KR20210143781A - Electronic Cigarette Cartridge With Compressible Wick - Google Patents

Abstract

An electronic cigarette cartridge (611) having a liquid reservoir (606) and a fluid transfer element (604) is provided. The fluid transfer element 604 includes a compressible wick 609 and a flexible contact surface. The fluid transfer element 604 is configured to receive liquid from the liquid reservoir 606 and the flexible contact surface transfers the liquid contained in the compressible wick 609 from the e-cigarette cartridge 611 to when the fluid transfer element 604 is compressed. configured to emit.

Description

Electronic Cigarette Cartridge With Compressible Wick

The present invention relates to electronic cigarettes, and more particularly to liquid-storage cartridges for electronic cigarettes.

In electronic cigarette products, an aerosol-forming or vaporizable substance is stored in a liquid form in a tank. The tank generally has an outlet connected to a wicking or fluid transfer element that supplies an aerosol or vapor forming material to the atomizer. In addition to the fluid delivery element, the atomizer also includes a heating device for vaporizing the liquid aerosol or vapor-forming material.

E-cigarettes rely on locally stored power in batteries, and there is a need to provide increased battery life to such devices. Accordingly, it is an object of the present invention to address this problem.

US 2014/069424 A1 describes a device for atomizing or vaporizing a liquid for inhalation. WO 2016/198417 A1 describes a cartridge for use in an electrically actuated aerosol-generating system.

The foregoing objects of the invention as well as other issues are addressed by the claims.

According to a first aspect of the present disclosure, there is provided a vaporizer for an electronic cigarette, the vaporizer comprising a fluid transfer element and a heater, the fluid transfer element being compressible and configured to transfer a portion of a liquid from a liquid reservoir to the heater, and , wherein the contact surface of the fluid transfer element and the heater are configured to move relative to each other such that when the contact surface of the fluid transfer element is compressed, liquid is releasable from the fluid transfer element and adsorbable on the heater.

In this way, a controlled portion of the liquid can be transferred to the heater to be heated, and heat does not diffuse into and within the liquid reservoir, improving energy efficiency as only the liquid to be vaporized is heated. Preferably the portion of the liquid corresponds to a puff of vaporization by the user.

Preferably the vaporizer further comprises a compression element arranged to move from a first position disengaged from the contact surface of the fluid transfer element to a second position closer to the contact surface of the fluid transfer element.

Preferably a heater is arranged on the compression element so that when the compression element is in the second position the heater moves relative to the contact surface and is pressed against the contact surface of the fluid transfer element so that a portion of the liquid is released from the fluid transfer element and is on the heater and the heater is arranged to vaporize the adsorbed portion of the liquid when the compression element is moved from the second position to the first position.

In this way, a controlled portion of the liquid is delivered directly onto the heater by movement of the heater. By moving the heater away from the fluid transfer element, unnecessary heating of the liquid contained in the fluid transfer element and heat transfer to the liquid reservoir is suppressed; Only the predetermined dose is heated, improving the energy efficiency of the e-cigarette.

Alternatively, the heater is fixedly arranged on the interior of the electronic cigarette and positioned proximate to the contact surface of the fluid transfer element, wherein the compression element causes the contact surface to move relative to the heater as the compression element moves between the first and second positions. wherein the compression element in the second position is configured to compress the contact surface so that liquid is expelled from the contact surface, and the heater is arranged to vaporize the adsorbed portion of the liquid when the compression element is in the first position.

Preferably, a fluid bridge is created between the contact surface and the heater when the compression element is in the second position such that a portion of the liquid releasable from the fluid transfer element is adsorbable on the heater in the second position.

Alternatively, the compression element in the second position is configured to compress the contact surface and create a distance between the contact surface and the heater, wherein the compression element in the first position is released from the contact surface so that the contact surface contacts the heater in the first position and liquid transmit

In this way, the heater is maintained at a distance from the fluid transfer element, preventing the heater from transferring heat to the fluid transfer element and heating the liquid contained in the fluid transfer element. Heat transfer to the liquid reservoir is also inhibited. This prevents unnecessary heating of the liquid beyond a predetermined dose, thereby improving the energy efficiency of the e-cigarette.

Alternatively, in the first position the heater is proximate but separate from the fluid transfer element, and the contact surface moves relative to the heater as the compression element compresses the contact surface by moving from the first position to the second position. When the compression element compresses the contact surface, a portion of the liquid releasable from the fluid transfer element is adsorbable on the heater, and the heater vaporizes the adsorbed portion of the liquid when the compression element is moved from the second position to the first position. are arranged to

Preferably, the fluid transfer element comprises a compressible wick.

In this way, the wick can carry and store liquid from the liquid reservoir and can be compressed to release the liquid to be adsorbed onto the heater.

Preferably, the fluid transfer element further comprises a mesh disposed on a surface of the wick toward the heater, wherein the mesh and the wick are compressed when the compression element presses against a contact surface of the fluid transfer element so that in use, the liquid in the wick is removed. Some go through the mesh.

In this way, the mesh serves to inhibit liquid from exiting the wick, thereby forming a liquid seal when the fluid transfer element is not deformed by the compression element, thereby preventing liquid from leaking through the e-cigarette.

Preferably, the mesh is hydrophobic.

In this way, adsorption on the heater is improved as well as inhibiting liquid from exiting the wick through the mesh. Preferably the hydrophobic properties are provided by a hydrophobic coating on the mesh.

Preferably, the fluid transfer element further comprises a liquid buffer arranged for transporting the liquid from the liquid reservoir to the wick by capillary action.

In this way, a controlled flow of liquid to the wick is provided by buffering the liquid flow.

Preferably, the liquid buffer comprises a plurality of plates arranged to extend from the wick toward the liquid reservoir, and a channel is arranged between the plates so that in use liquid is drawn from the liquid reservoir to the wick by capillary action.

In this way, the liquid is buffered by capillary action so that the liquid reaches the wick in a controlled manner.

Preferably, the fluid transfer element has an extending piercing member to pierce the cartridge containing the liquid reservoir and transport liquid from the cartridge through the piercing member towards the wick.

In this way, the fluid transfer element has a dual function in that it is used to penetrate the cartridge and transfer liquid in the cartridge to the heater. This is advantageous as in a single action the cartridge is opened and the liquid in the cartridge engages the fluid transfer element for delivery to the heater. Additionally, it prevents the user from manually opening the cartridge, thereby preventing potential spillage. Preferably the penetrating member is a tube with a sharp end. Preferably the penetrating member has a sufficiently narrow bore for the liquid to be transported from the cartridge by capillary action. Preferably the cartridge is a disposable consumable while the component is arranged in a reusable part of the electronic cigarette. Preferably the reusable part of the e-cigarette is the battery part.

