CN115209756A

CN115209756A - Embedded electrode

Info

Publication number: CN115209756A
Application number: CN202180017672.1A
Authority: CN
Inventors: 松田健太郎; P.洛夫迪; 山田学; S.皮法; R.曹; M.塔罗拉
Original assignee: JT International SA
Current assignee: JT International SA
Priority date: 2020-02-28
Filing date: 2021-02-25
Publication date: 2022-10-18
Also published as: US20230079988A1; EP4110113A1; WO2021170767A1

Abstract

A capsule for an e-cigarette has a first end engaged with an e-cigarette device and a second end having a vapour outlet (28). The capsule further comprises a liquid reservoir (32) containing a liquid to be vaporised and a vaporiser housing (40) containing at least a portion of a heating element (36) and a portion of a fluid transfer element (38) delivering liquid from the liquid reservoir to the heating element, the heating element being configured to vaporise the received liquid and generate a vapour. A seal (44) is arranged to retain the carburetor housing, and a retainer (70) is attached to the seal. A pair of electrodes (80) is at least partially embedded within the structure of the holder and provides an electrical connection between the first end of the capsule and the e-vapor device. The heating element (36) and the electrode (80) are in contact at an interface (60) between the seal (44) and the retainer (70).

Description

Embedded electrode

Technical Field

The present invention relates to a personal vaporisation device such as an electronic cigarette. In particular, the invention relates to capsules having embedded electrodes for use with electronic cigarettes.

Background

Electronic cigarettes are a replacement for conventional cigarettes. Instead of generating a combustion smoke, an e-cigarette vaporizes a liquid that can be inhaled by a user. The liquid typically comprises an aerosol-forming substance, such as glycerol or propylene glycol, which produces a vapour. Other common substances in liquids are nicotine and a number of different flavourings.

The electronic cigarette is a handheld inhaler system comprising a mouthpiece section, a liquid reservoir, a power supply unit. Vaporization is achieved by a vaporizer or heater unit, which typically includes a heating element in the form of a heating coil and a fluid transfer element. Vaporization occurs as the heater heats the liquid in the wick until the liquid is converted to a vapor. The e-cigarette may include a chamber in the mouthpiece section configured to receive a disposable consumable in the form of a capsule. A capsule comprising a liquid reservoir and a vaporiser is commonly referred to as a "cartomizer".

Conventional cigarette smoke contains nicotine, as well as a number of other chemical compounds produced as products of the partial combustion and/or pyrolysis of plant materials. Electronic cigarettes, on the other hand, primarily deliver an aerosolized form of an initial electronic liquid composition that includes nicotine and various food-safe substances, such as propylene glycol and glycerin, but also deliver the desired nicotine dosage to the user with high efficiency. The aerosol generated by an e-cigarette is commonly referred to as a vapor.

To ensure that sufficient vapour is generated to provide a satisfactory user experience for the user, it is important to ensure that liquid is prevented from leaking from the liquid reservoir and into the capsule or e-cigarette. In addition, liquid leaking from the liquid reservoir may flow to a power supply or other electronics and may cause circuitry to short. This is dangerous and may cause injury to the user.

It is an object of the present invention to reduce the likelihood of liquid leaking from a liquid reservoir. It is also an object of the invention to provide a device which has fewer components, making it cheaper and simpler to manufacture.

Disclosure of Invention

According to a first aspect, there is provided a capsule for an e-cigarette, the capsule having a first end configured to engage with an e-cigarette device and a second end having a vapour outlet. The capsule comprises a liquid reservoir configured to contain a liquid to be vaporized, a vaporizer housing arranged to contain at least a portion of a heating element and a portion of a fluid transfer element, wherein the fluid transfer element is arranged to deliver the liquid from the liquid reservoir to the heating element, the heating element is configured to vaporize the received liquid and produce a vapor. The capsule further comprises: a seal arranged to retain the carburetor housing; a retainer arranged to attach to the seal; a primary gas flow passage extending between the vaporizer housing and the vapor outlet to allow generated vapor to flow from the vaporizer housing to the vapor outlet; and a pair of electrodes, wherein the electrodes are at least partially embedded within the structure of the holder, and wherein the electrodes are arranged to provide an electrical connection between the first end of the capsule and the e-vapor device.

By embedding the electrodes at least partially within the structure of the holder, the electrodes do not protrude into the interior portion of the capsule. This means that the inner space within the capsule is not occupied by the inactive end portions of the electrodes. Since only a contact surface is required to provide an electrical connection between the capsule and the e-cigarette, there is no need to have large protruding electrodes that occupy valuable space within the capsule. Instead, by embedding the electrodes within a portion of the capsule itself, sufficient electrical connection may be provided while ensuring that there is sufficient space within the capsule for other components of the capsule.

Preferably, each electrode is arranged to be exposed at a portion at an outer surface of the holder to provide an electrical connection between the first end of the capsule and the e-vaping device.

Preferably, the primary gas flow passage extends from the retainer, through the seal, and to the carburetor housing. Thus, the primary gas flow channel extends along the entire length of the bladder. This ensures that air is drawn through the length of the bladder to the suction nozzle, allowing the generated vapor to flow from the vaporizer housing to the vapor outlet.

In some refinements, the retainer may include a plurality of channels within an inner surface of the retainer. The inner surface may be a portion of the base surface of the retainer. Thus, the inner surface may comprise a system of channels, at least some of which may be in fluid communication with each other. These channels may advantageously collect fluid that leaks from the fluid transfer element onto the inner surface of the retainer. The channels may capture and direct leaked fluid away from important components within the capsule by capillary action, e.g., the channels may direct captured fluid away from electronics within the capsule. This reduces the chance of leaking fluid causing a short circuit within the capsule.

