ELECTRONIC SMOKING DEVICE

BACKGROUND
a. Field of the Disclosure

This disclosure relates to an electronic smoking device.

b. Background Art

Electronic cigarettes are a popular alternative to traditional smoking articles that burn tobacco products to generate smoke for inhalation. Unlike traditional tobacco-based smoking articles, electronic cigarettes generate an aerosol-based vapor for inhalation, which can generally emulate smoke of traditional tobacco-based smoking articles. The aerosol-based vapor can generally be created through heating of a liquid that contains additives, for example, nicotine. The heater can be powered by a power source, such as a battery. In some instances the battery can be rechargeable.

However, electronic cigarettes may not deliver a same experience as traditional cigarettes. For example, electronic cigarettes can have a relatively slow rate of vaporization, which can tend to produce an inconsistent quality of vapor. This may be due to the use of a wick that transports liquid from a disposable cartridge to the vaporizing element. The “wicking” method of fluid transport can be a relatively slow method, which can limit the rate at which the user can smoke the cigarette. Additionally, the wick can limit the ability to control and monitor the amount of nicotine delivered to the user. Finally, the wick construction can be more difficult to assemble and automate manufacturing of, has limited quality, and can be contaminated.

SUMMARY

In various embodiments, an electronic smoking device can comprise a chip that includes a fluid inlet. The fluid inlet can include a depression formed in a first surface of the chip. A fluidic channel can extend from the fluid inlet through the chip to a fluid outlet formed in a second surface of the chip. A heating element can be disposed on the second surface of the chip next to the fluid outlet.

In various embodiments, an electronic cigarette can comprise a fluid tank that includes a fluid outlet. A silicon chip heating assembly can include a fluid inlet in fluid communication with the fluid outlet of the fluid tank. The fluid inlet can be in fluid communication with a plurality of fluidic channels that extend from the fluid inlet through the silicon chip. A plurality of fluid outlets can be formed in a surface of the silicon chip and can be in fluid communication with the plurality of fluidic channels. A heating element can be disposed on the surface of the silicon chip next to the plurality of fluid outlets.

In various embodiments, an electronic cigarette can comprise a fluid tank that includes a fluid outlet. A silicon chip heating assembly can be disposed in-line with the fluid tank. The silicon chip heating assembly can include a fluid inlet formed on a first side of the silicon chip in fluid communication with the fluid outlet of the fluid tank. A plurality of fluidic channels can extend through the silicon chip from the fluid inlet to a plurality of fluid outlets formed on a second side of the silicon chip. A heating element can be disposed on the second side of the silicon chip next to the plurality of fluid inlets formed on the second side of the silicon chip. A power source can be configured to provide power to the heating element.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1A depicts an isometric top and side view of a cartomizer for storing and vaporizing liquid media, in accordance with embodiments of the present disclosure.

FIG. 1B depicts an isometric bottom and side view of the cartomizer in FIG. 1A, in accordance with embodiments of the present disclosure.

FIG. 1C depicts a side-view of the cartomizer in FIG. 1A, in accordance with embodiments of the present disclosure.

FIG. 1D depicts an isometric top and side view of an electronic cigarette, in accordance with embodiments of the present disclosure.

FIG. 2A depicts a cross-sectional side view of an electronic smoking device (ESD), in accordance with embodiments of the present disclosure.

FIG. 2B depicts a structural top-view of an ESD in FIG. 1A, in accordance with embodiments of the present disclosure.

FIG. 3 depicts a cross-sectional side view of an inline ESD, in accordance with embodiments of the present disclosure.

FIGS. 4A to 4D depict embodiments of a barrier that can direct the air flow through the ESD, in accordance with embodiments of the present disclosure.

FIG. 5 depicts a cross-sectional side view of an inline ESD, in accordance with embodiments of the present disclosure.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

Referring now to the drawings wherein like reference numerals are used to identify identical components in the various views, FIG. 1A depicts an isometric top and side view of a cartomizer 101 for storing and vaporizing liquid media, in accordance with embodiments of the present disclosure. In an example, the cartomizer 101 can be a cartomizer for an electronic cigarette, which can be connected with a power source (e.g., battery) to provide power for an electronic smoking device contained within the cartomizer 101. In an example, the electronic smoking device can be an atomizer, in some embodiments. The cartomizer 101 can include a mouth piece 102 with an outlet 103, which can be configured for delivery of a vapor to a user.

The mouth piece 102 can be sized and configured to provide a user with a particular type of experience. For instance, adjusting a size and/or shape of the outlet 103 and/or a passageway within the mouthpiece can result in a change in velocity of vapor exiting the outlet 103 and/or a change in particle size of the liquid media contained in the vapor. In some examples, the mouth piece 102 can comprise a pattern 104, which can be associated with a particular user experience associated with the mouth piece 102 and/or cartomizer 101. The pattern 104 can be used by a user to identify the particular user experience associated with the mouth piece 102 and/or cartomizer 101.

