Heating engine control circuit and nicotine electron vaping device

Abstract

A heating engine control circuit (2127) is provided that controls operation of a heater (336) of the nicotine electronic vaping device (500). The heating engine control circuit (2127) includes a rail converter circuit (39020) configured to convert a power supply voltage into a power signal based on a vaping enable signal that is a pulse-width modulated signal. The heating engine control circuit (2127) also includes a gate driver circuit (39040) that includes an integrated gate driver (U2003), the integrated gate driver (U2003) configured to control application of power to the heater (336) for heating a nicotine pre-vapor formulation drawn from a nicotine reservoir in the nicotine electronic vaping device (500) based on the power signal, the first enable signal, and the second enable signal.

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] One or more exemplary embodiments relate to a nicotine electronic vaping (nicotine e-vaping) device. [Background technology]

[0002] A nicotine electronic vaping device (or nicotine e-vaping device) includes a heater that vaporizes a nicotine pre-vapor formulation to produce nicotine vapor. A nicotine e-vaping device may include several e-vaping elements, including a power supply, an e-vaping tank including a cartridge or heater, and a nicotine storage section having the capacity to hold nicotine pre-vapor formulation material. [Overview of the project]

[0003] At least one exemplary embodiment provides a heating engine control circuit for controlling the operation of a heater in a nicotine electronic vaping device, the heating engine control circuit comprising a rail converter circuit configured to convert a power supply voltage into a power signal based on a vaping enable signal which is a pulse-width modulated signal, and a gate driver circuit including an integrated gate driver, the gate driver circuit configured to control the application of power to a heater for heating a nicotine prevapor formulation drawn from a nicotine storage unit in the nicotine electronic vaping device, based on a power signal, a first enable signal, and a second enable signal.

[0004] At least one other exemplary embodiment provides a nicotine electronic vaping device comprising a heater configured to heat a nicotine prevapor formulation drawn from a nicotine storage unit, a rail converter circuit configured to convert a power supply voltage into a power signal based on a vaping enable signal which is a pulse width modulated signal, and a gate driver circuit including an integrated gate driver, the gate driver circuit configured to control the application of power to the heater of the nicotine electronic vaping device based on a power signal, a first enable signal, and a second enable signal.

[0005] According to one or more exemplary embodiments, the rail converter circuit may be configured to disable the power signal in response to the termination of the vaping enable signal.

[0006] A rail converter circuit may be configured to output a feedback signal, which is a scaled version of the power signal indicating the current-voltage level of the power signal. A nicotine electronic vaping device may include a control unit configured to generate a vaping enable signal based on the feedback signal. The control unit may be configured to control the load cycle of the vaping enable signal based on the feedback signal.

[0007] The second enable signal may be a pulse-width modulated signal, and the integrated gate driver may be configured to receive the second enable signal at an input pin. The gate driver circuit may include a filter circuit connected to the input pin, and the filter circuit may be configured to filter the second enable signal before it is input to the integrated gate driver.

[0008] The gate driver circuit may include a pull-down resistor connected to the input pin of the integrated gate driver, which is configured to maintain the input pin at a low logic level when the second enable signal is floating.

[0009] The gate driver circuit may include a bootstrap charge pump circuit connected between the input voltage pin and the boost pin of the integrated gate driver. The bootstrap charge pump circuit may be connected to the switching node pin of the integrated gate driver.

[0010] The gate driver circuit may include a filter circuit connected between the power signal input terminal and the bootstrap charge pump circuit.

[0011] The rail converter circuit may include a first capacitor connected between the power supply and ground, an inductor having a first terminal connected to a first node between the power supply and the first capacitor and a second terminal connected to a second node, a switching transistor connected between the second node and ground and configured to receive a vaping enable signal, a second capacitor having a first terminal connected to a second node and a second terminal connected to a third node, a first diode having an anode connected to ground and a cathode connected to a third node, a second diode having an anode connected to a third node and a cathode connected to a fourth node, a third capacitor connected between the fourth node and ground, and a voltage divider circuit connected to the fourth node and configured to output a feedback signal based on a power signal.

[0012] The rail converter circuit may further include a pull-down resistor connected between the gate of the switching transistor and ground, which is configured to prevent the output of the power signal when the vaping enable signal has an indeterminate state.

[0013] The gate driver circuit may further include a first filter circuit configured to filter the power signal for input to the integrated gate driver, and a second filter circuit configured to filter the second enable signal for input to the integrated gate driver.

[0014] A heating engine control circuit and / or nicotine electronic vaping device may include a heating engine drive circuit configured to control power to a heater, the heating engine drive circuit including a first transistor and a second transistor connected in series between a power source and ground. A gate driver circuit may be configured to output a drive voltage to the gate of the first transistor to maintain the gate-source voltage of the first transistor at the voltage level of a power signal, independently of the voltage level of the power source.

[0015] A heating engine control circuit and / or nicotine electronic vaping device may include a heating engine driver circuit configured to control power to a heater, the heating engine driver circuit including a first transistor and a second transistor connected in series between the power supply and ground. The gate driver circuit may be configured to output a current conversion signal to generate a voltage output to the heater, the level of the voltage output to the heater being independent of the voltage level of the power supply. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0016] Various features and advantages of non-limiting embodiments of this specification may become more apparent by considering the detailed description in conjunction with the accompanying drawings. The accompanying drawings are provided solely for illustrative purposes and should not be construed as limiting the scope of the claims. Unless otherwise stated, the accompanying drawings are not considered to be drawn to actual size. Various dimensions in the drawings may be exaggerated for clarity.

[0017] [Figure 1] Figure 1 is a front view of a nicotine e-vaping device according to an exemplary embodiment. [Figure 2] Figure 2 is a side view of the nicotine e-vaping device shown in Figure 1. [Figure 3] Figure 3 is a rear view of the nicotine e-vaping device shown in Figure 1. [Figure 4] Figure 4 is a proximal end view of the nicotine e-vaping device shown in Figure 1. [Figure 5] Figure 5 is a distal end view of the nicotine e-vaping device shown in Figure 1. [Figure 6] Figure 6 is a perspective view of the nicotine e-vaping device shown in Figure 1. [Figure 7] Figure 7 is a magnified view of the pod entrance shown in Figure 6. [Figure 8] Figure 8 is a cross-sectional view of the nicotine e-vaping device shown in Figure 6. [Figure 9] Figure 9 is a perspective view of the main body of the nicotine e-vaping device shown in Figure 6. [Figure 10] Figure 10 is a front view of the device body in Figure 9. [Figure 11] Figure 11 is an enlarged perspective view of the through hole in Figure 10. [Figure 12] Figure 12 is an enlarged perspective view of the electrical contacts of the device in Figure 10. [Figure 13] Figure 13 is an exploded view of the part related to the mouthpiece in Figure 12. [Figure 14] Figure 14 is an exploded view of the part related to the bezel structure in Figure 9. <00​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​Figure 27 is a perspective view of the connector module of Figure 22, excluding the core, heater, conductor, and contact core. [Figure 28] Figure 28 is an exploded view of the connector module shown in Figure 27. [Figure 29] Figure 29 shows the electrical system of the device body and nicotine pod assembly of a nicotine e-vaping device according to one or more exemplary embodiments. [Figure 30] Figure 30 is a simplified block diagram showing a dry smoke extraction and automatic shutoff control system according to an exemplary embodiment. [Figure 31] Figure 31 is a flowchart showing a dryness detection method according to an exemplary embodiment. [Figure 32] Figure 32 shows graphs of resistance over time for cases where a dry puff occurs during smoke inhalation, when a dry puff is present at the start of smoke inhalation ("Dry Puff"), and when a dry puff is not present ("Standard Puff"). [Figure 33] Figure 33 is a flowchart illustrating an exemplary operation method of a nicotine e-vaping device after shutting off the vaping function in response to detecting a difficult fault pod event, such as a dry smoke state, according to an exemplary embodiment. [Figure 34] Figure 34 shows a heater voltage measurement circuit according to an exemplary embodiment. [Figure 35] Figure 35 shows a heater current measurement circuit according to an exemplary embodiment. [Figure 36] Figure 36 shows a pod temperature measurement circuit according to some exemplary embodiments. [Figure 37] Figure 37 shows a pod temperature measurement circuit according to some other exemplary embodiments. [Figure 38] Figure 38 is a circuit diagram showing a heating engine control circuit according to some exemplary embodiments. [Figure 39] Figure 39 is a circuit diagram showing a heating engine control circuit according to some other exemplary embodiments. [Figure 40]Figure 40 shows a temperature sensing converter according to some exemplary embodiments. [Figure 41] Figure 41 shows a temperature sensing transducer according to some other exemplary embodiments. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0018] Some detailed exemplary embodiments are disclosed herein. However, the specific structural and functional details disclosed herein are merely typical for the purpose of illustrating exemplary embodiments. Nevertheless, exemplary embodiments may be embodied in numerous alternative forms and should not be construed as being limited only to the exemplary embodiments described herein.

[0019] Accordingly, while exemplary embodiments are subject to various modifications and alternative forms, they are shown as examples in the drawings and described in detail herein. However, it should be understood that there is no intention to limit the exemplary embodiments to any particular form disclosed; on the contrary, the exemplary embodiments encompass all their variations, equivalents, and alternatives. Similar figures refer to similar elements throughout the description in the figures.

[0020] Where an element or layer is referred to as "on top of," "connected to," "linked to," "attached to," "adjacent to," or "covering" another element or layer, it should be understood that there may be an element or layer that is directly on top of, directly connected to, directly linked to, directly attached to, directly adjacent to, or directly covers or interposed to the other element or layer. In contrast, where an element is referred to as "directly on top of," "directly connected to," or "directly linked to" another element or layer, there is no intervening element or layer. Similar figures refer to similar elements throughout this specification. The terms "and / or" as used herein include any and all combinations or partial combinations of one or more of the enumerated items relating to the element or layer.

[0021] The terms first, second, third, etc., may be used herein to describe various elements, regions, layers, and / or parts, but it should be understood that these elements, regions, layers, and / or parts should not be limited by these terms. These terms are used solely to distinguish one element, region, layer, or part from another. Accordingly, the first element, region, layer, or part described below will be referred to as the second element, region, layer, or part without departing from the teachings of the exemplary embodiments.

[0022] Spatial relationship terms (e.g., “down,” “below,” “bottom,” “up,” “top,” and similar) may be used herein to facilitate the description of the relationship between one element or feature and another when illustrating. It should be understood that spatial relationship terms are intended to encompass different orientations of the device in use or operation, in addition to the illustrated orientation. For example, if the device in the figure is inverted, an element described as “below” or “below” another element or feature will, after inversion, be oriented “up” the other element or feature. Thus, the term “below” may encompass both upward and downward orientations. The device may be oriented in other ways (by rotating 90 degrees or in other orientations), and the spatial relationship terms used herein should be interpreted accordingly.

[0023] The terms used herein are for the sole purpose of describing various exemplary embodiments and are not intended to limit the exemplary embodiments. The singular forms “a,” “an,” and “the” used herein are intended to include the plural unless the context explicitly indicates otherwise. It will be further understood that the terms “includes,” “including,” “comprises,” and / or “comprising,” when used herein, identify the presence of the described features, integers, steps, actions, and / or elements, but do not exclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, integers, steps, actions, elements, and / or groups thereof.

[0024] When the phrases “approximately” or “abbreviated” are used in this specification in combination with numerical values, unless otherwise clearly defined, the relevant numerical values ​​are intended to include a tolerance of ±10 percent above or below the stated numerical value.

[0025] Unless otherwise defined, all terms used herein (including technical and scientific terms) have the same meaning as those generally understood by those skilled in the art to the extent of the exemplary embodiments. Terms including those defined in commonly used dictionaries should, unless expressly defined herein, be construed to have a meaning consistent with those terms in the context of the relevant art, and not to be construed in an ideal or overly formal sense.

[0026] As used herein, “nicotine electronic vaping device” or “nicotine e-vaping device” may be referred to from time to time using “nicotine e-vaper device” and “nicotine e-vaping device,” and may be considered synonymous with them.

[0027] Figure 1 is a front view of a nicotine e-vaping device according to an exemplary embodiment. Figure 2 is a side view of the nicotine e-vaping device of Figure 1. Figure 3 is a rear view of the nicotine e-vaping device of Figure 1. Referring to Figures 1-3, the nicotine e-vaping device 500 includes a device body 100 configured to receive a nicotine pod assembly 300. The nicotine pod assembly 300 is a modular article configured to hold a nicotine pre-vapor formulation. The “nicotine pre-vapor formulation” is a material or combination of materials that can be transformed into a vapor. For example, the nicotine pre-vapor formulation may include, but is not limited to, water, beads, a solvent, an active ingredient, ethanol, a plant extract, a natural or artificial flavor, and / or a nicotine vapor-forming agent such as glycerin and propylene glycol. The nicotine e-vaping device 500 is configured to heat the nicotine pre-vapor formulation during vaping to generate nicotine vapor. As used herein, “nicotine vapor” is any substance generated or emitted from any nicotine e-vaping device relating to any of the exemplary embodiments disclosed herein.

[0028] As shown in Figures 1 and 3, the nicotine e-vaping device 500 extends in the longitudinal direction and has a length greater than its width. Furthermore, as shown in Figure 2, the length of the nicotine e-vaping device 500 is also greater than its thickness. Furthermore, the width of the nicotine e-vaping device 500 may be greater than its thickness. Assuming an xyz Cartesian coordinate system, the length of the nicotine e-vaping device 500 may be measured in the y direction, the width in the x direction, and the thickness in the z direction. Based on its front, side, and rear views, the nicotine e-vaping device 500 may have a substantially linear form with tapered ends, but exemplary embodiments are not limited thereto.

[0029] The device body 100 includes a front cover 104, a frame 106, and a rear cover 108. The front cover 104, frame 106, and rear cover 108 form a device housing that encloses mechanical elements, electronic elements, and / or circuits related to the operation of the nicotine e-vaping device 500. For example, the device housing of the device body 100 may enclose a power supply configured to power the nicotine e-vaping device 500, which may include supplying current to the nicotine pod assembly 300. The device housing of the device body 100 may also include one or more electrical systems for controlling the nicotine e-vaping device 500. Electrical systems according to exemplary embodiments will be described in more detail later. Furthermore, the front cover 104, frame 106, and rear cover 108 may constitute the majority of the visible portion of the device body 100 when assembled.

[0030] The front cover 104 (e.g., the first cover) defines a primary opening configured to accommodate a bezel structure 112. The primary opening may have a rounded rectangular shape, but other shapes are possible depending on the shape of the bezel structure 112. The bezel structure 112 defines a through-hole 150 configured to receive a nicotine pod assembly 300. The through-hole 150 is described herein in more detail, for example, with reference to Figure 9.

[0031] The front cover 104 also defines a secondary opening configured to house the optical guide device. The secondary opening may resemble a slot (e.g., an elongated rectangle with rounded ends), but other shapes are possible depending on the shape of the optical guide device. In an exemplary embodiment, the optical guide device includes an optical guide housing 114 and a button housing 122. The optical guide housing 114 is configured to expose an optical guide lens 116, while the button housing 122 is configured to expose a first button lens 124 and a second button lens 126 (e.g., Figure 16). The first button lens 124 and the upstream portion of the button housing 122 may form a first button 118. Similarly, the second button lens 126 and the downstream portion of the button housing 122 may form a second button 120. The button housing 122 may be in the form of a single structure or two separate structures. In the latter form, the first button 118 and the second button 120 are movable with a more independent feel when pressed.

[0032] The operation of the nicotine e-vaping device 500 can be controlled by a first button 118 and a second button 120. For example, the first button 118 may be a power button, and the second button 120 may be an intensity button. Although two buttons are shown in the drawings in relation to the optical guide device, it should be understood that more (or fewer) buttons may be provided depending on the available features and the desired user interface.

[0033] The frame 106 (e.g., base frame) is a central support structure for the device body 100 (and the nicotine e-vaping device 500 as a whole). The frame 106 may be referred to as the chassis. The frame 106 includes a proximal end, a distal end, and a pair of side sections between the proximal and distal ends. The proximal and distal ends may also be referred to as the downstream end and the upstream end, respectively. As used herein, “proximal” (and conversely “distal”) is relative to the adult e-vaping device user during vaping, and “downstream” (and conversely “upstream”) is relative to the vapor flow. A bridging section may be provided between the opposing inner surfaces of the side sections (e.g., approximately midway along the length of the frame 106) for further strength and stability. The frame 106 may be formed integrally to be a monolithic structure.

[0034] Regarding the structural materials, the frame 106 may be formed from an alloy or plastic. Alloys (e.g., die-cast grade, machinable grade) may be aluminum (Al) alloy or zinc (Zn) alloy. Plastics may be polycarbonate (PC), acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS), or a combination thereof (PC / ABS). For example, polycarbonate may be LUPOY SC1004A. Furthermore, the frame 106 may be provided with a surface finish for functional and / or aesthetic reasons (e.g., to provide a high-end appearance). In exemplary embodiments, the frame 106 (e.g., formed from an aluminum alloy) may be anodized. In another embodiment, the frame 106 (e.g., formed from a zinc alloy) may be coated or painted with hard enamel. In yet another embodiment, the frame 106 (e.g., formed from polycarbonate) may be metallized. In yet another embodiment, the frame 106 (e.g., formed from acrylonitrile butadiene styrene) may be electroplated. It should be understood that the structural materials relating to frame 106 may also apply to the front cover 104, rear cover 108, and / or other suitable parts of the nicotine e-vaping device 500.

[0035] The rear cover 108 (e.g., a second cover) also defines an opening configured to accommodate a bezel structure 112. The opening may have a rounded rectangular shape, but other shapes are possible depending on the shape of the bezel structure 112. In exemplary embodiments, the opening in the rear cover 108 is smaller than the primary opening in the front cover 104. Furthermore, although not shown, it should be understood that an optical guide device (e.g., including a button) may be provided on the rear of the nicotine e-vaping device 500 in addition to (or instead of) the optical guide device on the front of the nicotine e-vaping device 500.