Preferably, the heater comprises a ceramic structure.

Preferably, the heater comprises a ceramic structure and a printed or embedded heating track connected to the ceramic structure, the ceramic structure comprising a non-porous ceramic with a porous ceramic arranged on a first surface thereof, the heating track being non-porous arranged on the second surface of the porous ceramic.

In this way, the liquid adsorption properties of the heater are improved. Preferably the heater adsorbs the liquid into the pores of the porous ceramic by capillary action. The heater may be selected from the group comprising a spiral shaped coil, mesh, or printed or embedded surface heater. The heater may include a ceramic disk. Preferably the non-porous ceramic is quartz. Preferably the second surface of the non-porous ceramic is the surface opposite the first surface of the non-porous ceramic. The heating track may be a resistive heating element.

According to a second aspect of the present disclosure, there is provided a cartridge for an electronic cigarette, the cartridge comprising a vaporizer according to the first aspect and further comprising a liquid reservoir.

In this way, the components may be arranged in a reusable portion of the e-cigarette, such as a battery portion, but the disposable cartridge may be removed and replaced when used up.

According to a third aspect of the present disclosure, there is provided a method of operating the vaporizer of the first aspect, the method comprising compressing a contact surface of a fluid transfer element such that liquid is ejected from the fluid transfer element, wherein a portion of the ejected liquid is transferred to a heater establishing a fluid bridge between the heater and the liquid discharged to be adsorbed onto the bed, and heating the adsorbed liquid by the heater to produce vapor when the fluid bridge breaks.

In this way, a controlled portion of the liquid is heated, and heat does not diffuse into and within the liquid reservoir, improving energy efficiency as only the liquid to be vaporized is heated.

According to a fourth aspect of the present disclosure, there is provided an electronic cigarette cartridge comprising a liquid reservoir and a fluid transfer element, the fluid transfer element comprising a compressible wick and a flexible contact surface, the fluid transfer element receiving liquid from the liquid reservoir and the flexible contact surface is configured to release the liquid contained in the compressible wick from the electronic cigarette cartridge when the fluid transfer element is compressed.

In this way, the release of liquid from the liquid reservoir is inhibited when the fluid transfer element is not compressed.

Preferably, the liquid reservoir is fluidly connected to the compressible wick by an opening between the liquid reservoir and the fluid transfer element.

In this way, the liquid reservoir and compressible wick may be contained in separate parts of the electronic cigarette cartridge. A liquid reservoir may be simple and economical to produce consumables, but a fluid transfer element may be a reusable part.

Alternatively, the compressible wick is located inside the liquid reservoir.

In this way, the compressible wick and the liquid reservoir can be contained in the same part of the cartridge so that the liquid in the liquid reservoir can be easily drawn out by the wick.

Alternatively, the fluid transfer element further comprises a plug in which the compressible wick is received, the plug being receivable in the liquid reservoir and having a first end arranged to face liquid in the liquid reservoir and wherein the buffer is disposed by capillary action into the liquid reservoir. arranged on the first end for transporting liquid from the to the wick.

In this way, a controlled flow of liquid to the wick is provided by buffering of the liquid flow.

Preferably, the liquid buffer comprises a plurality of plates arranged to extend from the compressible wick to the liquid reservoir, and a channel is arranged between the plates so that in use liquid is drawn from the liquid reservoir to the compressible wick by capillary action. .

In this way, the liquid reaches the wick in a controlled manner as the liquid is buffered by the channels between the plates through capillary action.

Alternatively, the fluid transfer element is positioned external to the liquid reservoir and the liquid reservoir is engageable by the fluid transfer element, such that, in operation, the fluid transfer element transfers a portion of the liquid from the liquid reservoir to the heater in the electronic cigarette.

In this way, the liquid reservoir can be replaced and the fluid transfer element can be reused.

Preferably, the fluid transfer element further comprises a mesh arranged on a surface of the compressible wick such that the mesh forms a flexible contact surface, wherein the mesh is arranged to allow liquid to pass through the mesh when compression is applied to the compressible wick. .

In this way, the mesh serves to inhibit liquid from escaping from the wick by forming a liquid seal when the fluid transfer element is not deformed or compressed.

Preferably, the mesh is hydrophobic.

In this way, the inhibition of liquid from exiting the wick through the mesh is improved. Preferably the hydrophobic properties are provided by a hydrophobic coating on the mesh.

According to a fifth aspect of the present disclosure, there is provided an electronic cigarette for use with the electronic cigarette cartridge of the fourth aspect, the electronic cigarette comprising a compression element and a heater, wherein the compression element is in a first position separate from the fluid transfer element arranged to compress the compressible wick in movement relative to the fluid transfer element to a second position pressing against the flexible contact surface of the fluid transfer element from the wick so that the liquid is releasable from the wick and adsorbable on the heater.

In this way, a controlled portion of the liquid can be transferred to the heater to be heated, and heat does not diffuse into and within the liquid reservoir, improving energy efficiency as only the liquid to be vaporized is heated. Preferably the portion of the liquid corresponds to a puff of vaporization by the user.

Preferably, the heater is arranged on the compression element so that the heater is pressed against the flexible contact surface of the fluid transfer element when the compression element is in the second position and a portion of the liquid releasable from the compressible wick is adsorbable on the heater, A heater is arranged to vaporize the adsorbed portion of the liquid when the compression element is released from the contact surface.

In this way, a controlled portion of the liquid is delivered directly onto the heater by movement of the compression element. By moving the heater away from the fluid transfer element, unnecessary heating of the liquid contained in the fluid transfer element, and heat transfer to the liquid reservoir is suppressed; Only the predetermined dose is heated, improving the energy efficiency of the e-cigarette.

Alternatively, the heater is proximate but separated from the fluid transfer element and is arranged such that the compression element is in the second position when the compression element is pressed against the flexible contact surface of the fluid transfer element, whereby a portion of the liquid is ejected from the compressible wick and adsorbed on the heater, the heater being arranged to vaporize the adsorbed portion of the liquid when the compression element is moved from the second position to the first position.

In this way, the heater is maintained at a certain distance from the fluid transfer element, thereby inhibiting the heater from transferring heat to the fluid transfer element and heating the liquid contained in the fluid transfer element. Heat transfer to the liquid reservoir is also inhibited. This prevents unnecessary heating of the liquid beyond a predetermined dose, thereby improving the energy efficiency of the e-cigarette.

According to a sixth aspect of the present disclosure, there is provided a method of operating the e-cigarette of the fifth aspect, the method comprising: moving the compression element to press against a flexible contact surface of the fluid transfer element such that liquid is expelled from the fluid transfer element. establishing a fluid bridge between the discharged liquid and the heater such that a portion of the discharged liquid is adsorbed on the heater, and heating the adsorbed liquid by the heater to produce a vapor when the fluid bridge breaks. do.

