Cartridge for a spray device

专利摘要:
A spray device includes a cartridge for a spray device. For example, the vaporizer cartridge and / or its characteristics can improve the management of leaks of vaporizable material from the vaporizer cartridge, regulating the flow of air into and / or near the vaporizer cartridge, heating vaporizable material in the vaporizer cartridge, condensate management in the vaporizer cartridge, and / or other assembly features of the vaporizer cartridge. Related systems, methods, and articles of manufacture are also described.
公开号:FR3087318A1
申请号:FR1911623
申请日:2019-10-17
公开日:2020-04-24
发明作者:Ariel Atkins；Steven Christensen；Alexander M. Hoopai；Eric J. Johnson；Jason King；Esteban Leon Duque；Christopher J. Rosser；Andrew J. Stratton；Alim THAWER；Norbert Wesely；James P. Westley
申请人:Juul Labs Inc；
IPC主号:

专利说明:

Description
Title of the invention: Cartridge for a vaporizing device
Cross reference to related applications [0001] The present application claims priority over the provisional application US 62/915 005, filed on October 14, 2019 and entitled "Cartridge for a vaporizing device", the provisional application US 62/812 161 filed on 28 February 2019 and entitled "Cartridge for a vaporizing device", the provisional application US 62/747 099 filed on October 17, 2018 and entitled "Wicking and heating elements in a vaporizing device", the provisional application US 62/812 148, filed on February 28, 2019 and entitled "Control of tank overflow with constriction points", provisional application US 62/747 055 filed on October 17, 2018 and entitled "Control of tank overflow", request provisional US 62/747 130 filed October 17, 2018 and entitled "Collection and recycling of vaporizer condensate" and patent application US 16/653 455, filed on 15 October 2019 and entitled "Heating element", the whole of which is incorporated here for reference.
FIELD OF THE INVENTION The subject described generally relates to the characteristics of a cartridge for a vaporizer, and in certain examples, relates to the management of leaks of liquid vaporizable material, the control of the air flow in and at proximity to a cartridge, heating of the vaporizable material to result in the formation of an aerosol and / or other assembly characteristics of the cartridge and of a device to which it can be connected in a separable manner.
Field The vaporizer devices which are generally referred to here as vaporizers, include devices which heat a vaporizable material (eg liquid, plant material, certain other solids, wax, etc.) to a sufficient temperature to release one or more compounds from the vaporizable material in a form (eg, gas, aerosol, etc.) which can be inhaled by a user of the vaporizer. Certain vaporizers, for example those in which at least one of the compounds released from the vaporizable material is nicotine, may be useful as an alternative to smoking combustible cigarettes.
Summary For the purpose of summary, certain aspects, advantages and new features have been described here. It should be understood that not all of these advantages can be achieved in any of the particular embodiments. Thus, the subject described can be implemented or realized in a way that achieves or optimizes an advantage or group of advantages without achieving all the advantages as can be taught or suggested here. The various characteristics and headings described here can be incorporated together or separately, except when this is not feasible on the basis of this description and what the skilled person understands from it.
In one aspect, a vaporizer includes a reservoir configured to contain a liquid vaporizable material. The reservoir is at least partially defined by at least one wall and the reservoir comprises a storage chamber and an overflow volume. The vaporizer further includes a manifold disposed in the overflow volume. The manifold includes a capillary structure configured to retain a volume of liquid vaporizable material in fluid contact with the storage chamber. The capillary structure includes a microfluidic feature configured to prevent air and liquid from deflecting from each other during filling and emptying of the manifold.
In a related aspect which can be included in a vaporizer according to the previous aspect, a microfluidic door for regulating the flow of liquid vaporizable material between a storage chamber and an adjoining overflow volume in a vaporizer comprises a plurality openings connecting the storage chamber and the collector and a pinch point between the plurality of openings. The plurality of openings includes a first channel and a second channel. The first channel has more capillary training than the second channel. Optionally, the microfluidic door may include a rim of an opening between the storage chamber and the collector which is flatter on a first side facing the storage compartment than a second more rounded side facing the collector.
In another related aspect which can be incorporated with other aspects, a manifold configured for insertion into a vaporizer cartridge includes a capillary structure configured to retain a volume of liquid vaporizable material in fluid contact with a chamber for storing the vaporizer cartridge. The capillary structure includes a microfluidic feature configured to prevent air and liquid from deflecting from each other during filling and emptying of the manifold.
In optional variants, one or more of the following characteristics can also be included in any workable combination. For example, a main passageway may be included to provide a fluid connection between the storage chamber and an atomizer configured to convert the vaporizable liquid material to a gas phase state. The main passageway can be formed through the structure of the collector.
The main passageway may include a first channel configured to allow liquid vaporizable material to flow from the storage chamber to a wick element in the atomizer. The first channel may have a transverse shape with at least one irregularity configured to allow the liquid in the first channel to bypass an air bubble blocking the rest of the first channel. The capillary structure may include a secondary passageway which includes a microfluidic feature, and the microfluidic feature may be configured to allow the liquid vaporizable material to move along a length of the passageway only with a meniscus which completely covers a transverse surface of the secondary passageway. The transverse surface can be quite small so that, for a material from which the walls of the secondary passageway are formed and a composition of the liquid vaporizable material, the liquid vaporizable material preferably wets the passageway around all of the perimeter of the secondary passage.
The storage chamber and the collector can be configured to maintain a continuous column of liquid vaporizable material in the collector in contact with the liquid vaporizable material in the storage chamber so that a reduction in pressure in the storage chamber relative to the ambient pressure causes the continuous column of liquid vaporizable material in the collector to be at least partially drawn into the storage chamber. The secondary passageway may include a plurality of spaced apart constriction points having a smaller cross-sectional area than the portions of the secondary passageway between the constriction points. The constriction points may have a flatter surface directed along the secondary passageway to the storage compartment and a more round surface directed along the secondary passageway remote from the storage compartment.
A microfluidic door can be positioned between the collector and the storage compartment. The microfluidic door may include a rim of an opening between the storage chamber and the collector which is flatter on a first side facing the storage compartment than a more rounded second side facing the collector. The microfluidic door may include a plurality of openings connecting the storage chamber and the collector and a pinch point between the plurality of openings. The plurality of openings may include a first channel and a second channel, wherein the first channel has a capillary drive greater than the second channel. An air meniscus - liquid vaporizable material reaching the pinch point can be routed to the second channel due to the upper capillary drive in the first channel so that an air bubble is formed to escape into the liquid vaporizable material in the storage chamber.
The liquid vaporizable material may comprise one or more elements from propylene glycol and vegetable glycerin.
A manifold may include a main passageway providing a fluid connection between the reservoir and an atomizer configured to convert the vaporizable liquid material into a gas phase state, in which the main passageway is formed through a structure of the collector. In optional variations, the capillary structure may include a secondary passageway comprising the microfluidic feature and the microfluidic feature may be configured to allow the liquid vaporizable material to travel along a length of the secondary passageway only with a meniscus that completely covers a transverse surface of the secondary passageway. The cross-sectional area can be quite small so that, for a material from which the walls of the secondary passageway are formed and a composition of the liquid vaporizable material, the liquid vaporizable material preferably wets the secondary passageway around the perimeter of the secondary passageway. The storage chamber and the manifold can be configured to maintain a continuous column of liquid vaporizable material in the manifold in contact with the liquid vaporizable material in the storage chamber so that a reduction in pressure in the storage chamber relative to ambient pressure causes the continuous column of liquid vaporizable material in the collector to be at least partially drawn into the storage chamber. The secondary passageway may include a plurality of spaced apart constriction points having a smaller cross-sectional area than the portions of the secondary passageway between the constriction points. The constriction points may have a flatter surface directed along the secondary passageway to the storage compartment and a more round surface directed along the secondary passageway remote from the storage compartment.
In yet another related aspect, a vaporizer cartridge includes a cartridge housing, a storage chamber disposed in the cartridge housing and configured to contain a liquid vaporizable material, an inlet configured to allow air to entering an internal air flow path into the cartridge housing, an atomizer configured to cause the conversion of at least some of the liquid vaporizable material to an inhalable state, a manifold as described in the previous aspect.
In optional variants, such a vaporizer cartridge may include one or more characteristics as described here, such as for example a wick element positioned in the internal air flow path and in fluid communication with the reservoir . The wick element can be configured to suck the liquid vaporizable material from the storage chamber by the capillary action. A heating element may be positioned to cause heating of the wick element to result in the conversion of at least some of the liquid vaporizable material drawn from the storage chamber into a gaseous state. The inhalable state may include an aerosol formed by the condensation of at least some of the liquid vaporizable material from the gaseous state. The cartridge housing can include a monolithic hollow structure having a first open end, and a second end opposite the first end. The collector can be received by insertion into the first end of the monolithic hollow structure.
In yet another related aspect, a reservoir is provided for a cartridge which can be used with a spray device. In one embodiment, the reservoir comprises a storage chamber (for example, a reservoir) for storing the vaporizable material, as well as an overflow volume separable from the storage chamber and in communication with the storage chamber via a vent leading to a passageway in the overflow volume.
The passageway in the overflow volume can lead to an orifice connected to the ambient air. The storage chamber or the reservoir can also comprise a first wick supply, and optionally a second wick supply, respectively implemented in the form of a first cavity and a second cavity passing through a collector placed inside. cartridge. The collector may include one or more support structures which form the passageway in the overflow volume. The first and second cavities can regulate the flow of vaporizable material to a wick housing configured to receive a wick element.
The wick element positioned in the wick housing or the wick element housing can be configured to absorb the vaporizable material flowing through the first and second wick supplies so that, in thermal interaction with an atomizer , the vaporizable material absorbed in the wick element is converted into at least one of a vapor or an aerosol and flowing through an outlet tunnel structure formed through the collector and the storage chamber to reach a opening in the mouthpiece. The mouthpiece can be formed near the storage chamber.
The collector may have a first end and a second end. The first end can be coupled to the opening in the mouthpiece and the second end, opposite the first end, can be configured to accommodate a wick or wick element. A wick housing according to some embodiments may include a set of teeth projecting outward from the second end to at least partially receive the wick element, and one or more compression ribs positioned near the first or second wick supplies and extending from the second end of the manifold to compress the wick member.
In yet another related aspect, a vent can be provided to maintain a state of equilibrium pressure in the storage chamber of the cartridge and to prevent the increase in pressure in the storage chamber up to a point which would cause the vaporizable material to flood the wick housing. The state of equilibrium pressure can be maintained by establishing a liquid seal at the opening of the vent positioned at a point where the storage chamber communicates with a passageway in an excess volume. - full in the cartridge. The liquid seal is established and maintained at the vent, maintaining sufficient capillary pressure so that the menisci of vaporizable material are formed at a portion of the vent leading to the passageway in the overflow volume.
The capillary pressure for the menisci of vaporizable material can be regulated for example by vent structures which form a main channel and a secondary channel which effectively construct a fluid valve to regulate at least one pinch point at the level of l one of the main channel or the secondary channel. Depending on the implementation, the main channel and the secondary channel may have gradually narrowed geometries so that, when the menisci continue to recede, a capillary drive of the main channel decreases at a rate greater than that of the capillary drive of the secondary canal. A gradual reduction in the capillary drives of the main and secondary channels reduces the vacuum of free space in the storage chamber.
In yet another related aspect, the purge pressure of the main channel drops below the purge pressure of the secondary channel due to the gradual reduction in the capillary drives of the main and secondary channels relative to one another. the other. The meniscus in the main channel continues to purge when the purge pressure in the main channel changes, while the meniscus in the secondary channel remains static. The purge pressure involving the receding contact angle of the main channel may drop below the flood pressure involving the advancing contact angle of the secondary channel, causing the main and secondary channels to fill with the vaporizable material.
Therefore, in response to a state of increased pressure inside the storage chamber, the vaporizable material flows in the passageway of the collector (that is to say the volume of excess- full) through the vent, in which the vent is constructed to maintain a liquid seal at the pinch point, desirably, all the time. In some embodiments, the vent is constructed to promote a liquid seal at the opening from which the vaporizable material flows between the reservoir storage chamber and the manifold passageway in the overflow volume. In yet another related aspect, one or more wick feed channels can be used to regulate the direct flow of the vaporizable material to the wick. A first wick supply channel can be formed through the manifold positioned in the overflow volume and independent of the main and secondary channels of the above-mentioned regulating valve. The manifold may include a support structure which forms the first channel or additional wick supply channels. The wick can be positioned in the wick housing so that the wick is configured to absorb vaporizable material flowing through the first channel. Depending on the implementation, the first channel may have a cross-shaped cross section or have a partial dividing wall. The shape of the first channel can provide one or more non-main subchannels and one or more main subchannels which are larger in diameter than the non-main subchannels.
Depending on the implementation, when a main sub-channel or a non-main sub-channel is limited or blocked (for example due to the formation of air bubbles), the vaporizable material can circulate at through an alternative subchannel or a main channel. In a cross-shaped wick feed, a main subchannel may extend through the center of the cross-shaped wick feed. When the main subchannel is limited due to the formation of a gas bubble in a part of the main subchannel, the vaporizable material flows through at least one of the non-main subchannels.
In certain embodiments, the collector may have a first end and a second end, the first end facing the storage chamber and the second end being oriented opposite the storage chamber and being configured for understand the wick housing. A second wick feed can be implemented as a second channel to allow the vaporizable material stored in the storage chamber to flow to the wick while the vaporizable material flows through the first wick feed. The second wick supply may have a cross-shaped cross section.
In one or more aspects, a reservoir for a cartridge usable with a spray device may include a storage chamber configured to contain the spray material. The reservoir can be in operational relation with an atomizer configured to convert the vaporizable material from a liquid phase to a vapor or aerosol phase for inhalation by a user of the vaporizing device. The cartridge can also include an overflow volume to retain at least a certain part of the vaporizable material, for example when one or more factors cause the vaporizable material in the reservoir chamber to circulate in the overflow volume in the cartridge.
One or more factors may include the cartridge which is exposed to a pressure state, which is different from a first ambient pressure state (for example, going from a first pressure state to a second pressure state ). In some aspects, the overflow volume may include a passageway which connects to an air regulation opening or port leading to the outside of the cartridge (i.e. to ambient air ). The passageway in the overflow volume can also be in communication with the reservoir chamber so that the passageway can serve as an air vent to allow pressure equalization in the reservoir chamber. In response to a negative pressure event in the ambient environment of the cartridges, the vaporizable material can be aspirated from the reservoir chamber to the atomizer and converts to vapor or aerosol phases, reducing the volume of vaporizable material remaining in the vapor chamber. tank storage.
The storage chamber can be coupled to the overflow volume by means of one or more openings between the storage chamber and the overflow volume, for example so that one or more openings lead to one or more passageways through the overflow volume. The flow of vaporizable material through the passageway through the opening can be controlled by the capillary properties of a fluid vent leading to one or more passageways or by the capillary properties of the passageways themselves. In addition, the flow of vaporizable material in one or more passageways may be reversible, allowing the vaporizable material to be moved from the overflow volume back into the reservoir chamber.
In at least one embodiment, the flow of the vaporizable material can be reversed, in response to the change in the pressure state (for example, when a second pressure state in the cartridge returns to a first state pressure). The second pressure state can be associated with a negative pressure event. A negative pressure event may be the result of a drop in ambient pressure relative to that of the one or more volumes of air retained in the reservoir chamber or another part of the cartridge. Alternatively, a negative pressure event can result from compression of an internal volume of the cartridge due to mechanical pressure on one or more external surfaces of the cartridge.
A heating element may include a heating part and at least two legs. The heating part may include at least two teeth spaced from each other. The heating part can be preformed to define an interior volume configured to receive the wicking element so that the heating part fixes at least a part of the wicking element on the heating element. The heating part can be configured to be in contact with at least two separate surfaces of the wick element. The at least two legs can be coupled to the at least two teeth and spaced from the heating part. The at least two legs can be configured to communicate electrically with a power source. Energy is configured to be supplied to the heater from the power source to generate heat, thereby vaporizing the vaporizable material stored in the wick element.
In some implementations, the at least two legs include four legs. In certain implementations, the heating part is configured to be in contact with at least three surfaces separated from the wick element.
In some implementations, the at least two teeth comprise a first side tooth part, a second side tooth part opposite to the first side tooth part, and a platform tooth part connecting the first tooth part. lateral with the second part of lateral tooth. The platform tooth portion can be positioned approximately perpendicular to a portion of the first side tooth portion and the second side tooth portion. The first side tooth part, the second side tooth part and the platform tooth part define the interior volume in which the wick element is positioned. In some implementations, the at least two legs are positioned at a distance from the heating part by a bridge.
In some implementations, each of the at least two tabs includes a cartridge contact positioned at one end of each of the at least two tabs. The cartridge contact can electrically communicate with the power source. The cartridge contact can be bent and extend away from the heating part.
In some implementations, the at least two teeth include a first pair of teeth and a second pair of teeth. In some implementations, the teeth of the first pair of teeth are evenly spaced from each other. In some implementations, the teeth of the first pair of teeth are spaced apart by a width. In some implementations, the width is greater at an internal region of the heating element adjacent to the platform tooth portion than the width at an external region of the heating element adjacent to an edge external of the first side tooth part opposite the internal region.
In some implementations, the vaporizer device is configured to measure a resistance of the heating element at each of the four legs to regulate a temperature of the heating element. In some implementations, the heater includes a heat shield configured to isolate the heater from a body of the vaporizer device.
In some implementations, the vaporizer device further includes a heat shield configured to surround at least a portion of the heating element and isolate the heating portion of a body from a wick housing configured to surround at least part of the wick element and the heating element.
In some implementations, the heating part is folded between the heating part and the at least two legs to isolate the heating part from the at least two legs. In certain implementations, the heating part also comprises at least one tongue which extends from one side of the at least two teeth to allow easier entry of the wick element into the interior volume of the part. heating. In some implementations, the at least one tab extends away from the interior volume at an angle.
In some implementations, the at least two legs include a capillary characteristic. The capillary characteristic can cause a sudden change in capillary pressure to thereby prevent the flow of vaporizable material beyond the capillary characteristic. In certain implementations, the capillary characteristic comprises one or more elbows in the at least two legs. In certain implementations, the at least two legs extend at an angle towards the interior volume of the heating part, the at least two bent legs defining the capillary characteristic.
In some implementations, a vaporizer device includes a reservoir containing the vaporizable material, a wick element in fluid communication with the reservoir, and a heating element. The heating element includes a heating part and at least two legs. The heating part may include at least two teeth spaced from each other. The heating part can be preformed to define an interior volume configured to receive the wicking element so that the heating part fixes at least a part of the wicking element on the heating element. The heating part can be configured to be in contact with at least two separate surfaces of the wick element. At least two legs can be coupled to the at least two teeth and spaced from the heating portion. The at least two legs can be configured to communicate electrically with a power source. Energy is configured to be supplied to the heater from the power source to generate heat, thereby vaporizing the vaporizable material stored in the wick element.
A method for forming an atomizer assembly for a vaporizer device may include the step of attaching a wick member to an interior volume of a heating element. The heating element may include a heating part comprising at least two teeth spaced from each other, and at least two legs spaced from the heating part. The legs can be configured to communicate electrically with a power source of the vaporizer device. The heating part is configured to be in contact with at least two surfaces of the wick element. The method may also include the step of coupling the heating element to a wicking housing configured to surround at least a portion of the wicking element and the heating element. The fixing step may also include sliding of the wick element in the interior volume of the heating element.
In some implementations, a vaporizing device comprises a heating part comprising one or more traces of heating element formed integrally and spaced from each other, the one or more traces of heating element being configured to be in contact with at least a part of a wicking element of the vaporizing device, a connecting part configured to receive energy from a power source and direct energy to the heating part, and a cladding layer having a plating material which is different from a material of the heating part. The cladding layer can be configured to reduce the contact resistance between the heating element and the power source, thereby locating the heating of the heating element on the heating part.
In certain aspects of the present invention, problems associated with the condensate which collects along one or more internal channels and exits (for example along a mouthpiece) of certain vaporizer devices can be treated. by including one or more characteristics described here or comparable / equivalent approaches, as those skilled in the art would understand. Aspects of the present invention relate to systems and methods for capturing condensate of vaporizable material in a vaporizing device.
In certain variants, one or more of the following characteristics can optionally be included in any feasible combination.
Aspects of the present invention relate to a cartridge for a vaporizer device. The cartridge may include a reservoir comprising a reservoir chamber defined by a reservoir barrier. The reservoir can be configured to contain vaporizable material in the reservoir chamber. The cartridge may include a vaporization chamber in communication with the reservoir and may include a wick member configured to draw the vaporizable material from the reservoir chamber to the vaporization chamber so that it is vaporized by a heating element. The cartridge may include an air flow passageway which extends through the vaporization chamber. The cartridge may include at least one capillary channel adjacent to the air flow path. Each capillary channel of the at least one capillary channel can be configured to receive a fluid and direct the fluid from a first location to a second location via capillary action.
In an aspect compatible with the current description, each capillary channel of the at least one capillary channel can be gradually narrowed from the point of view of size. Gradual shrinking in size can result in increased capillary training through each capillary channel of the at least one capillary channel. Each capillary channel of the at least one capillary channel can be formed by a groove defined between a pair of walls. The at least one capillary channel can communicate fluidly with a wick. The first location may be adjacent to one end of the air flow path and to a mouthpiece. The at least one capillary channel can collect fluid condensate.
In a related aspect, a vaporizer device may include a vaporizer body comprising a heating element configured to heat a vaporizable material. The vaporizer device may include a cartridge configured to be removably coupled to the vaporizer body. The cartridge may include a reservoir comprising a reservoir chamber defined by a reservoir barrier. The reservoir can be configured to contain the vaporizable material in the reservoir chamber. The cartridge may include a vaporization chamber in communication with the reservoir and may include a wick member configured to draw the vaporizable material from the reservoir chamber to the vaporization chamber to be vaporized by the heating element. The cartridge may include an air flow passageway which extends through the vaporization chamber. The cartridge may include at least one capillary channel adjacent to the air flow path. Each capillary channel of the at least one capillary channel can be configured to receive a fluid and direct the fluid from a first location to a second location via capillary action.
Each capillary channel of the at least one capillary channel can gradually shrink from the point of view of size. Gradual shrinking in size can result in increased capillary training through each capillary channel of the at least one capillary channel. Each capillary channel of the at least one capillary channel can be formed by a groove defined between a pair of walls. The at least one capillary channel can communicate fluidly with a wick. The first location may be adjacent to one end of the airflow passageway and a mouthpiece. The at least one capillary channel can collect fluid condensate.
In a related aspect, a method of a cartridge of a vaporization device may include the step of collecting condensate in a first capillary channel of at least one capillary channel of the cartridge. Each of the at least one capillary channel can be configured to receive a fluid and direct the fluid from a first location to a second location via capillary action. The cartridge may include a reservoir comprising a reservoir chamber defined by a reservoir barrier. The reservoir can be configured to contain vaporizable material in the reservoir chamber. The cartridge may include a vaporization chamber in communication with the reservoir and may include a wick member configured to suck the vaporizable material from the reservoir chamber to the vaporization chamber to be vaporized by a heating element. The cartridge may include an air flow passageway which can extend through the vaporization chamber. The at least one capillary channel may be adjacent to the air flow path. The method may include the step of directing the collected condensate to the vaporization chamber and along the first capillary channel.
The method may include the vaporization step, at the vaporization chamber, of the collected condensate. The first capillary canal can gradually narrow in size. Each capillary channel of the at least one capillary channel can be formed by a groove defined between a pair of walls. The at least one capillary channel can communicate fluidly with a wick. The first location may be adjacent to one end of the airflow passageway and a mouthpiece.
The details of one or more variants of the invention described here are presented in the accompanying drawings and the description below. Other features and advantages of the invention described herein will become more apparent from the description and the drawings and from the claims. The invention described is not however limited to any of the particular embodiments described.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS The attached drawings, which are incorporated here and form part of the present disclosure, represent certain aspects of the invention described here and together with the description, help to explain the principles associated with the described implementations, as proposed below.
[Fig.l] illustrates a block diagram of an exemplary spray device, according to one or more implementations;
[Fig.2A] illustrates a plan view of an exemplary vaporizer body and an insertable vaporizer cartridge, in one or more implementations;
[Fig.2B] shows a perspective view of the spray device of Figure 2A according to one or more implementations;
[Fig.2C] shows a perspective view of the cartridge of Figure 2A, according to one or more implementations;
[Fig.2D] shows another perspective view of the cartridge of Figure 2C, according to one or more implementations;
[Fig.2E] illustrates a diagram of a reservoir system configured for a vaporizer cartridge and / or a vaporizer device to improve the air flow in the vaporizer device, according to one or more implementations artwork ;
[Fig.2F] illustrates a diagram of a reservoir system configured for a vaporizer cartridge or a vaporizer device to improve the air flow in the vaporizer device, according to one or more implementations;
[Fig.3A] [fig.3B] illustrate a sectional view in exemplary plan of a cartridge having a storage chamber and an overflow volume, according to one or more implementations;
[Fig.4] illustrates an exploded perspective view of an example of implementation of a cartridge according to Figures 3A and 3B, according to one or more implementations;
[Fig.5] illustrates a side view in section in plan of a selected split part of a cartridge, according to one or more implementations;
[Fig.6A] illustrates a top view in section of an exemplary cartridge structure, according to one or more implementations;
[Fig.6B] illustrates a side perspective view of the exemplary cartridge of Figure 6A, according to one or more implementations;
[Fig.7A] [fig.7B] [0068] [fig.7C] [0069] [fig.7D] illustrate exemplary embodiments of a cartridge connection orifice having a male construction or female, according to one or more implementations;
[Fig.8] illustrates a top plan view of the cartridge with an exemplary pattern or logo, according to one or more implementations;
[Fig.9A] [fig.9B] illustrate sectional views in perspective and in plan of a split part of an exemplary cartridge, according to one or more implementations;
[Fig.lOA] [fig.lOB] illustrate views in closed and exploded perspective of an exemplary cartridge implementation with a separable structure to house a collecting mechanism, according to one or more layouts artwork ;
[Fig.lOC] [0076] [fig.lOD] [0077] [0078] [0079] [0080] [0081] [0082] [0083] [0084] [0085] [0086] [0087] [ [0089] [0090] [0091] [0092] [0093] [0094] [0095] [0096] [0097] [0098] [0099] [fig.lOE] illustrate front and side views in perspective from exemplary cartridge structural components with a flow management manifold having one or more flow channels, in one or more implementations;
[fig.l IA] illustrates a side plan view of an exemplary single-vent and single-channel manifold structure, in one or more implementations;
[fig.lIB] is a side plan view of an exemplary cartridge with a translucent housing structure containing an exemplary manifold, such as that shown in Figure 11 A, according to one or more implementations;
[fig.l IC] [fig.l 1D] [fig.l 1E] illustrate lateral perspective and plan views of exemplary manifold structures with flow management constrictors integrated in the flow channels, according to one or more implementations;
[fig.HF] [fig.l 1 G] illustrate front and side views of an exemplary collector structure with flow management constrictors in the collector flow channels, according to one or more settings implemented;
[fig.l 1H] illustrates a close-up view of an exemplary collector structure with one or more vents which can regulate the flow of liquid between a storage chamber and an overflow volume in a cartridge, according to a or several implementations;
[fig.l H] [fig.l U] [fig.l 1 K] illustrate perspective views of an exemplary collector structure with flow management regulation, according to one or more implementations;
[fig.l IL] [fig.l IM] [fig.l IN] illustrate front and close-up views of an exemplary flow management mechanism in the collector structure, according to an implementation ;
[fig.110] [fig.HP] [fig.HQ] [fig.l IR] [fig.HS] [fig.HT] [fig.l 1U] [fig.l IV] [0100] [fig.HW ] [0101] [fig. 1IX] illustrate photos when the flow of vaporizable material collected in the exemplary collector of Figures 1 IL to 1 IN is managed to accept the correct purge when the meniscus of the vaporizable material stored in the overflow volume continues to recede , according to one or more implementations;
[0102] [fig.l2A] [0103] [fig. 12B] illustrate examples of manifold structures with several channels and single vent, according to one or more implementations;
[0104] [fig. 13] illustrates a double vent manifold structure and several exemplary channels, according to one or more implementations;
[0105] [fig, 14A] [0106] [fig. 14B] illustrate side views in sectional plan and in perspective of an exemplary collector structure for a cartridge with a double wick supply, according to one or more implementations;
[0107] [fig.l5A] [0108] [fig, 15B] [0109] [fig. 15C] illustrate side plan views in perspective and in additional section of an exemplary collector structure for a structure with double wick supply, according to one or more implementations;
[0110] [fig, 16A] [YES] [fig, 16B] [0112] [fig. 16C] illustrate a side plan view in section of an exemplary cartridge, a lateral plan view of an exemplary wick element housed in a collector structure, and a perspective view of the exemplary cartridge with the collector structure, respectively, according to one or more implementations;
[0113] [fig.l7A] [0114] [fig. 17B] illustrate a perspective view of a first side of a cartridge and a sectional view of a second side of the cartridge having a wick element which projects into the storage chamber, according to one or more implementations ;
[0115] [fig, 18A] [0116] [fig, 18B] [0117] [fig.l8C] [0118] [fig. 18D] illustrate an example of a heating element and an air flow passage way in a vaporizer cartridge according to one or more implementations;
[0119] [fig, 19A] [0120] [fig, 19B] [0121] [fig. 19C] illustrate an example of a heating element and an air flow passageway in a vaporizer cartridge, according to one or more implementations;
[0122] [fig.20A] [0123] [fig.20B] [0124] [fig.20C] illustrate an example of a heating element and an air flow passage way in a vaporizer cartridge, according to one or more implementations;
[Fig.21A] [0126] [fig.21B] illustrate side views of exemplary collector structures which include one or more ribs or bead profiles which support certain manufacturing techniques for attaching the collector to a storage chamber in the cartridge;
[0127] [fig.22A] [0128] [fig.22B] illustrate an example of a heating element, according to one or more implementations;
[Fig. 23] illustrates an example of a part of a wick housing, according to one or more implementations;
[0130] [fig.24] illustrates an example of an identification chip, according to one or more implementations;
[Fig. 25] illustrates perspective, front, side and exploded views of an exemplary embodiment of a cartridge;
[Fig. 26A] illustrates perspective, front, side, bottom and top views of an exemplary embodiment of a manifold with a V-shaped vent;
[Fig.26B] [0134] [fig.26C] illustrate perspective and sectional views of exemplary collector structures with different view angles, with a focus on structural details to fix the placement of a wick member and a wick housing relative to an atomizer toward one end of a cartridge, in one or more implementations;
[Fig.26D] [0136] [fig.26E] [0137] [fig.26F] illustrate top plan views of exemplary wick feed mechanisms formed or structured through the collector, according to one or several implementations;
[0138] [fig.27A] [0139] [fig.27B] illustrate front views of exemplary flow management mechanisms in the collector structure, according to one or more implementations;
[0140] [fig.28] illustrates a front view of an exemplary cartridge containing a structure
exemplary collector; [0141][0142][0143] [fig.29A][fig.29B][fig.29C] illustrate perspective, front and side views, respectively, of an exemplary embodiment of a cartridge; [0144][0145][0146][0147][0148][0149] [fig.30A][fig.30B][fig.30C][fig.30D][fig.30E][fig.30F] illustrate perspective views of an exemplary cartridge at different filling levels, according to one or more embodiments; [0150][0151][0152] [fig.31A][fig.31B][fig.3IC] illustrate front views of an exemplary cartridge as filled and assembled according to one embodiment; [0153][0154][0155] [fig.32A][fig.32B][fig.32C] illustrate front, top and bottom views of an exemplary cartridge air path; [0156][0157] [fig.33A][fig.33B] illustrate front and top views of an exemplary cartridge with an air flow path, liquid supply channels and a condensation collection system; [0158][0159] [fig.34A][fig.34B] illustrate front and side views of an exemplary cartridge body with an external air flow path; [0160][0161] [fig-35][fig.36] illustrate a perspective view of part of an exemplary cartridge with a manifold structure having an air gap at the lower rib of the manifold structure; [0162][0163][0164] [fig.37A][fig.37B][fig.37C] illustrate top views of different exemplary wick feed forms for a cartridge; [0165][0166] [fig.37D][fig.37E] are exemplary embodiments of a collector with a double wick feed implementation;
[Fig. 38] illustrates a close-up view of one end of the wick supply which is positioned close to the wick and configured to at least partially receive the wick;
[0168] [fig.39] illustrates a perspective view of an exemplary collector structure having a wick feed of square design in combination with an air gap at one end of the overflow passageway;
[Fig.40A] illustrates a rear view of the collector structure with four separate ejection sites, for example;
[Fig.40B] illustrates a side view of the collector structure representing in particular a clamp-shaped end portion of a wick supply which can firmly hold the wick in the path of the wick supply , for example ;
[Fig.40C] illustrates a top view of the collector structure with wick feed channels for receiving the vaporizable material from the cartridge storage chamber and leading the vaporizable material to the wick which is maintained in position at the end of the wick feed channels by the protruding ends of the wick feed channels;
[Fig.40D] illustrates a front plan view of the collector structures. As shown, an air gap can be formed at the bottom of the manifold structure at the end of a lower rib of the manifold structure where the manifold overflow passageway leads to a air regulation vent in communication with the ambient air;
[Fig.40E] illustrates a bottom view of the manifold structure with wick supply channels ending in the clip-like projection, which are configured to hold the wick in position on each end;
[0174] [fig.41A] [0175] [fig.41B] illustrate plan and side views in plan of the collector structure with two clamp-shaped end parts of the two corresponding wick supplies;
[0176] [fig.42A] [0177] [fig.42B] illustrate different perspective, top and side views of an exemplary collector with different structural implementations;
[Fig. 43A] illustrates different perspective, top and side views of an exemplary wick housing, according to one or more embodiments;
[Fig.43B] illustrates the components of collector and wick housing of an exemplary cartridge in which a projecting tab is configured in the structure of the wick housing to be received by insertion into a notch or receiving cavity in a corresponding lower part of the collector;
[0180] [fig.44A] illustrates an exploded perspective view of an embodiment of a cartridge, compatible with implementations of the present invention;
[0181] [fig.44B] illustrates a perspective view from above of an embodiment of a cartridge compatible with implementations of the present invention;
[0182] [fig.44C] illustrates a perspective view from below of an embodiment of a cartridge compatible with implementations of the present invention;
[Fig. 45] shows a schematic view of a heating element intended to be used in a vaporizing device compatible with the implementations of the present invention;
[0184] [fig.46] shows a schematic view of a heating element intended for use in a vaporizing device compatible with the implementations of the present invention;
[FIG. 47] represents a schematic view of a heating element intended to be used in a vaporizing device compatible with the implementations of the present invention;
[Fig. 48] shows a schematic view of a heating element positioned in a vaporizer cartridge intended for use in a vaporizer device compatible with the implementations of the present invention;
[Fig. 49] shows a heating element and a wicking element compatible with the implementations of the present invention;
[Fig.5O] shows a heating element and a wick element compatible with the implementations of the present invention;
[Fig.51] shows a heating element and a wick element positioned in a vaporizer cartridge compatible with the implementations of the present invention;
[Fig.52] shows a heating element and a wick element positioned in a vaporizer cartridge compatible with the implementations of the present invention;
[Fig.53] shows a heating element positioned in a vaporizer cartridge compatible with the implementations of the present invention;
[Fig.54] shows a heating element in an unfolded position compatible with the implementations of the present invention;
[Fig.55] shows a heating element in a folded position compatible with the implementations of the present invention;
[Fig.56] shows a heating element in a folded position compatible with the implementations of the present invention;
[Fig.57] shows a heating element in an unfolded position compatible with implementations of the present invention;
[Fig.58] shows a heating element in a partially folded position compatible with the implementations of the present invention;
[Fig. 59] shows a heating element in a partially folded position compatible with the implementations of the present invention;
[Fig.60] shows a heating element in a partially folded position compatible with the implementations of the present invention;
[Fig.61] shows a heating element in a partially folded position compatible with the implementations of the present invention;
[0200] [fig.62] shows a heating element in a partially folded position compatible with the implementations of the present invention;
[Fig.63] shows a heating element in an unfolded position compatible with the implementations of the present invention;
[0202] [fig.64] shows a heating element in a folded position compatible with the implementations of the present invention;
[Fig. 65] shows a heating element in a partially folded position compatible with the implementations of the present invention;
[0204] [fig.66] shows a heating element in a partially folded position compatible with the implementations of the present invention;
[Fig. 67] shows a heating element in a partially folded position compatible with the implementations of the present invention;
[Fig. 68] shows a heating element in a partially folded position and a wicking element compatible with the implementations of the present invention;
[Fig. 69] shows a heating element in a folded position and a wicking element compatible with the implementations of the present invention;
[Fig.70] shows a heating element in a folded position and a wicking element compatible with the implementations of the present invention;
[Fig.71] shows a heating element in an unfolded position compatible with the implementations of the present invention;
[Fig.72] shows a heating element in an unfolded position compatible with the implementations of the present invention;
[0211] [fig.73] shows a heating element in an unfolded position compatible with the implementations of the present invention;
[Fig.74] shows a heating element in an unfolded position compatible with the implementations of the present invention;
[0213] [fig.75] shows a heating element coupled with a part of a vaporizer cartridge compatible with the implementations of the present invention;
[Fig. 76] shows a heating element and a wicking element positioned in a vaporizer cartridge compatible with the implementations of the present invention;
[0215] [fig.77] shows a heating element in a partially folded position compatible with the implementations of the present invention;
[Fig. 78] shows a heating element in a partially folded position and a wicking element compatible with the implementations of the present invention;
[0217] [fig.79] shows a heating element having a plated part, in an unfolded position compatible with the implementations of the present invention;
[Fig.8O] shows a heating element having a plated part, in a folded position compatible with the implementations of the present invention;
[Fig.181] shows a heating element having a plated part positioned in a vaporizer cartridge compatible with the implementations of the present invention;
[0220] [fig.82] shows a perspective view of a heating element in a folded position compatible with the implementations of the present invention;
[0221] [fig.83] shows a side view of a heating element in a folded position compatible with the implementations of the present invention;
[0222] [fig.84] shows a front view of a heating element in a folded position compatible with implementations of the present invention;
[0223] [fig.85] shows a perspective view of a heating element in a folded position and a wicking element compatible with the implementations of the present invention;
[0224] [fig.86] shows a heating element positioned in a vaporizer cartridge compatible with the implementations of the present invention;
[0225] [fig.87] shows a perspective view of a heating element in a folded position compatible with the implementations of the present invention;
[0226] [fig.88] shows a side view of a heating element in a folded position compatible with the implementations of the present invention;
[0227] [fig.89] shows a top view of a heating element in a folded position compatible with the implementations of the present invention;
[0228] [fig.90] shows a front view of a heating element in a folded position compatible with the implementations of the present invention;
[0229] [fig.91] shows a perspective view of a heating element in an unfolded position compatible with the implementations of the present invention;
[0230] [fig.92] shows a top view of a heating element in an unfolded position compatible with the implementations of the present invention;
[0231] [fig.93A] shows a perspective view of a heating element in a folded position compatible with the implementations of the present invention;
[0232] [fig.93B] shows a perspective view of a heating element in a folded position compatible with the implementations of the present invention;
[0233] [fig.94] shows a side view of a heating element in a folded position compatible with the implementations of the present invention;
[0234] [fig.95] shows a top view of a heating element in a folded position compatible with the implementations of the present invention;
[0235] [fig.96] shows a front view of a heating element in a folded position compatible with the implementations of the present invention;
[0236] [fig.97A] shows a perspective view of a heating element in an unfolded position compatible with the implementations of the present invention;
[0237] [fig.97B] shows a perspective view of a heating element in an unfolded position compatible with the implementations of the present invention;
[0238] [fig.98A] shows a top view of a heating element in an unfolded position compatible with the implementations of the present invention;
[0239] [fig.98B] shows a top view of a heating element in an unfolded position compatible with the implementations of the present invention;
[0240] [fig.99] shows a perspective view of an atomizer assembly compatible with the implementations of the present invention;
[0241] [fig.100] shows a perspective view from below of an atomizer assembly compatible with the implementations of the present invention;
[0242] [fig.101] shows an exploded perspective view of an atomizer assembly compatible with the implementations of the present invention;
[0243] [fig.102] shows a perspective view of a heat shield compatible with the implementations of the present invention;
[Fig.l03A] shows a side sectional view of an atomizer assembly compatible with the implementations of the present invention;
[0245] [fig. 103B] shows another side section view of an atomizer assembly compatible with the implementations of the present invention;
[Fig. 104] schematically represents a heating element compatible with the implementations of the present invention;
[0247] [fig.105] shows a perspective view of a heating element in a folded position compatible with the implementations of the present invention;
[0248] [fig.106] shows a side view of a heating element in a folded position compatible with the implementations of the present invention;
[Fig. 107] shows a perspective view of a heating element in a folded position compatible with the implementations of the present invention;
[0250] [fig.108] shows a side view of a heating element in a folded position compatible with the implementations of the present invention;
[0251] [fig.109] shows a top view of a substrate material with a heating element compatible with the implementations of the present invention;
[0252] [fig.l 10] shows a top view of a heating element in an unfolded position compatible with the implementations of the present invention;
[Fig.l 1 IA] shows a perspective view from above of an atomizer assembly compatible with the implementations of the present invention;
[Fig.l 1 IB] shows a close-up view of part of a wick housing of an atomizer assembly compatible with the implementations of the present invention;
[Fig.l 12] shows a perspective view from below of an atomizer assembly compatible with the implementations of the present invention;
[Fig.l 13] shows an exploded perspective view of an atomizer assembly compatible with the implementations of the present invention;
[Fig.l 14A] [0258] [fig.l 14B] [0259] [fig.l 14C] represent a method for assembling an atomizer compatible with the implementations of the present invention;
[Fig.l 15 A] [0261] [fig.l 15B] [0262] [fig.l 15C] represent a method for assembling an atomizer compatible with the implementations of the present invention;
[023] [fig.l 16] represents a flowchart illustrating the characteristics of a process for forming and implementing a heating element compatible with the implementations of the present invention;
[0264] [fig.l 17] illustrates an embodiment of a vaporizer cartridge;
[0265] [fig.l 18] illustrates an embodiment of a mouthpiece of a vaporizer cartridge and / or of a vaporizer device;
[0266] [fig.l 19A] illustrates a side sectional view of a condensate recycling system of a vaporizer cartridge;
[027] [fig.l 19B] illustrates a first perspective view of the condensate recycling system of Figure 119A; and [0268] [fig.l 19C] illustrates a second perspective view of the condensate recycling system of Figure 119A.
When appropriate, the same reference numbers or similar reference numbers denote the same structures, characteristics, aspects or elements or structures, characteristics, aspects or similar or equivalent elements according to one or more implementations.
Detailed description of exemplary embodiments [0271] A vaporizer configured to convert a liquid vaporizable material into the gas phase and / or aerosol phase (for example a suspension of the gas phase and a material in the particulate phase in the air which is in a relative local equilibrium between the phases) can typically include a storage tank or container (also referred to herein as a tank, storage compartment or storage volume) containing a volume of liquid vaporizable material, an atomizer ( which can also be designated by the term atomizer assembly), a heating element (for example an electrically resistive element through which the electric current is caused to pass to result in the conversion of the electric current into thermal energy) which heats the liquid vaporizable material to result in the conversion of at least some part of the m liquid vaporizable material in the gas phase and a wick element (which may be referred to simply as a wick, but which generally refers to an element or combination of elements which exerts a capillary force to draw the liquid vaporizable material from the reservoir to where it is heated by the action of the heating element). The resulting vaporizable liquid material in the gas phase may, in some cases (depending on a variety of factors), then begin (and optionally almost immediately) to at least partially condense as an aerosol in the air. passing through, on, near, around, etc. of the atomizer.
When the liquid vaporizable material in the wick element is heated and converted into the gas phase (and then optionally into an aerosol), the volume of the liquid vaporizable material in the tank is reduced. In the absence of a mechanism to allow the introduction of air or another substance into the empty space (for example a part of the tank volume not occupied by the liquid vaporizable material) created in the tank when the volume of liquid vaporizable material inside is reduced by the conversion into the gas / aerosol phase, this results in a state of reduced pressure (for example an at least partial vacuum) in the tank. This state of reduced pressure can undesirably affect the efficiency of the wick element for sucking the vaporizable material from the storage compartment or tank near the heating element, to be vaporized in the gas phase since the pressure partial vacuum acts against the capillary pressure created in the wick element.
More particularly, a state of reduced pressure in the tank can result in insufficient saturation of the wick and finally in the lack of sufficient vaporizable material which is distributed to the atomizer for the reliable operation of the vaporizer. To counteract the reduced pressure state, ambient air may be allowed to enter the tank to equalize the pressure between the inside of the tank and the ambient pressure. Allowing air to refill the void space in the tank which is created by the vaporized liquid vaporizable material can take place in some vaporizers by passing the air through the tank through the wick element. However, this process may generally require the wicking element to be at least partially dry. Since a dry wick element cannot be easily obtained and / or may not be desirable for reliable operation of the vaporizer, another typical approach is to provide a vent to allow pressure equalization between ambient conditions and in the tank.
The presence of air in the empty space of a tank, whether through the wick or through another vent or vent structure, can create one or more other problems. For example, once the air pressure in the empty space of the tank is equalized (or at least about to be equalized) with the ambient pressure, and in particular when the empty space filled with air increases in volume relative to the total tank volume, creating a negative pressure differential (for example, the air in the empty space being at a pressure higher than the ambient pressure) between the air in the space vacuum and ambient conditions, may lead to leakage of liquid vaporizable material from the tank, for example through the wick, through any vent that is provided, etc. A negative pressure differential between the air in the tank and the present ambient pressure can be created by one or more factors, for example heating the air in the empty space (for example by holding the tank in one hand, by moving the vaporizer from a cold zone to a hot zone, etc.), the mechanical forces which can deform the shape and thus reduce the interior volume of the reservoir (for example the pressure on a part of the vaporizer causes the volume to be deformed tank, etc.), a rapid drop in ambient pressure (for example as can occur in an airplane cabin during air movement, when a car or train enters or leaves a tunnel, when 'a window is opened or closed while a vehicle is moving at high speed, etc.) or the like.
[0275] Leaks of liquid vaporizable material from a reservoir of a vaporizer such as those described above are generally undesirable, since the leakable liquid vaporizable material can create an unintended disorder (for example by staining clothing or other items near the vaporizer), can make its way into a vaporizer inhalation path and thus be ingested by a user, may interfere with the operation of the vaporizer (e.g. fouling a pressure sensor, affecting the operating capacity of the electrical circuits and / or the switches, by clogging up the loading orifices and / or the connections between a cartridge and a vaporizer body, etc.) or the like. Leaks from liquid vaporizable material may interfere with the functionality and cleanliness of the vaporizer.
