JP2022518358A - Vaping device with insert - Google Patents

Abstract

A piping device (60) including a pre-vapor formulation housing (70), a heating element (34), and an insert (80) is provided. The pre-vaper formulation housing (70) is configured to contain the pre-vaper formulation, and the pre-vaper formulation housing (70) defines a channel (28) through it. The heating element (34) is configured to heat at least a portion of the pre-vapor formulation into a vapor, providing the vapor to the first portion of the channel (28). The insert (80) is located in the second part of the channel (28) and is positioned to receive the vapor, and the insert (80) is divided into at least a first section and a second section. The first section contains the first material released at the first temperature, the second section contains the second material released at the second temperature, and the second temperature is the second. It is lower than one temperature.
[Selection diagram] FIG. 1B

Description

An exemplary embodiment relates to an electronic vaporizing device.

The e-vaping device, also referred to herein as an electronic vaporizing device (EVD), may be used by an adult e-vaping device user for portable vaporization.

The e-vaping device includes a heater that vaporizes the pre-vapor formulation to produce vapor. The e-vaping device may include several e-vaping elements including a power source and an e-vaping tank containing a cartridge or heater, plus a reservoir capable of holding the pre-vaper formulation.

This section provides an overview of this disclosure and is not a comprehensive disclosure of its full scope or its full functionality.

According to some exemplary embodiments, the vaporizing device may include a pre-vapor formulation housing, a heating element, and an insert. The pre-vaper formulation housing may be configured to contain the pre-vaper formulation and may define a channel through it. The heating element may be configured to heat at least a portion of the pre-vapor formulation into a vapor and to provide the vapor to the first portion of the channel. The insert may be placed in the second part of the channel and is positioned to receive the vapor. The insert can be divided into at least a first section and a second section. The first section may contain the first material that is released at the first temperature and the second section may contain the second material that is released at the second temperature. The second temperature can be less than the first temperature.

In some exemplary embodiments, the insert and heating element can be at both ends of the channel.

In some exemplary embodiments, the insert can be a removable insert.

In some exemplary embodiments, the insert may include a first section, a second section, or a perforated aluminum foil tube that encloses both the first and second sections.

In some exemplary embodiments, the insert may include a flavoring agent, a fragrance source, or a porous paper tube containing both a flavoring agent and an fragrance source.

In some exemplary embodiments, the first material, the second material, or both the first and second materials can be included in the fragrance source.

In some exemplary embodiments, the first ingredient, the second ingredient, or both the first ingredient and the second ingredient may be included in the flavoring agent.

In some exemplary embodiments, the insert may include an absorbent material.

In some exemplary embodiments, the absorbent material may be impregnated with a flavoring agent.

In some exemplary embodiments, the first material, the second material, or both the first and second materials can be included in the absorbent material.

In some exemplary embodiments, the first and second sections may be separated by a porous partition.

In some exemplary embodiments, the insert may comprise lemon tea granules, the first material, the second material, or both the first and second materials may be included in the lemon tea granules.

In some exemplary embodiments, the insert may include a tobacco or tobacco-derived material.

In some exemplary embodiments, the insert may be a flavoring agent, fragrance, or a removable insert configured to release the flavoring agent and fragrance into the receiving vapor.

In some exemplary embodiments, the removable insert may include a perforated aluminum foil tube that wraps the first and second sections.

In some exemplary embodiments, the first material may include a flavoring agent.

In some exemplary embodiments, the first material may include a fragrance.

In some exemplary embodiments, the second material may include a flavoring agent.

In some exemplary embodiments, the second material may include a fragrance.

In some exemplary embodiments, the second section may be located within the insert farther from the heating element than the first section.

In some exemplary embodiments, the insert may receive the vapor via the first section.

In some exemplary embodiments, the first ingredient, the second ingredient, or both the first ingredient and the second ingredient may be included in the flavoring agent.

In some exemplary embodiments, the first material, the second material, or both the first and second materials can be included in the fragrance source.

In some exemplary embodiments, the insert may include a first material, a second material, or a hollow acetate tube containing both the first and second materials.

According to some exemplary embodiments, the e-vaping device may include a power supply section and a vaporizing element. The power section may be configured to supply power. The vaporizing element may be configured to receive the supplied power and may include a pre-vapor formulation housing, a heating element, and an insert. The pre-vaper formulation housing may be configured to contain the pre-vaper formulation and may define a channel through it. The heating element may be configured to use the power supplied to heat at least a portion of the pre-vapor formulation into a vapor and to provide the vapor to the first portion of the channel. The insert may be placed in the second part of the channel and is positioned to receive the vapor. The insert can be divided into at least a first section and a second section. The first section may contain the first material that is released at the first temperature and the second section may contain the second material that is released at the second temperature. The second temperature can be less than the first temperature.

In some exemplary embodiments, the insert and heating element can be at both ends of the channel.

In some exemplary embodiments, the insert can be a removable insert configured to be inserted into the channel.

In some exemplary embodiments, the insert may be a perforated aluminum foil tube that wraps the first and second sections.

In some exemplary embodiments, the insert may include a flavoring agent, a fragrance source, or a porous paper tube containing both a flavoring agent and an fragrance source.

In some exemplary embodiments, the insert may include an absorbent material.

In some exemplary embodiments, the first and second sections may be separated by a porous partition.

In some exemplary embodiments, the insert may include lemon tea granules.

In some exemplary embodiments, the insert may include a tobacco or tobacco-derived material.

In some exemplary embodiments, the second section may be located within the insert farther from the heating element than the first section.

The description provided herein will reveal additional applicable areas. The description and specific examples in this summary are intended to be exemplary only and are not intended to limit the scope of this disclosure.

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 some exemplary embodiments. FIG. 1B is a cross-sectional view of the e-vaping device along line IB-IB'in FIG. 1A. FIG. 1C is an exploded view of an e-vaping device according to some exemplary embodiments. FIG. 2A is a cross-sectional view of the pre-vaper formulation tank section according to some exemplary embodiments. FIG. 2B is a cross-sectional view of the pre-vaper formulation tank section according to some exemplary embodiments. FIG. 3A is a cross-sectional view of a flavor insert according to some exemplary embodiments. FIG. 3B is a cross-sectional view of a flavor insert according to some exemplary embodiments. FIG. 3C is a cross-sectional view of a flavor insert according to some exemplary embodiments. FIG. 3D is a cross-sectional view of a flavor insert according to some exemplary embodiments. FIG. 3E is a cross-sectional view of a flavor insert according to some exemplary embodiments. FIG. 3F is a cross-sectional view of a flavor insert according to some exemplary embodiments. FIG. 3G is a cross-sectional view of a flavor insert according to some exemplary embodiments.

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 alternatives, the exemplary embodiments are shown in the drawings as examples and are described in detail herein. However, of course, there is no intention of limiting to the exemplary embodiments disclosed, and conversely, the exemplary embodiments cover all modifications, equivalents, and alternatives. Similar numbers refer to similar elements throughout the description of the figure.

It is mentioned that an element or layer is "above", "connected to", "connected to", "attached to", "adjacent to", or "covers" another element or layer. When, it is directly above the other element or layer, directly connected to it, directly connected to it, directly attached to it, directly adjacent to it, or It should be understood that there may be elements or layers that directly cover or intervene in it. 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.

Terms such as first, second, third, etc. may be used herein to describe various elements, components, areas, layers, or sections, but these elements, configurations. It should be understood that elements, regions, layers, or sections are not limited by these terms. These terms are used only to distinguish one element, region, layer, or section from another element, region, layer, or section. Accordingly, the first element, component, area, layer, or section considered 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", "up", "top", and the like) are one element when illustrated in the figure. Alternatively, it may be used herein to facilitate the description of the relationship between a feature and other elements or features. Spatial terms should be understood to be intended to include different directions of the device during use or operation, in addition to the directions depicted in the figure. For example, if the device in the figure is flipped over, the element described as "down" or "down" for another element or feature is then 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 another way (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 illustration only to illustrate various exemplary embodiments 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 apparently so by context. This is not the case if it is indicated that it is not. The terms "includes," "includes," "comprises," and "comprising," as used herein, are the features, integers, processes, operations, described. It is further understood that it identifies the existence of an element, or component, but does not exclude the existence or addition of one or more other features, integers, processes, behaviors, elements, components, and groups thereof. Let's go.

When the term "about" or "substantially" is used herein in combination with a numerical value, the associated numerical value is a tolerance of ± 10 percent before and after the stated numerical value, unless explicitly defined otherwise. Intended to include.

Unless defined otherwise, all terms used herein, including technical and scientific terms, are generally understood by one of ordinary skill in the art to which the exemplary embodiments belong. Has the same meaning as what it is. 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.