In this way, a controlled portion of the liquid is heated, and heat does not diffuse into and within the liquid reservoir, improving energy efficiency as only the liquid to be vaporized is heated.

According to a seventh aspect of the present disclosure, there is provided a fluid transfer component for an electronic cigarette, wherein the fluid transfer component is configured to establish a fluid connection between a heater in the electronic cigarette and a liquid reservoir, the fluid transfer component comprising: a liquid absorbing member configured to connect with the housing of the reservoir, a chamber configured to receive liquid from the liquid reservoir by the liquid absorbing member, and a compressible wick and fluid transfer component configured to transport liquid from the chamber to the vicinity of the heater by capillary action A fluid transfer element comprising a flexible contact surface configured to deform in the axial direction of the axial direction of the fluid transfer element, wherein the flexible contact surface is configured to release liquid from the compressible wick for delivery to a heater when the fluid transfer element is compressed.

In this way, the fluid transfer component can be used to connect a liquid reservoir, such as a cartridge, to the heater of an electronic cigarette in a simple and efficient manner.

Preferably, the fluid transfer component is releasably connectable to the liquid reservoir by a liquid absorbing member.

In this way, the expired liquid reservoir can be discharged and replaced from the fluid transfer component in a simple and efficient manner. The fluid transfer component may be connected to a common liquid reservoir to create a liquid reservoir having fluid transfer capabilities.

Preferably, the liquid absorbing member is an elongate tube extending from the chamber and provided with a tip configured to be received in a liquid reservoir so that liquid can enter the elongate tube at the tip for delivery to the chamber.

In this way, the liquid absorbing member delivers liquid from the liquid reservoir to the compressible wick. Preferably the elongate tube has a sufficiently narrow bore for the liquid to be transported from the liquid reservoir by capillary action.

Preferably, the liquid absorbing member is arranged to form a friction fit with the opening in the liquid reservoir.

In this way, the liquid absorbing member forms a secure snug connection with the opening in the liquid reservoir by a sealing connection so that leakage of liquid from the liquid reservoir is suppressed.

Preferably, the tip comprises a sharp end of an elongate tube arranged to penetrate the housing of the liquid reservoir.

In this way, the fluid transfer component can be used to pass through and transfer liquid from the liquid reservoir to the fluid transfer element. This is advantageous as the liquid reservoir can be opened in a single action and the liquid in the liquid reservoir engages the fluid transfer element for delivery from the liquid reservoir.

Preferably, the fluid transfer element further comprises a mesh arranged on a surface of the compressible wick such that the mesh forms a flexible contact surface, wherein the mesh is arranged to cause liquid to pass through the wick when compression is applied to the compressible wick. .

In this way, the mesh serves to inhibit liquid from escaping from the wick by forming a liquid seal when the fluid transfer element is not deformed or compressed.

Preferably, the mesh is hydrophobic.

In this way, the inhibition of liquid from exiting the wick through the mesh is improved. Preferably the hydrophobic properties are provided by a hydrophobic coating on the mesh.

Preferably, the fluid transfer component is removably attachable to the electronic cigarette.

In this way, the fluid transfer component may be a consumable component that may be replaced at the end of its useful life. This eliminates the need to replace the entire e-cigarette, for example when the compressible wick needs to be replaced.

In another aspect, the fluid transfer component is fluidly coupled to the liquid reservoir of the cartridge by a liquid absorbing member.

According to an eighth aspect of the present disclosure, there is provided an electronic cigarette for use with the fluid transfer component of the seventh aspect, the electronic cigarette comprising a wick compressor and a heater, wherein the first wick compressor is separated from the fluid transfer element. arranged to compress the compressible wick by moving relative to the fluid transfer element from position to a second position that presses against the flexible contact surface of the fluid transfer element so that the liquid is releasable from the wick and adsorbable on the heater.

In this way, a controlled portion of the liquid can be transferred to the heater to be heated, and heat does not diffuse into and within the liquid reservoir, improving energy efficiency as only the liquid to be vaporized is heated. Preferably the portion of the liquid corresponds to a puff of vaporization by the user.

Preferably, the heater is pressed against the flexible contact surface of the fluid transfer element when the wick compressor moves from the first position to the second position and a portion of the liquid releasable from the compressible wick is adsorbable on the heater. and the heater is arranged to vaporize the adsorbed portion of the liquid when the wick compressor is moved from the second position to the first position.

In this way, a controlled portion of the liquid is delivered directly onto the heater by the movement of the wick compressor. By moving the heater away from the fluid transfer element, unnecessary heating of the liquid contained in the fluid transfer element, and heat transfer to the liquid reservoir is suppressed; Only the predetermined dose is heated, improving the energy efficiency of the e-cigarette.

Alternatively, the heater is proximate to but separate from the fluid transfer element and the wick compressor, and is releasable from the compressible wick as it moves from the first position to the second position when the wick compressor is pressed against the flexible contact surface of the fluid transfer element. a portion of the liquid is arranged to be adsorbed on the heater, and the heater is arranged to vaporize the adsorbed portion of the liquid when the wick compressor is moved from the second position to the first position.

In this way, the heater is maintained at a certain distance from the fluid transfer element, thereby inhibiting the heater from transferring heat to the fluid transfer element and heating the liquid contained in the fluid transfer element. Heat transfer to the liquid reservoir is also inhibited. This prevents unnecessary heating of the liquid beyond a predetermined dose, thereby improving the energy efficiency of the e-cigarette.

According to a ninth aspect of the present disclosure, there is provided a method of operating the electronic cigarette of the eighth aspect, the method comprising moving a wick compressor that presses against a flexible contact surface of the fluid transfer element such that liquid is expelled from the fluid transfer element. establishing a fluid bridge between the discharged liquid and the heater such that a portion of the discharged liquid is adsorbed on the heater, and heating the adsorbed liquid by the heater to produce a vapor when the fluid bridge breaks. do.

In this way, a controlled portion of the liquid is heated, and heat does not diffuse into and within the liquid reservoir, improving energy efficiency as only the liquid to be vaporized is heated.