[0036] The front cover 104 and the rear cover 108 may be configured to engage with the frame 106 via a snap-fit ​​device. For example, the front cover 104 and / or the rear cover 108 may include clips configured to interlock with corresponding mating members of the frame 106. In a non-limiting embodiment, the clips may be in the form of tabs having orifices configured to receive corresponding mating members of the frame 106 (e.g., projections with inclined edges). Alternatively, the front cover 104 and / or the rear cover 108 may be configured to engage with the frame 106 via a press-fit (which may also be referred to as a press-fit or friction-fit). However, it should be understood that the front cover 104, the frame 106, and the rear cover 108 may be connected via other suitable devices and techniques.

[0037] The device body 100 also includes a mouthpiece 102. The mouthpiece 102 can be fixed to the proximal end of the frame 106. Furthermore, in an exemplary embodiment where the frame 106 is sandwiched between a front cover 104 and a rear cover 108, as shown in Figure 2, the mouthpiece 102 can abut against the front cover 104, the frame 106, and the rear cover 108. Furthermore, in a non-limiting embodiment, the mouthpiece 102 can be coupled to the device housing via a bayonet connection.

[0038] Figure 4 is a proximal end view of the nicotine e-vaping device of Figure 1. Referring to Figure 4, the outlet surface of the mouthpiece 102 defines multiple vapor outlets. In a non-limiting embodiment, the outlet surface of the mouthpiece 102 may be elliptical. Furthermore, the outlet surface of the mouthpiece 102 may include a first crossbar corresponding to the major axis of the elliptical outlet surface and a second crossbar corresponding to the minor axis of the elliptical outlet surface. Furthermore, the first and second crossbars intersect at a right angle and may be integrally formed parts of the mouthpiece 102. Although the outlet surface is shown defining four vapor outlets, it should be understood that exemplary embodiments are not limited thereto. For example, the outlet surface may define fewer than four (e.g., one, two) vapor outlets or more than four (e.g., six, eight) vapor outlets.

[0039] Figure 5 is a distal end view of the nicotine e-vaping device of Figure 1. Referring to Figure 5, the distal end of the nicotine e-vaping device 500 includes a port 110. Port 110 is configured to receive current from an external power source (e.g., via a USB cable) to charge the internal power supply within the nicotine e-vaping device 500. Furthermore, port 110 may also be configured to transmit and / or receive data to and from another nicotine e-vaping device or other electronic devices (e.g., a phone, tablet, or computer) (e.g., via a USB cable). In addition, the nicotine e-vaping device 500 may be configured for wireless communication with another electronic device, such as a phone, via application software (app) installed on its electronic device. In such an example, an adult vaper may control the nicotine e-vaping device 500 through the app or otherwise connect with it (e.g., locate the nicotine e-vaping device, check usage information, change operating parameters).

[0040] Figure 6 is a perspective view of the nicotine e-vaping device of Figure 1. Figure 7 is a magnified view of the pod inlet of Figure 6. Referring to Figures 6 and 7, and as briefly mentioned above, the nicotine e-vaping device 500 includes a nicotine pod assembly 300 configured to hold a nicotine prevapor formulation. The nicotine pod assembly 300 has an upstream end (facing the optical guide device) and a downstream end (facing the mouthpiece 102). In a non-limiting embodiment, the upstream end is the face opposite the downstream end of the nicotine pod assembly 300. The upstream end of the nicotine pod assembly 300 defines the pod inlet 322. The device body 100 defines a through-hole (e.g., the through-hole 150 in Figure 9) configured to receive the nicotine pod assembly 300. In an exemplary embodiment, the bezel structure 112 of the device body 100 defines the through-hole and includes an upstream edge. In particular, as shown in Figure 7, the upstream edge of the bezel structure 112 is angled (for example, downwards inward) so as to expose the pod inlet 322 when the nicotine pod assembly 300 is placed in the through-hole of the device body 100.

[0041] For example, rather than continuing the contour of the front cover 104 (which is coplanar relative to the front of the nicotine pod assembly 300 and thus covers the pod inlet 322), the upstream edge of the bezel structure 112 is in the form of a scoop configured to direct ambient air into the pod inlet 322. This angled / scoop configuration may help reduce or prevent blockage of the air intake of the nicotine e-vaping device 500 (e.g., the pod inlet 322). The depth of the scoop may be such that less than half (e.g., less than a quarter) of the upstream end face of the nicotine pod assembly 300 is exposed. Furthermore, in a non-limiting embodiment, the pod inlet 322 is in the form of a slot. Furthermore, if the device body 100 is considered to extend in a first direction, the slot may be considered to extend in a second direction which is transverse to the first direction.

[0042] Figure 8 is a cross-sectional view of the nicotine e-vaping device of Figure 6. In Figure 8, the cross-section is cut along the longitudinal axis of the nicotine e-vaping device 500. As shown, the device body 100 and the nicotine pod assembly 300 include mechanical elements, electronic elements, and / or circuits related to the operation of the nicotine e-vaping device 500, which are described in more detail herein and / or incorporated herein by reference. For example, the nicotine pod assembly 300 may include mechanical elements configured to act to release a nicotine pre-vapor formulation from an internally sealed nicotine storage unit. The nicotine pod assembly 300 may also have mechanical aspects configured to engage with the device body 100 to facilitate the insertion and seating of the nicotine pod assembly 300.

[0043] Furthermore, the nicotine pod assembly 300 may be a “smart pod” including electronic elements and / or circuits configured to store, receive, and / or transmit information to and from the device body 100. Such information may be used to authenticate the nicotine pod assembly 300 for use with the device body 100 (for example, to prevent the use of unauthorized / counterfeit nicotine pod assemblies). Furthermore, the information may be used to identify the type of nicotine pod assembly 300, which is then correlated with a vaping profile based on the identified type. The vaping profile may be designed to define general parameters for heating the nicotine pre-vaper formulation and may be subjected to adjustment, purification, or other adjustments by an adult vaper before and / or during vaping.

[0044] The nicotine pod assembly 300 may also communicate with the device body 100 other information that may be relevant to the operation of the nicotine e-vaping device 500. Examples of relevant information may include the level of nicotine pre-vapor formulation in the nicotine pod assembly 300, and / or the time elapsed since the nicotine pod assembly 300 was inserted into and activated in the device body 100. For example, if the nicotine pod assembly 300 was inserted into the device body 100 and activated more than a certain period of time prior to the device (e.g., more than 6 months prior), the nicotine e-vaping device 500 may not allow vaping, and the adult vaper may be prompted to replace the nicotine pod assembly 300 with a new one, even if the nicotine pod assembly 300 still contains an appropriate level of nicotine pre-vapor formulation.

[0045] The device body 100 may include mechanical elements (e.g., complementary structures) configured to engage with, hold, and / or activate the nicotine pod assembly 300. Furthermore, the device body 100 may include electronic elements and / or circuits configured to receive current and charge an internal power source (e.g., a battery), which is then configured to supply power to the nicotine pod assembly 300 during vaping. Furthermore, the device body 100 may include electronic elements and / or circuits configured to communicate with the nicotine pod assembly 300, different nicotine e-vaping devices, other electronic devices (e.g., phones, tablets, computers), and / or adult vapers. Information communicated may include pod-specific data, details of the current vaping, and / or past vaping patterns / history. Adult vapers may be notified of such communications by feedback, which may be tactile (e.g., vibration), auditory (e.g., beeping), and / or visual (e.g., colored / flashing light). Charging and / or information communication may be performed via port 110 (for example, via a USB cable).

[0046] Figure 9 is a perspective view of the device body of the nicotine e-vaping device of Figure 6. Referring to Figure 9, the bezel structure 112 of the device body 100 defines a through-hole 150. The through-hole 150 is configured to receive a nicotine pod assembly 300. To facilitate the insertion and seating of the nicotine pod assembly 300 into the through-hole 150, the upstream edge of the bezel structure 112 includes a first upstream projection 128a and a second upstream projection 128b. The through-hole 150 may have a rectangular shape with rounded corners. In an exemplary embodiment, the first upstream projection 128a and the second upstream projection 128b are integrally formed with the bezel structure 112 and are positioned at the two rounded corners of the upstream edge.

[0047] The downstream side wall of the bezel structure 112 may define a first downstream opening, a second downstream opening, and a third downstream opening. The retaining structure, including the first downstream projection 130a and the second downstream projection 130b, is engaged with the bezel structure 112 such that the first downstream projection 130a and the second downstream projection 130b each project into the through hole 150 through the first downstream opening and the second downstream opening of the bezel structure 112, respectively. Furthermore, the distal end of the mouthpiece 102 extends into the through hole 150 through the third downstream opening of the bezel structure 112, and as a result lies between the first downstream projection 130a and the second downstream projection 130b.

[0048] Figure 10 is a front view of the device body shown in Figure 9. Referring to Figure 10, the device body 100 includes an electrical connector 132 for the device located upstream of the through-hole 150. The electrical connector 132 of the device body 100 is configured to electrically engage with the nicotine pod assembly 300, which is placed inside the through-hole 150. As a result, during vaping, power can be supplied from the device body 100 to the nicotine pod assembly 300 via the electrical connector 132. Furthermore, data can be transmitted and / or received between the device body 100 and the nicotine pod assembly 300 via the electrical connector 132.

[0049] Figure 11 is an enlarged perspective view of the through-hole in Figure 10. Referring to Figure 11, the first upstream projection 128a, the second upstream projection 128b, the first downstream projection 130a, the second downstream projection 130b, and the distal end of the mouthpiece 102 protrude into the through-hole 150. In exemplary embodiments, the first upstream projection 128a and the second upstream projection 128b are fixed structures (e.g., fixed pivots), while the first downstream projection 130a and the second downstream projection 130b are easily machined structures (e.g., retractable members). For example, the first projection 130a and the second downstream projection 130b may be configured to be extended by default (e.g., spring-loaded), while also being configured to temporarily retract (and reversibly return to the extended state) to facilitate insertion of the nicotine pod assembly 300.

[0050] In particular, when inserting the nicotine pod assembly 300 into the through hole 150 of the device body 100, the recess on the upstream end face of the nicotine pod assembly 300 first engages with the first upstream projection 128a and the second upstream projection 128b, and then the nicotine pod assembly 300 can be rotated (around the first upstream projection 128a and the second upstream projection 128b) until the recess on the downstream end face of the nicotine pod assembly 300 engages with the first downstream projection 130a and the second downstream projection 130b. In such cases, the axis of rotation of the nicotine pod assembly 300 (during rotation) can be perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the device body 100. Furthermore, the first downstream projection 130a and the second downstream projection 130b, which can be biased to facilitate processing, can retract and elastically extend when the nicotine pod assembly 300 is rotated into the through hole 150, and can engage with a recess on the downstream end face of the nicotine pod assembly 300. Moreover, when the first downstream projection 130a and the second downstream projection 130b engage with the recess on the downstream end face of the nicotine pod assembly 300, tactile and / or auditory feedback (e.g., an audible click) can be generated to inform an adult vaper that the nicotine pod assembly 300 is properly positioned in the through hole 150 of the device body 100.

[0051] Figure 12 is an enlarged perspective view of the electrical contacts of the device in Figure 10. The electrical contacts of the device body 100 are configured to engage with the electrical contacts of the pods of the nicotine pod assembly 300 when the nicotine pod assembly 300 is placed in the through-hole 150 of the device body 100. Referring to Figure 12, the electrical contacts of the device body 100 include the device's electrical connector 132. The device's electrical connector 132 includes power contacts and data contacts. The power contacts of the device's electrical connector 132 are configured to supply power from the device body 100 to the nicotine pod assembly 300. As shown, the power contacts of the device's electrical connector 132 include a first pair of power contacts and a second pair of power contacts (positioned closer to the front cover 104 than to the rear cover 108). The first power contact pair (e.g., the pair adjacent to the first upstream projection 128a) may be a single, integrated structure, separate from the second power contact pair, and when assembled, may include two projections extending into the through-hole 150. Similarly, the second power contact pair (e.g., the pair adjacent to the second upstream projection 128b) may be a single, integrated structure, separate from the first power contact pair, and when assembled, may include two projections extending into the through-hole 150. The first and second power contact pairs of the electrical connector 132 of the device may be mounted and biased in a manner that facilitates machining, so as to extend into the through-hole 150 by default, and so as to retract (e.g., independently) from the through-hole 150 when subjected to a force that overcomes biasing.

[0052] The data contacts of the device's electrical connector 132 are configured to transmit data between the nicotine pod assembly 300 and the device body 100. As shown in the figure, the data contacts of the device's electrical connector 132 include a row of five protrusions (positioned closer to the rear cover 108 than to the front cover 104). The data contacts of the device's electrical connector 132 may be a separate structure that extends into the through-hole 150 when assembled. The data contacts of the device's electrical connector 132 may also be mounted and biased (e.g., using a spring) in a manner that allows for easy machining, such as extending into the through-hole 150 by default, and retracting (e.g., independently) from the through-hole 150 if subjected to a force that overcomes bias. For example, when the nicotine pod assembly 300 is inserted into the through-hole 150 of the device body 100, the pod electrical contacts of the nicotine pod assembly 300 press against the corresponding device electrical contacts of the device body 100. As a result, the power and data contacts of the device's electrical connector 132 are retracted (e.g., at least partially retracted) into the device body 100, but due to their elastic arrangement, they remain pressed against the corresponding pod electrical contacts, thereby helping to ensure proper electrical connection between the device body 100 and the nicotine pod assembly 300. Furthermore, such a connection may also be mechanically fixed and have minimal contact resistance to ensure that power and / or signals between the device body 100 and the nicotine pod assembly 300 are reliably and accurately transmitted and / or communicated. Although various embodiments have been described in relation to the device's electrical contacts in the device body 100, it should be understood that exemplary embodiments are not limited thereto, and other configurations may be available.

[0053] Figure 13 is a partially exploded view relating to the mouthpiece of Figure 12. Referring to Figure 13, the mouthpiece 102 is configured to engage with the housing of the device via a retaining structure 140. In an exemplary embodiment, the retaining structure 140 is primarily located between the frame 106 and the bezel structure 112. As shown, the retaining structure 140 is positioned within the housing of the device such that its proximal end extends through the proximal end of the frame 106. The retaining structure 140 may extend slightly beyond the proximal end of the frame 106 or substantially horizontally with it. The proximal end of the retaining structure 140 is configured to receive the distal end of the mouthpiece 102. The proximal end of the retaining structure 140 may be a female end, while the distal end of the mouthpiece may be a male end.

[0054] For example, the mouthpiece 102 may be connected to the retaining structure 140 by a bayonet connection (e.g., reversibly connected). In such an example, the female end of the retaining structure 140 may define a pair of opposing L-shaped slots, while the male end of the mouthpiece 102 may have opposing radial members 134 (e.g., radial pins) configured to engage with the L-shaped slots of the retaining structure 140. Each of the L-shaped slots of the retaining structure 140 may have a longitudinal portion and a circumferential portion. Optionally, the end of the circumferential portion may have a serif portion that helps reduce or prevent the possibility of the radial member 134 of the mouthpiece 102 being accidentally disengaged. In a non-limiting embodiment, the longitudinal portion of the L-shaped slot extends parallel to the longitudinal axis of the device body 100, while the circumferential portion of the L-shaped slot extends around the longitudinal axis (e.g., central axis) of the device body 100. As a result, in order to connect the mouthpiece 102 to the housing of the device, the mouthpiece 102 shown in Figure 13 is first rotated 90 degrees so that the radial member 134 is aligned with the entrance to the longitudinal portion of the L-shaped slot of the retaining structure 140. The mouthpiece 102 is then pushed into the retaining structure 140 so that it slides along the longitudinal portion of the L-shaped slot until the radial member 134 reaches the joint with each of the circumferential portions. At this point, the mouthpiece 102 is then rotated so that the radial member 134 moves across the circumferential portions until it reaches each end. If a serif portion is present at each end, tactile and / or auditory feedback (e.g., an audible click) may be generated to inform the adult vaper that the mouthpiece 102 is properly connected to the housing of the device.

[0055] The mouthpiece 102 defines a vapor passage 136 through which nicotine vapor flows during vaping. The vapor passage 136 is in fluid communication with a through-hole 150 (where the nicotine pod assembly 300 is placed within the device body 100). The proximal end of the vapor passage 136 may include a flared portion. Furthermore, the mouthpiece 102 may include an end cover 138. The end cover 138 may be tapered from its distal end to its proximal end. The outlet surface of the end cover 138 defines a plurality of vapor outlets. Four vapor outlets are shown in the end cover 138, but it should be understood that exemplary embodiments are not limited thereto.

[0056] Figure 14 is an exploded view relating to the bezel structure of Figure 9. Figure 15 is an enlarged perspective view of the mouthpiece, spring, retaining structure, and bezel structure of Figure 14. Referring to Figures 14 and 15, the bezel structure 112 includes an upstream side wall and a downstream side wall. The upstream side wall of the bezel structure 112 defines a connector opening 146. The connector opening 146 is configured to expose or receive the electrical connector 132 of the device body 100. The downstream side wall of the bezel structure 112 defines a first downstream opening 148a, a second downstream opening 148b, and a third downstream opening 148c. The first downstream opening 148a and the second downstream opening 148b of the bezel structure 112 are configured to receive the first downstream projection 130a and the second downstream projection 130b of the retaining structure 140, respectively. The third downstream opening 148c of the bezel structure 112 is configured to receive the distal end of the mouthpiece 102.

[0057] As shown in Figure 14, the first downstream projection 130a and the second downstream projection 130b are located on the concave side surface of the retaining structure 140. As shown in Figure 15, the first post 142a and the second post 142b are located on the opposing convex side surfaces of the retaining structure 140. The first spring 144a and the second spring 144b are positioned on the first post 142a and the second post 142b, respectively. The first spring 144a and the second spring 144b are configured to bias the retaining structure 140 against the bezel structure 112.

