patent No. 7,726,320 to Robinson et al., U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2013 / 0255702 to Griffith Jr. et al., and U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2014 / 0096781 to Sears et al., all of which are incorporated herein by reference in their entireties. See also, for example, the various types of smoking articles, aerosol delivery devices, and electrically powered heat sources referenced by trade name and commercial source in U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2015 / 0216232 to Bless et al., which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety. It would be desirable to provide an aerosol delivery device with advantageous utility characteristics. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0004] [Patent Document 1] U.S. Patent No. 7,726,320 [Patent Document 2] US Patent Application Publication No. 2013 / 0255702 [Patent Document 3] US Patent Application Publication No. 2014 / 0096781 [Patent Document 4] US Patent Application Publication No. 2015 / 0216232 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0005] The present disclosure relates to aerosol delivery devices, methods of forming such devices, and elements of such devices. The present disclosure may particularly relate to aerosol delivery devices and cartridges for removably using with aerosol delivery devices. In this regard, various embodiments of the present disclosure provide an aerosol delivery device having advantageous utility features including a controller and a cartridge, wherein electrical and mechanical connections are provided on the cartridge and the controller, allowing the cartridge to be removably and operably connected to the controller. The present disclosure includes, but is not limited to, the following exemplary implementations: [Means for solving the problem]

[0006] Exemplary Implementation 1: An aerosol delivery device comprising: a control unit including an outer housing defining an outer wall and having a proximal end and a distal end, the proximal end of the control unit defining a cartridge receiving chamber, the control unit further including a battery and a control component; and a cartridge including a mouthpiece portion and a tank, the mouthpiece portion having a proximal end and a distal end, the proximal end of the mouthpiece portion having an exit portal defined therethrough, the tank further defining a closed distal end and configured to contain a liquid composition, the cartridge further including a heater configured to heat the liquid composition, wherein the cartridge and the control unit each include at least one connector configured to provide a magnetic and electrical connection between the cartridge and the control unit so that the cartridge can be removably and operably received within the cartridge receiving chamber of the control body, and the at least one connector of the cartridge is disposed in the mouthpiece portion.

[0007] Exemplary Implementation 2: An aerosol delivery device of any preceding exemplary implementation, or any combination of any preceding exemplary implementation, wherein the inner frame includes an upper flange, a plurality of magnets spaced around the upper flange of the inner frame, and a pair of spring-loaded conductive pins positioned on the inner frame and below the upper flange and operably connected to a battery, and the cartridge further includes a flange positioned between the proximal and distal ends of the mouthpiece portion, a metal plate positioned below the flange, and a pair of conductive plugs operably connected to a heater, and when the cartridge is received in the cartridge receiving chamber, a magnetic connection is formed between the magnets of the inner frame of the control device and the metal plate of the cartridge, and an electrical connection is formed between the conductive pins of the inner frame of the control device and the conductive plugs of the cartridge.

[0008] Exemplary Implementation 3: An aerosol delivery device of any preceding exemplary implementation, or any combination of any preceding exemplary implementation, wherein the magnets of the inner frame of the control device are exposed on the top surface of the upper flange so that when the cartridge is received in the cartridge receiving chamber, the magnets of the inner frame of the control device are in direct contact with the metal plate of the cartridge.

[0009] Exemplary Implementation 4: An aerosol delivery device of any preceding exemplary implementation, or any combination of any preceding exemplary implementation, wherein the control device further comprises an inner frame defining a cartridge receiving chamber, the inner frame including an upper portion, at least one mounting element disposed on an upper surface of the inner frame, and a pair of spring-loaded conductive pins disposed on the inner frame, the conductive pins operably connected to the battery, the cartridge further comprising a flange disposed between the proximal and distal ends of the mouthpiece portion, at least one mounting element disposed on the flange of the cartridge, and a pair of conductive plugs operably connected to the heater, wherein when the cartridge is received in the cartridge receiving chamber, a magnetic connection is formed between the at least one mounting element of the control device and the at least one mounting element of the cartridge, and an electrical connection is formed between the conductive pins of the inner frame of the control device and the conductive plugs of the cartridge.

[0010] Exemplary Implementation 5: An aerosol delivery device of any preceding exemplary implementation, or any combination of any preceding exemplary implementation, wherein the upper portion of the inner frame of the control device includes a sloped surface, and at least one mounting element of the control device includes a plurality of magnets spaced apart around the sloped surface of the inner frame, and the flange of the cartridge includes a corresponding sloped surface, and at least one mounting element of the cartridge includes a plurality of magnets spaced apart around the sloped surface of the flange.

[0011] Exemplary Implementation 6: An aerosol delivery device of any preceding exemplary implementation, or any combination of any preceding exemplary implementation, wherein the top of the inner frame of the control device includes a sloped surface, at least one mounting element of the control device includes a plurality of magnets spaced apart around the sloped surface of the inner frame, the flange of the cartridge includes a corresponding sloped surface, and at least one mounting element of the cartridge includes a plurality of metal plates spaced apart around the sloped surface of the flange.

[0012] Exemplary Implementation 7: An aerosol delivery device of any preceding exemplary implementation, or any combination of any preceding exemplary implementation, wherein the top of the inner frame of the control device includes an inclined surface, at least one mounting element of the control device includes a plurality of magnets spaced around the inclined surface of the inner frame, the flange of the cartridge includes an inclined surface, and at least one mounting element includes a metal ring with the inclined surface of the flange.

[0013] Exemplary Implementation 8: An aerosol delivery device of any preceding exemplary implementation, or any combination of any preceding exemplary implementation, wherein at least one mounting element of the control device comprises a magnetic ring including an inclined surface comprising the top of the inner frame, the flange of the cartridge includes an inclined surface, and at least one mounting element of the cartridge comprises a metal ring comprising the inclined surface of the flange.

[0014] Exemplary Implementation 9: An aerosol delivery device of any preceding exemplary implementation, or any combination of any preceding exemplary implementation, wherein the control device further comprises an inner frame defining a cartridge receiving chamber, the inner frame including an upper portion and a pair of separate magnets comprising a portion of the upper portion of the inner frame, the cartridge further comprises a flange disposed between the proximal end and the distal end of the mouthpiece portion, a pair of metal plates comprising a portion of the flange of the cartridge, the metal plates operably connected to the heater, and when the cartridge is received in the cartridge receiving chamber, both a magnetic connection and an electrical connection are formed between the pair of separate magnets of the inner frame of the control device and the pair of separate metal plates of the cartridge.

[0015] Exemplary Implementation 10: An aerosol delivery device of any preceding exemplary implementation, or any combination of any preceding exemplary implementation, wherein a pair of separate magnets on the inner frame of the control device include inclined surfaces and a pair of metal plates on the flange of the cartridge include corresponding inclined surfaces.

[0016] Exemplary Implementation 11: An aerosol delivery device of any preceding exemplary implementation, or any combination of any preceding exemplary implementation, wherein the control device further comprises an inner frame defining a cartridge receiving chamber, a plurality of magnetic spheres disposed on the inner frame, and a pair of spring-loaded conductive pins disposed on the inner frame, the conductive pins operably connected to a battery; the cartridge further comprises a pair of metal plates, each metal plate including a receiving detent at each end thereof, the metal plates operably connected to a heater; and when the cartridge is received in the cartridge receiving chamber, a magnetic connection is formed between the magnetic spheres of the inner frame of the control device and the receiving detents of the metal plate of the cartridge, and an electrical connection is formed between the conductive pins of the inner frame of the control device and the metal plate of the cartridge.

[0017] Exemplary Implementation 12: An aerosol delivery device of any preceding exemplary implementation, or any combination of any preceding exemplary implementation, wherein the control device further comprises an inner frame defining a cartridge receiving chamber, a pair of inclined magnets disposed within the inner frame, and a pair of spring-loaded conductive pins disposed within the inner frame and below the pair of inclined magnets and operably connected to a battery; the cartridge further comprises a flange disposed between the proximal and distal ends of the mouthpiece portion, a pair of pointed sliding metal plates disposed within the flange, and a pair of conductive plugs operably connected to a heater; and when the cartridge is received in the cartridge receiving chamber, a magnetic connection is formed between the inclined magnets of the inner frame of the control device and the pointed sliding metal plates of the cartridge, and an electrical connection is formed between the conductive pins of the inner frame of the control device and the conductive plugs of the cartridge.

[0018] Exemplary Implementation 13: An aerosol delivery device of any preceding exemplary implementation, or any combination of any preceding exemplary implementation, wherein the control device further includes an inner frame defining a cartridge receiving chamber, the inner frame including an upper flange, a plurality of cylindrical magnets extending into the upper flange of the inner frame, and a pair of spring-loaded conductive pins positioned on the inner frame and below the upper flange and operably connected to a battery, and the cartridge further includes a flange positioned between the proximal and distal ends of the mouthpiece portion, a metal plate positioned below the flange, and a pair of conductive plugs operably connected to the heater, wherein when the cartridge is received in the cartridge receiving chamber, a magnetic connection is formed between the magnets of the inner frame of the control device and the metal plate of the cartridge, and an electrical connection is formed between the conductive pins of the inner frame of the control device and the conductive plug of the cartridge.

[0019] Exemplary Implementation 14: An aerosol delivery device of any preceding exemplary implementation, or any combination of any preceding exemplary implementation, wherein the plurality of cylindrical magnets extend through the upper flange of the inner frame such that the upper surfaces of the magnets are substantially flush with the upper surface of the upper flange.

[0020] Exemplary Implementation 15: An aerosol delivery device of any preceding exemplary implementation, or any combination of any preceding exemplary implementation, wherein the control device further includes an inner frame defining a cartridge receiving chamber, the inner frame including an upper flange, a plurality of cylindrical magnets extending into the upper flange of the inner frame, and a pair of spring-loaded conductive pins extending into the upper flange of the inner frame, the conductive pins operably connected to a battery, the cartridge further including a flange disposed between the proximal and distal ends of the mouthpiece portion, and a pair of metal plates comprising a portion of the bottom surface of the flange, the metal plates operably connected to a heater, and when the cartridge is received in the cartridge receiving chamber, a magnetic connection is formed between the magnets of the inner frame of the control device and the metal plates of the cartridge, and an electrical connection is formed between the conductive pins of the inner frame of the control device and the metal plates of the cartridge.

[0021] Exemplary Implementation 16: An aerosol delivery device of any preceding exemplary implementation, or any combination of any preceding exemplary implementation, wherein the plurality of cylindrical magnets extend through the upper flange of the inner frame such that the upper surfaces of the magnets are substantially flush with the upper surface of the upper flange.

[0022] Exemplary Implementation 17: An aerosol delivery device of any preceding exemplary implementation, or any combination of any preceding exemplary implementation, wherein the control device further includes an inner frame defining a cartridge receiving chamber, the inner frame including an upper flange and a pair of cylindrical magnets extending into the upper flange of the inner frame, the cylindrical magnets operably connected to a battery, the cartridge further including a flange disposed between the proximal and distal ends of the mouthpiece portion and a pair of metal plates comprising a portion of the bottom surface of the flange, the metal plates operably connected to a heater, and when the cartridge is received in the cartridge receiving chamber, both a magnetic connection and an electrical connection are formed between the magnets of the inner frame of the control device and the metal plates of the cartridge.

[0023] Exemplary Implementation 18: An aerosol delivery device of any preceding exemplary implementation, or any combination of any preceding exemplary implementation, wherein the pair of cylindrical magnets extend through the upper flange of the inner frame so that the upper surfaces of the magnets are substantially flush with the upper surface of the upper flange.

[0024] Exemplary Implementation 19: An aerosol delivery device of any preceding exemplary implementation, or any combination of any preceding exemplary implementation, wherein the control device further includes an inner frame defining a cartridge receiving chamber, the inner frame including an upper flange, a pair of cylindrical magnets extending through the upper flange of the inner frame, and a pair of conductive casings, each conductive casing substantially surrounding a side of a respective magnet and extending through the upper flange of the inner frame so that the upper edge of the casing is substantially flush with the upper surface of the upper flange, and the conductive casings operably connected to a battery, the cartridge further including a flange disposed between the proximal and distal ends of the mouthpiece portion, and a pair of metal plates comprising a portion of the bottom surface of the flange, the metal plates operably connected to a heater, wherein when the cartridge is received in the cartridge receiving chamber, a magnetic connection is formed between the magnets of the inner frame of the control device and the metal plate of the cartridge, and an electrical connection is formed between the conductive casing of the inner frame of the control device and the metal plate of the cartridge.

[0025] Exemplary Implementation 20: An aerosol delivery device of any preceding exemplary implementation, or any combination of any preceding exemplary implementation, wherein the control device further comprises an inner frame defining a cartridge receiving chamber, the inner frame including an upper flange, a pair of cylindrical magnets extending within the upper flange of the inner frame, and a pair of conductive casings, each of which substantially surrounds the top and side surfaces of its respective magnet and extends through the upper flange of the inner frame so that the top surface of the casing is substantially flush with the top surface of the upper flange, and the conductive casings are operably connected to a battery, and the cartridge further comprises a flange disposed between the proximal and distal ends of the mouthpiece portion and a pair of metal plates comprising a portion of the bottom surface of the flange, the metal plates operably connected to a heater, and when the cartridge is received in the cartridge receiving chamber, a magnetic connection is formed between the conductive casing of the inner frame of the control device and the metal plate of the cartridge, and an electrical connection is formed between the magnets of the inner frame of the control device and the metal plate of the cartridge.

[0026] Exemplary Implementation 21: An aerosol delivery device of any preceding exemplary implementation, or any combination of any preceding exemplary implementation, wherein the control device further comprises an inner frame defining a cartridge receiving chamber, the inner frame including an upper flange, a plurality of magnets disposed within the upper flange of the inner frame, and a pair of metal plates disposed within the upper flange of the inner frame, wherein the upper surfaces of the metal plates are substantially flush with the upper surface of the upper flange and the metal plates are operably connected to a battery, and the cartridge further comprises a flange disposed between the proximal and distal ends of the mouthpiece portion and first and second pairs of metal plates disposed below the flange, wherein the first pair of metal plates is operably connected to a heater, and when the cartridge is received in the cartridge receiving chamber, a magnetic connection is formed between the magnets of the inner frame of the control device and the second pair of metal plates of the cartridge, and an electrical connection is formed between the pair of metal plates of the inner frame of the control device and the first pair of metal plates of the cartridge.

[0027] Exemplary Implementation 22: An aerosol delivery device of any preceding exemplary implementation, or any combination of any preceding exemplary implementation, wherein the control device further comprises an inner frame defining a cartridge receiving chamber, the inner frame including an upper flange, a plurality of magnets disposed within the upper flange of the inner frame, and a pair of metal plates disposed within the upper flange of the inner frame, the upper surfaces of the metal plates being substantially flush with the upper surface of the upper flange and operably connected to a battery, and the cartridge further comprises a flange disposed between the proximal and distal ends of the mouthpiece portion and a pair of metal plates disposed below the flange, the pair of metal plates being operably connected to a heater, and when the cartridge is received in the cartridge receiving chamber, a magnetic connection is formed between the magnets of the inner frame of the control device and the pair of metal plates of the cartridge, and an electrical connection is formed between the pair of metal plates of the inner frame of the control device and the pair of metal plates of the cartridge.

[0028] Exemplary Implementation 23: An aerosol delivery device of any preceding exemplary implementation, or any combination of any preceding exemplary implementation, wherein the control device further comprises an inner frame defining a cartridge receiving chamber, the inner frame including an upper flange, a pair of magnets disposed on the upper flange of the inner frame, and a pair of metal plates disposed on the upper flange of the inner frame, the metal plates operably connected to a battery, the cartridge further comprising a flange disposed between the proximal end and the distal end of the mouthpiece portion, and a pair of metal plates, the metal plates comprising a portion of the flange of the cartridge, the metal plates operably connected to a heater, wherein when the cartridge is received in the cartridge receiving chamber, a magnetic connection is formed between the magnets on the inner frame of the control device and the pair of metal plates of the cartridge, and an electrical connection is formed between the pair of metal plates on the inner frame of the control device and the pair of metal plates of the cartridge.

[0029] Exemplary Implementation 24: An aerosol delivery device of any preceding exemplary implementation, or any combination of any preceding exemplary implementation, wherein the control device further includes an inner frame defining a cartridge receiving chamber, the inner frame including an upper flange, a pair of magnets disposed on the upper flange of the inner frame, and a pair of metal plates disposed on the upper flange of the inner frame, the metal plates operably connected to a battery, the cartridge further including a flange disposed between the proximal and distal ends of the mouthpiece portion, a metal ring comprising a portion of the flange, and a pair of conductive spring contacts operably connected to a heater, and when the cartridge is received in the cartridge receiving chamber, a magnetic connection is formed between the magnets on the inner frame of the control device and the metal ring of the cartridge, and an electrical connection is formed between the pair of metal plates on the inner frame of the control device and the conductive spring contacts of the cartridge.

[0030] Exemplary Implementation 25: An aerosol delivery device of any preceding exemplary implementation, or any combination of any preceding exemplary implementation, wherein the control device further comprises an inner frame defining a cartridge receiving chamber, the inner frame including an upper flange, a plurality of cylindrical magnets extending into the upper flange of the inner frame, and a pair of conductive pins extending into the upper flange of the inner frame, the conductive pins operably connected to a battery, the cartridge further comprising a flange disposed between the proximal and distal ends of the mouthpiece portion, and a pair of metal plates comprising a portion of the bottom surface of the flange, the metal plates operably connected to a heater, and each metal plate including an integral spring contact, wherein when the cartridge is received in the cartridge receiving chamber, a magnetic connection is formed between the magnets of the inner frame of the control device and the metal plates of the cartridge, and an electrical connection is formed between the conductive pins of the inner frame of the control device and the integral spring contacts of the metal plates of the cartridge.

[0031] Exemplary Implementation 26: An aerosol delivery device of any preceding exemplary implementation, or any combination of any preceding exemplary implementation, wherein the control device further includes an inner frame defining a cartridge receiving chamber, the inner frame including an upper flange, a plurality of magnets spaced around the upper flange of the inner frame, and a pair of conductive spring contacts disposed on the inner frame and below the upper flange and operably connected to a battery, and the cartridge further includes a flange disposed between the proximal and distal ends of the mouthpiece portion, a metal plate disposed below the flange, and a pair of conductive plugs operably connected to a heater, wherein when the cartridge is received in the cartridge receiving chamber, a magnetic connection is formed between the magnets of the inner frame of the control device and the metal plate of the cartridge, and an electrical connection is formed between the conductive spring contacts of the inner frame of the control device and the conductive plug of the cartridge.

[0032] Exemplary Implementation 27: An aerosol delivery device of any preceding exemplary implementation, or any combination of any preceding exemplary implementation, wherein the control device further comprises an inner frame defining a cartridge receiving chamber, the inner frame including an upper portion, at least one mounting element disposed on an upper surface of the inner frame, and a pair of conductive spring contacts disposed on the inner frame, the conductive spring contacts operably connected to a battery, the cartridge further comprising a flange disposed between the proximal and distal ends of the mouthpiece portion, at least one mounting element disposed on the flange of the cartridge, and a pair of conductive plugs operably connected to the heater, wherein when the cartridge is received in the cartridge receiving chamber, a magnetic connection is formed between the at least one mounting element of the control device and the at least one mounting element of the cartridge, and an electrical connection is formed between the conductive spring contacts of the inner frame of the control device and the conductive plug of the cartridge.

[0033] Exemplary Implementation 28: An aerosol delivery device of any preceding exemplary implementation, or any combination of any preceding exemplary implementation, wherein the control device further comprises an inner frame defining a cartridge receiving chamber, a plurality of magnetic spheres disposed on the inner frame, and a pair of conductive spring contacts disposed on the inner frame, the conductive spring contacts operably connected to a battery; the cartridge further comprises a pair of metal plates, each metal plate including a receiving detent at each end thereof, the metal plates operably connected to a heater; and when the cartridge is received in the cartridge receiving chamber, a magnetic connection is formed between the magnetic spheres of the inner frame of the control device and the receiving detents of the metal plate of the cartridge, and an electrical connection is formed between the conductive spring contacts of the inner frame of the control device and the metal plate of the cartridge.

[0034] Exemplary Implementation 29: An aerosol delivery device of any preceding exemplary implementation, or any combination of any preceding exemplary implementation, wherein the control device further comprises an inner frame defining a cartridge receiving chamber, a pair of inclined magnets disposed within the inner frame, and a pair of conductive spring contacts disposed within the inner frame and below the pair of inclined magnets, the conductive pins being operably connected to a battery; the cartridge further comprises a flange disposed between the proximal and distal ends of the mouthpiece portion, a pair of pointed sliding metal plates disposed within the flange, and a pair of conductive plugs operably connected to a heater; and when the cartridge is received in the cartridge receiving chamber, a magnetic connection is formed between the inclined magnets of the inner frame of the control device and the pointed sliding metal plates of the cartridge, and an electrical connection is formed between the conductive spring contacts of the inner frame of the control device and the conductive plugs of the cartridge.

[0035] Exemplary Implementation 30: An aerosol delivery device of any preceding exemplary implementation, or any combination of any preceding exemplary implementation, wherein the control device further includes an inner frame defining a cartridge receiving chamber, the inner frame including an upper flange, a plurality of cylindrical magnets extending into the upper flange of the inner frame, and a pair of conductive spring contacts positioned on the inner frame and below the upper flange, the conductive pins being operably connected to a battery, and the cartridge further includes a flange positioned between the proximal and distal ends of the mouthpiece portion, a metal plate positioned below the flange, and a pair of conductive plugs operably connected to the heater, wherein when the cartridge is received in the cartridge receiving chamber, a magnetic connection is formed between the magnets of the inner frame of the control device and the metal plate of the cartridge, and an electrical connection is formed between the conductive spring contacts of the inner frame of the control device and the conductive plug of the cartridge.

[0036] Exemplary Implementation 31: An aerosol delivery device of any preceding exemplary implementation, or any combination of any preceding exemplary implementation, wherein the control device further includes an inner frame defining a cartridge receiving chamber, the inner frame including an upper flange, a plurality of cylindrical magnets extending into the upper flange of the inner frame, and a pair of conductive spring contacts extending into the upper flange of the inner frame, the conductive pins being operably connected to a battery, the cartridge further including a flange disposed between the proximal and distal ends of the mouthpiece portion, and a pair of metal plates comprising a portion of the bottom surface of the flange, the metal plates being operably connected to a heater, and when the cartridge is received in the cartridge receiving chamber, a magnetic connection is formed between the magnets of the inner frame of the control device and the metal plate of the cartridge, and an electrical connection is formed between the conductive spring contacts of the inner frame of the control device and the metal plate of the cartridge.