An interface may be formed between an inner surface of the seal and an inner surface of the retainer. Preferably, the heating element comprises a first wire and a second wire, and the first wire and the second wire of the heating element are preferably located at an interface between the seal and the holder. Thus, the interface may be used to retain the first and second wires of the heating element between the seal and the retainer. Thus, the interface serves to hold or press the first and second leads of the heating element in place. This configuration reduces the need for a separate bonding or attachment component to secure the heating element within the capsule. Thus, the total number of parts provided is reduced, thereby achieving a simpler bladder device.

The heating element includes a heating coil in contact with the fluid transfer element, which may also be referred to as a wick. The heating coil is connected (e.g. welded or connected by a connector) to a plurality of wires, typically two wires, which form a first end and a second end of the heating coil. Thus, the first and second wires may also be referred to as the first and second ends of the heating element. It should be noted that the heating coil is not directly connected to the electrode. Instead, the heating coil is indirectly connected to the electrodes via wires, which serve as intermediates between the heating coil and the electrodes. The heating element is thus indirectly connected to the electrode. The lead wires are made of a material that does not transfer heat to the electrodes.

In some examples, the first end and the second end of the heating element are compressed between the seal and the retainer at the interface. Compressing the first and second ends between the seal and the retainer ensures that the first and second ends of the heating element are securely held at the interface, thereby reducing the likelihood that the first and second ends of the heating element will loosen within the capsule.

Each electrode may include a first end and a second end. Preferably, the first end of each electrode is located at an interface between the seal and the retainer. Thus, the interface may be used to retain the first end of each of the electrodes between the seal and the retainer. Advantageously, this configuration reduces the need for separate bonding or attachment components (e.g., welds) to secure the electrodes within the capsule. Thus, the total number of parts provided is reduced, thereby achieving a simpler bladder device.

The seal may typically be formed from a rubber or thermoplastic elastomer material (e.g. silicone rubber).

Preferably, the first lead (also known as the first end) of the heating element and the first end of the first electrode are located at a first point on the interface between the seal and the holder. More preferably, the second lead (also known as the second end) of the heating element and the first end of the second electrode are located at a second point on the interface between the seal and the holder. In other words, the first end of the heating element and the first end of the first electrode are held together at the first position, and the second end of the heating element and the first end of the second electrode are held together at the second position. By holding one end of the heating element and one end of the electrode together, a reliable electrical connection is made between the heating element and the electrode. Furthermore, no welds or electrical connection points between the heating element and the electrode are required to provide an electrical connection. Rather, an electrical connection is provided as the outer surface of the heating element contacts and is held against the outer surface of the electrode.

In some examples, the second end of each electrode is retained within the body of the holder. Thus, the second end of each electrode may be considered to be embedded within the holder. Each electrode may advantageously be held securely within the holder without the need for additional components or connection points to secure the electrode to the holder, thus providing a simpler balloon.

Each electrode may have a substantially rectangular cross-section. This may provide a relatively large surface area on each electrode, which may help provide a better electrical connection between the electrode and the heating element. Furthermore, the rectangular cross-section may provide the electrodes with a relatively thin width, which means that the electrodes do not substantially extend into the body of the capsule. This means that the electrodes do not occupy space that other components within the capsule may use.

In some cases, the holder comprises a pair of apertures, and a portion of each electrode is preferably arranged to extend across each aperture. By extending in this case is meant that a portion of each electrode extends across the aperture in a direction perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the aperture. Thus, the portion of the electrode extending through the orifice may be considered to cover or occlude the orifice. The portion of the electrode extending through the aperture may be used to provide an electrical connection between the capsule and the e-cigarette.

The bladder may further comprise a pair of cover portions. Each cover portion may be located within each aperture and is preferably arranged to substantially cover the portion of each electrode extending through each aperture. The cover portion may protect the electrode portion from any fluid that may have leaked from the fluid transfer element. Thus, the cover portion prevents any leaking fluid from potentially causing a short circuit within the bladder. Thus, the cover portion may seal the aperture of the retainer to prevent fluid leakage.

In another example, the bladder may include a sealing device including a first seal and a second seal. The sealing device may be configured to retain the fluid transfer element between the first seal and the second seal.

The first seal may include a first surface shaped to correspond with an outer surface of the fluid transfer element. The first surface may be substantially curved. The second seal may include a second surface shaped to correspond to an outer surface of the fluid transfer element. The second surface may be substantially curved. The fluid transfer element may be located between the first surface and the second surface.

The first sealing member may include at least one sealing protrusion. The second seal may comprise at least one sealing portion. The sealing protrusion may be configured to mate with the sealing portion. The sealing portion may comprise a U-shaped seat for receiving the liquid transfer element and the sealing protrusion. The sealing protrusion may be sized and shaped to correspond to the contour of the sealing portion such that the sealing protrusion may be inserted into the sealing portion. The sealing protrusion and the sealing portion may be configured to compress the liquid transfer element, in particular locally reduce its cross-section.

The liquid transfer element may be made of a compressible capillary material, such as cotton fibres.

In another aspect, there is provided a capsule for an electronic cigarette; the capsule having a first end configured to engage with an e-vapor device and a second end having a vapor outlet, the capsule further comprising:

a liquid reservoir configured to hold a liquid to be vaporized;

a vaporizer housing arranged to house at least a portion of a heating element and a portion of a fluid transfer element, wherein the fluid transfer element is arranged to deliver liquid from a liquid reservoir to the heating element, the heating element configured to vaporize the received liquid and produce a vapor;

a seal arranged to retain the carburetor housing;

a retainer arranged to attach to the seal;

a primary gas flow passage extending between the vaporizer housing and the vapor outlet to allow generated vapor to flow from the vaporizer housing to the vapor outlet;

a pair of electrodes; wherein the electrode is arranged to provide an electrical connection between the first end of the capsule and the e-vapor device; and

an interface formed between an inner surface of the seal and an inner surface of the retainer, and wherein the heating element and the electrode are in contact at the interface.