[0058] The bezel structure 112, when assembled, can be secured to the frame 106 via a pair of tabs adjacent to the connector opening 146. Furthermore, the retaining structure 140 abuts against the bezel structure 112 such that the first downstream projection 130a and the second downstream projection 130b extend through the first downstream opening 148a and the second downstream opening 148b, respectively. The mouthpiece 102 is connected to the retaining structure 140 such that the distal end of the mouthpiece 102 extends through the retaining structure 140 and the third downstream opening 148c of the bezel structure 112. The first spring 144a and the second spring 144b are located between the frame 106 and the retaining structure 140.

[0059] When the nicotine pod assembly 300 is inserted into the through-hole 150 of the device body 100, the downstream end of the nicotine pod assembly 300 pushes the first downstream projection 130a and the second downstream projection 130b of the retaining structure 140. As a result, the first downstream projection 130a and the second downstream projection 130b of the retaining structure 140 elastically yield and retract from the through-hole 150 of the device body 100 (by compression of the first spring 144a and the second spring 144b), thereby allowing the insertion of the nicotine pod assembly 300 to proceed. In an exemplary embodiment, when the first downstream projection 130a and the second downstream projection 130b are fully retracted from the through-hole 150 of the device body 100, the displacement of the retaining structure 140 may cause the ends of the first post 142a and the second post 142b to contact the inner end face of the frame 106. Furthermore, since the mouthpiece 102 is connected to the retaining structure 140, the distal end of the mouthpiece 102 retracts from the through hole 150, and therefore the proximal end of the mouthpiece 102 (e.g., the visible portion including the end cover 138) also shifts by a corresponding distance away from the housing of the device.

[0060] Once the nicotine pod assembly 300 is properly inserted, the first downstream recess and the second downstream recess of the nicotine pod assembly 300 reach positions that enable engagement with the first downstream projection 130a and the second downstream projection 130b, respectively. Due to the energy conserved from the compression of the first spring 144a and the second spring 144b, the first downstream projection 130a and the second downstream projection 130b elastically extend and engage with the first downstream recess and the second downstream recess of the nicotine pod assembly 300, respectively. Furthermore, this engagement may generate tactile and / or auditory feedback (e.g., an audible click) to inform an adult vaper that the nicotine pod assembly 300 is properly positioned within the through-hole 150 of the device body 100.

[0061] Figure 16 is a partially exploded view relating to the front cover, frame, and rear cover of Figure 14. Referring to Figure 16, various mechanical, electronic, and / or circuitry related to the operation of the nicotine e-vaping device 500 may be fixed to the frame 106. The front cover 104 and rear cover 108 may be configured to engage with the frame 106 via snap-fit ​​devices. In exemplary embodiments, the front cover 104 and rear cover 108 include clips configured to interlock with corresponding mating members of the frame 106. The clips may be in the form of tabs having orifices configured to receive corresponding mating members of the frame 106 (e.g., projections with rounded edges). In Figure 16, the front cover 104 has two rows of four clips each (a total of eight clips for the front cover 104). Similarly, the rear cover 108 has two rows of four clips each (a total of eight clips for the rear cover 108). The corresponding fitting members of frame 106 may be located on the inner sidewall of frame 106. As a result, the engaged clips and fitting members may be hidden from view when the front cover 104 and rear cover 108 are closed together. Alternatively, the front cover 104 and / or rear cover 108 may be configured to engage with frame 106 via a press-fit. However, it should be understood that the front cover 104, frame 106, and rear cover 108 may be connected by other suitable devices and techniques.

[0062] Figure 17 is a perspective view of the nicotine pod assembly of the nicotine e-vaping device of Figure 6. Figure 18 is another perspective view of the nicotine pod assembly of Figure 17. Figure 19 is another perspective view of the nicotine pod assembly of Figure 18. Referring to Figures 17-19, the nicotine pod assembly 300 for the nicotine e-vaping device 500 includes a pod body configured to hold a nicotine pre-vapor formulation. The pod body has an upstream end and a downstream end. The upstream end of the pod body defines a cavity 310 (Figure 20). The downstream end of the pod body defines a pod outlet 304 that is in fluid communication with the cavity 310 at the upstream end. A connector module 320 is configured to fit within the cavity 310 of the pod body. The connector module 320 includes an outer surface and sides. The outer surface of the connector module 320 forms the outer surface of the pod body.

[0063] The outer surface of the connector module 320 defines the pod inlet 322. The pod inlet 322 (through which air enters during vaping) is in fluid communication with the pod outlet 304 (through which nicotine vapor is expelled during vaping). The pod inlet 322 is shown in the form of a slot in Figure 19. However, it should be understood that the exemplary embodiment is not limited thereto, and other forms are possible. When the connector module 320 is housed within the cavity 310 of the pod body, the outer surface of the connector module 320 remains visible, while the sides of the connector module 320 are almost obscured so that they are only partially visible through the pod inlet 322 based on a given angle.

[0064] The outer surface of the connector module 320 includes at least one electrical contact. This at least one electrical contact may include multiple power contacts. For example, the multiple power contacts may include a first power contact 324a and a second power contact 324b. The first power contact 324a of the nicotine pod assembly 300 is configured to electrically connect to a first pair of power contacts of the device's electrical connector 132 of the device body 100 (for example, the pair of power contacts adjacent to the first upstream projection 128a in Figure 12). Similarly, the second power contact 324b of the nicotine pod assembly 300 is configured to electrically connect to a second pair of power contacts of the device's electrical connector 132 of the device body 100 (for example, the pair of power contacts adjacent to the second upstream projection 128b in Figure 12). Furthermore, at least one electrical contact of the nicotine pod assembly 300 includes multiple data contacts 326. The multiple data contacts 326 of the nicotine pod assembly 300 are configured to electrically connect to the data contacts of the device's electrical connector 132 (e.g., the row of five protrusions in Figure 12). While two power contacts and five data contacts are shown in relation to the nicotine pod assembly 300, it should be understood that other variations are possible depending on the design of the device body 100.

[0065] In exemplary embodiments, the nicotine pod assembly 300 includes a front surface, a rear surface opposite the front surface, a first side surface between the front and rear surfaces, a second side surface opposite the first side surface, an upstream end surface, and a downstream end surface opposite the upstream end surface. The corners of the side surfaces and end surfaces (e.g., the corner between the first side surface and the upstream end surface, the corner between the upstream end surface and the second side surface, the corner between the second side surface and the downstream end surface, and the corner between the downstream end surface and the first side surface) may be rounded. However, in some cases, the corners may be angular. Furthermore, the peripheral edge of the front surface may be in the form of a ledge. The outer surface of the connector module 320 may be considered part of the upstream end surface of the nicotine pod assembly 300. The front surface of the nicotine pod assembly 300 may be wider and longer than the rear surface. In such cases, the first side surface and the second side surface may be angled inward toward each other. The upstream end surface and the downstream end surface may also be angled inward toward each other. The insertion of the nicotine pod assembly 300 is unidirectional due to its angled surface (for example, from the front side of the device body 100 (the side associated with the front cover 104)). As a result, the possibility of the nicotine pod assembly 300 being improperly inserted into the device body 100 can be reduced or prevented.

[0066] As shown in the figure, the pod body of the nicotine pod assembly 300 includes a first housing portion 302 and a second housing portion 308. The first housing portion 302 has a downstream end that defines a pod outlet 304. The edge of the pod outlet 304 may optionally be a recessed or indented area. In such cases, this area may resemble a cove, with the side of the edge adjacent to the rear surface of the nicotine pod assembly 300 being open, while the side of the edge adjacent to the front surface may be enclosed by a raised portion at the downstream end of the first housing portion 302. The raised portion may function as a stopper for the distal end of the mouthpiece 102. As a result, this configuration of the pod outlet 304 may facilitate the reception and alignment of the distal end of the mouthpiece 102 via seating on the open side of the edge and subsequently on the raised portion at the downstream end of the first housing portion 302 (e.g., Figure 11). In a non-limiting embodiment, the distal end of the mouthpiece 102 may also include (or be formed with) an elastic material that helps create a seal around the pod outlet 304 when the nicotine pod assembly 300 is properly inserted into the through hole 150 of the device body 100.

[0067] The downstream end of the first housing portion 302 additionally defines at least one downstream recess. In exemplary embodiments, the at least one downstream recess is in the form of a first downstream recess 306a and a second downstream recess 306b. The pod outlet 304 may be located between the first downstream recess 306a and the second downstream recess 306b. The first downstream recess 306a and the second downstream recess 306b are configured to engage with a first downstream projection 130a and a second downstream projection 130b of the device body 100, respectively. As shown in Figure 11, the first downstream projection 130a and the second downstream projection 130b of the device body 100 may be located at adjacent corners of the downstream side wall of the through hole 150. The first downstream recess 306a and the second downstream recess 306b may each be in the form of a V-shaped notch. In such cases, each of the first downstream projection 130a and the second downstream projection 130b of the device body 100 may take the form of a wedge-shaped structure configured to engage with corresponding V-shaped notches in the first downstream recess 306a and the second downstream recess 306b. The first downstream recess 306a may abut against the downstream end face and the corner of the first side surface, while the second downstream recess 306b may abut against the downstream end face and the corner of the second side surface. As a result, the edges of the first downstream recess 306a and the second downstream recess 306b adjacent to the first and second side surfaces, respectively, may be open. In such cases, as shown in Figure 18, each of the first downstream recess 306a and the second downstream recess 306b may be a three-sided recess.

[0068] The second housing portion 308 has an upstream end that defines a cavity 310 (Figure 20). The cavity 310 is configured to receive a connector module 320 (Figure 21). Furthermore, the upstream end of the second housing portion 308 defines at least one upstream recess. In an exemplary embodiment, the at least one upstream recess is in the form of a first upstream recess 312a and a second upstream recess 312b. The pod inlet 322 may be located between the first upstream recess 312a and the second upstream recess 312b. The first upstream recess 312a and the second upstream recess 312b are configured to engage with a first upstream projection 128a and a second upstream projection 128b of the device body 100, respectively. As shown in Figure 12, the first upstream projection 128a and the second upstream projection 128b of the device body 100 may be located at adjacent corners of the upstream side wall of the through hole 150. The depth of the first upstream recess 312a and the second upstream recess 312b may be greater than the depth of the first downstream recess 306a and the second downstream recess 306b. The ends of the first upstream recess 312a and the second upstream recess 312b may also be more rounded than the ends of the first downstream recess 306a and the second downstream recess 306b. For example, the first upstream recess 312a and the second upstream recess 312b may each be in the form of a U-shaped recess. In such a case, the first upstream projection 128a and the second upstream projection 128b of the device body 100 may each be in the form of a rounded knob configured to engage with the corresponding U-shaped recesses of the first upstream recess 312a and the second upstream recess 312b. The first upstream recess 312a can abut against the corner between the upstream end face and the first side surface, while the second upstream recess 312b can abut against the corner between the upstream end face and the second side surface. As a result, the edges of the first upstream recess 312a and the edge of the second upstream recess 312b adjacent to the first and second side surfaces, respectively, can be left open.

[0069] The first housing portion 302 may define an internal nicotine storage section configured to hold the nicotine prevapor formulation. The nicotine storage section may be configured to seal the nicotine prevapor formulation until the activation of the nicotine pod assembly 300 to release the nicotine prevapor formulation from the nicotine storage section. As a result of the sealing, the nicotine prevapor formulation is separated from the environment and internal elements of the nicotine pod assembly 300 that may react with the nicotine prevapor formulation, thereby reducing or preventing the possibility of adverse effects on the shelf life and / or perceptual properties (e.g., flavor) of the nicotine prevapor formulation. The second housing portion 308 may contain a structure configured to activate the nicotine pod assembly 300 and, after activation, receive and heat the nicotine prevapor formulation released from the nicotine storage section.

[0070] The nicotine pod assembly 300 may be manually activated by an adult vaper before inserting the nicotine pod assembly 300 into the device body 100. Alternatively, the nicotine pod assembly 300 may be activated as part of the insertion of the nicotine pod assembly 300 into the device body 100. In exemplary embodiments, the second housing portion 308 of the pod body includes a puncture device configured to release the nicotine prevapor formulation from the nicotine storage during the activation of the nicotine pod assembly 300. The puncture device may be in the form of a first activation pin 314a and a second activation pin 314b, which are described in more detail herein.

[0071] To manually activate the nicotine pod assembly 300, an adult vaper may press the first activation pin 314a and the second activation pin 314b inward (for example, simultaneously or sequentially) before inserting the nicotine pod assembly 300 into the through-hole 150 of the device body 100. For example, the first activation pin 314a and the second activation pin 314b may be manually pressed until their ends are substantially horizontal to the upstream end face of the nicotine pod assembly 300. In an exemplary embodiment, the inward movement of the first activation pin 314a and the second activation pin 314b causes the seal of the nicotine storage to be perforated or otherwise compromised so that the nicotine pre-vapor formulation is released therefrom.

[0072] Alternatively, to activate the nicotine pod assembly 300 as part of inserting it into the device body 100, the nicotine pod assembly 300 is first positioned such that the first upstream recess 312a and the second upstream recess 312b engage (e.g., upstream engage) with the first upstream projection 128a and the second upstream projection 128b, respectively. Since each of the first upstream projection 128a and the second upstream projection 128b of the device body 100 may be in the form of a rounded knob configured to engage with the corresponding U-shaped recesses of the first upstream recess 312a and the second upstream recess 312b, the nicotine pod assembly 300 can then be relatively easily swung into the through-hole 150 of the device body 100 around the first upstream projection 128a and the second upstream projection 128b.

[0073] With respect to the rotation of the nicotine pod assembly 300, the axis of rotation can be considered to extend through the first upstream projection 128a and the second upstream projection 128b and be oriented perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the device body 100. During the initial positioning and subsequent rotation of the nicotine pod assembly 300, the first activation pin 314a and the second activation pin 314b contact the upstream side wall of the through hole 150, and as the nicotine pod assembly 300 advances into the through hole 150, the first activation pin 314a and the second activation pin 314b transition from an extended state to a retracted state as they are pushed (for example, simultaneously) into the second housing portion 308. When the downstream end of the nicotine pod assembly 300 reaches the vicinity of the downstream side wall of the through hole 150 and contacts the first downstream projection 130a and the second downstream projection 130b, the first downstream projection 130a and the second downstream projection 130b retract, and then, due to the positioning of the nicotine pod assembly 300, the first downstream projection 130a and the second downstream projection 130b of the device body 100 become capable of engaging (e.g., downstream engaging) with the first downstream recess 306a and the second downstream recess 306b of the nicotine pod assembly 300, respectively, and elastically extend (e.g., spring back).

[0074] As described above, according to the exemplary embodiment, the mouthpiece 102 is fixed to the retaining structure 140 (the first downstream projection 130a and the second downstream projection 130b being part of this). In such an example, the retraction of the first downstream projection 130a and the second downstream projection 130b from the through-hole 150 causes a simultaneous shift of the mouthpiece 102 by a distance corresponding to the same direction (e.g., downstream). Conversely, when the nicotine pod assembly 300 is fully inserted to facilitate downstream engagement, the mouthpiece 102 springs back simultaneously with the first downstream projection 130a and the second downstream projection 130b. In addition to the elastic engagement by the first downstream projection 130a and the second downstream projection 130b, the distal end of the mouthpiece 102 is also configured to be biased against the nicotine pod assembly 300 (and aligned with the pod outlet 304 to form a relatively vapor-tight seal) when the nicotine pod assembly 300 is properly positioned within the through-hole 150 of the device body 100.

[0075] Furthermore, the downstream engagement may generate an audible click and / or tactile feedback indicating that the nicotine pod assembly 300 is properly positioned within the through-hole 150 of the device body 100. When properly positioned, the nicotine pod assembly 300 is mechanically, electrically, and fluidly connected to the device body 100. Although non-limiting embodiments of this specification describe the upstream engagement of the nicotine pod assembly 300 occurring before the downstream engagement, it should be understood that the associated mating, activation, and / or electrical devices may be reversed so that the downstream engagement occurs before the upstream engagement.

[0076] Figure 20 is a perspective view of the nicotine pod assembly of Figure 19, without the connector module. Referring to Figure 20, the upstream end of the second housing portion 308 defines a cavity 310. As described above, the cavity 310 is configured to receive the connector module 320 (e.g., via a treadlock fit). In an exemplary embodiment, the cavity 310 is located between the first upstream recess 312a and the second upstream recess 312b, and also between the first activation pin 314a and the second activation pin 314b. When the connector module 320 is not present, the insert 342 (Figure 24) and the absorbent material 346 (Figure 25) are visible through the recessed opening of the cavity 310. The insert 342 is configured to hold the absorbent material 346. The absorbent material 346 is configured to absorb and hold the amount of nicotine prevapor formulation released from the nicotine storage when the nicotine pod assembly 300 is activated. The insert 342 and the absorbent material 346 are described in more detail herein.

[0077] Figure 21 is a perspective view of the connector module of Figure 19. Figure 22 is another perspective view of the connector module of Figure 21. Referring to Figures 21 and 22, the general framework of the connector module 320 includes a module housing 354 and a faceplate 366. Furthermore, the connector module 320 has multiple surfaces, including an outer surface and side surfaces, the outer surface being adjacent to the side surfaces. In an exemplary embodiment, the outer surface of the connector module 320 consists of the faceplate 366, the first power contact 324a, the second power contact 324b, and the upstream surface of the data contact 326. The side surfaces of the connector module 320 are part of the module housing 354. The side surfaces of the connector module 320 define the first module inlet 330 and the second module inlet 332. Furthermore, two lateral surfaces adjacent to the side surfaces (which are also part of the module housing 354) may include a rib structure (e.g., crush ribs) configured to facilitate interlocking when the connector module 320 is placed in the cavity 310 of the pod body. For example, each of the two lateral surfaces may include a pair of rib structures that are tapered away from the faceplate 366. As a result, the module housing 354 will have increased resistance through friction of the rib structures against the lateral walls of the cavity 310 when the connector module 320 is pressed into the cavity 310 of the pod body. When the connector module 320 is placed inside the cavity 310, the faceplate 366 may be substantially coplanar with the upstream end of the second housing portion 308. Also, the sides of the connector module 320 (defining the first module inlet 330 and the second module inlet 332) face the side walls of the cavity 310.