Hardware includes one or more processors, one or more central processing units (CPUs), one or more microprocessors, one or more arithmetic logic units (ALUs), one or more digital signal processors (DSPs), One or more computers, one or more field programmable gate arrays (FPGAs), one or more system-on-chips (SoCs), one or more programmable logic units (PLUs), one or more microprocessors, one Implemented using processing or control circuits, including, but not limited to, application-specific integrated circuits (ASICs) or any other device capable of responding to and executing instructions in a defined manner. May be good.

FIG. 1A is a side view of the e-vaping device 60 according to some exemplary embodiments. FIG. 1B is a cross-sectional view of the e-vaping device along line IB-IB'in FIG. 1A. FIG. 1C is an exploded view of an e-vaping device according to some exemplary embodiments. The e-vaping device 60 is described in US Patent Application No. 2013/0192623 by Tucker et al., Filed on January 31, 2013, and US Patent Application No. 2013 / by Tucker et al., Filed on January 14, 2013. It may include one or more of the features described in 0192619, the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference. As used herein, the term "e-vaping device" (or electronic vaporizing device) includes all types of electronic vaporizing devices, regardless of form, size, shape, or configuration.

Referring to FIGS. 1A-1C, the e-vaping device 60 is reused with a replaceable pre-vaper formulation tank section (or first section) 70, sometimes referred to herein as an "e-vaping tank". Includes a possible power supply section (or second section) 72 and a flavor insert 80. The sections 70, 72 may be connected together at the complementary interface 74, 84 of the respective sections 70, 72. The flavor insert 80 may be coupled to the pre-vapor formulation tank section 70 by being inserted into the opening 50b of the channel 28 of the pre-vapor formulation tank section 70. The flavor insert 80 may be positioned at the exit portion of the channel 28 based on being inserted into the opening 50b. The flavor insert 80 may be positioned to receive the vapor formed by the pre-vapor formulation tank section 70 based on being positioned at the outlet portion of the channel 28.

In some exemplary embodiments, the interface 74, 84 is a threaded connector. Naturally, the interface 74, 84 is a slide fit, detent, clamp, bayonet, slide fit, sleeve fit, alignment fit, threaded connector, magnetic, clasp, or any other type. It can be any type of connector, including, but not limited to, connections and at least one of these combinations. In some embodiments, 70 and 72 may be part of the same piece without the need for boundary surfaces 74, 84.

The pre-vaper formulation tank section 70 may include the pre-vaper formulation tank 22 and the adapter 90. The pre-vapor formulation tank 22 and the adapter 90 may be connected via connector elements 29, 12a (eg, at least one of the respective male and female threaded connections and any other type of connector). Connector elements 29, 12a can be complementary connectors. The adapter 90 includes the boundary surface 74, and connects the pre-vapor formulation tank 22 to the power supply section 72 through the connection of the boundary surfaces 74 and 84, and further the boundary surfaces 29 and 12a.

Further referring to FIGS. 1A to 1C, the pre-vapor formulation tank 22 has a longitudinally extending outer housing 24, a longitudinally extending inner tube 25, and a gasket defining the outlet end of the pre-vapor formulation tank 22. Includes assembly 51 and. Both ends (tips) of the pre-vapor formulation tank 22 include the respective tips of the outer housing 24 and the inner tube 25.

In some exemplary embodiments, the outer housing 24 may be a single tube accommodating both the pre-vaper formulation tank section 70 and the power supply section 72, and the entire e-vaping device 60 may be disposable. Can be done. In an exemplary embodiment, the outer housing 24 may have a substantially columnar cross section. In some exemplary embodiments, the outer housing 24 is curved, with a substantially polygonal cross section (eg, triangle, quadrangle, etc.) along one or more of the prevapor formulation tank section 70 and the power supply section 72. Or it may have any other shape that may be desirable. In some exemplary embodiments, the outer housing 24 may have dimensions at a tip that is larger or smaller than the outlet end of the e-vaping device 60.

The inner tube 25 may define at least a portion of the channel 28 through the prevapor formulation tank 22. The tip of the inner tube 25 may define an opening 50a in the tip (or "first portion") of the channel 28. As shown in FIG. 1B, the outlet end of the inner tube 25 is coupled with the gasket assembly 51 to define an outlet opening 50b at the outlet portion (or "second portion") of the channel 28. In some exemplary embodiments, the inner tube 25 extends through the gasket assembly 51 to define the outlet portion of the channel 28. The gasket assembly 51 defines a channel 51c that penetrates the center of the gasket. In the exemplary embodiment shown in FIG. 1B, the outlet end of the inner tube 25 extends through the gasket assembly channel 51c to define the outlet portion of the channel 28 and the outlet opening 50b of the channel 28.

In some exemplary embodiments, the gasket assembly 51 may be coupled to the inner tube 25 such that the gasket assembly channel 51c has the same or smaller cross section as the inner tube 25, so that the inner tube 25 may be connected. The gasket assembly does not penetrate the gasket or penetrates only partially, the channel 51c defines a part of the channel 28 (ie, the channel 51c and the inner tube 25 define a separate part of the channel 28). The channel 51c defines the outlet opening 50b and the outlet portion of the channel 28 (an example is shown in FIG. 2A).

In some exemplary embodiments, the pre-vaper formulation tank 22 comprises a pre-vaper formulation reservoir in the form of a reservoir 23. In some exemplary embodiments, including the exemplary embodiments shown in FIGS. 1A-1C, the pre-vapor formulation tank 22 comprises an annular reservoir 23. The storage portion 23 is via the inner surface of the outer housing 24, the outer surface of the inner tube 25, the gasket assembly 51 at the outlet end of the prevapor formulation tank 22, and the connector elements 12a and 15, respectively, for the outer housing 24 and the inner tube 25. It is defined by the gasket assembly 8 included in the adapter 90, which is coupled to.

The gasket assembly 51 is coupled to the respective outlet ends of the outer housing 24 and the inner tube 25 to define the outlet end of the reservoir 23.

In the exemplary embodiment shown in FIGS. 1A-1C, the reservoir 23 is an annular portion located around the channel 28, where the channel 28 is the central air flow path. The channel 28 is at least partially defined by the inner surface of the inner tube 25. The pre-vaper formulation tank 22 may be refillable via the opening of the reservoir with any commercially available pre-vaper formulation for the continuous reuse of the pre-vaper formulation tank 22. In some exemplary embodiments, the opening of the reservoir is included in the gasket assembly 51, allowing access to the reservoir 23 from the outside of the prevapor formulation tank 22 through the gasket assembly 51.

At least a portion of the pre-vaper formulation tank 22 has a transparent wall, which may allow visual observation and monitoring of the amount of pre-vaper formulation in the reservoir 23. For example, at least a portion of the outer housing 24 can be a transparent material, a translucent material, some combinations thereof, and the like. At least a portion of the inner tube 25 can be a transparent material, a translucent material, some combinations thereof, and the like. As shown in FIGS. 1A-1C, the outer housing 24 may include a set of scale lines 71 that may provide a visually observable indication of the amount of pre-vaper formulation retained within the reservoir 23. ..

As shown in FIG. 1C, the pre-vapor formulation tank 22 may include a reservoir opening 50d defined between the respective tips of the outer housing 24 and the inner tube 25. As shown in FIG. 1C, the opening 50d of the reservoir can be an annular opening extending around the channel 28 defined by the inner tube 25. The opening 50d of the reservoir may provide an opening for an adult e-vaping device user to access the interior of the pre-vaper formulation tank 22 to add one or more pre-vaper formulations into the reservoir 23. Such additions include separating the pre-vaper formulation tank 22 and the adapter 90, adding the pre-vaper formulation to the reservoir 23 through the opening 50d, and recombining the pre-vaper formulation tank 22 and the adapter 90 together. Can be included.

At least one of the gasket assembly 51 and the inner tube 25 couples the flavor insert 80 to the e-vaping device 60 when the flavor insert 80 is inserted through the passage of the gasket assembly 51, and the outlet end of the channel 28. Includes one or more connector elements 52 configured to position the flavor insert 80 in the section. In some exemplary embodiments, the connector element 52 extends around the inner surface of the channel 28.

The pre-vapor formulation tank 22 may include a connector element 29 at the tip of the outer housing 24. The connector element 29 is configured to be coupled to the connector element 12a of the adapter 90. The tip of the inner tube 25 may be configured to be coupled to the connector element 15 of the adapter 90. The outer housing 24, the inner tube 25, or each may include a self-supporting (individual) hollow body made of heat-resistant plastic or fiberglass woven fabric, which is individually formed.