[0037] These and other features, aspects, and advantages of the present disclosure will become apparent from the following detailed description read in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, which are briefly described below. The present invention includes any combination of two, three, four, or more of the above-described embodiments, as well as combinations of any two, three, four, or more features or elements described in this disclosure, regardless of whether such features or elements are explicitly combined in the description of a specific embodiment herein. The present disclosure, in any of its various aspects and embodiments, is intended to be read as a whole, such that any separable features or elements of the disclosed invention are intended to be combinable unless the context clearly dictates otherwise.

[0038] Having thus described the present disclosure in general terms above, reference is now made to the accompanying drawings, which are not necessarily drawn to scale. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0039] [Figure 1]1 shows a perspective view of an aerosol delivery device according to an exemplary implementation of the present disclosure. [Figure 2] 2 illustrates a partial cross section of a control device for the aerosol delivery device shown in FIG. 1. [Figure 3A] 1 illustrates a perspective view of a cartridge according to an exemplary implementation of the present disclosure. [Figure 3B] 3B illustrates a cross-sectional view of the cartridge of FIG. 3A according to an exemplary implementation of the present disclosure. [Figure 4A] 1 illustrates a partial perspective view of an inner frame of a control device according to an exemplary implementation of the present disclosure. [Figure 4B] 1 illustrates a perspective view of a cartridge according to an exemplary implementation of the present disclosure. [Figure 5] 1 illustrates a partial cross-sectional view of a cartridge coupled to an inner frame of a control device according to an exemplary implementation of the present disclosure. [Figure 6] 1 illustrates a partial perspective view of an inner frame of a control according to an exemplary implementation of the present disclosure. [Figure 7] 1 illustrates a partial cross-sectional view of a cartridge coupled to an inner frame of a control device according to an exemplary implementation of the present disclosure. [Figure 8A] 1 illustrates a perspective view of an inner frame of a control device according to an exemplary implementation of the present disclosure. [Figure 8B] 1 illustrates a partially exploded top view of an inner frame of a control device according to an exemplary implementation of the present disclosure. [Figure 8C] 1 illustrates a perspective view of a cartridge according to an exemplary implementation of the present disclosure. [Figure 9] 1 illustrates a partial cross-sectional view of a cartridge coupled to an inner frame of a control device according to an exemplary implementation of the present disclosure. [Figure 10A] 1 illustrates a perspective view of an inner frame of a control device according to an exemplary implementation of the present disclosure. [Figure 10B] 1 illustrates a partially exploded plan view of a cartridge according to an exemplary implementation of the present disclosure. [Figure 10C] 1 illustrates a perspective view of a cartridge according to an exemplary implementation of the present disclosure. [Figure 11]1 illustrates a partial cross-sectional view of a cartridge coupled to an inner frame of a control device according to an exemplary implementation of the present disclosure. [Figure 12A] 1 illustrates an exploded partial perspective view of an inner frame of a control device according to an exemplary implementation of the present disclosure. [Figure 12B] 1 illustrates a perspective view of a cartridge according to an exemplary implementation of the present disclosure. [Figure 13] 1 illustrates a partial cross-sectional view of a cartridge coupled to an inner frame of a control device according to an exemplary implementation of the present disclosure. [Figure 14A] 1 illustrates a partial perspective view of an inner frame of a control device according to an exemplary implementation of the present disclosure. [Figure 14B] 1 illustrates a perspective view of a cartridge according to an exemplary implementation of the present disclosure. [Figure 14C] 1 shows a partially transparent perspective view of a cartridge according to an exemplary implementation of the present disclosure. [Figure 15] 1 illustrates a partial cross-sectional view of a cartridge coupled to an inner frame of a control device according to an exemplary implementation of the present disclosure. [Figure 16A] 1 illustrates a partial perspective view of an inner frame of a control device according to an exemplary implementation of the present disclosure. [Figure 16B] 1 illustrates a top view of an inner frame of a control device according to an exemplary implementation of the present disclosure. [Figure 16C] 1 illustrates a perspective view of a cartridge according to an exemplary implementation of the present disclosure. [Figure 17] 1 illustrates a partial cross-sectional view of a cartridge coupled to an inner frame of a control device according to an exemplary implementation of the present disclosure. [Figure 18A] 1 illustrates a partial perspective view of an inner frame of a control device according to an exemplary implementation of the present disclosure. [Figure 18B] 1 illustrates a perspective view of a cartridge according to an exemplary implementation of the present disclosure. [Figure 19A] 1 illustrates a partial cross-sectional view of a cartridge before it is fully coupled to the inner frame of a control device according to an exemplary implementation of the present disclosure. [Figure 19B]1 illustrates a partial cross-sectional view of a cartridge coupled to an inner frame of a control device according to an exemplary implementation of the present disclosure. [Figure 20A] 1 illustrates a partially transparent perspective view of an inner frame of a control device according to an exemplary implementation of the present disclosure. [Figure 20B] 1 illustrates a partial perspective view of a cartridge coupled to an inner frame of a control device according to an exemplary implementation of the present disclosure. [Figure 20C] 1 illustrates a perspective view of a cartridge according to an exemplary implementation of the present disclosure. [Figure 21] 1 illustrates a partial cross-sectional view of a cartridge coupled to an inner frame of a control device according to an exemplary implementation of the present disclosure. [Figure 22A] 1 illustrates a partial perspective view of an inner frame of a control device according to an exemplary implementation of the present disclosure. [Figure 22B] 1 illustrates a partial perspective view of a cartridge coupled to an inner frame of a control device according to an exemplary implementation of the present disclosure. [Figure 22C] 1 illustrates a perspective view of a cartridge according to an exemplary implementation of the present disclosure. [Figure 23] 1 illustrates a partial cross-sectional view of a cartridge coupled to an inner frame of a control device according to an exemplary implementation of the present disclosure. [Figure 24A] 1 illustrates a partial perspective view of an inner frame of a control device according to an exemplary implementation of the present disclosure. [Figure 24B] 1 illustrates a perspective view of a cartridge according to an exemplary implementation of the present disclosure. [Figure 25] 1 illustrates a partial cross-sectional view of a cartridge coupled to an inner frame of a control device according to an exemplary implementation of the present disclosure. [Figure 26A] 1 illustrates a partial perspective view of an inner frame of a control device according to an exemplary implementation of the present disclosure. [Figure 26B] 1 illustrates a perspective view of a cartridge according to an exemplary implementation of the present disclosure. [Figure 27] 1 illustrates a partial cross-sectional view of a cartridge coupled to an inner frame of a control device according to an exemplary implementation of the present disclosure. [Figure 28A]1 illustrates an exploded partial perspective view of an inner frame of a control device according to an exemplary implementation of the present disclosure. [Figure 28B] 1 illustrates a perspective view of a cartridge according to an exemplary implementation of the present disclosure. [Figure 29] 1 illustrates a partial cross-sectional view of a cartridge coupled to an inner frame of a control device according to an exemplary implementation of the present disclosure. [Figure 30A] 1 illustrates a partially exploded perspective view of an inner frame of a control device according to an exemplary implementation of the present disclosure. [Figure 30B] 1 illustrates a perspective view of a cartridge according to an exemplary implementation of the present disclosure. [Figure 30C] 1 illustrates a bottom view of a cartridge according to an exemplary implementation of the present disclosure. [Figure 31] 1 illustrates a partial cross-sectional view of a cartridge coupled to an inner frame of a control device according to an exemplary implementation of the present disclosure. [Figure 32A] 1 illustrates a partially exploded perspective view of an inner frame of a control device according to an exemplary implementation of the present disclosure. [Figure 32B] 1 illustrates a perspective view of a cartridge according to an exemplary implementation of the present disclosure. [Figure 32C] 1 illustrates a bottom view of a cartridge according to an exemplary implementation of the present disclosure. [Figure 33] 1 illustrates a partial cross-sectional view of a cartridge coupled to an inner frame of a control device according to an exemplary implementation of the present disclosure. [Figure 34] 1 illustrates a partially exploded perspective view of an inner frame of a control device according to an exemplary implementation of the present disclosure. [Figure 35A] 1 illustrates a partial perspective view of a cartridge coupled to an inner frame of a control device according to an exemplary implementation of the present disclosure. [Figure 35B] 1 illustrates a partially transparent perspective view of a cartridge coupled to an inner frame of a control device according to an exemplary implementation of the present disclosure. [Figure 36A] 1 illustrates a partial perspective view of an inner frame of a control device according to an exemplary implementation of the present disclosure. [Figure 36B]1 shows a partially transparent perspective view of a cartridge according to an exemplary implementation of the present disclosure. [Figure 37] 1 illustrates a partial cross-sectional view of a cartridge coupled to an inner frame of a control device according to an exemplary implementation of the present disclosure. [Figure 38A] 1 illustrates a partially transparent perspective view of an inner frame of a control device according to an exemplary implementation of the present disclosure. [Figure 38B] 1 illustrates a partial perspective view of a cartridge according to an exemplary implementation of the present disclosure. [Figure 39] 1 illustrates a partial cross-sectional view of a cartridge coupled to an inner frame of a control device according to an exemplary implementation of the present disclosure. [Figure 40] 1 illustrates a partial cross-sectional view of a cartridge coupled to an inner frame of a control device according to an exemplary implementation of the present disclosure. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0040] The present disclosure will now be described more fully hereinafter with reference to exemplary embodiments thereof. These exemplary embodiments are provided so that this disclosure will be thorough and complete, and will fully convey the scope of the disclosure to those skilled in the art. Indeed, this disclosure may be embodied in many different forms and should not be construed as limited to the embodiments set forth herein. Rather, these embodiments are provided so that this disclosure will satisfy applicable legal requirements. As used in this specification and the appended claims, the singular forms "a," "an," and "the" include plural referents unless the context clearly dictates otherwise.

[0041] As described below, embodiments of the present disclosure relate to aerosol delivery devices or vaporization devices, the terms being used interchangeably herein. Aerosol delivery devices according to the present disclosure use electrical energy to heat a material (preferably without burning the material to any significant extent and / or significantly chemically altering it) to form an inhalable substance, and the components of such devices most preferably have the form of an article that is compact enough to be considered a handheld device. That is, the use of preferred aerosol delivery device components does not result in the production of smoke—i.e., from by-products of tobacco combustion or pyrolysis—but rather, the use of these preferred systems results in the production of vapor resulting from the volatilization or vaporization of certain components incorporated therein. In preferred embodiments, the components of the aerosol delivery device can be characterized as electronic cigarettes, which most preferably incorporate tobacco and / or tobacco-derived components and thus deliver tobacco-derived components in aerosol form.

[0042] The aerosol-generating components of certain preferred aerosol delivery devices can provide many of the sensations (e.g., the act of inhaling and exhaling, the type of taste or flavor, the organoleptic effect, the physical feel, the act of use, the visual cues such as those provided by a visible aerosol, etc.) of smoking a cigarette, cigar, or pipe by lighting and burning the tobacco (and thus inhaling the tobacco smoke) without any appreciable combustion of any of its components. For example, a user of an aerosol-generating component of the present disclosure can hold and use the component as a smoker would use a traditional type of smoking article, draw on one end of the component to inhale the aerosol generated by the component, take a puff or draw on the cigarette for a selected time interval, etc.

[0043] The aerosol delivery device of the present disclosure can also be characterized as a vapor product or drug delivery article. Accordingly, such an article or device can be configured to provide one or more substances (e.g., flavorings and / or active pharmaceutical ingredients) in an inhalable form or state. For example, the inhalable substance can be substantially in vapor form (i.e., a substance in the gas phase at a temperature below its critical point). Alternatively, the inhalable substance can be in the form of an aerosol (i.e., a suspension of fine solid particles or liquid droplets in a gas). For simplicity, the term "aerosol" as used herein is meant to include vapors, gases, and aerosols in any form or type suitable for human inhalation, whether or not visible and whether or not in a form that can be considered smoke-like.

[0044] The aerosol delivery device of the present disclosure most preferably comprises some combination of a power source (i.e., an electrical power source), at least one control component (e.g., a means for activating, controlling, regulating, and terminating power for heat generation, such as by controlling the current from the power source to other components of the article—e.g., a microcontroller or microprocessor), a heater or heat-generating member (e.g., an electrical resistance heating element or other component, alone or in combination, sometimes commonly referred to as an “atomizer”), a liquid composition (e.g., an aerosol precursor composition liquid that can generally generate an aerosol upon application of sufficient heat, such as the components commonly referred to as “smoke juice,” “e-liquid,” and “e-juice”), and a mouthpiece or mouth area that allows for drawing by the aerosol delivery device for aerosol inhalation (e.g., a defined air flow path through which the article, such as the generated aerosol, can be withdrawn upon inhalation).

[0045] More specific forms, configurations, and arrangements of components within the aerosol delivery devices of the present disclosure will become apparent in light of the further disclosure provided below. Additionally, the selection and arrangement of components of various aerosol delivery devices can be understood in light of commercially available electronic aerosol delivery devices, such as the representative products referenced in the Background section of this disclosure.

[0046] In various implementations, the present disclosure relates to aerosol delivery devices and cartridges for aerosol delivery devices that provide a visual indication of one or more characteristics of the device. For example, in some implementations, the cartridge of the aerosol delivery device can contain a liquid composition including a fragrance. The present disclosure relates to aerosol delivery devices and cartridges for aerosol delivery devices, where the cartridge is configured to be removably received within a control device, and when the cartridge is received within the control device, at least one feature of the cartridge, at least one feature of the control device, or at least one feature of both the cartridge and the control device provides a visual indication of a color associated with the fragrance.

[0047] An exemplary implementation of an aerosol delivery device 100 of the present disclosure is shown in FIG. 1. As shown, the aerosol delivery device 100 includes a control device 200 and a removable cartridge 300. While only one cartridge is shown in the illustrated implementation, it should be understood that in various implementations, the aerosol delivery device 100 may include an interchangeable system. For example, in one or more implementations, a single control device may be used with multiple different cartridges. Similarly, in one or more implementations, a single cartridge may be used with multiple different control devices.

[0048] In various implementations, the control device 200 includes an outer housing 202 defining an outer wall 204 including a distal end 206 and a proximal end 208. The aerosol delivery device 100 of the illustrated implementation also includes a viewing window 240 defined in the outer housing 202. FIG. 2 shows a partial cross-sectional view of the control device 200 of the aerosol delivery device 100 of FIG. 1. As shown, the control device 200 also includes an inner frame 215 including a cartridge-receiving chamber 212 defined by an inner frame wall 214. The control device 200 further includes a battery 216 disposed within the outer housing 202 and also includes an external connection element 218. In the illustrated implementation, the external connection element 218 is disposed at the distal end 206 of the outer housing 202.

[0049] The various components of the aerosol delivery device according to the present disclosure can be selected from those described in the art and commercially available. An example of a battery that can be used according to the present disclosure is described in U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2010 / 0028766 by Peckerar et al., the disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference. In some implementations, other power sources may be utilized. For example, in various implementations, the power source can include a replaceable or rechargeable battery, a solid-state battery, a thin-film solid-state battery, a rechargeable supercapacitor, or the like, and thus can be combined with any type of charging technology, including connection to a wall charger, a car charger (i.e., a cigarette lighter receptacle), a computer via a Universal Serial Bus (USB) cable or connector (e.g., USB 2.0, 3.0, 3.1, USB Type-C), or the like, a photovoltaic cell (sometimes referred to as a solar cell) or solar panel, a charger using inductive wireless charging (e.g., including wireless charging compliant with the Qi wireless charging standard from the Wireless Power Consortium (WPC)), or a wireless charger such as a radio frequency (RF)-based charger. An example of an inductive wireless charging system is described in U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2017 / 0112196 by Sur et al., which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety. In a further implementation, the power source can also include a capacitor. The capacitor can discharge faster than a battery and can be charged between puffs, allowing the battery to discharge into the capacitor at a slower rate than if it were used to directly power the heating element. For example, a supercapacitor, such as an electric double-layer capacitor (EDLC), can be used separately from or in combination with a battery. When used alone, the supercapacitor can be recharged after each use of the article. Therefore, the device can also include a charger component that can be attached to the smoking article between uses to replenish the supercapacitor. An example of a power source including a supercapacitor is described in U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2017 / 0112191 by Sur et al., which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.

[0050] In various implementations, the control device 200 may also include a light source 230 and at least one opening 232 (see FIG. 1 ) defined in the exterior wall 204 of the control device 200 through which light from the light source 230 can be visible. In some implementations, the light source 230 may comprise, for example, at least one light-emitting diode (LED) capable of providing light of one or more colors. In some implementations, the light source may be configured to emit light in only one color, while in other implementations, the light source may be configured to emit light in a variety of different colors. In still other implementations, the light source may be configured to provide white light. As shown in FIG. 2 , the light source 230 may be disposed directly on a control component 234 (e.g., a printed circuit board (PCB) or the like), which may include additional control components (e.g., a microcontroller and / or memory components). In various implementations, the opening 232 may be provided in any desired shape, particularly near the distal end 206 of the control device 200. In some implementations, the opening 232 may be completely open, or may be filled with a light-guiding material or the like, or may be covered by a transparent or translucent material (e.g., glass or plastic) on one or both of the interior and exterior surfaces of the outer wall 204 of the control device 200. The aerosol delivery device 100 may also include a control mechanism for controlling the amount of power to the heating element during inhalation.Representative types of electronic components, their structure and configuration, their features, and their general method of operation are described in U.S. Pat. No. 4,735,217 to Gerth et al.; U.S. Pat. No. 4,947,874 to Brooks et al.; U.S. Pat. No. 5,372,148 to McCafferty et al.; U.S. Pat. No. 6,040,560 to Fleischhauer et al.; U.S. Pat. No. 7,040,314 to Nguyen et al. and U.S. Pat. No. 8,205,622 to Pan; U.S. Pat. App. Pub. No. 2009 / 0230117 to Fernando et al., U.S. Pat. App. Pub. No. 2014 / 0060554 to Collet et al., and U.S. Pat. App. Pub. No. 2014 / 0270727 to Ampolini et al.; and U.S. Pat. App. Pub. No. 2015 / 0257445 to Henry et al., which are incorporated herein by reference in their entireties.

[0051] An electrical connector 220 may be disposed within the cartridge-receiving chamber 212 and, in the illustrated implementation, resides on a side of the inner frame wall 214. In various implementations, the electrical connector 220 may be operably connected to a battery (e.g., connected to the battery directly or via a control component 234). As described in more detail below, the electrical connector may have a variety of forms and may be located in various other locations on the inner frame 215. As also shown in FIG. 2 , the proximal end 208 of the outer housing 202 includes an opening 210 that provides access to the cartridge-receiving chamber 212 defined by the inner frame 215. It should be noted that for purposes of this disclosure, the term “operably connected” should be interpreted broadly to encompass components that are directly connected and / or connected via one or more additional components.

[0052] In various implementations, additional indicators (e.g., haptic feedback components, audio feedback components, etc.) can be included in addition to or as an alternative to the light source. Additional exemplary types of components that generate visual cues or indicators, such as light-emitting diode (LED) components, and their configuration and use, are described in U.S. Pat. No. 5,154,192 to Sprinkel et al.; U.S. Pat. No. 8,499,766 to Newton and U.S. Pat. No. 8,539,959 to Scatterday; U.S. Pat. App. Pub. No. 2015 / 0020825 to Galloway et al.; and U.S. Pat. App. Pub. No. 2015 / 0216233 to Sears et al., which are incorporated by reference in their entireties. It should be understood that not all of the illustrated elements are required. For example, the LED may be absent or replaced by a different indicator, such as a vibration indicator.

[0053] In various implementations, an airflow sensor, a pressure sensor, or the like may be included in the device. For example, as shown in FIG. 2 , the controller 200 may include a sensor 236 on the control component 234. Printed circuit board and pressure sensor configurations are described, for example, in U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2015 / 0245658 to Worm et al., the disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety. In various implementations, the sensor 236 may be located anywhere within the controller 200 to receive airflow and / or pressure changes that may signal suction on the device and therefore cause the battery 216 to power a heater within the cartridge 300. Alternatively, in the absence of an airflow sensor, the heater may be manually activated via a push button or the like, which may be located on the controller body 200 and / or cartridge 300. Further exemplary types of sensing or detection mechanisms, their structure and configuration, their components, and their general methods of operation are described in U.S. Pat. No. 5,261,424 to Sprinkel, Jr.; U.S. Pat. No. 5,372,148 to McCafferty et al.; and WO 2010 / 003480 to Flick, which are incorporated by reference in their entireties.

[0054] In some implementations, an input element can be included in the aerosol delivery device (and can replace or supplement the airflow or pressure sensor). Inputs can be included to allow a user to control device functions and / or for outputting information to the user. Any component or combination of components can be utilized as an input for controlling device 100 functions. For example, one or more push buttons can be used, as described in U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2015 / 0245658 to Worm et al., which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety. Similarly, a touchscreen can be used, as described in U.S. Patent Application No. 14 / 643,626 to Sears et al., filed March 10, 2015, which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety. As a further example, a component adapted for gesture recognition based on designated movements of the aerosol delivery device can be used as an input. See U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2016 / 0158782 to Henry et al., which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.

[0055] In some implementations, the input can include a computer or computing device such as a smartphone or tablet. In particular, the aerosol delivery device can be hardwired to a computer or other device, such as via a USB cord or similar protocol. The aerosol delivery device can also communicate with a computer or other device that serves as the input via wireless communication. See, for example, the system and method for controlling a device via a read request described in U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2016 / 0007561 to Ampolini et al., the disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety. In such embodiments, an APP or other computer program can be used in conjunction with a computer or other computing device to input control instructions to the aerosol delivery device, including, for example, the ability to form an aerosol of a specific composition by selecting the nicotine content and / or additional flavoring content to be included.

[0056] In the illustrated implementation, the inner frame 215 is separate from the outer housing 202, although other implementations may differ. In this manner, the inner frame 215, which defines the cartridge-receiving chamber 212, may exist independently and separately from the outer housing 202. The opening of the chamber may coincide with the opening in the proximal end 208 of the outer housing 202. Thus, in the illustrated implementation, the inner frame wall 214 may be an entirely separate element attached to the outer housing 202. However, in other implementations, the inner frame wall and the outer housing may be formed continuously. In either case, the sidewalls forming the inner frame wall are internal to the outer housing and separate from it.