[0078] The faceplate 366 of the connector module 320 may have a grooved edge 328 that, in combination with the corresponding side of the cavity 310, defines the pod inlet 322. However, it should be understood that exemplary embodiments are not limited thereto. For example, the faceplate 366 of the connector module 320 may be configured alternatively to completely define the pod inlet 322. The side of the connector module 320 (defining the first module inlet 330 and the second module inlet 332) and the side wall of the cavity 310 (facing the side) define an intermediate space between them. The intermediate space is downstream of the pod inlet 322 and upstream of the first module inlet 330 and the second module inlet 332. Thus, in exemplary embodiments, the pod inlet 322 is in fluid communication with both the first module inlet 330 and the second module inlet 332 through the intermediate space. The first module inlet 330 may be larger than the second module inlet 332. In such cases, when incoming air is received by the pod inlet 322 during vaping, the first module inlet 330 may receive the primary flow of incoming air (e.g., a larger flow), while the second module inlet 332 may receive the secondary flow of incoming air (e.g., a smaller flow).

[0079] As shown in Figure 22, the connector module 320 includes a core 338 configured to transmit a nicotine prevapor formulation to a heater 336. The heater 336 is configured to heat the nicotine prevapor formulation during vaping to generate vapor. The heater 336 may be mounted within the connector module 320 via a contact core 334. The heater 336 is electrically connected to at least one electrical contact of the connector module 320. For example, one end of the heater 336 (e.g., the first end) may be connected to a first power contact 324a, while the other end of the heater 336 (e.g., the second end) may be connected to a second power contact 324b. In exemplary embodiments, the heater 336 includes a folded heating element. In such cases, the core 338 may have a planar configuration configured to be held by the folded heating element. When the connector module 320 is placed inside the cavity 310 of the pod body, the wick 338 is configured to be in fluid communication with the absorbent material 346 so that the nicotine prevapor formulation, which is located inside the absorbent material 346, moves to the wick 338 via capillary action (when the nicotine pod assembly 300 is activated).

[0080] Figure 23 is an exploded view relating to the core, heater, conductor, and contact core of Figure 22. Referring to Figure 23, the core 338 may be a fibrous pad or other structure having voids / gaps designed for capillary action. Furthermore, the core 338 may have a non-uniform hexagonal shape, but exemplary embodiments are not limited thereto. The core 338 may be manufactured in a hexagonal shape or cut into this shape from a larger sheet material. Because the lower part of the core 338 is tapered toward the winding portion of the heater 336, the possibility of the nicotine pre-vapor formulation becoming part of the core 338 that avoids continuous vaporization (due to its distance from the heater 336) can be reduced or avoided.

[0081] In an exemplary embodiment, the heater 336 is configured to be Joule heated (also known as ohm / resistive heating) when an electric current is applied thereto. More specifically, the heater 336 may be formed of one or more conductors and may be configured to generate heat when an electric current is passed through it. The electric current may be supplied from a power source (e.g., a battery) within the apparatus body 100 and may be transmitted to the heater 336 via a first power contact 324a or a first conductor 340a (or a second power contact 324b or a second conductor 340b).

[0082] Suitable conductors for the heater 336 include iron-based alloys (e.g., stainless steel) and / or nickel-based alloys (e.g., nichrome). The heater 336 may be made from a conductive sheet (e.g., metal, alloy) which is then stamped to cut a winding pattern. The winding pattern may have curved portions that alternate with horizontal portions, with the horizontal portions extending parallel to each other and zigzag back and forth. Furthermore, the width of each horizontal portion of the winding pattern may be approximately equal to the spacing between adjacent horizontal portions of the winding pattern, but exemplary embodiments are not limited thereto. To obtain the illustrated form of the heater 336, the winding pattern may be folded to grip a core 338.

[0083] The heater 336 can be fixed to the contact core 334 by a first conductor 340a and a second conductor 340b. The contact core 334 is formed from an insulating material and is configured to electrically insulate the first conductor 340a from the second conductor 340b. In an exemplary embodiment, the first conductor 340a and the second conductor 340b each define a female opening configured to engage with the corresponding male member of the contact core 334. The first and second ends of the heater 336, once engaged, can be fixed (e.g., welded, soldered, brazed) to the first conductor 340a and the second conductor 340b, respectively. The contact core 334 can then be placed in the corresponding socket of the module housing 354 (e.g., via interference mating). When the connector module 320 is assembled, the first electrical lead 340a electrically connects the first end of the heater 336 to the first power contact 324a, while the second electrical lead 340b electrically connects the second end of the heater 336 to the second power contact 324b. The heater and related structure are described in detail in U.S. Patent Application No. 15 / 729,909, filed October 11, 2017, entitled “Folded Heater For Nicotine electronic vaping device” (Atty. Dkt. No. 24000-000371-US), the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference.

[0084] Figure 24 is an exploded view relating to the first housing portion of the nicotine pod assembly shown in Figure 17. Referring to Figure 24, the first housing portion 302 includes a vapor channel 316. The vapor channel 316 is configured to receive nicotine vapor generated by the heater 336 and is in fluid communication with the pod outlet 304. In exemplary embodiments, the size (e.g., diameter) of the vapor channel 316 may gradually increase as it extends toward the pod outlet 304. Furthermore, the vapor channel 316 may be formed integrally with the first housing portion 302. The wrap 318, insert 342, and seal 344 are located at the upstream end of the first housing portion 302 and define the nicotine storage portion of the nicotine pod assembly 300. For example, the wrap 318 may be located on the rim of the first housing portion 302. The insert 342 may be placed within the first housing portion 302 such that the peripheral surface of the insert 342 engages with the inner surface of the first housing portion 302 along its edge (e.g., via a press fit) such that the interface between the peripheral surface of the insert 342 and the inner surface of the first housing portion 302 is fluid-tight (e.g., liquid-tight and / or airtight). Furthermore, the seal 344 is attached to the upstream side of the insert 342 to seal the nicotine storage outlet of the insert 342, providing fluid-tight (e.g., liquid-tight and / or airtight) containment of the nicotine prevapor formulation into the nicotine storage portion.

[0085] In an exemplary embodiment, the insert 342 includes a holder portion protruding from the upstream side (shown in Figure 24) and a connector portion protruding from the downstream side (hidden in Figure 24). The holder portion of the insert 342 is configured to hold the absorbent material 346, while the connector portion of the insert 342 is configured to engage with the vapor channel 316 of the first housing portion 302. The connector portion of the insert 342 may be positioned within the vapor channel 316 and therefore configured to engage with the interior of the vapor channel 316. Alternatively, the connector portion of the insert 342 may be configured to receive the vapor channel 316 and therefore engage with the exterior of the vapor channel 316. The insert 342 also defines a nicotine storage outlet through which the nicotine pre-vapor formulation flows when the seal 344 is perforated during the activation of the nicotine pod assembly 300 (as shown in Figure 24). The holder portion and connector portion of insert 342 may be located between the nicotine storage outlets (e.g., a first nicotine storage outlet and a second storage outlet), but exemplary embodiments are not limited thereto. Furthermore, insert 342 defines vapor conduits extending through the holder portion and connector portion. As a result, when insert 342 is placed within the first housing portion 302, the vapor conduits of insert 342 are aligned with and fluidly communicated with the vapor channel 316, forming a continuous path for nicotine vapor generated by the heater 336 during vaping, through the nicotine storage to the pod outlet 304.

[0086] The seal 344 is mounted upstream of the insert 342 so as to cover the nicotine storage outlet of the insert 342. In exemplary embodiments, the seal 344 defines an opening (e.g., a central opening) configured to provide a suitable gap to accommodate the holder portion (protruding from the upstream side of the insert 342) when the seal 344 is mounted on the insert 342. It should be understood that in Figure 24, the seal 344 is shown in a perforated state. In particular, the two perforated sections of the seal 344 are pushed into the nicotine storage as flaps (as shown in Figure 24) when perforated by the first activation pin 314a and the second activation pin 314b of the nicotine pod assembly 300, thus creating two perforated openings within the seal 344 (e.g., one on each side of the central opening). The size and shape of the perforated openings within the seal 344 may correspond to the size and shape of the nicotine storage outlet of the insert 342. In contrast, in the non-perforated state, the seal 344 has a planar shape and only one opening (e.g., a central opening). The seal 344 is designed to have sufficient strength to remain intact so as not to be torn prematurely or accidentally during the normal movement and / or handling of the nicotine pod assembly 300. For example, the seal 344 may be a coated foil (e.g., titanium backed with aluminum).

[0087] Figure 25 is a partially exploded view relating to the second housing portion of the nicotine pod assembly of Figure 17. Referring to Figure 25, the second housing portion 308 is structured to contain various elements configured to release, receive, and heat the nicotine prevapor formulation. For example, the first activation pin 314a and the second activation pin 314b are configured to perforate the nicotine storage portion of the first housing portion 302 to release the nicotine prevapor formulation. Each of the first activation pin 314a and the second activation pin 314b has a distal end that extends through a corresponding opening in the second housing portion 308. In exemplary embodiments, the distal ends of the first activation pin 314a and the distal ends of the second activation pin 314b are visible after assembly (e.g., Figure 17), while the rest of the first activation pin 314a and the second activation pin 314b are hidden from view within the nicotine pod assembly 300. Furthermore, each of the first activation pin 314a and the second activation pin 314b has a proximal end that is positioned adjacent to and upstream of the seal 344 before activation of the nicotine pod assembly 300. When the first activation pin 314a and the second activation pin 314b are pushed into the second housing portion 308 to activate the nicotine pod assembly 300, the proximal ends of each of the first activation pin 314a and the second activation pin 314b advance through the insert 342, thereby perforating the seal 344, which releases the nicotine prevapor formulation from the nicotine storage portion. The movement of the first activation pin 314a may be independent of the movement of the second activation pin 314b (and vice versa). The first activation pin 314a and the second activation pin 314b are described in more detail herein.

[0088] Furthermore, as described above, the absorbent material 346 is configured to engage with the holder portion of the insert 342 (which protrudes from the upstream side of the insert 342, as shown in Figure 24). The absorbent material 346 may have an annular shape, but exemplary embodiments are not limited thereto. As shown in Figure 25, the absorbent material 346 may resemble a hollow cylindrical shape. In such cases, the outer diameter of the absorbent material 346 may be approximately equal to (or slightly larger than) the length of the core 338. The inner diameter of the absorbent material 346 may be smaller than the average outer diameter of the holder portion of the insert 342 to provide an interlocking fit. To facilitate engagement with the absorbent material 346, the tip of the holder portion of the insert 342 may be tapered. Furthermore, although not visible in Figure 25, the downstream side of the second housing portion 308 may define a cavity configured to receive and support the absorbent material 346. An example of such a cavity may be a circular chamber downstream of which fluid communication occurs with the cavity 310. The absorbent material 346 is configured to receive and retain the amount of nicotine prevapor formulation released from the nicotine storage unit when the nicotine pod assembly 300 is activated.

[0089] The wick 338 is positioned within the nicotine pod assembly 300 to be in fluid communication with the absorbent material 346 so that the nicotine prevapor formulation can be drawn out from the absorbent material 346 to the heater 336 via capillary action. The wick 338 may be in physical contact with the upstream side of the absorbent material 346 (for example, the bottom of the absorbent material 346, based on the diagram shown in Figure 25). Furthermore, the wick 338 may be aligned with the diameter of the absorbent material 346, but exemplary embodiments are not limited thereto.

[0090] As shown in Figure 25 (and Figure 23 above), the heater 336 may have a folded configuration to grip opposing surfaces of the wick 338 and establish thermal contact with it. The heater 336 is configured to heat the wick 338 during vaping to generate vapor. To facilitate such heating, the first end of the heater 336 may be electrically connected to the first power contact 324a via the first electrical lead 340a, while the second end of the heater 336 may be electrically connected to the second power contact 324b via the second electrical lead 340b. As a result, current can be supplied from a power source (e.g., a battery) within the apparatus body 100 and transmitted to the heater 336 via the first power contact 324a and the first conductor 340a (or the second power contact 324b and the second conductor 340b). The first conductor 340a and the second conductor 340b (shown separately in Figure 23) can be engaged with the contact core 334 (as shown in Figure 25). Relevant details of other embodiments of the connector module 320, configured to be placed within the cavity 310 of the second housing portion 308 (for example, in relation to Figures 21 and 22), are not repeated in this section for the sake of brevity. Nicotine vapor generated by the heater 336 is drawn out during vaping through the vapor conduit of the insert 342, through the vapor channel 316 of the first housing portion 302, out of the pod outlet 304 of the nicotine pod assembly 300, through the vapor passage 136 of the mouthpiece 102, to one or more vapor outlets.

[0091] Figure 26 is an exploded view of the activation pin of Figure 25. Referring to Figure 26, the activation pin may take the form of a first activation pin 314a and a second activation pin 314b. Although two activation pins are illustrated and described in relation to the non-limiting embodiments herein, it should be understood that, alternatively, the nicotine pod assembly 300 may include only one activation pin. In Figure 26, the first activation pin 314a may include a first blade 348a, a first actuator 350a, and a first O-ring 352a. Similarly, the second activation pin 314b may include a second blade 348b, a second actuator 350b, and a second O-ring 352b.

[0092] In exemplary embodiments, the first blade 348a and the second blade 348b are configured to be attached to or fitted to the upper portions (e.g., proximal portions) of the first actuator 350a and the second actuator 350b, respectively. Attachment or fitting can be achieved via snap-fit ​​connections, interlocking (e.g., friction-fit) connections, adhesives, or other suitable bonding techniques. The upper portions of each of the first blade 348a and the second blade 348b may have one or more curved or concave edges that taper upward toward a pointed tip. For example, each of the first blade 348a and the second blade 348b may have two pointed tips with a concave edge between them, and a curved edge adjacent to each pointed tip. The radii of curvature of the concave and curved edges may be the same, while their arc lengths may differ. The first blade 348a and the second blade 348b may be formed from sheet metal (e.g., stainless steel) that is cut or otherwise shaped to have a desired profile and then bent into its final form. In another example, the first blade 348a and the second blade 348b may be formed from plastic.

[0093] Based on the plan view, the size and shape of the first blade 348a, the second blade 348b, and the first actuator 350a and the second actuator 350b on which they are mounted may correspond to the size and shape of the nicotine storage outlet of the insert 342. Furthermore, as shown in Figure 26, the first actuator 350a and the second actuator 350b may include protruding edges (e.g., curved inner lips facing each other) configured to push the two perforated sections of the seal 344 into the nicotine storage as the first blade 348a and the second blade 348b advance into the nicotine storage. In a non-limiting embodiment, when the first activation pin 314a and the second activation pin 314b are fully inserted into the nicotine pod assembly 300, the two flaps (from the two perforated sections of the seal 344, as shown in Figure 24) may be located between the curved side wall of the nicotine storage outlet of the insert 342 and the corresponding curves of the protruding edges of the first actuator 350a and the second actuator 350b. As a result, the possibility of obstruction of the two perforated openings of the seal 344 (by the two flaps from the two perforated sections) can be reduced or prevented. Furthermore, the first actuator 350a and the second actuator 350b may be configured to guide the nicotine prevapor formulation from the nicotine storage toward the absorbent material 346.

[0094] The lower portions (e.g., distal portions) of the first actuator 350a and the second actuator 350b are configured to extend through the bottom portion (e.g., upstream end) of the second housing portion 308. These rod-like portions of the first actuator 350a and the second actuator 350b can also be referred to as shafts. The first O-ring 352a and the second O-ring 352b may be placed in annular grooves within the shafts of the first actuator 350a and the second actuator 350b, respectively. The first O-ring 352a and the second O-ring 352b are configured to engage with the shafts of the first actuator 350a and the second actuator 350b, as well as the inner surfaces of the corresponding openings of the second housing portion 308, in order to provide a fluid-tight seal. As a result, when the first activation pin 314a and the second activation pin 314b are pushed inward to activate the nicotine pod assembly 300, the first O-ring 352a and the second O-ring 352b move together with the respective shafts of the first actuator 350a and the second actuator 350b within the corresponding openings of the second housing portion 308, while maintaining their respective seals, thereby helping to reduce or prevent leakage of the nicotine pre-vapor formulation through the openings of the second housing portion 308 to the first activation pin 314a and the second activation pin 314b. The first O-ring 352a and the second O-ring 352b may be formed of silicone.

[0095] Figure 27 is a perspective view of the connector module of Figure 22, excluding the core, heater, conductor and contact core. Figure 28 is an exploded view of the connector module of Figure 27. Referring to Figures 27 and 28, the module housing 354 and faceplate 366 generally form the external framework of the connector module 320. The module housing 354 defines a first module inlet 330 and a grooved edge 356. The grooved edge 356 of the module housing 354 exposes a second module inlet 332 (defined by the bypass structure 358). However, it should be understood that the grooved edge 356 can also be considered to define a module inlet (for example, in combination with the faceplate 366). The faceplate 366 has a grooved edge 328 that defines a pod inlet 322, together with the corresponding side of the cavity 310 of the second housing portion 308. Furthermore, the panel 366 defines a first contact opening, a second contact opening, and a third contact opening. The first and second contact openings may be square and configured to expose a first power contact 324a and a second power contact 324b, respectively, while the third contact opening may be rectangular and configured to expose a plurality of data contacts 326, but exemplary embodiments are not limited thereto.