According to another aspect, there is provided an electronic cigarette comprising a body and a capsule, wherein the body comprises a power unit, circuitry and a capsule seat configured to connect with the capsule, wherein the capsule is a capsule according to any of the foregoing capsules.

The e-cigarette may be configured to connect with any of the capsules according to the preceding description.

As will be appreciated by those skilled in the art, any of the features described herein may be combined together, either individually or in combination. They may also be combined with any of the above aspects, alone or in combination.

Drawings

Embodiments of the invention will now be described, by way of example, with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:

figure 1a is a schematic perspective view of an electronic cigarette;

figure 1b is a schematic side perspective view of the electronic cigarette of figure 1 a;

figure 1c is a schematic cross-sectional view of the e-cigarette of figures 1a and 1 b;

figure 2a is a schematic perspective view of the e-cigarette of figures 1a and 1b, wherein the capsule has been disconnected from the e-cigarette;

figure 2b is a schematic perspective view of the capsule seat;

figure 3a is a schematic view of a bladder;

figure 3b is a schematic side view of the capsule of figure 3 a;

figure 4 is an exploded schematic view of the capsule;

figure 5 is an exploded schematic view of the bladder seal;

FIG. 6 is a schematic cross-sectional view of FIG. 5 in an assembled state; and

fig. 7 is a schematic perspective view of fig. 6.

Figure 8a is a perspective view of a bladder seal;

figure 8b is a side view of the bladder seal;

FIG. 8c is a cross-sectional view of FIG. 8 b;

figure 9a is a perspective view of the internal structure of the capsule part;

figure 9b is a perspective view of the internal structure of an alternative bladder part;

figure 10 is a cross-sectional view of the internal structure of the bladder;

figure 11 is a perspective view of a portion of the bladder seal;

figure 12 is a view of a bladder seal;

figure 13 is a top view of a portion of the bladder seal; and

figure 14 is a cross-sectional view of a portion of a bladder seal.

Detailed Description

As used herein, the term "inhaler" or "e-cigarette" may include an e-cigarette configured to deliver an aerosol to a user, the aerosol including an aerosol for smoking. An aerosol for smoking may refer to an aerosol having a particle size of 0.5-7 microns. The particle size may be less than 10 microns or 7 microns. The electronic cigarette may be portable.

With reference to the figures and in particular to figures 1a to 1c, 2a and 2b, an electronic cigarette 2 for vaporising a liquid L is illustrated. The e-cigarette 2 may be used as a substitute for a conventional cigarette. The e-cigarette 2 has a body 4 comprising a power supply unit 6, circuitry 8, and a capsule seat 12. The capsule seat 12 is configured to receive a removable capsule 16 comprising a vaporized liquid L. The liquid L may comprise aerosol forming substances such as propylene glycol and/or glycerol and may contain other substances such as nicotine and acids. The liquid L may also contain flavouring agents such as tobacco, menthol, or fruit flavours.

The capsule seat 12 is preferably in the form of a cavity configured to receive the capsule 16. Capsule seat 12 is provided with a connecting portion 21 configured to securely hold capsule 16 to capsule seat 12. The connection portion 21 may be, for example, an interference fit, a snap fit, a screw fit, a bayonet fit or a magnetic fit. Capsule nest 12 further includes a pair of electrical connectors 14 configured to engage with corresponding power supply terminals 45 on capsule 16.

As best seen in fig. 2a and 2b, capsule 16 comprises a housing 18, a liquid reservoir 32, a vaporizing unit 34, and power supply terminals 45. The housing 18 has a mouthpiece portion 20 provided with a vapour outlet 28. The mouthpiece portion 20 may have a tip-like form to correspond to the ergonomics of the user's mouth. On the opposite side of the nozzle portion 20, another connecting portion 22 is positioned. The nozzle connection portion 22 is configured to be connected with the connection portion 21 in the capsule seat 12. Connection portion 21 on capsule 16 may comprise a metal plate configured to magnetically connect to a magnetic surface in capsule seat 12. Capsule housing 18 may be a transparent material so that the level of capsule 16 may be clearly seen by a user. The housing 18 may be formed from a polymer or plastic material, such as polyester.

As can be seen in fig. 4, the capsule 16 may be assembled from a number of different pieces. However, the illustrated embodiments are schematic and it will be apparent to a person skilled in the art that some of the parts may also be combined with a single unit. The current configuration of the various parts enables efficient assembly of capsule 16.

The capsule housing 18 may be formed from a top housing 18a and a bottom housing 18b or base 18 b. The parts may be fitted together by a friction fit between the top housing 18a and the bottom housing 18 b. Additionally or alternatively, the top housing 18a and the bottom housing 18b may be bonded together by ultrasonic welding. Optionally, as illustrated in the figures, the top housing 18a may include a mouthpiece portion 20 as a separate piece that is fitted to the top housing 18a of the bladder.

As shown in fig. 3a and 4, the vaporizing chamber 30 is located at a distal end of the capsule 16 opposite the nozzle portion 20 and houses a vaporizing unit 34. From the vaporization chamber 30 to the vapor outlet 28 in the nozzle portion 20, a main vapor passage 24 is defined, which may have a tubular cross-section. The main vapor passage 24 may be formed by a tube or chimney 24 extending distally away from the mouthpiece, wherein the main vapor passage is sealably connected to the vaporization chamber 30. Conveniently, the tube or chimney 24 may be integrally formed with the top housing. The part may be produced, for example, by injection molding or molding. Once the tube or chimney 24 is connected to the vaporization chamber 30, a primary vapor passage is formed.