Further referring to FIGS. 1A-1C, the adapter 90 includes a gasket assembly 8, a distribution interface 32, a heating element 34 and a interface 74. As shown, the adapter 90 further includes a connector element 91 and electrical leads 36-1 and 36-2. The electric lead wires 36-1 and 36-2 connect the heating element 34. The electrical leads 36-1 and 36-2 are also connected to the interface 74 and the connector element 91, respectively.

The connector element 91 may include an insulating material 91a and a conductive material 91b. The conductive material 91b may electrically connect the leads 36-2 to the power source 12 so that the possibility of an electrical short circuit between the leads 36-2 and the interface 74 is reduced or prevented. In addition, the insulating material 91a may insulate the conductive material 91b from the boundary surface 74. For example, the insulating material 91a can be on the outer portion of the connector element 91 and the conductive material 91b can be on the inner portion of the connector element 91 so that the insulating material 91a surrounds the conductive material 91b and borders the conductive material 91b. Reduces or prevents the possibility of electrical connection to and from surface 74.

The gasket assembly 8 includes a nose portion 30 configured to be coupled to the tip portion of the inner tube 25. Gasket assembly 8 includes a channel 14 extending through the nose 30 and opening inside an inner tube 25 defining a distal end portion of the channel 28.

The adapter 90 includes an internal space 10 in the rear portion of the gasket assembly 8. The space 10 is defined by the outer housing 38 of the adapter 90, the interface 74, the gasket assembly 8 and the connector element 91. The space 10 ensures communication between the passage 14 and one or more air inlet ports 44 located between the gasket assembly 8 and the connector element 91. The connector element 91 may be included within the interface 74.

In some exemplary embodiments, at least one air inlet port 44 is formed in the outer housing 38 adjacent to the interface 74 and the finger of an adult e-vaping device user is among the air inlet ports 44. The possibility of blocking one of them is minimized, and the pull-out resistance (RTD) during vaporization can be controlled. In some exemplary embodiments, the air inlet ports 44 are precise so that their diameters are precisely controlled during manufacturing and replicated from one e-vaping device 60 to the next. It can be machined into the outer housing 38 using a tool.

In some exemplary embodiments, the air inlet port 44 can be drilled using a cemented carbide drill bit or other precision tool or technique. In some exemplary embodiments, the outer housing 38 is made of metal or metal alloy so that the size and shape of the air inlet port 44 remains relatively consistent during manufacturing operations, packaging and vaporization. Can be formed. Therefore, the air inlet port 44 may provide a constant RTD. In some exemplary embodiments, the air inlet port 44 may be sized and configured such that the e-vaping device 60 has an RTD in the range of about 60 millimeters to about 150 millimeters of water. Other sizes and configurations may be used. For example, in some exemplary embodiments, the air inlet port 44 may be sized and configured such that the e-vaping device 60 has an RTD of less than about 60 millimeters of water or more than about 150 millimeters of water.

As shown in FIG. 1B, the gasket assembly 8 is configured to define the tip of the reservoir 23 when the adapter 90 is coupled to the pre-vaper formulation tank 22 through the connector elements 12a and 15. Gasket assembly 8 includes connector elements 15 coupled to the inner surface of channel 14. The connector element 15 may couple the tip of the inner tube 25 to the gasket assembly 8 to seal or substantially seal the reservoir 23 from the space 10 and channels 14, 28.

Gasket assembly 8 includes a distribution interface 32 configured to withdraw the pre-vapor formulation from the reservoir 23, and a heating element 34 configured to vaporize the drawn pre-vaper formulation to form the vapor 95. .. The distribution interface 32 and the heating element 34 can be collectively referred to as a vaporizer assembly.

The distribution interface 32 is coupled to the gasket assembly 8 so that the distribution interface 32 can extend laterally across the channel 14. In the exemplary embodiment shown in FIG. 1B, the distribution interface 32 is connected to the nose 30 and penetrates the channel 14 within the nose 30.

The distribution interface 32 may include one or more ends projecting through one or more side portions of the gasket assembly 8, so that one or more ends of the distribution interface 32 are pre-vaporized by the adapter 90. When coupled to the pharmaceutical tank 22, it can be exposed inside the reservoir 23. One or more ends of the distribution interface 32 may be immersed in the pre-vaper formulation retained in the reservoir 23. In the exemplary embodiment shown in FIG. 1B, for example, the adapter 90 has a central portion (“trunk”) of the distribution interface 32 extending through channel 14 and an end portion (“root”) of the distribution interface 32. Includes a distribution interface 32 that is coupled to the nose 30 of the gasket assembly 8 so that it extends from the individual outer surface of the nose 30. As shown in FIG. 1B, the end portion of the distribution interface 32 is positioned within the reservoir 23 when the adapter 90 and the pre-vapor formulation tank 22 are coupled together, so that the distribution interface 32 is from the reservoir 23. It is configured to withdraw the pre-vapor formulation.

The heating element 34 is coupled to the distribution interface 32 and is configured to generate heat. As shown in the exemplary embodiment shown in FIG. 1B, the heating element 34 may extend laterally across the channels 14 between the opposing portions of the gasket assembly 8. In some exemplary embodiments, the heating element 34 may extend parallel to the longitudinal axis of the channel 14.

The distribution interface 32 is configured to withdraw the pre-vapor formulation from the reservoir 23, so that the pre-vapor formulation can be vaporized from the distribution interface 32 based on the heating of the distribution interface 32 by the heating element 34.

During the vaporization, the pre-vapor preparation can be moved from at least one of the storage portion 23 and the storage medium to the vicinity of the heating element 34 by the capillary action of the distribution interface 32. The heating element 34 is located on the distribution interface 32 so that when the heating element 34 is activated and heat is generated, the pre-vapor formulation in a portion of the distribution interface 32 is vaporized by the heating element 34 to form the vapor 95. It can enclose a part at least partially.

Further referring to FIGS. 1A-1C, the adapter 90 includes a connector element 91. The connector element 91 may include a cathode connector element, an anode connector element, or both. In the exemplary embodiment shown in FIG. 1B, for example, the electrical lead wire 36-2 is coupled to the connector element 91. As further shown in FIG. 1B, the connector element 91 is configured to couple with the power supply 12 included in the power supply section 72. When the boundary surfaces 74, 84 are coupled together, the connector element 91 and the power supply 12 may be coupled together. By connecting the connector element 91 and the power supply 12 together, the electric lead wire 36-2 and the power supply 12 can be electrically connected together.

In some exemplary embodiments, one or more of the interface 74, 84 comprises a cathode connector element, an anode connector element, or both. In the exemplary embodiment shown in FIG. 1B, for example, the electrical lead wire 36-1 is coupled to the interface 74. Further, as shown in FIG. 1B, the power supply section 72 includes a lead wire 92 that connects the control circuit 11 to the boundary surface 84. When the interface 74 and the interface 84 are coupled together, the coupled interface 74, 84 may be electrically coupled together to the electrical leads 36-1 and the electrical leads 92.

When the boundary surface 74 and the boundary surface 84 are combined together, one or more electric circuits can be established through the pre-vapor formulation tank section 70 and the power supply section 72. The established electrical circuit may include at least a heating element 34, a control circuit 11, and a power supply 12. The electrical circuit may include an electrical lead wire 36-1, an electrical lead wire 36-2, a lead wire 92, and interface surfaces 74, 84.

Further referring to FIGS. 1A-1C, the reservoir 23 may include a flavor-free pre-vapor formulation, so that the heating element 34 vaporizes the pre-vapor formulation within the distribution interface 32 to form the vapor 95. Occasionally, the vapor 95 (also referred to herein as "generated vapor") may be substantially unflavored. In another embodiment, the reservoir 23 may comprise a pre-vapor formulation comprising one or more flavors, so that when the heating element 34 vaporizes the pre-vapor formulation at the distribution interface 32 to form the vapor 95. The vapor produced is a flavored vapor containing one or more flavors.

The e-vaping device 60 is configured to be coupled to the pre-vaper formulation tank section 70 such that the flavor insert 80 is located at the outlet portion of the channel 28 and is configured to receive the vapor 95 passing through the channel 28. Includes flavor insert 80. In an exemplary embodiment, the pre-vapor formulation tank section 70 is configured to position the flavor insert 80 and the vaporizer assembly (with a distribution interface 32 and a heating element 34) at both ends of the channel 28. As shown in FIG. 1B, for example, the distribution interface 32 and the heating element 34 are proximal to the opening 50a at the tip of the channel 28. Further, the flavor insert 80 is proximal to the outlet opening 50b at the outlet portion of the channel 28.

As shown in FIG. 1B, the flavor insert 80 may include a housing 82 that surrounds the interior of the flavor insert 80. The flavor insert 80 may include a flavor material 85. The flavor material 85 may include one or more flavoring agents. The flavor insert 80 may include one or more filter elements 86 configured to filter one or more specific types of material from the vapor passing through the interior of the flavor insert 80.