[0096] The first power contact 324a, the second power contact 324b, the printed circuit board (PCB) 362, and the bypass structure 358 are arranged within an external framework formed by the module housing 354 and the faceplate 366. The printed circuit board (PCB) 362 includes a plurality of data contacts 326 on its upstream side (not visible in Figure 28) and a sensor 364 on its downstream side. The bypass structure 358 defines a second module inlet 332 and a bypass outlet 360.

[0097] The first power contact 324a and the second power contact 324b are positioned during assembly so that they are visible through the first and second contact openings of the faceplate 366, respectively. Furthermore, the printed circuit board (PCB) 362 is positioned so that its upstream data contacts 326 are visible through a third contact opening of the faceplate 366. The printed circuit board (PCB) 362 may also overlap the back surfaces of the first power contact 324a and the second power contact 324b. The bypass structure 358 is positioned on the printed circuit board (PCB) 362 so that the sensor 364 is within an airflow path defined by the second module inlet 332 and the bypass outlet 360. When assembled, the bypass structure 358 and the printed circuit board 362 can be considered to be surrounded on at least four sides by the meandering structure of the first power contact 324a and the second power contact 324b. In an exemplary embodiment, the bifurcated ends of the first power contact 324a and the second power contact 324b are configured to be electrically connected to the first conductor 340a and the second conductor 340b.

[0098] When incoming air is received by the pod inlet 322 during vaping, the first module inlet 330 may receive a primary flow of incoming air (e.g., a larger flow), while the second module inlet 332 may receive a secondary flow of incoming air (e.g., a smaller flow). The secondary flow of incoming air may improve the sensitivity of the sensor 364. The secondary flow exits the bypass structure 358 through the bypass outlet 360, then recombines with the primary flow to form a combined flow drawn into the contact core 334, so as to encounter the heater 336 and the core 338. In a non-limiting embodiment, the primary flow rate may be 60–95% (e.g., 80–90%) of the incoming air, while the secondary flow rate may be 5–40% (e.g., 10–20%) of the incoming air.

[0099] The first module inlet 330 may be a draw-out resistance (RTD) port, while the second module inlet 332 may be a bypass port. In such a configuration, the draw-out resistance of the nicotine e-vaping device 500 can be adjusted by changing the size of the first module inlet 330 (rather than changing the size of the pod inlet 322). In an exemplary embodiment, the size of the first module inlet 330 may be selected such that the draw-out resistance is 25 to 100 millimeters of water column (e.g., 30 to 50 millimeters of water column). For example, a diameter of 1.0 mm for the first module inlet 330 may result in a draw-out resistance of 88.3 millimeters of water column. In another example, a diameter of 1.1 mm for the first module inlet 330 may result in a draw-out resistance of 73.6 millimeters of water column. In yet another example, a diameter of 1.2 mm for the first module inlet 330 may result in a draw-out resistance of 58.7 millimeters of water column. In another example, a 1.3 mm diameter of the first module inlet 330 can result in a draw resistance of 43.8 millimeters of water column. In particular, the size of the first module inlet 330 can be adjusted for its internal placement without affecting the external aesthetics of the nicotine pod assembly 300, thereby enabling a more standardized product design of pod assemblies with varying draw resistances (RTDs), while also reducing the possibility of accidental blockage of incoming air.

[0100] Figure 29 shows the electrical system of the device body and nicotine pod assembly of a nicotine e-vaping device according to one or more exemplary embodiments.

[0101] Referring to Figure 29, the electrical system includes the device body electrical system 2100 and the nicotine pod assembly electrical system 2200. The device body electrical system 2100 may be included in the device body 100, and the nicotine pod assembly electrical system 2200 may be included in the nicotine pod assembly 300 of the nicotine e-vaping device 500 described with respect to Figures 1-28.

[0102] In the exemplary embodiment shown in Figure 29, the electrical system 2200 of the nicotine pod assembly includes a heater 336, one or more pod sensors 2220, and a non-volatile memory (NVM) 2205. The NVM 2205 may be an electrically erasable programmable read-only memory (EEPROM) integrated circuit (IC). The one or more pod sensors 2220 may include a temperature sensing transducer.

[0103] The nicotine pod assembly electrical system 2200 may further include an electrical / data interface (not shown) of the body for transmitting power and / or data between the device body 100 and the nicotine pod assembly 300. According to at least one exemplary embodiment, the electrical contacts 324a, 324b and 326 shown in Figure 17 may function, for example, as an electrical / data interface of the body.

[0104] The device body electrical system 2100 includes a control unit 2105, a power supply 2110, a device sensor or measurement circuit 2125, a heating engine control circuit (also called a heating engine shut-off circuit) 2127, a vapor indicator 2135, on-product controls 2150 (e.g., buttons 118 and 120 shown in Figure 1), memory 2130, and a clock circuit 2128. The device body electrical system 2100 may further include an electrical / data interface (not shown) for the pod to transmit power and / or data between the device body 100 and the nicotine pod assembly 300. According to at least one exemplary embodiment, for example, the device's electrical connector 132 shown in Figure 12 may function as the electrical / data interface for the pod.

[0105] The power supply 2110 may be an internal power supply for supplying power to the device body 100 and nicotine pod assembly 300 of the nicotine e-vaping device 500. The power supply from the power supply 2110 may be controlled by the control device 2105 via a power control circuit (not shown). The power control circuit may include one or more switches or transistors for adjusting the power output from the power supply 2110. The power supply 2110 may be a lithium-ion battery or another form thereof (e.g., a lithium-ion polymer battery).

[0106] The control device 2105 may be configured to control the overall operation of the nicotine e-vaping device 500. According to at least some exemplary embodiments, the control device 2105 may include processing circuits such as hardware including logic circuits, a combination of hardware and software such as a processor that runs software, or a combination thereof. For example, the processing circuits may, but are not limited to, a central processing unit (CPU), an arithmetic unit (ALU), a digital signal processor, a microcomputer, a field-programmable gate array (FPGA), a system on a chip (SoC), a programmable logic unit, a microprocessor, an application-specific integrated circuit (ASIC), and the like.

[0107] In the exemplary embodiment shown in Figure 29, the control device 2105 includes general-purpose input / output (GPIO) and inter-integrated circuit communication (I 2 C) The microcontroller is shown to include an input / output (I / O) interface such as a serial peripheral interface bus (SPI) interface or similar, a multi-channel analog-to-digital converter (ADC), and a clock input terminal. However, exemplary embodiments should not be limited to this embodiment. In at least one exemplary implementation, the control device 2105 may be a microprocessor.

[0108] The control device 2105 is communicatively connected to the device sensor 2125, the heating engine control circuit 2127, the vapor indicator 2135, the memory 2130, the on-product control 2150, the clock circuit 2128, and the power supply 2110.

[0109] The heating engine control circuit 2127 is connected to the control unit 2105 via GPIO pins. The memory 2130 is connected to the control unit 2105 via SPI pins. The clock circuit 2128 is connected to the clock input pin of the control unit 2105. The vapor indicator 2135 is I 2 The device sensor 2125 is connected to the control unit 2105 via the C interface pins and GPIO pins. The device sensor 2125 is connected to the control unit 2105 via the respective pins of the multi-channel ADC.

[0110] The clock circuit 2128 may be a timing mechanism such as an oscillator circuit that allows the control device 2105 to track the idle time, vaping length, combinations of idle time and vaping length, etc., of the nicotine e-vaping device 500. The clock circuit 2128 may also include a dedicated external clock crystal configured to generate a system clock for the nicotine e-vaping device 500.

[0111] Memory 2130 may be a non-volatile memory configured to store one or more block logs. In one embodiment, memory 2130 may store one or more block logs in one or more tables. Memory 2130 and the one or more block logs stored therein will be described in more detail later. In one embodiment, memory 2130 may be an electrically erasable programmable read-only memory (EEPROM), such as flash memory.

[0112] Referring further to Figure 29, the device sensor 2125 may include a plurality of sensors or measuring circuits configured to provide the control device 2105 with signals indicating sensor or measurement information. In the embodiment shown in Figure 29, the device sensor 2125 includes a heater current measuring circuit 21258, a heater voltage measuring circuit 21252, and a pod temperature measuring circuit 21250.

[0113] The heater current measurement circuit 21258 may be configured to output a signal (e.g., voltage) indicating the current passing through the heater 336. Exemplary embodiments of the heater current measurement circuit 21258 will be described in more detail later with respect to Figure 35.

[0114] The heater voltage measurement circuit 21252 may be configured to output a signal (e.g., voltage) indicating the voltage across the heater 336. Exemplary embodiments of the heater voltage measurement circuit 21252 will be described in more detail later with respect to Figure 34.

[0115] The pod temperature measurement circuit 21250 may be configured to output a signal (e.g., voltage) indicating the resistance and / or temperature of one or more elements of the nicotine pod assembly 300. Exemplary embodiments of the pod temperature measurement circuit 21250 will be described in more detail later with respect to Figures 36 and 37.

[0116] As described above, the pod temperature measurement circuit 21250, the heater current measurement circuit 21258, and the heater voltage measurement circuit 21252 are connected to the control unit 2105 via the pins of the multi-channel ADC. To measure the characteristics and / or parameters of the nicotine e-vaping device 500 (e.g., voltage, current, resistance, temperature of the heater 336), the multi-channel ADC in the control unit 2105 can sample the output signal from the device sensor 2125 at an appropriate sampling rate for a given characteristic and / or parameter measured by each device sensor.

[0117] Although not shown in Figure 29, the pod sensor 2220 may also include the sensor 364 shown in Figure 28. In at least one exemplary embodiment, the sensor 364 may be a micro-electromechanical system (MEMS) flow or pressure sensor, or another type of sensor configured to measure airflow, such as a hot-wire anemometer.

[0118] The heating engine control circuit 2127 is connected to the control unit 2105 via GPIO pins. The heating engine control circuit 2127 is configured to control (enable and / or disable) the heating engine of the nicotine e-vaping device 500 by controlling the power to the heater 336. As will be described in more detail later, the heating engine control circuit 2127 may disable the heating engine based on a control signal from the control unit 2105 (which may be referred to herein as the device power status signal).

[0119] When the nicotine pod assembly 300 is inserted into the device body 100, the control device 2105 also 2 The controller is communicatively coupled to at least the NVM2205 and the pod sensor 2220 via a C interface. In one embodiment, the control unit 2105 may obtain operating parameters of the nicotine pod assembly electrical system 2200 from the NVM2205.

[0120] The control device 2105 may control the vapor indicator 2135 to indicate the status and / or operation of the nicotine e-vaping device 500 to an adult e-vaping device user. The vapor indicator 2135 may include a power indicator (e.g., an LED) which may be at least partially implemented via an optical guide (e.g., the optical guide arrangement shown in Figure 1) and which can be activated when the control device 2105 senses that a button has been pressed by an adult e-vaping device user. The vapor indicator 2135 may also include a vibrator, speaker, or other feedback mechanism which may indicate the current state of a vaping parameter (e.g., nicotine vapor amount) controlled by the adult e-vaping device user.

[0121] Referring further to Figure 29, the control device 2105 may control the power to the heater 336 to heat the nicotine prevapor formulation according to a heating profile (e.g., heating based on volume, temperature, flavor, etc.). The heating profile may be determined based on empirical data and stored in the NVM 2205 of the nicotine pod assembly 300.

[0122] Figure 30 is a simplified block diagram showing a dry smoke extraction and automatic shutoff control system 2300 according to an exemplary embodiment. For brevity, the dry smoke extraction and automatic shutoff control system 2300 may be referred to herein as the automatic shutoff control system 2300.

[0123] The automatic shut-off control system 2300 shown in Figure 30 may be implemented in the control device 2105. In one embodiment, the automatic shut-off control system 2300 may be implemented as part of the device manager finite state machine (FSM) software implementation executed in the control device 2105. In the embodiment shown in Figure 30, the automatic shut-off control system 2300 includes a dryness detection module 2610. However, naturally, the automatic shut-off control system 2300 may include various other subsystem modules.

[0124] Referring to Figure 30, the automatic shut-off control system 2300, and more generally, the control device 2105, can identify a dry smoke state in the nicotine e-vaping device 500 and cause the control device 2105 to control one or more subsystems of the nicotine e-vaping device 500 to perform one or more resulting actions in response to identifying the dry smoke state. The dry smoke state may be referred to as a dry smoke failure or dry smoke failure state. Identification of a dry smoke state may be based on information and / or inputs such as threshold parameters of the nicotine pod assembly 300, pod sensor information from one or more pod sensors 2220, sensor information from one or more sensors 2125 of the device body electrical system 2100, or any combination thereof. The dry smoke state is an example of a difficult pod failure event in the nicotine e-vaping device 500. A difficult failure pod event is an event that may require a corrective action (e.g., replacement of the nicotine pod assembly) to re-enable the vaping function in the nicotine e-vaping device 500.

[0125] The control device 2105 can control one or more subsystems by outputting (or asserting or deasserting) one or more control signals, as will be described in more detail later. In some cases, the control signals output from the control device 2105 may be called device power status signals, device power status commands, or device power control signals. In at least one exemplary embodiment, the control device 2105 may, in response to detection of a dry vapor state in the nicotine e-vaping device 500, output one or more control signals to the heating engine control circuit 2127 to shut off the vaping function in the nicotine e-vaping device 500.

[0126] According to one or more exemplary embodiments, the type of resulting operation in the nicotine e-vaping device 500 may be based on the dry vapor state and / or current operation of the nicotine e-vaping device 500. Multiple resulting operations may be performed sequentially in response to a failure event such as a dry vapor state. In one embodiment, the resulting operations are:

[0127] The Nicotine e-Vaping Device 500 has an automatic shut-off function that switches to a low-power state (equivalent to, for example, turning off the Nicotine e-Vaping Device using the power button),

[0128] The heater-off operation cuts off or disables power to heater 336, ending the current vapor extraction, but otherwise leaving it ready for vaping.

[0129] The vaping subsystem may include a vaping-off operation, which prevents vaping until the vaping subsystem is disabled (for example, by disabling all power to the heater 336), thereby performing a corrective operation (for example, replacing the nicotine pod assembly).

[0130] As described above, the automatic shut-off control system 2300 includes a dryness detection subsystem 2610 (also called a dryness detection subsystem module, circuit, or electrical circuit). Through the dryness detection subsystem 2610, the control device 2105 monitors the wetness (or dryness) of the wick 338 and detects the presence of a dry vapor state in the nicotine e-vaping device 500. As described above, when a dry vapor state is detected, the control device 2105 may shut off or disable one or more subsystems or elements of the nicotine e-vaping device 500.

[0131] In at least one exemplary embodiment, the control device 2105 monitors the wetness of the wick 338 based on the percentage change in the resistance of the heater 336 over time during vaping. In at least one exemplary embodiment, the control device 2105 may receive one or more signals from the pod temperature measurement circuit 21250 indicating the resistance of the heater 336.

[0132] In another exemplary embodiment, the control device 2105 may calculate the resistance of the heater 336 based on signals from the heater current measurement circuit 21258 and / or the heater voltage measurement circuit 21252.

[0133] According to one or more exemplary embodiments, if the percentage change in the resistance of the heater 336 over a time window exceeds a percentage change threshold for resistance, the control device 2105 determines that a dry vapor state exists in the nicotine e-vaping device 500 (e.g., the wick 338 is dry). The control device 2105 may obtain the percentage change threshold for resistance from the NVM 2205 of the nicotine pod assembly electrical system 2200. The percentage change threshold for resistance may be set by the manufacturer of the nicotine pod assembly 300 based on empirical data, nicotine pre-vaper formulations, the structure of the heater 336, their partial combinations, their combinations, etc. According to at least some exemplary embodiments, the percentage change threshold for resistance may be about 0.1 percent to 25.5 percent (in increments of about 0.1 percent). In one embodiment, the percentage change in resistance may be about 2.0 percent for a heater constructed from 316L grade stainless steel.

[0134] In one embodiment, a dry smuggling condition may exist because the nicotine prevapor formulation is not supplied to the wick 338 at a flow rate sufficient to maintain the standard temperature profile of the heater 336. Thus, a percentage change in resistance may indicate the flow rate of the nicotine prevapor formulation to the wick 338, and the dryness detection subsystem 2610 may be characterized as being configured to determine whether a dry smuggling condition exists based on the flow rate of the nicotine prevapor formulation to the wick 338. Furthermore, a dry smuggling condition may result from depletion of the nicotine prevapor formulation in the nicotine pod assembly 300. Thus, detection of a dry smuggling condition may also indicate a depleted and / or empty nicotine pod assembly.

[0135] The control device 2105 may utilize the slide measurement window for N resistance samples of the heater 336 so that a determination is made for the most recent time slice during vaping. This allows the control device 2105 to be adapted to the application of negative pressure for relatively long periods by adult e-vaping device users, while providing faster detection of dry fumes, where the resistance of the heater 336 begins to change relatively rapidly while negative pressure is applied.

[0136] In response to the detection of a dry smoke absorption state, the control device 2105 may control the heating engine control circuit 2127 to cut off power to the heater 336 (heater off) and / or disable vaping in the nicotine e-vaping device 500 (vaping off).

[0137] According to at least one exemplary embodiment, a first-in, first-out (FIFO) memory storing about 100 samples (N=100) may be used to set a slide measurement window of about 100 milliseconds (ms) in which the resistance of the heater 336 is periodically updated (e.g., recalculated) in 1 ms "ticks". The FIFO memory may be integrated with the control unit 2105 or included in memory 2130, as shown in Figure 29.

