JP2021509810A - Cartridge and e-vaping device - Google Patents

Abstract

The cartridge (15) of the e-vaping device (10) includes a housing (50) extending in the longitudinal direction, a storage portion (5) in the housing (50), and a heater (115') in the housing (50). Includes absorbent material (1960). The storage unit (5) is configured to store the pre-vaper preparation. The heater (115') has a sinusoidal member (1620) that moves around an ellipse and defines a channel through it. The absorbent material (1960) surrounds the sinusoidal member (1620) at least partially. The absorbent material (1960) communicates fluidly with the reservoir (5). [Selection diagram] Fig. 2

Description

The present disclosure relates to meandering heaters and cartridges for electronic or e-vaping devices configured to deliver pre-vaper formulations to a vaporizer.
The e-vaping device includes a heater element that vaporizes the pre-vaper formulation to produce "vapor".

The e-vaping device includes a power source (such as a rechargeable battery) arranged within the device. The battery is electrically connected to the heater, which heats the pre-vaper formulation to a temperature sufficient to turn it into a vapor. The vapor exits the e-vaping device through a mouthpiece that includes at least one outlet.

At least one exemplary embodiment relates to a cartridge for an e-vaping device.

In at least one exemplary embodiment, the cartridge comprises a housing extending in the longitudinal direction, a storage within the housing, a storage configured to store the pre-vaper formulation, and a first channel extending through it. It includes a first connector component to define, a post extending through the first channel and defining a second channel through it, a heater in the housing, and an absorbent material. The heater consists of a first ring at the first end of the heater, a second ring at the second end of the heater, and a sinusoidal member extending between the first and second rings. including. The first ring, the sinusoidal member, and the second ring are integrally formed. The second end of the tubular heater is in and connected to a portion of the post that at least partially surrounds the sinusoidal member. The absorbent material surrounds the sinusoidal member at least partially. The absorbent material communicates fluidly with the reservoir.

In at least one exemplary embodiment, the cartridge further comprises a sheath formed integrally with the inner tube. The sheath surrounds the absorbent material at least partially. The sheath includes the end wall. The end wall includes at least one weep hole through the end wall. The absorbent material communicates fluidly with the reservoir through at least one weep hole.

In at least one exemplary embodiment, the sheath is made of a conductive material. In at least one exemplary embodiment, the first end of the heater contacts a portion of the sheath. In at least one exemplary embodiment, the sheath is electrically insulated from the post.

In at least one exemplary embodiment, the housing comprises an end wall formed integrally with the housing. The end wall contains a channel through it. The channel communicates fluidly with an air channel that extends through an inner tube.

In at least one exemplary embodiment, the cartridge further comprises a mouthpiece configured to fit on the first end of the housing. The mouthpiece includes at least one outlet for fluid communication with the channel on the end wall.

In at least one exemplary embodiment, the cartridge further comprises a cylindrical member extending through the first connector component. The cylindrical member is electrically separated from the post. The cylindrical member is made of a conductive material and the cylindrical member contacts at least a portion of the sheath.

In at least one exemplary embodiment, the housing comprises a support tube attached to the inner wall of the housing by at least two fins. The space between the fins forms part of the reservoir.

In at least one exemplary embodiment, the first end of the inner tube is compatible with the end portion of the support tube.

In at least one exemplary embodiment, the absorbent material comprises a hollow cylinder of absorbent material. Absorbent material includes glass fiber.

At least one exemplary embodiment relates to a cartridge for an e-vaping device.

In at least one exemplary embodiment, the e-vaping device cartridge is a longitudinally extending housing and a storage within the housing that is configured to store the pre-vaper formulation and an outer housing. An inner tube, a sheath formed integrally with the inner tube, with a reservoir between the inner surface of the housing and the outer surface of the inner tube that defines an air channel within it. The sheath and the inside of the sheath, which have an end wall and a side wall, in which a heating chamber is defined, an air passage through the end wall is defined, and the air passage is in fluid communication with an air channel. Gasket, including a base part and an elongated part, the base part is friction-fitted with the sheath, and the elongated part extends from the sheath, the gasket, the heating coil in the heating chamber, and the core in contact with the heating coil. And an absorbent material that surrounds a portion of the elongated portion of the gasket.

In at least one exemplary embodiment, the absorbent material is in the sheath and the wick is in contact with the absorbent material.

In at least one exemplary embodiment, the gasket defines at least two holes through the base portion. The cartridge further includes a first electrical lead and a second electrical lead. Each of the first and second electrical leads extends through one of two holes through the base of the gasket.

In at least one exemplary embodiment, the gasket defines at least one flow path through the base portion and the elongated portion. At least one channel communicates fluidly with the air passage and the air channel.

In at least one exemplary embodiment, the gasket defines at least one notch through the base portion and at least one end of the core extends through at least one notch.

In at least one exemplary embodiment, the gasket is integrally molded with the connector component.

In at least one exemplary embodiment, the absorbent material communicates fluidly with the reservoir.

At least one exemplary embodiment relates to a cartridge for an e-vaping device.

In at least one exemplary embodiment, the e-vaping device cartridge is a housing extending in the longitudinal direction and a storage within the housing that is configured to store the pre-vaper formulation and an outer housing. An inner tube, a sheath formed integrally with the inner tube, with a reservoir between the inner surface of the housing and the outer surface of the inner tube that defines an air channel within it. It has an end wall and a side wall, in which a heating chamber is defined, an air passage through the end wall is defined, the air passage is fluid communicating with an air channel, and a chamber is placed in the side wall. Includes a defining sheath, a heater in the heating chamber, and an absorbent material that surrounds a portion of the elongated portion of the gasket.

In at least one exemplary embodiment, the absorbent material is within a portion of the sheath.

In at least one exemplary embodiment, the heater is a first ring at the first end of the heater, a second ring at the second end of the heater, a first ring and a second ring. Includes a sinusoidal member extending between and. The first ring, the sinusoidal member, and the second ring are integrally formed.

In at least one exemplary embodiment, the heater is a heater around which a coil is wound.

The various features and advantages of the non-limiting embodiments of the present specification should become more apparent when the detailed description is considered in conjunction with the accompanying drawings. The accompanying drawings are provided solely for illustration purposes and should not be construed as limiting the scope of the claims. The attached drawings are not considered to be drawn in proportion to their actual size unless otherwise stated. For clarity purposes, various dimensions of the drawing may be exaggerated.