Flavoring agents include compounds or combinations of compounds that may provide at least one of flavor and aroma to an adult e-vaping device user. In some exemplary embodiments, the flavoring agent is configured to interact with the sensory receptors of at least one adult vaporizing device user. For example, flavoring agents may be configured to interact with sensory receptors via taste stimuli, nasopharyngeal stimuli, post-nasal stimuli, etc., or a combination thereof. The flavoring agent may contain one or more volatile flavoring substances.

The flavoring agent may include at least one of a natural flavoring agent or an artificial (“synthetic”) flavoring agent. The flavoring agent may include one or more plant extract materials. In some exemplary embodiments, the at least one flavoring agent is one of tobacco flavors, menthol, winter greens, peppermint, herbal flavors, fruit flavors, nut flavors, liquor flavors, tea, and combinations thereof. There are multiple. In some exemplary embodiments, the flavoring agent is included in the botanical material. The botanical material may include one or more botanical materials. The botanical material may include one or more herbs, spices, fruits, roots, leaves, grasses, tea leaves and the like. For example, the botanical material may include at least one of orange peel material, sweetgrass material, and lemon tea granules. In another embodiment, the botanical material may include a tobacco material. In some exemplary embodiments, the flavoring agent comprises at least one of a synthetic material, a plant extract material, or both a synthetic material and a plant material. The plant extract material contained in the tobacco flavoring agent can be extracted from one or more tobacco materials.

In some exemplary embodiments, the tobacco material may include material of any member of the genus Tobacco. In some exemplary embodiments, the tobacco material comprises a blend of two or more different tobacco varieties. Examples of suitable types of tobacco materials that can be used include thermal dried tobacco, Burley tobacco, dark tobacco, Maryland tobacco, Orient leaf tobacco, rare tobacco, specialty tobacco, mixtures thereof, and the like. However, it is not limited to this. Tobacco materials include tobacco lamina, processed tobacco materials (such as volume expanded or paft tobacco), processed tobacco stems (such as cut rolled or cut paft stems), recycled tobacco materials, mixtures thereof, and the like. It may be provided in any suitable form, not limited to this. In some exemplary embodiments, the tobacco material is substantially in the form of a dry tobacco mass.

In some exemplary embodiments, the flavor insert 80 comprises a tobacco rod that holds the flavor material 85, which is one or more types of tobacco. In some exemplary embodiments, the flavor insert 80 burns at least partly so that at least a portion of the flavor material 85 (eg, tobacco flavor material) burns and is drawn from the end of the flavor insert 80. Can be configured as In another exemplary embodiment, the flavor insert 80 does not have to burn. In another exemplary embodiment, the flavor insert 80 may be heated. A tobacco rod may include a filter element 86 configured to filter one or more instances of a particular substance.

In some exemplary embodiments, the pre-vapor formulation tank section 70 channels such that one or more flavoring agents elute into the vapor 95 produced from the flavor material 85 to produce the flavored vapor 97. Through 28, the generated vapor 95 is guided through a flavor insert located at the exit portion of channel 28.

In some exemplary embodiments, the generated vapor 95 can be hot relative to the temperature of the flavor material 85. As the generated vapor 95 passes through the flavor insert 80, the generated vapor 95 may transfer heat to the flavor material 85. In some exemplary embodiments, the flavoring agent elution from the flavor material 85 into the vapor 95 can be improved based on the heating of the flavor material 85 by the generated vapor 95. Based on the improved elution of the flavoring agent into the generated vapor 95, the flavored vapor 97 provides an increased amount of elution flavoring agent as compared to the exemplary embodiment in which the flavoring material 85 is unheated. Can include.

As shown in the exemplary embodiments of FIGS. 1A-1C, the flavor insert 80 is inserted into the channel 28 through the opening 50b, so that the flavor insert 80 is one or more connector elements 52 thereof. Connect with. The connector element 52 forms an airtight or substantially airtight seal between the housing 82 of the flavor insert 80 and the inner surface of the channel 28, so that the vapor 95 passing through the channel 28 is oriented. It can escape from the e-vaping device 60 through the inside of the flavor insert 80. Some exemplary embodiments may include one or more connector elements 52, the flavor insert 80 may be directly coupled to the inner surface of the inner tube 25. Some exemplary embodiments may include one or more connector elements 52, where the flavor insert 80 is, for example, the channel 51c having a smaller cross section than the inner tube 25 and the gasket 51 having an outlet opening 50b. Can be directly connected to the inner surface of the channel 51c of the gasket 51.

In some exemplary embodiments, the one or more connector elements 52 are absent and the housing 82 of the flavor insert 80 is with the inner surface of the channel 28 when the flavor insert 80 is inserted into the channel 28. Form an airtight or substantially airtight seal. The inner surface of the channel 28 forms a friction fit with the housing 82 of the flavor insert 80, thereby coupling the flavor insert 80 and the pre-vaper formulation tank section 70 and in place the flavor insert 80 at the outlet portion of the channel 28. Can be configured to hold.

In some exemplary embodiments, the flavor insert 80 may be detachably coupled to the channel 28 so that one or more flavor inserts 80 can be replaced from the e-vaping device 60. In some exemplary embodiments, the flavor insert 80 may be referred to as a removable insert.

As shown in FIG. 1B, the flavor insert 80 located at the outlet end of the channel 28 through the outlet opening 50b fluidly communicates with the channel 14 where a portion of the distribution interface 32 and the heating element 34 coupled to it are located. Is positioned. The channel 28 may be configured to guide the generated vapor 95 formed within the channel 14 and exit the pre-vapor formulation tank section 70 through the interior of the flavor insert 80 at the outlet end of the channel 28.

The flavor material 85 of an exemplary embodiment may be a porous structure containing one or more instances of the flavor material 85. The porous structure can hold the flavoring agent in fluid communication with the channel 28, so that it is formed in the pre-vapor formulation tank section 70, received by the flavor insert 80 through the channel 28, and passed through the flavor insert 80. The generated vapor 95 can at least partially pass through the porous structure and fluidly communicate with the flavoring agent retained by the porous structure. The generated vapor 95 can act as an eluent and elute from the flavor insert 80 into the generated vapor 95 to form an eluate. The eluate may include the generated vapor 95 and flavoring agent.

In some exemplary embodiments, the flavoring agent eluted in the generated vapor 95 is the particle phase. The particle phase may include a liquid phase, a solid phase and the like. In some exemplary embodiments, the flavoring agent eluted in the generated vapor 95 is a vapor phase, a vapor phase, or the like. The flavoring agent may contain a volatile flavoring substance, which can be eluted into the generated vapor 95. In some exemplary embodiments, the flavoring agent eluted in the generated vapor 95 comprises a non-volatile flavoring material.

In some exemplary embodiments, the pre-vapor formulation tank section 70 guides the generated vapor 95 through the flavor insert 80 following the formation of the generated vapor 95, which is an early stage in channel 14. Can be cooled from the temperature of. When the generated vapor 95 passing through the flavor insert 80 is cooled from the initial temperature, the chemical reaction between the flavoring agent eluted in the generated vapor 95 and the elements of the generated vapor 95 is at least partial. Can be mitigated.

In some exemplary embodiments, the flavor insert 80 is configured to cool the generated vapor 95 passing through the flavor insert 80. The flavor insert 80 is a flavor agent eluted from the generated vapor 95 into the generated vapor 95, a material contained in the flavor insert 80, or a flavor agent eluted in the generated vapor 95 and a material contained in the flavor insert 80. The generated vapor 95 may be cooled based on heat transfer to at least one of them. In some exemplary embodiments, heat transfer from the generated vapor 95 to at least one of the flavoring agent, the material contained in the flavor insert 80 or both the flavoring agent and the material contained in the flavor insert 80. Can increase the amount of flavoring agent eluted in the generated vapor 95. In some exemplary embodiments, the flavored vapor 97 exiting the flavor insert 80 may be colder than the generated vapor 95 entering the flavor insert 80.

In some exemplary embodiments, the flavoring agent included in the flavor insert 80 is separated from the pre-vaper formulation tank section 70 (with or without the flavoring agent) in which the flavor insert 80 comprises the pre-vaper formulation. Therefore, it may be replaceable independently of the pre-vaper formulation in the pre-vaper formulation tank section 70. The flavor insert 80 can be replaced by another flavor insert 80. The flavor insert 80 is replaced with another flavor insert 80 without replacing the pre-vapor formulation tank section 70 or the pre-vaper formulation held therein, and the reservoir 23 contains sufficient pre-vaper formulation to support further vaporization. obtain. Similarly, at least one of the pre-vaper formulation tank section 70 and the pre-vaper formulation tank 20 is replaced regardless of the other part of the e-vaping device 60, for example, when the pre-vaper formulation is depleted or when another pre-vaper formulation is desired. Can be.