[0057] In various implementations, the outer housing 202 can be formed from any suitable material, such as metal, plastic, ceramic, glass, etc. In some implementations, the inner frame 215 may be formed from a different material than the material used to form the outer housing 202. For example, in some implementations, the outer housing can include a metal material and the inner frame can include a plastic material. In other implementations, the same material may be used. The material selection as described above can also extend to the outer housing for any additional controls included in the device.

[0058] An exemplary implementation of a cartridge 300 for use in the aerosol delivery device of the present disclosure is shown in FIGS. 3A and 3B. In particular, FIG. 3A is a perspective view of a cartridge according to an exemplary implementation of the present disclosure, and FIG. 3B is a partial cross-sectional view of the cartridge shown in FIG. 3. As shown in FIGS. 3A and 3B, the cartridge 300 includes a reservoir 302 defined by an outer reservoir wall 304 including a proximal end 306 and a closed distal end 308. Thus, the reservoir 302 can be characterized in that the reservoir wall 304 is a continuous sidewall around the reservoir, and the distal end 308 defines a bottom wall. The reservoir 302 is also configured to contain a liquid composition 324 (e.g., an e-liquid or an aerosol precursor composition) for vaporization, which can be configured as otherwise described herein. The cartridge 300 also includes a mouthpiece 310 defined by an outer mouthpiece wall 312 including a proximal end 314 having an exit portal 315 defined therein and a distal end 316 that engages the proximal end 306 of the reservoir 302.

[0059] In the case of an aerosol delivery system characterized as an electronic cigarette, the aerosol precursor composition can incorporate tobacco or tobacco-derived components. In one aspect, the tobacco may be provided as tobacco parts or fragments, such as finely ground, crushed, or powdered tobacco flakes. It may also include tobacco beads, pellets, or other solid forms, such as those described in U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2015 / 0335070 to Sears et al., the disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference. In another aspect, the tobacco may be provided in the form of an extract, such as a spray-dried extract incorporating many of the water-soluble components of tobacco. Alternatively, the tobacco extract may have the form of a relatively high-nicotine extract that also incorporates small amounts of other extracted components derived from tobacco. In another aspect, the tobacco-derived component may be provided in a relatively pure form, such as a particular flavoring derived from tobacco. In one aspect, a component derived from tobacco that can be used in a highly purified or essentially pure form is nicotine (e.g., pharmaceutical-grade nicotine).

[0060] In the illustrated implementation, the liquid composition, sometimes referred to as an aerosol precursor composition or vapor precursor composition or "e-liquid," may include various ingredients including, by way of example, a polyhydric alcohol (e.g., glycerin, propylene glycol, or mixtures thereof), nicotine, tobacco, tobacco extract, and / or flavorings. Representative types of aerosol precursor components and formulations are also described and characterized in U.S. Pat. No. 7,217,320 to Robinson et al. and U.S. Pat. Appl. Pub. No. 2013 / 0008457 to Zheng et al.; U.S. Pat. Appl. Pub. No. 2013 / 0213417 to Chong et al.; U.S. Pat. Appl. Pub. No. 2014 / 0060554 to Collett et al.; U.S. Pat. Appl. Pub. No. 2015 / 0020823 to Lipowicz et al.; and U.S. Pat. Appl. Pub. No. 2015 / 0020830 to Koller, the disclosures of which are incorporated herein by reference in their entireties, and WO 2014 / 182736 to Bowen et al. Other aerosol precursors that may be used include the aerosol precursors incorporated into VUSE® products by RJ Reynolds Vapor Company, BLU™ products by Fontem Ventures BV, MISTIC MENTHOL products by Mistic Ecigs, MARK TEN products by Nu Mark LLC, JUUL products by Juul Labs, Inc., and VYPE products by CN Creative Ltd. Also desirable are so-called "smoke juices" for e-cigarettes, available from Johnson Creek Enterprises LLC.Further exemplary aerosol precursor compositions are sold under the brand names BLACK NOTE, COSMIC FOG, THE MILKMAN E-LIQUID, FIVE PAWNS, THE VAPOR CHEF, VAPE WILD, BOOSTED, THE STEAM FACTORY, MECH SAUCE, CASEY JONES MAINLINE RESERVE, MITTEN VAPORS, DR. CRIMMY'S V-LIQUID, SMILEY E LIQUID, BEANTOWN VAPOR, CUTTWOOD, CYCLOPS VAPOR, SICBOY, GOOD LIFE VAPOR, TELEOS, PINUP VAPORS, SPACE JAM, MT. BAKER VAPOR, and JIMMY THE JUICE MAN.

[0061] The amount of aerosol precursor incorporated into the aerosol delivery system is such that the aerosol generating component provides acceptable sensory characteristics and desirable performance characteristics. For example, it is highly preferred to use a sufficient amount of aerosol-forming material (e.g., glycerin and / or propylene glycol) to provide visible mainstream aerosol production, which in many respects resembles the appearance of cigarette smoke. The amount of aerosol precursor in the aerosol generating system may depend on factors such as the number of puffs desired per aerosol generating component. In one or more embodiments, about 1 ml or more, about 2 ml or more, about 5 ml or more, or about 10 ml or more of the aerosol precursor composition can be included.

[0062] In some implementations, the liquid composition may include one or more flavorings. As used herein, reference to a "flavoring" refers to a compound or ingredient that can be aerosolized and delivered to a user and that provides a sensory experience in terms of taste and / or aroma. Exemplary flavorings include, but are not limited to, vanillin, ethyl vanillin, cream, tea, coffee, fruit (e.g., apple, cherry, strawberry, peach, and citrus flavors including lime and lemon), maple, menthol, mint, peppermint, spearmint, wintergreen, nutmeg, clove, lavender, cardamom, ginger, honey, anise, sage, rosemary, hibiscus, rosehip, erbamate, guayusa, honeybush, rooibos, erba santa, bacopa monniera, ginkgo biloba, withania somnifera, cinnamon, sandalwood, jasmine, cascarilla, cocoa, licorice, and flavors and flavor packages of the type and characteristics traditionally used in tobacco, cigar, and pipe tobacco flavorings. Syrups, such as high fructose corn syrup, can also be used. Exemplary plant-derived compositions that may be suitable are disclosed in U.S. Patent No. 9,107,453 and U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2012 / 0152265, both by Dube et al., the disclosures of which are incorporated herein by reference in their entireties. The selection of such additional components can vary based on factors such as the sensory characteristics desired in the smoking article, and the present disclosure is intended to encompass such additional components that are readily apparent to those skilled in the art of tobacco and tobacco-related or tobacco-derived products. See, for example, Gutcho, Tobacco Flavoring Substances and Methods, Noyes Data Corp. (1972) and Leffingwell et al., Tobacco Flavoring for Smoking Products (1972), the disclosures of which are incorporated herein by reference in their entireties. It should be noted that reference to flavor should not be limited to a single flavor as described above, but may actually refer to a combination of one or more flavors.

[0063] 3B, the cartridge 300 further includes a heater 320 and a liquid transport element 322 extending between the heater and a liquid composition 324 contained within the tank 302. In various implementations, the heater 320 and the liquid transport element 322 may be configured as separate fluidly connected elements or as a combined element. Furthermore, the heater 320 and the liquid transport element 322 may be formed from any structure as otherwise described herein. The cartridge 300 also includes one or more electrical contacts 325 configured to electrically connect the heater 320 with the battery 216 and / or the control component 234 of the controller 200.

[0064] In various implementations, the liquid transport element 322 may be formed from one or more materials configured to transport liquid, such as by capillary action. In some implementations, the liquid transport element can be formed from, for example, fibrous materials (e.g., organic cotton, cellulose acetate, regenerated cellulose fabric, glass fiber), porous ceramic, porous carbon, graphite, porous glass, sintered glass beads, sintered ceramic beads, capillaries, etc. Thus, the liquid transport element 322 can be any material that includes an open pore network (i.e., multiple pores interconnected so that fluid can flow from one pore to another in multiple directions through the element). As further described herein, some implementations of the present disclosure may specifically relate to the use of non-fibrous transport elements. Thus, fibrous transport elements may be explicitly excluded. Alternatively, a combination of fibrous and non-fibrous transport elements may be utilized. Representative types of substrates, reservoirs, or other components for supporting aerosol precursors are described in U.S. Patent No. 8,528,569 to Newton; U.S. Patent Application Publication Nos. 2014 / 0261487 to Chapman et al. and 2014 / 0059780 to Davis et al.; and U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2015 / 0216232 to Bless et al., which are incorporated by reference in their entireties. Additionally, various wicking materials, and the configuration and operation of these wicking materials within particular types of electronic cigarettes, are described in U.S. Patent No. 8,910,640 to Sears et al., which is incorporated by reference in its entirety. In some implementations, the liquid transport element 322 may be partially or completely formed from a porous monolith, such as a porous ceramic, porous glass, or the like. Exemplary monolithic materials suitable for use in accordance with embodiments of the present disclosure are described, for example, in U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2017 / 0188626 and U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2014 / 0123989 to LaMothe, the disclosures of which are incorporated herein by reference in their entireties. In some implementations, the porous monolith may form a substantially solid wick.

[0065] In various implementations, the heater 320 can include one or more different materials configured to generate heat when an electric current is applied. In some implementations, the heater 320 can be a wire coil. Examples of materials from which the wire coil can be formed include stainless steel, pure nickel, nickel-iron alloy, Kanthal (FeCrAl), nichrome, molybdenum disilicide (MoSi), molybdenum silicide (MoSi), aluminum-doped molybdenum disilicide (Mo(Si,Al)), titanium, platinum, silver, palladium, alloys of silver and palladium, graphite, and graphite-based materials (e.g., carbon-based foams and yarns). In further implementations, the heater 320 can be formed from conductive ink, boron-doped silica, and / or ceramic (e.g., positive or negative temperature coefficient ceramic). Other types of heaters, such as laser diodes or microheaters, can also be utilized. The laser diode can be configured to deliver electromagnetic radiation of a specific wavelength or wavelength band that can be tuned for vaporization of the aerosol precursor composition and / or for heating a liquid transport element to which the aerosol precursor composition can be provided for vaporization. The laser diode can be specifically positioned to deliver electromagnetic radiation into a chamber, and the chamber can be configured to be a radiation trap (e.g., a black body or a white body). Suitable microheaters are described in U.S. Pat. No. 8,881,737 to Collett et al., incorporated herein by reference in its entirety. The microheater can include, for example, a substrate (e.g., quartz, silica) having a heater trace thereon (e.g., a resistive element such as Ag, Pd, Ti, Pt, Pt / Ti, boron-doped silicon, or other metal or metal alloy), which can be printed or otherwise applied to the substrate. A passivation layer (e.g., aluminum oxide or silica) can be provided on the heater trace. The heater 320 can be particularly configured to be substantially flat.Such a heater is described in US Patent Application Publication No. 2016 / 0345633 to DePiano et al., which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.

[0066] In the illustrated implementation, the outer tank wall 304 is configured to be at least partially transparent or translucent so that the liquid composition 324 contained therein is visible from the outside. Thus, in some implementations, the entire outer tank wall 304 may be transparent or translucent. Alternatively, in some implementations, only one side of the outer tank wall 304 may be transparent or translucent, with the remainder of the outer tank wall being substantially opaque. In some embodiments, the outer tank wall 304 may be substantially opaque, with a strip (e.g., about 1 mm wide to about 20 mm wide, or about 2 mm wide to about 18 mm wide, or about 5 mm wide to about 15 mm wide) extending from the proximal end 306 of the tank 302 to the distal end 308 of the tank being transparent or translucent. In further implementations, the outer tank wall 304 may be colored. In some implementations, the color can be configured so that the liquid composition 324 within the tank 302 is still visible, such as by using a transparent or translucent outer tank wall. In other implementations, the tank walls can be configured such that the outer tank wall 304 has a substantially opaque color.

[0067] In various implementations, the control device 200 may be configured such that at least a portion of the tank 302 is visible when the cartridge 300 is engaged with the control device 200. As mentioned above, in some implementations, at least a portion of the outer tank wall 304 may be configured to be either at least partially transparent or translucent so that the liquid composition 324 contained therein is visible from the outside, and the outer wall 204 of the control device 200 may be configured to include a viewing window 240 through which a portion of the outer tank wall 304 and any liquid composition 324 present within the tank 302 may be visible when the cartridge 300 is engaged with the control device 200.

[0068] In various implementations, the aerosol delivery device 100 and / or the control device 200 of the aerosol delivery device 100 may further include an external connector configured to electrically contact each of the device external connection elements (e.g., device external connection element 218). The external connector may include a first connector end and a second connector end interconnected by a union, which may be, for example, a variable length cord. In various implementations, the first connector end may be configured for electrical and, optionally, mechanical connection with the control device. In particular, the first connector end may include an insert wall that may be received within a well present at the distal end 206 of the control device 200. The external connector may include a plurality of electrical pins within the insert wall configured to provide a charging and / or information transfer connection with the device external connection element 218. In some implementations, the control device 200 may include a mechanical connector (e.g., mechanical connector 242) adjacent to the control device external connection element 218. In some implementations, the mechanical connector 242 may be a magnet or a metal (or similar element) adapted for magnetic attraction to a magnet. The first connector end of the external connection portion can then similarly include a mechanical connection element that can be disposed between the insertion wall and the electrical pin. In various implementations, the mechanical connection element can be a magnet or a metal (or similar element) that is magnetically attracted to a magnet. The second connector end can be configured to connect to a computer or similar electronic device or to a power source. For example, the second connector end can have a Universal Serial Bus (USB) connection. However, a different connection may be provided, and / or an adapter (e.g., a USB / AC adapter) may also be included. For example, an adapter including a USB connector on one end and a power unit connector on the opposite end is disclosed in U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2014 / 0261495 by Novak et al., the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference.

[0069] Still other features, controls, or components that may be incorporated into the aerosol delivery devices of the present disclosure include those disclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 5,967,148 to Harris et al.; U.S. Pat. No. 5,934,289 to Watkins et al.; U.S. Pat. No. 5,954,979 to Counts et al.; U.S. Pat. No. 6,040,560 to Fleischhauer et al.; U.S. Pat. No. 8,365,742 to Hon; U.S. Pat. No. 8,402,976 to Fernando et al. ..., all of which are incorporated herein by reference in their entireties. U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2010 / 0163063 to Tucker et al.; U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2013 / 0192623 to Leven et al.; U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2013 / 0298905 to Leven et al.; U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2013 / 0180553 to Kim et al., U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2014 / 0000638 to Sebastian et al., U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2014 / 0261495 to Novak et al., and U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2014 / 0261408 to DePiano et al.

[0070] In various implementations, the mouthpiece 310 of the cartridge 300 may be configured to engage with the reservoir 302. For example, as shown in FIG. 3B , the distal end 316 of the mouthpiece 310 may include a rim wall 330 at least partially inserted from the outer mouthpiece wall 312. The rim wall 330 may be configured to engage with the interior of the proximal end 306 of the outer reservoir wall 304. In some implementations, the rim wall 330 may have a length of about 1 mm to about 20 mm, about 2 mm to about 18 mm, or about 5 mm to about 15 mm. In some implementations, the rim wall 330 may engage with the outer reservoir wall 304 solely through a friction fit, or the rim wall may be substantially permanently attached to the outer reservoir wall, such as by welding or adhesive.

[0071] In some implementations, the mouthpiece 310 can define an open interior space in which the formed vapor can combine with air to form an aerosol that is output through the exit portal 315 of the mouthpiece 310. In one or more implementations, the mouthpiece 310 can include one or more additional interior walls that can be arranged to define one or more compartments within the mouthpiece. For example, the mouthpiece can include an interior upper wall between the proximal and distal ends of the mouthpiece, and can also include an interior lower wall between the interior upper wall and the proximal end of the mouthpiece. More specifically, as seen in FIG. 3B , the mouthpiece 310 can include an interior upper wall 332 between the proximal and distal ends 314 and 316 of the mouthpiece 310. Additionally, the mouthpiece 310 can include an interior lower wall 334 between the interior upper wall 332 and the distal end 316 of the mouthpiece 310.

[0072] In various implementations, two or more walls within the mouthpiece may be configured to define a vaporization chamber within which a heater can be disposed. As shown in FIG. 3B , the outer mouthpiece wall 312, the interior top wall 332, and the interior bottom wall 334 define the vaporization chamber 340 within which the heater 320 is disposed. In some implementations, one or more electrical contacts 325 may be disposed within a portion of the outer mouthpiece wall 312 that defines the vaporization chamber 340. However, it will be understood that one or more electrical leads may extend from the heater 320 to one or more electrical contacts disposed in different portions of the outer mouthpiece wall or disposed in the outer tank wall 304. One or more walls of the mouthpiece may also include one or more openings for the passage of one or more additional elements of the cartridge 300 or the passage of the formed vapor / aerosol. For example, the interior top wall 332 may include a vapor opening 336 through which vapor formed in the vaporization chamber 340 can pass toward the first exit portal 315. In some implementations, the vapor opening 336 of the interior top wall 332 may be substantially centrally located therein and may be substantially aligned with the heater 320 along the longitudinal axis of the cartridge 300. As a further example, the interior bottom wall 334 may include a wick opening 338 through which the first liquid transport element 322 (e.g., a wick) can pass between the heater 320 and the liquid composition 324 in the tank 302.

[0073] In various implementations, two or more walls within the mouthpiece may be configured to define a cooling chamber in which the formed aerosol can be allowed to expand and / or cool before passing through the exit portal. As shown in FIG. 3B , for example, outer mouthpiece wall 312 and interior top wall 332 define cooling chamber 342, which receives the formed vapor / aerosol from vaporization chamber 340. Thus, the vapor / aerosol formed by heater 320 passes from vaporization chamber 340 through vapor opening 336 and into cooling chamber 342. In some implementations, vaporization chamber 340 and cooling chamber 342 may be configured to have a defined relative volume ratio. For example, in some implementations, the volume ratio between vaporization chamber 340 and cooling chamber 342 can be about 2:1 to about 1:4, about 1:1 to about 1:4, or about 1:1.5 to about 1:3.

[0074] Optionally, mouthpiece 310 may also include one or more elements configured to reduce or prevent leakage of condensed liquid therefrom. For example, in some implementations, all or a portion of the interior of mouthpiece wall 312 and / or interior top wall 332 defining cooling chamber 342 may be formed from or include an absorbent or adsorbent material configured to retain liquid. Alternatively or additionally, the interior of mouthpiece wall 312 and / or all or a portion of interior top wall 332 defining cooling chamber 342 may be configured to direct liquid back toward vaporization chamber 340, such as by the addition of microchannels or the like.

[0075] In one or more implementations, cartridge 300 may be configured such that mouthpiece wall 312 includes a flange disposed between its proximal end 314 and distal end 316. For example, with reference to FIGS. 3A and 3B , mouthpiece 310 includes flange 350 that extends circumferentially from mouthpiece wall 312 around substantially the entire mouthpiece 310. In some implementations, the distance that flange 350 extends from mouthpiece wall 310 may be substantially uniform around the entire circumference of mouthpiece 310. In other implementations (such as the illustrated implementation), the distance that flange 350 extends from mouthpiece wall 312 may vary at one or more points around the circumference of mouthpiece 310. The entire cartridge 300 or mouthpiece 310 can be separately defined with respect to a longitudinal axis (L), a first transverse axis (T1) perpendicular to the longitudinal axis, and a second transverse axis (T2) perpendicular to the longitudinal axis and perpendicular to the first transverse axis.

[0076] Thus, in some implementations, the entire cartridge 300 and / or mouthpiece 310 may be defined in terms of an overall length along the longitudinal axis (L), an overall width along the first transverse axis (T1), and an overall depth along the second longitudinal axis (T2). The length may be greater than the width, and the width may be greater than the depth. The distance that the flange 350 extends away from the mouthpiece wall 312 may be greater along the second transverse axis (T2) than along the first transverse axis (T1). Thus, in some implementations, the total distance between opposing outer edges of the flange 350 across the mouthpiece 310 along the first horizontal axis (T1) may be greater than the total distance between opposing edges of the flange across the mouthpiece along the second horizontal axis (T2); the total distance between opposing outer edges of the flange 350 across the mouthpiece 310 along the first horizontal axis (T1) may be substantially equal to the total distance between opposing edges of the flange across the mouthpiece along the second horizontal axis (T2); or the total distance between opposing outer edges of the flange 350 across the mouthpiece 310 along the first horizontal axis (T1) may be less than the total distance between opposing edges of the flange across the mouthpiece along the second horizontal axis (T2). In certain implementations, the distance (d2) between the mouthpiece wall 312 and the outer edge of the flange 350 as measured along the second horizontal axis (T2) may be greater than the distance between the mouthpiece wall and the outer edge of the flange as measured along the first horizontal axis (T1), particularly as measured approximately at the midpoint of each of the first horizontal axis (T1) and the second horizontal axis (T2).

[0077] According to the present disclosure, the cartridge and the control device each include at least one connector configured to provide a magnetic and electrical connection between the cartridge and the control device such that the cartridge can be removably and operably received in the cartridge-receiving chamber of the control body, and the at least one connector of the cartridge is disposed on the mouthpiece. As described in more detail below, in various implementations, the at least one connector of the cartridge and the control device can have a variety of different forms, shapes, sizes, positions, etc. to provide the magnetic and electrical connection between the cartridge and the control device. Furthermore, in various implementations, the same connector of the cartridge and / or the control device can provide one or both of the magnetic and electrical connection.

[0078] For example, FIG. 4A shows a partial perspective view of an inner frame of a control device according to an exemplary implementation of the present disclosure. In particular, FIG. 4A shows a portion of inner frame 415 for use with a corresponding control device. In many aspects, the control device can have a similar configuration to the control device 200 described above and can include similar components (and variations of the similar configurations and components). Therefore, the appropriate descriptions of these configurations and components (and variations of the configurations and components) are referred to and will not be repeated here.

[0079] As shown, the inner frame 415 of the illustrated implementation includes a cartridge-receiving chamber 412 and a flange 450 defined at its upper end. The inner frame 415 of the illustrated implementation also includes a plurality of magnets 452 disposed proximate the upper flange 450 of the inner frame 415. In the illustrated implementation, there are four individual magnets 452A, 452B, 452C, and 452D, each having a substantially block-like or rectangular prismatic shape, although in other implementations more or fewer individual magnets may be used, and the magnets may have different shapes and / or sizes. In the illustrated implementation, the magnets 452A, 452B, 452C, and 452D are approximately equally spaced around the exterior of the inner frame 415 and below its upper flange 450, with each of the plurality of magnets positioned within a corresponding magnet-receiving feature 453, which in the illustrated implementation is an extension of the upper flange 450. Although other methods are possible, the magnets 452A, 452B, 452C, 452D in the illustrated implementation can be secured inside the magnet receiving feature 453 via a press fit and / or adhesive connection, or via an insert molding process.

