CARTRIDGE AND E-VAPING DEVICE WITH SERPENTINE HEATER

Abstract

A cartridge of an e-vaping device includes a housing extending in a longitudinal direction, a reservoir in the housing, a heater in the housing, and an absorbent material at least partially surrounding the sinusoidal shaped member. The reservoir is configured to store a pre-vapor formulation. The heater has a sinusoidal shaped member translating about an elliptical shape to define a channel there through. The absorbent material is in fluid communication with the reservoir.

Description

BACKGROUND

Field

The present disclosure relates to a serpentine heater and a cartridge of an electronic vaping or e-vaping device configured to deliver a pre-vapor formulation to a vaporizer.

Description of Related Art

An e-vaping device includes a heater element which vaporizes a pre-vapor formulation to produce a “vapor.”

The e-vaping device includes a power supply, such as a rechargeable battery, arranged in the device. The battery is electrically connected to the heater, such that the heater heats to a temperature sufficient to convert the pre-vapor formulation to a vapor. The vapor exits the e-vaping device through a mouthpiece including at least one outlet.

SUMMARY

At least one example embodiment relates to a cartridge of an e-vaping device.

In at least one example embodiment, a cartridge of an e-vaping device includes a housing extending in a longitudinal direction, a reservoir in the housing, a first connector piece defining a first channel extending therethrough, a post extending through the first channel and defining a second channel therethrough, a heater in the housing. The heater has a sinusoidal shaped member translating about an elliptical shape to define a third channel in fluid communication with the second channel. The heater is connected to and supported on the post. The cartridge also includes an absorbent material at least partially surrounding the sinusoidal shaped member. The absorbent material is in fluid communication with the reservoir. The reservoir is configured to store a pre-vapor formulation,

In at least one example embodiment, the cartridge includes a sheath at least partially surrounding the absorbent material. The sheath includes an end wall. The end wall includes an outlet there through. The outlet is in fluid communication with the second channel of the post and the third channel of the heater. The heater includes a first heater electrical lead and a second heater electrical lead. The first heater electrical lead contacts the post, and the second heater electrical lead extends through the outlet in the sheath and contacts a portion of the sheath.

In at least one example embodiment, a cartridge includes an outer housing extending in a longitudinal direction, a first connector piece including a first sidewall, the first sidewall defining a first channel, the first channel extending in the longitudinal direction, a post extending through the first channel, the post having a second channel extending there through, and a heater supported on the post.

In at least one example embodiment, the heater comprises a sinusoidal shaped member translating about an elliptical shape to define a first channel there through. The sinusoidal shaped member includes a first set of lobes opposing a second set of lobes. The cartridge includes at least one fourth channel extending along an outer surface of the first sidewall of the first connector piece. The at least one channel extends substantially in the longitudinal direction. The fourth channel is sized and configured to carry pre-vapor formulation to the absorbent material.

In at least one example embodiment, the first connector piece further comprises a nose portion at a first end of the first connector piece. The first sidewall forms at least a portion of the nose portion. The first connector piece also includes a base portion at a second end of the first connector piece. The nose portion extends substantially longitudinally from the base portion, and the base portion defines an opening there through. The base portion has an outer diameter larger than an outer diameter of the nose portion. The first connector piece is substantially T-shaped in cross-section. The base portion further comprises a flange extending generally transverse to the longitudinal direction. The flange defines at least two slots therein. Electrical leads extend through the at least two slots, respectively.

In at least one example embodiment, the cartridge also includes at least one absorbent pad surrounding at least one of the heater and the post. The cartridge also includes a sheath at least partially surrounding the absorbent pad. The sheath includes an end wall. The end wall includes an outlet there through. The outlet is in fluid communication with the second channel of the post. The heater includes a first heater electrical lead and a second heater electrical lead. The first heater electrical lead contacts the post. The second heater electrical lead extends through the outlet in the sheath and contacts a portion of the sheath.

In at least one example embodiment, the cartridge includes an inner tube defining an inner tube air passage there through. The inner tube extends from the outlet of the sheath, and the inner tube air passage is in fluid communication with the outlet in the sheath. The outer housing abuts the base portion of the connector. The outer housing substantially surrounds the sheath and the inner tube.

In at least one example embodiment, the cartridge includes a gasket between the inner tube and the outer housing. A reservoir is established between the inner tube, the outer housing, the gasket, and the base portion of the connector.

In at least one example embodiment, the cartridge includes a mouth-end insert including at least one outlet extending through an end surface thereof. The at least one outlet is in communication with the air passage.

In at least one example embodiment, the heater has a generally serpentine shape translated about a generally tubular shape to define the third channel there through.

In at least one example embodiment, a wrapper at least partially circumscribes the housing. The wrapper includes a cutout defined therein. The cutout overlies at least a portion of the reservoir.