Further referring to FIGS. 1A and 1B, the power supply section 72 has a longitudinally extending outer housing 17 and a sensor 13 (e-vaping) that responds to air drawn into the power supply section 72 through the air inlet port 44a. It may be adjacent to or at the free end of the device 60, or at another location in the e-vaping device 60), and includes at least one power supply 12 and a control circuit 11. The power supply 12 may include a rechargeable battery. The sensor 13 may be one or more of a pressure sensor, a microelectromechanical system (MEMS) sensor, and the like.

In some exemplary embodiments, the power supply 12 comprises a battery located in the e-vaping device 60 such that the anode is downstream of the cathode or the cathode is downstream of the anode. The connector element 91 contacts the downstream end of the battery. The heating element 34 may be connected to the power supply 12 by at least two electrical leads 36-1 and 36-2, interface 74, 84, a connector element 91, electrical leads 92, and a control circuit 11.

The power supply 12 may be a lithium-ion battery or one of its variants, for example a lithium-ion polymer battery. Alternatively, the power source 12 may be a nickel hydrogen battery, a nickel cadmium battery, a lithium manganese battery, a lithium cobalt battery, or a fuel cell. Other types of batteries or power supplies may also be used. The e-vaping device 60 may be available by an adult vapor user until the energy of the power supply 12 is exhausted or the minimum voltage cutoff level is reached.

Further, the power supply 12 may be rechargeable and may include a circuit that allows the battery to be charged by an external charging device. A universal serial bus (USB) charger or other suitable charger assembly may be used to recharge the e-vaping device 60. In some embodiments, the power source 12 may include a solar power source.

Based on the completion of the connection between the pre-vapor formulation tank section 70 and the power supply section 72, at least one power source 12 is electrically connected to the heating element 34 of the pre-vapor formulation tank section 70 based on the operation of the sensor 13. obtain. Air is primarily drawn into the pre-vapor formulation tank section 70 through one or more air inlet ports 44. One or more air inlet ports 44 may be located along the outer housings 24, 38, 17 of the first and second sections 70, 72. The one or more air inlet ports 44 may be located on one or more of the interface 74, 84. The one or more air inlet ports 44 may be located at one or more of the connector elements 12a, 29.

The sensor 13 may be configured to sense a drop in air pressure and initiate a voltage application from the power source 12 to the heating element 34. As shown in the exemplary embodiment illustrated in FIG. 1B, some exemplary embodiments of the power supply section 72 include a heater actuating light 48 configured to glow when the heating element 34 is activated. The heater actuating light 48 may include a light emitting diode (LED). Further, the heater actuating light 48 may be arranged to be visible to the adult e-vaping device user during the vaporization. In addition, the heater actuation light 48 can be used to diagnose the e-vaping system or to indicate the progress of recharging. The heater actuating light 48 can also be configured so that an adult e-vaping device user activates, deactivates, or activates and deactivates the heater actuating light 48 for privacy. As shown in FIGS. 1A to 1C, the heater actuating light 48 may be located at the tip of the e-vaping device 60. In some exemplary embodiments, the heater actuating light 48 may be located on a side portion of the outer housing of the e-vaping device 60. Some embodiments may not include the heater actuating light 48.

Further, the air inlet port 44a may be positioned adjacent to the sensor 13. The sensor 13 may activate the power supply 12 and the heater actuating light 48 to indicate that the heating element 34 is operating.

In some exemplary embodiments, the control circuit 11 may control the supply of power to the heating element 34 in response to the sensor 13. In some exemplary embodiments, the control circuit 11 may include a maximum time limiter. In some exemplary embodiments, the control circuit 11 may include a manually operable switch for the adult e-vaping device user to manually initiate the vaporization. The time for supplying the current to the heating element 34 may be preset according to the desired amount of the pre-vapor preparation to be vaporized. In some exemplary embodiments, the control circuit 11 can control the power supply to the heating element 34 as long as the sensor 13 detects a pressure drop. In some exemplary embodiments, the control circuit 11 may control the power supply to the heating element 34 to the maximum with a limiter as long as the sensor 13 detects a pressure drop. Other control configurations may also be used.

To control the supply of power to the heating element 34, the control circuit 11 may execute one or more instances of computer executable program code. The control circuit 11 may include at least one of a circuit, processor, and memory customized for a particular use. The memory can be a computer-readable storage medium that stores computer executable code.

The control circuit 11 includes a processor, a central processing unit (CPU), a controller, an arithmetic logic unit (ALU), a signal processing device, a microprocessor, a field programmable gate array (FPGA), a system-on-chip (SoC), a programmable logic unit, and a microprocessor. It may include a processor, or any other device capable of responding to and executing at least one of instructions and algorithms in a defined fashion, including but not limited to processing circuits. In some exemplary embodiments, the control circuit 11 can be an application specific integrated circuit (ASIC).

The control circuit 11 may be configured as a special purpose machine that executes computer executable program code stored in the storage device. The program code is a program or computer-readable instruction, software component, software module, data file, data structure, etc. that can be implemented by one or more hardware devices such as one or more instances of the control circuit 11 described above. At least one may be included. Examples of program code include both machine code created by the compiler and high-level program code executed using the interpreter.

The control circuit 11 may include one or more storage devices. One or more storage devices may be at least one of a random access memory (RAM), a read-only memory (ROM), a permanent mass storage device (such as a disk drive), a solid state (eg, NAND flash) device, and the like. It can be a tangible or non-temporary computer-readable storage medium, and any other similar data storage mechanism capable of storing and recording data. A storage device may be a computer program, program code, instruction, or number with respect to at least one of one or more operating systems and to implement the exemplary embodiments described herein. It may be configured to memorize those combinations. Computer programs, program codes, instructions, or combinations thereof, are also loaded from individual computer-readable storage media into one or more storage devices, or one or more computer processing devices, using a drive mechanism. obtain. Such an independent computer readable storage medium may include at least one such as a USB flash drive, a memory stick, a Blu-ray / DVD / CD-ROM drive, a memory card, and other computer readable storage media. Computer programs, program codes, instructions, or a combination of several of them, from a remote data storage device, or one or more storage devices, via a network interface rather than through a local computer-readable storage medium. It can be loaded into the above computer processing device. Moreover, computer programs, program codes, instructions or combinations thereof are configured to transmit, distribute, or transmit and distribute computer programs, program codes, instructions or combinations thereof over a network. It can be loaded from the system into one or more storage devices, one or more processors, or both. The remote computing system transmits and distributes computer programs, program codes, instructions, or some combination thereof, via at least one of a wired interface, a wireless interface, and any other similar medium. , Or can be transmitted and distributed.

The control circuit 11 may be a special purpose machine configured to execute a computer executable code to control the power supply to the heating element 34. In some embodiments, controlling the supply of power to the heating element 34 comprises activating the heating element 34.

A pre-vapor formulation is a material or combination of materials that can be converted into vapor. For example, the pre-vapor formulation includes, but is not limited to, at least one of vapor-forming bodies such as water, beads, solvents, active ingredients, ethanol, plant extracts, natural or artificial fragrances, glycerin and propylene glycol. It may be at least one of liquid, solid or gel formulations. Further examples of pre-vapor formulations are US Patent Publication No. 2015/0020823 by Lipowickz et al., Filed July 16, 2014, and US Patent Publication No. by Anderson et al., Filed January 21, 2015. It may include those described in 2015/0313275, the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference. Any other pre-vapor formulation may also be used.

In some exemplary embodiments, the prevapor formulation comprises one or more of propylene glycol, glycerin and combinations thereof.

The prevaper preparation may or may not contain nicotine. The pre-vapor formulation may contain one or more flavors.

In some exemplary embodiments, the prevaper formulation containing nicotine may also contain one or more acids. Combinations of one or more acids include pyruvate, formic acid, oxalic acid, glycolic acid, acetic acid, isovaleric acid, valeric acid, propionic acid, octanoic acid, lactic acid, levulinic acid, sorbic acid, malic acid, tartrate acid, succinic acid. , Citric acid, benzoic acid, oleic acid, aconitic acid, butyric acid, silicic acid, decanoic acid, 3,7-dimethyl-6-octenoic acid, 1-glutamic acid, heptanic acid, hexanic acid, 3-hexaneic acid, trans- 2-hexaneic acid, isobutyric acid, lauric acid, 2-methylbutyric acid, 2-methylvaleric acid, myristic acid, nonanoic acid, palmitic acid, 4-pentenoic acid, phenylacetic acid, 3-phenylpropionic acid, hydrochloric acid, phosphoric acid, It may contain sulfuric acid and one or more of these combinations.