The vaporization chamber 30 is surrounded by a liquid reservoir 32. The vaporization chamber is sealed such that it receives liquid only through the liquid delivery passage 33, intake air from the air inlet 35, and vapor (via the tube or chimney 24) through the main vapor passage. For this purpose, the vaporizing unit 34 is accommodated inside a tubular vaporizer housing 40.

To provide an optimal user experience when using the e-cigarette 2, it is important to prevent liquid from leaking from the liquid reservoir 32 and into the capsule 16. It is also important to prevent liquid from leaking from the capsule 16 and into the capsule seat 12. A number of potential leak points have been identified in the e-cigarette 2 which require an effective seal against the liquid. First, liquid may leak from around fluid transfer element 38 into the main vapor passage and along the main flow path through bladder 16.

Liquid may also leak from the liquid reservoir 32 or fluid transfer element 38 into the air inlet 35 and out through the capsule 16 and may enter the capsule seat 12 in which the circuitry 8 is housed. This could potentially cause circuitry 8 to short.

There is also a risk of liquid leaking from any gaps that may exist in the vaporizing unit 34 between the heating element 36, the fluid transfer element 38, and the liquid reservoir 32.

In order to reduce the risk of leakage from capsule 16, a first seal 50 and a second seal 44 are provided. The carburetor housing 40 has an upper edge 42a and a lower edge 42b, the upper edge 42a being in contact with a first seal 50, which may also be referred to as an upper gasket 50, and the lower edge 42b being in contact with a second seal 44, which may also be referred to as a lower gasket 44. The first and

second seals

44, 50 are typically made of a resilient or compressible material (e.g., silicon) to minimize leakage through the connection. The lower and

upper gaskets

44, 50 are configured to seal around the outer circumference of the tubular carburetor housing 40.

The vaporizing unit 34 includes a heating element 36 and a fluid transfer element 38. The fluid transfer element 38 is configured to transfer the liquid L from the liquid reservoir 32 to the heating element 36 by capillary action. The fluid transfer element 38 may be a fibrous or porous element, such as a wick made of twined cotton or silica. Alternatively, the fluid transfer element 38 may be any other suitable porous element.

The vaporization chamber 30 is fluidly connected to the liquid reservoir 32 by a fluid transfer element 38. Thus, the liquid inlet of the vaporization chamber 30 is disposed only through the fluid transfer element 38 and through the channels 33 formed by the porous structure of the fluid transfer element 38.

The fluid transfer element 38 has a first end 38a and a second end 38b. The fluid transfer element 38 is provided with an elongated and substantially straight shape. Typically, the fluid transfer element 38 is arranged with its longitudinal extension perpendicular or transverse to the longitudinal direction of the cartridge 16. The fluid transfer element 38 has a liquid intake portion 39a located inside the liquid reservoir 32 and a liquid delivery portion 39b in contact with the heating element 36 inside the vaporization chamber 30.

The liquid intake portion 39a corresponds to the first end 38a and the second end 38b of the fluid transfer element 38. Heating element 36 is positioned on liquid delivery portion 39b of fluid transfer element 38. The liquid delivery portion 39b corresponds to a central portion of the elongated fluid transfer element 38. As shown in the drawing, the heating element 36 is disposed on the outer circumference of the fluid transfer element 38.

The carburetor housing 40 is further provided with a pair of cutouts 48 through which the first and

second ends

38a, 38b of the fluid transfer element 38 are received. A first seal 50 is located in the connection between the vaporization chamber 30 and the fluid transfer element 38. The first seal 50 has a contact surface S1 corresponding to the shape of the upper edge 42a of the carburetor housing 40. The first seal 50 is further provided with an aperture 51 through which vapour can flow from the vaporisation chamber 30 to the main vapour flow passage.

As shown in figure 5, the first seal 50 comprises a pair of radially extending shoulder portions 52 which extend in a direction substantially perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the e-cigarette 2. The shoulder portion 52 is generally curved in shape, for example in the form of an arc or semi-circle, and has an inwardly curved surface 52a which may be considered a concave surface 52a and an outwardly curved surface 52b which may be considered a convex surface 52b. When the e-cigarette 2 is held in the upright position, the concave surface 52a is located below the convex surface 52b so that the shoulder portion can be described as being generally "n" shaped.

The inwardly curved surface 52a of the shoulder portion 52 has a shape that corresponds to the shape of the first and

second ends

38a, 38b of the fluid transfer element 38. In other words, the curvature of the first and second ends of the fluid transfer element 38 generally corresponds to the curvature of the inwardly curved surface 52a of the shoulder portion 52. Having curved surfaces generally corresponding to each other ensures a tight fit between two adjacent surfaces when constructing the e-cigarette 2, in this case the surface of the fluid transfer element 38 and the concave surface of the shoulder portion 52. This is important to prevent leakage, as any gap or "wobble space" created by loosely fitting parts creates a potential path for liquid to travel along the capsule 16 and leak from the capsule.

The shoulder portion 52 is configured to be received in the cutout 48 of the vaporizer housing 40 and to press against, i.e., apply pressure to, the fluid transfer element 38 when the capsule 16 is assembled. The first seal 50 is configured to compress the fluid transfer element 38 in a radial direction of the fluid transfer element 38. The close fit achieved by complementing the adjacent surface of the end of the fluid transfer element 38 and the concave surface 52a of the seal 50 improves the ability of the seal 50 to apply the proper pressure to the fluid transfer element 38. By compressing the fluid transfer element 38, the flow of liquid from the liquid reservoir 32 to the vaporization chamber 30 is directed through the fluid transfer element 38. Thus, leakage around the fluid transfer element 38 is prevented.