At least one example embodiment relates to an electronic vaping device.

In at least one example embodiment, an electronic vaping device includes a cartridge and a battery section. The cartridge includes a first outer housing extending in a longitudinal direction, and a connector piece including base portion and a nose portion. The nose portion includes a first sidewall. The first sidewall defines a first channel. The first channel extends through the connector base in the longitudinal direction. At least one second channel extends generally longitudinally along an outer surface of the first sidewall. The cartridge also includes a post extending through the first channel. The post has a third channel extending there through. The cartridge also includes a heater supported on the post. The heater has a sinusoidal shaped member translating about an elliptical shape to define a fourth channel there through. The cartridge also includes at least one absorbent pad substantially surrounding at least a portion of the heater, and a sheath substantially surrounding the absorbent pad. The battery section includes a power supply in electrical communication with the heater.

At least one example embodiment relates to a method of manufacturing a cartridge of an electronic vaping device.

In at least one example embodiment, a method of manufacturing a cartridge of an electronic vaping device includes inserting a post through an orifice in a connector piece, attaching a first lead of a heater to the post, curling the heater to form a substantially tubular heater, placing an absorbent material around the heater, placing a sheath around the absorbent material, and attaching a second lead of the heater to the sheath.

In at least one example embodiment, the method includes positioning an inner tube at an opening in the sheath, and positioning an outer housing around the sheath and the inner tube.

In at least one example embodiment, the method includes inserting a gasket between the inner tube and the outer tube so as to establish a reservoir between the connector piece, the inner tube, the outer housing, and the gasket.

In at least one example embodiment, the method includes inserting a mouth-end insert in a first end of the outer housing.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The various features and advantages of the non-limiting embodiments herein may become more apparent upon review of the detailed description in conjunction with the accompanying drawings. The accompanying drawings are merely provided for illustrative purposes and should not be interpreted to limit the scope of the claims. The accompanying drawings are not to be considered as drawn to scale unless explicitly noted. For purposes of clarity, various dimensions of the drawings may have been exaggerated.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

FIG. 11 is an illustration of a heater and an electrical lead according to at least one example embodiment.

FIG. 12 is an illustration of a heater and an electrical lead according to at least one example embodiment.

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

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

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

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF EXAMPLE EMBODIMENTS

Some detailed example embodiments are disclosed herein. However, specific structural and functional details disclosed herein are merely representative for purposes of describing example embodiments. Example embodiments may, however, be embodied in many alternate forms and should not be construed as limited to only the example embodiments set forth herein.

Accordingly, while example embodiments are capable of various modifications and alternative forms, example embodiments thereof are shown by way of example in the drawings and will herein be described in detail. It should be understood, however, that there is no intent to limit example embodiments to the particular forms disclosed, but to the contrary, example embodiments are to cover all modifications, equivalents, and alternatives falling within the scope of example embodiments. Like numbers refer to like elements throughout the description of the figures.

It should be understood that when an element or layer is referred to as being “on,” “connected to,” “coupled to,” or “covering” another element or layer, it may be directly on, connected to, coupled to, or covering the other element or layer or intervening elements or layers may be present. In contrast, when an element is referred to as being “directly on,” “directly connected to,” or “directly coupled to” another element or layer, there are no intervening elements or layers present. Like numbers refer to like elements throughout the specification. As used herein, the term “and/or” includes any and all combinations of one or more of the associated listed items.

It should be understood that, although the terms first, second, third, etc. may be used herein to describe various elements, components, regions, layers and/or sections, these elements, components, regions, layers, and/or sections should not be limited by these terms. These terms are only used to distinguish one element, component, region, layer, or section from another region, layer, or section. Thus, a first element, component, region, layer, or section discussed below could be termed a second element, component, region, layer, or section without departing from the teachings of example embodiments.

Spatially relative terms (e.g., “beneath,” “below,” “lower,” “above,” “upper,” and the like) may be used herein for ease of description to describe one element or feature's relationship to another element(s) or feature(s) as illustrated in the figures. It should be understood that the spatially relative terms are intended to encompass different orientations of the device in use or operation in addition to the orientation depicted in the figures. For example, if the device in the figures is turned over, elements described as “below” or “beneath” other elements or features would then be oriented “above” the other elements or features. Thus, the term “below” may encompass both an orientation of above and below. The device may be otherwise oriented (rotated 90 degrees or at other orientations) and the spatially relative descriptors used herein interpreted accordingly.

The terminology used herein is for the purpose of describing various example embodiments only and is not intended to be limiting of example embodiments. As used herein, the singular forms “a,” “an,” and “the” are intended to include the plural forms as well, unless the context clearly indicates otherwise. It will be further understood that the terms “includes,” “including,” “comprises,” and/or “comprising,” when used in this specification, specify the presence of stated features, integers, steps, operations, elements, and/or components, but do not preclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, integers, steps, operations, elements, components, and/or groups thereof.