The cartomizer 101 can include an outer tube 105 that is connected with the mouth piece 102. In an example, the mouth piece 102 can be connected with the outer tube 105 by press-fitting the mouth piece 102 into the outer tube 105 and/or through use of an adhesive applied between the outer tube 105 and the mouth piece 102, although other connecting technologies may be used. In some embodiments, the mouth piece 102, as well as other components of the cartomizer 101, can be connected with the outer tube 105 via a snap connecter, as discussed herein. The mouth piece 102 can include a stepped portion 106 (or annular ledge) that can engage the proximal longitudinal end of the outer tube 105 to prevent the mouth piece 102 from being pushed into the outer tube further than a defined amount.

The cartomizer 101 can include a battery connector 107 (e.g., a threaded connector as shown or a frictionally-engaged connector or other connector) that is configured to connect with a complementary connector comprising part of or associated with a housing for a battery or other power source that is capable of providing power to an atomizer comprising part of the cartomizer 101. In an example, the battery connector 107 can be connected with the outer tube 105 by press-fitting the battery connector 107 into the outer tube 105 and/or, for example, through use of an adhesive applied between the outer tube 105 and the battery connector 107. The battery connector 107 can include a stepped portion 109 (or annular ledge), much like the mouth piece 102 that can engage the distal longitudinal end of the outer tube 105 to prevent the battery connector 107 from being pushed into the outer tube 105 further than a defined amount.

The battery connector 107 can establish both a physical connection between the cartomizer 101 and a housing for a power source and an electrical connection between the power source (e.g., the battery in the housing) and the cartomizer 101. In an example, the physical connection can be established by a first threaded portion 108, which can be configured to threadingly connect with a complimentary threaded portion associated with the battery. The first threaded portion 108 of the connector 107 can be constructed from an electrically conductive material (e.g., metal). The connector 107 may further comprise, for example, a center connector 111, which may also be constructed from an electrically conductive material. As discussed further below, the first threaded portion 109 and the center connector 111 may be electrically insulated from each other by an annular insulator grommet 110. Thus, the connector 107, via the first threaded portion 108 and the center connector 111, can facilitate an electrical connection between a first terminal (e.g., positive terminal) and a second terminal (e.g., negative terminal) of the battery.

FIG. 1B depicts an isometric bottom and side view of the cartomizer 101 in FIG. 1A, in accordance with embodiments of the present disclosure. The cartomizer 101 includes the mouth piece 102, the stepped portion 106 of the mouth piece 102, the outer tube 105, the battery connector 107, the threaded portion 108 of the battery connector 107, and the stepped portion 109 of the battery connector 107. FIG. 1B further illustrates details associated with the battery connector 107, which can include an annular insulator grommet 110 that is inserted into an axial cylindrical opening of the battery connector 107. The annular insulator grommet 110 can include an axial cylindrical opening, in which a center battery connect 111 can be inserted. The annular insulator grommet 110 can be formed from an insulative material that separates the center battery connect 111 from the threaded portion 108 and/or stepped portion 109. For example, the annular insulator grommet 110 can be formed of a plastic, rubber, ceramic, etc., which can prevent a short from occurring between the center battery connect 111 and the threaded portion 108 and/or stepped portion 109.

In some embodiments, the center battery connect 111 can include an axial cylindrical opening 112 in the center battery connect 111 that is in communication with the inner surface of the inner tube 118. In an example, a first terminal of the battery can be connected with the threaded portion 108 and/or stepped portion 109 and a second terminal of the battery can be connected with the center battery connect 111. For instance, a positive terminal of the battery can connect to the threaded portion 108 and/or stepped portion 109 and a negative terminal of the battery can connect to the center battery connect 111.

FIG. 1C depicts a side-view of the cartomizer 101 in FIG. 1A, in accordance with embodiments of the present disclosure. The cartomizer 101 includes the mouth piece 102 with stepped portion 106. The mouth piece 102 can be connected with the outer tube 105 and can include stepped portion 106. In addition, the cartomizer 101 can include battery connector 107 that has a threaded portion 108 and stepped portion 109. The battery connector 107 can include an axial cylindrical opening in which an insulator grommet 110 (as shown in FIG. 1B) can be inserted to provide an insulative layer between a center battery connect 111 inserted in an axial cylindrical opening of the insulator grommet 110 and the threaded portion 108 of the battery connector 107. In addition, the cartomizer 101 can include an air inlet 113 through which air can be drawn into the cartomizer 101. In some embodiments, the cartomizer 101 can include more than one air inlet 113. For example, air can be drawn through an axial cylindrical opening of the center battery connect 111.

FIG. 1D depicts an isometric top and side view of an electronic cigarette, in accordance with embodiments of the present disclosure. The electronic cigarette includes a cartomizer 101 that is connected with a battery assembly 114. The battery assembly 114 can include a power source (e.g., battery) that is used to power a heater in connection with the electronic cigarette, as discussed herein. The connection between the cartomizer 101 and the battery assembly 114 can be a threaded connection and/or a frictionally-engaged connection or other type of connection that is configured to connect the cartomizer 101 and the battery assembly 114. In an example, the threaded connection can include a first threaded portion on the cartomizer 101 and a complimentary threaded portion on the battery assembly 114. The frictionally-engaged connection can include two complementary connectors that are configured to frictionally engage one another, as discussed herein. Upon connection of the cartomizer 101 and the battery assembly 114, a joint 115 can be formed between the cartomizer 101 and the battery assembly 114.