[0080] In various implementations of the present disclosure, the magnets described above, or any other magnets described herein, can include many different types of magnets, including rare earth magnets. For example, in some implementations, one or more magnets can include neodymium magnets (also known as NdFeB, NIB, or Neo magnets). In various implementations, different grades of neodymium magnets can be used, including, for example, N35, N38, N40, N42, N45, N48, N50, and / or N52 grades. In other implementations, one or more magnets can include samarium-cobalt magnets (also known as SmCo magnets). In yet other implementations, one or more magnets can include ceramic / ferrite magnets. In other implementations, one or more magnets can include aluminum-nickel-cobalt (AlNiCo) magnets. In any of the foregoing implementations, one or more magnets can be plated and / or coated. For example, in some implementations, one or more magnets can be coated with nickel. In other implementations, one or more magnets may be coated with one or more of zinc, tin, copper, epoxy, silver, and / or gold. In some implementations, one or more magnets may be coated with a combination of these materials. For example, in one implementation, one or more magnets may again be coated with nickel, copper, and nickel. In another implementation, one or more magnets may be coated with an overcoat of nickel, copper, nickel, and gold.

[0081] The inner frame 415 of the illustrated implementation also includes a pair of conductive pins 420A, 420B disposed within the inner frame 415 and below its top flange 450. In the illustrated implementation, the conductive pins 420A, 420B are, in turn, operably connected to a battery in the controller to power a heater in an inserted cartridge, as described below. The conductive pins 420A, 420B of the illustrated implementation comprise spring-loaded pins (e.g., electric pogo pins), each of which is configured to be inwardly biased so that a portion of the end of the pin extends into the cartridge-receiving chamber 412 and to deflect outward against the force of an integral spring, although other types of conductive elements may be used in other implementations. In the illustrated implementation, the conductive pins 420A, 420B comprise gold-plated metal pins. However, other materials or combinations of materials are possible, which may also include a coating and / or plating of a conductive material. Examples of conductive materials include, but are not limited to, copper, beryllium copper, aluminum, platinum, gold, silver, iron, steel, brass, bronze, graphite, conductive ceramic materials, and / or any combination thereof. In the illustrated implementation, the ends of the conductive pins 420A, 420B have a rounded profile, although other profiles are possible to facilitate deflection of the conductive pins 420A, 420B when the cartridge is inserted into the receiving chamber 412. In the illustrated implementation, the conductive pins 420A, 420B may be attached to the inside of the inner frame 415 via a press-fit and / or adhesive connection or via an insert molding process so that the movable components of the conductive pins can deflect outward against the force of a spring.

[0082] 4B shows a perspective view of a cartridge according to an exemplary implementation of the present disclosure. In particular, FIG. 4B shows cartridge 500 including a reservoir 502 defined by an outer reservoir wall 504 including a proximal end 506 and a closed distal end 508. In many embodiments, cartridge 500 may have a similar configuration and may include similar configurations (and variations of similar configurations and components) as cartridge 300 described above, which will not be repeated here. Accordingly, reference is made to the appropriate descriptions of these configurations and components (and variations of configurations and components).

[0083] The cartridge 500 in the illustrated implementation includes a mouthpiece 510 defined by an outer mouthpiece wall 512 including a proximal end 514 having an exit portal 515 defined therein and a distal end 516 that engages the proximal end 506 of the reservoir 502. In the illustrated implementation, the mouthpiece wall 512 includes a flange 550 disposed between its proximal end 514 and distal end 516. The cartridge 500 in the illustrated implementation also includes a metal plate 552 disposed below the flange 550. In the illustrated implementation, the metal plate 552 is attached to the bottom of the flange 550 of the mouthpiece 510 via an adhesive, although other attachment methods are possible in other implementations, including, for example, an insert molding process. In various implementations, the metal plate 552 can include any material configured to be attracted by a magnet, such as various ferromagnetic materials, including, but not limited to, alloys such as iron, nickel, cobalt, steel, and / or any combination thereof. The cartridge 500 also includes a pair of conductive plugs 525A, 525B disposed on either side of the mouthpiece 510 and below the flange 550 and metal plate 552. In the illustrated implementation, the conductive plugs 525A, 525B may be attached to the inside of the mouthpiece 510 of the cartridge 500 via an adhesive, although other attachment methods are possible in other implementations, including, for example, an insert molding process. In the illustrated implementation, the conductive plugs 525A, 525B are operably connected to the heater 520 (see FIG. 5 ) of the cartridge 500. In various implementations, the conductive plugs 525A, 525B can be composed of any conductive material, including, for example, but not limited to, copper, beryllium copper, aluminum, platinum, gold, silver, iron, steel, brass, bronze, graphite, conductive ceramic materials, and / or any combination thereof.

[0084] In various implementations, a portion of the cartridge 500 of FIG. 4B is configured to be coupled with the cartridge receiving chamber 412 of the inner frame 415 of FIG. 4A so that a magnetic and electrical connection is formed between the cartridge and the controller. In particular, FIG. 5 illustrates a partial cross-sectional view of the cartridge 500 coupled with the inner frame 415 of the controller. As shown, when the cartridge 500 of the illustrated implementation is coupled to the inner frame 415 of the controller, a magnetic connection is formed between a plurality of magnets 452A, 452B, 452C, and 452D disposed on the inner frame 415 of the controller and a metal plate 552 of the cartridge 500. Furthermore, when the cartridge 500 of the illustrated implementation is coupled to the inner frame 415, an electrical connection is formed between a pair of conductive pins 420A, 420B of the inner frame 415 of the controller and conductive plugs 525A, 525B of the cartridge 500. Thus, when the cartridge 500 is received in the inner frame 415 of the controller, the heater 520 of the cartridge 500 can be operably connected to the battery of the controller. Thus, when the cartridge 500 of the illustrated implementation is coupled to the inner frame 415 of the control device, the cartridge 500 is mechanically biased into connection with the inner frame 415 of the control device so that an electrical connection between the cartridge and the control device is maintained.

[0085] It should be noted that in this implementation and / or any other implementation described herein, magnets can facilitate proper rotational orientation of the cartridge relative to the controller. For example, in some implementations, the cartridge may be installed on the controller in any rotational orientation, in other implementations the geometry of the cartridge and / or controller can facilitate proper rotational orientation of the cartridge relative to the controller, while in still other implementations the magnets in the cartridge and the magnets in the controller can facilitate proper rotational orientation of the cartridge relative to the controller. For example, when like poles of magnets in the cartridge are inserted near like poles of magnets in the controller (e.g., the north pole of the magnet in the cartridge and the north pole of the magnet in the controller, or the south pole of the magnet in the cartridge and the south pole of the magnet in the controller), the magnets will repel each other. However, when opposite poles are placed near each other (e.g., the north pole of the magnet in the cartridge and the south pole of the magnet in the controller, or the south pole of the magnet in the cartridge and the north pole of the magnet in the controller), the magnets will attract each other. As a result, the positioning of the polarities of the magnets within the cartridge and control device can be configured so that opposing poles of the magnets attract each other in the appropriate rotational direction of the cartridge relative to the control device and repel each other in other rotational directions of the cartridge relative to the control device.

[0086] FIG. 6 shows a partial perspective view of a control inner frame 615 according to another exemplary implementation of the present disclosure. In particular, the inner frame 615 of the illustrated implementation includes a flange 650 defined at its upper end and a plurality of magnets 652 disposed proximate the upper flange 450 of the inner frame 615. In the illustrated implementation, there are four individual magnets 652A, 652B, 652C, and 652D. In various implementations, the magnets 652A, 652B, 652C, and 652D are configured to facilitate a magnetic connection between the control inner frame 615 and a cartridge (such as, for example, cartridge 500 of FIG. 4B ). Accordingly, the magnets 652A, 652B, 652C, and 652D of the illustrated implementation are similar to the magnets described with respect to FIG. 4A . For example, in the illustrated implementation, there are four individual magnets 652A, 652B, 652C, and 652D, each of which has a substantially block-like or rectangular prismatic shape, although more or fewer individual magnets may be used, and the magnets may have different shapes and / or sizes. Reference is made to possible magnet materials discussed above. The inner frame 615 of the illustrated implementation also includes a pair of conductive pins 620A and 620B disposed within the inner frame 615 and below its upper flange 650. Like the magnets 652A, 652B, 652C, and 652D, the conductive pins 620A and 620B of the illustrated implementation are similar to the conductive pins of the implementation of FIG. 4A. For example, the conductive pins 620A, 620B in the illustrated implementation comprise spring-loaded pins (e.g., electric pogo pins), each of which is biased inward so that a portion of the end of the pin extends into the cartridge-receiving chamber 612 and is configured to deflect outward against the force of an integral spring, although other types of conductive elements may be used in other implementations. Reference is made to possible materials for the conductive pins above. In the illustrated implementation, the conductive pins 620A, 620B may be attached to the inside of the inner frame 615 via a press-fit and / or adhesive connection, or via an insert molding process, so that the movable components of the conductive pins can deflect outward against the force of the spring.

[0087] 7 shows a partial cross-sectional view of cartridge 500 coupled with inner frame 615. In the illustrated implementation, magnets 652A, 652B, 652C, 652D are approximately equally spaced around the outside of inner frame 615, with each magnet located inside a corresponding magnet receiving feature 653 (see FIG. 6). Although other methods are possible, magnets 652A, 652B, 652C, 652D in the illustrated implementation can be secured inside magnet receiving feature 653 via press fit and / or adhesive connection, or via an insert molding process. 4A , however, the magnets 652A, 652B, 652C, and 652D in the illustrated implementation are exposed on the top surface of the upper flange 650 of the inner frame 615 such that the magnets 652A, 652B, 652C, and 652D are in direct contact with the metal plate 552 of the cartridge 500 when the cartridge 500 is coupled with the inner frame 615 of the controller. In this manner, the magnetic connection between the cartridge 500 and the inner frame 615 in the implementation of FIG. 7 can be stronger than the magnetic connection in the implementation of FIG. 5 when using a similar magnet configuration.

[0088] FIG. 8A shows a perspective view of an inner frame of a control device according to an exemplary implementation of the present disclosure, and FIG. 8B shows a partially exploded plan view of the inner frame of a control device according to an exemplary implementation of the present disclosure. In particular, FIGS. 8A and 8B show an inner frame 815 for use with a corresponding control device. In many aspects, the control device can have a similar configuration to the control device 200 described above and can include similar components (and variations of the similar configurations and components). Therefore, the appropriate descriptions of these configurations and components (and variations of the configurations and components) are referred to and will not be repeated here.

[0089] As shown, the inner frame 815 of the illustrated implementation includes a cartridge-receiving chamber 812 and a plurality of flange features 856 extending outward from a top 858 of the inner frame 815. The flange features 856 of the illustrated implementation are approximately equally spaced around the periphery of the top 858 of the inner frame 815, although other configurations are possible. The top 858 of the inner frame 815 also defines an inclined surface 860 that slopes downward and inward relative to its upper edge. The inner frame 815 of the illustrated implementation also includes a plurality of magnets 852 disposed on the inclined surface 860. In the illustrated implementation, there are four individual magnets 852A, 852B, 852C, and 852D, each having a substantially block-like or rectangular prism shape; however, in other implementations, more or fewer individual magnets may be used, and the magnets may have different shapes and / or sizes. Reference is made to possible magnet materials discussed above. In the illustrated implementation, the magnets 852A, 852B, 852C, and 852D are approximately equally spaced around the angled surface 860 of the inner frame 815. The magnets 852A, 852B, 852C, and 852D in the illustrated implementation can be secured to the inside of the angled surface 860 via a press fit and / or adhesive connection, or via an insert molding process, although other methods are possible.

[0090] Additionally, the inner frame 815 of the illustrated implementation also includes a pair of conductive pins 820A, 820B (not shown in FIG. 8A ) disposed within the inner frame 815 and adjacent its top 858. In the illustrated implementation, the conductive pins 820A, 820B comprise spring-loaded pins (e.g., electric pogo pins), each of which is biased inward so that a portion of the end of the pin extends into the cartridge receiving chamber 812 and is configured to flex outward against the force of an integral spring, although other types of conductive elements may be used in other implementations. In the illustrated implementation, the ends of the conductive pins 820A, 820B have a rounded profile, although other profiles are possible to facilitate flexing of the conductive pins 820A, 820B when a cartridge is inserted into the receiving chamber 812. In the illustrated implementation, the conductive pins 820A, 820B may be attached to the inside of the inner frame 815 via a press-fit and / or adhesive connection or via an insert molding process so that the movable components of the conductive pins can flex outward against the force of the springs. In the illustrated implementation, the conductive pins 820A, 820B are in turn operably connected to a battery of the controller to power the heater of an inserted cartridge, as described below. In various implementations, the conductive pins 820A, 820B can be made of any conductive material, including, but not limited to, copper, beryllium copper, aluminum, platinum, gold, silver, iron, steel, brass, bronze, graphite, conductive ceramic materials, and / or any combination thereof.

[0091] 8C shows a perspective view of a cartridge according to an exemplary implementation of the present disclosure. In particular, FIG. 8C shows cartridge 700 including a reservoir 702 defined by an outer reservoir wall 704 including a proximal end 706 and a closed distal end 708. In many embodiments, cartridge 700 may have a similar configuration and may include similar configurations (and variations of similar configurations and components) as cartridge 300 described above, which will not be repeated here. Accordingly, reference is made to the appropriate descriptions of these configurations and components (and variations of configurations and components).

[0092] The cartridge 700 in the illustrated implementation includes a mouthpiece 710 defined by an outer mouthpiece wall 712 including a proximal end 714 having an exit portal 715 defined therein and a distal end 716 that engages the proximal end 706 of the reservoir 702. In the illustrated implementation, the mouthpiece wall 712 includes a flange 750 disposed between its proximal end 714 and distal end 716. The flange 750 in the illustrated implementation also includes a sloped surface 760 defined below its upper portion. The cartridge 700 in the illustrated implementation also includes a plurality of magnets 752 disposed on the sloped surface 760. In the illustrated implementation, there are four individual magnets 752A, 752B, 752C, and 752D, each having a substantially block-like or rectangular prism shape; however, in other implementations, more or fewer individual magnets may be used, and the magnets may have different shapes and / or sizes. Reference is made to possible magnet materials described above. In the illustrated implementation, the magnets 752A, 752B, 752C, and 752D are approximately equally spaced around the angled surface 760 of the flange 750 of the cartridge 700. The magnets 752A, 752B, 752C, and 752D in the illustrated implementation can be secured to the inside of the angled surface 760 via a press fit and / or adhesive connection, or via an insert molding process, although other methods are possible.

[0093] Although not shown, cartridge 700 also includes a pair of conductive plugs similar to those described above with respect to cartridge 500 of FIG. 4B. Notably, the conductive plugs are located on either side of mouthpiece 710 and below flange 750. In the illustrated implementation, the conductive plugs may be attached to the inside of mouthpiece 710 of cartridge 700 via adhesive, although other attachment methods are possible in other implementations, including, for example, an insert molding process. In the illustrated implementation, the conductive plugs are operably connected to heater 720 (see FIG. 9 ) of cartridge 700. In various implementations, the conductive plugs can be composed of any conductive material, including, but not limited to, copper, beryllium copper, aluminum, platinum, gold, silver, iron, steel, brass, bronze, graphite, conductive ceramic materials, and / or any combination thereof.

[0094] In various implementations, a portion of the cartridge 700 of FIG. 8C is configured to mate with the cartridge receiving chamber 812 of the inner frame 815 of FIGS. 8A and 8B such that a magnetic and electrical connection is formed between the cartridge and the controller. In particular, FIG. 9 shows a partial cross-sectional view of the cartridge 700 mated with the inner frame 815 of the controller. In the illustrated implementation, the angled surface 860 of the inner frame 815 is configured to complement the angled surface 760 of the flange 750 of the cartridge 700. Thus, when the cartridge 700 of the illustrated implementation is mated with the inner frame 815 of the controller, a magnetic connection is formed between the plurality of magnets 852A, 852B, 852C, and 852D disposed on the angled surface 860 of the inner frame 815 of the controller and the plurality of magnets 752A, 752B, 752C, and 752D disposed on the angled surface 760 of the cartridge 700. Furthermore, when the cartridge 700 of the illustrated implementation is coupled to the inner frame 815, an electrical connection is formed between the pair of conductive pins 820A, 820B of the controller inner frame 815 and the conductive plug of the cartridge 700. Therefore, when the cartridge 700 is received in the controller inner frame 815, the heater 720 of the cartridge 700 can be operably connected to the controller's battery. Therefore, when the cartridge 700 of the illustrated implementation is coupled to the controller inner frame 815, the cartridge 700 is mechanically biased to connect with the controller inner frame 815 via a magnetic connection so that the electrical connection between the cartridge and the controller is maintained. Note that in other implementations, either the plurality of magnets 852A, 852B, 852C, 852D of the controller inner frame 815 or the plurality of magnets 752A, 752B, 752C, 752D of the cartridge (or a combination of both) may be replaced by a metal plate to achieve the magnetic connection between the cartridge 700 and the controller inner frame 815.

[0095] FIG. 10A shows a perspective view of an inner frame of a control device according to an exemplary implementation of the present disclosure, and FIG. 10B shows a partially exploded plan view of the inner frame of a control device according to an exemplary implementation of the present disclosure. In particular, FIGS. 10A and 10B show an inner frame 1015 for use with a corresponding control device. In many aspects, the control device can have a similar configuration to the control device 200 described above and can include similar components (and variations of the similar configurations and components). Therefore, the appropriate descriptions of these configurations and components (and variations of the configurations and components) are referred to and will not be repeated here.

[0096] As shown, the inner frame 1015 of the illustrated implementation includes a cartridge-receiving chamber 1012 and a plurality of flange features 1056 extending outward from a top 1058 of the inner frame 1015. Although other configurations are possible, the flange features 1056 of the illustrated implementation are approximately equally spaced around the periphery of the top 1058 of the inner frame 1015. The top 1058 of the inner frame 1015 also defines an inclined surface 1060 that slopes downward and inward relative to its upper edge. The inner frame 1015 of the illustrated implementation also includes a plurality of magnets 1052 disposed on the inclined surface 1060. In the illustrated implementation, there are four individual magnets 1052A, 1052B, 1052C, and 1052D, each having a substantially block-like or rectangular prismatic shape; however, in other implementations, more or fewer individual magnets may be used, and the magnets may have different shapes and / or sizes. Reference is made to possible magnet materials discussed above. In the illustrated implementation, the magnets 1052A, 1052B, 1052C, 1052D are approximately equally spaced around the angled surface 1060 of the inner frame 1015. The magnets 1052A, 1052B, 1052C, 1052D in the illustrated implementation can be secured to the inside of the angled surface 1060 via a press fit and / or adhesive connection, or via an insert molding process, although other methods are possible.

[0097] Additionally, the inner frame 1015 of the illustrated implementation also includes a pair of conductive pins 1020A, 1020B (not shown in FIG. 10A ) disposed within the inner frame 1015 and adjacent its top 1058. In the illustrated implementation, the conductive pins 1020A, 1020B comprise spring-loaded pins (e.g., electric pogo pins), each of which is configured to be biased inward so that a portion of the end of the pin extends into the cartridge receiving chamber 1012 and to deflect outward against the force of an integral spring, although other types of conductive elements may be used in other implementations. In the illustrated implementation, the ends of the conductive pins 1020A, 1020B have rounded profiles, although other profiles are possible to facilitate deflection of the conductive pins 1020A, 1020B when a cartridge is inserted into the receiving chamber 1012. In the illustrated implementation, the conductive pins 1020A, 1020B may be attached to the inside of the inner frame 1015 via a press-fit and / or adhesive connection or via an insert molding process so that the movable components of the conductive pins can flex outward against the force of the springs. In the illustrated implementation, the conductive pins 1020A, 1020B are in turn operably connected to a battery of the controller to power the heater of an inserted cartridge, as described below. In various implementations, the conductive pins 1020A, 1020B can be made of any conductive material, including, but not limited to, copper, beryllium copper, aluminum, platinum, gold, silver, iron, steel, brass, bronze, graphite, conductive ceramic materials, and / or any combination thereof.

[0098] 10C shows a perspective view of a cartridge according to an exemplary implementation of the present disclosure. In particular, FIG. 10C shows cartridge 900 including a reservoir 902 defined by an outer reservoir wall 904 including a proximal end 906 and a closed distal end 908. In many embodiments, cartridge 900 may have a similar configuration and may include similar configurations (and variations of similar configurations and components) as cartridge 300 described above, which will not be repeated here. Therefore, reference is made to the appropriate descriptions of these configurations and components (and variations of configurations and components).

[0099] The cartridge 900 in the illustrated implementation includes a mouthpiece 910 defined by an outer mouthpiece wall 912 including a proximal end 914 having an exit portal 915 defined therein and a distal end 916 that engages the proximal end 906 of the reservoir 902. In the illustrated implementation, the mouthpiece wall 912 includes a flange 950 disposed between its proximal end 914 and distal end 916. In the illustrated implementation, the flange 950 of the cartridge 900 also includes a metal ring 952 that defines a beveled surface 960. In the illustrated implementation, the metal ring 952 is attached to the bottom of the flange 950 of the mouthpiece 910 via adhesive, although other attachment methods are possible in other implementations, including, for example, an insert molding process. In various implementations, the metal ring 952 can include any material configured to be attracted by a magnet, such as various ferromagnetic materials, including, but not limited to, alloys such as iron, nickel, cobalt, steel, and / or any combination thereof.

[0100] Although not shown, cartridge 900 also includes a pair of conductive plugs similar to those described above with respect to cartridge 500 of FIG. 4B. Notably, the conductive plugs are located on either side of mouthpiece 910 and below flange 950. In the illustrated implementation, the conductive plugs may be attached to the inside of mouthpiece 910 of cartridge 900 via adhesive, although other attachment methods are possible in other implementations, including, for example, an insert molding process. In the illustrated implementation, the conductive plugs are operably connected to heater 920 of cartridge 900 (see FIG. 11 ). In various implementations, the conductive plugs can be made of any conductive material, including, but not limited to, copper, beryllium copper, aluminum, platinum, gold, silver, iron, steel, brass, bronze, graphite, conductive ceramic materials, and / or any combination thereof.