[0138] According to at least one exemplary embodiment, the slide window may not start until the resistance measurement of heater 336 is relatively stable; otherwise, spurious values ​​inserted into the FIFO memory could cause false positives in later processes. A resistance measurement is considered relatively stable when it reaches an operating state where the resistance measurement is less than a percentage change threshold of the resistance. In one embodiment, the resistance of heater 336 may begin to stabilize after the current through heater 336 exceeds a "wet" current threshold (e.g., about 100 milliamps (mA)). The control unit 2105 may determine that the "wet" current threshold has been reached by monitoring the current through heater 336 based on a signal from heater current measurement circuit 21258.

[0139] Figure 31 is a flowchart illustrating a dryness detection method according to an exemplary embodiment. For illustrative purposes, the flowchart shown in Figure 31 is described in relation to the electrical system shown in Figure 29. However, it should be noted that exemplary embodiments are not limited to this embodiment. Rather, exemplary embodiments may be applied to other nicotine e-vaping devices and their electrical systems. Furthermore, the exemplary embodiment shown in Figure 31 is described in relation to the operations performed by the control device 2105. However, it should be understood that exemplary embodiments may similarly be described in relation to an automatic shut-off control system 2300 and / or dryness detection subsystem 2610 that perform one or more functions / operations shown in Figure 31.

[0140] Referring to Figure 31, when the nicotine pod assembly 300 is inserted into the device body 100 and the nicotine e-vaping device 500 is powered on, in step S2702, the control device 2105 obtains the percentage change threshold (also called the percentage resistance change parameter) Δ%R_THRESHOLD of the resistance stored in the NVM 2205 in the nicotine pod assembly electrical system 2200.

[0141] In step S2704, the control device 2105 determines whether a vaping state exists in the nicotine e-vaping device 500. According to at least one exemplary embodiment, the control device 2105 may determine whether a vaping state exists in the nicotine e-vaping device 500 based on the output from the sensor 364. In one embodiment, if the output from the sensor 364 indicates the application of negative pressure exceeding a threshold in the mouthpiece 102 of the nicotine e-vaping device 500, the control device 2105 may determine that a vaping state exists in the nicotine e-vaping device 500.

[0142] If the control device 2105 detects a vaping state in step S2704, in step S2705, the control device 2105 controls the heating engine control circuit 2127 to apply power to the heater 336 for vaping. Exemplary control of the heating engine control circuit 2127 for applying power to the heater 336 will be described in more detail later with respect to Figures 38 and 39.

[0143] In step S2706, the control device 2105 determines whether the resistance of the heater 336 has stabilized. As described above, the control device 2105 may determine that the resistance of the heater 336 has stabilized when the current passing through the heater 336 reaches a "wetting" current threshold (for example, about 100 milliamperes (mA)). Based on the output signal from the heater current measurement circuit 21258, the control device 2105 may determine that the current passing through the heater 336 has reached the "wetting" current threshold.

[0144] In step S2706, if the control device 2105 determines that the resistance of the heater 336 has stabilized, the control device 2105 starts storing the measured resistance of the heater 336 in the FIFO memory at 1ms intervals (1ms "ticks").

[0145] In step S2710, the control device 2105 determines whether the FIFO memory is full (for example, whether a threshold number of samples have been collected). In one embodiment, the FIFO memory may become full when approximately 100 samples of the heater 336's resistance have been stored (for example, approximately 100 ms after it is determined in step S2706 that the heater 336's resistance has stabilized).

[0146] If the control device 2105 determines that the FIFO memory is full, in step S2712 the control device 2105 determines the first resistance value R stored in the FIFO memory t_0 (at t0) and the latest (most recent) resistance value R t_N-1 (time t) N-1 Calculate the percentage change in resistance Δ%R between (at) and (at).

[0147] In step S2714, the control device 2105 compares the calculated percentage change in resistance Δ%R with the percentage change threshold Δ%R_THRESHOLD obtained from the NVM2205 in step S2702.

[0148] If the calculated percentage change in resistance Δ%R is greater than the percentage change threshold for resistance Δ%R_THRESHOLD, in step S2716, the control device 2105 controls the heating engine control circuit 2127 to shut off the heater 336 (e.g., cut off power). In one embodiment, the control device 2105 may control the heating engine control circuit 2127 to perform a vaping-off operation. As described above, a vaping-off operation can neutralize all energy to the heater 336, thereby preventing vaping until a corrective operation is performed (e.g., by an adult e-vaping device user). As will be described in more detail later, the control device 2105 may neutralize all energy to the heater 336 by controlling the heating engine control circuit 2127 to output a vaping-off signal COIL_SHDN (Figure 38) having a logic high level, or by deasserting (or stopping the output of) a vaping-enable signal COIL_VGATE_PWM (Figure 39). In at least one embodiment, the vaping enable signal COIL_VPATE_PWM may be a pulse-width modulation (PWM) signal. An example of the correction operation will be described in detail later.

[0149] Returning to step S2714, if the calculated percentage change in resistance Δ%R is less than or equal to the percentage change threshold for resistance Δ%R_THRESHOLD, the process returns to S2708 and continues as described above.

[0150] Returning to step S2710, if the control unit 2105 determines that the FIFO memory is not yet full, the process returns to step S2708 and continues as described above.

[0151] Returning to step S2706, if the control device 2105 determines that the resistance of the heater 336 has not yet stabilized, the control device 2105 continues to monitor the resistance of the heater 336. Once the resistance of the heater 336 stabilizes, the process proceeds to step S2708 and continues as described above.

[0152] Returning to step S2704, if the control device 2105 determines that a vaping state does not yet exist, the control device 2105 continues to monitor the output of sensor 364 for a vaping state. If a vaping state is detected, the process continues as described above.

[0153] Figure 32 shows graphs of resistance over time for cases where a dry puff occurs during smoke inhalation, when a dry puff is present at the start of smoke inhalation ("Dry Puff"), and when a dry puff is not present ("Standard Puff").

[0154] As shown in Figure 32, if a dry smoke state is present at the start of smoke inhalation, the resistance increases rapidly over time. In this embodiment, the control device 2105 may shut off the vaping function of the nicotine e-vaping device 500 at the end of the initial sampling interval (e.g., about 100 ms) because the percentage change Δ%R of the resistance of the heater 336 at the end of the initial time interval is greater than the percentage change threshold Δ%R_THRESHOLD of the resistance.

[0155] When a dry smoke state begins to exist during smoke extraction, the heater resistance starts to increase more rapidly (the slope of the graph increases). In this case, the control device 2105 sets a time t when the percentage change Δ%R of the resistance of heater 336 between the oldest heater resistance and the most recent heater resistance in the FIFO exceeds the percentage change threshold Δ%R_THRESHOLD of the resistance. SHUTOFF The vaping function is blocked.

[0156] If a dry fume extraction state does not exist (i.e., a standard fume extraction state exists), fume extraction terminates and power to the heater 336 is cut off in response to the cessation of negative pressure application or after the end of the threshold time interval. In this case, a heater-off operation may be performed instead of a vaping-off operation.

[0157] As mentioned above, dry vapor inhalation is an example of a difficult pod failure event in the Nicotine e Vaping Device 500.

[0158] Figure 33 is a flowchart illustrating an exemplary operation method of a nicotine e-vaping device after vaping function shutdown (vaping-off operation) in response to the detection of a difficult fault pod event, such as a dry smoke state, according to an exemplary embodiment. For illustrative purposes, the exemplary embodiment shown in Figure 33 is described with respect to a dry smoke state. However, the exemplary embodiment should not be limited to this example.

[0159] Furthermore, for illustrative purposes, the flowchart shown in Figure 33 describes the electrical system shown in Figure 29. However, it should be noted that exemplary embodiments are not limited to this example. Rather, exemplary embodiments may be applied to other nicotine e-vaping devices and their electrical systems. Moreover, the exemplary embodiment shown in Figure 33 describes the operation performed by the control device 2105. However, it should be understood that exemplary embodiments may similarly be described with respect to an automatic shut-off control system 2300 and / or dryness detection subsystem 2610 that perform one or more functions / operations shown in Figure 33.

[0160] Referring to Figure 33, in step S3804, the control device 2105 records the occurrence of the dry fumes state in the memory 2130. In one embodiment, the control device 2105 may store an identifier for the event (dry fumes state or dry fumes event) in association with the resulting action (e.g., vaping-off action) and the time at which the event and the resulting action occurred.

[0161] In step S3806, the control device 2105 controls the vapor indicator 2135 to output a display indicating that a dry vapor inhalation state has been detected. In one embodiment, the display may take the form of audio, visual, and / or tactile feedback to the adult e-vaping device user. For example, the display may be a flashing red LED, a software message containing an error code that can be transmitted to a connected “application” on a remote electronic device (e.g., via Bluetooth) and subsequently trigger a notification within the application that provides the adult e-vaping device user with information about corrective actions, or any combination thereof.

[0162] In step S3808, the control device 2105 determines whether the nicotine pod assembly 300 was removed from the device body 100 (corrective action) within the removal threshold time interval (before its end) after indicating (e.g., responding to) a dry vapor state to an adult e-vaping device user. In at least one exemplary embodiment, the control device 2105 may determine that the nicotine pod assembly 300 has been removed from the device body 100 by digitally checking that the set of five contacts 326 of the nicotine pod assembly has been removed. In another embodiment, the control device 2105 may determine that the nicotine pod assembly has been removed from the device body 100 by sensing that the electrical contacts 324a, 324b and / or 326 of the nicotine pod assembly 300 have been removed from the device's electrical connector 132 of the device body 100. In at least one exemplary embodiment, the control device 2105 may sense that the electrical contacts 324a, 324b, and / or 326 of the nicotine pod assembly 300 have been disconnected from the device electrical connector 132 of the device body 100 by detecting the finite resistance between the electrical contacts 324a, 324b, and / or 326 of the nicotine pod assembly 300 and the device electrical connector 132 of the device body 100.

[0163] If the control device 2105 determines that the nicotine pod assembly 300 has been removed from the device body 100 within the removal threshold time interval after indicating (for example, in response to) a dry vaping state to an adult e-vaping device user, then in step S3814, the control device 2105 controls the nicotine e-vaping device 500 to return to normal operation (non-fault state). In this case, although the energy to the heater 336 is still deactivated because the nicotine pod assembly 300 has been removed, the nicotine e-vaping device 500 is ready for vaping in another way in response to the application of negative pressure by the adult e-vaping device user when a new nicotine pod assembly is inserted.

[0164] In step S3812, the control device 2105 determines whether a new nicotine pod assembly has been inserted into the device body 100 within the insertion threshold time interval (before its end) after the removal of the nicotine pod assembly 300, and in step S3814, returns the nicotine e-vaping device 500 to normal operation. In at least one embodiment, the insertion threshold time interval may be about 5 minutes to about 120 minutes in length. The insertion threshold time interval may be set to a length within this range by an adult e-vaping device user. In at least one exemplary embodiment, the control device 2105 may determine that a new nicotine pod assembly has been inserted into the device body 100 by sensing the resistance (e.g., about 0.5 ohms to about 5.0 ohms) of the heater 336 between the electrical contacts 324a and 324b of the nicotine pod assembly 300 and the device electrical connector 132 of the device body 100. In a further exemplary embodiment, the control device 2105 may determine that a new nicotine pod assembly has been inserted into the device body 100 by sensing the presence of a pull-up resistor included in the nicotine pod assembly 300 between the electrical contact 326 of the nicotine pod assembly 300 and the device electrical connector 132 of the device body 100.

[0165] If the control device 2105 determines that a new nicotine pod assembly has been inserted into the device body 100 within the insertion threshold time interval, in step S3810, the control device 2105 controls the heating engine control circuit 2127 to re-enable the vaping module (for example, to enable the application of power to the heater 336). As will be described in more detail later, the control device 2105 may re-enable the vaping module by controlling the heating engine control circuit 2127 to output a vaping cutoff signal COIL_SHDN (Figure 38) having a logic low level, and / or assert a vaping enable signal COIL_VGATE_PWM (Figure 39).

[0166] Returning to step S3812, if the control device 2105 determines that no new nicotine pod assembly has been inserted into the device body 100 within the insertion threshold time interval, in step S3816, the control device 2105 outputs one or more additional control signals to perform an automatic shut-off operation, which either powers off the nicotine e-vaping device 500 or puts it into low-power mode. According to at least some exemplary embodiments, in the context of a normal software automatic shut-off, the control device 2105 outputs a number of GPIO control lines (signals) to turn off all or substantially all peripherals of the nicotine e-vaping device 500 and puts the control device 2105 into sleep mode.

[0167] Next, returning to step S3808, if the nicotine pod assembly 300 is not removed within the removal threshold time interval, the process proceeds to step S3816 and continues as described above.

[0168] Figure 34 shows an exemplary embodiment of the heater voltage measurement circuit 21252.

[0169] Referring to Figure 34, the heater voltage measurement circuit 21252 includes resistors 3702 and 3704 connected in a voltage divider configuration between a terminal configured to receive the input voltage signal COIL_OUT and ground. The input voltage signal COIL_OUT is the voltage input to the heater 336 (at its input terminal). Node N3716 between resistors 3702 and 3704 is coupled to the positive input of the operational amplifier (Op-Amp) 3708. Capacitor 3706 is connected between node N3716 and ground, forming a low-pass filter circuit (R / C filter) to stabilize the voltage input to the positive input of the operational amplifier 3708. The filter circuit can also reduce inaccuracies due to switching noise induced by the PWM signal used to energize the heater 336 and has the same phase response / group delay for both current and voltage.

[0170] The heater voltage measurement circuit 21252 further includes resistors 3710 and 3712, and a capacitor 3714. Resistor 3712 is connected between node N3718 and a terminal configured to receive the output voltage signal COIL_RTN. The output voltage signal COIL_RTN is the voltage output from heater 336 (voltage at the output terminal).

[0171] Resistor 3710 and capacitor 3714 are connected in parallel between node N3718 and the output of op-amp 3708. The negative input of op-amp 3708 is also connected to node N3718. Resistors 3710 and 3712 and capacitor 3714 are connected in a low-pass filter circuit configuration.

[0172] The heater voltage measurement circuit 21252 uses an operational amplifier 3708 to measure the voltage difference between the input voltage signal COIL_OUT and the output voltage signal COIL_RTN, and outputs a scaled heater voltage measurement signal COIL_VOL representing the voltage across the heater 336. The heater voltage measurement circuit 21252 outputs the scaled heater voltage measurement signal COIL_VOL to the ADC pin of the control device 2105 for digital sampling and measurement by the control device 2105.

[0173] The gain of the operational amplifier 3708 is set based on the surrounding passive electrical elements (e.g., resistors and capacitors) to improve the dynamic range of the voltage measurement. In one embodiment, the dynamic range of the operational amplifier 3708 can be achieved by scaling the voltage so that the maximum voltage output matches the maximum input range of the ADC (e.g., about 1.8V). In at least one exemplary embodiment, the scaling may be about 267mV per V, and therefore the heater voltage measurement circuit 21252 can measure up to about 1.8V / 0.267V = 6.74V.

[0174] Figure 35 shows an exemplary embodiment of the heater current measurement circuit 21258 shown in Figure 29.

[0175] Referring to Figure 35, the output voltage signal COIL_RTN is input to a four-terminal (4T) measuring resistor 3802 connected to ground. The differential pressure across the four-terminal measuring resistor 3802 is scaled by an operational amplifier 3806, which outputs a heater current measuring signal COIL_CUR indicating the current through the heater 336. The heater current measuring signal COIL_CUR is output to the ADC pin of the control unit 2105 for digital sampling and measurement of the current through the heater 336.

[0176] In the exemplary embodiment shown in Figure 35, errors in current measurement can be reduced using the "Kelvin current measurement" technique with four terminal measuring resistors 3802. In this embodiment, noise on the voltage measurement path can be reduced by separating the current measurement path from the voltage measurement path.

[0177] The gain of the operational amplifier 3806 may be set to improve the dynamic range of the measurement. In this embodiment, the scaling of the operational amplifier 3806 may be approximately 0.577 V / A, and therefore the heater current measurement circuit 21258 can measure up to approximately

number

[0178] Referring more closely to Figure 35, the first terminal of the four-terminal measuring resistor 3802 is connected to the terminal of the heater 336 to receive the output voltage signal COIL_RTN. The second terminal of the four-terminal measuring resistor 3802 is connected to ground. The third terminal of the four-terminal measuring resistor 3802 is connected to a low-pass filter circuit (R / C filter) including resistor 3804, capacitor 3808, and resistor 3810. The output of the low-pass filter circuit is connected to the positive input of the operational amplifier 3806. The low-pass filter circuit can reduce inaccuracies due to switching noise induced by the PWM signal applied to energize the heater 336, and can have the same phase response / group delay for both current and voltage.

[0179] The heater current measurement circuit 21258 further includes resistors 3812 and 3814, and capacitor 3816. Resistors 3812 and 3814 and capacitor 3816 are connected to the fourth terminal of the four-terminal measuring resistor 3802 of the low-pass filter circuit configuration, the negative input of the operational amplifier 3806, and the output of the operational amplifier 3806, and the output of the low-pass filter circuit is connected to the negative input of the operational amplifier 3806.

[0180] The operational amplifier 3806 outputs the differential voltage as the heater current measurement signal COIL_CUR to the ADC pin of the control device 2105 for sampling and measuring the current passing through the heater 336 by the control device 2105.

[0181] According to at least this exemplary embodiment, the configuration of the heater current measurement circuit 21258 is similar to the configuration of the heater voltage measurement circuit 21252, except that a low-pass filter circuit including resistors 3804 and 3810 and capacitor 3808 is connected to the terminals of the four-terminal measurement resistor 3802, and a low-pass filter circuit including resistors 3812 and 3814 and capacitor 3816 is connected to another terminal of the four-terminal measurement resistor 3802.

[0182] The control device 2105 can take the average of a plurality of samples (e.g., voltages) over a time window (e.g., about 1 millisecond) corresponding to the "tick" time used in the nicotine e-vaping device 500, and convert the average value into a mathematical representation of the voltage and current across the heater 336 through the application of scaling values. The scaling values can be determined based on the gain settings implemented by each Op-Amp, which can be specific to the hardware of the nicotine e-vaping device 500.