The storage unit 23 may include, in some exemplary embodiments, a storage medium capable of retaining or partially retaining the pre-vapor formulation. The storage medium can be a quasi-combination of these, or a fibrous material containing these combinations, such as, for example, cotton, polyethylene, polyester, rayon. Although 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). , Any other suitable size can be used. The storage medium may be a sintered material, a porous material, or an effervescent 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 some exemplary embodiments, the storage unit 23 may include a tank filled with only the pre-vapor formulation, lacking some storage medium.

The reservoir 23 retains sufficient pre-vapor formulation so that the e-vaping device 60 can be configured for vaporization for at least a particular time length (eg, about 200 seconds, 150 seconds, 220 seconds, etc.). Can be sized and configured.

The distribution interface 32 may include a core. The distribution interface 32 may include a filament (or thread) capable of withdrawing the prevapor formulation. For example, the distribution interface 32 may be a core that is a bundle containing a group of windings of a bundle of glass (or ceramic) filaments, glass filaments, etc., the arrangement of which all depends on the gap spacing between the filaments. Capillary action may make it possible to elicit the prevaper formulation. The filaments may be generally aligned in a direction perpendicular (horizontal axis) to the longitudinal direction of the e-vaping device 60. In some exemplary embodiments, the distribution interface 32 may include 1-8 filament strands, each strand comprising a plurality of glass filaments twisted together. The ends of the distribution interface 32 are flexible and may be folded within the boundaries of the reservoir 23. The filament may have a cross section generally cross-shaped, clover-shaped, Y-shaped, or any other suitable shape.

The distribution interface 32 may include any suitable material or combination of materials also referred to herein as the core material. Examples include, but are not limited to, glass, ceramic or graphite materials. The distribution interface 32 may have any suitable capillary extraction phenomenon to accommodate pre-vapor formulations with different physical properties such as density, viscosity, surface tension, vapor pressure and the like.

In some exemplary embodiments, the heating element 34 may include a wire coil. The wire coil may at least partially surround the distribution interface 32 within the channel 14. The wire can be a metal wire. The wire coil may extend entirely or partially along the length of the distribution interface 32. The wire coil may extend further around the distribution interface 32 in whole or in part. In some exemplary embodiments, the wire coil may be separated from direct contact with the distribution interface 32. Any other suitable type of heater may also be used.

The heating element 34 can be made of any suitable electrically resistant material. Examples of suitable electrically resistant materials include, but are not limited to, titanium, zirconium, tantalum, and metals derived from the platinum group. 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, iron-containing alloys and nickel-based, iron-based, cobalt-based, and stainless steel-based superalloys. For example, the heating element 34 may be made of nickel aluminide, a material with a layer of alumina on the surface, iron aluminide and other composite materials, where the electrically resistant material is the required energy transfer physics. And, depending on the physicochemical properties of the outside, it may be optionally embedded in, encapsulated, or coated with the insulating material, or vice versa. The heating element 34 may include stainless steel, copper, copper alloys, nickel-chromium alloys, superalloys or combinations thereof. In some exemplary embodiments, the heating element 34 may be made of a nickel-chromium alloy or an iron-chromium alloy. In some exemplary embodiments, the heating element 34 may be a ceramic heater having an electrically resistant layer on its outer surface. Any other type of heating element 34 suitable for heating the prevapor formulation may also be used.

Instead of using the distribution interface 32, the prevapor formulation tank section 70 includes a heating element 34 that is a porous material and is integrated with a resistance heater made of a material having electrical resistance capable of generating heat. But it will be recognized that it is okay.

In some exemplary embodiments, one or more parts of the pre-vapor formulation tank section 70 may be replaceable. Such one or more portions may include one or more of the pre-vapor formulation tank 22, the adapter 90, and the flavor insert 80. In other words, when the flavor of the pre-vapor formulation (if containing the flavor) of the flavor insert 80 or the pre-vapor formulation tank 22 is depleted, the flavor insert 80 or the pre-vapor formulation tank 22 can be replaced, respectively (also the entire pre-vapor formulation tank section 70). , Like the adapter 90, can be replaced). In some exemplary embodiments, the e-vaping device 60 may be completely discarded when one of the reservoir 23 or the flavor insert 80 is depleted.

In some exemplary embodiments, when the e-vaping device 60 comprises a flavor insert 80 that holds the flavoring agent separated from the pre-vaper formulation tank 22, the e-vaping device 60 comprises the flavoring agent and the pre-vaper formulation tank 22. It may be configured to reduce the possibility of a chemical reaction with one or more elements. Such chemical reactions may include chemical reactions between one or more portions of the flavoring agent. The absence of such a chemical reaction can result in the absence of reaction products in the flavored vapor 97. Such reaction products can compromise the perceptual experience provided by the flavored vapor 97. As a result, the e-vaping device 60 configured to reduce the possibility of such chemical reactions can provide a more consistent and improved perceptual experience through the flavored vapor 97.

FIG. 2A is a cross-sectional view of the pre-vaper formulation tank section 70 according to some exemplary embodiments. FIG. 2B is a cross-sectional view of the pre-vaper formulation tank section 70 according to some exemplary embodiments. The exemplary embodiments of the pre-vapor formulation tank section 70 shown in FIGS. 2A and 2B include some exemplary embodiments contained herein, comprising the pre-vaper formulation tank section 70 shown in FIGS. 1A-1C. Can be included in. Other forms, sizes, shapes or configurations may also be used.

Referring to FIG. 2A, in some exemplary embodiments, the pre-vaper formulation tank section 70 at least partially defines a reservoir 23 capable of holding the pre-vaper formulation, an outer housing 24, an inner tube 25, and a gasket. Includes pre-vapor formulation tank 22 including assembly 51. The inner tube 25 at least partially defines the channel 28 passing through the inside of the pre-vapor formulation tank 22.

The gasket assembly 51 may include connector elements 51a and 51b connected to the outer housing 24 and the inner tube 25, respectively, to define the outlet end. In the exemplary embodiment shown in FIG. 2A, the gasket assembly 51 includes a channel 51c that penetrates the inner portion of the gasket. The connector element 51a defines at least a portion of the outer boundary of the gasket assembly 51, so that the connector element 51a is configured to connect the outer housing 24 to the outer boundary of the gasket assembly 51. Therefore, the gasket assembly may work with the inner tube 25 and the outer housing 24 to define the end of the reservoir 23.

In the exemplary embodiment shown in FIG. 2A, the channel 51c does not extend through the internal space of the gasket assembly 51 defined by the connector element 51b, but instead extends at the end of the space defined by the connector element 51b. The inner tube 25 may be received within the space defined by the connector element 51b and may be further restricted from being received within the channel 51c. In some exemplary embodiments, including the exemplary embodiments shown in FIGS. 1A-1C, the channel 51c penetrates the interior space of the gasket assembly 51 defined by the connector element 51b. As shown in FIG. 1B, in some exemplary embodiments, the channel 51c is configured to receive the inner tube 25 through at least a portion of the channel 51c.

As shown in FIG. 2A, the gasket assembly 51 may include a channel 51c that defines an outlet portion of the channel 28. The channel 51c defines an outlet portion of the channel 28 that extends beyond the inner tube 25 and into the outlet opening 50b through the gasket assembly 51.

In the exemplary embodiment shown in FIG. 2A, the gasket assembly 51 is when the flavor insert 80 is inserted through the outlet opening 50b to position the flavor insert 80 at the outlet portion (second portion) of the channel 28. Includes one or more connector elements 52 configured to couple the flavor insert 80 to the pre-vapor formulation tank section 70. In some exemplary embodiments, one or more connector elements 52 include individual connector elements that extend around the inner surface of the channel 28. In some exemplary embodiments, including the exemplary embodiment shown in FIG. 2A, one or more connector elements 52 are coupled to the inner surface of the channel 51c of the gasket assembly 51. In the exemplary embodiment shown in FIG. 2A, the connector element 52 penetrates a portion of the channel 51c such that a gap exists between the connector element 52 and the end of the channel 51c proximal to the connector element 51b. do. It will be appreciated that in some exemplary embodiments, one or more connector elements 52 may penetrate the entire length of channel 51c. In some exemplary embodiments, one or more connector elements 52 are coupled to the inner surface of the inner tube 25.

The one or more connector elements 52 may include one or more types of connectors. In some exemplary embodiments, the one or more connector elements 52 is a friction fit connector, which is through the friction fit between the outer surface of the flavor insert 80 and the one or more connector elements 52. , The flavor insert 80 is configured to be connected to the prevapor formulation tank 22. In some exemplary embodiments, the one or more connector elements 52 are coupling devices configured to mechanically couple with one or more connector elements included in the flavor insert 80. For example, one or more connector elements 52 are configured to connect with a complementary connector included in the flavor insert 80 when the flavor insert 80 is inserted into the prevapor formulation tank section 70 through the outlet opening 50b. , A screw-shaped connector, a plug-in pin connector, or the like may be used.