[0101] In various implementations, a portion of the cartridge 900 of FIG. 10C is configured to be coupled with the cartridge receiving chamber 1012 of the inner frame 1015 of FIGS. 10A and 10B such that a magnetic and electrical connection is formed between the cartridge and the controller. In particular, FIG. 11 shows a partial cross-sectional view of the cartridge 900 coupled with the inner frame 1015 of the controller. In the illustrated implementation, the angled surface 1060 of the inner frame 1015 is configured to complement the angled surface 960 of the metal ring 952 of the flange 950 of the cartridge 900. Thus, when the cartridge 900 of the illustrated implementation is coupled to the inner frame 1015 of the controller, a magnetic connection is formed between the multiple magnets 1052A, 1052B, 1052C, 1052D disposed on the angled surface 1060 of the inner frame 1015 of the controller and the metal ring 952 that comprises a portion of the flange 950 of the cartridge 900. Furthermore, when the cartridge 900 of the illustrated implementation is coupled to the inner frame 1015, an electrical connection is formed between a pair of conductive pins 1020A, 102B of the inner frame 1015 of the control device and a conductive plug of the cartridge 900. Thus, when the cartridge 900 is received in the inner frame 1015 of the control device, the heater 920 of the cartridge 900 can be operably connected to the battery of the control device. Thus, when the cartridge 900 of the illustrated implementation is coupled to the inner frame 1015 of the control device, the cartridge 900 is mechanically biased into connection with the inner frame 1015 of the control device such that the electrical connection between the cartridge and the control device is maintained.

[0102] FIG. 12A shows an exploded, partial perspective view of an inner frame of a control device according to an exemplary implementation of the present disclosure. In particular, FIG. 12A shows inner frame 1215 for use with a corresponding control device. In many aspects, the control device can have a similar configuration to control device 200 described above and can include similar components (and variations of similar configurations and components). Therefore, the appropriate descriptions of these configurations and components (and variations of configurations and components) are referred to and will not be repeated here.

[0103] As shown, the inner frame 1215 of the illustrated implementation includes a cartridge-receiving chamber 1212 and a magnetic ring 1252 that defines an upper portion 1258 of the inner frame 1215. In the illustrated implementation, the magnetic ring 1252 defines an inclined surface 1260 that slopes downward and inward relative to its upper edge. In the illustrated implementation, the magnetic ring 1252 is secured to the inner frame 1215 via adhesive, although other attachment methods are possible in other implementations, such as via an insert molding process. Reference is made to possible magnet materials discussed above.

[0104] Additionally, the inner frame 1215 of the illustrated implementation also includes a pair of conductive pins 1220A, 1220B disposed within the inner frame 1215 and adjacent its top 1258. In the illustrated implementation, the conductive pins 1220A, 1220B comprise spring-loaded pins (e.g., electric pogo pins), each of which is biased inward so that a portion of the end of the pin extends into the cartridge receiving chamber 1212 and is configured to flex outward against the force of an integral spring, although other types of conductive elements may be used in other implementations. In the illustrated implementation, the ends of the conductive pins 1220A, 1220B have rounded profiles, although other profiles are possible to facilitate flexing of the conductive pins 1220 when a cartridge is inserted into the receiving chamber 1212. In the illustrated implementation, the conductive pins 1220A, 1220B may be attached to the inside of the inner frame 1215 via a press-fit and / or adhesive connection or via an insert molding process so that the movable components of the conductive pins can flex outward against the force of the springs. In the illustrated implementation, the conductive pins 1220A, 1220B are in turn operably connected to a battery of the controller to power the heater of an inserted cartridge, as described below. In various implementations, the conductive pins 1220A, 1220B can be made of any conductive material, including, but not limited to, copper, beryllium copper, aluminum, platinum, gold, silver, iron, steel, brass, bronze, graphite, conductive ceramic materials, and / or any combination thereof.

[0105] 12B shows a perspective view of a cartridge according to an exemplary implementation of the present disclosure. In particular, FIG. 12B shows cartridge 1100 including a reservoir 1102 defined by an outer reservoir wall 1104 including a proximal end 1106 and a closed distal end 1108. In many embodiments, cartridge 1100 may have a similar configuration and may include similar configurations (and variations of similar configurations and components) as cartridge 300 described above, which will not be repeated here. Accordingly, reference is made to the appropriate descriptions of these configurations and components (and variations of configurations and components).

[0106] The cartridge 1100 of the illustrated implementation includes a mouthpiece 1110 defined by an outer mouthpiece wall 1112 including a proximal end 1114 having an exit portal 1115 defined therein and a distal end 1116 that engages the proximal end 1106 of the reservoir 1102. In the illustrated implementation, the mouthpiece wall 1112 includes a flange 1150 disposed between its proximal end 1114 and distal end 1116. In the illustrated implementation, the flange 1150 of the cartridge 1100 also includes a metal ring 1152 that defines a beveled surface 1160. In various implementations, the metal ring 1152 can include any material configured to be attracted by a magnet, such as various ferromagnetic materials, including, but not limited to, alloys such as iron, nickel, cobalt, steel, and / or any combination thereof.

[0107] The cartridge 1100 also includes a pair of conductive plugs 1125A, 1125B disposed on either side of the mouthpiece 1110 and below the metal plate 1152 of the flange 1150. In the illustrated implementation, the conductive plugs may be attached to the inside of the mouthpiece 1110 of the cartridge 1100 via adhesive, although other attachment methods are possible in other implementations, including, for example, an insert molding process. In the illustrated implementation, the conductive plugs 1125A, 1125B are operably connected to the heater 1120 (see FIG. 13 ) of the cartridge 1100. In various implementations, the conductive plugs 1125A, 1125B can be composed of any conductive material, including, for example, but not limited to, copper, beryllium copper, aluminum, platinum, gold, silver, iron, steel, brass, bronze, graphite, conductive ceramic materials, and / or any combination thereof.

[0108] In various implementations, a portion of the cartridge 1100 of FIG. 12B is configured to mate with the cartridge receiving chamber 1212 of the inner frame 1215 of FIG. 12A such that a magnetic and electrical connection is formed between the cartridge and the controller. In particular, FIG. 13 shows a partial cross-sectional view of the cartridge 1100 coupled to the inner frame 1215 of the controller. In the illustrated implementation, the angled surface 1260 of the magnetic ring 1252 of the inner frame 1215 is configured to complement the angled surface 1160 of the metal ring 1152 of the flange 1150 of the cartridge 1100, although in other implementations, the contact surfaces may be flat (e.g., thus forming a substantially perpendicular interface between the surfaces). Thus, when the cartridge 1100 of the illustrated implementation is coupled to the inner frame 1215 of the controller, a magnetic connection is formed between the magnetic ring 1252 of the inner frame 1215 of the controller and the metal ring 1152 that comprises a portion of the flange 1150 of the cartridge 1100. Furthermore, when the cartridge 1100 of the illustrated implementation is coupled to the inner frame 1215, an electrical connection is formed between the pair of conductive pins 1220A, 1220B of the inner frame 1215 of the control device and the conductive plugs 1125A, 1125B of the cartridge 1100. Thus, when the cartridge 1100 is received in the inner frame 1215 of the control device, the heater 1120 of the cartridge 1100 can be operably connected to the battery of the control device. Thus, when the cartridge 1100 of the illustrated implementation is coupled to the inner frame 1215 of the control device, the cartridge 1100 is mechanically biased into connection with the inner frame 1215 of the control device such that the electrical connection between the cartridge and the control device is maintained.

[0109] FIG. 14A shows a partial perspective view of an inner frame of a control device according to an exemplary implementation of the present disclosure. In particular, FIG. 14A shows an inner frame 1415 for use with a corresponding control device. In many aspects, the control device can have a similar configuration to the control device 200 described above and can include similar components (and variations of the same configurations and components). Therefore, the appropriate descriptions of these configurations and components (and variations of the configurations and components) are referred to and will not be repeated here.

[0110] As shown, the inner frame 1415 of the illustrated implementation includes a cartridge-receiving chamber 1412 and a pair of separate magnets 1452A, 1452B that define a portion of the upper portion 1458 of the inner frame 1415. In the illustrated implementation, the upper portion 1458 of the inner frame 1415 (defined by the pair of separate magnets 1452A, 1452B and the portion of the inner frame 1415 between the magnets 1452A, 1452B) defines an inclined surface 1460 that slopes downward and inward relative to the upper edge. In the illustrated implementation, the separate magnets 1452A, 1452B have an arc shape and are attached to the inner frame 1415 via adhesive, although other attachment methods are possible in other implementations, such as via an insert molding process. In the illustrated implementation, the separate magnets 1452A, 1452B are operably connected to a battery of the controller to power a heater in an inserted cartridge, as described below. Reference is made to the possible magnet materials mentioned above.

[0111] FIG. 14B shows a perspective view of a cartridge according to an exemplary implementation of the present disclosure, and FIG. 14C shows a partially transparent perspective view of a cartridge according to an exemplary implementation of the present disclosure. In particular, FIGS. 14B and 14C show a cartridge 1300 including a reservoir 1302 defined by an outer reservoir wall 1304 including a proximal end 1306 and a closed distal end 1308. In many embodiments, the cartridge 1300 may have a similar configuration and may include similar configurations (and variations of similar configurations and components) as the cartridge 300 described above, which will not be repeated here. Therefore, reference is made to the appropriate descriptions of these configurations and components (and variations of configurations and components).

[0112] The cartridge 1300 in the illustrated implementation includes a mouthpiece 1310 defined by an outer mouthpiece wall 1312 including a proximal end 1314 having an exit portal 1315 defined therein and a distal end 1316 that engages the proximal end 1306 of the reservoir 1302. In the illustrated implementation, the mouthpiece wall 1312 includes a flange 1350 disposed between its proximal end 1314 and distal end 1316. In the illustrated implementation, the flange 1350 of the cartridge 1300 includes a pair of separate metal plates 1352A, 1352B. In the illustrated implementation, the pair of separate metal plates 1352A, 1352B and the portion of the flange 1350 between the metal plates 1352A, 1352B define an inclined surface 1360 that slopes downwardly and inwardly. In the illustrated implementation, the separate metal plates 1352A, 1352B have an arrowhead shape and are secured to the flange 1350 of the cartridge 1300 via adhesive or an insert molding process, although other attachment methods are possible. In the illustrated implementation, the separate metal plates 1352A, 1352B are operably connected to the heater 1320 (see FIGS. 14C and 15 ) of the cartridge 1300. In various implementations, the metal plates 1352A, 1352B can comprise any material that is electrically conductive and configured to be attracted by a magnet, such as various ferromagnetic materials, including, but not limited to, iron, nickel, cobalt, alloys such as steel, and / or any combination thereof.

[0113] In various implementations, a portion of the cartridge 1300 of FIGS. 14B and 14C is configured to mate with the cartridge receiving chamber 1412 of the inner frame 1415 of FIG. 14A such that a magnetic and electrical connection is formed between the cartridge and the controller. In particular, FIG. 15 shows a partial cross-sectional view of the cartridge 1300 coupled with the inner frame 1415 of the controller. In the illustrated implementation, the angled surfaces 1460 of the separate magnets 1452A, 1452B and portions of the inner frame 1415 are configured to complement the angled surfaces 1360 of the separate metal plates 1352A, 1352B and portions of the flange 1350 of the cartridge 1300, although in other implementations the contact surfaces may be flat (e.g., thus forming a substantially perpendicular interface between the surfaces). Thus, when the cartridge 1300 of the illustrated implementation is coupled to the controller inner frame 1415, a magnetic and electrical connection is formed between the separate magnets 1452A, 1452B of the controller inner frame 1415 and the separate metal plates 1352A, 1352B comprising part of the flange 1350 of the cartridge 1300. Thus, when the cartridge 1300 is received in the controller inner frame 1415, the heater 1320 of the cartridge 1300 can be operably connected to the controller's battery. Thus, when the cartridge 1300 of the illustrated implementation is coupled to the controller inner frame 1415, the cartridge 13200 is mechanically biased into connection with the controller inner frame 1415 such that an electrical connection between the cartridge and the controller is maintained.

[0114] FIG. 16A shows a partial perspective view of an inner frame of a control device according to an exemplary implementation of the present disclosure, and FIG. 16B shows a plan view of the inner frame of a control device according to an exemplary implementation of the present disclosure. In particular, FIGS. 16A and 16B show a portion of an inner frame 1615 for use with a corresponding control device. In many aspects, the control device can have a similar configuration to the control device 200 described above and can include similar components (and variations of the similar configurations and components). Therefore, the appropriate descriptions of these configurations and components (and variations of the configurations and components) are referred to and will not be repeated here.

[0115] As shown, the inner frame 1615 of the illustrated implementation includes a cartridge-receiving chamber 1612 and an upper portion 1658 defined at the upper end of the inner frame 1615. The inner frame 1615 of the illustrated implementation also includes a plurality of magnets 1652 disposed proximate the upper portion 1658. In the illustrated implementation, there are four individual magnets 1652A, 1652B, 1652C, and 1652D, each having a substantially spherical shape; however, in other implementations, more or fewer individual magnets may be used, and the magnets may have different shapes and / or sizes. Reference is made to possible magnet materials described above. In the illustrated implementation, the magnets 1652A, 1652B, 1652C, and 1652D are spaced around the exterior of the inner frame 1615 and proximate the upper portion 1658, with each of the plurality of magnets disposed within a corresponding magnet receiving feature 1653. In the illustrated implementation, each magnet receiving feature 1653 includes a compartment in which a respective magnet 1652 is captured. Each magnet receiving feature 1653 further defines an opening 1654 that extends into the cartridge receiving chamber 1612. In various implementations, the magnets 1652A, 1652B, 1652C, 1652D are configured to move within the receiving feature 1653 in one direction such that at least a portion of each magnet 1652 extends through its respective opening 1654, and in the opposite direction such that each magnet can move away from the opening 1654.

[0116] Additionally, the inner frame 1615 of the illustrated implementation also includes a pair of conductive pins 1620A, 1620B disposed within the inner frame 1615 and adjacent its top 1658. In the illustrated implementation, the conductive pins 1620A, 1620B comprise spring-loaded pins (e.g., electric pogo pins), each of which is biased inward so that a portion of the end of the pin extends into the cartridge receiving chamber 1612 and is configured to flex outward against the force of an integral spring, although other types of conductive elements may be used in other implementations. In the illustrated implementation, the ends of the conductive pins 1620A, 1620B have a rounded profile, although other profiles are possible to facilitate flexing of the conductive pins 1620A, 1620B when a cartridge is inserted into the receiving chamber 1612. In the illustrated implementation, the conductive pins 1620A, 1620B may be attached to the inside of the inner frame 1615 via a press-fit and / or adhesive connection or via an insert molding process so that the movable components of the conductive pins can flex outward against the force of the springs. In the illustrated implementation, the conductive pins 1620A, 1620B are in turn operably connected to a battery of the controller to power the heater of an inserted cartridge, as described below. In various implementations, the conductive pins 1620A, 1620B can be made of any conductive material, including, but not limited to, copper, beryllium copper, aluminum, platinum, gold, silver, iron, steel, brass, bronze, graphite, conductive ceramic materials, and / or any combination thereof.

[0117] 16C shows a perspective view of a cartridge according to an exemplary implementation of the present disclosure. In particular, FIG. 16C shows cartridge 1500 including a reservoir 1502 defined by an outer reservoir wall 1504 including a proximal end 1506 and a closed distal end 1508. In many embodiments, cartridge 1500 may have a similar configuration and may include similar configurations (and variations of similar configurations and components) as cartridge 300 described above, which will not be repeated here. Accordingly, reference is made to the appropriate descriptions of these configurations and components (and variations of configurations and components).

[0118] The cartridge 1500 in the illustrated implementation includes a mouthpiece 1510 defined by an outer mouthpiece wall 1512 including a proximal end 1514 having an exit portal 1515 defined therein and a distal end 1516 that engages the proximal end 1506 of the reservoir 1502. In the illustrated implementation, the mouthpiece wall 1512 includes a flange 1550 disposed between its proximal end 1514 and distal end 1516. The cartridge 1500 in the illustrated implementation also includes a pair of metal plates 1552A, 1552B, each disposed below the flange 1550 and on either side of the mouthpiece 1510. In the illustrated implementation, the metal plates 1552A, 1552B are secured to the mouthpiece 1510 via adhesive or an insert molding process, although other attachment methods are possible in other implementations. In the illustrated implementation, each of the metal plates 1552A, 1552B includes a pair of detents 1555 disposed at opposite ends thereof. In various implementations, the detents 1555 are configured to receive a portion of the spherical magnet 1652 of the cartridge 1600. In the illustrated implementation, the metal plates 1552 are also operably connected to the heater 1520 (see FIG. 5 ) of the cartridge 1500. In various implementations, the metal plates 1552A, 1552B may include any material configured to be electrically conductive and attracted by a magnet, such as various ferromagnetic materials, including, but not limited to, iron, nickel, cobalt, alloys such as steel, and / or any combination thereof.

[0119] In various implementations, a portion of the cartridge 1500 of FIG. 16C is configured to mate with the cartridge receiving chamber 1612 of the inner frame 1615 of FIGS. 16A and 16B such that a magnetic and electrical connection is formed between the cartridge and the controller. In particular, FIG. 17 shows a partial cross-sectional view of the cartridge 1500 coupled with the inner frame 1615 of the controller. As shown, when the cartridge 1500 of the illustrated implementation is coupled with the inner frame 1615 of the controller, a magnetic connection is formed between a plurality of magnets 1652 disposed on the inner frame 1615 of the controller and the metal plate 1652 of the cartridge. In particular, when the cartridge 1500 is coupled with the inner frame 1615 of the controller, the plurality of magnets 1652 are positioned within the detents 1555 of each of the metal plates 1552A, 1552B. Furthermore, when the cartridge 1500 of the illustrated implementation is coupled to the inner frame 1615, an electrical connection is formed between the pair of conductive pins 1620A, 1620B of the inner frame 1615 of the control device and the metal plates 1552A, 1552B of the cartridge 1500. Thus, when the cartridge 1500 is received in the inner frame 1615 of the control device, the heater 1520 of the cartridge 1500 can be operably connected to the battery of the control device. Thus, when the cartridge 1500 of the illustrated implementation is coupled to the inner frame 1615 of the control device, the cartridge 1500 is mechanically biased into connection with the inner frame 1615 of the control device such that the electrical connection between the cartridge and the control device is maintained.

[0120] FIG. 18A shows a partial perspective view of an inner frame of a control device according to an exemplary implementation of the present disclosure. In particular, FIG. 18A shows a portion of an inner frame 1815 for use with a corresponding control device. In many aspects, the control device can have a similar configuration to the control device 200 described above and can include similar components (and variations of the similar configurations and components). Therefore, the appropriate descriptions of these configurations and components (and variations of the configurations and components) are referred to and will not be repeated here.

[0121] As shown, the inner frame 1815 of the illustrated implementation includes a cartridge-receiving chamber 1812 defining an upper portion 1858 thereof. The inner frame 1815 of the illustrated implementation also includes a pair of magnets 1852A, 1852B disposed on an outer wall of the control device and above the upper portion 1858 of the inner frame 1815. In the illustrated implementation, the magnets 1852A, 1852B are disposed on opposite sides of the control device, with each magnet 1852 having a wedge shape defining an undercut surface 1857. In the illustrated implementation, the magnets 1852A, 1852B can be secured to the control device via adhesive, although other attachment methods are possible in other implementations, including, for example, an insert molding process. Reference is made to possible magnet materials discussed above.

[0122] Additionally, the inner frame 1815 of the illustrated implementation also includes a pair of conductive pins 1820A, 1820B disposed within the inner frame 1815 proximate its top 1858. In the illustrated implementation, the conductive pins 1820A, 1820B comprise spring-loaded pins (e.g., electric pogo pins), each of which is configured to be biased inward so that a portion of the end of the pin extends into the cartridge receiving chamber 1812 and to deflect outward against the force of an integral spring, although other types of conductive elements may be used in other implementations. In the illustrated implementation, the ends of the conductive pins 1820A, 1820B have a rounded profile, although other profiles are possible to facilitate deflection of the conductive pins 1820A, 1820B when a cartridge is inserted into the receiving chamber 1812. In the illustrated implementation, the conductive pins 1820A, 1820B may be attached to the inside of the inner frame 1815 via a press-fit and / or adhesive connection or via an insert molding process so that the movable components of the conductive pins can flex outward against the force of the springs. In the illustrated implementation, the conductive pins 1820A, 1820B are in turn operably connected to a battery of the controller to power the heater of an inserted cartridge, as described below. In various implementations, the conductive pins 1820A, 1820B can be made of any conductive material, including, but not limited to, copper, aluminum, platinum, gold, silver, iron, steel, brass, bronze, graphite, conductive ceramic materials, and / or any combination thereof.

[0123] 18B shows a perspective view of a cartridge according to an exemplary implementation of the present disclosure. In particular, FIG. 18B shows cartridge 1700 including a reservoir 1702 defined by an outer reservoir wall 1704 including a proximal end 1706 and a closed distal end 1708. In many embodiments, cartridge 1700 may have a similar configuration and may include similar configurations (and variations of similar configurations and components) as cartridge 300 described above, which will not be repeated here. Accordingly, reference is made to the appropriate descriptions of these configurations and components (and variations of configurations and components).