Examples of vaporizers include, without limitation, electronic vaporizers, electronic nicotine delivery systems (ENDS) or devices and systems with the same structural or functional features or capabilities or similar structural or functional features or capabilities or equivalent. Figure 1 shows an example block diagram of an example vaporizer 100. The vaporizer 100 may include a vaporizer body 110 and a vaporizer cartridge 120 (also referred to simply as vaporizer cartridge 120). The vaporizer body 110 may include a power source 112 (e.g. a battery which can be rechargeable), and a controller 104 (e.g. a programmable logic device, a processor or circuits capable of executing logic code ) to control the distribution of heat to an atomizer 141 to cause a vaporizable material (not shown) to be converted from a condensed form (for example a solid, a liquid, a solution, a suspension, a vegetable material at least partially not treated, etc.) to a gas phase, or more generally, so that the vaporizable material is converted into an inhalable form or a precursor of an inhalable form. In this context, an inhalable form can be a gas or an aerosol, or some other form suspended in the air. A precursor of an inhalable form may include a gas phase state of the vaporizable material which at least partially condenses to form an aerosol at a given time (optionally immediately or almost immediately or alternatively with a certain delay or after a certain amount of cooling) after the gas phase has formed. The controller 104 can be part of one or more printed circuit boards (PCB) compatible with certain implementations and can be used to control certain characteristics of the vaporizer body 110 in association with one or more sensors 113.
As shown, the vaporizer body 110, in some implementations of the present invention, may include one or more sensors 113, vaporizer body contacts 125, a gasket 115 and optionally a cartridge receptacle 118 configured to receive at least a portion of a vaporizer cartridge 120 for coupling with the vaporizer body 110 by one or more of a variety of attachment structures. As discussed above with reference to Figures 7A to 7D, a male or female receptacle construction or some of its combinations can be used to couple the vaporizer cartridge 120 with the vaporizer body 110. For example, in some implementations of the present invention, an internal part of a first end of the cartridge can be received in a cartridge receptacle 118 of the vaporizer body 110 while an external part of the first end of the cartridge at least partially covers a certain part of an exterior surface of a structure of the vaporizer body 110 which forms the cartridge receptacle 118. Such an arrangement for coupling a vaporizer cartridge 120 to a vaporizer body 110 may allow a convenient, easy-to-use assembly method which also provides sufficient mechanical coupling resistance to prevent unintentional separation of the vaporizer cartridge 120 and vaporizer body 110. Such a configuration can also provide the desirable resistance to flex the vaporizer formed by coupling the vaporizer cartridge 120 to the vaporizer body 110. With respect to the vaporizer body contacts 125, it should be understood that the latter can also be designated by the term "receptacle contacts 125", in particular in implementations in which the corresponding cartridge contacts 124 (discussed below) are part of a vaporizer cartridge 120 which is inserted into a receptacle or receptacle-like structure on the vaporizer body 110. However, the terms "vaporizer body contacts 125" and / or "receptacle contacts 125" are also used here since aspects of the present invention are not limited thereto (and can be used to provide various advantages in other es systems different from those in which) the electrical coupling between a vaporizer cartridge 120 and a vaporizer body 110 can take place between the contacts in a cartridge receptacle 118 on the vaporizer body 110 and on a part of the vaporizer cartridge 120 which is inserted into the cartridge receptacle 118.
In some examples, the vaporizer cartridge 120 may include a reservoir 140 to hold a liquid vaporizable material and a mouthpiece 130 to dispense a dose of an inhalable form of the vaporizable material. The mouthpiece can optionally be a component separate from the structure which forms the reservoir 140, or alternatively it can be formed from the same part or from the same component which forms at least part of the one or more walls. of the reservoir 140. The liquid vaporizable material in the reservoir 140 can be a carrier solution in which active or inactive ingredients can be suspended, dissolved or kept in solution, or a pure liquid form of the vaporizable material itself.
According to one implementation, a vaporizer cartridge 120 may include an atomizer 141 which may include a wick or a wick element as well as a heating device (for example a heating element). As mentioned above, the wick member may include any material that can cause capillary pressure to absorb fluid through the wick to transport an amount of liquid vaporizable material to a portion of the atomizer. 141 which includes the heating element. The wick and the heating element are not shown in Figure 1, but are described and discussed in more detail here with reference at least to Figures 3A, 3B and 4. In summary, the wick element can be configured for sucking up the liquid vaporizable material from a reservoir 140 configured to contain the liquid vaporizable material, so that the liquid vaporizable material can be vaporized (i.e. converted to a gas phase state) by the distributed heat of the heating element to the wick element and the liquid vaporizable material is drawn into the wick element. In some implementations, air may enter a reservoir 140 through the wick member or other opening to at least partially equalize the pressure in the reservoir 140 in response to the liquid vaporizable material which is removed from the reservoir 140 during the formation of vapor and / or aerosol.
As shown in Figure 1, the pressure sensor (and any of the other sensors) 113 can be positioned or coupled (for example, by electrical, electronic, physical connection or via a wireless connection) to the control member 104. The control member 104 may be a printed circuit board assembly or another type of circuit board. To accurately measure and maintain the durability of the vaporizer 100, it may be beneficial to provide a resilient seal 115 to separate an air flow path from other parts of the vaporizer 100. The seal 115, which may be a seal, can be configured to at least partially surround the pressure sensor 113 so that the connections of the pressure sensor 113 to the internal circuits of the vaporizer can be separated from a portion of the pressure sensor exposed to the air flow path.
The liquid vaporizable material used with the vaporizer 100 can be provided in a vaporizer cartridge 120 which can be refillable when it is empty or disposable by means of a new cartridge containing an additional vaporizable material of the same type or d 'a different type. A vaporizer can be a vaporizer using a cartridge or a multi-use vaporizer that can be used with or without a cartridge. For example, a multi-use vaporizer may include a heating chamber (for example an oven) configured to receive vaporizable material directly into the heating chamber and also to receive a cartridge or other replaceable device having a reservoir, volume or the like functional or structural equivalent to at least partially contain a usable amount of vaporizable material.
In an example of a vaporizer using a cartridge, the seal 115 may also separate parts of one or more electrical connections between the vaporizer body 110 and the vaporizer cartridge 120. These arrangements of the seal seal 115 in vaporizer 100 can be useful in reducing potentially disruptive impacts on vaporizer components from interactions with one or more environmental factors, such as condensed water, vaporizable material leaking from a tank, and / or condenses after spraying, to reduce air leakage from an air flow path designed in the sprayer or the like.
Air, liquid or other unwanted fluid passing through or being in contact with the vaporizer circuits 100 can cause various undesirable effects, such as modified pressure readings, or can result in the accumulation of unwanted material (e.g. moisture, vaporizable material and / or the like) in parts of the vaporizer 100 where the unwanted material may cause a poor pressure signal, degradation of the pressure sensor or other electrical components, or electric and / or a shorter lifespan of the vaporizer. Leaks in seal 115 can also result in a user inhaling air that has passed over parts of the vaporizer 100 that contain or are made of materials not suitable for inhalation.
[0284] Vaporizers configured to generate at least a portion of an inhalable dose of non-liquid vaporizable material via the heating of a non-liquid vaporizable material may also be within the scope of the invention described. For example, instead of or in addition to a liquid vaporizable material, the vaporizer cartridge 120 may include a mass of plant material or other non-liquid material (for example a solid form of the vaporizable material itself such that a "wax") which is treated and formed to have direct contact with at least part of one or more resistive heating elements (or be heated by radiation and / or by convection by a heating element), which can optionally be included in a vaporizer cartridge 120 or in a part of a vaporizer body 110. The solid vaporizable material (for example one which includes a plant material) can emit only a part of the plant material as a vaporizable material ( for example so that some of the plant material remains as waste after the vaporizable material has been emitted for inhalation) or may be able to have all of the solid material possibly vaporized for inhalation. A liquid vaporizable material may also be capable of being completely vaporized or may include some of the liquid material that remains after all of the material suitable for inhalation has been consumed.
When configured with the vaporizable material and the heating element in the vaporizer cartridge 120, the vaporizer cartridge 120 may mechanically and electrically couple to the vaporizer body 110, which may include a processor, a source of power 112 and one or more vaporizer body contacts 125 to connect to the corresponding cartridge contacts 124 to complete a circuit with the resistive heating element included in the vaporizer cartridge 120. A variety of configurations can be implemented with one or more of the features described here.
In some implementations, the vaporizer 100 may include a power source 112 as part of the vaporizer body 110 while a heating element may be disposed in the vaporizer cartridge 120 configured to couple with the body vaporizer 110. Configured thus, the vaporizer 100 may include electrical connection features to terminate a circuit that includes the controller 104, the power source 112, and the heating element included in the vaporizer cartridge 120.
The connection characteristics may, in certain implementations of the present invention, include at least two cartridge contacts 124 on a lower surface of the vaporizer cartridge 120 and at least two contacts 125 arranged near a base from the vaporizer cartridge receptacle 100, so that the cartridge contacts 124 and receptacle contacts 125 make electrical connections when the vaporizer cartridge 120 is inserted into and coupled with the cartridge receptacle 118. In some implementations of In the present invention, the vaporizer body contacts 125 may be compressible pins (e.g., POGO pins) which are retracted under pressure from the corresponding cartridge contacts 124 when a vaporizer cartridge is inserted and fixed in the receptacle. cartridge 118. Other configurations are also contemplated. For example, brush contacts can be used which can make electrical connections to the corresponding contacts on a coupling portion of a vaporizer cartridge. Such contacts do not need to make an electrical connection to the cartridge contacts on a lower end of the vaporizer cartridge 120, but rather can be coupled by being pushed outward from one or more side walls of the cartridge receptacle 118 against the cartridge contacts 124 on a portion of one side of the vaporizer cartridge 120 which is in the receptacle when the vaporizer cartridge 120 is properly inserted into the cartridge receptacle 118.
The circuit terminated by the electrical connections can allow the distribution of electric current to the resistive heating element and can also be used for additional functions such as for measuring a resistance of the resistive heating element for use for purposes for determining or regulating the temperature of the resistive heating element on the basis of a thermal coefficient of resistivity of the resistive heating element, for identifying a vaporizer cartridge 120 on the basis of one or more electrical characteristics d '' a resistive heating element or other circuits of the vaporizer cartridge 120.
In some examples, at least two cartridge contacts 124 and at least two vaporizer body contacts 125 (for example receptacle contacts for an implementation in which part of a vaporizer cartridge 120 is inserted into a cartridge receptacle 118) can be configured to electrically connect in either of at least two orientations. In other words, one or more circuits configured for the operation of the vaporizer 100 may be terminated by the insertion (or other assembly) of at least a portion of a vaporizer cartridge 120 into the cartridge receptacle 118 in a first rotational orientation (for example, about an axis along which the end of the vaporizer cartridge having the vaporizer cartridge 120 is inserted into the cartridge receptacle 118 of the vaporizer body 110) so that a first cartridge contact of at least two cartridge contacts 124 is electrically connected to a first receptacle contact of at least two receptacle contacts 125 and a second cartridge contact of at least two cartridge contacts 124 is electrically connected to a second contact receptacle of the at least two receptacle contacts 125.
In addition, the one or more circuits configured for the operation of the vaporizer 100 may be terminated by the insertion (or another assembly) of a vaporizer cartridge 120 into the cartridge receptacle 118 in a second orientation of rotation. so that the first cartridge contact of the at least two cartridge contacts 124 is electrically connected to the second cartridge contact of the at least two cartridge contacts 125 and the second cartridge contact of the at least two cartridge contacts 124 is electrically connected to the first receptacle contact of the at least two receptacle contacts 125. A vaporizer cartridge 120 may be reversibly inserted into a cartridge receptacle 118 of the vaporizer body 110, as provided in more detail here.
In an example of a fixing structure for coupling a vaporizer cartridge 120 to a vaporizer body 110, the vaporizer body 110 may include a snap (for example a notch, a protrusion, etc.) protruding toward the interior from an internal surface of the cartridge receptacle 118. One or more external surfaces of the vaporizer cartridge 120 may include corresponding recesses (not shown in Figure 1) which can fit or snap onto these notches when one end of the vaporizer cartridge 120 is inserted into the cartridge receptacle 118 on the vaporizer body 110.
The vaporizer cartridge 120 and the vaporizer body 110 can be coupled, for example, by inserting one end of the vaporizer cartridge 120 into the cartridge receptacle 118 of the vaporizer body 110. The snap-fastening in the vaporizer body 110 can fit in and / or be held in the recesses of the vaporizer cartridge 120 to hold the vaporizer cartridge 120 in place when assembled. Such a recess snap assembly can provide sufficient support to hold the vaporizer cartridge 120 in place to ensure sufficient contact between the at least two cartridge contacts 124 and the at least two receptacle contacts 125, while allowing releasing the vaporizer cartridge 120 from the vaporizer body 110 when a user pulls, with reasonable force, on the vaporizer cartridge 120 to disengage the vaporizer cartridge 120 from the cartridge receptacle 118.
In addition to the discussion above concerning the electrical connections between the vaporizer cartridge 120 and the vaporizer body 110 which is reversible so that at least two directions of rotation of the vaporizer cartridge 120 in the receptacle of cartridge 118 may be possible, in some implementations of vaporizer 100, the shape of the vaporizer cartridge 120 or at least one shape of the end of the vaporizer cartridge 120 which is configured for insertion into the cartridge receptacle 118, can have a rotation symmetry of at least two orders. In other words, the vaporizer cartridge 120 and at least the mechanical coupling characteristics and the electrical contacts on the insertable end of the vaporizer cartridge 120 may be symmetrical following a rotation of 180 ° around the axis along which the vaporizer cartridge 120 is inserted into the cartridge receptacle 118. In such a configuration, the circuits of the vaporizer 100 can withstand an identical operation regardless of which takes place the symmetrical orientation of the vaporizer cartridge 120. It it should be understood that the entire insertable end of the cartridge is not necessarily symmetrical in all the implementations of the present invention. For example, a vaporizer cartridge 120 which has symmetrical mechanical characteristics in rotation to engage cooperatively with corresponding characteristics inside or outside of a cartridge receptacle 118, which is formed and sized for fit inside the cartridge receptacle 118 of the vaporizer body 110 and which also has electrical cartridge contacts 124 with rotational symmetry and internal circuits (which may optionally be in each or both of the cartridge vaporizer 120 and the vaporizer body 110) which are compatible with the reversal of the electrical contacts, is compatible with the present description even if the whole shape and appearance of the insertable end of the vaporizer cartridge 120 does not is not symmetrical in rotation.
As mentioned above, in certain exemplary embodiments, the vaporizer cartridge 120 or at least one end of the vaporizer cartridge 120, is configured for insertion into the cartridge receptacle 118 and may have a section non-circular transverse transverse to the axis along which the vaporizer cartridge 120 is inserted into the cartridge receptacle 118. For example, the non-circular cross-section can be approximately rectangular, approximately elliptical (for example having an approximately oval shape) , not rectangular but with two sets of opposite sides which are parallel or approximately parallel (for example having a non-parallelogram shape) or other shapes having a rotational symmetry of at least two orders. In this context, having approximately a shape indicates that a basic resemblance to the described shape is clear, but that the sides of the shape in question do not need to be completely linear and the vertices do not have no need to be completely salient. A certain amount of rounding of the two or each of the edges or vertices of the cross-section is contemplated in the description of any of the non-circular cross sections with reference here.
The at least two cartridge contacts 124 and the at least two receptacle contacts 125 can take different forms. For example, one or both sets of contacts may include conductive pins, tabs, studs, receptacle holes for pins or studs, or the like. Certain types of contacts may include springs or other thrust characteristics to cause better physical and electrical contact between the contacts on the vaporizer cartridge and the vaporizer body. The electrical contacts may be gold plated and / or may include other materials.
A vaporizer 100 compatible with the implementations of the present invention can be configured to connect (for example with a wireless or wired connection) to one or more computer devices in communication with the vaporizer 100. To this end , the controller 104 may include communications equipment 105. The controller 104 may also include a memory 108. A computing device may be a component of a vaporizer system which also includes the vaporizer 100, and may include independent communication equipment, which can establish a wireless communication channel with the communication equipment 105 of the vaporizer 100.
A computer device used as part of the vaporizer system may include a generic computer device (eg, smartphone, tablet, personal computer, other portable device such as a smartwatch or the like) which runs software to produce a user interface to allow a user of the device to interact with a vaporizer 100. In other implementations, a device used as part of the vaporizer system may be dedicated hardware such as a remote control or other device wireless or wired having one or more physical or software interface commands (e.g. configurable on a screen or other display device and capable of being selected via user interaction with a touch screen or other display device input like a mouse, pointer, trackball, cursor buttons or similar). The vaporizer 100 may also include one or more inputs 117 or devices for providing information to the user.
A computer device which is part of a vaporizer system, as defined above can be used or any of one or more functions, such as dosage control (for example dose monitoring, dose setting, dose limitation, user tracking, etc.), session control (e.g. session monitoring, session setting, session limitation, user monitoring, etc.), monitoring nicotine delivery (e.g. switching between nicotine and nicotine-free vaporizable material, adjusting the amount of nicotine dispensed, etc.), obtaining location information (e.g. location other users, mall / retailer locations, vaping locations, relative or absolute location of the vaporizer itself, etc.), customization of the vaporizer (e.g. name the vaporizer, block / protect the vaporizer with a password, adjust one or more parental controls, associate the vaporizer with a group of users, register the vaporizer with a manufacturer or a warranty maintenance organization, etc.), engagement in activities social (e.g. social media communications, interaction with one or more groups, etc.) with other users or the like. The terms "session", "session", "vaporizer session" or "vaporizer session" can be used to refer to a period of time spent using the vaporizer. The period may include a period of time, a number of doses, an amount of vaporizable material, or the like.
In the example in which a computer device provides signals relating to the activation of the resistive heating element, or in other examples to the coupling of a computer device with a vaporizer 100 for the implementation of different control functions or the like, the computing device executes one or more sets of computing instructions to provide a user interface and manipulation of underlying data. In one example, the detection by the computing device of user interaction with one or more user interface elements can cause the computing device to signal the vaporizer 100 to activate the heating element, at a total operating temperature for the creation of '' an inhalable dose of vapor / aerosol. Other functions of the vaporizer 100 can be controlled by the interaction of a user with a user interface on a computer device in communication with the vaporizer 100. [0300] In certain embodiments, a vaporizer cartridge 120 usable with a vaporizer body 110 may include an atomizer 141 having a wicking element and a heating element. Alternatively, one or both of the wicking element and the heating element may (may) be part of the vaporizer body 110. In implementations in which any part of the atomizer 141 (for example a heating element or a wick element) is part of the vaporizer body 110, the vaporizer 100 can be configured to supply the liquid vaporizable material from a reservoir 140 in the vaporizer cartridge to the wick and other parts of the atomizer, such as a wick element, a heating element, etc. Capillary structures which include a wicking element are understood by those of skill in the art as only one of the potential embodiments usable with other features described herein.
The activation of the heating element can be caused by the automatic detection of the puff on the basis of one or more signals generated by one or more sensors 113, such as for example a pressure sensor or sensors arranged to sense pressure along the air flow path relative to ambient pressure (or may measure changes in absolute pressure), one or more motion sensors of vaporizer 100, one or more flow sensors vaporizer 100, a capacitive lip sensor of vaporizer 100; in response to detection of user interaction with one or more input devices 116 (eg, buttons or other tactile control devices for the vaporizer 100), receiving signals from a communicating computer device with vaporizer 100 or via other approaches to determine that a puff is taking place or is imminent.
The heating element may be or may include one or more of a conductive heating device, a radiation heating device, a convection heating device. One type of heating element may be a resistive heating element, which may be fabricated with or comprise at least one material (e.g., a metal or an alloy, e.g., a nickel-chromium alloy, or a non-metallic resistance) configured to dissipating electrical energy in the form of heat when the electrical current passes through one or more resistive segments of the heating element.
In some implementations, the atomizer 141 may comprise a heating element which comprises a resistive coil or another heating element wound around, positioned in, integrated in a bulky form of, compressed in thermal contact with, positioned close de, configured to heat air to cause convection heating or arranged to supply heat to a wick member to cause a liquid vaporizable material drawn by the wick member of a reservoir 140 to be vaporized to successive inhalation by a user in a gaseous and / or condensed phase (for example particles or drops of aerosol). Other wick element, heater element, or atomizer assembly configurations may also be possible, as discussed in more detail below.
After the conversion of the vaporizable material into the gas phase, and depending on the type of vaporizer, the physical and chemical properties of the vaporizable material or other factors, at least some of the vaporizable material in the gas phase can condense under particulate form in an at least partial local equilibrium with the gas phase which is part of an aerosol, which may form some or all of an inhalable dose supplied by the vaporizer 100 for a given puff or aspirated on the vaporizer.
It should be understood that the interaction between the gaseous and condensed phases in an aerosol generated by a vaporizer can be complex and dynamic, like factors such as ambient temperature, relative humidity, chemistry (for example interactions acid-base, protonation or its lack of a compound released by the material vaporizable by heating, etc.), the flow conditions in air flow paths (both inside the vaporizer and in the airways of a human or other animal), the mixing of vaporizable material in the gas phase or aerosol phase with other air flows, or the like can affect one or more of the physical parameters and / or chemical of an aerosol. In certain vaporizers, and in particular in vaporizers for the distribution of several volatile vaporizable materials, the inhalable dose may exist predominantly in the gas phase (i.e. the formation of particles in condensed phase may be very limited).
As mentioned here, some vaporizers can also (or may alternatively) be configured to create an inhalable dose of vaporizable material in the gas phase and / or in the aerosol phase at least in part by heating a non-liquid vaporizable material. , such as for example a vaporizable material in solid phase (for example a wax or the like) or a vegetable material (for example tobacco leaves or pieces of tobacco leaves) containing the vaporizable material. In these vaporizers, a resistive heating element can be part of or be incorporated in or in thermal contact with the walls of an oven or other heating chamber in which the non-liquid vaporizable material is placed.
[0307] As a variant, a resistive heating element or elements can be used to heat the air passing through or beyond the non-liquid vaporizable material to cause convection heating of the material. non-liquid spray. Still in other examples, a resistive heating element or elements can be placed in intimate contact with the plant material so that heating by direct conduction of the plant material takes place. from the interior of a mass of the plant material (for example, as opposed to conduction heating inward from the walls of an oven).
The heating element can be activated by means of a control member 104, which can be part of a vaporizer body 110. The control member 104 can cause the current to pass through the power source 112 by a circuit comprising the resistive heating element, which can be part of a vaporizer cartridge 120. The control member 104 can be activated in association with a user puff (for example suction, inhalation, etc.) on a mouthpiece 130 of the vaporizer 100 which can cause the air to flow through an air inlet, along an air flow path which passes through an atomizer 141. An atomizer 141 may include a wick in combination with a heating element, for example.
The air flow, caused by the puff of the user, can pass through one or more zones or chambers of condensation in and / or downstream of the atomizer 141 and then towards an air outlet in the mouthpiece. Incoming air passing along the air flow path can thus pass over, through, in the vicinity, around, etc. of the atomizer 141, so that the vaporizable material in the gas phase (or other inhalable form of the vaporizable material) is entrained in the air due to the atomizer 141 which converts a certain amount of vaporizable material into the gas phase. As mentioned above, the entrained vapor-phase material can condense as it passes through the rest of the air flow path so that an inhalable dose of the vaporizable material in aerosol form can be distributed by the air outlet (for example by a mouthpiece 130 for inhalation by a user).
The temperature of a resistive heating element of a vaporizer 100 may depend on one or more factors, including an amount of electrical energy distributed to the resistive heating element or a duty cycle at which the electrical energy is distributed, a heat transfer by conduction and / or by radiation to the other parts of the vaporizer 100 or to the environment, a specific heat transfer to the air and / or liquid or to the vaporizable material in the gaseous phase (for example making raise the temperature of a vaporizable material to its vaporization point or by raising a temperature of a gas such as air and / or air mixed with the vaporizable vaporizable material), latent heat losses due to vaporization of a vaporizable material from the wick and / or the atomizer 141 as a whole, heat losses by convection due to the flow of air (for example, air moving on the heating element or the atomizer 141 as a whole when a user inhales the vaporizer 100), etc.
As mentioned above, to reliably activate the heating element or to heat the heating element to a desired temperature, a vaporizer 100 can, in certain implementations, use signals from a sensor. pressure to determine when a user inhales. The pressure sensor can be positioned in the air flow path or can be connected (for example, by a passageway or other path) to an air flow path connecting an inlet so that the air enters the device and an outlet through which the user inhales the resulting vapor and / or the resulting aerosol so that the pressure sensor undergoes pressure changes simultaneously with the passage of air through the vaporizer 100 of the air inlet at the air outlet. In certain implementations, the heating element can be activated in association with a puff of the user, for example by the automatic detection of the puff, for example by the pressure sensor which detects a change of pressure in the trajectory d air flow.
Referring to Figures 1, 2A and 2B, the vaporizer cartridge 120 can be detachably inserted into the vaporizer body 110 by means of the cartridge receptacle 118. As seen in Figure 2A which illustrates a plan view of a vaporizer body 110 near a vaporizer cartridge 120, a reservoir 140 of the vaporizer cartridge 120 may be formed as a whole or in part from a translucent material so that a level of the material vaporizable liquid 102 in the vaporizer cartridge 120 may be visible. The vaporizer cartridge 120 can be configured so that the level of vaporizable material 102 in the reservoir 140 of the vaporizer cartridge 120 remains visible through a window in the vaporizer body 110 when the vaporizer cartridge 120 is received in the receptacle of a cartridge 118. As a variant or in addition, a level of liquid vaporizable material 102 in the reservoir 140 can be observed by an outer wall or transparent or translucent window formed in an outer wall of the vaporizer cartridge 120.
Embodiments of Air Flow Path [0313] With reference to FIGS. 2C and 2D, an exemplary vaporizer cartridge 120 is illustrated in which an air flow path 134 is created during a puff by a user on the vaporizer 100. The air flow path 134 can direct the air to a vaporization chamber 150 (see, for example, Figure 2D) contained in a wick housing where the air is combined with the inhalable aerosol for dispensing to a user via a mouthpiece 130, which may also be part of the vaporizer cartridge 120. The vaporization chamber 150 may include and / or at least partially surround an atomizer 141 compatible with the rest of this description. For example, when a user pulls on the vaporizer 100, the air flow path 134 may pass between an outer surface of the vaporizer cartridge 120 (e.g., window 132) and an inner surface of a receptacle cartridge 118 on the vaporizer body 110. Air can then be drawn into an insertable end 122 of the cartridge, through the vaporization chamber 150 which includes or contains the heating element and the wicking element, and exits via an outlet 136 of the mouthpiece 130 for dispensing the inhalable aerosol to a user. Other air flow path configurations are also within the scope of this description, including but not limited to those discussed in more detail below.
Ligure 2D shows additional features which can be included in a vaporizer cartridge 120 compatible with the present invention. For example, the vaporizer cartridge 120 may include a plurality of cartridge contacts (such as the cartridge contacts 124) disposed on the insertable end 122, which is configured to be inserted into the cartridge receptacle 118 of a body of vaporizer 110. The cartridge contacts 124 may optionally be part of a single piece of metal which forms a conductive structure (such as conductive structure 126) connected to one of the two ends of a resistive heating element. The conductive structure may optionally form opposite sides of a heating chamber and may optionally serve as heat shields and / or heat sinks to reduce the transmission of heat to the outer walls of the vaporizer cartridge 120. Other details of this aspect is described below.
Ligure 2D also represents a cannula 128 (which is an example of a more general concept also designated here as being an air flow passageway) in the vaporizer cartridge 120 which defines part of the air flow path 134 passing between a heating chamber (also referred to herein as an atomizer chamber, a vaporization chamber, or the like), which may be formed at least in part by the conductive structure 126 and the mouthpiece 130. This configuration causes air to descend around the insertable end 122 of the vaporizer cartridge 120 into the cartridge receptacle 118 and then return in the opposite direction after passing around the insertable end 122 ( for example an end opposite the end which includes the mouthpiece 130) of the vaporizer cartridge 120 when it enters the cartridge body towards the vaporization chamber 150. The air flow path 134 then moves inside the vaporizer cartridge 120, via one or more internal tubes or channels (such as the cannula 128) and through one or more outlets (such as outlet 136) formed in the mouthpiece 130.
Pressure equalization vent [0316] As mentioned above, the removal of the vaporizable material 102 from the reservoir 140 (for example via capillary suction by the wick element) can create an at least partial vacuum (for example a reduced pressure created in a part of the tank which has been emptied by the consumption of the liquid vaporizable material) relative to the ambient air pressure in the tank 140, and this vacuum can interfere with the capillary action provided by the element of wick. This reduced pressure may, in some examples, be large enough to reduce the efficiency of the wick member for sucking the liquid vaporizable material 102 into the vaporization chamber 150, thereby reducing the efficiency of the vaporizer 100 for vaporizing a desired amount vaporizable material 102, such as when a user puffs on the vaporizer 100. In extreme cases, a vacuum created in the reservoir 140 can result from the inability to suck all of the vaporizable material 102 into the vaporization chamber 150 , thus leading to incomplete use of the vaporizable material 102. One or more vent characteristics may be included in association with a vaporizer reservoir 140 (regardless of the positioning of the reservoir 140 in a vaporizer cartridge 120 or elsewhere in a vaporizer) to allow at least partially equalization (optionally equalized completely) the pressure in the tank 140 with the ambient pressure (for example the pressure of the ambient air outside the tank 140) to reduce this problem.
In some cases, while the authorization for pressure equalization in the reservoir 140 improves the distribution efficiency of the liquid vaporizable material in the atomizer 141, it does so by bringing the empty volume, otherwise empty ( eg the space emptied by the use of the liquid vaporizable material) in the reservoir 140, to be filled with air. As discussed in more detail below, this empty volume filled with air can then undergo pressure changes relative to ambient air, which results, under certain conditions, in the leakage of the liquid vaporizable material from the reservoir 140 and finally outside of a vaporizer cartridge 120 and / or another part of a vaporizer which contains the reservoir 140. Implementations of the present invention can also provide advantages and benefits regarding this problem .
We describe below various characteristics and devices which overcome these problems. For example, various features are described here for regulating the flow of air as well as the flow of vaporizable material, which can provide advantages and improvements over existing approaches, while also introducing additional benefits as described here. . The vaporizer devices and / or cartridges described herein include one or more features that control and improve the flow of air through the vaporizer device and / or chamber, thereby improving the efficiency and effectiveness of vaporizing the material liquid vaporizable by the vaporizing device without introducing additional features which may lead to leakage of liquid vaporizable material.
FIGS. 2E and 2F illustrate diagrams of the first and second embodiments respectively of the tank systems 200A, 200B configured for a vaporizer cartridge (such as the vaporizer cartridge 120) and / or a vaporizer device (such as vaporizer 100) to improve pressure equalization and air flow in the vaporizer. More specifically, the tank systems 200A, 200B illustrated in Figures 2E and 2F improve the pressure regulation in the tank 240 so that a vacuum created in the tank 240 is released after a user has pulled on the vaporizer while by reducing or even eliminating the incidence of leakage of liquid vaporizable material from the vent structure. This allows the capillary action of the porous material (for example a wicking element) associated with the reservoir 240 and the vaporization chamber 242, to continue to effectively suck a vaporizable material 202 from the reservoir 240 into the vaporization chamber 242 after each puff.
As shown in Figures 2E and 2F, the tank systems 200A, 200B include a tank 240 configured to contain a liquid vaporizable material 202. Ee tank 240 is sealed on all sides by the tank walls 232 except by a wick housing area which extends between the reservoir 240 and the vaporization chamber 242. A heating element or heating device can be contained in the vaporization chamber 242 and coupled to the wick element. The wick member is configured to provide capillary action that draws vaporizable material 202 from reservoir 240 to vaporization chamber 242 to be aerosolized by the heater. The aerosol is then combined with the airflow 234 moving along an airflow passageway 238 of the vaporizer for inhalation by a user.
These tank systems 200A, 200B also include an air flow limiter 244 which limits the air flow passage 234 along the air flow passage path 238 of the vaporizer, as when a user pulls on the vaporizer. The limitation of air flow 234 caused by the air flow limiter 244 may allow a vacuum to be formed along a portion of the air flow passage 238 downstream from the air flow limiter 244. The vacuum created along the air flow passageway 238 can help suck the aerosol formed in a vaporization chamber 242 (for example a chamber containing at least a portion atomizer 141) along the air flow path 238 for inhalation by a user. At least one air flow limiter 244 can be included in each of the tank systems 200A, 200B and the air flow limiter 244 can include any number of features to limit the air flow 234 along the air flow passage 238.
As shown in Figures 2E and 2F, each of the tank systems 200A, 200B may also include a vent 246 configured to selectively allow the passage of air in the tank 240 to increase the pressure in the tank 240, in order to releasing the reservoir 240 from negative pressure (empty) relative to the ambient pressure, resulting from the fact that the vaporizable material 202 is sucked out of the reservoir 240, as discussed above. At least one vent 246 may be associated with the reservoir 240. The vent 246 may be an active or passive valve and the vent 246 may include any number of features to allow air to pass through the reservoir 240 to release the negative pressure created in the reservoir 240.
For example, an embodiment of the vent 246 may include a vent passageway which extends between the reservoir 240 and the air flow passageway 238 and comprises a diameter (or more generally, a transverse surface) which is dimensioned so that a fluid tension (also referred to as surface tension) of the vaporizable material 202 prevents the vaporizable material 202 from passing through the passageway when the pressure is equalized on the vent 246 (for example, the pressure in the reservoir 240 is approximately the same as the pressure in the air flow passage 238). However, the diameter (or more generally the transverse surface) of the vent 246 and / or the vent passageway can be dimensioned so that a vacuum pressure created in the reservoir 240 can overcome the tension. of the surface of the vaporizable material 202 in the vent 246 or the vent passageway to cause an air bubble to be released in the reservoir 240 by the vent in response to a sufficiently low pressure in the reservoir 240 relative to at ambient pressure.
[0324] Consequently, a volume of air can pass through the air flow passageway 238 to the reservoir 240 and release the vacuum pressure. Once the volume of air is added to the reservoir 240, the pressure is again more closely equalized on the vent 246, thereby allowing the surface tension of the vaporizable material 202 to prevent the entry of air into the reservoir 240, as well as preventing the escape of the vaporizable material out of the reservoir 240 via the vent passageway.
In an exemplary embodiment, a diameter of the vent 246 or the vent passageway may be in the range of approximately 0.3 mm to 0.6 mm, and may also include diameters in the range of approximately 0.1 to 2 mm. In some examples, the vent 246 and / or the vent passageway may be non-circular, so that it may be characterized by a non-circular cross section along a direction of fluid flow in the vent passage way. In such an example, the cross-section is not defined by a diameter, but rather by a cross-sectional area. Generally, if the cross-sectional shape of the vent 246 and / or the vent passageway is circular or non-circular, in some implementations of the present invention, it may be advantageous for the cross-sectional area of the vent 246 differs along its path between exposure to ambient air pressure and the interior of reservoir 240. For example, a portion of vent 246 closer to outside ambient pressure may advantageously have a surface smaller transverse (for example a smaller diameter in the example in which the vent 246 has a circular cross section) relative to a part of the vent 246 closer to the interior of the tank 240. The more transverse surface smaller closer to the outside of the system can provide greater resistance to the evacuation of liquid vaporizable material while the larger cross-sectional area closer to the interior of the reservoir 240 can provide a relatively reduced resistance for the evacuation of an air bubble from the vent 246 in the reservoir 240. In certain implementations of the present invention, the transition between the smallest area transverse and the largest transverse surface may advantageously not be continuous, but rather imply a discontinuity along a length of the vent 246 and / or the vent passageway. Such a structure can be useful to provide greater overall resistance for the evacuation of the liquid material than for the equilibrium of the reservoir pressure by the release of the air bubbles from the vent 246 because the larger transverse surface near the tank may have a lower capillary entrainment compared to the smallest cross-sectional area exposed to ambient air.
The material of the vent 246 and / or the vent passageway can also help to control the vent 246 and / or the vent passageway, such as by affecting a contact angle between the walls of the vent 246 and / or the vent passageway and the vaporizable material 202. The contact angle can have an effect on the surface tension created by the vaporizable material 202 and then affects the pressure differential of threshold which can be created on the vent 246 and / or the vent passageway before a volume of fluid is authorized to pass through the vent 246, as described above. Vent 246 can include a variety of shapes / sizes and configurations that are within the scope of this description. In addition, various embodiments of cartridges and cartridge parts that include one or more of a variety of vent features are described in more detail below.
The positioning of the vent 246 (for example a passive vent) and of the air flow limiter 244 relative to the vaporization chamber 242 helps the effective operation of the tank systems 200A, 200B. for example, the incorrect positioning of the vent 246 or of the air flow limiter 244 can result in the involuntary leakage of the vaporizable material 202 from the reservoir 240. The present description deals with the effective positioning of the vent 246 and the air flow limiter 244 relative to the vaporization chamber 242 (containing the wick). For example, a small pressure differential or no pressure differential between a passive vent and the wick can result in an effective reservoir system to reduce the vacuum pressure in the reservoir and resulting in the effective capillary action of the wick while preventing leaks. The configurations of the tank system having the effective positioning of the vent 246 and of the air flow limiter 244 relative to the vaporization chamber 242 are described in more detail below.
As shown in Figure 2E, the air flow limiter 244 can be positioned upstream of the vaporization chamber 242 along the air flow passageway 238 and the vent 246 is positioned along the reservoir 240 so that it provides fluid communication between the reservoir 240 and a portion of the air flow passage 238 which is downstream of the vaporization chamber 242. Thus, when a user pulls on the vaporizer, a negative pressure is created downstream of the air flow limiter 244 so that the vaporization chamber 242 is subjected to a negative pressure. Similarly, one side of the vent 246 in communication with the air flow passage 238 also experiences negative pressure.
[0329] Thus, a small to nonexistent amount of the pressure differential is created between the vent 246 and the vaporization chamber 242 during the puff (for example when the user draws or sucks air from the vaporization device). However, after the puff, the capillary action of the wick sucks the vaporizable material 202 from the reservoir 240 to the vaporization chamber 242 to refill the vaporizable material 202 which has been vaporized and inhaled following the previous puff. For this reason, a vacuum or negative pressure is created in the reservoir 240. A pressure differential then takes place between the reservoir 240 and the air flow passage 238. As discussed above, the vent 246 can be configured so that a pressure differential (e.g., threshold pressure difference) between reservoir 240 and air flow path 238 allows a volume of air to pass through the air flow passageway 238 in the reservoir 240, thereby reducing the vacuum in the reservoir 240 and returning to an equalized pressure on the vent 246 and to a stable reservoir system 200A.
In another embodiment, as shown in Figure 2F, the air flow limiter 244 can be positioned downstream of the vaporization chamber 242 along the air flow passageway 238 and the vent 246 can be positioned along the reservoir 240 so that it provides fluid communication between the reservoir 240 and a portion of the air flow passage 238 which is upstream of the chamber Vaporization 242. Thus, when a user pulls on the vaporizer, the vaporization chamber 242 and the vent 246 undergo little pressure or no pressure or a negative pressure following the puff, thus resulting in a small pressure differential at no pressure differential between the vaporization chamber 242 and the vent 246. Similar to the case of FIG. 2E, the pressure differential created on the vent 246 is the result of the capillary action of the wick sucking the vaporizable material 202 in the vaporization chamber 242 after the puff. For this reason, a vacuum or negative pressure is created in the reservoir 240. A pressure differential then occurs on the vent 246.
As discussed above, the vent 246 can be configured so that a pressure differential (for example a threshold pressure difference) between the reservoir 240 and the air flow passage 238 or the atmosphere allows a volume of air to pass into the reservoir 240 thus reducing the vacuum in the reservoir 240. This makes it possible to equalize the pressure on the vent 246 and to stabilize the reservoir systems 200B. Vent 246 can have different configurations and features and can be positioned in a variety of positions along the vaporizer cartridge 120 to achieve different results. For example, one or more vents 246 may be positioned adjacent to or be part of the vapor chamber 242 or the wick housing. In such a configuration, the one or more vents 246 can provide fluid communication (e.g. air) between the reservoir 240 and the vaporization chamber 242 (through which the air flow passes when a user draws on the vaporizer and is thus part of the air flow path).
[0332] Similarly, as described above, a vent 246 placed adjacent to or forming part of the vaporization chamber 242 or of the wick housing can allow air to enter the interior of the vaporization chamber 242 to move into the reservoir 240 via the vent 246 to increase the pressure inside the reservoir 240, thereby effectively reducing the vacuum pressure created due to the vaporizable material 202 which is sucked into the vaporization chamber 242. Thus, the discharge of the vacuum pressure allows continuous profitable and efficient capillary action of the vaporizable material 202 in the vaporization chamber 242 via the wick to create inhalable vapor during subsequent puffs on the vaporizer by a user. The section below proposes different exemplary embodiments of a vented vaporization chamber element (for example an atomizer assembly) which comprises a wick housing 1315, 178 (which houses the vaporization chamber) and at least a vent 596 coupled to or forming part of the wick housing 1315, 178 in order to obtain the effective evacuation above of the reservoir 140.
Embodiments of an Open Face Cartridge Assembly With reference to FIGS. 3A and 3B, an example of a plan view in section of a 1320 cartridge according to an alternative embodiment is shown, in which the cartridge comprises a mouthpiece or mouthpiece area 1330, a reservoir 1340 and an atomizer (not shown individually). The atomizer may include a heating element 1350 and a wicking element 1362, together or separately, depending on the implementation, so that the wicking element 1362 is thermally or thermodynamically coupled to the heating element 1350 in order to vaporize a vaporizable material 1302 aspirated or stored in the wick element 1362.
Plates 1326 can be included in one embodiment, to provide an electrical connection between a heating element 1350 and a power source 112 (see Figure 1). An air flow passage 1338, defined through or on one side of the reservoir 1340, can connect an area in a cartridge 1320 which houses the wick element 1362 (for example a wick housing not shown separately) to an opening that leads to the mouthpiece or a mouthpiece area 1330 to provide a path for the vaporized vaporizable material 1302 to move from the heating element area 1350 to the mouthpiece area 1330.
As proposed above, the wick element 1362 can be coupled to an atomizer or heating element 1350 (for example a resistive heating element or coil) which is connected to one or more electrical contacts (for example the plates 1326 ). The heating element 1350 (and other heating elements described here according to one or more implementations) can have different shapes and / or configurations and can comprise one or more heating elements 1350, 500 or their characteristics, as proposed more specifically. detailed below with respect to Figures 44A-116.
According to one or more exemplary implementations, the heating element 1350 of the cartridge 1320 can be produced (for example stamped) from a sheet of material and crimped around at least part of a wick element 1362 or angled to provide a preformed element configured to receive the wick element 1362 (e.g. the wick element 1362 is pushed into the heating element 1350 and / or the heating element 1350 is held in tension and is pulled on the wick element 1362).
The heating element 1350 can be bent so that the heating element 1350 fixes the wicking element 1362 between at least two or three parts of the heating element 1350. The heating element 1350 can be bent to conform to a shape of at least part of the wicking element 1362. The configurations of the heating element 1350 allow a more consistent and better quality manufacturing of the heating element 1350. The consistency of the manufacturing quality of the heating element 1350 can be particularly important during staggered and / or automatic manufacturing processes. For example, the 1350 heater in one or more implementations helps reduce the tolerance issues that can arise during manufacturing processes when assembling a 1350 heater with multiple components.
The heating element 1350 can also improve the accuracy of the measurements taken from the heating element 1350 (for example, a resistance, a current, a temperature, etc.) due at least in part to the improved coherence of the suitability for manufacturing of the heating element 1350 which has reduced tolerance problems. A heating element 1350 made (for example, stamped) from a sheet of material and crimped around at least part of a wicking element 1362 or bent to provide a preformed element desirably helps to minimize losses of heat and helps ensure that heating element 1350 behaves as expected, to be heated to the proper temperature.
In addition, discussed in more detail below with regard to an included embodiment relating to a heating element formed from crimped metal, the heating element 1350 can be completely and / or selectively plated with one or multiple materials to improve the thermal performance of the 1350 heater. Plating all or part of the 1350 heater can help minimize heat loss. Plating can also help to concentrate heat on part of the 1350 heater, thereby providing a 1350 heater that is heated more efficiently and further reducing heat loss. Selective plating can help direct the current supplied to heater 1350 to the correct location. Selective plating can also help reduce the amount of plating material and / or costs associated with manufacturing the 1350 heater.
In addition or in combination with the exemplary heating elements described and / or discussed below, the heating element may comprise a flat heating element 1850 (see FIGS. 18A-18D) positioned in a vaporizer cartridge 1800 comprising two air flow passageways 1838, a folded heating element 1950 (see Figures 19A-19C, 22A-22B and 44A-116) positioned in a 1900 vaporizer cartridge comprising two airflow passageways 1938, and a folded heating element 2050 (see Figures 20A-20C) positioned in a vaporizer cartridge 2000 comprising a single air flow passage 2038.
As mentioned above, a heating element 1350, in one embodiment, can contain a wick element 1362. For example, a wick element
1362 can extend near or beside the plates 1326 and through resistive heating elements in contact with plates 1326. A wick housing can surround at least part of a heating element 1350 and connect a heating element 1350 directly or indirectly to an air flow passageway 1338. The vaporizable material 1302 can be aspirated by a wick element 1362 by one or more passageways connected to a reservoir 1340. In one embodiment, one or more two of a primary passageway 1382 or a secondary passageway 1384 can be used to assist in routing or dispensing the vaporizable material 1302 at one or both ends of a wicking member 1362 or radially along a wicking member wick 1362.
Embodiments of overflow collector [0342] As proposed in more detail below, in particular with reference to FIGS. 3A and 3B, the exchange of air and liquid vaporizable material in and outside of a 1340 cartridge reservoir can advantageously be controlled, and a volumetric efficiency of the vaporizer cartridge (defined as a volume of liquid vaporizable material which is ultimately converted into inhalable aerosol relative to a total volume of the cartridge itself) also optionally be improved by incorporating a structure designated as being a manifold 1313.
According to certain implementations, a cartridge 1320 can comprise a reservoir 1340 which is partially defined by at least one wall (which can optionally be a wall which is shared with an external shell of the cartridge) configured to contain a vaporizable material liquid 1302. The reservoir 1340 can comprise a storage chamber 1342 and a volume of overflow 1344, which can comprise or contain the collector 1313. The storage chamber 1342 can contain the vaporizable material 1302 and the volume of overflow 1344 can be configured to collect or retain at least some of the vaporizable material 1302, when one or more factors cause the vaporizable material 1302 in the reservoir storage chamber 1342 to move through the overflow volume 1344. In some implementations of the present invention, the cartridge may be initially filled with a liquid vaporizable material so that q that the empty space in the collector is pre-filled with the liquid vaporizable material.
In exemplary embodiments, the volumetric size of the overflow volume 1344 can be configured to be equal, approximately equal to or greater than an amount of increase in the volume of the content (for example the vaporizable material 1302 and air) contained in the storage chamber 1342, when the volume of the content in the storage chamber 1342 expands due to a maximum expected pressure change that the reservoir can undergo relative to the ambient pressure.
Depending on changes in ambient pressure or temperature or other factors, a 1320 cartridge can undergo a change from a first pressure state to a second pressure state (for example, a first relative pressure differential between inside the tank and the ambient pressure and a second relative pressure differential between the inside of the tank and the ambient pressure). In some aspects, the overflow volume 1344 may have an opening outside the cartridge 1320 and may be in communication with the reservoir storage chamber 1342 so that the overflow volume 1344 may serve as a channel vent to provide pressure equalization in the cartridge 1320 and / or manifold and at least temporarily retain and optionally return reversibly the liquid vaporizable material which can exit the storage chamber in response to variations in pressure differential between the storage room and the ambient air. As described here, a pressure differential relates to an absolute pressure difference between an internal part of the tank and the ambient air. The vaporizable material 1302 can be sucked from the storage chamber 1342 to the atomizer and converted to the vapor or aerosol phase, reducing the volume of vaporizable material remaining in the storage chamber 1342 and the absence of some mechanism for bringing the air back to the storage chamber to equalize the pressure there with the ambient pressure, can lead to the at least partial vacuum condition, discussed previously here.
Again with reference to Figures 3A and 3B, the reservoir 1340 can be implemented to include first and second separable zones, so that the volume of the reservoir 1340 is divided into a reservoir storage chamber 1342 and a tank overflow volume 1344. The storage chamber 1342 can be configured to store the vaporizable material 1302 and can be coupled to the wick element 1362 via one or more main passageways 1382. In some examples, a main passageway 1362 can be very short in length (for example a hole emerging from a space containing a wick element or other parts of an atomizer). In other examples, the main passageway may be part of a longer containment fluid path between the storage chamber and the wick element. The overflow volume 1344 can be configured to store and contain portions of vaporizable material 1302 which may overflow from the storage chamber 1342 in a second pressure state in which the pressure in the storage chamber 1342 is greater than the pressure ambient, as proposed in more detail below.