The second seal 44 also includes a pair of

shoulder portions

44a, 44b that extend radially away from the main body of the second seal 44. That is, the pair of

shoulder portions

44a, 44b extend in a direction substantially perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the e-cigarette 2, as can be seen from fig. 5 and 7. Similar to the shoulder portion 52 of the first seal 50, the shape of these

shoulder portions

44a, 44b on the second seal 44 is generally curved, for example in the form of an arc or semi-circle. Also, these

shoulder portions

44a, 44b have an inwardly curved surface 43 that can be considered a concave surface 43. The concave surface 43 may be described as being generally "u" shaped when the e-cigarette 2 is held in an upright position.

The shape of the inwardly curved surface 43 corresponds to the shape of the first and

second ends

38a, 38b of the fluid transfer element 38. That is, the curvature of the first and second ends of the fluid transfer element 38 generally corresponds to the curvature of the inwardly curved surfaces 43 of the

shoulder portions

44a, 44b. Providing curved surfaces that generally correspond to each other ensures a tight fit between two adjacent surfaces when constructing the e-cigarette 2, in this case the surface of the fluid transfer element and the concave surface of the

shoulder portions

44a, 44b. A tight fit or tight fit is important to prevent leakage because any gaps between loosely fitting parts create potential flow paths for liquid to travel along and leak from the capsule 16.

In fig. 5, the

shoulder portions

44a, 44b of the second seal 44 are also configured to mate with the shoulder portion 52 of the first seal 50. It is meant here that the first seal and the second seal are in contact with each other. This ensures that the fluid transfer element 38 is held tightly between the first and second seals, thereby helping to prevent leakage of fluid from the fluid transfer element 38 into the e-cigarette 2. Such a tight seal can be seen more clearly in fig. 8a to 8 c. Additionally, by having the first seal 50 in contact with a surface of the second seal 44, the first seal 50 is able to apply sufficient compressive force to the fluid transfer element 38 when the fluid transfer element 38 is held between the first and second seals to help prevent leakage from around the seals.

Fig. 11 and 12 show an alternative example of a sealing arrangement formed by the first seal 50 and the second seal 44. In contrast to the arrangement shown in fig. 5, in which both the first and

second seals

50, 44 include shoulder portions, the arrangement shown in fig. 11 does not include shoulder portions. Rather, the fluid transfer element 38 is retained between and thus sealed by the first and

second seals

50, 44 by complementary grooves in the first and

second seals

50, 44 that are shaped to receive the fluid transfer element 38. In this manner, the lower seal 44 includes a groove in which the fluid transfer element 38 is located, and the upper seal 50 includes a sealing protrusion that fits within the groove of the lower seal to seal the fluid transfer element 38. The sealing projection of the upper seal preferably has a concave profile that matches the profile of the fluid transfer element 38, as will be described in more detail below.

As shown in figure 11, the first seal 150 comprises a pair of axially extending sealing projections 152 that extend in a direction generally parallel to the longitudinal axis of the e-cigarette 2. The sealing protrusion 152 may be considered an extension of the main body of the first seal 150. Each tip of the sealing projection has a generally curved profile, for example in the form of an arc or semi-circle, and has an inwardly curved surface 152a, which may be considered a concave surface 152a.

The inwardly curved surfaces 152a of the sealing projections 152 form the receiving seats of the fluid transfer element 38 and are shaped to correspond to the shape of the first and

second ends

38a, 38b of the fluid transfer element 38, as can be seen in fig. 11. In other words, the curvature of the first and second ends of the fluid transfer element 38 generally corresponds to the curvature of the inwardly curved surface 152a of the sealing protrusion 152. Having curved surfaces generally corresponding to each other ensures a tight fit between two adjacent surfaces when constructing the e-cigarette 2, in this case the surface of the fluid transfer element 38 and the concave surface of the sealing protrusion 152. This is important to prevent leakage, as any gaps or "wiggle spaces" created by loosely fitting parts create potential paths for liquid to travel along and leak from the capsule 16.

As previously described, sealing protrusion 152 of first seal 150 is configured to press against, i.e., apply pressure to, fluid transfer element 38 when capsule 16 is assembled. The first seal 50 is configured to compress the fluid transfer element 38 in a radial direction of the fluid transfer element 38. The close fit achieved by complementing the adjacent surface of the end of the fluid transfer element 38 with the concave surface 152a of the seal 150 improves the ability of the seal 150 to apply the proper pressure to the fluid transfer element 38. The flow of liquid from the liquid reservoir 32 to the vaporization chamber 30 is directed through the fluid transfer element 38 by compressing the fluid transfer element 38. Thus, leakage around the fluid transfer element 38 is prevented.

The second seal 144 also includes a pair of sealing portions 144a that form part of the body of the second seal 144, as can be seen in fig. 12. The sealing portion 144a on the second seal 144 is in the form of an elongate groove extending in a direction generally parallel to the longitudinal axis of the e-cigarette 2, with an entry point 144b. Similar to the seal projection 152 of the first seal 150, the seal portion 144a includes a generally curved shape, for example in the form of an arc or a semi-circle, having an inwardly curved surface 143, which may be considered a concave surface 143. The concave surface 143 may be described as being generally "u" shaped when the e-cigarette 2 is held in an upright position.