Example embodiments are described herein with reference to cross-sectional illustrations that are schematic illustrations of idealized embodiments (and intermediate structures) of example embodiments. As such, variations from the shapes of the illustrations as a result, for example, of manufacturing techniques and/or tolerances, are to be expected. Thus, example embodiments should not be construed as limited to the shapes of regions illustrated herein but are to include deviations in shapes that result, for example, from manufacturing.

Unless otherwise defined, all terms (including technical and scientific terms) used herein have the same meaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art to which example embodiments belong. It will be further understood that terms, including those defined in commonly used dictionaries, should be interpreted as having a meaning that is consistent with their meaning in the context of the relevant art and will not be interpreted in an idealized or overly formal sense unless expressly so defined herein.

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

In at least one example embodiment, as shown in FIG. 1A, an e-vaping device 10 includes a cartridge (or first section) 15 and a battery section (or second section) 20, which are coupled together at a connector 30.

In at least one example embodiment, the cartridge 15 and the battery section 20 each include a housing 50, 50′, respectively, extending in a longitudinal direction. The housing 50, 50′ has a generally cylindrical cross-section. In at least one example embodiment, the housing 50 and/or the housing 50′ may have a generally triangular or square cross-section along one or more of the cartridge 15 and the battery section 20. In at least one example embodiment, the housing 50 and/or the housing 50′ may have a greater circumference or dimensions at a first end 40 of the e-vaping device 10 than at a second end 45 of the e-vaping device. The circumference and/or dimensions of the housing 50 may be the same or different than the circumference and/or dimensions of the housing 50′.

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

In at least one example embodiment, the connector 30 may be any type of connector, such as a threaded, snug-fit, detent, clamp, bayonet, and/or clasp. At least one air inlet 35 extends through a portion of the connector 30. In other example embodiments, the at least one air inlet 35 may extend through the housing 50, 50′.

In at least one example embodiment, more than two air inlets 35 may be included in the housing 50, 50′. Alternatively, a single air inlet 35 may be included in the housing 50, 50′.

In at least one example embodiment, the at least one air inlet 35 may be formed in the outer housing 50, 50′ adjacent the connector 30 so as to minimize and/or reduce the chance of an adult vaper's fingers occluding the air inlet 35 and to control the resistance-to-draw (RTD). In at least one example embodiment, the air inlet 35 may provide a substantially consistent RTD. In at least one example embodiment, the air inlet 35 may be sized and configured such that the e-vaping device 10 has a RTD in the range of from about 30 mm H₂O to about 180 mm H₂O (e.g., about 60 mm H₂O to about 150 mm H₂O or about 80 mm H₂O to about 120 mm H₂O).

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

In at least one example embodiment, the e-vaping device 10 may include features described in U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2013/0192623 to Tucker et al. filed Jan. 31, 2013, the entire content of which is incorporated herein by reference thereto.

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

In at least one example embodiment, as shown in FIG. 1B, the housing 50 of the cartridge 15 may be formed of a clear and/or transparent plastic or glass. A wrapper or label 112 may circumscribe at least a portion of the housing 50. The wrapper or label 112 may have a cutout 114 therein. The cutout 114 may overlie a reservoir 5 so that a level of pre-vapor formulation stored in the reservoir 5 may be visually determined. The cutout 114 may be about 2 mm to about 10 mm wide and about 5 mm to about 20 mm in length. The size and/or shape of the cutout 114 may be adjusted depending on a circumference and/or length of the cartridge 15. In addition, the wrapper or label 112 may include markings that indicate a volume of pre-vapor formulation remaining in the reservoir 5 (discussed below). In at least one example embodiment, the wrapper or label 112 may include two or more cutouts (not shown).

In at least one example embodiment, the wrapper or label 112 may be a sticker and/or include at least one adhesive. The wrapper of label 112 may be formed of paper and/or plastic. The wrapper or label 112 may be laminated to protect the cartridge 15 against moisture. The wrapper or label 112 may be any color and include indicia printed thereon. The wrapper or label 112 may be smooth or rough.

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

In at least one example embodiment, as shown in FIG. 2, the cartridge 15 includes a first connector piece 70 at a second end of the housing 50, and the mouth-end insert 60 in a first end of the housing 50.

In at least one example embodiment, the first connector piece 70 includes a base 75 and a nose portion 80. The base 75 is generally cylindrical in cross-section and may include a threaded section 72 on an inner surface thereof. The threaded section 72 of the first connector piece 70 may be configured to mate with a female connector piece of the battery portion 20 of the e-vaping device (not shown). The base 75 includes a flange 85 defining an orifice extending there through.