FIG. 1A is a side view of an e-vaping device according to at least one exemplary embodiment. FIG. 1B is a side view of the cartridge of the e-vaping device of FIG. 1A according to at least one exemplary embodiment. FIG. 2 is a cross-sectional view taken along line II-II of the cartridge of the e-vaping device of FIG. 1A according to at least one exemplary embodiment. FIG. 3 is a perspective view of the heater assembly of the cartridge of FIG. 2 according to at least one exemplary embodiment. FIG. 4 is a second perspective view of the heater assembly of the cartridge of FIG. 2 according to at least one exemplary embodiment. FIG. 5 is a third perspective view of the heater assembly of the cartridge of FIG. 2 according to at least one exemplary embodiment. FIG. 6 is a perspective view of the heater assembly and inner tube of the cartridge of FIG. 2 according to at least one exemplary embodiment. FIG. 7 is an enlarged view of the heater of the cartridge of FIG. 2 according to at least one exemplary embodiment. FIG. 8 is an enlarged view of the heater of FIG. 7 in a flat form according to at least one exemplary embodiment. FIG. 9 is an enlarged view of a heater in flat form according to at least one exemplary embodiment. FIG. 10A is an enlarged view of a portion of the heater according to at least one exemplary embodiment. FIG. 10B is a side view of a portion of the heater according to at least one exemplary embodiment. FIG. 11 is a diagram of a heater and electrical leads according to at least one exemplary embodiment. FIG. 12 is a diagram of a heater and electrical leads according to at least one exemplary embodiment. FIG. 13 is a diagram of the battery section of the e-vaping device of FIG. 2 according to at least one exemplary embodiment. FIG. 14 is a flowchart illustrating a method of forming the cartridge of FIG. 2 according to at least one exemplary embodiment. FIG. 15 is a flowchart illustrating a method of forming the cartridge of FIG. 2 according to at least one exemplary embodiment. FIG. 16 is a perspective and partial cross-sectional view of the cartridge according to at least one exemplary embodiment. FIG. 17 is a perspective view of the cartridge according to at least one exemplary embodiment. FIG. 18 is a cross-sectional view of a portion of the cartridge of FIG. 17 according to at least one exemplary embodiment. FIG. 19 is a perspective view of the first end of the connector according to at least one exemplary embodiment. FIG. 20 is a perspective view of the second end of the connector of FIG. 19 according to at least one exemplary embodiment. FIG. 21 is a cross-sectional view of a mouthpiece according to at least one exemplary embodiment. FIG. 22 is a cross-sectional view of a portion of the cartridge according to at least one exemplary embodiment.

Some detailed exemplary embodiments are disclosed herein. However, the specific structural and functional details disclosed herein are merely exemplary for the purpose of illustrating exemplary embodiments. However, exemplary embodiments can be embodied in a number of alternative embodiments and should not be construed as being limited to the exemplary embodiments described herein.

Thus, while exemplary embodiments allow for various modifications and alternative embodiments, the exemplary embodiments are shown in the drawings as examples and are described in detail herein. But, of course, there is no intention to limit it to the exemplary embodiments for the particular embodiments disclosed, and conversely, the exemplary embodiments are all modifications that fall within the scope of the exemplary embodiments. It covers equals and alternatives. Similar numbers refer to similar elements throughout the description of the figure.

When an element or layer is referred to as "above," "connected to," "connected to," or "covering" another element or layer, this is of the other element or layer. It may be directly on top, directly connected to it, directly connected to it, or directly overlaid on it, or in the presence of intervening elements or layers. Good things should be understood. In contrast, when an element is referred to as "directly above," "directly connected to," or "directly connected to," another element or layer, the intervening element or layer. Does not exist. Similar numbers refer to similar elements throughout the specification. As used herein, the term "and / or" includes some or all combinations of one or more of the related listed items.

Of course, terms such as first, second, third, etc. may be used herein to describe various elements, components, areas, layers, and / or sections. However, these elements, components, areas, layers, and / or sections are not limited by these terms. These terms are used only to distinguish one element, component, area, layer, or section from another area, layer, or section. Thus, the first element, component, area, layer, or section discussed below does not deviate from the teachings of the exemplary embodiment, and the second element, component, area, layer, or section. It can be called a section.

Spatial terms (eg, "down", "down", "bottom", "top", "top", and the like) are elements or the like, as illustrated in the figure. It may be used herein to facilitate the description of the relationship between a feature and another element or feature. Of course, spatial terms are intended to include different orientations of the device during use or operation, in addition to the orientations depicted in the figure. For example, if the device in the figure is flipped over, an element described as "down" or "down" for another element or feature will then be oriented "up" for the other element or feature. It will be. Therefore, the term "downward" may include both upward and downward orientations. The device may be oriented in other ways (rotated 90 degrees, or in any other orientation), and the spatial relationship descriptive terms used herein are to be construed as appropriate.

The terms used herein are for purposes of describing various exemplary embodiments only and are not intended to limit the exemplary embodiments. The singular forms "one (a)", "one (an)", and "the" as used herein are intended to include the plural, but are apparent in context. This is not the case if it is indicated that this is not the case. The terms "includes," "inclusion," "comprises," and / or "comprising," as used herein, are the features, integers, processes, described. It is further understood that it identifies the existence of behaviors, elements, and / or components, but does not exclude the existence or addition of one or more other features, integers, processes, behaviors, elements, components, or groups of these. Will be done.

An exemplary embodiment is described herein with reference to a cross-sectional view that is a schematic representation of an ideal embodiment (and intermediate structure) of the exemplary embodiment. Thus, for example, changes from the shape of the figure obtained as a result of the manufacturing technique and / or tolerance are expected. Thus, exemplary embodiments should not be construed as limiting the shape of the regions illustrated herein, but include, for example, shape deviations resulting from manufacturing.

Unless defined otherwise, all terms used herein, including technical and scientific terms, are generally understood by those skilled in the art to which the exemplary embodiments belong. Has the same meaning as what you are doing. Terms (including terms defined in commonly used dictionaries) should be interpreted as having a meaning consistent with the meaning of those terms in the context of the relevant technical field, ideally. It will be further understood that, although not interpreted in an overly formal sense, this is not the case as expressly defined herein.

FIG. 1A is a side view of an e-vaping device according to at least one exemplary embodiment.

In at least one exemplary embodiment, as shown in FIG. 1A, the e-vaping device 10 includes a cartridge (or first section) 15 and a battery section (or second section) 20 which are connectors. Combined at 30.

In at least one exemplary embodiment, the cartridge 15 and the battery section 20 include housings 50, 50'extending in the longitudinal direction, respectively. The housings 50 and 50'have a substantially columnar cross section. In at least one exemplary embodiment, the housing 50 and / or the housing 50'may have a substantially triangular or quadrangular cross section along one or more of the cartridge 15 and the battery section 20. In at least one exemplary embodiment, the housing 50 and / or 50'is larger than the perimeter or dimension at the first end 40 of the e-vaping device 10 at the second end 45 of the e-vaping device 10. It may have perimeter or dimensions. The perimeter and / or dimensions of the housing 50 may be the same as or different from the perimeter and / or dimensions of the housing 50'.

In at least one exemplary embodiment, the e-vaping device 10 includes an end cap 55 at the second end 45 of the e-vaping device and a mouth-side end insert 60 at the first end 40 of the e-vaping device. ..

In at least one exemplary embodiment, the connector 30 may be any type of connector, such as a screw, slip fit, detent, clamp, bayonet, and / or clasp. At least one air inlet 35 extends through a portion of the connector 30. In another exemplary embodiment, the at least one air inlet 35 may extend through housings 50, 50'.

In at least one exemplary embodiment, more than two air inlets 35 may be included within housings 50, 50'. Alternatively, the single air inlet 35 may be contained within the housings 50, 50'.

In at least one exemplary embodiment, the at least one air inlet 35 may be formed in the outer housings 50, 50'adjacent to the connector 30, with the fingers of an adult e-vaping device user pointing to the air inlet. Minimize the possibility of blocking 35 and control pull-out resistance (RTD). In at least one exemplary embodiment, the air inlet 35 may provide a substantially constant RTD. In at least one exemplary embodiment, the air inlet 35 has an e-vaping device 10 with an RTD of about 30 mm to about 180 mm (eg, about 60 mm to about 150 mm water column, or about 80 mm). It may be sized and configured to range from a water column to about 120 mm water column).

In at least one exemplary embodiment, the e-vaping device 10 may have a length of about 80 millimeters to about 140 millimeters and a diameter of about 7 millimeters to about 15 millimeters. For example, in one exemplary embodiment, the e-vaping device may be about 84 millimeters long and may have a diameter of about 7.8 millimeters.