An embodiment of the invention is now described by way of example with reference to the drawings:
1A shows a cross-sectional view of an e-cigarette cartridge within an e-cigarette;
1B-1D show cross-sectional views of a compressible wick in an electronic cigarette cartridge being compressed by a heater;
2a-2e show cross-sectional views of the operation of a heater compressing the wick;
3 shows a diagram of a liquid droplet on a hydrophobic mesh;
Figures 4a to 4d show diagrams showing the liquid adsorbed on the heater being vaporized;
5A-5C show cross-sectional views of a compressible wick in an electronic cigarette cartridge being compressed by a wick compressor;
6a and 6b show cross-sectional views of a cartridge with a compressible wick;
7a and 7b show exploded views of a cartridge with a compressible wick; and
8A shows a cross-sectional view of a vaporizer engaged with a cartridge.
8B shows a cross-sectional view of an alternative arrangement of a vaporizer engaged with a cartridge.

1A shows an electronic cigarette 100 having a vaporizer device, and FIGS. 1B-1D show a vaporizer device 102 used in the electronic cigarette in greater detail. The vaporizer device 102 includes a compressible fluid transfer element 104 and a heater 105 that is movable relative to the flexible contact surface 110 of the fluid transfer element 104 . In an example, heater 105 has a ceramic structure with printed or embedded heating tracks. The ceramic structure may be a non-porous ceramic having a porous ceramic layer on its surface. The fluid transfer element 104 includes a compressible wick 109 that can be saturated with a vaporizable liquid. In the example of FIG. 1A , the compressible fluid transfer element 104 is arranged in a releasable cartridge 111 configured to be connected to a cartridge pedestal 190 in a housing 129 of the main body of the electronic cigarette, and the heater 105 includes: arranged as part of the main body of the electronic cigarette. a compressible wick 109 is arranged to absorb the liquid 121 from the liquid reservoir 106 in the cartridge 111 ; Liquid 121 then diffuses through wick 109 to saturate wick 109 . The wick may be constructed of a compressible porous or fibrous material such as cotton or silica. Alternatively, the liquid reservoir may be a rechargeable liquid reservoir integrated into the electronic cigarette having a fluid transfer element.

The heater 105 is connected by a compression element 103 to a motor or solenoid 137 in the housing 127 of the main body of the electronic cigarette. The cartridge may be housed in the same or a different housing portion as the heater, compression element and motor in the e-cigarette. The heater 105 is moved into contact with the contact surface 110 of the fluid transfer element 104 and deforms the contact surface 110 of the fluid transfer element 104 , thereby compressing the wick 109 and the liquid contained in the wick 109 . discharges from the contact surface 110 . The liquid contained in the wick 109 is adsorbed on the surface of the heater 105 . A porous ceramic layer at the surface of the heater may aid in the transfer of liquid to the heater by capillary action. A heater 105 is then drawn in from the contact surface 110 and the heater is configured to heat the adsorbed liquid to produce a vapor when the heater 105 separates from the contact surface 110 . This process is described in more detail with respect to FIGS. 1B-1D and 2A-2E. The electronic cigarette 100 has a mouthpiece 131 that can be sucked for the user of the electronic cigarette 100 to inhale the generated vapor. When the user sucks on the mouthpiece 131 , steam is drawn into the mouthpiece 131 by the steam tube 135 . Steam enters steam tube 135 at a first end of the steam tube close to the heater and exits steam tube 135 at a second end of the steam tube connected to mouthpiece 131 .

1B-1D show the ejection and vaporization of liquid from the cartridge in greater detail.

In FIG. 1B , the heater 105 is separated from the compressible surface of the fluid transfer element 104 . The heater 105 is connected by a compression element 103 to a actuator, such as a motor or solenoid (as described with reference to FIG. 1A , but not shown in FIGS. 1B-1D ). The heater 105 and actuator are powered by a power supply, such as a battery, within the main body of the electronic cigarette.

The actuator moves the heater 105 relative to the surface of the fluid transfer element 104 from a location separate from the surface of the fluid transfer element 104 (as shown in FIG. is arranged to contact and deform the contact surface 110 of

Compression applied to the fluid transfer element 104 causes the liquid contained in the fluid transfer element 104 to be released from the fluid transfer element 104 at the contact surface 110 (similar to squeezing a saturated sponge). This discharged liquid 113 is adsorbed on the surface of the heater 105 .

The actuator moves the heater from a position where it contacts the fluid transfer element 104 and compresses it (as shown in FIG. 1C ) back to a position where the heater 105 separates from the fluid transfer element 104 (as shown in FIG. 1D ). the same)) to move the heater 105 relative to the surface of the fluid transfer element 104 . As such, after adsorption of the liquid 115 on the surface of the heater 105 , the actuator draws the heater 105 from the fluid transfer element 104 with the liquid 115 adsorbed on the surface of the heater 105 . Retraction of heater 105 releases the compression applied to fluid transfer element 104 , and consequently wick 109 draws liquid from the liquid reservoir to displace liquid adsorbed on heater 105 . That is, the actuator drives the heater 105 to the surface of the fluid transfer element 104 and draws the heater from the surface of the fluid transfer element 104 and the liquid from the fluid transfer element 104 is adsorbed onto the heater 105 . do. Upon entry from the fluid transfer element 104 , the heater 105 applies thermal energy to the adsorbed liquid 115 , heating and vaporizing the adsorbed liquid 115 to produce a vapor. This vapor can then be inhaled by the user of the e-cigarette through the mouthpiece.

The surface of the wick 109 facing the heater 105 may form a flexible contact surface 110 of the fluid transfer element 104 . That is, the wick 109 itself may be the fluid transfer element 104 . In some embodiments, the fluid transfer element 104 may further include a hydrophobic mesh 107 arranged on a surface of the wick 109 between the wick 109 and the heater 105 . When a hydrophobic mesh is included, the hydrophobic mesh 107 can be configured as a contact surface 110 for the heater 105 . That is, the fluid transfer element 104 may be both the wick 109 and the mesh 107 . As such, when the heater 105 contacts the contact surface 110 and compresses the fluid transfer element 104 , the heater deforms both the hydrophobic mesh 107 and the wick 109 . As a result of the compression, the liquid contained in the wick 109 passes through the mesh 107 . The hydrophobic nature of the mesh 107 causes liquid that has passed through the mesh 107 to be repelled and to form droplets on the surface of the mesh 107 rather than being dipped back into the wick 109 through the mesh 107 ( as illustrated in FIG. 3). This is beneficial for adsorption of liquid 115 on heater 105 . Additionally, the hydrophobic mesh 107 prevents liquid 121 from exiting the cartridge 111 when no compression is applied. Air may pass through the mesh 107 providing breathability. In an embodiment, the mesh 107 may have a metallic structure and may be provided with a hydrophobic coating. Alternatively, the mesh 107 itself may be made of a hydrophobic material, such as a nonwoven material. The hydrophobic material or coating may be polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) or Teflon. The hydrophobic mesh may have material properties that are resiliently flexible to allow deformation; The hydrophobic mesh may also have structural properties that provide flexibility, such as being convexly dome-shaped or protruding to allow deformation. To further increase the ability of the liquid 115 to be adsorbed onto the heater 105 , the heater 105 may be hydrophilic. The hydrophilic heater 105 nature is also beneficial to help wetting the heater 105 surface so that an even distribution of the liquid 115 across the heater 105 is achieved. This improves the efficiency of heating.