FIG. 1D further depicts the mouth piece 102 of the cartomizer 101. The mouth piece 102 includes the outlet 103 where vapor exits the electronic cigarette, as a user draws from the mouth piece 102. As discussed herein, the stepped portion 106 of the mouth piece 102 can engage the proximal end of the outer tube 105, thus preventing the mouth piece 102 from being pushed into the outer tube 105 further than a defined amount. In addition, the mouth piece 102 can comprise the pattern 104, such that a user can identify the particular user experience associated with the mouth piece 102 and/or cartomizer 101.

In some embodiments, the battery assembly 114 can include a light assembly 116 on a tip of the battery assembly 114 distal to the cartomizer 101. The light assembly 116 can include a light filter and a light emitting diode (LED). As a user draws on the mouth piece 102, the LED can generate light which passes through the light filter. In an example, the light filter can disperse the light generated by the LED and/or can impart a particular color to the light generated by the LED.

FIG. 2A cross-sectional side view of an electronic smoking device (ESD) 125, in accordance with embodiments of the present disclosure. FIG. 2B depicts a structural top-view of the ESD 125 in FIG. 2A, in accordance with embodiments of the present disclosure. The ESD 125 can include a chip, which can be a silicon chip 126, as depicted in FIG. 2A. In some embodiments, the chip can be made from a material other than silicon. In some embodiments, the silicon chip 126 can be a wafer with a length (defined by line BB) and width (defined by line CC in FIG. 1B) that are greater than a thickness (defined by line AA) of the silicon chip 126. Although the thickness CC can be greater than the length BB or width CC, in some embodiments. The silicon chip 126 can include various features that can facilitate the flow of a fluid through the silicon chip 126. For example, the silicon chip 126 can include one or more fluidic channels 128-1, 128-2, 128-3, 128-4, as shown in FIG. 2B. Hereinafter, the one or more fluidic channels are generally referred to as fluidic channels 128. The fluidic channels can be formed within the silicon chip 126, through which fluid can flow. In some embodiments, the fluidic channels 128 can have a circular cross section. However, the cross section of the fluidic channels 128 can be other shapes, such as an oval, square, rectangle, etc. The fluidic channels 128 can be subterranean channels in some embodiments. For example, the fluidic channels 128 can be formed between outer surfaces (e.g., top and bottom) of the silicon chip 126, such that fluid can travel through the fluidic channels 128.

The silicon chip 126 can include a fluid inlet 127, through which fluid can enter the fluidic channels 128. The fluid inlet 127 can include a depression formed in a first surface 129 of the silicon chip 126. The depression can be a circular depression, square depression, or other shaped depression, and can be formed by patterning the silicon chip such that silicon is not deposited in the depression or the silicon is removed from the depression, as further discussed herein. In some embodiments, the fluid inlet can be formed in a similar manner as to how the fluidic channels are formed, as further discussed herein, For example, the fluid inlet and/or fluidic channels can be formed using a porous silicon fabrication process. The depression associated with the fluid inlet 127 can extend into the first surface 129 of the silicon chip 126 and can have walls that are parallel, in some embodiments, as shown in FIG. 1A. However, in some embodiments, the walls of the depression can be divergent. For example, the walls of the depression can be flared towards the first surface 129 of the silicon chip 126. In some embodiments, the walls of the depression can be dished out towards the first surface 129 of the silicon chip 126 (e.g., forming a bowl shaped depression). As such, a wider opening can be associated with the fluid inlet and fluid can be more easily collected by the wider opening. In an example, the fluid can pass into the fluid inlet 127 where the perimeter of the fluid inlet meets the first surface and can pass through the fluid inlet 127 as a diameter of the opening is reduced to a size similar to or the same as that of a diameter of the fluidic channel 128.

The silicon chip 126 can include one or more fluid outlets 133 formed in a second surface of the silicon chip 126. The fluidic channels 128 can extend from the fluid inlet 127 through the silicon chip 126 to the one or more fluid outlets 133-1, 133-2, 133-3, hereinafter referred to in the plural as fluid outlets 133, formed in the second surface of the silicon chip 126. In some embodiments, the fluidic channels 128 can extend from the fluid inlet 127 through the silicon chip 126 to a plurality of fluid outlets 133 formed in the second surface of the silicon chip 126. As shown in FIG. 1A, the silicon chip 126 includes three fluid outlets 133 that are in fluid communication with the fluidic channels 128. In some embodiments, more or less than three fluid outlets 133 can be in fluid communication with the fluidic channels 128. In an example, fluid can flow from the fluid inlet 127, through the fluidic channels 128 and out of the one or more fluid outlets 133.

In some embodiments, the fluidic channels 128, the fluid inlet 127, and the fluid outlets 133 can be formed in the silicon chip 126 using a porous silicon fabrication process. In an example, a buried layer can be formed in the silicon chip 126 with a material that can be altered and removed without affecting the surrounding material or structure, as described in U.S. Pat. No. 5,242,863, entitled Silicon Diaphragm Piezoresistive Pressure Sensor and Fabrication Method of the Same, which is hereby incorporated by reference. In an example, the buried layer can be covered with a surface material that can be unaffected by a process used to remove the buried layer. To remove the buried layer, the layer can first be converted into porous silicon by anodization. After this stage, the porous silicon can fill the fluid inlet 127, the fluidic channels 128, and the fluid outlets 133, along with various other subterranean features associated with the silicon chip. The porous silicon can be removed via an etching step. For example, the porous silicon can be removed by applying a solution of potassium hydroxide to the porous silicon. As a result, the porous silicon is removed, leaving behind the fluid inlet 127, the fluidic channels 128, and the fluid outlets 133, along with the various other subterranean features associated with the silicon chip.