In at least one exemplary embodiment, the e-vaping apparatus 10 may include the features described in U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2013/0192623 (Tucker et al., January 31, 2013), the entire contents of which may include. Incorporated herein by reference.

FIG. 1B is a side view of the cartridge of the e-vaping device of FIG. 1A according to at least one exemplary embodiment.

In at least one exemplary embodiment, the housing 50 of the cartridge 15 can be made of clear and / or clear plastic or glass, as illustrated in FIG. 1B. The wrapper or label 112 may enclose at least a portion of the housing 50. The wrapper or label 112 may have a notch 114 therein. The notch 114 may be above the reservoir 5 so that the level of prevaper formulation stored in the reservoir 5 can be visually determined. The width of the notch 114 can be from about 2 mm to about 10 mm and the length can be from about 5 mm to about 20 mm. The size and / or shape of the notch 114 can be adjusted according to the perimeter and / or length of the cartridge 15. In addition, the wrapper or label 112 may include markings indicating the volume of pre-vaper formulation remaining in the reservoir 5 (described below).

In at least one exemplary embodiment, the wrapper or label 112 may be a sticker and / or may include at least one adhesive. Wrappers or labels 112 may be laminated to protect the cartridge 15 from moisture. The wrapper or label 112 may be of any color and may include a mark printed on it. The wrapper or label 112 may be smooth or rough.

FIG. 2 is a cross-sectional view taken along line II-II of the cartridge of the e-vaping device of FIG. 1A according to at least one exemplary embodiment.

In at least one exemplary embodiment, as shown in FIG. 2, the cartridge 15 has a first connector component 70 at the second end of the housing 50 and a mouth end at the first end of the housing 50. Includes insert 60.

In at least one exemplary embodiment, the first connector component 70 includes a base 75 and a nose 80. The base 75 has a substantially cylindrical cross section and may include a threaded section 72 on its inner surface. The threaded section 72 of the first connector component 70 may be configured to fit into the female connector component of the battery portion 20 (not shown) of the e-vaping device. The base 75 includes a flange 85 that defines an orifice extending therein.

In at least one exemplary embodiment, the first connector component 70 is made of metal. In another exemplary embodiment, the first connector component 70 may be made of plastic. For example, the first connector component 70 may be made of plastic, or the conductive metal insert 77 may be inserted into the first connector component 70. The conductive metal insert 77 may serve as a cathode contact. The conductive metal insert 77 may be substantially ring-shaped and at least one electrical extending longitudinally from the lead wire 140 so as to extend through the slot 90 in the flange 85 of the base 75. The lead wire 140 may be included.

In at least one exemplary embodiment, the first connector component 70 includes a nose portion 80 at the first end of the connector body 70. The nose portion 80 includes a first side wall 95 defining a first channel 100 that extends longitudinally through the nose portion 80 to form an air passage.

In at least one exemplary embodiment, the conductive post 105 extends through the base 75, the conductive metal insert 77, and the first channel 100 of the nose 80 of the first connector component 70. The post 105 may have a second channel 110 extending longitudinally through it. The second channel 110 may be nested within the first channel 100.

In at least one exemplary embodiment, the heater 115 is supported on the post 105 and forms a first electrical connection through the post 105.

In at least one exemplary embodiment, the base 75 has an outer diameter that is greater than the outer diameter of the nose 80. The first connector component 70 is substantially T-shaped. In another exemplary embodiment, the first connector component 70 may have other shapes and / or dimensions.

In at least one exemplary embodiment, the cartridge comprises a first absorbent pad 150 and an adjacent second absorbent pad 155 to improve the flow of pre-vaper formulation to the heater 115. The first absorbent pad 150 surrounds the post 105 and the second absorbent pad 155 surrounds the post 105 and the heater 115.

In another exemplary embodiment, the cartridge 15 may include a single absorbent pad or more than two absorbent pads. The first absorbent pad 150 and / or the second absorbent pad 155 may completely enclose the entire post 105 and / or the entire heater 115. In another exemplary embodiment, the first absorbent pad 150 and / or the second absorbent pad 155 may partially enclose one or more portions of the post 105 and / or the heater 115. .. For example, at least one of the first absorbent pad 150 and / or the second absorbent pad 155 may include a notch and / or may extend at least partially around the heater 115. .. An additional absorbent pad may be placed adjacent to the heater 115 (not shown).

The first absorbent pad 150 is formed of a material that is more conductive than liquid-retaining so that the pre-vaper formulation of reservoir 5 (described below) can flow faster towards the heater 115. Will be done. The fiber size and material density can be selected to allow the desired flow rate of the pre-vaper formulation. Fiber sizes may range from about 5 microns to about 30 microns (eg, about 8 microns to about 15 microns). The density or micropore volume of the material may range from 0.08 grams / cubic centimeter to about 0.3 grams / cubic centimeter (eg, about 0.14 grams / square centimeter to about 0.19 grams / cubic centimeter). For example, the first absorbent pad 150 may include a combination of polypropylene (PP) and polyethylene (PE) fibers, a combination of polyethylene terephthalate (PET) and polybutylene terephthalate (PBT) fibers, and / or a combination of PET and PP fibers. Can be made of polymer fibers. For example, the first absorbent pad 150 can be formed of a combination of PET and PP fibers. The fibers may be bound so that most of the fibers are aligned along the longitudinal direction to facilitate the transfer of the pre-vaper formulation.

In at least one exemplary embodiment, the second absorbent pad 155 is a substantially retaining pad made of a material that is more retaining than conductive. The second absorbent pad 155 is closer to the heater 115 than the first absorbent pad 150. In another exemplary embodiment, the first absorbent pad 150 may be closer to the heater 115 than the second absorbent pad 155.

In at least one exemplary embodiment, the second absorbent pad 155 is made of a material with relatively high temperature stability. The material may include a fiberglass material. The thickness of the second absorbent pad 155 can play a role in determining the thermal mass (the amount of liquid required to heat and form vapor). The thickness of the second absorbent pad 155 can range from about 0.3 mm to about 2.0 mm (eg, about 0.6 mm to about 0.8 mm). The first absorbent pad 150 and the second absorbent pad 155 may have the same thickness or may have different thicknesses. The length of the first absorbent pad 150 and / or the second absorbent pad 155 is about 2 mm to about 10 mm (eg, about 3 mm to about 9 mm, or about 4 mm to about 8 mm). It can be a range. The length of the first absorbent pad 150 may be the same as or different from the length of the second absorbent pad 155.

The first absorbent pad 150 allows the pre-vaper formulation to move to the second absorbent pad 155 and the heater 115, while at least substantially preventing and / or reducing leakage of the pre-vaper formulation. Partially retentive.

In at least one exemplary embodiment, the material used to form the first absorbent pad 150 is heat resistant because the first absorbent pad 150 is not in direct contact with the heater 115. Absent. In another exemplary embodiment, the material used to form the first absorbent pad 150 is heat resistant.

In at least one exemplary embodiment, the cartridge 10 also includes a sheath 165. The sheath 165 surrounds the first absorbent pad 150 and the second absorbent pad 155. In another exemplary embodiment, the sheath 165 may enclose only one or more portions of the first absorbent pad 150 and the second absorbent pad 155.

In at least one exemplary embodiment, the sheath 165 comprises an end wall 170 having an outlet 180 therein. The outlet 180 communicates fluidly with the first channel 100 of the post 105. The sheath 165 may be substantially cup-shaped and may be sized and configured to fit onto the first absorbent pad 150, the second absorbent pad 155, and the heater 115.