In some examples, cartridge 111 has a barrier 123 provided between wick 109 and liquid 121 in liquid reservoir 106 . A hole 125 is provided in the barrier 123 between the wick 109 and the liquid 121 in the liquid reservoir 106 to allow the liquid 121 to flow from the liquid reservoir 106 to the wick 109 in a controlled manner. can Barrier 123 also secures wick 109 in position at the end of cartridge 111 relative to mesh 107 for interaction with heater 105 .

2a to 2e show diagrams of the stages of operation of the vaporizer 102 described with reference to FIG. 1 .

The heater 105 is connected to a compression element 103 operatively connected to the actuator. The actuator may be a motor or solenoid (described with reference to FIG. 1A but not shown in FIGS. 2A-2E ) arranged to drive the heater 105 toward and away from the fluid transfer element 104 . The fluid transfer element 104 includes a compressible wick 109 having a contact surface 110 facing liquid in a liquid reservoir 111 and a contact surface opposite the first surface. The contact surface 110 may be part of the same material as the fluid transfer element. Alternatively, as previously described, the hydrophobic mesh 107 may be configured as the contact surface 110 .

Initially, as shown in FIG. 2A , the heater 105 is disconnected from the fluid transfer element 104 . The compression element 103 moves the heater 105 relative to the contact surface 110 and compresses the fluid transfer element 104 , as shown in FIG. 2B . This causes a portion of the liquid contained in the wick 109 to be ejected to be ejected from the wick 109 113 and passed through the mesh 107 in contact with the heater 105 . The liquid adsorbs on the surface of the heater 105 . The surface of the heater 105 may comprise a porous ceramic; The capillary action provided by this material may aid in the delivery of the discharged liquid 113 to the heater 105 .

The compression element 103 then draws the heater 105 from the fluid transfer element. A portion of the adsorbed liquid 115 is also drawn in from the mesh 107 on the heater 105 , as shown in FIG. 2C . This results in the arrangement of FIG. 2D in which the heater 105 and adsorbed liquid 115 are separated from the fluid transfer element. 4A shows a heater 105 with a layer of liquid 115 that is adsorbed onto the surface and wets the surface. Retraction of the heater 105 causes removal of the compression applied to the fluid transfer element, which returns the fluid transfer element to an uncompressed state thereby causing the wick 109 to draw more liquid from the liquid reservoir 111 . .

When the heater 105 is disconnected from the fluid transfer element 104 , power is supplied to the heater 105 from a power supply, such as a battery in an electronic cigarette. The supplied electric power heats the heater 105 so that the heater 105 transfers the thermal energy to the adsorbed liquid 115 . This transfer of thermal energy to the adsorbed liquid 115 raises the temperature of the adsorbed liquid 115 so that the adsorbed liquid 115 is vaporized and vapor 117 is generated, as shown in FIG. 2E . This vapor 117 may then be inhaled by the user through the mouthpiece of the electronic cigarette 100 .

In this way, only the portion of the liquid absorbed on the heater 105 has to be heated to the vaporization point. This requires less energy than, for example, heating a larger volume of liquid contained in a liquid tank to the vaporization point. As such, the power savings of this heating result in a longer battery life of the e-cigarette 100 . In addition, the separation of heater 105 and liquid reservoir 106 prevents heat diffusion through liquid reservoir 106, further wasting energy.

4A, 4B, 4C and 4D show the progression of vaporization from heater 105 over a period of time. As the vaporization time elapses, the amount of adsorbed liquid 115 remaining in the heater 105 increases from FIG. 4A before the adsorbed liquid begins to vaporize, to FIG. 4B where a portion of the liquid is vaporized, with most of the liquid This vaporization is reduced when converted to vapor 117 in FIG. 4C and finally in FIG. 4D where all liquid is vaporized.

When the adsorbed liquid 115 is vaporized, the operation returns to the state as described with reference to FIG. 2A.

In some examples, the heater 105 position reciprocates from contacting the contact surface 110 and compressing the fluid transfer element to disengaging from the fluid transfer element. In this way, the vaporizer operation is cycled repeatedly through the compression-adsorption-intake-vaporization cycle as described with reference to FIGS. 2A-2E .

FIG. 5 shows a diagram of an alternative vaporizer 502 arrangement to the vaporizer arrangement described with reference to FIGS. 1 and 2 . This embodiment is also based on an arrangement in which the contact surface of the fluid transfer element and the heater are movable relative to each other whereby heat is transferred only to the adsorbed liquid when the heater is separated from the contact surface.

In the embodiment illustrated in FIG. 5 , only the contact surface (or fluid transfer surface) 510 of the cartridge 511 is movable, while the heater 505 is stationary. The heater 505 is held in a fixed position from the cartridge 511 and a separate compression element 503 compresses the fluid transfer element 504 by deforming the contact surface 510 of the fluid transfer element 504 .

In this arrangement, the vaporizer 502 includes a compressible fluid transfer element 504 , a heater 505 held in a fixed displacement from the cartridge 511 , and a flexible fluid transfer element 504 facing the heater 505 . and a compression element 503 , such as a piston or an elongate rod, configured to compress the fluid transfer element 504 by deforming the sexual contact surface 510 . the piston is configured to move to and away from the contact surface 510 of the fluid transfer element 504 ; This deformation of the contact surface 510 of the fluid transfer element 504 causes the contact surface 510 of the fluid transfer element 504 to move relative to the fixed position of the heater 505 .

The fluid transfer element 504 includes a compressible wick 509 contained within a cartridge 511 and capable of being saturated with a vaporizable liquid. In the example of FIG. 5 , a compressible fluid transfer element 504 is arranged in a cartridge 511 suitable for placement in the interior of a cartridge pedestal 190 of an electronic cigarette, and a heater 505 and compression element 503 are electronically located. arranged as part of the main body of the cigarette. the compressible wick 509 is arranged to absorb the liquid 521 from the liquid reservoir 506 in the cartridge 511 ; Liquid 521 then diffuses through wick 509 to saturate wick 509 . The surface of the wick 509 facing the heater 505 may form a flexible contact surface 510 of the fluid transfer element 504 . That is, the wick 509 itself may be a fluid transfer element 504 . In some embodiments, the fluid transfer element 504 includes a hydrophobic mesh 507 (corresponding to that described with reference to FIG. 1 ) arranged on the surface of the wick 509 between the wick 509 and the heater 505 . may include more. When a hydrophobic mesh is included, the hydrophobic mesh 507 may be configured as the contact surface 510 . That is, the fluid transfer element may be both the wick 109 and the mesh 107 . Similar to the previous embodiment, the fluid transfer element 504 may optionally further include a hydrophobic mesh 507 covering the surface of the wick 509 opposite the surface facing the liquid 521 in the liquid reservoir 506 . can The hydrophobic nature of the mesh 507 causes liquid passing through the mesh 507 to be repelled and to form droplets on the surface of the mesh 507 rather than being dipped back into the wick 509 through the mesh 507 ( as illustrated in FIG. 3).