In a first pressure state, the vaporizable material 1302 can be stored in the storage chamber 1342 of the reservoir 1340. The first pressure state can exist, for example, when the ambient pressure is approximately the same or greater than the pressure inside the cartridge 1320. In this first pressure state, the structural and functional properties of the main passageway 1382 and the secondary passageway 1384 are such that the vaporizable material 1302 can flow from the storage chamber 1342 to the wick element 1362 by means of the main passageway 1382, for example by the capillary action of the wick element to suck the liquid near the heating element which serves to convert the liquid vaporizable material in gas phase.
In one embodiment, in the first pressure state, no quantity or limited quantities of vaporizable material 1302 flow in the secondary passageway 1384. In the second pressure state, the vaporizable material 1302 can s flow from the storage chamber 1342 into the overflow volume 1344 of the reservoir 1340 which comprises, for example, a collector 1313 to prevent or limit an undesirable (for example excessive) flow of vaporizable material 1302 out of the reservoir. The second pressure state may exist or be caused, for example, when an air bubble expands in the storage chamber 1342 (for example due to the ambient pressure which becomes lower than the pressure inside the cartridge 1320).
Advantageously, the flow of the vaporizable material 1302 can be regulated by conveying the vaporizable material 1302 driven from the storage chamber 1342 by an increase in pressure up to the volume of overflow 1344. The manifold 1313 in the overflow volume may comprise one or more capillary structures which contain at least a certain part (and advantageously all) of the excess liquid vaporizable material pushed out of the storage chamber 1342 without allowing the liquid vaporizable material to reach an outlet of the collector 1313. The collector 1313 also advantageously comprises capillary structures which allow the liquid vaporizable material pushed into the collector 1313 by the excess pressure in the storage chamber 1342 relative to the ambient pressure to be sucked reversibly in storage chamber 1342 when the pressure is equal e or is reduced in the storage chamber 1342 relative to the ambient pressure. In other words, the secondary passageway 1384 of the collector 1313 may have microfluidic characteristics or properties which prevent the air and the liquid from deviating with respect to one another during the filling and emptying of the collector 1313 That is, the microfluidic features can be used to manage the flow of vaporizable material 1302 both inside and outside of the manifold 1313 (ie, providing features flow reversal) to prevent or reduce leakage of vaporizable material 1302 or trapping of air bubbles in storage chamber 1342 or overflow volume 1344.
Depending on the applications, the microfluidic characteristics or properties mentioned above can be linked to the size, the shape, the surface coating and the capillary properties of the wicking element 1362, the main passageway. 1382 and the secondary passageway 1384. For example, the secondary passageway 1384 in the manifold 1313 may optionally have capillary properties different from the main passageway 1382 which leads to the wick element 1362 to allow a certain volume of vaporizable material 1302 to pass from the storage chamber 1342 into the overflow volume 1344, during the second pressure state.
In an exemplary implementation, the overall resistance of the manifold 1313 to allow the liquid to exit is greater than the overall wicking resistance, for example to allow the vaporizable material 1302 to flow mainly through the path of main passage 1382 towards the wick element 1362 during the first pressure state.
The wick element 1362 can provide a capillary path through or in the wick element 1362 for the vaporizable material 1302 stored in the reservoir 1340. The capillary path (for example the main passageway 1382) can be large enough to allow wicking or capillary action to replace liquid vaporizable material 1302 in wicking element 1362, and may be small enough to prevent leakage of vaporizable material 1302 from the cartridge 1320 during a negative pressure event. The wick housing or wick element 1362 can be treated to prevent leakage. For example, the cartridge 1320 can be covered after filling to prevent leakage or evaporation through the wick element 1362. Any suitable coating, including a heat-vaporizable coating (for example a wax or other material) for example.
When a user inhales through a mouthpiece area 1330, for example, the air flows into the cartridge 1320 through an inlet or opening in operational relation with the wick element 1362. The heating element 1350 can be activated in response to a signal generated by one or more sensors 113 (see Figure 1). The one or more sensors 113 may include at least one of a pressure sensor, a motion sensor, a flow sensor or other mechanism capable of detecting changes in the air flow path 1338 When the heating element 1350 is activated, the heating element 1350 may have an increase in temperature due to the current which flows through the plates 1326. Or else through another electrically resistive part of the heating element which serves to convert electrical energy into thermal energy.
In one embodiment, the heat generated can be transferred to at least part of the vaporizable material 1302 in the wicking element 1362 by means of heat transfer by conduction, by convection or by radiation so that at least part of the vaporizable material 1302 sucked into the wicking element 1362 is vaporized. Depending on the implementation, the air entering the cartridge 1320 flows over (or around, near, etc.) the wick element 1362 and the heated elements in the heating element 1350 and detaches liquid vaporizable material 1302 in the air flow passage 1338, where the vapor can optionally be condensed and dispensed as an aerosol, for example through an opening in the mouthpiece region 1330.
Referring to Figure 3B, the storage chamber 1342 can be connected to the air flow passageway 1338 (that is to say via the secondary passageway 1384 of the overflow volume). full 1344) in order to allow the liquid vaporizable material entrained from the storage chamber 1342 by the increased pressure in the storage chamber 1342 relative to the ambient pressure, to be retained without escaping from the vaporizer cartridge. While the implementations described here relate to a vaporizer cartridge containing a 1340 reservoir, it should be understood that the approaches described are also compatible with and contemplated for use in a vaporizer which does not have a separable cartridge.
Again with reference to the example, the air admitted to the storage chamber 1342 can expand due to a pressure differential with respect to the ambient air. The expansion of this air in the empty space of the storage chamber 1342 can cause the liquid vaporizable material to move through at least a certain part of the secondary passageway 1384 in the manifold 1313. The microfluidic characteristics of the way secondary passage 1384 can cause the liquid vaporizable material to move along a length of the secondary passageway 1384 in the manifold 1313 only with a meniscus which completely covers the transverse surface of the secondary passageway 1384 transverse to the direction of flow along the length.
In certain implementations of the present invention, the microfluidic characteristics may comprise a sufficiently small transverse surface so that, for the material from which the walls of the secondary passageway are formed and the composition of the liquid vaporizable material , the liquid vaporizable material preferably wets the secondary passageway 1384 around an entire perimeter of the secondary passageway 1384. For an example in which the liquid vaporizable material comprises one or more elements among propylene glycol and vegetable glycerin, the wetting properties of such a liquid are advantageously considered in combination with the geometry of the second passageway 1384 and the materials from which the walls of the secondary passageway are formed. In this way, since the sign (for example positive, negative or equal) and the magnitude of the pressure differential between the storage chamber 1340 and the ambient pressure vary, a meniscus is maintained between the liquid in the secondary passageway and the incoming air from the ambient atmosphere, and the liquid and the air cannot move past each other. Since the pressure in the storage chamber 1342 drops sufficiently compared to the ambient pressure and if there is a sufficient vacuum volume in the storage chamber 1342 to allow it, the liquid in the secondary passageway 1384 of the manifold 1313 can be withdrawn into storage chamber 1342 enough to cause the meniscus of liquid - attack air to reach a door or orifice between the secondary passageway 1384 of manifold 1313 and storage chamber 1342. At this time there, if the pressure differential in the storage chamber 1342 compared to the ambient pressure is sufficiently negative to overcome the surface tension maintaining the meniscus at the level of the door or the orifice, the meniscus is devoid of door or orifice walls and forms one or more air bubbles which are released in storage chamber 1342 with sufficient volume to equalize the pressure of the chamber e storage relative to ambient pressure.
When the air admitted to the storage chamber 1340, as discussed above (or indeed and present here) undergoes a condition of high pressure relative to the ambient pressure (for example due to a drop in ambient pressure as this can happen in an airplane cabin or other places at high altitude, when a window of a moving vehicle is opened, when a train or vehicle exits a tunnel, etc. or internal pressure rise in the storage chamber 1340 as can occur due to local heating, mechanical pressure which distorts a shape and thus reduces a volume of the storage chamber 1340, etc. or the like), one can reverse the process described above. Liquid passes through the door or orifice in the secondary passageway 1384 of the manifold 1313 and a meniscus is formed at the leading edge of a column of liquid passing through the secondary passageway 1384 to prevent the air to deflect and flow in the opposite direction to the progression of the liquid. Maintaining this meniscus due to the presence of the microfluidic properties mentioned above, when the high pressure in the storage chamber 1340 is subsequently reduced, the column of liquid is withdrawn in the storage chamber, optionally until the meniscus reaches the span or orifice. If the pressure differential sufficiently favors the ambient pressure over the pressure in the storage chamber, the bubble formation process described above takes place until the pressures equalize. In this way, the collector serves as a reversible overflow volume which accepts the liquid vaporizable material pushed out of the storage chamber under transient conditions of storage chamber pressure greater than the ambient pressure and allows a certain part (and desirably all or at most) of this overflow volume to be returned to the storage compartment for later distribution to an atomizer for conversion to an inhalable form.
[0359] Depending on the implementation, the storage chamber 1342 may or may not be connected to the wick element 1362 via the secondary passageway 1384. In embodiments in which a second end of the secondary passageway 1384 leads to wick element 1362, the vaporizable material 1302 which can exit from the secondary passageway 1384 at the second end (opposite a first end defining the connection point to the storage chamber 1342) can also saturate the wicking element 1362.
The storage chamber 1342 can optionally be positioned closer to one end of the reservoir 1340 which is close to the mouthpiece area 1330. The volume of overflow 1344 can be positioned near a end of the reservoir 1340 closer to the heating element 1350, for example between the storage chamber 1342 and the heating element 1350. The exemplary embodiments shown in the Ligures should not be interpreted as limiting the scope of the claimed invention as for the position of the various components described here. For example, the overflow volume 1344 can be positioned on the upper, central or lower part of the cartridge 1320. The location and positioning of the storage chamber 1342 can be adjusted relative to the position of the excess volume -full 1344, so that the storage chamber 1342 can be positioned on the upper, central or lower part of the cartridge 1320 according to one or more variants.
In one implementation, when the vaporizer cartridge 1320 is filled to full capacity, the volume of liquid vaporizable material can be equal to the internal volume of the storage chamber 1342 plus the volume of overflow 1344 (which can , in some examples, be the volume of the secondary passageway 1384 between the door or the orifice connecting the secondary passageway 1384 to the storage chamber 1340) and an outlet of the secondary passageway 1384. En d ' in other words, a vaporizer cartridge compatible with the implementations of the present invention can be filled from the outset with the liquid vaporizable material so that all or at least part of the internal volume of the collector is filled with the liquid vaporizable material. . In such an example, the liquid vaporizable material is dispensed to an atomizer, if necessary, for dispensing to a user. The liquid vaporizable material dispensed can be sucked through the storage chamber 1340, thereby causing the liquid in the secondary passageway 1384 of the manifold 1313 to be sucked back into the storage chamber 1340, since air cannot enter the secondary passageway 1384 due to the meniscus maintained by the microfluidic properties of the secondary passageway 1384 which prevent air from flowing past the liquid vaporizable material in the secondary passageway 1384. After qu a sufficient quantity of liquid vaporizable material has been delivered to the atomizer from the storage chamber 1340 (for example for vaporization and inhalation of the user) to cause the original volume of the collector 1313 to be sucked into storage chamber 1340, the action discussed above occurs - air bubbles can be released through a door or opening between the pitch secondary sage 1384 and the storage chamber to equalize the pressure in the storage compartment since more liquid vaporizable material is used. When the air which has thus entered the storage compartment is subjected to a high pressure relative to the ambient pressure, the liquid vaporizable material leaves the storage chamber 1340 through the door or the orifice in the secondary passageway up to until the high pressure condition in the storage compartment no longer exists, at which point the liquid vaporizable material in the secondary passageway 1384 can be drawn back into the storage chamber 1340.
In some embodiments, the overflow volume 1344 is large enough to contain a percentage of vaporizable material 1302 stored in the storage chamber 1342, optionally up to approximately 100%. In one embodiment, the collector 1313 is configured to contain at least 6% to 25% of the volume of the vaporizable material 1302 which can be stored in the storage chamber 1342. Other ranges are possible.
The structure of the manifold 1313 can be configured, constructed, molded, manufactured or positioned in the overflow volume 1344, in different shapes and having different properties, to allow the protruding parts of the vaporizable material 1302 to be received. , contained or stored at least temporarily, in the overflow volume 1314 in a controlled manner (for example by capillary pressure), thereby preventing the vaporizable material 1302 from leaking from the cartridge 1320 or excessively saturating the element wick 1362. It should be understood that the description above concerning a secondary passageway is not intended to be limited to a single secondary passageway 1384. One or optionally more than one secondary passageway can be connected to storage chamber 1340 via one or more than one door or orifice. In certain implementations of the present invention, a single door or a single orifice may be connected to more than one secondary passageway, or a single secondary passageway may be shared in addition to one secondary passageway for provide additional overflow volume or other benefits.
In some implementations of the present invention, an air vent 1318 can connect the overflow volume 1344 to the air flow passage 1338 which ultimately leads to the air environment ambient outside the cartridge 1320. This air vent 1318 may allow a path for air or bubbles that may have been formed or trapped in the manifold 1313 to escape through the air vent 1318, for example during a second pressure state when the secondary passageway 1384 is filled with the overflow of the vaporizable material 1302.
In some aspects, the air vent 1318 can serve as a reverse vent and provide pressure equalization in the cartridge 1320 during a return to the first pressure state, from the second pressure state, since the overflow of the vaporizable material 1302 returns to the storage chamber 1342 from the overflow volume 1344. In this implementation, since the ambient pressure is higher than the internal pressure in the cartridge 1320, the air ambient can flow through the air vent 1318 into the secondary passageway 1384 and effectively help push the vaporizable material 1302 temporarily stored in the overflow volume 1344 in a reverse direction back into the storage 1342.
In one or more embodiments, the secondary passageway 1384 in the first pressure state may include air. In the second pressure state, the vaporizable material 1302 can enter the secondary passageway 1384, for example through an opening (that is to say the vent) at the interface point between the storage chamber 1342 and the overflow volume 1344. For this reason, the air in the secondary passageway 1384 is displaced and can exit through the air vent 1318. In certain embodiments, the air vent 1318 can serve as or include a regulating valve (eg a selective osmosis membrane, a microfluidic door, etc.) which allows air to exit from the overflow volume 1344, but prevents the vaporizable material 1302 from coming out of the secondary passageway 1384 in the air flow passageway 1338. As previously mentioned, the air vent 1318 can serve as the air exchange port to allow air to enter and exit the collector 1313, for example when the collector 131 3 is filled during a negative pressure event and is emptied following the negative pressure event (i.e. during a transition between the first and second pressure states discussed above).
[0367] Consequently, the vaporizable material 1302 can be stored in the collector 1313 until the pressure inside the cartridge 1320 is stabilized (for example when the pressure returns to ambient pressure or satisfies a desired equilibrium ) or until the vaporizable material 1302 is removed from the overflow volume 1344 (for example by means of vaporization in an atomizer). Thus, the level of vaporizable material 1302 in the overflow volume 1344 can be controlled by managing the flow of vaporizable material 1302 inside and outside of the manifold 1313 when the air pressure changes. In one or more embodiments, the overflow of the vaporizable material 1302 of the storage chamber 1342 in the overflow volume 1344 can be reversed or can be reversible depending on the changes detected in the environment (for example, when a pressure event which causes the vaporizable material 1302 to overflow decreases or is terminated).
As mentioned above, in certain implementations of the present invention, in a state in which the pressure inside the cartridge 1320 becomes relatively lower than the ambient pressure (for example when it passes from the second previously mentioned pressure state again in the first pressure state), the flow of vaporizable material 1302 can be reversed in a direction which causes the vaporizable material 1302 to return from the overflow volume 1344 in the storage chamber 1342 of the reservoir 1340. Thus, depending on the implementation, the overflow volume 1344 can be configured to temporarily contain the protruding parts of the vaporizable material 1302 during a second pressure state, depending on the implementation, during or after a return to a first pressure state, at least a certain part of the overflow of the vaporizable material 1302 retained in the manifold 1313 returns in storage room 1342.
In order to regulate the flow of vaporizable material 1302 in the cartridge 1320, in other implementations of the present invention, the collector 1313 can optionally comprise an absorbent or semi-absorbent material (for example a material having sponge-like properties) for collecting or containing permanently or semi-permanently the overflow of the vaporizable material 1302 moving in the secondary passageway 1384. In an exemplary embodiment, in which the absorbent material is included in the manifold 1313, the reverse flow of the vaporizable material 1302 from the overflow volume 1344 to the storage chamber 1342 may not be as practical or possible compared to the embodiments which are implemented without (or without too much) absorbent material in the manifold 1313. Therefore, the reversibility or the reversibility rate of the vaporizable material 1302 in the storage chamber kage 1342 can be controlled by including more or less densities or volumes of absorbent material in the manifold 1313 or by controlling the texture of the absorbent material, where these characteristics result in a higher or lower absorption rate, immediately or on longer periods of time.
[0370] FIG. 4 is an exploded perspective view of an exemplary implementation of a cartridge 1320. As shown, the body of the cartridge 1320 can be produced with two parts that can be connected (or separable), such as a first part 1422 (for example the upper case) and a second part 1424 (for example the lower case) which can be assembled together according to an architectural implementation model from top to bottom or an assembly process. This separable architecture simplifies assembly and manufacturing processes and may not involve assembling or building several smaller parts to build a larger part. Instead, as in the exemplary embodiment illustrated in Figure 4, the larger parts (e.g. a first part 1422 and a second part 1424) can be connected to form e.g. cartridge features (e.g. , the coating) and the smallest internal cartridge components (for example opposite rib-like elements which form one or more of a manifold 1313, a reservoir 1340, a storage chamber 1342, an overflow volume 1344, etc.).
Referring to Figure 4, a heating element 1450 may be positioned in a cavity or a housing implemented between a first part 1422 and a second part 1424 of the body of the cartridge 1420. In one example, a sponge or another absorbent material 1460 can also be positioned in a mouthpiece area 1430 in order to collect the excess liquid vaporizable material (for example as may be formed by the condensation of vaporized material and / or vapor of water to form larger drops which can create an unpleasant sensation when ingested during inhalation) moving through an air flow passage 1438. Therefore, assembling or disassembling the components additional (for example a heating element 1450 or a sponge 1460) can be achieved in a simple and efficient manner, in which a large number of machine parts or Assembly automation may not be necessary for the construction of the 1320 cartridge from a small set of components in a housing in two separable parts joined together in the example of implementation described here.
The construction in two separable parts described here can provide one or more of the following exemplary advantages or improvements over an alternative implementation: fewer parts, lower assembly or manufacturing costs (for example the mode shown in Figure 4 requires four parts to be manufactured and assembled), no tooling requirements or reduced tooling requirements, no weak pulling core, brittle, deep or low tooling cores pulling, fragile, limited deep, rib structures which are relatively shallow. Depending on the implementation, ultrasonic or laser welding techniques can be used to create a solid state weld between a first part 1422 and a second part 1424 of a cartridge 1420.
Ultrasonic welding is a process commonly used for plastics in which high frequency ultrasonic acoustic vibrations are locally applied to the workpieces (for example a first part 1422 and a second part 1424) which are held together under pressure to create a solid state weld. Laser welding is a welding process used to join metal parts or thermoplastics using a laser beam which provides a concentrated heat source (eg a laser beam), allowing deep, narrow welds to high welding rates.
Referring to Figure 5, there is illustrated a plan sectional view of a selected part of a cartridge 1320. With reference to both Figures 4 and 5, a first part 1422 (not shown in Figure 5) and a second part 1424 of the cartridge 1420 can be molded from plastic parts by means of injection molding (for example a top-down implementation model). In an exemplary embodiment, a line of draft tooling technique can be used to allow the separation of the mold halves (for example, a first part 1422 and a second part 1424, as shown in Figure 4) allowing each part to be ejected without any obstruction to the creation of undercuts and also allowing sensitive mold cavitation, to help shorten the tooling cycle and allow a more efficient time and manufacturing process.
Referring to Figures 6A and 6B, there is shown respectively a top view in section and a side perspective view of a cartridge 1320. As shown, a filling orifice 610 can be implemented in one or more modes embodiment of the cartridge 1320 to allow the filling of the reservoir storage chamber 1342 for example by means of a filling needle 622. As shown, the filling needle 622 can be easily and practically inserted into the orifice of filling 610, for example by means of a filling passageway 630 leading to a storage chamber 1342 (or overflow volume 1344), depending on the implementation. Consequently, the vaporizable material 1302 can be injected into a reservoir 1340 via a filling passageway 630, using a filling needle 622 for example. In some embodiments, the filling passageway 630 may be constructed or positioned on one side of the cartridge 1320, for example, opposite the side where the air flow passageway 1338 is positioned.
FIGS. 7A to 7D illustrate design variants for a cartridge connection orifice. Figures 7A and 7B are perspective views and Figures 7C and 7D are side sectional plan views of alternative connection port embodiments, which may include, for example, male or female engaging portions . Referring to Figures 1, 2 and 7A to 7D, a cartridge 1320 can be implemented in different configurations at the end where the cartridge 1320 engages the vaporizer body 110. In one embodiment, as shown in the Figures 1 and 2, the vaporizer body 110 may include a cartridge receptacle 118 for detachably receiving a cartridge 1320 with a male port 710 (see Figures 7A and 7C), so that in a fixed state, the contacts cartridge 124 positioned in the male orifice of the cartridge 1320 are received by corresponding receptacle contacts 125 in a cartridge receptacle 118 by snap-fastening, for example. A counterpart configuration can be directed to a cartridge 1320 having a female port 712 (see Figures 7B and 7D) to receive one end of a vaporizer body 110, which includes receptacle contacts 125.
Referring to Figure 8, there is illustrated a top plan view of a cartridge 1320. In one example, the cartridge 1320 can be implemented using a construction in two separable parts, where a relief (for example the owner's mark, a serial number, a patent number, etc.) or optionally decorative or ornamental features can be printed on the external walls of the cartridge 1320 by means of a molding process. The molding process allows flexibility in the design of the external shape or logos displayable on the outside or ornamental designs without affecting the positioning or the formation of internal functional components (for example, a reservoir 1340, a storage chamber 1342 or an overflow volume 1344).
[0378] In particular, the JUUL® brand, as shown in Figure 8, is a registered trademark of JUUL LABS, Inc. a Delaware company, headquartered in San Francisco, California. All rights are reserved by the owner or assignee of the brand. The use of the exemplary mark in Figure 8 should not be interpreted as limiting the scope of the invention described to include such an exclusive design or mark. Some embodiments may be unbranded or contain no ornamental or external design features. Thus, Figure 8 provides an illustration of a molded relief which, without limitation, may appear to be a mark or design on one or more sides of a 1320 cartridge.
Referring to Figures 9A and 9B, there are illustrated perspective and sectional plan views of an exemplary cartridge 1320, where a first part 1422 of the cartridge 1320 is separated from a second part 1424 (see also Figure 4). In one or more embodiments, the cartridge 1320 can be designed and manufactured using part division. That is, depending on the implementation, several split sections of a part are connected together to make a whole part, as shown by the example in Figure 4.
With reference to FIG. 9A, a division of a part can make it possible to mold an apparatus for electrical contact and to heat an element retainer in a wicking housing zone 910 of the cartridge 1320. As shown in more detail in Figure 9B, one or more vent holes 920 can be drilled or positioned by injection molding or other suitable method, in the body of the cartridge 1320 in an area close to the wick housing area 910 to identify the evacuation of steam or the flow of air to the wick, for example to help control the condensation in the cartridge 1320 or affect the capillary forces.
With reference to FIGS. 10A and 10B, there are respectively illustrated assembled and exploded perspective views of an exemplary alternative embodiment of a cartridge 1320. As mentioned previously, an implementation model from top to bottom can be used to construct an open face cartridge structure, for example, with two fixable (or detachable) housings comprising a first part 1422 and a second part 1424. As shown, the first part 1422 (eg the housing upper) and second part 1424 (e.g. lower housing) can provide a two-part construction having one or more internal cavities which can be used to house at least one of a heating element 1350, a wick element 1362 or 1326 plates. It should be understood that alternative assembly methods can be used to result in structures having c some or all of the features described here.
[0382] In particular, in the exemplary embodiment shown in Figures 10A and 10B, instead of or in addition to using cavities and diaphragm walls to form internal structures (for example, a reservoir 1340 in Figure 3A ) of the cartridge, certain characteristics such as the secondary passageway 1384 (see Figure 3A) can be implemented in a removable or fixable collector 1313 which can be built independently as a separate part and can be encapsulated later between a first part 1422 and a second part 1424 (for example, see FIGS. 10A and 10B) or inserted as a variant in an optionally monolithic hollow cartridge body adapted to receive a manifold 1313 with an open end (see FIGS. 10C, 10D, 11B, 13, 16C, 17A, 22F).
With reference to FIGS. 10A to 43B, various implementations are described which can use a manifold 1313, as configured, designed, manufactured, manufactured or constructed completely or partially independently of a cartridge housing 1320. It Note that the described implementations are offered as an example. In alternative embodiments or embodiments, a manifold 1313 may be formed, as shown in Figures 10A to 14B, having a construction which, at least structurally, is semi-dependent or completely in63 dependent on the construction of other components of the 1320 cartridge.
In some interchangeable implementations, different embodiments or types of manifold 1313, as shown in FIGS. 10A to 14B, can be inserted or encapsulated, for example, in a standardized cartridge housing 1320. As proposed in more detail here, since some of the main functionality for controlling the flow of vaporizable material 1302 into the cartridge 1320 can be achieved by manipulating the manifold structure 1313 or its material properties, savings and the like. yields and benefits can be derived from having a construction that allows interchangeable 1313 manifold designs that can adapt to different cartridge housings, for example.
With reference to FIGS. 10C and 10D, for example, in certain implementations, instead of a construction in two separable parts illustrated in FIGS. 10A and 10B, a cartridge 1320 can have a cartridge housing formed with a monolithic hollow structure having a first end and a second end. The first end (ie, a first end, also referred to as a receiving portion of the cartridge housing) can be configured to receive, by insertion, at least one manifold 1313. In one embodiment, the second end of the cartridge housing can serve as a mouthpiece with an orifice or opening. The orifice or opening may be located opposite the receiving end of the cartridge housing where the manifold 1313 can be received by insertion. In some embodiments, the opening may be connected to the receiving end by means of an air flow passageway 1338 which may extend through the body of the cartridge 1320 and the manifold 1313 , for example. As in other embodiments of a cartridge compatible with the present description, an atomizer, for example one comprising a wick element and a heating element as discussed elsewhere here, can be positioned adjacent to or at least partially in the path of air flow passage 1338 so that an inhalable form or optionally a precursor of the inhalable form of the liquid vaporizable material can be released from the atomizer into the air passing through the air passageway. air flow 1338 to the orifice or opening.
Embodiments of the Air Exchange Port [0386] With reference to FIGS. 11A and 1 IB, flat side views are illustrated illustrating a manifold with a door and a channel 1313. In these exemplary embodiments , a door 1102 can be provided at an opening towards a first part (for example the upper part) of the collector 1313 where the collector 1313 is in contact or in communication with the storage chamber 1342 of the tank (see also the Figures 3A and 3B previously discussed). A door
1102 can dynamically connect the storage chamber 1342 to an overflow volume 1344 formed by a second part (for example a central part) of the collector 1313.
In one embodiment, the second part of the manifold 1313 may have a ribbed structure or in the form of multiple fins forming an overflow channel 1104 which describes a spiral, gradually narrows or tilts in a direction to distance from the door 1102 and towards an air exchange orifice 1106, as shown in FIG. 1 IA, to lead or cause a vaporizable material 1302 to move towards the air exchange orifice 1106 after the vaporizable material 1302 entered the overflow volume 1344 through the door 1102. The air exchange port 1106 can be connected to the ambient air by means of an air path or a air flow passage which is connected to the mouthpiece. This air path or air flow path is not explicitly shown in Figure 11 A.
In some implementations, the manifold 1313 is configured to have a central opening or tunnel through which an air flow channel leading to the mouthpiece is implemented, as proposed in more detail below. - below (for example see the opening designated by the reference number 1100 in Figure 11D). The air flow channel can be connected to the air exchange port 1106, so that the volume inside the overflow passageway of the manifold 1313 is connected to the air. ambient via the air exchange orifice 1106 and also connected to the volume in the storage chamber 1342 via the door 1102. Thus, according to one or more embodiments, the door 1102 can be used as a fluidic valve of regulation to mainly regulate the liquid and the air flow between the overflow volume 1344 and the storage chamber 1342. The air flow port 1106 can be used to mainly regulate the air flow (and occasionally the flow of liquid) between the overflow volume 1344 and an air path leading to the mouthpiece, for example. The overflow channel 1104 can be diagonal, vertical or horizontal with respect to the elongated body of the cartridge 1320.
The vaporizable material 1302, when the cartridge 1320 is filled, can have at least one initial interface with the manifold 1313 by means of the door 1102. Indeed, an initial interface between the vaporizable material 1302 and the door 1102 may, for example, prevent the possibility that air trapped in the overflow channel 1104 enters a cartridge area where the vaporizable material 1302 is stored (e.g. storage chamber 1342). In addition, such an interface can trigger a first capillary interaction between the vaporizable material 1302 and the walls of the overflow channel 1104, in an equilibrium state, to allow a limited quantity of vaporizable material 1302 to flow into the overflow channel 1104 to obtain or maintain the state of equilibrium.
The equilibrium state refers to a state in which the vaporizable material 1302 does not flow inside nor does it flow outside of the overflow volume 1344, or a state in which such forward or reverse flows are negligible. At least in certain embodiments, the capillary action (or interaction) between the walls of the overflow channel 1104 and the vaporizable material 1302 is such that a state of equilibrium can be maintained when the cartridge 1320 is in the first pressure state, when the pressure inside the storage chamber 1342 is approximately equal to the ambient pressure.
The establishment of a state of equilibrium and of the additional capillary interaction between the vaporizable material 1302 and the walls of the overflow channel 1104 can be established or configured adapting or adjusting the volumetric size of the channel. 1104 overflow along the length of the channel. As proposed here in more detail, the diameter (which is used here to generally refer to a measure of the size of the cross section of the overflow channel 1104, including implementations of the present invention in which the channel overflow has no circular cross section) of overflow channel 1104, can be narrowed at a predetermined interval or points or over the entire length of the entire channel to allow a sufficiently robust capillary interaction which provides the direct and reverse flows of vaporizable material 1302 inside and outside of the manifold 1313, as a function of pressure changes and in addition to allow a large overall volume of the overflow channel while still maintaining door points for meniscus formation to prevent air from flowing past the liquid in the overflow channel 1104.
As proposed in more detail here, the diameter of the overflow channel 1104 can be sufficiently small or narrow so that the combination of surface tension, caused by cohesion in the vaporizable material 1302, and forces wetting between the vaporizable material 1302 and the walls of the overflow channel 1104 can act to cause the formation of a meniscus which separates the liquid from the air in a dimension transverse to the flow axis of the channel 1104 overflow so that air and liquid cannot cross. It should be understood that the menisci have an inherent curvature, therefore the reference to a dimension transverse to the direction of flow is not intended to imply that the air-liquid interface is planar in this dimension or in any another dimension.
The wick element 1362 can be a thermal or thermodynamic connection with a heating element 1350 (see Ligures 3B and 1 IB, for example) to induce the generation of steam from the heating of the vaporizable material 1302, as discussed in in detail previously with reference to Figures 3A and 3B. Alternatively, the air exchange port 1106 can be constructed to provide a gas escape route but to prevent the flow of vaporizable material 1302 out of the overflow channel 1104.
Referring to both Figures 1 IA and 1 IB, the direct or reverse flow of the vaporizable material 1302 in the manifold 1313 can be controlled (for example improved or decreased) by implementing appropriate structures (for example microchannel configurations) to introduce or take advantage of the capillary properties that may exist between the vaporizable material 1302 and the retaining walls of the overflow channel 1104. For example, factors associated with the length, diameter, texture of internal surface (e.g. rough relative to smooth), protrusions, directional progressive narrowing of channel structures, constrictions or the material used to construct or cover the surface of door 1102, overflow channel 1104 or air exchange port 1106, can positively or negatively affect the speed at which a liquid is drawn into or travels through to the overflow channel 1104 by capillary action or other influencing forces acting on the cartridge 1320.
One or more of the above-mentioned factors, depending on the implementation, can be used to control the movement of the vaporizable material 1302 in the overflow channel 1104 to introduce a desirable degree of reversibility, when the material vaporizable 1302 is collected in the channel structures of the manifold 1313. Thus, in certain embodiments, the flow of vaporizable material 1302 in the manifold 1313 can be completely reversible or semi-reversible by selectively controlling the various factors mentioned above and as a function of changes in the pressure state inside or outside of the cartridge 1320.
As shown in Figures 3A, 3B, 11A and 1 IB, in one or more embodiments, the manifold 1313 can be formed, constructed or configured to have a structure with a channel and a vent. In such embodiments, the overflow channel 1104 may be a continuous passageway, a tube, a channel, or other structure for connecting the door 1102 to the air exchange port 1106, optionally positioned. near the wick element 1362 (for example see also Figures 3A and 3B showing a single overflow channel 1104 elongated in the overflow volume 1344). Therefore, in such embodiments, the vaporizable material 1302 can enter or exit the manifold 1313 through the gate 1102 or through a singularly constructed channel, where the vaporizable material 1302 flows in a first direction when the manifold 1313 is filled and in a second direction when the manifold 1313 is purged.
To help maintain a state of equilibrium or according to an implementation, to regulate the flow of vaporizable material 1302 in the overflow channel 1104, the shape and the structural configuration of the overflow channel -full 1104, the door 1102 or the air exchange orifice 1106 can be adapted or modified to balance the flow rate of the vaporizable material 1302 in the overflow channel 1104 at different pressure states. In one example, the overflow channel 1104 can be gradually narrowed so that the gradually narrowed end (i.e., the end with a smaller opening or smaller diameter) leads to the gate 1102.
In one implementation, the end that is not progressively narrowed (that is to say the end of the overflow channel 1104 with a larger opening or a larger diameter) can lead to the orifice exchanger 1106 which can be connected to the ambient environment outside the cartridge 1320 or to the air flow path from which the vaporizable material 1302 vaporized is distributed to the mouthpiece (see for example Figure 3a, the air vent 1318 connected to the air flow passage 1338). In one embodiment, the non-progressively narrowed end may also lead to an area near the wick housing, so that if the vaporizable material 1302 comes out of the overflow channel 1104, the vaporizable material 1302 can be used to saturate wick element 1362.
[0399] A progressively narrowed channel structure, depending on the implementation, can reduce or increase the flow restriction in the manifold 1313. For example, in an embodiment in which the overflow channel 1104 is gradually narrowed towards the door 1102, a favorable capillary pressure towards a reverse flow is induced in the overflow channel 1104, so that the direction of the flow of vaporizable material 1302 is out of the collector 1313 and into the storage chamber 1342 when the pressure state changes (for example, when a negative pressure event is deleted or reduced). In particular, implementing the overflow channel 1104 with a smaller opening may prevent the free flow of vaporizable material 1302 into the manifold 1313. A non-gradually narrowed configuration for the overflow channel 1104 in one direction going to the air exchange port 1106 provides efficient storage of the vaporizable material 1302 in the manifold 1313 during a second pressure state (for example a negative pressure state) when the vaporizable material 1302 flows in the manifold 1313 from narrower sections of overflow channel 1104 into larger volumetric sections of overflow channel 1104.
[0400] Thus, the diameter and the shape of the collector structure 1313 can be implemented so that the flow of the vaporizable material 1302 through the door 1102 and into the overflow channel 1104 is regulated at a flow rate. desirable, during a second pressure state (for example a negative pressure event) in order to prevent the vaporizable material 1302 from flowing too freely (for example beyond a certain flow or threshold) in the manifold 1313 and also to promote reverse flow back into storage chamber 1342 in a first pressure state (for example when the negative pressure event is reduced). It should be noted that the combination of interactions between the vent 1002, the overflow channel 1104 in the manifold 1313 which make up the overflow volume 1344 and the air exchange orifice 1106, in a mode of embodiment, provides good evacuation of air bubbles which can be introduced into the cartridge due to various environmental factors as well as the controlled flow of vaporizable material 1302 inside and outside the overflow channel 1104 .
Embodiments of the Mouthpiece [0401] With reference to FIG. 1 IB (see also Figures 10C, 10D), in certain embodiments, part of the cartridge 1320 which includes the storage chamber 1342 can be configured to also include a mouthpiece which can be used by the user to inhale the vaporizable material 1302 vaporized. An air flow passageway 1338 can extend through the storage chamber 1342, thereby connecting a vaporization chamber. Depending on the implementation, the air flow passageway 1338 can be a straw-shaped structure or hollow cylinder, for example which forms a channel inside the storage chamber 1342 to allow the passage of vaporizable material 1302 vaporized. While the air flow passage may have a circular or at least approximately circular transverse shape, it should be understood that other transverse forms for the air flow passage are also within the scope of this description.
[0402] A first end of the air flow passageway 1338 can be connected to an opening at a first end "mouthpiece" of the storage chamber 1342 from which a user can inhale the vaporizable material 1302 vaporized. A second end of the air flow passage 1338 (opposite the first end) can be received in an opening at a first end of the manifold 1313, as proposed in more detail here. Depending on the implementation, the second end of the air flow passageway 1338 may extend completely or partially through a receiving cavity which extends through the manifold 1313 and is connected to a wick housing, where the wick element 1362 can be accommodated.
In some configurations, the air flow passageway 1338 can be an integral part of a monolithic molded mouthpiece which includes the storage chamber 1342 where the air flow passageway 1338 s' extends through the storage chamber 1342. In other configurations, the air flow passageway 1338 can be an independent structure which can be separately inserted into the storage chamber 1342. In some configurations, the passageway air flow passage 1338 may be a structural extension of the manifold 1313 or the body of the cartridge 1320 as extending internally from the opening in the mouthpiece portion, for example.
Without limitation, a variety of different structural configurations may be possible to connect the mouthpiece (and the airflow passageway 1338 inside the mouthpiece) to the orifice. air exchange 1106 in the manifold 1313. As proposed here, the manifold 1313 can be inserted into the body of the cartridge 1320, which can also serve as a storage chamber 1342. In certain embodiments, the passageway d the air flow 1338 can be constructed as an internal sleeve which is an integral part of a monolithic cartridge body, so that an opening in a first end of the manifold 1313 can receive a first end of the sleeve structure forming the air flow passage 1338.
With reference to FIGS. 18A to 18D, certain embodiments may include a vaporizer cartridge 1800 comprising a double cylindrical mouthpiece 1830 connected to two air flow passageways 1838. In such embodiments, a larger dose of vaporizable material 1302 vaporized can be dispensed compared to a simple cylindrical mouthpiece. A double cylindrical mouthpiece 1830, depending on the implementation, can also advantageously provide a more regular and more satisfying vaping experience.
Embodiments of the Fluid Gate [0406] With reference to FIGS. 10A to 11H, depending on the implementation, different factors can be taken into account to help monitor and regulate the forward and reverse flows of vaporizable material 1302 to inside and outside the manifold 1313. Some of these factors may include the configuration of the capillary drive of a fluid vent, referred to herein as gate 1102. The capillary drive of gate 1102 may be , for example, less than that of wick member 1362. In addition, the flow resistance of manifold 1313 may be greater than that of wick member 1362. The overflow channel 1104 may have smooth or wavy internal surfaces to regulate the flow of vaporizable material 1302 through the manifold 1313. The overflow channel 1104 can be formed with a gradual curve t shrunk to provide good interaction ca
ΊΟ pillar and forces that limit the flow through the gate 1102 and into the overflow volume 1344 during a first pressure state to promote reverse flow through the gate 1102 and out of the overflow volume 1344 during a second pressure state.
Additional modifications to the shape and structure of the manifold components 1313 may be possible to help further regulate or finely regulate the flow of vaporizable material 1302 inside or outside the manifold 1313. For example, a slightly curved spiral channel configuration (i.e. opposite to the channel with turns or protruding edges) as shown in Figures 11A to 11H may allow for the inclusion of additional features, such as a or more vents, channels, openings, or constricting structures, in the manifold 1313 at predetermined intervals along the overflow channel 1104. As proposed in more detail here, such additional features, structures, or configurations can help provide a higher level of flow control for vaporizable material 1302 along the overflow channel 1104 or through door 1102, for example.
[0408] It should be emphasized that, independently of the various structural elements and implementations discussed throughout this description, certain characteristics and functionalities (for example the capillary interaction among different components) can be implemented in the structure of manifold 1313 to help regulate the flow of vaporizable material 1302 in (1) single channel and vent structures, (2) multi channel and vent structures or (3) multi channel and multiple vent structures, for example.
Referring to Figures 10E, 11 A, 1 IC, 11D and 11E, there are exemplary structural configurations for the manifold 1313 according to certain variants. As shown, a fully or partially inclined spiral surface can be implemented to define one or more sides of the internal volume of the overflow channel 1104 of the manifold 1313, so that the vaporizable material 1302 can flow freely due capillary pressure (or the force of gravity) through the overflow channel 1104 when the vaporizable material 1302 enters the overflow channel 1104. One or more channels or tunnels, optionally central, such as a tunnel central 1100, can be configured on the longitudinal height of the manifold 1313, having two opposite openings.
[0410] At the first end, a central shaft or central tunnel 1100 through the manifold structure 1313 can interact with or be connected to a housing zone in which a wick element 1362 or an atomizer can be positioned. At the second end, the central tunnel 1100 can interact with, connect to or receive one end of a pipe or tube which forms an air flow passageway 1338 in the end part buccal of the cartridge 1320. A first end of the air flow passageway 1338 can be connected (for example by means of the insertion) to the second end of the central tunnel 1100. A second end of the airflow passage air flow passage 1338 may include an opening or port formed in the mouthpiece area.
According to one or more embodiments, the vaporizable material 1302 vaporized generated by an atomizer can enter the first end of the central tunnel 1100 in the manifold 1313, pass through the central tunnel 1100 and also leave the second end from the central tunnel 1100 into the first end of the air flow passageway 1338. The vaporizable vaporized material 1302 can then move through the air flow passageway 1338 and exit through the opening d mouthpiece formed at the second end of the air flow passage 1338.
The manifold 1313 can be configured as an independent part with a construction or structure which can be inserted into the body of the cartridge 1320 (for example, see Figures 10C, 11B, 11C-11E). Following insertion, an air seal can be formed between the inner walls of the shell body of the cartridge 1320 and the outer edges of the grooved structure of the manifold 1313 which forms the inclined surface in spiral. In other words, three walls of the overflow channel 1104, as enclosed by the surface of the internal walls of the shell body of the cartridge 1320, form an overflow channel 1104 following the insertion of the manifold. 1313 in the cartridge body 1320.
[0413] Consequently, an overflow channel 1104 can be formed by means of the internal walls of the body of the cartridge 1320 enclosing the internal walls of the rib-shaped structure. As shown, a door 1102 can be positioned at one end of the overflow channel 1104, towards the place where the storage chamber 1342 is positioned, to control and provide the entry and exit of the vaporizable material 1302 in the overflow channel 1104 in the manifold 1313. An air exchange orifice 1106 can be positioned towards another end of the overflow channel 1104, preferably opposite the end where the door 1102 is positioned .
The door 1102 can regulate the flow of the vaporizable material 1302 inside and outside the overflow channel 1104 in the manifold 1313. The air exchange orifice 1106 can, via a connection path to ambient air, regulate the air flow inside and outside the overflow channel 1104 in order to regulate the air pressure in the manifold 1313, and in turn in the storage chamber 1342 of the cartridge 1320, as proposed in more detail here. In some embodiments, the air exchange port 1106 can be configured to prevent vaporizable material 1302 which may have filled the overflow channel 1104 of the manifold 1313 (for example following a negative pressure event) to leave the overflow channel 1104.
[0415] In some implementation, the air exchange port 1106 can be configured to cause the vaporizable material 1302 to exit to a path which leads to the area in which the wick element 1362 is housed. Implementation can help prevent leakage of vaporizable material 1302 in an air flow passageway (e.g. central tunnel 1100) that leads to the mouthpiece, during a negative pressure event, for example . In certain implementations, the air exchange orifice 1106 may have a membrane which allows the entry and exit of gaseous material (for example air bubbles) but prevents the vaporizable material 1302 from entering and leave the manifold 1313 through the air exchange orifice 1106.
Referring to Figures 1 IC at 11H, the flow of vaporizable material 1302 inside and outside the manifold 1313 through the door 1102 can be directly associated with the volumetric pressure inside the channel overflow 1104. Thus, the flow inside and outside the manifold 1313, through the door 1102, can be controlled by manipulating the hydraulic diameter of the overflow channel 1104 so that the reduction of the overall volume of the overflow channel 1104 (for example uniformly or when introducing several constriction points) can lead to increased pressure in the overflow channel 1104 and the adjustment of the flow in the manifold 1313. Consequently, in at least one implementation, the hydraulic diameter of the overflow channel 1104 can be reduced (for example narrowed, pinched, restricted or limited), uniformly or by introducing one or more p anointed with constriction 111a, along the length of the spiral path of the overflow channel 1104.
Ees Figures 1 IC to 11E, by way of example, illustrate two levels of partial length and three levels of full length constructed on one or more of the sides of the manifold 1313, with each level in full length, on the side shown in the Figures, which has three constriction points 1111a, for example. It should be emphasized that, in different implementations, more or less levels or constriction points 1111a can be implemented, defined, constructed or introduced to adjust the volumetric pressure in the manifold 1313. A constriction point 111a, at for purposes of illustration, is clearly indicated by a circle in the central level of the manifold 1313.
These constriction points 1111a can be formed or introduced along the length of the overflow channel 1104 in a variety of ways and shapes. In the following part, exemplary embodiments with different constriction points or shapes are described to better illustrate certain characteristics. It should however be noted that these exemplary embodiments should not be interpreted as limiting the scope of the claimed invention, to a particular configuration or form.
Referring to Figure 1 IC, in an exemplary implementation, a constriction point 1111a can be formed by means of bosses, raised edges, protrusions or projections (hereinafter referred to as "projections" ) extending from the ceiling or floor surfaces or side wall (or any one or all of these) of the overflow channel 1104 (i.e. the blades of the manifold 1313). The shape of the protrusions can be defined as a boss, a finger, a tooth, a fin, an edge or any other shape which limits a cross section to a direction of flow in the overflow channel. In the illustration of Figure 1 IC, the side sectional view of a protrusion is shown to be similar to the shape of a protruding fin, for example, where the distal end of the protrusions is gradually narrowed to a edge.
As shown in Figure 1 IC, the pointed or cantilevered edge of the protruding fin shape can be rounded. However, in other embodiments, the cantilever edge can be gradually narrowed to a protruding end. The salience, the size, the relative location and the frequency of installation of the projections in the overflow channel 1104 can be manipulated to continue to finely adjust a meniscus separating the liquid and the air so that it forms inside the overflow channel 1104.
[0421] For example, as shown in Figure 1 IC, the projections may have a rounded face on one side and a flat face on the opposite side. The rounded face of the projections can face (i.e. be directed towards) the outward flow of vaporizable material 1302 (i.e. outflow from the manifold 1313 and into the storage chamber 1342), while the flat face of the projections can face the internal flow of the vaporizable material 1302 (i.e. the flow in the collector 1313 and from the storage chamber 1342) through the door 1102.
As mentioned, in different implementations, the formation of protrusions along the overflow channel 1104 can be manipulated from the standpoint of number, size, shape, location and frequency for fine adjustment of the hydraulic flow rate of the vaporizable material 1302 inside and outside the manifold 1313. For example, if it is desirable rather to maintain a flow entering the overflow channel 1104 at a higher flow rate than outflow, then the projections can be formed to have a flat surface facing the outflow and a rounded surface facing the inward flow to facilitate the formation and retention of a resistant meniscus to the external flow of liquid (for example remote from the storage chamber 1340) while facilitating the release of the meniscus on the side of the projection facing again the sto compartment ckage
1340. In this way, a series of these projections can function as a kind of “hydraulic ratchet” system in which the flow of return liquid into the storage compartment is encouraged in a microfluidic manner compared to the flow outside of from the storage compartment. This effect can be obtained, at least in part, by the relative tendency of a meniscus to detach from the side of the projection storage chamber than from the opposite side.
Referring again to Figure 1 IC, in an exemplary implementation, in addition to (or instead of) protrusions extending from the floor or ceilings of the overflow channel 1104, some protrusions can extend from the inner walls of the overflow channel 1104. As shown more clearly in Figure 11F, a protrusion can extend from an inner wall of the overflow channel 1104 at the same point constriction 111a, where two additional projections extend from the floor and ceiling of the overflow channel 1104 to form a C-shaped constriction point 1111a. The exemplary implementation illustrated in Figures 11D and 11F can more effectively adjust the microfluidic properties of the overflow channel 1104 to encourage the flow of liquid to shrink toward the storage chamber 1340 relative to the placement work of Figure 1 IC, because the hydraulic diameter of the overflow channel 1104 is more constrained (that is to say narrowed) at the point of constriction 1111a shown in Figures 11D and 11F.
The protrusions formed along the overflow channel 1104 need not be uniform from the point of view of shape, size, frequency or symmetry. That is, depending on the implementation, different constriction points 1111a or 1111b can be implemented in different sizes, designs, shapes or different locations or a different frequency along the overflow channel. solid 1104. In one example, the shape of a constriction point 111 la or 1111b can be similar to the shape of the letter C with a round internal diameter. In some embodiments, instead of forming an inner diameter like a rounded C-shape, the inner wall of the constriction point may have corners (for example protruding corners) such as those shown in Figures 11F and 11G.