In at least one exemplary embodiment, the sheath 165 is made of a conductive metal. For example, the sheath 165 can be made of stainless steel. The sheath 165 separates the heater 115, the first absorbent pad 150, and the second absorbent pad 155 from the reservoir 5 (detailed below). Any combination of absorbent pads and sheaths with different conductivity and / or retention and / or thermal and / or properties is used based on the desired level of vapor mass, temperature, leakage, inactivity, etc. sell.

In at least one exemplary embodiment, the cartridge 10 also includes an inner tube 190 having an inner tube air passage 200 through it. The inner tube air passage 200 communicates fluidly with the outlet 180 of the sheath 165 and the second channel 110 of the post 105. The inner tube 190 can be made of metal or polymer. In at least one exemplary embodiment, the inner tube 190 is made of stainless steel.

In at least one exemplary embodiment, the housing 50 abuts on the base 75 of the first connector component 70. The housing 50 substantially surrounds the sheath 165 and the inner tube 190.

In at least one exemplary embodiment, the housing 50 is substantially clear. The housing 50 may be made of glass or clear plastic to allow an adult e-vaping device user to visually determine the level of pre-vaper formulation in the reservoir 5.

In at least one exemplary embodiment, the gasket 12 is between the inner tube 190 and the housing 50. The outer circumference of the gasket 12 provides a substantial seal with the inner surface of the housing 50.

In at least one exemplary embodiment, a storage section 5 is provided between the inner tube 190, the outer housing 50, the gasket 12 and the base 75 of the first connector component 70. The reservoir 5 can be filled with a pre-vaper formulation via injection through the gasket 12, which can serve as a septum.

In at least one exemplary embodiment, the reservoir 5 is sized and configured to hold sufficient pre-vaper formulation so that the e-vaping device 10 can be configured for vaporization for at least about 200 seconds. You may. Further, the e-vaping device 10 may be configured to allow each smoke absorption to continue for up to about 10 seconds.

In at least one exemplary embodiment, the pre-vaper formulation can be a material or combination of materials that can be converted to vapor. For example, pre-vapor formulations include, but are not limited to, water, beads, solvents, active ingredients, ethanol, plant extracts, natural or artificial flavors, and vapor-forming bodies such as glycerin propylene glycol, liquid formulations, solid formulations. , And / or may be a gel formulation.

In at least one exemplary embodiment, the first section 70 may be replaceable. In other words, once the pre-vaper formulation of cartridge 15 is depleted, only cartridge 15 can be replaced.

In at least one exemplary embodiment, the storage unit 5 may also include a storage medium (not shown) configured to store the pre-vaper formulation therein. The storage medium may include cotton gauze or other fibrous material wrapped around the inner tube 190.

The storage medium may be a fibrous material containing at least one of cotton, polyethylene, polyester, rayon, and combinations thereof. The fibers may have a diameter ranging in size from about 6 micrometers to about 15 micrometers (eg, about 8 micrometers to about 12 micrometers, or about 9 micrometers to about 11 micrometers). The storage medium may be a sintered material, a porous material, or a foamable material. The fibers may also be sized so that they cannot be inhaled and may have a Y-shaped, cross-shaped, clover-shaped, or any other suitable cross section. In an alternative exemplary embodiment, the storage unit 5 is deficient in some storage medium and may include a tank filled containing only the pre-vaper formulation.

In at least one exemplary embodiment, the mouth end insert 60 is inserted into the end of the housing 50. The mouth-side end insert 60 includes at least one outlet 65 extending through the end surface of the mouth-side end insert. The outlet 65 fluidly communicates with the inner pipe air passage 200 extending through the inner pipe 190.

In at least one exemplary embodiment, as shown in FIG. 2, the mouth end insert 60 includes at least two outlets 65, which may be located off-axis of the longitudinal axis of the e-vaping device 10. The outlet 65 may be angled outward with respect to the longitudinal axis of the e-vaping device 10. The outlet 65 may be distributed substantially uniformly around the mouth end insert 60 so as to distribute the vapor substantially uniformly.

During vaporization, the pre-vaper formulation is moved from the reservoir 5 and / or the storage medium (not shown) to the vicinity of the heater 115 by capillary action of the first absorbent pad 150 and the second absorbent pad 155. sell. In at least one exemplary embodiment, as shown in FIG. 2, the heater 115 vaporizes the pre-vaper formulation, which is removed from the reservoir 5 by a first absorbent pad 150, a second absorbent pad 155. Can be pulled out.

FIG. 3 is a perspective view of the heater assembly of the cartridge of FIG. 2 according to at least one exemplary embodiment.

In at least one exemplary embodiment, as shown in FIG. 3, the heater assembly includes a first connector component 70, a post 105, and a heater 115, as shown in FIG. Further, the first connector component 70 may include at least one external channel 120 extending along the outer surface of the first side wall 95. At least one external channel 120 extends substantially longitudinally. The at least one external channel 120 is sized to allow the pre-vaper formulation to move from the reservoir 5 under the sheath 165 to the first absorbent pad 150 and the second absorbent pad 155 and the heater 115. Is decided and composed. In another exemplary embodiment, the at least one external channel 120 may have a winding form.

FIG. 4 is a second perspective view of the heater assembly of the cartridge of FIG. 2 according to at least one exemplary embodiment.

In at least one exemplary embodiment, as shown in FIG. 4, the heater assembly is the same as in FIG. 3, but the second heater electrical lead 130 is from the heater 115 and the first absorbent pad 150. It is shown extending through the opening of.

FIG. 5 is a third perspective view of the heater assembly of the cartridge of FIG. 2 according to at least one exemplary embodiment.

In at least one exemplary embodiment, as shown in FIG. 5, the heater assembly is the same as in FIGS. 3 and 4, but the sheath 165 is in contact with the lead 140 and the second heater electrical lead 130. It has been shown to form a second electrical contact with the heater. As described above, the first heater electrical lead wire 125 contacts the post 105 to form the first electrical contact.

FIG. 6 is a perspective view of the heater assembly and inner tube of the cartridge of FIG. 2 according to at least one exemplary embodiment.

In at least one exemplary embodiment, as shown in FIG. 6, the heater assembly is the same as in FIGS. 3-5, but is shown joined to the inner tube 190. As shown in FIG. 6, the inner tube 190 includes an inner tube base 192 that substantially surrounds the sheath 165 at its first end. The inner tube base 192 may be sized and configured such that the sheath 165 is held within the inner tube base 192 by friction fitting. In another exemplary embodiment, the inner tube base 192 may be fitted onto the sheath 165 by screw, snap fit, or any other suitable connection.

In at least one exemplary embodiment, the inner tube 190 has an inner diameter in the range of about 2 mm to about 6 mm (eg, about 4 mm). The inner tube 190 defines an inner tube air passage 200 passing through it. The inner tube air passage 200 communicates fluidly with the second channel 110 through the post 105.

FIG. 7 is an enlarged view of the heater of the cartridge of FIG. 2 according to at least one exemplary embodiment.

In at least one exemplary embodiment, as shown in FIG. 7, the heater is the same as in FIGS. 2 to 3, but is shown in more detail. As shown, the heater 115 includes a plurality of lobes 202. The heater 115 may include a first set 205 of the lobes 202 and a second set 210 of the lobes 202 such that the heater 115 has a substantially meandering or sinusoidal shape along its perimeter. The heater 115 may be formed by stamping a flat metal sheet, such as a stainless steel sheet, to form a substantially meandering or sinusoidal shape. The lobe 202 may be substantially flat. The heater 115 is rolled and / or rolled to form a substantially tubular and / or oval (eg, circular) heater. When rolled and / or rolled, the heater 115 defines a first air passage 300 that extends longitudinally through the heater 115. The first set 205 of the lobes 202 may be closer to the first end 40 of the cartridge 15 than the second set 210 of the lobes 202. Thus, the heater 115 may extend substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis of the cartridge 15 and / or the e-vaping device 10. The first air passage 300 communicates fluidly with the second channel 110 and the inner pipe air passage 200. In at least one exemplary embodiment, the heater 115 may be formed by laser cutting, photochemical etching, electrochemical milling, and the like. The heater 115 may be made of a nickel-chromium alloy or an iron-chromium alloy.