[0124] The cartridge 1700 in the illustrated implementation includes a mouthpiece 1710 defined by an outer mouthpiece wall 1712 including a proximal end 1714 having an exit portal 1715 defined therein and a distal end 1716 that engages the proximal end 1706 of the reservoir 1702. In the illustrated implementation, the mouthpiece wall 1712 includes a flange 1750 disposed between its proximal end 1714 and distal end 1716. The cartridge 1700 in the illustrated implementation also includes a pair of sliding metal plates 1752A, 1752B disposed within the flange 1750. In the illustrated implementation, each of the metal plates 1752 has a pointed structure defining a peak region 1759 and is configured to slide outward with spring force and inward against spring force. The extent to which the metal plates 1752A, 1752B extend outward is limited by the structure of the flange 1750. The cartridge 1700 also includes a pair of conductive plugs 1725A, 1725B disposed on either side of the mouthpiece 1710 and below the flange 1750 and metal plates 1752A, 1752B. In the illustrated implementation, the conductive plugs 1725A, 1725B may be attached to the inside of the mouthpiece 1710 of the cartridge 1700 via adhesive, although other attachment methods are possible in other implementations, including, for example, an insert molding process. In the illustrated implementation, the conductive plugs 1725A, 1725B are operably connected to the heater 1720 of the cartridge 1700 (see FIGS. 19A and 19B). As mentioned above, in various implementations, the conductive plugs 1725A, 1725B can be composed of any conductive material, including, for example, copper, beryllium copper, aluminum, platinum, gold, silver, iron, steel, brass, bronze, graphite, conductive ceramic materials, and / or any combination thereof. In various implementations, the metal plates 1752A, 1752B can comprise any material configured to be attracted by a magnet, such as various ferromagnetic materials, including, but not limited to, iron, nickel, cobalt, alloys such as steel, and / or any combination thereof.In various implementations, the conductive plugs 1725A, 1725B can be made of any conductive material, including, but not limited to, copper, beryllium copper, aluminum, platinum, gold, silver, iron, steel, brass, bronze, graphite, conductive ceramic materials, and / or any combination thereof.

[0125] In various implementations, a portion of the cartridge 1700 of FIG. 18B is configured to mate with the cartridge receiving chamber 1812 of the inner frame 1815 of FIG. 18A such that a magnetic and electrical connection is formed between the cartridge and the controller. In particular, FIG. 19A shows a partial cross-sectional view of the cartridge 1700 before it is fully mated with the inner frame 1815 of the controller, and FIG. 19B shows a partial cross-sectional view of the cartridge 1700 after it has been mated with the inner frame 1815 of the controller. When the cartridge 1700 is inserted into the inner frame 1815 of the controller, the pointed sliding metal plates initially flex inward until the peak regions 1759 of the metal plates 1752A, 1752B pass the upper edges of the controller magnets 1852A, 1852B, at which point the sliding metal plates 1752A, 1752B extend outward against the undercut surfaces 1857 of the magnets 1852A, 1852B until the cartridge is received in the inner frame 1815. Also, as shown in the figure, when the cartridge 1700 of the illustrated implementation is coupled to the inner frame 1815 of the control device, a magnetic connection is formed between a pair of magnets 1857 disposed on the control device and a pair of sliding metal plates 1752A, 1752B of the cartridge. Furthermore, when the cartridge 1700 of the illustrated implementation is coupled to the inner frame 1815, an electrical connection is formed between a pair of conductive pins 1820A, 1820B of the inner frame 1815 of the control device and conductive plugs 1725A, 1725B of the cartridge 1700. Therefore, when the cartridge 1700 is received in the inner frame 1815 of the control device, the heater 1720 of the cartridge 1700 can be operably connected to the battery of the control device. Therefore, when the cartridge 1700 of the illustrated implementation is coupled to the inner frame 1815 of the control device, the cartridge 1700 is mechanically biased into connection with the inner frame 1815 of the control device so that an electrical connection between the cartridge and the control device is maintained.

[0126] FIG. 20A shows a partially transparent perspective view of an inner frame of a control device according to an exemplary implementation of the present disclosure, and FIG. 20B shows a partially transparent perspective view of an inner frame of a control device according to an exemplary implementation of the present disclosure. In particular, FIGS. 20A and 20B show a portion of an inner frame 2015 for use with a corresponding control device. In many aspects, the control device can have a similar configuration to the control device 200 described above and can include similar components (and variations of the similar configurations and components). Therefore, the appropriate descriptions of these configurations and components (and variations of the configurations and components) are referred to and will not be repeated here.

[0127] As shown in the figures, the inner frame 2015 of the illustrated implementation includes a cartridge-receiving chamber 2012 and an upper flange 2050. The inner frame 2015 of the illustrated implementation also includes a plurality of magnets 2052 disposed proximate the upper flange 2050 of the inner frame 2015. In particular, the illustrated implementation includes two pairs of cylindrical magnets 2052A, 2052B, 2052C, 2052D, with each pair disposed on either side of the inner frame 2015 and extending proximate to its upper flange 2050, and each of the plurality of magnets is disposed inside a corresponding magnet receiving feature 2053, which in the illustrated implementation is an extension of the upper flange 2050. Reference is made to possible magnet materials discussed above. Although other methods are possible, the magnets 2052A, 2052B, 2052C, 2052D of the illustrated implementation may be secured inside the magnet receiving feature 2053 via a press fit and / or adhesive connection, or via an insert molding process.

[0128] Additionally, the inner frame 2015 of the illustrated implementation also includes a pair of conductive pins 2020A, 2020B disposed within the inner frame 2015 and below its top flange 2050. In the illustrated implementation, the conductive pins 2020A, 2020B comprise spring-loaded pins (e.g., electric pogo pins), each of which is biased inwardly so that a portion of the end of the pin extends into the cartridge receiving chamber 2012 and is configured to flex outward against the force of an integral spring, although other types of conductive elements may be used in other implementations. In the illustrated implementation, the ends of the conductive pins 2020A, 2020B have a rounded profile, although other profiles are possible to facilitate flexing of the conductive pins 2020A, 2020B when a cartridge is inserted into the receiving chamber 2012. In the illustrated implementation, the conductive pins 2020A, 2020B may be attached to the inside of the inner frame 2015 via a press-fit and / or adhesive connection or via an insert molding process so that the movable components of the conductive pins can flex outward against the force of the springs. In the illustrated implementation, the conductive pins 2020A, 2020B are in turn operably connected to a battery of the controller to power the heater of an inserted cartridge, as described below. In various implementations, the conductive pins 2020A, 2020B can be made of any conductive material, including, but not limited to, copper, beryllium copper, aluminum, platinum, gold, silver, iron, steel, brass, bronze, graphite, conductive ceramic materials, and / or any combination thereof.

[0129] 20C shows a perspective view of a cartridge according to an exemplary implementation of the present disclosure. In particular, FIG. 20C shows cartridge 1900 including a reservoir 1902 defined by an outer reservoir wall 1904 including a proximal end 1906 and a closed distal end 1908. In many embodiments, cartridge 1900 may have a similar configuration and may include similar configurations (and variations of similar configurations and components) as cartridge 300 described above, which will not be repeated here. Accordingly, reference is made to the appropriate descriptions of these configurations and components (and variations of configurations and components).

[0130] The cartridge 1900 in the illustrated implementation includes a mouthpiece 1910 defined by an outer mouthpiece wall 1912 including a proximal end 1914 having an exit portal 1915 defined therein and a distal end 1916 that engages the proximal end 1906 of the reservoir 1902. In the illustrated implementation, the mouthpiece wall 1912 includes a flange 1950 disposed between its proximal end 1914 and distal end 1916. The cartridge 1900 in the illustrated implementation also includes a metal plate 1952 disposed below the flange 1950. In the illustrated implementation, the metal plate 1952 is attached to the bottom of the flange 1950 of the mouthpiece 1910 via adhesive, although other attachment methods are possible in other implementations, including, for example, an insert molding process. The cartridge 1900 also includes a pair of conductive plugs 1925A, 1925B disposed on either side of the mouthpiece 1910 and below the flange 1950 and metal plate 1952. In the illustrated implementation, the conductive plugs may be attached to the inside of the mouthpiece 1910 of the cartridge 1900 via adhesive, although other attachment methods are possible in other implementations, including, for example, an insert molding process. In the illustrated implementation, the conductive plugs 1925A, 1925B are operably connected to the heater 1920 of the cartridge 1900 (see FIG. 21 ). In various implementations, the conductive plugs can be comprised of any conductive material, including, but not limited to, copper, beryllium copper, aluminum, platinum, gold, silver, iron, steel, brass, bronze, graphite, conductive ceramic materials, and / or any combination thereof. In various implementations, the metal plate 1952 can include any material configured to be attracted by a magnet, such as various ferromagnetic materials, including, but not limited to, alloys of iron, nickel, cobalt, steel, and the like, and / or any combination thereof. In various implementations, the conductive plugs 1925A, 1925B can be made of any conductive material, including, but not limited to, copper, beryllium copper, aluminum, platinum, gold, silver, iron, steel, brass, bronze, graphite, conductive ceramic materials, and / or any combination thereof.

[0131] In various implementations, a portion of the cartridge 1900 of FIG. 20C is configured to mate with the cartridge receiving chamber 2012 of the inner frame 2015 of FIGS. 20A and 2B such that a magnetic and electrical connection is formed between the cartridge and the controller. In particular, FIG. 21 shows a partial cross-sectional view of the cartridge 1900 coupled to the inner frame 2015 of the controller. As shown, when the cartridge 1900 of the illustrated implementation is coupled to the inner frame 2015 of the controller, a magnetic connection is formed between a plurality of magnets 2052A, 2052B, 2052C, and 2052D disposed on the inner frame 2015 of the controller and a metal plate 1952 of the cartridge 1900. Furthermore, when the cartridge 1900 of the illustrated implementation is coupled to the inner frame 2015, an electrical connection is formed between a pair of conductive pins 2020A, 2020B of the inner frame 2015 of the controller and conductive plugs 1925A, 1925B of the cartridge 1900. Thus, when the cartridge 1900 is received in the controller inner frame 2015, the heater 1920 of the cartridge 1900 can be operably connected to the controller's battery. Thus, when the cartridge 1900 of the illustrated implementation is mated with the controller's inner frame 2015, the cartridge 1900 is mechanically biased into connection with the controller's inner frame 2015 such that an electrical connection between the cartridge and the controller is maintained.

[0132] FIG. 22A shows a partially see-through perspective view of an inner frame of a control device according to an exemplary implementation of the present disclosure, and FIG. 22B shows a partially see-through perspective view of an inner frame of a control device according to an exemplary implementation of the present disclosure. In particular, FIGS. 22A and 22B show a portion of an inner frame 2215 for use with a corresponding control device. In many aspects, the control device can have a similar configuration to the control device 200 described above and can include similar components (and variations of the similar configurations and components). Therefore, the appropriate descriptions of these configurations and components (and variations of the configurations and components) are referred to and will not be repeated here.

[0133] As shown in the figure, the inner frame 2215 of the illustrated implementation includes a cartridge receiving chamber 2212 and an upper flange 2250. The inner frame 2215 of the illustrated implementation also includes a plurality of magnets 2252 disposed proximate the upper flange 2250 of the inner frame 2215. In particular, the illustrated implementation includes two pairs of cylindrical magnets 2252A, 2252B, 2252C, 2252D, with each pair disposed on either side of the inner frame 2215 and extending proximate to its upper flange 2250, and each of the plurality of magnets is disposed inside a corresponding magnet receiving feature 2253, which in the illustrated implementation is an extension of the upper flange 2250. Reference is made to possible magnet materials described above. Although other methods are possible, the magnets 2252A, 2252B, 2252C, 2252D of the illustrated implementation may be secured inside the magnet receiving feature 2253 via a press fit and / or adhesive connection, or via an insert molding process.

[0134] Additionally, the inner frame 2215 of the illustrated implementation also includes a pair of conductive pins 2220A, 2220B disposed within the inner frame 2215 and proximate its top flange 2250. In the illustrated implementation, the conductive pins 2220A, 2220B comprise spring-loaded pins (e.g., electric pogo pins), each of which is biased upward such that a portion of the end of the pin extends through the top flange 2250 and is configured to deflect downward against the force of an integral spring, although other types of conductive elements may be used in other implementations. In the illustrated implementation, the ends of the conductive pins 2220A, 2220B have a rounded profile, although other profiles are possible. In the illustrated implementation, the conductive pins 2220A, 2220B may be attached to the inside of the inner frame 2215 via a press fit and / or adhesive connection, or via an insert molding process, such that the movable components of the conductive pins can deflect upward against the force of the spring. In the illustrated implementation, the conductive pins 2220A, 2220B are in turn operably connected to a battery in the controller to power a heater in an inserted cartridge, as described below. In various implementations, the conductive pins 2220A, 2220B can be made from any conductive material, including, but not limited to, copper, beryllium copper, aluminum, platinum, gold, silver, iron, steel, brass, bronze, graphite, conductive ceramic materials, and / or any combination thereof.

[0135] 22C shows a perspective view of a cartridge according to an exemplary implementation of the present disclosure. In particular, FIG. 22C shows cartridge 2100 including reservoir 2102 defined by outer reservoir wall 2104 including proximal end 2106 and closed distal end 2108. In many embodiments, cartridge 2100 may have a similar configuration and may include similar configurations (and variations of similar configurations and components) as cartridge 300 described above, which will not be repeated here. Accordingly, reference is made to the appropriate descriptions of these configurations and components (and variations of configurations and components).

[0136] The cartridge 2100 in the illustrated implementation includes a mouthpiece 2110 defined by an outer mouthpiece wall 2112 including a proximal end 2114 having an exit portal 2115 defined therein and a distal end 2116 that engages the proximal end 2106 of the reservoir 2102. In the illustrated implementation, the mouthpiece wall 2112 includes a flange 2150 disposed between its proximal end 2114 and distal end 2116. The cartridge 2100 in the illustrated implementation also includes a pair of separate metal plates 2152A, 2152B that comprise a portion of the flange 2150. In the illustrated implementation, the metal plates 2152A, 2152B are secured to the flange 2150 of the mouthpiece 2110 via an adhesive, although other attachment methods are possible in other implementations, including, for example, an insert molding process. In the illustrated implementation, the separate metal plates 2152A, 2152B are operably connected to the heater 2120 (see FIG. 23 ) of the cartridge 2100. In various implementations, the metal plates 2152A, 2152B comprise any material that is electrically conductive and configured to be attracted by a magnet, such as various ferromagnetic materials, including, but not limited to, iron, nickel, cobalt, alloys such as steel, and / or any combination thereof.

[0137] In various implementations, a portion of the cartridge 2100 of FIG. 22C is configured to mate with the cartridge receiving chamber 2212 of the inner frame 2215 of FIG. 22A and FIG. 22B such that a magnetic and electrical connection is formed between the cartridge and the controller. In particular, FIG. 23 shows a partial cross-sectional view of the cartridge 2100 mated with the inner frame 2215 of the controller. As shown, when the cartridge 2100 of the illustrated implementation is mated with the inner frame 2215 of the controller, a magnetic connection is formed between a plurality of magnets 2252A, 2252B, 2252C, 2252D disposed on the inner frame 2215 of the controller and the metal plates 2152A, 2152B of the cartridge 2100. Furthermore, when the cartridge 2100 of the illustrated implementation is mated with the inner frame 2215, an electrical connection is formed between a pair of conductive pins 2220A, 2220B of the inner frame 2215 of the controller and the metal plates 2152A, 2152B of the cartridge 2100. Thus, when the cartridge 2100 is received in the controller inner frame 2215, the heater 2120 of the cartridge 2100 can be operably connected to the controller's battery. Thus, when the cartridge 2100 of the illustrated implementation is mated with the controller's inner frame 2215, the cartridge 2100 is mechanically biased into connection with the controller's inner frame 2215 such that an electrical connection between the cartridge and the controller is maintained.

[0138] FIG. 24A shows a partial perspective view of an inner frame of a control device according to an exemplary implementation of the present disclosure. In particular, FIG. 24A shows a portion of an inner frame 2415 for use with a corresponding control device. In many aspects, the control device can have a similar configuration to the control device 200 described above and can include similar components (and variations of similar configurations and components). Therefore, the appropriate descriptions of these configurations and components (and variations of configurations and components) are referred to and will not be repeated here.

[0139] As shown, the inner frame 2415 of the illustrated implementation includes a cartridge receiving chamber 2412 and an upper flange 2450. The inner frame 2415 of the illustrated implementation also includes a pair of magnets 2452A, 2452B positioned proximate the upper flange 2450 of the inner frame 2415. In particular, the illustrated implementation includes two cylindrical magnets 2452A, 2452B positioned on opposite sides of the inner frame 2415 and extending through its upper flange 2450. Reference is made to possible magnet materials described above. Although other configurations are possible, in the illustrated implementation, the upper surfaces of the magnets 2452A, 2452B are substantially flush with the upper surface of the upper flange 2450. In the illustrated implementation, each of the magnets is positioned within a corresponding magnet receiving feature 2453, which in the illustrated implementation is an extension of the upper flange 2450. Although other methods are possible, the magnets 2452A, 2452B in the illustrated implementation can be secured inside the magnet receiving feature 2453 via a press fit and / or adhesive connection, or via an insert molding process. Although not shown, in the illustrated implementation the magnets 2452A, 2452B are operably connected to the battery of the controller.

[0140] 24B shows a perspective view of a cartridge according to an exemplary implementation of the present disclosure. In particular, FIG. 24B shows cartridge 2300 including reservoir 2302 defined by outer reservoir wall 2304 including proximal end 2306 and closed distal end 2308. In many embodiments, cartridge 2300 may have a similar configuration and may include similar configurations (and variations of similar configurations and components) as cartridge 300 described above, which will not be repeated here. Accordingly, reference is made to the appropriate descriptions of these configurations and components (and variations of configurations and components).

[0141] The cartridge 2300 in the illustrated implementation includes a mouthpiece 2310 defined by an outer mouthpiece wall 2312 including a proximal end 2314 having an exit portal 2315 defined therein and a distal end 2316 that engages the proximal end 2306 of the reservoir 2302. In the illustrated implementation, the mouthpiece wall 2312 includes a flange 2350 disposed between its proximal end 2314 and distal end 2316. The cartridge 2300 in the illustrated implementation also includes a pair of separate metal plates 2352A, 2352B that comprise a portion of the flange 2350. In the illustrated implementation, the metal plates 2352A, 2352B are secured to the flange 2350 of the mouthpiece 230 via an adhesive, although other attachment methods are possible in other implementations, including, for example, an insert molding process. In the illustrated implementation, the separate metal plates 2352A, 2352B are operably connected to the heater 2320 (see FIG. 23 ) of the cartridge 2300. In various implementations, the metal plates 2352A, 2352B can comprise any material that is electrically conductive and configured to be attracted by a magnet, such as various ferromagnetic materials, including, but not limited to, iron, nickel, cobalt, alloys such as steel, and / or any combination thereof.

[0142] In various implementations, a portion of the cartridge 2300 of FIG. 24B is configured to mate with the cartridge receiving chamber 2412 of the inner frame 2415 of FIG. 24A such that a magnetic and electrical connection is formed between the cartridge and the controller. In particular, FIG. 25 shows a partial cross-sectional view of the cartridge 2300 coupled to the inner frame 2415 of the controller. As shown, when the cartridge 2300 of the illustrated implementation is coupled to the inner frame 2415 of the controller, a magnetic connection is formed between a pair of magnets 2452A, 2452B disposed on the inner frame 2415 of the controller and the metal plates 2352A, 2352B of the cartridge 2300. Additionally, when the cartridge 2300 of the illustrated implementation is coupled to the inner frame 2415, an electrical connection is formed between the pair of magnets 2452A, 2452B of the inner frame 2415 of the controller and the metal plates 2352A, 2352B of the cartridge 2300. Thus, when the cartridge 2300 is received in the controller inner frame 2415, the heater 2320 of the cartridge 2300 can be operably connected to the controller's battery. Thus, when the cartridge 2300 of the illustrated implementation is mated with the controller's inner frame 2415, the cartridge 2300 is mechanically biased into connection with the controller's inner frame 2415 such that an electrical connection between the cartridge and the controller is maintained.

[0143] FIG. 26A shows a partial perspective view of an inner frame of a control device according to an exemplary implementation of the present disclosure. In particular, FIG. 26A shows a portion of an inner frame 2615 for use with a corresponding control device. In many aspects, the control device can have a similar configuration and include similar components (and variations of similar configurations and components) as the control device 200 described above. Therefore, the appropriate descriptions of these configurations and components (and variations of configurations and components) are referred to and will not be repeated here.

[0144] As shown in the figure, the inner frame 2615 of the illustrated implementation includes a cartridge receiving chamber 2612 and an upper flange 2650. The inner frame 2615 of the illustrated implementation also includes a pair of magnets 2652A, 2652B positioned proximate the upper flange 2650 of the inner frame 2615. In particular, the illustrated implementation includes two cylindrical magnets 2652A, 2652B positioned on opposite sides of the inner frame 2615, each of the magnets 2652A, 2652B positioned inside a corresponding conductive casing 2620A, 2620B, with each magnet / casing (2652A, 2620A, 2652B, 2620B) assembly extending through its upper flange 2650. Reference is made to possible magnet materials described above. Furthermore, each of the conductive casings 2620A, 2620B and magnets 2652 are positioned inside a corresponding receiving feature 2653. Although other methods are possible, the magnets 2652 in the illustrated implementation may be secured inside the conductive casings 2620A, 2620B via adhesive and / or press-fit connections, and the conductive casings 2620A, 2620B in the illustrated implementation (or the conductive casing and magnet assembly (2620A, 2652A, 2620B, 2652B)) may be secured inside the receiving feature 2653 via press-fit and / or adhesive connections or via an insert molding process. Although not shown, the conductive casings 2620A, 2620B are operably connected to the battery of the controller. In various implementations, the conductive casings 2620A, 2620B can be constructed from any conductive material, including, but not limited to, for example, copper, beryllium copper, aluminum, platinum, gold, silver, iron, steel, brass, bronze, graphite, conductive ceramic materials, and / or any combination thereof.

[0145] 26B shows a perspective view of a cartridge according to an exemplary implementation of the present disclosure. In particular, FIG. 26B shows cartridge 2500 including reservoir 2502 defined by outer reservoir wall 2504 including proximal end 2506 and closed distal end 2508. In many embodiments, cartridge 2500 may have a similar configuration and may include similar configurations (and variations of similar configurations and components) as cartridge 300 described above, which will not be repeated here. Accordingly, reference is made to the appropriate descriptions of these configurations and components (and variations of configurations and components).

[0146] The cartridge 2500 in the illustrated implementation includes a mouthpiece 2510 defined by an outer mouthpiece wall 2512 including a proximal end 2514 having an exit portal 2515 defined therein and a distal end 2516 that engages the proximal end 2506 of the reservoir 2502. In the illustrated implementation, the mouthpiece wall 2512 includes a flange 2550 disposed between its proximal end 2514 and distal end 2516. The cartridge 2500 in the illustrated implementation also includes a pair of separate metal plates 2552A, 2552B that comprise a portion of the flange 2550. In the illustrated implementation, the metal plates 2552A, 2552B are secured to the flange 2550 of the mouthpiece 2510 via an adhesive, although other attachment methods are possible in other implementations, including, for example, an insert molding process. In the illustrated implementation, the separate metal plates 2552A, 2552B are operably connected to a heater 2520 (see FIG. 27) of the cartridge 2500. In various implementations, the metal plates 2552A, 2552B can comprise any material that is electrically conductive and configured to be attracted by a magnet, such as various ferromagnetic materials, including, but not limited to, iron, nickel, cobalt, alloys such as steel, and / or any combination thereof.