The shape of the inwardly curved surface 143 corresponds to the shape of the first and

second ends

38a, 38b of the fluid transfer element 38. Preferably, the inwardly curved surface 143 is narrower than the diameter of the fluid transfer element 38 to exert a compressive or squeezing force on the fluid transfer element 38, as shown in fig. 14. In this example, the curved surface 43 has an equal width U-shape that is narrower than the width of the fluid transfer element, such that the fluid transfer element 38 is locally compressed. As can be seen in this exemplary fig. 14, the fluid transfer element has a diameter of about 1.90mm-2.10mm, and the curved surface 143 of the U-shape has a width of 1.70 mm. The curvature of the first and second ends of fluid transfer element 38 may generally correspond to the curvature of the inwardly curved surface 143 of sealing portion 144a, or preferably may be sized to be less than the curvature of the inwardly curved surface 143 of sealing portion 144 a. Providing a sealing curved surface that is substantially equal to or less than the curved surface of the fluid transfer element ensures a tight fit between the two adjacent surfaces when constructing the e-cigarette 2, which in this case are the surface of the fluid transfer element and the concave surface of the sealing portion 144 a. As previously mentioned, a tight fit or tight fit is important to prevent leakage, as any gaps between loosely fitted components can create a potential flow path for liquid to travel along and leak from the capsule 16.

The sealing portion 144a of the second seal 144 is also configured to mate with the sealing protrusion 152 of the first seal 150. Meaning here that the first and

second seals

150, 144 are in contact with each other. In particular, the sealing protrusion 152 is sized and shaped to be inserted and retained within the access point 144b of the sealing portion 144 a. The access points 144b may be shaped with a truncated surface complementary to the surface at the base of the protrusion 152 to improve contact with the surface of the first seal. The protrusion 152 has generally parallel sidewalls sized to closely engage between the parallel surfaces of the upper linear portion of the surface 143. The parallel surface of the access point 144b serves to guide the protrusion 152 into the sealing portion 144 a. This has the effect that there is a close or tight fit between the first seal 150 and the second seal 144 so that relative movement between the two components is restricted when constructed. As can be seen in fig. 12, the sealing protrusion 152 includes inwardly angled sides, and the access points 144b include outwardly angled sides. Accordingly, the first seal 150 may be inserted into the second seal 144, thereby compressing the fluid transfer element 38 between the two seals. This ensures that the fluid transfer element 38 is held tightly between the first and second seals, thereby helping to prevent leakage of fluid from the fluid transfer element 38 into the e-cigarette 2. Additionally, by having the first seal 150 in contact with a surface of the second seal 144, the first seal 150 is able to apply sufficient compressive force to the fluid transfer element 38 when the fluid transfer element 38 is held between the first and second seals to help prevent leakage from around the seals. Furthermore, by providing a sealing arrangement in which the first seal 150 can be inserted into the second seal 144, the two seals are aligned with each other, thereby helping to prevent fluid leakage and providing a more accurate assembly of the two components of the e-cigarette 2.

In some examples, the second seal 144 includes angled grooves 180 at a lower surface of the second seal 144 facing the heating holder 70, which are arranged to receive ends (i.e., wires) of the heating element 36, as shown in fig. 13.

Further, in some examples, a silicon plate may be interposed between the suction nozzle 20 and the housing 18, as shown in fig. 4.

As shown in fig. 6 and 7, the second seal 44 includes a base portion 44c for receiving a component of the capsule, such as the vaporizer housing 40. The base portion 44c can therefore be considered to define an interior cavity portion. The base portion 44c is configured to receive and hold the heating holder 70 such that the heating holder 70 is at least partially located within the base portion 44c. The base portion 44c of the second seal 44 is for receiving the carburetor housing 40 and serves as a support for the carburetor housing 40, as shown in fig. 6 and 7. In particular, the lower edge 42b of the carburettor housing 40 is received by the second seal 44, so that the carburettor housing 40 is held firmly and in its correct position inside the capsule 16.

As can be seen in fig. 6, the heated retainer 70 is received and retained by the second seal 44 such that an interface 60 is formed between the inner surface of the base portion 44c of the second seal 44 and the heated retainer 70. The heating element has first and

second ends

36a, 36b that are held between the base portion 44c and the heating holder 70 at an interface 60 between the base portion 44c and the heating holder 70. The first and

second ends

36a, 36b of the heating element are thus clamped or squeezed between the base portion 44c and the heating holder 70. This ensures that heating element 36 is held firmly in place within capsule 16. Additionally and advantageously, by sandwiching the first and

second ends

36a, 36b of the heating element between the second seal 44 and the heating holder 70, the ends of the heating element 36 are prevented from contacting the circuitry 8 in the body 4. This configuration reduces the likelihood that any undesirable liquid that may be present in the heating element 36 will come into contact with the electrical components, which may result in a short circuit.

The heating holder 70 is arranged to be connected to the base portion 44c of the second seal 44, e.g. by a push-fit connection or a snap-fit connection. The heating holder 70 comprises a pair of through holes 72 or apertures 72 arranged to receive a pair of electrodes 80, as can be seen in fig. 7. Each electrode 80 takes the form of a wire that has been substantially flattened such that each electrode 80 has a ribbon-like structure. In other words, each electrode 80 has a substantially rectangular cross section. By using a flattened structure for electrode 80 (which generally follows the internal structure of balloon 16), space within balloon 16 that may have been occupied by protruding electrode 80, such as a pin, for example, is freed. This configuration achieves more space around the air hole 71 in the heating holder 70.

As shown in fig. 6 and 7, each electrode 80 includes a first end portion 81, a second end portion 83, and an intermediate portion 82. The first end 81 of each electrode 80 is located or held between the base portion 44c and the heating holder 70 at the interface 60 between the base portion 44c and the heating holder 70. The first end 81 of each electrode 80 is thus clamped or squeezed between the base portion 44c and the heating holder 70. This ensures that each electrode 80 is held firmly and fixedly in place within capsule 16 without the need for any additional parts to secure the first ends of electrodes 80. The use of a clamping action between the components of bladder 16 also avoids the need for welding or other similar attachment processes, which helps to reduce the complexity of bladder 16.