In some examples, the overflow channel 1104, at a first level, can have projections extending from the ceiling of the overflow channel 1104, while at a second level, the projections can extend from the floor of overflow channel 1104. At a third level, the projections can extend from the inner walls, for example. Variants of the above implementations may be possible by adjusting or changing the number of protrusions and protrusion shapes or the positioning of protrusions in different sequences or levels to help control the microfluidic effect on flow in the two directions in the overflow channel 1104. In one example, the constriction points 1111a can be implemented on one or more (or all) levels, sides or widths of the manifold 1313, for example.
Referring to Figures 11E and 1 IG, in addition to defining the constriction points 111a along a longer length of the overflow channel 1104, or on a wider side of the manifold 1313, a or several additional constriction points 1111b can be defined along the narrower side of the manifold 1313. Thus, the example of implementation in FIGS. 11E and 1 IG can improve the adjustment of the resistance to or the encouragement of the detachment of the meniscus in a desired direction in the overflow channel 1104 relative to the implementation in Figure 11D, because the overall hydraulic diameter (or flow volume) of the overflow channel 1104 is more limited due to the addition of additional constraint points 1111b.
[0427] With reference to FIGS. 11F and 1 IG, for better clarity, each full level in the example illustrated may include three constriction points 1111b on each side, in addition to the two additional constriction points 1111b, for example. Thus the collector 1313 of Figure 11D can include a total of 18 constriction points, while the collector 1313 of Figure 11E can comprise a total of 26 constriction points. In this example, the embodiments illustrated in Figure 11E provide improved microfluidic flow regulation (for example in the outward direction) due to the capillary pressure which is enhanced at the multiple constriction points 111 la and 1111b.
Referring to Figure 11H, in some embodiments, the door 1102 can be constructed to include an opening or opening configuration which, similarly to a constriction point 111a or 1111b, has an edge gradually narrowed, a flange or flange that is flatter in one direction. For example, the rim of the door opening 1102 can be formed to be flat on one side (for example, the side facing the storage chamber 1342) and rounded on the other side (for example the side facing opposite storage room 1342). In such a configuration, the microfluidic forces encouraging flow back to the storage chamber 1340 over the remote flow from the storage chamber 1340 can be improved due to easier meniscus detachment on the less rounded side compared to the more rounded side.
Consequently, depending on the implementation and variants in the structure or construction of the constriction points and of the door 1102, the resistance to flow of the vaporizable material 1302 out of the collector 1313 can be greater than the resistance to the flow of the vaporizable material 1302 in the collector 1313 and towards the storage chamber 1340. In certain implementations, the door 1102 is constructed to maintain a seal to the liquid so that a layer of material 1302 is present in the middle where the storage chamber 1342 communicates with the overflow channel 1104 in the overflow volume 1344. The presence of a liquid gasket can help maintain a pressure balance between the storage chamber 1342 and the overflow volume 1344 to promote a sufficient level of vacuum (for example a partial vacuum) in the storage chamber 1342 to prevent material spray 1302 to drain completely into the overflow volume 1344, as well as to prevent the wick element 1362 from being deprived of adequate saturation.
In one or more exemplary implementations, a single passageway or single channel in the manifold 1313 can be connected to the storage chamber 1342 by means of two vents, so that the two vents maintain a liquid gasket regardless of the position of the cartridge 1320. The formation of a liquid gasket at the door 1102 can also help prevent air in the manifold 1313 from entering the chamber. storage 1342 even when the cartridge 1320 is held diagonally to the horizon or when the cartridge 1320 is positioned with the mouthpiece facing down. In fact, if the air bubbles coming from the manifold 1313 enter the tank, the pressure inside the storage chamber 1342 is equalized with respect to that of the ambient pressure. That is to say that the partial vacuum inside the storage chamber 1342 (for example created following the evacuation of the vaporizable material 1302 by the wick supplies 1368) is offset, if the ambient air s flows into storage chamber 1342.
Referring to Figures 1II to 11K, there are provided perspective views of the alternative door configurations 1102 for the manifold structure 1313. The alternative configurations can provide advantages with respect to flow management and control of the air and / or liquid vaporizable material 1302. In some scenarios, the vacuum of free space may not be maintained when the empty space (i.e., the free space above the vaporizable material 1302 ) in the storage chamber 1342 is in contact with the door 1102. For this reason, as mentioned above, the liquid seal established at the door 1102 can be broken. This effect may be due to the door 1102 which is unable to maintain a fluid film when the manifold 1313 is evacuated and the free space comes into contact with the door 1102, leading to a loss of vacuum of partial free space.
In some embodiments, the free space in the storage chamber 1342 may have ambient pressure, and if there is a hydrostatic offset between the door 1102 and the atomizer in the cartridge 1320, the content of the storage chamber 1342 is evacuated in the atomizer, resulting in flooding of the wick box and leaks. In order to avoid leaks, one or more embodiments can be implemented to eliminate the hydrostatic offset between the door 1102 and the atomizer and maintain the functionality of the door 1102 when the storage chamber 1342 is almost evacuated.
As shown in the exemplary embodiments of Figures 1II and 11 J, miniaturized dividing walls or labyrinth-like structures 1190 can be constructed around door 1102 to establish a high-drive connection between door 1102 and the overflow channel 1104 in the manifold 1313 for holding the liquid seal at the door 1102. In the example of Figure 1 IJ, a ditch-like structure 1190 is shown as means for further improving the retention of the liquid seal at the door 1102 according to one or more implementations.
Embodiment of the Controlled Fluid Gate [0434] Ees Figures 1 IL and 1 IN illustrate plan and close-up views of a controlled fluid gate 1102 in the manifold structure 1313, according to one or more implementations. As shown, the passageway or overflow channel 1104 in the collector 1313 can be connected to the storage chamber 1342 by means of a fluidic door controlled in the shape of a V or in the shape of a horn 1102, by example so that the V-shaped door 1102 includes at least two (and desirably three) openings which are connected to the storage chamber 1342. As proposed in more detail here, a liquid seal can be maintained at the door 1102 regardless of the vertical or horizontal orientation of the cartridge 1320.
As shown in Figure 1 IL, on a first side of the vent, a vent path can be maintained between the overflow channel 1104 and the door 1102 through which the air bubbles can s escape from the overflow channel 1104 in the manifold in the tank. On a second side, one or more high drive channels connected to the reservoir can be implemented to encourage pinching at a pinch point 1122 to maintain a liquid seal which prevents premature evacuation of bubbles of air out of the overflow channel 1104 and into the tank, as well as the unwanted entry of air or vaporizable material 1302 into the overflow channel 1104 from the tank.
[0436] Depending on the implementation, the high drive channels, shown by way of example on the right side of Figure 1 IL, are preferably kept sealed due to the capillary pressure exerted by the liquid vaporizable material 1302 in the cartridge tank. Low entrainment channels formed on the opposite side (i.e. shown on the left side in Figure 1 IL) can be configured to have relatively lower capillary entrainment compared to high entrainment channels but still have sufficient capillary drive so that in a first pressure state, a liquid seal is maintained in both the high drive channels and the low drive channels.
[0437] Consequently, in the first pressure state (for example when the pressure inside the tank is approximately equal to or greater than the ambient air pressure), then a liquid seal is maintained at the both in low and high drive channels, preventing air bubbles from flowing into the tank. On the contrary, in a second pressure state (for example when the pressure inside the tank is lower than the ambient air pressure), the air bubbles formed in the overflow channel 1104 (for example at means of entry into the air exchange orifice 1106) or more generally a leading meniscus edge of a liquid vaporizable material-air interface can move upwards and towards the controlled fluidic door 1102. When the meniscus reaches the pinch point 1122 positioned between the low-entrained and high-entrained channels of the vent 1104, air is preferably routed through the weakly entrained channel or canals, due to capillary resistance higher that is present in the high-entrained channel (s).
[0438] Once the bubbles have passed through the slow-drive channel portion of the gate 1102, the air bubbles enter the tank and equalize the pressure inside the tank with that of the ambient air. Thus, the air exchange orifice 1106 in combination with the controlled fluidic door 1102 allows the ambient air entering the overflow channel 1104 to pass into the reservoir, until a state of equilibrium pressure is established between the tank and the ambient air. As mentioned above, this process can be designated as the ventilation of the tank. Once an equilibrium pressure state is established (for example a transition from a second pressure state to a first pressure state), then a liquid seal is again established at the pinch point 1122 , due to the presence of liquid in both the high drive channels and the low drive channels which are supplied by the liquid vaporizable material 1302 stored in the tank.
Figures 110 to 1IX illustrate photos when the air flow, collected in the exemplary collector 1313 of Figures 1 IL to 1 IB, is managed to accept good ventilation when the meniscus of vaporizable material 1302 continues to recede .
[0440] Figure 110 illustrates a receding meniscus where, when the vaporizable material 1302 is removed from the reservoir in the wick, the vacuum of partial free space increases in strength. This is sufficient to overcome the receding capillary drive of the meniscus, again moving the meniscus through the manifold to the constriction point where the meniscus sees the highest pressure differential as dictated by the geometry.
FIG. 1 IP illustrates the way in which the meniscus crosses a first joint in the door 1102, when the meniscus approaches the door 1102. At the level of this first joint, the partial vacuum of free space is maximized when 'it corresponds to the smallest geometry in the door structure 1102, and the partial vacuum in the tank continues to grow until this point.
[0442] Figure 11Q illustrates how several menisci recede when the free space reaches maximum partial vacuum. The menisci are at their narrowest curvature on their main planes and at these locations, the drain pressures of the three channels are equal and the three menisci recede simultaneously, as opposed to reversing only one channel. Since the curvatures of these three menisci now increase as they recede, the pressure difference sustained on them decreases and the partial vacuum of free space then begins to decrease.
[0443] Figure 1 IR illustrates how the secondary menisci begin to fill the capillary channels. The conicities on these channel geometries are such that when the menisci continue to recede, the capillary entrainment of the main channel decreases at a higher speed than that of the secondary channels. This gradual reduction in capillary training reduces the partial vacuum of maintained free space. When the drain pressure of the main meniscus drops below the drain pressure of the secondary canals, this meniscus continues to evacuate while the other menisci remain static. The drain pressure, implying the contact angle in retreat of the main channel, can drop below the flood pressure, implying the contact angle of advancement of the secondary channels, causing them to fill up again, as shown in the Figures.
[0444] Figure 11S illustrates how the secondary menisci of one of the two menisci in each secondary canal reach a point of tangency when the two menisci merge to become one. This combined meniscus has an increased curvature and therefore a weaker capillary training. Higher training of the main meniscus can cause the system to react momentarily by transforming the main meniscus into the advancing meniscus. The successive retreat of the main meniscus probably takes place with the secondary meniscus maintained at this location.
[0445] Figure 11T illustrates how the secondary meniscus moves towards the collector. In a scenario in which the storage chamber is full of liquid, the main meniscus continues to recede, further reducing the partial vacuum of free space as its curvature increases. When the partial vacuum drops below the advancing capillary pressure of the secondary meniscus, the secondary meniscus begins to practice training again to close the space. In a scenario where the storage chamber is empty or nearly empty, the liquid seal at door 1102 is stable until the bubble ruptures, connecting the free space to the environment.
[0446] Figure 11U illustrates how the secondary meniscus closes the seal at the door 1102. When the secondary meniscus advances until it meets the apex of the corner in the main canal, the geometry is designed to encourage the secondary meniscus to share to fill both gate 1102 and manifold channels 1313. These two newly formed menisci can be used to isolate free space from ambient air and thus a partial vacuum of space free can be re-established, ensuring that leakage through the liquid supply channels is reduced. Since the newly formed menisci have smaller curvatures than before separation, the newly formed menisci continue to proceed in the canals due to the increased capillary training.
Ligures 1IV to 1IX illustrate the release of bubble in the storage chamber 1342. The pressure in the cartridge 1320 at this point reaches stability when the air bubble trapped in the main meniscus canal is ejected by the imbalance created by the menisci of advancement and retreat. The vaporizable material 1302 is then allowed to enter and move the bubble through the upper right channel. Therefore, while a high-drive channel structure can be provided via a closed ditch near gate 1102, a smaller ditch can be used instead to reduce the risk of trapped bubbles.
[0448] In some implementations, the progressively narrowed channels can be designed to increase training towards the controlled vent. Taking into account the nipping of the two advancing menisci, the reservoir wall of the reservoir and the bottom of the channel can be configured to continue providing the drive, while the side walls provide a nipping location for the menisci. In one configuration, the net entrainment of the advancing menisci does not exceed that of the receding menisci, thereby keeping the system statically stable.
Embodiments of the Collector with Several Doors and Several Channels [0449] With reference to FIGS. 12A and 12B, an exemplary side view in perspective and an exemplary plan side view of the embodiments of a single vent manifold structure are illustrated. and several channels 1200. As shown in Ligure 12A, the manifold 1200 is formed to have a single door 1202 and several channels 1204 (a) to 1204 (j). As shown in Ligure 12A, according to one or more implementations, the door 1202 can be positioned for example in the center or halfway of the longitudinal width of the manifold 1313 to allow the vaporizable material 1302 to enter at least one first channel 1204 (a) of manifold 1313 and gradually diffuse into and through additional channels
1204 (b) -1204 (j).
The position of the door 1202 can be modified according to the implementation which is in the center, on the side or a corner or at another location along the length or the width of the manifold 1313. A structure manifold with single vent and multiple channels 1200 may have the additional benefit of allowing vaporizable material 1302 to enter through a single door 1202 at a first rate and to diffuse at a second rate (e.g. a rate faster than the first flow) through multiple channels (1204 (a) -1204 (j) of manifold 1200.
Advantageously, a collector structure with a single door and several channels 1200 allows the controlled flow (for example the limited flow) of the vaporizable material 1302 from the storage chamber 1342 in the overflow volume 1344 ( see Figure 3A) and further allows less controlled flow (for example less limited) once the vaporizable material 1302 is in the overflow volume 1344. In some embodiments, a structure can be implemented. multi-level, multi-channel, so that, as shown in Figure 12B, for example, the flow of vaporizable material 1302 in a first set of channels 1204 (a) -1204 (f) is at a second rate and l flow of the vaporizable material 1302 through a second set of channels 1204 (g) -1204 (k) is at a third rate. The third rate may be faster or slower than the second rate.
Consequently, in the exemplary embodiment represented in FIG. 12B, the vaporizable material 1302 can flow through the door 1202 at a first flow rate, through the channels 1204 (a) -1204 (f) to a second flow, and through channels 1204 (g) -1204 (k) at a third flow. In one or more embodiments, the second flow may be faster than the first flow and the third flow, for example, so that the vaporizable material 1302 may have limited flow through the gate 1202, flow less limited to through the first set of channels (eg level 1) and a relatively more limited flow in the second set of channels (eg level 2). This multilevel configuration can help improve the flow through the manifold 1200 but maintain a controllable restriction against rapid flow of the vaporizable material 1302 to the wick element 1362, once the vaporizable material 1302 has entered the manifold 1200.
In the double-level embodiment shown in FIG. 12B, the first set of channels 1204 (a) -1204 (f) (for example level 1) can have a reversible configuration so that the vaporizable material 1302 collected in the first set of channels can return to the reservoir 1340. The second set of channels 1204 (g) -1204 (k) (for example, level 2), on the contrary, cannot have reversible configurations. In such embodiments, due to the proximity of the second set of channels to the wick member 1362, the vaporizable material 1302 is primarily drawn from the second set of channels and then from the first set of channels (e.g. level 1 serving as a reserve compartment). Having a reversible and non-reversible construction, as discussed above, can help provide additional improvements over the other embodiments discussed here.
In certain multi-level embodiments, by configuring the second set of channels 1204 (g) -1204 (k) as being non-reversible, there can be an additional guarantee that the wick element 1362 will not be poorly fed since vaporizable material 1302 may be available in close proximity to wick member 1362 when stored in the second set of channels 1204 (g) -1204 (k) during an overflow event. Furthermore, the possibility that a strong flow of vaporizable material 1302 into the wick housing during a negative pressure event may be prevented in multi-level implementations, because, as previously stated, the second set of channels 1204 (g) -1204 (k) can be configured to have a more restrictive flow compared to the first set of channels 1204 (a) -1204 (f). In addition, due to the reversibility, the first set of channels 1204 (a) -1204 (f) cannot contain a relatively large volume of vaporizable material 1302. In some embodiments, in order to increase or limit the reversibility or flow of vaporizable material 1302 into the first set of channels 1204 (a) -1204 (f) or the second set of channels 1204 (g) -1204 (k), the absorbent material (e.g. sponges) can be introduced into one or two channel zones.
Referring to Figure 13, there is illustrated a side view in exemplary perspective of a manifold structure with several vents and several channels 1300, according to one or more implementations. As shown, the manifold 1300 can be positioned inside a cartridge so that the manifold 1300 has two vents 1301. This implementation can allow the vaporizable material 1302 to flow into the channels 1204 at a relatively low rate. faster, in particular compared to a single-vent manifold 1200 shown in Figures 21A and 12B.
Embodiments of Wick Feed [0456] Referring again to Figures 10C, 10D, 11B, in some variants, the manifold 1313 can be configured to be received by insertion by a receiving end of the storage chamber 1342 The end of the manifold 1313 which is opposite to the end which is received by the storage chamber 1342 can be configured to receive a wick element 1362. For example, the fork-shaped protrusions can be formed to securely receive the wick element 1362. A wick housing 1315 can be used to further secure the wick element 1362 in a fixed position between the projections. This configuration can also help prevent the wick element 1362 from swelling significantly and weakening due to excessive saturation.
Referring to Figures 1 IC, 11D and 11E, depending on the implementation, one or more of additional conduits, channels, tubes or cavities can move through the manifold 1313 and can be constructed or configured as paths which supply the wick element 1362 with the vaporizable material 1302 stored in the storage chamber 1342. In certain configurations, such as those discussed in more detail here, the wick supply conduits, the tubes or the cavities (that is to say the wick feeds 1368) can extend approximately parallel to the central tunnel 1100. In at least one configuration, one can find several wick feeds which extend diagonally along the length of the manifold 1313, for example independently or in connection with a wick exchange, comprising one or more other wick supplies .
In certain embodiments, a plurality of wick feeds can be connected by interaction in a configuration with several links so that an exchange of feed paths, possibly crossing each other, can lead to the accommodation zone. wick. This configuration can help prevent complete blockage of the wick feed mechanism if, for example, one or more feed paths in the wick feed exchange are blocked by the formation of gas bubbles or d other types of obstruction. Advantageously, the instrumentation of the multiple supply trajectories can allow the vaporizable material 1302 to move in complete safety through one or more trajectories (or a crossing towards a different but open trajectory) towards the wicking housing zone, even if some of the paths or some of the paths in the wick feed exchange are completely or partially blocked or blocked.
[0459] Depending on the implementation, a wick supply path can be formed to be tubular, for example, with a shape of circular or multifaceted transverse diameter. For example, the hollow cross section of the wick feed may be triangular, rectangular, pentagonal or have any other suitable geometric shape. In one or more embodiments, the transverse perimeter of the wick feed may be in the form of a hollow cross, for example so that the arms of the cross have a narrower width relative to the diameter of the central transverse part of the cross from which the arms extend. More generally, a wick feed channel (also referred to herein as the first channel) can have a transverse shape with at least one irregularity (e.g., a protrusion, a side channel, etc.) which provides an alternative path so that the liquid vaporizable material flows therein in the case where an air bubble blocks the rest of the transverse surface of the wick supply. The cross-shaped cross section of the present example is an example of this structure, but those skilled in the art understand that other shapes are also envisaged and achievable according to the present description.
An implementation of a cross-shaped conduit or tube which is formed through a wick feed path can overcome obstruction problems because a cross-shaped tube can be essentially considered to be comprising five separate trajectories (for example a central trajectory formed at the hollow center of the cross and four additional trajectories formed in the hollow arms of the cross). In such an implementation, a blockage in the feed tube by a gas bubble, for example, probably forms at the central part of the cross-shaped tube, leaving auxiliary paths (i.e. - say trajectories which cross the arms of the tube in the shape of a cross) open for the flow.
In one or more aspects, the wick feed paths may be wide enough to allow free movement of the vaporizable material 1302 through the feed paths and toward the wick. In some embodiments, flow through the wick supply can be improved or accommodated by dividing the relative diameter of certain portions of the wick supply to enhance traction or capillary pressure on the vaporizable material 1302 moving at through a wick feed path. In other words, depending on the shape and other structural or material factors, certain wick feed paths may rely on gravitational and capillary forces to induce movement of the vaporizable material 1302 toward the housing portion of the wick. wick.
In the implementation of a cross-shaped tube, for example, the feeding paths which cross the arms of the cross-shaped tube can be configured to feed the wick by means of capillary pressure instead of counting on the force of gravitation. In such an implementation, the central part of the cross-shaped tube can feed the wick due to the gravitational force, for example while the flow of vaporizable material 1302 in the arms of the cross-shaped tube can be supported by capillary pressure. It should be noted that the cross-shaped tube described here is intended to provide an exemplary embodiment. The concepts and functionality implemented in this exemplary embodiment can be extended to wick feed paths with different transverse shapes (for example, tubes with hollow star-shaped sections having two or more arms s' extending from a central tunnel extending along a wick feed path).
Referring to Figure 1 IC, an exemplary manifold construction 1313 is illustrated in which two wick feeds 1368 are positioned on two opposite sides of the central tunnel 1100 so that the vaporizable material 1302 can enter the feeds and s flow directly to the cavity area at the other end of the manifold 1313, where the housing for the wick is formed.
These wick feed mechanisms can be formed through the manifold 1313 so that at least one wick feed path in the 1313 manifold can be formed as a multi-faceted cross-diameter hollow tube. For example, the hollow cross section of the wick feed may be in the form of a plus sign (for example, a wick feed in the form of a hollow cross, if viewed from a top section view ), so that the arms of the cross have a narrower width with respect to the diameter of the central crossing part of the cross from which the arms extend.
[0465] A pipe or tube with the cross-shaped diameter formed through a wick feed path can overcome obstruction problems because a tube with a cross-shaped diameter can be considered to include five separate trajectories (for example a central trajectory formed at the hollow center of the cross and four additional trajectories formed in the hollow arms of the cross). In such an implementation, a blockage in the supply tube by a gas bubble (for example an air bubble) probably forms at the central part of the cross-shaped tube.
Such a central positioning of the gas bubble finally leaves the auxiliary trajectories (that is to say the trajectories which cross the arms of the cross-shaped tube) which remain open for the flow of the vaporizable material 1302, even when the central path is blocked by the gas bubble. Other implementations for a wick feed passageway structure which are possible, may accomplish the same or a similar objective as that described above with respect to trapping gas bubbles or Prevent trapped gas bubbles from completely blocking the wick feed passageway.
The addition of more vents in the structure of the manifold 1300 can allow faster flow rates, depending on the implementation, when a relatively larger collective volume of vaporizable material 1302 can be moved when the vents additional are available. Thus, although not explicitly shown, embodiments with more than two vents (for example implementations with a triple vent, implementations with a quadruple vent, etc.) are also within the scope of the invention described.
Referring to Figures 14A and 14B, some embodiments may include a collector structure 1400 with two supplies for the wick. In such embodiments, the wick may have a higher saturation level and a lower possibility of undernourishment compared to an embodiment in which a single feed is provided.
Referring to FIGS. 15A, 15B and 15C, lateral perspective and cross-section views are proposed of an exemplary collector structure for a double-feed wick 1562. As shown, a wick or the wick 1562 can be arranged or housed in a cartridge 1500, so that at least two separate wick supplies 1566 and 1568 are provided to allow the vaporizable material 1302 to move to an area of the cartridge 1500 where the wick 1562 is housed.
[0470] As indicated above, a supply with two wicks can have the advantage of providing the wick 1562 for example twice the flow of the vaporizable material 1302 compared to a supply with a single wick, as a variant. Advantageously, a two wick feed implementation provides a large feed to the 1562 wick and helps prevent a 1562 wick from drying out if, for example, one of the wick feeds is blocked. As shown, a lower part of the wick 1562 can extend downward into an area of the cartridge 1500 which forms the heating chamber or the atomizer.
Referring to Figures 16A, a side view in plan section is proposed of an exemplary cartridge in which a wick with double horn or double feed 1562 is positioned in a collector structure. Figure 16B is a side sectional plan view of an exemplary collector structure in which a drill bit 1562 can be accommodated. Figure 16C provides an exemplary perspective view of the cartridge, according to one or more implementations. As shown, a first end of the wick 1562 may have two feeds, horns or flange ends to at least partially engage two or more wick openings in a partition 1513 so that at least one of the flange ends tangentially engages, for example, a volume in the storage chamber 1542, or for example extends at least partially into the volume in the storage chamber 1542.
[0472] According to one or more implementations, the cartridge 1500 can comprise a reservoir with a storage chamber 1542 for storing the vaporizable material 1302. A secondary volume 1510 separable from the storage chamber 1542 can also be formed inside. of the cartridge 1500. The secondary volume 1510 can be in communication with the storage chamber 1542 via one or more wick power supplies 1590. The secondary volume 1510 can be configured to accommodate at least one wick 1562. The wick 1562 can be configured to absorbing the vaporizable material 1302 moving through the wick supply 1590 so that, in thermal interaction with an atomizer, the vaporizable material 1302 is absorbed in the wick 1562 and is converted into at least one of the vapor or a aerosol.
The wick 1562 can be at least partially confined by one or more heating elements of an atomizer positioned in the secondary volume 1510. A separation 1513 to at least partially separate the storage chamber 1542 from the secondary volume 1510 can be provided for so that the flow of vaporizable material 1302 through the wick supplies 1590 is controllable. At least a first part of the wick supply 1590 can be formed by at least one or more openings in the partition 1513.
[0474] At least a second part of the wick supply 1590 may comprise a passageway for vaporizable material connecting the one or more openings in the partition 1513 to the secondary volume 1510. An airflow passageway 1538 may be provided to connect the secondary volume 1510 to a mouthpiece so that the vaporizable material 1302, which has been converted into vapor, leaves the secondary volume 1510 to the mouthpiece via the air flow passage 1538 .
Referring to Figures 16A, 16B, 16C, 17A and 17B, there is provided a perspective view of a first side of a cartridge and a sectional view of a second side of the cartridge having a wick 1562 which protrudes into the storage chamber 1542. The wick 1562 may include at least a first end 1592 and a second end 1594, the first end 1592 being near the partition 1513 and the second end extending distally in one direction opposite the first end 1592.
[0476] A first end 1592 of the wick can at least partially project through a wick opening in the partition 1530 to extend at least partially in a volume in the storage chamber 1542. In one aspect, the first end 1592 of the wick 1562 can at least partially protrude through a wick opening in the partition 1530 to engage at least tangentially a volume in the storage chamber 1542.
FIG. 26A illustrates perspective, front, side, bottom and top views of an exemplary embodiment of a manifold 1313 with a V-shaped door 1102. As shown in FIGS. 25 and 26, the manifold 1313 can be mounted inside a hollow cavity in the cartridge 1320 together with the additional components (for example, the wick element 1362, the heating element 1350 and the wick housing 1315). The wick element 1362 can be positioned between a second end of the manifold 1313 with the heating element 1350 wound around the wick element 1362. During assembly, the manifold 1313, the wick element 1362 and the heating element 1350 can be mounted together and covered by the wick housing 1315 before being inserted into the cavity inside the cartridge 1320.
The wick housing 1315 can be inserted together with the other components mentioned in one end of the cartridge 1320 which is opposite the mouthpiece to keep the components inside in a pressure-tight or adjusted manner by pressure. The seal or fitting of the wick housing 1315 and the manifold 1313 within the inner walls of the receiving sleeve of the cartridge 1320 is sufficiently tight, desirably, to prevent leakage of vaporizable material 1302 being held in the reservoir of the cartridge 1320. In certain embodiments, the pressure seal between the wick housing 1315 and the manifold 1313 and the internal walls of the receiving sleeve of the cartridge 1320 is sufficiently tight to prevent the manual disassembly of components with bare hands.
Referring to Figures 10C, 10D, 11B, 26B and 26C, in some variants, a manifold 1313 can be configured to be received by insertion by a receiving end of a storage chamber 1342. As shown in the Figures 26B and 26C, the end of the manifold 1313 which is opposite the end which is received by the storage chamber 1342 can be configured to receive a wick element 1362. For example, fork-shaped projections 1108 can be formed to securely receive the wick element 1362. A wick housing 1315, as shown in the bottom sectional views of Figures 26B and 26C, can be used to further secure the wick element 1362 in a position fixed between the fork-shaped protrusions 1108. This configuration can also help to prevent substantial swelling and weakening of the wicking element 1362 due to excessive saturation.
Referring to Figure 26B, in one embodiment, a wick element 1362 can be constrained or compressed in certain locations along its length (for example, towards the longitudinal distal ends of the wick element 1362 positioned directly under wick supplies 1368) by means of compression ribs 1110 to help prevent leakage, for example, by maintaining a greater saturation area of vaporizable material 1302 toward the ends of the wick member 1362, so that the central part of the wick element 1362 remains drier and is less prone to leaks. In addition, the use of compression ribs 1110 can further compress the wick member 1362 in the atomizer housing to prevent leakage in the atomizer.
Referring to Figures 26D to 26F, there is illustrated a top plan view of exemplary wick feed mechanisms formed by or structured through the manifold 1313, according to one or more implementations. As shown in Figure 26D, at least one wick feed path 1368 into the manifold 1313 can be formed as a multi-faceted cross-diameter hollow tube. For example, the hollow cross section of the wick feed path 1368 may be in the form of a plus sign (for example, a wick feed in the shape of a hollow cross if viewed from a top section view), so that the arms of the cross have a narrower width with respect to the diameter of the central crossing part of the cross from which the arms extend.
Referring to Figure 26E, a conduit or tube with a cross-shaped diameter formed through a wick feed path 1368 can overcome obstruction problems because a tube with a diameter in cross shape can be considered as comprising five separate trajectories (for example a central trajectory formed at the hollow center of the cross and four additional trajectories formed in the hollow arms of the cross). In such an implementation, a blockage in the supply tube by means of a gas bubble (for example an air bubble) is probably formed at the center of the tube in the shape of a cross, as shown in Figure 26E. Such a central positioning of the gas bubble finally leaves the auxiliary trajectories (that is to say the trajectories which cross the arms of the cross-shaped tube) which remain open for the flow of the vaporizable material 1302, even when the central trajectory is blocked by the gas bubble.
Referring to Figure 26F, other implementations for a wick feed trajectory structure 1368 which are possible, can achieve the same objective or an objective similar to that described above with respect to trapping gas bubbles or to avoid trapped gas bubbles completely obstructing the wick feed path 1368. As shown in the exemplary illustration of Figure 26F, one or more drop-shaped projections 1368a / l368b ) (e.g. similar in shape to one or more separate nipples with a wick feed path 1368 between them) can be formed at one end of the wick feed path 1368 through which the material vaporizable 1302 flows from the storage chamber 1342 into the manifold 1313 to help conduct the vaporizable material 1302 through the feed path of wick 1368, if a gas bubble is trapped in the central region of the wick feed path 1368. In this way, a reasonably controllable and compatible flow of vaporizable material 1302 can be continuously diffused to the wick, preventing a scenario wherein the wick is inadequately saturated with the vaporizable material 1302.
Embodiments of the Heating Element [0484] With reference to Figures 18A to 18D, the vaporizer cartridge 1800 may also include a heating element 1850 (for example, a flat heating element), as mentioned above. The heating element 1850 comprises a first part 1850A positioned approximately parallel to the air flow passageways 1838 and a second part 1850B positioned approximately perpendicular to the air flow passageways 1838. As shown, the first part 1850A of the heating element 1850 can be positioned between the opposite parts of a manifold 1813. When the heating element 1850 is activated, there is an increase in temperature due to the flow of current through the element heater 1850 to generate heat, for example.
[0485] The heat can be transferred to a certain quantity of vaporizable material 1302 by heat transfer by conduction, convection and / or radiation so that at least a part of the vaporizable material 1302 is vaporized. Heat transfer can take place for the vaporizable material 1302 in the tank, the vaporizable material 1302 drawn from the manifold 1813 and / or the vaporizable material 1302 drawn into a wick retained by the heating element 1850. The air passing through the device vaporizer flows along an air path over the heating element 1850, detaching the vaporizable material 1302 vaporized from the heating element 1850 and / or the wick. The vaporizable material 1302 vaporized can be condensed due to cooling, pressure changes, etc., so that it leaves the mouthpiece 1830 through at least one of the air flow passageways 1838 in aerosol form for inhalation by a user.
Referring to Figures 19A to 19C, a vaporizer cartridge 1900 may include a folded heating element 1950 and two air flow passageways 1938. As mentioned above, the heating element 1950 may be crimped around a wick 1962 or preformed to receive the wick 1962. The heating element 1950 may include one or more teeth 1950A. The teeth 1950A can be positioned in a heating part of the heating element 1950 and are designed so that the resistance of the teeth 1950A corresponds to the appropriate amount of resistance to influence the localized heating in the heating element 1950 to heat more effectively and more effectively the vaporizable material 1302 of the wick 1962.
The teeth 1950A form fine segments or traces of trajectory heating in series and / or in parallel to provide the desired amount of resistance. The particular geometry of the 1950A teeth may be desirably selected to produce a particular localized resistance for heating the 1950 heating element. For example, the 1950A teeth may include one or more different configurations and characteristics of the teeth described and discussed in more detail below. below.
[0488] When the heating element 1950 is activated, this results in an increase in temperature due to the flow of current through the heating element 1950 to generate heat. Heat is transferred to a certain amount of vaporizable material 1302 by heat transfer by conduction, convection and / or radiation so that at least part of the vaporizable material 1302 is vaporized. Heat transfer can take place on the vaporizable material 1302 in the tank, the vaporizable material 1302 drawn from the collector 1913 and / or the vaporizable material 1302 drawn into the wick 1962 retained by the heating element 1950. In certain implementations, the vaporizable material 1302 can be vaporized along one or more edges of the teeth 1950A.
The air passing through the vaporizing device flows along the air path over the heating element 1950, detaching the vaporizable material 1302 vaporized from the heating element 1950 and / or the wick 1962. The material vaporizable 1302 vaporized can be condensed due to cooling, pressure changes, etc., so that it leaves the mouthpiece through at least one of the air flow passageways 1938 in the form of aerosol for inhalation by a user.
Referring to Figures 20A to 20C, a vaporizer cartridge 2000 may include a folded heating element 2050 and a single air flow passage 2038 (for example central). As mentioned above, the heating element 2050 can be crimped around a wick 2062 or preformed to receive the wick 2062. The heating element 2050 can comprise one or more teeth 2050A. The teeth 2050A can be positioned in a heating part of the heating element 2050 and are designed so that the resistance of the teeth 2050A corresponds to the appropriate amount of resistance to influence the localized heating in the heating element 2050 to heat more effectively and more effectively the vaporizable material of the wick 2062.
The teeth 2050A form fine segments or traces of trajectory heating in series and / or in parallel to provide the desired amount of resistance. The particular geometry of teeth 2050A may be desirably selected to produce a particular localized resistance for heating the heating element 2050. For example, teeth 2050A may include one or more of different tooth configurations described in more detail below. .
When the 2050 heating element is activated, this results in an increase in temperature due to the current flowing through the 2050 heating element to generate heat. Heat is transferred to a certain amount of vaporizable material 1302 through heat transfer by conduction, convection and / or radiation so that at least a portion of the vaporizable material 1302 is vaporized. Heat transfer can occur on the vaporizable material 1302 in the tank, the vaporizable material 1302 drawn from the collector 2013 and / or the vaporizable material 1302 drawn into the wick 2062 retained by the heating element 2050.
[0493] In certain implementations, the vaporizable material 1302 can be vaporized along one or more edges of the teeth 2050A. The air passing through the vaporizing device flows along the air path on the heating element 2050, detaching the vaporizable material 1302 vaporized from the heating element 2050 and / or from the wick 2062. The vaporizable material 1302 vaporized can be condensed due to cooling, pressure changes, etc., so that it leaves the mouthpiece through at least one of the air flow passageways in the form of a aerosol for inhalation by a user.
Referring to Ligures 10C, 1 IB and 21A, in certain embodiments, the manifold 1313 can be configured to include a flat rib 2102 which extends outside at the lower perimeter of the manifold 1313 to create a suitable surface for welding the collector 1313 to the internal walls of the storage chamber 1342, after the collector 1313 has been inserted into a receiving cavity or receptacle in the storage chamber 1342.
[0495] Depending on the implementation, a welding option in full perimeter or tack welding can be used to firmly fix the collector 1313 in a cavity or receiving receptacle in the storage chamber 1342. In certain embodiments , a friction-tight and leak-tight coupling can be established without using welding techniques. In some embodiments, an adhesive material may be used in place of or in addition to the coupling techniques mentioned above.
With reference to Ligures 1 IB and 21B, according to one or more aspects, a weld bead profile 2104 can be shaped at the perimeter of the spiral ribs of the manifold 1313 which define an overflow channel 1104, so that the weld bead profile 2104 can withstand a fast rotating injection molding process. The geometry of the weld bead profile 2104 can be designed in a variety of ways so that the manifold 1313 can be inserted into a receiving cavity or receptacle in the storage chamber 1342 in a friction-tight manner, where the vaporizable material 1302 can flow through the overflow channel 1104 without any leakage along the weld bead profile 2104.
With reference to Figures 22A, 22B and 82 to 86, a vaporizer cartridge 2200 may include the folded heating element, such as the heating element 500 and two air flow passageways 2238. As mentioned above, the heating element 500 can be crimped around a wick 2262 or preformed to receive the wick 2262. The heating element 500 can comprise one or more teeth 502. The teeth 502 can be positioned in a heating part of the heating element 500 and are designed so that the resistance of the teeth 502 corresponds to the appropriate amount of resistance to influence the localized heating in the heating element 500 to heat more effectively and more effectively the vaporizable material 1302 of the wick 2262.
The teeth 502 form fine segments or traces of trajectory heating in series and / or in parallel to provide the desired amount of resistance. The particular geometry of the teeth 502 may be desirably selected to produce a particular localized resistance for heating the heating element 500. For example, the teeth 502 and the heating element 500 may include one or more different configurations and characteristics of the teeth described. in more detail below.
In certain implementations, the teeth 502 comprise a platform tooth part 524 and lateral tooth parts 526. The platform tooth part 524 is configured to be in contact with one end of the drill bit 2262 and the side tooth portions 526 are configured to contact opposite sides of wick 2262. Platform tooth portion 524 and side tooth portions 526 form a pocket which is formed to receive the wick 2262 and / or conform in the shape of at least part of the wick 2262. The pocket allows the wick 2262 to be fixed and retained by the heating element 500 without the pocket.
In some implementations, the lateral tooth parts 526 and the platform tooth part 524 retain the wick 2262 via compression. The platform tooth part 524 and the side tooth parts 526 are in contact with the wick 2262 to provide a multidimensional contact between the heating element 500 and the wick 2262. The multidimensional contact between the heating element 500 and the wick 2262 provides a more efficient and / or faster transfer of the vaporizable material 1302 from the reservoir of the vaporizer cartridge to the heating part (via the wick 2262) to be vaporized.
The heating element 500 may comprise one or more tabs 506 extending from the teeth 502, and the cartridge contacts 124 formed at the end part and / or forming part of at least the one of the one or more legs 506. The heating element 500 shown in Figures 22A to 22B and 82 to 86 comprises four legs 506 by way of example. At least one of the tabs 506 can comprise and / or define one of the cartridge contacts 124 which is configured to be in contact with a corresponding contact of the receptacle contacts 125 of the vaporizer. In certain implementations, a pair of tabs 506 (and the cartridge contacts 124) can be in contact with only one of the receptacle contacts 125.
The legs 506 may be spring loaded to allow the legs 506 to maintain contact with the receptacle contacts 125. The legs 506 may include a portion which is curved to help maintain contact with the receptacle contacts 125. The spring biasing the tabs 506 and / or the curvature of the tabs 506 may help increase and / or maintain constant pressure between the tabs 506 and the receptacle contacts 125. In some implementations, the tabs 506 are coupled with support 176 to help increase and / or maintain constant pressure between tabs 506 and receptacle contacts 125. Support 176 may include plastic, rubber, or other materials to help maintain contact between tabs 506 and receptacle contacts 125. In certain implementations, the support 176 is formed as part of the tabs 506.
The legs 506 can be in contact with one or more wiping contacts which are configured to clean the connection between the cartridge contacts 124 and the other contacts or the power source 112. For example, the contacts wiping comprises at least two parallel but offset bosses which engage by friction and slide against each other in a direction which is parallel or perpendicular to the direction of insertion.
In some implementations, the tabs 506 include retaining parts 180 which are configured to be folded around at least part of a wick housing 178 which surrounds at least part of the wick 2262. The retaining portions 180 form one end of the tabs 506. The retaining portions 180 help secure the heating element 500 and the wick 2262 to the wick housing 178 (and to the vaporizer cartridge).
When the heating element 500 is activated, this results in an increase in temperature due to the current which flows through the heating element 500 to generate heat. The heat is transferred to a certain amount of vaporizable material 1302 via heat transfer by conduction, convection and / or radiation so that at least a portion of the vaporizable material 1302 is vaporized. Heat transfer can take place on the vaporizable material 1302 in the tank, the vaporizable material 1302 drawn from the collector 2213 and / or the vaporizable material 1302 drawn into the wick 2262 retained by the heating element 500.
In some implementations, the vaporizable material 1302 can be vaporized along one or more edges of the teeth 502. The air passing through the vaporizer device flows along the air path over the heating element 500, detaching the vaporizable material 1302 vaporized from the heating element 500 and / or the wick 2262. The vaporizable material 1302 vaporized can be condensed due to cooling, changes in pressure, etc., so that it leaves the mouthpiece via at least one of the air flow passageways 2238 in the form of an aerosol for inhalation by a user.
[0507] Figure 23 illustrates a sectional view of the wick housing 178, compatible with the implementations of the present invention. The wick housing 178 may include a wick support rib 2296 which extends from an outer shell of the wick housing 178 toward the wick 2262 when assembled. The wick support rib 2296 helps prevent deformation of the wick 2262 during assembly.
FIG. 24 illustrates an example of the wick housing 178 comprising an identification chip 2295. The identification chip 2295 can be retained at least in part by the wick housing 178. The identification chip 2295 can be configured to communicate with a corresponding chip reader located on the vaporizer.
Figure 25 illustrates perspective, front, side and exploded views of an exemplary embodiment of a 1320 cartridge with pressure-mounted components. As shown, the cartridge 1320 may include a combination of mouthpiece - reservoir formed in the form of a sleeve with an air flow passage 1338 defined through the sleeve. An area in the cartridge 1320 houses the manifold 1313, the wick element 1362, the heating element 1350 and the wick housing 1315. An opening at a first end of the manifold 1313 leads to the passageway for air flow 1338 into the mouthpiece and provides a path for the vaporizable material 1302 vaporized to move from the heating element area 1350 to the mouthpiece from which a user inhales.
Embodiments of the Additional and / or Alternative Fluid Vent [0510] With reference to FIGS. 27A to 27B, there are illustrated close-up views in front plan of exemplary flow management mechanisms in the manifold structure 1313 Similar to the discussion of the flow management mechanism with reference to Figures 11M and UN, the flow management vent mechanisms 2701 or 2702 can be implemented in different forms in different embodiments. In the example of Figure 27A, the passageways or the overflow channel 1104 in the manifold 1313 can be connected to the storage chamber by means of a fluid vent 2701, for example, so that the vent 2701 includes at least two openings which are connected to the cartridge storage chamber.
As previously proposed, a liquid seal can be maintained at the vent 2701 regardless of the positioning of the cartridge. On the one hand, a vent path can be maintained between the overflow channel and the vent 2701. On the other hand, the high-drive channels can be implemented to encourage pinching in order to maintain a liquid seal.
FIG. 27B illustrates a variant vent structure 2702 with three openings which are connected to the cartridge storage chamber with a nip path which prevents rupture of the liquid seal between the vent 2701 and the storage room.
FIG. 28 illustrates a photo when the flow of the vaporizable material collected in the exemplary collector of FIGS. 27A or 27B is managed to accept good ventilation in the cartridge storage chamber, according to one implementation. As shown, the vent construction 2701 in Figure 27A can be distinguished from the vent construction 2702 in Figure 27B, in that the latest vent construction 2702 provides an open area on one side, instead of the wall structure shown in Figure 27A. This more open implementation provides improved microfluidic interaction between the vaporizable material 1302 and the open side of the vent 2702.
Referring to Figures 29A to 29C, there are illustrated perspective, front and side views of an exemplary embodiment of a cartridge. The cartridge, as shown, can be assembled from a plurality of components including a manifold, a heating element, and a wick housing to hold the cartridge components in place when the components are inserted into a body of a cartridge. In one embodiment, laser welding can be performed at a circumferential junction positioned approximately at the point where one end of the collector structure meets the wick housing. Laser welding prevents the liquid vaporizable material 1302 from flowing from the collector into the heating chamber where the atomizer is placed.
Referring to Figures 30A to 30F, there are illustrated perspective views of an exemplary cartridge with different filling capacities. As mentioned earlier, the volumetric size of the overflow volume can be configured to be equal to, approximately equal to, or greater than the amount of increase in volume of the content contained in the storage chamber. When the volume of the contents in the storage chamber expands due to one or more environmental factors, if the volume of the contents, contained in the storage chamber is X, when the pressure inside the storage chamber increases to Y, then Z amounts of vaporizable material 1302 can be moved from the storage chamber into the overflow volume. Thus, in one or more embodiments, the overflow volume is configured to be at least large enough to contain Z quantities of vaporizable material 1302.
Ligure 30A illustrates a perspective view of an exemplary cartridge body having a reservoir which, when filled, houses the storage of a volume of approximately 1.20 ml of vaporizable material 1302, for example . Ligure 30B illustrates a perspective view of a fully assembled exemplary cartridge, in which the storage chamber and the collector overflow passageways accommodate a combined volume of approximately 1.20 ml of vaporizable material 1302 when the two are filled, for example. Ligure 30C illustrates a perspective view of a fully assembled exemplary cartridge when the manifold overflow passageway is filled with an approximate volume of 0.173 ml, for example. Ligure 30D illustrates a perspective view of a fully assembled exemplary cartridge when the storage chamber is filled to an approximate volume of 0.934 ml, for example. Ligure 30E illustrates a perspective view of a fully assembled exemplary cartridge with wick supply channels and an air flow passageway in the mouthpiece shown in a sectional view, the channels wick feed having a volume of approximately 0.094 ml, for example. Figure 30F illustrates a perspective view of an exemplary cartridge completely assembled with an overflow air channel incorporated in a part of the manifold towards the lower rib, the air flow air channel having a volume approximately 0.043 ml, for example.
[0517] Figures 31A to 31C illustrate front views of an exemplary cartridge, according to one embodiment, in which a two-needle filling application is used to fill the reservoir of the cartridge (Figure 31 A) before the manifold and a closure plug are inserted into the cartridge body (Figure 31B) to form a fully assembled cartridge (Figure 31C).
[0518] Figures 34A and 34B illustrate front and side views of an exemplary cartridge body with an external air flow path. In some embodiments, one or more doors, also referred to as air inlet holes, may be provided on the vaporizer body 110. The inlet holes may be positioned within a an air inlet channel with a width, a height and a depth, which is dimensioned to prevent the user from unintentionally blocking the individual air inlet holes, when the user holds the vaporizer 100. In one aspect, the air inlet channel construction may be long enough so as not to block or significantly limit the flow of air through the air inlet channel, when for example the fingers of a user block an area of the air intake channel.
In certain configurations, the geometric construction of the air inlet channel can provide at least one of a minimum length, a minimum depth or a minimum width, for example to guarantee that a user cannot cover or completely block the air intake holes in the air intake channel with one hand or another part of the body. For example, the length of the air inlet channel may be longer than the width of an average human finger and the width and depth of the air inlet channel may be such that when the finger of an user is compressed on top of the channel, the skin folds created do not interface with the air inlet holes inside the air inlet channel.
The air inlet channel can be constructed or formed as having rounded edges or formed to wrap around one or more corners or areas of the vaporizer body 110, so that the channel air inlet cannot easily be covered by a user's finger or body part. In some embodiments, an optional cover may be provided to protect the air inlet channel so that a user's finger does not block or completely limit the flow of air through the inlet channel of air. In an exemplary implementation, the air inlet channel can be formed at the interface between the vaporizer cartridge 120 and the vaporizer body 110 (for example at the receptacle area - see the Figure 1). In such an implementation, the air inlet channel can be protected from blockage due to the fact that the air inlet channel is formed inside the receptacle area. This implementation can also allow a configuration in which the air inlet channel is hidden from view.
[0521] Figures 32A to 32C illustrate front, top and bottom views of an exemplary cartridge body, respectively, with a condensate collector 3201 incorporated within the air path.
Referring to Figure 33A, air or vapor can flow in an air flow path through the cartridge. The air flow path may extend longitudinally from an orifice or opening in the mouthpiece, internally along the body of the cartridge so that the vaporizable material 1302 inhaled through the nozzle buccal passes through a condensate collector 3201. As shown in Figure 33B, in addition to the condensate collector 3201, condensate recycling channels 3204 (for example, microfluidic channels) can be formed to move from the opening in the mouthpiece to the wick, for example.
The condensate collector 3201 acts on the vaporizable vaporizable material 1302 which is cooled and transformed into drops in the mouthpiece to collect and convey the drops of condensate to the condensate recycling channels 3204. The condensate recycling channels 3204 collects and returns condensate and large drops of vapor to the wick, and prevents the liquid vaporizable material formed in the mouthpiece from being deposited in the mouth of the user, during the puff of the user or the inhalation through the mouthpiece. The condensate recycling channels 3204 can be implemented in the form of microfluidic channels to trap the liquid drop condensates and thus eliminate the direct inhalation of the vaporizable material, in liquid form, and avoid an undesirable sensation or taste in the user's mouth. Additional and / or alternative embodiments of the condensate recycling channels, and / or one or more other features for controlling, collecting and / or recycling the condensate in a vaporizing device are described and shown with reference to Figures 117 to 119C . The condensate recycling channels (and / or the one or more other characteristics described and shown with reference to Figures 117 to 119C) can alone or in combination with one or more characteristics of the vaporizer cartridge, help to control, collect and / or recycle the condensate in a vaporizing device.