In at least one example embodiment, the first connector piece 70 is formed of metal. In other example embodiments, the first connector piece 70 may be formed of plastic. For example, the first connector piece 70 may be formed of plastic and a conductive metal insert 77 may be inserted into the first connector piece 70. The conductive metal insert 77 may be a cathode contact. The conductive metal insert 77 may be generally ring-shaped and may include at least one electrical lead 140 extending longitudinally therefrom, such that the lead 140 extends through slot 90 in the flange 85 of the base 75.

In at least one example embodiment, the first connector piece 70 includes a nose portion 80 at a first end of the connector body 70. The nose portion 80 includes a first sidewall 95 defining a first channel 100 that extends longitudinally through the nose portion 80 so as to form an air passage.

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

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

In at least one example embodiment, the base 75 has a larger outer diameter than an outer diameter of the nose portion 80. The first connector piece 70 is substantially T-shaped. In other example embodiments, the first connector piece 70 may have other shapes and/or dimensions.

In at least one example embodiment, the cartridge includes a first absorbent pad 150 and an adjacent second absorbent pad 155 so as to enhance flow of pre-vapor formulation to the heater 115. The first absorbent pad 150 surrounds the post 105 and the second absorbent pad 155 surrounds the post 105 and the heater 115.

In other example embodiments, the cartridge 15 may include a single absorbent pad or more than two absorbent pads. The first and/or second absorbent pads 150, 155 may completely surround the entire post 105 and/or the entire heater 115. In another example embodiment, the first and/or second absorbent pads 150, 155 may partially surround portions of one or more of the post 105 and/or the heater 115. For example, the first and/or second absorbent pads 105, 155 may include cut out portions and/or may extend partially about a circumference of the heater 115. Additional absorbent pads may also be placed adjacent the heater 115 (not shown).

The first absorbent pad 150 is formed of a material that is more conductive to liquid than retentive so that the pre-vapor formulation in the reservoir 5 (discussed below) may flow faster towards the heater 115. The fiber size and density of the material may be chosen to enable a desired flow rate of pre-vapor formulation. The fiber size may range from about 5 microns to about 30 microns (e.g., about 8 microns to about 15 microns). The density or pore volume of the material may range from about 0.08 g/cc to about 0.3 g/cc (e.g., about 0.14 g/cc to about 0.19 g/cc). For example, the first absorbent pad 150 may be formed of polymer fibers, such as a combination of polypropylene (PP) and polyethylene (PE) fibers, a combination of polyethylene terephthalate (PET) and polybutylene terephthalate (PBT) fiber, and/or a combination of PET and PP fibers. For example, the first absorbent pad 150 may be formed of a combination of PET and PP fibers. The fibers may be bonded in such a way that most of the fibers are aligned along the longitudinal direction to facilitate transfer of the pre-vapor formulation.

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

In at least one example embodiment, the second absorbent pad 155 is formed of a material having relatively high temperature stability. The material may include fiber glass material. The thickness of the second absorbent pad 155 may play a role in determining the thermal mass (amount of liquid that needs to be heated to form a vapor). The thickness of the second absorbent pad 155 may range from about 0.3 mm to about 2.0 mm (e.g., about 0.6 mm to about 0.8 mm). The first and second absorbent pads 150, 155 may have a same or different thickness. A length of the first and/or second absorbent pad 150, 155 may range from about 2 mm to about 10 mm (e.g., about 3 mm to about 9 mm or about 4 mm to about 8 mm). The length of the first absorbent pad 150 may be the same or different than the second absorbent pad 155.

The first absorbent pad 150 is at least partially retentive so as to substantially prevent and/or reduce leakage of pre-vapor formulation, while allowing the pre-vapor formulation to travel to the second absorbent pad 155 and the heater 115.

In at least one example embodiment, the material used to form the first absorbent pad 150 is not heat resistant since the first absorbent pad 150 is not in direct contact with the heater 115. In other example embodiments, the material used to form the first absorbent pad 150 is heat resistant.

In at least one example embodiment, the cartridge 10 also includes a sheath 165. The sheath 165 surrounds the first and second absorbent pads 150, 155. In other example embodiments, the sheath 165 may only surround a portion of one or more of the first and second absorbent pads 150, 155.

In at least one example embodiment, the sheath 165 includes an end wall 170 having an outlet 180 therein. The outlet 180 is in fluid communication with the first channel 100 of the post 105. The sheath 165 may be generally cup-shaped and may be sized and configured to fit over the first and second absorbent pads 150, 155 and the heater 115.

In at least one example embodiment, the sheath 165 is formed of a conductive metal. For example, the sheath 165 may be formed of stainless steel. The sheath 165 isolates the heater 115 and the first and second absorbent pads 150, 155 from the reservoir 5 (discussed in more detail below). Any combination of absorbent pads and sheath with different conductivity and/or retention and/or thermal and/or other characteristics may be used based on a desired level of vapor mass, temperature, leakage, immunity, and the like.