As mentioned above, the first and

second ends

36a, 36b of the heating element are also held or clamped between the base portion 44c and the heating holder 70. This means that the first and

second ends

36a, 36b of the heating element and the first end of each electrode 80 are located or clamped between the base portion 44c and the heating holder 70.

By clamping the first and

second ends

36a, 36b of the heating element and the first end of each electrode 80 between the base portion 44c and the heating holder 70, a good electrical connection or contact is made between the heating element and the electrodes 80.

As can be seen in fig. 7 and 9a, a portion of the intermediate portion 82 of each electrode 80 extends across each aperture 72. In particular, the length of each intermediate portion 82 of each electrode 80 extends across the aperture 72 in a direction perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the aperture 72. The portion of the electrode 80 extending across the orifice 72 may be considered to cover or occlude the orifice 72. This has the effect of exposing one side of intermediate portion 82 of each electrode 80, in particular the underside when capsule 16 is held upright. By exposed is meant that the portion is not within the heated holder 70. Instead, the exposed area is substantially flush with the outer surface of the heater holder 70. The exposed surface provides an electrical connection point within the heating holder 70. Thus, electrode 80 serves as an electrical connector for transmitting electrical current between balloon seat 12 and balloon 16. Thus, the electrode 80 is made of any suitable material capable of transmitting an electric current, such as a metal, e.g., copper. A pair of apertures 72 in heating holder 70 allows for the transmission of electrical current between capsule seat 12 and capsule 16.

As shown in fig. 7, the second end 83 of each electrode is secured within the heating holder 70. The electrode 80 may thus be considered to be embedded within the heating holder 70. The portion of the electrode between the first end 81 and the exposed portion 82 may also be secured within the heating holder 70. The electrode 80 may be partially embedded by partially molding the heating holder 70 over the electrode 80. The molding operation of the heating holder 70 may be plastic injection molding.

In addition to the pair of apertures 72, the heating holder 70 comprises an air hole 71 in the form of a through hole through the body of the heating holder 70, which is arranged to allow air to flow into the vaporisation chamber 30 via the air inlet 35 in the vaporiser unit 34. This air hole 71 thus comprises a part of the main vapour channel 24. As shown in fig. 6, the air hole 71 is located approximately at the center of the heating holder 70, and the air hole 71 is arranged to have a sufficient length such that the air hole extends into the vaporizing chamber 30 of the vaporizer housing 40. Air holes 71 protrude vertically upward from the inner base surface of heating holder 70, i.e., in a direction parallel to the longitudinal axis of capsule 16. The air holes 71 may thus be considered to have a chimney-like structure and may therefore be referred to as a chimney in some cases. The chimney 71 will typically be integrally formed with the body of the heating holder 70. Providing the air holes 71 extending far enough into the vaporisation chamber 30 ensures that the inlet air is delivered to the appropriate part of the balloon, i.e. the vaporisation chamber 30.

The combination of the centrally protruding air hole 71 and the embedded electrode 80 means that there is a large space between the fluid transfer element 38, the air hole 71 and the inner base surface of the heating holder 70. This helps to ensure that there is sufficient air flow around the fluid transfer element so that the generated vapor can flow from the fluid transfer element 38 up the primary vapor passage 24 to the suction nozzle 20.

Fig. 9 shows the internal structure of the heating holder 70 in more detail. It can be seen that the air vent 71 comprises a plurality of grooves 90 or recesses on the outer surface of the chimney 71. The grooves 90 are evenly spaced from one another and extend longitudinally along the length of the chimney 71 from the base of the chimney 71 to the top of the chimney 71. These grooves 90 serve to collect any fluid that may leak from the fluid transfer element 38 to the top of the chimney 71. Due to capillary action, the fluid will be drawn into the grooves 90 such that the fluid flows preferentially along the grooves 90 rather than along the surface of the chimney 71. The captured fluid is then collected at the base of the chimney and expelled from the heated holder 70.

In addition to the grooves 90 present on the surface of the chimney 71, the inner base surface of the heating holder 70 comprises a plurality of grooves 92 forming a channel-like structure. The plurality of channels 92 are fluidly connected to each other such that fluid present in one portion of the channel-like structure may flow into another portion. As shown in fig. 9b, the groove 90 on the surface of the chimney 71 is also fluidly connected to a channel 92 at the base of the chimney, so that fluid within the groove 90 can flow into the channel 92. Similar to the grooves 90, these channels are arranged to collect fluid that leaks from the fluid transfer element 38. Once fluid drips from fluid transfer element 38 onto the interior base surface of heated holder 70, channel 92 captures the fluid by capillary action and allows the fluid to drain from heated holder 70. The depth of these channels 92 can be maximized so that the channels act as reservoirs for leaking fluid before the fluid is expelled from within the capsule.

As can be seen in fig. 9b, the channels 92 are arranged to direct fluid towards a pair of apertures 72 in the base of the heating holder 70. To prevent leaked and subsequently captured fluid from contacting the intermediate portion 82 of the electrode 80, each aperture 72 in the heating holder 70 includes a cover 94 having a shape shaped as a substantially flat surface corresponding to the cross-section of the aperture 72 such that the cover 94 can seal the aperture 72 against any leaked fluid. As can be seen in fig. 10, each cover 94 is thus arranged to cover the exposed intermediate portion 82 of the corresponding electrode 80, such that a barrier is formed between the electrode 80 and any fluid present within the heating holder 70. The cover 94 is typically made of a plastic material, however any other suitable material that prevents fluid from passing through the orifice 72 may be used. Advantageously, the cover 94 serves to seal the electrode 80 to prevent any fluid that may leak from the fluid transfer element 38 and collect within the heating holder 70. In this regard, the cover 94 may be considered a seal.