In some embodiments, one or more heating element passes 134-1, 134-2, 134-3, 134-4 can form a heating element 134, which can be disposed on the second surface of the silicon chip 126 next to the one or more fluid outlets 133. The heating element 134 can comprise a conductive material, in some embodiments, which can be deposited onto the surface of the silicon chip 126 via a deposition process, such as thermal evaporation and/or metal vapor deposition. The heating element 134 can be deposited onto the surface of the silicon chip 126, such that the heating element 134 is made from a single heating element that traverses back and forth between and next to the plurality of fluid outlets formed on the second side of the silicon chip 126. Thus, the heating element 134 make a number of heating element passes 134-1, 134-2, 134-3, 134-4 between the fluid outlets 133. For example, the heating element 134 can make a first pass 134-1, a second pass 134-2, a third pass 134-3, a fourth pass 134-4 between the fluid outlets 133. If made from a single heating element, the entire heating element 134 can be under a same control. For example, a single electrical input can power the heating element 134. For instance, by increasing or decreasing power to the heating element 134 via one power source, a temperature of the heating element 134 can be controlled via a single power lead. Alternatively, each pass of the heating element 134 can be individually controlled. For example, individual power leads can be connected to each heating element passes 134-1, 134-2, 134-3, 134-4.

In some embodiments, the heating element 134 can be disposed next to the fluid outlets 133, such that fluid expelled from the fluid outlets 133 comes within a close proximity to or contacts the heating element 134 and heat generated by the heating element 134 can be transferred to the fluid expelled from the fluid outlets 133. The heat transferred to the fluid can cause the fluid to be vaporized, enabling a user to inhale the vaporized fluid.

In some embodiments, a temperature sensor can be disposed next to the heating element 134. In an example, the temperature sensor can provide an indication of how hot the vapor and/or heating element 134 is to a temperature control device. The temperature control device can be in communication with the temperature sensor and also in communication with the heating element 134. Upon receipt of the temperature data from the temperature sensor, the temperature control can adjust power provided to the heating element 134 to adjust a temperature of the heating element 134 to ensure that the fluid is vaporized by the heating element 134. In some embodiments, upon receipt of the temperature data from the temperature sensor, power can be turned on or off to the heating element 134 by the temperature control. For example, if a temperature exceeds a threshold, power provided to the heating element 134 can be turned off/on. In some embodiments, upon receipt of the temperature data from the temperature sensor, the temperature control can vary an amount of power provided to the heating element 134. For example, power can be provided to the heating element 134 by the temperature control and can be varied in a range from zero percent to one-hundred percent, where zero percent is a minimum amount of power and one-hundred percent is a maximum amount of power.

In some embodiments, an amount of fluid that passes through each of the fluid outlets 133 can vary by a particular amount. For example, a greater amount of fluid may pass through the first fluid outlet 133-1 than the third fluid outlet 133-3. In some embodiments, the heating element passes 134-1, 134-2 may be hot enough to vaporize the lesser amount of fluid that passes through the third fluid outlet 133-3, but heating element passes 134-3, 134-4 may be cooled by the greater amount of fluid that passes through the first fluid outlet 133-1. This can cause droplets of fluid to remain un-vaporized by the heating element passes 134-3, 134-4 and to pass into a user's mouth, in some cases. Accordingly, in some embodiments, an amount of power to each of the heating element passes 134-1, 134-2, 134-3, 134-4 can be controlled individually. In an example, each of the heating element passes 134-1, 134-2, 134-3, 134-4 can be separate heating elements that are each provided with an individual power lead configured to power each of the separate heating elements.

In some embodiments, fluid can be expelled through the fluid outlets 133 passively. For example, fluid can be expelled through the fluid outlets 133 without use of electricity. For instance, as air is drawn across the fluid outlets 133, surface tension, which usually maintains the fluid in the fluid outlets and/or fluidic channel 128-1 can be broken, causing the fluid to flow through the fluid outlets 133. In some embodiments, an area of low pressure can be created around the fluid outlets 133, as air is drawn past the fluid outlets 133, which can cause the fluid to be expelled from the fluid outlets 133.

In some embodiments, the ESD 125 can include a sensor that detects when a user has puffed on the ESD 125. For example, the sensor can be a microphone and/or an air flow sensor that can detect the flow of air. In an example, the sensor can be in communication with a controller that provides power to the heating element 134 to vaporize the fluid. As the heating element 134 is heated, the fluid contained within the fluid outlets 133 can be vaporized and drawn into the air path, through which air travels. As the fluid is vaporized, more fluid can be drawn through the fluidic channel 128 via capillary effect and into the fluid outlets 133.