[0183] The control device 2105 can filter the measured values of the converted voltage and current using, for example, a three-tap moving average filter to attenuate the measurement noise. The control device 21�5 then uses the filtered measured values to calculate the resistance R of the heater 336. HEATER

Number

Number

Number

number

[0184] According to one or more exemplary embodiments, the gain settings of the passive elements of the circuit shown in Figure 34 and / or Figure 35 may be adjusted to match the output signal range to the input range of the control device 2105.

[0185] Figures 36 and 37 show a pod temperature measurement circuit according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0186] Referring to Figure 36, the pod temperature measurement circuit 21250A includes a driver stage 3902A and a measurement stage 3904A. The driver stage 3902A is configured to generate a pod temperature measurement power signal HW_POWER in response to a pod temperature measurement control signal HW_ENB to deliver power to the pod sensor 2220. The pod temperature measurement power signal HW_POWER may be a PWM signal. The measurement stage 3904A is configured to generate a pod temperature measurement output signal HW_SIGNAL based on a DAC comparison signal HW_DAC from a DAC (not shown) in the control unit 2105 and a pod sensor signal SP_HW from the pod sensor 2220. The pod temperature measurement output signal HW_SIGNAL may be a differential voltage signal indicating the temperature of one or more elements of the nicotine pod assembly 300. The inputs and outputs to and from the pod sensor 2220 in an exemplary embodiment will be described in more detail later.

[0187] To elaborate further with respect to Figure 36, the driver stage 3902A receives the pod temperature measurement control signal HW_ENB from the control unit 2105. In this embodiment, the pod temperature measurement control signal HW_ENB may be a PWM signal with a load cycle that is controlled by the control unit 2105 and changes power based on the pod sensor signal SP_HW from the pod sensor 2220. If the pod temperature measurement control signal HW_ENB is asserted (operating), the driver stage 3902A may be enabled and output the pod temperature measurement power signal HW_POWER; otherwise, the output of the driver stage 3902A may be disabled.

[0188] The pod temperature measurement control signal HW_ENB is input to the start pin EN of the low dropout voltage controller (LDO) U10, which converts the pod temperature measurement control signal HW_ENB, which is a low current drive strength processor signal, into the pod temperature measurement power signal HW_POWER, which is a high current drive strength PWM signal.

[0189] Resistor R80 is connected as a pull-down resistor between the start pin EN of LDO U10 and ground to ensure that the output of driver stage 3902A is reliably disabled when the pod temperature measurement control signal HW_ENB is in an uncertain state.

[0190] The driver stage 3902A further includes capacitors C43 and C44. Capacitor C44 is connected to the input pin IN of the LDO U10 and the voltage source, providing a nicotine storage and filter, which can improve the speed at which the pod temperature measurement power signal HW_POWER reaches its ON voltage. Capacitor C43 is connected between the output pin and ground, providing filtering and a nicotine storage for the pod temperature measurement power signal HW_POWER.

[0191] Resistors R60 and R61 form a feedback network 39028 in the form of a voltage divider circuit. The feedback network 39028 outputs a feedback voltage to the adjustment or feedback terminal ADJ of LDO U10. Based on the feedback voltage input to feedback terminal ADJ, LDO U10 sets a precise voltage output of the pod temperature measurement power signal HW_POWER. According to at least some exemplary embodiments, the precise voltage output and feedback voltage V are relative to the pod temperature measurement power signal HW_POWER. ADJ The relationship with the output is,

number

[0192] At measurement stage 3904A, the pod sensor signal SP_HW from the pod sensor 2220 is input to the negative input of op-amp U11A via resistor R66 to obtain voltage scaling of the pod sensor signal SP_HW for measurement by ADC in control unit 2105. Op-Amp U11A is an inverting amplifier with gain set with respect to the resistance of resistors R66 and R67, and is connected between the negative input and the output of Op-Amp U11A. Capacitor C47 is connected in parallel with resistor R67 to form a low-pass filter circuit for filtering high-frequency noise from the pod sensor signal SP_HW.

[0193] The DAC comparison signal HW_DAC from the DAC in the control unit 2105 is input to the positive input of the operational amplifier U11A via a voltage divider circuit 39042, which includes resistors R63 and R64. The DAC comparison signal HW_DAC sets the reference voltage level of Op-Amp U11A, which effectively selects the differential pressure applied to Op-Amp U11A and suppresses or prevents saturation of Op-Amp U11A. In other words, the DAC comparison signal HW_DAC sets the operating point of Op-Amp U11A to suppress saturation of the pod temperature measurement output signal HW_SIGNAL output by Op-Amp U11A. The voltage divider 39042 reduces each DAC step of the voltage to provide finer control of the range setting. The ratio of resistors R63 and R64 can approximate the balance resistor and the pod sensor 2220 (e.g., at its maximum temperature). Capacitor C46 is connected in parallel with resistor R64 to form a low-pass filter circuit, filtering out noise from the DAC comparison signal HW_DAC. Resistor R69 is connected between the output of voltage divider 39042 and the positive input of op-amp U11A.

[0194] The pod sensor signal SP_HW from the pod sensor 2220 may have a relatively small voltage level (e.g., about 2mV), and therefore, the relatively high gain of the op-amp U11A can be used to match the pod temperature measurement signal HW_SIGNAL to the dynamic signal range of the ADC in the control unit 2105 (e.g., about 1.8V). Thus, the Op-Amp U11A amplifies the pod sensor signal SP_HW and outputs the amplified signal to the ADC as the pod temperature measurement output signal HW_SIGNAL for sampling and measurement in the control unit 2105.

[0195] Referring to Figure 37, the pod temperature measurement circuit 21250B includes a driver stage 3902B and a measurement stage 3904B. In the exemplary embodiment shown in Figure 37, the driver stage 3902B and the measurement stage 3904B are similar to the driver stage 3902A and measurement stage 3904A shown in Figure 36, respectively, except that the driver stage 3902B further includes a measurement balance resistor R93, and the capacitance of capacitor C43 may be reduced to increase the rise / fall time of the pod sensor signal SP_HW. In at least one embodiment, the measurement balance resistor R93 may have a resistance of about 3 ohms and may be moved from the nicotine pod assembly electrical system 2200 to the device body assembly electrical system 2100 to reduce the cost of the nicotine pod assembly 300. Furthermore, in at least the exemplary embodiment shown in Figure 37, passive elements may be arranged and adjusted to configure gain settings such that the output signal range matches the input signal range of the control device 2105.

[0196] Figure 38 is a circuit diagram showing a heating engine control circuit according to some exemplary embodiments. The heating engine control circuit shown in Figure 38 is an example of the heating engine control circuit 2127 shown in Figure 29.

[0197] Referring to Figure 38, the heating engine control circuit 2127A includes a CMOS charge pump U2 configured to supply a power rail (e.g., a power rail of about 7V (7V_CP)) to one or more gate driver integrated circuits (ICs) in order to control a power FET (a heater power control circuit, also referred to as a heating engine drive circuit or circuit, not shown in Figure 38) that conducts power to the heater 336 in the nicotine pod assembly 300.

[0198] In exemplary operation, the charge pump U2 is controlled (selectively started or stopped) based on a vaping cutoff signal COIL_SHDN (a device power status signal, also referred to as a vaping enable signal) from the control unit 2105. In the embodiment shown in Figure 38, the charge pump U2 is started in response to the output of the vaping cutoff signal COIL_SHDN, which has a logic low level, and stopped in response to the output of the coil cutoff signal COIL-SHDN, which has a logic high level. Once the power rail 7V_CP has stabilized after the charge pump U2 has started (e.g., after the settling time interval has ended), the control unit 2105 may activate the heater start signal GATE_ON to supply power to the heater power control circuit and the heater 336.

[0199] According to at least one exemplary embodiment, the control device 2105 may perform a vaping-off operation by outputting (activating) a vaping-stop cutoff signal COIL_SHDN having a logic high level, and may disable all power to the heater 336 until the vaping-stop cutoff signal COIL_SHDN is deactivated (transitioned to a logic low level) by the control device 2105.

[0200] The control unit 2105 may output a heater activation signal GATE_ON (another device power state signal) with a logic high level in response to detecting the presence of a vaping state in the nicotine e-vaping device 500. In this exemplary embodiment, when the control unit 2105 activates the heater activation signal GATE_ON to a logic high level, transistors (e.g., field-effect transistors (FETs)) Q5 and Q7A' are activated. The control unit 2105 may disable power to the heater 336 by outputting a heater activation signal GATE_ON with a logic low level, thereby performing a heater-off operation.

[0201] If transistors Q5 and Q7A' fail to respond to the heater start signal GATE_ON, resulting in a power stage fault, the control unit 2105 performs a vaping-off operation by outputting a vaping-off signal COIL_SHDN with a logic high level, thereby cutting off power to the gate driver, which in turn may cut off power to the heater 336.

[0202] In another embodiment, if the control device 2105 fails to start properly, and as a result the vaping cutoff signal COIL_SHDN is in an uncertain state, the heating engine control circuit 2127A automatically pulls the vaping cutoff signal COIL_SHDN to a logical high level and automatically cuts off power to the heater 336.

[0203] To describe in more detail with respect to Figure 38, capacitor C9, charge pump U2, and capacitor C10 are connected in a positive voltage doubler configuration. Capacitor C9 is connected between pins C- and C+ of charge pump U2 and functions as a nicotine storage unit for charge pump U2. The input voltage pin VIN of charge pump U2 is connected to the voltage source BATT at node N3801, and capacitor C10 is connected between ground and the output voltage pin VOUT of charge pump U2 at node N3802. Capacitor C10 provides a filter and a nicotine storage unit for the output from charge pump U2, which can ensure a more stable voltage output from charge pump U2.

[0204] Capacitor C11 is connected between node N3801 and ground and provides a nicotine storage section for the input voltage to the filter and charging pump U2.

[0205] Resistor R10 is connected between the positive voltage source and the cutoff pin SHDN. Resistor R10 acts as a pull-up resistor to ensure that the input to the cutoff pin SHDN is high, thereby disabling the output (VOUT) of charge pump U2 and cutting off power to heater 336 when the vaping cutoff signal COIL_SHDN is in an uncertain state.

[0206] Resistor R43 is connected between ground and the gate of transistor Q7A' at node N3804. Resistor R43 acts as a pull-down resistor to ensure that transistor Q7A' is in a high impedance (off) state, thereby disabling the power rail 7V_CP and cutting off power to heater 336 when the heater enable signal GATE_ON is in an uncertain state.

[0207] Resistor R41 is connected between node N3802 and node N3803, which is between the gate of transistor Q5 and the drain of transistor Q7A'. Resistor R41 acts as a pull-down resistor, ensuring that transistor Q5 switches off more reliably.

[0208] Transistor Q5 is configured to selectively isolate the power rail 7V_CP from the VOUT charge pump U2 pin. The gate of transistor Q5 is connected to node N3803, the drain of transistor Q5 is connected to the output voltage terminal VOUT of the charge pump U2 at node N3802, and the source of transistor Q5 functions as the output terminal of the power rail 7V_CP. This configuration allows capacitor C10 to reach its operating voltage more quickly by isolating the load, and generates a failsafe as long as both the vaping cutoff signal COIL_SHDN and the heater enable signal GATE_ON are in the correct state in order to supply power to heater 336.

[0209] Transistor Q7A is configured to control the operation of transistor Q5 based on the heater enable signal GATE_ON. For example, when the heater enable signal GATE_ON is at a high logic level (e.g., about 2V or higher), transistor Q7A is in its low impedance (ON) state, which pulls the gate of transistor Q5 to ground, thereby causing transistor Q5 to transition to the low impedance (ON) state. In this case, the heating engine control circuit 2127A outputs the power rail 7V_CP to the heating engine drive circuit (not shown), thereby enabling power to the heater 336.

[0210] If the heater enable signal GATE_ON has a logic low level, transistor Q7A transitions to a high impedance (off) state, which in turn discharges the gate of transistor Q5 through resistor R41, thereby causing transistor Q5 to transition to a high impedance (off) state. In this case, the power rail 7V_CP is not output, and power to the heating engine drive circuit (and heater 336) is cut off.

[0211] In the embodiment shown in Figure 38, the control unit 2105 does not directly control transistor Q5 because transistor Q5 needs to be in a high-impedance (off) state with a gate voltage equal to the source voltage (approximately 7V). Transistor Q7A provides a mechanism for controlling transistor Q5 based on a low voltage from the control unit 2105.

[0212] Figure 39 is a circuit diagram showing another heating engine control circuit according to an exemplary embodiment. The heating engine control circuit shown in Figure 39 is another embodiment of the heating engine control circuit 2127 shown in Figure 29.

[0213] Referring to Figure 39, the heating engine control circuit 2127B includes a rail converter circuit 39020 (also referred to as a boost converter circuit) and a gate driver circuit 39040. The rail converter circuit 39020 is configured to output a voltage signal 9V_GATE (also referred to as a power signal or input voltage signal) to power the gate driver circuit 39040 based on a vaping enable signal COIL_VGATE_PWM (also referred to as a vaping cutoff signal). The rail converter circuit 39020 may be software defined by the vaping enable signal COIL_VGATE_PWM, which is used to adjust the 9V_GATE output.

[0214] The gate driver circuit 39040 uses the input voltage signal 9V_GATE from the rail converter circuit 39020 to drive the heating engine drive circuit 3906.

[0215] In the exemplary embodiment shown in Figure 39, the rail converter circuit 39020 generates the input voltage signal 9V_GATE only when the vaping enable signal COIL_VGATE_PWM is asserted (present). The control device 2105 can deactivate the 9V rail and cut off power to the gate drive circuit 39040 by deasserting (stopping or terminating) the vaping enable signal COIL_VGATE_PWM. Similar to the vaping cutoff signal COIL_SHDN in the exemplary embodiment shown in Figure 38, the vaping enable signal COIL_VGATE_PWM can function as a device state power signal for performing a vaping-off operation in the nicotine e-vaping device 500. In this embodiment, the control device 2105 can perform a vaping-off operation by deasserting the vaping enable signal COIL_VGATE_PWM, thereby deactivating all power to the gate drive circuit 39040, the heating engine drive circuit 3906, and the heater 336. The control device 2105 may then enable vaping in the nicotine e-vaping device 500 by asserting the vaping enable signal COIL_VGATE_PWM to the rail converter circuit 39020 again.

[0216] Similar to the heater activation signal GATE_ON in Figure 38, the control device 2105 may, in response to detecting the vaping state in the nicotine e-vaping device 500, output a first heater enable signal GATE_ENB with a high logic level to enable power to the heating engine drive circuit 3906 and heater 336. The control device 2105 may also output a first heater enable signal GATE_ENB with a low logic level to disable power to the heating engine drive circuit 3906 and heater 336, thereby performing a heater-off operation.

[0217] Referring more closely to the rail converter circuit 39020 in Figure 39, capacitor C36 is connected between the voltage source BATT and ground. Capacitor C36 functions as a nicotine storage unit for the rail converter circuit 39020.

[0218] The first terminal of inductor L1006 is connected to node Node1, which is between the voltage source BATT and capacitor C36. Inductor L1006 functions as the main energy storage element of rail converter circuit 39020.

[0219] The second terminal of inductor L1006, the drain of transistor Q1009 (e.g., enhancement-mode MOSFET), and the first terminal of capacitor C1056 are connected at node Node2. The source of transistor Q1009 is connected to ground, and the gate of transistor Q1009 is configured to receive the vaping enable signal COIL_VGATE_PWM from control unit 2105.

[0220] In the embodiment shown in Figure 39, transistor Q1009 functions as the main switching element of the rail converter circuit 39020.

[0221] Resistor R29 is connected between the gate of transistor Q1009 and ground and acts as a pull-down resistor to ensure that transistor Q1009 switches off more reliably and that heater 336 does not operate when the vaping enable signal COIL_VGATE_PWM is in an uncertain state.

[0222] The second terminal of capacitor C1056 is at node Node3, connected to the cathode of Zener diode D1012 and the anode of Zener diode D1013. The anode of Zener diode D1012 is connected to ground.

[0223] The cathode of the Zener diode D1013 is connected to node 4, to the terminal of capacitor C35, and to the input of the voltage divider circuit, which includes resistors R1087 and R1088. The other terminal of capacitor C35 is connected to ground. The voltage at node 4 is also the output voltage 9V_GATE output from rail converter circuit 39020.

[0224] Resistor R1089 is connected to the output of the voltage divider circuit at node 5.

[0225] In exemplary operation, the vaping enable signal COIL_VGATE_PWM is asserted at a high logic level, switching transistor Q1009 to a low impedance state (on), thereby allowing current to flow from the voltage source BATT and capacitor C36 through inductor L1006 and transistor Q1009 to ground. This causes the current to increase linearly over time, with energy stored in inductor L1006.

[0226] When the vaping enable signal COIL_VGATE_PWM is at a logic low level, transistor Q1009 switches to a high impedance state (off). In this case, inductor L1006 maintains current flow (decreases linearly), and the voltage at node Node2 increases.

[0227] The voltage rise for a given load is determined by the load cycle of the vaping enable signal COIL_VGATE_PWM. Therefore, the vaping enable signal COIL_VGATE_PWM is controlled by the closed-loop control device 2105 using the feedback signal COIL_VGATE_FB output by the voltage divider circuit at node Node5 as feedback. The above switching occurs at a relatively high speed (e.g., about 2 MHz, but different frequencies may be used depending on the required parameters and element values).

[0228] Referring further to the rail converter circuit 39020 in Figure 39, capacitor C1056 is an AC coupling capacitor that provides a DC block to remove DC levels. Capacitor C1056 cuts off current from the voltage source BATT through inductor L1006 and diode D1013 to the gate driver circuit 39040 when the vaping enable signal COIL_VGATE_PWM is low to conserve battery life (e.g., when the nicotine e vaping device 500 is in standby mode). The capacitance of capacitor C1056 may be selected to provide a relatively low impedance path at the switching frequency.