As shown, for example, in fig. 5, the heating element 36 comprises a heating wire wrapped around a fluid transfer element 38, and thus takes the form of a heating coil. Typically, the heating element 36 is not directly connected to the electrode 80, but is indirectly connected to the electrode 80 via a plurality of wires that serve as an intermediary between the heating element 36 and the electrode 80. The heating element 36 is connected to a wire generally proximate to the fluid transfer element 38. The heating element 36 thus comprises a heating wire (also referred to as heating coil) and a wire, typically two wires. The heating wire is typically connected to each wire by spot welding or a trimmer. In this description, the wires of the heating element, in particular the first and second wires, may also be referred to as the first and second ends of the heating element. The heating wire is configured to heat the fluid transfer element 38 by resistive heating. In an advantageous embodiment, the material of the heating wire may be titanium. Titanium has a steep temperature resistance curve compared to, for example, stainless steel or nickel. Therefore, the resistance of the heating wire increases relatively rapidly with increasing coil temperature. However, other materials (such as stainless steel, nickel, chromium, or aluminum, or alloys thereof) are also possible.

The body 4 is configured to supply power to the heating element 36 of the capsule and to control the overall operation of the vaporisation. The body 4 may be configured as a compact device in contrast to most prior art e-cigarettes. Preferably, the device is provided with dimensions that will fit the palm of the hand.

The circuitry 8 of the body 4 is configured to operate the e-cigarette 2 and may include a flow sensor 10 or a manually-enabled switch, a memory 11, and a controller 13. The circuitry 8 may advantageously be combined onto a main printed circuit board.

The skilled person will realize that the invention is by no means limited to the described exemplary embodiments. The mere fact that certain measures are recited in mutually different dependent claims does not indicate that a combination of these measures cannot be used to advantage. Furthermore, the expression "comprising" does not exclude other elements or steps. Other non-limiting expressions including "a" or "an" do not exclude a plurality and a single unit may fulfill the functions of several means. Any reference signs in the claims shall not be construed as limiting the scope. Finally, while the invention has been illustrated in detail in the drawings and foregoing description, such illustration and description are to be considered illustrative or exemplary and not restrictive; the invention is not limited to the disclosed embodiments.

Claims

1. A capsule for an e-cigarette, the capsule having a first end configured to engage with an e-cigarette device and a second end having a vapor outlet, the capsule further comprising:

a liquid reservoir configured to hold a liquid to be vaporized;

a vaporizer housing arranged to house at least a portion of a heating element and a portion of a fluid transfer element, wherein the fluid transfer element is arranged to deliver liquid from the liquid reservoir to the heating element, the heating element configured to vaporize the received liquid and produce a vapor;

a seal arranged to retain the carburetor housing;

a retainer arranged to attach to the seal;

a primary gas flow passage extending between the vaporizer housing and the vapor outlet to allow generated vapor to flow from the vaporizer housing to the vapor outlet; and

a pair of electrodes, wherein the electrodes are at least partially embedded within the structure of the holder, and wherein the electrodes are arranged to provide an electrical connection between the first end of the capsule and an e-vapor device.

2. The capsule of claim 1, wherein the primary gas flow passage extends from the retainer through the seal to the vaporizer housing.

3. The capsule of claim 1 or claim 2, wherein the retainer comprises a plurality of channels within an inner surface of the retainer.

4. The capsule according to any preceding claim, wherein an interface is formed between an inner surface of the seal and an inner surface of the retainer.

5. The capsule according to claim 4, wherein the heating element comprises a first wire and a second wire, and wherein the first wire and the second wire are located at the interface between the seal and the retainer.

6. The capsule according to claim 4 or 5, wherein the first and second wires of the heating element are compressed between the seal and the retainer at the interface.

7. The capsule according to any one of claims 4 to 6, wherein each electrode comprises a first end and a second end, and wherein the first end of each electrode is located at the interface between the seal and the retainer.

8. The capsule according to claim 7, wherein the first end of the heating element and the first end of the first electrode are located at a first point on the interface between the seal and the holder.

9. The capsule according to claim 8, wherein the second end of the heating element and the first end of the second electrode are located at a second point on the interface between the seal and the holder.

10. Capsule according to any of claims 7 to 9, wherein the second end of each electrode is retained within the body of the holder.

11. Capsule according to any preceding claim, wherein the electrodes have a substantially rectangular cross-section.

12. A capsule according to any preceding claim wherein the holder comprises a pair of apertures and a portion of each electrode is arranged to extend across each aperture.

13. The capsule of claim 12, further comprising a pair of cap portions, each cap portion located within each aperture and arranged to substantially cover a portion of each electrode extending through each aperture.

14. A capsule for an e-cigarette, the capsule having a first end configured to engage with an e-cigarette device and a second end having a vapor outlet, the capsule further comprising:

a liquid reservoir configured to hold a liquid to be vaporized;

a seal arranged to retain the carburetor housing;

a retainer arranged to attach to the seal;

a pair of electrodes; wherein the electrodes are arranged to provide an electrical connection between the first end of the capsule and an e-vapor device; and

an interface formed between an inner surface of the seal and an inner surface of the retainer, and wherein the heating element and the electrodes contact each other at the interface.

15. An electronic cigarette comprising a body and a capsule, wherein the body comprises a power supply unit, circuitry and a capsule seat configured to connect with the capsule, wherein the capsule is a capsule according to any one of claims 1 to 14.