In some embodiments, the ESD 125 can include a fluid tank 130. The fluid tank 130 can include a fluid outlet 132 that can be in fluid communication with the fluid inlet 127 of the silicon chip 126. In some embodiments, a diameter of the fluid outlet 127 can be smaller, a same size, and/or larger than a diameter of the fluid inlet 127. The fluid tank 130 can hold an amount of juice, which can be passed from the fluid tank outlet 132, through the fluid inlet 127 on the silicon chip 126, through the fluidic channel 128-1, and out of the fluid outlets 133. The fluid can then be vaporized by coming into contact or close proximity to the heating element 134 of the ESD 125.

In some embodiments, the fluid tank 130 can include a filter disposed in the fluid outlet 132. For example, as fluid passes out of the fluid outlet 132, the fluid can be filtered of particulate matter. In some embodiments, a filter can be disposed within and/or across the fluid inlet 127 of the silicon chip 126 and/or between the fluid inlet 127 of the silicon chip and the fluid outlet 132 of the fluid tank 130 and/or in the fluid inlet and/or across the fluid inlet. By including a filter, particulate matter can be filtered from the juice, which can prevent clogging of the fluid inlet 127, fluidic channels 128, and/or fluid outlets 133. The filter can be a screen and/or membrane, in some embodiments. In some embodiments, the filter can be a semipermeable membrane or valve that can allow juice to flow into the fluid inlet, but not out of the fluid inlet 127.

In some embodiments, the fluid tank 130 can be removable from the silicon chip 126. For example, once a fluid stored within the fluid tank 130 is depleted, the fluid tank 130 can be removed and a new fluid tank 130 can be connected with the silicon chip 126. Accordingly, it may be beneficial to include a filter in the fluid tank 130 instead of or in addition to a filter included in the fluid inlet 127. As previously discussed, the filter included in the tank 130 can filter particulate matter from the fluid. If the filter included in the fluid tank 130 becomes clogged, the filter can be replaced with the fluid tank 130 when a new fluid tank 130 and filter are connected to the silicon chip 126. This can prevent a filter disposed within and/or across the fluid inlet 127 from being clogged and blocking fluid flow through the fluidic channels 128.

In some embodiments, the fluid tank 130 can include a vent 131, which can allow air to enter the fluid tank 130. As fluid passes out of the fluid tank 130 and into the fluidic channels 128, air can be drawn in through the vent 131 to equalize a pressure in the fluid tank 130 with atmospheric pressure, in an example. Thus, as a fluid level in the fluid tank 130 decreases, a situation where a vacuum lock is caused in the tank can be avoided, allowing fluid to leave the fluid tank freely.

In some embodiments, the vent 131 can be a one way vent. For example, in some embodiments, the vent can allow air into the fluid tank 130, while keeping fluid in the tank 130. For instance, in some embodiments, the vent 131 can be a semi-permeable membrane that can allow air to pass through the membrane but is not permeable to the fluid contained in the fluid tank 130.

In some embodiments, a barrier 135 can separate the vent 131 from the air path that is routed through the ESD 125. For example, air can be routed from an air inlet 113 through the air path of the ESD 125, across the heating element 134, and out of a mouth piece. As air is drawn across the heating element of the ESD 125 via a user sucking on the mouth piece of the ESD 125, a pressure within the ESD 125 can be affected. As such, the air path can be separated from the vent via the barrier 135. The barrier 135 can be made from a material that is impermeable to air, in some embodiments, to prevent air passing through the air path causing a change in pressure in the fluid tank 130.

In some embodiments, the barrier 135 can direct air flow in relation to the heating element 134 and/or fluid outlets 133. In an example, the barrier 135 can include a design such as that discussed in relation to FIGS. 4A to 4D.

In some embodiments, the fluid tank 130 can be connected to the silicon chip 126 via a removable connection. For example, the removable connection can include a frictional fit connection, a threaded connection, among other types of removable connections. In some embodiments, a seal 136 can be disposed between the fluid tank 130 and the silicon chip 126. The seal can create a fluid tight seal between mating surfaces of the fluid tank 130 and the silicon chip 126.

In some embodiments, the fluid tank 130 and the silicon chip heating assembly (e.g., that includes the silicon chip 126 and the heating elements 134-1, 134-2, . . . 134-4) can both be included in the cartomizer 101. For example, the cartomizer 101 can be connected to the battery assembly 114, which can provide power to the heating element 134 on the silicon chip 126. When the fluid tank 130 and the silicon chip 126 are included in the cartomizer 101, the fluid tank 130 and the silicon chip 126 can remain connected, such that the fluid outlet 132 remains in fluid communication with the fluid inlet 127. In some embodiments, the fluid tank 130 can be included in the cartomizer and the silicon chip heating assembly can be included in a different component of the electronic cigarette that is separate from the cartomizer 101 and the battery 114. In an example, the cartomizer 101 can be connected to the silicon chip heating assembly via a removable connection and the battery assembly 114 can be connected to the silicon chip 126 and heating element 134 via a removable connection. In some embodiments, the silicon chip heating assembly can be included in the battery assembly 114 and the fluid tank 130 can be included in the cartomizer 101. The cartomizer and the battery assembly can be attached via a removable connection, such that when the cartomizer is connected to the battery assembly, the fluid tank 130 is in fluid communication with the silicon chip 126. Fluid communication of the two components can be enabled by the seal 136.