Referring to Figures 35 and 36, there are illustrated perspective views of a portion of an exemplary cartridge where the manifold structure 1313 includes an air gap 3501 at the lower rib of the manifold structure. The positioning of the air gap 3501 may coincide with the location where the air exchange orifice is positioned in the manifold structure 1313. As previously proposed, the manifold structure 1313 can be configured to have a central opening at through which an air flow channel leading to the mouthpiece is implemented. The air flow channel can be connected to the air exchange port, so that the volume inside the overflow passage of the manifold 1313 is connected to the ambient air. via the air exchange orifice and also connected to the volume in the storage chamber via a vent.
According to one or more embodiments, the vent can be used as a regulating valve to mainly regulate the flow of liquid between the overflow passageway and the storage chamber. The air exchange port can be used to primarily regulate the flow of air between the overflow passageway and an air path leading to the mouthpiece, for example. The combination of the interactions between the vent, the manifold channels of the overflow passageway and the air exchange orifice provide good wicking saturation and good ventilation of the air bubbles which can be introduced into the cartridge due to various environmental factors as well as the controlled flow of vaporizable material 1302 inside and outside the manifold channels. The presence of an air gap 3501 at the air exchange orifices allows a more robust ventilation process since it prevents the liquid vaporizable material 1302 stored in the collector from infiltrating into the wick housing zone. .
[0526] Figures 37A to 37C illustrate top views of different shapes and confi
100 exemplary wick feed gurations for a cartridge according to one or more embodiments. As shown, Figure 37A illustrates a cross section of wick feed in the shape of a cross according to an exemplary embodiment. Figure 37B illustrates a wick feed with an approximately rectangular cross section. Figure 37C illustrates a wick feed with an approximately square cross-section. As proposed above, depending on the implementation, one or more wick feeds 3701 can be constructed as conduits, channels, tubes or cavities which move through the manifold structure 1313 in the form of paths which supply the wick with the vaporizable material 1302 stored in the storage chamber. In some configurations, wick supplies 3701 can extend approximately parallel to the central channel 3700 in manifold 1313.
[0527] Depending on the implementation, a wick feed path can be formed to be tubular, for example, with a substantially rectangular or square cross-sectional shape, as shown in Figures 37B and 37C. A variable width cross-shaped conduit or tube formed through a wick feed path can overcome obstruction problems, if these shapes provide a multi-path configuration which allows vaporizable material 1302 to travel through the wick supply even if an air bubble is formed in a certain area of the wick supply. In such implementations, a blockage in the wick feed tube is likely to be formed at a portion of the wick feed tube, leaving the auxiliary paths (e.g. alternative paths) open for the flow.
In one or more aspects, the wick feed paths can be wide enough to allow free movement of the vaporizable material 1302 through the feed paths and toward the wick. In some embodiments, flow through the wick supply can be improved or accommodated by designing the relative diameter of certain parts of the wick supply to enhance traction or capillary pressure on the vaporizable material 1302 which is moving through the wick feed path. In other words, depending on the shape and other structural or material factors, certain wick feed paths can rely on gravitational or capillary forces to induce movement of the vaporizable material 1302 toward the housing portion of the wick. wick.
FIGS. 37D and 37E illustrate exemplary embodiments of a manifold 1313 with an implementation of double wick feed 3701. At least one of the wick feeds 3701 can be formed to include a
101 partial interior wall. The partial interior wall can be configured to divide the volume of the interior of a wick supply 3701 into two separate volumes (i.e., ventricles) as shown in the perspective sectional views of Figures 37D and 37E. The partial wall implementation allows the liquid vaporizable material 1302 to flow easily from the reservoir to the wick housing area in order to saturate the wick.
In some implementations, the partial wall in a single wick supply essentially forms two ventricles in the single wick supply. The ventricles in the wick supply can be disjointed through the partial wall and used separately to allow vaporizable material 1302 to flow to the wick housing. In such embodiments, if a gas bubble is dislodged in one of the ventricles in the wick supply, the other ventricle can remain open. A ventricle may be volumetrically large to provide sufficient flow of vaporizable material 1302 to the wick for adequate saturation.
[0531] Consequently, in embodiments in which two wick 3701 supplies are used, actually four ventricles may be available to transport the flow of the vaporizable material 1302 to the wick. Thus, in the case of the formation of gas bubbles in one, two or even three ventricles, at least a fourth ventricle can be used to direct the flow of vaporizable material 1302 towards the wick, reducing the chances of dehydration of the wick.
Referring to Figure 38, a close-up view of one end of the wick supply which is positioned close to the wick (for example at the end configured to at least partially receive the wick) where optionally at least a portion of the wick is sandwiched between two or more teeth extending from the end of the wick feed.
[0533] Figure 39 illustrates a perspective view of an exemplary manifold structure having a square design wick supply in combination with an air gap at one end of the overflow passageway.
Referring to Figures 40A to 40E, there are respectively illustrated rear, side, front and bottom views of an exemplary collector structure. Figure 40A illustrates a rear view of the manifold structure with four separate ejection sites, for example. Figure 40B illustrates a side view of the manifold structure showing in particular a clamp-like end portion 4002 of a wick feed which can firmly hold the wick in the path of the wick feed, for example. As shown in Figure 40C, the part of the cartridge body which extends internally towards the cartridge body from the mouthpiece, can be received through a central channel 3700 in the
102 collector structure forming a passageway for the respiratory tract so that the vaporizable material 1302 vaporized escapes from the atomizer towards the mouthpiece.
[0535] Ligure 40C illustrates a top view of the collector structure with wick feed channels 4001 for receiving the vaporizable material from the cartridge storage chamber and leading the vaporizable material to the wick which is maintained in position at the end of the wick feed channels 4001 by the projecting ends of the wick feed channels 4001 forming the clamp-shaped end part 4002.
Ligure 40D illustrates a front plan view of the collector structures. As shown, an air gap can be formed at the bottom of the manifold structure at the end of a lower rib of the manifold structure where the manifold overflow passageway leads to a air regulation vent 3902 in communication with the ambient air. The part of the cartridge body which extends from the mouthpiece can be received through the central channel 3700 in the collector structure forming a passageway for the respiratory tract so that the vaporizable material 1302 vaporized escapes from the atomizer to the mouthpiece.
Ligure 40E illustrates a bottom view of the manifold structure 1313 where two wick feed channels terminate in two clamp-like end portions 4002 configured to hold the clamp in position at the lower end of manifold 1313. As shown, optionally, a segmented flange, flange, or lip 4003 may be formed on the surface of the lower end of manifold 1313, where manifold 1313 connects to the top of the plug 760 at the time of assembly. Lip 4003 provides a pressure-tight engagement between the top of the plug 760 and the bottom of the manifold 1313, operating in a similar fashion to a flexible O-ring, so that the correct seal can be established during assembly. In one embodiment, the lower end of the manifold 1313 can be laser welded to the upper part of the plug 760.
Ligures 41A and 41B illustrate top and side plan views of an alternative embodiment of the manifold structure having two of the clip-shaped end portion 4002 and two corresponding wick supplies. As shown, this alternative embodiment is shorter in height compared to the embodiment illustrated in Ligure 40A. This reduced height provides improved functionality by structurally changing the shape of the manifold 1313 and the length of the passageway in the manifold 1313 into which the vaporizable material 1302 flows. Thus, depending on the implementation, the length of the vaporizable material 1302, the passageway through the manifold 1313 can be
103 shorter in some embodiments to provide more efficient capillary pressure and better management of the flow of vaporizable material 1302 in the passageway of the manifold 1313.
Ligures 42A and 42B illustrate different perspective, top, bottom and side views of an exemplary 1313 manifold with different structural implementations. For example, the embodiment shown in Ligure 42A includes constriction points which include C-shaped walls positioned vertically. In contrast, in the embodiment shown in Figure 42B, the C-shaped walls are positioned diagonally to promote more controlled flow of vaporizable material 1302 along the manifold passage 1313. As shown in exemplary embodiment of Figure 42B, the C-shaped walls are positioned diagonally to the bottom blade of the manifold, and positioned vertically to the blade portions in the manifold that tilt down.
As mentioned previously, the flow rate inside and outside the manifold 1313 is regulated by manipulating the hydraulic diameter of the overflow channel 1104 in the manifold 1313 by the introduction of one or more points. constriction, which effectively reduce the overall volume of the overflow channel 1104. As shown, the introduction of several constriction points in the overflow channel 1104 divides the overflow channel into several segments in which the material vaporizable 1302 can flow in a first or a second direction, for example towards or at a distance from the air regulation vent 3902, respectively.
The introduction of the constriction points helps to establish and control the state of capillary pressure in the overflow channel 1104 so that the hydraulic flow of the vaporizable material 1302 towards the air regulation vent 3902 is minimized in a pressure state when the pressure in the cartridge reservoir is equal to or less than the ambient air. In a pressure state in which the pressure in the reservoir is lower than the ambient pressure (for example, above a first threshold), the constriction points are configured to control the capillary pressure or the hydraulic flow of the material vaporizable 1302 in the overflow channel 1104 so that ambient air can enter the overflow channel 1104 through the air control vent 3904 and rises to the controlled fluid gate 1102 in the tank for ventilate (i.e. establish a state of equilibrium pressure in) the cartridge.
In certain embodiments or scenarios, the ventilation process mentioned above may not involve or require the entry of ambient air into the air regulation vent 3904. In certain exemplary scenarios, instead or in addition to the air entering the 3904 air control vent, air bubbles or gases trapped in
104 inside the overflow channel 1104 can go up to the controlled fluid gate 1102 to help establish a state of equilibrium pressure in the cartridge by ventilating the reservoir when air bubbles are introduced into the reservoir from of the overflow channel 1104 by the controlled fluid door 1102, as proposed in more detail with reference to Figures 1 IM and UN, for example. The design of the constriction points and C-shaped walls in the path of the overflow channel 1104, as shown in Figures 42A and 42B, promotes a more controlled flow of vaporizable material 1302 into the overflow channel 1104 by better managing the capillary pressure along the trajectory of the overflow regulation channel 1104.
Fa Figure 43A illustrates different perspective, top, bottom and side views of an exemplary wick housing 1315, according to one or more embodiments. As shown, one or more perforations or holes may be formed in the lower part of the wick housing 1315 to accept the flow of air through a wick positioned in the wick housing 760 of the wick housing 1315. A a sufficient number of holes promotes adequate air flow in the wick housing 760 and provides good, timely vaporization of the vaporizable material 1302 absorbed into the wick in response to the heat generated by the heating element positioned near or around the wick.
FIG. 43B illustrates the components of manifold 1313 and of wick housing 760 of an exemplary cartridge 1320, according to one or more embodiments.
As shown, wick housing 1315 (which includes the wick housing portion of the cartridge) can be implemented to include a protruding member or tongue 4390. The tongue 4390 can be configured to extend from the 'upper end of the drill bit housing 1315 which, during assembly, couples with a receiving end of the manifold 1313. The tongue 4390 may include one or more facets which correspond to or agree with one or more facets in a notch receiving cavity or receiving cavity 1390, for example, in the lower part of the manifold 1313. The receiving cavity 1390 can be configured to removably receive the tab 4390 for snap engagement, for example. The snap engagement can help keep the manifold 1313 and the drill bit housing 1315 together during or after assembly.
In some embodiments, the tongue 4390 can be used to direct the orientation of the wick housing 1315 during assembly. For example, in one embodiment, one or more vibrating mechanisms (for example, vibrating bowls) can be used to temporarily store or organize the various components of the cartridge 1320. According to certain implementations, the tongue 4390
105 can be useful for orienting the upper part of the drill bit housing 1315 for a mechanical gripping device for the purpose of easy engagement and correct automatic assembly.
Embodiments of the additional and / or alternative heating element [0546] As mentioned above, the vaporizer cartridge compatible with the implementations of the present invention may comprise one or more heating elements. Figures 44A to 116 illustrate embodiments of a heating element compatible with the implementations of the present invention. While the features described and shown with respect to Figures 44A to 116 may be included in different embodiments of the vaporizer cartridges described above and / or may include one or more features of the different embodiments of the vaporizer cartridges described above above, the characteristics of the heating elements described and represented with respect to FIGS. 44A to 116 can moreover and / or as a variant be included in one or more other exemplary embodiments of the vaporizer cartridges, such as those described below.
A heating element compatible with the implementations of the present invention can be desirably formed to receive a wicking element and / or crimped or compressed at least partially around the wicking element. The heating element can be folded so that the heating element is configured to fix the wick element between at least two or three parts of the heating element. The heating element can be folded to conform to a shape of at least part of the wicking element. The heating element can be more easily manufactured on typical heating elements. The heating element compatible with the implementations of the present invention can also be produced with an electrically conductive metal suitable for resistive heating and in certain implementations, the heating element can comprise the selective plating of another material for allow the heating element (and thus the vaporizable material) to be more efficiently heated.
[0548] Figure 44A illustrates an exploded view of an embodiment of the vaporizer cartridge 120, Figure 44B illustrates a perspective view of an embodiment of the vaporizer cartridge 120 and Figure 44C illustrates a perspective view from below of an embodiment of the vaporizer cartridge 120. As shown in Figures 44A to 44C, the vaporizer cartridge 120 includes a housing 160 and an atomizer assembly (or the atomizer) 141.
[0549] The atomizer assembly 141 (see Figures 99-101) may include a wick element 162, a heating element 500 and a wick housing 178. As explained in more detail below, at least one part of the element
106 heater 500 is positioned between housing 160 and wick housing 178 and is exposed to be coupled with a portion of the vaporizer body 110 (e.g., electrically coupled with receptacle contacts 125). The wick housing 178 can have four sides. For example, wick housing 178 may include two opposite short sides and two opposite long sides. The two opposite long sides may each include at least one (two or more) recess 166 (see Figures 99, 11 IA). The recesses 166 may be positioned along the long side of the wick housing 178 and adjacent to the respective intersections between the long sides and the short sides of the wick housing 178. The recesses 166 may be formed to detachably couple with a corresponding feature (eg a spring) on the vaporizer body 110 for securing the vaporizer cartridge 120 to the vaporizer body 110 in the cartridge receptacle 118. The recesses 166 provide a mechanically stable attachment means for coupling the vaporizer 120 to the vaporizer body 110.
In some implementations, the wick housing 178 also includes an identification chip 174 which can be configured to communicate with a corresponding chip reader positioned on the vaporizer. The identification chip 174 may be glued and / or otherwise fixed to the wick housing 178, such as on a short side of the wick housing 178. The wick housing 178 may additionally or alternatively include a chip recess 164 (see Figure 100) which is configured to receive the identification chip 174. The chip recess 164 may be surrounded by two, four or more walls. The chip recess 164 can be formed to secure the identification chip 174 to the bit housing 178.
[0551] As mentioned above, the vaporizer cartridge 120 can generally comprise a reservoir, an air path and an atomizer assembly 141. In certain configurations, the heating element and / or the atomizer described according to the implementations of the present invention may be implemented directly in a vaporizer body and / or may not be removable from the vaporizer body. In some implementations, the vaporizer body may not include a removable cartridge.
Various advantages and benefits of the present invention may relate to improvements over the present vaporizer configurations, manufacturing methods and the like. For example, a heating element of a vaporizing device compatible with the implementations of the present invention can be produced (for example stamped), desirably, from a sheet of material and crimped around at least one part of a wicking element or folded to provide a preformed element configured to receive the wicking element (for example, the wicking element is pushed into the heating element and / or the heating element is held in
107 tension and is pulled on the wick element). The heating element can be folded so that the heating element fixes the wick element between at least two or three parts of the heating element. The heating element can be folded to conform to a shape of at least part of the wicking element. The configuration of the heating element allows more compatible and improved quality manufacturing of the heating element. The compatibility of the manufacturing quality of the heating element can be particularly important during staggered and / or automatic manufacturing processes. For example, the heating element compatible with the implementations of the present invention helps to reduce the tolerance issues that can occur during manufacturing processes when assembling a heating element having multiple components.
In certain implementations, the accuracy of the measurements taken from the heating element (for example, a resistance, a current, a temperature, etc.) can be improved, at least in part due to the improved compatibility during of the manufacturing of the heating element having reduced tolerance problems. Greater accuracy during measurements can provide an improved user experience when using the vaporizer. For example, as mentioned above, the vaporizer 100 may receive a signal to activate the heating element, at full operating temperature to create an inhalable dose of vapor / aerosol or at a lower temperature to begin heating the heating element. The temperature of the heating element of the vaporizer can depend on a number of factors, as mentioned above, and many of these factors can be made more predictable by eliminating potential variations during the manufacturing and assembly of the components. atomizer. A heating element made (for example, stamped) from a sheet of material and crimped around at least part of a wicking element or folded to provide a preformed element, desirably helps to minimize heat loss and helps ensure that the heating element behaves predictably to be heated to the proper temperature.
[0554] In addition, as mentioned above, the heating element can be completely and / or selectively plated with one or more materials to improve the thermal performance of the heating element. Plating all or part of the heating element can help minimize heat loss. Plating can also help focus the heated portion of the heating element in the right location, providing a heated heating element more efficiently and further reducing heat loss. Selective plating can help direct the current supplied to the heater to the correct location. Selective plating can also help reduce the amount of plating material and / or costs associated with manufacturing the heater.
108 [0555] Once the heating element is formed into the appropriate shape via one or more of the methods discussed below, the heating element can be crimped around the wicking element and / or folded into the correct position to receive the wick element. The wick element may, in some implementations, be a fibrous wick, formed as an at least approximately flat pad or with other transverse shapes such as circles, ovals, etc. A flat pad can allow the rate at which the vaporizable material is drawn into the wick element to be regulated more precisely and / or exactly. For example, length, width and / or thickness can be adjusted for optimal performance. A wick element forming a flat pad can also provide an upper transfer surface, which can allow increased flow of the vaporizable material from the reservoir into the wick element for vaporization by the heating element (in other words, a greater mass transfer of the vaporizable material), and of the wicking element so that the air flow passes through the latter. In such configurations, the heating element can be in contact with the wicking element in more than one direction (for example, on at least two sides of the wicking element) to increase the efficiency of the material suction process vaporizable in the wicking and vaporizing element of the vaporizable material. The flat pad can also be more easily formed and / or cut, and thus can be more easily assembled with the heating element. In some implementations, as discussed in more detail below, the heating element can be configured to contact the wicking element only on one side of the wicking element.
The wicking element may include one or more rigid or compressible materials, such as cotton, silica, ceramic and / or the like. Compared to certain other materials, a cotton wick element may allow an increased and / or more controllable flow of the vaporizable material from the reservoir of the vaporizer cartridge into the wick element to be vaporized. In some implementations, the wick element forms an at least approximately flat pad which is configured to come into contact with the heating element and / or be fixed between at least two parts of the heating element. For example, the at least approximately flat pad may have at least a first pair of opposite sides which are approximately parallel to each other. In some implementations, the at least approximately flat pad may also have at least a second pair of opposite sides which are approximately parallel to each other, and approximately perpendicular to the first pair of opposite sides.
[0557] Figures 45 to 48 illustrate schematic views of a heating element 500 compatible with implementations of the present invention. For example, Figure 45 illustrates a schematic view of a heating element 500 in an unfolded position.
109
As shown, in the unfolded position, the heating element 500 forms a planar heating element. The heating element 500 can be initially formed with a substrate material. The substrate material is then cut and / or stamped to the correct shape via various mechanical processes, including but not limited to stamping, laser cutting, photoengraving, chemical etching and / or the like.
The substrate material can be produced with an electrically conductive metal suitable for resistive heating. In some implementations, the heating element 500 comprises a nickel-chromium alloy, a nickel alloy, stainless steel and / or the like. As discussed below, the heating element 500 may be plated with a coating in one or more locations on a surface of the substrate material to improve, limit or otherwise modify the resistivity of the heating element in the one or more locations of the substrate material (which may be all or part of the heating element 500).
The heating element 500 comprises one or more teeth 502 (for example heating segments) positioned in a heating part 504, one or more parts or connecting lugs 506 (for example one, two or more) positioned in a region transition 508 and a cartridge contact 124 positioned in an electrical contact region 510 and formed at an end portion of each of the one or more tabs 506. The teeth 502, the tabs 506, and the cartridge contacts 124 can be formed integrally. For example, the teeth 502, the tabs 506 and the cartridge contacts 124 form parts of the heating element 500 which is stamped and / or cut in the substrate material. In certain implementations, the heating element 500 also comprises a heat shield 518 which extends from one or more of the legs 506 and can also be formed integrally with the teeth 502, the legs 506 and the cartridge contacts 124.
In certain implementations, at least part of the heating part 504 of the heating element 500 is configured to interface with the vaporizable material sucked into the wicking element from the reservoir 140 of the vaporizer cartridge. 120. The heating portion 504 of the heating element 500 can be formed, sized and / or otherwise treated to create a desired resistance. For example, the teeth 502 positioned in the heating part 504 can be designed so that the resistance of the teeth 502 corresponds to the appropriate amount of resistance to influence the localized heating in the heating part 504 to heat the vaporizable material more efficiently and effectively. the wick element. The teeth 502 form fine segments or traces of trajectory heating in series and / or in parallel to provide the desired amount of resistance.
The teeth 502 (for example traces) can include different shapes, sizes and configurations. In some configurations, one or more of the teeth 502
110 can be spaced apart to allow the vaporizable material to be diffused by wicking effect from the wicking element and from this location, sprayed from the side edges of each of the teeth 502. The shape, the length, the width, the composition , etc. among other properties of teeth 502 can be optimized to maximize efficiency in order to generate an aerosol by vaporizing the vaporizable material from inside the heating portion of heating element 500 and to maximize electrical efficiency. The shape, the length, the width, the composition, etc. among other properties of the teeth 502 can be further or alternatively optimized to distribute the heat uniformly over the length of the teeth 502 (or part of the teeth 502, as at the level of the heating part 504). For example, the width of the teeth 502 can be uniform or variable along the length of the teeth 502 to control the temperature profile on at least the heating part 504 of the heating element 500. In certain examples, the length of the teeth 502 can be controlled to obtain a desired resistance along at least part of the heating element 500, as at the level of the heating part 504. As shown in FIGS. 45 to 48, the teeth 502 each have the same size and the same shape. For example, the teeth 502 include an outer edge 503 which is approximately aligned and have a generally rectangular shape, with flat or square outer edges 503 (see also Figures 49-53) or rounded outer edges 503 (see Figures 54 and 55). In some implementations, one or more of the teeth 502 may include external edges 503 which are not aligned and / or may be sized or formed differently (see Figures 57 to 62). In some implementations, the teeth 502 may be evenly spaced or have variable spacing between the adjacent teeth 502 (see Figures 87-92). The particular geometry of the teeth 502 can be desirably selected to produce a particular localized resistance for heating the heating part 504, and to maximize the performance of the heating element 500 in order to heat the vaporizable material and generate an aerosol.
The heating element 500 can comprise parts of wider and / or thicker geometry, and / or of different composition with respect to the teeth 502. These parts can have electrical contact zones and / or more conductive parts and / or may include features for mounting the heating element 500 in the vaporizer cartridge. The legs 506 of the heater 500 extend from one end of each outermost tooth 502A. The legs 506 form a part of the heating element 500 which has a width and / or a thickness which is typically wider than a width of each of the teeth 502. But in certain implementations, the legs 506 have a width and / or a thickness which is identical or narrower than the width of each of the teeth 502. The legs 506 couple the heating element 500 to the wick housing 178 or another part of the
Ill vaporizer cartridge 120, so that the heating element 500 is at least partially or completely enclosed by the housing 160. The tabs 506 provide rigidity to encourage the heating element 500 to be mechanically stable during and after manufacture. The legs 506 also connect the cartridge contacts 124 with the teeth 502 positioned in the heating part 504. The legs 506 are formed and dimensioned to allow the heating element 500 to maintain the electrical requirements of the heating part 504. As shown in In Figure 48, the tabs 506 separate the heating part 504 from one end of the vaporizer cartridge 120 when the heating element 500 is assembled with the vaporizer cartridge 120. As discussed in more detail below, at least by compared to FIGS. 82 to 98 and 130 to 104, the legs 506 can also include a capillary characteristic 598, which limits or prevents the fluid from flowing out of the heating part 504 to the other parts of the heating element 500.
In some implementations, one or more of the legs 506 comprise one or more positioning characteristics 516. The positioning characteristics 516 can be used for the relative positioning of the heating element 500 or its parts during and / or after the assembly by interacting with other components (for example adjacent) of the vaporizer cartridge 120. In certain implementations, the positioning characteristics 516 can be used during or after manufacture to correctly position the substrate material for cutting and / or stamping the substrate material in order to form the heating element 500 or after the treatment of the heating element 500. The positioning characteristics 516 can be sheared and / or cut before crimping or else folding the element heating 500.
In certain implementations, the heating element 500 comprises one or more thermal screens 518. The thermal screens 518 form a part of the heating element 500 which extends laterally from the legs 506. When they are folded and / or crimped, the heat shields 518 are positioned offset in a first direction and / or a second direction opposite to the first direction in the same plane, relative to the teeth 502. When the heating element 500 is assembled in the vaporizer cartridge 120, the heat shields 518 are configured to be positioned between the teeth 502 (and the heating portion 504) and the body (eg, plastic body) of the vaporizer cartridge 120. The heat shields 518 can help insulating the heating part 504 from the body of the vaporizer cartridge 120. The heat shields 518 help to minimize the effects of the heat emanating from the heating part nte 504 on the body of the vaporizer cartridge 120 to protect the structural integrity of the body of the vaporizer cartridge 120 and to prevent melting or other deformation of the vaporizer cartridge 120. The screens
112 thermals 518 can also help maintain a constant temperature at the heating portion 504 by retaining heat in the heating portion 504, thereby preventing or limiting heat loss while vaporization takes place. In some implementations, the vaporizer cartridge 120 may also or alternatively include a heat shield 518A which is separate from the heating element 500 (see Figure 102).
As mentioned above, the heating element 500 comprises at least two cartridge contacts 124 which form an end part of each of the tabs
506. For example, as shown in Figures 45 to 48, the cartridge contacts 124 may form the portion of the tabs 506 which is folded along a fold line
507. The cartridge contacts 124 can be bent at an angle of approximately 90 degrees to the tabs 506. In some implementations, the cartridge contacts 124 can be bent at other angles, such as an angle d approximately 15 degrees, 25 degrees, 35 degrees, 45 degrees, 55 degrees, 65 degrees, 75 degrees, or other ranges therebetween, relative to tabs 506. Cartridge contacts 124 can be bent toward or away from the heating part 504, depending on the implementation. The cartridge contacts 124 may also be formed on another part of the heating element 500, such as along a length of at least one of the tabs 506. The cartridge contacts 124 are configured to be exposed to the environment, when assembled in the vaporizer cartridge 120 (see Figure 53).
The cartridge contacts 124 can form conductive pins, tabs, studs, receiving holes or surfaces for pins or studs or other contact configuration. Certain types of cartridge contacts 124 may include springs or other thrust characteristics to cause better physical and electrical contact between the cartridge contacts 124 on the vaporizer cartridge and the receptacle contacts 125 on the vaporizer body 110. In some implementations, the cartridge contacts 124 include wiping contacts which are configured to clean the connection between the cartridge contacts 124 and other contacts or power source. For example, the wiping contacts include two parallel but offset bosses that engage by friction and slide relative to each other in a direction that is parallel or perpendicular to the direction of insertion.
The cartridge contacts 124 are configured to interface with the receptacle contacts 125 disposed near a base of the cartridge receptacle of the vaporizer 100 so that the cartridge contacts 124 and receptacle contacts 125 establish electrical connections when the vaporizer cartridge 120 is inserted into and coupled to the cartridge receptacle 118. The cartridge contacts
113
124 can communicate electrically with the power source 112 of the vaporizer device (such as via receptacle contacts 125, etc.). The circuit terminated by these electrical connections can allow the distribution of electric current to the resistive heating element to heat at least part of the heating element 500 and can also be used for additional functions, such as for example for measuring a resistance of the resistive heating element intended to be used to determine and / or control a temperature of the resistive heating element based on a thermal coefficient of resistivity of the resistive heating element, to identify a cartridge on the basis of one or more electrical characteristics of a resistive heating element or the other circuits of the vaporizer cartridge, etc. Cartridge contacts 124 can be treated, as explained in more detail below, to provide improved electrical properties (e.g. contact resistance) using, for example, conductive plating, surface treatment and / or deposited materials.
In certain implementations, the heating element 500 can be treated by a whole series of crimping and / or folding operations to form the heating element 500 in a desired three-dimensional shape. For example, the heating element 500 can be preformed to receive or be crimped around a wick element 162 to fix the wick element between at least two parts (for example, approximately parallel parts) of the heating element 500 (as between opposite parts of the heating part 504). To crimp the heater 500, the heater 500 can be folded along fold lines 520 toward each other. Folding the heating element 500 along the fold lines 520 forms a platform tooth portion 524 defined by the region between the fold lines 520 and the side tooth portions 526 defined by the region between the fold lines 520 and the external edges 503 of the teeth 502. The platform tooth part 524 is configured to be in contact with one end of the wick element 162. The lateral tooth parts 526 are configured to be in contact with the opposite sides of the wick member 162. The platform tooth portion 524 and the side tooth portions 526 form a pocket which is formed to receive the wick member 162 and / or conform to the shape of at least one portion of the wick element 162. The pocket allows the wick element 162 to be fixed and retained by the heating element 500 inside the pocket. The platform tooth part 524 and the side tooth parts 526 are in contact with the wick element 162 to provide multidimensional contact between the heating element 500 and the wick element 162. The multidimensional contact between the element heater 500 and the wick element 162 provides a more efficient and / or faster transfer of the vaporizable material from the reservoir 140 of the vaporizer cartridge 120 to the heater 504 (via the wick element 162) to be
114 vaporized.
In certain implementations, the parts of the legs 506 of the heating element 500 can also be folded along fold lines 522 at a distance from each other. Folding the portions of the legs 506 of the heating element 500 along the fold lines 522 at a distance from each other positions the legs 506 in a position remote from the heating part 504 (and the teeth 502) of the heating element 500 in a first and / or second direction opposite to the first direction (for example in the same plane). Thus, the folding of the parts of the legs 506 of the heating element 500 along the folding lines 522 at a distance from each other moves the heating part 504 away from the body of the vaporizer cartridge 120. Figure 46 illustrates a diagram of the heating element 500 which has been folded along the fold lines 520 and the fold lines 522 around the wick element 162. As shown in Figure 46, the wick element is positioned in the pocket formed by folding the heating element 500 along the fold lines 520 and 522.
In certain implementations, the heating element 500 can also be folded along the fold lines 523. For example, the cartridge contacts 124 can be folded towards one another (on and off the page shown in Figure 47) along the fold lines 523. The cartridge contacts 124 may be exposed to the environment to be in contact with the receptacle contacts, while the residual parts of the heating element 500 are positioned in the vaporizer cartridge 120 (see Figures 48 and 53).
[0571] In use, when a user takes a puff on the mouthpiece 130 of the vaporizer cartridge 120 when the heating element 500 is assembled in the vaporizer cartridge 120, the air flows into the vaporizer cartridge and along an air path. In association with the puff of the user, the heating element 500 can be activated, for example by the automatic detection of the puff via a pressure sensor, by the detection of a push of a button by the user, by signals generated from a motion sensor, a flow sensor, a capacitive lip sensor and / or another approach capable of detecting that a user is taking or is about to take a puff or inhale to bring the air to enter the vaporizer 100 and move along at least the air path. Power can be supplied by the vaporizer to the heating element 500 at the cartridge contacts 124, when the heating element 500 is activated.
[0572] When the heating element 500 is activated, this results in an increase in temperature due to the flow of current through the heating element 500 to generate heat. The heat is transferred to a certain quantity of vaporizable material by heat transfer by conduction, by convection and / or by radiation, so
115 that at least part of the vaporizable material vaporizes. Heat transfer can take place on the vaporizable material in the tank and / or the vaporizable material drawn into the wicking element 162 retained by the heating element 500. In some implementations, the vaporizable material can be vaporized along one or more edges of the teeth 502, as mentioned above. The air passing through the vaporizing device flows along the air path on the heating element 500, detaching the vaporized vaporizable material from the heating element 500. The vaporizable vaporizable material can be condensed due to cooling, pressure changes, etc., so that it exits from the mouthpiece 130, in the form of an aerosol for inhalation by a user.
As mentioned above, the heating element 500 can be made with different materials, such as a nickel-chromium alloy, stainless steel or other resistive heater materials. Combinations of two or more materials may be included in the heating element 500, and such combinations may include both homogeneous distributions of two or more materials throughout the heating element or other configurations in which relative amounts of two or more materials are spatially heterogeneous. For example, the teeth 502 may have parts which are more resistive and thus be designed to become hotter than other sections of the teeth or of the heating element 500. In certain implementations, at least the teeth 502 (such as as in the heating part 504) can comprise a material which has a high conductivity and a heat resistance.
The heating element 500 can be completely or selectively plated with one or more materials. Since the heating element 500 is made with a thermal and / or electrically conductive material, such as stainless steel, a nickel-chromium alloy, or another thermally and / or electrically conductive alloy, the heating element 500 can undergo electrical or heat losses in the path between the cartridge contacts 124 and the teeth 502 in the heating portion 504 of the heating element 500. To help reduce thermal and / or electrical losses, at least part of the the heating element 500 can be plated with one or more materials to reduce the resistance in the electrical path leading to the heating part 504. In certain implementations compatible with the present invention, it is advantageous that the heating part 504 (for example the teeth 502) remains unplated, with at least part of the tabs 506 and / or cartridge contacts 124 which is plated with a material plating which reduces the resistance (for example each or both the volume resistance or the contact resistance) in these parts.
[0575] For example, the heating element 500 may comprise different parts which are
116 plated with different materials. In another example, the heating element 500 can be plated with layered materials. Plating at least a portion of the heating element 500 helps to concentrate the flow of current on the heating part 504 to reduce electrical and / or thermal losses in other parts of the heating element 500. In some implemented, it is desirable to maintain a low resistance in the electrical path between the cartridge contacts 124 and the teeth 502 of the heating element 500 to reduce electrical and / or thermal losses in the electrical path and to compensate for the fall of tension which is concentrated on the heating part 504.
In some implementations, the cartridge contacts 124 can be selectively plated. Selective plating of the cartridge contacts 124 with certain materials can minimize or eliminate the contact resistance at the point where measurements are taken and electrical contact is made between the cartridge contacts 124 and the receptacle contacts. Providing low resistance on the cartridge contacts 124 can provide more accurate voltage, current and / or resistance measurements and readings, which can be beneficial in accurately determining the true current temperature of the heater 504 of the heating element 500.
In some implementations, at least a portion of the cartridge contacts 124 and / or at least a portion of the tabs 506 can be plated with one or more external plating materials 550. For example, at least a portion of the contacts cartridge 124 and / or at least a portion of tabs 506 can be plated with gold, another material which provides low contact resistance, such as platinum, palladium, silver, copper or the like.
In certain implementations, in order to fix the low-resistance external plating material on the heating element 500, a surface of the heating element 500 can be plated with an adhering plating material. In these configurations, the adhering plating material may be deposited on the surface of the heating element 500 and the external plating material may be deposited on the adhering plating material, defining first and second plating layers, respectively. The adhering plating material comprises a material with adhesive properties when the external plating material is deposited on the adhering plating material. For example, the adhering plating material may include nickel, zinc, aluminum, iron, their alloys, or the like. Figures 79 to 81 illustrate examples of the heating element 500 in which the cartridge contacts 124 have been selectively plated with the adhering plating material and / or the external plating material.
In some implementations, the surface of the heating element 500 can be
117 prepared to deposit the outer plating material on the heating element 500 using a primer without plating rather than by plating the surface of the heating element 500 with the adhering plating material. For example, the surface of the heating element 500 can be prepared using etching rather than depositing the adhering plating material.
In some implementations, all or part of the tabs 506 and of the cartridge contacts 124 can be plated with the adhering plating material and / or the external plating material. In some examples, the cartridge contacts 124 may comprise at least one part which has an external plating material having a greater thickness than the residual parts of the cartridge contacts 124 and / or of the tabs 506 of the heating element 500. In certain implementations, the cartridge contacts 124 and / or the tabs 506 may have a greater thickness relative to the teeth 502 and / or to the heating part 504.
In some implementations, rather than forming the heating element 500 with a single substrate material and pressing the substrate material, the heating element 500 can be formed with different materials which are coupled together (for example , via laser welding, diffusion processes, etc.). The materials of each part of the heating element 500 which is coupled, can be selected to provide low resistance or no resistance at the cartridge contacts 124 and high resistance to the teeth 502 or to the heating part 504 relative to the other parts of heating element 500.
In certain implementations, the heating element 500 can receive an electrolytic deposit with silver ink and / or a spray applied with one or more plating materials, such as the adhering plating material and the plating material. external.
As mentioned above, the heating element 500 can include different shapes, sizes and geometries to more effectively heat the heating part 504 of the heating element 500 and more effectively vaporize the vaporizable material.
[0584] Figures 49 to 53 illustrate an example of a heating element 500 compatible with the implementations of the present invention. As shown, the heating element 500 comprises one or more teeth 502 positioned in the heating part 504, the one or more tabs 506 extending from the teeth 502, the cartridge contacts 124 formed at the part of end of each of the one or more legs 506, and the heat shields 518 extending from the one or more legs 506. In this example, each of the teeth 502 has the same shape and size or similar shape and size. The teeth 502 have a square and / or flat outer edge 503. In Figures 49 to 52, the teeth 502 have been crimped around a wick element 162 (for example a flat pad) to fix the wick element 162 in the
118 tooth pocket 502.
Ligures 54 to 55 illustrate another example of a heating element 500 compatible with the implementations of the present invention in an unfolded position (Ligure 54) and a folded position (Ligure 55). As shown, the heating element 500 comprises the one or more teeth 502 positioned in the heating part 504, the one or more tabs 506 extending from the teeth 502, the cartridge contacts 124 formed at the part of end of each of the one or more legs 506, and the heat shields 518 extending from the one or more legs 506. In this example, each of the teeth 502 have the same size and shape or similar sizes and shape and the teeth 502 have a rounded and / or semi-circular external edge 503.
[0586] Ligure 56 illustrates another example of a heating element 500 in a folded position compatible with the implementations of the present invention which is similar to the exemplary heating element 500 shown in Liguria 54 to 55, but in In this example, each of the teeth 502 has the same shape and size or similar shape and size and the teeth 502 have a square and / or flat outer edge 503.
Ligures 57 to 62 illustrate other examples of the heating element 500 in which at least one of the teeth 502 has a size, shape or position which is different from the residual teeth 502. For example, as shown in Ligures 57 to 58, the heating element 500 comprises the one or more teeth 502 positioned in the heating part 504, the one or more tabs 506 extending from the teeth 502, and the contacts of cartridge 124 formed at the end portion of each of the one or more tabs 506. In this example, the teeth 502 include a first set of teeth 505A and a second set of teeth 505B. The first and second sets of teeth 505A, 505B are offset from each other. For example, the outer edges 503 of the first and second sets of teeth 505A, 505B are not aligned with each other. As shown in Ligure 58, when the heating part 504 is in the folded position, the first set of teeth 505A appears to be shorter than the second set of teeth 505B in the first part of the heating element 500, and the first set of teeth 505A appears to be longer than the second set of teeth 505B in the second part of the heating element 500.
As shown in Ligures 59 to 60, the heating element 500 comprises the one or more teeth 502 positioned in the heating part 504, the one or more tabs 506 extending from the teeth 502, and the contacts of cartridge 124 formed at the end portion of each of the one or more tabs 506. In this example, the teeth 502 include a first set of teeth 509A and a second set of teeth 509B. The first and second sets of teeth 509A, 509B are offset from each other. For example, the outer edges 503 of the first and second
119 sets of teeth 509A, 509B are not aligned. Here, the second set of teeth 509B includes a single outermost tooth 502A. As shown in Figures 59 to 60, when the heating portion 504 is in the folded position, the first set of teeth 509A appears to be longer than the second set of teeth 509B. In addition, in Figures 59 to 60, the teeth 502 are not bent. Instead, the teeth 502 are positioned on a first part and a second part of the heating element 500 which is positioned approximately parallel to and opposite to the first part. The first set of teeth positioned on the first part of the heating element 500 is separated from the second set of teeth positioned on the second part of the heating element 500 by a platform part 530 which is positioned between and spaced both from the first and second set of teeth. The platform portion 530 is configured to be in contact with one end of the wicking member 162. The platform portion 530 includes a cutout portion 532. The cutout portion 532 can provide additional edges along which the vaporizable material can be vaporized from the time the heating element 500 is activated.
As shown in Figures 61 to 62, the heating element 500 comprises the one or more teeth 502 positioned in the heating part 504, the one or more tabs 506 extending from the teeth 502 and the cartridge contacts 124 formed at the end portion of each of the one or more tabs 506. In this example, the teeth 502 include a first set of teeth 509A and a second set of teeth 509B. The first and second sets of teeth 509A, 509B are offset from each other. For example, the outer edges 503 of the first and second sets of teeth 509A, 509B are not aligned with each other. Here, each of the first and second set of teeth 509A, 509B includes two teeth 502. As shown in Figures 61 to 62, when the heater 504 is in the folded position, the first set of teeth 509A appears to be shorter than the second set of teeth 509B. In addition, in Figures 61 to 62, the teeth 502 are not bent. Instead, the teeth 502 are positioned on a first part and a second part (which is parallel and opposite to the first part), of the heating element 500. The first set of teeth positioned on the first part is separated from the second set of teeth positioned on the second part by a platform part which is positioned between and away from the first and second sets of teeth. The platform portion is configured to be in contact with one end of the wick member 162. The platform portion includes a cutout portion. The cut portion can provide additional edges along which the vaporizable material can be vaporized from the time the heating element 500 is activated.
120 [0590] Figures 63 to 68 illustrate another example of a heating element 500 compatible with the implementations of the present invention in an unfolded position (Figure 63) and a folded position (Figures 64 to 68). As shown, the heating element 500 comprises the one or more teeth 502 positioned in the heating part 504, the one or more tabs 506 extending from the teeth 502, the cartridge contacts 124 formed at the part of end of each of the one or more legs 506, and the heat shields 518 extending from the one or more legs 506. In this example, the heating element 500 is configured to be crimped around and / or folded to receive an element wick 162 of cylindrical shape or a wick member 162 having a circular cross section. Each of the teeth 502 has openings 540. The openings 540 can provide additional edges along which the vaporizable material can be vaporized from the time the heating element 500 is activated. The openings 540 also reduce the amount of material used to form the heating element 500, reducing the weight of the heating element 500 and the amount of material used for the heating element 500, thereby reducing material costs.
[0591] Figures 69 to 78 illustrate a heating element 500 compatible with the implementations of the present invention, in which the heating element 500 is compressed against one side of the wicking element 162. As shown, the element heater 500 includes the one or more teeth 502 positioned in the heater portion 504, the one or more tabs 506 extending from the teeth 502, and the cartridge contacts 124 formed at the end portion of each of the or more tabs 506. In these examples, tabs 506 and cartridge contacts 124 are configured to bend in a third direction, rather than in a first - second direction which is perpendicular to the third direction. In such a configuration, the teeth 502 of the heating part 504 form a planar platform which is oriented outwards from the heating element 500 and is configured to be pressed against the wicking element 162 (for example, d 'one side of the wick element 162).
[0592] Figures 71 to 74 illustrate several examples of the heating element 500 compatible with the implementations of the present invention comprising teeth 502 configured in different geometries. As mentioned above, the teeth 502 form a planar platform which is pressed against one side of the wick member 162 in use. The legs 506 rather than the teeth 502, being folded in the folded position.
FIG. 75 illustrates an example of the heating element 500 shown in FIG. 71, assembled with a component of the vaporizer cartridge 120, such as a wick housing (for example the wick housing 178) which houses the element of
121 wick 162 and the heating element 500 and Figure 76 illustrates the heating element 500 assembled with an exemplary vaporizer cartridge 120 compatible with the implementations of the present invention. As shown, the cartridge contacts 124 are bent towards each other in a lateral direction.
[0594] Figures 77 and 78 illustrate the example of the heating element 500 in which the teeth 502 form a platform which is configured to be pressed against the wicking element 162. Here, the legs 506 can form structures in form of a spring which forces the teeth 502 to be pressed against the wick element 162 when an inward lateral force is applied to each of the legs 506. For example, Figure 78 illustrates an example of the teeth 502 which are compressed against the wick element 162 when the energy (for example a current) is supplied to the heating element 500, as by the cartridge contacts 124.
[0595] Figures 82 to 86 illustrate another example of a heating element 500 compatible with the implementations of the present invention. As shown, the heating element 500 comprises the one or more teeth 502 positioned in the heating part 504, the one or more tabs 506 extending from the teeth 502, and the cartridge contacts 124 formed at the part d end and / or as a part of each of the one or more legs 506. In this example, each of the teeth 502 have the same shape and size or similar shape and size and is spaced from the others at equal distances. The teeth 502 have a rounded outer edge 503.
[0596] As shown in Figure 85, the teeth 502 have been crimped around a wick element 162 (for example a flat pad) to fix the wick element 162 in the pocket formed by the teeth 502. For example , the teeth 502 can be folded and / or crimped to define the pocket in which the wick element 162 is located. The teeth 502 include a platform tooth portion 524 and side tooth portions 526. The platform tooth portion 524 is configured to be in contact with one side of the wick member 162 and the side tooth portions 526 are configured to be in contact with opposite sides of the wicking member 162. The platform tooth portion 524 and the side tooth portions 526 form the pocket which is formed to receive the wicking member 162 and / or conform in the form of at least part of the wicking element 162. The pocket allows the wicking element 162 to be fixed and retained by the heating element 500 in the pocket.
In certain implementations, the lateral tooth parts 526 and the platform tooth part 524 retain the wick element 162 via compression (for example, at least part of the wick element 162 is compressed between the opposite side tooth parts 526 and / or the platform tooth part 524). The platform tooth part 524 and the side tooth parts 526 are in contact with the wick element 162 to provide multidimensional contact between the heating element 500 and
122 the wick element 162. The multidimensional contact between the heating element 500 and the wick element 162 provides a more efficient and / or faster transfer of the vaporizable material from the reservoir 140 of the vaporizer cartridge 120 to the heating part 504 (via wick element 162) to spray.
The one or more tabs 506 of the exemplary heating element 500 shown in Liguria 82 to 86 include four tabs 506. Each of the tabs 506 can include and / or define a cartridge contact 124 which is configured to be in contact with a corresponding receptacle contact 125 of the vaporizer 100. In some implementations, each pair of tabs 506 (and the cartridge contacts) may be in contact with a single receptacle contact 125. The tabs 506 may be spring loaded to allow tabs 506 to maintain contact with receptacle contacts 125. Tabs 506 may include a portion that extends along a length of tabs 506 which is curved to help maintain contact with receptacle contacts 125. The spring loading of the legs 506 and / or the curvature of the legs 506 can help increase and / or maintain the constant pressure between the legs 506 and the contacts of e receptacle 125. In certain implementations, the tabs 506 are coupled with a support 176 which helps to increase and / or maintain the constant pressure between the tabs 506 and the receptacle contacts 125. The support 176 may include plastic, rubber or other materials, to help maintain contact between the tabs 506 and the receptacle contacts 125. In some implementations, the support 176 is formed as part of the tabs 506.
The legs 506 can be in contact with one or more wiping contacts which are configured to clean the connection between the cartridge contacts 124 and the other contacts or power source. For example, the wiping contacts include at least two parallel but offset bosses that engage by friction and slide against each other in a direction that is parallel or perpendicular to the direction of insertion.