In the example of FIG. 5 , the compression element 503 is an elongate rod or piston arranged to pass through a ring-shaped heater 505 . The elongate rod is in contact with and deforms the contact surface 510 of the fluid transfer element 504 from a position (as shown in FIG. 5A ) disengaged from the fluid transfer element 504, so that the fluid transfer element ( 504) is connected to a actuator (not shown), such as a solenoid or motor, which drives the elongate rod to a compressing position (as shown in FIG. 5B ). That is, the actuator drives the compression element 503 to the contact surface 510 of the fluid transfer element 504 and retracts the compression element from the contact surface 510 of the fluid transfer element 504 .

The heater 505 and the actuator are powered by a power supply, eg, a battery, within the main body of the electronic cigarette. In another example, the compression element 503 may have any other shape suitable for movement in and out of contact with the fluid transfer element 504 while adjacent the heater 505 .

When the compression element 503 pushes against the contact surface 510 of the fluid transfer element 504 , the wick 509 of the fluid transfer element 504 due to deformation applied to the contact surface 510 of the fluid transfer element 504 . The applied compression of the wick 509 causes the liquid 513 contained in the wick 509 to be released as shown in FIG. 5B . In embodiments that include a hydrophobic mesh 507 as the contact surface 510 , the liquid contained in the wick 509 is released through the hydrophobic mesh 507 . The heater 505 is configured such that the surface of the heater 505 is adjacent to the contact surface 510 of the fluid transfer element 504 so that the droplet 515 is transferred onto the heater 505 by a fluid bridge, as shown in FIG. 5C . Adsorbed and arranged to wet the heater 505 surface. Optionally, the heater 505 may have hydrophilic properties to facilitate transfer of liquid from the contact surface of the mesh 507 to the surface of the heater 505 . The surface of the heater 505 may comprise a porous ceramic; The capillary action provided by this material may aid in the delivery of the discharged liquid 513 to the heater 505 .

The compression element 503 is then drawn from the contact surface 510 of the fluid transfer element 504 . Removal of the compression causes the fluid transfer element 504 to return to an uncompressed state, whereby the wick 509 draws more liquid from the liquid reservoir 506 .

Power is supplied to the heater 505 by a power supply in the e-cigarette, such as a battery. When the liquid 515 is adsorbed on the heater 505 surface, the heater 505 applies thermal energy to the adsorbed liquid 515 ; This transfer of thermal energy to the adsorbed liquid 515 raises the temperature of the adsorbed liquid 515 so that the adsorbed liquid 515 is vaporized and vapor is generated. This vapor can then be inhaled by the user of the e-cigarette through the mouthpiece.

Similar to that described with reference to FIGS. 2A-2E , the compression element 503 contacts the contact surface 510 of the fluid transfer element 504 and separates it from the fluid transfer element 504 from deforming the fluid transfer element. It can come and go back and forth. In this manner, vaporizer 502 operation is cycled repeatedly through a compression-adsorption-entry-vaporization cycle.

In some examples, similar to that described with reference to FIG. 1 , a barrier 523 is provided in the cartridge 511 between the wick 509 and the liquid 521 in the liquid reservoir 506 . An aperture 525 is provided in the barrier 523 between the wick 509 and the liquid 521 in the liquid reservoir 506 so that the liquid 521 can flow from the liquid reservoir 506 to the wick 509 in a controlled manner. can The barrier also secures the wick 509 in position at the end of the cartridge 511 relative to the mesh 507 for interaction with the heater 505 .

The example described with reference to FIG. 5 is similar to that described with reference to FIGS. 1 and 2 in that only a small portion of the liquid adsorbed on the heater has to be heated than a larger volume of liquid in the liquid tank to generate vapor. It offers the same power saving benefits.

In an alternative arrangement similar and closely related to that described with reference to FIG. 5 , the contact surface of the fluid transfer element contacts the heater when the compression element is in the first position. The compression element deforms the contact surface and compresses the wick to move the contact surface to a second position where it moves away from the heater, thus creating a distance between the contact surface and the heater. This compression releases the liquid contained in the wick through the contact surface so that a fluid bridge is formed by the ejected liquid and the liquid is adsorbed on the surface of the heater. The heater then heats the adsorbed liquid to vaporize it. The compression element is retracted from the contact surface and returned to the first position. The deformation of the contact surface and compression on the wick are released so that the contact surface is in contact with the heater again. The application and release of compression to the wick provides a pumping action that may further draw liquid from the liquid reservoir to the wick as the compression element moves between the first and second positions. Where appropriate, all features described with reference to FIG. 5 may be used with this arrangement.

6A and 6B show another embodiment of a cartridge 611 suitable for use with a heater as described with reference to FIGS. 1 , 2 and 5 ; 7A and 7B show exploded views of such a cartridge 611 . Cartridge 611 contains the wick component of the vaporizer. A cartridge 611 is inserted into the e-cigarette such that the fluid transfer element 604 of the cartridge is arranged with a heater of the e-cigarette to form a vaporizer, such as the vaporizer described with reference to FIGS. 1 , 2 and 5 . .

cartridge 611 has a housing 641 defining a liquid reservoir 606; Housing 641 is substantially cylindrical in shape with one open end. Although the example has been described as cylindrical, any other suitable shape may be used.

a plug 627 is disposed at the open end of the housing 641; A snug fit is achieved such that the plug 627 has an outer diameter approximately equal to the inner diameter of the housing 641 . The plug 627 has a side wall 645 adjacent the wall of the housing 641 and a bottom wall 647, perpendicular to the side wall, arranged at the end of the plug facing inward with respect to the housing 641 of the cartridge 611 . has a cavity 649 defined by The end of the plug 627 opposite the bottom wall 647 of the plug 627 has an outwardly extending flange portion 643 having an outer diameter greater than the inner diameter of the housing 641 . This provides an abutment to the open end of the housing 641 that forms a stop on the plug 627 when the plug is slid into the housing 641 and prevents the plug 627 from sliding further into the housing 641 beyond the stop. to prevent The wick 609 is included within the cavity 649 and is dimensioned to substantially fill the cavity 649 . The bottom wall 647 of the plug 627 has a series of openings such that the liquid contained in the liquid reservoir 606 of the cartridge 611 is a cavity 649 of the plug 627 through which the liquid is absorbed by the wick 609 . can enter into