[0229] The Zener diode D1012 establishes the ground level of the switching signal. Since the capacitor C1056 removes the DC level, the voltage at node Node3 can typically be bipolar. In one embodiment, the Zener diode D1012 can clamp the negative half-cycle of the signal to less than approximately 0.3V from ground.

[0230] Capacitor C35 functions as the output nicotine storage unit of the rail converter circuit 39020. Zener diode D1013 prevents current from capacitor C35 from flowing through capacitor C1056 and transistor Q1009 when transistor Q1009 is on.

[0231] As the decaying current from inductor L1006 causes a voltage rise at node 4 between Zener diode D1013 and capacitor C35, current flows into capacitor C35. Capacitor C35 maintains the 9V GATE voltage while energy is stored in inductor L1006.

[0232] The voltage divider circuit, including resistors R1087 and R1088, reduces the voltage to an acceptable level for measurement at the ADC in the control unit 2105. This reduced voltage signal is output as the feedback signal COIL_VGATE_FB.

[0233] In the circuit shown in Figure 39, the COIL_VGATE_FB voltage of the feedback signal is scaled by approximately 0.25x, and therefore the 9V output voltage is reduced to approximately 2.25V for input to the ADC in the control unit 2105.

[0234] Resistor R1089 provides current limiting against overvoltage faults at the output of rail converter circuit 39020 (for example, at node 4) to protect the ADC in control unit 2105.

[0235] The 9V output voltage signal 9V_GATE is output from the rail converter circuit 39020 to the gate driver circuit 39040, supplying power to the gate driver circuit 39040.

[0236] Next, referring more closely to the gate driver circuit 39040, the gate driver circuit 39040 includes, among other things, an integrated gate driver U2003 configured to convert one or more low-current signals from the control unit 2105 into high-current signals for controlling the switching of transistors (e.g., MOSFETs) in the heating engine drive circuit 3906. The integrated gate driver U2003 is also configured to convert a voltage level from the control unit 2105 into a voltage level required by the transistors in the heating engine drive circuit 3906. In the exemplary embodiment shown in Figure 39, the integrated gate driver U2003 is a half-bridge driver. However, exemplary embodiments should not be limited to this embodiment.

[0237] More specifically, the 9V output voltage from the rail converter circuit 39020 is input to the gate driver circuit 39040 through a filter circuit including resistor R2012 and capacitor C2009. The filter circuit including resistor R2012 and capacitor C2009 is connected at node 6 to the VCC pin (pin 4) of the integrated gate driver U2003 and the anode of Zener diode S2002. The second terminal of capacitor C2009 is connected to ground. The anode of Zener diode D2002 is connected at node 7 to the first terminal of capacitor C2007 and the boost pin BST (pin 1) of the integrated gate driver U2003. The second terminal of capacitor C2007 is connected at node 8 to the replacement node pin SWN (pin 7) of the integrated gate driver U2003 and to the heating engine drive circuit 3906 (e.g., between two MOSFETs). In the exemplary embodiment shown in Figure 39, the Zener diode D2002 and capacitor C2007 form part of a bootstrap charge pump circuit connected between the input voltage pin VCC and the boost pin BST of the integrated gate driver U2003. Since capacitor C2007 is connected to the 9V input voltage signal 9V_GATE from the rail converter circuit 39020, capacitor C2007 charges through diode D2002 to a voltage approximately equal to the voltage signal 9V_GATE.

[0238] Furthermore, referring to Figure 39, the high-side gate driver pin DRVH (pin 8), the low-side gate driver pin DRVL (pin 5), and the EP pin (pin 9) of the integrated gate driver U2003 are also connected to the heating engine drive circuit 3906.

[0239] Resistor R2013 and capacitor C2010 form a filter circuit connected to the input pin IN (pin 2) of the integrated gate driver U2003. The filter circuit is configured to remove high-frequency noise from the second heater enable signal COIL_Z input to the input pin. The second heater enable signal COIL_Z may be a PWM signal from the control unit 2105.

[0240] Resistor R2014 is connected to the filter circuit and input pin IN at node Node9. Resistor R2014 is used as a pull-down resistor so that when the second heater enable signal COIL_Z is floating (or indeterminate), the input pin IN of the integrated gate driver U2003 is held at a logic low level, preventing the heating engine drive circuit 3906 and heater 336 from starting.

[0241] The first heater enable signal GATE_ENB from the control unit 2105 is input to the OD pin (pin 3) of the integrated gate driver U2003. Resistor R2016 is connected to the OD pin of the integrated gate driver U2003 as a pull-down resistor so that if the first heater enable signal GATE_ENB from the control unit 2105 is floating (or indeterminate), the OD pin of the integrated gate driver U2003 is held at a logic low level, preventing the heating engine drive circuit 3906 and heater 336 from starting.

[0242] In the exemplary embodiment shown in Figure 39, the heating engine drive circuit 3906 includes a transistor (e.g., MOSFET) circuit including transistors (e.g., MOSFETs) 39062 and 39064 connected in series between the voltage source BATT and ground. The gate of transistor 39064 is connected to the low-side gate driver pin DRVL (pin 5) of the integrated gate driver U2003, the drain of transistor 39064 is connected to the replacement node pin SWN (pin 7) of the integrated gate driver U2003 at node Node 8, and the source of transistor 39064 is connected to ground GND.

[0243] When the low side gate drive signal output from the low side gate driver pin DRVL is high, transistor 39064 is in a low impedance state (on), thereby connecting node Node8 to ground.

[0244] As described above, since capacitor C2007 is connected to the 9V input voltage signal 9V_GATE from rail converter circuit 39020, capacitor C2007 charges through diode D2002 to a voltage equal to or approximately equal to the 9V input voltage signal 9V_GATE.

[0245] When the low side gate drive signal output from the low side gate driver pin DRVL is low, transistor 39064 switches to a high impedance state (off), and the high side gate driver pin DRVH (pin 8) is internally connected to the boost pin BST in the integrated gate driver U2003. As a result, transistor 39062 is in a low impedance state (on), thereby connecting the replacement node SWN to the voltage source BATT and pulling the replacement node SWN (node ​​8) to the voltage of the voltage source BATT.

[0246] In this case, node Node7 increases the gate-source voltage of transistor 39062 to a boost voltage V(BST) ≈ V(9V_GATE) + V(BATT), which can make the gate-source voltage of transistor 39062 identical or nearly identical to the voltage of the 9V input voltage signal 9V_GATE (e.g., V(9V_GATE)), regardless of (or independently of) the voltage from the voltage source BATT. As a result, switching node SWN (node ​​8) provides a high-current switching signal that can be used to generate a voltage output to heater 336, which is substantially independent of the voltage output from the battery voltage source BATT.

[0247] Figures 40 and 41 show exemplary embodiments of the temperature sensing transducer included in the pod sensor 2220 shown in Figure 29.

[0248] Referring to Figure 40, the temperature sensing transducer 3600A includes a resistor R3602 and a sensor transducer R3604. In at least one exemplary embodiment, the resistor R3602 may have a fixed resistance of about 3 ohms. The sensor transducer R3604 may be a resistor having a variable resistance that changes with temperature. The resistor R3602 and the sensor transducer R3604 are arranged in a voltage divider circuit such that the voltage across the sensor transducer R3604 (the voltage at measurement node N3606) can be output to the temperature measuring circuit 21250 so that it is used for scaling and then measuring the temperature of the nicotine pod assembly 300 or one or more elements of the nicotine pod assembly 300.

[0249] In an exemplary operation, the driver stage 3902A of the pod temperature measurement circuit 21250A (Figure 36) applies the pod temperature measurement power signal HW_POWER to the temperature sensing converter 3600A, and the measurement stage 3904A of the pod temperature measurement circuit 21250A scales the sensing voltage of the pod sensor signal SP_HW at the measurement node N3606 and outputs the scaled voltage as the pod temperature measurement output signal HW_SIGNAL to the control device 2105. The control device 2105 then determines the temperature of the nicotine pod assembly 300 or one or more elements of the nicotine pod assembly 300 based on the pod temperature measurement output signal HW_SIGNAL.

[0250] In at least one exemplary embodiment, the voltage of the pod temperature measurement power signal HW_POWER may be fixed, and therefore the pod temperature measurement circuit 21250A can also calculate the current through resistors R3602 and R3604, since the resistance of resistor R3602 is a known resistance.

[0251] Referring to the exemplary embodiment shown in Figure 41, the temperature sensing transducer 3600B is similar to the temperature sensing transducer 3600A in Figure 40, except that, as described above with respect to Figure 37, resistor R3602 is omitted from the temperature sensing transducer 3600B and moved to the driver stage 3902B of the pod temperature measurement circuit 21250B in Figure 37. Moving resistor R3602 to the driver stage 3902B of the pod temperature measurement circuit 21250B can reduce the cost of the nicotine pod assembly electrical system 2200 and / or the number of pins required for the interface between the device body 100 and the nicotine pod assembly 300. Furthermore, the resistance of the sensor transducer R3606 in the exemplary embodiment shown in Figure 41 may be greater than the resistance of the sensor transducer R3604 in Figure 40 in order to reduce the current consumption by the temperature sensing transducer 3600B.

[0252] While exemplary embodiments have been disclosed herein, other modifications are naturally possible. Such modifications should not be considered deviations from the scope of this disclosure, and all such modifications that would be obvious to those skilled in the art are intended to be included within the scope of the following Claims.

Claims

1. A heating engine control circuit for controlling the operation of a heater in a nicotine electronic vaping device, wherein the heating engine control circuit is A rail converter circuit configured to convert a power supply voltage into a power signal based on a vaping enable signal which is a pulse-width modulated signal, and A heating engine control circuit comprising an integrated gate driver, wherein the integrated gate driver is configured to control the application of power to a heater for heating a nicotine prevapor formulation drawn from a nicotine storage unit in the nicotine electronic vaping device, based on a power signal, a first enable signal, and a second enable signal.

2. The heating engine control circuit according to claim 1, wherein the rail converter circuit is configured to disable the power signal in response to the termination of the vaping enable signal.

3. The vaping enable signal is received from the control device of the nicotine electronic vaping device. The rail converter circuit is configured to output a feedback signal to the control device, wherein the feedback signal is a scaled version of the power signal, indicating the current-voltage level of the power signal. The heating engine control circuit according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the load cycle of the vaping enable signal is based on the feedback signal.

4. The second enable signal is a pulse width modulated signal. The integrated gate driver is configured to receive the second enable signal on the input pin, The heating engine control circuit according to claim 1, 2, or 3, wherein the gate driver circuit includes a filter circuit connected to the input pin, and the filter circuit is configured to filter the second enable signal before it is input to the integrated gate driver.

5. The heating engine control circuit according to claim 4, wherein the gate driver circuit includes a pull-down resistor connected to the input pin of the integrated gate driver, the pull-down resistor is configured to maintain the input pin in low-level logic when the second enable signal is floating.

6. The aforementioned gate driver circuit A heated engine control circuit according to any one of claims 1 to 5, comprising a bootstrap charge pump circuit connected between an input voltage pin and a boost pin of an integrated gate driver.

7. The heating engine control circuit according to claim 6, wherein the bootstrap charge pump circuit is connected to the switching node pin of the integrated gate driver.

8. The aforementioned gate driver circuit The heating engine control circuit according to claim 6 or 7, further comprising a filter circuit connected between the power signal input terminal and the bootstrap charge pump circuit.

9. The aforementioned rail converter circuit The first capacitor connected between the power supply and ground, An inductor having a first terminal connected to a first node between the power supply and the first capacitor, and a second terminal connected to a second node, A switching transistor connected between the second node and ground, the switching transistor configured to receive the vaping enable signal, A second capacitor having a first terminal connected to the second node and a second terminal connected to the third node, A first diode having an anode connected to ground and a cathode connected to the third node, A second diode having an anode connected to the third node and a cathode connected to the fourth node, A third capacitor connected between the fourth node and ground, and A heating engine control circuit according to any one of claims 1 to 8, comprising a voltage divider circuit connected to the fourth node, which is configured to output a feedback signal based on the power signal.

10. The aforementioned rail converter circuit The heating engine control circuit according to claim 9, further comprising a pull-down resistor connected between the gate of the switching transistor and ground, wherein the pull-down resistor is configured to prevent the output of the power signal when the vaping enable signal has an indeterminate state.

11. The aforementioned gate driver circuit A first filter circuit configured to filter the power signal for input to the integrated gate driver, and The heating engine control circuit according to any one of claims 1 to 10, further comprising a second filter circuit configured to filter the second enable signal for input to the integrated gate driver.

12. A heating engine drive circuit configured to control power to the heater, further comprising a heating engine drive circuit including a first transistor and a second transistor connected in series between a power source and ground, The heating engine control circuit according to any one of claims 1 to 11, wherein the gate driver circuit is configured to output a drive voltage to the gate of the first transistor and maintain the gate-source voltage of the first transistor at the voltage level of the power signal, regardless of the voltage level of the power supply.

13. A heating engine drive circuit configured to control power to the heater, further comprising a heating engine drive circuit including a first transistor and a second transistor connected in series between a power source and ground, The heating engine control circuit according to any one of claims 1 to 12, wherein the gate driver circuit is configured to output a current conversion signal to generate a voltage output to the heater, and the level of the voltage output to the heater is independent of the voltage level of the power supply.

14. Nicotine electronic vaping device, A heater configured to heat the nicotine prevapor formulation drawn from the nicotine storage section. A rail converter circuit configured to convert a power supply voltage into a power signal based on a vaping enable signal which is a pulse-width modulated signal, and A nicotine electronic vaping device comprising a gate driver circuit including an integrated gate driver, wherein the integrated gate driver is configured to control the application of power to the heater of the nicotine electronic vaping device based on a power signal, a first enable signal, and a second enable signal.

15. The nicotine electronic vaping device according to claim 14, wherein the rail converter circuit is configured to disable the power signal in response to the termination of the vaping enable signal.

16. The rail converter circuit is configured to output a feedback signal, the feedback signal being a scaled version of the power signal, which indicates the current-voltage level of the power signal. The nicotine electronic vaping device according to claim 14 or 15, wherein the nicotine electronic vaping device includes a control device configured to generate the vaping enable signal based on the feedback signal.

17. The nicotine electronic vaping apparatus according to claim 16, wherein the control device is configured to control the load cycle of the vaping enable signal based on the feedback signal.

18. The second enable signal is a pulse width modulated signal. The integrated gate driver is configured to receive the second enable signal on the input pin, The nicotine electronic vaping device according to any one of claims 14 to 17, wherein the gate driver circuit includes a filter circuit connected to the input pin, and the filter circuit is configured to filter the second enable signal before it is input to the integrated gate driver.

19. The nicotine electronic vaping device according to claim 18, wherein the gate driver circuit includes a pull-down resistor connected to the input pin of the integrated gate driver, the pull-down resistor is configured to maintain the input pin in low-level logic when the second enable signal is floating.

20. The aforementioned gate driver circuit A nicotine electronic vaping device according to any one of claims 14 to 19, comprising a bootstrap charge pump circuit connected between an input voltage pin and the boost pin of the integrated gate driver.

21. The nicotine electronic vaping apparatus according to claim 20, wherein the bootstrap charge pump circuit is connected to the switching node pin of the integrated gate driver.

22. The aforementioned gate driver circuit The nicotine electronic vaping apparatus according to claim 20 or 21, further comprising a filter circuit connected between the power signal input terminal and the bootstrap charge pump circuit.

23. The aforementioned rail converter circuit The first capacitor connected between the power supply and ground, An inductor having a first terminal connected to a first node between the power supply and the first capacitor, and a second terminal connected to a second node, A switching transistor connected between the second node and ground, the switching transistor configured to receive the vaping enable signal, A second capacitor having a first terminal connected to the second node and a second terminal connected to the third node, A first diode having an anode connected to ground and a cathode connected to the third node, A second diode having an anode connected to the third node and a cathode connected to the fourth node, A third capacitor connected between the fourth node and ground, and A nicotine electronic vaping device according to any one of claims 14 to 22, comprising a voltage divider circuit connected to the fourth node, configured to output a feedback signal based on the power signal.

24. The aforementioned rail converter circuit The nicotine electron vaping apparatus according to claim 23, further comprising a pull-down resistor connected between the gate of the switching transistor and ground, wherein the pull-down resistor is configured to prevent the output of the power signal when the vaping enable signal has an indeterminate state.

25. The aforementioned gate driver circuit A first filter circuit configured to filter the power signal for input to the integrated gate driver, and The nicotine electronic vaping apparatus according to any one of claims 14 to 24, further comprising a second filter circuit configured to filter the second enable signal for input to the integrated gate driver.

26. A heating engine drive circuit configured to control power to the heater, further comprising a heating engine drive circuit including a first transistor and a second transistor connected in series between a power source and ground, The nicotine electron vaping device according to any one of claims 14 to 25, wherein the gate driver circuit is configured to output a drive voltage to the gate of the first transistor and maintain the gate-source voltage of the first transistor at the voltage level of the power signal, regardless of the voltage level of the power supply.

27. A heating engine drive circuit configured to control power to the heater, further comprising a heating engine drive circuit including a first transistor and a second transistor connected in series between a power source and ground, The nicotine electronic vaping device according to any one of claims 14 to 26, wherein the gate driver circuit is configured to output a current conversion signal to generate a voltage output to the heater, and the level of the voltage output to the heater is independent of the voltage level of the power supply.

28. A nicotine storage section for storing the nicotine prevapor preparation, The present invention further includes a wick configured to transport the nicotine prevapor formulation from the nicotine storage section to the heater, The nicotine electronic vaping device according to any one of claims 14 to 27, wherein the heater is configured to heat the nicotine prevapor preparation transported from the nicotine storage unit by the wick.

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