In at least one example embodiment, the cartridge 10 also includes an inner tube 190 having an inner tube air passage 200 there through. The inner tube air passage 200 is in fluid communication with the outlet 180 in the sheath 165 and the second channel 110 in the post 105. The inner tube 190 may be formed of a metal or polymer. In at least one example embodiment, the inner tube 190 is formed of stainless steel.

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

In at least one example embodiment, the housing 50 is substantially clear. The housing 50 may be made of glass or clear plastic so as to enable an adult vaper to visually determine a level of pre-vapor formulation in the reservoir 5.

In at least one example embodiment, a gasket 12 is between the inner tube 190 and the housing 50. An outer perimeter of the gasket 12 provides a seal with an interior surface of the housing 50.

In at least one example embodiment, the reservoir 5 is established between the inner tube 190, the outer housing 50, the gasket 12, and the base 75 of the first connector piece 70. The reservoir 5 may be filled with pre-vapor formulation via injection through the gasket 12, which may act as a septum.

In at least one example embodiment, the reservoir 5 is sized and configured to hold enough pre-vapor formulation such that the e-vaping device 10 may be configured for vaping for at least about 200 seconds. Moreover, the e-vaping device 10 may be configured to allow each puff to last about 10 seconds or less.

In at least one example embodiment, the pre-vapor formulation may be a material or combination of materials that may be transformed into a vapor. For example, the pre-vapor formulation may be a liquid, solid and/or gel formulation including, but not limited to, water, beads, solvents, active ingredients, ethanol, plant extracts, natural or artificial flavors, and/or vapor formers such as glycerin and propylene glycol.

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

In at least one example embodiment, the reservoir 5 may also include a storage medium (not shown) configured to store the pre-vapor formulation therein. The storage medium may include a winding of cotton gauze or other fibrous material about the inner tube 190.

The storage medium may be a fibrous material including at least one of cotton, polyethylene, polyester, rayon and combinations thereof. The fibers may have a diameter ranging in size from about 6 microns to about 15 microns (e.g., about 8 microns to about 12 microns or about 9 microns to about 11 microns). The storage medium may be a sintered, porous or foamed material. Also, the fibers may be sized to be irrespirable and may have a cross-section which has a Y-shape, cross shape, clover shape or any other suitable shape. In an alternative example embodiment, the reservoir 5 may include a filled tank lacking any storage medium and containing only pre-vapor formulation.

In at least one example embodiment, the mouth-end insert 60 is inserted in an end of the housing 50. The mouth-end insert 60 includes at least one outlet 65 extending through an end surface of the mouth-end insert. The outlet 65 is in fluid communication with the inner tube air passage 200 extending through the inner tube 190.

In at least one example embodiment, as shown in FIG. 2, the mouth-end insert 60 includes at least two outlets 65, which may be located off-axis from the longitudinal axis of the e-vaping device 10. The outlets 65 are angled outwardly in relation to the longitudinal axis of the e-vaping device 10. The outlets 65 may be substantially uniformly distributed about the perimeter of the mouth-end insert 60 so as to substantially uniformly distribute vapor.

During vaping, pre-vapor formulation may be transferred from the reservoir 5 and/or storage medium (not shown) to the proximity of the heater 115 via capillary action of the first and second absorbent pads 150, 155. In at least one example embodiment, as shown in FIG. 2, the heater 115 vaporizes pre-vapor formulation, which may be drawn from the reservoir 5 by the first and second absorbent pads 150, 155.

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

In at least one example embodiment, as shown in FIG. 3, the heater assembly includes the first connector piece 70, the post 105, and the heater 115 as shown in FIG. 2. In addition, the first connector piece 70 may include at least one external channel 120 extending along an outer surface of the first sidewall 95. The at least one external channel 120 extends substantially in the longitudinal direction. The at least one external channel 120 is sized and configured to allow a pre-vapor formulation to travel from the reservoir 5, underneath the sheath 165 and to the first and second absorbent pads 150, 155 and the heater 115. In other example embodiments, the at least one external channel 120 may have a tortuous form.

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

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

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

In at least one example embodiment, as shown in FIG. 5, the heater assembly is the same as in FIGS. 3 and 4, but is shown with the sheath 165 contacting the lead 140 and the second heater electrical lead 130 so as to form a second electrical contact with the heater. As will be recalled, the first heater electrical lead 125 is in contact with the post 105 to form the first electrical contact.

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

In at least one example embodiment, as shown in FIG. 6, the heater assembly is the same as in FIGS. 3-5, but is shown joined with the inner tube 190. As shown in FIG. 6, the inner tube 190 includes an inner tube base portion 192 that substantially surrounds the sheath 165 at a first end thereof. The inner tube base portion 192 may be sized and configured, such that the sheath 165 is held within the inner tube base portion 192 by friction fit. In other example embodiments, the inner tube base portion 192 may fit over the sheath 165 with threads, by snap-fit, or any other suitable connection.