Optionally, the opening in the bottom wall 647 of the plug 627 is defined by a series of plates 629 arranged side by side and defining a flow channel 631 in the longitudinal direction of the cartridge. Plate 629 thus defines a series of channels 631 leading from liquid reservoir 606 to cavity 649 of plug 627 . Plate 629 extends outwardly from plug 627 to liquid reservoir 606 . This channel 631 is dimensioned to provide a capillary action that draws liquid from the liquid reservoir 606 into the cavity 649 , where the channel acts as a liquid buffer for absorption by the wick 609 . In this example, the combination of the channel 631 between the plate-like extension 629 and the wick 609 constitutes the fluid transfer element 604 . As will be described subsequently, the fluid transfer element 604 may further include a hydrophobic mesh 607 (corresponding to that described with reference to FIG. 1 ). In use, when fluid transfer element 604 is compressed and subsequently released, liquid is drawn into channel 631 . This provides a pumping action to transport liquid from the liquid reservoir 606 to the space defined between the plates 629 forming the channels 631 . The space between the plates thus provides a reservoir of liquid or buffer to be accommodated close to the fluid transfer element. This ensures the supply of liquid to the fluid transfer element 604 and reduces the risk of running out of liquid in the fluid transfer element 604 .

A portion of the liquid contained in the wick 609 is released from the contact surface 610 when the wick 609 is compressed by deforming the outward facing contact surface 610 with respect to the cartridge. That is, the fluid transfer element 604 has a flexible contact surface.

The surface of the wick 609 facing outward from the cartridge 611 may form a flexible contact surface 610 of the fluid transfer element 604 . In some embodiments, the fluid transfer element 604 may further include a hydrophobic mesh 607 arranged on the surface of the wick 609 facing outward from the cartridge 611 . When hydrophobic mesh 609 is included, hydrophobic mesh 507 can be configured as contact surface 510 . The hydrophobic nature of mesh 607 serves two primary functions. First, the hydrophobic nature prevents liquid stored in the wick 609 from escaping through the mesh 607 when the wick 609 and mesh 607 are not compressed. Second, when the liquid passes through the mesh 607 after compression, the hydrophobic nature causes the liquid to form droplets on the surface of the mesh 607 rather than passing it back through the mesh 607 . In this way, droplets can be adsorbed onto the heater.

In some examples, cartridge 611 is a disposable consumable to be replaced after depletion of the liquid stored in the cartridge. The expired cartridge 611 is removed from the e-cigarette, and a new cartridge 611 filled with liquid is inserted into the e-cigarette.

The use of cartridge 611 described with reference to FIGS. 6 and 7 means that the cartridge provides a smaller portion of liquid to be extracted for heating, rather than heating a larger volume of liquid in the liquid tank to produce vapor. It provides a power saving advantage similar to that described with reference to FIGS. 1 and 2 in that respect.

In another example, cartridge 611 is reusable and refillable. For example, the plug 627 can be removed from the housing 641 so that additional liquid can be added. The plug can then be re-equipped and the cartridge reconnected to the e-cigarette.

8A and 8B show cross-sectional views of another embodiment of a vaporizer system 800 for an electronic cigarette. Similar to the previously described embodiments, the system of FIGS. 8A and 8B is configured to provide dosing capability and prevent the heater 805 from transferring heat to the liquid reservoir or cartridge 811 . As illustrated, vaporizer system 800 includes a liquid reservoir or cartridge 811 in a pedestal 890 of a housing 829 of the main body of the electronic cigarette, a fluid transfer component 804 and a heater 805 . . The liquid reservoir or cartridge 811, fluid transfer component 804, and heater are configured as separate parts. Rather than being housed in cartridge 811 , fluid transfer component 804 may be a separate component and may include chamber 855 , fluid transfer element 857 , piercing member 833 , and a fluid transfer surface (or heater contact surface). (810). A separate part of the vaporizer system allows the liquid reservoir to have a simple structure, which makes it easy to produce.

The fluid transfer component 804 has a shape corresponding to the contact area of the heater 805 . The fluid transfer component 804 may be disc-shaped with a piercing member 833 extending from one side toward the cartridge 811 or cartridge pedestal 890 in the e-cigarette, arranged to be in a particular orientation. As illustrated in FIG. 8A , the fluid transfer component 804 may be removably attached to the housing 839 of the main portion of the e-cigarette. As illustrated in FIG. 8B , the fluid transfer component 804 may be attached alone to a liquid reservoir or cartridge 811 . Optionally, the two portions of the housings 829 , 839 may be separated to allow a user of the e-cigarette to access, remove, or replace the fluid transfer component 804 .

The piercing member 833 is preferably in the shape of an elongate tube with a sharp end 835 and is arranged to penetrate the cartridge or liquid reservoir 811 and contact the liquid in the liquid reservoir of the cartridge 811 . Channels 837 run through elongate spikes to draw liquid through the disk-shaped portion of the fluid transfer component. The piercing member 833 connects the e-cigarette to the cartridge 811 and provides a fluid connection between the main body 839 of the e-cigarette and the liquid reservoir of the cartridge 811 . The penetrating member 833 forms a sealing connection to the cartridge 811 by friction fit to prevent leakage. Optionally, the cartridge 811 has a recess 851 in the surface arranged to engage the penetrating element so that the penetrating element is guided into the contact area on the cartridge 811 . Cartridge 811 is preferably made of a plastic material that is suitably thin to be pierced by piercing member 833 and of suitable stiffness to store vaporizable liquid. In an alternative example, the piercing member 833 may be replaced by a tube arranged to be received in the cartridge 811 . In this example, the cartridge may have a tear-off seal; When the seal is torn, an opening in the cartridge in which the tube is received is exposed. The tube may form a sealing connection to the cartridge by a friction fit in the opening to prevent leakage.

The disk-shaped portion of the fluid transfer component 804 includes a fluid transfer element 857 and a chamber 855 . a first side of the fluid transfer element 857 faces the chamber 855, the chamber being between the fluid transfer element 857 and the elongate spike and in fluid communication with a channel 837 leading through the elongate spike; A second side opposite the first side is the contact surface 810 .