As shown in Ligures 82 to 98, the one or more legs 506 of the heating element 500 comprise four legs 506. Ligures 91 to 92, 97A to 98B and 109 to 110 represent examples of the heating element 500 in the unfolded position. As shown, the heating element 500 has an H shape, defined by the four legs 506 and the teeth 502. This configuration makes it possible to more precisely measure the resistance on the heating device, and reduces the variability of the resistance measurements, allowing thus a more efficient aerosol generation and a better quality aerosol generation. The heating element 500 comprises two pairs of opposite legs 506. The teeth 502 are coupled (for example intersect) with each of the pairs of legs 506 opposite at or at
123 near a center of each of the pairs of opposite legs 506. The heating part 504 is positioned between the pairs of opposite legs 506.
Ligure 109 illustrates an example of the heating element 500 before the heating element 500 has been stamped and / or otherwise formed from a substrate material 577. The substrate material 577A in excess can be coupled with the heating element 500 at one, two or more 577B coupling locations. For example, as shown, the excess substrate material 577A can be coupled with the heating element 500 at two coupling locations 577B, near the opposite lateral ends 173 of the platform part of the heating element and / or from the heating part 504 of the heating element 500. In certain implementations, the heating element 500 can be first stamped in the substrate material 577 and then removed from the excess substrate material 577A at the level of the coupling locations 577B (e.g., twisting, pulling, stamping, cutting, etc. heating element 500).
As mentioned above, to crimp the heating element 500, the heating element 500 can be bent or bent along the fold lines 523, 522A, 522B, 520 towards or at a distance from each other ( see for example Ligure 98A). Although the fold lines are illustrated in Ligure 98A, the 500 exemplary heating elements described and shown in Ligures 44A to 115C can be crimped, folded or bent along the fold lines. Folding the heating element 500 along the fold lines 520 forms a platform tooth part 524 defined by the region between the fold lines 520 and / or between the side tooth parts 526 defined by the region between the fold lines 520 and the outer edges 503 of the teeth 502. The platform tooth part 524 can be in contact with one end and / or support one end of the wick element 162. The lateral tooth parts 526 can be in contact with the opposite sides of the wick element 162. The platform tooth part 524 and the side tooth parts 526 define an interior volume of the heating element which forms a pocket formed to receive the wick element 162 and / or conform to the shape of at least part of the wick element 162. The interior volume makes it possible to fix and retain the wick element 162 thanks to the heating element 500 in the po che. The platform tooth part 524 and the side tooth parts 526 are in contact with the wick element 162 to provide multidimensional contact between the heating element 500 and the wick element 162. The multidimensional contact between the element heater 500 and the wick element 162 provides more efficient and / or faster transfer of the vaporizable material from the reservoir 140 of the vaporizer cartridge 120 to the heater 504 (see wick element 162) to be vaporized.
In some implementations, the parts of the legs 506 of the heating element 500
124 can also be bent along the fold lines 522A, 522B. Folding the portions of the legs 506 of the heating element 500 along the fold lines 522 at a distance from the others, positions the legs 506 in a position remote from the heating part 504 (and the teeth 502) of the heating element 500 in a first and / or second direction opposite to the first direction (for example in the same plane). Thus, the folding of the parts of the legs 506 of the heating element 500 along the fold lines 522 at a distance from the others, moves the heating part 504 away from the body of the vaporizer cartridge 120. The folding of the parts of the legs 506 along fold lines 522A, 522B form a bridge 585. In some implementations, the bridge 585 helps to reduce or eliminate the overflow of vaporizable material from the heating part 504, as due to capillary action. The bridge 585 also helps to insulate the heating part 504 from the legs 506, so that the heat generated at the level of the heating part 504 does not reach the legs 506. This also helps to locate the heat of the heating element 500 to the interior of the heating part 504.
In some implementations, the heating element 500 can also be bent along the fold lines 523 to define the cartridge contacts 124. The cartridge contacts 124 may be exposed to the environment or may otherwise be accessible (and can be positioned in an interior of a part of the cartridge, such as the outer shell) to come into contact with the receptacle contacts, while other parts, such as the heating part 504 of the heating element 500, are positioned in an inaccessible part of the vaporizer cartridge 120, such as the wick housing.
In some implementations, the tabs 506 include retaining parts 180 which are configured to be bent around at least part of a wick housing 178 which surrounds at least part of the wick element 162 and the heating element 500 (such as the heating part 504). The retaining portions 180 form one end of the tabs 506. The retaining portions 180 help secure the heater 500 and the wick member 162 to the wick housing 178 (and the vaporizer cartridge 120). The retaining parts 180 can be bent as a variant at a distance from at least part of the drill bit housing 178.
Ligures 87 to 92 illustrate another example of a heating element 500 compatible with the implementations of the present invention. As shown, the heating element 500 comprises the one or more teeth 502 positioned in the heating part 504, the one or more tabs 506 extending from the teeth 502, and the cartridge contacts 124 formed at the part d end and / or as part of the one or more legs 506.
The teeth 502 can be folded and / or crimped to define the pocket in which a wick element 162 (for example, a flat pad) is located. Teeth 502 corn
125 take a platform tooth part 524 and side tooth parts 526. The platform tooth part 524 is configured to be in contact with one side of the wick member 162 and the side tooth parts 526 are configured to being in contact with the other opposite sides of the wick element 162. The platform tooth part 524 and the side tooth parts 526 form the pocket which is formed to receive the wick element 162 and / or conform to the shape of at least part of the wick element 162. The pocket allows the wick element 162 to be fixed and retained by the heating element 500 inside the pocket.
In this example, the teeth 502 have different shapes and sizes and are spaced from each other at identical or variable distances. For example, as shown, each of the lateral tooth portions 526 comprises at least four teeth 502. In a first pair 570 of adjacent teeth 502, each of the adjacent teeth 502 is spaced at an identical distance from an internal region 576 positioned in the vicinity from the platform tooth portion 524 to an outer region 578 positioned near the outer edge 503. In a second pair 572 of adjacent teeth 502, the adjacent teeth 502 are spaced apart by a variable distance from the inner region 576 to the outer region 578. For example, the adjacent teeth 502 of the second pair 572 are spaced apart by a width that is greater at the level of the inner region 576 than at the level of the outer region 578. These configurations can help maintain a constant temperature and uniform along the length of the teeth 502 of the heating portion 504. Maintaining a constant temperature along the length d The teeth 502 can provide a better quality aerosol, when the maximum temperature can be maintained more uniformly over the entire heating part 504.
As mentioned above, each of the legs 506 can comprise and / or define a cartridge contact 124 which is configured to be in contact with a receptacle contact 125 corresponding to the vaporizer 100. In certain implementations, each pair tabs 506 (and cartridge contacts 124) can be in contact with a single receptacle contact 125. In some implementations, tabs 506 include retaining portions 180 which are configured to be bent and generally extend to distance from the heating part 504. The retaining parts 180 are configured to be positioned in a corresponding recess in the wick housing 178. The retaining parts 180 form one end of the legs 506. The retaining parts 180 help to fix the heating element 500 and wick element 162 on wick housing 178 (and vaporizer cartridge 120). The retaining portions 180 may have a tip portion 180A which extends from one end of the retaining portion 180 toward the heating portion 504 of the heating element 500. This configuration reduces the possibility that the retaining portion either
126 contact with another part of the vaporizer cartridge 120 or a cleaning device to clean the vaporizer cartridge 120.
The outer edge 503 of the teeth 502 in the heating part 504 may include a tongue 580. The tongue 580 may include one, two, three, four tongues 580 or more. The tab 580 may extend outward from the outer edge 503 and extend away from a center of the heating element 500. For example, the tab 580 may be positioned along an edge of the heating element 500 surrounding an internal volume defined by at least the lateral tooth parts 526 for receiving the wicking element 162. The tongue 580 can extend outwards away from the internal volume of the wicking element 162. The tongue 580 can also extend at a distance in a direction opposite to the platform tooth part 524. In certain implementations, the tongues 580 positioned on the opposite sides of the internal volume of the wicking element 162 can spread away from each other. This configuration helps to widen the opening leading to the internal volume of the wick member 162, thereby helping to reduce the likelihood that the wick member 162 will catch, tear and / or be damaged when assembled with the heating element 500. Due to the material of the wicking element 162, the wicking element 162 can easily catch, tear and / or be damaged when assembled (for example positioned in or inserted in) with the heating element 500. Contact between the wicking element 162 and the outer edge 503 of the teeth 502 can also damage the heating element. The shape and / or positioning of the tongue 580 can make it easier to position the wicking element 162 inside or in the pocket (for example the internal volume of the heating element 500) formed by the teeth 502 , thereby preventing or reducing the probability that the wick element 162 and / or the heating element will be damaged. Thus, the tabs 580 help reduce or prevent the damage caused to the heating element 500 and / or the wicking element 162 following the entry of the wicking element 162 into thermal contact with the heating element 500. The shape of the tongue 580 also helps to minimize the impact on the resistance of the heating part 504.
In some implementations, at least a portion of the cartridge contacts 124 and / or at least a portion of the tabs 506 can be plated with one or more external plating materials 550 to reduce the contact resistance to the point where the the heating element 500 is in contact with the receptacle contacts 125.
[0612] Figures 93A to 98B illustrate another example of a heating element 500 compatible with the implementations of the present invention. As shown, the heating element 500 comprises the one or more teeth 502 positioned in the heating part 504, the one or more legs 506 extending from the teeth 502,
127 and the cartridge contacts 124 formed at the end portion and / or forming part of each of the one or more tabs 506.
The teeth 502 can be folded and / or crimped to define the pocket in which a wick element 162 (for example a flat pad) is located. The teeth 502 include a platform tooth portion 524 and side tooth portions 526. The platform tooth portion 524 is configured to be in contact with one side of the wick member 162 and the side tooth portions 526 are configured to be in contact with other opposite sides of the wick member 162. The platform tooth portion 524 and the side tooth portions 526 form the pocket which is formed to receive the wick member 162 and / or conform to the shape of at least part of the wick element 162. The pocket allows the wick element 162 to be fixed and retained by the heating element 500 in the pocket.
In this example, the teeth 502 have the same shape and size and are spaced from each other by equal distances. Here, the teeth 502 include a first side tooth portion 526A and a second side tooth portion 526B which are spaced apart by the platform tooth portion 524. Each of the first and second side tooth portions 526A, 526B includes an internal region 576 positioned near the platform tooth portion 524 to an outer region 578 positioned near the outer edge 503. At the outer region 578, the first side tooth portion 526A is positioned approximately parallel to the second tooth part 526A. At the internal region 576, the first side tooth part 526A is positioned offset from the second tooth part 526B and the first and second side tooth parts 256A, 526B are not parallel. This configuration can help maintain a constant and uniform temperature along the length of the teeth 502 of the heater 504. Maintaining a constant temperature along the length of the teeth 502 can provide better aerosol, when the maximum temperature can be maintained more uniformly over the entire heating part 504.
As mentioned above, each of the legs 506 can include and / or define a cartridge contact 124 which is configured to be in contact with a receptacle contact 125 corresponding to the vaporizer 100. In certain implementations, each pair tabs 506 (and cartridge contacts 124) may be in contact with a single receptacle contact 125. In some implementations, tabs 506 include retaining portions 180 which are configured to be angled and generally extend to distance from the heating part 504. The retaining parts 180 are configured to be positioned in a corresponding recess in the wick housing 178. The retaining parts 180 form one end of the legs 506. The retaining parts 180 help to fix the heating element 500 and wicking element 162
128 on the wick housing 178 (and the vaporizer cartridge 120). The retaining portions 180 may have a tip portion 180A which extends from one end of the retaining portion 180 toward the heating portion 504 of the heating element 500. This configuration reduces the likelihood that the retaining portion either in contact with another part of the vaporizer cartridge 120 or a cleaning device for cleaning the vaporizer cartridge 120.
The external edge 503 of the teeth 502 in the heating part 504 can comprise a tongue 580. The tongue 580 can extend outwards from the external edge 503 and extend at a distance from a center of the heating element 500. The tongue 580 can be formed to allow the wicking element 162 to be more easily positioned in the pocket formed by the teeth 502, thereby preventing or reducing the probability that the wicking element 162 will be caught on the outer edge 503. The shape of the tongue 580 helps to minimize the impact on the resistance of the heating part 504.
In some implementations, at least a portion of the cartridge contacts 124 and / or at least a portion of the tabs 506 can be plated with one or more external plating materials 550 in order to reduce the contact resistance to the point where the heating element 500 is in contact with the receptacle contacts 125.
[0618] Figures 99 to 100 illustrate an example of the atomizer assembly 141, with the heating element 500 assembled with the wick housing 178, and Figure 101 illustrates an exploded view of the atomizer assembly 141, compatible with the implementations of the present invention. The wick housing 178 can be made from plastic, polypropylene and the like. The wick housing 178 includes four recesses 592 in which at least a portion of each of the legs 506 of the heating element 500 can be positioned and fixed. As shown, the wick housing 178 also includes an opening 593 providing access to an internal volume 594, in which at least the heating portion 504 of the heating element 500 and the wicking element 162 are positioned.
The wick housing 178 may also include a separate heat shield 518A, which is shown in Figure 102. The heat shield 518A is positioned in the internal volume 594 in the wick housing 178 between the walls of the wick housing 178 and the heating element 500. The heat shield 518A is formed to at least partially surround the heating part 504 of the heating element 500 and to move the heating element 500 away from the side walls of the wick housing 178. The screen thermal 518A can help insulate the heating part 504 from the body of the vaporizer cartridge 120 and / or from the wick housing 178. The thermal screen 518A helps to minimize the effects of heat from the heating part 504 on the body of the vaporizer cartridge 120 and / or the wick housing 178 to protect the structural integrity of the body of the vaporizer cartridge
129 riser 120 and / or wick housing 178 and to prevent melting or other deformation of the vaporizer cartridge 120 and / or wick housing 178. The heat shield 518A can also help maintain a constant temperature at the level of the heating part 504 by retaining the heat in the heating part 504, thereby preventing or limiting heat loss.
[0620] The heat shield 518A comprises one or more slots 590 (for example three slots) at one end, which align with one or more slots (for example, one, two, three, four, five, six or seven or more slots) 596 formed in a portion of the wick housing 178 opposite the opening 593, such as a base of the wick housing 178 (see Figures 100 and 112). The one or more slots 590, 596 allow the leakage of pressure caused by the flow of the liquid vaporizable material in the heating part 504 and the vaporization of the vaporizable material, without affecting the liquid flow of the vaporizable material.
In certain implementations, flooding can occur between the heating element 500 (for example, the legs 506) and an external wall of the wick housing 178 (or between the parts of the heating element 500) . For example, liquid vaporizable material may accumulate due to capillary pressure between the tabs 506 of the heating element 500 and the outer wall of the wick housing 178, as indicated by the liquid path 599. In such cases , there may be sufficient capillary pressure to draw the liquid vaporizable material out of the reservoir and / or the heating portion 504. To help limit and / or prevent the liquid vaporizable material from escaping from the internal volume of the housing. wick 178 (or the heating portion 504), the wick housing 178 and / or the heating element 500 may include a capillary characteristic which causes a sudden change in capillary pressure, thereby forming a liquid barrier which prevents the liquid vaporizable material to pass the characteristic without using an additional seal (for example, a hermetic seal). The capillary characteristic can define a capillary rupture, formed by a salient point, an elbow, a curved surface or another surface in the wick housing 178 and / or the heating element 500. The capillary characteristic makes it possible to position a conductive element ( for example the heating element 500) in both a wet and a dry region.
The capillary feature can be positioned on and / or be part of the heating element 500 and / or the wick housing 178 and causes a sudden change in capillary pressure. For example, the capillary characteristic may include an elbow, a salient point, a curved surface, a bent surface, or other surface characteristic which causes a sudden change in capillary pressure between the heating element and the wick housing, along 'a length of the element
130 heater, or other component of the vaporizer cartridge. The capillary feature may also include a projection or other part of the heating element and / or the wick housing which widens a capillary channel, such as the capillary channel formed between parts of the heating element, between the heating element and the wick housing, and the like, which is sufficient to reduce the capillary pressure in the capillary channel (for example, the capillary characteristic moves the heating element away from the wicking housing) so that the capillary channel does not suck up the liquid in the capillary canal. Thus the capillary characteristic prevents or limits the flow of the liquid along a liquid trajectory beyond the capillary characteristic, at least in part, due to the sudden change and / or the reduction in capillary pressure. The size and / or shape of the capillary feature (e.g., the elbow, the salient point, the curved surface, the bent surface, the protrusion, and the like) may depend on a wetting angle formed between the materials, such as the heating element and the wicking housing or other walls of a capillary channel formed between the components, may depend on a material of the heating element and / or the wicking housing or of another component, and / or may depend on the size of a space formed between two components, such as the heating element and / or the wick housing defining the capillary channel, among other properties.
[0623] As an example, Figures 103A and 103B illustrate the wick housing 178 having a capillary characteristic 598 which causes a sudden change in capillary pressure. The capillary characteristic 598 prevents or limits the flow of liquid along the liquid path 599 beyond the capillary characteristic 598 and helps to prevent or limit the gathering of the liquid between the legs 506 and the wick housing 178. The capillary characteristic 598 on the wick housing 178 moves the heating element 500 (for example a component made from metal, etc.) from the wick housing 178 (for example a component made from plastic, etc.), thus reducing the capillary resistance between the two components. The capillary characteristic 598 shown in Figures 103A and 103B also includes a protruding edge at one end of an angled surface of the wick housing which limits or prevents the flow of liquid beyond the capillary characteristic 598.
As shown in Figure 103B, the tabs 506 of the heating element 500 can also be bent inwards towards the internal volume of the heating element 500 and / or the wick housing 178. The bent tabs 506 can form a capillary characteristic which helps limit or prevent the flow of liquid over an external surface of the heating element and along the legs 506 of the heating element 500.
131 [0625] As another example, the heating element 500 can comprise a capillary characteristic (for example, a bridge 585) which is formed with the one or more legs 506 at a distance from the heating part 504 (see Figures 82 to 98). The bridge 585 can be formed by folding the heating element 500 along the fold lines 520, 522. In certain implementations, the bridge 585 helps reduce or eliminate the overflow of vaporizable material of the heating part 504, due to capillary action. In some examples, such as the 500 exemplary heating elements shown in Figures 93A to 98B, the bridge 585 is bent and / or includes an elbow to help limit the flow of fluid out of the heating part 504.
[0626] As another example, the heating element 500 may include a capillary characteristic 598 which defines a salient point to cause a sudden change in capillary pressure, thus preventing the flow of the vaporizable liquid material beyond the characteristic capillary 598. Figure 104 shows an example of the heating element 500 having the capillary characteristic 598, compatible with the implementations of the present invention. As shown in Figure 104, the capillary feature 598 may form one end of the bridge 585 which extends outwardly away from the heating part by a distance which is greater than a distance between the legs 506 and the heating part 504 The end of the bridge 585 can be a projecting edge to further help prevent the passage of the liquid vaporizable material through the legs 506 and / or out of the heating part 504, thereby reducing leaks and increasing the amount of vaporizable material which remains in the heating part 504.
[0627] Figures 105 to 106 illustrate a variant of the heating element 500 shown in Figures 87 to 92. In this variant of the heating element 500, the lugs 506 of the heating element 500 comprise an elbow at level d an inflection region 511. The bend in the legs 506 can form a capillary characteristic 598, which helps to prevent the flow of liquid vaporizable material beyond the capillary characteristic 598. For example, the bend can create a change abrupt capillary pressure, which can also help limit or prevent the flow of liquid vaporizable material past the elbow and / or bundling between the tabs 506 and the wick housing 178, and can help limit or prevent the flow of the vaporizable liquid material out of the heating part 504.
[0628] Figures 107 to 108 illustrate a variant of the heating elements 500 shown in Figures 93A to 98B. In this variation of the heating element 500, the legs 506 of the heating element 500 include a bend at an inflection region 511. The bend in the legs 506 can form a capillary characteristic 598, which helps prevent the flow of liquid vaporizable material beyond the capillary characteristic 598. For example, the elbow can create a sudden change
132 of capillary pressure, which also helps limit or prevent the flow of liquid vaporizable material beyond the elbow and / or the bundling between the tabs 506 and the wick housing 178, and can help limit or prevent the flow of the vaporizable liquid material out of the heating part 504.
FIGS. 111A to 112 illustrate another example of the atomizer assembly 141, with the heating element 500 assembled to the wick housing 178 and to the heat screen 518A, and FIG. 113 illustrates an exploded view of the atomizer assembly 141, compatible with the implementations of the present invention. The wick housing 178 can be made from plastic, polypropylene and the like. The wick housing 178 includes four recesses 592 in which at least a portion of each of the legs 506 of the heating element 500 can be positioned and fixed. In the recesses 592, the wick housing 178 may include one or more wick housing retainer features 172 (see Figure 115A) which assist in securing the heating element 500 to the wick housing 178, such as via a snap-fit arrangement between at least a portion of the tabs 506 of the heating element 500 and the wick housing retainer features 172. The wick housing retainer features 172 may also help to distance the heating element 500 from a wick housing surface 178, to help prevent heat from acting on the wicking housing and to melt part of the wicking housing 178.
As shown, the wick housing 178 also includes an opening 593 providing access to an internal volume 594, in which at least the heating portion 504 of the heating element 500 and the wicking element 162 are positioned.
The wick housing 178 may also include one or more other cutouts which assist in moving the heating element 500 away from a surface of the wick housing 178 to reduce the amount of heat which is in contact with the surface of the housing. wick 178. For example, the wick housing 178 may include cutouts 170. The cutouts 170 may be formed along an outer surface of the wick housing 178 near the opening 593. The cutouts 170 may also include a capillary characteristic, such as the capillary characteristic 598. The capillary characteristic of the cutouts 170 can define a surface (for example a curved surface) which intersects the points of tangency between adjacent walls (or intersection) (such as the walls of the housing wick). The curved surface may have a radius which is sufficient to reduce or eliminate the capillarity formed between the adjacent outer walls of the wick housing.
[0632] With reference to FIGS. 11A to 112, the wick housing 178 can comprise a tongue 168. The tongue 168 can help to correctly position and / or orient the wick housing during assembly of the vaporizer cartridge,
133 compared to one or more other components of the vaporizer cartridge. For example, the added material forming the tab 168 shifts the center of mass of the wick housing 178. Due to the offset center of mass, the wicking housing 178 can rotate or slide in a certain orientation to align with a corresponding characteristic another component of the vaporizer cartridge during assembly.
Ligures 114A to 114C illustrate an exemplary method for forming the atomizer assembly 141 of the vaporizer cartridge 120, comprising the wick housing 178, the wick element 162 and the heating element 500, compatible with the implementations of the present invention. As shown in Ligure 114A, the wick element 162 can be inserted into the pocket formed in the heating element 500 (for example formed by the side tooth parts 526 and the platform tooth part 524). In some implementations, the wick element 162 expands after being attached to the heating element 500, when the vaporizable material is introduced into the wick element 162.
Ligure 114B shows the wick element 162 and the heating element 500 which are coupled to the wick housing 178 and Ligure 114C shows an example of the wick element 162 and the heating element 500 assembled with the wick housing 178. At least part of the heating element 500, such as the heating part 504, can be positioned in the internal volume of the wick housing 178. The tabs 506 (for example, the retaining parts 180) of the heating element 500 can couple with the outer walls of the wick housing 178, for example, via a snap arrangement. In particular, the retaining parts 180 of the legs 506 can be coupled with and be positioned at least partially in the recesses in the wick housing 178.
Ligures 115A to 115C illustrate another exemplary method for forming an atomizer assembly 141 of the vaporizer cartridge 120, comprising the wick housing 178, the wick element 162 and the heating element 500, compatible with the implementations of the present invention. As shown in Ligure 115A, the heating element 500 can be coupled to the wick housing 178, for example, by inserting or positioning the at least part of the heating element 500, such as the heating part 504 in the volume internal of the wick housing 178. The tabs 506 (for example the retaining parts 180) of the heating element 500 can be coupled with the external walls of the wick housing 178, via for example a snap-in arrangement. In particular, the retaining portions 180 or another portion of the tabs 506 can couple with and be positioned at least partially in the recesses in the wick housing 178, for example, by coupling with the wicking housing retaining features 172.
134 [0636] As shown in FIG. 115B, the wick element 162 can be inserted into the pocket formed in the heating element 500 (for example formed by the side tooth parts 526 and the platform tooth part 524. In certain implementations, the wick element 162 is compressed when the wick element 162 is coupled with the heating element 500. In certain implementations, the wick element 162 is mounted in the heating element 500 and expands after being fixed on the heating element 500, when the vaporizable material is introduced into the wicking element 162.
[0637] Figure 115C shows an example of the wick element 162 and the heating element 500 assembled with the wick housing 178 to form the atomizer assembly 141.
[0638] Figure 116 illustrates an exemplary method 3600 for assembling the heating element 500 compatible with the implementations of the present invention. Process flow diagram 3600 illustrates the characteristics of a process, which may optionally include some or all of the following part. In block 3610, there is provided a planar substrate having resistive heating properties. In block 3612, the planar substrate can be cut and / or stamped to the desired geometry. In block 3614, at least part of the heating element 500 can be plated. For example, as mentioned above, one or more layers of a plating material (for example an adhering plating material and / or an external plating material) can be deposited on at least part of an external surface of the heating element 500. In block 3616, the heating part 504 (for example the teeth 502) can be bent and / or crimped around a wicking element to correspond to the shape of the wicking element and to fix the wicking element to the heating element. In block 3618, the cartridge contacts 124 which, in certain implementations, form an end part of the tabs 506 of the heating element 500, can be bent in a first or second direction along a plane or a third direction which is perpendicular to the first or second direction. In block 3620, the heating element 500 can be assembled in a vaporizer cartridge 120 and it is possible to cause the communication of fluid between the wicking element 162 and a reservoir of vaporizable material. In block 3622, the vaporizable material can be drawn into the wicking element 162, which can be positioned in contact with at least two surfaces of the heating part 504 of the heating element 500. In block 3624, a means of heating can be provided on the cartridge contacts 124 of the heating element to heat the heating element 500, at least the heating part 504. The heating causes the vaporizable material to vaporize. In block 3626, the vaporizable vaporized material is entrained in a flow of air up to a mouthpiece of the vaporization cartridge
135 in which the heating element is positioned.
Embodiments of Condensate Control, Collection and Recycling [0639] Figures 117 to 119C illustrate embodiments of a vaporizer cartridge comprising one or more features for controlling, collecting and / or recycling the condensate in a device spray. While the features described and shown with respect to Figures 117 to 119C can be included in the different embodiments of the vaporizer cartridges described above and / or can include one or more features of the different embodiments of the vaporizer cartridges described above, the characteristics of the vaporizer cartridges described and shown with respect to FIGS. 117 to 119C may further and / or as a variant be included in one or more other exemplary embodiments of the vaporizer cartridges, such as those described above below.
A typical approach whereby a vaporizer device generates an inhalable aerosol from a vaporizable material involves heating the vaporizable material in a vaporization chamber (or a heater chamber) to cause the vaporizable material to be converted to gas (or vapor) phase. A vaporization chamber generally refers to an area or volume in the vaporizer device within which a heat source (for example by conduction, convection and / or radiation) causes the heating of a vaporizable material to produce a mixture of air and vaporizable material vaporized to form a vapor for inhalation by a user of the vaporization device.
[0641] Since the introduction of vaporizer devices on the market, vaporizer cartridges containing free liquid (that is, liquid held in a tank and not retained by porous material) have grown in popularity. Products on the market may have cotton swabs or no features to collect condensate produced by the generation of steam in a vaporizing device.
The condensation liquid can form a film on the walls of an air path and can go up to the mouthpiece with the potential to leak into the mouth of a user, which can cause an experience. unpleasant. Even if the wall film does not leak from the mouthpiece, it can be entrained by the flow of air creating large drops which can be drawn into the mouth and throat of the user, resulting in an experience unpleasant for the user. Problems with using a cotton swab to absorb such condensate include ineffectiveness as well as additional manufacturing and assembly costs to integrate the cotton swab into part of a spray device. In addition,
136 the accumulation and loss of condensate and / or non-vaporizable vaporizable material can ultimately result in an inability to suck all of the vaporizable material into the vaporization chamber, thereby wasting the vaporizable material. Thus, improved spray devices and / or spray cartridges are desired.
[0643] The fact of vaporizing the vaporizable material in an aerosol, as described in more detail below, can result in the collection of the condensate along one or more internal channels and outlets (for example along 'a mouthpiece) of some vaporizers. For example, such condensate may include vaporizable material which has been sucked from a reservoir, formed into an aerosol and condensed in the condensate before exiting the vaporizer. In addition, the vaporizable material that has bypassed the vaporization process can also accumulate along one or more internal channels and / or air outlets. This can result in condensate and / or non-vaporizable vaporizable material coming out of the mouthpiece outlet and depositing it in the mouth of a user, thereby creating both an unpleasant experience for the user as well as the reduction in the amount of inhalable aerosol available. In addition, the buildup and loss of condensate can ultimately result in the inability to suck all of the vaporizable material from the tank into the vaporization chamber, thereby wasting the vaporizable material. For example, when the particles of vaporizable material accumulate in the internal channels of an air tube downstream of a vaporization chamber, the effective cross section of the air flow passage narrows, thereby increasing the air flow and thereby applying streaks to the accumulated fluid, thereby amplifying the potential to entrain fluid from the internal channels and through the mouthpiece outlet. Various features and devices are described below which improve or overcome these problems.
As mentioned above, the fact of sucking the vaporizable material from the reservoir and vaporizing the vaporizable material in an aerosol can result in the condensate of vaporizable material which collects adjacent to and / or in one or several outlets formed in the mouthpiece. This can result in condensate coming out of the outlet and depositing it in the user's mouth, creating both an unpleasant user experience and a reduction in the amount of consumable steam available. Various features of the vaporizer device are described below which ameliorate or overcome these problems. For example, various features are described here for controlling the condensate in a vaporizing device, which can provide advantages and improvements over existing approaches, while also introducing additional benefits, as described herein. For example, we describe the characteristics of a vapo device
137 risers that are configured to collect and contain the condensate that forms and collects adjacent to an outlet of the mouthpiece, thereby preventing condensate from exiting through the outlet.
Alternatively or in addition, the suction of the vaporizable material 102 from the reservoir 140 and the vaporization of the vaporizable material in an aerosol can result in the collection of condensate in one or more tubes or internal channels (such as a tube air) of a spray device. As will be described in more detail below, the vaporizer features that are configured to trap condensate and prevent particles of vaporizable material from exiting through the air outlet of the vaporizer cartridge are described.
[0646] Ligure 117 illustrates an embodiment of a vaporizer cartridge 120 comprising a finned condensate collector 352 configured to collect and contain the condensate which forms or collects adjacent to an outlet of the mouthpiece or another region of the vaporizer cartridge 120 thereby preventing condensate from exiting through the outlet. As shown in Ligure 117, the finned condensate collector 352 may be disposed in a chamber near the outlet 136 in a mouthpiece 130 so that the aerosol passes through the finned condensate collector 352 before exiting through exit 136.
[0647] Ligure 118 illustrates an embodiment of a mouthpiece 330 comprising an embodiment of a finned condensate collector 352 having a plurality of microfluidic fins 354. The mouthpiece 330 can be configured for a cartridge vaporizer (such as the vaporizer cartridge 120) and / or a vaporizer device (such as the vaporizer 100) with the microfluidic fins 354 housed in the fin condensate collector 352 to improve collection and containment in the vaporizer cartridge . As shown in Ligure 118, the microfluidic fins 354 include a set of walls 355 or other narrow protrusions and grooves 353 which have microfluidic properties. In an exemplary embodiment, each wall in the set of walls 355 can be positioned parallel, or substantially parallel to the others so that the space between each wall creates the grooves 353 which define capillary channels. The walls 355 define or else form one or more capillary channels or grooves which are configured to collect the fluid or another condensate.
The mouthpiece 330 illustrated in Ligure 118 can improve or modify the collection and confinement of the condensate in the reservoir so that the condensate flowing out of an air tube outlet 332 (such as an air tube or cannula 128, as shown in Fig. 117) can be trapped or collect between the microfluidic fins 354 when the user inhales on the vaporizing device. As mentioned, microfluidic fins define one or more
138 capillary channels through which the fluid is collected via a capillary force formed when the fluid is positioned in the capillary channel (s). To keep the fluid trapped by the finned condensate collector 352 without being extracted by the drag of the heating element, the capillary force of the microfluidic fins can be greater than the drag of the heating element by providing narrow grooves or channels in which the fluid is positioned. For example, an effective groove width may be 0.3 mm and / or a range of approximately 0.1 mm to approximately 0.8 mm.
An advantage of this configuration is to limit the need to manufacture additional parts, thereby reducing the number of parts without loss of function. In one embodiment, the finned condensate collector and the mouthpiece can be fabricated as a monolithic body using a mold, (e.g., a plastic mold). In addition, the finned condensate collector and the mouthpiece can be separate structures that are welded together, which collectively form the finned condensate collector. Other manufacturing processes and other materials are within the scope of this description.
[0650] In other embodiments, the microfluidic fins can be formed as a separate part and be mounted in the mouthpiece. For example, microfluidic fins can be formed in any part of the vaporizer or vaporizer cartridge to collect and contain the condensate. Microfluidic fins can be formed with the mouthpiece or can be formed as a second plastic part and mounted in the mouthpiece.
[0651] In addition to collecting in the mouthpiece, the vaporizable material condensate can accumulate in one or more air flow passageways or internal channels of a vaporizing device. Various features and devices are described below which improve or overcome these problems. For example, various characteristics are described here for recycling the condensate in a vaporizing device, such as the embodiments of a condensate recycling system, as will be described in more detail below.
FIGS. 119A to 119C illustrate an embodiment of a condensate recycling system 360 of a vaporizer cartridge (such as the vaporizer cartridge 120) and / or of a vaporizer device (such as the vaporizer 100). The condensate recycling system 360 can be configured to collect the condensate of vaporizable material and return the condensate to the wick for reuse.
The condensate recycling system 360 may include an internally grooved air tube 334 creating an air flow passageway 338 which extends from the mouthpiece to the vaporization chamber 342 and can be configured
139 to collect the condensate of vaporizable material and direct it (via capillary action) again to the wick for reuse.
[0654] A function of the grooves may include that the condensate of vaporizable material is trapped or otherwise positioned in the grooves. The condensate, once positioned in the grooves, descends to the wick due to the capillary action created by the wick element. The drainage of the condensate in the grooves can at least partially be achieved by capillary action. If there is condensation inside the air tube, particles of vaporizable material fill the grooves rather than forming or building a wall of condensate inside the air tube if the grooves were absent . When the grooves are full enough to establish fluid communication with the wick, the condensate drains through and from the grooves and can be reused as vaporizable material. In some embodiments, the grooves can be gradually narrowed so that the grooves are narrower towards the wick and wider towards the mouthpiece. Such gradual shrinking can encourage the fluid to move to the vaporization chamber when more condensate collects in the grooves, via greater capillary action at the narrower point.
Figure 119A shows a sectional view of the air tube 334. The air tube 334 comprises an air flow passageway 338 and one or more internal grooves having a decreasing hydraulic diameter towards the chamber vaporization 342. The grooves are sized and formed so that the fluid (such as condensate) disposed in the grooves can be transported from a first location to a second location via capillary action. The internal grooves include air tube grooves 364 and chamber grooves 365. The air tube grooves 364 can be disposed inside the air tube 334 and can gradually shrink so that the cross-section cross section of the air tube grooves 364 at the first end 362 of the air tube may be greater than the cross section of the air tube grooves 364 at the second end 363 of the air tube. The chamber grooves 365 can be disposed near the second end of the air tube 363 and coupled with the air tube grooves 364. The internal grooves can be in fluid communication with the wick and configured to allow the wick to continuously drain the condensate of vaporizable material from the internal grooves, thereby preventing the accumulation of a film of condensate in the air flow passageway 338. The condensate can preferably enter the internal grooves due to the capillary drive of the internal grooves. The capillary entrainment gradient in the internal grooves directs fluid migration to the wick housing 346, where the condensate of vaporizable material is recycled by saturating the wick again.
140 [0656] Figures 119B and 119C show an internal view of the condensate recycling system 360, as respectively observed from the first end 362 of the air tube, and the second end 363 of the air tube. The first end 362 of the air tube can be arranged near the mouthpiece and / or the air outlet. The second end 363 of the air tube can be disposed near the vaporization chamber 342 and / or the wick housing 346, and can be in fluid communication with the chamber grooves 365 and / or the wick. The air tube grooves 364 can have a first diameter 366 and a second diameter 368. The second diameter 368 can be narrower than the first diameter 366.
As discussed above, when the effective cross section of the air flow path narrows, by accumulation of condensate in the air flow path or by design, as discussed here , the flow of air moving through the air tube increases, applying streaks to the accumulated fluid (for example, condensate). The fluid exits the air outlet when the streaks pulling the fluid towards the user (for example in response to inhalation on the vaporizer) are greater than the capillary forces pulling the fluid towards the wick.
In order to overcome this problem and encourage the condensate away from the mouthpiece outlet and again towards the vaporization chamber 342 and / or the wick, an air flow passageway gradually narrowed is provided so that a cross section of the air tube grooves 364 near the vaporization chamber 342 is narrower than a cross section of the air tube grooves 364 near the mouthpiece. In addition, each of the internal grooves narrows so that the width of the internal grooves near the first end 362 of the air tube can be wider than the width of the internal grooves near the second end 363 of the air tube. air. Thus, the progressively narrowing passageway increases the capillary entrainment of the air tube grooves 364 and encourages the movement of fluid from the condensate to the chamber grooves 365. In addition, the chamber grooves 365 near the second Air tube end 363 may be wider than the width of the chamber grooves 365 near the wick. That is, each groove channel gradually narrows as it approaches the wick in addition to the air flow passageway which itself narrows towards the wick end.
[0659] In order to maximize the efficiency of the capillary action provided by the design of the condensate recycling system, the transverse size of the air tube relative to the size of the groove can be taken into account. While capillary entrainment may increase as the groove width narrows, this can result in smaller groove sizes in the condensate which overflows from the grooves and clogs the air tube. Thus, the groove width can range from approximately 0.1 mm to ap141 approximately 0.8 mm.
In certain embodiments, the geometry or number of grooves can vary. For example, the grooves may not necessarily have a decreasing hydraulic diameter towards the drill bit. In some embodiments, a decreasing hydraulic diameter toward the drill bit may improve the performance of the capillary drive, but other embodiments may be considered. For example, the internal grooves and channels can have a substantially straight structure, a progressively narrowed structure, a helical structure and / or other arrangements.
In certain embodiments, the characteristics required to create the capillary drive may be integral with the housing structure of the aerosol generation unit (for example, the vaporization chamber), the mouthpiece and / or part of a separate plastic part (such as the finned condensation collector, discussed here).
Terminology [0662] When a characteristic or an element is designated here as being “on” another characteristic or element, it (he) can be directly on the other characteristic or element or characteristics and / or intermediate elements can also be present. In contrast, when a characteristic or element is designated as being "directly on" another characteristic or element, there are no characteristics or intermediate elements present. It should also be understood that, when a characteristic or element is designated as being “connected”, “fixed” or “coupled” to another characteristic or element, it can be directly connected, fixed or coupled to the other characteristic or element, or intermediate characteristics or elements may be present. In contrast, when a characteristic or element is designated as "directly connected", "directly attached" or "directly coupled" to another characteristic or element, there is no has no features or intermediate elements present.
[0663] Although described or represented with respect to one embodiment, the characteristics and elements thus described or represented can apply to other embodiments. Those skilled in the art will also note that references to a structure or feature which is arranged "adjacent" to another feature, may have overlapping or underlying portions with respect to the adjacent feature.
[0664] The terminology used here is intended to describe particular embodiments and specific implementations only and is not intended to be limiting. For example, as used here, the singular forms "one", "one" and "the", "the"
142 may be provided to also include plural forms, unless the context clearly indicates otherwise. It should be understood that the terms "includes" and / or "comprising", when used in this disclosure, specify the presence of the characteristics, steps, operations, elements and / or components mentioned, but do not exclude the presence or the addition of one or more other characteristics, stages, operations, elements, components and / or their groups. As used herein, the term "and / or" includes any or all combinations of one or more of the related listed items and may be abbreviated as "/".
In the above descriptions and in the claims, expressions like "at least one of" or "one or more" may occur followed by a conjunctive list of elements or characteristics. The term "and / or" can also occur in a list of two or more elements or characteristics. Unless implicitly or explicitly stated otherwise in the context in which it is used, such expression is intended to mean any of the elements or characteristics listed individually or any of the elements or characteristics mentioned in combination with any of the other elements or characteristics mentioned. For example, the expressions "at least one of A and B", "one or more of A and B"; and "A and / or B" are each intended to mean "A alone, B alone or A and B together". A similar interpretation is also provided for lists comprising three or more articles. For example, the expressions "at least one of A, B and C"; "One or more of A, B and C"; and "A, B and / or C" are each intended to mean "A alone, B alone, C alone, A and B together, A and C together, B and C together, or A and B and C together. The use of the term "based on" above and in the claims is intended to mean "based at least in part on", so that a feature or element not mentioned is also permitted .
Space terms such as "front", "rear", "under", "below", "lower", "on", "upper" and the like can be used here to facilitate the description to describe a relationship of an element or characteristic with another (other) element (s) or characteristic (s), as illustrated in the Figures. It should be understood that the terms relating to space are intended to encompass the various orientations of the device in use or in operation in addition to the orientation illustrated in the Figures. For example, if a device in the Figures is inverted, the elements described as being "under" or "below" other elements or characteristics are then oriented "on" the other elements or characteristics. Thus the exemplary term "under" can encompass an orientation both on and under. The device can be otherwise oriented (rotated 90 degrees or other
143 guidelines) and the space descriptors used here, are interpreted accordingly. Similarly, the terms "up", "down", "vertical", "horizontal" and the like may be used for explanatory purposes, unless otherwise indicated.
[0667] Although the terms "first" and "second (second)" can be used here to describe different characteristics / elements (including steps), these characteristics / elements should not be limited by these terms, unless otherwise indicated . These terms can be used to distinguish one characteristic / element from another characteristic / element. Thus, a first characteristic / first element approached below can be qualified as second (second) characteristic / second (second) element, and similarly, a second characteristic / second element approached ci - below can be qualified as the first characteristic / first element without departing from the lessons provided here.
As used herein in the disclosure and claims including in the examples and unless otherwise noted, all numbers can be read as if they were preceded by the term "approximately" or "approximately", and even if the term n 'does not appear expressly. The expression "approximately" or "approximately" can be used when describing the quantity and / or the position to indicate that the value and / or the position described is within a reasonable expected range of values and / or positions . For example, a numeric value can have a value that represents +/- 0.1% of the mentioned value (or range of values), +/- 1% of the mentioned value (or range of values), +/- 2 % of the mentioned value (or range of values), +/- 5% of the mentioned value (or range of values), +/- 10% of the mentioned value (or range of values), etc. Numerical values given here should also be understood to include approximately or approximately this value, unless otherwise indicated.
[0669] For example, if the value "10" is described, then "about 10" is also described. Any numeric range here is intended to include all of the sub-ranges built in here. It should also be understood that when a value is described, that "less than or equal to" the value, "greater than or equal to the value", and the possible ranges between the values are also described, as will be understood by those skilled in the art. . For example, if the value "X" is described, the value "less than or equal to X" as well as the value "greater than or equal to X" (for example, when X is a numeric value) are also described. It should be understood that throughout the request, data is provided in a number of different formats and in that this data represents end points and start points, and ranges for any combination of points of data. For example, if a particular data point "10" and a particular data point "15" can be
144 described, it should be understood that the values greater than, greater than or equal, less than, less than or equal, and equal to 10 and 15 can be considered as described as well as values between 10 and 15. It must be understood that each unit enters two particular units can also be described. For example, if 10 and 15 can be described, then 11, 12, 13 and 14 can also be described.
[0670] Although different alternative embodiments are described above, any number of changes can be made to the different embodiments without departing from the teachings. For example, the order in which the various described process steps are carried out, can often be changed in alternative embodiments, and in other alternative embodiments, one or more process steps can be completely skipped . Optional features of different device and system embodiments may be included in some embodiments and not in others. Therefore, the foregoing description is intended primarily for exemplary purposes and should not be construed to limit the scope of the claims.
One or more aspects or characteristics of the present invention described here can be implemented in digital electronic circuits, integrated circuits, integrated circuits for specific application (ASIC), pre-broadcast networks programmable by the user (FPGA), computer hardware, firmware, software and / or combinations thereof. These different aspects or characteristics can include implementation in one or more computer programs which can be executed and / or interpreted on a programmable system comprising at least one programmable processor, which can be a special or general purpose, coupled to receive data and instructions, and for transmitting data and instructions to a storage system, at least one input device and at least one output device. The programmable system or the computer system may include clients and servers. A client and a server can be remote from each other and can interact over a communication network. The client and server relationship takes place under the computer programs that run on the respective computers and have a client-server relationship between them.
These computer programs, which can also be referred to as programs, software, software applications, applications, components or codes, include machine instructions for a programmable processor and can be implemented in an advanced procedural language, an object oriented language, a functional programming language, a logical programming language and / or an assembly / machine language.
As used herein, the term "machine readable medium" relates to any product, apparatus and / or computer program device, such as, for example,
145 magnetic disks, optical disks, memory, and programmable logic circuits (PLD), used to provide instructions and / or machine data to a programmable processor, including a machine-readable medium that receives machine instructions as a readable signal per machine.
[0674] The term "machine readable signal" relates to any signal used to provide instructions and / or machine data to a programmable processor. The machine-readable medium can store such machine instructions in a non-transient manner, such as if it were a non-transient solid memory or a magnetic hard disk drive or any equivalent storage medium. The machine-readable medium may alternatively or additionally store such machine instructions in a transient manner, such as if it were a processor cache memory or other random access memory associated with one or more physical processor cores.
The examples and illustrations included here represent, by way of illustration and without limitation, specific embodiments in which the present invention described can be practiced. As mentioned, other embodiments can be used and derived, so that structural and logical substitutions and changes can be made without departing from the scope of this disclosure. These embodiments of the present invention may be designated individually or collectively by the term "invention" simply for convenience and without wanting to voluntarily limit the scope of the present application to a single invention or a single inventive concept, if described. more than one actually.
[0676] Thus, although specific embodiments have been illustrated and described here, any arrangement calculated to achieve the same goal can be replaced for the specific embodiments presented. This disclosure is intended to cover any or all of the adaptations or variations of the various embodiments. The combinations of the above embodiments, and of other embodiments not specifically described here, will emerge more clearly for a person skilled in the art after reading the description above.
The present invention described has been proposed here with reference to one or more characteristics or embodiments. Those skilled in the art will recognize and note that, despite the detailed nature of the exemplary embodiments offered here, changes and modifications may be applied to the embodiments without limiting or departing from the generally intended scope. These adaptations and combinations as well as the others of the embodiments proposed here are within the scope of the present invention described, as defined by the elements and characteristics described and their complete set of equivalents.
[0678] Part of the disclosure of this patent document may contain material which
146 is subject to copyright protection. The owner has not objected to reproduction by any of the patent document or patent disclosure, when it appears in the patent and the Patent Office file or filings, but reserves all copyright. Certain brands here in reference may be common law or registered trademarks of the applicant, the assignee or third parties affiliated or not affiliated with the applicant or the assignee. The use of these marks is intended to provide sufficient disclosure by way of example and should not be interpreted to exclusively limit the scope of the present invention described to the material associated with these marks.