In at least one exemplary embodiment, the heater 115 may be made of any suitable electrically resistant material. Examples of suitable electrically resistant materials include, but are not limited to, metals derived from titanium, zirconium, tantalum, and platinum groups. Examples of suitable metal alloys are stainless steel, nickel-containing, cobalt-containing, chromium-containing, aluminum-titanium-zyrosine-containing, hafnium-containing, niobium-containing, molybdenum-containing, tantalum-containing, tungsten-containing, tin-containing, gallium-containing, manganese. Contains and includes, but is not limited to, nickel-based and iron-containing alloys, as well as nickel-based, iron-based, cobalt-based, and stainless steel-based superalloys. For example, the heater 115 may be made of nickel aluminide, a material with a layer of alumina on the surface, iron aluminide and other composites, the electrically resistant material being the required energy transfer physics and Depending on the external physicochemical properties, it may optionally be embedded in, encapsulated, or coated with the insulating material, or vice versa. The heater 115 may have burrs that are completely removed via electrochemical etching. The heater 115 may include at least one material selected from the group consisting of stainless steel, copper, copper alloys, nickel-chromium alloys, superalloys, and combinations thereof. In at least one exemplary embodiment, the heater 115 may be made of a nickel-chromium alloy or an iron-chromium alloy. In another exemplary embodiment, the heater 115 may be a ceramic heater having an electrically resistant layer on its outer surface. The heater 115 may have a resistance of about 3.1 ohms to about 3.5 ohms (eg, about 3.2 ohms to about 3.4 ohms).

When the heater 115 is activated, it heats a portion of the second absorbent pad 155 surrounding the heater 115 for less than about 15 seconds. Therefore, the power cycle (or maximum smoke absorption length) ranges from about 2 seconds to about 12 seconds (eg, about 3 seconds to about 10 seconds, about 4 seconds to about 8 seconds, or about 5 seconds to about 7 seconds). can do.

Since the heater 115 extends parallel to the longitudinal direction and has a substantially meandering shape, it covers a large surface area of the second absorbent pad 155 as compared to a wire or wire coil heater.

In addition, the first air passage 300 extending through the heater 115 is longitudinally parallel and the second absorbent pad 155 substantially surrounds the heater 115 so that steam is formed as it is formed. , Any part of the cartridge 15 flows into the first air passage 300 without obstructing the flow of steam from the heater 115.

FIG. 8 is an enlarged view of the heater of FIG. 7 in a flat form according to at least one exemplary embodiment.

In at least one exemplary embodiment, as shown in FIG. 7, the heater 115 is the same as in FIGS. 2, 3, and 7, but the first electrical lead 125 and the second electrical lead 130. Shown with. The first electrical lead 125 and the second electrical lead 130 may be wider than a portion of the heater 115 forming the lobe 202. For example, the first electrical lead 125 and the second electrical lead 130 are about 0.25 mm to about 1.0 mm (eg, about 0.3 mm to about 0.9 mm, or about 0.4). It may have a width in the range of millimeters to about 0.7 millimeters). For example, the widths of the leads 125, 130 may be about 0.5 millimeters.

In addition, the heater 115 is designed to control the resistance distribution over the heater geometry. The width D2 of the lobe 202 is wider than the width D1 of the vertical portion of the heater 115. As a result, the electrical resistance of the lobe 202 is low so that the lobe 202 does not get hotter than the vertical portion of the heater 115, thereby allowing most of the heat to reach the vertical portion of the heater 115. The width D1 can range from about 0.1 mm to about 0.3 mm (eg, about 0.15 mm to about 0.25 mm). For example, the width D1 may be about 0.13 millimeters. The width D3 of the lobe 202 can range from about 0.2 millimeters to about 0.4 millimeters.

FIG. 9 is an enlarged view of a heater in flat form according to at least one exemplary embodiment.

In at least one exemplary embodiment, the heater 115 may have other designs that also allow for a controlled resistance distribution. For example, in at least one exemplary embodiment, the heater 115 may include a lobe and a transverse portion that form an arrow shape instead of a sinusoidal shape. In at least one exemplary embodiment, the central portion 132 between the opposing lobes may form an apex angle that does not match the lobes. The apex angle can be about 10 to about 90 degrees from each of the opposing lobes. For example, the lobe and central portion 143 may form a substantially triangular shape. The distance between adjacent central portions 132 and / or lobes may be substantially uniform. In another exemplary embodiment, the distance between adjacent central portions 132 and / or lobes may vary along the heater 115. The distance between the central portion 132 and / or the lobe is about 0.05 mm to about 1.0 mm (eg, about 0.1 mm to about 0.9 mm, about 0.2 mm to about 0.8 mm). , About 0.7 mm to about 0.6 mm, or about 0.4 mm to about 0.5 mm). For example, the distance between adjacent central portions may be about 0.09 millimeters.

FIG. 10A is an enlarged view of a portion of the heater according to at least one exemplary embodiment.

In at least one exemplary embodiment, as shown in FIG. 10A, the heater 115 is the same as in FIGS. 2, 3, 7, and 8, but also includes tab 215.

FIG. 10B is a side view of a portion of the heater according to at least one exemplary embodiment.

In at least one exemplary embodiment, tab 215 may be folded outward from the first air passage 300, as illustrated in FIG. 10B. The tab 215 may create a tighter contact between the heater 115 and the second absorbent pad 155 and / or increase the contact surface between the heater 115 and the second absorbent pad 155.

FIG. 11 is a diagram of a heater and electrical leads according to at least one exemplary embodiment.

In at least one exemplary embodiment, as shown in FIG. 11, the heater 115 is the same as in FIGS. 2, 3, 7, and 8, but is bent inward into the first air passage 300. It may also have a second electrical lead wire 130. The second electrical lead 130 can direct the air flow through the first air passage 300 to affect the RTD in the desired manner. In at least one exemplary embodiment, the second electrical lead 130 is cut in half (not shown), the halves extend inward as shown in FIG. 11, and each halves of the sheath 165. Contact with the individual parts establishes telecommunications between the heater 115 and the power supply 225 (shown in FIG. 13).

FIG. 12 is a diagram of a heater and electrical leads according to at least one exemplary embodiment.

In at least one exemplary embodiment, as shown in FIG. 12, the second electrical lead 130 may include an end surface 160 defining a plurality of orifices 167 therein. The orifice 167 can change the airflow through the cartridge 15 to adjust the RTD of the e-vaping device 10.

FIG. 13 is a diagram of the battery section of the e-vaping device of FIG. 2 according to at least one exemplary embodiment.

In at least one exemplary embodiment, as shown in FIG. 13, the second section 20 is the second section 20 via the second connector component 220, the air inlet port 35 (shown in FIG. 1). Includes a sensor 230, a power supply 225, a control circuit 235, a light 240, and an end cap 55 that respond to air drawn into the. The second connector component 220 is configured to connect to the first connector component 70 (shown in FIG. 2) of the cartridge 15.