In an example embodiment, the inner tube 190 has an inner diameter ranging from about 2 mm to about 6 mm (e.g., about 4 mm). The inner tube 190 defines the inner tube air passage 200 there through. The inner tube air passage 200 is in fluid communication with the second channel 110 through the post 105.

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

In at least one example embodiment, as shown in FIG. 7, the heater is the same as in FIGS. 2-3, but is shown in greater detail. As shown, the heater 115 includes a plurality of lobes 202. The heater 115 may include a first set 205 of lobes 202 and a second set 210 of lobes 202, such that the heater 115 has a generally serpentine or sinuous shape along a circumference thereof. The heater 115 may be formed by stamping a flat metal sheet, such as a sheet of stainless steel to form the generally serpentine or sinuous shape. The lobes 202 may be generally flat. The heater 115 is curled and/or rolled to form a generally tubular and/or elliptical (e.g., circular) heater. Once curled and/or rolled, the heater 115 defines a first air passage 300 extending longitudinally through the heater 115. The first set 205 of lobes 202 may be closer to the first end 40 of the cartridge 15 than the second set 210 of lobes 202. Thus, the heater 115 may extend substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis of the cartridge 15 and/or e-vaping device 10. The first air passage 300 is in fluid communication with the second channel 110 and the inner tube air passage 200. In at t least one example embodiment, the heater 115 may be formed by laser cutting, photochemical etching, electrochemical milling, etc. The heater 115 may be formed of a nickel-chromium alloy or a nickel-chromium-iron alloy.

In at least one example embodiment, the heater 115 may be formed of any suitable electrically resistive materials. Examples of suitable electrically resistive materials may include, but not limited to, titanium, zirconium, tantalum and metals from the platinum group. Examples of suitable metal alloys include, but not limited to, stainless steel, nickel, cobalt, chromium, aluminum-titanium-zirconium, hafnium, niobium, molybdenum, tantalum, tungsten, tin, gallium, manganese and iron-containing alloys, and super-alloys based on nickel, iron, cobalt, stainless steel. For example, the heater 115 may be formed of nickel aluminide, a material with a layer of alumina on the surface, iron aluminide and other composite materials, the electrically resistive material may optionally be embedded in, encapsulated or coated with an insulating material or vice-versa, depending on the kinetics of energy transfer and the external physicochemical properties required. The heater 115 may have burrs completely removed via electrochemical etching. The heater 115 may include at least one material selected from the group consisting of stainless steel, copper, copper alloys, nickel-chromium alloys, super alloys and combinations thereof. In at least one example embodiment, the heater 115 may be formed of nickel-chromium alloys or iron-chromium alloys. In another example embodiment, the heater 115 may be a ceramic heater having an electrically resistive layer on an outside surface thereof. The heater 115 may have a resistance of about 3.1 ohms to about 3.5 ohms (e.g., about 3.2 ohms to about 3.4 ohms).

When activated, the heater 115 heats a portion of the second absorbent pad 155 surrounding the heater 115 for less than about 15 seconds. Thus, the power cycle (or maximum puff length) may range in period from about 2 seconds to about 12 seconds (e.g., about 3 seconds to about 10 seconds, about 4 seconds to about 8 seconds or about 5 seconds to about 7 seconds).

Because the heater 115 extends parallel to the longitudinal direction and is generally serpentine in shape, a greater amount of surface area of the second absorbent pad 155 is covered as compared to a wire or wire coil heater.

Moreover, since the first air passage 300 extending through the heater 115 is parallel to longitudinal direction and the second absorbent pad 155 substantially surrounds the heater 115, the vapor flows to the first air passage 300 as it is formed without any portion of the cartridge 15 blocking flow of the vapor from the heater 115.

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

In at least one example embodiment, as shown in FIG. 7, the heater 115 is the same as in FIGS. 2, 3, and 7, but is shown with the first electrical lead 125 and a second electrical lead 130. The first electrical lead 125 and the second electrical lead 130 may be wider than portions of the heater 115 forming the lobes 202. For example, the first electrical lead 125 and the second electrical lead 130 may have a width ranging from about 0.25 mm to about 1.0 mm (e.g., about 0.3 mm to about 0.9 mm or about 0.4 mm to about 0.7 mm. For example, the width of the leads 125, 130 may be about 0.5 mm.

In addition, the heater 115 is designed to control the resistance distribution across the heater's geometry. A width D2 of the lobes 202 is wider than a width D1 of vertical portions of the heater 115. As a result, the electrical resistance of the lobes 202 is lower, such that the lobes 202 get less hot than vertical portions of the heater 115 thereby allowing for most of the heat to be across the vertical portions of the heater 115. The width D1 may range from about 0.1 mm to about 0.3 mm (e.g., about 0.15 mm to about 0.25 mm). For example, the width D1 may be about 0.13 mm. A width D3 of each lobe 202 may range from about 0.2 mm to about 0.4 mm.