[0147] In various implementations, a portion of the cartridge 2500 of FIG. 26B is configured to mate with the cartridge receiving chamber 2612 of the inner frame 2615 of FIG. 26A such that a magnetic and electrical connection is formed between the cartridge and the controller. In particular, FIG. 27 shows a partial cross-sectional view of the cartridge 2500 coupled to the inner frame 2615 of the controller. As shown, when the cartridge 2500 of the illustrated implementation is coupled to the inner frame 2615 of the controller, a magnetic connection is formed between a pair of magnets 2652 disposed on the inner frame 2615 of the controller and the metal plates 2552A, 2552B of the cartridge 2500. Additionally, when the cartridge 2500 of the illustrated implementation is coupled to the inner frame 2615, an electrical connection is formed between the conductive casings 2620A, 2620B of the inner frame 2615 of the controller and the metal plates 2552A, 2552B of the cartridge 2500. Thus, when the cartridge 2500 is received in the controller inner frame 2615, the heater 2520 of the cartridge 2500 can be operably connected to the controller's battery. Thus, when the cartridge 2500 of the illustrated implementation is mated with the controller's inner frame 2615, the cartridge 2500 is mechanically biased into connection with the controller's inner frame 2615 such that an electrical connection between the cartridge and the controller is maintained.

[0148] FIG. 28A shows an exploded, partial perspective view of an inner frame of a control device according to an exemplary implementation of the present disclosure. In particular, FIG. 268 shows a portion of an inner frame 2815 for use with a corresponding control device. In many aspects, the control device can have a similar configuration to the control device 200 described above and can include similar components (and variations of similar configurations and components). Therefore, the appropriate descriptions of these configurations and components (and variations of configurations and components) are referred to and will not be repeated here.

[0149] As shown in the figure, the inner frame 2815 of the illustrated implementation includes a cartridge-receiving chamber 2812 and an upper flange 2850. The inner frame 2815 of the illustrated implementation also includes a pair of magnets 2852A, 2852B positioned proximate the upper flange 2850 of the inner frame 2815. In particular, the illustrated implementation includes two cylindrical magnets 2852A, 2852B positioned on opposite sides of the inner frame 2815, with the top and sides of each magnet 2852A, 2852B substantially surrounded by a corresponding conductive casing 2820A, 2820B, and each magnet / casing (2852A, 2820A, 2852B, 2820B) assembly extending through its upper flange 2850. Reference is made to the possible magnet materials described above. In the illustrated implementation, the top surfaces of the conductive casings 2820A, 2820B are substantially flush with the top surface of the upper flange 2850, although other configurations are possible. Additionally, each of the conductive casings 2820 and magnets 2852 is disposed inside a corresponding receiving feature 2853, which in the illustrated implementation is an extension of the flange. Although other methods are possible, the magnets 2852A, 2852B in the illustrated implementation may be secured inside the conductive casings 2820A, 2820B via adhesive and / or press-fit connections, and the conductive casings 2820A, 2820B (or the conductive casing and magnet assembly (2820, 2852)) in the illustrated implementation may be secured inside the receiving feature 2853 via press-fit and / or adhesive connections or via an insert molding process. Although not shown, the conductive casings 2820A, 2820B are operably connected to the battery of the controller. In various implementations, the conductive casings 2820A, 2820B can be made from any conductive material, including, but not limited to, copper, beryllium copper, aluminum, platinum, gold, silver, iron, steel, brass, bronze, graphite, conductive ceramic materials, and / or any combination thereof.

[0150] 28B shows a perspective view of a cartridge according to an exemplary implementation of the present disclosure. In particular, FIG. 28B shows cartridge 2700 including reservoir 2702 defined by outer reservoir wall 2704 including proximal end 2706 and closed distal end 2708. In many embodiments, cartridge 2700 may have a similar configuration and may include similar configurations (and variations of similar configurations and components) as cartridge 300 described above, which will not be repeated here. Accordingly, reference is made to the appropriate descriptions of these configurations and components (and variations of configurations and components).

[0151] The cartridge 2700 in the illustrated implementation includes a mouthpiece 2710 defined by an outer mouthpiece wall 2712 including a proximal end 2714 having an exit portal 2715 defined therein and a distal end 2716 that engages the proximal end 2706 of the reservoir 2702. In the illustrated implementation, the mouthpiece wall 2712 includes a flange 2750 disposed between its proximal end 2714 and distal end 2716. The cartridge 2700 in the illustrated implementation also includes a pair of separate metal plates 2752A, 2752B that comprise a portion of the flange 2750. In the illustrated implementation, the metal plates 2752A, 2752B are secured to the flange 2750 of the mouthpiece 2710 via an adhesive, although other attachment methods are possible in other implementations, including, for example, an insert molding process. In the illustrated implementation, the separate metal plates 2752A, 2752B are operably connected to the heater 2720 (see FIG. 29 ) of the cartridge 2700. In various implementations, the metal plates 2752A, 2752B can comprise any material that is electrically conductive and configured to be attracted by a magnet, such as various ferromagnetic materials, including, but not limited to, iron, nickel, cobalt, alloys such as steel, and / or any combination thereof.

[0152] In various implementations, a portion of the cartridge 2700 of FIG. 28B is configured to mate with the cartridge receiving chamber 2812 of the inner frame 2813 of FIG. 28A such that a magnetic and electrical connection is formed between the cartridge and the controller. In particular, FIG. 29 shows a partial cross-sectional view of the cartridge 2700 mated with the inner frame 2815 of the controller. As shown, when the cartridge 2700 of the illustrated implementation is mated with the inner frame 2813 of the controller, a magnetic connection is formed between a pair of magnets 2852A, 2852B disposed on the inner frame 2815 of the controller and the metal plates 2752A, 2752B of the cartridge 2700. Furthermore, when the cartridge 2700 of the illustrated implementation is mated with the inner frame 2815, an electrical connection is formed between the conductive casings 2820A, 2820B of the inner frame 2815 of the controller and the metal plates 2752A, 2752B of the cartridge 2700. Thus, when the cartridge 2700 is received in the controller inner frame 2815, the heater 2720 of the cartridge 2700 can be operably connected to the controller's battery. Thus, when the cartridge 2700 of the illustrated implementation is mated with the controller's inner frame 2815, the cartridge 2700 is mechanically biased into connection with the controller's inner frame 2815 such that an electrical connection between the cartridge and the controller is maintained.

[0153] FIG. 30A shows a partially exploded perspective view of an inner frame of a control device according to an exemplary implementation of the present disclosure. In particular, FIG. 31 shows a portion of an inner frame 3015 for use with a corresponding control device. In many aspects, the control device can have a similar configuration to the control device 200 described above and can include similar components (and variations of the similar configurations and components). Therefore, the appropriate descriptions of these configurations and components (and variations of the configurations and components) are referred to and will not be repeated here.

[0154] As shown, the inner frame 3015 of the illustrated implementation includes a cartridge-receiving chamber 3012 and a flange 3050 defined at its upper end. The inner frame 3015 of the illustrated implementation also includes a plurality of magnets 3052 disposed proximate the upper flange 3050 of the inner frame 3015. In the illustrated implementation, there are four individual magnets 3052A, 3052B, 3052C, and 3052D, each having a substantially block-like or rectangular prism shape; however, in other implementations, more or fewer individual magnets may be used, and the magnets may have different shapes and / or sizes. Reference is made to possible magnet materials discussed above. In the illustrated implementation, the magnets 3052A, 3052B, 3052C, and 3052D are approximately equally spaced around the outside of the inner frame 3015 and below its upper flange 3050. Each of the multiple magnets is disposed within a corresponding magnet receiving feature 3053, which in the illustrated implementation is an extension of the top flange 3050. Although other methods are possible, the magnets 3052A, 3052B, 3052C, 3052D in the illustrated implementation may be secured within their respective magnet receiving features 3053 via a press fit and / or adhesive connection, or via an insert molding process.

[0155] Additionally, the inner frame 3015 of the illustrated implementation also includes a pair of metal plates 3020A, 3020B disposed on an upper flange 3050 of the inner frame 3015 and exposed through openings in the upper flange 3050. While other configurations are possible, in the illustrated implementation, the metal plates have a curved shape configured to match a portion of the upper flange 3050, and the upper surfaces of the magnets 3020A, 3020B are substantially flush with the upper surface of the upper flange 3050. In the illustrated implementation, the metal plates 3020A, 3020B are operably connected to a battery of the controller to provide power to a heater in an inserted cartridge, as described below. In various implementations, the metal plates 3020A, 3020B can be composed of any electrically conductive material, including, but not limited to, copper, beryllium copper, aluminum, platinum, gold, silver, iron, steel, brass, bronze, graphite, a conductive ceramic material, and / or any combination thereof.

[0156] FIG. 30B shows a perspective view of a cartridge according to an exemplary implementation of the present disclosure, and FIG. 30C shows a bottom view of a cartridge according to an exemplary implementation of the present disclosure. In particular, FIGS. 30B and 30C show a cartridge 2900 including a reservoir 2902 defined by an outer reservoir wall 2904 including a proximal end 2906 and a closed distal end 2908. In many embodiments, the cartridge 2900 may have a similar configuration and may include similar configurations (and variations of similar configurations and components) as the cartridge 300 described above, which will not be repeated here. Therefore, reference is made to the appropriate descriptions of these configurations and components (and variations of configurations and components).

[0157] The cartridge 2900 of the illustrated implementation includes a mouthpiece 2910 defined by an outer mouthpiece wall 2912 including a proximal end 2914 having an exit portal defined therein and a distal end 2916 that engages the proximal end 2906 of the reservoir 2902. In the illustrated implementation, the mouthpiece wall 2912 includes a flange 2950 disposed between its proximal end 2914 and distal end 2916. The cartridge 2900 of the illustrated implementation also includes two pairs of metal plates. In particular, the cartridge 2900 includes a pair of short metal plates 2925A, 2925B that extend around opposite corners of the flange 2950 of the cartridge 2900, and a pair of long metal plates 2952A, 2952B that extend around other opposite corners of the flange 2950 and terminate proximate the ends of the pair of short metal plates 2925A, 2925B. In the illustrated implementation, each of the first pair of metal plates 2925A, 2925B has a curved shape configured to match a portion of the flange 2950, ​​and each of the second pair of metal plates 2952A, 2952B has a curved shape configured to match another portion of the flange 2950. In the illustrated implementation, the first and second pairs of metal plates 2925A, 2925B, 2952A, 2952B are secured to the bottom of the flange 2950 of the mouthpiece 2910 via adhesive, although other attachment methods are possible in other implementations, including, for example, an insert molding process. In the illustrated implementation, the first pair of metal plates 2925A, 2925B are operably connected to the heater 2920 of the cartridge 2900 (see FIG. 31 ). In various implementations, the short metal plates 3020A, 3020B can be made of any conductive material, including, but not limited to, copper, beryllium copper, aluminum, platinum, gold, silver, iron, steel, brass, bronze, graphite, conductive ceramic materials, and / or any combination thereof. In various implementations, the long metal plates 2952A, 2952B can comprise any material configured to be attracted by a magnet, such as various ferromagnetic materials, including, but not limited to, alloys of iron, nickel, cobalt, steel, and / or any combination thereof.

[0158] In various implementations, a portion of the cartridge 2900 of FIGS. 30B and 30C is configured to be coupled with the cartridge receiving chamber 3012 of the inner frame 3015 of FIG. 30A such that a magnetic and electrical connection is formed between the cartridge and the controller. In particular, FIG. 30A shows a partial cross-sectional view of the cartridge 2900 coupled with the inner frame 3015 of the controller. As shown, when the cartridge 2900 of the illustrated implementation is coupled with the inner frame 3015 of the controller, a magnetic connection is formed between a plurality of magnets 3052A, 3052B, 3052C, and 3052D disposed on the inner frame 3015 of the controller and a second pair of metal plates 2952A and 2952B of the cartridge 2900. Furthermore, when the cartridge 2900 of the illustrated implementation is coupled to the inner frame 3015, an electrical connection is formed between the pair of metal plates 3020A, 3020B of the inner frame 3015 of the control device and the first pair of metal plates 2925A, 2925B of the cartridge 2900. Thus, when the cartridge 2900 is received in the inner frame 3015 of the control device, the heater 2920 of the cartridge 2900 can be operably connected to the battery of the control device. Thus, when the cartridge 2900 of the illustrated implementation is coupled to the inner frame 3015 of the control device, the cartridge 2900 is mechanically biased into connection with the inner frame 3015 of the control device such that the electrical connection between the cartridge and the control device is maintained.

[0159] FIG. 32A shows a partially exploded perspective view of an inner frame of a control device according to an exemplary implementation of the present disclosure. In particular, FIG. 32A shows a portion of an inner frame 3215 for use with a corresponding control device. In many aspects, the control device can have a similar configuration to the control device 200 described above and can include similar components (and variations of the same configurations and components). Therefore, the appropriate descriptions of these configurations and components (and variations of the configurations and components) are referred to and will not be repeated here.

[0160] As shown, the inner frame 3215 of the illustrated implementation includes a cartridge-receiving chamber 3212 and a flange 3250 defined at its upper end. The inner frame 3215 of the illustrated implementation also includes a plurality of magnets 3252 disposed proximate the top flange 3250 of the inner frame 3215. In the illustrated implementation, there are four individual magnets 3252A, 3252B, 3252C, and 3252D, each having a substantially block-like or rectangular prism shape; however, in other implementations, more or fewer individual magnets may be used, and the magnets may have different shapes and / or sizes. Reference is made to possible magnet materials discussed above. In the illustrated implementation, the magnets 3252A, 3252B, 3252C, and 3252D are approximately equally spaced around the outside of the inner frame 3215 and below its top flange 3250. Each of the multiple magnets is disposed within a corresponding magnet receiving feature 3253, which in the illustrated implementation is an extension of the top flange 3250. Although other methods are possible, the magnets 3252A, 3252B, 3252C, 3252D in the illustrated implementation may be secured within their respective magnet receiving features 3253 via a press fit and / or adhesive connection, or via an insert molding process.

[0161] Additionally, the inner frame 3215 of the illustrated implementation also includes a pair of metal plates 3220A, 3220B positioned at opposite corners of the upper flange 3250 of the inner frame 3215, which are exposed through openings in the upper flange 3250. While other configurations are possible, in the illustrated implementation, the metal plates have a curved shape configured to match a portion of the upper flange 3250, and the top surfaces of the magnets 3220A, 3220B are substantially flush with the top surface of the upper flange 3250. In the illustrated implementation, the metal plates 3020A, 3020B are operably connected to a battery of the controller to provide power to a heater in an inserted cartridge, as described below. In various implementations, the metal plates 3220A, 3220B can be composed of any electrically conductive material, including, but not limited to, copper, beryllium copper, aluminum, platinum, gold, silver, iron, steel, brass, bronze, graphite, conductive ceramic material, and / or any combination thereof.

[0162] FIG. 32B shows a perspective view of a cartridge according to an exemplary implementation of the present disclosure, and FIG. 32C shows a bottom view of a cartridge according to an exemplary implementation of the present disclosure. In particular, FIGS. 32B and 32C show a cartridge 3100 including a reservoir 3102 defined by an outer reservoir wall 3104 including a proximal end 3106 and a closed distal end 3108. In many embodiments, the cartridge 3100 may have a similar configuration and may include similar configurations (and variations of similar configurations and components) as the cartridge 300 described above, which will not be repeated here. Therefore, reference is made to the appropriate descriptions of these configurations and components (and variations of configurations and components).

[0163] The cartridge 3100 of the illustrated implementation includes a mouthpiece 3110 defined by an outer mouthpiece wall 3112 including a proximal end 3114 having an exit portal defined therein and a distal end 3116 that engages the proximal end 3106 of the reservoir 3102. In the illustrated implementation, the mouthpiece wall 3112 includes a flange 3150 disposed between its proximal end 3114 and distal end 3116. The cartridge 3100 of the illustrated implementation also includes a pair of separate metal plates. In particular, the cartridge 3100 includes a pair of metal plates 3152A, 3152B disposed on opposite sides of the cartridge 3100. In the illustrated implementation, each of the metal plates 3152A, 3152B has a curved shape configured to match a portion of the flange 3150. In particular, each plate 3152A, 3152B begins proximate a first corner of the flange 3150, extends around that corner and a second corner of the flange 3150, and ends proximate a corner of the flange opposite the first corner. In the illustrated implementation, the metal plates 3152A, 3152B are secured to the bottom of the flange 3150 of the mouthpiece 3110 via adhesive, although other attachment methods are possible in other implementations, including, for example, an insert molding process. In the illustrated implementation, the metal plates 3152A, 3152B are operably connected to the heater 3120 (see FIG. 33 ) of the cartridge 3100. In various implementations, the metal plates 3152A, 3152B can comprise any material configured to be electrically conductive and attracted by a magnet, such as various ferromagnetic materials, including, but not limited to, alloys such as iron, nickel, cobalt, steel, and / or combinations thereof.

[0164] In various implementations, a portion of the cartridge 3100 of FIGS. 32B and 32C is configured to mate with the cartridge receiving chamber 3212 of the inner frame 3215 of FIG. 32A such that a magnetic and electrical connection is formed between the cartridge and the controller. In particular, FIG. 33 shows a partial cross-sectional view of the cartridge 3100 mated with the inner frame 3215 of the controller. As shown, when the cartridge 3100 of the illustrated implementation is mated with the inner frame 3215 of the controller, a magnetic connection is formed between the plurality of magnets 3252A, 3252B, 3252C, 3252D disposed on the inner frame 3215 of the controller and the metal plates 3152A, 3152B of the cartridge 3100. Furthermore, when the cartridge 3100 of the illustrated implementation is mated with the inner frame 3215, an electrical connection is formed between the metal plates 3220A, 3220B of the inner frame 3215 of the controller and the metal plates 3152A, 3152B of the cartridge 3100. Thus, when the cartridge 3100 is coupled to the controller's inner frame 3215, the heater 3120 of the cartridge 3100 can be operably connected to the controller's battery. Thus, when the cartridge 3100 of the illustrated implementation is coupled to the controller's inner frame 3215, the cartridge 3100 is mechanically biased into connection with the controller's inner frame 3215 such that an electrical connection between the cartridge and the controller is maintained.

[0165] FIG. 34 shows a partially exploded perspective view of an inner frame of a control device according to an exemplary implementation of the present disclosure. In particular, FIG. 34 shows a portion of an inner frame 3415 for use with a corresponding control device. In many aspects, the control device can have a similar configuration to the control device 200 described above and can include similar components (and variations of similar configurations and components). Therefore, the appropriate descriptions of these configurations and components (and variations of configurations and components) are referred to and will not be repeated here.

[0166] As shown, the inner frame 3415 of the illustrated implementation includes a cartridge-receiving chamber 3412 and a flange 3450 defined at its upper end. The inner frame 3415 of the illustrated implementation also includes a pair of magnets 3452A, 3452B on either side of the flange 3450. In the illustrated implementation, each of the magnets 3452A, 3452B has a substantially block-like or rectangular prism shape. Reference is made to possible magnet materials described above. In other implementations, more or fewer magnets may be used, and the magnets may have different shapes and / or sizes. In the illustrated implementation, each of the magnets 3452A, 3452B is positioned below the upper surface of the flange 3450 and within a respective magnet receiving feature 3453, which in the illustrated implementation is an extension of the upper flange 3450. Although other methods are possible, the magnets 3452A, 3252B in the illustrated implementation may be secured inside their respective magnet receiving features 3453 via a press fit and / or adhesive connection, or via an insert molding process.

[0167] Additionally, the inner frame 3415 of the illustrated implementation also includes a pair of metal plates 3420A, 3420B disposed on either side of an upper flange 3450 of the inner frame 3215, which are exposed through openings in the upper flange 3450. In the illustrated implementation, each of the metal plates 3420A, 3420B is disposed within a respective receiving feature 3455, which in the illustrated implementation comprises a portion of the upper flange 3450. Although other configurations are possible, in the illustrated implementation, the metal plates have a substantially block-like or rectangular prism shape, and the upper surfaces of the metal plates 3420A, 3420B are substantially flush with the upper surface of the upper flange 3450. In the illustrated implementation, the metal plates 3420A, 3420B are operably connected to a battery of the controller to provide power to a heater of an inserted cartridge, as described below. In various implementations, the metal plates 3420A, 3420B can be made of any conductive material, including, but not limited to, copper, beryllium copper, aluminum, platinum, gold, silver, iron, steel, brass, bronze, graphite, conductive ceramic materials, and / or any combination thereof.

[0168] FIG. 35A shows a partial perspective view of a cartridge coupled to an inner frame of a control device according to an exemplary implementation of the present disclosure, and FIG. 35B shows a partial see-through perspective view of a cartridge coupled to an inner frame of a control device according to an exemplary implementation of the present disclosure. In particular, FIGS. 35A and 35B show a cartridge 3300 including a reservoir (not shown) defined by an outer reservoir wall including a proximal end and a closed distal end. In many embodiments, the cartridge 3300 may have a similar configuration and may include similar configurations (and variations of similar configurations and components) as the cartridge 300 described above, which will not be repeated here. Therefore, reference is made to the appropriate descriptions of these configurations and components (and variations of configurations and components).

[0169] The cartridge 3300 of the illustrated implementation includes a mouthpiece 3310 defined by an outer mouthpiece wall 3312 including a proximal end 3314 having an exit portal 3315 defined therein and a distal end (not shown) that engages the proximal end of the reservoir. In the illustrated implementation, the mouthpiece wall 3312 includes a flange 3350 disposed between its proximal end 3314 and distal end. The cartridge 3300 of the illustrated implementation also includes a pair of metal plates. In particular, the cartridge 3300 includes metal plates 3352A, 3352B that extend around each adjacent side of the cartridge flange 3350 such that they extend around one set of opposing corners of the flange 3350 but not around the other set of opposing corners of the flange 3350. In the illustrated implementation, each of the metal plates 3352A, 3352B has a curved J-shape that is configured to match a portion of the flange 3350 as described above and to operably connect to the heater 3320 of the cartridge 3300. In the illustrated implementation, the metal plates 3352A, 3352B are secured to the bottom of the flange 3350 of the mouthpiece 3310 via adhesive, although other attachment methods are possible in other implementations, including, for example, an insert molding process. In various implementations, the metal plates 3352A, 3352B can comprise any material that is electrically conductive and configured to be attracted by a magnet, such as various ferromagnetic materials, including, but not limited to, alloys such as iron, nickel, cobalt, steel, and / or combinations thereof.