In some exemplary embodiments, one or more of the connector elements 52 are between the flavor insert 80 and the surface of the channel 28 when the flavor insert 80 is inserted into the channel 28 through the outlet opening 50b. Is configured to establish an airtight or substantially airtight seal. One or more connector elements 52 guide the generated vapor 95 through the channel 28, thereby configuring the pre-vapor formulation tank section 70 to pass through the flavor insert 80 and exit the pre-vapor formulation tank section 70. Can be. Some exemplary embodiments may not include one or more connector elements 52, the flavor insert 80 may be directly coupled to the inner surface of the inner tube 25 and may be airtight or substantially airtight. Can be established between the flavor insert 80 and the inner surface of the inner tube 25. Some exemplary embodiments may not include one or more connector elements 52, the flavor insert 80 may be directly coupled to the inner surface of the channel 51c of the gasket 51, eg, a cross section of the channel 51c. If is smaller than the cross section of the inner tube 25, an airtight seal or a substantially airtight seal can be established between the flavor insert 80 and the inner surface channel 51c.

Referring to FIG. 2B, in some exemplary embodiments, the pre-vapor formulation tank section 70 includes a pre-vapor formulation tank 22 that does not include the gasket assembly 51 at the outlet end, so that the pre-vapor formulation tank 22 is a pre-vapor formulation tank 22. Includes an outer housing 24 and an inner tube 25 that at least partially define a reservoir 23 capable of holding the pharmaceutical product. As shown in FIG. 2B, the outer housing 24 and the inner tube 25 collectively define the outlet end of the reservoir 23. An exemplary embodiment shown in FIG. 2B shows an outer housing 24 that curves towards the inner tube 25. However, it will be appreciated that other configurations of the outer housing 24 and the inner tube 25 are included by exemplary embodiments.

In the exemplary embodiment shown in FIG. 2B, the outer housing 24 and the inner tube 25 are connected at the outlet end of the prevapor formulation tank 22 to define the outlet end enclosure of the reservoir 23. The outer housing 24 and the inner tube 25 may be coupled via one or more of an adhesive, a coupling device, a weld, a sealing element, some combination thereof, and the like.

In some exemplary embodiments, the outer housing 24 and the inner tube 25 include individual elements that define both the reservoir 23 and the channel 28. For example, the pre-vapor formulation tank 22 may contain a single piece of material that is formed substantially annularly, so that the piece of material is stored as individual spaces separated by one or more parts of the piece of material. The unit 23 and the channel 28 are defined. The piece of material can be a piece of translucent material, a piece of transparent material, or both.

In the exemplary embodiment shown in FIG. 2B, the pre-vapor formulation tank 22 uses the flavor insert 80 as the pre-vapor formulation tank when the flavor insert 80 is inserted through the outlet opening 50b and the flavor insert 80 is positioned at the outlet portion of the channel 28. Includes one or more connector elements 52 configured to be linked to section 70. In some exemplary embodiments, the one or more connector elements 52 are individual connector elements that extend around the inner surface of the inner tube 25.

Referring to FIGS. 2A-2B, in some exemplary embodiments, one or more connector elements 52 may not be in the prevapor formulation tank 22 and may be in the gasket assembly channel 51c, inner tube 25. The outlet end, or both, is configured to establish a friction fit connection with the outer surface of the flavor insert 80 when the flavor insert 80 is inserted through the opening 50b at the outlet end. Such a friction fit connection may seal or substantially seal the interface between the outer surface of the flavor insert 80 and the channel 28. As a result, the generated vapor 95 passing through the channel 28 towards the outlet opening 50b can be guided through the flavor insert 80 to form the flavored vapor 97. In embodiments where the generated vapor 95 is a flavored vapor, passing through the flavor insert 80 can alter at least one of the vapor's flavor, other properties of the vapor, and the components of the vapor to give the vapor 97.

3A-3G are cross-sectional views of flavor inserts 80A-80G according to some exemplary embodiments.

Referring to FIGS. 3A-3D, the flavor inserts 80A-80G include an inlet end opening 80a and an outlet end opening 80b. The flavor inserts 80A to 80G are configured to receive the vapor containing the generated vapor 95 inside the flavor insert 80 through the inlet end opening 80a. The flavor inserts 80A to 80G are further configured to allow the vapor containing the flavored vapor 97 formed through the elution of the flavoring agent to the generated vapor 95 out of the flavor insert 80 via the outlet end opening 80b. To.

Referring to FIG. 3A, in some exemplary embodiments, the flavor insert 80A at least partially encloses the flavor material 85 inside the flavor material 85 and the flavor insert 80A, which holds one or more flavoring agents. Includes housing 82. The housing 82 may surround the side surface portion of the flavor insert 80A and define openings 80a, 80b at both ends of the flavor insert 80A. The housing material 82 is also referred to herein as the outer housing of the flavor insert 80A.

The flavor material 85 may have a porous structure containing one or more flavoring agents therein. In some exemplary embodiments, the flavor material 85 is a collection of flavor materials. In some exemplary embodiments, the flavor material 85 comprises one or more botanical materials. In some exemplary embodiments, the flavor material 85 comprises one or more types of tobacco. In some exemplary embodiments, the flavor material 85 comprises one or more types of botanical material.

Referring to FIG. 3B, the flavor insert 80B may include a filter element 86 and a housing material 88 that surrounds the housing 82 that encloses the filter element 86 and the flavor material 85. The filter element 86 may be configured to filter certain substances from the vapor passing through the flavor insert 80B. The filter element 86 may include, in some exemplary embodiments, a hollow acetate tube (HAT) or any other type of filter.

The housing material 88 surrounds the side surface portion of the filter element 86 and may guide the vapor exiting the flavor material 85 and allow the filter element to pass through the outlet end opening 80b. In some exemplary embodiments, the housing material 88 is a chipping paper, rolled paper, or other type of suitable paper material. In some exemplary embodiments, the housing material 82 may be omitted, eg, as shown in the example of FIG. 3G, the housing material 88 requires a filter element 86 and a flavor material 85, and a housing 82. Enclose without doing.

Referring to FIG. 3C, the housing material 88 of the flavor insert 80C may enclose at least one limited portion of the filter element 86 and the housing 82. As shown in FIG. 3C, the housing material 88 may overlap a limited portion of the outer surface area of the filter element 86 and the outer surface area of the housing 82.

Referring to FIGS. 3D-3F, flavor inserts 80D, 80E, and 80F may include a plurality of individual flavoring materials 85, 89 and the like, each holding a different flavoring agent. For example, in some exemplary embodiments, the flavor material 85 may be the first type of tobacco and the flavor material 89 may be the second type of tobacco. In another embodiment, the flavor material 85 can be a tobacco material and the flavor material 89 can be a non-tobacco material. In another embodiment, the flavor material 85 can be a non-tobacco material, and the flavor material 89 can also be a non-tobacco material. As shown in FIG. 3D, the housing material 88 may overlap a limited portion of the outer surface of the flavor material 89. In some exemplary embodiments, the housing material 88 may overlap at least a portion of the outer surface of the flavor material 89 and at least a portion of the outer surface of the flavor material 85. The other exemplary flavor insert 80 may include one or more flavor material sections without the filter element 86. The other exemplary flavor insert 80 may include one or more flavor material sections and one or more filter elements, each filter element having the same or different configuration as the other filter elements.

In some exemplary embodiments, any of the flavor inserts comprises one or more types of tobacco, plant material, reconstituted tobacco material, tobacco (or tobacco-like insert), cigar tobacco, cigarillo. And so on. In some exemplary embodiments, including the filter element 86, the filter element 86 can be a filter, such as that used in cigarettes.

In some exemplary embodiments, at least the pre-vapor formulation tank section 70 is a flavoring agent from the tobacco in which the generated vapor 95 is contained in the tobacco rod independently of and without some combustion of the tobacco rod. The flavored vapor 97 is configured to provide the flavored vapor 97 based on directing the generated vapor 95 through the flavor insert 80 containing the tobacco rod so that it elutes into and forms the flavored vapor 97. .. The pre-vapor formulation tank section 70 can therefore be configured to form the flavored vapor 97 based on the flavoring agent elution from the tobacco contained in the flavored insert 80, without burning the tobacco rod.