权利要求:
Claims (1)
[1" id="c-fr-0001]
147
Claims [Claim 1] Spray including:a reservoir configured to contain a liquid vaporizable material, the reservoir at least partially defined by at least one wall, the reservoir comprising a storage chamber and an overflow volume;a manifold disposed in the overflow volume, the manifold comprising a capillary structure configured to retain a volume of liquid vaporizable material in fluid contact with the storage chamber, the capillary structure comprising a microfluidic characteristic configured to prevent deflection of the air and liquid relative to each other during filling and emptying of the manifold. [Claim 2] The vaporizer of claim 1, further comprising a main passageway forming a fluid connection between the storage chamber and an atomizer configured to convert the vaporizable liquid material into a gas phase state. [Claim 3] A vaporizer according to claim 2, wherein the main passageway is formed through a structure of the manifold. [Claim 4] A vaporizer according to any of claims 2 or 3, wherein the main passageway comprises a first channel configured to allow the flow of liquid vaporizable material from the storage chamber to a wick element in the atomizer, the first channel having a cross-sectional shape with at least one irregularity configured to allow the liquid in the first channel to deflect an air bubble blocking the rest of the first channel. [Claim 5] The vaporizer of claim 4, wherein the cross-sectional shape resembles a cross. [Claim 6] A vaporizer according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the capillary structure comprises a secondary passageway comprising the microfluidic characteristic, and wherein the microfluidic characteristic is configured to allow the liquid vaporizable material to move along a length of the secondary passageway only with a meniscus that completely covers a cross-sectional area of the secondary passageway. [Claim 7] The vaporizer of claim 6, wherein the section surface
148
transverse is small enough that, for a material from which the walls of the secondary passageway are formed and a composition of the liquid vaporizable material, the liquid vaporizable material preferably wets the secondary passageway around an entire perimeter of the secondary passageway. [Claim 8] A vaporizer as claimed in any preceding claim, in which the storage chamber and the manifold are configured to maintain a continuous column of liquid vaporizable material in the manifold in contact with the liquid vaporizable material in the storage chamber so that a reducing pressure in the storage chamber relative to ambient pressure causes the continuous column of liquid vaporizable material in the manifold to be at least partially drawn into the storage chamber. [Claim 9] A vaporizer according to any of claims 6 to 8, wherein the secondary passageway comprises a plurality of spaced apart constriction points having a smaller cross-sectional area than the portions of the secondary passageway between the constriction points. [Claim 10] The vaporizer of claim 9, wherein the constriction points have a flatter surface directed along the secondary passageway to the storage compartment and a more round surface directed along the secondary passageway remote from the storage compartment storage. [Claim 11] A vaporizer according to any preceding claim, further comprising a microfluidic door between the collector and the storage compartment, the microfluidic door comprising a flange of an opening between the storage chamber and the collector which is flatter on a first side facing the storage compartment than a more rounded second side facing the collector. [Claim 12] The vaporizer of claim 11, wherein the microfluidic door includes a plurality of openings connecting the storage chamber and the manifold and a pinch point between the plurality of openings, the plurality of openings comprising a first channel and a second channel , in which the first channel has a greater capillary drive than the second channel. [Claim 13] The vaporizer of claim 12, wherein a meniscus of air vaporizable liquid material reaching the pinch point is routed to the second channel due to capillary entrainment
149
more important in the first channel so that an air bubble is formed to escape into the liquid vaporizable material in the storage chamber. [Claim 14] A vaporizer according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the liquid vaporizable material comprises one or more of propylene glycol and vegetable glycerin. [Claim 15] Microfluidic door to regulate the flow of a liquid vaporizable material between a storage chamber and an adjoining overflow volume in a vaporizer, the microfluidic door comprising:a plurality of openings connecting the storage chamber and the collector, the plurality of openings comprising a first channel and a second channel, wherein the first channel has a greater capillary drive than the second channel; anda pinch point between the plurality of openings. [Claim 16] A microfluidic door according to claim 15, wherein the microfluidic door has a rim of an opening between the storage chamber and the manifold which is flatter on a first side facing the storage compartment than a second more rounded side facing to the collector. [Claim 17] Collector configured for insertion into a vaporizer cartridge; the collector comprising:a capillary structure configured to retain a volume of liquid vaporizable material in fluid contact with a storage chamber of the vaporizer cartridge, the capillary structure comprising a microfluidic feature configured to prevent deflection of air and liquid from each other to the other during the filling and emptying of the collector. [Claim 18] A collector according to claim 17, further comprising the microfluidic door according to any of claims 15 and 16. [Claim 19] A manifold according to any of claims 17 to 18, further comprising a main passageway forming a fluid connection between the reservoir and an atomizer configured to convert the liquid vaporizable material to a state of gas phase, wherein the passageway main is formed through a collector structure. [Claim 20] Collector according to any one of claims 17 to 19, in which the capillary structure comprises a secondary passageway
150
comprising the microfluidic feature, and wherein the microfluidic feature is configured to allow liquid vaporizable material to move along a length of the secondary passageway only with a meniscus which completely covers a transverse surface of the secondary passageway . [Claim 21] Collector according to claim 20, in which the transverse surface is sufficiently small that, for a material from which walls of the secondary passageway are formed and a composition of the liquid vaporizable material, the liquid vaporizable material preferably wets the channel secondary passage around the entire perimeter of the secondary passage lane. [Claim 22] A collector according to any of claims 17 to 21, wherein the storage chamber and the collector are configured to maintain a continuous column of the liquid vaporizable material in the collector in contact with the liquid vaporizable material in the storage chamber so that a reduction in pressure in the storage chamber compared to ambient pressure causes the continuous column of liquid vaporizable material in the collector to be at least partially drawn into the storage chamber. [Claim 23] A manifold according to any of claims 20 to 22, wherein the secondary passageway comprises a plurality of spaced constriction points having a smaller cross-sectional area than portions of the secondary passageway between the constriction points. [Claim 24] The collector of claim 23, wherein the constriction points have a flatter surface directed along the secondary passageway to the storage compartment and a more rounded surface directed along the secondary passageway remote from the storage compartment storage. [Claim 25] Spray cartridge comprising:a cartridge housing;a storage chamber disposed in the cartridge housing and configured to contain a liquid vaporizable material;an inlet configured to allow air to enter an internal air flow path into the cartridge housing;an atomizer configured to cause the conversion of at least some of the liquid vaporizable material into an inhalable state; and a collector according to any one of claims 17 to 24. [Claim 26] The vaporizer cartridge of claim 25, wherein
151
the atomizer includes:a wick element positioned in an internal air flow path and in fluid communication with the reservoir, the wick element being configured to suck the liquid vaporizable material from the storage chamber under capillary action; anda heater positioned to cause heating of the wick member to result in the conversion of at least some of the liquid vaporizable material drawn from the storage chamber into a gaseous state. [Claim 27] The vaporizer cartridge of claim 26, wherein the inhalable state comprises an aerosol formed by the condensation of at least some of the liquid vaporizable material from the gaseous state. [Claim 28] The vaporizer cartridge according to any of claims 25 to 27, wherein the cartridge housing includes a monolithic hollow structure having a first open end and a second end opposite the first end. [Claim 29] The vaporizer cartridge of claim 28, wherein the manifold is received, by insertion, in the first end of the monolithic hollow structure. [Claim 30] A vaporizer comprising a vaporizer body and the vaporizer cartridge according to any of claims 25 to 29, wherein the vaporizer body and the vaporizer cartridge can be releasably attached to form the vaporizer. [Claim 31] A vaporizer cartridge according to any of claims 25 to 30, wherein the heating element comprises:a heating part comprising at least two teeth spaced from each other, the heating part being preformed to define an interior volume configured to receive the wicking element so that the heating part fixes at least one part of the element wicking on the heating element, the heating part being configured to be in contact with at least two separate surfaces of the wicking element; and at least two legs coupled to the at least two teeth and spaced from the heater, the at least two legs being configured to communicate electrically with a power source, in which energy is configured to be supplied to the heater from the power source to generate heat, thereby vaporizing the vaporizable material stored in the wicking element.
152
[Claim 32] The vaporizer cartridge of claim 31, wherein the at least two tabs comprise four tabs. [Claim 33] The vaporizer cartridge of claim 32, wherein the heating portion is configured to be in contact with at least three separate surfaces of the wick member. [Claim 34] A vaporizer cartridge according to any of claims 31 to 33, wherein the at least two teeth include: a first side tooth portion;a second side tooth portion opposite the first side tooth portion; anda platform tooth part connecting the first side tooth part with the second side tooth part, the platform tooth part being positioned approximately perpendicular to a part of the first side tooth part and the second side tooth part ,wherein the first side tooth part, the second side tooth part and the platform tooth part define the interior volume in which the wick element is positioned. [Claim 35] The vaporizer cartridge of claim 34, wherein the at least two tabs are positioned spaced from the heater by a bridge. [Claim 36] A vaporizer cartridge according to any of claims 31 to 35, wherein each of the at least two tabs includes a cartridge contact positioned at one end of each of the at least two tabs, the cartridge contact being configured to communicate electrically with the power source, the cartridge contact being bent and extending away from the heating part. [Claim 37] A vaporizer cartridge according to any of claims 34 to 36, wherein the at least two teeth include a first pair of teeth and a second pair of teeth. [Claim 38] The vaporizer cartridge of claim 37, wherein the teeth of the first pair of teeth are evenly spaced from each other. [Claim 39] A vaporizer cartridge according to claim 37 or claim 38, wherein the teeth of the first pair of teeth are spaced apart by a width. [Claim 40] A vaporizer cartridge according to claim 39, wherein the width is greater at an internal region of the element
153
heater adjacent to the platform tooth portion as the width at an outer region of the heater adjacent an outer edge of the first side tooth portion opposite the inner region. [Claim 41] A vaporizer cartridge according to any of claims 32 to 40, wherein the vaporizer device is configured to measure resistance of the heating element at each of the four tabs to regulate a temperature of the heating element. [Claim 42] A vaporizer according to any of claims 31 to 41, further comprising a heat shield configured to isolate the heating portion of a body from the vaporizer device. [Claim 43] A vaporizer cartridge according to any of claims 31 to 42, wherein the vaporizer device further comprises a heat shield configured to surround at least part of the heating element and isolate the heating part from a body of a housing a wick configured to surround at least a portion of the wick element and the heating element. [Claim 44] A vaporizer cartridge according to any of claims 31 to 43, wherein the heating part is folded between the heating part and the at least two tabs to isolate the heating part from the at least two tabs. [Claim 45] A vaporizer cartridge according to any of claims 31 to 44, wherein the heating portion further comprises at least one tab which extends from one side of the at least two teeth to allow easier entry of the element wick in the interior volume of the heating part. [Claim 46] The vaporizer of claim 45, wherein the at least one tab extends away from the interior volume at an angle. [Claim 47] A vaporizer cartridge according to any of claims 31 to 46, wherein the at least two tabs include a capillary characteristic, the capillary characteristic causing a sudden change in capillary pressure to thereby prevent flow of the vaporizable material beyond the capillary characteristic. [Claim 48] A vaporizer cartridge according to claim 47, wherein the capillary feature comprises one or more elbows in the at least two legs. [Claim 49] The vaporizer cartridge of any of claims 47 to 48, wherein the at least two tabs extend at an angle toward the
154 [Claim 50] [Claim 51] [Claim 52] [Claim 53] [Claim 54] [Claim 55] [Claim 56] [Claim 57] [Claim 58] internal volume of the heating part, at least two bent legs defining the capillary characteristic.
A vaporizer cartridge according to any of claims 25 to 30, wherein the heating element comprises:
a heating part comprising one or more heating traces formed integrally and spaced from one another, the one or more heating traces being configured to be in contact with at least part of the wicking element of the vaporizing device; a connecting portion configured to receive energy from a power source and direct energy to the heating portion; and a cladding layer having a cladding material which is different from a material of the heating part, the cladding layer being configured to reduce the contact resistance between the heating element and the power source, thereby localizing the heat of the heating element on the heating part.
The vaporizer cartridge according to claim 50, wherein the plating layer comprises one or more layers deposited on the connecting portion.
A vaporizer cartridge according to any of claims 50 to 51, wherein the cladding layer is integrally formed with the connecting portion.
The vaporizer cartridge of any of claims 50 to 52, wherein the plating layer comprises an adherent plating layer and an outer plating layer.
The vaporizer cartridge of claim 53, wherein at least the outer cladding layer is configured to reduce the contact resistance between the heating element and the power source. A vaporizer cartridge as claimed in any of claims 53 to 54, wherein the adhering plating layer is deposited on the heating element to adhere the outer plating layer to the heating element.
A vaporizer cartridge according to any of claims 50 to 55, wherein the material of the heating part comprises a nickel-chromium alloy.
The vaporizer cartridge according to any of claims 50 to 56, wherein the plating layer comprises gold.
A vaporizer cartridge according to any of claims 25 to 57, further comprising a wick housing, the wick housing
155
including:an outer wall; andan interior volume defined by the external wall, the interior volume being configured to receive a part of a heating element and a wicking element of the vaporizing device. [Claim 59] A vaporizer cartridge according to claim 58, wherein the heating element comprises a heating part and a connecting part, the heating part being configured to heat the vaporizable material stored in the wicking element to generate an aerosol, the connecting part being configured to communicate electrically with a power source to supply energy to the heater, and wherein the portion of the heater is the heater. [Claim 60] A vaporizer cartridge according to any of claims 58 to 59, wherein the outer wall is configured to be positioned between the heating part and the connecting part. [Claim 61] A vaporizer cartridge according to any of claims 58 to 60, wherein the outer wall includes two opposite short sides and two opposite long sides. [Claim 62] The vaporizer cartridge according to claim 61, wherein each of the two opposite long sides includes a recess configured to detachably couple the vaporizer cartridge to a corresponding feature of the vaporizer body. [Claim 63] The vaporizer cartridge of claim 62, wherein the recess is positioned near an intersection between a long side of the two opposite long sides and a short side of the two opposite short sides. [Claim 64] The vaporizer cartridge of claim 63, wherein each of the two opposite long sides includes two recesses. [Claim 65] A vaporizer cartridge according to any of claims 61 to 64, wherein the outer wall further comprises a base positioned approximately perpendicular to the two opposite short sides and the two opposite long sides. [Claim 66] A vaporizer cartridge according to claim 65, wherein the base comprises one or more slots, wherein the air pressure caused by the flow of the vaporizable material in the heating portion is configured to escape through the one or more slots.
156
[Claim 67] The vaporizer cartridge of claim 61, wherein at least one of the two opposite short sides includes a chip recess configured to receive an identification chip. [Claim 68] The vaporizer cartridge of claim 67, wherein the chip recess includes at least two walls configured to surround and retain the identification chip. [Claim 69] The vaporizer cartridge of claim 68, wherein the at least two walls include at least four walls. [Claim 70] A vaporizer cartridge according to any of claims 58 to 69, wherein the outer wall comprises: two opposite short sides;two opposite long sides;a base positioned approximately perpendicular to the two opposite short sides and to the two opposite long sides; and an opening opposite the base. [Claim 71] The vaporizer cartridge of claim 70, further comprising an outer rim surrounding the opening and extending away from the opening. [Claim 72] A vaporizer cartridge according to claim 71, wherein the outer wall comprises a capillary characteristic, the capillary characteristic causing an abrupt change in capillary pressure between the heating element and wick housing to thereby prevent flow of the vaporizable material beyond the capillary characteristic. [Claim 73] The vaporizer cartridge of claim 72, wherein the capillary feature comprises a curved surface formed at the intersection between at least one of the two opposite long sides and the outer rim. [Claim 74] The vaporizer cartridge of claim 73, wherein the curved surface has a radius which is sufficient to break points of tangency between the outer surface and the outer rim. [Claim 75] A vaporizer cartridge according to any one of claims 72 to 74, wherein the capillary feature is positioned in a cutout in the outer wall, the cutout being configured to space the heating element from the outer wall, thereby preventing heat from entering. excess reaching the outer wall. [Claim 76] A vaporizer cartridge according to any of claims 58 to 75, further comprising a cutout in the configured outer wall
157 [Claim 77] [Claim 78] [Claim 79] to move the heating element away from the outer wall, thereby preventing excess heat from reaching the outer wall.
Collector component of a vaporizer for use with a liquid vaporizable material, the collector component comprising: a fluid passage;
an external orifice disposed at a first end of the fluid passage and configured to be in fluid communication with the ambient air outside the vaporizer; and a control vent disposed at a second end of the fluid passage remote from the first end and configured to manage flow between the fluid passage and a vaporizer reservoir configured to contain the liquid vaporizable material, the control vent being configured to provide at least:
a first fluid resistance to the pinching of an air bubble in the reservoir when the air is in the fluid passage adjacent to the control vent and a volume of vacuum in the reservoir is at a pressure lower than the air ambient outside the vaporizer; and a second fluid resistance to the passage of the liquid vaporizable material through the control vent in the fluid passage when the volume of vacuum in the tank is at a pressure higher than the ambient air outside the vaporizer;
at least a first wick supply implemented in the form of a first channel to allow the vaporizable material stored in the storage chamber to flow towards a wick placed in a wick housing positioned in the overflow volume , the vent now maintains a state of equilibrium in the storage chamber to prevent the pressure in the storage chamber from increasing to a point which would cause the wick housing to flood with the vaporizable material.
Collector component according to claim 77, in which the state of equilibrium is maintained by establishing a liquid seal at the opening of the vent where the storage chamber communicates with the passageway in the volume of overfull.
A manifold component according to claim 78, wherein the liquid seal is established and maintained at the vent while maintaining sufficient capillary pressure to form menisci of vaporizable material at a portion of the vent leading to the passageway in the overflow volume.
158
[Claim 80] A manifold component according to claim 79, wherein the capillary pressure for the menisci of vaporizable material is controlled by V-shaped structures forming a main channel and a secondary channel constructing the valve to control at least one pinch point at one from the main channel or the secondary channel. [Claim 81] A collector component according to claim 80, wherein the main channel and the secondary channel have progressively narrowed geometries, so that when the menisci continue to recede, capillary entrainment of the main canal decreases faster than capillary entrainment of the secondary canal . [Claim 82] A manifold component according to claim 81, wherein a gradual reduction in the capillary drives of the main and secondary channels reduces a vacuum of partial free space maintained in the storage chamber. [Claim 83] A manifold component according to claim 82, wherein a main channel drain pressure drops below a secondary channel drain pressure due to the gradual reduction in capillary entrainments of the main and secondary channels relative to each other . [Claim 84] The manifold component of claim 83, wherein the meniscus in the main channel continues to purge when the drain pressure of the main channel changes, while the meniscus in the secondary channel remains static. [Claim 85] A collector component according to claim 84, wherein the drain pressure involving the receding contact angle of the main channel can drop below the flood pressure involving the advancing contact angle of the secondary channel, causing the main and secondary channels to be filled with the vaporizable material. [Claim 86] A manifold component according to claim 85, wherein, in response to increased pressure within the storage chamber, the vaporizable material flows through the path of the manifold through the vent, wherein the vent is manufactured to maintain the liquid gasket at all times. [Claim 87] A cartridge for a vaporizer device, the cartridge comprising: a reservoir comprising a reservoir chamber defined by a reservoir barrier, the reservoir being configured to hold a vaporizable material in the reservoir chamber;
159
a vaporization chamber in communication with the reservoir and comprising a wick member configured to draw the vaporizable material from the reservoir chamber into the vaporization chamber to be vaporized by a heating element;an air flow passageway which extends through the vaporization chamber; andat least one capillary channel adjacent to the air flow passageway, each capillary channel of the at least one capillary channel being configured to receive a fluid and direct the fluid from a first location to a second location via the action capillary. [Claim 88] The cartridge of claim 87, wherein each capillary channel of the at least one capillary channel gradually narrows in size. [Claim 89] The cartridge of claim 88, wherein the size shrinkage causes an increase in capillary drive through each capillary channel of the at least one capillary channel. [Claim 90] A cartridge according to any of claims 87 to 89, wherein each capillary channel of the at least one capillary channel is formed by a groove defined between a pair of walls. [Claim 91] A cartridge according to any of claims 87 to 90, wherein the at least one capillary channel communicates fluidically with a wick. [Claim 92] The cartridge of claim 91, wherein the first location is adjacent to one end of the air flow passageway and a mouthpiece. [Claim 93] A cartridge according to any of claims 87 to 92, wherein the at least one capillary channel collects fluid condensate. [Claim 94] Spray device comprising:a vaporizer body comprising a heating element configured to heat a vaporizable material; anda cartridge configured to be removably coupled to the vaporizer body, the cartridge comprising:a reservoir comprising a reservoir chamber defined by a reservoir barrier, the reservoir being configured to contain the vaporizable material in the reservoir chamber;a vaporization chamber in communication with the reservoir and comprising a wick element configured to suck the vaporizable material from the reservoir chamber into the vaporization chamber
160
to be vaporized by the heating element;an air flow passageway which extends through the vaporization chamber; andat least one capillary channel adjacent to the air flow passageway, each capillary channel of the at least one capillary channel being configured to receive a fluid and direct the fluid from a first location to a second location via the action capillary. [Claim 95] A spray device according to claim 94, wherein each capillary channel of the at least one capillary channel gradually narrows in size. [Claim 96] A spray device according to claim 95, wherein the size shrinkage causes an increase in capillary entrainment through each capillary channel of the at least one capillary channel. [Claim 97] A vaporizer device according to any of claims 94 to 96, wherein each capillary channel of the at least one capillary channel is formed by a groove defined between a pair of walls. [Claim 98] A spray device according to any of claims 94 to 97, wherein the at least one capillary channel communicates fluidically with a wick. [Claim 99] The vaporizer device of claim 98, wherein the first location is adjacent to one end of the air flow passageway and a mouthpiece. [Claim 100] A vaporizer device according to any of claims 94 to 99, wherein the at least one capillary channel collects fluid condensate. [Claim 101] A method comprising the following steps: collecting condensate in a first capillary channel of at least one capillary channel of a cartridge of a vaporization device, each of the at least one capillary channel being configured to receive a fluid and direct the fluid d a first location to a second location via the capillary action, the cartridge comprising: a reservoir comprising a reservoir chamber defined by a reservoir barrier, the reservoir being configured to contain a vaporizable material in the reservoir chamber;a vaporization chamber in communication with the reservoir and comprising a wick member configured to draw the vaporizable material from the reservoir chamber into the vaporization chamber to be vaporized by a heating element; and
161 [Claim 102] [Claim 103] [Claim 104] [Claim 105] [Claim 106] an air flow passageway which extends through the vaporization chamber, the at least one capillary channel being adjacent to the air flow passageway; and direct the collected condensate to the vaporization chamber and along the first capillary channel.
The method of claim 101, further comprising the step of vaporizing the collected condensate at the vaporization chamber.
The method of any of claims 101 to 102, wherein the first capillary channel gradually narrows in size. A method according to any of claims 101 to 103, wherein each capillary channel of the at least one capillary channel is formed by a groove defined between a pair of walls.
A method according to any of claims 101 to 104, wherein the at least one capillary channel communicates fluidically with a wick.
The method of claim 105, wherein the first location is adjacent to one end of the air flow passageway and to a mouthpiece.