In some embodiments, the silicon chip heating assembly can be optimized by controlling at least one of a length of the fluidic channels 128 and a viscosity of the fluid passing through the fluidic channels 128. In an example, if a length of the fluidic channels 128 is increased beyond a certain amount, it can be difficult to draw fluid from the fluid inlet 127 of the silicon chip 126 and the fluid outlet 132 of the fluid tank 130 through the fluidic channels 128 to the fluid outlets 133 in the silicon chip 126. In addition, if a viscosity of the fluid stored in the fluid tank 130 is too high, it may be difficult to draw the fluid through the fluidic channels 128 to the fluid outlets 133 in the silicon chip 126. As such, control of at least one of the length of the fluidic channels 128 and the viscosity of the fluid passing through the fluidic channels 128 can be used to optimize the flow of fluid through the silicon chip 126. Additionally, other variables such as a volume of the fluidic channels 128 (e.g., width and length) can be controlled to optimize the flow of fluid through the silicon chip 126.

As previously discussed, FIG. 2B depicts a structural top-view of the ESD 125 in FIG. 2A, in accordance with embodiments of the present disclosure. As discussed herein, the ESD 125 can include a silicon chip 126 with a thickness (defined by line AA in FIG. 2A), length (defined by line BB in FIG. 2A), and width (defined by line CC). The silicon chip 126 can include the fluid inlet 127, which is shown as a circular depression in the surface of the silicon chip 126. In some embodiments, the seal 136 can be disposed around the fluid inlet 127 to create a fluid tight seal between the fluid tank 130 (as seen in FIG. 2A) and the silicon chip 126.

In some embodiments, the silicon chip 126 can include a plurality of fluidic channels 128 that can be formed within the silicon chip 126, through which fluid can flow. The plurality of fluidic channels 128 can extend from the fluid inlet 127 to a plurality of fluid outlets 133 and can thus be in fluid communication with the plurality of fluidic channels 128 and the plurality of fluid outlets 133. The plurality of fluid outlets 133 can therefore be in fluid communication with the fluid inlet 127, which can allow for fluid to pass from the fluid inlet 127 through each of the plurality of fluidic channels 128 to each of the fluid outlets 133. Although four fluidic channels 128 are shown in FIG. 2B, the silicon chip 126 can include more or less than four fluidic channels 128.

In some embodiments, the fluidic channels 128 can intersect different points of the fluid inlet 127. For example, as shown in FIG. 2B, the fluidic channels 128 intersect the fluid inlet 127 on one side of the fluid inlet 127. However, the fluidic channels 128 can intersect the fluid inlet 127 at different points and/or on different sides of the fluid inlet 127.

Each of the fluidic channels 128 can be intersected by one or more fluid outlets 133. For example, fluidic channel 128-1 can be intersected by multiple fluid outlets 133-1, 133-2, 133-3, although the fluidic channels 128 can be intersected by more or less than three fluid outlets 133. In some embodiments, each fluidic channel 128 can be intersected by one fluid outlet 133. As depicted in FIG. 1B, each one of the four fluidic channels 128 is intersected by three of the 12 fluid outlets 133. In some embodiments, the silicon chip 126 can include additional fluidic channels 128, such that each fluidic channel 128 is intersected by a single fluid outlet 133. For instance, the silicon chip 126 can include twelve separate fluidic channels 128 that are each intersected by one fluid outlet.

FIG. 3 shows a cross-sectional side view of an inline ESD 145, in accordance with embodiments of the present disclosure. The ESD 145 can include a fluid tank 146 and a silicon chip 147 that is disposed beneath and in-line with the fluid tank 146. For example, unlike the embodiment illustrated in FIGS. 2A and 2B, the silicon chip 147 is disposed beneath the fluid tank 146, rather than along a side of the fluid tank 146. As such, the amount of space taken up by the ESD 145 can be decreased. Considerations, such as space, can be important in an electronic cigarette because available space can be limited as a result of a size of the electronic cigarette. For example, a distance between sidewalls 148 of an electronic cigarette may be a few millimeters. Accordingly, it can be beneficial to keep a size of internal components to a minimum.

In some embodiments, as discussed herein, the fluid inlet 150 can be located on a first side of the silicon chip 147 and the fluid outlets 157 can be located on the second side of the silicon chip 147, along with the heating element 156. As shown in FIG. 2, the first side of the silicon chip 147 and the second side of the silicon chip 147 can be on different sides of the silicon chip 147. For example, the fluid inlet 150 and the fluid outlets 157, along with the heating element 156 can be on opposite sides of the silicon chip 147. As shown in FIG. 2A, the first side of the silicon chip 125 and the second side of the silicon chip 125 can be on the same side of the silicon chip. For example, the fluid inlet 127 and the fluid outlets 133, along with the heating element 134 can be on the same side of the silicon chip 126.

As discussed in relation to FIGS. 1A and 1B, liquid can be supplied from the fluid tank 146 and can flow out of a fluid outlet 149 and into a fluid inlet 150 of the silicon chip 147. One or more fluidic channels 151 can connect the fluid inlet 150 to one or more fluid outlets 157-1, 157-2, 157-3. In an example, the fluid can flow from each of the one or more fluid outlets 157-1, 157-2, 157-3 and can come within close proximity to heating elements 156-1, 156-2, 156-3, 156-4, which can cause the liquid to be vaporized to produce vapor, hereinafter collectively referred to as heating elements 156. As discussed herein, the heating elements 156 can be formed from one continuous heating element and/or can be individual heating elements. The individual heating elements can be controlled separately or in unison, in some embodiments, as discussed herein.