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

In at least one example embodiment, the heater 115 may have other designs that also allow for controlled resistance distribution. For example, in at least one example embodiment, the heater 115 may include lobes and transverse portions forming arrow shapes in lieu of a sinusoidal shape. In at least one example embodiment, a central portion 132 between opposing lobes may form an apex that is not in line with the lobes. The apex may be at an angle of about 10 degrees to about 90 degrees from each of the opposing lobes. For example, the lobes and the central portion 143 may form a generally triangular shape. A distance between adjacent central portions 132 and/or lobes may be substantially uniform. In other example embodiments, the distance between the adjacent central portions 132 and/or lobes may vary along the heater 115. The distance between adjacent central portions 132 and/or lobes may range from about 0.05 mm to about 1.0 mm (e.g., about 0.1 mm to about 0.9 mm, about 0.2 mm to about 0.8 mm, about 0.7 mm to about 0.6 mm, or about 0.4 mm to about 0.5 mm). For example, the distance between adjacent central portions may be about 0.09 mm.

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

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

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

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

FIG. 11 is an illustration of a heater and an electrical lead according to at least one example embodiment.

In at least one example embodiment, as shown in FIG. 11, the heater 115 is the same as in FIGS. 2, 3, 7, and 8, but may have the second electrical lead 130 bent inwardly within the first air passage 300. The second electrical lead 130 may direct the air flow through the first air passage 300 and affect the RTD in a desired manner. In at least one example embodiment, the second electrical lead 130 may be cut in half (not shown), with one half extending inwardly as shown in FIG. 11, and with each half contacting a separate portion of the sheath 165 to establish electrical communication between the heater 115 and the power supply 225 (shown in FIG. 13).

FIG. 12 is an illustration of a heater and an electrical lead according to at least one example embodiment.

In at least one example embodiment, as shown in FIG. 12, the second electrical lead 130 may include an end surface 160 defining a plurality of orifices 167 therein. The orifices 167 may alter the air flow through the cartridge 15 and may adjust the RTD of the e-vaping device 10.

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

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

In at least one example embodiment, the connector 220 may include a male threaded section 222 and an inner contact 224, which contact the conductive metal insert 77 and the post 105, respectively, of the cartridge 15. The male threaded section 222 is insulated from the inner contact 224. Thus, the male threaded section 22 contacts the conductive metal insert 77, which includes the leads 140 that contact the sheath 165, and the sheath 165 contacts the second electrical lead 130 of the heater 115. The inner contact 224 contacts the post 105, which contacts the first electrical lead 125 of the heater 115.

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

In at least one example embodiment, the power supply 225 may include a battery arranged in the e-vaping device 10. The power supply 225 may include a Lithium-ion battery or one of its variants, for example a Lithium-ion polymer battery. Alternatively, the power supply 225 may include a nickel-metal hydride battery, a nickel cadmium battery, a lithium-manganese battery, a lithium-cobalt battery or a fuel cell. The e-vaping device 10 may be vapable by an adult vaper until the energy in the power supply 225 is depleted or in the case of lithium polymer battery, a minimum voltage cut-off level is achieved.

In at least one example embodiment, the power supply 225 may include a battery and circuity configured to shape a waveform of power applied to the heater so that the output of the battery cell may be attenuated, “chopped,” etc. before the power is applied to the heater.

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

In at least one example embodiment, the sensor 230 is configured to generate an output indicative of a magnitude and direction of airflow in the e-vaping device 10. The control circuit 235 receives the output of the sensor 230, and determines if (1) the direction of the airflow indicates a draw on the mouth-end insert 60 (versus blowing) and (2) the magnitude of the draw exceeds a threshold level. If these conditions are met, the control circuit 235 electrically connects the power supply 225 to the heater 115. In an alternative embodiment, the sensor 260 may indicate a pressure drop, and the control circuit 235 activates the heater 115 in response thereto.

In at least on example embodiment, the control circuit 235 may also include a light 240 configured to glow when the heater 115 is activated and/or the battery is being recharged. The heater activation light 240 may include an LED. Moreover, the heater activation light 240 may be arranged to be visible to an adult vaper during vaping. In addition, the heater activation light 240 may be utilized for e-vaping system diagnostics or to indicate that recharging is in progress. The heater activation light 240 may also be configured such that the adult vaper may activate and/or deactivate the heater activation light 240 for privacy. The heater activation light 240 may be on a second end 45 of the e-vaping device 10 or along a side of the housing 50, 50′.