In at least one exemplary embodiment, the connector 220 may include a male threaded section 222 and an internal contact 224, which contact the conductive metal insert 77 and post 105 of the cartridge 15, respectively. The male threaded section 222 is insulated from the internal contacts 224. Thus, the male threaded section 222 contacts the conductive metal insert 77, which includes a lead 140 that contacts the sheath 165, which contacts the second electrical lead 130 of the heater 115. The internal contact 224 contacts the post 105, which contacts the first electrical lead 125 of the heater 115.

In at least one exemplary embodiment, the first terminal of the power supply 225 is connected to the post 105 and the second terminal of the power supply 225 is connected to the control circuit 235 via a lead wire 330. The control circuit 235 is connected to the sensor 230 and the conductive metal insert 77 via a lead wire 320.

In at least one exemplary embodiment, the power supply 225 may include a battery located within the e-vaping device 10. The power supply 225 may be a lithium-ion battery or one of its variants, for example a lithium-ion polymer battery. Alternatively, the power source 225 may include a nickel metal hydride battery, a nickel cadmium battery, a lithium manganese battery, a lithium cobalt battery, or a fuel cell. The e-vaping device 10 may be vaporized by an adult e-vaping device user until the energy of the power supply 225 is consumed or, in the case of a lithium polymer battery, the minimum voltage cutoff level is achieved. Good.

In at least one exemplary embodiment, the power supply 225 is a power source and a waveform of the power applied to the heater such that the battery cells are attenuated and "chopped" before the power is applied to the heater. It may include circuits configured to shape.

In at least one exemplary embodiment, the power supply 225 may be rechargeable. The second section 20 may include circuits configured to allow charging of the battery by an external charging device. A USB charger or other suitable charger assembly may be used to recharge the e-vaping device 10.

In at least one exemplary embodiment, the sensor 230 is configured to generate an output indicating the magnitude and direction of the airflow within the e-vaping device 10. The control circuit 235 receives the output of the sensor 230 and (1) the direction of the airflow (relative to the blow) indicating the pull-in at the mouth end insert 60 and (2) whether the magnitude of the pull-in exceeds the threshold level. To judge. When these conditions are met, the control circuit 235 electrically connects the power supply 225 to the heater 115. In an alternative embodiment, the sensor 230 may exhibit a pressure drop and the control circuit 235 may actuate the heater 115 in response.

In at least one exemplary embodiment, the control circuit 235 may also include a light 240 configured to glow when the heater 115 is activated and / or the battery is recharged. The heater actuating light 240 may include an LED. Further, the heater actuating light 240 may be arranged to be visible to the adult e-vaping device user during the vaporization. In addition, the heater actuating light 240 can be used to diagnose the eBay system or to indicate the progress of recharging. The actuating light 240 may also be configured to allow an adult e-vaping device user to turn on and / or turn off the heater actuating light 240 for privacy. The heater actuating light 240 may be at the second end 45 of the e-vaping device 10 or along the sides of the housings 50, 50'.

In at least one exemplary embodiment, the control circuit 235 may include a maximum time limiter. In another exemplary embodiment, the control circuit 235 may include a manually operable switch for an adult e-vaping user to activate the e-vaping 10. The time of current supply to the heater 115 may be preset according to the desired amount of vaporized pre-vaper formulation. In yet another exemplary embodiment, the control circuit 235 may power the heater 115 as long as the heater operating conditions are met.

In at least one exemplary embodiment, upon completing the connection between the cartridge 15 and the second section 20, the power supply 225 may be electrically connectable to the heater 115 of the cartridge 15. Air is drawn primarily to the cartridge 15 along the housings 50, 50'or through at least one air inlet 35 (as shown in FIG. 1) that may be located at the connector 30.

FIG. 14 is a flowchart illustrating a method of forming the cartridge of FIG. 2 according to at least one exemplary embodiment.

In at least one exemplary embodiment, as shown in FIG. 14, the method of manufacturing the cartridge of FIG. 2 is to insert the post into the connector body through an orifice at 1000 and the first heater to the post at 1010. Attach the leads, roll the heater at 1020 to form a substantially tubular heater, place the absorbent material around the heater at 1030, and place the sheath around the absorbent material at 1040. This includes attaching a second lead wire of the heater to the sheath at 1050. The attachment of 1010 may include welding and / or crimping of the first lead to the post. The attachment of the 1050 may include welding and / or crimping of the second lead to the sheath. In another exemplary embodiment, the 1020 rounding step precedes the 1010 mounting step.

In at least one exemplary embodiment, the method may include placing the inner tube in the opening of the sheath at 1060 and placing the outer housing around the sheath and inner tube at 1070. The placement may include friction-fitting the housing to the first connector component.

In at least one exemplary embodiment, the method also inserts a gasket between the inner and outer tubing at 1080 and a reservoir between the first connector component, the inner tubing, the outer housing and the gasket. May include the provision of.

In at least one exemplary embodiment, the method may include inserting a mouth-side end insert into the first end of the outer housing at 1090.

FIG. 15 is a flowchart illustrating a method of forming the cartridge of FIG. 2 according to at least one exemplary embodiment.

In at least one exemplary embodiment, as shown in FIG. 15, the method is to insert a cathode contact (conductive metal insert 77) into the connector component 70 at 2000 and a conductive metal insert 77 at 2010. Applying the sealant to the leads of the, inserting the post 105 into the first connector part 70 at 2020, and the first absorbent pad 150 on the first end of the post 105 at 2030. It may include sliding, attaching the first electrical lead 125 of the heater 115 to the post 105, and winding and / or rolling the heater 115 to form a substantially tubular heater 115. .. Opposing portions of the tubular heater 115 may be spaced from about 0.05 mm to about 0.25 mm (eg, about 0.1 mm to about 0.2 mm). For example, the opposing portions of the tubular heater 115 are about 0.17 mm apart. In another exemplary embodiment, the opposing portions may be in direct physical contact.

In at least one exemplary embodiment, the method also wraps a second absorbent pad 150 around the heater 115 at 2060 and a first absorbent pad 150 and a second absorbent pad 155 at 2080. It may include sliding the sheath 165 up, attaching the second electrical lead 130 of the heater 115 to the sheath 165, and visually confirming that the outlet 160 is open at 2090. ..

In at least one exemplary embodiment, the method also press-fits the inner tube 190 onto the sheath 165 at 2400, connects the lead 140 of the conductive metal insert 77 to the sheath 165 at 2110, and 2120. It may include sucking any debris from the subassembly in. Connecting 2110 may include spot welding.

In at least one exemplary embodiment, the method also checks the resistance of the subassembly at 2130, connects the barrel to the connector base at 2140, and checks the resistance of the assembly at 2150. May include. Connecting 2140 can include ultrasonic welding.

In at least one exemplary embodiment, the method also fills the reservoir 5 with a pre-vaper formulation at 2160, inserts the gasket 12 into the housing 50 at 2170, and mouth-side into the housing 50 at 2180. Inserting the end insert 60 and testing the cartridge 15 with a smoke absorber at 2190 may be included.

In at least one exemplary embodiment, the method is to attach a sticker to the outer surface of the housing 50 at 2200, place the cartridge 15 inside the package at 2210, and / or pre-vaper formulation on the package at 2220. May further include displaying the expiration date and / or flavor of the. The package may be a foil pouch. The foil pouch may be heat-sealed and / or substantially airtight. The display of 2220 may include laser etching or printing.

In at least one exemplary embodiment, the cartridges described herein can be manufactured automatically by using a reduced number of parts, a lack of winding heater coils, and the use of snap fit parts and / or pressure fit parts. To do.

In at least one exemplary embodiment, the cartridge can be manufactured with molded connectors and / or plastic connectors. In at least one exemplary embodiment, any metal part may be made by machining, deep drawing, etc.