As the user sucks on a mouth piece associated with the ESD 145, a sensor can detect air flowing through the ESD 145. The sensor can provide a signal to a controller, which can activate the heating elements 156 and cause the fluid to be vaporized. As the air passes the heating elements 156, the air can mix with the vapor produced by the vaporization of fluid by the heating elements 156. The air and vapor mixture can then be carried to the mouth piece of the electronic smoking device and can be inhaled by the user.

In some embodiments, the fluid tank 146 can include a vent 158, as discussed in relation to FIGS. 2A and 2B. To isolate the vent 158 from the air path, a barrier 159, which can be represented by the dotted line, can separate the vent 158 from the air path. In some embodiments, the barrier 159 can have a same profile as the dotted line, which can create a laminar flow. In some embodiments, the barrier 159 can be formed in various shapes, which can allow for the air flow to be directed in a particular way (e.g., causing a turbulent air flow) such that an increased mixing between the air flow and the vapor occurs. In some embodiments, the barrier 159 can be formed in a particular way such that currents (e.g., eddy currents) in the air flow are produced and/or a speed of the air flow is increased. Thus, by varying a shape of the barrier 159, an entrainment of vapor can be optimized.

FIGS. 4A to 4D show embodiments of the barrier 159 that can direct the air flow through the ESD 145. As shown in FIG. 4A, a barrier 159-1 can include an undulating design, as shown in FIG. 4A. The undulating design can create eddy currents in the air flow, which can cause an increased mixing between the air flow and the vapor produced by the ESD 145. As shown in FIG. 4B, a barrier 159-2 can be flared towards the heating element 156 to decrease a size of the air path, which can result in an increase in velocity of the air flow. In addition, a complimentary fin 165 can be disposed across from the barrier 159-2 to aid in directing the air flow. For example, as shown in FIG. 4B, the complimentary fin 165 can be shaped like a ramp to direct the air flow towards the vapor produced by the heating element 156, although the complimentary fin 165 can have other shapes to modify the air flow. As shown in FIG. 4C, in some embodiments, a base of the barrier 159-3 can include an extension 166. The air flow can travel along the barrier 159-3 until it reaches the extension 166, which can disrupt the air flow and cause turbulence in the air flow, which can improve mixing with the vapor. As shown in FIG. 4D, the barrier can be flat in shape, with no extensions to alter the air flow. However, the sidewall 148 can include a fin 167 or ramp that can disrupt the air flow and direct it towards the vapor produced by the heating element, thus increasing mixing between the air flow and the vapor.

FIG. 5 shows a cross-sectional side view of an inline ESD 175, in accordance with an additional embodiment of the present disclosure. In some embodiments, the inline ESD 175 can include an annular tank 176 that includes an air path 177 that axially extends through the annular tank 176. The annular tank 176 can include one or more vents 178 and one or more fluid outlets 179-1, 179-2. As fluid passes through the fluid outlets 179-1, 179-2 out of the tank, air can pass through one or more vents 178 to maintain a pressure in the tank 176 to prevent a vacuum lock from occurring, as discussed herein.

In some embodiments, the inline ESD 175 can include a silicon chip 180 that is connected to the annular tank 176. The silicon chip 180 can be annular in shape and can have an air path 181 that extends through a center thereof, which can generally line up with the air path 177 through the annular tank 176. As a user puffs on an electronic cigarette, air can pass through the air path 177 in the annular tank 176 and through the air path 181 in the silicon chip 180.

In some embodiments, the silicon chip 180 can include one or more fluid inlets 182-1, 182-2, although two fluid inlets are shown in FIG. 5. Fluid can pass from the fluid outlets 179-1, 179-2 in the annular tank 176 into the fluid inlets 182-1, 182-2. In some embodiments, seals 183-1, 183-2 can be placed between the annular tank 176 and the silicon chip 180. In an example, the seals can be annular (e.g., o-rings) and can encircle an outer perimeter of the annular tank 176 and a perimeter of a joint between the air path 177 in the annular tank 176 and the air path 181 in the silicon chip 180.

The fluid can pass from the fluid inlets 182-1, 182-2 into fluidic channels 184-1, 184-2. In some embodiments, the fluidic channels 184-1 can extend toward the air path 181 in the silicon chip 180 to fluid outlets 185-1, 185-2, . . . 185-6, which can be located on either side of the air path 181 in the silicon chip 180. In some embodiments, multiple fluid paths can extend from each fluid inlet 182-1, 182-2 and can extend around each side of the air path 181 in the silicon chip 180. The fluid outlets (e.g., fluid outlets 185-1, 185-2, . . . 185-6) can be formed in a surface of the silicon chip 180, such that they intersect the fluid paths 184-1, 184-2. Although two fluid inlets 182-1, 182-2 are depicted, fewer or greater than two fluid inlets can be included in the ESD. In some embodiments, a plurality of fluid inlets can radially surround the air path 181. In some embodiments, a plurality of fluid outlets 181-1, 185-1, . . . 185-6 can radially surround the air path 181.