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同族专利:

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公开号 | 公开日

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GB2587742A|2021-04-07|

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AU2019361098A1|2021-05-20|

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GB2580214B|2021-06-16|

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JP2021510492A|2021-04-30|

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TW202103589A|2021-02-01|

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PH12021550818A1|2021-10-04|

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BE1026673B1|2021-02-24|

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JP2022009153A|2022-01-14|

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GB2587742B|2021-10-20|

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EP3664631A2|2020-06-17|

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WO2020081849A3|2020-07-23|

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BE1026673A1|2020-04-29|

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IE20190173A1|2021-02-03|

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GB201917180D0|2020-01-08|

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GB2580214A|2020-07-15|

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WO2020081849A2|2020-04-23|

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GB202112638D0|2021-10-20|

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DE112019005228T5|2021-07-01|

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KR20210076104A|2021-06-23|

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NL2024037A|2020-05-14|

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CN111134366A|2020-05-12|

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NL2024037B1|2020-11-30|

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SG11202103749YA|2021-05-28|

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JP6963037B2|2021-11-05|

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GB202020107D0|2021-02-03|

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CA3104210A1|2020-04-23|

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CN212629857U|2021-03-02|

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EP3664631B1|2022-02-23|

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法律状态:
2020-09-14| PLFP| Fee payment|Year of fee payment: 2 |

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2021-09-13| PLFP| Fee payment|Year of fee payment: 3 |

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2022-01-28| PLSC| Publication of the preliminary search report|Effective date: 20220128 |

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US201962812148P| true| 2019-02-28|2019-02-28|

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US201962913135P| true| 2019-10-09|2019-10-09|

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