A fluid transfer component 804 is arranged inside the electronic cigarette 800 with a heater 805 . The heater 805 heats the fluid transfer surface 810 by being pushed onto the fluid transfer surface 810 by a motor or solenoid attached by a compression element 803, as described with reference to FIGS. 1 and 2 . can be arranged to deform. Alternatively, the heater 805 may be maintained at a fixed distance from the fluid transfer surface 810 and mounted to a separate compression element 853 , such as a piston or elongate rod, as described with reference to FIG. 5 . can be transformed by In either case, the strain applied to the fluid transfer surface 810 releases a liquid through the fluid transfer surface 810 which is adsorbed and vaporized on the heater 805 . The surface of the heater 805 may comprise a porous ceramic; The capillary action provided by this material may aid in the delivery of the discharged liquid to the heater 805 .

In some embodiments, fluid transfer element 857 is a wick 809 that carries liquid from chamber 855 received through channel 837 , and fluid transfer surface 810 (or contact surface 810 ) faces the heater. the surface of the wick 809 arranged to Optionally, the fluid transfer element may further comprise a hydrophobic mesh 807 (corresponding to that described with reference to FIG. 1 ) covering the surface of the wick 809 arranged to face the heater. When hydrophobic mesh 807 is included, hydrophobic mesh 807 forms the fluid transfer surface 810 (or contact surface 810 ) of the fluid transfer element 857 .

Upon compression of the wick 809 , by deforming the fluid transfer surface 810 , the liquid stored in the wick 809 is released from the fluid transfer surface 810 and adsorbed onto the heater. When the hydrophobic mesh 807 is included, the released liquid passes through the hydrophobic mesh 807 to form droplets on the surface of the hydrophobic mesh 807 which is adsorbed onto the heater.

In use, the cartridge 811 is inserted into the electronic cigarette and pierced by the penetrating member 833 . The liquid in the cartridge 811 is drawn into the wick 809 through the penetrating member 833 by, for example, capillary action and/or pumping due to compression and decompression of the wick 809 . A heater 805 or compression element 853 deforms the contact surface 810 (which, if included, is the surface of the wick 809 or hydrophobic mesh 807 ) and compresses the wick 809 , thereby causing liquid stored in the wick 809 . emits If the hydrophobic mesh 807 is included, liquid is released from the wick 809 through the hydrophobic mesh 807 and the liquid forms droplets on the surface of the hydrophobic mesh 807 . The liquid is adsorbed on the surface of the heater 805 where the liquid is heated to produce vapor. The vapor generated can then be inhaled by the user through the mouthpiece of the electronic cigarette. When the liquid contents in the cartridge 811 are drained, the cartridge 811 can be removed from the piercing member 833 and replaced with a new cartridge 811 or a refilled cartridge, which stores a fresh supply of vaporizable liquid. .

The example described with reference to Figure 8 provides the same advantages as described with reference to Figures 1, 2 and 5 in that only the portion of the liquid absorbed on the heater has to be heated to the vaporization point of the liquid. This requires less energy than, for example, heating a larger volume of liquid contained in a liquid tank to the vaporization point of the liquid. As such, the power saving of this heating results in a longer battery life of the e-cigarette. In addition, the separation of the heater and the liquid reservoir prevents heat diffusion through the liquid reservoir, further wasting energy.

Those skilled in the art will appreciate that features from the various examples described herein may be readily substituted for each other throughout the embodiments, where appropriate.

Claims (12)

An electronic cigarette cartridge (611) comprising a liquid reservoir (606) and a fluid transfer element (604), the fluid transfer element comprising a compressible wick (609) and a flexible contact surface (610);
wherein the fluid transfer element is configured to receive liquid from the liquid reservoir and the flexible contact surface is configured to release the liquid contained in the compressible wick from the electronic cigarette cartridge when the fluid transfer element is compressed. The electronic cigarette cartridge of claim 1 , wherein the liquid reservoir is fluidly connected to the compressible wick by an opening between the liquid reservoir and the fluid transfer element. The electronic cigarette cartridge of claim 1 , wherein the compressible wick is positioned within the liquid reservoir. The fluid transfer element of claim 1, further comprising a plug (627) in which the compressible wick is received, the plug being receivable in the liquid reservoir and having a first end arranged to face a liquid in the liquid reservoir. wherein the buffer is arranged on the first end to transport liquid from the liquid reservoir to the wick by capillary action. 5. The liquid buffer according to claim 4, wherein the liquid buffer comprises a plurality of plates (629) arranged to extend from the compressible wick into the liquid reservoir, and channels (631) are arranged between the plates so that, in use, the liquid acts capillary action. drawn from the liquid reservoir to the compressible wick by The fluid transfer element of claim 1 , wherein the fluid transfer element is located external to the liquid reservoir and the liquid reservoir is engageable by the fluid transfer element so that, in operation, the fluid transfer element transfers a portion of the liquid from the liquid reservoir. An electronic cigarette cartridge for delivery to a heater within the electronic cigarette. 7. The fluid transfer element according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the fluid transfer element further comprises a mesh (607) arranged on a surface of the compressible wick such that the mesh forms the flexible contact surface, wherein the compression wherein the mesh is arranged to allow liquid to pass through the mesh when applied to the compressible wick. The electronic cigarette cartridge of claim 7 , wherein the mesh is hydrophobic. 9. An electronic cigarette for use with the electronic cigarette cartridge of any one of claims 1 to 8, the electronic cigarette comprising a compression element (103; 503) and a heater (105; 505);
wherein the compression element is arranged to compress the compressible wick by moving relative to the fluid transfer element from a first position disengaged from the fluid transfer element to a second position pressing against the flexible contact surface of the fluid transfer element. wherein a liquid (115; 515) is releasable from the wick and adsorbable on the heater. 10. The compression element according to claim 9, wherein the heater (105) is arranged on the compression element (103) so that when the compression element is in the second position the heater is pressed against the flexible contact surface of the fluid transfer element and the compression element is in the second position. a portion of the liquid releasable from the possible wick is adsorbable on the heater;
wherein the heater is arranged to vaporize the adsorbed portion of the liquid (115) when the compression element is released from the contact surface. 10. The method of claim 9, wherein the heater (505) is proximate but separate from the fluid transfer element, and the compression element is in the second position when the compression element (503) is pressed against the flexible contact surface of the fluid transfer element. so that a portion of the liquid is discharged from the compressible wick and adsorbed onto the heater;
and the heater is arranged to vaporize the adsorbed portion of the liquid (515) when the compression element is moved from the second position to the first position. 12. A method of operating an electronic cigarette according to any one of claims 9 to 11, comprising:
moving the compression element to pressurize the flexible contact surface of the fluid transfer element such that liquid is expelled from the fluid transfer element;
establishing a fluid bridge between the discharged liquid and the heater such that a portion of the discharged liquid is adsorbed on the heater; and
heating the adsorbed liquid by the heater to produce vapor when the fluid bridge breaks.

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