In some embodiments, one or more heating elements 186-1, 186-2, . . . 186-8 can be disposed on the surface of the silicon chip 180 proximate to the fluid outlets 185-1, 185-2, . . . 185-6. In an example, as discussed in relation to FIG. 2A, the inline ESD 175 can include a sensor that detects when a user has puffed on the ESD 175. For example, the sensor can be a microphone and/or an air flow sensor that can detect the flow of air. In an example, the sensor can be in communication with a controller that provides power to the heating elements 186 to vaporize the fluid. As the heating elements 186 are heated, the fluid contained within the fluid outlets 185 can be vaporized and drawn away with the air flow. As the fluid is vaporized, more fluid can be drawn through the fluidic channels 184 via a capillary effect and into the fluid outlets 185.

As shown in FIG. 5, the air flow can proceed through the air path 177 in the annular tank 176 and then through the air path 181 in the silicon chip 180. However, in some embodiments, the air flow can proceed through the air path 181 in the silicon chip 180 and then through the air path 177 in the annular tank 176.

In some embodiments, the inline ESD 175 can be placed between sidewalls 187 of an electronic cigarette. In some embodiments, the annular tank 176 and the silicon chip 180 that includes the heating elements 186 can be included in the cartomizer 101, as shown in FIGS. 1A to 1D. Accordingly, the cartomizer 101 can be connected to the battery assembly 114, which can provide power to the heating elements 186. In some embodiments, the annular tank 176 can be included in the cartomizer 101 and the silicon chip 180 can be a separate component from the cartomizer 101 and the battery 114. In an example, the annular tank 176 can be connected to the silicon chip 180, which can be connected to the battery assembly 114. Accordingly, upon connection of the annular tank 176 and the silicon chip 180, fluid can be provided to the heating elements 186 on the silicon chip 180. In addition, power can be provided to the silicon chip 180 via the battery assembly 114. In some embodiments where the silicon chip 180 and the battery assembly 114 are separate components and can be connected to one another, the silicon chip 180, and more specifically, the fluid inlet 182-1, 182-2 and/or the fluidic channels 184-1, 184-2 can become fouled. For example, the fluid in the fluid inlets 182-1, 182-2 and/or the fluidic channels 184-1, 184-2 can be exposed to air, which can dry out the fluid and/or cause the fluid to coagulate. This in turn can cause the silicon chip 180 to become fouled, which can impair function and/or cause the silicon chip 180 to not function.

Embodiments are described herein of various apparatuses, systems, and/or methods. Numerous specific details are set forth to provide a thorough understanding of the overall structure, function, manufacture, and use of the embodiments as described in the specification and illustrated in the accompanying drawings. It will be understood by those skilled in the art, however, that the embodiments may be practiced without such specific details. In other instances, well-known operations, components, and elements have not been described in detail so as not to obscure the embodiments described in the specification. Those of ordinary skill in the art will understand that the embodiments described and illustrated herein are non-limiting examples, and thus it can be appreciated that the specific structural and functional details disclosed herein may be representative and do not necessarily limit the scope of the embodiments, the scope of which is defined solely by the appended claims.

Reference throughout the specification to “various embodiments,” “some embodiments,” “one embodiment,” or “an embodiment”, or the like, means that a particular feature, structure, or characteristic described in connection with the embodiment(s) is included in at least one embodiment. Thus, appearances of the phrases “in various embodiments,” “in some embodiments,” “in one embodiment,” or “in an embodiment,” or the like, in places throughout the specification, are not necessarily all referring to the same embodiment. Furthermore, the particular features, structures, or characteristics may be combined in any suitable manner in one or more embodiments. Thus, the particular features, structures, or characteristics illustrated or described in connection with one embodiment may be combined, in whole or in part, with the features, structures, or characteristics of one or more other embodiments without limitation given that such combination is not illogical or non-functional.

Although at least one embodiment of an electronic smoking device has been described above with a certain degree of particularity, those skilled in the art could make numerous alterations to the disclosed embodiments without departing from the spirit or scope of this disclosure. All directional references (e.g., upper, lower, upward, downward, left, right, leftward, rightward, top, bottom, above, below, vertical, horizontal, clockwise, and counterclockwise) are only used for identification purposes to aid the reader's understanding of the present disclosure, and do not create limitations, particularly as to the position, orientation, or use of the devices. Joinder references (e.g., affixed, attached, coupled, connected, and the like) are to be construed broadly and can include intermediate members between a connection of elements and relative movement between elements. As such, joinder references do not necessarily infer that two elements are directly connected and in fixed relationship to each other. It is intended that all matter contained in the above description or shown in the accompanying drawings shall be interpreted as illustrative only and not limiting. Changes in detail or structure can be made without departing from the spirit of the disclosure as defined in the appended claims.

Any patent, publication, or other disclosure material, in whole or in part, that is said to be incorporated by reference herein is incorporated herein only to the extent that the incorporated materials does not conflict with existing definitions, statements, or other disclosure material set forth in this disclosure. As such, and to the extent necessary, the disclosure as explicitly set forth herein supersedes any conflicting material incorporated herein by reference. Any material, or portion thereof, that is said to be incorporated by reference herein, but which conflicts with existing definitions, statements, or other disclosure material set forth herein will only be incorporated to the extent that no conflict arises between that incorporated material and the existing disclosure material.

ELECTRONIC SMOKING DEVICE

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