[0170] In various implementations, a portion of the cartridge 3300 is configured to couple with the cartridge receiving chamber 3412 of the inner frame 3415 such that a magnetic and electrical connection is formed between the cartridge and the controller. In particular, FIGS. 35A and 35B show partial perspective views of the cartridge 3300 coupled with the inner frame 3415 of the controller. As shown, when the cartridge 3300 of the illustrated implementation is coupled to the inner frame 3415 of the controller, a magnetic connection is formed between the magnets 3452A, 3452B disposed on the inner frame 3415 of the controller and the metal plates 3352A, 3352B of the cartridge 3300. Additionally, when the cartridge 3300 of the illustrated implementation is coupled to the inner frame 3415, an electrical connection is formed between the metal plates 3420A, 3420B of the inner frame 3415 of the controller and the metal plates 3352A, 3352B of the cartridge 3300. Thus, when the cartridge 3300 is coupled to the controller inner frame 3415, the heater 3320 of the cartridge 3300 can be operably connected to the controller's battery. Thus, when the cartridge 3300 of the illustrated implementation is coupled to the controller's inner frame 3415, the cartridge 3300 is mechanically biased into connection with the controller's inner frame 3415 such that an electrical connection between the cartridge and the controller is maintained.

[0171] FIG. 36A shows a partial perspective view of an inner frame of a control device according to an exemplary implementation of the present disclosure. In particular, FIG. 36A shows a portion of an inner frame 3615 for use with a corresponding control device. In many aspects, the control device can have a similar configuration to the control device 200 described above and can include similar components (and variations of similar configurations and components). Therefore, the appropriate descriptions of these configurations and components (and variations of configurations and components) are referred to and will not be repeated here.

[0172] As shown, the inner frame 3615 of the illustrated implementation includes a cartridge-receiving chamber 3612 and a flange 3650 defined at its upper end. The inner frame 3615 of the illustrated implementation also includes a pair of magnets 3652A, 3652B on either side of the flange 3650. In the illustrated implementation, each of the magnets 3652A, 3652B has a substantially block-like or rectangular prism shape. Reference is made to possible magnet materials described above. In other implementations, more or fewer magnets may be used, and the magnets may have different shapes and / or sizes. In the illustrated implementation, each of the magnets 3652A, 3652B is positioned below the upper surface of the flange 3650 and within a respective magnet receiving feature 3653, which in the illustrated implementation is an extension of the upper flange 3650. Although other methods are possible, the magnets 3652A, 3652B in the illustrated implementation may be secured inside the respective magnet receiving features 3653 via a press fit and / or adhesive connection, or via an insert molding process.

[0173] Additionally, the inner frame 3615 of the illustrated implementation also includes a pair of metal plates 3620A, 3620B disposed on either side of an upper flange 3650 of the inner frame 3615. In the illustrated implementation, each of the metal plates 3620A, 3620B is disposed below the upper surface of the flange 3650 and within a respective receiving feature 3655, which in the illustrated implementation comprises a portion of the upper flange 3650. In the illustrated implementation, the metal plates have a substantially block-like or rectangular prism shape, although other configurations are possible. In the illustrated implementation, the metal plates 3620A, 3620B are operably connected to a battery of the controller to provide power to a heater of an inserted cartridge, as described below. In various implementations, the metal plates 3620A, 3620B can be made of any conductive material, including, but not limited to, copper, beryllium copper, aluminum, platinum, gold, silver, iron, steel, brass, bronze, graphite, conductive ceramic materials, and / or any combination thereof.

[0174] FIG. 36B shows a partially transparent perspective view of a cartridge coupled to an inner frame of a control device according to an exemplary implementation of the present disclosure. In particular, FIG. 36B shows a cartridge 3500 including a reservoir 3502 defined by an outer reservoir wall 3504 including a proximal end 3506 and a closed distal end 3508. In many embodiments, the cartridge 3500 may have a similar configuration and may include similar configurations (and variations of similar configurations and components) as the cartridge 300 described above, which will not be repeated here. Accordingly, reference is made to the appropriate descriptions of these configurations and components (and variations of configurations and components).

[0175] The cartridge 3500 in the illustrated implementation includes a mouthpiece 3510 defined by an outer mouthpiece wall 3512 including a proximal end 3514 having an exit portal 3515 defined therein and a distal end 3516 that engages the proximal end 3506 of the reservoir 3502. In the illustrated implementation, the mouthpiece wall 3512 includes a flange 3550 disposed between its proximal end 3514 and distal end 3516. The cartridge 3500 in the illustrated implementation also includes a metal plate 3552 disposed below the flange 3550. In the illustrated implementation, the metal plate 3552 is secured to the bottom of the flange 3550 of the mouthpiece 3510 via adhesive, although other attachment methods are possible in other implementations, including, for example, an insert molding process, a press-fit connection, a heat-staking connection, etc. The cartridge 3500 also includes a pair of conductive springs 3525A, 3525B disposed on either side of the mouthpiece 3510. In the illustrated implementation, each of the conductive springs includes a contact surface 3565A, 3565B that is exposed through a respective opening in the mouthpiece 3510 below the flange 3550. In the illustrated implementation, the conductive springs 3525A, 3525B may be attached to the inside of the mouthpiece 3510 of the cartridge 3500 via an adhesive, although other attachment methods are possible in other implementations, including, for example, an insert molding process. In the illustrated implementation, the conductive springs 3525A, 3525B are operably connected to the heater 3520 (see FIG. 37 ) of the cartridge 3500. In various implementations, the conductive springs 3525A, 3525B can be constructed from any conductive material, including, but not limited to, for example, copper, beryllium copper, aluminum, platinum, gold, silver, iron, steel, brass, bronze, graphite, conductive ceramic materials, and / or any combination thereof. In various implementations, the metal plate 3552 can include any material configured to be attracted by a magnet, such as various ferromagnetic materials, including but not limited to, iron, nickel, cobalt, and alloys such as steel.

[0176] In various implementations, a portion of the cartridge 3500 is configured to couple with the cartridge receiving chamber 3612 of the inner frame 3615 such that a magnetic and electrical connection is formed between the cartridge and the controller. In particular, FIG. 37 shows a partial cross-sectional view of the cartridge 3500 coupled with the inner frame 3615 of the controller. As shown, when the cartridge 3500 of the illustrated implementation is coupled to the inner frame 3615 of the controller, a magnetic connection is formed between the magnets 3652A, 3652B disposed on the inner frame 3615 of the controller and the metal plate 3552 of the cartridge 3500. Furthermore, when the cartridge 3500 of the illustrated implementation is coupled to the inner frame 3615, an electrical connection is formed between the metal plates 3620A, 3620B of the inner frame 3615 of the controller and the conductive springs 3525A, 3525B of the cartridge 3500. Thus, when the cartridge 3500 is coupled to the controller inner frame 3615, the heater 3520 of the cartridge 3500 can be operably connected to the controller's battery. Thus, when the cartridge 3500 of the illustrated implementation is coupled to the controller's inner frame 3615, the cartridge 3500 is mechanically biased into connection with the controller's inner frame 3615 such that an electrical connection between the cartridge and the controller is maintained.

[0177] FIG. 38A shows a partially transparent perspective view of an inner frame of a control device according to an exemplary implementation of the present disclosure. In particular, FIG. 38A shows a portion of an inner frame 3815 for use with a corresponding control device. In many aspects, the control device can have a similar configuration to the control device 200 described above and can include similar components (and variations of the similar configurations and components). Therefore, the appropriate descriptions of these configurations and components (and variations of the configurations and components) are referred to and will not be repeated here.

[0178] As shown in the figure, the inner frame 3815 of the illustrated implementation includes a cartridge-receiving chamber 3812 and an upper flange 3850. The inner frame 3815 of the illustrated implementation also includes a plurality of magnets 3852 disposed proximate the upper flange 3850 of the inner frame 3815. In particular, the illustrated implementation includes two pairs of cylindrical magnets 3852A, 3852B, 3852C, 3852D, with each pair disposed on either side of the inner frame 3815 and extending proximate to its upper flange 3850, and each of the plurality of magnets is disposed inside a corresponding magnet receiving feature 3853, which in the illustrated implementation is an extension of the upper flange 3850. Reference is made to possible magnet materials described above. Although other methods are possible, the magnets 3852 of the illustrated implementation can be secured inside the magnet receiving feature 3853 via a press-fit and / or adhesive connection, or via an insert molding process.

[0179] Additionally, the inner frame 3815 of the illustrated implementation also includes a pair of conductive pins 3820A, 3820B disposed within the inner frame 3815 and adjacent its top flange 3850. In the illustrated implementation, the conductive pins 3820A, 3820B comprise cylindrical metal pins disposed on opposite sides of the inner frame 3815 and extending through the top flange 3850. Although other configurations are possible, in the illustrated implementation, the top surfaces of the metal pins 3820A, 3820B extend above (e.g., extend slightly above) the top surface of the top flange 3850. In the illustrated implementation, the conductive pins 3820A, 3820B are, in turn, operably connected to a battery in the controller to provide power to a heater in an inserted cartridge, as described below. In various implementations, the conductive pins 3820A, 3820B can be made from any conductive material, including, but not limited to, copper, beryllium copper, aluminum, platinum, gold, silver, iron, steel, brass, bronze, graphite, conductive ceramic materials, and / or any combination thereof.

[0180] FIG. 38B shows a partial perspective view of a cartridge according to an exemplary implementation of the present disclosure. In particular, FIG. 38B shows cartridge 3700 including a reservoir 3702 defined by an outer reservoir wall 3704 including a proximal end 3706 and a closed distal end (not shown). In many embodiments, cartridge 3700 may have a similar configuration and may include similar configurations (and variations of similar configurations and components) as cartridge 300 described above, which will not be repeated here. Therefore, reference is made to the appropriate descriptions of these configurations and components (and variations of configurations and components).

[0181] The cartridge 3700 in the illustrated implementation includes a mouthpiece 3710 defined by an outer mouthpiece wall 3712 including a proximal end 3714 having an exit portal (not shown) defined therein and a distal end 3716 that engages the proximal end 3706 of the reservoir 3702. In the illustrated implementation, the mouthpiece wall 3712 includes a flange 3750 disposed between its proximal end 3714 and distal end 3716. The cartridge 3700 in the illustrated implementation also includes a pair of separate metal plates 3752A, 3752B that comprise a portion of the flange 3750. In the illustrated implementation, each of the metal plates 3752A, 3752B includes an integral spring contact 3765A, 3765B that extends below the flange 3750. In the illustrated implementation, the metal plates 3752A, 3752B are secured to the flange 3750 of the mouthpiece 3710 via adhesive, although other attachment methods are possible in other implementations, including, for example, an insert molding process, a press-fit connection, a heat-staking connection, etc. In the illustrated implementation, the separate metal plates 3752A, 3752B are operably connected to the heater 3720 of the cartridge 3700 (see FIG. 39 ). In various implementations, the metal plates 3752A, 3752B can comprise any material configured to be electrically conductive and attracted by a magnet, such as various ferromagnetic materials including, but not limited to, alloys of iron, nickel, cobalt, steel, and the like. In some implementations, one or both of the metal plates can be constructed from a bimetallic material, such as a bimetallic plate, where one or more portions of the plate configured to contact a conductive pin comprise a conductive spring material and one or more portions of the plate configured to contact a magnet comprise a different material suitable for attraction to a magnet.

[0182] In various implementations, a portion of the cartridge 3700 of FIG. 38B is configured to mate with the cartridge receiving chamber 3812 of the inner frame 3815 of FIG. 38A such that a magnetic and electrical connection is formed between the cartridge and the controller. In particular, FIG. 39 shows a partial cross-sectional view of the cartridge 3700 mated with the inner frame 3815 of the controller. As shown, when the cartridge 3700 of the illustrated implementation is mated with the inner frame 3815 of the controller, a magnetic connection is formed between a plurality of magnets 3852A, 3852B, 3852C, 3852D disposed on the inner frame 3815 of the controller and metal plates 3752A, 3752B of the cartridge 3700. Furthermore, when the cartridge 3700 of the illustrated implementation is mated with the inner frame 3815, an electrical connection is formed between a pair of conductive pins 3820A, 3820B of the inner frame 3815 of the controller and integral spring contacts 3765A, 3765B of the cartridge 3700. Thus, the heater 3720 of the cartridge 3700 can be operably connected to the controller's battery when the cartridge 3700 is received in the controller's inner frame 3815. Thus, when the cartridge 3700 of the illustrated implementation is mated with the controller's inner frame 3815, the cartridge 3700 is mechanically biased into connection with the controller's inner frame 3815 such that an electrical connection between the cartridge and the controller is maintained.

[0183] It should be noted that in various implementations, some components of the controller, the cartridge, or both the controller and the cartridge may be replaced with other components having similar functions but different structures. For example, some of the above implementations describe the use of spring-loaded pins (e.g., electric pogo pins) on the inner frame of the controller, where the spring-loaded pins are connected to the battery of the controller. In various alternative implementations, one or both of the electric pogo pins used in those implementations may be replaced with a metal plate including a formed contact surface. An example of such an implementation is shown in FIG. 40 , which shows a partial cross-sectional view of a cartridge coupled to the inner frame of the controller according to an exemplary implementation of the present disclosure. In particular, FIG. 40 shows a cartridge 3900 coupled to the inner frame 4015 of the controller. In the illustrated implementation, the spring-loaded electric pins are replaced with a metal plate 4020 including a rounded deflectable contact area 4065 configured to engage the electrical contacts of the cartridge. In various implementations, the metal plate 4020 can be made of any conductive material, including, but not limited to, copper, beryllium copper, aluminum, platinum, gold, silver, iron, steel, brass, bronze, graphite, conductive ceramic materials, and / or any combination thereof. Thus, as shown, when the cartridge 3900 of the illustrated implementation is coupled to the inner frame 4015 of the controller, a magnetic connection is formed between the magnet of the controller and the metal plate 3952 of the cartridge 3900, and an electrical connection is formed between the contact area 4065 of the metal plate 4020 of the inner frame 4015 of the controller and the electrical contacts 3925 of the cartridge 3900 connected to the heater 3920. Thus, when the cartridge 3900 is coupled to the inner frame 4015 of the controller, the heater 3920 of the cartridge 3900 can be operably connected to the battery of the controller.

[0184] Many modifications and other embodiments of the present disclosure will come to mind to one skilled in the art to which this disclosure pertains having the benefit of the teachings presented in the foregoing descriptions and the associated drawings. It is to be understood, therefore, that the present disclosure is not limited to the specific embodiments disclosed herein, and that modifications and other embodiments are intended to be included within the scope of the appended claims. Although specific terms are employed herein, they are used in a generic and descriptive sense only and not for purposes of limitation.

Claims

1. 1. A cartridge for use with a control device of an aerosol delivery device, the cartridge comprising: a mouthpiece portion and a reservoir, the mouthpiece portion having an exit portal defined therethrough, the reservoir configured to contain at least a portion of the liquid composition; A cartridge, wherein the cartridge includes at least one connector configured to provide a mechanical and electrical connection between the cartridge and the control device so that the cartridge can be removably and operably received in the cartridge receiving chamber of the control device, and the mouthpiece portion further includes a flange, and the at least one connector of the cartridge is positioned on the flange.

2. The cartridge of claim 1 , wherein the mechanical connection comprises a magnetic connection.

3. The cartridge of claim 1 , wherein the reservoir is configured to contain substantially all of the liquid composition.

4. A metal plate positioned under the flange; a pair of conductive plugs; 10. The cartridge of claim 1, wherein the mechanical connection is made through a metal plate of the cartridge and the electrical connection is made through a conductive plug of the cartridge.

5. A cartridge for use with a control device of an aerosol delivery device, comprising: a mouthpiece portion and a reservoir, the mouthpiece portion having an exit portal defined therethrough, the reservoir configured to contain at least a portion of the liquid composition; the cartridge includes at least one connector configured to provide a mechanical and electrical connection between the cartridge and the controller such that the cartridge can be removably and operably received in a cartridge receiving chamber of the controller; a flange positioned on the mouthpiece portion; at least one mounting element located on a flange of the cartridge; a pair of conductive plugs; A cartridge in which the mechanical connection is made via at least one mounting element of the cartridge and the electrical connection is made via a conductive plug of the cartridge.

6. A cartridge for use with a control device of an aerosol delivery device, comprising: a mouthpiece portion and a reservoir, the mouthpiece portion having an exit portal defined therethrough, the reservoir configured to contain at least a portion of the liquid composition; the cartridge includes at least one connector configured to provide a mechanical and electrical connection between the cartridge and the controller such that the cartridge can be removably and operably received in a cartridge receiving chamber of the controller; further comprising a pair of metal plates, each metal plate including a receiving detent on an opposite end thereof; A cartridge in which the mechanical connection is made via a receiving detent on a metal plate of the cartridge and the electrical connection is made via a metal plate of the cartridge.

7. A cartridge for use with a control device of an aerosol delivery device, comprising: a mouthpiece portion and a reservoir, the mouthpiece portion having an exit portal defined therethrough, the reservoir configured to contain at least a portion of the liquid composition; the cartridge includes at least one connector configured to provide a mechanical and electrical connection between the cartridge and the controller such that the cartridge can be removably and operably received in a cartridge receiving chamber of the controller; a flange positioned on the mouthpiece portion; a pair of pointed sliding metal plates positioned on the flange; a pair of conductive plugs; A cartridge in which the mechanical connection is made via a pointed sliding metal plate on the cartridge and the electrical connection is made via a conductive plug on the cartridge.

8. 1. A cartridge for use with a control device of an aerosol delivery device, the cartridge comprising: a mouthpiece portion and a reservoir, the mouthpiece portion having a proximal end and a distal end, the proximal end of the mouthpiece portion having an exit portal defined therethrough, the reservoir further defining a proximal end and a closed distal end and configured to contain at least a portion of a liquid composition; A cartridge including at least one connector configured to provide a magnetic and electrical connection between the cartridge and the control device so that the cartridge can be removably and operably received in a cartridge receiving chamber of the control device, the mouthpiece portion engaging with the tank, and the at least one connector of the cartridge being positioned on the mouthpiece portion.

9. The cartridge of claim 8 , wherein the reservoir is configured to contain substantially all of the liquid composition.

10. 9. The cartridge of claim 8, wherein the distal end of the mouthpiece portion is located adjacent to the proximal end of the reservoir.

11. 9. The cartridge of claim 8, wherein a distal end of the mouthpiece portion engages a proximal end of the reservoir.

12. a flange located between the proximal and distal ends of the mouthpiece portion; a metal plate positioned below the flange; a pair of conductive plugs; 9. The cartridge of claim 8, wherein the magnetic connection is made through a metal plate of the cartridge and the electrical connection is made through a conductive plug of the cartridge.

13. a flange located between the proximal and distal ends of the mouthpiece portion; at least one mounting element located on a flange of the cartridge; a pair of conductive plugs; 9. The cartridge of claim 8, wherein the magnetic connection is made via at least one mounting element of the cartridge and the electrical connection is made via a conductive plug of the cartridge.

14. a flange located between the proximal and distal ends of the mouthpiece portion; a pair of metal plates, the metal plates comprising portions of the flanges of the cartridge; 9. The cartridge of claim 8, wherein both the magnetic and electrical connections are made through separate metal plates of the cartridge pair.

15. further comprising a pair of metal plates, each metal plate including a receiving detent on an opposite end thereof; 9. The cartridge of claim 8, wherein the magnetic connection is made through a receiving detent on the metal plate of the cartridge and the electrical connection is made through the metal plate of the cartridge.

16. a flange located between the proximal and distal ends of the mouthpiece portion; a pair of pointed sliding metal plates positioned on the flange; a pair of conductive plugs; 9. The cartridge of claim 8, wherein the magnetic connection is made via a pointed sliding metal plate on the cartridge and the electrical connection is made via a conductive plug on the cartridge.

17. a flange located between the proximal and distal ends of the mouthpiece portion; a pair of metal plates comprising a bottom portion of the flange; 9. The cartridge of claim 8, wherein the magnetic connection is made through the metal plate of the cartridge and the electrical connection is made with the metal plate of the cartridge.

18. a flange located between the proximal and distal ends of the mouthpiece portion; a first and second pair of metal plates positioned below the flange; 9. The cartridge of claim 8, wherein the magnetic connection is made through a second pair of metal plates of the cartridge and the electrical connection is made through a first pair of metal plates of the cartridge.

19. a flange located between the proximal and distal ends of the mouthpiece portion; a pair of metal plates positioned below the flange; 9. The cartridge of claim 8, wherein the magnetic connection is made via the pair of metal plates of the cartridge and the electrical connection is made via the pair of metal plates of the cartridge.

20. a flange located between the proximal and distal ends of the mouthpiece portion; a pair of metal plates, the metal plates comprising portions of the flanges of the cartridge; 9. The cartridge of claim 8, wherein the magnetic connection is made via the pair of metal plates of the cartridge and the electrical connection is made via the pair of metal plates of the cartridge.

21. a flange located between the proximal and distal ends of the mouthpiece portion; a metal ring having a flange portion; a pair of conductive spring contacts; 9. The cartridge of claim 8, wherein the magnetic connection is made via a metal ring on the cartridge and the electrical connection is made via a pair of conductive spring contacts on the cartridge.

22. a flange located between the proximal and distal ends of the mouthpiece portion; a pair of metal plates comprising portions of the bottom surface of the flange, each metal plate including an integrated spring contact; 9. The cartridge of claim 8, wherein the magnetic connection is made via a metal plate of the cartridge and the electrical connection is made via an integrated spring contact of the metal plate of the cartridge.

23. A cartridge for use with a control device of an aerosol delivery device, comprising: a mouthpiece portion and a reservoir, the mouthpiece portion having an exit portal defined therethrough, the reservoir configured to contain at least a portion of the liquid composition; A cartridge including at least one connector configured to provide a mechanical and electrical connection between the cartridge and the control device so that the cartridge can be removably and operably received in a cartridge receiving chamber of the control device, and the at least one connector of the cartridge is located in the mouthpiece portion.

Images