In at least one example embodiment, the control circuit 235 may include a maximum, time-period limiter. In another example embodiment, the control circuit 235 may include a manually operable switch for an adult vaper to activate the e-vaping device 10. The time-period of the electric current supply to the heater 115 may be pre-set depending on the amount of pre-vapor formulation desired to be vaporized. In yet another example embodiment, the control circuit 235 may supply power to the heater 115 as long heater activation conditions are met.

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

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

In at least one example embodiment, as shown in FIG. 14, a method of manufacturing the cartridge of FIG. 2 includes inserting 1000 a post through an orifice in a connector body, attaching 1010 a first lead of a heater to the post, curling 1020 the heater to form a substantially tubular heater, placing 1030 an absorbent material around the heater, placing 1040 a sheath around the absorbent material, and attaching 1050 a second lead of the heater to the sheath. The attaching 1010 may include welding and/or crimping of the first lead to the post. The attaching 1050 may include welding and/or crimping of the second lead to the sheath. In another example embodiment, the curling step 1020 may precede the attaching step 1010.

In at least one example embodiment, the method may include positioning 1060 an inner tube at an opening in the sheath, and positioning 1070 an outer housing around the sheath and the inner tube. The positioning may include friction fitting the housing with the first connector piece.

In at least one example embodiment, the method may also include inserting 1080 a gasket between the inner tube and the outer tube so as to establish a reservoir between the first connector piece, the inner tube, the outer housing, and the gasket.

In at least one example embodiment, the method may also include inserting 1090 a mouth-end insert in a first end of the outer housing. FIG. 15 is a flowchart illustrating a method of forming the cartridge of FIG. 2 according to at least one example embodiment.

In at least one example embodiment, as shown in FIG. 15, the method may include inserting 2000 a cathode contact (conductive metal insert 77) into a connector piece 70, applying 2010 a sealant to leads of the conductive metal insert 77, inserting 2020 the post 105 into the first connector piece 70, sliding 2030 the first absorbent pads 150 over a first end of the post 105, attaching the first electrical lead 125 of the heater 115 to the post 105, and rolling and/or curling the heater 115 to form a substantially tubular heater 115. Opposing portions of the tubular heater 115 may be spaced about 0.05 mm to about 0.25 mm apart (e.g., about 0.1 mm to about 0.2 mm). For example, opposing portions of the tubular heater 115 may be about 0.17 mm apart. In other example embodiments, the opposing portions may be in direct physical contact.

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

In at least one example embodiment, the method may also include press-fitting 2400 the inner tube 190 onto the sheath 165, connecting 2110 the leads 140 of the conductive metal insert 77 to the sheath 165, and vacuuming 2120 any debris from the subassembly. The connecting 2110 may include spot welding.

In at least one example embodiment, the method may also include checking 2130 resistance of the subassembly, connecting 2140 the barrel to the connector base, and checking 2150 resistance of the assembly. The connecting 2140 may include ultrasonic welding.

In at least one example embodiment, the method may also include filling 2160 the reservoir 5 with the pre-vapor formulation, inserting 2170 the gasket 12 into the housing 50, inserting 2180 the mouth-end insert 60 into the housing 50, and testing 2190 the cartridge 15 on a puffing device.

In at least one example embodiment, the method may further include applying 2200 a sticker to an outside surface of the housing 50, placing 2210 the cartridge 15 into a package, and/or indicating 2220 an expiration date and/or flavor of the pre-vapor formulation on the package. The package may be a foil pouch. The foil pouch may be heat sealed and/or substantially air tight. The indicating 2220 may include laser etching or printing.

In at least one example embodiment, the cartridge described herein allows for automated manufacture because of the reduced number of parts, lack of heater coil to be wound, and the use of snap-fit and/or pressure fit parts.

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

In at least one example embodiment, the heater may be moved closer to the channels extending under the sheath so as to shorten a distance the pre-vapor formulation must travel to reach the heater. In at least one example embodiment, the absorbent material thickness may be reduced to reduce thermal mass. In at least one example embodiment, circulation may be increased and/or improved by positioning a fin or disperser structure in a center of the air channel, such that high velocity air is forced to flow near a wall of the air channel and/or pass over the heater.

While a number of example embodiments have been disclosed herein, it should be understood that other variations may be possible. Such variations are not to be regarded as a departure from the spirit and scope of the present disclosure, and all such modifications as would be obvious to one skilled in the art are intended to be included within the scope of the following claims.

Claims

1. A cartridge of an e-vaping device, the cartridge comprising: a housing extending in a longitudinal direction;a reservoir in the housing, the reservoir configured to store a pre-vapor formulation;a first connector piece defining a first channel extending therethrough;a post extending through the first channel, the post defining a second channel therethrough;a heater in the housing, the heater having a sinusoidal shaped member translating about an elliptical shape to define a third channel in fluid communication with the second channel, the heater connected to and supported on the post; andan absorbent material at least partially surrounding the sinusoidal shaped member, the absorbent material in fluid communication with the reservoir.