Referring to FIGS. 3E and 3F, in some exemplary embodiments, each of the flavor inserts 80E and 80F is a housing (eg, a porous paper tube, a perforated aluminum foil tube, a hollow acetate tube (HAT), etc.). It may include a plurality of separate flavor materials 85, 89, 93, 96 arranged within 98. The housing 98 has a channel 28 (or closed tank, cartridge, or open tank) through the mounting end so that each of the inserts 80E and 80F is exposed to at least one of the thermal energies from the heating element 34 and the generated vapor. Can be placed within). In some examples, the housing 98 may have an inner diameter in the range of 2-10 mm and a length in the range of 5-50 mm. Dimensions larger or smaller than the provided range may also be used in other exemplary embodiments. Each of the flavor inserts 80E and 80F can be attached to the connector element 52 and used as a mouthpiece.

The plurality of separate flavor materials 85, 89, 93, 96 can be individually cut or layered within the housing 98. The plurality of separate flavor materials 85, 89, 93, 96 may or may not have a partition such as a porous partition 100 that separates and separates each of the materials. In some exemplary embodiments, the plurality of distinct flavoring materials can be botanical flavoring agents or non-vegetable material flavoring agents. In some exemplary embodiments, the plurality of distinct flavoring ingredients can be tobacco or non-tobacco flavoring agents. In some exemplary embodiments, one or more of the flavoring materials may be individually wrapped by additional housing material within housing material 98 that encloses all pieces together. In some exemplary embodiments, there are no individual housings, or all flavoring materials may be wrapped only in housing material 98 (eg, illustrated in FIGS. 3E-3F). In some exemplary embodiments, a subset of flavoring materials (eg, two or more flavoring materials) may be wrapped by additional housing material within housing material 98.

Instead of the plurality of separate flavor materials 85, 89, 93, 96 layered within the housing 98, the plurality of separate flavor materials 85, 89, 93, 96 (or at least one or more of them) Can be individual absorbent material inserts, immersed in different flavor materials and inserted into the housing 98.

In some exemplary embodiments, the plurality of separate flavor materials 85, 89, 93, 96 are the spaces within the housing 98 from the inlet end opening 80a to the outlet end opening 80b, as shown in FIG. 3E. Can be filled. In another exemplary embodiment, the plurality of separate flavor materials 85, 89, 93, 96 may be separated from the inlet end opening 80a and the outlet end opening 80b by the space 102, as shown in FIG. 3F. The space 102 may be a void in the material, or one or both of the spaces 102 may include a filter element 86. A specific number of flavoring materials is shown as an example in the figure, but more or less flavoring material sections (eg, one, two, three, four, etc.) are exemplary embodiments. Can be used.

Referring to FIGS. 3D-3F, the plurality of separate flavor materials 85, 89, 93, 96 physically release the desired aroma or other sensory component at the desired temperature as the temperature gradient changes. Can be placed to be located.

As shown in FIGS. 3E and 3F, the temperature gradient experienced by each of the flavor inserts 80E and 80F can be, for example, 300-50 ° C (or 250-100 ° C, etc.). The plurality of separate flavor materials 85, 89, 93, 96 are released at a first temperature (eg, about 300-220 ° C.), such as a first material 85 (eg, a nicotine salt, eg, nicotine bitarrate, etc.). ) Is located at the inlet end opening 80a and is below the first temperature (eg, about 220-135 ° C.) and is released at a second temperature 89 (eg, nicotine free base or menthol crystals). Is positioned adjacent to the first material 85 and emits at a third temperature below the second temperature (eg, 135-60 ° C.) Third material 93 (eg, flavor material, eg, citrus, lemon). A fourth material 96 (eg, more) in which an oil, or pyrazine, etc.) is positioned adjacent to the second material 89 and is released at a fourth temperature below the third temperature (eg, less than about 60 ° C.). A highly volatile compound (such as acetic acid) may be placed adjacent to the third material 93 so that it is located at the outlet end opening 80b. These temperatures and temperature ranges are examples only and may vary with different flavor inserts. As mentioned above, the plurality of separate flavor materials 85, 89, 93, 96 may include a partition such as a porous partition 100 that separates and separates each of the materials 85, 89, 93, 96, or the partition 100. Can be adjacent without.

Although some exemplary embodiments have been disclosed herein, of course other modifications are possible. Such modifications are not considered to be outside the scope of the present disclosure, and all such modifications that would be apparent to one of ordinary skill in the art are intended to be within the scope of the following claims.

Claims (34)

It ’s a vaporizing device,
A pre-vaper formulation housing, which is a pre-vaper formulation housing configured to contain the pre-vaper formulation and which defines a channel through which the pre-vapor formulation housing is located.
A heating element configured to heat at least a portion of the pre-vapor formulation into a vapor and provide the vapor to the first portion of the channel, and a heating element.
An insert located in the second part of the channel, positioned to receive the vapor, which is divided into at least a first section and a second section, wherein the first section is the first. Inserts that contain a first material that emits at a temperature, the second section contains a second material that emits at a second temperature, and the second temperature is lower than the first temperature. Equipped with a vaporizing device. The vaporization apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the insert and the heating element are located at both ends of the channel. The vaporizing device according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the insert is a removable insert. The vaporization according to claim 1, 2 or 3, wherein the insert comprises a perforated aluminum foil tube that surrounds the first section, the second section, or both the first section and the second section. Device. The vaporization apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the insert comprises a flavoring agent, a fragrance source, or a porous paper tube containing both a flavoring agent and an fragrance source. The vaporization apparatus according to claim 5, wherein the first material, the second material, or both the first material and the second material are contained in the fragrance source. The vaporization apparatus according to claim 5 or 6, wherein the first material, the second material, or both the first material and the second material are contained in the flavoring agent. The vaporization apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 7, wherein the insert comprises an absorbent material. The vaporization apparatus according to claim 8, wherein the absorbent material is immersed in a flavor. The vaporization apparatus according to claim 8 or 9, wherein the first material, the second material, or both the first material and the second material are included in the absorbent material. The vaporization apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 10, wherein the first section and the second section are separated by a porous partition. 13. The vaporizing device according to any one. The vaporization apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 12, wherein the insert comprises a tobacco or a tobacco-derived material. The vaporizing apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 13, wherein the insert is a flavoring agent, a fragrance, or a removable insert configured to release the flavoring agent and the fragrance into the received vapor. .. 14. The vaporizing apparatus according to claim 14, wherein the removable insert comprises a perforated aluminum foil tube that surrounds the first section and the second section. The vaporizing apparatus according to claim 14, wherein the first material comprises the flavoring agent. The vaporization apparatus according to claim 14, 15 or 16, wherein the first material contains the fragrance. The vaporizing apparatus according to any one of claims 14 to 17, wherein the second material contains the flavoring agent. The vaporization apparatus according to any one of claims 14 to 18, wherein the second material contains the fragrance. The vaporization apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 19, wherein the second section is arranged in the insert farther from the heating element than the first section. The vaporizing apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 20, wherein the insert receives the vapor through the first section. The vaporization apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 21, wherein the first material, the second material, or both the first material and the second material are contained in a flavoring agent. The vaporization apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 22, wherein the first material, the second material, or both the first material and the second material are included in the fragrance source. 22. Vaping device. It ’s a vaporizing device,
A power supply section configured to supply power, and
A vaporizing element configured to receive the supplied electric power, wherein the vaporizing element is:
A pre-vaper formulation housing, which is a pre-vaper formulation housing configured to contain the pre-vaper formulation and which defines a channel through which the pre-vapor formulation housing is located.
A heating element configured to use the supplied power to heat at least a portion of the pre-vapor formulation into a vapor, which is configured to provide the vapor to the first portion of the channel. A heating element, and an insert in the second portion of the channel, positioned to receive the vapor, which is divided into at least a first section and a second section, said first. The section contains the first material that emits at the first temperature, the second section contains the second material that emits at the second temperature, and the second temperature is higher than the first temperature. Low, with insert, with vaporizing element, vaporizing device. 25. The vaporization apparatus according to claim 25, wherein the insert and the heating element are located at both ends of the channel. 25. The vaporization apparatus of claim 25 or 26, wherein the insert is a removable insert configured to be inserted into the channel. 25. The vaporization apparatus according to claim 25, 26 or 27, wherein the insert is a perforated aluminum foil tube surrounding the first section and the second section. The vaporization apparatus according to any one of claims 25 to 28, wherein the insert comprises a flavoring agent, a fragrance source, or a porous paper tube containing both a flavoring agent and an fragrance source. The vaporization apparatus according to any one of claims 25 to 29, wherein the insert comprises an absorbent material. The vaporization apparatus according to any one of claims 25 to 30, wherein the first section and the second section are separated by a porous partition. The vaporizing apparatus according to any one of claims 25 to 31, wherein the insert comprises lemon tea granules. The vaporization apparatus according to any one of claims 25 to 32, wherein the insert comprises a tobacco or a tobacco-derived material. The vaporization apparatus according to any one of claims 25 to 33, wherein the second section is arranged in the insert farther from the heating element than the first section.

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