In at least one exemplary embodiment, the heater may be moved near a channel that extends beneath the sheath to reduce the distance that the pre-vaper formulation must travel to reach the heater. In at least one exemplary embodiment, the thickness of the absorbent material may be reduced to reduce thermal mass. In at least one exemplary embodiment, the circulation is circulated by placing the fin or dispenser structure in the center of the air channel so that high speed air flows near the walls of the air channel and / or passes over the heater. It may be increased and / or improved.

FIG. 16 is a perspective and partial cross-sectional view of the cartridge according to at least one exemplary embodiment.

In at least one exemplary embodiment, as shown in FIG. 16, the cartridge 15 has a sheath 165 formed integrally with the inner tube 190, the cartridge 15 including a support tube 1650, and a heater 115'. It is identical to FIGS. 2-6, except that it is formed from a tube and that the first absorbent pad 150 and the second absorbent pad 155 are concentrically arranged. Further, instead of the conductive metal insert 77, a cylindrical member 1670 extends through the first connector component 70 and contacts the sheath 165 as further described below.

As shown in FIG. 16, the heater 115'includes a first end ring 1600 and a second end ring 1610. The sinusoidal member 1620 extends between the first end ring 1600 and the second end ring 1610. The heater 115'may be formed by etching and / or laser cutting a sinusoidal member 1620 in a tube, and the sinusoidal member 1620 has substantially the same shape as the heater 115 of FIG. You may.

In at least one exemplary embodiment, the sheath 165 is formed integrally with the inner tube 190. The sheath 165 has an end wall 1640 in which at least one weep hole 1630 is defined. Thus, the exemplary embodiment of FIG. 16 does not include the external channel 120 shown in FIGS. 3-4 through which the prevaper formulation flows. Instead, the pre-vaper formulation flows from the reservoir 5 through at least one weep hole 1630 to the first absorbent pad 150 and the second absorbent pad 155. The size and number of weep holes 1630 can be adjusted to substantially control the flow of pre-vaper formulations through them.

In at least one exemplary embodiment, the support tubes 1650 are concentrically located within the housing 50, as shown in FIG. Fins 1660 keep the support tube 1650 in place within the housing 50. In at least one exemplary embodiment, the support tube 1650 and fins 1660 are formed integrally with the housing 50. In another exemplary embodiment, the support tube 1650 and fins 1660 are inserted into the housing 50. The support tube 1650 has an end adjacent and / or mating to the first end of the inner tube 190.

In at least one exemplary embodiment, the first ring 1600 of the heater 115'contacts and / or engages with a portion of the integrally formed inner tube 190 and sheath 165. The second ring 1610 is contacted and / or inserted into the first end of the conductive post 105 that extends through the first connector component 70. The cylindrical member 1670 also extends through the first connector component 70 and is electrically insulated from the conductive post by a portion of the connector component 70. The cylindrical member 1670 contacts the sheath 165. At least a portion of the cylindrical member 1670 and at least a portion of the sheath 165 surround the absorbent members 150, 155. Thus, the first end of the heater 115'is electrically connected to the battery section 20 via the sheath 165 and the cylindrical member 1670, while the second end of the heater 115' is via the conductive post 105. Is electrically connected to the battery section 20.

FIG. 17 is a perspective view of the cartridge according to at least one exemplary embodiment.

In at least one exemplary embodiment, as shown in FIG. 17, the cartridge 15 comprises a core 1720 in which the cartridge 15 extends through an outlet 1725 defined on the side wall of the sheath 165, and the cartridge 15 has a base portion 1800. It is identical to the cartridge of FIG. 2 except that the connector 1730 includes an extension 1810 abutting and / or connected to the sheath 165.

In at least one exemplary embodiment, as shown in FIG. 17, the inner tube 190 may include a plurality of fins 1700 that can be formed integrally with the inner tube 190. The plurality of fins 1700 keep the inner tube 190 in place within the housing 50 of the cartridge 15. In another exemplary embodiment, the fins 1700 and optionally the inner tube 190 may be formed integrally with the housing 50.

In at least one exemplary embodiment, the gasket 1775 is placed between parts of the sheath 165. Gasket 1775 creates a pressure point around the sheath 165, which holds the sheath 165 in place with respect to and / or in the inner tube 190, and / or the sheath 165 and inner tube 190. It provides a seal between the sheath 165 and the inner tube 190 when not integrally formed. Gasket 1775 may be a silicone disc or ring.

In at least one exemplary embodiment, as shown in FIG. 17, the sheath 165 abuts and / or extends around the gasket portion 1830 of the extension 1810 of the connector component 1730. Gasket portion 1830 generally has a cylindrical cross section and connector part 1730 has a barbell or "I" shape. The gasket portion 1830 has a larger diameter than the central portion of the extension portion 1810. The gasket portion 1830 seals the second end of the sheath 165 so that the pre-vaper formulation cannot enter the inner region of the sheath 165.

In at least one exemplary embodiment, the connector component 1730 also includes a base 1800 with internal threads. In another exemplary embodiment, the base 1800 may have an external thread. The base 1800 and extension 1810 define an air channel 1780 through which it passes. The air channel 1780 communicates fluidly with the air channel in the inner tube 190 via the sheath 165.

In at least one exemplary embodiment, the base 1800 further defines a channel 1750 through which electrical leads extend. Channel 1750 extends through gasket portion 1830. Electrical leads 1742, 1742'are attached to the ends of the heater and to the battery section 20 to form an electrical connection between the heater and the power supply. As shown in FIG. 17, electrical leads 1742, 1742'extend along the outer surface of the extension 1810 through the gasket portion 1830 and the channel 1750 of the base 1800. In another exemplary embodiment, the electrical leads are molded through the connector component 1730 described in US Patent Application No. 15 / 349,377 (Patil et al.), Filed November 11, 2016. The entire contents may be incorporated herein by reference.

In at least one exemplary embodiment, as shown in FIG. 17, the housing 50 includes a groove 1740 configured to secure the slide 1770 therein. The groove 1740 may be generally "L" shaped, but the groove 1740 may be of any other suitable shape. The slide 1770 is formed on the outer surface of the connector component 1730. The slide 1770 and the groove 1740 work together to secure the connector component 1730 to the housing 50. The slide 1770 is aligned with the opening in the groove 1740, and the connector component 1730 rotates to lock the slide 1770 into the groove 1740.

FIG. 18 is an enlarged cross-sectional view of a portion of the cartridge of FIG. 17 according to at least one exemplary embodiment.

In at least one exemplary embodiment, as shown in FIG. 18, the heater 1815 can be a heater coil that surrounds a portion of the core 1720. The end of the wick 1720 extends into the reservoir 5 via an outlet 1725 defined on the side wall of the sheath 165. The extension 1810 of the connector component includes an outer surface 1835 and a gasket portion 1830 having a substantially truncated cone shape. The outer surface 1835 of the gasket portion 1830 of the sheath 165 substantially seals the ends of the sheath 165 and / or substantially prevents the pre-vaper formulation from entering the sheath 165 through the core 1720. It is sized and configured to fit snugly within a portion.

The heater 1815 and core 1720 are the features described in U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2013/0192623 (Tucker et al.) Filing January 31, 2013, and / or U.S. Patents filed April 22, 2016. It can be formed as described in Application Nos. 15 / 135,930 (Holtz et al.), The entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference. In other exemplary embodiments, the e-vaping device is a feature described in U.S. Patent Application No. 15 / 135,923 (filed April 22, 2016) and / or U.S. Pat. No. 9,289,014. The features described in (issued March 22, 2016) can be included, the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference.

FIG. 19 is a perspective view of the first end of the connector according to at least one exemplary embodiment.

In at least one exemplary embodiment, the connector component 1730 includes a base 1800 and an extension 1810, as shown in FIG. The extension 1810 includes a gasket portion 1830 and a central portion 1805. The channel 1750 extends through the base 1800, extension 1810, and gasket portion 1830 of the connector component 1730. Connector component 1730 includes a notch 1900 in gasket portion 1830 that is sized and configured to hold the ends of the core 1720. The notch 1900 may be on the opposite side of the connector component 1730.

FIG. 20 is a perspective view of the second end of the connector of FIG. 19 according to at least one exemplary embodiment.

In at least one exemplary embodiment, as shown in FIG. 20, the connector component 1730 has an outer surface having the same outer diameter as the housing 50. The connector component 1730 can be molded with any suitable polymer.

FIG. 21 is a cross-sectional view of a mouthpiece according to at least one exemplary embodiment.

In at least one exemplary embodiment, as shown in FIG. 21, the cartridge 15 can be identical to FIG. 2, but instead of the mouth end insert, the cartridge is a mouthpiece that surrounds the end portion of the housing 50. Includes 1950. The inner surface of the housing 50 and the mouthpiece 1950 may be sized and configured to form a friction fit between them. In other exemplary embodiments, the housing 50 and mouthpiece 1950 may be glued or fixed together via threads, glue, and / or other suitable fasteners.

FIG. 22 is a cross-sectional view of a portion of the cartridge according to at least one exemplary embodiment.

In at least one exemplary embodiment, as shown in FIG. 22, the cartridge 15 has a sheath 165 extending over the central portion 1805 of an extension 1810 of the connector component 1730, and an absorbent material 1960 with an inner wall of the sheath 165. It is the same as FIG. 17, except that it is located between the connector component 1730 and the outer surface. Further, electrical leads 1742, 1742'extend through the side wall of the central portion 1805 of the connector component 1730 into the air channel 1780 and into the battery section (not shown).

In at least one exemplary embodiment, the absorbent material 1960 is a high density absorbent material configured to transport the pre-vaper formulation from the reservoir 5 to the core 1720.

In at least one exemplary embodiment, the cartridge 15 also includes a seal 1970, such as an O-ring, between the inner surface of the housing 50 and the outer surface of the base 1800 of the connector component 1730.

Although many exemplary embodiments have been disclosed herein, it should be understood that other variants may be possible. Such modifications are not considered to deviate from the spirit and scope of the present disclosure, and all such modifications that would be apparent to those skilled in the art are intended to be included within the scope of the following claims.

Claims (23)

A cartridge for an e-vaping device
A housing that extends in the long axis direction,
A storage unit in the housing that is configured to store the pre-vapor formulation.
The first connector component that defines the first channel that extends through it,
A post that extends through the first channel and defines a second channel through it.
The heater in the housing
The first ring at the first end of the heater,
A second ring at the second end of the heater, and
A tubular member comprising a sinusoidal member extending between the first ring and the second ring, wherein the first ring, the sinusoidal member, and the second ring are integrally formed. With a heater, the second end of the heater is within and is connected to a portion of the post.
A cartridge comprising an absorbent material that at least partially surrounds the sinusoidal member and that fluidly communicates with the reservoir. A sheath formed integrally with an inner tube that at least partially encloses the absorbent material, the sheath includes an end wall, and the end wall passes through the end wall at least one weep hole. The cartridge according to claim 1, further comprising a sheath, wherein the absorbent material fluidly communicates with the reservoir through the at least one weep hole. The cartridge according to claim 2, wherein the sheath is made of a conductive material. The cartridge according to claim 3, wherein the first end of the heater contacts a part of the sheath. The cartridge according to claim 4, wherein the sheath is electrically insulated from the post. The housing includes an end wall formed integrally with the housing, the end wall includes a channel through which the channel is fluidly communicated with an air channel extending through the inner tube. The cartridge according to any one of claims 2 to 5. 6. A mouthpiece configured to fit over a first end of the housing, further comprising a mouthpiece comprising at least one outlet that fluidly communicates with the channel of the end wall. Cartridge described in. A cylindrical member that extends through the first connector component, is electrically insulated from the post, the cylindrical member is made of a conductive material, and the cylindrical member is at least a portion of the sheath. The cartridge according to any one of claims 2 to 7, further comprising a cylindrical member to be contacted. The housing
The cartridge according to any one of claims 1 to 8, further comprising a support tube attached to the inner wall of the housing by at least two fins, wherein the space between the fins forms part of the reservoir. The cartridge according to claim 9, wherein the first end of the inner tube fits into the end portion of the support tube. The cartridge according to any one of claims 1 to 10, wherein the absorbent material comprises a cylinder of hollow absorbent material. The cartridge according to claim 11, wherein the absorbent material comprises glass fiber. A cartridge for an e-vaping device
A housing that extends in the long axis direction,
A storage unit in the housing that is configured to store the pre-vapor formulation.
An inner tube within the outer housing, wherein the storage is between the inner surface of the housing and the outer surface of the inner tube, the inner tube defining an air channel therein.
A sheath integrally formed with the inner tube, having an end wall and a side wall, the sheath defining a heating chamber therein, and the sheath passing through the end wall through an air passage. With a sheath that defines and allows the air passage to communicate with the air channel.
A gasket in the sheath comprising a base portion and an elongated portion, the base portion being friction-fitted into the sheath, and the elongated portion extending from the sheath.
With the heating coil in the heating chamber,
The core in contact with the heating coil and
A cartridge comprising an absorbent material that surrounds a portion of the elongated portion of the gasket. 13. The cartridge according to claim 13, wherein the absorbent material is in the sheath and the core is in contact with the absorbent material. The gasket defines two holes through the base portion, and the cartridge
The first electric lead wire and
A second electrical lead, further comprising, each of the first electrical lead and the second electrical lead passing through one of the two holes through the base portion of the gasket. The cartridge according to claim 13 or 14, which extends. 13. 14, 14 or 15, wherein the gasket defines at least one flow path through the base portion and the elongated portion, and the at least one channel communicates with the air passage and the air channel in fluid communication. Described cartridge. The cartridge according to any one of claims 13 to 16, wherein the gasket defines at least one notch through the base portion and at least one end of the core extends through the at least one notch. The cartridge according to any one of claims 13 to 17, wherein the gasket is integrally formed with a connector component. The cartridge according to any one of claims 13 to 18, wherein the absorbent material communicates fluidly with the storage. A cartridge for an e-vaping device
A housing that extends in the long axis direction,
A storage unit in the housing that is configured to store the pre-vapor formulation.
An inner tube within the outer housing, wherein the storage is between the inner surface of the housing and the outer surface of the inner tube, the inner tube defining an air channel therein.
A sheath formed integrally with the inner tube, wherein the sheath has an end wall and a side wall, the sheath defines a heating chamber therein, and the sheath is the end wall. A sheath, which defines an air passage through which the air passage communicates with the air channel and the sheath defines a chamber within the side wall.
With the heater in the heating chamber
A cartridge comprising an absorbent material that surrounds a portion of the elongated portion of the gasket. 20. The cartridge of claim 20, wherein the absorbent material is within a portion of the sheath. The heater
The first ring at the first end of the heater,
A second ring at the second end of the heater, and
A sinusoidal member extending between the first ring and the second ring, wherein the first ring, the sinusoidal member, and the second ring are integrally formed. The cartridge according to claim 20 or 21, comprising a sinusoidal member. The cartridge according to claim 22, wherein the heater is a heater around which a coil is wound.

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